Allison wants to run a marathon with guest Samantha MacIntyre

Summary

Sunday Sports Club Podcast Summary: Allison Kuch Hosts Samantha MacIntyre on Marathon Ambitions

Introduction

In the March 30, 2025 episode of the Sunday Sports Club Podcast, hosted by Allison Kuch of Dear Media, listeners are introduced to a passionate guest, Samantha MacIntyre. The episode centers around Samantha's inspiring journey into the world of marathon running, her motivations, challenges, and invaluable advice for aspiring runners.

Getting to Know Samantha

The conversation kicks off with a light-hearted discussion about Samantha's preferred name. At [00:14], Allison asks, “Do you go by Sam?”, to which Samantha clarifies her preference: “I like how the full name sounds. So I don’t know...” This exchange highlights Samantha’s authentic approach to her identity, setting the tone for the candid dialogue to follow.

Samantha’s Running Journey

Samantha reveals her relatively recent yet impressive foray into long-distance running. At [01:43], she shares, “I just ran my sixth marathon about a month ago,” emphasizing her rapid progression in the sport. She began running in April 2022, starting from scratch with no prior marathon experience. “Having never run a mile before, like, ever” [04:56], Samantha candidly discusses the daunting yet exhilarating decision to train for a half marathon on a tight 14-week schedule.

Challenges and Determination

A significant portion of the episode delves into the mental fortitude required for endurance sports. Samantha asserts, “Running is like 80% mental, 20% physical” [10:54], underscoring the psychological challenges runners face. She recounts a particularly harrowing experience where she felt threatened while training, highlighting the importance of safety and awareness during solo runs. This incident not only tested her resolve but also reinforced her commitment to running despite fears.

Safety Tips and Gear Recommendations

Ensuring safety while running is a critical topic discussed around [25:02]. Samantha advises runners to use bone conduction headphones to stay aware of their surroundings without sacrificing the enjoyment of music. Furthermore, she emphasizes the importance of proper running shoes: “Shoes are not one size fits all” [10:13], recommending professional fittings to match individual foot profiles. Additional safety measures include varying running routes and informing someone of her running plans.

Building a Running Outfit and Utilizing Technology

Samantha shares her preferences for running gear, blending functionality with comfort. At [53:44], she praises affordable Walmart sunglasses for their reliability and style, stating, “They're the best things ever. They don't move at all.” She also highlights the utility of devices like the Garmin Forerunner 265, which she uses to track her sleep and performance, reinforcing the role of technology in enhancing training efficiency.

Community and Social Aspects of Running

The podcast highlights the supportive nature of the running community. Samantha recounts her experience joining a run club upon moving to Colorado, meeting friendly and welcoming runners who helped her integrate into the local sporting scene. “Everyone is so supportive of other people, and I feel like it's not really a judgmental space” [48:34], she mentions, illustrating the camaraderie that exists among runners.

Advice for Aspiring Runners

Samantha offers practical advice for those looking to embark on their running journey. She recommends starting with manageable goals, such as 5K or 10K races, and gradually working up to longer distances like half or full marathons. Referring to Jeff Galloway’s run-walk method [45:21], she explains how interval training can ease beginners into the sport while minimizing injury risks. “What matters is putting in the work, regardless of pacing” [46:53], she emphasizes, encouraging consistency and persistence.

Future Ambitions: Boston and London Marathons

Looking ahead, Samantha shares her exciting plans to run the Boston Marathon in four weeks and the London Marathon shortly after. “I qualified last year, and I'm from Massachusetts originally, so it's like a dream” [56:53], she expresses her enthusiasm. These upcoming races symbolize both personal achievement and the culmination of her disciplined training regimen.

Conclusion

The episode concludes with a rapid-fire segment where Samantha discusses her running preferences, favorite gear, and fueling strategies. Her dedication and structured approach serve as an inspiration to listeners, reinforcing the message that with determination and the right mindset, marathon running is an attainable goal for anyone.

Key Takeaways:

• Start Small: Begin with shorter races and gradually increase distance.
• Mental Strength: Cultivate discipline to overcome the mental challenges of running.
• Safety First: Utilize proper gear and safety measures to ensure secure training sessions.
• Community Support: Engage with local run clubs to build a supportive network.
• Consistency is Key: Regular training and maintaining a positive outlook are crucial for success.

Samantha MacIntyre’s journey from a novice runner to a marathon enthusiast is a testament to what dedication and perseverance can achieve. Her insights offer valuable guidance for anyone aspiring to take up running, making this episode a must-listen for sports enthusiasts and budding runners alike.

Transcript

[A]

The following podcast is a Dear Media Production.

[B]

What's up, guys? Welcome back to Sunday Sports Club Podcast, a podcast all about sports told by a woman. And today we have on a special guest. Samantha. Do you go by Sam?

[A]

No, I. Samantha. Yeah, Samantha.

[B]

I kind of love that when people ask me if I go by Ally or Alison, I'm like, either. And then they're like, can you just give me. I'm like, I don't know.

[A]

It's kind of funny because when I was younger, I used to go by Sammy because it was just like, you know, I was younger and then I graduated high school and I'm like, I feel like I need to like, become an adult. And like, I don't know, I'm like, Sammy's just so adolescent. Like I need to.

[B]

I've actually never met somebody named Sammy.

[A]

Yeah, my best friend's also name is Sammy.

[B]

So like, you're like Samantha.

[A]

Yeah. So I started introducing myself as that and then like, people that are close to me still call me Sammy that I grew up with and my family members. But I do have a preference. Cuz I just. I don't know, I. I like how the full name sounds. So I. I don't know.

[B]

I should start going by Allison. Okay.

[A]

I mean, it is what it is. I. I think everyone is allowed to have their preference. And you know, I love.

[B]

Do people kind of like force the nickname on you though?

[A]

Yeah, for sure. Like I'll introduce myself as Samantha and then immediately they're like, hey, hey, Sam. And I'm like, oh.

[B]

Like, that's actually not what I said.

[A]

And I'm like, I get it. It's like a nickname, but at the same time it's like, that's not what I said.

[B]

So Samantha. Yeah, like stern back. Okay, so Samantha is a runner. She is all over running. Tik tok. Okay. How many marathons have you ran?

[A]

I just ran my sixth marathon about a month ago.

[B]

Okay, and when did you start running?

[A]

I started running in April of 2022, so it's almost been three years.

[B]

Okay, so not that long.

[A]

No.

[B]

And six marathons in three years. That's kind of intense.

[A]

It's a lot. It's definitely a lot. I'm like, yeah, yeah, it's been crazy. I started off with like the half marathons and then, you know, take the jump, cuz why not? But it's. It's definitely a lot. I don't know if I'd recommend doing that many in it, but I'm like, I just, I'm addicted to the endurance of it all. And I'm like, okay, I'm just gonna do it.

[B]

Did you grow up playing sports or running?

[A]

When I was in middle school, I played, like, soccer, basketball, you know, doing all of the rec sports that. Whatever. And I was never super athletic, but I feel like I could keep up, I guess.

[B]

Right.

[A]

But then, I don't know, I just, like, kind of stopped playing sports in high school. I played golf, which is not at all, like, the only, like, cardio that I'm doing is walking from hole to hole.

[B]

So you're, like, carrying your own bag.

[A]

Exactly. So, yeah. I didn't really have that much of a sports background growing up, and it's so random that I started running, honestly.

[B]

But I also feel like even you saying that just shows that anybody can. She was telling me before we started recording this, she was like, anybody can run a marathon. I was like, mm, I. I don't know about that.

[A]

I believe in you. You can do it.

[B]

Like, I am six feet tall, and I genuinely. I was talking about this on my Instagram the other day. I feel like working out for tall people is harder because it's like, I have more bone, and, like, that's hard. And, like, even Pilates, I was like, it's like the springs are resisting for longer because I'm longer than somebody who is, like, five feet.

[A]

That is true. You have more distance to go.

[B]

Right.

[A]

So I could see that. I don't know.

[B]

I'm just, like, making excuses.

[A]

No, I don't. I'm just too tall.

[B]

Like. Yeah, no. Like, you haven't noticed. Like, I'm six feet now. Okay. So then kind of take me through what you, like, why you started running.

[A]

Yeah, I don't know. I just. I feel like for a long time, I always had these goals and things that I wanted to do, but I had a really hard time following through with them. I would, you know, want to start doing something, and I feel like I would get 80% there, and then I would just stop. And I never, like, followed through with anything. And so it was kind of just during a point in my life where I feel like I needed a bit of a change. And I felt like I was very kind of, like, set in my life, and I wasn't super happy with it, and I just kind of decided one day I was like, you know what? I've always wanted to run, but I have severe asthma. And so, like, I probably shouldn't do this, but I was like, you know what? I'm just gonna put that goal out there, and I'm just gonna start training. So I randomly signed up for a half marathon, and I gave myself, like, 14 weeks to train for it. Having never run a mile before, like, ever.

[B]

You're like, okay, so we're really starting from scratch.

[A]

Literally from zero. Like, not any running at all.

[B]

Did you have any, like, workout routine going into that?

[A]

I think for a while. Like, I always went to the gym, but it wasn't something that I was really passionate about where I was, like, I'm seeing results. It was just kind of like a maintenance, like a wellness.

[B]

Like, okay.

[A]

Like, I feel like I should work.

[B]

Out, like, check the box kind of thing.

[A]

Yeah. Move my body a bit. So, yeah, I just, like, randomly signed up for a half marathon, and.

[B]

I.

[A]

Guess we're doing this, and my mom decided to sign up for the same one. She's done a bit of running in her life, but nothing, like, too crazy. Like a few, you know, 10Ks and everything like that, so.

[B]

But then you come from, like, a fit family.

[A]

No, my mom. Okay, I will say my mom, she played basketball and soccer growing up. She's very athletic. My dad, not really. And then my brother. I mean, bless his heart, but he. He's just like an IT guy, you know?

[B]

Like, my brother's listening to this. Like, mm, okay.

[A]

Love you, Austin.

[B]

Okay, thanks.

[A]

Yeah, but he's an aerospace engineer. Like, he has always been into, like, computer. Yeah. Crazy. So, like, we're very opposite.

[B]

His brain's working out.

[A]

Yeah. He was salutatorian in high school. Like, he just is one of the smartest people I've ever met in my entire life. So, like, you know, so not a super kind of athletic background with my parents or anything either. So. Yeah.

[B]

Just kind of signed up with your mom, and you were like, okay, let's hit this. So then, did you. I mean, that's intimidating being like, okay, there's a half marathon. And I know when it comes to, like, a 10K, a half marathon marathon, like, you need a training program. Because you can't just say, like, oh, I'm gonna run a mile today, two miles tomorrow. So how did you even, like, do you research that? Do you just Google, like, how to run a half marathon?

[A]

Honestly? Yeah. Cause I didn't know anything. I'm like, you know, So I know.

[B]

People are gonna love listening to this. Cause they'll be like, wow, this doesn't seem that intimidating anymore.

[A]

No, it really isn't. And I do hope people kind of get that out of this. Like, I really do feel like Anyone can start running, right? But yeah, I just kind of, I signed up for the half marathon before I did any research. I was just like, I have to do this so that I like, I paid for it.

[B]

I was gonna say, once you pay for something, I feel like it's. You're like, well, I can't just lose this.

[A]

Exactly. So $80?

[B]

Yeah, no one's losing $80.

[A]

Like, hello. So, yeah, I just, I signed up for it and then the next day I'm kind of searching online. I've never had a coach or anything before for running.

[B]

I've always, up until five seconds ago, I didn't know people had coaches. Okay.

[A]

Yeah. And I don't not recommend it. I actually think that, that for a lot of people it's very beneficial to have a coach because it kind of keeps you on the schedule. But I also think that self coaching is absolutely, like, anyone can do it. Okay. But yeah, I just kind of started doing research. I found, I typed in on Google half marathon training plan and 12 week program and just, I picked one that I found on Google Images and I'm like, this looks good.

[B]

Like, okay, screenshot save.

[A]

No, literally, like I just had it screenshotted and I had it as my home screen on my phone.

[B]

Okay, that's motivating.

[A]

Yeah. So that every time I opened up my phone I had that to look at and I'm like, okay, remember you have to train for this.

[B]

Like, shit, I have to run three miles next week and I've never ran a mile.

[A]

No, literally. So I gave myself, I found a 12 week program and then I ended up actually giving myself 14 weeks because that first week they're like, Run two miles straight. And I'm like, oh, I can't do that.

[B]

So hold the phone.

[A]

Actually, I think I need to work on that first. So I gave myself two extra weeks of a buffer at the beginning just so I could kind of get that aerobic base and get used to running because, you know, I hadn't done anything.

[B]

Did you do any research in terms of like shoes or like head? Like, were you doing all of like the fun research too or did that come with like, oh, wow, my feet are kind of uncomfortable. I'm gonn switch shoes or like I'm gonna do X, Y or Z. Yeah.

[A]

I, I knew that I needed a good pair of running shoes. I didn't have any running shoes. I just had like my kids, you know, like, and I'm again, this is.

[B]

Like entry, entry level. You're like, no, anybody could do It.

[A]

Yeah, literally from zero. So yeah, I went to a shoe store and I got fitted for my shoes, which I highly recommend doing. Okay.

[B]

I didn't know that was a thing either.

[A]

Absolutely.

[B]

Am I even an athlete? I mean I'm not, I'm not right.

[A]

Now, but no, I, I definitely recommend doing that. Going to a run, you get fitted for your shoes. A lot of them have these kind of scanners that you stand on and it actually takes a scan of your foot to see how high your arches are, where your like pressure points are. And then they match you with a good shoe that fits kind of your foot profile.

[B]

Oh, okay.

[A]

And it's super beneficial because shoes are not one size fits all.

[B]

No. So like everyone's feet are either wide or they're.

[A]

Yes, totally agree. So definitely recommend doing that. So I was fitted for a pair of shoes and then I started running in them. But yeah, it was just got fitted, started running, following this program and just, you know, doing the thing.

[B]

Did you get to a point during the training process where you're like, I don't know if I like this.

[A]

I truthfully did not like running until I had been running for about a year and a half.

[B]

Wow.

[A]

Like, and, and it sucks because the process of getting into running is very difficult cuz it's something that your body's not used to. You're.

[B]

And I feel like it's a mind game.

[A]

Oh absolutely. Running to me and to most people is like 80% mental, 20% physical. I mean you have to have the mental strength to keep pushing when you don't want to because your body is capable of more things than your brain thinks it is.

[B]

Because even like running, like me running on the treadmill, I'm like, oh my God, I'm the ladder. Like it's uncomfortable. So you're like, oh, I'm just gonna stop real quick. And then it's so I feel like for me it'd be a hundred percent mental.

[A]

Oh absolutely. And there are so many days where, you know, you can just zone out and just run. And then there are some days that are extremely difficult. You don't wanna do it. Last night I ran four miles and I was telling all my friends, I'm like, I do not wanna do this, but I have to because we have goals and we have things that we want to do.

[B]

So we have goals. Right? Yeah, it's, it's. I'm like there are so many different like ways. I want to take this conversation in a good way there. I will say in, in response to that. Like, I saw one girl on Tik Tok, I think her name is Shelby Seiko, and she was like, one day I just like, got up and was like, oh, I'm going to. I'm going to just run, but I'm going to run as slow as I want and just see how far I can go. And she ended up. Which she was like, I shouldn't. I don't recommend this. But she was like, I ended up running like five miles, like my first time. I've never ran a mile before. And so that I was like, oh, wow, okay. Why. Why do I feel like I have to run a certain speed, a full mile? And that is like, okay, attainable. Like, that's where it's like, you can go as slow or as fast as you want. I mean, obviously don't walk, but you can.

[A]

You can walk too. I mean, here's the thing.

[B]

You gotta start somewhere, right?

[A]

Exactly. And there's a lot of methods when people get into running that are great. The one run walk method is honestly so great because you have those intervals, so it's easier to build up that endurance and it doesn't seem as scary. Um, but truthfully, the thing with pacing, people get so hung up on their paces and, like, how fast they're going. And truthfully, a mile is a mile, no matter how fast you're running it. It doesn't make it any less impressive how fast you're running it. Just get it done. And some days are going to be slower than others. It just. It is what it is.

[B]

So right now if you just like, ran down the sidewalk, you've been running for few years, so if you started running, you could tell me, like, what pace you were running at.

[A]

I think I could kind of gauge it. It's kind of difficult because we're in California right now, so it's sea level. I train at a mile high in Colorado, so it's. When I come here, I feel like I'm flying.

[B]

I didn't even. You were training at the hardest, like a very hard altitude, which is actually crazy because my brother, he swam in college and they would go to Colorado for two weeks just to train.

[A]

Elevation.

[B]

Yeah, at training elevation. Then when you're at sea level, you're like, oh, this is great.

[A]

Yeah. That's honestly one of the big reasons that I moved to Colorado because I knew that I had these goals with running.

[B]

Really? This was. Wow, that's insane.

[A]

It was part of it. I mean, training at elevation, it does have a lot of perks. And, yeah, then you go to those races at sea level, and you have been building the space, and you're like, oh, my gosh, I'm flying.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

So it's. It's definitely beneficial, and I'm glad that I made that move. But it's. It's hard to gauge pacing. Cause, yeah, I do a pace in Colorado, and then I come here, and I feel like I end up going so much faster because I can breathe.

[B]

Yes.

[A]

So.

[B]

So then when it comes to, like, you googled your training program, have you ever, like, looked into the training for, like, marathons or half marathons through, like, the run club or, like, is it Strava? Do they, like, do training programs? Like, what do you think of those apps?

[A]

I think, honestly, a lot of those apps are great. There's so many resources out there, and a lot of them, honestly, most of them are free, which is great. There are so many good resources. Strava. I know that they have run clubs and stuff like that. That's what we use to kind of track our runs or what I use to track my run.

[B]

Is that social media for runners?

[A]

Yes, and I love it.

[B]

Really?

[A]

I'm on there.

[B]

You're a Strava fan?

[A]

Every single workout I post on there, I'm on there. I'm posting pict pictures. I'm like, I love.

[B]

So it's like, Goodreads, like, in terms of, like, book talk. Book talk. Like, reading books. Like, I don't read books either. Like, what are my hobbies?

[A]

Actually, we're gonna get you some.

[B]

Honestly. Which we'll. We'll get to eventually. But I'm like, I want to run a marathon, and you make it seem so, like, attainable.

[A]

Oh, it so is. Like, it's. Don't get me wrong. It's hard.

[B]

Absolutely. Oh, I. Yeah.

[A]

Yeah. I'm trying.

[B]

It's.

[A]

It's not easy, but anyone can do it, truthfully, right?

[B]

Like, if you want to, you can. Like, if you really want it, then you can push through to do it.

[A]

Exactly.

[B]

So then. Do you have a boyfriend? Fiance. Husband.

[A]

Yeah, I do have a boyfriend. We live together in Colorado. He is also a runner. He's so much faster than me.

[B]

Run couples scare me, honestly. They're, like, kind of terrifying. They're like, okay, so 5:00am tomorrow?

[A]

No, we. Yeah, we.

[B]

Yikes.

[A]

We do our interval runs on the treadmill next to each other so that we have each other to push each other. But, yeah, so he runs too. And then he also does the hybrid space, like, Hyrax and Spartan Races like that. So he's very intense, very impressive athlete.

[B]

You guys are like CrossFit couples. Like, do you guys do CrossFit?

[A]

We. God, we don't do CrossFit. He. He is a big Hyrax guy. He convinced me to do one earlier this year. So hard. So very hard. Yeah.

[B]

You're like, okay, this is a different.

[A]

Oh, my gosh. It's such a different beast.

[B]

Honestly, on social media, actually, yesterday, I saw somebody say. And I was like, this is actually. I believe this so hard that you can be so fit at one sport, and if you try something else, you could be sore the next day.

[A]

No, honestly, because it's using different muscles.

[B]

Like, even my husband being in the NFL, I'm like, I want to see you on a Pilates machine.

[A]

No, exactly. You're working different muscles that you're not used to. And so especially with hy rocks, it's a lot of weightlifting, which I do weightlifting for my running, but it's not as intense as hyroxes. And so it was, you know, I'm doing these workouts, and I don't really sweat very much. When I'm doing my runs, I'll sweat afterwards.

[B]

Okay.

[A]

But when I do hyrox workouts, I am just soaking wet. And it is just. It's so hard to go between the weightlifting and the running. It's just two completely, you know, different things. And so your body has to take a second to get used to the new movement that you're doing.

[B]

Right.

[A]

Oh, it's brutal.

[B]

I'm like, that sounds. Well, I don't even. I didn't even know what hyrox was. I'm just assuming, like. I don't want to say what I was like, includes rocks.

[A]

It's like.

[B]

Does it involve, like, rock climbing?

[A]

No, it's just like this new. It's similar to CrossFit, but with more cardio. Honestly, it's definitely a runner's race, but it has those aspects of weightlifting. So you have to do kilometer runs in between doing, like, station work. So you'll do weighted lunges and wall balls and the skierg and stuff like that.

[B]

So I would say that's kind of similar to CrossFit.

[A]

Yeah, it's definitely very similar. Just a lot more cardio. So if you don't have that running base, it can be very difficult. But again, that's another sport that is so accessible to anyone. Anyone can do it. So. Sure. It's just hard.

[B]

After being pregnant, it was really hard to get back into it because it's like the mental hump of, okay, I'm really. I'm like, not even starting from scratch. I'm starting from negative. Like, the most unathletic I've ever been in my entire life, which I. I kept up with, like, running and working out through my entire pregnancy. And I'm grateful I did because I feel like when I did give birth after that, I was like, wait. I, like, I feel like my body was, like, going. Not going back all the way, but like, I felt my body kind of like, okay, like, we're. We're done with this. And I feel like right after I had my C section was like, okay, snap, like crazy. That's not to say, like, my stomach looks the exact same, but I do feel like being active during my pregnancy was like, a huge. Like, I'm really grateful I did that. And I know not everybody gets to do that because, like, some people get sick, all that, but that was the hardest time I've ever had getting back into working out because it's like, you're leaking. You're like, all of my organs. We're, like, in a different place. And so now I have this goal. I've been working out. I mean, I had my daughter 15 months ago, so, like, I've been working out for a second.

[A]

I've been seeing you doing Pilates, so.

[B]

Trying to get my core back.

[A]

Yep.

[B]

Like, my abs are separated, so that's a whole different conversation. But now I have this goal of running a marathon.

[A]

Okay.

[B]

Okay, guys, spring is here. I'm so excited. I'm such a spring and summer kind of girl. Everyone's like, oh, I love fall. I'm like, I like spring and summer. And I'm using it as the perfect excuse to refresh kind of my entire life. See what clothes do and don't fit me after postpartum. Kind of refresh my home decor. Especially now that I'm living in my new home. And I'm going to be doing it all at Macy's. I'm going to be taking advantage of the Macy's spring VIP sale with 30% off top brands and an extra 15% off beauty. Yeah. Hello. Guess I'll be refreshing my makeup as well. Isaac, I hope you're not listening to this, but I'm going to be saving because of this Macy's spring VIP sale. I am truly trying to get into wearing dresses and, like, have a cute little, like, mom flowy outfit going on for the spring and summer. Especially now that I'm chasing around a toddler. Something comfortable and I'm gonna be shopping at Macy's. I know they have a Levi's, cute denim jackets and tons of cute options when it comes to spring dresses and skirts. And also this past weekend I was at a hotel and I tried out the Dyson Supersonic and I think I'm gonna have to take advantage of the sale and get that as well. So whether it's for you and you're looking to refresh your closet or even refresh your home dec something for the whole family, I highly recommend checking out Macy's, especially taking advantage of their sale. Again, 30 off top brands and an extra 15 off beauty. Some of the beauty products that I'll be looking out for are Tarte Kiehl's, Dyson Benefits, Sunday Riley and then in terms of home they have Breville Arc Studios, the hotel collection. So when I say you can refresh at Macy's, like you can truly refresh your entire life with Macy's. The event dates are March 28th through April 6th and you can shop at Macy's.com or in store you found your person as in like your person to get married to Now Let the Knot help with everything else the Knot helps connect you to wedding inspo vendors, venues and planning tools you need to make the day. Totally you. Planning a wedding is no joke. There are so many things that go into it and I wish that I had known about the Knot. How many years ago has it been? Oh my, I think it's been almost four years since I got married. I mean from gathering inspo scoring expert advice to finding your venue, figuring out your budget, the Knot will help connect you to all the people, places and tools that you need. It's actionable inspiration and expert advice based on helping couples plan over 25 million real weddings with photos, articles and more to help bring your vision to life. And the best part is that you can plan anywhere. I know planning a wedding, it literally takes all day and night, especially if you're on a little bit of a time crunch. I planned my wedding in six months so if you are planning somewhere else you can use the wedding planning app and it has the most five star reviews. The Knot helps you provide the best guest experience for your family and friends from collecting their addresses and easy RSVPing to providing seamless registry shopping all in one place. Let the Knot be your partner in all things wedding planning. Get started at the Knot.com audio T-H-E-K-N-O-T.com a u d I O before I run a marathon. I should probably run a half marathon.

[A]

I would recommend it. You can. I honestly, I would Recommend Starting with 5k, 10k half marathon. Work up to it.

[B]

The latter. Okay.

[A]

I think there's nothing wrong with really jumping into the higher kind of terrifying, but I think it's easier to kind of break it up and take it, you know, in those little chunks so that it doesn't feel as scary. Um, and you don't even have to do an actual 5k race or 10k race, but you can make those your goals as you're working up to the half marathon. Right. Um, I would definitely recommend doing a half marathon race before doing a full marathon, just so you kind of get the feeling of race day and you know what it's like to actually be in that race mindset.

[B]

Right.

[A]

But, I mean, I'm gonna book a.

[B]

Half marathon in, like, Hawaii or something. I'm like, if I'm running, I should probably run somewhere that's, like, beautiful.

[A]

That's what I did. I. I feel like that is also a really good motivator. You find a place that you want to run, and then you make a little trip out of it. A destination marathon. You know, do it somewhere that you've always wanted to visit so you can kind of explore. That's the best part about travel for me, is I'm able to explore all of these places that I've never been on foot because I'll just do my training runs while I'm on vacation.

[B]

I mean, if you're running eight miles, you're able to actually explore.

[A]

Yeah, you're like, running.

[B]

You're like, oh, yeah. I saw a coffee shop like, two miles down the road. We should go back there, like, after the crazy.

[A]

It's great. Cause I feel like when you're driving in a car, you don't really take in the scenery as much, but when you're running, you know, you're in it. And so I end up seeing so many things that I feel like I would miss if I was just driving around.

[B]

Is it ever scary running in a new city?

[A]

I think so. But again, with Strava, they have a really good kind of feature on their app where it shows you where other runners have ran in the past. So you can kind of see where other runners are running, where it's safe. There's also. I. I'll do a ton of research before I go on vacation and just kind of see which areas are safe, all of that. It's definitely a little scary, but, I mean, I always wear, which I would recommend you getting actually too, is bone conduction headphones.

[B]

Okay.

[A]

So they don't actually go in your ear.

[B]

I've heard of these.

[A]

Yes. They are so good.

[B]

You like them?

[A]

Love them. I wear them every single run and I honestly wear them when I'm grocery shopping and everything because it's great, because you can hear your surroundings, but it basically vibrates on your temples and then you can hear the music but people around you can't really hear anything.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

And you're still aware of your surroundings so you don't have to worry about, you know, if someone's going to come up behind you. You hear them coming.

[B]

Right.

[A]

And so for safety, I absolutely recommend them. But they're also fantastic.

[B]

Is there anything else you do in terms of safety when it comes to running? Like do you ever carry pepper spray or like.

[A]

Yeah, so that's another thing that I, I'm so big on safety when it comes to running. Highly recommend to hide your location on these running apps. A lot of them will like show what your path was. Hiding your location, hiding your start time. Just making sure that you're being safe, sharing your location with people, telling them what your goal is, how far you're wanting to go, when you should be back by.

[B]

That's good. Yeah.

[A]

Carrying protection, whether it's pepper spray, they make, you know, self defense devices that you can just hold in your hand and God forbid anything happens, you know, just my hands, but. And then. Yeah. Just making sure that you're aware of your surroundings and not zoning out too much and running in highly populated areas so that you know people are seeing you.

[B]

Yep.

[A]

And then if you're running in neighborhoods, highly recommend waving to cars and yeah. You know, so that they know that you're there. And especially if you're doing the same route, which another thing I've heard people.

[B]

Say, do not do the same route like every single or specific days, same time.

[A]

Yes. So that's another thing too is definitely changing up your route if you're able to. Changing up the time that you run because you never know who's, you know, kind of watching you or whatever, which is scary to think about, but it's the reality that we need to be aware of. But yeah, making sure that you're changing up your route and just. But if you do end up running, you know, in your neighborhood or in other neighborhoods, maybe once every two weeks, waving to the people that live there.

[B]

Right.

[A]

So that they know you. Yeah. Like hey, what's your name? Yeah, exactly. So Yeah, I think it's just important to be aware of your surroundings and make sure that you're in a safe environment, not running places that, you know there's nowhere or no one around that if anything happened, you know you need it. And then you can also set up like, a SOS kind of thing on your phone where if anything goes wrong, you just hit a button, and it kind of sends out an alert to the people that you, you know, want to share that with, and they can find your location and everything.

[B]

So have you ever had any, like, scary interactions?

[A]

That was when I first started running. So I started running in April of 2022, and I was training for my second half marathon in, I want to say, maybe early September, late October, late August, early September. And I was doing one of my training runs, and where I used to live it, there was only one place to run. So I unfortunately had to run the same route, like, every single day. But it was the only thing that I could do. Like, I didn't have a choice or run on the treadmill, which I did often, too. But I was running the trail that I always run, and I was making my little. My little TikTok video. And at about mile. I want to say five, I think I was doing 10 miles that day. It was mile five, and I saw this guy drive past me, and he was, like, looking back at me, and then he, like, his whole, like, top half of his body was coming out of his car, like, looking back at me. And I'm very aware of my surroundings. Like, my biological dad is a police officer, so he's always been like, safety, safety, safety. So it's always been in the back of my head, like, you just don't know who's out there, right? And so I made note of it. I'm like, okay, that was kind of weird. But I just kept running. And then I ended up seeing his car again. And where I was living at the time, the population was very small, and there was no reason for this man to be driving back and forth on this road. It was not a main road. It was just, like, kind of in the back. So I'm like, okay, that was the same guy. And he was looking at me again, and I was like, okay, this is really making me uncomfortable. So I ended up pulling out my phone, and I knew that my icloud was connected from my phone to my computer, all my other devices. So, you know, I'm making my running video. But then I'm like, okay, I see this guy. He's in A Pontiac. I'm like, saying, oh, my God, I.

[B]

Just got the chills.

[A]

I'm literally like, what the color of the Pontiac is, how old the guy looks like. You know, all of the information that I can remember, just so I have it documented in case anything happens, God forbid. And I end up seeing him a third time.

[B]

Drives by me there and back, like, okay, sure. But the third time is.

[A]

The third time I'm like, there's no way. So at that moment, I knew. I was like, there is something going on. So he ends up driving further, and I take a turn back on my trail, and I see a red car in the bushes, like, literally, like, in the trees. Like, he's clearly trying to hide his vehicle, which you're driving a red carpet. So I can kind of see it in the trees. But so I see him up there and where he's parked. I have to go to the side of it in order to get back to where my car was. But past that point, it's a mile next to a golf course that there was. It wasn't the time of year where golfing was going on and no one would have seen me. Like, there's no, you know, roads or anything, right? So I'm like, I can't run past him. There's no way. So I end up kind of stopping, and I'm videotaping the car, and I, like, zoom. I'm, like, shaking right now. I, like, zoom into the car, and I'm, like, still talking about how he's, like, following me and everything, like, documenting it. And then he. I'm stopped, and he ends up pulling out of the space and then driving towards me.

[B]

And so my heart would.

[A]

I'm literally freaking out.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

And so across the street, there is this gentleman who I have seen in his front yard so many times. I know he has young daughters that were, like, probably two or three. So I'm like, you know what? I feel safe going to this man. So I ran into his front yard. I'm like, can I please sit on your front porch? Like, I. This guy is following me. I don't know what's going on. I'm, like, freaking out. Called the police. Yeah. They came, took a statement. They ended up finding the guy doesn't have a record. So they're like, we can't do anything, but they never have a record until they do.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

So, you know, there's nothing I can do. But definitely a really scary circumstance. And it really freaked me out from running after that because I still had my Half marathon to train for. But I was just like, I don't feel safe. And so it took me a second to kind of get back into that rhythm of continuing to run because, you know, scary experiences like that. Like, who knows what would have happened if I hadn't called the police or, you know. So it's just. Yeah, that was a. Definitely a scary situation.

[B]

Oh, my gosh. I feel like, yeah, situations like that. I will. Obviously, I'm grateful, like, nothing happened to you, but it just shows that, like, being aware because, like, had you missed, like, the first two times that he drove past. When it comes to running or training for a marathon. Half marathon. When it comes to training for running, do you recommend running outside versus a treadmill?

[A]

This is something that a lot of people have very, like, serious opinions about. I don't think that it matters. Miles are miles, whether you run it on the treadmill or not. The thing with the treadmill is you're in a controlled environment. Yes. You don't have to worry about the elements. You don't have to worry about hitting any hills or anything like that. So. But a lot of people struggle on the treadmill because it's boring. You're looking at a wall the whole time. You know, like, it. It's just kind of personal preference. But I know so many people who have trained for half marathons, full marathons, like, completely on the treadmill, and they're just fine. So I don't think that one is better than the other. I think they both have their benefits.

[B]

Right.

[A]

But I mean, I love running outside just because I live in a beautiful place and.

[B]

Vitamin D. Exactly. Seeing people for. When it. When I think of running on a treadmill or, like, training for a marathon on a treadmill, I feel like there has to be runs that aren't on a treadmill, though, because of the natural elements. Like, even going up and, like, sidewalk has, like, a texture to it.

[A]

Yes.

[B]

And I just feel like when. And it paces you so you're not having to think about you pacing yourself.

[A]

Yes.

[B]

Or like, oh, wow. Like, I feel like I'm, like, lighter right now. I can go faster, but you can't really do that. I mean, on treadmill, you could, like, push the up button, obviously, but the up button, like, speed up. Yeah. You know what I'm saying?

[A]

Yes.

[B]

But I feel like there has to be a few runs that aren't. But I almost feel like running outside is harder than running at a treadmill for some people.

[A]

Yes. Because. Yeah. You don't have the treadmill Working for you. So you have to be aware of your pacing. Right. So that can be harder. Um, but when you're training, I do highly recommend running outside and running in all of the elements because you don't know what the weather's gonna be like on race day. So if you've never run in the rain before or you've never run in the cold before, and that happens to be the weather on, you're just. Yeah, you just kind of gotta deal with it. So being used to those elements and knowing what it feels like to run in all of that, definitely super important. Um, and then, yeah, you have the hills, which you're not gonna really find any races that are extremely flat. I mean, they're out there, but for the most part, most races have a little bit of elevation gain.

[B]

Yeah. So then when you're listening to or when you're running, are you listening to a podcast or music?

[A]

Okay, so.

[B]

Because I feel like, please don't tell me that you're listening to a book. Please, please don't tell me you're on audible listening to a book.

[A]

Oh, my God. Imagine. No. So my boyfriend actually does. He listens to podcasts the entire time.

[B]

That's like, insane.

[A]

Yeah. And he's listening to running podcasts, too. So it's like.

[B]

But he can't get enough.

[A]

No, he really can.

[B]

He's like, eat, breathe. It's sleep. Run.

[A]

He's running in his sleep. I swear.

[B]

Like, yield, kicking.

[A]

You're like, okay, okay, calm down. Right? Yeah. So when I run, I have a run playlist. I made it when I first started running, and I have just.

[B]

You've added to it?

[A]

Oh, I've been adding to it for three years now, so it's like nine hours long. So I'm always listening to new music because it's never going to be the same.

[B]

I'm going to need this playlist.

[A]

Oh, I'll share it with you because.

[B]

Oh, my God, I've been struggling with finding good music to run to.

[A]

Yeah, it's hard. I try to get, like, the upbeat stuff so that you kind of get in the zone. I have a few throwback stuff or some from the early 2000s. You know, like middle school dance stuff. Like, oh, heck, yeah.

[B]

You're like, oh, yeah, I can get 303.

[A]

It's on there.

[B]

Like, thank you. You're like, absolutely. Okay. Well, that comforts me that you're not, like, listening to podcasts.

[A]

I will say, though, my last marathon that I ran, I did not listen to music until mile 18. So I think there is.

[B]

You were just listening to vibes.

[A]

Like, I met this guy while we were running, and we ended up just talking the entire marathon from, like, mile 7 to 18.

[B]

We're in different running, like, eras because. I'm sorry, I'm not holding a conversation when I'm running a mile.

[A]

Listen, it was. I don't doubt those people.

[B]

You're like, okay, so I just finished mile 18. This is how I'm. And I'm like, I just finished half a mile. Okay, sorry, hold on. No, literally, yeah.

[A]

We were just. Gavin for, like, nine miles together, just talking about. God knows what he was telling me about, like, him and his wife hanging out.

[B]

And I feel like when you're talking to somebody and you can hold a conversation, it almost makes it go by quicker, no?

[A]

Oh, yeah, absolutely. It literally flew by. But honestly, it's really important to be able to do those runs where you can hold the conversation. Cause that's gonna be your zone two easy run. And it's also really good for your, like, aerobic base to be able to hold conversation because it's gonna help you in the long run. So, I mean, I'm just a natural yapper, to be honest. So, like, it comes easy to me. It comes easy. Like, I love talking, so it is what it is.

[B]

But have you ever faked a running workout for social media?

[A]

Never once. And let me tell you, when people were, like, admitting all of those online, I was like, you.

[B]

I was like, why are you guys admitting this? Social media is still gonna be around.

[A]

That's what I said. I'm like, you guys are acting like there. There's no social media and that you don't exist anymore, might leave.

[B]

But, like, you're still. No.

[A]

Like, you're still a person that's here.

[B]

Yes.

[A]

People still know who you are.

[B]

You know, your information.

[A]

Yeah. No. So I saw that. And luckily, I'm very transparent about all of my runs. So if I have a bad run, you'll know about it. Like, I. I'm not gonna, like, act like it's the easiest thing in the world. There are bad days. You know, it. It sucks sometimes, but I'm very transparent about all my workouts. On my Strava, you can see all of my information. You can see what my pace is if I stopped, like, everything.

[B]

So Strava isn't lying.

[A]

No. You can. Although I've heard you can hide stuff.

[B]

I've heard people hiring other runners to run for them on straw. I'm like, you guys, that sounds like Way more work than actually just running.

[A]

Honestly, it's. It's so crazy what some people will genuinely do for social media. It's like, come on. Like, just run. It's good for you. Yeah. But, yeah, I have everything on there. So luckily, people were, you know, commenting, being like, do you fake your runs? And, like, my people were like, coming. No, like, look at her, Strava. Like, she's. You know. Because I documented everything from the beginning, so it's like, no, we've watched her. Like, she's not doing that.

[B]

Like, I'm just. I was just so mind blown by that.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

But I'm like, I guess.

[A]

Yeah, it was crazy, all the people admitting to that. I'm like, oh, thank goodness I never did that. I posted one of those videos, and I was like, guys, I need to let you know I've never faked any of them. I don't know what these people are talking about.

[B]

Okay. You're like, just to clear my name, you're like, keep my name out your mouth.

[A]

Yep.

[B]

I. I will say when I. Like, I would say I'm training. I would say I'm the very early training.

[A]

Okay.

[B]

But whenever I do. Whenever I make the decision, like, oh, I'm gonna talk about this on social media. I may. I feel like it makes me want to, like, push and actually do it. Like, I feel like it's almost motivating in a way to, like, which I feel like I should be motivated. I feel like I should be motivating myself and, like, not waiting for people to be like, oh, wow, like. But I'm like, whatever motivates you, right?

[A]

Yeah. It's nice to have that push from an external. I mean, that's not everything. But having that. I mean, it's. That's why I started, you know? Like, I just wanted to share it so that I was holding myself accountable. And it's nice when you kind of can go back and look at your journey.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

And be like, wow, I did that.

[B]

Whenever somebody asked me how many kids I have, I always say four. And then I have to remind them that three of them have four legs and paws, meaning that they're animals. So I consider my dogs a part of my family and also kind of consider them as kids, and feeding them something healthy and also something that they love is a top priority to me. And this year, healthy habits don't have to just apply to you. They can also apply to your dog. So you can give your dog a fresh start, too. The farmer's dog makes feeding real Healthy dog food, easy and convenient and your dog will absolutely love it. I remember a few years ago I started going down the rabbit hole of feeding my dog something healthier and I looked into making my own food and I was like, wait, that's a lot of work. And then I came across the farmer's dog. And when I tell you my dogs genuinely love the farmer's dog, like anytime I pull it out, they are just at my feet waiting, jumping on the counter. They probably should learn not to do that, but I kind of love it because it just shows how much enthusiasm they have around meal times. The farmer's dog is pre portioned meals and personalized for your dog's needs which make it simple to help your dog reach and maintain a healthy weight. If you've ever thought about making the switch, now is the time. Time. And what makes them so different is that the farmer's dog is developed by on staff board certified vets and veterinary nutritionists to be complete and balanced. And it's also made from human grade real meat and veggies that are gently cooked with the safety and quality standards of human food. So again, my dogs are such big fans of the farmer's dog and that means I am also a huge fan of them as well. So if you guys are interested, I personally recommend trying it out. Get 50 off your first box of fresh healthy food at the farm dog.com Sunday. Plus you get free shipping. Just go to the Farmer Dog.com Sunday to get 50% off. That's the FarmerDog.com Sunday. What motivates you? Because you've ran six marathons.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

So is it time? Is it like, do you like. I don't know, like what? Yeah, like what excites you about running?

[A]

I think, I don't know, it's. I think it's more determination and dedication more than motivation. Because let me tell you, there are some days that I just do not want to go for a run, but I have the determination and I'm able and the discipline in order to do it on those days that I don't want to. And I think motivation comes and goes there some days where you see something and you're like, I'm gonna go and do that, but, but it's not always there.

[B]

So discipline, discipline needs to be stronger than your motivation.

[A]

Discipline, always you need to have more discipline than you have motivation. And I always say that to people because your motivation is going to come and go. And so unless you're willing to put in that work, you can't Just go off of how you're feeling, because running doesn't care about your feelings. It doesn't.

[B]

It's brutal, but, like, also so true.

[A]

It is what it is.

[B]

So then let's say somebody listening to this podcast is like, I want to run a marathon. I've never ran before in my life. Like, where would you recommend starting?

[A]

Definitely there is this guy, Jeff Galloway, and he started the run walk, not me.

[B]

Literally going to write his name down. I'm like, I will get it.

[A]

I send it to everyone that wants to start running. And it's basically intervals where. And I actually did this last year when I was coming back from my stress fracture and getting back into running. You do intervals. So you run for 30 seconds, and then you walk for four minutes, and then you do that, and then the next time you go out, you up the running to a minute, but then you take the walking down to three minutes. And so you end up. Every time you're going out, you're adding to the running and taking away from the walking. And then at the end of it, you know, after six or seven of those sessions, you're ending up running for a full 30 minutes.

[B]

Okay.

[A]

And I think it's really beneficial so that people kind of know what it feels like, and it's easier to get into, and it feels like less daunting that, oh, I have to go out and run a mile straight. It's like, it's easier to swallow for a lot of people. And it also reduces the risk of injury when you're getting into running because your body's not used to it, and so a lot of people can get injured going into it too fast. So it's just super important to take it easy and, you know, just find ways that work for you. And if you have to walk during a run, it's not a big deal. I mean, again, pacing does not matter. You're getting out there and you're doing the movement. You're putting in the work.

[B]

You're still doing it.

[A]

That's all that matters.

[B]

And I also feel like almost like even you like, making the decision, like, putting on your workout set that going outside or to the treadmill or whatever, and you even like, doing anything is. Isn't it just, like, 1, like, 1% better every day?

[A]

Exactly. You. Yeah, you want to work on being 1% better every day. So putting on that working workout set and then getting your foot out the door, that's honestly the hardest part for most people, including me. Sometimes I'm, like, laying in my Bed. And I'm like, I don't want to run five miles today, especially in Colorado.

[B]

I'm like, I'm sorry. I like getting out and running. I'm like, oh, there's a palm tree. I'm like, oh, is that a dolphin? You're like, okay, there's six inches of snow on the ground.

[A]

Yeah, it's brutal sometimes. And, you know, half the time, I don't want to be out there doing it. But just, you know, being able to get out there and pushing yourself to do it is like, you're gonna see the results by doing that. So. But, yeah, getting out the door is always the hardest part. But once you're there, it's like, like, okay, well, I might as well just finish it, right?

[B]

When it comes to running, I also feel like a huge pro of running is there's such a runner community. And I feel like something a lot of women that listen to this podcast have mentioned struggling with is finding friends outside of, like, college or high school friendships. Like, how do you find friends as an adult? Do you recommend running? Like, is there a community in running that, like, you find you've found, like, friends through. I mean, you found a boyfriend through it?

[A]

I mean, yeah, no, it's. It's a great community. Honestly, everyone is so supportive of other people, and I feel like it's not really a judgmental space.

[B]

Right.

[A]

Because we're all just there to be better. I found so many friends through running. When I first moved to Colorado, I. I think I knew, like, one person that lived there.

[B]

That's bold.

[A]

Yeah, I just, like, I was like, you know what? We're just gonna do it. And, yeah, I started running in Colorado, obviously, and I've met a lot of people, like, through that space. I went to a run club the first weekend that I was there. It was literally like, 24 hours after I moved, and I went to a run club.

[B]

That's like, jumping right in.

[A]

I was like, I'm not wasting any time. So they're like, oh, how long? Where do you live?

[B]

And you're like, I actually don't know. I just moved here.

[A]

Yeah. No, literally, that's basically what it was. So, yeah, I went to a run club and I met, like, like six people that first night. And I think the scariest part when you go to run clubs and stuff like that is especially if you go by yourself, it's, you know, meeting the people. Because a lot of those people, it can be daunting because they're going every.

[B]

Week, like, pre existing relationships.

[A]

Yeah, exactly. Or like, they've all been doing it for six months and it's your first time there. And it can be scary. But genuinely, I've never had a circumstance where I've gone to a run club and haven't just talked to a random person and had them be like, nice. Yeah. Like, I went to a run club in Chicago when I was just there for the weekend. I did not know anyone there. And I just. You just have to have the courage to go up and say hi to someone and just start talking. And it just kind of goes from there. Like, everyone is super, super welcoming in the community. You just have to be willing to kind of put yourself out there, which is scary.

[B]

And my go to whenever I need to, like, I know I have to put myself out there, is I find one person and I compliment something that they're wearing.

[A]

That's what I do every time it is.

[B]

Because it's easy. It's like, okay, you're gonna find somebody that like, is wearing something that you think is cute or like, you've been like, seen research, like, anything. Right. Like, oh, headphones or whatever. Like a color.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

So I feel like it's such an easy thing to be like, oh, I love your leggings. They're like, oh, like, hey, are you new? Like, then it's just like strikes up a conversation. I'm also saying that. And I'm like, so shy in, like big groups unless I have like a comfort person.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

So when it comes to run clubs, how do. Is that, like, is that the Nike run club? Like, I'm. I probably sound so stupid.

[A]

No, not at all.

[B]

But like, how do you find run clubs? Is it also through Strava?

[A]

So there are some on Strava. I know that there are some apps that have like workout classes that are listed in the area.

[B]

Right.

[A]

That you can go to. And then also if you like go online and you type in your city and run club, there are so many different programs that you can use. I usually just find random ones because there's usually at least one or two in a city that you can find online by doing some research. But yeah, you just kind of do it and then show up and the rest is history. And you run and you just. And you just run and you talk to people. I will say some of the run clubs, it's hard to find when you're getting into running. A lot of them will say, like, hey, we're gonna do a 10 minute pace for the run. But then they're like out There running seven minute miles and it's like, who are you trying to. Wait a minute. I thought we were doing 10 minute miles.

[B]

Like this is supposed to be my like relaxation run.

[A]

Exactly. So, you know, some of the run clubs are a little bit more intense, but a lot of the time they'll have different, different pace groups. So there'll be a seven minute pace, there'll be a 10 minute pace, a 13 minute pace.

[B]

Not that intimidating.

[A]

Yeah. So you can, you can actually go the pace. Exactly. Which some, I think more often than not, they usually go faster, which is kind of frustrating, but it's almost motivating in a way.

[B]

Like I don't want to be left behind.

[A]

Yeah, I think it can be. It's just, it's hard to be inclusive. Yeah. Especially if you don't have pacers for all of the pace groups. I know that some people just don't feel like they're able to fit into some run clubs if, if their pacing isn't as fast. Which sucks because everyone should feel included and they should have all paces available so that everyone can enjoy the experience. Hey, it's still a mile that's walking.

[B]

I mean, maybe it depends on how long your legs are.

[A]

Exactly.

[B]

Okay, I need you to build your, your perfect running outfit from headphones all the way to shoes, socks, everything.

[A]

Okay. Right now.

[B]

I know it changes and I know like I have favorite workout brands.

[A]

Yes.

[B]

Like right now, if you were to.

[A]

Okay, right now. Okay. From top to bottom. Shocks, headphones.

[B]

You're wearing your hair back, right?

[A]

Yes. Well, okay. Sometimes I, I usually do a half up, half down.

[B]

Okay.

[A]

That's kind of my thing.

[B]

You have short hair.

[A]

It's like to hear. Oh, okay, a little bit. Yeah. So I'll do either hair up in a ponytail or half up, half down. Shocks, headphones, which are the bone conduction. Headphones. I have my Walmart sunglasses. 10 bucks. Best things ever.

[B]

Love that.

[A]

Like, I think that's the one thing that I get the most compliments on are those Walmart sunglasses.

[B]

Really?

[A]

Like, I swear to God that like they're the best things ever. They don't move at all.

[B]

I don't need that. I mean you, you as the blank.

[A]

I'll send you a link. Walmart sunglasses. And then I have top and bottom. Definitely matching set. Or at least the same kind of color if it's different tones. Love a good matching set. It's just like feel good, look good, feel good, run good.

[B]

No, if I wear like an ugly outfit, I'm like, I'm Going to have a horrible workout. No, literally, I feel like confidence is like, like 20% of my workout.

[A]

Truthfully, I feel so much better about doing a workout if I feel good in my outfit. And I think that whatever, it doesn't matter what you run in, as long as you feel comfortable and confident in, it doesn't matter. So definitely matching set. And then I'll have my Garmin watch. This is the Forerunner 265.

[B]

Everyone that runs like, I know if you're a runner, if you have a Garmin.

[A]

Yeah. Garmin or chorus, that's usually like, you know, the watches. Apple watch is fine too.

[B]

Right.

[A]

You know, like any watch where you can.

[B]

But I've heard that the Garmin has way more capabilities when it comes to, like, running.

[A]

Oh, yeah. There's a lot of abilities. I track my sleep on this, too.

[B]

Interesting.

[A]

It's. Yeah. Because I can't do, like, the aura rings or anything. I just. There's something about my fingers. I can't. I feel restricted. So I'm like, okay, I'll stick with the watch and it's fine.

[B]

This is tracking my ovulation. Okay.

[A]

Let's see. Important. Yes. So, yeah, I have my Garmin watch. And then I'll have. Right now, my favorite shoes are the Brooks Glycerin Maxes.

[B]

Okay.

[A]

They're like the chunkiest sneakers ever.

[B]

Interesting.

[A]

So comfortable.

[B]

Comfortable.

[A]

And I. You can, you know, do your training runs in it. It's like, not. Nothing serious. They're my favorite right now. They're so good.

[B]

And then. Are you wearing, like, a fanny pack or anything?

[A]

Yes. So I have. What I wear is. It's. The brand is spy belt, but it's literally just like, kind of like a fanny pack. But it's like a stretchy pocket. And so I'll throw my phone in there and then, like, my keys or whatever. And it just. Just sits around your waist. And there's so many, like, little running belts out there, though. Like, I know Lululemon has them and all that.

[B]

So there's a ton, I'm sure.

[A]

Yeah, I'm sure the market's. Yeah, market's saturated, so I'll have that. And then if I'm doing, like, a threshold pace or, you know, doing, like, intervals where I'm wanting to go fast and, like, track my heart rate. I also have a heart rate monitor that I wear on my arm. So I'm like. Like, I'm so into steps. I literally. I'm like, such a nerd when it comes to everything. Every morning I check I'm like, like, how was my recovery last night during my sleep? Like, I.

[B]

Okay. Interesting. Yeah.

[A]

I'm like, so into it. And. Yeah. And then running socks, I think, like, features is really good. Balega is really good. Most of my socks I just get from Walmart and they work just fine.

[B]

Like.

[A]

Yeah, they're fine. You know what?

[B]

They're, they're, they work. Right.

[A]

Let's not act like Walmart isn't slaying. Okay?

[B]

Exactly.

[A]

Come on.

[B]

Everybody loves Walmart, right? Yeah. Okay. And then before we end. Oh, well, I guess. What's next in your journey?

[A]

Oh, my gosh. Okay. So I'm running the Boston Marathon in four weeks. I'm so excited. Yeah, I qualified last year and I'm from Massachusetts originally, so it's like a dream. It's literally like when I was younger, I always watched it and I was like, I would love to do that one day, but I wasn't a runner. So I'm like, this is a far off dream.

[B]

Right.

[A]

And then last year qualified, and I'm like, I get to go home, I get to see all my family, I, you know, like, all of my friends. So it's like a hometown race for me. And I'm just, like, so ecstatic to do that.

[B]

Oh, that's gonna be so much fun.

[A]

I get chills thinking about it. And then six days later, I'm running the marathon in London.

[B]

No, absolutely not.

[A]

I just found out.

[B]

I mean, congratulations.

[A]

But, like, thank you.

[B]

That's a Over the pond.

[A]

Yes.

[B]

Right.

[A]

So we're gonna. I. I want to do really well in Boston. That's my goal. London is going to be like, wicked party pace.

[B]

Yes.

[A]

I am probably gonna do over five hours. Like, I want to just enjoy the experience, take it in, not do anything serious, Just, you know, enjoy it. But it's crazy and I wouldn't recommend doing it, but I, like, I had the opportunity.

[B]

Two marathons in seven days.

[A]

Yeah, we'll see how I feel after that. We're taking a big break after that, though. No marathons until the fall. So we're, you know.

[B]

But your body is like. Okay.

[A]

This was ambitious.

[B]

I had one last question on, like, the building your perfect outfit. What are you. Are you take, like, goot packs? I don't know, like, what kind of.

[A]

Like, energy fuel so important. Not enough people, I think. Talk about how important it is to fuel yourself when you're doing these big efforts. Yes. You're doing yourself a disservice if you're not feeling yourself during these training runs. It truly doesn't matter what you consume, as long as you're getting the glucose that you need. And if you need caffeine, getting that too. My favorite fuel source is the little goo packs. Okay, but is it literally goo? Like, it's gu and it's kind of like jelly consistency? A little bit. It's a little bit thicker. It's not for everyone. So I recommend trying a few different brands and kind of seeing what you like. You can go to running stores and, like, just get one and, like, try a bunch of different ones. But honestly, so many of my workouts, when I'm on the treadmill, I have a pack of Nerds gummy clusters, and I'm just snacking on those.

[B]

You're kidding.

[A]

Like, it really. You can just have candy or whatever. As long as you're getting the fuel and the sugars.

[B]

Yes.

[A]

And the carbs that you need. It doesn't matter what your fuel source is. You don't need to spend a million dollars on, you know, these, like, fancy.

[B]

Right.

[A]

Brands.

[B]

Okay, I'm gonna try the goo. Oh, yeah, I have actually. It's funny because I'm. I'm having fun, like, getting into it, like, doing the research. Like, I'm in the very beginning stages, but I've researched, like, these, like, packs. I need you to check out the ones that I have because I don't actually know if they're good.

[A]

I'll go over them.

[B]

I haven't tried any of them yet because I'm like, yeah, I need to run more than three miles to, like, actually utilize.

[A]

Yep.

[B]

Okay. And before we finish off, I have some rapid fire questions, and they're going to be easy.

[A]

I'm nervous.

[B]

Like, the first one is you're. You're like, oh, okay. Vintage jerseys are modern jerseys.

[A]

When it comes to vintage, 100%. They're just. They're classic and they just look so cool.

[B]

Yes. Like, there's all the outfit. Yeah. No, modern. I'm like, like, nobody's ever answered modern morning run or evening run?

[A]

Morning run. I'm early. Like, I'm either with my headlamp on.

[B]

Oh, wow. Okay.

[A]

Get it done early and then have the rest of the day to just.

[B]

I'm working out at night.

[A]

It's awful.

[B]

If it passes 12, I'm not working.

[A]

Out well because I feel like you lose your motivation. I feel like if I get it done right when I wake up, I'm done with it for the day and then I can focus on endorphins.

[B]

I feel like ride throughout the day.

[A]

Oh, my God. God, it's like. It's such a fantastic feeling. And also, I have a hard time sleeping if I train at night because I feel like all of the adrenaline is still going and I can't relax.

[B]

So morning run, morning run, treadmill run, or outdoor run?

[A]

Listen, I'm a psychopath. I truly do love running on the treadmill. It's just. There's something about it. I can just zone out.

[B]

Wait, do you love your treadmill?

[A]

We have a treadmill at our gym, like, in our apartment complex, and it's so good.

[B]

So you like it? Because I've heard so many people recommend the Peloton treadmill, and I'm in. I have a Nordic track right now, which I don't hate it, but sometimes it shuts off for my husband because he's a little bit heavier.

[A]

Right.

[B]

But I've heard so many people recommend the Peloton, I just don't know.

[A]

Yeah, I. I think, honestly, there's a lot of really good brands out there. It just kind of depends on what your goals are. Yeah. Because some of them don't go up to, like, 15 miles per hour. Some of them only go up to 11 miles per hour.

[B]

Sorry. Well, you never utilizing 15 miles an hour, girl.

[A]

I'm. You know, like, maybe. No, the fastest. The fastest that I'll do is my sprints at, like, 11 and a half. That's it.

[B]

Oh, my God. Okay. I'm definitely a beginner. I'm like, the idea of.

[A]

I believe in you. You're going to be running 15 miles per hour.

[B]

Oh, my God. Solo runs or group run?

[A]

Okay. Another thing, I love running by myself because it's, like, a therapy.

[B]

Yep.

[A]

So I think I genuinely love being able to push my limits by myself. I love group runs, too, but when I was starting, all of my runs were by myself, so I think I'm just used to that.

[B]

Yep.

[A]

But they both have their benefits and everything.

[B]

But I grew up a swimmer, and. And so I feel like there is not a sport harder than swimming because it's really all mental. And that's what I kind of compare running to. Because if you're. I mean, running, you're. You can talk to people. Swimming, it's just like, you have no choice. You're literally dead.

[A]

You're by yourself now.

[B]

You can finally listen to music. But back. Back in my, like, Flintstone days, like, you can listen to music underwater.

[A]

I know.

[B]

Energy chews or trail mix.

[A]

Ooh. I think energy chews because I like candy.

[B]

So the nerd clusters. Pre race pasta dinner or protein focused meal?

[A]

Preway. Pre. Pre race pasta.

[B]

Okay, so you're like carb loading.

[A]

Oh, yeah.

[B]

Okay.

[A]

I'm eating so many carbs the few days, it's. It's like the best part about marathon.

[B]

I would love to see what I eat before London. Like. Yeah, because you have to be after a marathon and then going into another.

[A]

Marathon, it's gonna be just pasta.

[B]

Can I request that type of video?

[A]

Okay, I'll do it for you.

[B]

Hot yoga or reformer Pilates.

[A]

Listen, I just took my first hot yoga class yesterday. Pilates. Oh my God, I hate sweating.

[B]

But you hate. Okay, we should have talked about that way earlier. Okay, noted. Cold plunge or hot tub for recovery?

[A]

Cold plunge for sure.

[B]

What?

[A]

It's terrible. Don't get me wrong, it never gets easier, but it's so much better for you. Like the benefits of it.

[B]

Yeah, I have to show you our little. We have like a cold plunge sauna over the side of the house.

[A]

Oh, my God.

[B]

Stop all my. Not me. And then during a run, listening to a podcast or listening to music.

[A]

Music for sure.

[B]

Okay, well, thank you so much for coming on. Where can we follow you?

[A]

Oh, my goodness. I'm on Instagram and Tick Tock and I just started a YouTube.

[B]

I love. I love long form. So where was the name on all of them?

[A]

Okay, so my. My TikTok is so funny. I made it. It's at Sage and Maze and it was supposed to be like, Sam.

[B]

Okay.

[A]

I don't know. I made it like literally when it started and I don't feel like changing it. So that's my TikTok and then my Instagram is Samantha McIntyre. XO. And then my YouTube is just Samantha McIntyre.

[B]

Perfect. All right, well, I will be following along because I'm so interested to see how Boston to London goes.

[A]

And if you have any questions about marathon training, I am always more than happy to answer.

[B]

You shouldn't have said that because now you just opened Open the floodgates. Okay, well, thank you so much for coming on. I hope you guys enjoyed and I'll see you next Sunday. Please note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.