What can marathon training teach us about effective leadership? In this thought-provoking episode, we're joined by Celia, Executive Director of the American Council of Academic Physical Therapy, who draws fascinating parallels between conquering 26.2 miles and navigating the challenges of executive leadership.

Celia shares how she transformed from someone who "loathed running" during her time at West Point to a four-time Dopey Challenge finisher, and explains how this journey equipped her with crucial leadership skills. Her framework comparing her first month as Executive Director to the stages of a marathon offers brilliant insights into perseverance, mental toughness, and strategic thinking.

"It's 100% mental," Celia explains about both running and leadership. "The hardest barrier to overcome is in your head." From battling imposter syndrome to finding creative solutions during uninterrupted runs, her experiences demonstrate how physical discipline builds professional resilience.

We also welcome back Matt Bowen, known for carrying the American flag during runDisney races. Matt updates us on his fundraising efforts for Operation 300, supporting Gold Star Families, and shares moving stories of connections made along the race course. His passion for honoring military families through running inspires participants and spectators alike.

In our Race Report, we spotlight Tiffany's creative two-state challenge weekend, featuring races in Indiana and Illinois. Plus, we discuss the newly announced Princess Weekend themes for 2026 and explore whether they influence registration decisions.

Whether you're a runner seeking leadership insights or a professional looking for new performance strategies, this episode offers valuable lessons on turning physical challenges into professional strengths.

Matt’s Fundraiser Operation 300
The Most Magical Virtual Race on Earth.

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What does it take to create a race experience so special that runners travel from across the country to participate? Lowell Ladd, race director of the Bird in Hand Half Marathon Weekend, joins us to reveal the behind-the-scenes magic of organizing this beloved event in Pennsylvania's Amish country.

From handcrafted horseshoe medals to running past actual camels at mile 12, this race offers experiences you simply won't find elsewhere. Lowell shares how the local Amish community embraces this event so completely that they regularly turn away volunteer help – a rare challenge in the racing world! We learn about the massive pre-race festival, the beloved community picnic with legendary BBQ that begins cooking at 3:30 AM on race day, and why this event has earned its reputation as "runDisney North" among our listeners.

As summer heat intensifies across much of the country, we discuss essential strategies for adapting your training. We share practical advice for adjusting expectations, modifying workouts, and staying safe while building that valuable heat adaptation that will pay dividends when temperatures cool in fall.

Thomas Stokes drops by to announce the winners of his special scholarships and details about his upcoming transformation challenge starting July 7th. In our race report, we travel from Houston to Ottawa, where Marina shares her experience completing not only the 5K and 10K races on Saturday, but following them with a half marathon PR on Sunday – and capping off her weekend with a surprise King Charles sighting! Plus, we hear from runners in Argentina, Scotland, and across North America completing their Memorial Day weekend races.

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Have you spotted the hats and shirts with "Pelkey Running Club" at recent runDisney events? What began as a one-time costume joke has blossomed into a global running phenomenon, and we're bringing you the full story straight from the source.

We sit down with Grant, the club's founder, and John Pelkey himself—the beloved runDisney announcer who went from joking about runners' early wake-up calls to having his name on gear worn on all seven continents. Their chemistry is infectious as they share how a spontaneous gift of four embroidered hats at the 2023 Princess Weekend sparked something neither could have anticipated. As Grant puts it, the Pelkey Running Club is defined by one word: "community."

Ravi joined us for the Race Report spotlight, and we wrapped up this week's episode by drawing inspiration from our friends Tomi and Chad who completed the grueling Keys 100 race, this weekend.

Pelkey Running Club Links
Instagram: @pelkeyrunningclub
Running Club Gear
John’s St. Jude Fundraiser

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What if injuries aren't inevitable, but predictable events with upstream warning signs we can actually address? Henry Abbott, award-winning journalist and founder of True Hoop, joins us to discuss his groundbreaking book "Ballistic: The New Science of Injury-Free Athletic Performance" that challenges everything we thought we knew about athletic durability.

Abbott shares fascinating insights from his research at P3 (Peak Performance Project), where cutting-edge biomechanics analysis is revolutionizing how athletes train. Most surprisingly, he reveals how mental limitations often precede physical ones. Through a remarkable personal anecdote about holding his breath for over four minutes after minimal instruction, Abbott demonstrates how our brains frequently create barriers our bodies haven't actually reached.

For runners specifically, Abbott provides practical wisdom on proper landing mechanics, identifying injury risk factors, and strengthening the often-neglected muscles beneath the knee that create efficient "bouncy" movement. Rather than obsessing over form while running, he suggests building capability through targeted training, then allowing your body to naturally implement improvements.

In the Race Report Spotlight, we hear from 11 runners across four countries who completed the London Marathon. They share their experiences with punishing heat and incredible crowd support. They also describe the emotional highs of crossing Tower Bridge and finishing near Buckingham Palace. Their stories capture both the challenge and the magic of completing a World Major Marathon.

Whether you're battling recurring injuries, seeking performance improvements, or simply wanting to run with less pain, this episode offers invaluable insights that might just transform your relationship with running. Subscribe now and join our Rise and Run community as we explore the cutting-edge science of injury-free athletic performance.

Henry Abbott’s Links
Ballistic Book @henryabbott.com
True Hoop Website
Peak Performance Project

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"Why did I ever think this was a good idea?" That 3AM alarm for Disney races is something we all question—but then the magic happens. This episode, we're joined by Vern (@RunsOnPizza), whose vibrant interviews with costumed runners have become a beloved fixture of runDisney events.

Vern shares her journey from nervous first-timer in 2018 to the unofficial sideline reporter of the Run Disney community. What began as a simple desire to give creative runners a platform has evolved into something truly special. With her broadcast journalism background and genuine love for the community, Vern arrives on the first bus (before 3:15AM!) to capture the stories behind the elaborate costumes that make runDisney races so unique.

"When I started in 2018, I don't remember seeing half of what I see today," Vern reflects on the evolution of race costumes. From foam constructions to motorized elements, the creativity continues to push boundaries—and Vern is there to document it all.

The training lull between Disney seasons can be challenging, but Greg reminds us that finding local races is key to maintaining motivation. Meanwhile, Alicia celebrates two years of her run coaching business, specializing in first-timers and marathon training with personalized weekly plans.

We spotlight the Kentucky Derby Mini Marathon with Sarah and Ashley, who take us through the unique experience of running through Churchill Downs. Plus, our extensive race reports from Flying Pig Marathon, Indy Mini, and races across the globe showcase our community's incredible accomplishments.

Whether you're planning your next costume or searching for summer race motivation, this episode captures the heart of what makes our running community so special—the creativity, support, and shared experiences that keep us rising and running.

Runs On Pizza Instagram
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Have you ever wondered if you're a "real runner" because you take walk breaks? Dr. Michelle Quirk, pediatrician and running coach, sets the record straight in this episode, sharing why walk intervals are not only acceptable but beneficial for all runners. Her thoughtful advice for beginners—remember your "why," start slow, and focus on effort rather than pace—offers a refreshing foundation for anyone lacing up for the first time.

The conversation with Dr. Quirk delves into practical wisdom that both novice and experienced runners will appreciate. She explains how to distinguish between normal muscle soreness and potential injuries through timing, location, and relieving factors—information that could save you from sidelining yourself unnecessarily or pushing through a genuine problem. For parents, Michelle offers sage advice on introducing children to running in a healthy, sustainable way that keeps the focus on fun rather than competition.

Following our expert interview, we're treated to emotional firsthand accounts from three Boston Marathon finishers, including two who completed their Six Star journey at this iconic race. Their descriptions of the overwhelming crowd support and the profound feeling of turning onto Boylston Street for the final stretch will give you goosebumps. As one runner put it: "If you ever want to feel like a rock star, run the last half mile of the Boston Marathon."

The episode wraps with our comprehensive race report, highlighting achievements from runners across the country and around the world—from PR-breaking performances at the London Marathon to the quirky "Reverse London Midnight Marathon" where participants run the course backward starting at 12:01 AM. Whether you're training for your first 5K or your sixth major marathon, this episode offers both practical guidance and the inspirational stories that make our running community so special. Join us as we continue to rise, run, and celebrate each step of the journey together!

Dr. Michelle Quirks Links
Mindful Marathon Web site
Mindful Marathon Instagram
Mindful Marathon Facebook
Mindful Marathon You Tube

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When a brother and sister team take on the Springtime Surprise 10-Miler, they don't just participate – they make runDisney history by becoming the first siblings to win both the male and female divisions in the same race. Meet Liz and Stephen Fengler, aptly nicknamed "The Flying Fenglers," whose remarkable running journey began in middle school tracks and culminated in a stunning Disney victory.

What makes their achievement even more impressive? This was their first-ever runDisney experience. Stephen maintained a blistering pace around 5:30 per mile, even while still stopped for character photos – a power move that didn't prevent him from winning his division by 16 seconds. Meanwhile, Liz dominated the women's field, finishing with a commanding three-minute lead.

The Fenglers aren't newcomers to shared victory podiums. Since fall 2022, they've claimed dual male-female wins in over 45 races throughout Connecticut, where they're active members of the Run 169 Town Society, challenging themselves to race in all 169 towns in the state. Their competitive backgrounds include collegiate careers at Southern Connecticut State University, where both earned conference honors.

As Disneyland races prepare to pause after January 2026 for construction projects, we're reminded that sometimes the most magical Disney moments happen when family crosses the finish line together. Subscribe to follow more inspiring stories from the running community and discover how the simple act of running continues to create extraordinary memories.

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Rise and Run Podcast is supported by our audience. When you make a purchase through one of our affiliate links, we may earn a commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

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The curtain closes on another magical runDisney race season as we unpack the highlights, challenges, and unforgettable moments of Springtime Surprise Weekend. From unexpected fire alarms at Animal Kingdom Lodge to Bob's show-stopping Groot costume that captured runDisney's official attention, this episode brims with stories that showcase why this community continues to thrive.

Brooks made its grand entrance as runDisney's new footwear and apparel partner, bringing four exclusive shoe designs and size-inclusive options that impressed even skeptical runners. The virtual queue system operated smoothly, erasing concerns about long waits and immediate sellouts.

The races themselves delivered on character experiences, with more stops than previous years including rare appearances from Mando and Grogu that generated impressive lines through Galaxy's Edge. Course improvements like relocated hydration stations demonstrated Run Disney's responsiveness to feedback, though Greg continues his campaign for Powerade during the 10K.

Perhaps most meaningful was our Rise and Run meetup, where approximately 60 community members gathered to celebrate friendship and running accomplishments. As hosts, we reflect on how these connections have deepened over time, creating a welcoming space for both longtime friends and first-time attendees.

With anticipation building for the Disneyland Halloween weekend and its attraction-themed medals, we close this season with gratitude for the community that makes every mile magical. Looking ahead to our fifth season of podcasting, we're eager to continue sharing this journey with you—whether it's at registration day, race weekends, or our inaugural podcast cruise in 2026!

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Rise and Run Podcast is supported by our audience. When you make a purchase through one of our affiliate links, we may earn a commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

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