On The Runs podcast, hosts Knute and Erika welcome Sammi Sooliya (15:38), a passionate runner and positive force in the running community. Sammi shares her journey from a young athlete to a dedicated marathon runner, discussing her experiences with various races, the importance of community, and her goals for the future. The conversation delves into the significance of breathwork and meditation in enhancing performance and mental clarity, as well as the challenges faced during her quest to qualify for the Boston Marathon. Sammi's insights and experiences highlight the supportive nature of the running community and the personal growth that comes from pursuing one's goals. In this engaging conversation, Sammi shares her marathon journey, detailing the highs and lows of her experiences, including the emotional aftermath of a challenging race, her return to running, and the thrill of qualifying for the Boston Marathon. The discussion also covers the importance of mental strength, the camaraderie of winter training, and the unforgettable moments of race day. Sammi's insights into the challenges of running, particularly in tough conditions like New York and Boston, highlight her resilience and passion for the sport. The conversation wraps up with reflections on future goals and the joy of running with friends.

Chapters

00:00 Welcome Back and Thanksgiving Preparations
05:56 Thanksgiving Plans and Family Gatherings
12:48 Celebrating Achievements in Running
14:59 Introducing Sammy Sooliya: A Rising Star
15:38 Meet Sammy: A Runner's Journey
19:18 Early Running Experiences and Discovering Passion
24:18 Transitioning to Marathons and First Experiences
29:16 The Emotional Connection to Marathon Running
34:26 Community and Support in Running
39:00 The Importance of Connection and Networking
39:35 Bonding Through Running Experiences
40:57 Sammy's Evolving Running Goals
43:15 Training Connections and Support
46:29 Clarence Damar Marathon Experience
52:40 The Importance of Breathwork
01:00:54 Meditation and Mental Clarity
01:04:35 The Journey to a BQ
01:09:10 The Journey of Recovery and Rediscovery
01:12:02 Chasing the Boston Qualifier
01:15:17 Mental Strength and Mantras in Running
01:16:40 Winter Training for Boston Marathon
01:20:32 Race Day Experience at Boston
01:30:42 Mount Washington Race Reflections
01:33:48 The Challenge of Mountain Running
01:39:01 Experiencing the Summit: Cold and Connection
01:45:21 Lessons from the Race: Code Brown Commandments
01:47:27 Future Aspirations: Berlin and New York Marathons
01:52:53 The Outro
01:55:24 Fundraising Initiatives for Boston Marathon
01:58:22 Erika's Charity Run Announcement
02:01:22 Memories of Nicholas and Running for a Cause
02:04:03 Personal Updates and Running Experiences
02:06:34 Looking Ahead: Future Episodes and Plans
02:09:09 Community Engagement and Holiday Wishes

Strava Group
Linktree - Find everything here
Instagram - Follow us on the gram
YouTube - Subscribe to our channel
Patreon - Support us
Threads
Email us at OnTheRunsPod@gmail.com

On Episode 135 we welcome Anthony Bailey (36:30) to our PodFam.
Before we get to Anthony, we have Tara Paradactyl co-hosting and filling in for Erika who is out sick. Eric and Tara dive deep into The Great World Race. They both discuss their experiences watching the LIVE Stream of the Great World Race, a unique marathon event spanning seven continents in seven days. They highlight memorable moments from the race, talk about their PodFam out there, Justin Spencer, Becs Gentry and Ashley Paulson and all the other stars of the event like Ben with the live stream, Merry Morgan and her finish line beer, and much more. Eric and Tara introduce a new question for the PodFam in the outro, something we might do more of in 2025. This weeks question has to do with Race Day Nutrition, and do you have a plan, or do you just wing it?

Our guest on this episode is Anthony Bailey. In this engaging conversation, Anthony shares his inspiring journey from a traumatic childhood marked by abuse and alcoholism to finding solace and purpose in running. He discusses how he discovered the running community, the challenges he faced during his 14-year battle with alcoholism, and how he turned his life around through running and content creation. Anthony also highlights the importance of community, his experiences with marathons, and his efforts to give back through his nonprofit organization, Run for Grace. In this engaging conversation, Anthony Bailey shares insights on balancing responsibilities in content creation, the importance of finding joy in tasks, and the journey of building a business around his passion for running. The discussion highlights the significance of community, quality over quantity in content, and the lessons learned from both running and life experiences. Anthony emphasizes the need for persistence and patience in achieving success, while also reflecting on the power of connection through social media and YouTube.

Anthony's Links
Instagram
YouTube
Website
Everything Else

Takeaways

The Great World Race showcases the resilience and determination of runners.
Nutrition and fueling strategies are crucial for marathon success.
Community support plays a significant role in the running experience.
Memorable moments can create lasting connections among runners.
The Fab Five's journey highlights the camaraderie in competitive running.
Challenges faced during races can lead to personal growth and learning.
Live streaming events can enhance audience engagement and connection.
Runners often share their experiences and tips through social media.
The importance of having a solid nutrition plan for endurance events.
Guest stories can inspire and motivate others in the running community.
Childhood was marked by trauma and abuse.
Struggled with alcoholism for 14 years before turning his life around.
Running became a refuge and a source of strength.
A supportive community in the running world.
The LA running community is like a family.
Enjoying the process is crucial for long-term success.

Strava Group
Linktree - Find everything here
Instagram - Follow us on the gram
YouTube - Subscribe to our channel
Patreon - Support us
Threads
Email us at OnTheRunsPod@gmail.com

Welcome to a special bonus episode featuring a Collab with the Cultra Trail Running Podcast and On The Runs!

This episode features a collaborative discussion about the Hamster Wheel Ultra Marathon, where participants share their experiences, challenges, and the community spirit that defines ultra running. The conversation highlights the race results, the impact of cold weather, and the unexpected surprises that come with such endurance events. The participants reflect on their personal journeys, the camaraderie among runners, and the lessons learned throughout the race. In this engaging conversation, the participants share their experiences and insights from recent ultra running events. They discuss the challenges of managing cold conditions, the importance of community support, and the mental resilience required to push through difficult moments. Nutrition strategies and personal growth through running are also explored, highlighting the unique journey of each runner. The conversation emphasizes the joy and camaraderie found in the ultra running community, making it a rewarding experience despite the hardships faced during races. In this engaging conversation, the participants reflect on their experiences in ultra running, sharing insights on endurance, community support, and personal growth. They discuss race strategies, nutrition, and the emotional highs and lows encountered during long-distance events. The camaraderie among runners is highlighted, emphasizing the importance of connection and support within the running community. The conversation concludes with a call for responsibility in outdoor activities and a commitment to future races and community engagement.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Hamster Wheel Ultra Marathon
02:45 Meet the Participants and Their Experiences
06:08 Race Results and Highlights
09:09 Challenges Faced During the Race
12:03 Cold Weather and Its Impact
14:58 Unexpected Surprises and Lessons Learned
18:12 The Role of Community in Ultra Running
21:04 Final Thoughts and Reflections
42:54 Managing Cold Conditions During Races
45:15 Reflections on Running and Personal Growth
46:41 The Importance of Community in Ultra Running
48:11 Experiences and Challenges in the Race
52:57 Nutrition Strategies for Endurance Events
01:01:00 Mental Resilience and Decision Making in Racing
01:11:08 Lessons Learned from the Ultra Running Experience
01:26:49 The Journey of Endurance
01:27:18 Celebrating Achievements in Ultra Running
01:28:43 Strategies for Success on the Course
01:30:40 Nutrition and Hydration Insights
01:32:04 Overcoming Physical Challenges
01:36:48 The Power of Community in Ultra Running
01:40:07 Reflections on Personal Growth and Connection
01:42:23 Navigating the Highs and Lows of Racing
01:48:30 The Importance of Support and Camaraderie
01:54:51 Looking Ahead: Future Races and Community Engagement
02:00:53 Closing Thoughts and Community Responsibility

Strava Group
Linktree - Find everything here
Instagram - Follow us on the gram
YouTube - Subscribe to our channel
Patreon - Support us
Threads
Email us at OnTheRunsPod@gmail.com

7 Marathons, on 7 Continents, in 7 Days!

Justin Spencer returns to the POD to share his journey of preparing for the Great World Race, where he will run seven marathons on seven continents in just seven days. He discusses the challenges of training, the logistics of the race, and the mindset required to tackle such an epic adventure. The conversation also touches on the importance of community, the lessons learned during training, and the excitement of meeting new people along the way.

Then Eric and Erika reflect on their experiences from over the weekend when he ran in the Manchester City Marathon. He and Erika discuss the challenges faced during the race, the importance of training, and the joy of connecting with fellow runners. He shares insights on what he would change for future races, and the discussion emphasizes the mental and physical aspects of running, the camaraderie among runners, and the lessons learned from the experience.

Lastly, we preview the NYC Recap Teaser episode for Monday Night Media's new podcast "The Allie G Show" It's a jammed packed episode with a lot of marathon talk.

Takeaways

Marathons are incredibly challenging and require significant preparation.
Having a purpose in training can drive motivation and commitment.
Community support plays a crucial role in endurance events.
Mindset is key to enjoying the journey and overcoming obstacles.
Training can be adapted to fit a busy lifestyle and travel schedule.
It's important to embrace discomfort for personal growth.
Recovery strategies are essential for endurance athletes.
Sharing experiences with others can create lasting connections. We have exciting plans for the future.
Community support is invaluable during races.
It's okay to adjust goals based on training.
The experience of running with friends is special.
Every race teaches us something new.
The importance of fueling during a marathon cannot be overstated.
Embracing the journey is as important as the finish line.
Celebrating small victories along the way is essential. The camaraderie among runners is more important than the race itself.
Training is crucial for a successful marathon experience.
Post-race celebrations can enhance the overall experience.
Having a race mindset is essential for performance.
Fueling strategies need to be planned and followed.
Strength training is important for injury prevention.
Connecting with friends during a race can provide motivation.
Respecting the distance is key to a successful marathon.
Sharing experiences with others can deepen connections.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Journey
05:06 The Great World Marathon Challenge
09:49 Training and Preparation
15:00 The Logistics of the Race
20:14 Mindset and Motivation
25:00 Community and Support
30:08 Lessons Learned and Advice
34:51 Final Thoughts and Future Plans
41:18 Exciting Plans Ahead
44:24 The Journey Begins
46:23 Race Day Reflections
51:31 Meeting Friends on the Course
01:01:46 Challenges and Triumphs
01:12:07 Post-Race Thoughts
01:21:44 Reflections on the Race Experience
01:24:13 Training Insights and Future Plans
01:27:38 Post-Race Celebrations and Connections
01:30:55 Teaser for the Ali G Show
01:49:37

Strava Group
Linktree - Find everything here
Instagram - Follow us on the gram
YouTube - Subscribe to our channel
Patreon - Support us
Threads
Email us at OnTheRunsPod@gmail.com

We are so excited to welcome our guest Jamie Staton (13:34) to the On The Runs PodFam. on this episode. In this episode, host Eric and Erika welcome Jamie Staton, a well-known sports director at WMUR and race announcer from New Hampshire for Millennium Running. Jamie shares his journey from hating running to becoming an avid marathoner, including his experiences with the Boston Marathon and the challenges of training. He discusses the importance of self-accountability in running and how it has shaped his life. Jamie also delves into his role as a race announcer, sharing insights on the preparation and skills required to call names during races, and the joy of being part of the running community. In this conversation, Jamie shares his experiences as a race announcer and sports broadcaster, discussing the energy of race day, the behind-the-scenes chaos, and the emotional journey of running marathons, particularly the Boston Marathon. He reflects on his broadcasting career, including memorable moments from the World Series and his transition to nonprofit work with Easterseals. The discussion also touches on the importance of preparation, the challenges of race day, and
picking the songs to play at the races for the Millennium Running crew.

During the tros, Eric and Erika are joined by a podfam favorite, Tara Pterodactyl. They celebrate the achievements of their running community, including the New York City Marathon and the introduction of a new ultramarathoner, Tara Pterodactyl. They discuss the excitement surrounding major marathons, and Hamster Wheel. The conversation is filled with humor, pranks, and plans for future events, making it a lively and engaging episode. In this engaging conversation, the hosts reflect on their experiences in the ultra marathon community, sharing personal stories of triumph, emotional challenges, and the camaraderie that defines the running culture. Tara recounts her journey through her first ultra marathon, while Erika shares the emotional rollercoaster of completing a 100-mile race. The discussion highlights the importance of support from fellow runners and the joy of celebrating achievements together.

Takeaways

Jamie Staton has been a sports director for over 26 years.
Jamie hated running in high school but found a passion for it later.
He completed nine marathons and six Boston marathons.
Running requires self-accountability and personal drive.
The Boston Marathon in 2018 was a challenging experience for Jamie.
Jamie became a race announcer through a connection with John Mortimer.
He emphasizes the importance of announcing names correctly during races.
Relay races are a fun way to engage with friends and the running community. The energy at the start line is contagious and addicting.
Race announcing involves juggling multiple tasks and high-pressure moments.
Preparation is key for a successful race day experience.
The Boston Marathon is a unique and emotional experience for runners.
Unexpected race experiences can lead to personal bests.
Music plays a crucial role in energizing runners before a race.
Behind-the-scenes work is essential for smooth race operations.
Transitioning from broadcasting to nonprofit work can be fulfilling.
The camaraderie and community in the running world are invaluable.

Strava Group
Linktree - Find everything here
Instagram - Follow us on the gram
YouTube - Subscribe to our channel
Patreon - Support us
Threads
Email us at OnTheRunsPod@gmail.com

Our final Breast Cancer Awareness Month episode for 2024 we welcome back to the podcast, Candice Burroughs (10:45). Last time we had Candice on was back at episode 93 just weeks before her cancer diagnosis, a lot has happened in her life between then and now and she's back to give us that story plus much more.
In this episode, Candice Burroughs returns to share her incredible journey over the past year, marked by both triumphs and challenges. After a promising start to her marathon season, her life took a dramatic turn when she was diagnosed with triple negative breast cancer. Candice discusses her experiences at the Tokyo Marathon, the emotional rollercoaster of the Boston Marathon weekend, and the realities of undergoing chemotherapy. Throughout her journey, she emphasizes the importance of community support, mental resilience, and the unexpected blessings that have come her way. In this heartfelt conversation, Candice shares her journey through cancer treatment, including chemotherapy and immunotherapy, and the importance of community support. She discusses her experiences with running, the challenges of recovery after surgery, and the positive mindset that has helped her navigate this difficult time. The conversation highlights the power of connection, resilience, and the role of podcasts in sharing stories and providing hope.

During the Tros, hosts Knute and Erika discuss the excitement surrounding upcoming marathons, celebrate achievements within the running community, reflect on Breast Cancer Awareness Month, address safety concerns for women runners, and highlight guest appearances and community support. The conversation flows naturally through various themes, emphasizing the importance of camaraderie and awareness in the running world.

Takeaways

Breast Cancer Awareness Month brings important conversations to the forefront.
Safety for runners, especially women, is a pressing concern that needs action.
Community support is vital for runners to feel safe and encouraged.
The podcast has featured inspiring guests who share their journeys.
Running should be an activity where individuals feel safe and empowered.
The podcast aims to create a positive impact in the running community.
Candice's journey highlights the unpredictability of life and the importance of resilience.
Community support can significantly impact one's ability to cope with adversity.
The experience of running a marathon can be transformative and empowering.
Facing a cancer diagnosis requires a strong support system and mental fortitude.
The Tokyo Marathon was a significant milestone for Candice before her diagnosis.
Transitioning from marathon training to dealing with cancer treatment is a challenging shift.
The Boston Marathon weekend was filled with emotional highs and lows for Candice.
Creativity and fun can be essential in coping with the side effects of treatment.
Cold capping helped preserve Candice's hair during chemotherapy.
Candice's positive mindset played a key role in her journey.
The running community provided immense support and encouragement.
Candice's experience highlights the importance of mental health during illness.
Sharing her story through podcasts has been empowering for Candice.
Candice's journey emphasizes that cancer is not always a death sentence.

Strava Group
Linktree - Find everything here
Instagram - Follow us on the gram
YouTube - Subscribe to our channel
Patreon - Support us
Threads
Email us at OnTheRunsPod@gmail.com

Welcome to the 2nd Best of for our Breast Cancer Awareness Series. We started this series in 2022 with 3 amazing women and continues it last year with 3 more. This year we have 5, all 11 of these women are amazing thrivers and survivors who have seen and felt the impact of the running community throughout their breast cancer journey.
This podcast episode highlights the best moments from the Breast Cancer Awareness Series, featuring personal stories of diagnosis, treatment, and the importance of community support. The conversation delves into the challenges faced during treatment, the impact of friendships, and the journey of recovery, emphasizing the resilience and strength of those affected by breast cancer. In this conversation, Eric and his guest discuss the journey of overcoming breast cancer, highlighting the importance of support systems, community involvement, and personal growth through adversity. They reflect on the impact of the Healing Meals program, the emotional journey of treatment, and the transformative power of running as a means of recovery and empowerment. The conversation emphasizes gratitude, resilience, and the significance of sharing one's story to inspire others.

Hear from Nicki, Jackie, Angela, Jaye, Shari and Christine as we go back and hear some of our favorite parts of their episodes here on this special OTR Classic.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guests
02:50 Breast Cancer Awareness Series Highlights
03:17 The Journey of Diagnosis and Treatment
06:19 Building a Support Community
08:27 Experiences with Chemotherapy
12:12 The Reality of Chemo Brain
16:02 Sharing the News with Friends
19:27 The Impact of Community Support
22:18 Navigating Insurance and Financial Challenges
25:33 Reflections on Body Image and Recovery
30:10 Running and Community Connection
36:28 The Experience of Race Directing
40:54 Choosing Charities for Races
44:35 Conclusion and Transition to 2022 Highlights
46:21 Celebrating Growth and Talent
47:36 Reflecting on the Breast Cancer Awareness Series
48:03 Navigating Radiation Treatment
49:59 The Role of Healing Meals in Recovery
52:29 Celebrating Milestones and Support
53:51 Finding Purpose Through Running
56:14 Joining the Healing Meals Community
58:36 The Marathon Journey and Emotional Connections
01:00:53 Gratitude and Giving Back
01:01:51 The Impact of Cancer on Personal Growth
01:03:08 The Beginning of the Cancer Journey
01:05:59 Treatment Experiences and Challenges
01:09:47 The Long Road to Recovery
01:12:40 Finding Strength in Running
01:15:52 Mental Resilience and Cancer
01:33:51 Closing Thoughts and Reflections

Takeaways

The importance of community support during cancer treatment.
Experiencing a rapid transition from diagnosis to treatment.
The role of social media in finding support groups.
Navigating the complexities of insurance during treatment.
The emotional impact of sharing cancer news with friends.
The reality of 'chemo brain' and its effects on daily life.
The significance of fundraising events in supporting cancer patients.
Reflections on body image changes post-treatment.
The joy of running and connecting with others in the community.
Learning to celebrate small victories in

Strava Group
Linktree - Find everything here
Instagram - Follow us on the gram
YouTube - Subscribe to our channel
Patreon - Support us
Threads
Email us at OnTheRunsPod@gmail.com

In this episode we welcome Kristina Coccoluto to our PodFam for another amazing episode that's part of our Breast Cancer Awareness Month series.
Kristina Coccoluto (14:30) shares her inspiring journey as a BRCA1 pre-vivor and melanoma cancer survivor. She discusses her early experiences with running, the challenges she faced with her health, and how she turned to running as a source of empowerment. Kristina opens up about her decision to undergo preventive surgeries, the emotional impact of her diagnosis, and how she found strength in community and family support. Her story culminates in her participation in the world major marathons, including the Boston Marathon, as a testament to resilience and hope. In this engaging conversation, Kristina Coccoluto shares her journey of self-discovery and purpose through storytelling, particularly in the context of her experiences with marathons and cancer awareness and speaking at multiple events. She discusses the challenges she faced, the importance of positive self-talk, and her advocacy for breast cancer awareness. Kristina's story is one of resilience, personal growth, and the power of sharing one's narrative to inspire others.

Kristina's Instagram

During The Tros, hosts Knute and Erika recap their weekend, including Erika's participation in the Bay State Marathon. Knute and Erika discuss their Halloween plans, including costume ideas and party preparations. They share updates on their running motivation and training, including a community member's injury and the support they received. The conversation shifts to a discussion about the recent SpaceX rocket launch and the fascinating technology behind it. The episode concludes with light-hearted banter and humor, showcasing the fun dynamic between the hosts.

Takeaways

Kristina's journey emphasizes the importance of sharing personal stories to inspire others.
Running became a tool for Kristina to connect with herself and manage her health challenges.
Facing a cancer diagnosis can lead to life-changing decisions and actions.
Understanding genetic risks, like BRCA mutations, is crucial for proactive health management.
Preventive surgeries can be a powerful choice for those at high risk of cancer.
Community support plays a vital role in overcoming health challenges.
Training for marathons can serve as a metaphor for resilience and determination.
The emotional impact of health scares can be profound and long-lasting.
Finding joy in running can be a source of empowerment and healing.
Sharing experiences can help break the stigma around discussing health issues. Kristina discovered her purpose through storytelling.
Sharing her story helped her connect with others.
She faced significant challenges while training for marathons post-surgery.
Positive self-talk was crucial in overcoming self-doubt.
Advocacy for cancer awareness is a key part of her journey.
She emphasizes the importance of community support in fundraising.
Kristina's experiences highlight the emotional aspects of running marathons.
She learned to embrace vulnerability in her speaking engagements.
Her journey reflects the power of resilience and determination.
Kristina aims to inspire others to take charge of their health.

Strava Group
Linktree - Find everything here
Instagram - Follow us on the gram
YouTube - Subscribe to our channel
Patreon - Support us
Threads
Email us at OnTheRunsPod@gmail.com