Turning a Crazy Idea into a Movement with Cole Basden

Turning a Crazy Idea into a Movement with Cole Basden

Cole Basden went viral after completing what has become known as the "Quad Ultra"—running 100 laps (over 44 miles) around the University of Illinois Main Quad on Reading Day. It turned one of the most stressful days of the semester into an unforgettable challenge that inspired so many. But the viral run is only part of his story. In this episode, Cole shares how his passion for movement began, what inspired him to take on the Quad Ultra, and what it was like watching the challenge spread. We also talk about his time as a strength and conditioning intern at the University of Illinois, where he worked with Division I student-athletes, the lessons he learned from coaching and training others, and why he believes fitness should be accessible to everyone, not just elite athletes. Whether you're chasing a big goal, looking for motivation to get moving, or simply curious about the crazy challenge he took on, this conversation is full of perspective, positivity, and a reminder that movement is more powerful than we realize.

Leading with Care and Helping Others Grow with Midge Taylor-Good

Midge Taylor-Good is the Senior National Manager of the Field Experience Team at Hoka. Before stepping into her current role, Midge spent nearly 15 years at Naperville Running Company, where she held a variety of positions, including retail, employee training, community engagement, and general management. She also spent time consulting within the run specialty industry, helping businesses and leaders grow. In this conversation, Midge shares lessons she has learned throughout her career about leadership, team building, and bringing out the best in others. We discuss what it takes to lead large groups of people, why difficult conversations are an essential part of leadership, and how the best leaders approach those conversations from a place of care and a genuine desire to help others reach their potential. Whether you're leading a team, working alongside others, or simply looking to grow as a person, this episode is full of valuable insights from one of the most respected leaders in the running industry.

Miles, Motherhood, and a Career in the Running Industry: How Alli O'Keefe Balances It All

On this episode, I’m joined by Alli O'Keefe, a Regional Tech Lead at On, to talk about her path in the running industry. From studying journalism at North Central College to working as the Digital Marketing Manager at Naperville Running Company, Alli shares how her career evolved before eventually joining On as a Tech Rep and growing into her current role. We also talk about balancing a career in the sport with life as a new mom. She shares her experience running the New York City Marathon last year and how it carried special meaning after such a transformative year in her life. This is a conversation about how meaningful running can be in every stage of life!

The Starting Line: Recap of Our First Semester at UNO

On this episode of The Runaround Podcast, I’m joined by my three college roommates and teammates, Charlotte, Litzey, and Hope, as we reflect on our first semester at the University of Nebraska Omaha. From adjusting to college life and balancing academics with athletics, to the moments that defined our fall, we share our favorite memories and the lessons that stood out most along the way. We also look ahead to the upcoming track season, our goals, and what we’re excited about moving forward. This is a fun and honest conversation about growth, friendship, and figuring things out one day at a time. Start off 2026 strong and don't miss this update!

From Florida to Oregon: Building a Creative Career in Track & Field with Anderson Bobo

In this episode, I sit down with Anderson Bobo — the Creative Director of Track & Field at the University of Oregon — to talk about the intersection of sport, storytelling, and creativity. Bobo shares how his love for running and media merged into a passion for capturing the world’s best athletes through photos and video. From his days competing at the University of North Florida to earning his master’s at the University of Florida and now working at Oregon, Anderson reflects on the path that led him to one of the most iconic programs in collegiate track and field. We talk about the most unforgettable experiences he's had through his job, the mindset he brings to getting a great shot, and a few hot takes he’s developed along the way about both photography and the running world. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who loves the sport, the media, and the stories that bring track and field to life.