At Your Own Pace

Most of us underestimate the power of endurance sports to transform more than just our bodies. Nadia’s story reveals how running and Ironman races became her tool for overcoming her family’s health struggles, battling self-doubt, and unlocking her full potential—starting from a childhood inspired by Ironman documentaries at just 12 years old.In this episode, Nadia shares her incredible journey from a young girl enlisting in boxing to a seasoned endurance athlete claiming her own limits. You'll discover how she balances high-stakes races like Kilimanjaro in a day, the deep motivation behind her never-give-up attitude, and the mental resilience that keeps her pushing past injuries, setbacks, and burnout. We break down the importance of small daily progress, the value of mental preparation, and the lessons endurance sports teach us about growth, love, and life’s fleeting moments of gratitude.We explore Nadia’s unconventional approach to building strength at every age—how she redefines what it means to be strong, resilient, and alive later in life. Her insights on avoiding comparison, staying disciplined during tough days, and embracing struggle as a pathway to growth make this episode essential listening for anyone seeking to harness their inner strength through running or any challenge.If you’ve ever doubted your ability to start or felt overwhelmed by comparing yourself to others, Nadia’s story offers a blueprint for perseverance, self-love, and transforming pain into power. Her journey shows that the greatest victories often come when we push through the hardest moments—whether crossing a marathon finish line or facing life’s toughest battles.Perfect for runners, endurance athletes, or anyone hungry for a dose of inspiration, this episode reminds you that your limits are often self-imposed—and with perseverance, they’re meant to be broken. Tune in and discover how to run your own race at your pace—because every step forward is a step toward your extraordinary self.

Most runners never experience what it’s like to race in Tokyo—the race that combines meticulous organization, a vibrant cultural tapestry, and unforgettable moments that push you beyond your limits. What if your first marathon outside your comfort zone becomes a testament to resilience, community, and purpose? That's what this episode is all about. And what better way to describe the experience of the Tokyo Marathon than to speak directly with runners who just recently completed it?In this episode, four inspiring runners, Naty, Maddie, Amber, and Angela, share their unique journeys—from their first steps in the sport to crossing the Tokyo Marathon finish line. Discover how each found motivation in different ways: some as a means of transformation post-surgery, others chasing their sixth star medal after years of preparation. They reveal the most surprising aspects of racing in Japan’s bustling capital—from the surreal cityscape to the meticulous race organization and unexpected cultural moments that make Tokyo unique.And stay tuned—more inspiring race stories are coming, including Mike’s upcoming journey at the Boston Marathon, as we continue to share the power of running worldwide.

In this episode of At Your Own Pace, Mike sits down with Chad Zimmermann — a runner whose story challenges the stereotypes often associated with the sport.Chad shares his journey from being significantly overweight to becoming a dedicated runner, proving that running isn’t reserved for a certain body type, pace, or background. What started in 2014 as a commitment to improve his health alongside his wife has grown into a powerful part of his identity and lifestyle.Throughout the conversation, Chad opens up about the physical and mental battles that come with running — from injuries and self-doubt to balancing training with work and family life. He explains how consistency, community support, and belief in himself helped transform not only his fitness, but the way he sees himself as a runner.Mike and Chad also tackle a topic many runners experience but don’t often talk about: gatekeeping in the running community. Chad passionately advocates for a more inclusive environment where everyone belongs — regardless of pace, experience, or body type.

In Episode 12 of At Your Own Pace, Mike sits down with Devon — a passionate marathoner who recently completed her Six-Star journey — to talk about what running truly means beyond medals and finish times.Devon shares how her relationship with running has evolved over the years, shifting from performance-driven goals to something deeper: joy, community, and personal growth. Together, they explore the mental resilience required to navigate tough races, the reality of balancing marathon training with a demanding career, and the importance of consistency when life feels overwhelming.This conversation dives into the heart of why we run — not just to chase PRs, but to process stress, build confidence, and connect with others. Devon opens up about the powerful mental-health benefits of running, why it’s okay to walk during a marathon, and how finding joy in the miles often leads to stronger performances anyway.If you’ve ever felt pressure to compare your pace, question your progress, or wonder if you belong in the sport — this episode is your reminder that every runner’s journey is valid. Running isn’t a job. It’s a gift. And it’s meant to be enjoyed.The episode wraps with rapid-fire questions, favorite race moments, and a mantra for pushing through hard days:“Just keep f*cking going.”

In Episode 10 of At Your Own Pace, Mike sits down with Ana, one of the first Mexican women invited to run the Boston Marathon, who is a passionate runner and coach whose journey through the sport has been one of growth, belief, and transformation.Ana shares how running became a space for self-discovery — from navigating new environments and unpredictable weather to facing the intense mental battles that come with marathon racing. She reflects on her first marathon experience, the emotions that come with pushing past limits, and the lessons that extend far beyond race day.Together, we explore how running is as much about mental strength as physical endurance, why community support is essential, and how trusting yourself can change everything — both on the course and in life.This episode is a reminder that progress matters more than perfection, belief is the first step toward achievement, and sometimes you don’t just show up to run — you show up to fly.

In this episode of At Your Own Pace, Mike sits down with Ali Brettnacher for an honest, heartfelt conversation about what running looks like when you strip away pace, performance, and comparison — and focus instead on people, purpose, and connection.Ali shares her journey from once hating running to fully embracing it as a source of community and meaning, shaped by family influence, life’s chaos, and a growing desire to show up for others. Together, Mike and Ali explore how running evolves from something that can feel like punishment into something deeply joyful when rooted in shared experiences, vulnerability, and support.They talk openly about setbacks, injuries, and disappointment — and why being kind to yourself through those moments matters just as much as consistency and discipline. Ali also discusses the inspiration behind creating her Finish Lines and Milestones podcast, driven by a belief that every runner’s story is worth telling, not just the fastest or most visible ones.A powerful part of the conversation centers on running for a cause, particularly Ali’s involvement with Ainsley’s Angels, and the transformative emotional impact of pushing athletes with disabilities. Mike and Ali reflect on how crossing a finish line alongside someone else can completely redefine what success means.At its core, this episode is a reminder that running isn’t about pace or comparison — it’s about the connections you make, the stories you collect, and learning to honor your own journey. You belong in this space exactly as you are.

In this episode of At Your Own Pace, host MikeRunsMarathons welcomes Herm, a passionate advocate for inclusivity and representation in the running community, to share a journey rooted in growth, healing, and finding belonging. Herm reflects on how running became more than just movement — evolving into a space for self-discovery, mental clarity, and personal transformation.The conversation explores the importance of authentic storytelling, the responsibility that comes with having influence, and why representation truly matters in helping runners feel seen and supported. Herm opens up about overcoming mental barriers, the meditative nature of running, and the joy that comes from setting goals centered on fulfillment rather than competition. At its core, this episode highlights the power of community, the courage it takes to show up as yourself, and the reminder that every runner’s story deserves space — especially in a sport that grows stronger when everyone feels they belong.

In the fourth episode of At Your Own Pace, host MikeRunsMarathons sits down with runner and teacher Jess Lindeman (@runner_jessss) to explore a journey built on patience, authenticity, and belief. Jess shares how she went from being a novice runner to qualifying for the Boston Marathon, and how time, consistency, and mindset played a bigger role than any single breakthrough workout.The conversation dives into the mental battles runners face, the power of positive self-talk, and the importance of not comparing your path to anyone else’s. Jess reflects on balancing teaching with training, creating authentic content in a noisy social media space, and why motivating others matters more than influencing them. At its core, this episode is a reminder that running should be joyful, that community support is essential, and that every experience—good or bad—offers something worth learning from as long as you keep moving forward.

In the second episode of At Your Own Pace, host MikeRunsMarathons sits down with running coach and marathoner Maddie Kunz (@marathon_mads94) to talk about the realities of marathon training—both the physical work and the mental battles that come with it. Maddie shares her journey as a runner and coach, emphasizing the power of consistency, accountability, and finding joy in the process rather than chasing a single outcome.The conversation explores navigating tough training cycles, managing race-day nerves, prioritizing recovery, and the influence social media can have on runners’ expectations and self-belief. At its core, this episode highlights the importance of community and reminds listeners that every runner’s path looks different—and that progress isn’t just measured at the finish line.