Run Your Story Podcast
Where Every Story Needs to be Heard! Runners and walkers are interviewed to tell their run/walk stories, share fun memories, and provide great advice for those interested in this sport!
Sean Casey- "Take the stairs"
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Sean describes growing up as an athlete who disliked running until he developed Guillain-Barré syndrome at 13, rapidly progressing from numbness to full paralysis, ICU ventilation, and a 94-day hospital stay, followed by relearning movement and returning to football within months with a full recovery.
At 22, while teaching English in Korea, he joined an international run club and impulsively ran his first marathon with minimal training, which inspired him to learn and improve, leading to races like Miami, LA, Chicago, and Tokyo.
Drawn to t...
Blake Colton - "Go slow, be consistent, and you'll never know where it'll take you"
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On the Run Your Story podcast, Blake Colton shares how he began running in high school, paused to pursue the trades as an electrician, then returned about eight years ago through marathons inspired by his dad, repeatedly failing to qualify for Boston and nearly quitting due to burnout and gut issues.
A friend introduced him to trail running, where the slower pace helped, and he became hooked, starting with a backyard ultra and progressing to 100Ks, multiple 100-milers, and a 200-miler.
He recounts...
Hildee Weiss (Author: Embracing My Inner Athlete) - "Embrace it for all that it is"
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Allison interviews Hildee about her book, Embracing My Inner Athlete, and Hildee shares how, in 2014, as a busy wife and mother of five, she decided to prioritize herself after encouragement from her father-in-law and began training with Jeff, who became her trainer, coach, and friend.
Initially afraid to run, she progressed from treadmill walk-jog intervals to completing her first 5K, then caught the running “bug,” trained for longer distances, and overcame a broken fifth metatarsal by following a gradual recovery plan.
She discusses late...
Kelsey Williams - "Running is a gift"
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Allison interviews Kelsey (“Dr. Williams”), a Mississippi runner and assistant principal at Florence Middle, about completing her first marathon at Jackson’s Run the Rainbow, a hilly race benefiting the state’s only children’s hospital.
They discuss how they connected through Kelsey’s social post, the emotional impact of running past the hospital, and Kelsey’s running origin during COVID after a difficult period that included her father’s death and a divorce.
Kelsey credits the Run Strong community and coaches Claire and Jeremy for p...
Nicole Adams (Author: Running With God) - "Don't compare yourself. Just let it be."
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Allison interviews Nicole about her book, "Running With God: A Devotional Journey Through the Race of Faith," praising its reflective questions and themes of running and scripture.
Nicole shares how she began running in middle school, later experienced God speaking to her during runs, started the book 15 years ago, and, after a dark season and stepping away from faith, found healing from depression as running drew her back to God and led her to finish the book as an act of obedience despite fear.
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CJ Johnson - "Be legendary"
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Allison interviews Baton Rouge runner CJ Johnson about his running journey, community work, and current injury recovery.
CJ began running in middle school, quit in 11th grade amid family turmoil, later joined the Air Force, and was discharged after learning he had sickle cell anemia.
He recommitted to running after his father’s leg amputation, and because his son has full-blown sickle cell anemia and cannot run, motivating CJ to “run for both of them.”
He describes lessons on faith, training smart...
Jacob Martin - "Why settle for 2nd when 1st is available?"
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In an interview, ultramarathon runner and Fresh Junkie Ambassador Jacob shares how he began running in his late teens after being sedentary and overweight, inspired by watching the Cajun Man Triathlon, then trained for and completed a sprint triathlon as his first race before progressing to half marathons, marathons, 50Ks, 50-milers, and finishing his first 100-miler (Loop Garoo 100), which he praises for its community and aid stations.
He describes pre- and post-race routines (oatmeal, minimal stretching, pizza, Epsom salt baths, and active recovery), preferred gear...
John Calabrese - "You're not good enough, John!"
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On the podcast, John shares how running began as an outlet during depression and divorce, evolving from ramping up in 2016 to his first marathon in 2017 and then ultras, where he found a supportive community and a sense of purpose.
He explains lessons learned, staying true to personal goals, using past DNFs and even trash talk as motivation, and focusing on hard training and unglamorous work like PT, core, and gym strength to reduce injuries.
John describes discovering Ainsley’s Angels after seeing a du...
Bethany Madson - "You are the only one that sets your limits"
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Scott interviews ultra runner Bethany about her running journey, which began in 2018 with a six-hour trail ultra at The Beast after returning to running post–second daughter, progressed to a first 50K at Big BUTTS, a 12-hour at The Beast in 2019, a break in 2020–2021, then a return in 2022 and a first 100-miler at Red Dirt in 2023.
She completed her 10th 100-miler in March 2026.
She shares lessons on pushing limits, nutrition and hydration, focus, and the supportive ultra community, plus favorite races MS 100 and Fond...
Ali Sudderth - "I get to do this. I get to run."
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In this podcast interview, runner and mom Ali shares how she began running in her mid-20s using Couch to 5K, completed half marathons, tore her ACL/MCL, then stepped away from running during surgery recovery, pregnancy, and postpartum while focusing on strength training at Burn Boot Camp.
In July 2024, she was diagnosed with Guillain-Barré syndrome, rapidly becoming paralyzed from the chest down with partial arm and facial paralysis, and spent about three months at the Shepherd Center relearning daily tasks and eventually running five m...
Corbin Harris - "Finding joy in the journey"
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Corbin shares how he started running in fourth grade, became an average high school runner, and later found deeper passion and success at Campbellsville University, eventually winning a conference 5K title and a Christian College National Championship.
After college, he trained for his first marathon to qualify for Boston, won in 2:36, later ran Boston in 2:27 (55th), and began pursuing Olympic Trials standards, including a 2:23 marathon and a 2:21 at Chicago 2023, then continued despite tougher qualifying times.
He coached collegiately, moved to Lexington after marriage...
Ainsley's Angels at Crescent City Classic 2026
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[This podcast is best experienced on our YouTube channel, which includes pictures, names, titles, and subtitles for each of the people we interviewed.]
Host Allison Gaillard introduces a different kind of Run Your Story podcast episode featuring Ainsley’s Angels participants from the Crescent City Classic, including Greater New Orleans members and families who traveled from Texas.
Interviews with riders, runners, parents, and volunteers highlight how the organization creates inclusion not only during races but also through post-race community and celebration.
Gu...
Kyle Walker (Back of the Pack Podcast) - "Why are we taking this seriously?"
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At the Run the Rainbow Expo, Allison interviews Kyle of the Back of the Pack Podcast ahead of the Run the Rainbow race and a planned meetup at Rocket City Marathon’s Podcast Alley.
Kyle shares that he began running after a 2010 divorce, starting at nearly 300 pounds by running short intervals, completing his first 5K in December 2010, and eventually doing about 382 races.
He started his podcast to share lessons from mistakes and support all runners, pushing back on claims that back-of-the-pack and charity ru...
Dylan Led - "I've been through so much worse than whatever's in front of me in a race"
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Allison interviews Dylan, an ultra runner with 14+ ultramarathons, a sobriety and redemption story, and a weekly live cornhole podcast.
Dylan shares how he ran casually as a young athlete, joined the US Army in 2013 for eight and a half years, then swore off running after leaving in 2021 and struggled with lost purpose and heavy drinking, intensified after a roommate’s death in a 2022 motorcycle accident.
After reading David Goggins’ “Can’t Hurt Me,” he began training for the 4x4x48 challenge, found running as therapy...
Stephen Havard - "Accept there will be discomfort and accept the challenge."
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On the podcast, Allison interviews Steven (“Big Papa”), a fast, humble runner and new dad, about how he started running after high school to stay in shape and to eventually beat his older brother in races.
Steven describes shifting from mostly trail running in Georgia (especially 2017–2021) to more road running after moving to Mobile in July 2021, noting differences in pacing, muscle strain, anxiety, passing on single-track trails, and the need for more cushioned shoes on pavement.
He shares lessons from running—discipline, consistency, focusing...
Jackson Wolf - "I'm gonna let the rougarou out."
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Jackson discusses how he started running competitively later in life—his first marathon at 33 after dabbling in mountain biking, triathlons, and five Ironmans—and quickly progressed into trail ultras, including signing up for a 100-miler before completing a 50K.
He shares his love of technical trails, boredom as a key weakness, and how moving between Mississippi and places like Flagstaff shaped his training.
Jackson explains how Live Oak 50K began as a low-key group run that grew into an organized race, and his goal...
Laura Green - "Motivation is nothing. It's just dedication."
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Laura Green, a mom, comedian, and runner, shares how she started running at 12 through cross country, trained seriously in high school in New York, and later ran at Northeastern while majoring in physical therapy.
After college, she shifted to more recreational trail and road running, completing under 10 marathons, including a first marathon in Nashville to raise money for a friend’s wheelchair, and repeated Boston mainly to visit friends; she especially enjoyed New York City and the Paris Marathon.
She prefers cross country an...
Rhonda Hayden - "It's a passion that I've had for a long time."
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Allison welcomes back Rhonda, who runs Kinda Gritty, to discuss her background directing races and fundraising, and how her company creates experience-focused events with strong community impact.
They recap Kind of Gritty races including Salute Red, White, and Blue at Camp Shelby benefiting the National Guard Youth Challenge Program, and the Molten Mohawk Niner at Thomley’s Christmas Tree Farm featuring hand-blown glass medals and fundraising beneficiaries that have included a prosthetic leg, medical bills for injured athletes, and Oak Grove High School’s cross coun...
Travis McCalla - "That sense of belonging"
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Podcast host Alison interviews Travis, a veteran whose running story spans childhood trauma, military service, alcoholism, sobriety, and ultra-distance racing.
Travis describes hating running in high school, escaping an abusive home by joining the Marine Corps in 1997, developing a heavy drinking habit, later joining the Army Reserve in 2006, and seeking help in 2014 because he feared dying.
After getting sober, deployments and a 2017 convoy crash in Germany revealed health issues, prompting him to start running, progressing quickly from 5Ks to marathons, 50 milers, and 100 milers.<...
Selena Daniel - "I need new friends"
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In this conversation, Allison interviews Selena, a runner and the race director of Run the Rainbow, a multi-distance race event in Jackson, Mississippi that benefits the state’s only children’s hospital.
Selena shares how she began running in her early 30s as a personal goal, progressed from 5Ks to marathons, and grew passionate about the running community.
She discusses taking on trail running at longer distances, including a goal sequence with the local Muts Group (Frosty 15, Big Butts 50K, Clear Creek 50K) and...
Josh Coleman - "The race is never over"
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Alison interviews ultra runner and author Josh Coleman about his book, Moving Forward: Running With Grief, which centers on his grief after his wife Erin’s death and the importance of community support for those grieving.
Josh explains he wrote the book to keep Erin’s legacy alive, capture who she was for those who never met her (including the trail running community), help process his own grief, and share how he grieved without prescribing a “right way” to others; he emphasizes that grief doesn’t end but...
Blake Hughes - "Running isn't what most people think that it is"
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In this episode, Blake shares his incredible transformation from viewing running as a form of torture in his youth to becoming an ultramarathon runner.
Blake discusses his initial attempts at running, propelled by a friend's encouragement, leading up to completing his first 5K and ultimately participating in marathons and ultra-races.
He reflects on the lessons learned through running, emphasizing mental and spiritual aspects. Blake also delves into his training routines, gear preferences, and the pivotal role of his supportive wife.
With...
Kilian Korth - "Success and failure are not opposites of each other"
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In this episode, Kilian discusses his impressive journey from competitive swimming in college to becoming an ultrarunner
He shares how his active childhood and innate drive led him to conquer grueling races like the Triple Crown and Moab 240.
Kilian also delves into his training routines, race-day strategies, nutrition, recovery methods, and the invaluable lessons he's learned along the way.
He offers heartfelt advice for new runners, emphasizes the importance of gratitude, and shares poignant memories that define his running career.
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Megan Eckert - "You learn that perseverance, you learn that grit, you learn not to give up when things get tough"
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In this episode, Allison interviews Megan, an accomplished runner, ultra-marathoner, trail enthusiast, and high school coach.
Megan shares her journey from being too scared to run her first 5K to becoming a passionate runner deeply embedded in the running community.
She discusses how she got hooked on running during a half-marathon and explains her transition into ultra distances and trail running.
Megan highlights the importance of community, the lessons learned from running, and her approach to coaching high school athletes.
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Jacob Travis (JT the PT) - "The matter of consistency"
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In this episode, Jacob, also known as JT the PT, shares his story of how he transitioned from a casual strength workout runner to a passionate long-distance runner and physical therapist.
He explains his journey, starting with a challenging first run, to now running marathons and ultra-marathons.
JT discusses the importance of consistency, community, and humor in running. He shares insights on his pre-race and post-race routines, favorite racing memories, and advice for new runners.
JT also highlights his new PT...
Jme Trichell - "Dream it. Believe it. Do it."
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In this heartfelt episode, Jamie, fondly known as 'Crazy Uncle Jamie,' shares his inspiring running journey, starting from his first 5K at Sanderson Farms to becoming a beloved figure in the running community.
Jamie recounts memorable stories from various races, his unique pre- and post-race routines, and the support of his running family, the Mississippi Coffee Runners, and Fresh Junkie ambassadors.
Through personal anecdotes, Jamie offers profound insights into perseverance, community, and finding therapy in running.
He also gives practical...
David Steudlein (Ainsley's Angels) - "You don't have to run, you get to run"
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In this episode, we sit down with David, an accomplished runner and dedicated member of Ainsley's Angels, at the Battleship 12K Expo.
David shares his running journey, which began in the Marine Corps and has evolved through CrossFit and weightlifting to rekindle his love for running.
He discusses the pivotal role Ainsley's Angels has played in bringing joy back to his running and life.
David emphasizes the importance of inclusion and the impact of helping athletes in adaptive running events.
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Bo Reynolds - "You gotta push yourself, prepare yourself, be rested, carbed up, hydrated, and have a clear conscience"
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In this episode, Bo Reynolds shares his inspiring journey of running, faith, and community.
He takes us through his early days of running, major accomplishments, spiritual awakenings, and how he found a deeper purpose in life and running.
Bo emphasizes the importance of faith, repentance, and following Jesus, while offering practical advice for new runners and recounting memorable race experiences.
Join us for a heartfelt conversation that intertwines the disciplines of running with spiritual growth.
Bo Reynolds ...
Becca Pizzi - "Keep showing up and stay patient"
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In this episode, Allison interviews Becca Pizzi, an accomplished runner and Ironman world champion.
Becca shares insights into her running journey, starting from her childhood in Belmont, Massachusetts, to achieving world records and running marathons on all seven continents.
She discusses her experiences in various races, including the World Marathon Challenge and the Kona Ironman World Championship.
Becca also talks about her contributions to the running community, such as organizing a local 5K in Belmont and authoring a children's book.
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Adam Williams - "You have to understand yourself"
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In this podcast episode, Adam shares his incredible journey from a casual soccer player to an esteemed ultramarathoner.
Adam discusses breaking his leg in 2024, his subsequent rehabilitation, and his remarkable comeback in 2025, during which he participated in numerous ultra-marathons, including 200+ mile races.
He highlights his start in the running world, his daily run streak of at least seven miles, and how yoga played a crucial role in his physical recovery and overall fitness.
Adam provides insights into his preparation, race recovery...
Anna Arsenault - "Telling somebody is really important"
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In this episode, Anna shares her remarkable journey from early childhood running behind soldiers to becoming a coach and part-owner of Iron Tribe Fitness.
With a background that spans from competitive Spartan races to homeschooling her four children and running Mom Strong Fitness, Anna details the development of her passion for fitness and her methods for balancing various responsibilities.
She discusses the importance of accountability, strength training, and overcoming injuries while emphasizing the significance of integrating fitness into family life and parenting.
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Rita Kennedy - "You gotta start somewhere"
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In this episode, the tables are turned as Allison engages with Rita, a dedicated and inspirational runner.
Rita shares her journey of overcoming anxiety through running, the supportive role of her husband and friends, and the adage 'You can do anything for 60 seconds' which has helped her and others persevere.
The conversation touches on the impact she has made in the running community, particularly with older adults, and her experience running in various races, including Disney runs dedicated to her late granddaughter Lily.<...
Karl Meltzer - "Live first, die later"
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In this podcast episode, legendary ultra-marathon runner Karl 'The Speed Goat' Meltzer shares his inspiring journey from an active childhood in New Hampshire to becoming a celebrated figure in the ultra-running community.
Karl discusses his passion for running, the origin of his famous Speed Goat shoe with Hoka, and his record-setting career that spans decades and boasts 100-mile race victories.
He offers insights into his training, fueling strategies, and recovery techniques, emphasizing the importance of consistency, headspace, and the joy of creating one's...
Rachel Entrekin - "I don't have to do this, I get to do this"
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In this episode, we meet the record-breaking ultra-marathoner Rachel, who shares her incredible journey and love for running.
Rachel discusses her start in running, her evolving goals, and the mindset that drives her success.
Beyond aiming for course records, Rachel emphasizes the importance of enjoying the journey, fostering a supportive running community, and setting personal process goals.
From her favorite races to her fueling strategies, and the lessons learned on trails, Rachel offers valuable insights for runners of all levels.
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Allie Eslava Taylor - "I don't care where you are in life, you can always begin to change it right now"
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In this episode of the podcast, we join Allie, an ultra-marathon runner with a knack for spontaneous adventures and life lessons learned the hard way.
Allie shares her unique and colorful running experiences, from meeting fellow runners in unexpected places to enduring brutal races with adverse conditions.
She emphasizes the importance of community, the mental strength required in ultra-running, and the significance of always being prepared—or sometimes not.
Allie also delves into the topic of women's self-defense, offering valuable advice on...
Jennifer Cooley - "Perseverance"
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In this episode, we sit down with Jennifer at the United Cerebral Palsy Office in Mobile to discuss her inspiring journey, both in her personal life and at UCP.
She shares her running story, from participating in half marathons to fundraising for various causes, including the upcoming 'Night of Lights' event.
Jennifer delves into her experience raising a child with Down syndrome and autism, connecting life's perseverance with the skills learned through running.
She highlights UCP's numerous programs, from early intervention...
Jeff Weiss (Author: Racing Against Time) - "Don't place mental limits on yourself"
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In this episode, Jeff shares his transformative journey from struggling to complete his first 10K at 17 to becoming an accomplished Ironman and ultra-marathon runner in midlife.
Jeff discusses his new book, Racing Against Time, which details his inspiring experiences, the challenges he faced, and the incredible races he has participated in, including the ultra-marathon Comrades in South Africa.
He emphasizes the importance of not placing mental limits on oneself, the value of coaching, and integrating fitness into everyday life.
Jeff also...
Bob Becker - "Never stop"
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In this inspiring episode, Bob Becker, an 80-year-old ultra-marathon runner, shares his incredible journey from casual runner to six-time finisher of the grueling Badwater 135, a race through Death Valley.
Bob recounts his surprising entry into ultra running, highlighted by completing the Marathon des Sables in the Sahara Desert to celebrate his 60th birthday.
He provides key insights into the challenges and camaraderie of ultra marathons, the crucial role of support crews, and the importance of mental toughness and proper training.
As...
Mark Kirstein (Manci's Run-Walk Social) - "If they can do it, I can do it"
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In this episode, Mark shares his inspiring journey into running, which began in 2014 as a personal challenge and blossomed into a passion.
From running marathons to building a welcoming running community at Manci's in Daphne, Mark emphasizes the importance of inclusion and mental health awareness.
He discusses the highs and lows of his marathon experiences, the significance of helping others through organizations like Achilles and IGY6, and his vision of creating a supportive environment for everyone, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.
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Jared Beasley (Author: The Endurance Artist) - "There's always going to be a huge backstory to everybody's story."
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In this episode of the 'Run Your Story' podcast, Jared Beasley shares his inspiring journey from professional student and actor in Tuscaloosa to prolific writer and ultra runner in New York City.
He discusses his introduction to running, influenced by a unique and authentic Amazon man who motivated him to start.
Jared delves into his experiences with ultra marathons, detailing his encounters with eccentric figures like Al Howie and Lazarus Lake.
He describes Lazarus's unconventional and challenging races, highlighting the spirit...
