Women Run Canada

To say that getting to interview Alexi Pappas in person at the Servus Calgary Marathon this last weekend was a dream come true is an understatement. I have been a massive fan of this Greek-American Olympian for a long time: she is also an artist, an actor/filmmaker, a podcaster and a truly generous soul. Alexi and I talked about her two books, Bravey and the adaptation she wrote for younger readers, and the new book and film projects she is currently working on. We also dive into the ways she has found joy in the sport in every form: from dancing through the streets during the New York Marathon, to working with her vision-impaired running partner Lisa as she targets the Paralympics, to being an example of what a beautiful continued run life can be after a professional career.  Alexi constantly centres other people's experiences by listening and learning from everyone she encounters (as proved by her podcast Mentor Buffet) and gives incredible advice from a place of experience. I hope you find this magical episode as glittery and bubble-gun filled as we all did. IYKYK Follow Alexi @alexipappas --- EPISODE SPONSOR: Did you have an awesome time at the Servus Calgary Marathon? Or experiencing FOMO for a fantastic race weekend? Join the Run Calgary team to celebrate the 45th running of the Calgary Police Classic (formerly the Calgary Police Half Marathon) on Saturday, September 20, 2025, at Cowboys Park. The Calgary Police Classic is a fall road race that boasts a fast and flat half-marathon course, a new 8 km event (not the traditional 5 km and 10 km races), as well as a brand new kids race. Register now at https://raceroster.com/events/2025/100913/2025-calgary-police-classic 

J Solle is an active member and former board member of Front Runners New York and now the Race Director of the iconic Front Runners New York City LGBT Pride Run: the largest pride run in the world, which welcomed over 10,000 runners to its start line last year. J's spirit and actions mirror the aims of Front Runners and the Pride Run. They celebrate showing up authentically, creating inclusivity for everyone, and amplifying the powerful intersection of sport and community. In addition to bringing the joy of an inclusive start line to others, J is a highly talented runner, having made two appearances at the Boston Marathon. From speaking at a United Nations event to being recognized as a 2025 Emerging Leader by Running USA to working as a coach helping others reach big goals, J is a light in our running community. Follow J @jcsolle Follow Front Runners New York @frontrunnersny Follow the Front Runners New York City LGBT Pride Run @frnypriderun   --- Episode Sponsor: Vancouver Half Marathon & 5K Vancouver's premier half marathon experience, taking place June 22, 2025. This year, featuring a finisher medal made from recycled chopsticks created just for Canada Running Series by their partner Chop Value. Register with their Impact Bib program, and a portion of your registration fee will be donated in lieu of a race shirt! Join Western Canada's ONLY zero-waste designated race: choose from the half marathon, 5K or kids' race. For more info and to register, visit www.canadarunningseries.com 

After her first appearance on the show five years ago, Daryl Lang is back! Daryl is a vision-impaired runner who races with a guide and completes her training miles with her guide dog. Daryl and I  love furry friends, so this episode ended up almost an ode to her two guide dogs, Jenny and Yasha.  Daryl takes us through Jenny's retirement, what it was like to change their relationship from working to companionship, and learning the ins and outs of her new coworker, Yasha (whom she trained with at Guiding Eyes for the Blind in New York).  Daryl also became published as a contributing author to the book Run for Your Life: Lessons Learned from Going the Distance, and she shares a bit about that process as well.  Yasha and Daryl may still be fine-tuning running together, but in the meantime, Daryl has entered a new space in her running era: nothing to prove to anyone (maybe the best journey yet). She may not be worried about how much she races or what her splits are anymore, but she still has some big goals on the horizon. I have my fingers crossed that I might get to greet her at the finish line sometime soon.    Find Daryl's blog at www.blindbeader.ca Buy a copy of Run For Your Life: Lessons Learned from Going the Distance  https://bit.ly/buyrunforyourlife Donate to Guiding Eyes for the Blind: https://donate.guidingeyes.org/    -- Episode Sponsor: Canada Running Series The Beneva Spring Run Off may have already sprung, but Canada Running Series still has a ton of exciting races to help you find your next start line. Next up: The Under Armour Toronto 10K. With a medal inspired by the city itself, this year's finish line prize features the iconic Toronto skyline—CN Tower and all—hung on waves of blue, a nod to the scenic waterfront route. Register to earn yours on June 15th: visit www.canadarunningseries.com    Theme music: Joseph McDade

Today, we are celebrating five years together at the Run Canada Podcast! And what better way to do it than telling our funniest, cringiest, most embarrassing running stories??  My friend Sarah Carroll (founder of Underdogs Coaching) and I read a selection of the submitted stories. We can all relate because this sport may be magical, but things get messy sometimes. Knowing we have all been there and can either say, "That happened to me too!" or at least empathize with the situation brings us closer together.  HEADS UP: Unlike every other episode I have EVER posted, this one contains swear words. So don't listen in your car with your four-year-old. Also, not sure your four-year-old wants to hear some of these stories anyway!  Thank you to everyone who hopped on the overshare train with us by sending in your stories: you make this community great. I look forward to drawing a name and sending out a fantastic prize pack from our friends at Canada Running Series and ASICS Canada.  Cheers to five years of fun and many more to come!   --- Find Sarah Carroll @underdogs_coaching Discover what movement will do for your mind @asicscanada Find your next best race @runcrs and @runcrswest --- Theme music (since day one!): Joseph McDade

As we are nearing our fifth anniversary episode, I love looking back to some of the past episodes we have had that longtime listeners may have forgotten about or that new listeners haven't heard. This episode is a real gem: I got to spend time with my best bud Melanie Murzeau AND meet the legendary Valerie Jerome.  Recorded in 2021, Valerie shares stories from her life in running. From the incredible things that she and her brother Harry achieved on the track to all of the adversity and racism they encountered off it, her candid answers and willingness to share the good and the bad was truly moving.  Valerie talks a lot in the episode about how she had been working since the 90s to get her manuscript published, and as you know, that book FINALLY became a reality in 2023. You can buy a copy for yourself through this Canadian retailer: https://www.indigo.ca/en-ca/races-the-trials-and-triumphs-of-canadas-fastest-family/9781773102900.html  I am also giving away a copy with the prize package for our fifth anniversary episode: check out @runcanadapodcast for more information.    --- EPISODE SPONSOR: Canada Running Series Canada may be locked in the deep freeze right now, but you can keep your running on target by registering for the Beneva Spring Run-Off, either in person at Toronto's stunning High Park on April 5, 2025, or virtually wherever you are.  Participants can choose from the 8K, 5K, or Kids Race distances. All in-person runners will receive a souvenir apparel item and a finisher medal featuring designs inspired by High Park's beauty.  Don't wait to register – this season's kickoff always goes fast. Go to www.canadarunningseries.com  for more info and to register.    Theme Music: Joseph McDade

If you are an active community runner in the GTA, there's a good change you have met or at least crossed paths with Sabrina Young. A long-time runner, Sabrina began her journey with the Longboat Roadrunners Club, focusing on improving her times to earn a spot on the Boston Marathon start line. As life evolved and her two children entered the picture, Sabrina's relationship with running, along with her goals and values, has shifted. In this conversation, we explore these changes in her journey, as well as her insights from working in the industry in her marketing and writing role at iRun Magazine. We dive into how the running boom has transformed what runners seek from their connection to the sport and how it has helped to make the running community more inclusive.    Follow some of Sabrina's adventures @irunnation We talk for a WHILE about the Canada Fitness Test/Awards. For those who are too young or for those who want a dip down memory lane, check out https://nevermindgenx.substack.com/p/the-last-great-thing-this-country   --- EPISODE SPONSOR: Canada Running Series Canada may be locked in the deep freeze right now, but you can keep your running on target by registering for the Beneva Spring Run-Off, either in person at Toronto's stunning High Park on April 5, 2025, or virtually wherever you are.  Participants can choose from the 8K, 5K, or Kids Race distances. All in-person runners will receive a souvenir apparel item and a finisher medal featuring designs inspired by High Park's beauty.  Don't wait to register – this season's kickoff always goes fast. Go to www.canadarunningseries.com  for more info and to register.    Theme Music: Joseph McDade

If you are looking to fall in love with running all over again, this is the episode for you. Live from the TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon Speaker Stage; it's the wrap party that was as filled with laughter and tears as a good rom com. After identifying the need to find ways to support and encourage more women to run the marathon, Canada Running Series created the 2024 Women's Training Group. Hundreds of registrants used online resources and chat forums to work together toward the start line. The day before the big race, some of the participants got together for a shakeout run supported by ASICS and then shared some of their thoughts and discoveries around the speaker stage.  I was again joined by Heather Garner, founder of Kardia, and two program participants (and now MARATHONERS!) Joan Broto and Mandy Mundell. In re-listening, I remembered how meaningful the experience was and how easily we could connect with total strangers because of our mutual love of running. I dare you not to laugh, cry, and totally relate to this conversation (you must supply your own Kleenex).  Watch @towaterfront42K to see what they will be up to for the 2025 race! Again, thank you to @asicscanada for supporting the program and the wrap party. You made it extra special.      --- EPISODE SPONSOR: Canada Running Series Canada may be locked in the deep freeze right now, but you can keep your running on target by registering for the Beneva Spring Run-Off, either in person at Toronto's stunning High Park on April 5, 2025, or virtually wherever you are.  Participants can choose from the 8K, 5K, or Kids Race distances. All in-person runners will receive a souvenir apparel item and a finisher medal featuring designs inspired by the beauty of High Park.   Don't wait to register – this season's kickoff always goes fast. Go to www.canadarunningseries.com  for more info and to register.    Theme Music: Joseph McDade

What do you get when you pair a dedicated fitness professional and run coach with the challenge of leading a group of runners in a 640 KM, three-day relay race? You get drive, dedication and the satisfaction of reaching a truly impressive goal as a team. Ania Z. approaches training for herself and her clients holistically, putting together over a decade of learning, certification and experience to help others reach their goals. Ania tells us about participating twice in Run to Montreal, an ultra relay race that starts in Nathan Philips Square in Toronto and finishes on Mount Royal in Montreal. It supports some incredible charities and creates a unique experience for participants. There were highs and lows, but both finish lines came with great accomplishment and camaraderie with teammates.  Follow Ania @fierce_flames or at www.fiercefeminineathletics.com Find Run to Montreal @runtomtl or at www.runtomtl.com   ---  EPISODE SPONSOR: Move Your Paws for the Polar Bear Cause, February 22, 2025 ONLY A FEW SPOTS REMAIN: DON'T WAIT TO REGISTER On Saturday, February 22, join the cause at the Toronto Zoo and move your paws to help one of the world's most vulnerable species – polar bears! 2025 marks the 11th edition of Move Your Paws. There will be 5K and 1K distance options open to runners, walkers and wheelers of all ages and abilities. Bundle up and bring the whole family for a day of outdoor fun, fitness and fundraising!  Visit www.canadarunningseries.com to register now!   Theme Music: Joseph McDade    

Live from the 2024 TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon speaker stage and moderated by Kardia founder and run club veteran Heather Gardner, this session addressed the current hot topic: Is running the new dating app? As one of the event's most talked-about and highly anticipated panels, Heather led a fantastic panel of speakers, each offering unique perspectives. Keri Wong, a long-time runner and run club member, shared her experience navigating the world of run clubs as a single woman. Sam Montgomery, a member of the executive committee for Frontrunners Toronto and their social media manager, provided valuable insights on communication and expectations. Elan Bibas and Rory Duffy, co-founders of the Get Lost Run Club in Toronto, discussed how they've created a fun, inclusive atmosphere for all kinds of social running events, including run-dating experiences. They also highlighted their efforts to ensure safety and positive vibes at every event. Follow Heather @catchingheather and @kardiaathletica Follow Keri @bitesandstrides Follow Sam @samcmontgomery and @frontrunnerstoronto Follow Elan @elan.bibas Follow Rory @rory_duffy and @getlost.runners   ---  EPISODE SPONSOR: Move Your Paws for the Polar Bear Cause, February 22, 2025 On Saturday, February 22, join the cause at the Toronto Zoo and move your paws to help one of the world's most vulnerable species – polar bears! 2025 marks the 11th edition of Move Your Paws. There will be 5K and 1K distance options open to runners, walkers and wheelers of all ages and abilities. Bundle up and bring the whole family for a day of outdoor fun, fitness and fundraising!  Visit www.canadarunningseries.com to register now!   Theme Music: Joseph McDade

Let's draw some January inspiration from a local runner who is well-known in the Winnipeg running community - Tim Coombs. Tim took a challenging personal experience and turned it into a positive movement for himself and for the entire Manitoba running community. At the end of 2023, Tim faced a heavy personal struggle. He could have chosen to remain in that difficult space, but instead, he set two resolutions that have had a profound impact on his life. First, Tim took on a January run streak challenge, which turned into a streak that's still going strong today. Second, he committed to running with as many different run clubs across the province as possible. Along the way, he made new friends, reconnected with old ones, and inspired others to join him. Tim is kind and generous with a smile for everyone he meets. I hope his New Year's resolutions might spark a positive change in you too.  Follow Tim on Instagram @running_tim8oes   ---  EPISODE SPONSOR: Move Your Paws for the Polar Bear Cause, February 22, 2025 On Saturday, February 22, join the cause at the Toronto Zoo and move your paws to help one of the world's most vulnerable species – polar bears! 2025 marks the 11th edition of Move Your Paws. There will be 5K and 1K distance options open to runners, walkers and wheelers of all ages and abilities. Bundle up and bring the whole family for a day of outdoor fun, fitness and fundraising!  Visit www.canadarunningseries.com to register now!   Theme Music: Joseph McDade

Molly Hurford has been writing basically since she could hold a pen. As an adult, she has paired her passion for sports and the outdoors with being a professional author who has written for various publications and published several books. She also supports cycle athletes as a mentor and podcaster at The Consummate Athlete with her partner, Peter Glassford. If that wasn't all enough, she has her own publishing company, Strong Girl Publishing, which shares the work of outstanding female athletes (recently Micha Powell!). Molly also writes the series Shred Girls, which helps encourage young girls to find their place in sport. Her whole work ethos is centred on women supporting women and creating role models for girls. We need more Molly Hurfords in our world. Follow The Consummate Athlete @consummateathlete Follow Molly @mollyjhurford Follow Strong Girl Publishing @stronggirlpublishing Find all of Strong Girl Publishing's books wherever you buy books or at https://stronggirlpublishing.com/    ---  EPISODE SPONSOR: Move Your Paws for the Polar Bear Cause, February 22, 2025 On Saturday, February 22, join the cause at the Toronto Zoo, and move your paws to help one of the world's most vulnerable species – polar bears! 2025 marks the 11th edition of Move Your Paws. There will be 5K and 1K distance options open to runners, walkers and wheelers of all ages and abilities. Bundle up and bring the whole family for a day of outdoor fun, fitness and fundraising!  Visit www.canadarunningseries.com to register now!   Theme Music: Joseph McDade

Ryan Chilibeck loves the run community, from elite athletes to first-timers. He is passionate about bringing everyone together and showing them what an amazing team sport running can be. Ryan founded East Van Run Crew, which celebrated its tenth anniversary in 2024. Coming from a long history of loving both team sports and being outside in the ocean and the mountains, Ryan doesn't just participate on the roads and trails; he has built his career around it. Many of you west coasters have probably seen him hard at work at one of CRS West's events, still others know him as the person who brought together the Women's Marathon Group at this year's TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon. We discuss that experience and how raising two girls challenged his views of raising active kids. Make sure you have a beverage because at the end of the episode we play a game of Never Have I Ever, and you can play too.  Follow East Van Run Crew @eastvanruncrew Follow Ryan @ryanmeatysauce   --- EPISODE SPONSOR: CANADA RUNNING SERIES Time is running out to lock in the best price for the 2025 TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon. Whether you're gearing up for the 5K, Half Marathon, or Marathon, this is your moment to lock in your commitment before prices go up on Tuesday, December 3, at 11:59 p.m. ET. Visit www.canadarunningseries.com  for details and to register now.   Theme Song: Joseph McDade  

Aristotle Domingo started life as an active kid, but his life took a dramatic turn in his twenties when he fell into a three-month-long coma and spent a year in the hospital battling sepsis and its life-altering aftermath. After a series of severe bone infections, he ultimately became a double below-knee amputee.  His adaptability, positivity and relentless drive to embrace new challenges turned that chapter of his life into an opportunity for growth and new experiences. Today, he is a multi-sport athlete, focusing on blade road running and competes in the para wheelchair division of men's shot put in Track and Field. Recognizing the need for support in the amputee community, Aristotle founded the Amputee Coalition of Toronto, where he continues to educate and empower both people experiencing limb loss and the broader sports community on how to better support adaptive athletes.  Follow Aristotle @ampu_TO Amputee Coalition of Toronto https://www.facebook.com/amputeecoalitionTO/  The AmpuTO Show Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-amputo-show/id1522957731    ---- EPISODE SPONSOR: Canada Running Series The 2024 race season may have officially closed for Canada Running Series, but now is the perfect time to set your sights on new goals for 2025. The best part? Registration is already open for most of these events! Secure your early bird pricing and get motivated towards your next goal. For more information and to register visit https://canadarunningseries.com/   Theme music: Joseph McDade

Today we are celebrating two Canadian charities that are working diligently to support Canadian youth in becoming and staying active in sport. The Kickback Foundation's Kickback Run Club brings together community families for 20 weeks over the summer in both Scarborough and downtown Toronto. The program  provides relatable role models for youth and meaningful connections for mentors. In addition to the community runs, Kickback brings program participants to the next level by bringing them to the start line of races that they likely never would have seen without it. Fast and Female's goal is to empower girls through sport, physical activity and education. Through programming and step up opportunities, participants are provided with R.E.A.L. role models. As they progress through the program, they are encouraged to become role models for the participants that come after them. Leadership is built into every step to build a strong, active future for all of them. If you are in a position to support these organizations, you can find them here: Kickback Foundation @kickbackfoundation https://linktr.ee/kickbackfoundation   Fast & Female @fastandfemale https://fastandfemale.com/support/    --- EPISODE SPONSOR: The party that was the TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon this year was incredible - 30,000 runners over three events with Canada's official largest marathon all in the books. You can make sure you don't miss your chance to join in on the fun for 2025: registration is now open for the TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon and many other of CRS's iconic events. Visit www.canadarunningseries.com and plan YOUR next big start line.    Theme Music: Joseph McDade

Mirna Valerio is both an ultra trail runner and an ultra human. This former teacher is the author of A Beautiful Work in Progress, and is now able to devote herself full-time to being a speaker and advocate for health awareness, promoting diversity on the roads and trails, and inspiring others to find their joy on the run. Mirna is busy with a myriad of things, but you may have most recently heard her name when she participated in lululemon's initiative FURTHER which was a six-day challenge for ten athletes to find their new limits while being supported by resources and innovations that have often been reserved for male athletes. So dive in and let the Mirnavator inspire you to reach for your next adventure.  Follow Mirna @themirnavator Order a copy of her book https://www.indigo.ca/en-ca/a-beautiful-work-in-progress/9781503943391.html    ---- EPISODE SPONSOR: The party that was the TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon this year was incredible - 30,000 runners over three events with Canada's official largest marathon all in the books. You can make sure you don't miss your chance to join in on the fun for 2025: registration is now open for the TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon and many other of CRS's iconic events. Visit www.canadarunningseries.com and plan YOUR next big start line.    Theme music: Joseph McDade

Anyone who knows me knows I love shiny, happy people who bring a bit more sunshine to the world just by being in it. Lauren Roberts is one of those people, but she's also so much more than that. She is a kick-butt entrepreneur who created The Running Physio: a place where runners in the GTA can go to help them enjoy their sport longer, more comfortably and more safely. Lauren's story starts with a speedy young girl feeling the good vibes from early successes that led her to some really cool experiences as an adult, both in triathlon and marathon racing.  Lauren is bringing her sunny self and MANY years of wisdom to the speaker stage at the TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon Expo on Saturday, October 19, from 5-5:45 PM. She will both answer questions live from the crowd and advance submissions.  YOU can submit your questions by DM to any of the following: @runcanadapodcast @the_running_physio @towaterfront42K  If you can't attend the expo in person, follow the TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon to learn how to participate.  --- Theme Music: Joseph McDade

How does an entrepreneur take a passion for supporting women and girls in sports and pair it with a love for research and technology? By starting a women's specific shoe company! Join me for a conversation with Lindsay Housman, founder and CEO of Hettas, as she shares her journey to creating a line of shoes researched and designed to support women runners and create longevity in the sport. Lindsay is not just designing footwear; she's cultivating an environment where women can run longer and stronger, fostering deeper connections within their communities. This, in turn, paves the way for more women to become role models for the next generation of girls in sports. Don't miss this inspiring conversation, which will have you thinking about your experiences as a runner... and your own feet.  Find a full nerd out conversation on all of the studies and technology that have gone into creating Hettas by listening to this episode of The Nitty Gritty Podcast with Jess O'Connell: https://tinyurl.com/yckbby6x  Follow Hettas on Instagram @wear_hettas or find them at www.hettas.ca   --- EPISODE SPONSOR: TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon The countdown is on to the biggest, brightest party on the streets of Toronto! There is no better way to start your race weekend off on the right foot than to join me at the Expo Speaker Stage at the Enercare Centre on October 18 & 19, 2024. With an incredible line up of speakers and panels, there is something for everyone. For a full stage schedule, watch www.torontowaterfrontmarathon.com and follow on Instagram @towaterfront42K. I can't wait to see you there!   Title Music: Joseph McDade

This week, we travel back to the 2023 TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon Speaker Stage to hear from Frontrunners Toronto. An institution of Toronto's Gay Village, this run crew's goal is to welcome every runner regardless of who they are or how fast they run. Trevor McGrath moderates this panel of members who share their experiences with this beautiful community of runners and what it means to them to have this family they choose. You can join Frontrunners Toronto and experience the community for yourself: visit their Instagram @frontrunnerstoronto for their run schedule and special events.  --- EPISODE SPONSOR: TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon The TCS Toronto Waterfront full and half marathons may be sold out, but you can still register for the 5K on Saturday, October 19. Join the FREE expo on Friday, October 18 and Saturday, October 19, for all the excitement and to watch some amazing speakers at the Speaker Stage. Watch @towaterfront42K for speaker details (coming soon) and visit www.torontowaterfrontmarathon.com to register for the 5K.    Theme Music by Joseph McDade      

Briana Scott started her athletic career playing volleyball at McGill University. After that, she continued her schooling, stayed fit and flirted a bit with running half marathons and other fun races. However,  her true love was found when she joined Mile2Marathon in her home province of British Columbia. She found out she was fast. And then she found out that the track was a really good time. A lot of passion and a dedicated postpartum comeback saw Briana making two national teams in 2023 and landing herself a spot on the start line of the 5000 metres in Paris. But it takes a village to make an Olympic dream possible, and Briana shares some of what it took to make hers happen.  Follow Briana @_briana_scott Connect with Coach Briana at Mile2Marathon @mile2marathon   ---- EPISODE SPONSOR: Under Armour Eastside 10K The Under Armour Eastside 10K is almost upon us, taking place September 22, 2024 in Vancouver, BC. BUT there are still a small number of bibs available! Don't miss this iconic west coast event: participate in person or virtually from wherever you are. Visit www.canadarunningseries.com for information and to register.   Theme Song: Joseph McDade

The TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon wants more women to run the marathon. Last year, they spent some time identifying challenges women face and having honest conversations with female runners about what can hold us back. This year, they launched the Women's Training Program: a free group for women planning to take on the full or half marathon on race day, October 20th. This group has been sharing their journey together online, in person on supported runs, and accessing resources, including a training program.  This training group is half way to their goal, so I caught up with a couple of them for a chat. Mandy Mundell is tackling training for the full for the third time after being sidelined in the past by injury and illness. Joan Broto, a mother of two teenagers, is working to prioritize her training time, and show her kids how amazing it can be to work towards a big goal. Kardia founder Heather Gardner joins us to bring her veteran perspective and provide some insight. You'll laugh, you'll cry, you'll definitely relate. Thanks to the participants and to TWM for letting me share this piece of the journey with everyone.  The TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon AND Half Marathon are officially sold out, but you can still catch the vibes by registering for the 5K on Saturday, October 19 www.torontowaterfrontmarathon.com  Follow TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon @torontowaterfront42k Follow Mandy @tri_ingfitnesslife Follow Heather @catchingheather @kardiaathletica   --- Theme by Joseph McDade

It's time to wrap up our training journey with the wonderful Emelyn Jade. Emelyn has put in all the work and survived the taper crazies to arrive at the big day. She completed the Half Ironman in beautiful Victoria, British Columbia at the end of May. Emelyn takes us through the good, the challenging and the amazing moments of her big day. We also talk a bit about her next adventure and what her future athletic experiences might look like from what she learned.  Follow Emelyn on Instagram @emelynjade   EPISODE SPONSOR: TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon The TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon is 95% sold out! If you were waiting for your sign to register for this epic race, this is it. Secure your spot now before it's too late. Whether you're aiming for a personal best or just looking to enjoy a run through the beautiful streets of Toronto, this is your moment. Green bibs are still available as well. Register now and join thousands of other runners at the start line. Let's make this race unforgettable together. Go to www.torontowaterfrontmarathon.com to register now!

If you are deep in Olympic fever like I am, this episode is for you. I have had the incredible privilege of interviewing a variety of Olympians, and the one I've been thinking a lot about over the past week is Michelle Harrison. As she is about to step onto the Olympic stage for the first time, I know you will love hearing about the journey that brought her there. Michelle is the epitome of getting back up and trying again: she has made a lot of moves over her running career, from locations to coaches and more, and it has all built her into the powerhouse she is today. All the best, Michelle, we are so proud of you.  You can catch Michelle running in round one of the women's 100-metre hurdles on Wednesday, August 7, 2024, at 2:15 AM CST.    Follow Michelle on Instagram @michellerharrison In this episode, we talk about Michelle's cake company - this has now pivoted to custom cookie company in Saskatoon @prairiewhisk --- EPISODE SPONSOR: TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon's Women's Training Program If you are looking for a support system to get you from now to the start line of the TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon on October 20, consider this your sign. The Women's Training Program is FREE to join. It will provide you with both a training program created by The Running Physio Lauren Roberts and a different guest speaker each week that will provide insight on topics specifically relevant to women who are in the throws of marathon training. From nutrition to injury prevention to mental resilience and race day strategies, this is the ultimate hack to help you achieve your goals. Visit @towaterfront42K on Instagram and use the link in bio to register.    Theme Music: Joseph McDade

There are a lot of people in the world who see the change that is needed, but not a lot who become the change they need to see. Anita Cardinal is that change. Anita is a Nêhiyaw (Cree) runner who became a young mother, worked hard to support her family as a paralegal, and then attended school as a mature student to obtain her law degree. She is the founder of both the run group Indigenous Runner in Edmonton and the Orange Shirt Day Run, now on its fourth year and run in both Edmonton and Saskatoon. She is also an incredibly brave and dedicated ultra trail runner with a story or two to tell on the long winding roads that both take us to the finish line and change us as people.  Follow Anita on Instagram @runswiththewind Follow Indigenous Runner and Orange Shirt Day Run @indigenousrunner Follow Native Women Running @native_women_running Register for the 2024 Orange Shirt Day Run: https://raceroster.com/events/2024/88301/orange-shirt-day-runwalk Can't attend? Support the event charity The Orange Shirt Society: https://raceroster.com/events/2024/88301/orange-shirt-day-runwalk/fundraising-organization/56178#event-description      --- EPISODE SPONSOR: TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon's Women's Training Program If you are looking for a support system to get you from now to the start line of the TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon on October 20, consider this your sign. The Women's Training Program is FREE to join, and will provide you with both a training program created by The Running Physio Lauren Roberts, but also a different guest speaker each week that will provide insight on topics specifically relevant to women who are in the throws of marathon training. From nutrition to injury prevention to mental resilience and race day strategies, this is the ultimate hack to help you achieve your race day goals. Visit @towaterfront42K on Instagram and use the link in bio to register.    Theme Music: Joseph McDade

This panel discussion on Adaptive Racing was recorded live on the 2023 TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon Speaker Stage. The session was moderated by Fannie Smith, Manager of Para Development for Athletics Canada. The panel included three para-athletes from a variety of backgrounds. Mike Greer has been participating in road races as an adaptive athlete for more than a decade and works with races to help make them more accessible to all participants. Josh Cassidy is a three-time Paralympian, Boston Marathon Champion and former world record holder. Cindi Davis is an American recreational hand cycler who has competed in a variety of events in North America. This panel of speakers will make you think about how you can help make the events you attend more inclusive for all participants, and give you some new athletes to cheer for on race day.  Follow Athletics Canada @athleticscanada Follow Mike Greer @bloddsweatandwheels Follow Josh Cassidy @joshcassidy84   EPISODE SPONSOR: We may be nearing the end of our recordings from the 2023 TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon, but now is the time to get yourself registered for the 2024 event! As you may remember, the full and half marathon sold out quickly and this year is on pace to do the same. Learn more about how you can register and get involved in race weekend at www.torontowaterfrontmarathon.com.    --- Theme music: Joseph McDade

It's time to hang out with three-time Olympian, coach, and all around cool human Malindi Elmore! Malindi is our female representative in the marathon for the upcoming Paris Olympics and she is ready to fly. We catch up on the races and the training over the past two years that have not only let her best the Paris standard, but gave her two shiny new PBs in both the half and full marathon. Malindi is working extremely hard, but she is also still loving the process and is so incredibly passionate about our sport. She also talks about her fundraising campaign for KidSport BC - find out how you can support the goal and help give all kids in Canada a chance to play.  Follow Malindi on Instagram @malindielmore Find out how you can support Malindi's fundraising goal for KidSport at www.malindielmore.com   EPISODE SPONSOR: The in-person Oasis Zoo Run may be sold out, but there's still time to join as a virtual participant. And you aren't going to want to miss out on this super cute medal: it features two of the Toronto Zoo's southern white rhinos, mama Sabi and her little one, Kifaru. Don't wait and chance missing out - register now at www.canadarunningseries.com --- Theme Music: Joseph McDade

Today on the show I welcome back Olympian Jess O'Connell. Our last chat was what feels like a lifetime ago, so we talked about her post-COVID run at a spot in Tokyo and how healing from a longstanding injury made her discover how much running is a part of her soul. Jess coaches both independently, as the co-owner of Grit Coaching, and also as an Assistant Coach at the University of Calgary, working with the Dino's Distance Track and Cross Country program. Jess has a lifetime's worth of experience as an athlete, which she is excited to use to fuel her passion for coaching. As for setting some big goals for herself again on the track or road? Never say never.

For our next installment of recordings from the TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon Speaker stage, welcome to Sustainability in Sport. This topic is huge: with more and more runners finding their first start line, ensuring that race events can be around for years to come is more vital than ever. Canada Running Series's guru of green, Jen Cerullo, introduces Tina Muir, author of Becoming a Sustainable Runner: A Guide to Running for Life, Community and Planet. Tina speaks with Mike Hurley (Trees for Life), Jeff Packer (Carbon Neutral Club) and Ainsley Munro (Trans Canada Trail). This session is full of real talk and a focus on how the accumulation of the actions we take when we have the opportunities to make choices are what make the biggest impact. So snuggle up with your signed copy of Tina's book and join me back at the speaker stage to find out what we can do to keep our earth ready for all generations.  Follow our guests on Instagram: Tina Muir @tinamuir88 Carbon Neutral Club @carbonneutralclub Trans Canada Trail @transcanadatrail Trees For Life @cdntreesforlife   EPISODE SPONSOR: The Vancouver Half Marathon may be sold out, but spaces still remain in the 5k, taking place on June 23, 2024. All the fun packed into a shorter distance.  The Under Armour East Side 10 on September 22, 2024, is also filling fast: this iconic race runs through the historic east side of Vancouver. Double up and run the Vancouver Special Challenge: complete a virtual and an in-person 10K for bonus swag. Go to www.canadarunningseries.com to register    --- Theme music: Joseph McDade

For our 200th episode together, we are going to love all over our run community. I was joined for my birthday party by Mofope Oyekunle from TeamUltra Black and Kayla Hunt and Emma Ferguson from OCRC (Ottawa City Run Club). What an amazing group of community leaders: these three humans care deeply about our sport and encourage all the people to join them. We talked about what it takes to make a truly welcoming environment, where runners can show up, know what to expect, and find their place for the long haul. And that is precisely how we build community in this sport. That and spilling our guts to each other over long runs. 

Eric Chéné has loved sports, both playing them and watching them, basically forever. He has spent his adult years working his way through various sports logistics jobs, which grew his skill set to land him in the job he's had for the last decade: Race Director of the Vancouver International Marathon Society, host of the BMO Vancouver Marathon. Eric is at the epicentre of Canada's largest running boom in decades. This was evidenced on May 7th: the BMO Vancouver Marathon hosted over 20,000 runners, a great many of which were running their first ever half and full marathons. Eric and I dig into the awesome things about welcoming all of these new, enthusiastic runners, but also what challenges they bring to a race of this size. I hope our digging into some of the details that make a race like this happen highlights for you how much care and attention go into all of the details that work together to keep every runner safe and happy on race day. It's an awesome time to be a member of the run community! Follow the BMO Vancouver Marathon on Instagram @bmovanmarathon   THEME MUSIC: Joseph McDade   ---   EPISODE SPONSOR: Vancouver Half Marathon The swag has dropped, and excitement is high for this year's Vancouver Half Marathon, taking place in person on June 23, 2024, or virtually from June 1-30, 2024. THIS RACE IS 90% SOLD OUT! Secure your spot and run a gorgeous 21 km or 5 km. Your prize? A beautiful medal, souvenir ASICS participant shirt, access to the Runkeeper Go premium experience and more! Register today at www.canadarunningseries.com 

Many things make our local run communities amazing, but one of those things that has the power to take it up a notch is a fantastic local run shop. Caroline Fisher, co-owner of Big Sky Running Company in Winnipeg, was hooked on running as a teenager when she first logged miles with her mother and her run group at Running Room. It inspired her to reach for big goals early on, running her first marathon as a teenager and then joining the Bisons track team at the University of Manitoba. She continued to develop as a runner, became a mom twice over, and has now shown her skills as an ultra trail runner. She even placed third at the Manitoba Marathon last year, with her home crowd cheering her on. As Big Sky recently celebrated its first birthday, Caroline talked about her huge love for the run community and some of the trials and triumphs of being a small business owner.  Follow Big Sky Running Company on Instagram @bigskyrunco Photo credit: @therunningkat   EPISODE SPONSOR: Vancouver Half Marathon The swag has dropped, and excitement is high for this year's Vancouver Half Marathon, taking place in person on June 23, 2024, or virtually from June 1-30, 2024. THIS RACE IS 90% SOLD OUT! Secure your spot and run a gorgeous 21 km or 5 km. Your prize? A beautiful medal, souvenir ASICS participant shirt, access to the Runkeeper Go premium experience and more! Register today at www.canadarunningseries.com    THEME MUSIC: Joseph McDade  

Sawyer Nicholson is a pretty special human being. This twelve-year-old runs fast. Crazy fast. Like world-record-in-her-age-category fast. But her real superpower is the amazingly balanced perspective and joy she brings to her sports (she is also an amazing soccer player). Sawyer has big goals and wants to continue improving her skills as she grows, but she also recognizes that if it isn't fun, it's not worth doing. Friendships within her teams and on the start line are a big part of the equation, and the run community keeps her coming back for more. But after you listen to this episode, if you want her to sign your copy of Canadian Running Magazine, you will have to get in line behind me.

Samantha Jory is ridiculously humble for a runner who started running during COVID, started racing in 2022, and is now one of Athletics Canada's top-ranking women in the half marathon for 2024. Sam has always loved team sports and had active parents who were role models for her growing up in British Columbia; now she delights in trail running with friends and road racing in this beautiful province. Sam's running is deeply rooted in gratitude for the healthy body that keeps letting her test and find new limits and for the running community that has encouraged and supported her the whole way. I hope you take some of her joy and gratitude from this episode and find your own on your next run.    The book Samantha mentions during the show is called The Obstacle Is The Way by Ryan Holiday The run clubs she mentions are @eastvanruncrew and @fraserstreetrunclub Follow Sam on Instagram @swjory   EPISODE SPONSOR: Vancouver Half Marathon The swag has dropped, and excitement is high for this year's Vancouver Half Marathon, taking place in person on June 23, 2024, or virtually from June 1-30, 2024. Secure your spot and run a gorgeous 21 km or 5 km, or bring your favourite little one to the kids' race. Your prize? A beautiful medal, souvenir ASICS participant shirt, access to the Runkeeper Go premium experience and more! Register today at www.canadarunningseries.com    THEME MUSIC: Joseph McDade

Chix Run the 6ix may have been born when the world was telling us to stay apart, but the heart of what they do is all about community. From the speaker stage at the TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon, moderator and co-founder Amanda Richardson and her panel talk about how (as genuinely busy people) they find time and space to prioritize their own goals and how being part of the Chix helps to make it all happen. Chix are a super special crew: they focus on spreading the message that running is for everybody (say it again for the folks in the back!). They also highlight how you can have your own goals and make them important while at the same time supporting and cheerleading your fellow crew. Watch for them in the hot pink gear at a race near you and say hello! Follow Chix Run @chixrunthe6ix ----   EPISODE SPONSOR: Oasis ZooRun Get ready to run on the wild side: registration for the Oasis ZooRun is now open! Taking place at the Toronto Zoo on September 14, this unique race brings together runners of all ages and abilities in support of wildlife conservation. Make this your next great adventure: register today at www.canadarunningseries.com    THEME MUSIC: Joseph McDade    

Cheryl Zealand is smart, funny, kind, and one of the biggest boss ladies I know. If you live in Manitoba and are active, you probably already know her as the owner of Cranked Energy, producers of freshly made high protein energy bars that she spent years perfecting the recipe of. Since Cranked is celebrating its tenth anniversary this week, we talk all about business, fitness, and running and how they are so deeply connected in her life that you can't separate them. We also talk about how her running has evolved over the years. She may still run marathons on the reg, but her goals for what constitutes success for the training and execution have changed over the years. Cheryl is all about community: she was awarded the Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Medal for all her generosity and caring. Manitoba is a better place because this warm-hearted lady is part of it.  Follow Cheryl on Instagram @cherylzealand Follow Cranked Energy @crankedenergy   EPISODE SPONSOR: Oasis ZooRun Get ready to run on the wild side: registration for the Oasis ZooRun is now open! Taking place at the Toronto Zoo on September 14, this unique race brings together runners of all ages and abilities in support of wildlife conservation. Make this your next great adventure: register today at www.canadarunningseries.com    THEME MUSIC: Joseph McDade  

We have reached the third installment of our chat with Emelyn Jade and we find her ten weeks out from her race. Things are heating up: she's swimming three days a week, getting in some brick sessions and long runs, and learning how to fuel herself properly through all of it to have successful outcomes. We also discuss what she's eating. Are eggs a good pairing with honey and/or peanut butter? What exactly makes the perfect banana? The journey continues...   EPISODE SPONSOR: Spring Run-Off, April 6, 2024 in person, April 1-30, 2024 virtually Do you want to see your name cheering you on from your race bib? The deadline for personalized bibs for the Spring Run-Off is rapidly approaching: register by Tuesday, March 26 at 11:59 PM to lock it in. Don't miss out on this special touch to make your race day even more memorable. Register now at www.canadarunningseries.com    ----- Theme song: Joseph McDade

If you don't already know Gaby Estrada, get ready to meet your new favourite boss. Gaby and I last spoke a year and a half ago when she had just officially taken on her new role as Executive Director of one of my favourite not-for-profit organizations, Fast & Female. Gaby and I caught up on what it's been like taking on this challenging role and all of the work she and her team have been busy doing to ensure that the charity is moving in the best direction possible. We also discussed Fast & Female's March initiative: Play Today, Lead Tomorrow. This campaign aims to raise $15,000 to support their REAL Role Models and grow their National Youth Advisory program. These programs help build girls up to become tomorrow's leaders, in sports and life. In-person and virtual events are happening all through the month.  Follow Fast & Female @fastandfemale Read more about Play Today, Lead Tomorrow: https://fastandfemale.com/playtodayleadtomorrow2024/  Register for the March 22 International Women's Day event at Sweat Society TO: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/international-womens-day-workout-fast-and-female-x-sweat-society-tickets-840717898867?aff=oddtdtcreator  Get your tickets for Fast & Female Women in Sports Night with Toronto FC: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/fast-and-female-x-tfc-women-and-girls-in-sports-night-tickets-852308516717?aff=oddtdtcreator Get your Hillberg & Berk Always On Sparkle Hoops (20% of proceeds go to Fast & Female) https://hillbergandberk.com/products/always-on-sparkle-hoops   EPISODE SPONSOR: Oasis ZooRun Get ready to run on the wild side: registration for the Oasis ZooRun is now open! Taking place at the Toronto Zoo on September 14, this unique race brings together runners of all ages and abilities in support of wildlife conservation. Make this your next great adventure: register today at www.canadarunningseries.com    THEME MUSIC: Joseph McDade

In the third installment of recordings from the TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon stage: Women in the Marathon. This event was the second live discussion held by Canada Running Series to examine women's challenges in getting to the start line, this time focusing on the marathon. Moderated by Michelle Kay with Sasha Gollish and Melanie Murzeau, the panel was a beautiful cross-section of female runners: Gaby Alcala, Cory Freedman, Allison Hill, Nattalyee Randall and Lauren Roberts. These amazing humans have both experienced their own challenges in getting to the start line AND helped others overcome their obstacles, so the discussion was honest and open. There is always more to talk about, but this was a great way to continue the conversation.  Follow our panelists on Instagram: Gaby Alcala @aztitlan Cory Freedman @towomens_runs Allison Hill @byallisonhill Michelle Kay @yo_mk Melanie Murzeau @blackrunnersofthegta Nattalyee Randall @nattalyee Lauren Roberts @the_running_physio Canada Running Series @runcrs @runcrswest   EPISODE SPONSOR: Oasis ZooRun Get ready to run on the wild side: registration for the Oasis ZooRun is now open! Taking place at the Toronto Zoo on September 14, this unique race brings together runners of all ages and abilities in support of wildlife conservation. Make this your next great adventure: register today at www.canadarunningseries.com  

Lauren Mantha is deep in the midst of figuring out her path in life and trying a bunch of new things along the way. This is how running came to her: she likes to be active and fit and is open to new experiences. You will notice we talk a lot more about her career than usual on the show: she is shifting gears from working as a Registered Nurse to completing a Graduate Certificate in Public Relations. This seemed to be the common thread in her story: whatever Lauren does, she wants to feel passionately inspired by it. So when running became part of her lifestyle, she was motivated to try attending run clubs. This sparked a new passion and she created A Running List: a website that breaks down barriers to participation in run clubs and crews and is working to bring the running community closer together. Her website currently lists as many run clubs and crews as she could find in the GTA, but thanks to a feature in Canadian Running, she has connected with all kinds of new friends and has expanded to include cities all across Canada. Her interest in getting active feedback from the run community drives her to always look to do more and make the resource even more inclusive. Lauren is incredibly driven and giving: she does all of this work in her spare time and the site is free to anyone who wants the information. And that's pretty awesome if you ask me.  Follow Lauren on Instagram @laurenmantha A Running List can be found at @arunninglist and www.arunninglist.com  Photo Credit: @johnwithlenses   Things we talk about in this episode: Puppy yoga!!! https://doggos.ca/products/puppy-yoga-toronto Run Clubs and sidewalk sharing in the GTA https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/running-club-toronto-sidewalks-1.7076506   EPISODE SPONSOR: Spring Run-Off Wish winter a fond farewell by participating in the Spring Run-Off in person on April 6, 2024, at High Park or virtually wherever you are. With an 8K, 5K, and Kids Race, there's a distance for everyone. Participants receive a super cute participant shirt and medal or learn more about CRS' Green Bib program. Whether you are aiming for a personal best on this hilly course or just looking to enjoy the beauty of spring with fellow runners, this is your next start line. Register at www.canadarunningseries.com   Theme Music: Joseph McDade

Ailsa MacDonald has already had an incredible athletic career, but in so many ways, she's just getting started. As someone who has been sporty since birth, Ailsa has done it all: cycling, road running, triathlon, Ironman, and now she focuses her talents on ultra distances and trail running. She has had such a myriad of accomplishments it was impossible to talk about all of them. But what makes Ailsa such a truly exceptional athlete? Her resilience, her mental strength and her ability to thrive in the unknown stood out to me. She grabs ambitious goals by the ears and wrestles them to the ground. We talk about how she balances her training with a demanding career, going back to races and trying them again, and how her family's stubborn streak works in her favour.    Follow Ailsa on Instagram @ailsamacdonaldrunner   EPISODE SPONSOR: Spring Run-Off Wish winter a fond farewell by participating in the Spring Run-Off in person on April 6, 2024, at High Park or virtually wherever you are. With an 8K, 5K, and Kids Race, there's a distance for everyone. Participants receive a super cute participant shirt and medal or learn more about CRS' Green Bib program. Whether you are aiming for a personal best on this hilly course or just looking to enjoy the beauty of spring with fellow runners, this is your next start line. Register at www.canadarunningseries.com   Theme Music: Joseph McDade  

This week was Valentine's Day, so to keep it on brand, I asked my SOLE mate, founder of Black Runners of the GTA & the Scarborough 5K Melanie Murzeau to spend some quality time with me.  Melanie and I both came up with a list of four runners that we love and came back together to discuss our picks and why and see if we had any of the same answers. This would also not be an episode of the pod without me veering dangerously off-topic, so we also talk a fair bit about books we love.  SPOILER ALERT: Skip the show notes if you want to be surprised by our picks as you listen.      SHOW NOTES The Runners We Love that you can find on Instagram: Lanni Marchant @lannimarchant Perdita Felicien @perditafelicien Kara Goucher @karagoucher Sifan Hassan @sifanhassan Karla Del Grande @karladelgrande Carol Lafayette Boyd @carollafayetteboyd Marge Jean-Louis @bymarge Heather Colasuonno @variations.of.heather Allison Hill @byallisonhill   Titles of some of the books we mentioned: My Mother's Daughter: A Memoir of Struggle and Triumph by Perdita Felicien The Longest Race: Inside the Secret World of Abuse, Doping, and Deception on Nike's Elite Running Team by Kara Goucher The Woman in Me by Britney Spears The Dollhouse Murders by Betty Ren Wright   EPISODE SPONSOR: Move your Paws for the Polar Bear Cause There's still time to register to run or walk the 5 or 1 K distances at the 10th Move Your Paws for the Polar Bear Cause on February 24, 2024, at the Toronto Zoo. All participants will receive an exclusive Move Your Paws toque, personalized bib, official time, professional photo and finisher medal with this year's featured polar bear - a young Juno. Visit www.canadarunningseries.com for more information and to register. --- Theme Music: Joseph McDade

This episode is for all of my runner friends who love the science behind the sport as much as I do. Megan Kuikman is a Registered Dietician, sports nutrition specialist and is currently completing her PhD at the Australian Catholic University in Sydney. Megan is passionate about addressing the gender gaps in sports nutrition information, so she is diving deep into female-driven studies. Megan talks about some of her most recent research and what the next steps on what she's learned could be. She also shares her thoughts on what she thinks it's going to take to keep girls and women in sport long term.  The title of the book we mention in the episode is Up to Speed: The Groundbreaking Science of Female Athletes by Christine Yu Follow Megan on Instagram @megankuikmanrd   EPISODE SPONSOR: Canada Running Series Don't let the early bird slip by for the Move your Paws for the Polar Bear Cause! Register before midnight on February 16, 2024 to secure your spot. This fun and meaningful race is a great way to support polar bear conservation and enjoy the crisp winter air.  Register now at www.canadarunningseries.com --- THEME MUSIC: Joseph McDade

In the second in our series of recordings from the TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon, we join Miguel Pink and Quinton Jacobs on the Emergence of New Run Crews.  Migz founded Me vs Me, a run crew he started during the pandemic to help himself and others improve their mental and physical health. Running helped him transform himself and at the same time, create a community space where people connect and do great things together. Q is a community organizer and connector who is passionate about the running community. He wants everyone to know that running is for them, and that they can find a space to support them: "Running teaches us that we can get through the tough parts of life, and keep going. We need to tell that story to as many people as we possibly can." Follow Migz @migzpink @mevsmementality Follow Q @quinton_jacobs @ubuntu.fam @escape_to___   EPISODE SPONSOR: Canada Running Series Don't let the early bird slip by for the Move your Paws for the Polar Bear Cause! Register before midnight on February 16, 2024 to secure your spot. This fun and meaningful race is a great way to support polar bear conservation and enjoy the crisp winter air.  Register now at www.canadarunningseries.com   THEME MUSIC: Joseph McDade  

Katie Rylance is a teacher and a mother of four. During COVID, she felt deeply dissatisfied with her health and physical fitness, so she decided to take the first steps. She bought herself a treadmill and started walking and then running. She learned to run; and she learned to treat her body well with proper fueling. In time, she ran her first 5K, which led to more races, which led her to the start line of last year's Chicago Marathon. Katie and I talked about how she came to a place where she felt like a "real runner", what the experience of coming to the sport during a pandemic was like, and how races can make the experience more comfortable for first-time participants.  Check out Katie's article about her journey on iRun Magazine's website: https://www.irun.ca/index.php/the-non-diet-runners-diet-that-helped-a-marathoner-drop-50-pounds/  EPISODE SPONSOR: Canada Running Series Don't let the early bird slip by for the Move your Paws for the Polar Bear Cause! Register before midnight on February 16, 2024 to secure your spot. This fun and meaningful race is a great way to support polar bear conservation and enjoy the crisp winter air.  Register now at www.canadarunningseries.com --- THEME MUSIC: Joseph McDade

At the end of November 2023, we lost a Canadian women's Masters icon, Helly Visser. At 89 years old, she left us still holding twelve Canadian Masters records and three world masters records. She was inducted into the Canadian Masters Hall of Fame in 2010 and twice honoured as Alberta's Masters Athlete of the Year.  Helly was a mainstay of the Calgary running community. She was always there encouraging people to find joy in sport and even helped with the campaign to build a field house in Calgary.  Helly served as an inspiration as to what was possible at any age. This episode was originally recorded in 2019 with the support of Helly's daughters and the Executive Director of Run Calgary, Kirsten Fleming. I am honoured to have the chance to reshare it in her memory.    EPISODE SPONSOR: Canada Running Series Don't let the early bird price slip by for the Move Your PAWS for the Polar Bear Cause. Register before midnight on February 16, 2024, to secure your spot. This fun and meaningful race is a great way to support polar bear conservation and enjoy the crisp winter air.  www.canadarunningseries.com  --- Theme music by Joseph McDade

Running in January is hard. Finding inspiration in January is hard. So this one is for all of you on the struggle bus because this is going to light your fire. Recorded live at the 2023 TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon, this session was hosted by the incredible Allison Hill and the beautiful women of Hill Run Club. Allison shares the core of what HRC is all about; Class of 2023 Coach Nadia Clarke Cordick talks about her ongoing research into the experience of black women in fitness and sport. Then, get mentally prepared to be blown away by a panel of HRC women who talk about their inner voice as they prepared for their events at the TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon. I am. I can. I will. I did.  www.hillstudioto.com/hillrunclub Follow Allison on Instagram @byallisonhill   EPISODE SPONSOR: Canada Running Series Don't let the early bird price slip by for the Move Your PAWS for the Polar Bear Cause. Register before midnight on February 16, 2024, to secure your spot. This fun and meaningful race is a great way to support polar bear conservation and enjoy the crisp winter air.  www.canadarunningseries.com  Theme music by Joseph McDade

Do you want to talk about new goals for the new year? Me too! Founder and Head Coach of Skyline Run Coaching Lynsey Romano and I dig deep into setting ourselves up for success in 2024. We start with the basics of why goal setting is so important,  then talk about what goals can do for us as runners and people. We also talk about the feelings that come with working hard towards a goal and dealing with the outcomes of achieving them or maybe missing the mark. So much good stuff in here!   Books we reference in today's episode: Happiness Studies: An Introduction by Tal Ben-Shahar (and a few others worth checking out) The Practice of Groundedness: A Transformative Path to Success that Feeds - Not Crushes - Your Soul by Brad Stulberg Do Hard Things: Why We Get Resilience Wrong and the Surprising Science of Real Toughness by Steve Magness   Theme Music: Joseph McDade Episode Sponsor: Canada Running Series No matter what your 2024 run goals are, Canada Running Series has a race for you! Visit canadarunningseries.com to learn more and get registered. 

Welcome back to installment two of this series! Emelyn Jade has been hard at work training, and we talk all about the challenges of getting motivated in the off season, working through the weather, and dragging ourselves out of bed on hard days. We also go off on a tangent about pineapple, and I look forward to hearing your feedback after you listen... the divide is real. Emelyn also shares what happens when you put your name in for race lotteries that you never expect to get into... Spoiler Alert: she got in. 

 Have you ever imagined yourself coming up to the finish chute of a race, seeing the tape held out in front of you, running up and breaking it? Ana Fray did. And then she went out and made it happen. Ana is a masters elite marathoner who ran their 24th marathon at the 2023 P'tit Train du Nord in Quebec and broke that beautiful tape as the first female. Ana and I talk about how the lack of ellipticals started her on the course to running, some of the races that helped her gain strength and confidence along the way, and how having a solid support system (including a good coach) is so crucial if you want to reach big goals. Her confidence and perseverance as a runner will have you visualizing being faster as a master too. Follow Ana on Instagram @analau_77   SPONSOR: Set your sights on a new goal by planning your 2024 Canada Running Series finish lines. Canada Running Series has a race for everyone, from The Spring Run Off to the Under Armour Toronto 10K to the TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon. Check out all of their races and learn more about their Green Bib program @runcrs Instagram @womenruncanada SUPPORT the Women Run Canada podcast! If you enjoy the show, please subscribe, leave a rating, and review it on Apple Podcasts. Spread the love: if you like this episode, please share it with a friend.  Theme song: Joseph McDade

Gaby Alcala was born in Oaxaca, Mexico and came to live in the United States when she was just 19 years old. And she had a six-month-old baby. And she didn't speak English. If this all sounds ridiculously brave to you, buckle up. Gaby is an ultra runner and a Running with Purpose Advocate for Rising Hearts: an indigenous-led grassroots organization that works to elevate indigenous voices and support intersectional collaborative efforts across all forms of movement. Gaby is passionate about using her running to elevate the voices and causes of indigenous people and connect to communities and the land through mindful movement and prayer runs. Gaby's generous spirit and joy in life are truly remarkable, and I hope her story helps you think about ways to use your own running to give back to the land you are connected to.  Follow Gaby and her company Luminous Body on Instagram @luminous_body_therapy Follow Rising Hearts on Instagram @rising_hearts Photo Credit: @boyleheightsbridgerunners   Theme Music: Joseph McDade

We are keeping the fourth-anniversary party going a wee bit longer so that we can relisten to one of the most downloaded and one of my favourite episodes to date. This episode was originally recorded in 2020 during lockdown when Gabriela DeBues Stafford and her younger sister Lucia Stafford were quaratined with their family in Ontario. I was so lucky to catch them together at the same time and reflect on life and training in and out of lockdown.  These multi-record-holding sisters have been very busy getting things done since this interview, including attending the 2020 Tokyo Olympics together in the 1500m. I love how they share such a bond and a love for each other, both in the sport and out of it. I hope you enjoy this relisten as much as I did! Follow Gabriela on Instagram @gabrielastafford  Follow Lucia on Instagram @luciastafford7   Theme music: Joseph McDade

I let the fourth anniversary of the show slip by unnoticed in October, but it's time to get up and celebrate! In this episode, I look back at just a handful of this year's amazing guests and think about what it has meant to make change in the running industry in 2023. Many things are happening, and it's a great time for us to take a beat and celebrate the fantastic people standing up and making this community a more inclusive, beautiful place for us to share. Featuring clips from Jake Federoski, Alison Mariela Desir, Jon Bird, Jenny Tough, Rach McBride, and Sage Watson.  Theme Music: Joseph McDade