Melanin MVP

Badia Weeks — Former Competitive Swimmer | HYROX Athlete on How to Build Strength and Fitness

Find Badia Weeks on Instagram! https://www.instagram.com/thebadiasafa/ Subscribe to our newsletter: https://melaninmvp.com/subscribe Find outdoor organizations near you: https://melaninmvp.com/get-outside Find watch parties near you: https://melaninmvp.com/watch-parties Take our cross-training quiz: https://melaninmvp.com/cross-training-quiz This show is part of the Everyday Athlete Podcast Network: https://runtrimag.com/everyday-athlete-podcast-network/

Annijke Wade — Adaptive Mountain Biker on How to Build Confidence on the Trail

Annijke Wade shares what it means to get outdoors through adaptive mountain biking—from the mindset shifts that make “getting back out there” possible, to the practical realities of learning trail skills, finding community, and navigating accessibility in cycling spaces. IN THIS EPISODE, WE COVER * What adaptive mountain biking is (and the many ways “adaptive” can look) * Rebuilding confidence after a life change—and why progress isn’t linear * Getting started: choosing trails, pacing, and setting realistic expectations * The mental game: fear, risk, and learning to trust your body again * The role of community (and how to find the right people to ride with) * Accessibility on trails: what helps, what’s missing, and how riders can advocate * Why representation in outdoor sports matters—and how it impacts participation Subscribe to our newsletter: https://melaninmvp.com/subscribe Find outdoor organizations near you: https://melaninmvp.com/get-outside Find watch parties near you: https://melaninmvp.com/watch-parties Take our cross-training quiz: https://melaninmvp.com/cross-training-quiz This show is part of the Everyday Athlete Podcast Network: https://runtrimag.com/everyday-athlete-podcast-network/

The Economics of Women's Basketball: Togethxr, Unrivaled & the WNBA

As the WNBA CBA negotiations deadline has been extended, again, I share my thoughts on the players' collective bargaining power. From media rights to media brands, women professional athletes are arguably in their most powerful moment yet. Subscribe to our newsletter: https://melaninmvp.com/ This show is part of the Everyday Athlete Podcast Network: https://runtrimag.com/everyday-athlete-podcast-network/

Finding Light in Every Step: April Pullins' Journey Through Running and Entrepreneurship

In this episode of Melanin MVP, I sit down with April Pullins, an Atlanta-based runner and founder of Be Light Compression Socks. Known affectionately as the 'Crazy Sock Lady', April shares her inspiring story of overcoming personal challenges during COVID-19, discovering running as a therapeutic outlet, and transforming her passion for tie-dye socks into a thriving business. We dive deep into her mental and emotional journey, the impact of running on her life, and her commitment to helping women through the Selah Movement Club. April's story is a testament to resilience, community support, and the power of staying active. Tune in to hear about her vibrant personality, entrepreneurial tips, and her mission to spread positivity and light. 00:00 Introduction to April Polands: The Crazy Sock Lady 02:44 From Fun to Business: The Birth of Be Light Compression Socks 04:20 The Therapeutic Power of Running 06:06 Group Walks and the Selah Movement Club 07:40 Overcoming Anxiety and Learning to Rest 13:04 Challenges and Successes in Business 15:35 April's Running Journey and Community Support 22:27 Giving Back and Mentoring Others 24:12 Upcoming Events and Conclusion Subscribe to our newsletter: https://melaninmvp.com/ This show is part of the Everyday Athlete Podcast Network: https://runtrimag.com/everyday-athlete-podcast-network/

Ultramarathoner and USA Triathlon Coach Gives Advice to Endurance Athletes

In this episode of Melanin MVP, I'm joined by Doc Holiday Golden, a dynamic triathlete and ultra-marathoner. Referred by past guest Mary Fleming, Doc shares her inspiring journey into endurance sports. We dive into how she met Mary, her beginnings in marathon running, the transition from running to triathlons, and the importance of community support. Doc also discusses her coaching role, nutrition strategies, and the mental barriers she's faced during races. Tune in as we explore her story of growth, determination, and the power of pushing boundaries. 00:00 Meeting Mary Fleming 01:54 Doc's Athletic Beginnings 02:49 First Steps into Distance Running 05:25 Community and Motivation 08:04 Journey into Triathlons 11:02 First Triathlon Experiences 17:29 Balancing Marathons and Triathlons 21:30 Rest and Recovery 23:04 Balancing Nutrition and Training 29:29 Coaching and Mentoring in Triathlon 36:51 Overcoming Mental Barriers in Races 41:28 The Power of Action and Consistency 43:16 Final Thoughts and Encouragement Subscribe to our newsletter: https://melaninmvp.com/ This show is part of the Everyday Athlete Podcast Network: https://runtrimag.com/everyday-athlete-podcast-network/