Run Strong Run Podcast

6d ago

Send us a text In this episode of the Run Strong Run Podcast , I sit down with new marathoner and mom of two, Vicky Hurd , a.k.a. @marathonmamav , who went from zero running routine to 26.2 miles at the Every Woman’s Marathon in just over a year. Vicky shares how she went from running eighth-grade cross country “just to make the soccer team” to becoming a runner again after kids, inspired by everyday runners she saw online. We talk about her decision to run one race every month , the brutal first half marathon that almost broke her, and how she turned that experience into a full-hour PR at her next half simply by trusting her plan. We also dive into what it’s really like training for a first marathon as a full-time working mom with a 3-year-old and 18-month-old , why she did most of her early miles on the treadmill out of fear and embarrassment, and how community—online and in person—carried her through the hardest miles of race day in Scottsdale. If you’ve ever wondered, “Can I really do this?” when it comes to a 5K, 10K, half marathon, or full marathon, Vicky’s story will feel like a permission slip to start scared and show up anyway. In this episode, we talk about: How Vicky went from “not a runner” to racing every month for a year The couch-to-5K journey that turned into multiple half marathons and a full The disaster first half marathon that taught her to stick to her plan Why she spent four months running only on the treadmill before braving the park Training for a marathon as a working mom of two small kids (4 a.m. alarms and all) The emotional highs and lows of the Every Woman’s Marathon Vicky’s go-to gear and fuel: Goo Tane , Bonk Breaker chews , and Brooks Glycerin Her advice to anyone afraid to take the first step: “Do it scared.” 🎧 Listen in if you need a reminder that you belong at the start line—no matter your pace, your age, or how long you’ve been away from running. ✨ Helpful Links Mentioned in This Episode: Download your free 5:50 marathon pace band . Watch the full episode on YouTube. Join the Interval Running for Beginners course (Starting Smart & Strong). Connect with Vicky on Instagram: @marathonmamav Support the show Welcome to the Run Strong Run Podcast ! The show where I, Stephanie Dunlap, empower runners of all levels to lace up, chase their dreams, and cross every finish line stronger than ever. To join the discussion live, follow me on Instagram @runstrongrun , TikTok @runstrongrun , or on my website at runstrongrun.com About Stephanie: Stephanie is a beginner run coach, marathon pacer, and your number-one cheerleader! Stephanie went from couch potato to marathoner in 2012 and "Run Strong Run" was born. Since running her first marathon, she's run over 50 full marathons! Stephanie believes that ALL runners count from the fast to the back of the pack. In Stephanie's words, "If you run, you are a runner!"

Nov 29

Send us a text In this episode, I’m counting down 7 unforgettable CIM moments from my seven years at the California International Marathon. From my first CIM in 2016, to becoming a three-time ambassador, to officially joining the pace team in 2021, to running with legends like Benny and Bruce — these stories shaped me as a runner, a pacer, and a believer that all runners count . Whether you’re running CIM this year or dreaming about it someday, this episode is packed with inspiration, behind-the-scenes pacing memories, and the start-line magic that makes CIM one of the best marathons in the world. If you’re running CIM this year, I’ll be pacing the 5:50 group again. Come say hi at the expo or at the start line! ✨ Free 5:50 Pace Band ✨ Interval Running for Beginners Course ✨ From the blog: The First California International Marathon (CIM) Six hour Pacer Support the show Welcome to the Run Strong Run Podcast ! The show where I, Stephanie Dunlap, empower runners of all levels to lace up, chase their dreams, and cross every finish line stronger than ever. To join the discussion live, follow me on Instagram @runstrongrun , TikTok @runstrongrun , or on my website at runstrongrun.com About Stephanie: Stephanie is a beginner run coach, marathon pacer, and your number-one cheerleader! Stephanie went from couch potato to marathoner in 2012 and "Run Strong Run" was born. Since running her first marathon, she's run over 50 full marathons! Stephanie believes that ALL runners count from the fast to the back of the pack. In Stephanie's words, "If you run, you are a runner!"

Nov 22

Send us a text In this heartfelt and inspiring episode of the Run Strong Run Podcast , Steph sits down with two-time marathon finisher Miriam Perales , who went from hating the mile in PE to crossing the finish line at both the Oakland Marathon and the Every Woman’s Marathon by age 30. Miriam shares how running became her unexpected path to confidence, healing, and community—from early-morning miles in the Central Valley heat to joining thousands of women on the streets of Scottsdale. She opens up about running her first unofficial half marathon during COVID, pushing through the toughest miles of her full marathons, and discovering that there is no one “runner body.” Together, Steph and Miriam talk about: How Miriam went from casual jogger to marathoner The power of run/walk intervals The emotional energy of the Every Woman’s Marathon Finding courage in the back of the pack Why anyone—yes, anyone—can become a runner If you need a reminder that all runners count and that you can do hard things, this episode will speak straight to your heart. Expect encouragement, laughter, a few tears, and a whole lot of inspiration. ✨ Helpful Links Mentioned in This Episode: Download your free 5:50 marathon pace band . Watch the full episode on YouTube. Join the Interval Running for Beginners course (Starting Smart & Strong). Connect with Miriam on Instagram: @mperales_066 Support the show Welcome to the Run Strong Run Podcast ! The show where I, Stephanie Dunlap, empower runners of all levels to lace up, chase their dreams, and cross every finish line stronger than ever. To join the discussion live, follow me on Instagram @runstrongrun , TikTok @runstrongrun , or on my website at runstrongrun.com About Stephanie: Stephanie is a beginner run coach, marathon pacer, and your number-one cheerleader! Stephanie went from couch potato to marathoner in 2012 and "Run Strong Run" was born. Since running her first marathon, she's run over 50 full marathons! Stephanie believes that ALL runners count from the fast to the back of the pack. In Stephanie's words, "If you run, you are a runner!"

Nov 14

Send us a text In this episode of the Run Strong Run Podcast , Stephanie sits down with marathoner and mom of four, Dawn Klasen , whose story proves it’s never too late to start running. Dawn began running in her early 40s after surgical menopause—what started as a way to manage her health quickly turned into a passion that’s carried her across marathon finish lines. Stephanie and Dawn first met at the USA Women’s Marathon in Palm Desert, where Dawn completed her first 26.2, and they’re now gearing up to reunite at the Every Woman’s Marathon in Scottsdale, Arizona. Together they talk about: Starting from zero and building confidence as a new runner Running through motherhood, mental health, and real-life chaos Pushing through an IT band flare at mile 20 Finding strength and joy in the back of the pack Why “all runners count,” no matter pace or distance If you’ve ever wondered whether you can run your first race—or if you’re craving some motivation to keep going—Dawn’s story will light you up. 🎧 Listen now and get inspired before the Every Woman’s Marathon! 👉 Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/OoGvuVfZ7IA ✨ Join Run Strong Run Weekly for expert tips, motivation, and training secrets delivered straight to your inbox: JOIN HERE Support the show Welcome to the Run Strong Run Podcast ! The show where I, Stephanie Dunlap, empower runners of all levels to lace up, chase their dreams, and cross every finish line stronger than ever. To join the discussion live, follow me on Instagram @runstrongrun , TikTok @runstrongrun , or on my website at runstrongrun.com About Stephanie: Stephanie is a beginner run coach, marathon pacer, and your number-one cheerleader! Stephanie went from couch potato to marathoner in 2012 and "Run Strong Run" was born. Since running her first marathon, she's run over 50 full marathons! Stephanie believes that ALL runners count from the fast to the back of the pack. In Stephanie's words, "If you run, you are a runner!"

Nov 8

Send us a text What if your next personal record wasn’t about speed—but about joy? 🌟 In this uplifting episode of the Run Strong Run Podcast , host Stephanie Dunlap chats with runner Carrie Gilbert , who shares how the California International Marathon helped her redefine what a PR truly means. From her first marathon in Chicago to carrying a notepad of “roses, thorns, and mantras” through CIM 2024, Carrie’s story is all about running with gratitude, connection, and purpose. 🎥 Watch the full interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ProFAE4WgMM Tune in to be inspired by the beauty of slowing down, finding community, and celebrating every step of the journey—because at CIM, all runners count. 💛 🔗 Download a copy of Carrie's Roses, Thorns, and Mantras from CIM 2024 . Support the show Welcome to the Run Strong Run Podcast ! The show where I, Stephanie Dunlap, empower runners of all levels to lace up, chase their dreams, and cross every finish line stronger than ever. To join the discussion live, follow me on Instagram @runstrongrun , TikTok @runstrongrun , or on my website at runstrongrun.com About Stephanie: Stephanie is a beginner run coach, marathon pacer, and your number-one cheerleader! Stephanie went from couch potato to marathoner in 2012 and "Run Strong Run" was born. Since running her first marathon, she's run over 50 full marathons! Stephanie believes that ALL runners count from the fast to the back of the pack. In Stephanie's words, "If you run, you are a runner!"

Feb 4

Send us a text In this inspiring episode, I sit down with Alicia Rodriguez—a dedicated marathoner, real estate agent, single mom, and proud grandma. Alicia shares her incredible journey of balancing motherhood, a thriving career, and her passion for running. We dive into our experiences running together at the Run Rocklin Half Marathon, Run the Parkway 20-Miler and the California International Marathon (CIM), and Alicia opens up about how running has shaped her resilience and determination in both life and business. Whether you're training for your next race or looking for motivation to chase your dreams, Alicia’s story is sure to inspire you! Hit play and get ready to be inspired! ⚫ Follow Alicia on Instagram at / aliciarodriguezrealestategroup 🎥 Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/TTLa7BjCsZg Download your FREE Speed Walking Workout Guide : Download Here Subscribe to the Run Strong Run Newsletter : Subscribe Now Enroll in my Online Running Course for Beginners: Sign Up Today Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share with your running friends. Let’s run strong together! Support the show Welcome to the Run Strong Run Podcast ! The show where I, Stephanie Dunlap, empower runners of all levels to lace up, chase their dreams, and cross every finish line stronger than ever. To join the discussion live, follow me on Instagram @runstrongrun , TikTok @runstrongrun , or on my website at runstrongrun.com About Stephanie: Stephanie is a beginner run coach, marathon pacer, and your number-one cheerleader! Stephanie went from couch potato to marathoner in 2012 and "Run Strong Run" was born. Since running her first marathon, she's run over 50 full marathons! Stephanie believes that ALL runners count from the fast to the back of the pack. In Stephanie's words, "If you run, you are a runner!"

Jan 25

Send us a text Ready to transform your walk intervals into a powerful part of your run/walk strategy? In this episode, we share expert tips on how to increase your walk interval pace, improve your efficiency, and maintain momentum during your training. Learn how proper form, cadence, and intentional drills can help you walk faster without compromising recovery or performance. Whether you’re training for a marathon, half marathon, or just starting out with run/walk intervals, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you reach your goals. Tune in and take your walking game to the next level! Resources Mentioned in This Episode: Download your FREE Speed Walking Workout Guide : Download Here Subscribe to the Run Strong Run Newsletter : Subscribe Now Enroll in my Running Course for Beginners: Sign Up Today Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share with your running friends. Let’s run strong together! 🎥 Click here to watch on YouTube. Support the show Welcome to the Run Strong Run Podcast ! The show where I, Stephanie Dunlap, empower runners of all levels to lace up, chase their dreams, and cross every finish line stronger than ever. To join the discussion live, follow me on Instagram @runstrongrun , TikTok @runstrongrun , or on my website at runstrongrun.com About Stephanie: Stephanie is a beginner run coach, marathon pacer, and your number-one cheerleader! Stephanie went from couch potato to marathoner in 2012 and "Run Strong Run" was born. Since running her first marathon, she's run over 50 full marathons! Stephanie believes that ALL runners count from the fast to the back of the pack. In Stephanie's words, "If you run, you are a runner!"

Jan 16

Send us a text In this inspiring episode, I sit down with Dr. Bryon Solberg, a paraplegic athlete who has redefined what it means to push limits. From the start line of his 23rd Carlsbad Marathon to his ongoing journey of resilience and determination, Bryon shares how he found his "why" and uses it to overcome challenges, inspire others, and keep moving forward. Whether you're a runner, a dreamer, or someone searching for your own "why," this episode will leave you motivated to chase your potential. 🎧 Tune in now and be inspired by Bryon Solberg’s incredible story! ⚫ Follow Dr. B on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/dr.bryon or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/Dr.Bryon 🎥 Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ngVZ7cau_d0 Support the show Welcome to the Run Strong Run Podcast ! The show where I, Stephanie Dunlap, empower runners of all levels to lace up, chase their dreams, and cross every finish line stronger than ever. To join the discussion live, follow me on Instagram @runstrongrun , TikTok @runstrongrun , or on my website at runstrongrun.com About Stephanie: Stephanie is a beginner run coach, marathon pacer, and your number-one cheerleader! Stephanie went from couch potato to marathoner in 2012 and "Run Strong Run" was born. Since running her first marathon, she's run over 50 full marathons! Stephanie believes that ALL runners count from the fast to the back of the pack. In Stephanie's words, "If you run, you are a runner!"