7 Marathons, on 7 Continents, in 7 Days!

Justin Spencer returns to the POD to share his journey of preparing for the Great World Race, where he will run seven marathons on seven continents in just seven days. He discusses the challenges of training, the logistics of the race, and the mindset required to tackle such an epic adventure. The conversation also touches on the importance of community, the lessons learned during training, and the excitement of meeting new people along the way.

Then Eric and Erika reflect on their experiences from over the weekend when he ran in the Manchester City Marathon. He and Erika discuss the challenges faced during the race, the importance of training, and the joy of connecting with fellow runners. He shares insights on what he would change for future races, and the discussion emphasizes the mental and physical aspects of running, the camaraderie among runners, and the lessons learned from the experience.

Lastly, we preview the NYC Recap Teaser episode for Monday Night Media's new podcast "The Allie G Show" It's a jammed packed episode with a lot of marathon talk.

Takeaways

Marathons are incredibly challenging and require significant preparation.
Having a purpose in training can drive motivation and commitment.
Community support plays a crucial role in endurance events.
Mindset is key to enjoying the journey and overcoming obstacles.
Training can be adapted to fit a busy lifestyle and travel schedule.
It's important to embrace discomfort for personal growth.
Recovery strategies are essential for endurance athletes.
Sharing experiences with others can create lasting connections. We have exciting plans for the future.
Community support is invaluable during races.
It's okay to adjust goals based on training.
The experience of running with friends is special.
Every race teaches us something new.
The importance of fueling during a marathon cannot be overstated.
Embracing the journey is as important as the finish line.
Celebrating small victories along the way is essential. The camaraderie among runners is more important than the race itself.
Training is crucial for a successful marathon experience.
Post-race celebrations can enhance the overall experience.
Having a race mindset is essential for performance.
Fueling strategies need to be planned and followed.
Strength training is important for injury prevention.
Connecting with friends during a race can provide motivation.
Respecting the distance is key to a successful marathon.
Sharing experiences with others can deepen connections.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Journey
05:06 The Great World Marathon Challenge
09:49 Training and Preparation
15:00 The Logistics of the Race
20:14 Mindset and Motivation
25:00 Community and Support
30:08 Lessons Learned and Advice
34:51 Final Thoughts and Future Plans
41:18 Exciting Plans Ahead
44:24 The Journey Begins
46:23 Race Day Reflections
51:31 Meeting Friends on the Course
01:01:46 Challenges and Triumphs
01:12:07 Post-Race Thoughts
01:21:44 Reflections on the Race Experience
01:24:13 Training Insights and Future Plans
01:27:38 Post-Race Celebrations and Connections
01:30:55 Teaser for the Ali G Show
01:49:37

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We are so excited to welcome our guest Jamie Staton (13:34) to the On The Runs PodFam. on this episode. In this episode, host Eric and Erika welcome Jamie Staton, a well-known sports director at WMUR and race announcer from New Hampshire for Millennium Running. Jamie shares his journey from hating running to becoming an avid marathoner, including his experiences with the Boston Marathon and the challenges of training. He discusses the importance of self-accountability in running and how it has shaped his life. Jamie also delves into his role as a race announcer, sharing insights on the preparation and skills required to call names during races, and the joy of being part of the running community. In this conversation, Jamie shares his experiences as a race announcer and sports broadcaster, discussing the energy of race day, the behind-the-scenes chaos, and the emotional journey of running marathons, particularly the Boston Marathon. He reflects on his broadcasting career, including memorable moments from the World Series and his transition to nonprofit work with Easterseals. The discussion also touches on the importance of preparation, the challenges of race day, and
picking the songs to play at the races for the Millennium Running crew.

During the tros, Eric and Erika are joined by a podfam favorite, Tara Pterodactyl. They celebrate the achievements of their running community, including the New York City Marathon and the introduction of a new ultramarathoner, Tara Pterodactyl. They discuss the excitement surrounding major marathons, and Hamster Wheel. The conversation is filled with humor, pranks, and plans for future events, making it a lively and engaging episode. In this engaging conversation, the hosts reflect on their experiences in the ultra marathon community, sharing personal stories of triumph, emotional challenges, and the camaraderie that defines the running culture. Tara recounts her journey through her first ultra marathon, while Erika shares the emotional rollercoaster of completing a 100-mile race. The discussion highlights the importance of support from fellow runners and the joy of celebrating achievements together.

Takeaways

Jamie Staton has been a sports director for over 26 years.
Jamie hated running in high school but found a passion for it later.
He completed nine marathons and six Boston marathons.
Running requires self-accountability and personal drive.
The Boston Marathon in 2018 was a challenging experience for Jamie.
Jamie became a race announcer through a connection with John Mortimer.
He emphasizes the importance of announcing names correctly during races.
Relay races are a fun way to engage with friends and the running community. The energy at the start line is contagious and addicting.
Race announcing involves juggling multiple tasks and high-pressure moments.
Preparation is key for a successful race day experience.
The Boston Marathon is a unique and emotional experience for runners.
Unexpected race experiences can lead to personal bests.
Music plays a crucial role in energizing runners before a race.
Behind-the-scenes work is essential for smooth race operations.
Transitioning from broadcasting to nonprofit work can be fulfilling.
The camaraderie and community in the running world are invaluable.

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Our final Breast Cancer Awareness Month episode for 2024 we welcome back to the podcast, Candice Burroughs (10:45). Last time we had Candice on was back at episode 93 just weeks before her cancer diagnosis, a lot has happened in her life between then and now and she's back to give us that story plus much more.
In this episode, Candice Burroughs returns to share her incredible journey over the past year, marked by both triumphs and challenges. After a promising start to her marathon season, her life took a dramatic turn when she was diagnosed with triple negative breast cancer. Candice discusses her experiences at the Tokyo Marathon, the emotional rollercoaster of the Boston Marathon weekend, and the realities of undergoing chemotherapy. Throughout her journey, she emphasizes the importance of community support, mental resilience, and the unexpected blessings that have come her way. In this heartfelt conversation, Candice shares her journey through cancer treatment, including chemotherapy and immunotherapy, and the importance of community support. She discusses her experiences with running, the challenges of recovery after surgery, and the positive mindset that has helped her navigate this difficult time. The conversation highlights the power of connection, resilience, and the role of podcasts in sharing stories and providing hope.

During the Tros, hosts Knute and Erika discuss the excitement surrounding upcoming marathons, celebrate achievements within the running community, reflect on Breast Cancer Awareness Month, address safety concerns for women runners, and highlight guest appearances and community support. The conversation flows naturally through various themes, emphasizing the importance of camaraderie and awareness in the running world.

Takeaways

Breast Cancer Awareness Month brings important conversations to the forefront.
Safety for runners, especially women, is a pressing concern that needs action.
Community support is vital for runners to feel safe and encouraged.
The podcast has featured inspiring guests who share their journeys.
Running should be an activity where individuals feel safe and empowered.
The podcast aims to create a positive impact in the running community.
Candice's journey highlights the unpredictability of life and the importance of resilience.
Community support can significantly impact one's ability to cope with adversity.
The experience of running a marathon can be transformative and empowering.
Facing a cancer diagnosis requires a strong support system and mental fortitude.
The Tokyo Marathon was a significant milestone for Candice before her diagnosis.
Transitioning from marathon training to dealing with cancer treatment is a challenging shift.
The Boston Marathon weekend was filled with emotional highs and lows for Candice.
Creativity and fun can be essential in coping with the side effects of treatment.
Cold capping helped preserve Candice's hair during chemotherapy.
Candice's positive mindset played a key role in her journey.
The running community provided immense support and encouragement.
Candice's experience highlights the importance of mental health during illness.
Sharing her story through podcasts has been empowering for Candice.
Candice's journey emphasizes that cancer is not always a death sentence.

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Welcome to the 2nd Best of for our Breast Cancer Awareness Series. We started this series in 2022 with 3 amazing women and continues it last year with 3 more. This year we have 5, all 11 of these women are amazing thrivers and survivors who have seen and felt the impact of the running community throughout their breast cancer journey.
This podcast episode highlights the best moments from the Breast Cancer Awareness Series, featuring personal stories of diagnosis, treatment, and the importance of community support. The conversation delves into the challenges faced during treatment, the impact of friendships, and the journey of recovery, emphasizing the resilience and strength of those affected by breast cancer. In this conversation, Eric and his guest discuss the journey of overcoming breast cancer, highlighting the importance of support systems, community involvement, and personal growth through adversity. They reflect on the impact of the Healing Meals program, the emotional journey of treatment, and the transformative power of running as a means of recovery and empowerment. The conversation emphasizes gratitude, resilience, and the significance of sharing one's story to inspire others.

Hear from Nicki, Jackie, Angela, Jaye, Shari and Christine as we go back and hear some of our favorite parts of their episodes here on this special OTR Classic.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guests
02:50 Breast Cancer Awareness Series Highlights
03:17 The Journey of Diagnosis and Treatment
06:19 Building a Support Community
08:27 Experiences with Chemotherapy
12:12 The Reality of Chemo Brain
16:02 Sharing the News with Friends
19:27 The Impact of Community Support
22:18 Navigating Insurance and Financial Challenges
25:33 Reflections on Body Image and Recovery
30:10 Running and Community Connection
36:28 The Experience of Race Directing
40:54 Choosing Charities for Races
44:35 Conclusion and Transition to 2022 Highlights
46:21 Celebrating Growth and Talent
47:36 Reflecting on the Breast Cancer Awareness Series
48:03 Navigating Radiation Treatment
49:59 The Role of Healing Meals in Recovery
52:29 Celebrating Milestones and Support
53:51 Finding Purpose Through Running
56:14 Joining the Healing Meals Community
58:36 The Marathon Journey and Emotional Connections
01:00:53 Gratitude and Giving Back
01:01:51 The Impact of Cancer on Personal Growth
01:03:08 The Beginning of the Cancer Journey
01:05:59 Treatment Experiences and Challenges
01:09:47 The Long Road to Recovery
01:12:40 Finding Strength in Running
01:15:52 Mental Resilience and Cancer
01:33:51 Closing Thoughts and Reflections

Takeaways

The importance of community support during cancer treatment.
Experiencing a rapid transition from diagnosis to treatment.
The role of social media in finding support groups.
Navigating the complexities of insurance during treatment.
The emotional impact of sharing cancer news with friends.
The reality of 'chemo brain' and its effects on daily life.
The significance of fundraising events in supporting cancer patients.
Reflections on body image changes post-treatment.
The joy of running and connecting with others in the community.
Learning to celebrate small victories in

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In this episode we welcome Kristina Coccoluto to our PodFam for another amazing episode that's part of our Breast Cancer Awareness Month series.
Kristina Coccoluto (14:30) shares her inspiring journey as a BRCA1 pre-vivor and melanoma cancer survivor. She discusses her early experiences with running, the challenges she faced with her health, and how she turned to running as a source of empowerment. Kristina opens up about her decision to undergo preventive surgeries, the emotional impact of her diagnosis, and how she found strength in community and family support. Her story culminates in her participation in the world major marathons, including the Boston Marathon, as a testament to resilience and hope. In this engaging conversation, Kristina Coccoluto shares her journey of self-discovery and purpose through storytelling, particularly in the context of her experiences with marathons and cancer awareness and speaking at multiple events. She discusses the challenges she faced, the importance of positive self-talk, and her advocacy for breast cancer awareness. Kristina's story is one of resilience, personal growth, and the power of sharing one's narrative to inspire others.

Kristina's Instagram

During The Tros, hosts Knute and Erika recap their weekend, including Erika's participation in the Bay State Marathon. Knute and Erika discuss their Halloween plans, including costume ideas and party preparations. They share updates on their running motivation and training, including a community member's injury and the support they received. The conversation shifts to a discussion about the recent SpaceX rocket launch and the fascinating technology behind it. The episode concludes with light-hearted banter and humor, showcasing the fun dynamic between the hosts.

Takeaways

Kristina's journey emphasizes the importance of sharing personal stories to inspire others.
Running became a tool for Kristina to connect with herself and manage her health challenges.
Facing a cancer diagnosis can lead to life-changing decisions and actions.
Understanding genetic risks, like BRCA mutations, is crucial for proactive health management.
Preventive surgeries can be a powerful choice for those at high risk of cancer.
Community support plays a vital role in overcoming health challenges.
Training for marathons can serve as a metaphor for resilience and determination.
The emotional impact of health scares can be profound and long-lasting.
Finding joy in running can be a source of empowerment and healing.
Sharing experiences can help break the stigma around discussing health issues. Kristina discovered her purpose through storytelling.
Sharing her story helped her connect with others.
She faced significant challenges while training for marathons post-surgery.
Positive self-talk was crucial in overcoming self-doubt.
Advocacy for cancer awareness is a key part of her journey.
She emphasizes the importance of community support in fundraising.
Kristina's experiences highlight the emotional aspects of running marathons.
She learned to embrace vulnerability in her speaking engagements.
Her journey reflects the power of resilience and determination.
Kristina aims to inspire others to take charge of their health.

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We welcome back one of our favorite people in the running and podcast community, Erin from Will Run For (15:00) to the On The Runs Podcast.
Erin shares her inspiring journey as a runner and a current thriver of metastatic breast cancer. The conversation delves into her running beginnings, the importance of community in both running and cancer advocacy, and the realities of living with cancer. Erin emphasizes the significance of self-advocacy in healthcare and the unique challenges faced by those who run while dealing with cancer. The episode highlights the power of connection, support, and resilience in the face of adversity. Erin shares how she maintaining an active lifestyle, particularly through running. She discusses the challenges of navigating the cancer community versus the running community, emphasizing the importance of understanding and support. Erin also highlights her training for the New York City Marathon and the significance of advocating for one's health. The conversation is filled with insights on managing chronic illness, the emotional aspects of cancer, and the power of community support.

Erin's Instagram
Pace Yourself. It's just Cancer Instagram
Will Run For Instagram

During the Tros, hosts Knute and Erika reflect on the recent Chicago Marathon, share their experiences with the changing seasons, and discuss the importance of community support during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. They talk about Erika's fear of farting, her 2025 race schedule and the meaning of "Hunker Down". The conversation highlights the resilience of the running community and the significance of mental health in sports. The episode concludes with discussions about future races and the importance of staying connected with the community.

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In this special bonus episode, the hosts and their friends recount their adventurous road trip to the Yeti race, sharing stories of their journey, the challenges they faced, and the fun they had along the way. They discuss the unexpected storm that hit during their stay, the camaraderie among friends, and the unique experiences that made this trip memorable, including a haunted house, cider tasting, and the emotional impact of the storm on the local community. In this conversation, the participants reflect on their experiences during a recent Yeti race weekend that was impacted by race cancellations due to unforeseen circumstances. They discuss the emotional toll of the cancellation, the community's swift response to support those affected, and the camaraderie that emerged from the situation. The group shares their alternative plans, including a trip to Hinson Lake, where they set personal goals and participated in the unique tradition of the banana lap. The conversation highlights the resilience of the ultra-running community and the bonds formed through shared experiences.

Takeaways

The importance of community in running events.
Unexpected challenges can lead to memorable experiences.
Friendship and support are crucial during tough times.
Planning and spontaneity can coexist in adventures.
The emotional connection to places and events is significant.
Cider tasting can be a fun group activity.
Alpacas can bring joy and laughter to any situation.
Weather can dramatically change plans and moods.
Sharing food and drinks fosters camaraderie.
Every adventure has its ups and downs, but the memories last forever. The emotional impact of race cancellations can be significant.
Community support is crucial in times of crisis.
The Yeti community exemplifies resilience and camaraderie.
Adapting plans can lead to unexpected adventures.
Setting personal goals can provide motivation during challenging times.
Unique traditions, like the banana lap, enhance the race experience.
Friendship and support are vital in the ultra-running community.
Celebrating achievements, no matter the circumstances, is important.
The spirit of ultra running is about controlling what you can.
Looking forward to future races fosters hope and excitement.

Links to help out in the area from Hurricane Helene

Feed Southwest Virginia
Virginia Creeper Trail Donation Site
Support Damascus GoFundMe

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In this conversation we welcome, Lindsay Hawker to the Pod Fam. Lindsay (00:23:08) shares her inspiring journey from being diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 34 to becoming a passionate runner and marathoner. She discusses how running became a vital part of her healing process, the support she received from her family and the running community, and her experiences with various races, including Disney events. Lindsay emphasizes the importance of movement in recovery and aims to inspire others facing similar challenges. In this conversation, Lindsay shares her inspiring journey from being diagnosed with HER2 positive breast cancer to becoming a passionate advocate for health and fitness. She discusses the importance of exercise in cancer recovery, her challenging experience at the Chicago Marathon, and her commitment to nutrition as a health coach. Lindsay emphasizes the significance of community support, resilience, and the power of sharing personal stories to uplift others facing similar battles. She also highlights the Donna Marathon, a race dedicated to ending breast cancer, and offers practical advice for runners and cancer survivors alike.

During the Tros, hosts Knute and Erika discuss their recent travels, technical difficulties, and the excitement of upcoming events. They share a heartwarming story about hosting a fellow podcaster, Wyatt, during his marathon weekend, highlighting the importance of community support in running. The episode features a special guest interview with Lindsay Hawker, who shares her inspiring journey from a hospital bed to completing a 5K, emphasizing the role of exercise in recovery. The hosts wrap up by discussing future guests and the significance of breast cancer awareness month.

Lindsay Hawker Instagram

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