Shows
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 132 - Leah Purucker; Trail Runner, Chef at Daily GrindThis week I had the pleasure to talk with Leah Purucker. She is a Trail runner and chef at Daily Grind.
It was great to have her on and talk about how she got started in running at a young age, but never competed in running until later in life. She talks about learning about running and training for her first race, a marathon!
We also talk about how she became a chef and some similarities in competing between running and cooking.
She isn't competing currently and it was interesting to learn about a...2023-07-0939 min
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 131 - AJ Beach; Athlete Performance Therapist, Sandia Prep, UNMThis week I had the pleasure to talk with AJ Beach. He is a Sandia Prep and UNM graduate. He is an athlete performance therapist and has helped many people get through injuries and back to performing the way they are comfortable with.
We talk about how he got into running and competing at the New Mexico State meet. He talked about some of the expectations and how that can be a burden when you are not performing the way you want or are expecting to. We also talk about how that disappointment helped him find something...2023-07-0255 min
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 130 - Kelsey Long; Navajo, Recent Boston Marathon Runner, Dirtbags Run, and moreThis week I had the pleasure to speak to Kelsey Long. She is a Navajo runner living on the Choctaw Reservation in Oklahoma. She recently completed the Boston Marathon for Rising Hearts. She is also part of the Renew Earth Running Run Team and helped create a Dirtbags Run, a Dirtbag Runners Program, that consists of 21 BIPOC trail runners.
Talking with Kelsey was so much fun. She has done quite a lot in the short time that she has been running. She talks about hating running and only getting into it several years ago because of her e...2023-05-091h 01
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 129 - Timberlin (Timbo) Henderson; Dine Ultra Runner, Recent Winner at Monument Valley 50MilerThis week I had the pleasure to speak with Timberlin "Timbo" Henderson. He is a Dine trail runner from Fruitland, New Mexico. He graduated from Piedra Vista in Farmington, NM before going on to Western Colorado.
We talk about how he got started in running, doing youth races, and becoming more serious as he got older. He talked about some of the runners he looked up to growing up. He then talked about continuing to pursue his running into college.
We talked about his transition from running in the traditional college system before moving to...2023-04-091h 05
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 128 - Roman Gurule; Pojoaque, NMSU Grad, Creater of NewMexico.runThis week I had the pleasure to talk with Roman Gurule. He is a Pojoaque High School and New Mexico State University graduate. He is also the creator of NewMexico.run. It is a site focused on sharing the wonders of this state through a running lens.
We talked about his early days of running in Pojoaque for coach Lockridge. He also talks about Ben Ray Lujan being one of his running mentors at the time.
We talk about college and moving to the east coast. He talks about how his running journey started back...2023-03-261h 02
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 127 - Leah Futey; Multiple Time State Champion, Cleveland HS, Future Syracuse OrangeThis week I had the pleasure to speak with Leah Futey. She is a multiple time state champion from Cleveland High School. She is also a future Syracuse Orange.
Leah talks about getting into running, and how she would come to her brother's practices. She had a talent for it and started running through Cougar Track Club, a local club, from an early age.
She also talks about having a difficult cross country season her junior year and how she came back hungry to improve. We also talk about her track season last year and...2023-03-1933 min
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 126 - Kurt Thomas; Hobbs Graduate, Head Track and Field Coach at University of Alabama at BirminghamThis week I was able to talk with Kurt Thomas. He is a Hobbs High School graduate and the current Women's Track and Field Head Coach at UAB, University of Alabama at Birmingham. It was such a pleasure to talk to him and learn about his journey.
He talks about running at Hobbs High School, under Coach Jackson, and then walking onto the UNM track team after graduation. Kurt talks about just walking into the coaches office and talking to him, which he says wouldn't happen today.
He gives some insight about what it looks...2022-10-311h 11
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 125 - Christina Aragon; 9x Stanford All American, Bowerman Track Club AthleteThis week I had the pleasure to talk to Christina Aragon. She is a 9x All American for Stanford, 3rd in the 1500 at the 2022 NCAA Outdoor Championships. She went on to run in USA Championships and recently signed a pro contract with Bowerman Track Club.
Christina talks about her start with running and gymnastics. Then how she balanced the two in high school. She also talks about how her background in gymnastics has helped her with her running.
We talk about her time at Stanford and some of her best memories. We also talk about s...2022-10-2358 min
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 124 - AJ Jones; Talking about Oregon Cascades 100This week I had the pleasure to speak with AJ Jones. They are a trail and ultra runner based in Albuquerque. They talk about their first 100 miler at the Oregon Cascades 100.
We start with how AJ got into running in high school and took a long break before getting started again. They talk about some difficult life events that pushed them back into running. AJ talks about wanting to prove that their body could handle tough things.
We talk about the southern Oregon area where the Cascades 100 was held and where AJ grew up. We...2022-10-161h 29
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 123 - Timothy Tays; Author of Wannabe Distance GodThis week I had the pleasure to speak with Timothy Tays, also known as Timmy 2 Mile. He is the author of Wannabe Distance God: The Thirst, Angst, and Passion of Running in the Chase Pack. He graduated and ran for Eldorado High School and the University of Kansas.
Timothy has a great story and details that story in his book. In it, he talks about trying to be the best he could be in order to fill a need to fit in, to show he was someone. It is a universal feeling.
We talk about t...2022-10-091h 06
Running New Mexico Podcast122 - Alicja Konieczek; On Sponsored, Polish Olympian, SteeplechaserThis week I had the pleasure to speak with Alicja Konieczek. She is a Polish runner based in Albuquerque and working with Jackrabbit Race Management. She is an Olympian, finishing 20th in her specialty, the 3000m Steeplechase, at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics. She is also an On sponsored athlete.
Alicja talks about getting started in running in Poland and that she hated it at first, but found some success. She talks about running with her siblings and even following her brother to Western Colorado University.
We talk about her journey to Albuquerque and joining the On Athletics Club. She a...2022-10-0459 min
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 121 - Lindsey Herman; Leadville 100 3rd Place FinisherThis week I had the pleasure to speak with Lindsey Herman again. Last we spoke, episode 89, I got to know her and her story. If you haven't listened, you should. This time we focused on the last year and her amazing finish at Leadville.
Lindsey talks about some of the races she did in the last year and how much fun she's been having. We also talked about being able to be a pacer and how that experience helped her with this race. It was fun to hear about a couple of the amazing women that she...2022-09-0559 min
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 120 - Lan Yazzen; Dine Runner and Ute 100 FinisherThis week I had the pleasure to speak with Lan Yazzen. He is a recent finisher of the Ute 100.
We talk about his start in running, beginning with growing up on the Navajo Nation and the traditions his mother taught him. We then talk about how he got back into running later in life.
Lan talks about jumping up in distances and finding new ways to challenge himself. He also talks about training while making time for his family. He talks about his kids being out at the races as well.
I really...2022-08-281h 11
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 119 - Kevin Brennan; Runner, Father, CPA, and Creator of the High Desert Dirt BlogThis week I had the pleasure to speak with Kevin Brennan. He is the creator of the High Desert Dirt Blog. He is also a father, a runner, and a CPA.
Kevin is someone I've been wanting to talk to for a while. When I started this podcast and would do my research, his blog would constantly come up. He did much of the leg work work that I have relied on when researching many of the New Mexican Runners that came before our current crop.
He talked about his early days running and we...2022-08-211h 12
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode118 - Del Jenkins; Owner of Ardor Elite Training Academy, Assistant Coach for Hope Christian High SchoolThis week I had the pleasure to speak with Del Jenkins. He is the owner of Ardor Elite Training Academy and Assistant track coach at Hope Christian High School. He's been a part of Albuquerque's athletic community for a while, helping coach football and start the Cougar Track Club.
I've known about Del for a while and the work he's done with runners and other athletes through his gym, but it was insightful to hear his journey to that. He played multiple sports in high school and eventually earned a football scholarship to Colorado State. He studied...2022-07-311h 12
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 117 - Emily Clarke; Manzano High School, Claremont Mudd Scripps to University Nevada RenoThis week I had the pleasure to talk with Emily Clarke. She is a Manzano Graduate, DIII runner at Claremont Mudd Scripps, and transitioning to a DI runner at the University of Nevada Reno.
We talked about getting into running, getting to experience her dad coaching her in middle school, and when running felt like it belonged to her.
We also talk about her training over Covid and her decision to take a break from school. It seems to have worked out since she had a fantastic senior year finishing in the top ten in...2022-07-2456 min
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 116 - Bruce Gomez; Head Coach Taos Cross Country, Runner, TeacherThis week I had the pleasure to talk with Coach Bruce Gomez. He is the head cross country coach at Taos High School in Northern New Mexico. He's been at it for over 35 years and has coached some of the best runners in the state, with multiple state champions and championships.
We talk about his own running, getting started as a kid and how it was just part of the culture for him. We talk about his start in junior high with more organized running and continuing into college.
We talked a little about coaching...2022-07-171h 09
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 115 - Lydia Jennings; Environmental Scientist, Mentor, Runner, and So Much MoreThis week I had the pleasure to speak with Lydia Jennings. She is an environmental soil scientist focused on soil health, mining policy, and more. She is from Santa Fe and finished her PhD at the University of Arizona.
Lydia talks about her trip with Wings of America to participate in the Boston Marathon and chaperone the students participating in the Pursuit Program. She talks about seeing Boston through the students' eyes, watching them race the 5k, and her own race, which she dedicated to the Land Back movement.
We also cover her involvement in...2022-07-101h 05
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 114 - Mikayla Sehlmeyer; Volcano Vista and Colombia College Grad, Cibola Cross Country CoachThis week I had the pleasure to talk with Mikayla Sehlmeyer. She is a Volcano Vista graduate and a recent graduate of Columbia College in Missouri. She is also the new Cibola High School Cross Country Coach.
Mikayla has a unique journey to running. Not only did she start in gymnastics and get started with track with the pole vault, she has tried just about every event. In high school, she ran sprints and ran hurdles. She also did long jump and triple jump, qualifying for state in both and leaving as a triple jump state champion...2022-07-0452 min
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 113 - Chuck Aragon; Los Lunas, Notre Dame, First New Mexican under a 4 minute mileThis week I had the pleasure to speak with Chuck Aragon. He is from Los Lunas and graduated from Notre Dame. He became the first Notre Dame runner and New Mexican runner to break 4 minutes in the mile.
We talk about getting into running and how he ended up at Notre Dame. He talks about being an 800 runner and how he moved into the mile. He talks about coming back to New Mexico to continue his schooling and running.
He ran for Mike Mittelstaedt, who passed away in 2020. Mike left a mark on Chuck and...2022-06-261h 00
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 112 - Chase Ealey; 3x National Champion, World Indoor Silver MedalistThis week I had the honor to speak with Chase Ealey. She is a Los Alamos Graduate, Oklahoma State Alum, and Current Nike Athlete. She is a world class Shot Put competitor, currently ranked #1 in the IAAF standings.
We talk about her start in track, which came after she quit softball and how she viewed herself as a sprinter who threw. We also talk about how she grew into a thrower and her recruitment process in that regard.
She talks about growing up in Los Alamos and never knowing what she could really do with...2022-06-051h 01
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 111- Allen Sumrall; Railroad Athletics, PhD CadidateThis week I had the pleasure to speak with Allen Sumrall. He is a PhD Candidate for the University of Texas Austin. He is also a runner, competing for Railroad Athletics.
Allen was great to get to know and his story is pretty unique. He talks about joining cross country in middle school at Albuquerque Academy, but quitting due to injuries. He then picked up running on his own before being convinced to join his DIII college team at Bates College.
From there he only got better and continued his running as a graduate student at th...2022-05-291h 05
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 110 - Gabrielle Arsiaga; Head Coach University of the SouthwestThis week I had the pleasure to speak with Gabrielle Arsiaga. She is the new head cross country coach at the University of the Southwest in Hobbs, New Mexico. She is also a graduate of USW and holds the women's 5k record.
It was fun getting to hear her journey as a runner for Hobbs High School and then running for USW. She talks about getting a second chance when she was in high school and then wanting to make sure she is able to do the same for future runners coming into the program.
...2022-05-1655 min
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 109 - Matt Thompson; Watermelon 100 Project for the Friends of the Sandia MountainsThis week I had the pleasure to speak with Matt Thompson. He is in the Air Force and is currently stationed in Albuquerque at Kirtland Air Force. Before he is transferred, he had an idea to benefit the Friends of the Sandia Mountains. He decided he would run 100 miles in the Sandias to raise money for them. Welcome to the Watermelon 100.
Starting May 13th, Matt will traverse 100 miles in the Sandia Mountains, without loops or backtracking. He will be accompanied by friends and family when they can and it's all for a good cause. You can follow t...2022-05-091h 02
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 108 - Jacque Pinon; Vanderbilt University Track & Field AthleteThis week I had the pleasure to talk with Jacque Pinon. She is a senior runner at Vanderbilt University and a graduate of St. Pius X in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
She was a standout distance running, earning individual state titles in the 1600, 3200, and Cross Country, during her time at St. Pius X. We talk about her start in running and making the move from soccer to running.
Jacque talks about her struggles through injuries and staying motivated as well as staying balanced between school work and training. We also talk about picking Vanderbilt and her...2022-05-0239 min
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 107 - Dawn Meyer & Rebekah Weems Talking the Gunther RunI'm excited to be able to return to the podcast this week with two amazing ladies to talk about an upcoming event at Sandia High School on April 30th.
Dawn Meyer and Rebekah Weems join me to talk a little about their start in running and then to give us some insight about the upcoming Gunther Run to Remember.
If you never knew Sandia's former baseball coach who passed away from cancer in 2017, you get an opportunity to hear from one of his good friends, Dawn Meyer, about what kind of person he was and...2022-04-2440 min
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 106 - Margaret Gordon; Recent Arrowhead 135 finisher, Mt. Taylor 50k Race DirectorThis week I had the pleasure to speak with Margaret Gordon. She's a race director for the Mt. Taylor 50k, working with her husband Ken (a previous guest), and recently finished the Arrowhead 135. It's a winter ultra marathon taking place in Minnesota along a snowmobile trail.
We talk about her start in running and a little bit of her triathlon days. She's had a lot of experiences and we cover just a bit. She talked about her fueling and being lucky enough for her stomach to handle anything at this point, which makes getting the right nutrition...2022-03-061h 02
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 105 - Mbarak Hussein; Marathoner, USATF Road Record Holder, Coach, and FriendThis week I had the pleasure to speak with Mbarak Hussein. He is a marathoner, he's held multiple USATF road records, he's been a coach, and he's been a mentor and a friend of mine for the past 7 years.
If you know Mbarak, then you know that an hour talking with him is much too short. He is a wealth of knowledge when it comes to running. In this episode we talk about his upbringing and his start in running. We talk about his college career a bit and when he moved into marathoning.
His...2022-02-281h 02
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 104 - Solo Episode; 2 Years, Houston Recap, and the FutureThis week, I give you a little update on me and my running, talk about my race at the Houston Half Marathon in January, and ask about your opinion of the show.
We are doing some remodeling in our house, so finding a quiet place to record has been difficult, but I sat down and gathered some thoughts in an echo-y room. I want to thank you all for being with me for the last two years, whether you're new, or started listening from the beginning. It's been a fun ride and I don't imagine dropping it...2022-02-2135 min
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 103 - Kenny Henry; Head Cross Country and Boys Track Coach at Cleveland High SchoolThis week I had the pleasure to talk with Kenny Henry, the head Cross County and Boys Track Coach at Cleveland High School in Rio Rancho. Kenny comes from a running and coaching background and has established himself as one of the top New Mexican coaches with multiple Cross Country and Track Championships.
We talk about his own running and where he stands now. We also talk about the previous cross country and track seasons, as well as the recent third place finish for his boys and girls in cross country and what we can look forward...2022-02-131h 02
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 102 - Andrea McArdle & Sean Abeyta; Talking Coach and Runner DynamicsThis week I had the pleasure to bring back Andrea McArdle and Sean Abeyta. Two previous guests that have been working together as a coach and athlete. It was fun to talk about the dynamic, how they decided to work together, and the build up to the Houston Marathon and prior.
In the past year, Andrea has started Running with Confidence, with the idea to help runners become more confident in their abilities. She has worked with some local high school teams, including Rio Rancho and Sandia High. She has also been coaching with the Duke's Track...2022-02-061h 06
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 101 - Amber Zimmerman; 2024 USA Olympic Marathon Trials QualifierThis week I had the pleasure to speak with Amber Zimmerman. She is a UNM grad and recent qualifier for the 2024 USA Olympic Marathon Trials. She earned that honor with a 2:36:26 at the Houston Marathon.
Amber recently has moved to Philadelphia, but talks about her love for New Mexico and Albuquerque and her hope to make it back out here. We talk about her journey to Albuquerque to run for UNM and her journey into triathlons and trail running.
It was fun to hear Amber talk about these other adventures in her running career that...2022-01-301h 05
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode100 - Dinée Dorame; Host of the Grounded PodcastThis week I had the pleasure to bring back Dinée Dorame from the Grounded Pod. She last appeared one year ago on episode 48, which you can listen to here. She was recently named to Women's Running 2022 Power Women of the Year and The Kick named in their Women to Watch in 2022 newsletter.
If you haven't checked out the Grounded Pod, it's something that I highly recommend. Dinée does an amazing job asking great questions and really connecting with her guests. It's natural, fun, and I'm really honored to have someone like her doing amazing work in...2022-01-231h 13
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 99 - Marc Quiñones; Executive Chef at Más Tapas y Vino, Marathoner, RunnerThis week I had the pleasure to talk to Marc Quiñones, Executive Chef at Más Tapas y Vino, Marathoner, Runner. He is also a prolific runner competing in multiple marathons, half marathons, 5ks, and more in the short time he's taken up running.
If you have never had the pleasure to meet Marc, you'll quickly notice his energy and enthusiasm. He talks about his journey in running, being on Hell's Kitchen, and the ups and downs that have come along the way. There is a lot in this episode and it was a lot of fu...2022-01-091h 20
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 98 - Ryan Bolton; Bolton Endurance, 2000 Olympian, CoachThis week I had the pleasure to speak with Ryan Bolton of Bolton Endurance. He was a fantastic runner at Wyoming and competed at the 2000 Sydney Olympics in the Triathlon. He is the coach of Caroline Rotich, as well as other pros in the triathlon world.
We touch on some of his inspirations, including coaches and athletes, and how he got into running and triathlons. It was fun to hear him talk about his experiences and the energy with which he still talks about it. We get into a bit of his time at the 2000 Olympics, as w...2022-01-021h 15
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 97 - Isaiah Rodarte; Adams State University, 5th at DII Cross Country NationalsThis week I had the pleasure to speak with Isaiah Rodarte. He is a Peñasco High School Graduate and current Adams State University runner. Recently he placed 5th at the DII Cross Country National Championships.
We talk about his start in running, choosing Adams State, and much more. We touch on running in high school and the ability for him to compete against everything from A to 5A schools and being uncertain about college running as well as wanting to represent New Mexico.
We talk about his recent success and he says that he ne...2021-12-261h 02
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 96- Britney Lovato; Western New Mexico University 3k, 5k, and 6k Record HolderThis week I had the pleasure to speak with Western New Mexico's Britney Lovato. She is the women's record holder in the 3k, 5k, and 6k. During her time at WNMU she has only gotten better and stronger in her running, while learning how to balance school, fun, and collegiate sports.
We talk about her introduction into running and her start in soccer. She wasn't sure running was for her, but then she was the best runner on the team. It still took a while for running to become her own.
She talks about choosing...2021-12-1957 min
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 95 - Will Walker; Sandia High School Boys Distance Track Coach, Assistant XCThis week I had the pleasure to talk to my friend, and assistant, Will Walker. He is the Boys Distance Coach for track at Sandia High School and one of my assistant coaches for Cross Country. He is entering his 4th year as a track coach and just finished his 3rd year as an assistant cross country coach.
I am lucky to have known Will as a high school runner and now as a coach and it was fun to bring his story to the podcast. We share a little of what we talk about on a d...2021-12-121h 02
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 94 - Gene Kersh; Runner, Cyclist, Father, and CompetitorThis week I had the pleasure to speak with Gene Kersh. He is a lifelong runner who started in middle school and has found a way to keep running in his life. During that time he has met some amazing people and done other sports to keep running fresh.
We talk about his start running in Raton, NM. He talks about running DIII in college and getting into rugby. He talks about meeting former guest, Andy Murray. It was fun to hear him talk about his time with rugby and cycling.
Gene also talks about h...2021-12-051h 00
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 93 - Coach Elena Schrader; Head Cross Country and Girls Track at Volcano Vista, 5A State Cross Country ChampionsThis week I had the pleasure to talk with Coach Elena Schrader. She is the head cross country and girls track coach at Volcano Vista High School. This year her boys and girls teams both won the 5A State Cross Country Championship.
We start off talking about her start in running, continuing through high school and college, and how she got into coaching. Some coaching will tell you they fell into coaching, but Coach Schrader really fell into it.
We don't go into a lot of detail, but she talks about taking the time to...2021-11-281h 10
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 92 - Bob DeYoung; Trail RunnerThis week I had the pleasure to speak with Bob DeYoung. Through the pandemic I hear stories of people that took up running as gyms and other places to workout closed down. Bob was one of those runners and has literally run with it.
In his short time finding and falling in love with trail running, Bob has completed five races. Some shorter, half marathon range, and his longest and first, was a 30k. He's learned a lot in a short period and has plans to run at least one trail run a month.
It...2021-11-2159 min
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 91 - Phil Keller; Dukes Track Club Runner and Youth CoachThis week I had the pleasure to talk with Phil Keller. He is a wonderful master's runner here in Albuquerque, running for the Dukes Track Club and a coach of their Youth Club.
We talked about his start to running, conditioning, and coaching college and high school. It was fun talking about his own college running and his short break from running. We talk about motivating runners you coach at all levels.
He talks about his own running and breaks, or lack of, and being able to go from the youth state championship to the...2021-11-141h 10
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 90 - Lionel Ortega; Former UNM Athlete and Professional RunnerThis week I had the pleasure to talk to Lionel Ortega. He is a former UNM Athlete and Professional Runner. He covers a lot about his career in this conversation. We go from how he got into running, into some highlights, and into his work for Nike and Adidas. It was great to hear him look back on his career and express that running is a part of his life, not his life.
He talked about the three words that changed his life and about scrapping by to get to marathons and other races. I really enjoyed...2021-11-071h 04
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 89 - Lindsey Herman; Ultra Runner & Coach at Western Colorado UniversityThis week I had the pleasure to talk with Lindsey Herman. She is an Ultra runner and coach. She graduated from Albuquerque Academy and then Western Colorado University, where she is still located and coaching.
Lindsey has had a different path to running than a lot of people. Even though she was part of an active family, with running and skiing, and even though she ran a marathon in high school, she saw herself as a skier and soccer player. We talk about how she moved into running and that idea of feeling like a runner.
2021-10-3159 min
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 88 - Sophia Torres; Artist & Ultra runner, 2021 Mt. Taylor 50k Women‘s ChampionThis week I had the pleasure to talk with Sophia Torres. She is a Pojoaque graduate, UNM graduate, trail runner, and artist. Her dad is Senovio Torres, a great ultra runner in his own right, and an influence for Sophia's running.
We talk about the pressures of running from external sources and when she made running her own. She talked about being put in kid races and 5k races as a child and how it was just a part of her life.
We also talk about her time at UNM as a walk on. It...2021-10-2459 min
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 87 - Matt Gonzales; 7xNCAA All-American & 2x Olympic TrialsThis week I had the opportunity to talk with Matt Gonzales. He ran for St. Michael's and Santa Fe High and then UNM, with 7 NCAA All-American honors to his name at UNM. He also ran professionally for Nike and competed at 2 US Olympic Trials.
Matt talks about his influences, including his dad and coaches, as well as the relationships he built. He talks about his time running and the challenges he faced, but also that he has come out the other side. He talks about why he left competitive running and why he hasn't looked back.
2021-10-171h 09
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 86 - Kellie Nickerson, Teacher, Coach, Sole SisterThis week I had the pleasure to speak with Kellie Nickerson. She's a PE teacher and after school coach at Cottonwood School in Corrales. She is also a member of the Sole Sisters, a local running group.
Kellie ran at Sandia High School and followed that up with a year running for UNM. She learned to train on her own and continued her running through the Runfit races. Her biggest goal is to keep running fun and she has been able to do that and be competitive.
This week, Kellie is also competing in Boston t...2021-10-101h 04
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 85 - Keith Gerrard, Teacher, Coach, UNM Graduate, Former Great Britain AthleteThis week I had the opportunity to talk with Keith Gerrard. He is a middle school teacher, volunteer coach at Rio Rancho High School, private coach, a graduate and All-American for UNM, and a former Great Britain athlete competing at the European Championships and World XC Championships.
He has had quite the career and we dig a little into that, but really we talk about his journey to where he is now. We talk about his home country, the Isle of Man and the differences in running in the European system and NCAA. We talk about his...2021-10-0359 min
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 84 - Andy Murray, Highland High School Cross Country CoachThis week I had the opportunity to speak with Andy Murray. Although doesn't doesn't consider himself to be a good runner, he is a fantastic coach. We don't cover it in the episode, but he has done a lot for the kids that he coaches, as most good coaches do. He started out his own running as an extension of rugby and soccer. When it was rainy in London, they would send them out on runs to save the fields.
He moved to US, met his wife and hasn't left. I think we're better for it. He's...2021-09-2647 min
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 83 - Gail Leedy, Ultra Runner, Search and Rescue Volunteer, GrandmotherThis week I had the honor to speak with Gail Leedy. She's a Trail/Ultra runner, a retired professor, search and rescue volunteer, and grandmother. You can hear her passion for all of these endeavors throughout the podcast.
From her beginnings as a collegiate runner to where she is now, Gail has led an interesting life. She picked up running to fill a roster spot, then slowly got back into running with the help of her son. Later, she learned what search and rescue does, while getting lost. Her teaching and researching career was very interesting to...2021-09-191h 02
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 82 - Dani Aragon, 1500 US Olympic Trials FinalistThis week I had the pleasure to speak with Dani Aragon. She's a professional runner for Empire Elite Track Club and Oiselle Volée, a Notre Dame graduate, and made the finals at the US Olympic Trials in the 1500.
We talk about her family, following in the footsteps of her older sister and her dad (NM great Chuck Aragon). She talked about her sister being there to pull her along in high school and bring her into her group in college.
A 4x NCAA All-American, she talks about her path to professional runner, what the t...2021-09-121h 02
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 81 - Shelia Burrell, 2x Olympian and Head Cross Country and Track Coach at San Diego State UniversityThis week I had the opportunity to talk with Shelia Burrell. She's a Rio Grande High School graduate, UCLA alumni, 2x Olympian in the Heptathlon, and current Head Cross Country and Track Coach at San Diego State University.
We talked about her start in running and the heptathlon, and the journey she had in the gap between college and getting endorsed. She's had an incredible journey that I loved learning about and I hope you do as well.
We talked about her Olympic experiences and competing with a foot injury, which was just incredible to...2021-09-051h 09
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 80 - Kyle Fast Wolf, La Cueva Head Cross Country CoachThis week I had the pleasure to talk to my colleague, Kyle Fast Wolf. He's a La Cueva graduate, UNM graduate and runner, and current head cross country coach at La Cueva. It was great to catch up with him on the eve of our first official cross country meet of 2021.
We were able to see each a week ago, as he hosted a scrimmage meet for us, but being able to talk about what rebuilding is looking like for him and the challenges he's experiencing was fun. He talked about the challenges of a large group...2021-08-291h 05
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 79 - Valerie Denton; Trail Runner, Sole Sister, Lawyer, & MotherThis week I had the pleasure to speak with Valerie Denton. She is a runner who likes to do all the things. We talk a lot about balance in running and life. She has found what works for her and what she is willing give up and when. We talk about parent guilt (mom guilt) and really so much more.
Currently she is training for a half triathlon, but will be competing in two trail races prior, including the Mt. Taylor 50k. We talk about the balance between trail/ultra racing and preparing for a triathlon. She...2021-08-221h 01
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 78 - Sam Sanchez, MarathonerThis week I had the pleasure to speak with Sam Sanchez. He is a graduate of Robertson High School in Las Vegas and New Mexico Highlands University. He competed in track through high school and cross country in both high school and in college. We were teammates in high school and it was great to catch up with him.
Sam's journey took him from joining track with a friend to now running marathons. He has completed 17 marathons, including Boston. He gave good insight about taking it easy on easy days and how his recovery has changed as...2021-08-151h 02
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 77 - Melani Buchanan-Farmer, Founder of Running505 and BFit505This week I had the honor to speak with Melani Buchanan-Farmer. She is a former teacher, she's worked in Language and Cultural Equity at Albuquerque Public Schools, and is currently a professor at New Mexico Highlands University. Through all of this she has created Running 505, a non-competitive wellness group for kids in 5th through 8th grade.
Running 505 collaborates with the community to encourage youth to live healthy lifestyles. Listening to Melani's story was so fun for me and I love hearing what other educators are doing to inspire children beyond the classroom. The story of how Running 505...2021-08-081h 01
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 76 - Dorota Gruca, 2008 Olympian, Coach and Multiple time Polish ChampThis week I had a great time talking with Dorota Gruca. She is an Olympian, making the Polish team in 2008 for the marathon. She's held Polish national records in the 5,000 meters and 10,000 meters. She's a coach for Bolton Endurance and helped found the Las Cruces Running Club.
We cover all the highlights in this conversation. We talk about her journey into running, leaving home at 14 to train, and all the way to being an Olympian. Along the way, she got married, remarried, coached herself, fought to get into the Olympics, missed two other Olympics by seconds, and...2021-08-011h 02
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 75 - George Young, 4x OlympianThis week I had the pleasure to speak with George Young. He's a four time Olympian, three times in the Steeplechase, and once each in the Marathon and 5k. He's an inductee in the NM Sports Hall of Fame, has a bronze medal from the 1968 games in Mexico City, graduated from the University of Arizona, taught, coached, and was an athletic director at Casa Grande.
George talks about some training, his favorite workout, how he got into running and how he fell into sports in college. He credits his hard work and says that he isn't special...2021-07-251h 31
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 74 - Stephen Pino, Runfit Founder and LeaderThis week I had the pleasure to speak with Stephen Pino Founder of Runfit, a local race management organization built out of a desire to curb childhood obesity by creating a community based approach to goal setting and racing for elementary students. As a non-profit organization, many of their runs directly benefit either students or other organizations, like the Barrett House.
Stephen is a former elementary teacher and principal and you can hear his love of children and community in his voice. He saw a need that he felt was important to our community and created it...2021-07-181h 03
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 73 - Adriana Tatum, 2021 5A NM Track Champion and High Point GirlThis week I had the pleasure to speak with Adriana Tatum, Sandia High School Grad and soon to be Arizona State University Sun Devil. During her time at Sandia, Adriana has racked up multiple school and state records, in open events and relays. As a 100 and 200 meter specialist, she has been the fastest girl in the state for four years.
We talk about her time at Sandia, the struggles with missing her junior year, and what she hopes to accomplish in the future. She also talks about her relationship with her strength coach and how he and h...2021-07-111h 01
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 72 - Doug Dorame, Former Albuquerque High Athletic Director, Girls Basketball, & Track CoachThis week I had the pleasure to speak with Doug Dorame, recently retired Athletic Director, Girls Basketball Coach, and Girls Track Coach from Albuquerque High School. It was a fantastic conversation, and if you want to hear more, go back and listen to his daughter, Dineé, interview him on her podcast, Grounded with Dineé Dorame, Episode 15.
We start off talking about his running, traveling to El Paso, cinder tracks, and eventually going to the University of Colorado Boulder. He talked about coaching, some of the great people he's been able to be around like Jim Ciccarello, Gary Sa...2021-07-041h 18
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 71 - Laurynn Sisneros, 2021 Cross Country and 3200 Track ChampionThis week I was able to speak with Laurynn Sisneros, Eldorado High School graduate and West Point recruit. She recently won the shortened 2020/2021 Cross Country season championship and the day before the release of the podcast, won the 3200 at the 5A state track championships. She was also the 2021 Gatorade Cross Country Runner of the year for New Mexico.
We talked about missing out on her Junior year of track, training with Leah from Cleveland and Tessa from Rio Rancho, and her overall great outlook on running. She has a great attitude and it was a fun conversation...2021-06-2755 min
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 70 - Traci Kinney, Local Runner Training for her First MarathonThis week I had the pleasure to speak with Traci Kinney. She is currently training for her first marathon, the virtual Boston Marathon. We talk about about that training, the positives and pitfalls of running social media, and she talks about her running journey.
As a new runner, she feels she still has a lot to learn and we talk about the feeling of not being a runner. She talks about trying to stop the negative talk and focus on what she is trying to accomplish without qualifying it.
We also talk about motivation, injuries...2021-06-201h 11
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 69 - Josh Kerr, Brooks Beast and 1500 American Soil Record HolderThis week I has the pleasure to speak with Josh Kerr of Brooks Beasts. He's a Scottish runner and former Lobo, just coming off a great 1500 at the Stumptown Twilight Meet on June 3rd. His 3:31.55 makes him the fastest at that distance ever on American soil.
Of course we talk about that halfway through the conversation, but we start off discussing his podcast, the Sit & Kick Podcast, with his cohost, David Ribich. They have a unique style of interviewing that is fun. We also talked about their jersey sales which allowed runners to make their money back...2021-06-131h 03
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 68 - Curtis Beach, Former Pro Decathlete and current Volunteer Coach at DukeThis week I had the pleasure to talk to Curtis Beach. He is a former Pro Decathlete and current Volunteer coach at Duke University. He has held world decathlete records from juniors to world, including the second fastest 1500m in a decathlon and the fastest in the NCAA.
In this episode, we talk about his journey to running and multi events. Curtis talks about his love of running at an early age and having wonderful coaches that gave him autonomy to explore the events that interested him. Two of his coaches include former guests, Jim Ciccarello and...2021-06-061h 04Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 68 - Curtis Beach, Former Pro Decathlete and current Volunteer Coach at DukeThis week I had the pleasure to talk to Curtis Beach. He is a former Pro Decathlete and current Volunteer coach at Duke University. He has held world decathlete records from juniors to world, including the second fastest 1500m in a decathlon and the fastest in the NCAA.
In this episode, we talk about his journey to running and multi events. Curtis talks about his love of running at an early age and having wonderful coaches that gave him autonomy to explore the events that interested him. Two of his coaches include former guests, Jim Ciccarello and...2021-06-061h 08
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 67 - Mikaela Osler, ColoradoTrail FKTThis week I had the pleasure to speak with Mikaela Osler. She is the Woman's self supported FKT for the Collegiate East Colorado Trail. Beating the previous record by nearly 5 days, she talks about her time on the trail, seeing every sunrise and sunset, and pushing herself through the tough times.
We also talk about her high school time at the United World College in Montezuma, NM (just outside of Las Vegas) and her introduction into running and hiking. She also talks about her degree, being a graduate assistant, writing, and what's next.
It was...2021-05-301h 05
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 66 - Charlotte Prouse, Canadian Steeplechaser for UNM T&FThis week I had the pleasure to speak with Charlotte Prouse, Canadian National running for the University of New Mexico Track and Field. She is an Olympic hopeful focusing on running well at the NCAA Regional Track and Field Meet and then Nationals.
Charlotte talked about getting involved in track and field, steeplechase, and an interesting way that she learned to be ready for the barriers in any situation. We also talk about her recent Mountain West Championship win in the 10,000 meters and what the future holds.
Charlotte has some big dreams, but is focused...2021-05-231h 01
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 65 - Victoria Martinez Collins, former USATF qualifier and DII ChampionThis week I had the pleasure to talk with former Las Vegas Robertson Cardinal and Adams State Grizzly, Victoria Collins. She has been a qualifier to USATF Nationals and is a former DII cross country, 800, & 1500 national champion.
We talk about joining track in middle school, starting cross country, and her early running. She talks about not understanding the tradition of Adams State before starting there and what it meant to add to that tradition.
Victoria talks about her post collegiate career and when she knew it was something she could go after. The motivation from...2021-05-161h 06
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 64 - Lauren Green, Nevada WolfpackThis week I had the pleasure to talk with Nevada Wolfpack runner and Volcano Vista alum, Lauren Green. She sits in the top ten performers for Nevada in the 400 in both indoor and outdoor. She is a 2 time NM state champion in the 400 and is hoping for big things at the Mountain West Conference Championships this week.
We talk about her start in running, what it was like competing for a same school in Santa Rosa to the transition to 5A at Volcano Vista and on to NCAA Division I. She has overcome injuries and even Covid...2021-05-0958 min
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 63 - Jim Ciccarello, La Cueva Girls Track CoachThis week I was able to speak to Jim Ciccarello, Girls Track and Field Coach at La Cueva High School. He has 53 years of experience with APS and coaching, starting out with age groupers with the Duke City Dashers and the Albuquerque Track Club. He is a member of the New Mexico Sports Hall of Fame and has multiple coach of the year honors, but listening to him, it's not about that. It's about his love of the sport.
We talk about his start in the sport and the history of the sport in Albuquerque. He talks...2021-05-021h 08
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 62 - Adam Kedge, Albuquerque Academy XC and Track CoachThis week I had the pleasure to speak with Adam Kedge, the head cross country and boys track and field coach for the Albuquerque Academy Chargers. We talk getting shut down, keeping kids motivated, and what it will take to get back to full strength.
Coach Kedge talks a little about his background and how that informed him on his coaching as well as learning from others, especially from his New Mexican peers. He talks about the advantages and disadvantages of each school and challenges us to focus on what we can control as coaches to build...2021-04-251h 07
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 61 - Kurt Coonrod, President of the Albuquerque Road RunnersIn this week's episode I was able to talk with Kurt Coonrod, runner, ultra runner, and president of the Albuquerque Road Runners Club. We talk his running, how he got into the sport and into ultra and trail running. We also spend time talking about the changes that he has seen in trail running over the years.
He talks about the Albuquerque Road Runners, his involvement through the years, and what he thinks about the future of the group. It was a great conversation and we finish up with a talk about the future of the La...2021-04-1859 min
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 60 - Jackie Martinez, NMAA Assistant Director of SportsThis week I had the privilege to speak with Jackie Martinez, NMAA Assistant Director of Sports, overseeing Cross Country, Track and Swim. We had a great talk covering her own running at Pojoaque High School, UNM, and after. We also send a good deal of the conversation talking about the challenges the NMAA faced in trying to put together a season during a pandemic.
She talks about trying to plan for a season in October and then going on maternity leave. We discuss what being at home was like for her family and excitement for the upcoming...2021-04-111h 04
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 59 - Rio Rancho Girls, 2021 5A NM XC ChampsThis week I had the pleasure to talk with the 5A Cross Country State Championship winning team on the the girls side, Rio Rancho. The girls, Tessa Holderman, Lorynn Trujillo, Violet Francisco, Marleigh Smith and Esther Cameron, as well as Coach Gonzales, talk about the year and how much they've bonded leading up to the state meet.
You can hear how close they are in their conversations and what it meant to be running for each other. The majority of them also not competing for Rio Rancho last year. They talk about getting to know each other...2021-04-0455 min
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 58 - Ric RojasThis week I got to spend time with Ric Rojas, former Los Alamos Hilltopper and Harvard grad. Ric has been in the running world for a long time, setting New Mexico state track records, competing for Harvard, running professionally, and coaching.
He covers all of this in detail, as he goes through his high school days to professional running. There is a lot about the history of running at the time, including professional runners coming into Los Alamos to train. Ric has a rich story, with some big names, and we don't even get to cover it...2021-03-281h 02
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 57 - Kathy and Rob HipwoodThis week I had the pleasure to speak with Kathy and Rob Hipwood who have built a powerhouse of cross country and distance running in Los Alamos. Taking over in the mid 90s, they have accumulated 24 state titles, 17 runner up finishes, and 6 third place finishes.
We talk about the program before they arrived, working as assistants, and some of their role models. They talk about their teams asking to be challenged and building relationships as well as so much more.
They are a wealth of knowledge, but listening to them talk about the relationships they've...2021-03-211h 05
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 56 - Dr. Ron MaestasThis week I had the pleasure to speak with New Mexico Sports Hall of Fame coach Dr. Ron Maestas. We talk about how he got into teaching and coaching, how cross country was not his first choice, and how much coach Dr. Joe Vigil helped shape his own coaching.
Dr. Maestas took a few detours to get to New Mexico Highlands University in Las Vegas, New Mexico, but he had an impact on the runners and the community. He coached the men to 3 top 4 NAIA finishes, including a 2nd place finish in 1989.
We also talk...2021-03-141h 07
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 55 - Erica Larson BaronThis week I spoke with Los Alamos National Lab scientist, Marquette grad, and trail runner extraordinaire. She is a 5 time Pike's Peak Marathon winner, 5 time La Luz champion, 2 time Leadville Marathon winner, 2004 USATF Women's Mountain Running champ, and a member of the 2004 Bronze winning US Mountain Running team.
We talk about her journey from high school running to competing for Marquette. She talks about the struggles of competing at the Division I level while working on her degree. We also talk about getting into chemistry and her move to Los Alamos to work at LANL, which led...2021-03-071h 02
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 54 - Julian FlorezThis week I get to speak with Julian Florez, former Hobbs High School runner, Glendale Community College, Adams State, and UNM runner. This episode commemorates one year since the 2020 Marathon Olympic Trials, which Julian qualified and ran. We delve into that, the build up, and his routine.
We talk about running in high school, different colleges, and continuing running post collegiately. He gets into disappointments and triumphs. He talks about his running family and what that means to him, as well as what running means to him. The friendships he's made through this sport that have followed h...2021-02-281h 03
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 53 - Andrea McArdleThis week I had the pleasure to speak with Andrea McArdle. An Ohio native that has been in New Mexico for several years, Andrea has made the move from the track to trails and embraced New Mexican life. She is a member of the Duke's Track Club and Topo Athletics Elite team.
We talk about her helping coach at Rio Rancho High School with Sal Gonzalez (episode 24), and helping Jesse Armijo (episode 51) through his 100 miler.
We talk about her walking onto the Cross Country team at Ohio State, struggling and coming back the next year...2021-02-211h 01
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 52 - Michael RomeroThis week I spoke with the inspiration for the podcast, my dad, Michael Romero. Growing up, I watched my dad compete and push himself. He shared that with me, often with me only half listening, but the stories of the people he competed against and looked up to stuck with me. I always came back to these stories when listening to other running podcasters interview all of these amazing people, but few if any that had ties to New Mexico.
During his competitive years, my dad ran several marathons, including the 100th running of the Boston Marathon...2021-02-141h 03
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 51 - Jesse ArmijoThis week I had the pleasure to speak with Jesse Armijo. I last had Jesse on talking about the origin of the Duke's Track Club. You can look back on that episode on iTunes or Spotify.
We talk about his recent 100 mile race at the Coldwater Rumble, the training that went into and moving up from the marathon. He talks about getting the ultra bug and whether or not there will be more ultras in his future.
We talk a lot about the race, the lead up, nutrition, mistakes, lessons, and the lows. But through...2021-02-071h 03Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 50 - Hans SegerfeldtThis week I had the pleasure to speak to another runner who only spent a short time at UNM, but took something away from it. My guest is Hans Segerfeldt. He is a Swedish runner, who was able to run for the national team as a junior and senior. He also held the U15 world record in the 5k and 10k.
To hear Hans tell it though, it was just something he did. His outlook on running and life is great. And as he puts it, he was the U15 record holder because a lot of African...2021-01-311h 00Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 49 - Clancy DeveryThis week I had the honor to speak with Clancy Devery. His short career at UNM led to some life long friends, including my dad. He is a runner I've known for my whole life and have heard so many stories about, so it was great to finally hear them from his mouth.
He talks about his first race as a kid, getting into running in middle school, and eventually becoming the high school record holder in the marathon with a 2:23:05.
We get into some of his time at UNM, leaving and training again in...2021-01-241h 00Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 48 - Dinée DorameThis week I had the pleasure to speak with Dinée Dorame. She is a Navajo runner and podcaster based in Albuquerque, with her new podcast, Grounded Podcast releasing at the end of the month. I am so excited to share her story and greet another local podcaster sharing stories and offering a unique perspective.
Dinée was chosen as one of the Tracksmith fellowship recipients and we talk about that process, applying, and the idea behind the podcast. We discuss the process around podcasting, editing, and listening to other podcasts.
She shares her story as...2021-01-171h 03Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 47 - Sara Del Campo De GonzalezThis week I had the privilege to speak with Sara Del Campo De Gonzalez. She is a pediatrician, wife, mom, and runner. We had a great discussion about what it means to take time for yourself, making time for your kids, and guilt. We also talk about missed races and new goals.
We spend some time talking about the Young Children's Health Center, where she works and the amazing balance of medical and social work practice they accomplish to meet the needs of the people in the community where they are. It really sounds like an amazing...2021-01-101h 04Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 46 - Aja MarshThis week I speak with Aja Marsh, momentum coach and runner. We talk about her running journey, which includes starting a still active running group in New York, being a RRCA running coach, moving across the country, doing the TransRockies Run, and qualifying for the Boston Marathon.
She explains what a momentum coach is and how she works with people around financial wellness, goal setting, and coaching. We talk about the connectivity of it all and she gives tips about goal setting to start the year. You can check out her website (https://www.ajamarsh.com/) to...2021-01-031h 02Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 45 - Troy AllenThis week I had the pleasure to speak with Troy Allen. He's an Ohio transplant living his best life in New Mexico. Recently he got the unsupported Sandia Double Crossing in a time of 12:58:27. We talk about that and his journey into running.
We also talk about running for 24 hours, small loop courses, and through hiking. He has a lot of energy and it was a blast talking to him. He talks about bonking and being excited about exploring the places that were inaccessible being in the Midwest and how he and his partner spent the summer...2020-12-271h 02Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 44 - Likhaya DayileThis week I had the honor to speak with Likhaya Dayile of Bosque Running and Sports Systems running department. We talk about his journey into running, not feeling like he was a runner, and not letting moments become too big.
Talking with Likhaya was fun and insightful. he never took for granted what he was able to do. He talked about chasing times, training with some of the best runners in the state, and motivating himself and others. We also talk about the state of running in New Mexico.
I really enjoyed this conversation, which...2020-12-201h 02Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 43 -Motivation with Dr. Anthony Fleg and Jordan LesanseeThis week I speak with Dr. Anthony Fleg from Running Medicine and NHI as well as Jordan Lesansee, former Albuquerque Academy standout, about motivation during this time and the importance of getting out. We discuss making time for yourself, and enjoying yourself in your runs.
We touch on ways Running Medicine is trying to keep members connected, the importance of mindfulness, and running with mind, body, and spirit. We also talk about having fun with your running and finding that joy. It was a fun conversation and I hope you find some value in it as well...2020-12-1344 minRunning New Mexico PodcastEpisode 42 - Magdalena Sandoval DonahueThis week I had the pleasure to speak with Magdalena Sandoval Donahue. She is a former Los Alamos Hilltopper and Oregon Duck. She excelled at all levels of running, from high school to professional, but as you'll learn, that is only a fraction of who she is and what she is about.
Magdalena talks about her busy life, balancing everything, and of course running. She talks about her father's influence, her love of running, and some of her side projects, including Bun on the Run and Rough it Outdoors. This is only the tip of the iceberg...2020-12-061h 02Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 41 - Diane DatzThis week I had the pleasure to speak with Diane Datz owner of The Recovery Lab NM. As a physical therapist for the past 6 years, Diane has a great insight into injuries runners go through as well as specific things you can do to stay healthy heading into the colder months. She also offers several body weight exercises you can do at home while on lockdown, or if you just can't make it out to the gym.
We also spend time talking about how she got into running in beautiful Corpus Cristi, how she got into PT...2020-11-291h 01Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 40 - Joe WhitemanThis week I speak with Joe Whiteman, retired radiologist, runner, bicyclist, hiker, swimmer, triathlete, and more. At 80 years old he didn't start running until he was 40 and has since completed several marathons, half marathons, and ran the Grand Canyon for his birthday 15 times.
He has experience in the senior olympics and just keeps going. Even though he broke his hip 3 months ago, he is back running a couple of miles and is hoping to ski this winter as well as run the Grand Canyon for his 81st birthday, if the pandemic doesn't get in the way again.2020-11-2256 minRunning New Mexico PodcastEpisode 39 - Chenile BentonThis week I speak with Chenile Benton. She has been running for just over a year and has moved into the ultra running territory. She has continued to challenge herself, stepping into more mileage and challenges. In a year without races, she decided to try a 50 miler. When her friend had a setback with her MS diagnosis, Chenile decided to dedicate the run to her and setup a donation page which you can find on her Instagram page.
We talk about her lead up to the challenge, running on the trails, and possibly meeting a bear. She...2020-11-1559 minRunning New Mexico PodcastEpisode 38 - Christian GeringThis week I spoke with Christian Gering. He is an ultra runner for Salomon USA and an artist currently with a fellowship through the Santa Fe Art Institute. We talk about running, art, and where they meet. He has an interesting story with an amazing first race experience.
We talk about the running community, feeling connected, not being connected, and finding it again. His path took him down many roads and he has used that to try and inspire others. I talked to him about being a representative for Native and Indigenous people in the ultra world...2020-11-081h 04
Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 37 - Sabrina SomarribasThis week I spoke with Sabrina Somarribas, local runner and teacher. We talk about her journey into running, struggles, and accomplishments. She talks about not feeling like a runner/athlete, yet has completed a ton of different event. We dig into her past and how running helps her decompress from work.
Sabrina talks about balancing her work and running, which is something I think a lot of teachers struggle with. We also discuss how she has had to change her view on food and staying healthy.
She has a lot of relatable information that I...2020-11-011h 00Running New Mexico PodcastEpisode 36 - Cheryl LoweThis week I spoke with Cheryl Lowe. She has PRs of 3:07 in the marathon, 1:27 for the half marathon, and 40:41 in the 10k. Originally from Texas, she graduated from Texas A&M. She talks about trying to walk on at a DI school, how that led her to other options for running, and how she's used running to decompress and escape (not always a good thing).
We talk about staying motivated while running, staying busy, and not tying your whole identity to running, even if it is a large part of your life.
Is was a...2020-10-2558 minRunning New Mexico PodcastEpisode 35 - Norissa ValdezThis week I speak with Norissa Valdez of Los Alamos High School. As the defending 4A girls Cross Country Champion, I wanted to talk with her before the season (that is now postponed again) started. We talk about getting started in running, being a top runner as an 8th grader, bonding with her team, and getting through this time.
It was a fun interview that I hope you enjoy. We will get through this together if we all do our part. Keep going, wear your mask, and keep running, New Mexico.
2020-10-1834 minRunning New Mexico PodcastEpisode 34 - Daniel OteroThis week I speak with Daniel Otero the head cross country and track coach at Laguna Acoma high school. He has 4 state championships, 4 second place finishes, and 4 third place finishes as a coach there.
We talk a lot about expectations of runners, how his running has influenced his coaching, and his background. We also talk about getting athletes through this time. Laguna Acoma already cancelled fall sports and so he has had to come to terms with it for his team. There's a lot of content here and I am so happy that we were able to...2020-10-111h 13