Beyond Running

In this episode of the Beyond Running Podcast, host Mau Díaz sits down with Nicholas Charlier, a leader in the health and movement industry with over 13 years of experience. Nicholas has built a career around creating impactful programs that inspire connection, healing, and a deeper understanding of the human body. As the driving force behind Vivobarefoot's community programs and the innovative VivoHealth platform, Nicholas has integrated education, research, and coaching into a global network that supports a holistic approach to well-being. Together, Mau and Nicholas go into the transformative power of movement and the art of reconnecting with nature through running. Nicholas shares his insights on the benefits of barefoot running, exploring how it allows us to engage with our surroundings more authentically and fosters a stronger connection to the natural world. They discuss how healing, both physical and mental, is deeply intertwined with movement and how running can be a profound practice of mindfulness and presence. Nicholas also shares his journey as a trail runner, competing in half-marathon and marathon distances, and how his personal experiences have shaped his professional philosophy. This episode offers a thoughtful conversation about the intersection of running, wellness, and community, leaving listeners inspired to explore their own paths to deeper connection, healing, and joy through movement.

In this episode of the Beyond Running podcast, Mau Díaz sits down with Maxime Galpin, a runner, meditator, and guide for Aire Libre's French Pyrenees experience. Maxim has spent years exploring the intersection of movement and mindfulness, creating Zen and Run—a practice that merges running with meditation, helping people connect more deeply with themselves and the natural world. Together, they explore the ways in which running can become more than just a physical pursuit—it can be a form of presence, healing, and inner exploration. Their conversation begins with the magic of the French Pyrenees experience, where Maxime leads runners through breathtaking landscapes while fostering a deep sense of connection among participants. Mau and Maxime reflect on how the shared journey of running in these remote mountains creates a powerful bond, allowing people to slow down, be present, and truly engage with both nature and each other. This profound sense of community and presence sets the stage for their deeper discussion on Zen and Run and the philosophy behind merging meditation with movement. Maxime shares how mindfulness has transformed his own running practice, turning each step into an act of awareness and grounding. He and Mau discuss the benefits of slowing down—both in running and in life—and how tuning into the present moment can make movement more fulfilling. Whether you're an experienced runner or someone looking for a deeper connection to the sport, this episode offers insights into how running can be a gateway to greater self-awareness, balance, and joy.

In this episode of the Beyond Running Podcast, Mau Díaz reconnects with writer, poet, and endurance runner Josh Lynott for a compelling follow-up conversation. After previously appearing on Josh's podcast, Mau brings the dialogue full circle as they explore the deep and surprising connections between running and art. Together, they delve into how movement can be more than just physical effort—it can transform into a form of creative expression and storytelling. Josh shares his unique perspective on running as an art form, drawing from his experiences as a writer and endurance athlete. He reflects on the parallels between the discipline required in training and the creative process of writing, highlighting how both involve perseverance, vulnerability, and the pursuit of meaning. The conversation touches on the ways running and art intersect to create stories, evoke emotions, and allow us to connect with ourselves and the world in profound ways. This episode invites you to see running through a new lens—not just as a sport or activity but as a deeply creative and human act. Whether you're a runner, an artist, or someone who seeks inspiration in the everyday, this conversation with Josh Lynott will leave you with fresh insights on the power of movement, creativity, and storytelling.  

In this inspiring episode of the Beyond Running Podcast, host Leslie Payro sits down with Cal Calamia—an accomplished trans marathoner, ultramarathoner, and inclusivity activist. Cal, who uses they/he pronouns, has been a trailblazer for non-binary visibility in the running world. From becoming the first non-binary winner of both Bay to Breakers and the San Francisco Marathon, to advocating for the inclusion of non-binary categories in prestigious races like the Boston and New York Marathons, Cal has made waves in the sport. In this conversation, Cal shares their journey from competing at Saint Louis University to advocating for gender inclusivity at major races, including their recent push for non-binary representation in the Berlin Marathon. Cal also reflects on the founding of the Non-Binary Run Club, their work as an educator, and their passion for poetry, which is captured in their collection San Franshitshow. Tune in to hear Cal's personal story of resilience, the power of community, and their dedication to pushing for a more inclusive future in marathon running. This is an episode you won't want to miss!  

In this inspiring episode of the Beyond Running Podcast, host Leslie Payró sits down with Beba Guzmán to discuss her remarkable experience organizing and leading a team of Rarámuri women in The Speed Project race, an epic journey from Los Angeles to Las Vegas. Beba shares the challenges they faced, from logistical hurdles to cultural adjustments, and the profound rewards of seeing these incredible women conquer such a demanding race. The conversation explores the importance of encouraging and supporting women to participate in diverse sports and races, highlighting the need for greater representation and inclusion. Beba's story is a testament to the power of community, determination, and the transformative impact of running. Join us for this powerful discussion on breaking barriers and empowering women in the running world, as Leslie and Beba explore the triumphs and tribulations of bringing the Rarámuri spirit to one of the most grueling and exhilarating races in the world. Relevant links: @bebaguzman @thespeedproject @ra_ra_raaaaaa

In this episode of the Beyond Running Podcast, Mau Díaz, co-founder of Aire Libre, engages in a compelling conversation with Tina Muir. Tina Muir, known for her popular Running for Real podcast, discusses her evolving relationship with running, highlighting the shift from an intense, performance-driven mindset to a more inclusive, community-oriented approach. She opens up about the challenges and rewards of this transition and how it has enriched her life and connections within the running world. The conversation gets into Tina's new book, "Becoming a Sustainable Runner: A Guide to Running for Life, Community, and Planet," where she offers valuable insights on how to sustain a lifelong love for running. Tina and Mau explore the themes of the book, discussing the importance of running for personal well-being, fostering community bonds, and respecting and preserving our natural environment. Join us for this thought-provoking episode as Tina Muir and Mau Díaz share their passion for running, emphasizing the joy of connecting with others and the planet through this beautiful sport. Whether you're an elite athlete or a casual runner, this conversation will inspire you to view running through a new, sustainable lens. You can find out more about Tina Muir in the following links: https://linktr.ee/tinamuir88 Use the code TINAMUIR to get a discount in our upcoming Costa Rica experience (limited to 4 spots).  Read about the Costa Rica experience here: https://airelibre.earth/running-experiences/costa-rica-2024/    

In this captivating episode of the Beyond Running Podcast by Aire Libre, Mau Diaz sits down with the remarkable Kayla Jeter. A former professional volleyball player turned wellness entrepreneur, Kayla is also a Global Ambassador for Lululemon and the founder of the empowering running community, 100 Miles of Summer. Together, they delve into Kayla's inspiring journey as an athlete, highlighting the pivotal role that community plays in achieving personal goals. Kayla shares her origin story, revealing the transformative power of running and how it has shaped her path. She discusses her experience in Patagonia with Aire Libre, reflecting on the profound connection between nature, community, and personal growth. As they look to the future, Kayla and Mau explore her upcoming plans and the continued impact of 100 Miles of Summer in inspiring and supporting runners around the world. You can follow Kayla at: @kaylajeter_

Join us for a riveting conversation between Mau Diaz, co-founder of Aire Libre, and Anthony Battah, lawyer, devoted father, and newfound environmental activist. Anthony shares the extraordinary tale of his epic journey, running from Canada to Mexico along the path of the Monarch butterfly migration. His mission? To raise awareness about the plight of this endangered species and spark a larger dialogue about environmental conservation. Anthony's passion and conviction shine through as he discusses his belief in our ability to avert environmental disaster and leave a sustainable legacy for future generations. Accompanied by his wife and daughter, who inspired his odyssey, Anthony's story is a testament to the power of familial love and the impact of individual action in the fight for our planet's future.

In this episode, co-founder of Aire Libre, Mauricio Díaz ( @maudac ) engages in a touching and heartfelt talk with passionate multi-marathon runner, coach, and devoted running community builder: Iman Wilkerson ( @on.iman.opia ), a @cieleathletics FRND with whom we had the honor of sharing the trails during our last Oaxaca Day of the Dead experience last November. During this conversation, we explore Iman's transformative journey from her first 5k in 2008 to becoming an experienced marathoner, participating in iconic races like New York and Boston. Beyond the miles, Iman emphasizes the significance of connections formed through running, influenced by her experience in the heart of New York City. Having relocated to sunny San Diego, she continues her running journey, weaving a business around her passion for the sport. We explore the richness of Iman's experiences, unveiling the profound impact of running communities as bridges connecting individuals to city pulses, natural serenity, and, most crucially, each other. Iman emerges as a fervent advocate for the inclusivity defining the best running communities, uniting diverse souls under the shared rhythm of pounding feet and aspirations "There are more communities that are feeling called to step up and to lead, or there are people who are feeling called to step up to lead and not feeling like they have to rest on what already existed. I think that what also comes from that is we don't have to race to run. For these past few years up until maybe this year, or even parts of last year, you know, we didn't have races, or races were paused for a little bit, so people were just running for community and just running to run together." – Iman Wilkerson Join us as we dive into the transformative power of running beyond the miles, where each step contributes to a larger connection resonating with the heartbeat of cities, the whispers of nature, and the shared cadence of human connection. Go to the link in our bio to give it a listen!  

Join us in this episode as Mauricio Díaz, co-founder of Aire Libre, engages in a profound conversation with runner Francesca Goodwin. Together, they explore the transformative journey that running can be, especially when intertwined with the healing power of nature. Francesca opens up about her personal struggles with mental and physical health, and how the rhythm of her footsteps on the earth's terrain became a catalyst for healing. Grounded in the natural world, running served as a potent reminder of her life force, providing solace and a path to recovery. The discussion delves into the symbiotic relationship between the human spirit, physical well-being, and the natural environment. Mauricio, drawing from his experience with Aire Libre, adds depth to the conversation by highlighting the collective and supportive nature of the running community. Together, they celebrate the profound connection between mind, body, and nature, emphasizing how running can be a transformative and holistic practice. This episode is an invitation to listeners to embark on a journey of self-discovery through running, to find solace in the embrace of the natural world, and to discover the revitalizing potential that lies within each stride. Join us for this touching exploration of resilience, healing, and the boundless joys that running and nature can bring to our lives. You can find Francesca here: @running_on_joy

In this episode of the Beyond Running Podcast, Leslie Payró sits down with Claudia Corona, an incredible Latina ultra marathoner hailing from the vibrant and diverse city of New York. Claudia's latest endeavor is nothing short of awe-inspiring - she's on a mission to run through all five boroughs of the Big Apple. This conversation delves deep into Claudia's journey of gender, representation, resilience, and the critical role of support in achieving extraordinary goals. Claudia's story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the belief that anyone can accomplish remarkable feats with the right mindset and community. As a Latina woman with a non-normative body type, Claudia shares her experiences and the challenges she's overcome in a sport where representation can be lacking. Her story serves as a beacon of hope for those who might have felt marginalized or underrepresented in the world of running. In this episode, Claudia and Leslie explore the importance of representation in running, touching upon the unique struggles and triumphs that come with breaking down barriers. They discuss the significance of diversity and inclusivity in sports and how it can inspire others to pursue their dreams, regardless of their background or circumstances. Join us for this deeply inspirational conversation with Claudia Rincón as we explore her extraordinary journey, the power of resilience, and the impact of running on her life. Get ready to be inspired and encouraged to chase your own dreams, no matter how big or audacious they may seem.

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Lydia Jennings, a soil scientist, science communicator and runner, to discuss how her scientific interests in soil and her Indigenous ancestry influence her running practice. Lydia shares insights on the interconnections between the land, our bodies, and our communities, and how running has become a way for her to connect with her roots while advocating for sustainable agriculture practices. Join us for a fascinating conversation on the intersection of science, culture, and movement. You can find Lydia here: Website: https://nativesoilnerd.com/ Instagram: @llcooljennings   

In this episode, we sit down with Daniel Maluleka, a Zulu runner who has a deep passion for traveling. Daniel shares stories of how running has changed the way he sees himself and the world around him. He talks about the lessons he has learned and how running has allowed him to explore his identity and connect deeper with his family roots.. Join us for an inspiring conversation with this exceptional human, and learn about the power of running to connect with others. You can find Daniel here: @nomadic_zulu   

In this episode, we have the pleasure of speaking with Sergio Avila, a biologist, (recovering) conservationist, and runner. Sergio has dedicated his life to studying and protecting the ecosystems of North America, particularly the Sonoran Desert. During the interview, Sergio shares his experiences as a scientist and conservationist, as well as his passion for running. He discusses how his love for nature, history and the environment has driven him to pursue a career in science and conservation. In this episode, listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the importance of conservation and the role of science in telling better stories to protect our planet. You can find Sergio here: @sergio_concolor  

For this episode, we talk with author, ultra runner and activist, Mirna Valerio. Mirna Valerio is an absolute force of nature. She has carved out a space for herself in the world of running, and she's doing it on her own terms. As a speaker, author, and activist, Valerio uses her platform to champion body positivity, diversity, and inclusivity in the running community. And don't let her size fool you - this woman can run. Valerio has completed numerous ultra-marathons and has twice conquered the New York City Marathon. Her memoir, "A Beautiful Work in Progress," is a must-read for anyone looking to be inspired by someone who's unapologetically themselves. Simply put, Mirna Valerio is a powerhouse and an inspiration to us all.   You can follow her on Instagram (@mirnavator) and website: https://themirnavator.com/  

For this episode, we talk with author and activist Alison M. Désir about her recently released book, Running While Black. The book itself, and the conversation, investigate complex and necessary topics like white spaces, the healing and hurting that can come from running, and what it means to share your experience. Alison is at the center of a conversation about how the culture around running can change for the better, and continues to share an inspiring story about the people leading the way. You can find Alison on Instagram at @alisonmdesir or her website http://alisonmdesir.com

A few months ago, May 2022, Mau Díaz and Nils Arend decided to run the width of the Baja California Peninsula in one day, from Todos Santos to Cabo Pulmo (140 kms). They knew it would be a challenge, but they never imagined how far this experience would push their physical and mental boundaries. This is a conversation between these two running legends about an incredible adventure that brings to bear the significance of shared experiences. This episode is also a preview of an upcoming experience in January 2023 with Aire Libre Running. Make sure to subscribe to our newsletter to learn all the details, you won't want to miss this one. Mau Díaz is the co-founder of Aire Libre RunningNils Arend is the founder of The Speed Project.

SUGi is on a mission to empower rewilding and bring Nature closer to anyone anywhere. Mobilizing an incredible team of creatives, forest makers, ocean gardeners, and polymaths, their projects create micro-forests that reflect the indigenous biodiversity of that place. In a conversation with founder Elise Van Middelem and lead forest maker James Godfrey-Faussett, we explore their process, the value of nature and moving through forests, and talk about some of the forests we'd most like to visit. It's an inspiring conversation about how to turn passion into action and spend more time connected to the things that matter most. Be sure to check out the beautiful, informative content they've created at the links below. @sugiproject sugiproject.com

Like the Wind Mag has been changing the game in the running media landscape since they launched in 2014. Bringing beautiful design together with amazing storytelling in collaboration with a range of artists and writers. We spoke with co-founders Julia Freeman and Simon Freeman, longtime friends of Aire Libre, about the project, using running as exploration, and their recent book: Running Wild: Inspirational Trails from Around the World. @likethewindmag https://www.likethewindmagazine.com/shop/running-wild-book/

Clare Gallagher is a professional ultra trail runner and environmental activist who has won the Leadville 100 and Western States 100 mile races. She's also set FKTs on the Zion Traverse and the Joshua Tree Traverse.    The way she uses her platform and running to raise awareness and drive change sets her apart. She's a deep thinker and a writer who explores the intersection of running and mindfulness and our connection to the landscapes we're in. The conversation explores running mindfully, keeping other pursuits while running competitively, and using media of all forms with intention.

Michel Rojkind is an artist, world-renowned architect and runner based in Mexico City. He's done projects all over the world and worked with the Mexican government. He's a runner who's well known in the Mexico City crew scene for having dipped under the 3-hour barrier for the marathon in his fifties, running 2:56 most recently at age 51.   We dig Michel's philosophy for bringing energy into his creative work through the integration with his running and the rest of his life. We talk about living as an embodiment of your spirituality with no separation between what you do and what you believe. And of course, we look at what keeps him so vibrant and healthy in his old age—staying flexible and not holding on too tightly to beliefs or concepts of the self.   Michel is a good friend of the Aire Libre crew and we feel so privileged to share some of his wisdom.    Find him at @rojkind on Instagram.

Our first episode of 2022 features Jason Suarez, sports photographer and athlete with a fascinating creative eye. In this conversation, Jason shares the story behind his career as well as his thoughts on how we can bring more perspectives into the creative world that surrounds athletics. With a trademark sense of humor and a positive spirit, Jason's words serve as a succinct guide to being a better creative, or simply a better person. Follow Jason at @notafraid2fail

For the end of year, we're doing something different—our first solo episode. It's a time of reflection and Alex looks back on his own story, how he connected with the Beyond Running Podcast, as well as his notes from the year and ambitions for the next one. It's a personal check-in we hope to make a tradition around here. Our roster of upcoming guests is stacked and we can't wait to see you in the new year.

Michael Versteeg is a professional ultra runner for Satisfy Running, the winner of this year's Cocodona 250, and the holder of many fastest known times—but the focus of this conversation isn't necessarily performance. Versteeg unpacks his relationship with running, which he looks at through a unique lens. Like a climber, mountaineer, or general outdoorsperson, Michael takes an experiential approach to running. That's largely to do with his background, since he started wide and then honed his focus to running over time. He breaks down recent projects and shares some thoughts on future projects that have him excited. All in all, Versteeg evades categorization, and that's a good thing. Because he shows us how to live as an integrated person and athlete, while containing multitudes, in a world and social media landscape that wants us to be one thing. Follow Michael Versteeg on Instagram: @michael.versteeg @satisfyrunning

In this conversation, we explore the roots of yoga and how the tradition has been colonized and mis-appropriated. We touch on the anti-science and white supremacist rhetoric that has plagued the culture of yoga in the West, laid even more bare by the pandemic and social justice movement that's gained momentum in 2020. And, of course, we talk about what we can do about it, what it means to be a devoted, humble student of yoga, and how one can be a yoga teacher in a way that's in line with yoga's philosophy. Wijeyakumar has had a life-long connection to yoga. Raised in the tradition of Sanathana Dharma, she makes it clear that asana is simply one small part of the yoga tradition, meant to prime the body for seated meditation and Dharana. It's only in the West, through colonization and appropriation, that asana has been equated with yoga. What's more, the way asana is practiced in the West is far from inclusive, but yoga is as inclusive as a tradition can be.Anusha's combination of wisdom and humility is compelling and inspiring. We hope you enjoy the conversation as much as we did.

The MindWork Series is a content collaboration with lululemon to explore movement as an entry point to mindfulness.  This second episode features guest Sanchia Legister, a runner, yoga teacher and an energy giver that works to bring diversity to mindful movement practices. We talked about the importance of being present as a tool to look beyond the fast things that make us take life for granted and a path to change our perspective. Enjoy!

The Mindwork Series is a content collaboration with lululemon to explore movement as an entry point to mindfulness.  This episode features guest Charlie Dark, a pioneer in the running culture through the legendary Run Dem Crew, a yoga teacher and practitioner, and a music explorer and DJ.  Creating spaces for inclusion and running seen in a holistic approach were some of the topics touched in our conversation. Enjoy!

Here, we introduce the new host of the Beyond Running podcast, Alex Dickinson, and sit down with Nils Arend. Nils is a co-founder of the speed project, a lifelong creative, and a rebel runner. Having just completed The Speed Project, Alex digs into the roots of the race, from surf trips around the world to point-to-point journeys in LA. The pair discuss the future of running, mindfulness on the road, and inclusivity.

Through Matt Mikkelsen's work in film and sound he is working to create awareness about what's not there- the emptiness, the silence, and the value it has for us and for the wildlife that depends on it. According to Matt, it's not enough to just preserve silence, we must also learn to listen to it.   

For this month’s episode I spoke with Alison Desir, founder of Harlem Run, a NY-based run collective, as well as several other organizations that bring people together around movement and community.    She’s passionate about building strong, positive, and diverse communities, simply because her organizations are built by people, and creating a place where they feel safe, accepted, valued, and welcome is important for them to thrive.    She also advocates for the importance of mental health, having obtained her master’s in Counseling Psychology, and has publicly spoken about her depression and how ultimately it led her to seek out connection with other people through running.    She builds on what she learned through her struggle to make each one of her communities more meaningful to everyone involved.

This month, I speak with Ron Griswell, he's an explorer, outdoor guide and founder of HBCUs Outside, an organization that helps students from Historically Black Colleges and Universities to get outside and participate in the outdoors, where there has been very little minority representation. The hope is that these students can start to see themselves reflected in these spaces, and share their stories to inspire others to also take part in outdoor activities and culture. Hope you enjoy!

Coffey is a runner, father, filmmaker, and activist who started organizing groups of people to run with him in response to recent and historic violence against black people. Coffey realized that his power was his ability to organize and empower people to take action, and his running protests quickly gained momentum and appeal as a way for people of all colors and backgrounds to get together and speak out against injustice.

Beau Miles is an Award winning filmmaker, poly-jobist, speaker, and writer who takes simple objects and ideas and questions what we know about them through his film projects. We spoke about his films, his experience writing a doctoral thesis, the value of Outdoor Education, as well as how running has contributed to his view of the world, his projects, and himself.

Samantha Gash is a social advocate and runner, and has collected a lot of wisdom throughout her life. We talked to her about the importance of education, surrendering, how her life has changed after becoming a mum and the bright side of being on lockdown.

Sam Bencheghib is one of the co-founders of Make A Change World, an organization dedicated to changing the world's pollution problem. They are founded on the concept that "no idea is crazy enough to change the world." We caught up with Sam following his run across the United States to raise awareness of plastic pollution, to discuss the reasons behind such an adventure and what came of it. instagram account at @sambencheghibEnjoy!

Episode 6: What running can teach you. Rickey Gates. by airelibre.run

Jordan Marie Brings Three White Horses Daniel is a Native American rights activist, as well as a talented distance runner. Jordan made headlines in 2019 when she ran the Boston marathon with a red hand painted across her face to bring awareness to Murdered and Missing Indigenous Women. Though this is the story she’s most well known for, Jordan’s activism goes much further. Join us as we discuss the importance of visibility, the impact of ignorance and how following your passion can lead to greater change than you might ever imagine.We are thrilled to have had Jordan for this episode of Beyond Running. You can learn more about her through her instagram account at @nativein_la.Enjoy!

Mirna Valerio is hard to describe in a word. She's an ultrarunner, an adventurer, a writer, former educator, mother, trained singer... as soon as you start to speak with her, her laughter and energy fill the space, making her passion for life evident. Join us as we discuss Mirna's experiences with failure, her thoughts on confidence and authenticity, and the way she experiences being a runner.

For this episode of Beyond Running, we sat down with runner and mindfulness ambassador for the L.A. running community, Hakim Tafari, who told us about the different chapters of his journey and how a life of obstacles led him to embrace running, mindfulness and eastern medicine as ways to reconnect to himself and turn his life around.Join us as we discuss everything from running and veganism to budhism and eastern medicine in this eye opening and awe inspiring conversation.Hakim has been part of the Aire Libre community ever since he led a beautifully designed mindfulness program in our past Chiapas experience.Join Hakim in October as he embarks on his second adventure with us in our upcoming Oaxaca Day Of The Dead Running Experience.

Ben and I sat down recently to discuss some of the latest research into how exercise affects the brain, and specifically, running. While Ben isn’t leading any of these studies in his work, he acts as somewhat of a translator in his writing, helping us to understand the cutting edge of brain science. He’s spent the past decade and a half in the lab, looking at how the brain grows and works during our lifetime.And being a keen runner, Ben is curious to look at real evidence, and science… that supports common effects and feelings expressed by runners of all levels: how running can help us clear the mind, find focus, deal with stress… think more creatively… and impact our overall mental health. As you heard, Ben equates running with a type of mindfulness meditation.Find out more by listening to Episode 2 of The Aire Libre Running Podcast, a series of intimate conversations with renowned experts and inspiring characters on discovering our world through running, travel, culture, spirituality and mindfulness.Ben Martynoga is a neuroscientist and science writer. After a decade at the forefront of brain research, he swapped his white coat for a pen, leaving his full-time lab role to focus on communicating science.  He is in demand as a speaker and has published books, chapters, blogs and podcasts. His articles appear in the Guardian, New Statesman, The i newspaper, Long+Short magazine and the Financial Times. Increasingly, he feels the need to get up from his laptop and go out for a run. When he gets back to his desk, ideas always flow more easily. He tweets, occasionally, at @mountainogre .