Running Around Charlotte: Recent Episodes
Running Around Charlotte
Ordinarily here on the program, we’re talking to runners about THEIR unique journey, and how running has impacted, influenced, or otherwise shaped their lives. And that’s great!
On this episode, we’ve got some big news that’s going to not only impact runners… but RUNNING around Charlotte itself. (See what I did there?)
I’m not even overselling when I say this may be one of the biggest stories in running – or at least for the Novant Health Charlotte Marathon – in 20 years.
And we’ve got Miller Yoho, director of communications and marketing for the Charlotte Sports Foundation here in the studio on this episode of The Running Around Charlotte Podcast.
Charlotte Sports Foundation: https://charlottesports.org
Miller Yoho: miller@charlottesports.org
We’ve said this a thousand times on this program: every runner out there has a story; their “why” that gets them out there logging those miles, pushing the pace, hitting the starting line.
In that respect, this week’s guest isn’t much different from the rest of us.
Fact is, Matt Nolan isn’t the first person to use running in an effort to pay it forward. He’s not the first guy to leverage his network to reach a lofty fundraising goal. He’s not even the first one to turn a very personal tragedy into motivation for a very public goal.
But it’s the genuine place of gratitude that all this effort is coming from that let me know I had to have him on the show. And, yes – running and run clubs have everything to do with the fine mess he’s gotten himself into now! Here’s Matt Nolan on this episode of The Running Around Charlotte Podcast.
Fundraising page w/story: https://www.givengain.com/project/matt-raising-funds-for-the-leukemia-and-lymphoma-society-massachusetts-chapter-111113
My personal reflection on Mom: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/18AxBFzctx/
Mom’s formal obituary: https://www.sytsemafh.com/obituaries/bonnie-nolan/obituary
Strava: https://www.strava.com/athletes/40444994
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattnolan1/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattnolan93/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/matthew.john.nolan
On this episode of the Running Around Charlotte Podcast, we’re talking about one of the cornerstones of the local running community — the Charlotte Running Club.
The Charlotte Running Club has been connecting runners of all paces and backgrounds for years; building friendships, fitness, and a true sense of belonging here. And leading that organization these days is club president Rebeca Ehrnrooth.
Like many of our listeners, Rebeca has only been in Charlotte for a few years. And, like so many folks, she used running to discover her new hometown. We talk about what’s changed in those few short years, and the club’s plans to grow along with the city itself.
Today on Running Around Charlotte, we’re joined by someone who is rewriting the rules of “urban exploring” here in Charlotte. Tim Reitz is the founder of MuralTours704. He’s a running-enthusiast turned community connector who blends two passions: movement and appreciating street art.
Tim leads guided running and walking tours around Charlotte that highlight the city’s remarkable murals. He’s getting folks out of the gym, off their usual running paths, and onto streets and alleys where art and local culture intersect.
Tim, welcome to the Running Around Charlotte Podcast!
Welcome to the Running Around Charlotte Podcast… and today I’m thrilled to turn the tables on my man, Nick Sturdivant, anchor and reporter at WCNC here in Charlotte. Nick isn’t just a good-looking guy —he’s about to tackle his first half marathon here at the Novant Health Charlotte Marathon this Saturday.
Full disclosure, we did talk a little earlier this week when he had us over at HIS studio, so I’ve got a little inside scoop here … but it is fair to say he’s learned a thing or two about the Charlotte running community, and himself – as he’s prepared for tomorrow’s event. Nick, welcome to the Running Around Charlotte Podcast!
Welcome to the Running Around Charlotte Podcast, recorded LIVE here at the Novant Health Charlotte Marathon Expo. On the eve of the big event, it’s only fitting that we’re joined by Myles Wynn, Team Hemby’s leading man… and Dani Smith, the Philanthropy Manager for the Novant Health Foundation.
Myles has helped steer Team Hemby as runners tackle the Novant Health Charlotte Marathon, and Dani is at the center of turning every mile more meaningful. In case you’re new around here, this event and runners and friends just like you have helped raise more than $600,000 for programs at Hemby Children’s Hospital. And if Myles and Dani get their way, there’ll be more where that came from!
Myles and Dani, welcome to the Running Around Charlotte Podcast!
Our guest today is someone who has taken “running around Charlotte” quite literally. Mark Feldpausch and his daughter, Mira, took on something a little bigger — running every single street in the City of Charlotte.
What started as a father-daughter project has become an exploration of the Queen City few people will ever experience. From cul-de-sacs to service roads, hidden neighborhoods to city landmarks, Mark and Mira are seeing Charlotte block by block — on foot — and documenting the journey along the way.
Welcome back to the Running Around Charlotte Podcast, LIVE from the Novant Health Charlotte Marathon Expo. Today I’ve got some of my favorite folks in the running community on the program with us: Brian Mister and Lisa Landrum.
They the folks behind the Around the Crown 10K, the Noda 5k, and now Charlotte RaceFest. They are all about celebrating Charlotte’s runners, sustainability and the community partnerships … all the stuff that brings us together. If you’ve ever wondered if a single local race can foster community and purpose… sit tight, kids. Answers coming your way. Brian and Lisa, welcome BACK to the Running Around Charlotte Podcast!
As we have said many times on this program, for every runner at the start line, there’s a story there, too. When Kristine Nunn told us why she was running this year’s Novant Health Charlotte Marathon, we knew we had to learn more. Not going to lie… her special bond with her niece had us a little choked-up. But, we didn’t expect to hear how their relationship had changed over the years, even with all the miles between them. We’ve got a real treat for you here on this episode of The Running Around Charlotte Podcast.
Marathon Update: In case you’re wondering, Kristine finished this year’s Novant Health Charlotte Marathon in 5:03:26. She told us she loved seeing the different parts of the city along the route, and of her 9 previous marathons, she said Charlotte’s crowd and city energy are the top of her list. And yes, she had a great time with her niece — hitting the museums and the Hornets game, too. Sounds like a heck of a weekend, Kristine!
On this episode of The Running Around Charlotte Podcast, we’re talking with Robert Griffith, who’ll be taking on the 2025 Novant Health Charlotte half marathon. It’s a journey that started last fall, when he read a quote that was quite literally life-changing. To say that he’s transformed himself is to put it lightly. Whether you’re running or not, we believe you’ll be inspired by his story, too!
Our guest on the Running Around Charlotte Podcast is a true North Carolina running legend—a father, doctor, and relentless marathoner whose race stats are only matched by his big-hearted advocacy. Dr. Bill Johncock has racked up more than 100 marathons, paced his father and his son through the starting corrals at Boston and beyond, and—most meaningfully—has run stride for stride with his son Logan in more than a dozen marathons as a duo team.
They’ve checked off Boston, Chicago, Berlin, and New York as they chase the goal of completing all the World Marathon Majors together. But that’s just part of Bill and Logan’s journey. We caught up with them before they hit the start of the 2025 Novant Health Charlotte Marathon… here’s Dr. Bill on this episode of the Running Around Charlotte Podcast!
We talk a lot about making your miles more meaningful, whether you will be running the Novant Health Charlotte Marathon, Half Marathon, or Chick-fil-A 5K, or just running in life, period.
And some people do that every day, and our guest on this episode of The Running Around Charlotte Podcastis one of those guys. It’s Charlie Godfrey, and he is the Development and Major Gifts Director for the Parkinson’s Association of the Carolinas.
They do a ton of work for the care and education and assistance of the more than 50,000 folks in the Carolinas and their caregivers and families who suffer from Parkinson’s disease. So if you’re not familiar with this organization and how they impact folks here in the Carolinas every day… sit tight, spend 20 minutes with us here on this episode of the Running Around Charlotte Podcast.
Adam Bratton is not what you’d call a man about town. He’s also about the woods, the trails, the water – or just about anywhere else that’s outside. If you ask us, that makes him a pretty good fit for his role as Marketing Director at Recover Brands.
To catch you up real quick, Recover Brands has been on a 15 year mission to lighten the impact that apparel and woven goods have on the planet. And, if you’ve participated in events running around Charlotte, and other places, too – you might have run or walked away with a Recover Brands tee. Yes, that includes the Novant Health Charlotte Marathon!
We caught up with Adam at the Charlotte Convention Center – and we’ll explain why – on this episode of the Running Around Charlotte Podcast!
Clare Kubiak is a Novant Health Charlotte Marathon Ambassador who brings enthusiasm, resilience, and a little bit of humor to the local running scene. Her story includes the mental and physical shifts that come with motherhood and some truly memorable, “mom-life” injuries—including a recent, and very relatable, tailbone bruise – we’ll get into that in a minute! Clare’s honest perspective can sure make runners of all levels feel seen and heard! Clare, welcome to the Running Around Charlotte Podcast!
On the podcast, we’re talking with Dani Smith and Betsy Zarzour about a special opportunity to make your miles more meaningful at this year’s Novant Health Charlotte Marathon, half marathon, and Chick-fil-A 5k. Find out why Team Hemby is for everyone! It’s on this episode of The Running Around Charlotte Podcast.
Today’s guest is Danielle Heath, the dynamic manager and marketing director for Fleet Feet Charlotte. As a passionate advocate for building community through running, Danielle leads the way not only in outfitting Charlotte’s runners but also in connecting them to events, resources, and with each other. With Fleet Feet stepping in as the title sponsor of the Novant Health Charlotte Marathon Expo this year, Danielle is helping to shape an experience designed to inspire and energize runners and their supporters alike! Welcome to the Running Around Charlotte Podcast, Danielle!
We made it work!!
Today’s guest is Nick Cook, a multi-talented designer and illustrator whose passion for running is as bold as his artwork. Based in North Carolina, Nick’s work marries artistry and athleticism—he has crafted everything from brand identities to large-scale murals, including the standout artwork for this year’s Novant Health Charlotte Marathon. His illustrations capture the energy, emotions, and culture of running in ways that connect and inspire, one finish line at a time. Nick, welcome to the Running Around Charlotte Podcast!
We’re excited to welcome Jocelyn Ingram, who’s taking on a unique and inspiring role at this year’s Novant Health Charlotte Marathon—as a Charity Chaser! Jocelyn is no stranger to starting lines: she’s an ultra runner, a coach at Charlotte Christian and Randolph Raider Runners, and a true advocate for both the sport and her city. This fall, Jocelyn will run to raise funds for Novant Health Hemby Children’s Hospital, turning her marathon miles into a force for good. Jocelyn, thanks for joining us on the Running Around Charlotte Podcast!
Big banks, fintech and Lance crackers aren’t the only things with roots right here in Charlotte… the nonprofit program Let Me Run was also born right here in the Queen city.
For folks who don’t know yet, the Let Me Run program inspires boys to be themselves, be active, and belong, through lessons on all sorts of topics, including respect, positive competition, friendship, and nutrition – and yes, they run.
Nikki Prenoveau is executive director of the CLT region and David Brewer is a coach with 9 seasons behind him already! They’re our guest today on the Running Around Charlotte Podcast.
New numbers are in—and there are now 157 people moving to the Charlotte area every DAY. And, it goes without saying that not every one of them is landing here with a 6-figure job, or a stable place to stay.
That’s where Project Outpour comes in.
Project Outpour provides free mobile shower access and hygiene services to neighbors experiencing homelessness here in Charlotte. You’ve probably seen some of their staff and volunteers on race day, and didn’t even know it. Let’s fix that, shall we?
MaShonna Hughes is Executive Director and Chief Dignity Officer at Project Outpour, and she’s our guest today on the Running Around Charlotte Podcast.
RIP, Mattie’s Diner Run Club – we hardly knew you. By now, you’ve probably heard about the end of the proverbial – and actual factual road – of this run club, but don’t be too sad. The same folks that brought the attitude and the community to the Plaza will bring the party to a new location every Tuesday night.
We’re talking with our man, Jesus De Latorre – a/k/a Jesus the Runner on this episode of The Running Around Charlotte Podcast.
Welcome back to the Running Around Charlotte Podcast. Today’s guest is a true multi-hyphenate in Charlotte’s fitness scene: Jayne Little. Jayne began running seriously just a few years ago, in 2021, but she’s already completed three marathons—a testament to her determination and love of the sport. Outside of training for races, Jayne splits her time between working as a personal trainer at HIVE Fitness and building her career as a packaging engineer?? She’s also serving as a Charlotte Marathon ambassador, inspiring others to take on the challenge!
Welcome to another inspiring episode of the Running Around Charlotte Podcast. Today, we’re excited to welcome back Rebecca Greene—a returning Novant Health Charlotte Marathon Ambassador and a regular at the Mad Miles Run Club. Whether she’s motivating new runners, guiding other athletes, or showing off her infectious energy at group runs and races, Rebecca’s enthusiasm for community and fitness is hard to miss.
Welcome back to another episode of the Running Around Charlotte Podcast. Today, we’re talking about those weighted vests everyone’s wearing —and rucking—with our man, Michael Sweeting. He’s an active member of the Lake Norman Rucking Club, and he has “rucked” at numerous events, including tackling the half marathon at the Novant Health Charlotte Marathon. With rucking gaining popularity and having its own category at the Novant Health Charlotte Marathon, we’re excited to hear why people are trading shoes for boots, and why walking with weighted vests is becoming so trendy.
A lot can change in a year. And for Arianna Shahin, that meant getting faster and fitter than she was just 365 days ago. She credits consistency, accountability, and trusting her coach. But it’s not all workouts all the time for this former dancer turned runner. On this episode of The Running Around Charlotte Podcast, Arianna explains other positive changes she’s made since last year.
Karyn Mendoza is a math teacher, mom, triathlete, former Philadelphia Eagles cheerleader, and one of this year’s Novant Health Charlotte Marathon Ambassadors. Yes, she’s just as enthusiastic as you’d expect a cheerleader to be – and in the best kind of way. On this episode of The Running Around Charlotte Podcast, she tells us how she got from the sidelines to the classroom to the starting line at nearly every kind of distance … and what her students said when they found out she was a pro cheerleader!
On this episode of the Running Around Charlotte Podcast, we’re talking with Cara Hackett. She’s a 2025 Novant Health Charlotte Marathon Ambassador. Once you listen in here, you’re going to want to join her on the run! Her story is one of pure belief in self, dogged determination – and loads of laughs! Find out what all the fuss is about, and why she had us quite literally laughing out loud!
Devin Martin is clearly a man of action. When his “closest” run clubs were more than 30 minutes away from his house, he started his own. As it turns out, he wasn’t the only one in the neighborhood looking for running partners.
It’s great having a “get it done” kinda guy on the Novant Health Charlotte Ambassador squad. And it was just as much fun having him as our guest on the program!
Lindsey McGee guest hosts with DC Lucchesi on this episode of The Running Around Charlotte Podcast!
Welcome to The Running Around Charlotte Podcast! Today, we’re excited to welcome Alexander Valdovinos Garcia, known as @alxx.gar on Instagram. Alexander is a passionate runner and an active member of the Charlotte running community who brings energy, dedication, and a fresh perspective to the sport. Whether training for personal bests or connecting with fellow runners, Alexander’s journey is inspiring and full of valuable insights for runners of all levels.
Welcome to The Running Around Charlotte Podcast! Today we’re excited to chat with Rachel Holloway, known as @Glamamazonian on Instagram. Rachel is a dynamic presence in the Charlotte running community and a passionate advocate for diversity, inclusion, and women’s empowerment. With a background in communications, marketing, and leadership roles in both the nonprofit and corporate worlds, Rachel brings a unique perspective to everything she does. Whether she’s inspiring others online, supporting local causes, or chasing her own running goals, Rachel is all about building connections and lifting others up.
Welcome to The Running Around Charlotte Podcast! Today we’re joined by Lauren Speck—known to many as @laurennspeck on Instagram. Lauren is a biomedical engineering graduate, life sciences consultant, and passionate Charlotte runner. She’s inspired by her family’s health journey and brings a unique scientific perspective to her training, wellness, and community involvement. Whether she’s leading in the workplace, running local routes, or sharing her story online, Lauren is a positive force in both the running and professional worlds.
Welcome to The Running Around Charlotte Podcast! Today, we’ve got a special guest who embodies the spirit of Charlotte’s running community—Jeff Hudnall. Jeff is not only a dedicated runner and proud dad, but also a Masters athlete who recently crushed his sub-3 hour marathon goal. He’s passionate about the benefits of coaching, the joys of running in the Charlotte area, and building community through the Runners of Clover club in Clover, South Carolina. Whether he’s logging “junk miles” for the sheer love of running or inspiring others to pursue their own goals, Jeff’s story is sure to motivate runners of all backgrounds.
Welcome back to The Running Around Charlotte Podcast! On the program with us today is Erin Vinson, a Novant Health Charlotte Marathon Ambassador, relay enthusiast, and ultra-distance runner. Erin’s running journey has taken her from the Dam to Dam, Ville to Ville, and Blue Ridge Relay courses, all the way to taking on the Blackbeard 100-mile run. She’s also known for her humor and honesty about the realities of running and her passion for how running can transform individuals and communities. Erin is a champion for mental health, breaking down diet culture, and she never misses a chance to shout out her “Marathon Enablers” and the “Cougar Run Club” for their support.
Welcome to The Running Around Charlotte Podcast! On this episode, we’ve got Meilin Tompkins with us, a 2025 Novant Health Charlotte Marathon Ambassador who has inspiring story of her own. She went from being NOT a runner, to becoming a passionate ambassador for the marathon, and is now the marketing director for one of Charlotte’s “OG” running specialty shops!
Meilin’s story is a testament to how consistent effort and dedication can turn anyone into a runner and a community leader.
Welcome back to The Running Around Charlotte Podcast. On this episode, we’ve got Erica Meisner, the founder of Mental Health Matters here with us. Erica is not only a passionate advocate for mental health awareness, but she’s also a former college lacrosse player who turned into a runner! Her organization hosts the annual Mental Health Matters 5k here in Charlotte, bringing together runners and community members to support mental health initiatives.
Welcome back to The Running Around Charlotte Podcast. We’re glad to be back in the studio with you —and of course – we’re happy to have you listening! On this episode, we get to catch up with the second-best looking bald guy on the Charlotte running scene.
My man Miller Yoho is on the program, and after you’ve googled his picture, you can listen in on this week’s conversation. Miller’s the guy behind some of the best Charlotte sports tweets, the bowl game with the most “twang,” and The Meck Mile.
The event is BACK for year 2… and Miller’s back on the Running Around Charlotte podcast!
Welcome back to The Running Around Charlotte Podcast. We’re glad to be back in the studio with you —and of course – we’re happy to have you listening!
On this episode, we’re playing hookey with our new friend Sarah Barton Thomas. OK, we’re really not ditching out of class, but what else do you call it when you get the principal to spend a half hour of the school day with you? Recess??
Regardless, Sarah Barton Thomas is just a delight. Full disclosure, she left us a voicemail a few weeks back to help us with a writing project, and we KNEW we’d have to get her on the program!
If dogs, coffee, running, and lifelong learning appeal to you at all… this episode is for you!
Welcome back to The Running Around Charlotte Podcast. We’re glad to be back in the studio with you —and of course – we’re happy to have you listening! Today, we’re excited to introduce you to a guy who’s a regular at the finish line of the Novant Health Charlotte half marathon… Cliff Anderson.
Clif also happens to be one of our 2025 Novant Health Charlotte Marathon Ambassadors. Listen in and you can almost hear the smile on his face when he tells us about his running journey – and his comeback from a rare blood cancer. Man, what a great story! We’re glad he’s on the team, and our guest this week on The Running Around Charlotte Podcast!
Welcome back to The Running Around Charlotte Podcast. We’re glad to be back in the studio with you —and of course – we’re happy to have you listening! Today, we’re excited to introduce you to another one of our 2025 Novant Health Charlotte Marathon Ambassadors. This week’s guest is Brendan Miller-Radest.
Brendan is a recovering New Jersey native living in Charlotte now. He’s a dog dad, regular run-clubber, and is potentially resurrecting his DJ career?? We’re getting into all that on this episode of The Running Around Charlotte Podcast!
A few months back, we got the chance to talk with Smita Warrier here on the show. She casually discussed what — for most folks — would be an anxiety-inducing and one-of-a-kind opportunity: running 7 marathons over 7 continents in just 7 days. Along with the mileage, she’d be raising money and awareness for educational assistance for girls in her native India.
While she was out overachieving, we’re not really sure what all we got done. We certainly didn’t log a 180-plus mile week, or rack up 25,000 airline miles in the same week.
Well, Smita’s back in the CLT and has plenty of stories to share about her adventure — and her “why.” We’re happy to have her back on this episode of The Running Around Charlotte Podcast!
Welcome back to The Running Around Charlotte Podcast! We’re excited to continue our special series featuring Novant Health Charlotte Marathon Ambassadors. Our next guest is Tara Kelbagh, a passionate runner who has seen her life transform since she started running consistently. Tara attributes much of her positive experiences to the supportive community she’s encountered and now wants to pay it forward by inspiring others to get involved in running.
Welcome back to The Running Around Charlotte Podcast! If you’re doing any kind of distance running you know – at some point you’re going to need a little fuel in the tank. In this day and age, there are LOADS of gels, “goos,” bars, and stuff to help keep your energy up. We’re probably tried them all, which has us REALLY excited about today’s guest. He’s got something all new, and all natural.
We’re talking with a local runner and entrepreneur who’s making waves in the endurance fueling world. We’re excited to welcome Joe McMahan, the founder of Azoia Endurance, a company making all-natural energy gels right here in Charlotte.
Welcome back to The Running Around Charlotte Podcast. We’re glad to be back in the studio with you again! Today, we’re excited to kick off our special series featuring some of our 2025 Novant Health Charlotte Marathon Ambassadors. This week’s guest is Tarik Haniff, a passionate runner and community leader who’s running all around Charlotte and its vibrant running scene.
Welcome to the Running Around Charlotte Podcast! We’re recording LIVE here at the 2024 Novant Health Charlotte Marathon Expo. We are excited to welcome Philip Sanford, the current president of the Charlotte Running Club.
Philip has dedicated his time to fostering a welcoming environment for runners of all levels in our community. He leads the Triple C Beer Runners and serves as a coach for the Let Me Run program at Sedgefield Middle School, too. Philip also writes a weekly newsletter for his Team Sanford Running program, sharing insights and tips to help runners improve their performance. We’re looking forward to discussing his journey in running, coaching, and how he envisions the future of the Charlotte Running Club.
Welcome to the Running Around Charlotte Podcast! We’re recording LIVE from the 2024 Novant Health Charlotte Marathon Expo. We’ve got our long-time friend, Lisa Landrum here on the program with us. (Note: we didn’t say old…)
Lisa is a runner, coach, and community-builder who has been instrumental in shaping the running landscape here Charlotte. As the founder of runCLTrun and Forward Motion, she’s created platforms that connect and support runners of all levels. She’s a helluva runner in her own right, and long-time pace team leader for the Novant Health Charlotte Marathon.
More important than all of that, she’s a Cotswold mom and friend of ours. Lisa, welcome back to the program! You were actually the very FIRST guest on the show!
Welcome to the Running Around Charlotte Podcast! We’re recording LIVE from the 2024 Novant Health Charlotte Marathon Expo today, and we’re excited to have Cornell Jones back on the program with us.
We’ll say it here: Cornell is a straight-up Renaissance Man; a former Division 1 college runner, Feature Producer for ESPN, runner and Mad Miles run club founder, and community-builder. If you don’t know from the Mad Miles Run Club, you’re either just visiting, or you’re one of the 117 people moving to Charlotte every day. And today’s your first day in town!
Cornell, welcome to the show!
Welcome to the Running Around Charlotte Podcast! We’re recording LIVE from the 2024 Novant Health Charlotte Marathon Expo. We’ve got Wyatt Moss here with us – arguably, one of the most Insta-Famous runners on the planet right now. Here’s why:
In 2024, he set out to accomplish an incredible feat: running a marathon in all 50 states within a single year. As he nears the end of this remarkable journey, Wyatt will be taking on the Novant Health Charlotte Marathon this Saturday.
Maybe you know him from TikTok, or his unique marathon challenges. Regardless, Wyatt has runners and non-runners wondering what he’ll do next: from eating Chipotle burritos in every state to running with a full rack of ribs, or wearing a tux during the New York City Marathon. We’re nervous-cited to see what he’ll do here in Charlotte!
Welcome back to the Running Around Charlotte Podcast! We’re recording LIVE here at the 2024 Novant Health Charlotte Marathon Expo. Today, we have an incredibly inspiring guest – and good friend of ours — Tom Perri.
Tom is an absolute legend in the marathon world. He has led pace teams in marathons across the globe and is a familiar face at the Novant Health Charlotte Marathon, having paced all of the first 10 events. Tom is also an accomplished author, sharing his wealth of running knowledge with others. But what truly sets Tom apart is his indomitable spirit. Despite battling stage 4 prostate cancer, he continues to lace up, lead, and inspire. With nearly 700 marathons under his belt, Tom’s is a testament to the power of perseverance and the human spirit.
Welcome back to the Running Around Charlotte Podcast! We’re recording LIVE here at the 2024 Novant Health Charlotte Marathon Expo. Our guest is Maddy Ebbert — the versatile visual artist and illustrator based right here in Charlotte. Maddy says her art is inspired by nature, self-love, the beauty of simplicity, and capturing everyday life with joy and vibrancy.
Maybe you’ve seen her work on Instagram, or walls and buildings all over the country… Most recently, she’s brought her unique vision to the running community by designing the artwork for the 2024 Novant Health Charlotte Marathon event shirts. Maddy, welcome to the program!
Welcome to the Running Around Charlotte Podcast. We’re recording LIVE from the 2024 Novant Health Charlotte Marathon Expo. Today, we have a special guest, and friend of ours, Ashley Mahoney. Ashley is an avid runner who has completed the Charlotte Marathon multiple times, and checked the box on her first ultra this year. Most of you may recognize her byline as a reporter at Axios Charlotte.
Welcome to The Running Around Charlotte podcast! Today, we’re excited to have Diego Ferradas with us. Diego is the Director of Community Engagement at The Ability Experience, a nonprofit organization dedicated to using shared experiences to support people with disabilities and develop the men of Pi Kappa Phi into servant leaders.
Diego is not just passionate about his work but also about various sports and activities. He recently participated with his team from The Ability Experience in the Around the Crown 10k. But he’s no one-hit wonder! Diego is a multi-faceted individual with interests spanning cycling, pickleball, and flag football, too!
Welcome to the show, Diego!
Welcome to The Running Around Charlotte podcast! Today, we have Pauline Schwerbrock as our guest. Pauline is one of the co-founders of the Morning Run Club, Charlotte’s first women-only run club.
Pauline, along with her co-founder Jordan Sosa, started the Morning Run Club earlier this year, and it has quickly grown into a thriving community of women runners. The club meets every Monday at 6:05 a.m. at the Atherton Mill Shopping Center, offering both 3- and 5-mile loops to accommodate runners of all levels.
Pauline, welcome to the show!
Welcome to The Running Around Charlotte podcast! Today, we’re excited to have Rick Pryll as our guest. Rick is not only an accomplished author but also a dedicated runner who leads a run club from the unique location of Bart’s Mart, a family-owned small business on Charlotte’s eclectic eastside.
Rick Pryll is an independent author with several books to his name. His literary achievements include winning second place in the 2022 Ruth Moose Flash Fiction Prize. Rick’s passion for writing is matched only by his enthusiasm for running.
Rick, welcome to the program!
If you’ve done any running around Charlotte, you probably know our man, Eric Smith. We’re happy to have him back here on the Running Around Charlotte podcast! Eric is a guy to know here in the Charlotte running community, with a wealth of experience in organizing events and pacing runners to their goals. His involvement spans from leading the Charlotte Running Club to coordinating pace teams for major races – including the Novant Health Charlotte Marathon.
We’re excited to welcome Ruthie Williams to the Running Around Charlotte podcast! Ruthie is the dynamic organizer of the Latinos Run Charlotte Run Club, a group dedicated to fostering community and inclusivity in the running world. Her passion for running and community engagement has helped create a welcoming space for runners of all backgrounds.
Welcome to another exciting episode of the Running Around Charlotte podcast. Today, we’ve got Jeff Fox with us. Jeff is a seasoned runner who’s about to tackle the Novant Health Charlotte Marathon for the fifth time. He’s not just a participant, though – Jeff also has the scoop on of the now iconic parties near the mile 16 mark. It’s safe to say it’s become a highlight along the back side of the race.
Kristin Neuman is the organizer of The Josh Neuman Foundation and is actively involved in the Miles for Meals campaign to support Nourish UP. Her work, and that of the foundation, is testament to their nonprofit’s namesake to do good and to live a good story.
Nourish UP works every day here in the Charlotte area to create a community where everyone thrives and has consistent access to the food they need for good health and overall well-being. Courtney Oates is their events and marketing director.
This year, the Josh Neuman Foundation and Nourish Up will partner on a program called “Miles for Meals” during the Novant Health Charlotte Marathon. Kristen Newman and Courtney Oates are our guests on this episode of The Running Around Charlotte Podcast, presented by Novant Health Orthopedics and Sports Medicine.
We are BIG fans of folks getting up, getting out, and getting active. And we’re really, REALLY big fans of folks who help them do it. That’s where our new friends Angi Klick and Sarah Hays at SheTris come in.
TBH, if our friend Molly Barker says these are some folks we need to meet, we already know they’re going to be good people! Here’s why:
Angi and Sarah are working to make triathlon approachable for women of all ages. None of this hardcore, shark-infested waters and lava fields stuff; but fun, supportive, and short-distance events to make it easy to give triathlon a try. (Had to do it, y’all.) SheTris now hosts a handful of events throughout the year in the Carolinas.
Lindsey McGee guest hosts with DC Lucchesi when we welcome Angi Klick and Sarah Hays to this episode of The Running Around Charlotte Podcast, presented by Novant Health Orthopedics and Sports Medicine.
Also mentioned in this program:
Episodes with Molly Barker — https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/running-around-charlotte/id1466653446?i=1000655006327
Have we mentioned how much we love, love, LOVE this year’s crew of Novant Health Charlotte Marathon Ambassadors? Dennis Wilson is one of the reasons why. This guy is repping at pretty much every event around town – even the less-than-exciting stuff, like plogging along East Boulevard with our pals from the Charlotte Running Club, the Charlotte Running Company, and Keep Charlotte Beautiful. (Shameless plug, but hey…)
But seriously, Dennis is practically everywhere. He’s relatively new to the Charlotte area, and to running, but he’s embraced both in a big way. Sure, he still finds time to get back to New York and Connecticut to visit. And run, of course. But when you meet him, you’ll agree: he’s the kind of community-maker you want to stick around in CLT.
Lindsey McGee and DC Lucchesi got a chance to hang with him for a quick 30 on this episode of The Running Around Charlotte Podcast, presented by Novant Health Orthopedics and Sports Medicine.
Also mentioned in this program:
Episodes with Cornell Jones and Mad Miles https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/running-around-charlotte/id1466653446?i=1000549669976
So, how might we describe our next guest? How about, “the fun, silent type?” Joshua Hanson probably isn’t the loudest guy in the bunch, but he’s sure as heck one of the most fun we’ve had on the program. Joshua played hooky from his day job as an industrial designer to talk running – and his company’s BIG team headed to this year’s Novant Health Charlotte Marathon. (Yay, Team Hoover!)
He may have one of the most unusual run club streaks we’ve ever heard of. We’ll get into that, we’ll talk about his training for his first full marathon, and what’s the deal with all the little spoons. Yes, little spoons.
It all comes together and surprisingly makes sense, when Lindsey McGee and DC Lucchesi welcome Joshua Hanson to this episode of The Running Around Charlotte Podcast, presented by Novant Health Orthopedics and Sports Medicine.
Also mentioned in this program:
Interested in learning more about starting a team at your work or business? Email alaina@runcharlotte.com
Episodes with Kim Kreuzman — https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/running-around-charlotte/id1466653446?i=1000661104484
No argument here. Runners are pretty incredible people, in our opinion. It takes a certain amount of self-will, motivation – or whatever you want to call it – to get up, get out there, and log those miles every day. Or even when you don’t run every day.
And while running might feel like a personal, sometimes selfish pursuit, we meet runners all the time who are making their miles meaningful by raising money and awareness for great causes.
Smitta Warrier is one of those runners. We got the chance to talk with her about a once-in-a-lifetime challenge and her very personal purpose. Here she is, on this episode of the Running Around Charlotte Podcast.
We are thrilled to welcome our dear friend Tom Perri to the Running Around Charlotte Podcast. Tom is not just an extraordinary runner but an incredible inspiration to everyone who knows him. He has run the Novant Health Charlotte Marathon ten times and has paced runners in marathons all over the world. Despite battling stage 4 prostate cancer, Tom continues to lace up, stay positive, and help people all over the world reach their running goals – and then some.
Tom, welcome back to the show!
If you’ve been running around Charlotte at all, you’ve probably rubbed elbows with some of the 2024 Novant Health Charlotte Ambassadors. This year’s team is easily our best squad yet. Not only is the Ambassador team TWICE AS LARGE as years past, it’s also even more diverse, and with members spread far and wide around the area.
Sarah Hodges is a member of this year’s Ambassador team. And we’re excited to introduce her to you all on this episode of the Running Around Charlotte podcast.
Sarah, welcome to the show!
We’re excited to kick off this episode of the Running Around Charlotte Podcast with our good friend Brian Mister! As the race director and co-founder of the Around The Crown 10K, Brian has become a guy to know in the Charlotte running community. His passion for running and commitment to fostering a welcoming environment for all participants makes Charlotte a running community that helps even more folks see and feel that they belong.
As you can imagine, we get a LOT of emails about the Novant Health Charlotte Marathon. Folks have all kinds of questions, and lots of them are the same. Hence the term, “frequently asked questions,” right?
A few months ago, we got a question we’ve NEVER gotten before. Mike Lopez emailed asking whether or not the map for this year’s event was finalized – and not for the reasons you might think.
You see, Mike has a very cool and probably unusual marathon hobby. But we’ll let him tell you all about it. He’s our guest today on The Running Around Charlotte podcast, presented by Novant Health Orthopedics and Sports Medicine.
Our 2024 Novant Health Ambassador squad is bigger and arguably the best we’ve ever had. That’s no shade on previous year’s groups, at all. That’s just our excitement about this bigger, more diverse, and exciting crew that’s out there repping at EVERY event, race, and run club in the area.
If you’ve not run into one of these 50 folks, you’ve probably been on some kind of extended sabbatical. Or maybe you’re one of the 100-something people who move here every day. Not to worry—you’ll see them soon!
Arianna Shahin is part of this year’s new and exciting crew, and she’s our guest today on The Running Around Charlotte podcast. Arianna, welcome to the show!
Head to the start line of most any event, pop into most any running shop, or join in on more and more run clubs and you’ll see more faces, and paces, sizes, colors and shapes of runners than ever before.
That’s a beautiful thing for the running community, and for runners themselves. Running has never been a more diverse universe. And there’s plenty of room to grow.
People of color make up an amazing 40 percent of runners in the fast-growing 18-24 age group. That’s an exciting trend for running, of course, but also for folks who can now SEE that the running community is for them, too.
Like us, our next guest on the show, has seen that change first-hand here in Charlotte and the local running scene. And he’s helping welcome new runners into the community as a Novant Health Charlotte Marathon Ambassador.
Based on the article, here’s an introduction and some questions you could use for your podcast interview with Derek Lindstrom:
Welcome to The Running Around Charlotte Podcast, presented by Novant Health Orthopedics and Sports Medicine. Today, we have an incredible guest who embodies the spirit of perseverance and the power of the human heart. Quite literally…
Derek Lindstrom, a man who ran 114 marathons with his original heart, received a heart transplant in 2023, and now dreams of running another marathon with his new heart. Derek’s story is one of courage, determination, and the miraculous intersection of medical science and the human spirit. Derek, welcome to the show!
One of the MANY great things about the Novant Health Charlotte Marathon is how this event continues to give back to the community. In case you didn’t know, the event has contributed nearly half a million bucks to its beneficiary, the Novant Health Hemby Children’s hospital.
One of the folks that helps us make that connection between the runners and the community and our charitable partner… is Betsy Zarzour. Betsy has been the champion, head cheerleader, and captain of Team Hemby since its start, and she’s our guest today on The Running Around Charlotte podcast, presented by Novant Health Orthopedics.
Passionate and nuanced. Those are just two of the many adjectives the CLT Symphony Orchestra uses to describe resident conductor, Christopher Lees. We’ll add fast, quick-witted, and full of energy to the list.
Chris was gracious enough to sprint from morning run club and all the way into the studio to join us on this show. Which, we’re certain was a grand departure from what we can only assume are much more high-brow interviews!
All kidding aside, Chris had us cracking up. From the cheese jokes, to the REAL reason he only ran one season of cross country … to accidentally learning he’s a pretty dang fast runner!
Lindsey McGee co-hosts with DC Lucchesi as we welcome Chris Lees to the Running Around Charlotte Podcast, presented by Novant Health Orthopedics and Sports Medicine.
A wild and precious life. Yeah, I think we’d all like to live one of those…
Kim Kreuzman dropped that little chestnut on us close to the end of this episode, and it was well worth the wait. I’ve called her to the podium on more than one occasion, too.
So yes – she’s fast, insightful, and funny, too. There’s probably no other way to describe a local real estate transaction that lands you on the main drag of Christmastown, USA other than “funny.” We had a blast with her, for sure.
Kim is one of our Novant Health Charlotte Marathon Ambassadors, a mom, coach, and a regular at the Charlotte run club scene.
Lindsey McGee co-hosts with DC Lucchesi as we welcome Kim Kruezman to the Running Around Charlotte Podcast, presented by Novant Health Orthopedics and Sports Medicine.
It’s totally fair to say that the CLT running community is full of characters. Our guest today certainly fits into that category. And, quite frankly, we can’t believe it’s been this long before we invited Paul Martino to the program.
A longtime runner, a 50 states and DC finisher, and former executive director of the Let Me Run program, Paul has been a recurring character, if you will, in the CLT running scene.
Paul’s done his own share of running, too, and he has a pretty special milestone on the horizon. He’ll get into that, and share some other gems – like his high school race walking team – as we (finally) get him in the studio with us.
Lindsey McGee co-hosts with DC Lucchesi as we welcome Paul Martino to the Running Around Charlotte Podcast, presented by Novant Health Orthopedics and Sports Medicine.
The idea of running as fast or as far as you can without stopping is often enough to keep some folks from ever starting. But getting into running – and actually getting better at it – doesn’t have to be “all gas, no brakes.” (That’s brakes as in BRAKES.)
Our friend Kristin Smith wants everyone to know how walking breaks have made her a better, healthier runner. Not only is she improving her finish times, she’s having a GREAT time doing it. And, she’s found the running community that’s just as fun and supportive as she is.
We love having folks like her as part of our Novant Health Charlotte Marathon Ambassador team – and as guests here on the show.
Lindsey McGee co-hosts with DC Lucchesi as we welcome Kristen Smith to the Running Around Charlotte Podcast, presented by Novant Health Orthopedics and Sports Medicine.
No runner’s journey is the same. For some of us, building up to a couple of miles is the most we’ll ever want to do. For others, it may be to see how fast or far our legs can take us. For others still, it’s a particular event or distance that serves as our goal. Or… somewhere in between.
Either way, we may never know how far running can take us.
Rebecca Green made quick work of finding out how far she was willing to go. In a year, she went from “new runner” to “ultra runner.” And she didn’t let the weather, or an event cancellation get in her way.
We love having runners like Rebecca as part of the Novant Health Charlotte Marathon Ambassador team! We think you’ll get a kick out of meeting her, too, on this episode of The Running Around Charlotte Podcast, presented by Novant Health Orthopedics and Sports Medicine.
Yeah, this show is called The Running Around Charlotte Podcast, but we’ve literally got listeners all over the world. (Apparently both of our listeners do a ton of traveling?Seriously though, it’s great to have listeners and friends and running buddies all over the place. It makes running in a new place that much better when you’re with someone who knows the area, knows the best routes — and knows where all the secret bathroom stops are located. Just in case.Erin Vinson is THAT kind of person. She’s more than just one of our out-of-town Novant Health Charlotte Marathon Ambassadors. She’s a great ambassador for the sport of running, and the community that you can create with it. Fair warning, though: you have to get up pretty early to catch her! We got her to slow down long enough to join us on this episode of The Running Around Charlotte Podcast!
Ever heard of a “backyard ultra?” It’s actually a real thing. It’s not a forever-long session of chores in the lawn, but an actual event format. It’s kind of like a “last one standing” race, where competitors must consecutively run the distance of 4.167 miles (6.706 kilometers) in less than one hour. There’s no predetermined distance or time in a backyard ultra, so rest and fueling are also a big part of the game.
On this episode of The Running Around Charlotte Podcast, presented by Novant Health Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, we’ve got the scoop on just such an event in the works here in the Charlotte area. John Lytton is in the studio with DC and guest host Lindsey McGee to explain how it works, and why former NFL star DeAngelo Williams is part of this whole thing!
If you’ve been running around Charlotte at all – and particularly at events in and around town – you’ve probably run into some of our Novant Health Charlotte Marathon Ambassadors.
They’re you’re ticket to discounts on events all year long, of course, and there’s more to it than that. They want you make you welcome to the greater running community. The program’s been such a bonus, we’ve DOUBLED the ranks for 2024.
Lindsey McGee is leading up the progam for us this year… and she’s our guest on this episode of the Running Around Charlotte Podcast.
Our next guest on The Running Around Charlotte Podcast says she has lived – and continues to live – a big, unapologetic life. Wow! Wouldn’t we all love to say the same.
She’s an author, speaker, motivator, LISTENER, new grandmother, and more. She’s an activist, a firebrand – in the best sense of the word, and a beautiful friend. And she’s also the founder of Girls on the Run.
I am over the moon to welcome Molly Barker to the Running Around Charlotte Podcast!
One of the most exciting things happening in running these days is that we see more and more diversity in the sport. And that’s a beautiful thing.
Look around at the starting line of an event… take a run on a local greenway… and you’ll see more and more people that look like the melting pot that is our community.
And, more and more of these under-represented runners are showing their peers that they, too, have a place in the larger running community.
Our next guest on The Running Around Charlotte Podcast is one of those runners who’s helping runners like herself see they belong. Verna Volker is founder of Native Women Running, and is our guest on The Running Around Charlotte Podcast.
We talk a lot here on the program about giving your miles meaning – and we talk to a LOT of runners who do just that.
Jimmy Coleman is one of those runners. He tackled a 50-mile route that took him to five Catholic churches here in Charlotte for what he described as his “Adoration Ultra.”
He said in one interview that he’d been looking for a way to fuse his faith and his fitness journey… and if you ask us, he seems to have found a way.
Jimmy, welcome to the Running Around Charlotte Podcast!
One of the MANY things we love about running around Charlotte, is that you don’t have to look too far to find someone who’ll join you. There seems to be a run club or meet-up every day of the week, in most any part of town!
We’re happy to introduce you to a new-to-us running club called, Charlotte Runners United. Their first run together was just over a year ago, and they’re still at it!
Phill Reed is the name and face you’ll see often on the Club’s Instagram. And he’s our guest today on The Running Around Charlotte Podcast.
One of the things we LOVE about running around Charlotte is how clean the city is. Bring someone in from out of town, and it’s generally one of the things they notice. That, and how many people seem to be running in this town…
But with more than 100 people moving here every day, that means a little more trash every day, too. And it starts to add up.
Runners being runners, you know we’re going to figure out a way to fix that – and get a couple of miles in along the way. Rebeca Ehrnrooth is our guest here on the Running Around Charlotte podcast to tell us about a little good clean fun planned for later this month!
As we’ve said before on the program, for every runner joining us at the start of the Novant Health Charlotte Marathon… there’s a backstory they carry along with them.
Our guest today on The Running Around Charlotte Podcast is one of those runners — and he has one of those stories. Jeffrey Hudnall told us he got into running because he wanted to be better tomorrow than he is today.
And once you hear the rest of his story, we think you’ll agree—he really is!
As we have said many times on this program, for every one of the THOUSANDS who run with us at the Novant Health Charlotte Marathon… there are thousands of reasons “why.”
Taylor Christie is one of the runners who shared their “why” with us, and graciously agreed to share that story with us here on the Running Around Charlotte Podcast.
Taylor and Taylor, thanks for being on the program!
Our next guest on the Running Around Charlotte Podcast is a name some OG Charlotte runners may remember. Quite honestly, we’re surprised we’re just now getting him on the program!
Jay Holder is the Executive Director of Running USA—a relatively new role for him. He’s the former VP of the Atlanta Track Club, a former professional journalist, and collegiate runner.
And, another item he can add to that LinedIn profile: guest on the Running Around Charlotte Podcast! Jay welcome to the show!
Maybe you’ve seen our next guest running around Charlotte… if you have, she was probably a blur, anyway. Stephanie “Pezz” Pezzullo is fast. Like, Olympic Trials fast. And she wants to help you be fast, too.
But that’s just part of the Pezz story. There’s running, there’s family trauma, there’s a dog – and more running. Stephanie, welcome to the Running Around Charlotte Podcast!
In case you missed the big news, Run Charlotte and Recover Brands are teaming-up starting this year provide runners with event tees, official merchandise, and more – with less of an environmental impact.
Runners will see this partnership come to life with the first of our Run Charlotte events – the Novant Health Lucky Day 7k – then, all the way through the Novant Health Charlotte Marathon. And that’s just part of the story.
Bill Johnston is the founder of Recover Brands, and he’s our guest today on the Running Around Charlotte Podcast. Bill thanks for joining us!
As we have said – and heard – many times on this program, EVERYONE has their reason to run.
We checked in with this year’s Novant Health Charlotte Marathon participants and asked them why THEY run with us. Many of you were happy to share your stories with us, including Jurgen Buchenau, who wrote this to us:
This marathon will be the tenth time I have run this race as a long-time Charlotte resident, and my twelfth marathon overall. From my first Charlotte marathon as a 41-year-old in 2005 to this marathon, which occurs several months before my 60th birthday, I have seen this event grow into one of the most fun running events in North Carolina!
Naturally, we excited to hear MORE from Jurgen and what makes the NHCM sch a “must do.” Jurgen, welcome to the Running Around Charlotte Podcast!
Motivation takes many forms, especially for runners. Whether we’re trying to get faster, or just get off the couch, or somewhere in between, there’s some place for every kind of runner.
Our next guest had a pretty serious wake-up call that moved him into the running ranks. And after years of smoking, he went cold turkey on the smokes and is now full-tilt on the running.
He finished the half at this year’s Novant Health Charlotte Marathon weekend… on his quest to 50 states. He’s our guest today on the Running Around Charlotte Podcast.
Cort – welcome to the program!
March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. and the “Get Your Rear In Gear” run is designed to raise awareness and money for area colon cancer patients and screenings.
Robert Stricklin, a colon cancer survivor from right here in Charlotte, He helps to organize the local event which is not just about running, but also making it easier for folks to talk about cancer that affects a pretty “private” part of the body.
Robert, welcome to the Running Around Charlotte podcast!
As of this recording, we are just back from our annual pilgrimage to Running USA – the trade show for the running and endurance events industry.
Yes, it’s great to catch up with folks in the business and check the greater pulse of the industry as a whole. It’s even better to bring information back that can help us bring a better experience to runners like you.
One of the teams that keeps tabs on the big picture of the industry is our partner, Run Signup. They’ve just published their annual industry report, too. Bryan Jenkins from Run Signup is here to help us get into that data. He’s our guest here on the Running Around Charlotte Podcast.
Welcome to the program.
https://info.runsignup.com/knowledge-base/racetrends/
The marathon starting line is FULL of stories about how and why people got there, and we’re always fishing for ones that will inspire, motivate, and entertain folks.
When we asked this year’s Novant Health Charlotte Marathon participants who’d be willing to share THEIR stories… we were flooded with responses. Our next guest on the Running Around Charlotte podcast is one of those who answered our call.
Introducing himself as THE AMAZING WINSTON WATSON – in all caps – we knew we’d have to get him on the program. Winston, thanks for joining us on the Running Around Charlotte Podcast.
This is the time of year when many of us make resolutions or other promises to be better and do better. The numbers prove, most of us won’t make those resolutions happen.
That doesn’t mean we’re “bad,” or that we’re “failures.” It often means we didn’t have a “why,” or a proper support system to set us up for success.
Ronald Rule found his “why,” AND the support system to help him get healthy physically, mentally, and spiritually. So before you go giving up on your plans for the new year, stick around for this episode of the Running Around Charlotte Podcast.
Ronald, thanks for joining us on the program!
Everyone has their own reasons for running. Some of us keep our reasons to ourselves… others have the opportunity to share their stories, never knowing the impact they can have on other people.
Taylor Barefoot took advantage of a unique opportunity ahead of this year’s Novant Health Charlotte Marathon, when she allowed the Charlotte Observer to tell HER story in advance of her first marathon.
Maybe you read it? She overcame more than just the training schedule and her role as a pastor at one of Charlotte’s largest churches to make it to the start line. She’s our guest today on the Running Around Charlotte Podcast to tell the rest of the story in her own words.
Taylor – thank you for joining us on the program!
Despite the performance of some of our local teams of late, we think it’s still fair to say Charlotte is a sports town. There’s plenty to prove that; from pro teams to Division 1, 2, and 3 college sports in the area… to the busy fields, gyms, pools, and races.
Sports is big business, too. Generating MILLIONS of dollars in direct spending and local economic impact. And don’t get us started on the impact sports plays in the nonprofit space.
One of the drivers behind some of that impact is The Charlotte Sports Foundation. They’re the mind and muscle behind the Duke’s Mayo Classic, the Jumpman Invitational, and others.
Miller Yoho is Director of Communications and Marketing for the Charlotte Sports Foundation. He’s a runner, too… Miller welcome to the show!
The Charlotte running community continues to evolve. And with it, so do the many area events, run clubs, retailers, and so on who serve that community.
The Charlotte Running Club is changing, too. Not only has the Club grown along with the community, it’s finding more ways to be a PART of that community. Another change is at the top of the club, where Philip Sanford is the new president.
Philip, welcome to The Running Around Charlotte Podcast.
The Charlotte running store scene is changing again. Maybe you’ve even noticed a new sign there on Providence Road at the site of the former UltraRunning Company.
Our next guest on the Running Around Charlotte Podcast has the scoop on that… Brett Albers is the operating partner for Fleet Feet here in Charlotte and Fort Mill. Brett welcome to the show.
There’s nothing like running in your own hometown. Waking up in your own bed. Enjoying breakfast in your own kitchen. Coming home to crash on your own couch… you get it.
It’s also pretty cool to run an out-of-town event, and traveling to someplace you’ve never been, and experiencing everything that “different” place has to offer.
But there is, of course, the headaches that come with all of that “unknown territory.” And that’s where Mark Janik saw an opportunity.
Mark, welcome to the Running Around Charlotte Podcast!
We’ve talked to many a guest here on The Running Around Charlotte Podcast who’ve shared stories about how running helped them meet new people.
Our next guest is on the program has a little bit of that to her story… and she’s also paying it forward, helping folks AND their dogs make new friends.
Lindsey McGee has managed to mix a few things she’s very passionate about, and turn them into an award-winning new business. Lindsey welcome to the Running Around Charlotte Podcast!
Our next guest on The Running Around Charlotte Podcast “might” have one of the coolest jobs going. Chatting it up with celebrities, getting the good seats and backstage passes to ALL the big shows… or meeting and writing about “regular” people with incredible — and sometimes heartbreaking — stories.
Théoden Janes is an Ironman, Boston marathon finisher, and then some. He’s also a father, husband, and lifestyle and entertainment writer for the Charlotte Observer.
There is something to be said about consistency. Like “The Rock” said, “success isn’t always about greatness… it’s about consistency.”
“Consistent” is truly a word we can use to describe our next guest here on The Running Around Charlotte Podcast. In fact, he’s been a part of this event almost as long as we have!
Dave Behrens has run EVERY iteration of the Novant Health Charlotte Marathon… and he’s back again this year for a run at making it 19 in a row.
Dave, welcome to the program!
As the saying goes, “Girls on the Run is so much fun.” But the program is about a whole lot more than that. And, yes, it’s a whole lot more than just running, too.
This homegrown program is truly one-of-kind, helping girls build the confidence, strength of character, and endurance to take on the world. Along the way, they’ll make new friends, and build healthy mental and physical habits that will truly last a lifetime.
Karen Gipson is the Executive Director for Girls on the Run – Greater Charlotte. She’s our guest here on this episode of The Running Around Charlotte Podcast.
For folks who don’t know… Novant Health Hemby Children’s Hospital is the official beneficiary of the Novant Health Charlotte Marathon. The Marathon is proud to raise awareness – and money — for such an important and remarkable place in the Charlotte community.
All that “remarkableness” doesn’t happen in a vacuum. Along with the medical team and staff, it takes folks dedicated to fundraising to make it happen.
Amy McKinney is one of those dedicated people. She’s the philanthropy manager at the Novant Health Foundation – and she’s our guest on this episode of The Running Around Charlotte Podcast.
Our first guest today was actually our very FIRST guest on The Running Around Charlotte Podcast. If you’ve been running around Charlotte at all, then you probably know Lisa Landrum.
She’s the creator of the online and “in real life” community that is Run Charlotte Run. She’s the founder and head coach of Forward Motion. She’s a longtime pace team member here at the Novant Health Charlotte Marathon. She’s also a mom, spouse, all-around good people, and a personal friend…
Lisa Landrum, thanks for being on this episode of The Running Around Charlotte Podcast!
There’s lots of new stuff happening at this year’s Novant Health Charlotte Marathon and Marathon Expo. For starters, we’re expecting a whole lot more of you — that’s exciting! From live music, barbecue, a new Expo location, and a LIVE broadcast recording of The Running Around Charlotte Podcast, it’ll be a jam-packed weekend for sure. Tim and DC hit the highlights on this week’s show.
Here’s a hot take for you: The Novant Health Charlotte Marathon has donated nearly $300,000 to Novant Health Hemby Children’s Hospital since 2013. Last year, we upped our donation goals with the launch of Team Hemby. This year, a Team of Charity Chasers joins the effort… and there’s an all-new initiative you may have seen… the Miracle Miles. Betsy Zarzour joins us today to give us the ins and outs on ALL these new programs, and how YOU can get involved.
If you feel you’ve “been there, done that” with your running, we’ve got a different kind of challenge for you. Running the half-marathon with a weighted backpack. You may have heard of “rucking” — which is basically a form of military training where you run miles with a full backpack. In case you didn’t know, the Novant Health Charlotte
Marathon has a Rucking Division in the half-marathon race, and on today’s Running Around Charlotte Podcast, our man Mike Sweeting joins us to explain more about it.
One of the easiest ways to give back to your running community is to volunteer at a running event. There are lots of ways to do it, and most any kind of help is welcome.
Arguably, one of THE most rewarding volunteer opportunities is serving as a pacer or pace team leader at an event. Guiding someone or a group of runners you might not know or ever see again… and getting them to the finish line for the first time or their best time. There’s really nothing like it.
And once some runners get into the pacing game, they just keep on keeping on. One of those runners is BD Sechler. You’ll see him at this year’s Novant Health Charlotte Marathon… AGAIN!
DC, do you have plans on Thursday night? Well, you do now… if you’ve yet to make it out to the Birdsong Run Club you’re missing out on ANOTHER excellent opportunity to do a little running around Charlotte. (See what I did there?)
They meet Thursday nights at 6:30 at the taproom on North Davidson here in Charlotte. The Birdsong Run Club has a mix of a couple different routes, and some fun folks to run around with. We’ve got a couple of them right here on the program today!
Experience, they say, is the best instructor. Sharing that experience with others as a coach or teacher is a heck of a way to pay it forward. Here in Charlotte, we’re lucky enough to have LOTS of experienced coaches and guides willing to help runners of all kinds reach their goals.
Angela Knepprath is one of those runners who do just that. She’s an experienced marathoner herself, a “Run Far” coach, and a newly-elected board member of the Charlotte Running Club. Even cooler, she’s our guest today here on The Running Around Charlotte podcast.
Running is a lot of things to a lot of people. It’s a way to get or stay fit. It’s a way to unwind or get fired-up. It’s a way to get some “alone time,” or it’s a way to be around old friends and make new friends. Running is a way to connect with people and make a difference in many different ways.
Ayumi Nagano is one of those people who seems to use running for ALL that it can be. She’s a mom, runner, coach, and activist … the kind of person you’d absolutely want in your corner. We’re excited she’s slowed down long enough to join us on this week’s episode of the Running Around Charlotte podcast!
The running community is FULL of stories. From triumph to tragedy, success and failure… Some of our favorites are ones where running LITERALLY changes someone’s life.
Today’s guest on The Running Around Charlotte Podcast has one of THOSE stories. Brad Pope says running SAVED his life, and he’s here to tell us about it. We won’t spoil this one for you, so let’s get right to it!
If you’re old enough, you probably remember the old school charity walks where donors would pledge a certain number of dollars for every lap you walked for charity. (Do they event still do that??)
Either way, there’s a pair of runners who’ll put a new twist on that this year at the Novant Health Charlotte Marathon. Jimmy Molina and Sunkul Soni are running as “charity chasers,” to gin up money for the Novant Healthy Hemby Children’s Hospital.
And if you’re wondering how this whole “charity chaser” thing works, we’ve got Jimmy and Sunkul on this eposide of the Running Around Charlotte podcast to tell us all about it.
If you’ve been running around Charlotte for any length of time – or swimming or cycling – you may know of our next guest. Dave Koontz is arguably THE OG in the Charlotte Trialthon scene. He and his wife, Sharon, have logged no telling how many miles around the globe training and competing for decades.
After a 42 year career as an engineer at Duke Energy, Dave has retired from “that” kind of work, but he’s still an age group force to be reckoned in triathlon. He’s the publisher of the “Tri News” email… and he’s authoring one very incredible comeback story after donating one of his kidneys to his younger brother.
https://www.charlotteobserver.com/article276008706.html
Boston. Berlin. Tokyo. Chicago. New York. London. They’re not just great places to add to your passport. They’re home to some of the most prestigious marathons on the planet. Running one is something special. Running them all and earning the six-star,
World Marathon Majors is a bucket list for many a runner.
Charlotte’s Anthony Butler earned his sixth star in April at the London marathon. And he may very well hold another unique distinction: Butler is believed to be the only visually impaired runner to check the box on all six stars.
He adds yet another milestone to his list today, as our guest on the Running Around Charlotte podcast!
https://www.runnersworld.com/runners-stories/a43690578/visually-impaired-athlete-completes-6-world-marathon-majors/
Like we’ve heard countless times on this program, there are SO many reasons that we run. And many of us use our running as a vehicle to help others. The 2022 Running USA “Global Running Survey” shows that nearly 40-percent of runners are running FOR a cause. And their efforts add up to millions of … Continue reading Jessica Carranti – Ambassador →
If there was ever a guy who could “walk the walk” AND “talk the talk,” it’s our next guest on the Running Around Charlotte Podcast. Cornell Jones has a resume of work at the Charlotte Hornets and ESPN, and can “talk the talk” about sports. He’s also a runner – and he’s “walking the walk” … Continue reading Cornell Jones – Mad Miles →
Most every runner has their “why.” Why we get up in the morning. Why we go to bed early. Why we get outside in the worst weather or why we log so many miles… The reasons we run are special to each one of us, even if the pace or distance is the same as … Continue reading Ashley Mahoney →
Today’s guest has been coaching, training, and competing for more than three decades. TriYON Performance is the distillation of that experience, and his way of helping others successfully piece together a healthy lifestyle of running, triathlon, and multi-sport. His unique style of incorporating training and nutrition into real life schedules gets results for athletes of … Continue reading Jamey Yon – TriYON Performance →
We think it’s fair to say that runners are pretty darned good people. As a group, they’re generous with their time, their knowledge, their finances, and all that. Today’s guest on the Running Around Charlotte podcast embodies all of that. His instragram is wall-to-wall pics of running. Whether it’s racing, running, pacing, or volunteering at … Continue reading Jesus Delatorre →
Home improvement shows are some of the most ubiquitous and popular shows on just about any platform. Our next guest should probably have her own show. She’s a mom, a runner – of course — one heck of an inspiration, and has some incredible DIY home improvement skills. If you’re not following Heather Taylor on … Continue reading Heather Taylor – Momma’s Building Memories →
For some dogs, ball is life. Others play fetch or whatever, and others might prefer a walk around the block. Bella likes to run. A lot. You may have seen her running around Charlotte – doing anywhere from 5k’s to the marathon. All on those little dachshund legs of hers! Bella and her person, Keith, … Continue reading Keith Koldsbaek – Bella’s Person →
If you’ve been running around charlotte for any length of time, then you’ve probably crossed paths with today’s guest. He’s been part of the Novant Health Charlotte Marathon pace team, a LONG time board member of the Charlotte Running Club, and a Let Me Run Coach. He’s a pretty darned accomplished runner in his own … Continue reading Chad Champion – Ambassador →
Have you ever met a carb you didn’t like? Breakfast IS the most important meal of the day, right? If your answer is no, then we’ve got a great opportunity for you – or for anyone else who likes to get that early run. It’s called “Rise and Run,” and it’s got everything you’d want. … Continue reading Sandy Johnson – Rise N Run →
Two – count ‘em TWO athletes from North Carolina will represent the state in the upcoming Special Olympics games in Berlin this summer. And one of them is from right here in Charlotte. Philip Blount will represent North Carolina at the games this summer. He’s preparing for the 100m sprint, 400x1m relay and standing shotput. … Continue reading Philip Blount – Special Olympian →
Most run clubs have a standing date, location, and start time. And, most have marked or posted routes and other things you’d come to expect from a run club type event.
The Simple Stupid Run Club is anything but what you’d expect. This run club actually comes TO other run clubs. And like any good guest, they don’t come empty-handed. Thomas Mayhugh is the ringleader of the Simple Stupid Run Club. He’s our guest today on the Running Around Charlotte podcast.
Most everyone LOVES a comeback story. You can count us in that “most everyone.” And, for any number of reasons, if you run for any length of time, you’ll probably have a few comeback stories of your own.
Our next guest on the Running Around Charlotte podcast is testament to that. Siobhan Havlik is a 2023 Novant Health Charlotte Marathon Ambassador, and has a few comeback stories of her own, bouncing back to running after three pregnancies.
Move over, Wednesday nights. There’s a new-ish run club on the calendar. The Legion SouthPark Run Club is one of the new clubs on the block, but they’ve got some familiar faces in the crowd.
One of those faces is our friend, Anne Fechtel. She’s also one heck of a runner in her own right, and just got back from Boston. We’ll get to that in a minute, but first, let’s welcome Anne back to the Running Around Charlotte podcast.
No offense, afternoon and evening runners, but there’s just something AMAZING about starting the day with a good run. But, even the early birds need a little company sometimes.
Jourdan Sullivan recognized the opportunity to create some community before the sun comes up. She started a group called Charlotte Morning Run, which meets on Tuesdays and Thursdays along the Rail Trail here in the South End. She’s our guest today on The Running Around Charlotte podcast.
Training for an event takes perseverance, a plan, and – most importantly – it takes time. Finding the kind of time to train for long-distance and multisport events makes finding time even more of a challenge.
Trying to find time for that kind of training AND work and family is a tall order. Today’s guest on the Running Around Charlotte podcast knows a thing or two about finding that balance. Tia Smith is a runner, triathlete, motivator, mom, and a 2023 Novant Health Charlotte Marathon ambassador.
Hey, whatcha got going on this weekend? How about a free, fun, and friendly-friendly 5k event where you can run, walk, jog, volunteer or spectate – it’s up to you! It literally happens EVERY Saturday morning at 9 o’clock along the Little Sugar Creek Greenway here in Charlotte.
No, it’s not a “flash mob” or happy accident. This kind of “park run” is literally a global movement to build some community around the idea of movement. Sarah Kline and Mitch Mitchell are event directors for the Little Sugar Creek Greenway’s Park Run. They’re our guests today on the Running Around Charlotte podcast.
Back in the day, you could time and score all but the biggest events with a Timex and a couple handfuls of popsicle sticks. (Yep. That’s a real thing.) Nowdays, even the smallest events can get world-class timing and scoring, instantaneous results, and cherries on top.
One of the companies that does just that is Start to Finish Event Management. Odds are pretty good, that if you’ve run a race around here – and in a couple of other major markets – you’ve run with Jen Forsyth and the folks from Start 2 Finish.
If you’re one of those runners who’s just GOT to have your tunes to make the miles melt away, then you’ll love our next guest. Heck, if you’ve been to practically ANY event on the Charlotte running calendar, then you probably already know him.
DJ Rosice Batsui is the bedrock of the local running event experience; providing the soundtrack for the RunCharlotte 6-Pack Series of events and the Novant Health Charlotte Marathon.
Like many college and university students, Luis Bayon’s undergraduate experience was full of twists and turns, new experiences, changing majors, and self-discovery. But Luis’s journey from business major to yogi has many more detours than most – and it all started when his family picked up and moved from Cuba to North Carolina.
If you spend any time running at all, you’ll eventually experience a setback. Whether it’s work, family, illness, or injury… very, very few of us skate through without something that slows us down. We could do an entire YEAR’S worth of shows on all the stuff that’s knocked us off schedule.
Our next guest can sympathize. Jeneice Jamison is making her own comeback of sorts. She’s a writer and TV news producer, a runner – of course – and one of this year’s Novant Health Charlotte Ambassadors.
Philip Sanford was in high school when his mom was diagnosed with stage four colorectal cancer. She was just 41. As a grown-up, a runner, and an advocate, Sanford has picked up the cause his mother was unable to continue.
He’s been to Capitol Hill to lobby for better outcomes. He’s also the local director for Charlotte’s colon cancer awareness run, the “Get Your Rear in Gear” 5k. He also happens to be a 2023 Novant Health Charlotte Marathon Ambassador – and he’s our guest on this episode of the Running Around Charlotte podcast.
Our next guest on the Running Around Charlotte podcast fell hard and fast for this whole running thing. Let me read a line from his application to be a NHCM Ambassador:
“I ran my first Charlotte marathon in 2021 and loved it so much I ran the Wilmington marathon 3 months later in February 2022. Then I got into trail running …ran a 24 hour relay on a team of 6 and we placed 2nd in May of 2022. Then I ran the Charlotte marathon again this last year. Training for my first marathon just really brought on this brand new running lifestyle for me.”
Josh Rhodes is the guy who wrote that and we’re excited to meet him and introduce him to you.
Have you gone seen our RunCharlotte Ambassador Events? Maybe gone on a run with them or heard their stories? Today we’re joined by someone who has been described as the heart and soul of the ambassador team.
Our guest is C.J. Langley. Not only is he a long time ambassador, he’s our new lead amabassdor. And he’s here to tell us what’s new with the team – and hown you can get support from our Ambassador team.
Spring is a great time to get back into running, or into it for the first time. One of the things that’s great about running around Charlotte (see what I did there?) is that there are plenty of great place to run, and people to run with.
Whether you’re new to the local running scene or not, the Charlotte Running Club is one of the ways you can connect with who, what, and where to run in the area. Eric Smith is a long-time member and part of the executive board there. He’s our guest today on the Running Around Charlotte podcast.
We all run for different reasons, some of us enjoy a good challenge, others like to stay in shape, but for some of us running is about more than just fitness. Running can be a great way to aid causes that you are passionate about, and one of the most well-known ways to do that is by running for the cure. Running can be a great way to stay active in the new year, but when used to help members of your community overcome cancer it turns into something even greater.
This week we welcome Susan Sears from GoJenGo to the podcast. Susan and the team at GoJenGo are very familiar with the challenges that come along with a cancer diagnosis and the struggles that patients and families go through. However, they are equally as familiar with the outpouring of love and support that can come with the diagnosis as well. Let’s jump right in and hear more from Susan about GoJenGo and the work they are doing.
Getting to the finish line is a huge accomplishment. Getting to the finish line first even more so. But when you are watching someone else run it’s hard to know just how much it took to get there. Did you know that Erin Del Giudice was running the 2022 Novant Health Charlotte Marathon? You might know that she won it, but what about the rest of her story? If you don’t, don’t worry it was a surprise to a lot of us!
Today on the Running Around Charlotte Podcast we are joined by Erin Del Guidice the female winner of the 2022 Novant Health Charlotte Marathon. She’s here today to tell us more about her story and the years that it took to get to the finish line!
Have you gone for a run with the Novant Health Charlotte Marathon Ambassadors? If so then you’ve had a chance to hear some of their amazing stories and be inspired! If you haven’t had a chance to run with them in person then you can always tune in here for some Ambassador Motivation.
This week we are talking with Marty Flores, one of the Charlotte Marathon Ambassadors that has been taking his fitness to the next level. Even more impressive he is pushing his limits while battling health issues.
It’s that time of year again! Your resolutions are in full swing and if being more active is on your list we’ve got just the thing for you. It’s time to get ready for another year of racing and fun with our RunCharlotte Six Pack Series. Six races spread throughout the entire year to make sure that you’ll keep motivated and stay on track with your New Year’s resolutions.
This week on the podcast we are joined by Tim Rhodes, our fearless leader, to talk about all things Six Pack. The 2023 RunCharlotte Six Pack has got some great things in store so without further adieu let’s get into it.
Have you ever considered running a marathon? For most of us just the thought of running 26.2 miles is intimidating. So intimidating in fact that only .01% of the world completes a marathon each year. Just getting to the finish line is an accomplishment that will last a lifetime. But some of us are looking for more of a challenge. Once you prove to yourself that you can finish a marathon, the next step is to see if you can do it a little faster, and somewhere down the line after days, weeks, months, and years of training you have to see if you can win one! Well our next guest on the podcast did just that!
Welcome to the podcast Jacob Rutz, the winner of the 2022 Novant Health Charlotte Marathon. He’s here to tell us more about his story, running journey, and what it’s like to win a marathon!
What do you do to pass the time while you’re out on a run? Most of you are probably saying you listen to music and if you do this is the episode for you! At the intersection of music and running you’ll find Stray Local, a husband-and-wife indie alt-pop duo of Hannah and Jamie Rowen. If you’ve been around the Charlotte Running or Brewery scenes for a while we are sure you’ve run into them, or with them.
Today on the Running Around Charlotte Podcast we are joined by Jamie & Hannah. We can’t wait to learn more about their music, upcoming projects, and track club!
Have you ever wondered what it takes to host a marathon? How about what makes a good expo location? Or how all of those cups get cleaned up. Putting on a race for thousands of runners isn’t easy. Not by a long shot. But when you see the smiles of people crossing their first finish line or the families standing and walking for hours to see their runner; it’s all worth it!
This week on the podcast we are talking to Alaina Williams from the Novant Health Charlotte Marathon. She’s here to answer some of your questions about what it takes to host a marathon as well as the impact the Charlotte Marathon is having in the Queen City!
Finding time to train is never easy. We all know that training for any race, especially a long distance race, is not only difficult on your body, but it can also be very time consuming. Add in work, hobbies, and just living all of a sudden it might seem like there just aren’t enough hours in the day. Now imagine all of that, but instead of training to finish the race you are training to win and your job is saving lives. No pressure!
Today on the podcast we are joined by Hannah Wolkenhauer, the female winner of the 2022 Novant Health Charlotte Half Marathon. Hannah is here to talk a little about her story, her training, and what it takes to be a top athlete as well as a nurse in a Novant hospital!
We know running is an amazing sport! So why not just keep running? You start with a mile which turns into a 5K, 10K, Half Marathon, Marathon, and then all of a sudden you are running even more than that. Running is pretty crazy like that. One day you are huffing and puffing after a mile and the next you are running an ultra marathon… of course there are a lot of years of blood, sweat, and tears between those two days.
Today we are joined by Dr. Sophie McDonald and she is here to shed some light on all of those years between mile one and being ready to run ultramarathons.
You’ve read the book, I’ve read the book, we’ve all read the book. Born to Run started many of us on our running journeys or for those of us already running reignited the fire. Learning about the Tarahumara tribe of ultra-athletes and gazing into the world of barefoot running changed the lives and workouts of runners all over the world.
Today we are joined by Christopher McDougall, the author of Born to Run. And we can’t tell you how excited we are to talk to him about the book and some of the new things he is working on. When the author of this book that captured a generation told us that he was working on something new we knew that we had to sit down and chat with him,
Let Me Run is no stranger here on the Running Around Charlotte Podcast! Their mission to give young boys the tools they need to navigate the world and their emotions in a healthy and constructive way is one that we here on the podcast believe wholeheartedly.
Today we are joined by a friend of ours from the organization, Jesse Smith. If that name sounds familiar you may have seen him running, volunteering, serving as an elder in the church, or during 2018 and 2019 as a member of the Charlotte Marathon Ambassadors. Jesse was recently named the Let Me Run Regional Director for the Greater Charlotte Area and he is here today to tell us a little about that, what Let Me Run has coming up this year and more.
Nothing compares to a day enjoying the natural beauty of the Carolinas at the US National Whitewater Center. Whether you are a biker, runner, climber, hiker, kayaker, tuber, ice skater, SUPer, etc, the Whitewater Center is your place for adventures year round! Days at the Whitewater center are some of the best that you can spend with your friends and family.
Today we are joined by Jesse Hyde from the Whitewater Center. Jesse is here to talk all things Whitewater including some of the new projects they are working on! Without further adieu let’s get started!
Pace, distance, cadence, water stops, bathroom breaks, nutrition intake… the list goes on. There are a lot of things that we expect to worry about when we are going running, especially if we are training for or running a race. One thing that we shouldn’t have to worry about is whether or not we will be safe on our runs. However, news story after new story tells us differently. Safety can be a big concern for runners of all ages, races, genders, and identities.
Today we are joined by Laura Morrow from RunCltRun and she is her to talk to us about the precautions we can take to be a little safer on our runs as well as the larger conversation on why these precautions have to be taken in the first place.
We love to run. The feeling of crossing the finish line, of getting a new PR, and just being around the running community is why we love our sport. But at the Novant Health Charlotte Marathon race day is just the beginning. Part of every race entry is a donation that goes to the Novant … Continue reading Dr. Erin Trakas – Novant →
We’re almost ready for the Novant Health Charlotte Marathon, and it’s a good thing too because it is right around the corner. It takes a lot to put on a race of this size from closing down streets, to getting vendors, to making sure that we’ve got a fancy finish festival for you to sprint … Continue reading Dr. Lisa Rentz – Novant →
Running is a great sport, there’s no getting around that! It’s a great way to meet people, it’s always a great feeling of accomplishment to reach your running goals, and among sports, it has a pretty low barrier to entry. No need to buy a bat or racket. If you had to, you could probably … Continue reading Jaime McDonald – Runner →
How do you get out of your own head and start working towards your goals? Well, sometimes the first step is the hardest. And the longer you wait, the more time you have to build it up in your head until taking that one step turns into something much more difficult. But when should you … Continue reading Troy Gagliardo – Ultrarunner →
Have you ever been out for a run or in a race and seen someone carrying a backpack? You think to yourself… surely they aren’t carrying their computer, in the hopes that they can fire off a few emails mid-race. Well depending on where you were those people were probably rucking! Wondering what rucking is, … Continue reading Amy Petersen – Pathfinder Rucking →
We all remember 2020 as a year when everything changed. We had to stay in our homes, and words like social distancing and pandemic became a part of our everyday language. We traded happy hours at the bar for drinks in our pajamas over zoom and we all collectively forgot what the bottom half of … Continue reading Alejandro Burgos →
Isms… Racism, Sexism, Classism, Ableism, the list goes on. We are all affected by them even if it is not directly. But it is important to remember that even if something does not affect you or someone you love that doesn’t mean it doesn’t matter. Our world needs to change and become more inclusive and … Continue reading Jillian Peat Hamilton – Race Agains ISMs →
Have you ever wondered where all the technological innovations you see at the hospital come from? From x-ray machines to teledocs, to the machines that look straight out of a sci fi comic book, modern medicine is at the cutting edge of technological advancement. But who thinks up all of those things? Well we’ve been … Continue reading Vanessa Parker – Armored Calves Run Club →
Running and then drinking a beer may not always sound like it goes together but if you live in the Queen City you know that it is a match made in heaven. In Charlotte, we have breweries and those breweries have run clubs. In Charlotte proper there are more than 30 breweries, and that number … Continue reading Vanessa Parker – Armored Calves Run Club →
Having a baby can be the most wonderful, terrifying, stressful, and amazing thing someone can do. Individuals and couples that make this life-changing decision do not go into it lightly and it is not uncommon to fall in love with a baby that hasn’t even been born yet. Parents map out their lives, and can … Continue reading Theo & Brittan Facinoli – Out of the Ashes 5k →
Have you ever thought that there are just not enough hours in the day? There has to be some secret code to get more hours because in the same time that it takes some of us to wake up, work, come back home, and go to sleep some of us are doing a heck of … Continue reading Mattie King – Mattie’s Diner and The Gym CLT →
We all know that runners and athletes can do some amazing things. It’s hard to go more than a week without hearing a new amazing story about someone pushing past their limits to achieve the impossible. The human body is amazing and even more so when it’s got a determined mind in the driver seat! … Continue reading Phil Welsh – Premier PT →
It’s been said that fish can’t run, and swimmers don’t do land sports. Our next guest on the Running Around Charlotte Podcast doesn’t fit that standard definition, because she’s a former collegiate swimmer who now runs marathons. In fact, Lindsey McClelland is a marketing director, brand ambassador, former yoga instructor, mom, and yes – a … Continue reading Betsy Zarzour – Team Hemby →
It’s been said that fish can’t run, and swimmers don’t do land sports. Our next guest on the Running Around Charlotte Podcast doesn’t fit that standard definition, because she’s a former collegiate swimmer who now runs marathons. In fact, Lindsey McClelland is a marketing director, brand ambassador, former yoga instructor, mom, and yes – a … Continue reading Lindsay McClelland – Ambassador →
One thing all runners dread is that feeling that something hurts – and not a “good hurt” either! If you’re in tune with your body, you know when something hurts the “wrong way.” You also have to be careful of external factors, like running in traffic, or other ways you can get injured. Our next … Continue reading Kelly Moriarty – Novant Health →
It takes a lot of people to make the Charlotte Marathon happen! A lot of people! From timing, to marketing. From customer service to sponsorship, it takes a village to coordinate a marathon! One piece of the puzzle and hopefully one of the pieces you are most familiar with are our fantastic Charlotte Marathon ambassadors. … Continue reading Kate Hamilton – Ambassador →
Charlotte’s beer scene just might be the best in the world, and the folks at NoDa have played no small part in that. Really that’s an understatement, NoDa Brewing has been leading the way for Charlotte beer since they opened in 2011. They’ve also gone out of there way to support the Charlotte community, including … Continue reading Ashley Roth – NoDa Brewing →
Our Novant Health Charlotte Marathon Ambassadors are a diverse, interesting bunch. And while they all have running in common, they come from a wide variety of backgrounds. Today on the Running Around Charlotte podcast, we’re checking in with Meg Taylor, who is now a scientific director of Pharmacy Times Continuing Education.
There’s nothing we appreciate and admire more than a runner who adopts the running cloth to get healthy and set a great example to others and their kids. Bonus points if that runner is also willing to share their journey as a Novant Health Charlotte Marathon Ambassador. Sandy Johnson is that kind of runner. She’s … Continue reading Sandy Johnson – Ambassador →
We love to mix it up with our road races here at the RunCharlotte Six Pack Series, but we guarantee the last one in the pack will knock your socks off because … it’s not on a road. In fact, this race ROCKS! No really… it does… because we’re taking you almost a mile DOWN … Continue reading Brian North – Martin Marietta →
The Boston Marathon is arguably the most storied event in our sport. No matter how long – or far you’ve been running – you’ve at least thought about running this one. And for those who’ve earned that prestigious BQ and then crossed that historic finish… well, that’s another story altogether, isn’t it? The event’s race … Continue reading Dave McGillivray – DMSE Sports →
We know being active helps everyone. Regardless of age, gender, or ability, an active lifestyle brings a wealth of returns. And having a disability doesn’t mean you can’t be a serious athlete – or even train for a marathon. In 1976, Dick Traum, an above-the-knee amputee, proved it was possible when he became the first … Continue reading Achilles International →
As runners – and presumably anyone else listening in – the term “human powered movement” seems pretty straightforward. Running IS human powered movement, right? But our next guest here on the Running Around Charlotte podcast has a big, bold view of the term. And has some pretty compelling reasons why. Let’s check in with Adam … Continue reading Adam Bratton – Human Powered Movement →
We’re chatting with our friends from Hospice and Palliative Care of Charlotte about the work they do and the upcoming Hit the Brixx 5k and 10k!
We’re so happy it’s Spring! We not only love the weather and want to go for a run, but it’s time for spring running programs for the kids. One of our favorites started right here in Charlotte – Girls On The Run. The organization now serves more than 200-thousand girls a year in all 50 … Continue reading Girls on the Run →
We’re excited about our remaining races in the 6 Pack Race Series and the Novant Health Charlotte Marathon. One reason is, they’re great races and we have a lot of fun. Another – and even better reason – is the money we can raise for a lot of good causes around our region. Our Sponsors … Continue reading Sarah Connolly – Cortland →
We welcome runners from every background at the Novant Health Charlotte Marathon, and choose Ambassadors who reflect that, too. Our next guest on the Running Around Charlotte podcast is a husband and father of two, who hails from the Bronx – but he’s been around the world serving in the U.S. Army, and also found … Continue reading Xavier Vargas – Ambassador →
One of the number one questions for any runner is how to FUEL. Yes, what to eat, when to eat it, and how much to eat for the distance you want to run in training or a race. If you feel like you’re just going from experience or trying to figure out a complex mathematical … Continue reading Ashley Muschiatti – Novant →
April is Autism Awareness Month, and if you’ve never known a young athlete on the spectrum, we’d like to introduce you to one. Autistic athletes are not only capable, but can also be fast! And Marshall Love is a great example of that– just one year after he began running, he took first at the … Continue reading Marshall & Hugh Love – Runner →
If you have a pet, you know it’s part of the family! But you also know how hard it is to capture their spirit in a photo, because the best moments often come out a blur – it’s not easy to make them sit still when they’re being cute. So how do you turn a … Continue reading Bethany Salisbury – Artist →
We know marathoners are a special breed – it takes a lot of time, energy, and dedication to train for a 26-mile race and be any good at it. But let’s quadruple that distance for a moment, and consider the energy, sweat, and we’re pretty sure, TEARS that come with a 100-mile race. If you’re … Continue reading Nathan Leehman – Ultra Running Company →
We always hear that age slows us down, but our next guest on Running Around Charlotte defies that idea. Donny Forsyth is one of the top Masters triathletes in the country, winning his age group at races all over the U.S. with his team, Triple Threat Racing. In December, he competed in the XTerra World … Continue reading Donny Forsyth – Charlotte Running Company →
Want a fun, fresh breakfast? The answer is apparently, “Yes,” because a small house-turned-restaurant that first served breakfast in Huntersville in 2005, now has more than 30 locations across 6 states! Yum! If you live in the Charlotte area, chances are you’ve eaten at a Famous Toastery. And if you hurry, you can sign up … Continue reading Lorna Martinez – Famous Toastery →
We all make resolutions at some point – and we often make them in the New Year, whether we speak them out loud or not. Tops on those lists are diet and exercise, which many of us follow through on, though not always with the desired results. We get it. But our next guest on … Continue reading John Gerst – Ironman →
We love all of those ‘running gifts’ we got for the holidays, but you’re not alone if you didn’t get everything you were looking for under your tree. Our next guest can help! Chris Elkins owns Run for Your Life – a store we’re very familiar with here at the Running Around Charlotte podcast – … Continue reading Chris Elkins – Run For Your Life →
All runners everywhere were HORRIFIED to hear what happened to Ahmaud Arbery nearly 2 years ago, in February 2020. He was simply doing what so many of us do – taking a run through a beautiful neighborhood, taking in the local scenery with awe and curiosity. Except HE was chased down and shot, as 3 … Continue reading Tyrone Irby – Together We Stand NC →
If there was ever a guy who could “walk the walk” AND “talk the talk,” it’s our next guest on the Running Around Charlotte Podcast. Cornell Jones has a resume of work at the Charlotte Hornets and ESPN, and can “talk the talk” about sports. He’s also a runner – and he’s “walking the walk” … Continue reading Cornell Jones – Mad Miles →
We know running can be good for a lot of things at any age — health and fitness, our minds, and our confidence, to name a few. So when a running program for girls spread like wildfire across the nation, one of their coaches here in Charlotte thought something similar would be good for boys. … Continue reading Ashley Armistead – Let Me Run →
One of the best-known charity fundraisers in Charlotte rides in circles every July in Myers Park. And this year, the 24 Hours of Booty celebrates 20 years of rounding the famous Booty Loop to raise money for cancer navigation services at Atrium Health. If you know of the 24 Hours of Booty, you probably know … Continue reading Spencer Lueders – 24 Foundation →
You’ve heard us say it before – it was really nice to be back under the sunshine and crisp fall air of the Carolinas at our in-person Novant Health Charlotte Marathon this year. We had a great turnout for the marathon, half-marathon, and 5k … and our women’s winner was a name that should be … Continue reading Mimi Smith – Marathon Winner →
We hear some incredible stories in the running community about the life-altering effects of running, but this one will blow you away! Jason Gardner was always the “big kid” — you know, a little extra hefty. At his heaviest, about 10 years ago, he was 426 pounds! He decided to make a change. It started … Continue reading Jason Gardner →
If your back hurts, everything hurts. And if you’re one of 65 million Americans who suffer from back pain, you know how important it is to get relief. A chiropractor can help! Whether you’re a serious runner or just a weekend warrior, your back will need care to keep it strong and healthy so you … Continue reading Eric Goodman & Doug Bradberry – Greenapple Sports →
Running a marathon is tough, and training for it can be a real challenge — We know that, right? Now imagine training for a long race or a triathlon if you are visually challenged. How would you do it? You would need a great training partner and coach, for sure. In Charlotte, you’re in good … Continue reading Shannon Houlihan – Para Guides →
It was great to be back! We’re talking — of course — about the Novant Health Charlotte Marathon. After a year of running virtually because of COVID, it was really nice to be back under the sunshine and crisp fall air of the Carolinas at our in-person race. We had a great turnout for the … Continue reading Adam Jones – Marathon Winner →
Many of us have had a hard 2021. Our Ambassador Blair Kitrick is no exception – she’s lost several friends and family this year. She’s here to share her a little about her grief and how running and the community have helped her heal – and even find some joy along the way.
We LOVE football, and 3 cheers to the Charlotte Sports Foundation for bringing 3 big college games to the Queen City every year. The ACC Championship, Duke Mayo Classic, and Duke Mayo Bowl, each bring “that little Southern something that makes good things better” to Bank of America Stadium in the fall, to the delight … Continue reading Will Lawson – Charlotte Sports Foundation →
If you’re a regular reader of our RunCharlotte blog, you may have been “wowed” by this story back in April. Richard Sexton of Concord — a former furniture e-commerce entrepreneur, digital marketer, occasional substitute teacher, and last-but-not-least ultra runner — ran a full month of marathons last May with a 25-pound weight ball in his … Continue reading Richard Sexton →
The numbers detailing America’s health can be staggering. According to the CDC, 42 percent of Americans are obese. You heard that right — 42 percent — a 12-point jump compared to 20 years ago. And the highest percentage of obesity when broken down by race is found in Black adults. Those are the kind of … Continue reading Gregory Washington – Black Men Run →
If you ever needed proof about how running changes lives, just look at the nonprofit RunningWorks. The programs are designed to promote healthy lifestyles for our neighbors experiencing homelessness and poverty. And RunningWorks acts like the BEST running buddy — not only fostering relationships through running, but helping connect its team members with community resources in healthcare, jobs, and housing… to name a few.
RunningWorks also encourages rehabilitation and dignity for its members through volunteering. Serving others will get you on your feet to stand a little taller — and the Novant Health Charlotte Marathon is proud to say RunningWorks team members serve as volunteers on race day. Their Chief Operating Officer Matt Sharp is here with us today on Running Around Charlotte to bring us up to date on new programming since the group worked through the difficult times of COVID.
We love our ambassadors — the guys and girls who spread the word about the Novant Health Charlotte Marathon, and train, and post about us all year. And they come from all walks of life, with the common threads of running and positivity.
Joe Smith is one of those ambassadors, even though he looks more like a defensive lineman than a marathon runner. But he’s also an incredibly multi-faceted guy, business owner, entrepreneur, photographer … and runner. And he’s here with us on the Running Around Charlotte Podcast today to bring some of that energy into the room.
One of Charlotte’s largest Thanksgiving traditions has nothing to do with pumpkin pie or stuffing – and the only turkeys you’ll see will be on people’s heads – not plates. What could we be talking about? Why the Charlotte Turkey Trot, of course. That’s right – early Thanksgiving morning, thousands of people take to the streets and run off dinner before they eat it.
Joining us today is David Jessey – one of the owners of the Charlotte Turkey Trot.
Runners love a challenge – and training for a marathon is a great way to push yourself a little further than you ever have. If you’ve run one and enjoyed it, you push yourself a little more to do a PR the next time around. But we’ve got a challenge only a few hardy souls sign up for…. Running the half-marathon with a weighted backpack.
You may have heard of rucking – which is basically a form of military training where you run miles with a full backpack. The Novant Health Charlotte Marathon has a Rucking Division in the half-marathon race, and on today’s Running Around Charlotte Podcast, their fearless leader Mike Sweeting joins us to explain more about it.
We’re dedicated to making this year’s Novant Health Charlotte Marathon the best one yet! Whether you’re running virtually or in person, we’re stepping up our game after all runners have been through with postponements and cancellations in the last 18 months.
That’s one reason we brought a pro on board to be our Event Experience Director. We first spoke to Alaina Williams last March on the Running Around Charlotte Podcast, and now we’re talking to her again about what kind of awesome experiences she has planned for the race.
We love our friends down at Novant Health and all of the support and guidance they give us here at the Charlotte Marathon. And we love turning over that big check to them after every race, with money we’ve earned, because we know it goes for a great cause — the Novant Health Hemby Children’s Hospital.
There is a lot of good work going on there, and if you’ve ever had to make a hospital stay with your child, you know how important that is. Jessica Osborn is an Ambassador at Hemby Children’s Hospital, where she advocates for the non-medical needs of kids and families during their stay. And she joins us now on the Running Around Charlotte Podcast to tell us how your race entries help kids.
We all have our reasons for running — for some of us it starts with wanting to get more exercise and lose a few pounds, right? Our next guest on the Running Around Charlotte Podcast is definitely one of those folks — a Charlotte native who looked at his high school Senior photo, tipping the scales at 300 pounds — and decided to do better. For the next 16 years, Mike Cooke decided to do better every day, but the journey was not easy.
Along the way he made changes in his food, his drinking, and himself, to get where he is now. We think a lot of you can identify with someone who makes the effort to go from less-than-perfect to better, without necessarily trying to be perfect along the way.
In just a few short weeks, our big race will be here! We couldn’t do it without a lot of help, and all of our enthusiastic friends we call Novant Health Charlotte Marathon Ambassadors. Bekah Eljoundi is one of them, though you may know her as Run Coach Bekah. She has more than 13 years of running, coaching, and personal training experience to give you the boost you need for your fitness or racing goals.
It’s a diagnosis that no parent ever wants to hear — your sweet, bouncy, fun-loving, child has a terminal illness and there’s no cure. But if you found out that you could have slowed the illness — maybe even kept it at bay — with a blood screen when your baby was born, your grief then might turn to anger and then to action.
Today we’re talking to a Mom taking action, about a scenario just like that. Sarah Penney McDonald’s son, Nash, had a seizure when he was 5, and shortly after that, doctors delivered a diagnosis of ALD – Adrenoleukodystrophy. A simple blood screen at birth would have prompted testing that might have slowed it down… and that’s what Sarah is trying to get for newborns in North Carolina.
Stay up to date on Nash: https://mailchi.mp/f25bcf92b119/nashs-ray-of-light
Run on Nash’s Team: runsignup.com/RaceGroups/109004/Groups/961500
Donate: www.gofundme.com/f/nashs-ray-of-light-ald
You could simply describe our next guest as a math teacher who also runs — but that would barely scratch the surface when it comes to Larry Frederick. Sure, he’s taught gifted math classes for the last 14 years, but before that, he was known to old-school Charlotte runners as the founder and owner of Run For Your Life stores (Hey, we know that place!)
And before he even opened his first Charlotte store in 1989, Larry was a runner — a very GOOD runner. His hometown paper, the Utica Observer-Dispatch, called him “one of the best distance runners ever in the Mohawk Valley” of New York, citing that in his day, he was the most accomplished marathoner ever in Utica’s history. Pretty big accomplishment! And now he’s a Charlotte guy who led the running scene for years.
If you need a bit of cheer, a motivating word, or a great running route around Charlotte, ask any one of our Ambassadors. The Novant Health Charlotte Marathon Ambassadors will make you want to run through a wall — (we don’t recommend that) — or at least get you out on the road putting one foot in front of the other on days your motivation falls short.
And if you want your run to be full of colorful murals, we’ve got an Ambassador who knows that too. Laura Morrow is a runner whose Instagram alternates a post about where she ran that day with a positive, inspirational, or even just funny thoughts about life. And she REALLY likes food. (That’s why we run, right?)
In a traditional world, it is drilled into our heads that good nutrition is a balance of all food groups, which includes protein — most often lean meat. Nothing against a good piece of grilled chicken, but our next guest on the Running Around Charlotte podcast says you don’t need to eat more chicken, or even eat meat at all!
Matt Frazier is the author of No Meat Athlete, and his blogs and books chronicle the basics of being an athlete on a vegan diet — namely, it can be done! In fact, Matt says your performance will not only, “not suffer” — it will be much better. He’s perfecting his diet every day, as an athlete and as a dad.
I hope you got a chance to watch the Olympics this year. It was a tough year for athletes — with an extra year of training — and less-than-ideal running conditions in Tokyo in July. We know YEARS of training go into getting to that level, to even qualify for Olympic Trials, so we thought you’d like some insight from someone who’s been there.
Scott Dvorak is known to local runners as the owner of Charlotte Running Company, but he also has a long career in running at the highest level — including Trials for the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta. He took a break from his own “running around Charlotte” to join us on our Running Around Charlotte podcast today.