The Running Explained Podcast

Dr. Kate Mihevc Edwards is a physical therapist and founder of RunSource, dedicated to supporting runners' journeys. She shares her emotional ride from a passionate runner to coping with a rare genetic heart condition, ARVC, which reshaped her life and running. Kate discusses the mental challenges of identity loss, resilience, and adapting to new realities while maintaining joy in running. She also introduces her innovative app that connects runners with vital resources, fostering a supportive community for all athletes facing obstacles.

In this insightful discussion, Ashley Mateo, a seasoned running journalist and coach, shares her expertise on the latest running trends for 2025. She reveals how personalized fueling strategies and innovative running gear are revolutionizing the sport. Mateo highlights the importance of balancing advanced technology with fundamental practices like sleep and hydration. Additionally, she dives into the rising popularity of run clubs and the shift towards sustainability in gear, all while emphasizing the need for community and inclusivity in running.

Coaching isn’t just about writing workouts—it’s aboutguiding, supporting, and adapting to each athlete’s needs. This week, Coach Elisabeth welcomes FIVE of the Running Explained run coaches to chat about their coaching journeys, favorite races, fueling strategies, and whatreally matters when guiding athletes. From breaking down common coaching myths to exploring the deep impact of the coach-athlete relationship, this conversation highlights thehuman side of coaching—because coaching isn’t just about training plans, it’s about understandingyou!We dive into the challenges and joys of coaching, the importance ofcommunication and trust, and why coaching is a collaboration, not a one-size-fits-all approach. Whether you’re a runner looking for guidance, an aspiring coach, or just love learning more about thewhy behind great training, this episode is packed with insights to help you run smarter, train better, and enjoy every step of the process.ww.runningexplained.com/runcoaching🎤Soundbites:🗣️“Coaching is a two-way relationship with feedback.”🗣️“Every runner, at every pace, deserves support.”🗣️“Being intentional with goal setting matters more than chasing PRs.”🗣️“Great coaching looks at the whole athlete, not just their mileage.”

Dr. Karin Nordin, a behavior change expert and founder of Body Brain Alliance, dives deep into the psychology of habit formation and motivation. She explains how our brains resist change and the importance of self-perception in achieving running goals. Karin offers actionable strategies to build lasting habits and overcome decision fatigue. The conversation explores the barriers faced by those with ADHD and emphasizes self-compassion, environmental influences, and adopting a runner's identity to foster consistent engagement in running.

The Running Explained Podcast is taking a hiatus for the next few months but Coach Elisabeth will be back!

"Why can't I just THINK my way out of performance anxiety?? I should be mentally tougher!!" Have you ever had this internal struggle? In this episode, former Division I athlete and licensed mental health therapist Emily Perrin flips the script on "mental toughness" and dives deep into the richer, more holistic concept of resilience. Emily helps us understand how resilience—rooted in childhood development, support, and self-compassion—offers a more complete set of tools for athletes navigating the mental and emotional ups and downs of training and racing. We explore how grounding techniques, body-based feedback, and self-compassion can turn pre-race jitters into a powerful tool for growth. With a focus on flexibility, self-awareness, and mindfulness, this conversation is packed with practical tips for building resilience and embracing the discomfort that comes with being an athlete. Coaches, take note: this one's all about empowering your athletes with a strengths-based approach!GUEST BIO:Emily Perrin, LMSW, is the CEO and Founder of Perrin Wellness and Performance, where she combines her expertise as a Licensed Master of Social Work, certified mindfulness and meditation teacher, and former Division I athlete to offer holistic mental health and performance coaching. Growing up in a sports-centric family with a Division I college basketball coach father and a background in competitive swimming and soccer, Emily’s journey has been deeply intertwined with athletics and coaching. However, her passion for mental health advocacy stems from her personal struggles with anxiety, depression, and PTSD, which led her to discover mindfulness and integrative health practices. With a Master's in Clinical Social Work from the University of Denver and advanced training in trauma-informed care, Emily is dedicated to transforming sports culture to be more mental health-aware and proactive in promoting overall well-being. She offers education, speaking engagements, workshops, and coaching to support athletes, coaches, and sport organizations in achieving fulfillment, joy, and success beyond just winning.--🏃‍♀️ Running Explained is here to help you run smarter, get faster, and feel more confident in your training.From trusted education to real-world coaching support, we’ve got what you need: no fluff, no gimmicks, just evidence-based guidance that works.🎙 Podcast & Blog: Free, accessible, no-BS running education📨 The Weekly Stride: Your favorite running newsletter📲 The Run Club App: Training plans + strength work in one place📋 Downloadable Training Plans: Built for real life, not perfection 🏅 1:1 Coaching: Personalized guidance with expert support🔗 Start here → runningexplained.com⁠

In this discussion, Matt Chittim, a dedicated coach and host of The Rambling Runner Podcast, emphasizes that age should not limit running ambitions. He highlights the power of consistent training and the concept of 'training age' for all adult runners. The conversation also delves into the emotional hurdles athletes face, such as guilt and self-judgment, especially when performance goals aren't met. Matt encourages celebrating small victories while navigating the journey from beginner to aspiring Boston Qualifier, reminding listeners of their hidden potential.

Luc Zoratto, a Sober Dad, Husband, and Marathoner, shares his inspiring journey from alcohol to running. He discusses how he came out of the 'sober closet' after qualifying for the Boston Marathon and emphasizes the emotional challenges of sobriety. Luc highlights the empowering nature of running in fostering personal growth and resilience while nurturing a supportive community. He articulates the transformative power of embracing vulnerability and the importance of redefining identity post-alcohol, encouraging others to pursue fulfilling lives.

Join biomechanical expert Jay Dicharry as he unveils secrets to better running and injury prevention. With a rich background in physical therapy and sports clinical specialization, Jay emphasizes that quality movement is essential. He explains why mobility, stability, strength, and power are crucial for running success. Learn how to optimize movement patterns and the importance of neural feedback for recovery. Jay shares tailored strategies for runners of all ages, encouraging comprehensive training for sustained performance.

Ashley Eckermann, a sports psychologist and founder of Maximize the Mind, shares her expertise on overcoming mental barriers in running. She discusses the importance of self-belief and mental resilience, revealing techniques like visualization and self-talk to tackle common challenges. Exploring the joys of running, Ashley emphasizes the need to celebrate achievements and shift nervous energy into excitement for better performance. Her insights encourage athletes to focus on enjoying their journey rather than just the outcome.