My First Marathon

On today's episode we interview a runner with the classic couch to 5k during COVID pipeline where he was searching for goals and a way to get outside, and happened upon running! From there, his love for running blossomed as he signed up for several 5k's that eventually turned to 10k's and half marathon's. Once he hit the half marathon point, the marathon became a question of "why not me?" His firs...

On today's episode, we have another crossover guest! If you remember the very first guest episode with Cody Caswell, this is the runner who helped Cody through his first 50k. Aside from that race, this runner has more than 15 Ultras and 3 Marathons under his belt, and talks about his journey from not liking running at all to pushing himself to run the San Fransisco marathon.  After several races u...

Remember the episode with Ellie where she talked about running her first marathon with her college best friend? This is that friend! We get to hear the other side of her first marathon story where she talks about how special it truly is to run a marathon for the first time. It starts in training - every week hitting milestone after milestone until eventually you make it to the big day.  We also ge...

On today's episode, we sit down with an inspiring runner who shares the highs and lows of his debut marathon journey. He opens up about the crucial lesson he learned: why comparing ourselves to other runners can be a major hurdle to personal growth and enjoyment. From his first steps in training to the exhilarating (and often challenging) race day, he delves into the fundamentals of marathon prepa...

On today's episode, I sit down with a runner who got the nudge she needed to run a marathon from family after years of cross country and casually running. From this experience, she was able to form an all new relationship with running post college and decided to see if she could tackle the infamous BQ! It took 4 marathons to put the pieces together, and we dive into each element that changed for h...

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with a remarkable athlete and coach who transformed his life through the power of endurance sports. Battling addiction, experiencing the harsh realities of jail time, and navigating deep personal loss from an early age, this runner faced challenges that could have defined his life. Instead, he chose to rise above them. Join us as we delve into his incredible...

Today we interview a runner who had the classic "hater to lover" pipeline with running so if this is you, listen up! In 2020 like many, she started running as a way to get out of the house when things were in shut down, and because there were no races available at the time her first race experience was actually her first full marathon at Disney World.  Now, she's embarking on a journey of running...

On today's episode, we hear from a runner and coach who took 4 marathons to finally get to the marathon she always hoped for. From running a virtual marathon as her first (even putting together her own route!), to weather conditions and unexpected turns on her second and third, to finally putting all of the pieces together on her 4th. Her journey of resilience and learning along the way is somethi...

In today's episode, we sit down with a runner who's been able to run NYC not once, but twice for his first two marathon experiences. We dive into how he went from a team sport background to starting to get into running, and how over time he's been able to appreciate the process more and more through his first race experience.  After many lessons learned at the first race, he was inspired to go bac...

Think about your first marathon experience, and then add in 90% of the racers moving to the half due to weather, an unexpected downpour, and limited aid stations. In this episode, we explore the gripping journey of a first-time marathoner who faced all of these challenges and a tricky course for her first experience and now is looking to use all the lessons she learned to prepare for her second ma...

In this episode, I sit down with a runner with marathoning fresh on her mind - she recently completed her first marathon at the 2024 Rock n' Roll Marathon in Nashville this past April. We explore her transition from a novice runner to crossing the marathon finish line, discussing the challenges, triumphs, and valuable insights she gained along the way. Whether you’re an experienced runner or just...

In this captivating episode, we sit down with a seasoned runner whose passion for the sport has spanned years. Their journey began with the nerves and excitement of their very first marathon—a memory etched forever. From early morning runs, interval training, and the power of consistency—discover the secrets behind their progress as they embarked on a relentless pursuit: qualifying for the iconic...

In this episode, I sit down with a runner whose journey began with soccer cleats and evolved into marathon shoes. We explore the spontaneity of his first 26.2 miles—an impulsive decision that led him to want to do it all over again 10 years later. But this isn’t just about running; it’s about finding balance. As a busy dad and professional, he shares how he carves out time for running. Join us for...

On today's episode, I sit down with Jess, an avid runner whose journey transcends personal achievement. We explore running inclusivity, mental health, and the unexpected lessons she learned during the New York City Marathon—lessons that went beyond race times and finish lines. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that reminds us it’s not always about the race we want, but sometimes the race we tr...

In this episode of “My First Marathon,” we dive into the riveting journey of a runner who defied expectations. From a 5K and first marathon experience with her husband to a Boston Marathon qualification, her story is one of resilience and determination. But it’s the third marathon that truly tests her mettle—a battle against injury, pushing her limits to cross the finish line. Tune in for inspirat...

In this episode, we dive into the incredible journey of a runner who has conquered an astounding 111 marathons and shows no signs of slowing down. From the starting line to the finish tape, we explore the highs, the lows, and the unwavering determination that keeps this athlete pounding the pavement. Discover how their passion ignites a fire in the hearts of aspiring runners, encouraging them to l...

Today we get to sit down with Below Average Running ambassador Ellie who shares her unique experiences from five distinct marathons, each presenting its own set of challenges and triumphs. From the highs of crossing the finish line to the lows of a race that was cancelled, she recounts how she persevered and even ran the race solo, embodying the true spirit of a marathoner.  Follow along with Elli...

In this inspiring episode, we chat with Jessica, a runner who recently transformed from a complete beginner to a marathon finisher. She shares her journey, from hesitantly signing up for big races to gaining newfound confidence along the way. Tune in to discover how she’s preparing for the iconic NYC Marathon in November!  Follow along with Jessica at @therunningrdh on Instagram! 

Today we sit down with Sam, a seasoned marathoner with 20 races and a decade of running under her belt. She shares the poignant story of losing a loved one just after her first marathon, and how this loss cast a shadow over this particular race for her. A decade later, she laced up her shoes for a redemption run, completing the same marathon and wrapping up a chapter of her life along the way. Joi...

In today's episode we sit down with Kegan, whose relationship with running has been quite the rollercoaster over the last decade. What started as a dreaded part of soccer practice, evolved into a therapeutic escape from life’s hardships, and blossomed into a passion for the race itself. Join us as Kegan shares how every mile brought a new perspective and a newfound joy in the journey. Follow along...

Join us in this episode as we lace up with JC, whose original plan to run for health reasons turned into a marathon of passion. Discover how a mentor’s guidance and shared strides with his wife transformed JC’s jog into a journey of love, laughter, and long-distance achievements. Tune in to hear how every mile brought unexpected joys and solidified a lifelong affair with the marathon.  Follow alon...

Join us as we chat with Travis, who started off walking the dog as a way to get outside and moved and quickly was able to turn that into training and completing a marathon within just 18 months. Travis shares his secrets, the turning points in his journey, and how he found a supportive community that fueled both his social media presence and running career. Tune in for inspiration, motivation, and...

Join us as we dive into the inspiring story of Jason, a physical therapist and passionate runner whose ultimate goal was to qualify for the prestigious Boston Marathon. Discover his "why" behind his racing, the challenges and triumphs, and the unwavering support of his family that fueled his journey.  Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just starting out, Jason’s tale is a testament to the power o...

Join us as we dive into Julia’s remarkable journey from a complete beginner to crossing the finish line at the Wilmington Marathon. We chat about how she got herself from couch to her first 5k, integrated training into her busy schedule, and shattered her own expectations along the way. Tune in to hear her personal anecdotes, struggles, and the triumphant moments that led her to prove to herself t...

On this episode we sit down with Amber, a true race enthusiast. She fearlessly embraced the running world, conquering her first marathon, an ultra marathon, and even pacing another marathon—all within her first year of running.  Amber’s experiences spanned a spectrum of challenges, from the grueling 26.2 miles of her debut marathon to the mental and physical endurance required for an ultra maratho...