The Man Behind the Boston Marathon: The President Of The BAA Jack Fleming on Legacy, Community & the Future of Running

Jack Fleming is more than just a figure in running history. He’s shaping its future. As President and CEO of the Boston Athletic Association (B.A.A.), Jack leads with a mission: make running accessible to everyone, all year round. After joining the B.A.A. in 1992, he’s worked nearly every role and now sets the course for a more inclusive, community-focused organization. That vision was clear at the recent Shoreline 5K at Carson Beach, a new, entirely B.A.A.-run event. Planned, managed, and executed solely by B.A.A. staff, this Thursday night race was designed with the community in mind. The event was all about participation. No cash prizes or age-group awards. Every finisher got a custom B.A.A.-adidas cap, a new kind of giveaway. This speaks to Jack’s leadership, that goes far beyond this one race. Under his watch, the 2024 Boston Marathon charity program raised a record $45.7 million, with a total philanthropic impact of $71.9 million. He was recently inducted into the Road Runners Club of America Hall of Fame, cementing his status as a sport leader. But Jack isn’t slowing down. He’s out running local races every week, focused on growing the sport, connecting with new runners, and making all B.A.A. events matter—on and off the course. In today's conversation, Tap into the Jack Fleming Special. If you enjoy the podcast, please consider following us on Spotify and Apple Podcasts and giving us a five-star review! I would also appreciate it if you share it with your friend who you think will benefit from it. Comment the word “PODCAST” below and I’ll DM you a link to listen. If this episode blesses you, please share it with a friend! S H O W N O T E S -The Run Down By The Running Effect (our new newsletter!): https://tinyurl.com/mr36s9rs -BUY MERCH BEFORE IT’S GONE: https://shop.therunningeffect.run -Our Website: https://therunningeffect.run -THE PODCAST ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClLcLIDAqmJBTHeyWJx_wFQ -My Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/therunningeffect/?hl=en⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ -Take our podcast survey: https://tinyurl.com/3ua62ffz