The Average Runner

From a last-minute half marathon with just four weeks to train to conquering 100-mile ultras, Justin Andreas has fully embraced the world of ultra running. Based in Alaska, Justin shares his journey from an unexpected start in road racing to his passion for trail and ultra running. He also hosts The Golden Hour Adventures Podcast , where he dives into the experiences of fellow ultra and trail runn...

On this episode of The Average Runner Podcast , we chat with Cynthia Wheeler, a Chicago-based runner who has conquered multiple World Major Marathons. After taking a 10-year break from running, Cynthia returned with a fresh perspective, focusing less on pace and more on enjoying the journey. She recently completed the virtual Tokyo Marathon in hopes of securing her spot for next year’s in-person r...

On this episode of The Average Runner Podcast , we’re joined by Andrew Griggs—ultra runner, van-life adventurer, and two-time 100-mile finisher. Andrew shares how he went from jumping straight into a triathlon to tackling some of the toughest ultra distances. He gives us insight into his training, fueling strategies, and what keeps him coming back for more. Plus, he talks about his possible ultra...

Olivia Unigo never planned to become a marathon runner—until a free race admission changed everything. After running her first marathon last year, she’s now gearing up for the iconic NYC Marathon. In this episode, Olivia shares how she fell in love with the sport, the power of run clubs in building friendships, and her tips for truly enjoying the journey of running. Whether you’re a new runner or...

In this episode of The Average Runner Podcast , I’m recapping my most recent trail race —from the highs and lows to what I learned along the way. I also share what I’m training for next and how I’m adjusting my approach moving forward. Plus, we’re diving into mindset and the comparison trap —how to stop measuring your progress against other runners and focus on running your own race. Whether you’r...

In this episode of The Average Runner Podcast , I sit down with Kendra Bauer—a 7th grade teacher who has been hitting the pavement for over a decade. With multiple half marathons under her belt, Kendra shares how running has become her go-to method for recalibrating amidst the chaos of daily life. Fresh off her most recent race, the Disneyland Half Marathon, she dives into her favorite running sho...

In this episode, Shayla sits down with Adam Reade, a multi-time marathoner, Boston qualifier, and experienced run coach. Adam shares his journey into running, what it took to qualify for Boston, and the coaching methods he uses to help runners reach their goals. Whether you're looking to improve your training, get faster, or just stay consistent, this episode is packed with great insights from...

In this episode of The Average Runner Podcast , we’re joined by Kori Gordner, a former soccer player turned passionate runner. Growing up traveling for team soccer and running track in high school, Kori rediscovered her love for running after having kids and hasn’t looked back since. She shares her journey of training for and completing her first half marathon and her exciting plans to tackle a fu...

In this inspiring episode of The Average Runner Podcast , we’re joined by Curtis Hargrove, a Canadian runner with a heart for giving back. Curtis recently ran the Chicago Marathon in high heels to support Stepping Stones , a charity for women and children in Canada. He shares his journey of how he started running as a teen, what inspired him to dedicate his miles to charitable causes, and his incr...

In this episode of The Average Runner Podcast , we’re joined by Victoria Sekely, a NYC-based physical therapist and run coach with her own business and app designed to help runners train smarter and stay injury-free. Victoria shares her journey into running, how she fell in love with the sport, and what inspired her to specialize in working with runners as a PT and coach. We also discuss her exper...

In this episode of The Average Runner Podcast , we sit down with Noah to recap his incredible experience running the Milwaukee Lakefront Marathon—his very first marathon! Noah takes us through the highs and lows of race day, from the excitement of the starting line to hitting his stride and pushing through challenges like running out of gels. Hear how he overcame obstacles, stayed motivated, and w...

In this episode of The Average Runner Podcast , we’re joined by The Big Boy Runner from Canada! What started as a simple work competition quickly turned into a passion for running, and he hasn't looked back since. Now with a run streak spanning over a year, he’s conquered his first full marathon and shares his journey, challenges, and the motivation that keeps him going. We also get a unique persp...

In this solo episode, Shayla recaps her second marathon—a virtual NYC Marathon run to secure entry for NYC 2025! She dives into her game plan (or lack thereof) for tackling the virtual 26.2, the highs and lows, and the challenges of running a marathon solo. Tune in as she shares her honest take on preparing for a virtual race versus an in-person one. Plus, stick around for the end as Shayla celebr...

In this inspiring episode, Shayla chats with Lupe, a first-time marathoner who recently completed the Chicago Marathon. Lupe shares her experience from the buzz of the expo to the physical and emotional journey of race day. She talks about her fundraising efforts that made her marathon dream possible and gives valuable advice for aspiring marathoners. Listen in for her honest reflections on pre-ra...

In this solo episode, Shayla shares the latest updates on her training journey as she prepares for the upcoming NYC Virtual Marathon. Tune in to hear about her first double-digit run since completing her marathon a month ago, how her training has progressed, and what she’s looking forward to as race day approaches. Shayla offers a glimpse into the highs and lows of getting back into the groove pos...

In this episode of The Average Runner Podcast , Shayla sits down with Jess, an ambassador for the Badass Lady Gang and a passionate runner. Jess shares her experience running the NYC Marathon, offering insights into the challenges and excitement of being a back-of-the-pack runner, including navigating start times and the electric energy of the crowds. Jess also opens up about living with celiac di...

In this powerful episode of The Average Runner Podcast , Shayla sits down with Kimberly Rubio, a passionate runner and advocate whose life changed forever after the tragic loss of her daughter, Lexi, to gun violence. Kimberly shares Lexi's story, the heartbreaking reality of her sudden passing, and the incredible journey she's taken to keep her daughter’s memory alive. She discusses the legacy run...

In this episode, Shayla chats with Jake Johnson, an ultra runner with an impressive background in endurance sports. Jake shares the story of how he got into running, details his journey through triathlons, and gives us a sneak peek into his preparation for an upcoming ultra marathon. They dive into the unique challenges of ultra running, including how the approach to fueling differs from marathons...

What was supposed to be a solo episode turned into a spontaneous chat with guest runner Colin Bloodworth! Colin joins us to recap his experience at the Portland Half Marathon, taking us through all the details—from navigating the race expo and using a drop bag to the early morning start with all the right amenities. He shares how his race-day routine helped him kick off smoothly and finish strong....

In this episode, I’m joined by Nora Gluch, a seasoned runner with over 18 years of experience who recently started taking her running to new heights, achieving PRs in her 40s. Nora shares her journey from being a dedicated runner to becoming a run coach, helping others fast-track their running knowledge without the long learning curve. Tune in to hear her insights on training smarter, finding joy...

In this solo episode, I dive into my post-marathon thoughts, from the whirlwind of emotions to how my body felt in the days after the race. I’ll also recap my very first (and probably last!) bike race with my oldest son, sharing how that unique experience unfolded. Plus, I give a glimpse into my first run post-marathon and how it felt to hit the pavement again. And for those considering their own...

In this episode of The Average Runner Podcast, I sit down with Alex Larson, a registered dietitian and passionate endurance athlete, to dive into her love for triathlons and Ironmans. Alex shares how she never really enjoyed running until she discovered it didn’t have to be hard runs all the time—changing her mindset transformed her relationship with the sport. We discuss pre-race nutrition strate...

In this solo episode of The Average Runner Podcast , I’m recapping my very first marathon experience—from almost being late and not even realizing I crossed the start line, to finishing quicker than I thought! I share all the weekend highlights, including the expo, the races my kids participated in, and the excitement of marathon weekend. I totally forgot to mention my shake-out run where my legs...

In this episode of The Average Runner Podcast , I’m joined by The Realistic Runner (aka Makenzie Rink), fresh off her recent half marathon in Washington, D.C. We dive into her running journey, from how she got started to when she made the shift to heart rate training and slowing down her pace. She shares her favorite running essentials, tips on creating your own running group, and chats about her...

In this solo episode of The Average Runner Podcast , it’s officially marathon week! I’m recapping the final stretch of my training, focusing on the last week of tapering and all the emotions that come with it. I dive into what tapering means, how it’s supposed to help, and why it’s left me feeling a bit anxious as I prepare for the big race. Tune in to hear about the highs and lows of the taper, a...