In this emotional episode of the Running Tales podcast, host Craig Lewis sits down with Paula Black, a remarkable woman who found her way into running during some of life’s most challenging moments. Paula’s story isn’t just about miles and finish lines; it’s about using endurance as a path to healing, growth, and raising awareness for an important cause. Paula’s Running Start: Paula wasn’t always a runner. Like many, she initially saw running as a distant goal, seemingly out of reach. Her journey began with simple steps—running while her children were at nursery, and her first race, a 5K Race for Life in 2010. Each mile paved the way for the next, transforming her from a reluctant runner to a passionate marathoner. Achieving the Marathon Dream: With determination, Paula set her sights on the iconic London Marathon. Training rigorously, she ran 35 miles a week, aiming to complete the marathon in under 5 hours. After months of preparation, she crossed the finish line at 4:59:58, an achievement that held deep, personal significance. The journey became not just a testament to her physical endurance but an emotional milestone, leading to tears of pride and accomplishment. David’s Diagnosis and Advocacy: Paula’s husband, David, a dedicated runner himself, was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease (MND), a devastating illness that progressively impacts muscle control. Despite the bleak prognosis, David and Paula became advocates for MND awareness, determined to make an impact. Paula’s commitment to running became intertwined with her mission to honor David’s memory and support others facing the same battle. Understanding MND: Paula provides insight into MND, a disease that gradually disconnects the brain from the muscles, causing the body to lose function while the mind remains intact. While there is no cure, certain treatments can help slow the disease’s progression. Paula’s advocacy helps spread awareness and provides a beacon of hope to those affected. Pushing Limits with Ultra Challenges: With the mental and physical strength she gained through marathon training, Paula went on to conquer ultra-marathons and 100km challenges, including the Cotswold Way and the London to Brighton routes. These feats showcase her grit and determination, proving that anything is possible with the right mindset. Paula emphasizes the importance of mental strength in endurance sports, using a strategy of fast walking and intermittent running to complete these challenges. The Power of Community and Parkrun: For Paula, running is more than a solo endeavor—it’s a way to connect with others. She highlights the value of Parkrun as a supportive community event where everyone, from beginners to seasoned athletes, can feel welcome. Through running, Paula has built lifelong friendships, found mental resilience, and created a support system that has carried her through difficult times. Join the Journey: Paula’s story reminds us that running is more than just a physical act—it’s a powerful tool for connection, healing, and growth. If you’re inspired by her story, consider joining a Parkrun, getting involved in your local running community, or learning more about the MND Association. Let Paula’s journey motivate you to take that first step, whether you’re new to running or preparing for your next big event.

In this inspiring episode of the "Fireside Chat" podcast, Run Tri Bike founder Jason Bahamundi sits down with Josh Fernandez—a passionate runner and leader of Philadelphia’s Queer Run—to discuss the evolving role of non-binary athletes in endurance sports and their own remarkable journey. From the humbling beginnings of a Couch to 5K program to the achievement of completing 15 marathons, Josh’s story highlights both triumph and resilience in a sport that often lacks inclusive representation. Josh opens up about their coming-out experience as a non-binary athlete during the pandemic, an intensely challenging period for LGBTQIA+ athletes. This conversation dives into how visibility and representation matter deeply—not just for Josh but for countless other athletes who seek acceptance and a supportive community. Josh’s commitment to breaking down barriers extends to advocating for a non-binary elite division in the Philadelphia Marathon, reflecting a broader movement toward equity. As they share, cities like Boston and New York have started recognizing non-binary divisions, but there is still much work to be done to elevate non-binary athletes to professional recognition in the endurance sports world. Key Points Discussed: 1. Josh’s Running Journey and LGBTQIA+ Representation Josh shares the story of how they began their running journey through the Couch to 5K program and eventually completed 15 marathons. A pivotal moment came with the founding of Philadelphia’s Queer Run, where Josh found healing and community support during the challenges of 2020. The Queer Run’s unique logo, symbolized by track lines instead of rainbow colors, reflects the group’s pride and individuality. 2. Advocating for Non-Binary Athletes Josh’s advocacy includes pressing for a non-binary elite division in the Philadelphia Marathon. They compare it to other progressive marathons already implementing non-binary categories and urge for similar opportunities in their city. The need to cultivate professional athletic careers for non-binary athletes is emphasized, underscoring how important it is for sports organizations to support diverse athletes from all backgrounds. 3. Building a Supportive Running Community Through humor and heart, Josh and Jason talk about Philadelphia’s welcoming running community, where inclusivity and acceptance are pillars. From debates over food favorites like pineapple on pizza to discussing vegan cheesesteak options, the episode also brings some lighthearted fun into the conversation. The Philadelphia running scene is celebrated for its strong sense of community, which encourages athletes from all walks of life to support each other’s journey. 4. Call to Action: Support Queer Run and Inclusivity in Running As the discussion concludes, Josh invites listeners to get involved: follow Queer Run and Les Run on social media, share their message, and champion inclusivity in endurance sports. Jason expresses his commitment to being an ally in this journey, encouraging others to join in creating a more inclusive, supportive environment for all athletes. With each stride, Josh Fernandez is breaking barriers and showing what it means to be a non-binary athlete in endurance sports. Their voice adds to the growing call for inclusivity, equity, and the need for diverse representation in races and beyond. Dive into this conversation to be inspired by their determination, dedication, and the unwavering belief that endurance sports should be a place for everyone. Join us in this Fireside Chat as we champion the importance of inclusivity in endurance sports. Don’t miss this impactful conversation—like, share, and subscribe to stay connected!

Get ready for a hilarious and light-hearted dive into endurance fueling like you’ve never seen before! Join Jason Bahamundi from the Everyday Athlete Podcast Network and Run Tri Bike, as he sits down with Coach Phaedra Kennedy for a fun-filled chat on food favorites, guilty pleasures, and unconventional endurance snacks. Perfect for endurance athletes and fans alike, this video will lift your spirits, provide tasty ideas for race day, and help you through those tough training days. In this episode, the conversation kicks off with an animated debate: chocolate chip vs. oatmeal raisin cookies. Who knew cookies could be so polarizing? They break down the hierarchy of baked goods and dive deep into donut and croissant preferences, from chocolate-filled to pistachio-topped delights. And if you’ve ever wondered about Coach Phaedra’s take on scones and pignoli cookies, you’re in for a treat. The dialogue then takes a delicious turn to the world of pizza, touching on the age-old rivalry between New York-style and other regional varieties. Is folding your pizza the right way, and is ranch dressing ever acceptable? (Spoiler: it’s a strong no from these two!). This conversation will leave you craving that perfect slice – but maybe hold off on adding ranch if you’re training for a serious event. As the discussion unfolds, Jason and Phaedra dive into the best post-race meals. From the Canadian classic poutine (perfect after the Tremblant 70.3) to some unexpected treats like Whoppers during Ironman Texas, they reveal comfort foods that make all the hard work worth it. Coach Phaedra shares a few unconventional food picks for race-day bags – including the crowd-pleasing Uncrustables and some favorite snacks from Seven Summit Snacks. The episode wraps up with an imaginative scenario: what would be the perfect meal before a hypothetical trip to space? Tune in to hear Coach Phaedra’s unexpected answer – and see if it matches what you’d choose for the ultimate adventure fuel. Whether you’re an endurance athlete looking for snack tips, or just someone who loves a good laugh, this video has something for everyone. Let Jason and Phaedra’s laughter and camaraderie remind you that food is more than fuel – it’s part of the journey, and even the quirkiest cravings have a place in endurance sports. Chapter Breakdown: Candy and Dessert Preferences (00:03 - 10:18) Coach Phaedra’s candy picks for long rides Chocolate chip vs. oatmeal raisin cookies Ranking donuts, croissants, scones, and loaves Favorite croissant types and Pinoli cookies Coffee shop destinations during bike rides Pizza and Food Preferences (10:18 - 18:55) Pumpkin spice vs. apple cider debate Pound cake and layered cakes New York pizza style vs. other varieties Pizza crust importance and folding techniques Ranch dressing on pizza – yes or no? Post-Race Food and Final Meal (18:55 - 29:02) Best post-race food: poutine after Tremblant 70.3 Unusual Ironman fuel: Whoppers at Ironman Texas Race day snacks: Uncrustables, Seven Summit Snacks Dream “last meal” scenario Give it a watch, have a laugh, and maybe pick up some snack ideas for your next big event. Jason and Phaedra prove that endurance training doesn’t have to be all work – sometimes it’s about the little joys that keep you going.

Join us for a laughter-filled journey with Victor in this episode of Fiery Embers! Perfect for those days when you need an extra boost during a tough training session, this episode will have you laughing, nodding, and maybe even craving a few culinary treats along the way. Victor, a dedicated endurance athlete and passionate foodie, takes us through his top food choices, upcoming marathon plans, and a few unexpected career stories. From Brazilian barbecue to his last meal pick if he ever went to Mars (acai bowl, anyone?), Victor’s enthusiasm for life is infectious. 🍲 Victor’s Foodie Adventures In the first segment, Victor dishes on his favorite foods from around the world. With a love for rich flavors and regional specialties, he raves about Brazilian barbecue, tacos from Florida, Berlin’s pork knuckle, and the famous Garrett’s popcorn from Chicago. Victor isn’t shy when it comes to coffee either, admitting he powers up with eight shots of espresso a day! His passion for unique treats doesn’t end there—he’s got a soft spot for donuts, seasonal flavors like pumpkin spice, and nostalgic cereals, including Lucky Charms and Captain Crunch. This segment captures Victor’s love for good food and reminds us that fueling our passions includes savoring life’s delicious moments. 🏃 Running & Race Prep Victor’s food journey ties into his love for running. As he prepares for the Houston Marathon, he talks about what he’s most excited for in Texas: the race day atmosphere, unique local cuisine, and the chance to share his philosophy of “give everything a try and have fun.” This segment highlights his enthusiastic approach to both life and sport, focusing on the blend of hard work and enjoyment that’s at the heart of endurance racing. Plus, he shares a few unexpected jobs he’s held, from a universal mascot to a flag football referee—proving that he’s no stranger to diverse life experiences! For athletes gearing up for their next event, Victor’s positivity is an inspiring reminder to embrace the journey. 🎬 Entertainment & Hobbies As the conversation unfolds, Victor lets us in on his entertainment favorites, like classic Adam Sandler films and his go-to TV show, The Neighborhood. Whether it’s his love for brownies, the comfort of cheese, or his approach to content creation on Instagram, this segment brings a lighthearted touch. And if he ever got the chance to go to Mars? His last meal would be an acai bowl—because even in space, Victor would keep it both healthy and tasty! Why Watch This Episode? Victor’s zest for life, his honest love for food, and his humorous outlook on training and racing make this episode a must-watch for endurance athletes. Not only will it brighten up a tough training session, but it’s also full of relatable moments for anyone balancing their passions with daily life. For those who believe in working hard, playing hard, and eating well, Victor’s story is both refreshing and motivating. Don’t miss this opportunity to unwind, laugh, and maybe take away a few new ideas to try on your next race day (or at your next meal)!

Get ready for a fun, laughter-filled episode of the Fiery Ember podcast, where endurance athletes and cycling enthusiasts will find plenty of entertainment to keep them motivated! Join host Jason Bahamundi as he sits down with Adam Barker, founder of Bolt Skin Shave, a unique brand dedicated to men who shave their legs—a niche many cyclists will appreciate. This episode is packed with insights, humor, and some surprising preferences from the world of cycling, photography, and travel. Here’s what you can expect from this refreshing conversation. Who is Adam Barker? Adam Barker is a seasoned cyclist, professional photographer, and the creative mind behind Bolt Skin Shave. He shares his journey in the cycling and fitness world, starting with his passion for leg-shaving products tailored to active men. Jason dives into Adam’s preferences in cycling gear, including his take on the perfect cycling sock length—a quirky but relatable topic for riders! You’ll also get to hear how Adam keeps his indoor training sessions interesting during the colder months, often using a bike trainer while watching Netflix. His routine might just inspire you to tackle those tough indoor sessions. Cycling Adventures and Travel Stories Adam isn’t just a cycling enthusiast; he’s an avid traveler with a love for exploring beautiful landscapes on two wheels. In this episode, he recounts memorable rides through Salt Lake City and Grand Teton National Park, offering listeners a taste of his most awe-inspiring (and sometimes grueling) journeys. He also shares his love-hate relationship with climbing and descending, with a bit of humor thrown in about the challenges of mountain routes. You’ll even get some insight into Adam’s best and worst food experiences from his travels—one of which might surprise you! Music and Food: Adam’s Unique Fuel Choices What’s on your playlist? Adam reveals his go-to track for hitting the trails or powering through a workout: AC/DC’s “Back in Black.” This rock classic sets the tone for a high-energy start to any training session. Adam’s food preferences add to the fun, with a love for Oreos and Halloween candy, giving a humorous nod to the importance of rewarding yourself after a tough ride. And for an extra kick, Adam’s daily drink of choice is Red Bull—because sometimes you just need a little extra push. Inside Look at Bolt Skin Shave One of the highlights of the episode is Adam’s introduction of Bolt Skin Shave, a brand born out of his own experiences and need for quality shaving products. He walks Jason through the brand’s philosophy, the journey to creating a product line, and why leg shaving is important for so many athletes beyond just cyclists. Jason himself offers a positive review, praising the effectiveness of Bolt Skin Shave products—a recommendation any endurance athlete should take seriously. Whether you’re a dedicated leg shaver or simply curious, this part of the episode sheds light on why athletes swear by Bolt Skin Shave for smooth, irritation-free results. Why You Should Watch Adam’s down-to-earth approach and Jason’s engaging questions make this a must-watch episode for endurance athletes who want to laugh, learn, and feel inspired to take on their next big training day. Whether you’re looking for tips on how to make indoor cycling bearable, searching for your next bucket-list cycling destination, or just want to listen to two enthusiasts talk about food, music, and life’s quirks, this episode delivers. Tune in for a dose of humor, practical insights, and a deeper look into the lifestyle of a modern endurance athlete.

Welcome to the 16th episode of Beyond the Finish Line!

Josh is a father, husband, ultra runner, and race director for @dinoseries; if you are familiar with races such as @tecumsehtrailchallenge @jacksoncountyultras and @gravelgrovel, then you have either met Josh or seen the great work he does within the midwest trail and adventure running scene. I’ve had the honor of working with Josh and getting to know him better over the last year, so I’m super stoked to get him on the pod and learn more about him and his journey.
#indianatrailrunning #midwesttrailrunning #trailrunningpodcast #ultrarunning

Don’t miss this impactful conversation—like, share, and subscribe to stay connected!

Join us for a fun, music-packed ninth episode of Run Tri Bike's podcast series, What’s in Your Earbuds? hosted by Aum Gandhi! This time, we’re taking a deep dive into the world of sports music and why it’s the ultimate training and racing companion. Missing our co-host Joe Hardin? He’s been busy making moves, recently appointed to the board of the Indiana Trail Running Association! But don’t worry – we’ve got a high-energy lineup filled with laughs, inspiration, and music picks that’ll have you ready to tackle your next workout. In this episode, we kick off with exciting updates about the podcast’s expansion. With two new episodes from the Fiery Embers series and the launch of the Everyday Athlete Podcast Network, we’re growing faster than ever. You’ll get an inside look at the music that fuels your favorite endurance athletes, from classic movie soundtracks like Indiana Jones and Rocky to the high-energy tunes that pump up arena crowds. Music lovers and athletes alike will enjoy this nostalgic yet motivational trip through sports’ most iconic anthems. Highlights and Must-Listen Moments: 🎶 Sports Music that Inspires (03:32 - 06:00) Music and sports go hand-in-hand, and there’s nothing like the adrenaline rush of an arena anthem. We discuss how songs like the Lakers organ theme and chant-worthy tracks make every athlete feel like a champion. Listen as we reflect on the unforgettable impact of soundtracks from movies like Jurassic Park, Rocky, and Indiana Jones – they don’t just entertain; they drive us forward! 🔥 Motivational Soundtracks (06:29 - 10:54) Missed last week’s chat on motivational music? We’re back with more recommendations, including Ro Gonzalez’s pick, “Money for Nothing,” plus hits from Rocky IV and Survivor’s “Man Against the World.” And we want to hear from you! Drop your favorite underdog song in the comments to keep the motivation going. Let’s make this a community of runners, cyclists, and triathletes sharing the music that pushes us to our limits. 🎧 Recent Tunes and Post-Race Picks (11:08 - 15:38) Wondering what we’ve been listening to lately? From Mongolian rock band The Hu to film scores like How to Train Your Dragon, we’ve got recommendations to keep your playlist fresh. Plus, discover some of the podcasts and audiobooks that have been keeping us inspired – including The Book of Joy and Happy Endings Trail Crew. 📅 What’s Coming Next! (15:41 - 18:12) Mark your calendars for our next episode, a Fireside Chat with Josh Fernandez of Queer Run, dropping on November 18th! With more guest episodes and community highlights in the works, there’s never been a better time to be part of the What’s in Your Earbuds? family. Don't miss our special Food Fight Friday episode at the Aid Station – it’s a one-of-a-kind endurance podcast experience. Whether you're heading out for a training run, need a motivational lift, or simply want to unwind with a good story, this episode will leave you smiling. Click play, turn up the volume, and join our crew as we keep each other motivated, one beat at a time.

In this compelling 135th episode of the Fireside Chat on the Everyday Athlete Podcast Network, hosts Jason Bahamundi and Aum Gandhi sit down with elite endurance athlete Coree Woltering for a deep dive into his journey from triathlon to trail running, and his powerful decision to pursue a sober life. Coree, known for his impressive trail running feats and charismatic personality, opens up about his athletic evolution, his groundbreaking records, and the mindset shifts that led him to embrace sobriety. Starting Out in Endurance Sports Coree’s journey in endurance sports began in triathlon, but his passion eventually steered him toward the trail running world. His pivotal experience pacing at the Leadville 100 sparked a new love for trail running. Coree discusses how this shift transformed his training, approach to racing, and view on what endurance really means. The conversation explores Coree’s first ultra race—a 50K in California—and what drove him to continue pushing the boundaries, leading to events like the Eco Challenge and races designed to challenge his curiosity, courage, and endurance. Chasing Adventure and Breaking Records From the Hong Kong Nine Dragons to the Ice Age Trail Fastest Known Time (FKT), Coree shares thrilling insights from some of his most ambitious races. He recounts his epic 1,100+ mile Ice Age Trail journey, completed in just 21 days, emphasizing the mental resilience and adaptability it required. Known for taking things “10 seconds at a time,” Coree shares lessons learned about pacing, staying grounded, and the power of short-term focus during grueling events. This section is a treasure trove of advice for athletes pushing their limits, reminding us of the strength in adaptability and perseverance. A Path to Sobriety One of the most inspiring aspects of Coree’s journey is his nearly three-year path to sobriety. He speaks candidly about his decision to quit drinking, explaining how his endurance athlete mindset supported his decision to go sober cold turkey. Having voluntarily checked into rehab in November 2021, Coree outlines the social challenges of early sobriety, particularly in an environment where drinking is often the norm. His reflections on this topic provide valuable insights for anyone considering a similar path, as Coree illustrates the positive impact that his sober journey has had on both his life and his athletic performance. A Look into Coree’s Personality Listeners are treated to a lighter side of Coree’s personality as he shares his unique food preferences—pineapple on pizza (yes!), a love for Double Stuff Oreos, and his top choices for candy and dessert. Coree’s fun and quirky tastes give fans a glimpse of his life outside the trails, making this episode both relatable and entertaining. From vanilla ice cream to sushi in Japan, Coree’s stories about food add another layer to his multifaceted personality, reminding us that athletes are more than just their records. This episode is an inspiring blend of athletic grit, personal growth, and heartfelt honesty. Coree Woltering’s story will leave you motivated to face life’s challenges head-on and take pride in every step of your own journey. Tune in for an unforgettable Fireside Chat with one of endurance sports’ most engaging athletes!