At Your Own Pace

Your Journey Is Your Journey — A Conversation with Mary (marathonmary79)

Mary started exactly where a lot of runners start: the couch. A Couch to 5K program opened the door, and she never looked back. Her first marathon was at Disney World in 2020, and since then her relationship with running has evolved in a way that most people don't expect — away from chasing personal records and toward something that gives her even more joy: pacing others across the finish line. In this episode, Mary and I talk about how she got started, what those early miles really felt like, the role community has played in keeping her moving, and how her definition of success in this sport has completely shifted. She also shares what running has taught her about patience — in the sport and in life — and drops the kind of advice for new runners that actually sticks. Her mantra is "she will run and not grow weary." By the end of this conversation, you will understand exactly why.

Every Runner Belongs: Caleb and Karen on Inclusion, Joy, and Breaking Barriers

In this episode of At Your Own Pace, Mike sits down with Caleb, a Guinness World Record holder as the youngest person to run a marathon with Down syndrome, and his mom Karen, who has been alongside him every step of the way. Together they share how inclusion, joy, and perseverance reshape what running can mean, both on the course and far beyond it. Before the conversation begins, Mike opens up about his own running origin story. He shares how 2018 brought him to rock bottom, how his mental health unraveled, and how the simple goal of running for 20 minutes on a treadmill without stopping became the first thread he pulled to rebuild his life. He never set out to run a marathon. He just wanted to get healthier, and along the way he found an outlet, a sense of confidence, and a deep desire to live that carried him to where he is today. Then Caleb and Karen take the conversation somewhere truly special. Caleb talks about what it feels like to cross finish lines that were never originally built with him in mind, and how races that get inclusion right create a sense of belonging that changes everything. Karen offers her perspective as a mom raising a child with Down syndrome in a sport that is slowly, but genuinely, evolving into a space of acceptance and advocacy. They speak honestly about the unseen struggles behind every medal and about the power of showing up as your real, raw self so that someone else feels permission to start, whether that means a first 5K or a lifetime in the sport. The future of running depends on whether we choose to welcome every runner, regardless of background or ability. Caleb's story is not just about breaking a world record. It is about breaking down the limits that other people try to place on us and proving that every one of us, at our own pace, is capable of extraordinary things. Tune in to be inspired, challenged, and reminded that running is more than a race. It is a movement toward belonging, and Caleb and Karen are showing us exactly what that looks like, one stride at a time.

165 Marathons Later and the Love of Running Continues with Nadia Ruiz (@IronGirlNadia)

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 [http://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.

The Secret to Conquering Boston’s Hills and Outrunning Your Own Doubts

Most marathoners hit a wall — but what happens when the race pushes you beyond your limits in ways you never expected? I share my raw Boston Marathon experience, revealing how setbacks, family challenges, and a heart surgery became catalysts for growth, resilience, and a renewed hunger to break three hours. If you've ever faced mental hurdles, physical setbacks, or self-doubt, this episode will inspire you to face your fears head-on and discover your true strength. In this candid episode, I share every detail— from dealing with last-minute health scares and emotional lows to the exhilaration of crossing the iconic Boylston Street finish line. You'll discover how Boston's infamous Newton Hills and Heartbreak Hill tested my limits, and how the support of fellow runners and even strangers reminded me why marathons are more than just a race—they're a testament to perseverance. I break down the powerful lessons learned on the course, including the importance of pacing, mental toughness, and the unshakeable belief that you can push through adversity. You' [http://adversity.You]ll also hear from everyday runners and Boston veterans who share their own stories of overcoming injury, heartbreak, and chaos on race day. We delve into the most grueling parts of the course, heartfelt moments that brought tears, and the next chapter we're chasing— PRs, Boston stars, or even just finishing stronger than ever. This episode isn't just about running—it's about confronting life's challenges and emerging on the other side stronger, wiser, and more determined. Whether you're a seasoned marathoner or contemplating your first race, this episode is essential listening. It will ignite your passion, remind you that your story is unique, and inspire you to chase your own Boston— whatever that may be. Get ready to be motivated, humbled, and empowered to run your race at your own pace, because every step forward is progress.

Tokyo Marathon 2026 Special Edition Episode

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.