THE RUNNER'S SOLE

Sharon Miller

Our feet carry us everywhere, yet we rarely give them the attention they deserve. On The Runner’s Sole, Sharon—an experienced podiatrist with over 20 years in practice—breaks down foot health in a way that’s easy to understand. From everyday walkers to marathon runners and professional athletes, this podcast covers injuries, prevention, footwear, and practical foot care tips. Perfect for anyone who wants to walk, run, and live without foot pain.

  1. Building Endurance Without Breaking Your Body | The Runner’s Soul

    6 DAYS AGO

    Building Endurance Without Breaking Your Body | The Runner’s Soul

    At some point, every runner asks the same question:  How do I run longer without feeling wrecked? In this episode of The Runner’s Soul, Sharon — podiatrist, runner, and unapologetic foot nerd — breaks down endurance in a way that actually makes sense and protects your body. This episode isn’t about running faster or pushing harder. It’s about learning how to build endurance safely, so running feels smoother, calmer, and more sustainable over time. In this episode, you’ll learn: What endurance really is (and why it’s not about pushing through exhaustion)When your body is actually ready to increase running timeWhy many injuries like plantar fasciitis, heel pain, and shin splints happen at this stageHow to increase running time safely using small, controlled progressionsThe difference between green lights vs red flags in your bodyWhat your feet, plantar fascia, calves, and ankles are doing during longer runsWhy walking breaks are a smart endurance tool — not a setbackWhy endurance and recovery must grow togetherYou’ll also learn why quiet progress matters, how confidence shifts when endurance builds slowly, and why respecting your body allows it to adapt without breaking down. This episode is perfect if you’ve been running consistently and thinking,  “I feel ready… but I’m scared to push it.” 👣 Week 4 Challenge: Choose one run only this week to extend by 2–5 minutes, keep the pace easy, and leave all other runs exactly the same. Progress without consequences. Join our Facebook community to connect, learn, share your journey, and get real support from runners just like you:  👉 https://www.facebook.com/share/g/17oz7x3jFe/ Build slowly. Stay patient.  Endurance grows when your body feels safe enough to adapt.

    12 min
  2. Beginner Mistakes That Quietly Cause Running Injuries

    19 JAN

    Beginner Mistakes That Quietly Cause Running Injuries

    If you’ve ever thought, “I was doing fine… so why does it suddenly hurt?” — this episode is for you. In Episode 2 of The Runner’s Soul, Sharon Miller — podiatrist, runner, and unapologetic foot nerd — breaks down the most common beginner running mistakes that quietly lead to injuries like heel pain, plantar fasciitis, shin splints, and ankle issues. These aren’t dramatic accidents or obvious errors.  They’re normal, well-meaning habits that slowly overload your body until pain shows up. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why doing too much too soon is the fastest path to injuryHow running too fast early on overloads your calves, fascia, and jointsWhy ignoring small aches and morning stiffness is riskyThe truth about rest days and why they’re essential for adaptationWhy copying someone else’s training plan often backfiresHow load increases faster than tissue adaptation — and what that means for your feetSharon also explains what’s happening beneath the surface when runners say: “I didn’t change anything… so why does my heel hurt?” You’ll walk away with a clear understanding of what smart, sustainable training actually looks like — including pacing, rest, early warning signs, and how to protect your progress without losing motivation. This episode is especially important if: You’re new to runningYou’re returning after a breakYou’ve tried running before but stopped due to pain or injuryTo wrap up, Sharon gives you a Week 2 challenge focused on restraint, recovery, and consistency — because long-term runners aren’t the ones who push hardest, but the ones who adapt smartest. 🎧 Listen now and learn how to keep running — one smart step at a time. 👥 Join our Facebook community to share your journey, ask questions, and stay supported beyond the podcast. https://www.facebook.com/share/g/17oz7x3jFe/

    13 min
  3. So You Want to Start Running? Let’s Do This the Smart Way

    12 JAN

    So You Want to Start Running? Let’s Do This the Smart Way

    So, you want to start running… but something keeps holding you back? In this episode of The Runner’s Soul, podiatrist and runner Sharon breaks down how to start running the smart, safe, and sustainable way — especially if you’re a beginner or returning after injury. Running feels hard at the beginning not because you’re bad at it, but because your body is learning something new. In this episode, Sharon explains what your body is actually going through when you start running, why early discomfort is normal, and how most running injuries happen not because running is bad, but because people start without the right guidance. You’ll learn what a realistic first week should look like, why run-walk training is smart (not cheating), how to tell the difference between normal soreness and red-flag pain, and how understanding your feet can protect you from injury. This episode is for anyone who has ever thought: “I’m not built for running”“I’m too slow”“I tried before and got injured”“I want to start but I’m scared”By the end of this episode, running will feel less intimidating, less confusing, and far more achievable — one smart step at a time. ⏱️ Episode Breakdown (Timestamps) 00:18 – 01:29 Why running is one of the simplest and most powerful ways to improve health and mindset 01:49 – 02:23 Common fears that stop people from starting running 02:31 – 03:26 Who this episode is for (new runners, returning runners, injured runners) 03:52 – 04:48 Why running feels so hard at the beginning 04:58 – 05:36 Why most running injuries happen 05:47 – 06:40 You’re not bad at running — pace doesn’t matter 06:20 – 07:35 Why run-walk training is smart and how adaptation works 07:44 – 08:01 How progress actually builds over time 08:09 – 08:55 Understanding your feet and why they matter 09:21 – 10:15 Normal soreness vs red-flag pain 10:45 – 11:29 The biggest mistake new runners make 11:46 – 12:22 Why clarity beats motivation 12:40 – 13:05 What’s coming in Episode 2 13:20 – 14:10 Your 7-day beginner homework 14:20 – 15:00 Community invite & closing message ✅ Key Takeaways Running feels hard because it’s honest movement, not because you’re bad at itSpeed, distance, and pace do not define a runnerRun-walk training is smart and protectiveMuscles adapt faster than tendons, bones, and fasciaDiscomfort is adaptation — pain is informationConsistency beats motivation every timeUnderstanding your body builds confidence and prevents injury📌 Homework from This Episode For the next 7 days: Move your body intentionally at least 3 timesWalking, light jogging, or run-walk intervals are all perfectPay attention to how your feet and legs feel before, during, and afterDon’t judge pace, distance, or speed — just notice👥 Join the Community Join our Facebook community to connect, learn, and share your running journey with real people: 👉 https://www.facebook.com/share/g/17oz7x3jFe/ 🎧 What’s Next? In Episode 2, we’ll cover common beginner mistakes — the small, innocent choices that quietly turn excitement into pain or injury. Make sure you’re following the podcast so you don’t miss it.

    19 min
  4. When The Heel Pain Won’t Quit: Tackling Chronic Plantar Fasciitis

    5 JAN

    When The Heel Pain Won’t Quit: Tackling Chronic Plantar Fasciitis

    Chronic plantar fasciitis can be one of the most frustrating running injuries — it lingers, it hurts, and it feels like nothing works. In Episode 6 of The Runner’s Soul, Sharon Miller, podiatrist and runner, dives into advanced strategies for tackling stubborn heel pain. From why some cases become chronic to targeted treatments like shockwave therapy, PRP injections, and the 10X procedure, Sharon explains what actually helps and what myths to ignore. She also shares the mental tools runners need to stay motivated during long recovery periods. With practical advice, real patient stories, and her brand-new Foot Care Toolbox, this episode equips you with everything you need to finally get your heels — and your running — back on track. 🧠 What You’ll Learn in This Episode ✔ Why some plantar fasciitis cases become stubborn  ✔ The role of delayed treatment, overload, and biomechanics in chronic pain  ✔ Advanced treatment options: Shockwave, PRP, 10X procedure, and surgery  ✔ The importance of full rehabilitation — not just pain relief  ✔ Mental strategies to stay motivated through chronic recovery  ✔ How to return smarter, stronger, and pain-free  ✔ Foot Care Toolbox: practical tips for daily management  ✔ Real patient stories of recovery and comeback 🏃‍♀️ Key Takeaways • Chronic plantar fasciitis is common, but not permanent  • Persistence and consistency are just as important as the treatment method  • Advanced therapies help when home care alone isn’t enough  • Mental resilience and patience accelerate recovery  • Full rehabilitation — strength, stretching, cross-training — prevents recurrence  • Smart recovery can reshape your running technique for long-term gains 🎧 Who This Episode Is For • Runners struggling with chronic heel pain  • Anyone stuck in a cycle of plantar fasciitis  • Athletes looking for advanced recovery strategies  • Beginners unsure of how to handle persistent plantar fasciitis  • Anyone wanting actionable, evidence-based tips for long-term foot health 👥 Join the Runner’s Soul Facebook Community Connect with runners, share your journey, ask questions, and get ongoing support beyond the podcast: 👉 https://www.facebook.com/share/g/17oz7x3jFe/ 🔮 Coming Up Next (Season 3) Next season, we’ll stride into new topics every runner should know about:  ✔ Shin splints  ✔ Ankle tendon issues  ✔ Stress fractures  ✔ Runner’s knee  …plus science-backed tips and real-life solutions to keep you running stronger and healthier.

    26 min
  5. Healing the Heel: Treatment Options That Work

    29/12/2025

    Healing the Heel: Treatment Options That Work

    If you’re dealing with plantar fasciitis and wondering what actually works — this episode is for you. In Episode 5 of The Runner’s Sole, Sharon Miller, podiatrist and runner, breaks down real, evidence-based treatment options for plantar fasciitis — from simple things you can start at home to professional treatments used in clinic. No gimmicks. No miracle cures. Just what works, what doesn’t, and why. Sharon explains why plantar fasciitis recovery isn’t about one magic stretch or expensive insole, but about following three core principles: ✔ Reducing load on the fascia ✔ Supporting healing ✔ Gradually rebuilding strength You’ll learn how to heal your heel properly — and prevent the pain from coming back. 🧠 What You’ll Learn in This Episode ✔ Why plantar fasciitis doesn’t heal with rest alone  ✔ The 3 pillars of successful heel pain treatment ✔ Home remedies that actually work (and why) ✔ The role of stretching, footwear, and load management ✔ What night splints, heel cups, and insoles really do ✔ Myths that slow recovery (including cortisone injections) ✔ When to see a podiatrist — and why it matters ✔ Clinical treatments like orthotics, shockwave & dry needling ✔ Why surgery is almost never needed ✔ How to return to running stronger than before ✔ A real patient story of recovery and comeback 🏃‍♀️ Key Takeaways • Plantar fasciitis treatment is not one-size-fits-all • Reducing overload is the first step to healing • Stretching alone is not enough — strength matters • Supportive footwear can be a game-changer • Professional care accelerates recovery when home care stalls • Prevention is about rebuilding, not just pain relief 🎧 Who This Episode Is For • Runners dealing with heel pain  • Anyone stuck in a plantar fasciitis cycle  • Beginners unsure where to start treatment  • Athletes who want to recover properly — not rush back  • Anyone tired of wasting money on “quick fixes” 👥 Join the Runner’s Sole Facebook Community Connect with runners, share your journey, ask questions, and get ongoing support beyond the podcast: 👉 https://www.facebook.com/share/g/17oz7x3jFe/ 🔮 Coming Up Next (Episode 6) Chronic Plantar Fasciitis: When the Pain Won’t Quit We’ll explore:  ✔ Why some cases become stubborn  ✔ Advanced treatments that work  ✔ Mental strategies to stay motivated  ✔ A full runner’s recovery toolbox

    28 min
  6. Spotting the Signs: Diagnosing Plantar Fasciitis & Telling It Apart From Other Heel Pain

    22/12/2025

    Spotting the Signs: Diagnosing Plantar Fasciitis & Telling It Apart From Other Heel Pain

    Heel pain isn’t always plantar fasciitis — and misdiagnosing it can delay recovery or make things worse. In this episode of The Runner’s Sole, Sharon Miller — podiatrist, runner, and foot health expert — explains how plantar fasciitis is properly diagnosed and how to tell it apart from other common causes of heel pain. You’ll learn how clinicians identify plantar fasciitis, what red flags to look for, and why not all heel pain should be treated the same way. This episode is essential if you’ve tried rest, stretching, or new shoes but your pain just won’t settle. In this episode, Sharon covers: The classic signs and symptoms of plantar fasciitisWhy morning heel pain is such a key diagnostic clueHow plantar fasciitis feels different from nerve pain or stress injuriesConditions often mistaken for plantar fasciitis (and why that matters)When imaging is useful — and when it isn’tWhy self-diagnosis can delay healingWhen to seek professional help for heel painThis episode helps you understand what’s really going on under your heel, so you can take the right next step — not just guess and hope. 🎧 Whether you’re a runner, walker, or someone struggling with stubborn heel pain, this episode gives you clarity and confidence. 🔗 Listen to the full episode 🎧 https://www.buzzsprout.com/2545750/episodes/18316625 👥 Join Our Facebook Community Connect with runners and heel-pain sufferers, ask questions, share progress, and get ongoing support: 👉 https://www.facebook.com/share/g/17oz7x3jFe/ Let’s stop guessing — and start treating heel pain the smart way. 👟💙

    21 min
  7. Sleigh the Holidays: How to Look & Feel Sassy This Christmas Through Running

    15/12/2025

    Sleigh the Holidays: How to Look & Feel Sassy This Christmas Through Running

    Christmas is here — and so is your festive glow-up episode. ✨🎄 This special Runner’s Sole Christmas Bonus is not about burning calories, punishment runs, or guilt. It’s about joy, balance, confidence, and keeping your sparkle alive through running — even in the middle of mince pies, parties, late nights, and cold mornings. In this fun, honest, and motivational episode, Sharon Miller — podiatrist, runner, and unapologetic foot nerd — shares why December feels so hard on our bodies and how running becomes your secret weapon during the holidays. You’ll learn:  🎄 Why Christmas makes us feel sluggish, bloated, and exhausted (and why that’s normal)  🎄 What sugar, alcohol, stress, and late nights really do to your body  🎄 Why running isn’t a punishment — it’s your anchor and sanity ritual  🎄 How even 10 minutes of running can transform your mood, posture, confidence, and glow 🎄 A zero-pressure Christmas running guide you can actually stick to 🎄 How to stay mentally strong without guilt, restriction, or “earning food” 🎄 Festive foot-care tips (because Sharon is still a podiatrist… even at Christmas) This episode is your reminder that:  ✔ You are not broken — December is just a lifestyle earthquake  ✔ Running is about feeling alive, not being perfect  ✔ Even one short run counts  ✔ The best thing you can wear this Christmas is your energy, confidence, and smile So grab a hot chocolate, embrace the chaos, and let running help you look and feel sassy all season long. 💃🏃‍♀️✨ 🎧 Listen Now 🔗 https://www.buzzsprout.com/2545750/episodes/18316625 👥 Join Our Facebook Community Connect with runners, share your journey, ask questions, and stay motivated all year round:  👉 https://www.facebook.com/share/g/17oz7x3jFe/

    23 min

About

Our feet carry us everywhere, yet we rarely give them the attention they deserve. On The Runner’s Sole, Sharon—an experienced podiatrist with over 20 years in practice—breaks down foot health in a way that’s easy to understand. From everyday walkers to marathon runners and professional athletes, this podcast covers injuries, prevention, footwear, and practical foot care tips. Perfect for anyone who wants to walk, run, and live without foot pain.