Ali on the Run Show
Every week on the Ali on the Run Show, I talk with inspiring people who lead interesting lives on the run and beyond. And while running is what brings us all together, on these episodes, we're digging a little deeper. These conversations are about the decisions people have made to get where they are today, and how getting sweaty has factored in. Whether you’re on the run toward something great or away from something that’s holding you back, join me on this never-ending adventure, and let’s all pick up the pace together.
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813. A Life Update From Ali, Again
06/06/2025
813. A Life Update From Ali, Again
“This sucks, and it’s going to be hard, and this is very real. But that doesn’t mean we’re going to stop having fun along the way. So let’s have fun when it feels right.” We're due for a catch-up. SPONSOR: UCAN: to get a FREE UCAN sample pack (you’ll just pay the cost of shipping), and use code ALI for 20% off your entire UCAN order. Follow: SUPPORT: If you’re enjoying the show, please . And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!
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812. Everything You Need to Know About the 2028 U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials Standards
06/03/2025
812. Everything You Need to Know About the 2028 U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials Standards
"They just want a chance to compete." Yesterday, after much anticipation and speculation, USA Track & Field announced the changes to the qualifying times for the 2028 U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials. So, what's it going to take to OTQ leading up to LA 2028, and to get to run at the Trials? For women, the qualifying mark stays the same: 2:37:00. On the men's side, things are getting faster: Men will now need to run 2:16:00 to qualify — a full two minutes faster than the qualifying time for the 2024 Trials. In this episode, USATF's Chairs of the Long Distance Running Committee — and — join the show to explain what what into making these decisions, and what they mean for athletes and fans alike. (Read the full USATF release .) SPONSOR: New Balance: to shop New Balance's latest releases for the season. Follow Ali: SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you’re enjoying the show, please . Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!
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811. Phily Bowden’s 2025 London Marathon Recap
05/29/2025
811. Phily Bowden’s 2025 London Marathon Recap
"You just need to chill a little bit!" Phily Bowden has a massive following. Whether it's on , , or , there are hundreds of thousands of people watching — and applauding — Phily's every training run, start line, and finish line. The 2:25 UK-based marathoner runs professionally for On, and as she always says, she loves the grind. In this conversation, Phily talks about her experience at the 2025 London Marathon, where she may not have hit her time goal (she hoped for 2:23–2:24, and ran 2:30) but left London with an admirable perspective and some serious mental fortitude. SPONSORS: goodr: and use code ALI for $5 off your next order. Vuori: for 20% off your first Vuori purchase. In this episode: All about Phily’s workout today (2:00) How Phily’s feeling post-London (4:40) How Phily processes her races (5:45) Phily’s experience working with a sports psychologist (7:35) Phily's relationship with her coach, Jon Green (9:45) What’s next on the run for Phily? (11:15) What Phily’s London Marathon weekend was like (13:55) Phily’s London Marathon race morning (19:30) The pros and cons of being a content creator on race day (23:50) Phily’s relationship with fellow pro Molly Seidel, and how she feels about the Flagstaff running community (25:30) How it felt standing on the London Marathon start line (30:35) Phily breaks down the first few miles of the race (33:25) All about that London heat (40:20) The final 5K (46:20) What it felt like to cross the London Marathon finish line, and Phily’s post-race takeaways (48:30) On growing up as a “cheeky child” (53:40) When Phily knew she could make it as a content creator, and her take on influencer responsibility (57:10) How Phily got her non-running partner, Daniel, to become a runner! (1:02:45) Follow Ali: SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you’re enjoying the show, please . Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!
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810. Emily Oster's 2025 Boston Marathon Recap
05/23/2025
810. Emily Oster's 2025 Boston Marathon Recap
"There’s this sense of all these people, they came out to watch you do this weird, crazy thing. And you’re running toward the thing you’ve been working toward for many months, and all of these people are behind you, and people beside you trying to do the same thing. It’s very special." First, Emily Oster started running. Then . Then : the California International Marathon in 2023, where she finished in a Boston Qualifying time of 3:17:39. Now, Emily is officially a Boston Marathoner, having completed this year's race in a personal best time of 3:14:53. In this episode, the economist and best-selling author breaks it all down, including what her training was like this time around, what the energy in the city felt like for a first-time Boston Marathoner, and why she briefly considered calling it quits at mile 23. SPONSOR: UCAN's MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND SALE: to get a FREE UCAN training sample pack (you’ll just pay the cost of shipping), and use code ALI for 30% off your UCAN order from now until May 26! In this episode: Emily’s snapshot moment from the 2025 Boston Marathon (3:30) How Emily has been feeling since Boston (5:00) Emily’s road to the Boston Marathon, via CIM (6:00) Emily’s impression of Boston (10:15) On hard work, genetics, and human limits (12:30) Emily’s experience training through an icy New England winter, and how this training cycle was different from CIM 2023 (17:30) Emily’s relationship with coach Kaitlin Goodman (20:20) The race plan (23:45) Emily’s Boston Marathon weekend plans (24:25) How Emily was feeling on race morning, and the journey to the start line (35:20) The start line energy (38:35) Emily’s “very specific chunking plan” (40:55) What it was like starting to run the Boston Marathon (44:00) Emily’s take on the Newton hills (50:20) “That was the moment where I was like, I am not feeling good, I can’t believe there are more miles” (53:00) Right on Hereford, left on Boylston (56:25) Now what? (1:00:45) What’s dominating Emily’s inbox these days? (1:04:55) Follow: SUPPORT: If you’re enjoying the show, please . And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!
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809. On Turning 40, With Guest Host Cousin Jackie
05/16/2025
809. On Turning 40, With Guest Host Cousin Jackie
"For two years, I have been sad. Not all the time. But it got pretty bad and pretty dark and pretty scary for a long time. And over these past few weeks, I’ve seen the light. And I feel like I get to be the light. And it’s been really fun to genuinely be enjoying my life." If you follow me on Instagram (I'm ), I'm sure you're sick of my 40th birthday posts. But I had so much fun that this warranted an audio version of the weekend. So we brought in the big guns: , here to guest host this week's episode! Best spring ever? Best spring ever. SPONSOR: : Use code ALI for $10 off your next purchase. Code valid in the U.S. and Canada. Lagoon: to take Lagoon’s 2-minute sleep quiz to see which pillow is right for you. (I'm an Otter!) Use code ALI at checkout for 15% off your next Lagoon order. Follow Ali: SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you’re enjoying the show, please . Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!
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808. My 2025 London Marathon Weekend Recap
05/09/2025
808. My 2025 London Marathon Weekend Recap
"It's just this phase of life I'm in right now where I just can't get enough of going out and having fun. Within reason. In sweatpants." I had the absolute privilege of getting to attend the London Marathon with New Balance (a sponsor of the race). I attended a New Balance Women's Summit, hosted a panel the night before the race, and spent a ton of time exploring as much of London as I could. On race day, I was at the finish line cheering for the runners as they made their way from Buckingham Palace down the chute. (Congratulations, runners! Not an easy day out there!) The entire experience was incredible. I loved the city of London, the people, the architecture, the pub scene (!!!). I already can't wait to go back. SPONSORS: New Balance: to shop New Balance's latest releases for the season. Lagoon: to take Lagoon’s 2-minute sleep quiz to see which pillow is right for you. (I'm an Otter!) Use code ALI at checkout for 15% off your next Lagoon order. Follow Ali: SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you’re enjoying the show, please . Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!
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807. Darcy Budworth, Founder of Take the Bridge
05/06/2025
807. Darcy Budworth, Founder of Take the Bridge
"We don’t do things the easy way." Ten years ago, Darcy Budworth was feeling burned out on running and racing in New York City. The interior designer felt a pull toward something beyond the classic weekend morning road races in Central Park. Enter : an unsanctioned urban race through city streets and over bridges, navigating traffic, pedestrians, and bike messengers, all at night, in the dark. In this conversation, Darcy talks about building the thing she thought was missing from the running community. She talks about how Take the Bridge has grown and expanded beyond NYC to 27 cities and nine countries. She talks about how they've stayed true to TTB's roots, fostering community, connection, and exciting racing — and about what they're doing to celebrate the event's 10th anniversary this summer. ( to be a part of it on July 25, 2025!) FOLLOW DARCY SPONSORS: Oofos: The best in recovery footwear! Check out Oofos's new — before it sells out! UCAN: to get a FREE UCAN Edge sample pack (you’ll just pay the cost of shipping), and use code ALI for 20% off your next UCAN order. In this episode: Have you run today? (2:25) What Darcy is looking for on the run right now (4:20) All about Darcy’s job as an interior designer (7:00) How Darcy found running (12:15) What running looked like for Darcy in the mid-2010s in New York City — and how Take the Bridge was born (16:45) What it’s like participating in an unsanctioned race (23:40) What it’s like running Take the Bridge (32:15) When Darcy knew she was building something special (41:50) How Darcy has stayed focus on her original mission as Take the Bridge has expanded to 27 cities and 9 countries (43:40) How a Take the Bridge race actually works (49:15) How Darcy has seen the NYC running scene and community evolve since the mid-2010s (53:15) The best bridges: which ones Darcy has loved the most (58:15) How Take the Bridge will celebrate its 10th birthday this summer (1:08:40) Darcy’s advice to anyone afraid of taking a big risk (1:15:30) Follow: SUPPORT: If you’re enjoying the show, please . And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!
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806. Sharon Lokedi, 2025 Boston Marathon Champion
05/01/2025
806. Sharon Lokedi, 2025 Boston Marathon Champion
"All those moments led to this. All the hard work really, truly pays off." In 2022, Sharon Lokedi made her marathon debut at the TCS New York City Marathon. It went pretty well for a first-timer: She won. Since then, Sharon has raced often and well, usually finding herself on a podium just behind frequent competitor and friend Hellen Obiri. Sharon finished second to Hellen in Boston last year, and finished just off the podium in fourth at last summer's Paris Olympics — again, just behind Hellen. So this year, Sharon lined up in Boston ready to see if she could overtake the two-time defending champion — and the rest of the field. You know how it played out: Sharon won the 2025 Boston Marathon in a personal best time of 2:17:22. In this conversation, the Kenyan-born, Flagstaff-based Under Armour Dark Sky Distance athlete talks about what it took to break the tape that Monday in Boston. She talks her childhood as the oldest of four kids being raised by a single mom, and about the adjustment when she came to the United States for college. And, of course, she breaks down race day in Boston, including how she felt that morning, whether she had a feeling it was going to be her day, and how she celebrated afterward (hello, new Gucci bag!). FOLLOW SHARON SPONSOR: goodr: and use code ALI for $5 off your next order. Follow Ali: SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you’re enjoying the show, please . Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!
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805. My 2025 Boston Marathon Weekend Recap
04/29/2025
805. My 2025 Boston Marathon Weekend Recap
"I’ve tried to take on that mindset for the last few years at these races, of, 'How do I show up as authentically as possible, as the Ali I know I am and want to be, while having fun, while being professional… What does that look like?' And I feel like I kind of nailed it this time around." There’s nowhere I’d rather be on the third Monday in April than at the Boston Marathon finish line! This year, I was honored to be asked back to perform a variety of roles in Boston. I was one of the announcers at the Boston 5K, I hosted two panels and one live show, I was one of the race announcers at the finish on Marathon Monday, and I was the finish line reporter for the world feed broadcast. It was a fun, rewarding weekend that included quality time with my favorite people, my biggest live event ever, a million finish line hugs, a few too many after-parties, and so much more. SPONSORS: THE AJC PEACHTREE ROAD RACE: The lottery for this year's most famous Fourth of July 10K is now open. for your chance to run Atlanta's iconic race. Lagoon: to take Lagoon’s 2-minute sleep quiz to see which pillow is right for you. (I'm an Otter!) Use code ALI at checkout for 15% off your next Lagoon order. UCAN: to get a FREE UCAN Edge sample pack (you’ll just pay the cost of shipping), and use code ALI for 20% off your next UCAN order. In this episode: Friday: the press conference, the , the , dinner at Saltie Girl (get the lobster roll!), a finish line dance party, and a New Balance party at Sweeney’s (1:50) Saturday: the 5K, the New Balance show with , and the marathon relay at The Track (22:30) Sunday: a windy long run, bottle decorating, a Newbury Street stroll, sound check, and a broadcast meeting (41:40) Marathon Monday: all the stories from the finish line, including friends’ finishes, pro finishes, Paul Revere, Des’s final Boston, and the after parties (54:20) Follow Ali: SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you’re enjoying the show, please . Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!
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804. LIVE at the Boston Marathon Expo with Hellen Obiri, Conner Mantz, and Dakotah Popehn, Presented by Shokz
04/25/2025
804. LIVE at the Boston Marathon Expo with Hellen Obiri, Conner Mantz, and Dakotah Popehn, Presented by Shokz
"How can I not have success when I have this many people coming and supporting me?" On the Friday before the Boston Marathon, I hosted a panel at the race expo featuring three of Shokz-sponsored athletes: Hellen Obiri, , and . Hellen entered the race at the two-time defending champion, and she went on to finish second in 2:17:41, a significant personal best in a fast, gritty race. Conner, one of the best professional marathoners the United States has ever seen, ran hard and with heart, finishing fourth in 2:05:08, just seconds off the podium. And Dakotah, the smiley, speedy Paris Olympian, finished 16th in 2:26:09. In this conversation, these three runners talked about what success in Boston would look like for each of them and, of course, talked about what they like to listen to on the run, and shared their favorite sights and sounds of the Boston Marathon. SPONSOR: : Use code ALI for $10 off your next purchase. Code valid in the U.S. and Canada. (Check out the limited edition Boston Marathon OpenRun Pro2!) Follow Ali: SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you’re enjoying the show, please . Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!
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803. LIVE at the Boston Marathon Expo with Jess McClain & Emma Bates
04/24/2025
803. LIVE at the Boston Marathon Expo with Jess McClain & Emma Bates
"You ran with some kahunas!" Every year, I host a panel at the Boston Marathon Expo featuring some of the top American women in the professional field. This year, that meant getting to chat with and on the Friday before the 2025 Boston Marathon. Jess went on to become the top American woman in Boston, finishing seventh overall in 2:22:43 (a more than three-second personal best!). Emma was the third American woman to finish, crossing the line in 13th place in a time of 2:25:10. Follow Ali: SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you’re enjoying the show, please . Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!
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802. LIVE in Boston at The Track at New Balance with Heather MacLean
04/23/2025
802. LIVE in Boston at The Track at New Balance with Heather MacLean
"I'm a Boston girlie through and through." Welcome to The Track at New Balance during Boston Marathon weekend! This was a 725-person party featuring New Balance Boston athlete and Olympian , and it was one for the books. Heather had us all laughing with stories about shopping carts, witch family members, tinned fish Tok, and so much more. Thank you to everyone who joined us — here's to the next one! FOLLOW HEATHER SPONSOR: New Balance: Until April 25, using code ALIRUN20 at checkout! Follow Ali: SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you’re enjoying the show, please . Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!
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801. Jess Sims, Boston Marathoner & Peloton Instructor (Rerun)
04/17/2025
801. Jess Sims, Boston Marathoner & Peloton Instructor (Rerun)
“She said, ‘This is how it was supposed to be. This is how it was supposed to feel.’ And at that moment, I realized the magnitude of what we gave to each other.” Rerun alert! In honor of the in just a few days, we're throwing it back to 2022, when fan favorite and beloved Peloton instructor surprised the world by showing up at the start (and finish!) line of the Boston Marathon. And she had a good reason for keeping her marathon debut on the down-low. In this very special conversation, Jess talks about receiving a fateful message from Boston Marathon bombing survivor — a message that ultimately guided Jess every step of the way toward that finish line on Boylston Street. Jess talks about her training, about how she felt on the start line, and about why she still feels marathon imposter syndrome, even after earning that blue and yellow medal. (You’ll want tissues on hand 17 minutes into this one. You’ve been warned.) SPONSORS: Vuori: for 20% off your first Vuori purchase. THE AJC PEACHTREE ROAD RACE: The lottery for this year's most famous Fourth of July 10K is now open. for your chance to run Atlanta's iconic race. Follow Ali: SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you’re enjoying the show, please . Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!
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800. Aisha Praught Leer, on Life After Professional Running
04/15/2025
800. Aisha Praught Leer, on Life After Professional Running
"There’s a stigma about retiring from pro running, that it’s this huge thing and it’s so hard. And there are parts of it that are challenging. But I’m seriously so great. I’m loving life." Aisha Praught Leer is no stranger to the Ali on the Run Show. She returns today for her fifth appearance — but it's her first in this new phase of life. Last year, Aisha officially retired from professional running. The longtime Puma athlete, two-time Olympian, Commonwealth Games champion, and six-time Jamaican record holder is now embracing a career in corporate America, while also continuing to be an advocate for professional athletes, and working in front of the camera and on the mic with Citius Mag. In this episode, we're catching up on all of it, including how Aisha feels about that 9–5 life, what her relationship with running is like now that she's no longer competing professionally, and what it's actually like retiring from your dream job in your thirties — and figuring out what comes next. FOLLOW AISHA SPONSOR: Oofos: The best in recovery footwear! Check out Oofos's new — before it sells out! In this episode: How Aisha is doing right now, and how she’s feeling about “racing” this weekend at the New Balance Marathon Relay in Boston (4:15) Aisha’s takeaways from the first Grand Slam Track event (16:15) Why Aisha decided to retire from professional running in 2024 (24:00) What it was like working with a career coach (35:40) All about Aisha’s job in tech sales at Adobe (48:30) How Aisha’s relationship with running has changed since retiring (59:40) How Aisha’s personal relationships have changed since retiring (1:04:10) What’s next for Aisha? (1:12:00) Follow: SUPPORT: If you’re enjoying the show, please . And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!
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799. Caroline Moss Wants to Run a Marathon, Episode 1
04/12/2025
799. Caroline Moss Wants to Run a Marathon, Episode 1
"If we get to the end of my life, and I look back and say the regrets that I have, I know one of them would be, 'You never ran the New York City Marathon.' Not a marathon. I don’t want to run a marathon. I want to run the New York City Marathon." Caroline Moss has a dream: to run the New York City Marathon. As a New Yorker, it's her favorite day of the year. The catch: Caroline isn't a runner. Yet. In this new series, we're following author, creator, and professional shopper as she embarks on a quest to start running, and, sometime in the next few years, run the race of her dreams. In this episode, we're getting to know Caroline — a lifelong theater kid turned digital media genius turned aspiring marathoner. FOLLOW CAROLINE SPONSOR: : Use code ALI for $10 off your next purchase. Code valid in the U.S. and Canada. (Check out the limited edition Boston Marathon OpenRun Pro2!) Follow Ali: SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you’re enjoying the show, please . Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!
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798. Gabi Rooker, Ready to Run the 2025 Boston Marathon
04/10/2025
798. Gabi Rooker, Ready to Run the 2025 Boston Marathon
"I want to go out there and just absolutely smash it out of the park." Next week, the pros and everyday runners alike will descend on Boston, MA, to run the 129th . For most of these runners, getting to run Boston is a longtime goal or dream. One they worked hard at for years. And that's true even for professional runner . In this conversation, the former gymnast turned Nike-sponsored athlete and internal medicine physician assistant (what can't she do?!) talks about the road to her Boston Marathon debut. Gabi will race her first Boston this year, and it's been a journey to get to the start line. Gabi talks about how she recovered — physically and emotionally — from the 2024 Olympic Marathon Trials, and reflects on that five-second personal best (2:24:29) at the 2024 Chicago Marathon. Plus, what she'll be wearing on race day, what it's like being coached by her husband, Alex, and how she's feeling after logging 122-mile weeks throughout the Minnesota winter. FOLLOW GABI SPONSORS: Lagoon: to take Lagoon’s 2-minute sleep quiz to see which pillow is right for you. (I'm an Otter!) Use code ALI at checkout for 15% off your next Lagoon order. UCAN: to get a FREE UCAN Edge sample pack (you’ll just pay the cost of shipping), and use code ALI for 20% off your next UCAN order. In this episode: How Gabi would sum up her Boston Marathon training cycle (3:00) How Gabi balanced working as a physician assistant during her Boston training (4:15) Gabi’s career dreams, how she pictures her future in both running and in her medical career, and her approach to balance (9:55) With less than two weeks to Boston: Has Gabi checked the weather? (12:00) Gabi’s history with the Boston Marathon, and why she’s running this year’s race (17:00) Gabi’s experience working with sport psychology coach Emily Saul (26:30) What Gabi’s Boston Marathon weekend entails (34:10) Gabi reflects on the 2024 Olympic Marathon Trials (37:35) On healing the heart and body after the Trials (43:30) Gabi reflects on the 2024 Chicago Marathon, where she ran a five-second personal best, and Gabi’s approach to fitting racing into her schedule (45:00) On being “the people’s hero” (50:00) What Gabi will be wearing in Boston (52:50) What Gabi’s like on race morning (57:00) What’s top of mind for Gabi right now? (1:03:00) Follow: SUPPORT: If you’re enjoying the show, please . And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!
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797. Laura Galeazzo, 2:49 Marathoner
04/04/2025
797. Laura Galeazzo, 2:49 Marathoner
"I set this goal. I made a promise to myself that I wanted this, so I’m going to do it. And no, that’s not always fun. Maybe that means a late treadmill run or whatever it may be. But those little wins against your brain — and the battle to not do something — help you on race day. Because when it gets hard, you’ve already practiced doing it when you don’t want to, or when it hurts, or when the conditions aren’t ideal, or when you’re not comfortable." In 2018, Laura Galeazzo — then Anderson — came on the Ali on the Run Show to talk about getting back on the run after having her first daughter. That year, Laura returned to running with a big literal win, breaking the tape in 2:57 at the Buffalo Marathon. Now, seven years and another daughter later, Laura returns to the show to talk about smashing a goal nine years in the making. At last weekend's McKirdy Micro Marathon, Laura took down a longstanding dream of running sub-2:50, finishing the 26.2 miles in a five-minute personal best of 2:49:32. In this episode, the 23-time marathoner talks about how she has taken nearly an hour off her marathon time, about why this particular race was so significant, and about how she's built so much mental strength to get where she is today. FOLLOW LAURA SPONSOR: New Balance: to shop New Balance's latest releases for the season. IN THIS EPISODE: How Laura is feeling after running 2:49 at the McKirdy Micro Marathon, and what she's done to prioritize her recovery (2:00) A timeline of Laura's marathon history (6:00) Laura's take on flexibility in training (16:40) How Laura connected with her coach, , and what their coach-athlete relationship is like (21:10) Why Laura wanted to run the McKirdy Micro as her goal race (25:40) Laura's decision to race in the (29:45) What Laura wrote on her bottles for the marathon, and how they helped her along the way (35:00) Why Laura chose not to have her two daughters there with her on race day (43:30) "Don't think. Just do." Laura's [very wise] decision to watch Top Gun Maverick the night before the marathon (48:45) Laura breaks down the pivotal moments from her 2:49 marathon (52:35) Now what? (1:02:15) A pep talk from Laura (1:08:00) Follow Ali: SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you’re enjoying the show, please . Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!
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796. Everything You Need to Know About the 2025 Boston Marathon
04/02/2025
796. Everything You Need to Know About the 2025 Boston Marathon
"It's gonna be epic!" We are less than three weeks away from the 129th running of the world’s oldest marathon. This year’s Boston Marathon takes place, as always, on the third Monday of April — this year, that’s April 21. In this mega-episode, I (along with a team of experts and insiders) am attempting to answer all of your questions about all things Boston. Katie Hawkes and Lauren Proshan from the Boston Athletic Association are here to talk logistics (take some deep breaths — the journey to the start line is doable, and you won’t be waiting around for too long once you get there!), elite athlete coordinator Mary Kate Shea talks about assembling this year's professional fields and about which storylines to follow, and 2018 champion and Boston favorite Des Linden joins to talk course strategy. Get excited: Whether you’re running, volunteering, cheering, or watching from home, it’s always a Boston to remember. SPONSORS: UCAN: to get a FREE UCAN Edge sample pack (you’ll just pay the cost of shipping), and use code ALI for 20% off your next UCAN order. THE AJC PEACHTREE ROAD RACE: The lottery for this year's most famous Fourth of July 10K is now open. for your chance to run Atlanta's iconic race. In this episode: B.A.A. director of brand and experiential marketing Katie Hawkes talks about the significance of the Boston Marathon, and shares what’s new for 2025 (4:35) Want to run Boston someday? Here’s what you need to know about getting in (29:25) B.A.A elite athlete coordinator Mary Kate Shea talks about assembling this year’s professional athlete fields, and shares the storylines to watch (48:35) Lauren Proshan, the B.A.A.’s chief of race operations and production, explains the process of getting to the start line in Hopkinton, and what to know once you’re there (1:21:30) 2018 Boston Marathon champion Des Linden breaks down the Boston Marathon course (2:07:20) All about the Boston Marathon finish line (2:37:35) Follow Ali: SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you’re enjoying the show, please . Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!
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795. Jinger Gottschall, New Balance Director of Sports Research
03/27/2025
795. Jinger Gottschall, New Balance Director of Sports Research
"I am nowhere near close to being an expert, and that’s part of why I wanted this job — a challenge." Imagine you're a real-life woman in STEM. Someone who loves numbers, data, hypotheses, constants, and thoroughly researched experiments with scientifically-backed outcomes. Imagine you're also an athlete. A triathlete, specifically. So, what's the dream job? Triathlete in STEM Jinger Gottschall found it: Director of Sports Research at New Balance. In her role, Jinger oversees a team whose job it is to create, research, test, and design shoes and apparel that maximize performance and minimize injury. In this conversation — recorded in the Sports Research Lab at The TRACK at New Balance — Jinger talks about what her job entails, why she wanted this job, where work still needs to be done when testing products for men vs. women, and just how many pairs of shoes are in her closet. SPONSOR: Lagoon: to take Lagoon’s 2-minute sleep quiz to see which pillow is right for you. (I'm an Otter!) Use code ALI at checkout for 15% off your next Lagoon order. In this episode: What it’s like working at the New Balance Sports Research Lab (2:40) How Jinger describes her job (3:45) What it’s like when the pros come into the lab (6:30) How Jinger has learned about all the sports New Balance covers (11:45) How Jinger got the job she has today (14:30) On testing competitors’ shoes (24:30) The lab, by the numbers (33:00) Jinger’s take on testing for women’s products (35:45) What a day in the life is like at New Balance (43:45) Jinger’s favorite feature in the sports research lab, her favorite shoes, and more (48:20) Follow Ali: SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you’re enjoying the show, please . Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!
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794. Ask Ali!
03/25/2025
794. Ask Ali!
"Be open to the possibility of what can happen when you relinquish control and just listen." Welcome to Ask Ali, a monthly series where I answer all of your questions submitted on Instagram (I'm ). This time around, we're tackling health stuff, running stuff, work stuff, and a total grab bag of miscellaneous questions. SPONSORS: goodr: and use code ALI for $5 off your next order. Vuori: for 20% off your first Vuori purchase. Follow Ali: SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you’re enjoying the show, please . Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!
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793. Catching Up with Elise Cranny, Two-Time Olympian
03/20/2025
793. Catching Up with Elise Cranny, Two-Time Olympian
"That’s been a big part of the change and growth. The lesson is trusting yourself and not being afraid to figure out what works for you, even if that’s different than someone else." She'll race the 800, the 1500, the mile, the 5K, the 10K...and in this conversation, Elise Cranny even hints at a possible marathon someday. Elise returns to the Ali on the Run Show to catch up on life since becoming a two-time Olympian (2020 and 2024). She talks about a lot of change: from Portland-based Bowerman Track Club and coach Jerry Schumacher, to Boulder-based Team Boss and coach Joe Bosshard, to now, training in Flagstaff, being coached by NAU's Jarred Cornfield, and taking a break from the team atmosphere. She explains why she made certain changes in an Olympic year, and talks about how she's feeling now, both physically and mentally. (Spoiler: She's fit, and she's headed to Sound Running's The TEN next weekend!) FOLLOW ELISE SPONSOR: Lagoon: to take Lagoon’s 2-minute sleep quiz to see which pillow is right for you. (I'm an Otter!) Use code ALI at checkout for 15% off your next Lagoon order. In this episode: What’s on tap for today? (2:30) Elise’s New York Times Games morning routine (5:30) On life lately (10:50) The allure of the marathon (14:35) Which distance has Elise’s heart right now? (18:40) On chasing records (24:15) Elise recaps her 2025 indoor season (25:45) How Elise is feeling right now, and whether she’s currently feeling fit (30:30) All about Elise’s big changes over the past few years, including changing teams, coaches, and locations (35:20) On being a confident racer, and how Elise handles the comparison trap (43:15) Why Elise chose to sign with Grand Slam Track, and how being a racer has dictated this year’s schedule (45:50) How Elise has handled a tough couple of years (52:00) What Elise is excited about right now (57:30) No-such-thing-as-TMI talk! ( I mentioned!) (59:35) Follow Ali: SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you’re enjoying the show, please . Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!
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792. Parker Valby, Professional New Balance Athlete & Olympian (With Special Guest Vernon Norwood)
03/18/2025
792. Parker Valby, Professional New Balance Athlete & Olympian (With Special Guest Vernon Norwood)
"There are so many ways to get to the start line. There is not one way to do it. You just have to find what works best for you." Parker Valby was a collegiate phenom. At the University of Florida, Parker set multiple collegiate records in the 5000m and the 10,000m. She earned six NCAA and SEC titles, including five NCAA titles in one year alone. She wrapped up her career as a Gator by competing at the U.S. Olympic Track and Field Team Trials, earning a spot on Team USA, and competing at the Paris Olympics, where she finished 11th in the 10,000m final and was the youngest runner in the top 15. Now, 22-year-old Parker has officially gone pro. She signed with New Balance and joined Team New Balance Boston, where she trains alongside teammates — and fellow Olympians — including Elle Purrier St. Pierre, Heather MacLean, and Emily Mackay. This conversation was recorded at The TRACK at New Balance during the New Balance Nationals Indoor meet. Enjoy as NB Olympian Vernon Norwood drops in mid-chat and takes over hosting duties! FOLLOW PARKER FOLLOW VERNON IN THIS EPISODE: Does Boston feel like home? (2:40) Can Parker still do a split? (4:00) On adjusting to life as a professional athlete (6:30) Parker’s experience joining Team New Balance Boston (7:30) What Parker was like growing up, and how her dad became her agent (10:35) Parker’s “going pro” support network (16:45) Is it hard to be the best? (18:20) What it was like winning the Bowerman Award — and just how much it weighs (23:55) What it was like making her pro debut at New Balance Indoor Grand Prix (26:00) All about Team New Balance Boston and coach Mark Coogan (31:10) Parker’s preferred methods of cross training (39:45) What it’s like getting recognized on the run in Boston (48:00) Vernon Norwood takes over hosting duties (59:00) SPONSOR: New Balance: to shop New Balance's latest releases for the season. Follow Ali: SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you’re enjoying the show, please . Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!
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791. Everything You Need to Know About Grand Slam Track
03/14/2025
791. Everything You Need to Know About Grand Slam Track
"The thing that they just really want is to race the best people, and for people to watch them. They legitimately want to race really good people, and they want it to matter." You've probably seen the hype for track's newest league. But what, exactly, is Grand Slam Track, and why should we care about it? In this conversation, Grand Slam's Senior Director of Racing, Kyle Merber, returns to the Ali on the Run Show to tell us everything we need to know about the "Slams." He talks about his role, and about the athlete recruiting process. Plus, what he's most excited for, why he thinks everyone should watch, and a bit of celebration for his 2:26 marathon PR from the Houston Marathon earlier this year. SPONSOR: : Use code ALI for $10 off your next purchase. Code valid in the U.S. and Canada. (Check out the limited edition Boston Marathon OpenRun Pro2!) Follow Ali: SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you’re enjoying the show, please . Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!
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790. LIVE in Richmond with Keira D’Amato
03/11/2025
790. LIVE in Richmond with Keira D’Amato
"Win or learn, and then pick up and move on." The girls were back in town! Keira D'Amato and I spent the weekend in Richmond, VA, for the second River City Half Marathon and 5K (she ran — and won — the half, and I ran the 5K). Thank you so much to the best bejeweled and bedazzled audience for such a fun afternoon. We laughed, we debated hot takes, and we love you so much. SPONSOR: UCAN: to get a FREE UCAN Edge sample pack (you’ll just pay the cost of shipping), and use code ALI for 20% off your next UCAN order. Follow Ali: SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you’re enjoying the show, please . Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!
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789. Tristin Colley, 2:25 Marathoner with ZAP Endurance
03/06/2025
789. Tristin Colley, 2:25 Marathoner with ZAP Endurance
"It’s not sustainable if you’re not having fun with it." Tristin Colley ran her first marathon in 2019 in 2 hours and 40 minutes. Just four years later, Tristin she 15 minutes off that time, running 2:25 at the Chicago Marathon. Now, Tristin (formerly Van Ord) is throwing down 110-mile weeks with her team, ZAP Endurance, as she gears up for this year's Boston Marathon. Tristin lives in Blowing Rock, NC, with her husband, teammate, and fellow pro marathoner Andrew Colley. This past weekend, they each competed at the USATF Half Marathon Championships in Atlanta. In this conversation, Tristin reflects on that race, and looks to her next one in Boston. She talks about going pro, being raised by a single mom, and doing triple workouts as part of her Boston prep. FOLLOW TRISTIN IN THIS EPISODE: On running to the Shrek soundtrack on repeat, the ZAP Endurance team vibe, and “ketchup with seemingly ranch” (2:50) Tristin’s take on off days (8:15) Tristin recaps her race at the USATF Half Marathon Championships (9:40) How Tristin deals with disappointment (12:00) Tristin’s takeaways from last weekend’s race (15:55) Reflecting on a tough year, and what Tristin’s mindset was heading into the 2024 TCS New York City Marathon (17:00) What it was like living in North Carolina during last year’s floods (21:25) All about Coach Colley, and Tristin’s involvement at Appalachian State University (26:30) How Tristin’s Boston Marathon training is going (28:10) How Tristin met now-husband Andrew Colley (32:10) How Tristin has shaved 15 minutes off her marathon time (38:30) Why Tristin wanted to run with ZAP Endurance (40:15) All about Tristin’s mom, and what Tristin was like as a kid (41:00) Tristin looks back on her experiences at both the 2020 and 2024 U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials (47:15) The pros and cons of dating a teammate and fellow professional marathoner (57:00) SPONSORS: New Balance: to shop New Balance's latest releases for the season. goodr: and use code ALI for $5 off your next order. Follow Ali: SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you’re enjoying the show, please . Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!
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788. Talia McKinney, NYC Real Estate Agent & Marathoner
02/27/2025
788. Talia McKinney, NYC Real Estate Agent & Marathoner
"It’s never too late. It’s never too late to switch careers, ask for a raise, do something you want to be doing. If you’re feeling stuck, just know that it’s never too late. If you want to make a change, life is short. Do it." Talia McKinney is on her feet all day, every day — and every day starts with a run. The New York City-based marathoning real estate agent is one of the top agents at SERHANT, where she works with Million Dollar Listing and Owning Manhattan star Ryan Serhant. Talia is a speaker, host, and world traveler (she's been to 45 countries!), who runs as a guide with Achilles International. In this conversation, she talks about what it's like selling a $31.5 million home (!!!) and about the most impressive amenities she's ever seen, and she shares her running and real estate origin stories. FOLLOW TALIA IN THIS EPISODE: How Talia celebrated her birthday in Idaho (1:50) All about Talia’s run today — and how she found her running buddies (4:45) How Talia became a guide for Achilles International (7:15) What Talia’s training for right now (11:55) Why Talia decided to run her first marathon (13:10) A day in the life of Talia McKinney (19:00) Some of Talia’s most memorable sales (21:10) Talia’s dream runner-friendly building (29:10) How Talia became a real estate agent, and why she wanted to work with Ryan Serhant (30:45) Talia's advice for anyone who isn't feeling seen, heard, or taken seriously (43:10) SPONSOR: UCAN: to get a FREE UCAN Edge sample pack (you’ll just pay the cost of shipping), and use code ALI for 20% off your next UCAN order. Follow Ali: SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you’re enjoying the show, please . Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!
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787. Ask Ali!
02/25/2025
787. Ask Ali!
"It’s good to get to a place where you can accept that there are terrible things happening and good things happening, and they all happen at once, and we don’t get to plan when they happen. So if you’re going through something really hard and joy shows up for you, see it and notice it." Welcome to Ask Ali, a monthly series where I answer all of your questions submitted on Instagram (I'm ). This time around, we're covering everything from how to trust your training to how to stay positive in the face of adversity to "What's saving your life right now?" SPONSOR: New Balance: to shop New Balance's latest releases for the season. Follow Ali: SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you’re enjoying the show, please . Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!
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786. Sinclaire Johnson, Professional Middle-Distance Runner
02/20/2025
786. Sinclaire Johnson, Professional Middle-Distance Runner
"I needed to have the year I had to really give me the push to make the changes I made." In 2022, cemented her spot as a middle-distance rising star when she broke the women's 1500m tape at the U.S. National Championships. Since then, the Nike-sponsored athlete has made a lot of changes on the run. She transitioned from Jerry Schumacher's Bowerman Track Club to Union Athletics Club, where she was coached by Pete Julian. Last year — a year when she finished fourth in the 1500m at the Olympic Track & Field Trials — Sinclaire knew it was time to change it up again, this time opting to forgo a team environment and be coached by her fiancé, . Now, with a fresh 3:56 1500m PR from the 2024 Trials, Sinclaire is in the middle of her indoor season. She ran a personal best in the mile (4:23.58) at New Balance Indoor Grand Prix, where she finished third, and then finished sixth in the Wanamaker Mile at the Millrose Games in New York City. This weekend, Sinclaire will race at U.S. Indoor Nationals. FOLLOW SINCLAIRE SPONSORS: : Register for the marathon, half marathon, 10K, 5K, 1 mile, KiDSROCK, or Doggie Dash, all taking place April 26–27, 2025 in Music City, USA! Use code ONTHERUN at checkout for $10 off your Saturday race registration. Lagoon: to take Lagoon’s 2-minute sleep quiz to see which pillow is right for you. (I'm an Otter!) Use code ALI at checkout for $25 off your next Lagoon order. In this episode: Where in the world is Sinclaire Johnson? (2:10) How Sinclaire and her Nike-sponsored friends have navigated change over the past few years — and what it’s meant for their relationships (6:00) Sinclaire reflects on her third-place finish and personal best at New Balance Indoor Grand Prix (8:00) How Sinclaire was feeling heading into the Wanamaker Mile at the Millrose Games in New York City (12:35) Sinclaire looks back on her pro racing debut (15:20) How Sinclaire processed last year’s U.S. Olympic Track & Field Team Trials, where she finished fourth in the 1500m (20:40) How Sinclaire has navigated some big recent changes, including a team change and a coaching change (27:45) What Sinclaire’s training looks like right now (42:00) How Craig proposed to Sinclaire (47:30) What’s on Sinclaire’s 2025 racing calendar — including a distance debut later this year (53:20) Sinclaire's advice for anyone feeling stuck right now (59:20) Follow Ali: SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you’re enjoying the show, please . Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!
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785. Girl Talk 2.0 with Molly Seidel & Anoush Arakelian
02/18/2025
785. Girl Talk 2.0 with Molly Seidel & Anoush Arakelian
"It’s OK that not everybody gets it. The right people will." , in an antidote to Love on the Run Week, Molly Seidel and Anoush Arakelian joined the Ali on the Run Show for a chat about dating, confidence, mental health, and more. Now, the girls are back in town, and Molly and Anoush return for life updates, running updates, and more dating, confidence, and mental health talk. SPONSOR: New Balance: to shop New Balance's latest releases for the season. In this episode: How Molly and Anoush feel about Valentine’s Day (3:15) Who would play you in the romantic comedy of your life? (5:10) What Molly and Anoush would say to their younger selves (9:00) Anoush offers a life update (11:15) Molly’s life update (14:50) How Anoush became a 2:57 marathoner (22:05) On getting the ick (31:50) Listener stories about love, dating, disasters, and more (41:00) Follow Ali: SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you’re enjoying the show, please . Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!
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784. Love on the Run with Dakotah & Montana Popehn
02/14/2025
784. Love on the Run with Dakotah & Montana Popehn
"I didn't know that this was how good a relationship could be. I didn't know how healthy relationships could be. Being with Montana is like seeing daylight." Happy Valentine's Day! In this edition of Love on the Run, we are getting to know Dakotah and Montana Popehn. They share the story of how they met, who made the first move for the first kiss, who said "I love you" first, and everything that happened next, including Montana's proposal at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games (where Dakotah finished 12th in the marathon) and their intimate wedding just one week before the 2024 TCS New York City Marathon. SPONSORS: Vuori: for 20% off your first Vuori purchase. UCAN: to get a FREE UCAN Edge sample pack (you’ll just pay the cost of shipping), and use code ALI for 20% off your next UCAN order. Follow Ali: SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you’re enjoying the show, please . Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!
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