Athletics Ontario Running Podcast

John Shep
  • 5.0 (1)
  • RUNNING
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

The Athletics Ontario Running Podcast explores the stories behind trail and road running in Ontario. A main goal of the Athletics Ontario Running Podcast will be to reach those that we are not already reaching, to give voice to the underrepresented members of our community and bring these stories to the masses. All people, all speeds, all terrains, all abilities are welcome. For you, for all, for life.

  1. 5D AGO

    EP 224: Stephen Bierbrier, Arboretum Hill Club Fitness 4 Everyone Forever

    Running is often pictured as a solitary pursuit—just one person, their shoes, and the open road. But Steven Bierbrier is here to flip that narrative on its head. In this episode of the Athletics Ontario Running Podcast, we explore Steven's evolution from a solo athlete to a central figure in the Ottawa fitness scene as the founder of the Arboretum Hill Club. Since 2018, Steven has been rallying a community built on the pillars of radical accessibility and a start time so specific it's impossible to forget. Steven peels back the curtain on why he believes fitness belongs to everyone, offering a roadmap for newcomers to find a local crew that matches their unique pace, geography, and social vibe. We also get an inside look at the electric energy of Ottawa Race Weekend, a premier event that transforms the capital into a global hub for the running community. Beyond the logistics of pace and distance, this conversation is a deep dive into the vital mental health benefits of getting outside and the undeniable power of simple consistency. Whether he's advocating for inclusive movement or sharing his latest passion for the unpredictable magic of trail running, Steven's insights are a powerful reminder that the best view is often found when you stop running alone. If you've been looking for a reason to lace up and find your tribe, this is the episode for you. Learn more about Stephen at: https://www.instagram.com/arboretumhillclub/ Register to be an Athletics Ontario member: https://athleticsreg.ca/#!/memberships/athletics-canada-road-trail-membership Check out Hammer Nutrition Canada (and use our special discount code AORP15 at checkout): https://hammernutrition.ca/

    33 min

  2. MAY 7

    EP 223: Brian Beckstead, ALTRA Co-Founder - Bringing their Soul to Sulphur Springs

    Fifteen years ago, Brian Beckstead and his co-founders ignited a footwear revolution by proving that standard shoes were working against the human body. By engineering the game-changing zero-drop platform and signature wide toe box, they returned running to its natural roots and launched the global powerhouse known as Altra. In this episode of the Athletics Ontario Running Podcast, host John Shep and Brian break down the brand's relentless entrepreneurial spirit and its deep commitment to the trails, highlighted by Altra's massive new lead sponsorship of Ontario's own Sulphur Springs Trail Race. Brian shares the strategy behind their intentional growth across Canada and their mission to keep the sport accessible for the next generation of athletes. From hacking shoes at a kitchen table to dominating the road and trail markets, Beckstead's journey is a masterclass in community-first leadership. This is a high-energy look at a brand that refuses to settle, proving that when you prioritize solving problems over chasing profits, you change the industry forever. And don't forget to check out John's current project Outrun the Darkness Learn more about ALTRA at: https://www.instagram.com/altrarunning/ Register to be an Athletics Ontario member: https://athleticsreg.ca/#!/memberships/athletics-canada-road-trail-membership Check out Hammer Nutrition Canada (and use our special discount code AORP15 at checkout): https://hammernutrition.ca/

    37 min

  3. APR 30

    EP 222: Sasha Wolff, Still I Run - Redefining Running for Mental Health

    In this episode of the Athletics Ontario Running Podcast, we're joined by Sasha Wolff, the powerhouse founder of the non-profit Still I Run. Sasha's journey didn't start at a starting line; it started in a hospital bed in 2011 during a battle with clinical depression. It was there she discovered that while therapy and medication were vital, movement was the missing piece of her recovery puzzle. This realization eventually transformed from a personal lifeline into Still I Run, a non-profit organization dedicated to the intersection of mental health and distance running. The organization now serves as a digital sanctuary that dismantles the "elite athlete" archetype, welcoming participants of all backgrounds and abilities. Through initiatives like the May mental health run streak—a 31-mile challenge at any pace—Wolff prioritizes consistency over intensity. By shifting the focus away from performance metrics, she reframes running as a practice of grace and healing where every mile is a victory for mental clarity. So much to gain from this episode! And make sure to check out John's current project, Outrun the Darkness Learn more about Still I Run at: https://www.stillirun.org/ Register to be an Athletics Ontario member: https://athleticsreg.ca/#!/memberships/athletics-canada-road-trail-membership Check out Hammer Nutrition Canada (and use our special discount code AORP15 at checkout): https://hammernutrition.ca/

    29 min

  4. APR 23

    EP 221: Jessica Halsall, Ottawa's Power Mom - Running for CHEO with the Desjardins Charity Challenge

    What fuels the miles when the finish line is only half the story? This week on the AO Running Podcast, we're joined by Jessica Halsall - mom of two, Badass Lady Gang lead, and member of Otto's Ottawa Power Crew - to discuss her Tamarack Homes Ottawa International Marathon journey. A runner and fitness instructor, she is turning her strides at Ottawa Race Weekend into support for the CHEO Neonatal Intensive Care Unit via the Desjardins Charity Challenge. Jessica gets real about the journey from her son's birth to reclaiming her athleticism. We dive into the non-negotiables of postpartum training - including the vital role of pelvic floor physical therapy - and how she's building a more inclusive running culture through her leadership with the Badass Lady Gang. From tactical tips for conquering the Ottawa Marathon course to her favorite local haunts for a post-race celebration, Jessica offers a masterclass in running with heart and purpose. Learn more about Jessica at: https://www.instagram.com/jessikahh/ Register to be an Athletics Ontario member: https://athleticsreg.ca/#!/memberships/athletics-canada-road-trail-membership Check out Hammer Nutrition Canada (and use our special discount code AORP15 at checkout): https://hammernutrition.ca/

    32 min

  5. APR 16

    EP 220: Andrew Tsang - Running for Campfire Circle

    In this episode, we dive into Andrew Tsang's massive undertaking: a 260+ KM relay journey from Toronto to Muskoka in support of Campfire Circle. This incredible organization provides life-changing camp experiences for children impacted by cancer, offering them a chance to heal through play and joy—even while receiving treatment on-site. As someone who has personally felt the impact of cancer within his own family, having lost his dad after a very short battle with CNS Lymphoma, this mission is deeply personal for Andrew. We explore the logistics and "why" behind the 260km trek to Muskoka, along with his pivotal place in the running community through Stouffville Run Crew, Markville Run Crew and Lululemon, which is why he has a team (including your humble host John Shep!) running with him. Give Back and Win: every donation made between now and the Sporting Life 10K enters you into a draw for amazing prizes from Lululemon and other event partners! Donate at: https://support.campfirecircle.org/diy/campfirerelay Learn more about Andrew at: https://www.instagram.com/dudeytsang/ Register to be an Athletics Ontario member: https://athleticsreg.ca/#!/memberships/athletics-canada-road-trail-membership Check out Hammer Nutrition Canada (and use our special discount code AORP15 at checkout): https://hammernutrition.ca/

    29 min

  6. APR 9

    EP 219: Julian Compton, Move for Change - Turning Every Step into Real Change

    In this episode of the Athletics Ontario Running Podcast, we sit down with Julian Compton, endurance athlete and founder of Move for Change. Julian explains how he uses physical fitness as a powerful vehicle for social advocacy and youth empowerment. We hear how Julian launched Move for Change in 2020 to support BIPOC youth and dismantle systemic barriers in the GTA. Through his organization, Julian has raised significant funds for youth-focused charities and community infrastructure projects, such as rebuilding a high school track, over the last six years. The conversation also highlights the deep connection between endurance sports and personal growth, emphasizing how running serves as a tool for community building and positive parenting. How can the running community drive real-world progress and create more inclusive spaces for the next generation? Find out in this episode: it's about collective progress. Learn how moving with purpose can change lives, one kilometer at a time. Learn more about Julian at: https://www.instagram.com/juliancompton/ Register to be an Athletics Ontario member: https://athleticsreg.ca/#!/memberships/athletics-canada-road-trail-membership Check out Hammer Nutrition Canada (and use our special discount code AORP15 at checkout): https://hammernutrition.ca/

    35 min

  7. APR 2

    EP 218: Sergio Raez Villanueva - Crushing 50k for Canada at 2026 World Championships

    What happens when you trade a tennis racket in Peru for the grueling Canadian ultramarathon circuit? In this episode, we sit down with Sergio Raez Villanueva, an elite long-distance runner whose "gutsy" racing style recently took him all the way to India to represent Canada at the 50K World Championships. Sergio opens up about his profound transition from a Peruvian immigrant to a national-level athlete, revealing how he used running as a meditative lifeline to navigate the hurdles of a new life. We trace his evolution from the fast-paced world of collegiate cross country to the grit of high-level ultras, exploring how he manages to balance a demanding full-time career with an intensity that sees him tackling the Ottawa 10K and marathon in a single weekend. Sergio shares the mindset behind his upcoming "go big or go home" season—which includes his daunting first attempt at a 100-mile trail race at Sulphur Springs 2026—while reminding us that even in a solitary sport, it is the pulse of the community and a deep sense of cultural pride that truly fuels his fire. Learn more about Sergio at: https://www.instagram.com/sergioraezv/ Register to be an Athletics Ontario member: https://athleticsreg.ca/#!/memberships/athletics-canada-road-trail-membership Check out Hammer Nutrition Canada (and use our special discount code AORP15 at checkout): https://hammernutrition.ca/

    48 min

  8. MAR 26

    EP 217: Neil McKay, London Children's Hospital - Finding Purpose Through Persistence

    How do you turn grief into a movement? This episode of the Athletics Ontario Running Podcast features Neil McKay, founder of Persistence Racing, marking five years of resilience in London, Ontario. We explore the launch of Fox Stride, a unique "double dash" track event, and the deeply personal motivation behind Neil's mission. After navigating family tragedy and recovery, Neil's experiences with the London Children's Hospital inspired his London 100—a 100km solo challenge to raise $5,000 for pediatric care. It's a powerful look at finding purpose through pain and the profound impact of running for something bigger than yourself. Learn more about Neil at: https://www.instagram.com/persistenceracing/ Register to be an Athletics Ontario member: https://athleticsreg.ca/#!/memberships/athletics-canada-road-trail-membership Check out Hammer Nutrition Canada (and use our special discount code AORP15 at checkout): https://hammernutrition.ca/

    34 min
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About

The Athletics Ontario Running Podcast explores the stories behind trail and road running in Ontario. A main goal of the Athletics Ontario Running Podcast will be to reach those that we are not already reaching, to give voice to the underrepresented members of our community and bring these stories to the masses. All people, all speeds, all terrains, all abilities are welcome. For you, for all, for life.

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