Podcast Summary: Can I Walk With You? Episode: Can I Walk with You, Jack?
Host: Thoraya
Release Date: June 2, 2025

Introduction

In the inaugural episode of Can I Walk With You?, host Thoraya embarks on a journey through the bustling streets of New York City, inviting strangers to join her for a walk and an authentic conversation. This episode, titled Can I Walk with You, Jack?, features a heartfelt dialogue between Thoraya (referred to as Lariah in the transcript) and Jack, a young man from Brooklyn who recently completed his first marathon. Their walk serves as a backdrop for exploring personal stories, connections, and the profound impact of shared experiences.

Meeting Jack

The episode begins with Thoraya approaching Jack in a vibrant area of Brooklyn. She respectfully asks if she can accompany him on his walk, ensuring that she won't delay him. Jack agrees, setting the stage for an engaging interaction.

Notable Quote:

Thoraya (00:00): "Can I just walk with you there? I would just walk with you and have a conversation. Is that okay if I walk with you?"

Getting to Know Each Other

As they stroll towards Jack's destination—a bench where he plans to enjoy his taco—Thoraya initiates a conversation to understand Jack's background and motivations.

Jack shares that he's a 23-year-old Brooklyn resident who recently ran his first marathon two weeks prior. This achievement has been a defining moment in his life, prompting him to reassess his identity and future goals.

Notable Quote:

Jack (01:07): "I'm 23. I live here in Brooklyn. I just ran the marathon two weeks ago in New York, which was a first for me. That was cool. That's a very defining part of, I think, my life for a long time."

The Significance of Walking and Conversation

Thoraya and Jack delve into the importance of walking as a means of connecting with others. They discuss how walking alongside someone can lead to deeper understanding and more meaningful conversations compared to static interactions.

Notable Quote:

Thoraya (02:28): "I feel like you could get to know a lot about someone if you just, like, go on a walk with them."

Jack concurs, highlighting that movement combined with conversation fosters genuine connections.

Jack's Marathon Journey

A significant portion of the conversation focuses on Jack's marathon experience. Running was not just a physical challenge for him but also a tribute to his late niece, who passed away in February.

Jack explains that training for the marathon, especially running in memory of his niece, was both consuming and uplifting. The event became a day filled with love and support from friends, family, and the city, making it the best day of his life.

Notable Quote:

Jack (03:35): "I was running for Miles for Miracles program with Boston Children's Hospital and running in memory of my niece who passed away in February. Yeah, it was really meaningful."

Jack describes how, during the marathon, he felt his niece's presence beside him, providing emotional support during tough miles.

Notable Quote:

Jack (05:07): "There was some time when it felt like she was running next to me, which was pretty special."

Personal Connections and Relationships

Shifting gears, the conversation turns to personal relationships. Jack shares a touching story about how he met his now-girlfriend, highlighting the parallels between seeking meaningful connections for interviews and personal life.

He recounts approaching her by discussing a book she was reading, using shared interests as a bridge to initiate their relationship. Their connection blossomed from mutual respect, good humor, and shared tastes.

Notable Quote:

Jack (11:15): "We should talk about it sometime. You want to get lunch?"

Notable Quote:

Thoraya (14:01): "I love that so much. Yeah, I think that's, like, a good place. A high note to end this."

Reflections on Authenticity and Openness

Throughout the walk, both Thoraya and Jack emphasize the value of authenticity and being open with strangers. They discuss how genuine interactions, without preconceived judgments or expectations, can lead to surprising and meaningful exchanges.

Notable Quote:

Jack (09:16): "You're in front of the camera. I'm not like falling back on what I'm comfortable with."

Notable Quote:

Thoraya (09:37): "It's like the chase. It's really exciting."

Conclusion

The episode concludes on a positive note, celebrating the connections formed during the walk. Thoraya reflects on the day's meaningful interactions, highlighting Jack's story as a testament to the power of walking and conversation in building authentic relationships.

Notable Quote:

Thoraya (14:26): "Have a good one."

Key Takeaways

• Walking as a Connection Tool: Walking side by side fosters a unique environment for deep and meaningful conversations.
• Personal Growth Through Challenges: Jack's marathon journey illustrates how overcoming challenges can redefine personal identity and purpose.
• Authentic Relationships: Building genuine connections requires openness, shared interests, and the courage to engage with strangers.
• Impact of Shared Experiences: Shared experiences, such as Jack running for a cause, can lead to profound personal insights and connections with others.

This episode of Can I Walk With You? offers listeners an intimate glimpse into the lives of New York City's residents, showcasing how simple acts like walking together can lead to profound conversations and meaningful connections.