The Average Runner

In this episode of The Average Runner Podcast, I chat with Noah Kraulidis from Chicago, IL, who started running on a whim in January 2024. After dedicating most of his time and energy to his sales career, Noah realized he needed a positive outlet outside of work—and running became that transformative change. He shares how running has significantly impacted his mental health, helped him find balanc...

In this solo episode of The Average Runner Podcast , I dive into week 16 of marathon training and recap my 12-mile long run where I did my best to imitate what race day will feel like. From nutrition and pacing to gear checks, I’m honing in on all the details! I also chat about the shift into fall weather and offer some important reminders to get your running routine ready for cooler temps. Whethe...

In this episode, I get to chat with the MileHighShuffler (Eric to talk about his incredible 1+ year run streak, where he’s run at least 1 mile every single day. We dive into the stigmas surrounding being high while running and how he’s embracing it as part of his journey. From going from 0 miles to completing a half marathon without a formal training plan, MileHighShuffler shares how he “goes gree...

In this episode of The Average Runner, I’m recapping my marathon training from week 15, including my struggle with a failed 12-mile run and how I’m bouncing back. I also dive into thoughts on my potential marathon outfit and share my experience with the new LSKD gear I’ve been loving. Plus, I’m highlighting some awesome running wins from listeners this week—because every victory counts, no matter...

In this episode of The Average Runner, I sit down with Colin Bloodworth, a former college tennis player who transitioned to running after overcoming injury and weight loss challenges. Colin shares his story of finding a passion for running, how the Peloton training bike and treadmill keep him on top of his game, and he shares favorite running shoes. He also offers invaluable advice for new runners...

In this episode of The Average Runner, I reintroduce myself and give you a rundown of what this podcast is all about—sharing stories from everyday runners, with a dash of insights from more experienced runners to help us all grow in the running space. I also debunk five common running myths that every runner should know, recap Week 14 of my marathon training journey, and chat about how the brief t...

In this special episode of The Average Runner Podcast , Shayla is joined by her 13-year-old son, Silas, who is navigating his first season of cross country. Silas shares some encouraging words for fellow runners, talks about the challenges he's facing, and engages in a fun mother-son chat. Fresh off his first cross country meet with a new mile PR, Silas also shares his dream of one day complet...

In this episode of The Average Runner Podcast , Shayla sits down with Ali Marty, a Las Vegas-based physical therapist who specializes in runners' injuries. Ali shares her journey into Run Disney, offers expert advice on distinguishing between common running injuries, and breaks down the essential steps for cool-downs and stretches after a run. Don't miss out on these valuable tips, and con...

In this solo episode, Shayla recaps week 13 of her marathon training for the Quad Cities Marathon, including the ups and downs of her 19-mile run using run/walk intervals. She also shares insights into her nutrition strategy and dives into pre-race rituals, both her own and those of fellow runners. Plus, a personal update about her oldest starting cross country, with their first meet just around t...

In this solo episode, Shayla dives into weeks 11 and 12 of her marathon training journey. She shares the highs and lows of her recent 18-mile run, including an emotional moment where she had to call for backup but pushed through to finish strong(ish). Plus, hear about her new favorite running shoes and some inspiring running wins of the week. Tune in for a real and relatable glimpse into the ups a...

In this powerful episode of The Average Runner Podcast, we sit down with an inspiring woman who went from running 0 miles to completing her first marathon in just one year. Now an experienced pacer for numerous marathons, she shares her passion for supporting back-of-the-pack runners and being their biggest cheerleader. She opens up about the struggles she's faced along the way, including her...

In this episode of The Average Runner Podcast, we welcome marathon runner and pacer Jimmy Christie. Jimmy shares his passion for pacing and offers valuable insights on how to become a pacer. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced runner, you'll find his advice incredibly useful. Jimmy also provides some great running tips for beginners and for those considering joining a pacing group...

In this episode of The Average Runner Podcast, Shayla shares her experiences from Week 10 of marathon training, including a light recap of her challenging 17-mile run. She offers 5 essential tips for staying motivated during your running and training sessions, perfect for runners at all levels. Additionally, Shayla talks about her excitement and preparations for an upcoming 12.5-mile bike race wit...

In this episode of The Average Runner Podcast, we chat with Ryan Reynolds – not the famous actor, but a dedicated runner with incredible dreams and accomplishments. Ryan shares his inspiring journey from couch to 5k, detailing his weight loss transformation and his return to running after a hiatus. He also talks about his ambitious plans to participate in a relay race across Iowa and what motivate...

In this solo episode of The Average Runner Podcast, your host Shayla takes you through her Week 9 marathon training journey, sharing the highs and lows of her progress. From challenging runs to small victories, Shayla provides an honest recap of her experiences as she prepares for the big race. Additionally, Shayla offers 5 essential tips for new runners, covering everything from recovery to stayi...

In this episode of The Average Runner Podcast, we sit down with Beth Flint, an inspiring runner from Utah. Beth shares her incredible journey of how she became a runner, recounting her experiences in multiple races, including an ultra marathon. Now, she's training for the 2024 NYC Marathon and is excited to share her run journey and goals. Beth also talks about the people who inspire her most,...

In this episode of The Average Runner Podcast, Shayla recaps Week 8 of her marathon training journey. Tune in as she shares the details of her grueling 15-mile long run, which turned out to be one of the toughest yet due to high humidity and an overall off day. Despite the challenges, Shayla pushes through and offers valuable insights on handling difficult training runs. Plus, we’re excited to fea...

In this episode, we sit down with Steph, The Runner's Dietitian, to dive deep into the world of fueling for runs. We discuss the importance of proper nutrition before, during, and after your runs, and why it can make or break your performance. Steph shares her expert advice on when and why it’s crucial to fuel, the role of electrolytes in your hydration strategy, and how to determine whether y...

In this solo episode of The Average Runner Podcast, I dive into the details of my marathon training week 7, highlighting my 14-mile long run. I'll share how I hydrated and fueled for the run, the shoes I chose, and how they performed. Plus, I'll give you an update on my husband starting his marathon training block and my journey experimenting with gluten-free foods. I'm also excited to...

Shayla welcomes her first guest, Ashley Magee. Ashley has been a runner on and off for many years and is now training for her first half marathon. She shares her journey of starting to run with her dad and completing multiple 5ks together. Ashley also discusses her favorite running trainers and recaps her latest road race. Dive into her inspiring story of running and managing ADHD, and don’t miss...

In this episode of The Average Runner Podcast, Shayla recaps her most recent 10k race with her 12-year-old son, where they braved the pouring rain and still managed to grab a personal record! Shayla’s husband and their two younger kids also took part, completing the 5k race. She shares the joys and challenges of running as a family and celebrates their achievements. Plus, exciting news: Shayla has...

Welcome to the very first episode of The Average Runner Podcast! Meet your host, Shayla Wesch, as she shares her personal journey into the world of running, from her very first steps to becoming a passionate advocate for everyday athletes. Shayla talks about how she got into running and her motivation for starting this podcast. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned marathoner, this podcast is fo...