Best Andres Vargas Podcasts (2025)

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206: Filming the Finish: Andres Vargas Journey in Crossing the Line 2:10:48

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20d ago2:10:48

2:10:48

What drives someone to document their first marathon journey? In this captivating episode, we dive deep with filmmaker Andres Vargas who created a professional documentary about training for and completing his first marathon at Walt Disney World. Despite having no prior filmmaking experience, Andres crafted a compelling story that captures both the…

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209: Get PhotoPass Ready with the Council of Costumes 2:23:30

2h ago2:23:30

2:23:30

Costumes transform runDisney races from mere athletic events into moving celebrations of creativity and character. In this lively episode, we welcome back the Rise and Run Council of Costumes – a panel of expert race-day costumers who've turned heads and sparked joy with their elaborate designs. What makes a successful race costume? Our council rev…

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208: 2025 Bird In Hand Half Marathon Recap 2:18:48

6d ago2:18:48

2:18:48

Episode 208 transports us to the heart of Amish country as we dive deep into the Bird in Hand Half Marathon weekend. "It's like running through a postcard," our friend, Ryan, commented. From camel selfies to cornfield runs, our special guests Ellie, Carrie, Tracy, and Kim capture the pastoral magic that makes this event unlike any other running exp…

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207: 2025 Disneyland Halloween Half Weekend Recap 2:16:15

13d ago2:16:15

2:16:15

Running truly connects us across continents, time zones, and finish lines—a truth brilliantly illustrated in this globe-spanning episode. We begin with a comprehensive look at the triumphant return of Disneyland racing through the Halloween-themed race weekend that kicked off the 2025-2026 runDisney season. Our panel of runners shares firsthand exp…

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205: Rise and Run With Meb. Miles, Medals, and Motivation 1:51:30

27d ago1:51:30

1:51:30

What does it take to rise from refugee to Olympic medalist? Marathon legend Meb Keflezighi reveals his extraordinary journey from war-torn Eritrea to becoming the only American to win Boston, New York, and an Olympic medal in the marathon. Meb's story begins with a father who walked 225 miles to escape persecution, a family separated for five years…

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204: Race Day Volunteers: The Heartbeat of Race Day 2:20:18

1M ago2:20:18

2:20:18

Every finish line moment you've celebrated was made possible by someone who showed up before dawn, prepared water stations, or cheered when you needed it most. In this heartfelt episode, we pull back the curtain on race volunteering with insights from experienced volunteers who've supported events from local 5Ks to the Boston Marathon. Our voluntee…

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203: The Rise and Run Resort Rumble 1:53:18

1M ago1:53:18

1:53:18

Pack your running shoes and Mickey ears—it's time to prepare for the upcoming Run Disney race season! This episode dives into all the exciting events on the horizon, with just three weeks until the Disneyland Halloween Half Marathon Weekend and ten weeks until Wine and Dine. Magic Bound Travel's Brad and Maggie join us to share valuable insights ab…

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202: Loopy Looper: 12 Hours of Friendship and a Lifetime of Memories 1:46:08

2M ago1:46:08

1:46:08

Have you ever wondered how a simple cheek swab could save someone's life? In this deeply moving episode, we're joined by representatives from the National Marrow Donor Program who explain how their registry connects blood cancer patients with life-saving donors. Our guest Abby shares her powerful personal journey of receiving a stem cell transplant…

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201: Disney Entertainer Jodi Chase: The Voice Behind the Hill 1:43:03

2M ago1:43:03

1:43:03

What's it like to be the voice that gets you up that brutal hill during a runDisney race? In this milestone episode, we pull back the curtain with Disney entertainer Jodi Chase, who reveals the method behind the "annoying" character she portrays alongside her race course partner Angie. "We're trying to be as annoying as possible so that you will no…

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200: The Rise and Run Ohana: A Celebration of 200 Episodes featuring Jeff Galloway 2:55:58

2M ago2:55:58

2:55:58

For our landmark 200th episode, we're joined by a running legend who needs no introduction—Jeff Galloway, Olympian, author, coach, and the revolutionary mind behind the Run-Walk-Run method. Jeff takes us back to his humble beginnings as an overweight eighth-grader who could barely run half a mile before "hitting the wall." From those inauspicious s…

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199: From Start to Finish Lines with Alan and Grace Young 1:38:51

2M ago1:38:51

1:38:51

In episode 199, we visit with runDisney royalty Alan and Grace Young, who share their remarkable 30+ year journey with Walt Disney World Marathon. Alan holds the incredible distinction of running every single Walt Disney World Marathon since its 1994 inception—a legacy he's maintained through strokes, surgeries, and countless challenges. "I never c…

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198: Full of Helium and Insight: A Chat with runDisney's Balloon Ladies 2:14:53

3M ago2:14:53

2:14:53

The iconic Balloon Ladies return to the podcast, sharing the story behind runDisney's most recognizable pace team. Molly and Kathleen pull back the curtain on what it really means to maintain the critical 16-minute pace that determines whether runners complete their Disney race journey or face the dreaded sweep. Their fascinating origin story begin…

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197: Hooked on #runDopey and High on Shenanigans 1:47:18

3M ago1:47:18

1:47:18

When does a running group become family? The #runDopey crew joins us to celebrate their sixth anniversary, sharing how they've grown from a small accountability group to a 6,000-member community transforming the runDisney experience through positivity, unforgettable costumes, and what they call "shenanigans." As official Dopey Challenge training ki…

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196: Training Wisdom With Coach Chris Twiggs 2:09:22

3M ago2:09:22

2:09:22

Summer is here, and it's time to adapt your running strategy to the heat. Coach Chris Twiggs, Chief Training Officer for Jeff Galloway and Perfect Disney Marathoner (gearing up for his 33rd consecutive event!), joins us to share invaluable wisdom that will transform your warm-weather training. The conversation goes beyond just beating the heat. Coa…

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195: Brittany Charboneau: One Bad A** Mother Runner 1:47:14

3M ago1:47:14

1:47:14

Professional trail runner Brittany Charbonneau joins us for a heartfelt, inspiring, and fun conversation about her journey through pregnancy, motherhood, and returning to competitive racing. Four months after giving birth to her son Hugo following a 27-hour labor and C-section, Brittany shares the emotional and physical realities of balancing elite…

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194: From Bathroom Breaks to Flat Tires: The Gang Answers Your Questions 1:46:50

4M ago1:46:50

1:46:50

What happens when you have nowhere to pee during a 4 a.m. training run? Which runDisney half marathon truly delivers the best experience? And does anyone actually know how to change a flat tire without calling AAA? This packed episode delivers answers to these burning questions and many more as we dive into our listener mailbag. The debate gets hea…

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193: From Starting Line to Executive Suite: Leadership Lessons from the Running Trail 1:54:55

4M ago1:54:55

1:54:55

What can marathon training teach us about effective leadership? In this thought-provoking episode, we're joined by Celia, Executive Director of the American Council of Academic Physical Therapy, who draws fascinating parallels between conquering 26.2 miles and navigating the challenges of executive leadership. Celia shares how she transformed from …

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192: Vella Shpringa With Bird In Hand Race Director Lowell Ladd 1:49:02

4M ago1:49:02

1:49:02

What does it take to create a race experience so special that runners travel from across the country to participate? Lowell Ladd, race director of the Bird in Hand Half Marathon Weekend, joins us to reveal the behind-the-scenes magic of organizing this beloved event in Pennsylvania's Amish country. From handcrafted horseshoe medals to running past …

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191: "So Here's the Thing..." The Pelkey Running Club Story 2:01:54

4M ago2:01:54

2:01:54

Have you spotted the hats and shirts with "Pelkey Running Club" at recent runDisney events? What began as a one-time costume joke has blossomed into a global running phenomenon, and we're bringing you the full story straight from the source. We sit down with Grant, the club's founder, and John Pelkey himself—the beloved runDisney announcer who went…

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190: Going Ballistic With Award-Winning Journalist Henry Abbott 1:41:44

4M ago1:41:44

1:41:44

What if injuries aren't inevitable, but predictable events with upstream warning signs we can actually address? Henry Abbott, award-winning journalist and founder of True Hoop, joins us to discuss his groundbreaking book "Ballistic: The New Science of Injury-Free Athletic Performance" that challenges everything we thought we knew about athletic dur…

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189: Deep Dish or Thin Crust: Vern Runs on Pizza 2:11:22

5M ago2:11:22

2:11:22

"Why did I ever think this was a good idea?" That 3AM alarm for Disney races is something we all question—but then the magic happens. This episode, we're joined by Vern (@RunsOnPizza), whose vibrant interviews with costumed runners have become a beloved fixture of runDisney events. Vern shares her journey from nervous first-timer in 2018 to the uno…

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188: Dr. Michelle Quirk - Coach and Host of the Mindful Marathon 1:48:19

5M ago1:48:19

1:48:19

Have you ever wondered if you're a "real runner" because you take walk breaks? Dr. Michelle Quirk, pediatrician and running coach, sets the record straight in this episode, sharing why walk intervals are not only acceptable but beneficial for all runners. Her thoughtful advice for beginners—remember your "why," start slow, and focus on effort rathe…

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187: The Disneyland Hiatus and the Flying Fenglers 1:41:42

5M ago1:41:42

1:41:42

When a brother and sister team take on the Springtime Surprise 10-Miler, they don't just participate – they make runDisney history by becoming the first siblings to win both the male and female divisions in the same race. Meet Liz and Stephen Fengler, aptly nicknamed "The Flying Fenglers," whose remarkable running journey began in middle school tra…

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186: 2025 runDisney Springtime Surprise Weekend Recap 2:12:29

5M ago2:12:29

2:12:29

The curtain closes on another magical runDisney race season as we unpack the highlights, challenges, and unforgettable moments of Springtime Surprise Weekend. From unexpected fire alarms at Animal Kingdom Lodge to Bob's show-stopping Groot costume that captured runDisney's official attention, this episode brims with stories that showcase why this c…

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185: Listener Questions: Rise and Run Host Edition 1:18:53

6M ago1:18:53

1:18:53

Ever wonder what goes on in the minds of your favorite Rise and Run Podcast hosts? Episode 185 pulls back the curtain as we answer your specific questions about our individual journeys, preferences, and experiences. The conversation takes us deep into what makes each host unique in their approach to Disney running. Jack explains why ultramarathons …

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184: The Culinary Crown Showdown: Who Takes Home the Golden Whip? 1:51:16

6M ago1:51:16

1:51:16

From Disney culinary champions to running through every town in Connecticut, this episode of Rise and Run serves up a delicious mix of Disney dining discussions and an inspiring look at one of running's most unique communities. As the hosts close out their March Madness tournament of Disney table-service restaurants, passionate debates erupt over b…

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183: The Appetizer to the Sweet 16 2:04:20

6M ago2:04:20

2:04:20

This week's episode opens with a deeply moving tribute to Erin Petz, a cherished member of the running community who recently lost her battle with cancer at just 43 years old. The hosts share personal memories of Erin's vibrant spirit, contagious laugh, and unwavering kindness that touched so many lives through her podcasting work on "Will Run For"…

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182: March Madness Comes to Disney Dining 1:56:16

6M ago1:56:16

1:56:16

March Madness fever sweeps through the Rise and Run Podcast as we launch our multi-episode tournament to crown the ultimate Walt Disney World sit-down restaurant! Using data from TouringPlans.com, our hosts have seeded 68 dining locations into four regions named after runDisney course staples: Plastic Cheese, Banana, Sports Bean, and Cliff's. Block…

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181: Inside the 501st Legion: The Bad Guys Doing Good at runDisney 2:08:52

7M ago2:08:52

2:08:52

What happens when the Empire's finest decide to support runners instead of hunting Rebels? This week we're joined by members of the 501st Legion, a global organization of Star Wars cosplayers who bring movie-quality villain costumes to the sidelines of Disney races. Mai, Marianne, and Tony reveal the intense dedication behind their screen-accurate …

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180: Setting Sail With Rise and Run 2:05:04

7M ago2:05:04

2:05:04

We explore the magic of Disney running and the community that rallies around it, highlighting our upcoming Rise and Run Cruise; inspiring stories from the recent Chattanooga Marathon Weekend; and introducing the innovative HollarHype app. - Magic Bound Travel gives us early insights into next year's Rise and Run Cruise aboard the Royal Caribbean Ut…

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179: 2025 Princess Half Marathon Weekend Recap 2:04:36

7M ago2:04:36

2:04:36

Join us for a delightful exploration of Princess Weekend, where running converges with magic! In this episode of the Rise and Run podcast, we dive deep into the excitement of participating in Disney races, sharing funny stories, challenges, and triumphs experienced along the way. Our hosts and guests recount the unforgettable moments that make Disn…

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178: Race Alerts and More with Matt Marcella of Team #runDis 1:27:42

7M ago1:27:42

1:27:42

Ever imagine running through the enchanting world of Disney, surrounded by both new friends and beloved characters? We kick off this episode of the Rise and Run podcast with tales of cookies and camaraderie from our recent Marathon Weekend meetup. Get excited as we also chat about Disney's upcoming attractions, including the highly anticipated Vill…

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177: Paralympian and runDisney Champion Brian Siemann 2:12:41

7M ago2:12:41

2:12:41

Ever wondered how a world-class athlete prepares for the Dopey Challenge? Join us as Paralympian Brian Siemann shares his incredible journey, from receiving a life-changing invitation from a high school coach to placing on the Paralympic podium. Brian's story of perseverance and triumph in wheelchair racing offers valuable insights into the unique …

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176: 2025 Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend Recap 2:07:19

8M ago2:07:19

2:07:19

Ever wondered what it's like to be part of the exhilarating Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend? Join us as we step into a realm where magic meets endurance, featuring cherished stories from our friends Lora, Melissa, Tonya, Brandy, Courtney, and Jennifer. Whether you're curious about the joys of running through iconic Disneyland landscapes, this epis…

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175: Mayra's Big Surprise 2:09:16

8M ago2:09:16

2:09:16

The Rise and Run podcast has always celebrated our runDisney family, and Episode 175 is no different. The latest episode showcases how running is not just a sport but a way to forge deep and meaningful connections among friends. Through a collection of heartfelt stories, we delve into the experiences of runners who have faced challenges, celebrated…

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174: Walt Disney World 2025 Marathon Weekend Recap 2:17:33

8M ago2:17:33

2:17:33

This episode encapsulates the magic of Marathon Weekend at Disney, highlighting the experiences, camaraderie, and challenges faced by runners throughout the event. Listeners hear personal anecdotes and insightful reflections on the races, showcasing both the triumphs and tribulations of participants. The sense of community, excitement, and shared p…

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173: Live from the RunFitFab Pop Up! 35:32

8M ago35:32

35:32

Join us as we celebrate the excitement of Marathon Weekend at Walt Disney World during the inaugural RunFitFab Pop Up. We delve into the joys of training, share memorable stories, and tackle race day nerves with insights from runners in the community. • Celebrating the inaugural Run Fit Fab meetup • Sharing experiences from the Walt Disney World Ma…

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172: Running the Great White Way to Main Street USA: A Conversation with Broadway Star Caesar Samayoa 1:12:42

9M ago1:12:42

1:12:42

Prepare to be entertained and inspired as Broadway sensation and runDisney aficionado, Caesar Samayoa, graces our latest episode of the Rise and Run podcast! We’re thrilled to bring you Caesar's unique blend of theatrical charm and running passion, as he shares his journey from watching Sandy Duncan in "Peter Pan" as a child to lighting up the stag…

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171: She's "Pop"ular! Mayra the runDisney Support Superstar! 2:15:13

9M ago2:15:13

2:15:13

Join us for a visit with the unforgettable Mayra, your spirited bus stop superstar from Pop Century, who injects humor and joy into your morning race commutes. And stick with us as we gear up for the Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend. With Mark's traditional race weekend song setting the tone, this episode is packed with stories of camaraderie, en…

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170: Marathon Weekend Prep with RunFitFab 1:37:43

9M ago1:37:43

1:37:43

Curious about how six months of dedicated training culminates into a thrilling Marathon Weekend experience? Get ready to feel the rush as we explore the final countdown to race day, just two weeks away. Ever imagined joining a Disney-themed race dressed as a Dalmatian alongside 100 other joyful participants? Step into the fun and unique world of th…

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169: Where We're Going, We Don't Need Roads: Jack's Daytona 100 Ultra 2:00:49

9M ago2:00:49

2:00:49

Ready to lace up for a run like no other? Join us in this thrilling episode of the Rise and Run Podcast as we journey through the magical and challenging world of running at Walt Disney World, and beyond. Meet Kay, a fresh Floridian navigating the unique terrains of the Sunshine State, and celebrate with us as Jack shares her triumphant 100-mile ra…

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Bonus Episode: "I Would Like to Buy a Tutu" 42:08

10M ago42:08

42:08

Who would have thought a passion for Disney could lead to the bright lights of Wheel of Fortune? Join us as we chat with our dear friend and coach, Tom Stokes, who recently spun the wheel during the magical Disney Week. From the nerve-wracking auditions to the thrilling moment of stepping onto the set, Tom offers a candid glimpse into the game show…

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168: Marathon Weekend Mastery Roundtable with Jeff Galloway 2:16:46

10M ago2:16:46

2:16:46

Join us on the Rise and Run Podcast as we welcome none other than America's Coach, Jeff Galloway, to share his invaluable insights on marathon training. From preparing for the Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend to tackling the daunting Dopey Challenge, Jeff offers strategies to ensure you cross the finish line with confidence. Alongside Jeff, seaso…

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167: Podcast Family Feud: The Rematch 1:45:09

10M ago1:45:09

1:45:09

What if your favorite Disney attraction was the perfect place for a post-race nap? Join us for a lively rematch of Podcast Family Feud, where the Will Run For and Rise and Run families bring their A-game to a friendly showdown filled with laughter, camaraderie, and a sprinkle of competitive spirit. With Thomas, Diana, Erin, Michael, and Doug steppi…

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166: Rise and Run Rewind: A Conversation With Taryn Terrell 2:02:41

10M ago2:02:41

2:02:41

The title may read “Rewind” but most of this week’s episode includes fresh material. Starting with our introduction from Mara, who is out training with Rise and Run’s latest #dopeybaby, and rolling right through to the Race Report, featuring Greg’s recap of the Philadelphia Marathon episode 166 kicks off your Thanksgiving Weekend and, perhaps, your…

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165: Be All Ears To Some Podcasts We Listen To 2:16:25

10M ago2:16:25

2:16:25

What if running could be the ultimate antidote to life's challenges? Meet Erin and Stephanie, two incredible women who defy the odds by lacing up their running shoes even in the face of cancer. Their stories of grit and humor are nothing short of inspiring, as they share how they've managed to run marathons amidst chemotherapy and surgeries. This e…

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164: Running Holiday Wishlists and the New York City Marathon 2:03:48

11M ago2:03:48

2:03:48

Lace up and get ready for an exhilarating journey starting with an intro from Laura and Adam as they share their latest running exploits, from Laura's triumphant finish of the virtual New York City Marathon to Adam's intense preparation for a 100-mile Cape Town race. Discover the vibrant tales from fellow runners like Jack and Alysha, who candidly …

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163: 2024 runDisney Wine and Dine Half Marathon Weekend Recap 2:07:16

11M ago2:07:16

2:07:16

Ever found yourself lost in a whirlwind of Disney magic and running excitement? Join us as we recount the exhilarating Wine and Dine half marathon weekend, where Jennifer sets the stage from Pennsylvania, sharing her bubbling anticipation for this grand event. From the thrill of spotting Muppet characters to the joy of collecting candy at Mickey's …

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162: It's Time to Start the Music! It's Time to Light the Lights! Wine and Dine is Here! 2:07:23

11M ago2:07:23

2:07:23

What if running could be more than just a physical challenge? Embark on an exploration with us as we unpack the emotional and mental landscapes of distance running, revealing personal growth, resilience, and the power of community. We're joined by Tom from Stoked Metabolic Training, who not only shares his expertise in training and nutrition but al…

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161: Listener Questions: Inquiring Minds Want To Know 2:27:33

11M ago2:27:33

2:27:33

Our 161st episode is a celebration of community, growth, and the shared passions that unite us. We explore essential tips for tackling long training runs and upcoming runDisney events, delving into nutrition, hydration, and pacing strategies that can transform your running experience. With a special focus on the Chicago Marathon, we celebrate incre…