n this episode of The Everyday Runner, host Erin Mayer chats with TJ Smith, a cross-country coach and educator, about his journey from playing soccer and baseball to becoming a passionate runner and coach. TJ reflects on his early running days, including his high school state championship win, and the transition to adult running, sharing valuable lessons about training, recovery, and injury prevention.

TJ emphasizes that more mileage doesn’t always lead to better performance, highlighting the importance of recovery and patience during setbacks. He also shares some humorous and humbling stories from his running career, reminding listeners that embarrassing moments happen to everyone, even at competitive events.

As a coach, TJ finds fulfillment in working with athletes who are enthusiastic about the sport and underscores the importance of building strong community connections to support track and field programs. He shares unique fueling strategies, like using Mountain Dew for quick energy during long runs, and advocates for youth programs to inspire the next generation of runners.

The episode wraps up with a discussion of upcoming community events, including a 5K fundraiser designed to support local athletics, demonstrating TJ’s dedication to giving back and fostering a love for running in his community.

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In this episode of The Everyday Runner, host Erin Maher dives into the inspiring story of Alex Flores, an avid runner with an unconventional path to marathon running. Starting as a swimmer and tennis player, Alex shares how running wasn't always his passion until a move to California sparked a change.

Key Highlights:

• Transition to Running: Alex recounts his gradual shift from casual runs in scenic San Diego to marathon training, with his first half marathon being a humbling yet transformative experience.
• Marathon Tales: From running the Chicago Marathon to exploring the lively running culture of New Orleans, Alex highlights the joy and challenges of races like the Crescent City Classic, known for its festive chaos and community spirit.
• Swimming Roots: As a former competitive swimmer, Alex reflects on how swimming influenced his approach to fitness, sharing meditative experiences in the pool and the intimidation of open water swimming.
• Triathlons and Personal Preferences: While Alex has considered triathlons, he shares his preference for running over biking and his thoughts on balancing multiple sports.

The conversation emphasizes the joy of running, the importance of personal growth over performance metrics, and the camaraderie of being part of a supportive running community. Alex also discusses the significance of coaching young runners, finding fulfillment in fostering others' love for the sport.

Through humorous anecdotes, defining marathon moments, and lessons on goal-setting, Alex encourages listeners to enjoy the journey, embrace nature’s surprises, and focus on the personal satisfaction that running can bring. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking inspiration to take that first step or tackle their next race!

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In this captivating episode of The Everyday Runner podcast, Erin engages in a lively discussion with Natalie Zellers, the innovative mind behind the Gym Bib, as they delve into Natalie's fitness journey and the genesis of her revolutionary product.

The conversation unfolds with reflections on the impact of social media in forging connections within the fitness community, underscoring the significance of balance in maintaining overall health and wellness. Natalie dispels common myths surrounding carbohydrates, shedding light on their essential role in a balanced diet.

Adding a touch of levity, Natalie shares a humorous anecdote about an embarrassing moment during a workout, resonating with listeners through her relatable experiences. Aspiring entrepreneurs will find inspiration in Natalie's words of wisdom and practical advice shared throughout the episode.

Wrapping up, Erin and Natalie provide listeners with valuable insights on where to learn more about Natalie and her innovative creation, the Gym Bib, leaving audiences inspired and informed.

Listeners are sure to be captivated by the engaging dialogue and wealth of knowledge shared in this enlightening episode.

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In this episode of The Everyday Runner, host Erin Maher interviews Lindsay Renee, who shares her inspiring journey from being a reluctant runner to an ultra marathoner. Lindsay recounts how the COVID-19 pandemic initially sparked her interest in running as a way to stay active, eventually leading her to discover a supportive and motivating running community.

Throughout the episode, Lindsay contrasts the laid-back atmosphere of ultra running with the more competitive nature of road races. She emphasizes the importance of fueling with real food, particularly as a gluten-free runner, and highlights how walking during long runs can be both helpful and accepted in ultra events. She shares stories from her longest run, a grueling 64-mile race during a Yeti endurance event, and explains her preference for loop courses to minimize gear carrying.

Lindsay also offers practical advice for new runners, including avoiding vegetables before a race due to potential stomach issues, and shares some lighthearted moments from her own experiences, including the fun, casual atmosphere of Disney races. Finally, she reflects on the role of a supportive partner in enhancing the running experience and discusses her upcoming races and future goals.

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In this inspiring episode of "The Everyday Runner," Erin welcomes Jared Sklar, who shares his remarkable transformation from being out of shape to becoming a dedicated endurance athlete. The conversation kicks off with Jared’s early experiences in team sports and the pivotal moment that shifted his focus to cycling, setting the stage for his eventual passion for running.

Jared recounts how he successfully lost a significant amount of weight through cycling and how participating in a triathlon ignited his love for running. He emphasizes the power of mindset, explaining how believing in oneself as an athlete can profoundly alter one’s approach to fitness. Mistakes along the way are also discussed, as Jared shares valuable lessons learned from his journey.

The episode delves into the importance of community in running, highlighting how support from fellow runners can be incredibly motivating. Jared also touches on running as a mental health outlet, providing stress relief and clarity in a hectic world. He speaks passionately about the role of charity events in creating a sense of purpose beyond personal achievements.

As Jared trains for the upcoming Chicago Marathon, he offers practical tips for race day preparation, underscoring how training for endurance events fosters personal growth and transformation. Tune in for a conversation filled with motivation, insights, and a commitment to helping others reach their fitness goals!

Jared Sklar is a former Couch Potato turned Ironman, Ultra Runner, and Triathlon/Running coach who lost 100 pounds after “accidentally” discovering a love for Cycling and Triathlon. He currently coaches athletes of all skill levels across the US, Canada, and UK, and teaches live and recorded cycling classes through his cycling Studio -TheSunCycle.com- and Bodi.

Jared’s weight loss transformation has featured on CNN, Men’s Health, and Access Hollywood

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In this episode of The Everyday Runner, Erin welcomes Brent Oakes, who shares his inspiring journey from being a competitive childhood athlete to overcoming significant health challenges and rekindling his passion for running. Brent opens up about the physical and emotional toll of injuries and how they shaped his life, emphasizing the importance of setting meaningful goals. He also reflects on how family dynamics have played a pivotal role in his running journey. Brent keeps things lighthearted with some humorous and embarrassing stories from his running experiences, while also giving a glimpse into his future plans, including upcoming races.

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In this episode of the Everyday Runner podcast, host Erin Mayer sits down with Alyssa Ford, a multifaceted individual with a passion for running and helping others achieve their fitness goals. Alyssa, who holds a doctorate in physical therapy and wears many hats as a run coach and strength coach, opens up about her own running journey and the valuable lessons she's learned along the way.

From her early days of pounding the pavement with her mom to crossing the finish line of her third marathon, Alyssa's running journey is one filled with determination, growth, and the occasional chafing mishap. She candidly shares the mistakes she made when she first started training for a half marathon, including pacing herself poorly and neglecting proper fueling strategies. But true to form, Alyssa doesn't just dwell on the setbacks – she offers up practical tips for avoiding chafing and emphasizes the importance of comfortable gear and products like Body Glide.

As Alyssa takes a well-deserved break from intense training to focus on enjoying running for fun, listeners are invited to join her on this journey of self-discovery and growth. Whether you're a seasoned marathoner or just lacing up your running shoes for the first time, this episode is sure to inspire and motivate you to chase after your own running goals – one mile at a time.

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On this episode Erin welcomes Allison Felsenthal, founder of Runwithalli, and she shares her running journey and how she transitioned from corporate America to the fitness world. She started running for stress relief and eventually ran casual ultra-marathons around the perimeter of New York City. Allison's love for running grew, and she qualified for the Boston Marathon. She then pursued a career in coaching and started her own business. Allison emphasizes the importance of having a coach and avoiding common mistakes like pushing through injuries and running too much too soon. She also shares a humorous and embarrassing moment from the Boston Marathon. She also hosts a successful podcast of her own and you can follow that show below.

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Learn more about the Runwithalli, LLC coaching services: www.runafastermarathon.com

For coaching, email Coach Alli at allison.felsenthal@gmail.com

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/runwithalli-live/id1510066149

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