Maybe Running Will Help?

From global marathons to hidden gem trail runs, Bart Yasso joins us to talk about his new book, 100 Runs of a Lifetime.

In this episode, legendary runner, author, and former Chief Running Officer of Runner’s World Bart Yasso shares the stories behind his most unforgettable races—how he chose just 100 out of thousands, what makes a run truly life-changing, and why documenting your own running journey matters.

We talk about Comrades Marathon, the origins of shakeout runs, race-day rituals, travel tips, and how the culture of running has evolved over the decades.

Whether you're planning your next race or dreaming of a global running adventure, this episode is packed with inspiration, laughter, and timeless advice from one of the sport’s greatest storytellers.

Keywords: running podcast, Bart Yasso, 100 Runs of a Lifetime, marathon tips, running stories, Comrades Marathon, running motivation, best races in the world

Today’s guest is David Roche—elite ultrarunner, 2024 Leadville 100 champion and course record holder, coach to some of the sport’s top athletes, co-author of The Happy Runner, and co-founder of Some Work All Play with his brilliant wife Megan. But beyond the accolades, David is someone who radiates joy, purpose, and perspective—especially in a sport that can sometimes take itself way too seriously.

We talk about why running doesn’t have to “matter” to matter, how to set big scary goals without tying your worth to them, and why silliness and love might just be your best training plan. Whether you're toeing the line at your first 5K or dreaming of a hundred-miler, I promise—this episode will leave your heart a little fuller and your inner critic a little quieter.

This episode of Coaches with Coffee is for every runner who's ever dealt with an injury, questioned their motivation, or wondered if their best miles are behind them.

Recorded in March (so yes, some race references have passed—but don't worry, you're not late to the party), Nicky Tamberrino sits down with running legends Jeff Horowitz and Bart Yasso for a wide-ranging conversation on how running evolves as we do.

From tendonitis and aging joints to letting go of PRs and finding joy in the back of the pack, this episode gets real about what keeps us lacing up. You’ll hear honest reflections, coach confessions, and even a bathroom mishap story from the Boston Marathon start line. It’s funny, wise, and full of the kind of reminders every runner needs.

Whether you’re training hard, easing back in, or just showing up for the vibes—this one’s for you.

In this episode, I sit down with John Ferry—co-founder and head coach of Team Wilpers and head coach of the Dashing Whippets—to talk about the evolution of a runner, the mental side of training, and why running should serve you, not stress you out.

We explore how goals change over time, why comparing yourself to your past self can hold you back, and the real reason so many runners repeat the injury-recovery cycle (spoiler: it’s all of us 😅).

Plus, John shares his unlikely path from Broadway stage manager to full-time run coach and the powerful lessons he's learned along the way.

Whether you’re just getting started, feeling stuck, or finding your way back to the sport—this one’s packed with perspective.

What if your running shoes were actually holding you back? In this episode of Maybe Running Will Help, I sit down with Colby Gould, Sports Marketing Manager at Altra Running, to uncover the incredible (and slightly rebellious) origin story of the brand that’s changing the game for runners everywhere.

We dive into:
👟 How two running store employees secretly modified shoes and accidentally started a movement
📏 Why most of us are probably wearing the wrong shoe size (guilty 🙋‍♀️)
🏃‍♀️ Altra’s commitment to creating shoes that work with your body, not against it
🎉 Their partnership with Charm City Run’s B3 Distance Series and how they’re supporting runners of all levels
😆 Plus, my not-so-subtle campaign to get sponsored (Colby, call me!)

If you're a runner, a shoe geek, or just love a good underdog story, this episode is for you. Tune in, lace up, and maybe rethink your next pair of running shoes!

📢 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review so more runners can join the fun!

🎧 Listen now!

In this episode of Maybe Running Will Help, host Nicky Tamberrino sits down with Christine Felstead, a pioneer in the Yoga for Runners movement. Christine shares her incredible journey from marathon running to discovering the transformative power of yoga—helping athletes move smarter, prevent injuries, and sustain their love for running.

Nicky and Christine dive into the evolution of running, why mindful movement matters, and how incorporating yoga and strength training can make all the difference. Whether you're a runner looking to improve mobility, a yogi curious about endurance training, or simply someone striving for longevity in movement, this episode is packed with insights to keep you strong, balanced, and injury-free.

Tune in to hear Christine’s wisdom, personal experiences, and expert advice on how to harmonize running and yoga for a healthier, more sustainable approach to movement.

Follow Christine at @yogaforrunners and visit yogaforrunners.com for more resources.

Connect with Nicky at @1classy_motherunner for more inspiration and updates!

We’re back with another episode featuring two running legends—Jeff Horowitz and the one and only Bart Yasso! This conversation is part of an ongoing series with Jeff and Bart, and we hope to keep it going throughout the year—so if you love it, share it with your friends and let us know!

In this episode, we dive into:
🏃‍♂️ How community keeps us motivated—whether it’s a local running store challenge or running under the moonlight with the Amish
🌍 The fascinating world of Amish runners, their unique training style, and why they sprint for homemade ice cream
🧘‍♀️ The power of perspective—from the resilience of Oklahoma City bombing survivor Amy Downs to the unexpected mindset shifts that make us grateful for every step
💨 Why “running quietly” isn’t just about sound—it’s about form, efficiency, and longevity in the sport
💩 And yes… we talk about the infamous Road Apple Award (trust us, you’ll want to hear this)

If you’re looking for inspiration, laughs, and a reminder that running is about so much more than just pace, this one’s for you.

🔥 Love the episode? Help us keep this series going! Share it with a friend, tag us on social media, and let us know your favorite part.

🎧 Tune in, lace up, and let’s run happy—quietly, of course!

Winter running isn’t just about braving the cold—it’s about discovering gratitude, finding joy in untouched snow, and connecting with a community that inspires us to keep moving forward. In this episode of Maybe Running Will Help, host Nicky Tamberrino is joined by running legends Bart Yasso and Jeff Horowitz to explore the transformative power of gratitude on and off the trail.

From stories of resilience, like a runner who overcame unimaginable odds to complete a marathon, to practical tips for finding motivation in the colder months, this episode is a heartwarming reminder of why we run. Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner or someone rediscovering the sport, you’ll walk away inspired to embrace the beauty and lessons of winter running.

Tune in for:
✔️ Stories of resilience and inspiration
✔️ Strategies to find gratitude in every mile
✔️ Tips for staying motivated during the colder months

Lace up, hit play, and let’s run through winter together!

This episode explores (in under 10 minutes) the profound impact of community in running, highlighting how shared experiences foster accountability, personal growth, and lasting friendships. Nicky Tamberrino emphasizes the importance of camaraderie among runners and how these relationships enrich their lives beyond just the sport.

In this engaging conversation, David Green shares his incredible journey of ultra running and the profound bond he formed with a stray dog named Lucky. From the challenges of endurance sports to the emotional connection with Lucky, David reflects on the lessons learned through running, the importance of community, and the impact of mental strength. He also discusses his future adventures and the legacy of Lucky, culminating in the release of his book that honors their journey together.

In this episode of Maybe Running Will Help, we sit down with Ryan, a first-time marathoner who recently crossed the finish line at the Marine Corps Marathon. But Ryan’s journey was about more than just miles and medals—it was about building community and making sports accessible to kids through his work with the Volo Kids Foundation.

Ryan shares how training for the marathon gave him the structure to balance life’s chaos, the creativity to fundraise in unique ways (think playlist challenges and chocolate milk miles), and the drive to make a difference in the lives of others. He also reflects on how running has helped him find "margin" in his life—a space to reflect, grow, and better serve his community.

If you’ve ever wondered how running connects us to something bigger than ourselves, this is an episode you won’t want to miss!

Key topics include:

• The power of community in running and life
• How sports can be a bridge for belonging and equity
• Unique fundraising ideas that inspire connection
• Ryan’s journey from soccer player to marathoner

Tune in to hear how Ryan is running to create a more inclusive, connected world—one mile at a time.

In this episode of Maybe Running Will Help, Nicky sits down with Andy, an ultrarunner and VP of Creative at Liquid Death, to explore the world of ultra-endurance, off-the-wall marketing, and the art of embracing the absurd. Recorded just two months ago, Andy shares hilarious and inspiring stories from his back-to-back 100-milers, reveals what it's like to market water with a rock-and-roll edge, and dives into why he believes taking ourselves a little less seriously can lead to our best adventures. Tune in for a dose of humor, grit, and insight into pushing limits—whether on the trail or in life.

Plus, don’t miss a special message from our sponsor, Charm City Run, offering 10% off with code NICKY10!

In this episode of Maybe Running Will Help, Nicky is joined by Emily Hemmendinger, Clinical Director of the OCD Program and Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Colorado School of Medicine. Emily shares her expertise in mental health, focusing on how athletes—especially runners—can overcome automatic negative thoughts (ANTS) and build resilience. Together, they discuss the powerful link between mindset and performance, how to embrace acceptance over perfection, and strategies to stay present in challenging moments. Whether you're battling self-doubt during training or dealing with perfectionism in daily life, this conversation will inspire you to keep moving forward.

Sponsor Information:
Today's episode is sponsored by Charm City Run. Join us for the Oktoberfest 5-Miler presented by Altra in Columbia, Maryland on Sunday, October 27th! Celebrate with great swag, an awesome post-race party at Lost Ark Distilling Co., and know that a portion of the race proceeds benefit Bridges to Housing Stability in Howard County. Use code "NICKYSENTME" for $5 off your race registration. See you at the starting line!

n this episode of Maybe Running Will Help, host Nicky Tamberrino sits down with Dillan Haviland, an inspiring young runner with big dreams and a disciplined mindset. Dillan shares his journey from high school athlete to pursuing professional running, offering deep insights into how faith, self-discipline, and community have shaped his path. Whether you’re chasing a personal goal, looking for motivation to get out the door, or seeking inspiration to push beyond your limits, Dillan’s story will resonate with runners of all levels.

Tune in to hear about his training philosophies, mental toughness, and how running became a way for him to connect with something greater. Don’t miss this uplifting conversation that proves running is about so much more than just crossing the finish line.

Be sure to follow @mayberunningwillhelp on Instagram for updates and inspiration, and don’t forget to use the code Nicky10 for 10% off apparel and accessories (exclusions apply) from our sponsor!

In this episode of Maybe Running Will Help, Nicky sits down with Linda Flanagan, a former high school running coach, author, and lifelong athlete. Linda shares her personal journey with sports, from her early love of running to how it shaped her career and family life. Together, they explore the value of sports beyond competition, touching on the mental, emotional, and social benefits that come from simply enjoying the movement. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just getting started, this conversation is sure to leave you inspired.

This episode is brought to you by Charm City Run. Don’t miss their next signature race on Saturday, September 21—the ASICS Susquehanna River Running Festival presented by University of Maryland Upper Chesapeake Health! Located just minutes off Interstate 95, this race offers small-town charm with big-time perks. Choose from a half-marathon, 10K, or 5K, and enjoy great SWAG, waterfront views, and a super fun after-party. Use code NICKYSENTME for $5 off your registration!

Scott Kelly’s journey from addiction to ultra-marathon coaching is a story of resilience, community, and transformation. His experiences have shaped him into a person who not only overcomes challenges but also helps others find their own path to healing and growth. As Scott continues to run, coach, and inspire, he embodies the belief that “maybe running will help” us all get more comfortable with ourselves and the world around us.

Maybe Running Will Help is excited to announce our new sponsor Charm City Run! Check them out at www.charmcityrun.com and use discount code: Nicky10 for 10% off apparel and accessories. Exclusions apply.

As always, thank you for listening to Maybe Running Will Help and supporting the show. Don’t forget to follow, like, share, and review us on your favorite streaming platform.

In this episode, Nicky and Brad dive into a wide range of topics centered around personal growth and peak performance. They explore the key ideas from Brad's books, particularly focusing on the principles of groundedness and adapting to change.

The conversation highlights the crucial role of both physical and mental health in achieving excellence.

Brad opens up about his writing process and his goal of giving people the vocabulary to better understand their own experiences.

They also delve into the relevance of his work for female athletes, emphasizing the importance of a nuanced and thoughtful approach to performance.

Throughout their discussion, Nicky and Brad touch on valuable principles for personal growth, such as starting where you are, embracing discomfort, and finding joy in the journey.

They also cover concepts like self-distancing, the impact of surrounding yourself with positive influences, prioritizing consistency over intensity, and the power of motivation in driving action.

The episode concludes with reflections on diversifying your identity, practicing tragic optimism, and the importance of responding thoughtfully rather than reacting impulsively—principles that are applicable to various areas of life, including running and personal development.

Hometown Highlights is a Maybe Running Will Help series dedicated to the amazing runners right in our own neighborhoods. From  business professionals to busy moms, we're talking to the runners who truly inspire because they're just like us. Allow me to introduce today's guest. Leah Williams is the owner and founder of &Fitness. A treadmill gym that focuses on inclusivity and helping people become stronger and happier versions of themselves. In addition to owning a fitness studio, Leah has a demanding and impressive job in genetic counseling and is a mom to 2 kids. And yes, of course, she is a runner. Topics discussed include:

• Finding inspiration in people who keep it real and are relatable.
• The power of running to bring women together and provide support.
• Running can teach valuable life lessons, such as setting goals, practicing resilience, and accepting where you are.
• Running is a metaphor for facing challenges and can help develop a positive mindset.

For more information on &Fitness visit https://www.andfitstudio.com

It’s not unusual for me to meet people and want to learn more about them. People fascinate me, and I’m genuinely interested in their stories. That’s especially true of people I admire. I want to understand our similarities and differences, and I want to learn from each other.

That’s sort of how this interview happened.

There’s a runner in my hometown who I met through a mutual friend, and then just kind of noticed her placing in all the races since meeting her. I became quickly curious. And now I finally I get to ask her all the questions, I have on this podcast episode.

Hannah Betman is a competitive runner. She got fast quickly and qualified for the 2020 U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials. Since then she’s been chasing even faster times.

In this episode, Hannah candidly discusses the pressures of time goals and the pivotal role confidence plays in her training regimen. With the New York City Marathon on the horizon, she reveals her strategies for managing stress and doubt, inspiring listeners with her resilience.

Tackling the tough moments head-on, Hannah explores her approach to handling setbacks in workouts and races, advocating for self-awareness and self-compassion. She underscores the importance of maintaining a positive mindset and persevering through rough patches.

Moreover, Hannah emphasizes the transformative power of running as a tool for connection and balance in life. Through her involvement with Athletes Serving Athletes, she sheds light on the profound joy of supporting athletes with disabilities, illustrating the profound impact of giving back.

Throughout her evolving running journey, Hannah draws inspiration from fellow runners who triumph over adversity, recognizing the significance of resilience and camaraderie in the running community. Join us as Hannah shares her story of perseverance, growth, and the boundless potential of the human spirit.

00:00 Introduction and Meeting Hannah Betman

08:13 Transition from Swimmer to Runner

14:44 Treadmill Studio and Coaching Work

32:14 Managing Stress and Maintaining Confidence

39:01 Dealing with Setbacks and Adjusting Goals

46:31 Adapting and Evolving in the Running Journey

Join Nicky Tamberrino, aka 1classy_motherunner, on a special episode of the Maybe Running Will Help' podcast. In this episode, Nicky shares 50 affirmations designed to supercharge your confidence for that upcoming race. Whether you're a seasoned marathoner or just starting out, these affirmations will help you crush your goals and run with unbeatable confidence. So, grab a comfy seat, take a deep breath, and get ready to elevate your running game!

Today I'm sharing with you my conversation with Kristen Watkins. She's is the Frederick, MD Store Lead at one of the Country's best running stores, Charm City Run. She's also a coach, runner and creative gift giver. Together we come up with some clever ideas for every kind of runner!

In the episode, we start off talking about our best and worst gifts (as a giver and receiver) and then roll into this year's hottest gift ideas. I even made my own wish list for my friends and family after hearing some of Kristen's ideas.

Have you ever considered purchasing a training program as a gift? That was just one of many of Kristen’s ideas for new runners. And for our Maryland and Delaware listeners, Charm City Run offers many winter programs starting in January. These programs include:

• Supported group runs and workouts twice a week
• Weekly training plans
• Access to expert coaching services
• Gait Analysis
• Discounts at CCR stores and signature races
• Training premium
• And more!

Go to https://www.charmcityrun.com/training/ to learn more!

Thanks for tuning in! If you liked today's episode please subscribe to the show and leave us a review.

Thanks everyone!

Nicky

@1classy_motherunner @mayberunningwillhelp

Matt Johnson is a badass runner inspiring the community with his grit and determination. He's an athlete who talks the talk and consistently does what he says he’s going to do because that’s just who he is. Besides being a dope soul, Matt has an incredible list of achievements including his most recent finish at the Leadville 100. Oh, and he also has an adorable soft spot for his mom. This episode was recorded just 3 weeks before Matt’s Leadville finish. Listen in to hear his story, how he prepared for success, and why he thinks speaking up about your goals is the secret to success. Follow Matt @mattjohnson_

In this podcast episode, I'm exploring the topic of fitness and physical activity with Evan Slaughter - a fitness influencer with over 126K instagram followers who is known for his positivity and comedic content.

The conversation leads us to the topic of self-compassion and caring less about what others think. We discuss whether going through difficult times is necessary to reach a place of self-acceptance or if there are ways to avoid it. We acknowledge that everyone's journey will have its challenges, but there may be ways to navigate them.

During the episode I introduce the concept of a "canon event," which is an unavoidable and unchangeable event that has had a significant impact on one's life. We mention that people are using this term to describe moments that have shaped them into who they are today.

Overall, this episode explores the intersection of fitness, personal growth, and self-acceptance, highlighting the importance of physical activity in enhancing various aspects of life.

Follow Evan at https://www.instagram.com/fit2serve1/

Follow me https://www.instagram.com/nickytamberrino/

Follow the show https://www.instagram.com/mayberunningwillhelp/

Rate and review on Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/maybe-running-will-help/id1600171098

Many of us start running skeptically but keep running moved by a new found belief in ourselves and others. We develop a spiritual connection to the sport and are inspired by each other. But what’s it like to be a highly sensitive person in a community that thrives on deeply emotional experiences? 

That’s unexpectedly what my guest, Jamie DePaola, and I explore in today’s episode. Jamie is a fellow empath, and is also a clairvoyant, and ultra marathon runner. From the moment I saw her, I felt like we’d known each other for my entire life! Some people even say we even look alike with similar mannerisms.

Maybe it’s no wonder I found her aura refreshing but I’ve no doubt you're going to catch all the feels during this conversation.Jamie’s energy is contagious and her heart is warm and welcoming and I can’t wait to share her with you. 

(00:00:00) Intro

(0:02:00) Empowering Girls

(00:06:50) My Introduction to Jamie (doppelganger)

(00:08:09) Pixie Haircuts, Tattoos, Piercings, and Being Authentic

(00:12:26) Jamie's Introduction

(00:17:00) Empaths and The Running Community

(00:27:46) How She Started Running (Angel Story)

(00:35:00) Ultra Running and Training

(00:41:35) Empath and Energy

(00:51:58) Values and Being Loyal

(01:00:00) Inner Child Work

(01:00:04) Being Clairvoyant

(01:08:00) Spirituality

Follow Jamie on intagram at @mad4marathons , me @nickytamberrino and this show @mayberunningwillhelp

Please help us grow our community! Don't forget to rate and review us on apple podasts, respond to the poll and questions in Spotify, and/or share this show with others who love to run.

Gene Dykes is a 75-year-old runner, well known for setting various records worldwide. At age 70 in 2018, he was the oldest person alive to break 3 hours. Last month, he broke 7 masters records in a single 12 hour race and this month has his sites on becoming the oldest finisher at the 2023 Western States 100. This ultra-geezer as he is affectionally know, is a true inspiration for any of us who have doubted our ability to thrive based on our age. Join us as we talk about his running journey that began in his late 50s, why he continues to run, and what running has taught him about how we can do life better. To learn more about Gene and how to support his running adventures, go to https://www.ultrageezer.com/

(00:00:00) Intro

(00:02:25) "ultrageezer" origin

(00:05:20) Racing at age 56

(00:08:50) What makes him keep running

(00:15:15) Ultra Running

(00:21:43) Setting 7 records at Pennsylvania’s Dawn to Dusk to Dawn Track Ultras May '23

(00:36:30) Running a sub 3 marathon at age 70

(00:50:30) Why running helps/advice

Today I’m sharing with you my recent conversation with Gary Cantrell - aka Lazarus Lake, he’s also been called "evil genius," "The Leonardo da Vinci of pain," and "A master of sadomasochistic craft.” But he’ll describe himself as just an old hillbilly who lives in the woods.

His races have developed an almost cult-like following and you can consider me a member. Ever since the 2014 documentary on The Barkley Marathons, I’ve been obsessed.

In todays episode we’ll talk about who Laz really is, how he does what he does, and why we should dream big dreams and make them happen.

Thanks to Laz for joining us. Be sure to check out all his races at lazaruslake.com.

Please remember to rate and review this show on Apple Podcast and follow me on instagram @nicky_tamberrino for all the latest content.