Run Build Grow

In this powerful and inspiring episode of Run Build Grow, Andrew sits down with Abiye Okuchaba, a certified financial planner, marathoner, and early morning run crew leader based in Colorado. Abiye opens up about his running journey that started with a desire to conquer the marathon distance before turning 40 and evolved into leading a vibrant, diverse 5 AM run crew. From personal trauma on a solo run to building a supportive and inclusive running community, Abiye’s story is one of resilience, healing, and the joy of running together.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

In this episode of Run Build Grow, Andrew sits down with Lindsey Hein—host of the I’ll Have Another podcast, runner, and mom of four—to talk all things community, connection, and the evolving journey of running.

Lindsey opens up about her move from Indianapolis to Raleigh and how she built meaningful friendships through intentional effort. She shares how podcasting has mirrored her experience of forming community: both require showing up, putting yourself out there, and learning to handle a few rejections along the way.

We also dive into:

In this episode of Run Build Grow, host Andrew Ware sits down with Dr. Marc Adams from Movement is Medicine to explore innovative approaches to physical therapy and community wellness. Dr. Adams shares how patient-centered care and customized treatment plans can lead to better outcomes, especially when operating outside traditional insurance networks. His work prioritizes accessibility, offering direct access to physical therapy without a physician referral, flexible payment options, and treatment schedules designed around long-term wellness and injury prevention.

Beyond the clinic, Dr. Adams is deeply involved in community engagement, providing free assessments, workshops, and hands-on support for...

Episode Summary:

In this inspiring episode of Run Build Grow, Andrew Ware sits down with runner, sports massage therapist, and advocate Alex Diltz. From racing in the Boulder running scene to finding identity and community within the sport, Alex shares his journey of coming out, navigating running teams, and building spaces where everyone belongs. They discuss the importance of inclusion in the running world, the impact of finding the right community, and how running itself can be an act of social advocacy.

Plus, Alex gives insight into his current training, upcoming races, and how he’s b...

When Joby Olguin moved from Arkansas to Portland, he wasn’t just starting a new chapter—he was rebuilding his sense of community. In this episode, he shares what it’s like to leave behind a tight-knit run club and step into a new, unfamiliar space, searching for connection through the sport he loves.

Joby and Andrew dive into the evolution of run clubs, the balance between social and competitive running, and the importance of showing up as your authentic self. They also explore the deeper role running communities play—not just in training but in shaping conversa...

I am joined in this episode by Jeff Van Horn, owner and founder of Lucky Road Run Shop that serves the central Virginia. What started as an idea between friends, has become the pinnacle of Jeff's lifes work. However, Jeff doesn't just sellf running shoes. Jeff combines his passion for running, love for running gear (especially shoes), and knowledge gained about body biometrics to make sure runners are comfortable with their running shoes.

Jeff beleives a good pair of shoes work with a runner, and that runners shouldnt have to work against their shoes of that their...

Over the past couple of years, Trevor and Kayla have gone from dating, to engaged, to married, and running has been a part of that journey the whole way. Kayla would be training for marathons with Trevor on the bike supporting, when he though he could get in on this "running thing" too. Fast Forward, they are acomplishing amazing goals and they share in the joy.

They have also embedded themselves in the Hampton Roads running community, and have become stables at many of the events in the area. They aren't just running, but can be seen...

In this episode, I sit down with Montana Ross to talk about what keeps us going through the seasons, the ups and downs of training, and how running is more than just miles on a watch—it’s a way of life. Montana shares her journey, from lacing up for her first race to finding joy in the rhythm of the run, even when motivation dips. We also dive into the power of community, why running with others makes all the difference, and how embracing the process is just as important as crossing the finish line. Whether you’re chasin...

In this episode, I chat with Lance Woods, co-founder of We Run 313, to explore the transformative power of running and community. From the streets of Detroit to international marathons, Lance shares his personal journey into running, the mission behind We Run 313, and how the club has become a catalyst for change, empowerment, and connection.

🏃‍♂️ What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

Allison Mercer is a staple in the Atlanta Running Community. She serves as a leader of the Trail Sisters groups, volunteers with Atlanta Track Club, paces races, and is trying to create an overall more inclusive community.

In this episode, we unpack all that Allison is doing in Atlanta and across the world.

Connect More with Allison

Run Build Grow is hosted by Andrew Ware, The RunninRev. Thank you for joining us as we explore the communal spirit of running. Make sure to follow and...

Run Build Grow is hosted by Andrew Ware, The RunninRev. Thank you for joining us as we explore the communal spirit of running. Make sure to follow and subscribe to the podcast to never miss an episode, and it would mean the world if you left a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Please help support the RunninRev and Run Build Grow Podcast:

Building authentic community through running, well-being, and faith. This is about running and not about running, about faith and not about faith—mostly, it's about well-being. Subscribe to stay up-to-date on...

PJ Thompson is a leader in the Austin running community and leads the group 5RUN2 Austin. He credits mentors, coaches, friends, and even strangers for showing him a positive running mindset. This positive attitude has helped to birth his own positive spirit as he runs with community in his run club, the Austin running community, and in every race he participates or cheers in.

PJ joins the pod to chat about this positive spirit he brings, when it is tough, and how he has sought to build community to help runners to grow and be the best...

Joe Robinson has a deep love for the city that raised him—Detroit, Michigan. When this love for his city met the joys he was finding through running, movement, and activation, he found a way he could help encourage others as they sought to become better versions of themselves. He then teamed up with Lance Woods and WeRun313 was born.

As Joe mentions, WeRun313 is a social run club that connects like minded individuals through running to build a healthier happier community.

Joe talks of the journey of doing more than building people into healthier li...

This episode, I'm joined by Janelle Branch, a powerhouse in the running and track world based in Salt Lake City, Utah. Janelle serves as an assistant sprints coach at the University of Utah, where she works with college runners to help them achieve their best times and foster a culture of excellence. She’s also deeply connected to the Salt Lake running community, where she finds time to lace up, even while balancing her demanding schedule.

Beyond coaching, Janelle is a passionate advocate for athletes and the sport at large. Recently elected as secretary of the Athletes Co...

Kathy Butler has been raking in the accolades since she was an NCAA runner for the University of Wisconsin, and her joy of running took her all the way to the Olympics for Canada and Great Britain. Now it has put her on one of the funniest journeys of all. Kathy coaches for Run Boulder AC and is a key figure in coaching education for USA Track & Field (USATF).

Her current passion is helping athletes realize their potential, all while building the community of the team in Boulder, CO. We unpack Kathy's journey to taking on coaching...

Jess Hofheimer is the founder and one of the coaches for Pace of Me Running. Jess talks of running in terms of what she has learned in being able to coach and lead as part of a community of runners. To her running is about more than just putting one foot in front of the other. It is about discovering who you truly are and what you are capable of.

In this episode, Jess talks about her journey as a runner and as a coach. What it has meant to coach and help other runners become the...

Tommie Runz is a familiar face throughout the online running community, known for his engaging presence and inspiring journey. He credits much of his growth and success to the communities that have shaped him along the way. From his family and the sobriety community to his local running group, the global running community, and the brands that supported him, each played a part in his incredible achievement of completing all six World Marathon Majors in one year.

Tommie’s story is a testament to the power of shared experiences. He approaches his journey with humility while recognizing th...

Living in the Pacific Northwest, Aubree is an Ultra Trail runner that just enjoys running and being with other runners. She looks for opportunities, even in injury, to hang out with fellow runners. Aubree loves to make new connections with runners from across the country, and uses her connections while having a great time on runs and at racing events.

Photo credit: James Holk (@jamesholk on IG)

50 States of Guests: 11 States

Run Build Grow is hosted by Andrew Ware, The RunninRev. Thank you for joining us as we explore the communal spirit of...

“Running has taught me how to fail.”

In this episode, I sit down with Mak Foss, a passionate runner from Grand Rapids who has been running for just three years but has already made a profound impact in her community. Through the ups and downs of her own journey, Mak has developed a deep understanding of how running communities can become inclusive spaces where people lift each other up.

As the leader of Society Track Club, Mak fosters a spirit of joy and pride in the process of becoming better—both on and off the track...

Asti White grew up in Atlanta and even as a part of the Atlanta running community. He has seen it from many different angles. Now, as an adult, he sees how much the community can not only offer to him, and what he can offer back. He has focused his time on building friendships and relationships, and learning more to unloack not just what it looks like to run in Atlanta but using his knowledge to see what it is like to live in the ATL as well. 

His community connections led him to want to try o...

Joining the podcast from Run Boulder AC, Adam brings a perspective of what it is like to live in one of the most popular running destinations in the United States. However, not even the competitiveness of where he lives, nor being a member of Team USA, has taken from his desire to be a positive and supportive beacon in the Boulder community. 

Adam’s optimism helps to show that it doesn’t matter what your speed is or even how far you can run. What matters is that you are out there doing the dang thing. Adam loves...

Join in this episode by Erin Kunst. Who just completed the Maine MDI marathon, and talks about her humble beginings in the communal aspect of running. In what has not been the easiest year, she reflects back on how much the running community around her has given to her, and everything she has also dedicated to it.

An episode that explores the preconceived notions about the run community from the front of the pack, and why she says "community is not yours, It's the community's!"

Important Links

Run...

Morgan joins the pod bringing the experience of being both a runner and at PT. All that experience has taught her the important of listening to her body and being ready to adapt where necessary. She also has been a focal point of the Christiansburg, Va running community. Her example has helped runners grow, and those around her have even helped in her journies of running and motherhood.

Connect with Morgan:

Run Build Grow is hosted by Andrew Ware, The RunninRev. Thank you for joining us as we...

Joel joins the podcast with a never-give-up attitude that has brought him to where he is-trying to run a marathon in all fifty states. Hear Joel's story and how a group of folks he met and shares community with online has got him this far and continues to give him all the support.

Connect with Joel:

Run Build Grow is hosted by Andrew Ware, The RunninRev. Thank you for joining us as we explore the communal spirit of...

Ezra Weisz is all about that encouraging spirit. Whether supporting behind the scenes or leading from the front, his outgoing spirit is helping to build the running community in the busy city of Los Angeles.

Check out this conversation to hear Ezra's why, what keeps him going, and why an animated kids show has become part of his running identity.

Run Build Grow is hosted by Andrew Ware, The RunninRev. Thank you for joining us as we explore the communal spirit of running. Make sure to follow and subscribe to the podcast to never miss...

Ashley joins the podcast from the Austin, Tx running community. Ashley joins to talk about the community and friends that she has as she looks to do awesome things on the run. In this conversation, we talk about the ups and downs of running, and how community has supported her through the entire journey. We look at her upcoming race in Berlin and here about the support she has had in the lead up and what she will carry with her through the race.

Follow Ashley on Instagram

Run Build Grow is hosted by Andrew...

Bobby runs in Northwest Arkansas, but has never limited himself to just his local community. In fact that is just where everything starts. The authenticity and realness that he expresses to local runners in his area, extends across the country through social media, brand partnerships, and his presence at races. No matter where he is, his mustache cannot be missed. This is a conversation where we explore how bringing this authenticity, makes community worth every second.

Bobby on Instagram

Run Build Grow is hosted by Andrew Ware, The RunninRev. Thank you for joining us as...

Terrel White is the head captain for Black Men Run Hampton Roads. As a leader in the community, he loves to bring the party and he loves to be an example of how we can lift one another up in community.

In this episode we talk about Terrel, and his running journey, and also talk about the emphasis behind Black Men Run and why it has meant so much to be a part of keeping this gorup together.

Important Links

Run Build Grow is hosted...

Libby Miller may be new-ish to the Montgomery Road Runners, and she is already making her presence known. Having been fairly transient in her early adult life, she was familiar with finding run community no matter where she lived. That didn't change when she arrived in the Great DC Metro area. She found herself joining the run club in Montgomery County, Maryland and has enjoyed running, coaching, volunteering, and helping the club be all it can be for all paces.

Check out this conversation as Libby and I explore her journey and what it has meant to...

Allison joins to talk about how she started running as a way to finding a healthier way to care for herself during the pandemic. In the midst of finding a healthier lifestyle, she has also made friends and found communtiy along the way.

Run Build Grow is hosted by Andrew Ware, The RunninRev. Thank you for joining us as we explore the communal spirit of running. Make sure to follow and subscribe to the podcast to never miss an episode, and it would mean the world if you left a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or...

As a local on the Peninsula in Hampton Roads, Va, Amanda has become a regular while working at Point2 Running Company. She helps folks at all stages of their running journey, and is using experiences from her own journey to help others. Listen to this episode to hear more about her story and how she is helping spread community through coaching and running with others.

Follow Amanda on Instagram: @amandarunsva

Run Build Grow is hosted by Andrew Ware, The RunninRev. Thank you for joining us as we explore the communal spirit of running. Make sure...

Rich joins Run Build Grow from Richmond, and talks about how his running love developed. We explore how this season of life has led to him to new ventures that has really hit home the nature of community.

While he is still working after his own goals, he still loves opportunities to enjoy running and doing it with others. This is an episode you will want to check out.

If you’re interested in being a guest on Run Build Grow, you can email Andrew at andrew@runninrev.com

Run Build Grow is ho...

Raz has been running for many years (back to his youth as a 400m track runner). Recently running has brought him to appreciate the joys of participating in the context of something beyond himself. When he moved to Los Angeles he found himself using running to explore the expansive city. After a while, he found what he loved about certain groups and what drew him to enjoy the groups he attended. This led him to create a group that meets together.

With his experiences of participating and experiencing community, combined with his background as a journalist he...

In this episode we welcome Kathy Donovan who has been the leader and President of Pack Training. She continues to participate in and train with them. Kathy has been at the center of creating and sharing communal joy through running and helping all classes of runners train for races in the Hampton Roads area and beyond.

In this episode we talk about where Kathy got her love for running, what she did when she retired from the military and was looking for new running community, and how she went from running with a group of people to...

Jules Bohl is a local runner in Hampton Roads, and is always looking around for community. She loves to join groups for community runs, and she always enjoys meeting new people. However, sometimes she has been her own roadblock in getting the most out of being an art of community.

In this conversation we chat about her journey to seeing herself as a runner., and what it has meant to have a supportive community behind her.

Run Build Grow is hosted by Andrew Ware, The RunninRev. Thank you for joining us as we explore the...

This episode features Candace Broaddus, a member and coach in the Richmond Running Community.

Candace walks us through her journey of her love for running and how that love, drive, and passion led her to begin to coach in this different way. We explore the Richmond running community and what sets it apart from others. We talk about how she went from participating in a Marathon training program to becoming one of the coaches who helps to support runners.

For the Sportsbackers program, she coaches with, coaching is more than just getting folks through the...

In the latest episode, we had the pleasure of speaking with Paisley Landry, a devoted Mother Runner based in Austin, TX.

Despite her affiliation with the Brooks Running Collective, Paisley’s running journey is deeply rooted in her role as a mother. She passionately revealed how she finds purpose in running for her son and those close to her, emphasizing the profound joy she derives from this heartfelt commitment. Of particular interest is Paisley’s transformation as an introvert, as she candidly shared her evolution in finding fulfillment in running alongside others and building genuine connections within the...

This episode features Chris Elliot. Chris runs with RunSomeMo out of MoMac Brewing. Chris is always one to bring energy and passion no matter where he is. Chris joins to talk about his journey and what his presence in this community has meant to him. 

This is a joyful story to share, learn from, and grow together. 

Run Build Grow is hosted by Andrew Ware, The RunninRev. Thank you for joining us as we explore the communal spirit of running.

Please help support the RunninRev and Run Buil...

In this episode, we welcome Katie Wax-White. Katie is a native of Hampton Roads, VA, but currently resides and runs in Atlanta (ATL). However, the journey to be where she is, running as an adult, was once considered impossible. An injury in her senior year of High School put her on the sidelines, almost permanently, and began a painful journey of just trying to be comfortable. For her, running today means so much more than time, it is a reflection of where she has come from. The joy she brings to the community and running is a reminder of...

When life gets busy, it is amazing to know you don’t need to reinvent the wheel. I went back into my previous podcasts archive and found this gem.

Ray is a runner local to the Hampton Roads area, and has become a leader when it comes to helping folks understand the importance of running and movement in general.

Take a listen to Ray’s journey, and I hope to get Ray an official “Run Build Grow” recording to talk about what community has done for his journey at every step.

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