Another Mother Runner

Anyone looking to be seen and understood or to add value in their community will really appreciate this episode: Along with host Sarah Bowen Shea, Coach Liz Waterstraat unpacks Mattering: The Secret to a Life of Deep Connection and Purpose, a new book by journalist Jennifer Breheny Wallace.

The hosting duo talks about the importance of seeing the difference one makes in their world, plus what constitutes success. And Coach Liz reveals details about her “impact file.”

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Whether you’re taking on your first 10K or about to run Boston, this episode offers practical, insightful advice from guest Erin Ayala, Ph.D., a Minneapolis-based sport psychologist and host of Feisty Women’s Performance podcast. Along with hosts Sarah Bowen Shea and Coach Liz Waterstraat, Erin shares:

Before Erin hops on aroun...

In this episode of Miles of Books, Sarah and Ellison discuss three novels that each explore women’s lives, family roles, and the complicated ways mothers shape their children’s worlds. From the feminist awakening at the center of Meet the Newmans, to the fallout of desire and family upheaval in Lake Effect, to a fresh reimagining of Cinderella in Lady Tremaine, this conversation is full of sharp insights, lively plot setup, and plenty of reasons to add these books to your list.

Books discussed:

Calling all 40+ women: This is a must-listen episode! The guest is Selene Yeager, host of the popular menopause-focused podcast called Hit Play Not Pause. Selene is the longtime health and science journalist who co-authored ROAR and Next Level with Dr. Stacy Sims. Along with hosts Sarah Bowen Shea and Tish Hamilton, Selene discusses:

Selene joins the show around 8:25, after Tish...

This week, Sarah Bowen Shea is joined by Coach Liz Waterstraat for a conversation about one nonfiction title: The Way of Excellence by Brad Stulberg. The two talk about how excellence feels more like ease than strain, why values matter, and how curiosity, discipline, and reflection can help athletes, leaders, parents, and anyone else move toward growth.

Liz also shares why this personal-development book stands out from the pack—and why it’s worth the read.

The Way of Excellence by Brad Stulberg

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Anyone looking to kickstart her running habit—or begin a new one—will appreciate this episode featuring Jennifer Harrison, a veteran endurance coach and accomplished triathlete, and sport psychologist Erin Haugen, Ph.D. Along with the hosting duo of Sarah Bowen Shea and Amanda Loudin, they discuss:

Before Coach Jen joins around 8:40, the hosts also enjoy a quick catch-up on work (Amanda) and family (Sarah).

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Your favorite book-recommendation podcast is back! Hosts Sarah Bowen Shea and Ellison Weist kick things off by talking about four novels from women writers, including a buzzy one Sarah enjoyed listening to on her runs.

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Yes, we’re BACK!

Thanks to a merger with Feisty Media, this episode kicks off the return of Another Mother Runner (both the podcasts and the company!). In this live relaunch episode, hosts Sarah Bowen Shea and Britany Williams are joined by AMR co-founder Dimity McDowell and Sara Gross, founder and CEO of Feisty.

Recorded in front of a lively audience at the Portland Running Company, the quartet discusses the myriad ways community matters, especially for active women—and they pull back the curtain on how these two women-centric, sporty brands joined forces.

This...

Three co-hosts sit down and share in this second installment of this annual tradition-episode: Molly Williams, Tish Hamilton, and the OG herself, Dimity McDowell. Along with host Sarah Bowen Shea, each gal shares her 2025 physical pursuits—as well as their plans for 2026. There is also the detailed background of the AMR origin story, plus laughter and tears remembering past episodes (hello, Chris McDougall and his “ass!”) and in-person AMR adventures. 

Head here to sign up for notifications about the potential continuation of AMR podcasts.  

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Anyone looking for books to delve into during the holidays, look (and listen!) no further: Hosts Sarah Bowen Shea and Ellison Weist serve up four compelling new novels—including one they both found exquisitely crafted—plus two non-fiction books they won’t soon forget. 

The books the hosting duo recommends:
Heart of the Lover: Lily King
The Loneliness of Sonia and Sunny: Kiran Desai
The Ten Year Affair: Erin Somers
Flesh: David Szalay

Whether the co-hosts feel like old friends or total strangers (welcome, new listeners!), you’ll enjoy hearing what they’ve been up to athletically this year—and what they’ve got in store for 2026. The co-hosts chatting with host Sarah Bowen Shea in this ep are: Coach Liz Waterstraat, Ellison Weist, Amanda Loudin, and Britany Williams. There are also some laughter- and tear-inducing reminisces of past episodes and IRL AMR adventures. 

Please click here to sign up for updates about the future of this podcast. 

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This episode is a mix of reminiscences from Sarah and Dimity about adventures they’ve shared over the 15 years of Another Mother Runner, while answering Kathleen’s question about their bucket-list races (including Sarah’s maybe-one-day marathon). They also address Other Sarah’s question about oddball places they’ve run (nothing rivals her kitchen-island laps!!!) and Heidi’s community query. 

The questions get kicked off around 6:31, after Sarah shares her renewed love of running and Dimity talks about her impressive swimming streak. Here’s the black-bean brownie recipe Dimity favors; here’s where to sign up for podcast updates...

This episode is ideal for any athlete who sets goals and strives for them, regardless of whether that goal involves a time on a race clock or not. Host Sarah Bowen Shea and Molly Williams talk with three women who achieved long-held time goals—one in a 5K, another in a half-marathon, and another in a marathon. The guests share: 

-how to find (+ maintain!) the requisite mental commitment;  

-how intentional training can reignite a passion for running; 

-the wisdom gained from consistency; 

-how running taught one gal to be more flexible; and, <...

Readers who love novels with a strong message or parable will appreciate the takeaways from this conversation between Coach Liz Waterstraat and Sarah Bowen Shea. In a first, Coach Liz talks about two works of fiction—The Compass Within: A Little Story About the Values That Guide Us and The Alchemist—yet the books offer up strong, actionable life lessons that Coach Liz sagely shares. 

Head here to sign up for notifications about Sarah and Dimity’s next steps. 

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Whether you think a daily running habit is enviable—or certifiable!—you’ll love listening to conversations with four women who have run streaks. Join hosts Sarah Bowen Shea and Tish Hamilton to learn: 

-how each gal’s streak got started;

-what a “streak saver” is; 

-how a streak reinforces the runner-identity of one BIPOC guest;

-how a running streak serves as a safety net for consistency; and, 

-how (+ if!) the guests envision an end to their streaks. 

The hosts time-travel to 1970s NYC in the intro; the fi...

A fun twist on this episode’s Q&A’s: Hosts Sarah Bowen Shea and Dimity McDowell share wisdom gleaned from the Another Mother Runner Facebook community. There are crowd-sourced responses to Kathy’s question about the most supportive sports bras for bigger-busted runners; Courtney’s query about dealing with sweaty workout wear; and Jacki’s request for holiday gift ideas for sporty gals. 

The first question gets asked-and-answered starting around 7:16. But, first, Sarah shares details about reaching a goal she announced on an earlier episode. (Find all the discount codes mentioned in the gift-related response here.) Plea...

Anyone who wants to run injury free for as long in their life as possible—or who hates how their form looks in race photos!—needs to listen to this enlightening episode with guest Greg McMillan, a well-respected running coach, exercise scientist, and author. With hosts Sarah Bowen Shea and Coach Liz Waterstraat, Greg breaks it down as:

-we don’t all need to look the same running; 

-small changes that can make a big difference; 

-how—and why—to achieve tall running form; 

-the importance of mobility—and how to improve yours; a...

Two mysteries (including the latest installment of a must-read series!) plus two other just-published books provide lots of fodder for conversation between hosts Sarah Bowen Shea and Ellison Weist (including a drool-inducing discussion of one author!). Also find out the classic novel Sarah and Ellison each recommend. 

The four new books the duo discuss: 
-The Impossible Fortune: Richard Osman
-Bog Queen: Anna North
-Town & Country: Brian Schaefer
-A Guardian and a Thief: Megha Majumdar

Find 2026 hiking + biking program details here. 

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Runners of all ages will be intrigued to listen to this candid, laughter-filled conversation with hosts Sarah Bowen Shea, Amanda Loudin, and Tish Hamilton. The three longtime runners detail where they are with their running these days, plus: 

-age-related adjustments they’ve made to their training; 

-why two of the three rarely race; 
-how Tish loves her weekly “long, slow plods”; 

-the state of their athletic egos; and, 

-their shared desire “to run forever.” 

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Runners of all paces and abilities will be able to relate to the callers in this themed episode: Both Michelle and Amy struggled in their fall races, and they are now trying to regain their confidence. Host Sarah Bowen Shea shares personal experience of being on the struggle-bus, while host and coach Dimity McDowell gives loads of practical, insightful advice. 

In the intro, Dimity tells of the showtunes playlist she made for the 6:00 a.m. spin class she leads. The questions kick off around 11:51. Here’s a peak at 2026 hiking and biking offerings. 

When...

Anyone looking to try a new sport or take up a new hobby will appreciate this insightful episode about the beginner’s mindset. Along with hosts Sarah Bowen Shea and Coach Liz Waterstraat, guest Tom Vanderbilt, author of the new book Beginners: the Joy and Transformative Power of Lifelong Learning, talks about: 

-what exactly a beginner’s mindset is; 

-his tires-fell-off-the-bus marathon experience; 

-the role failure and self-doubt play in the learning process; 

-the power of good coaching and a group; and, 

-what a “stereotype threat” is. 

Before Tom j...

Introverts, extroverts, and everyone in between: This thought-provoking episode provides justification for taking some alone-time and recharging. Coach Liz Waterstraat talks with host Sarah Bowen Shea about two books: The Joy of Solitude: How To Reconnect with Yourself in an Overconnected World by Robert J. Coplan and An Oasis in Time: How a Day of Rest Can Save Your Life by Marilyn Paul. Especially useful: Coach Liz shares numerous strategies for solitude. 

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Runners (and aspiring runners!) looking for inspiration and erudite insight will love this episode with Nicholas Thompson, author of the just-released book The Running Ground: A Father, a Son, and the Simplest of Sports. This father runner and cancer survivor talks with hosts Sarah Bowen Shea and Tish Hamilton about:

-the logistics of running to + from work in NYC; 

-how he got a lot faster in his 40s; 

-the reality (or not!) of pain during an endurance race;

-a recent Grand Canyon adventure with his buddies; and,

-a memora...

Any runners with an upcoming race who are looking for tapering tips, like Laura Catherine, will appreciate this informative episode. Chronically injured athletes, like Marianne, will welcome the empathy and advice offered by Coach Dimity. Trail-curious runners, such as Rachel, will be pleased to learn details about jumping into an off-road marathon or 50K. 

Before the hosts start answering questions around 08:17, Sarah shares her post-recording habit (hint: here’s her cake recipe). Please call 470-BADASS1 (470-223-2771) to record your question, and here are all our trail programs. 

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This is the ideal episode for anyone who loves to go big—or read about people who do. Hosts Sarah Bowen Shea and Tish Hamilton have a fun conversation with Keira D'Amato, a mother runner perhaps best known for, in 2022, breaking a 16-year American record in the marathon. In addition to talking about her brand-new book Don’t Call It a Comeback: What Happened When I Stopped Chasing PRs, and Started Chasing Happiness, Keira shares: 
-the healing properties of running for her; 
-what a 2013 marathon taught her re: not taking training for granted; 
-how motherhood changed her approa...

If autumn weather has you wanting to tuck into an engrossing novel, look no further: Hosts Sarah Bowen Shea and Ellison “The Book Bully” Weist serve up five new novels, including a semi-dystopian novel from the genius behind Atonement. The duo dives into:

-What We Can Know: Ian McEwan
-Buckeye: Patrick Ryan
-Mercy: Joan Silber
-The Elements: John Boyne
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Anyone who likes trail running—or is interested in exploring hiking after their running career—this is an episode for you. Special guest host Dimity McDowell talks with three women who recently joined her in northern Minnesota to take on the Grand Traverse, a multi-distance trail event. The conversations include how:

-one woman found grace for herself with not being able to run as she'd hoped;

—one a trail runner uncovered the courage to tackle trails solo;

—the unexpected heat grounded one woman; and,

—doing something challenging, especially as you get older, is a...

Anyone training for a half or full marathon, like Shannon, will appreciate the wisdom hosts Sarah Bowen Shea and Coach Dimity McDowell share on how to beat training boredom. Folks with a race soon, as Julie does, will be interested to hear the hosts’ advice on strength training during the taper. And anyone done with their fall race and wondering what to do in the “lull” before ramping up for a spring race, like Emily, will gain a lot from listening to Coach Dimity’s suggestions. Bonus track: an attitude-of-gratitude voicemail from marathoner Stacy.

Before the questions and answ...

All runners should listen in to this important, informative episode recorded in front of an audience at the Portland Marathon expo.  This panel discussion was moderated by host Sarah Bowen Shea with guests Dena Lewis, founder of Running Mate, and Ashley Raymond, co-founder and CEO of Safely. The trio discuss:
-the #1 thing women can do for their safety while on a run; 
-situational awareness: what it is—and why it’s so crucial;
-what members of the running community can do to help women stay safe; 
-how an assault led one panel member to become an ultrarun...

Any runner or triathlete who wants advice on performing under pressure—and anyone who loves a sport-narrative (with lessons that translate into broader life)—will really appreciate this episode. Coach Liz Waterstraat talks about two books: Legacy: What the All Blacks Can Teach Us About the Business of Life and Will It Make the Boat Go Faster? Olympic Winning Strategies for Everyday Success. And host Sarah Bowen Shea seizes the opportunity to get Coach Liz talking about her upcoming race—the Ironman World Championship in Kona—so be sure to listen all the way to the end of the episode.

W...

Anyone who dreams of chasing a big athletic goal needs to listen to this episode. Hosts Sarah Bowen Shea and Tish Hamilton talk with two women athletes who are getting after it: one is training for her first marathon, while the other just completed a 100-mile bike ride. Hear how: 

-a decade-long runner decided to step up to a marathon;

-they both feel limits are only psychological;  

-a mom of four triathlete pivoted to straight-up cycling; 

-one athlete has struggled with chronic pain; and, 

-a non-competitive event fueled one woman’...

This episode for all runners who have wanted to quit halfway through a run, like Jana. Thankfully, the host duo of Sarah and Dimity share solutions, as they do with Catherine, who wants to know how to beat a 6-hour marathon cut-off despite her comfortable pace being 14- to 15-minute miles. They also counsel Leigh on pressing reset on her training after her race got canceled. 

Before giving answers to called-in questions, Dimity details the feats of endurance and strength she witnessed at a P!nk concert. To record a question, please call 470-BADASS1 (470-223-2...

Calling all runners and walkers: This is a lively, enlightening conversation about a painful condition that afflicts far too many active folks. Hosts Sarah Bowen Shea and Amanda Loudin talk with physical therapist Denise Smith; an avid walker who currently has plantar fasciitis (PF); and a runner who finally (!) kicked PF. The conversation covers a lot of ground, including:

-what plantar fasciitis is and its most common symptoms; 

-the myriad (so many!!) causes of PF; 

-the lowdown on cortisone injections; 

-how two active women developed + dealt with PF; and, 

-what a “...

Avid readers, numerous genres are served up in this lively episode: Many of the engrossing novels seem primed to be turned into limited-edition streaming series. (Read them first!) Hosts Sarah Bowen Shea and Ellison Weist talk up: 
-Fifteen Wild Decembers: Karen Powell
-The Art of a Lie: Laura Shepherd-Robinson
-The Dentist: Tim Sullivan
-To the Moon and Back: Eliana Ramage
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Calling all runners and fitness enthusiasts: This episode has it all! Fitness trainer (+ occasional AMR podcast co-host) Britany Williams joins host Sarah Bowen Shea to share strategies for success in exercising more consistently, enjoying your workouts more, sticking to your nutritional goals, and more. Britany details: 
-why it’s crucial to trust yourself in your health pursuits; 
-the power of mastering tiny habits; 
-the importance of existing in the “season” you are in; 
-why identity trumps willpower; and,
-Britany’s 20/80 rule.

Before Britany switches from co-host to guest at 3:25, Sarah serves up stories of t...

Anyone hoping to nail a fall race, like Michelle, will appreciate all the night-before and morning-of advice from seasoned racers/hosts Sarah and Dimity. Proponents of the run-walk method, like Emily, will breathe a sigh of relief at Coach Dimity’s answer to, “Do I need more cardio?” And parents like Peter will be grateful for the advice—and empathy—about getting your teens to stick with running. 

The host-duo share smile-inducing sports anecdotes from recent memorial services they each attended before jump into Q&As at about 6:00. Please call 470-BADASS1 (470-223-2771) to record your question...

Runners and triathletes of any pace or experience level will be intrigued by this episode featuring Chris Johnson, PT, a physical therapist and endurance coach, as he extols the countless benefits of walking. (Yes, walking!) Along with host Sarah Bowen Shea, Johnson details: 
-why every run should start and end with walking:
-the various ways runners can utilize walking; 
-the psychological benefits of taking walking breaks in a run; 
-why you might want to cap your daily step count; and,
-a deep dive into walking with a weighted vest.

Before the guest joins...

Anyone looking to tap into their creative side will appreciate this episode in which Coach Liz Waterstraat dissects two books, The Book of Alchemy and Find Your Unicorn Space. Along with host Sarah Bowen Shea, Coach Liz talks about nurturing creativity—and how it can benefit your racing (whether your goal is competing or completing). The duo also discuss the power of journaling, and their own write-it-down practices. As Coach Liz says, “reflection should be a part of every athlete’s end-of-season.” 

Here is Fall into Fitness: Harvest Your Strength. 

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This is a must-listen episode for any runner, regardless of whether you’ve returned to racing after a traumatic injury: It showcases the grit and vulnerability needed to wage a comeback! With host Sarah Bowen Shea, Coach Jen Harrison shares her story of her injury, surgery, and months-long recovery, then the duo talks with Coach Jen’s physical therapist, Denise Smith, and her sport psychologist, Erin Ayala, Ph.D., about: 
-trusting the recovery process;
-embracing the process, not the outcome; 
-the importance of the mental recovery, not just the physical;
-the role of self-compassion after an injury; and...

Anyone with a hilly race on their calendar, like Maya, will appreciate the wisdom and experience Coach Dimity and Sarah share. Women looking to get the most bang for their workout-bucks, which is what 50-state half-marathoner Christina wants, will be grateful for the guidance Coach Dim shares, partly from this sage Stacy Sims book. 

Please call 470-BADASS1 (470-223-2771) to record your question, and register here for Fall into Fitness: Harvest Your Strength. 

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We appreciate your—and their—support!

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