Running on Carbs Podcast

Running on Carbs

Running on Carbs Podcast is hosted by Coach Val, a wife, empty-nester mom and executive level professional who has a love and passion for helping other driven women pursue their own running goals and plant-based way of eating. We talk about everything running related from training for races to mindset to prepping plant-based meals that fit a busy lifestyle. There are no apologies for loving carbs on this podcast! Yeah, protein is important, and we’ll talk about that too, but carbs are our jam. Although, we do [mainly] focus on the healthy kinds. Coach Val is a double certified run coach through UESCA and RRCA. She is also a National Certified Personal Trainer and Fitness Nutrition Coach that specializes in plant-based nutrition and a Correctional Exercise Specialist. Music by BoDleasons (Wings of Your Freedom) from Pixabay Follow us on Instagram @Running.On.Carbs Join us on Facebook and YouTube at Running on Carbs Sign up for our email list https://mailchi.mp/3121d5f70acc/podcast-notifications Order training plans https://finalsurge.com/coach/RunningOnCarbs

  1. JAN 31

    Nutrition Spotlight: Avocados

    This week's Nutrition Spotlight is all about the avocado — and yes, it's a fruit! From its impressive nutrient profile to its specific benefits for women runners over 40, Coach Val breaks down why this creamy green powerhouse deserves a permanent spot on your plate. We'll cover how avocados support everything from heart health and bone density to post-run recovery and hormone balance, plus some practical tips for picking, storing, and incorporating them into your everyday eating. Whether you're a seasoned avocado fan or just getting started, this episode will give you a whole new appreciation for this plant-based staple.   Mentioned in this episode: Running on Carbs Linktree https://linktr.ee/runningoncarbs   Hold Strong, Run Long 28-Day Plank Challenge 📅 February 1-28, 2026 💪 1 plank per day (1+ minute) 📱 App tracking included 👥 Community accountability 💰 Just $5 Build the core strength your running needs in just 1-5 minutes per day. Who's in? 👇 Link to join: https://mailchi.mp/3e12a970fbf0/plankchallenge   American Heart Association article: https://www.heart.org/en/news/2019/10/25/an-avocado-a-day-may-help-keep-bad-cholesterol-at-bay   Master Your First Masters Marathon: A Guide for Aspiring Runners in Their 40s and Beyond https://amzn.to/4pNulAP eBook Download (Free option): Meals That Move You: 10 Efficient Meal Prep Tips for Plant-Based Runners by Coach Val https://mailchi.mp/f06c2e45b101/mealsthatmoveyou Kindle Version: Meals That Move You: 10 Efficient Meal Prep Tips for Plant-Based Runners by Coach Val https://amzn.to/4fFyd1B Running Journal log book by Coach Val https://amzn.to/4fwXpr5 Need help creating a supportive plant-based nutrition plan and running program to support your training and fitness goals? Schedule a no-obligation, 20-minute strategy call with Coach Val to discuss your individual training and plant-based nutrition questions. Pick a date for your call here: https://calendly.com/coachval-running-on-carbs/30min?month=2025-01 Follow us on Instagram @Running.On.Carbs Join us on Facebook at Running on Carbs Coaching Watch on YouTube at Running on Carbs Order training plans https://finalsurge.com/coach/RunningOnCarbs Running on Carbs Blog https://running-on-carbs.com/ Affiliate links included. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases that helps to support this podcast and keep it ad-free. Music by BoDleasons (Wings of Your Freedom) from Pixabay

    27 min
  2. JAN 19

    Exercise Snacks - Small Moves, Big Impact for Busy Runners

    Struggling to fit strength work into your busy schedule? Exercise snacks—30 seconds to 5 minutes of strategic movement—are the time-pressed runner's secret weapon for building durability and preventing injury. In this episode, you'll discover what these mini-workouts actually accomplish (and what they don't), how to seamlessly integrate them into your packed day using anchor habits, and the five exercise categories that give runners the most bang for their buck. Plus, learn why planks are the ultimate exercise snack and how the Hold Strong, Run Long challenge can help you build consistency starting February 1st. Running on Carbs Linktree https://linktr.ee/runningoncarbs Hold Strong, Run Long 28-Day Plank Challenge Link to join: https://mailchi.mp/3e12a970fbf0/plankchallenge 📅 February 1-28, 2026 💪 1 plank per day (1+ minute) 📱 App tracking included 👥 Community accountability 💰 Just $5 Build the core strength your running needs in just 1-5 minutes per day. Who's in? 👇 Link to join: https://mailchi.mp/3e12a970fbf0/plankchallenge   Master Your First Masters Marathon: A Guide for Aspiring Runners in Their 40s and Beyond https://amzn.to/4pNulAP eBook Download (Free option): Meals That Move You: 10 Efficient Meal Prep Tips for Plant-Based Runners by Coach Val https://mailchi.mp/f06c2e45b101/mealsthatmoveyou Kindle Version: Meals That Move You: 10 Efficient Meal Prep Tips for Plant-Based Runners by Coach Val https://amzn.to/4fFyd1B Running Journal log book by Coach Val https://amzn.to/4fwXpr5   Need help creating a supportive plant-based nutrition plan and running program to support your training and fitness goals? Schedule a no-obligation, 20-minute strategy call with Coach Val to discuss your individual training and plant-based nutrition questions. Pick a date for your call here: https://calendly.com/coachval-running-on-carbs/30min?month=2025-01   Follow us on Instagram @Running.On.Carbs Join us on Facebook at Running on Carbs Coaching Watch on YouTube at Running on Carbs  Order training plans https://finalsurge.com/coach/RunningOnCarbs Running on Carbs Blog https://running-on-carbs.com/ Affiliate links included. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases that helps to support this podcast and keep it ad-free. Music by BoDleasons (Wings of Your Freedom) from Pixabay

    36 min
  3. 08/08/2025

    Plant-Based Carb Loading: Countdown to Marathon and Fueling On the Go

    Want to know what plant-based carb loading for a marathon looks like in real life? Whether you’re traveling by car or by plane, race travel adds a whole new layer of logistics to the carb loading process. In this episode, Coach Val shares the details of how she effectively carb loaded for her 50th birthday marathon while traveling by plane and car.  She’s got tips galore for hotel cooking, getting prepared and staying on track. Mentioned in this episode: Coach Val’s 50th birthday marathon: Jack and Jill Downhill Marathon in Washington state (owned by Run Super Series) https://jackjillmarathon.com/   Running on Carbs Linktree https://linktr.ee/runningoncarbs   Need help creating a supportive plant-based nutrition plan and running program to support your training and fitness goals? Schedule a no-obligation, 20-minute strategy call with Coach Val to discuss your individual training and plant-based nutrition questions. Pick a date for your call here: https://calendly.com/coachval-running-on-carbs/30min?month=2025-01   Join the ARC Program (Advanced Reader Copy Program) and get early access to all of Coach Val’s books before they hit the stores. The program is free to join, and there is no obligation to participate. You’ll receive an invitation to receive a free copy whenever a new book is launched. Sign up here  https://mailchi.mp/ff1bb70ec34d/arcprogram   eBook Download (Free option): Meals That Move You: 10 Efficient Meal Prep Tips for Plant-Based Runners by Coach Val https://mailchi.mp/f06c2e45b101/mealsthatmoveyou   Kindle Version: Meals That Move You: 10 Efficient Meal Prep Tips for Plant-Based Runners by Coach Val https://amzn.to/4fFyd1B Running Journal log book by Coach Val https://amzn.to/4fwXpr5 Follow us on Instagram @Running.On.Carbs  Join us on Facebook at Running on Carbs Coaching  Watch on YouTube at Running on Carbs  Order training plans https://finalsurge.com/coach/RunningOnCarbs Running on Carbs Blog https://running-on-carbs.com/ Affiliate links included. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases that helps to support this podcast and keep it ad-free. Music by BoDleasons (Wings of Your Freedom) from Pixabay

    54 min
  4. 07/31/2025

    50th Birthday Marathon Race Recap: Jack & Jill's Downhill Marathon

    After 4 months of training and 2 years of recovery from a serious stress facture, join Coach Val as she recaps her triumphant return to the marathon on her 50th birthday. In this episode, Coach Val describes the Jack and Jill’s Downhill Marathon logistics, the course, terrain, and offers helpful tips for a successful downhill race. Listen in as she recounts the good, the bad, and the necessary pivots along the way toward the 26.2 finish line.   Mentioned in this episode: Coach Val’s 50th birthday marathon: Jack and Jill Downhill Marathon in Washington state (owned by Run Super Series) https://jackjillmarathon.com/   Running on Carbs Linktree https://linktr.ee/runningoncarbs   Need help creating a supportive plant-based nutrition plan and running program to support your training and fitness goals? Schedule a no-obligation, 20-minute strategy call with Coach Val to discuss your individual training and plant-based nutrition questions. Pick a date for your call here: https://calendly.com/coachval-running-on-carbs/30min?month=2025-01   Join the ARC Program (Advanced Reader Copy Program) and get early access to all of Coach Val’s books before they hit the stores. The program is free to join, and there is no obligation to participate. You’ll receive an invitation to receive a free copy whenever a new book is launched. Sign up here  https://mailchi.mp/ff1bb70ec34d/arcprogram   eBook Download (Free option): Meals That Move You: 10 Efficient Meal Prep Tips for Plant-Based Runners by Coach Val https://mailchi.mp/f06c2e45b101/mealsthatmoveyou Kindle Version: Meals That Move You: 10 Efficient Meal Prep Tips for Plant-Based Runners by Coach Val https://amzn.to/4fFyd1B Running Journal log book by Coach Val https://amzn.to/4fwXpr5 Follow us on Instagram @Running.On.Carbs  Join us on Facebook at Running on Carbs Coaching Watch on YouTube at Running on Carbs  Order training plans https://finalsurge.com/coach/RunningOnCarbs Running on Carbs Blog https://running-on-carbs.com/ Affiliate links included. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases that helps to support this podcast and keep it ad-free. Music by BoDleasons (Wings of Your Freedom) from Pixabay

    1h 8m
  5. 06/26/2025

    Future of Downhill Courses on BQ Times with Jack and Jill Race Series Founder, Lee Ann Yarbor

    In episode 62, Coach Val talks with Lee Ann Yarbor, the owner and race director of USA Endurance Events; the host of several popular net-downhill Boston Qualifying race courses, including the Jack and Jill Poconos and the Jack and Jill Montana races, among others. For years, Boston Marathon hopefuls have flocked to net-downhill races to gain a qualifying time advantage. However, with the increase in qualified applications and only a limited number of bibs available, the BAA announced on June 16, 2025, new qualifying standards for net downhill courses. How will this change affect runners on the edge of qualifying? Listen in as Coach Val and Lee Ann discuss the impact this change may have, and the subtle and not-so-subtle effects of downhill courses. Mentioned in this episode: https://www.usaenduranceevents.com/ Jack and Jill Marathon, Montana and Poconos, and San Diego Holiday Half Marathon Connect with Lee Ann Yarbor at LeeAnn@usaenduranceevents.com Instagram    Coach Val’s 50th birthday marathon: Jack and Jill Downhill Marathon in Washington state (owned by Run Super Series) https://jackjillmarathon.com/   Running on Carbs Linktree https://linktr.ee/runningoncarbs   Need help creating a supportive plant-based nutrition plan and running program to support your training and fitness goals? Schedule a no-obligation, 20-minute strategy call with Coach Val to discuss your individual training and plant-based nutrition questions. Pick a date for your call here: https://calendly.com/coachval-running-on-carbs/30min?month=2025-01   Join the ARC Program (Advanced Reader Copy Program) and get early access to all of Coach Val’s books before they hit the stores. The program is free to join, and there is no obligation to participate. You’ll receive an invitation to receive a free copy whenever a new book is launched. Sign up here  https://mailchi.mp/ff1bb70ec34d/arcprogram   eBook Download (Free option): Meals That Move You: 10 Efficient Meal Prep Tips for Plant-Based Runners by Coach Val https://mailchi.mp/f06c2e45b101/mealsthatmoveyou   Kindle Version: Meals That Move You: 10 Efficient Meal Prep Tips for Plant-Based Runners by Coach Val https://amzn.to/4fFyd1B   Running Journal log book by Coach Val https://amzn.to/4fwXpr5   Follow us on Instagram @Running.On.Carbs https://www.instagram.com/running.on.carbs/ Join us on Facebook at Running on Carbs Coaching https://www.facebook.com/RunningOnCarbsCoaching Watch on YouTube at Running on Carbs  Order training plans https://finalsurge.com/coach/RunningOnCarbs Running on Carbs Blog https://running-on-carbs.com/ Affiliate links included. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases that helps to support this podcast and keep it ad-free. Music by BoDleasons (Wings of Your Freedom) from Pixabay

    1h 6m
  6. 06/23/2025

    Life + Marathon Training = Grace

    It’s been a minute since our last podcast episode, but Coach Val is still on track to complete her 50th birthday marathon in 5 weeks. In today’s episode, she talks about what’s been interfering with the podcast schedule and how she’s coping and flowing with it all. Listen in for peak marathon training nutrition tips when fatigue starts setting in during those extra-long runs and how to fit in strength training when it seems like there are fewer hours left in the day.   Join the ARC Program (Advanced Reader Copy Program) and get early access to all of Coach Val’s books before they hit the stores. The program is free to join, and there is no obligation to participate. You’ll receive an invitation to receive a free copy whenever a new book is launched. Sign up here  https://mailchi.mp/ff1bb70ec34d/arcprogram Running on Carbs Linktree https://linktr.ee/runningoncarbs Need help creating a supportive nutrition plan and running program to support your training and fitness goals? Schedule a no-obligation, 20-minute strategy call with Coach Val to discuss your individual training and plant-based nutrition questions. Pick a date for your call here: https://calendly.com/coachval-running-on-carbs/30min?month=2025-01   eBook Download (Free option): Meals That Move You: 10 Efficient Meal Prep Tips for Plant-Based Runners by Coach Val https://mailchi.mp/f06c2e45b101/mealsthatmoveyou  Kindle Version: Meals That Move You: 10 Efficient Meal Prep Tips for Plant-Based Runners by Coach Val https://amzn.to/4fFyd1B Running Journal log book by Coach Val https://amzn.to/4fwXpr5   Follow us on Instagram @Running.On.Carbs Join us on Facebook at Running on Carbs Coaching Watch on YouTube at Running on Carbs    Order training plans https://finalsurge.com/coach/RunningOnCarbs Running on Carbs Blog https://running-on-carbs.com/ Affiliate links included. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases that helps to support this podcast and keep it ad-free. Music by BoDleasons (Wings of Your Freedom) from Pixabay

    30 min
  7. 05/29/2025

    Nutrition Spotlight: Garbanzo Beans (aka Chickpeas)

    Get ready for another deep dive into a plant-based nutritional meal staple in episode 60 of the Running on Carbs Podcast. Discover why garbanzo beans (also called chickpeas) are the ultimate plant-powered fuel for women runners over 40. From sustained energy and muscle recovery to hormonal balance support, Coach Val explores the complete nutritional profile, shares creative meal ideas for every part of your day, and reveals the magic of aquafaba. Plus, get practical tips for seamlessly incorporating this protein-packed legume into your training routine and weekly meal prep.   Join the ARC Program (Advanced Reader Copy Program) and get early access to all of Coach Val’s books before they hit the stores. The program is free to join, and there is no obligation to participate. You’ll receive an invitation to receive a free copy whenever a new book is launched.   Sign up here  https://mailchi.mp/ff1bb70ec34d/arcprogram   Running on Carbs Linktree https://linktr.ee/runningoncarbs   Need help creating a supportive nutrition plan and running program to support your training and fitness goals? Schedule a no-obligation, 20-minute strategy call with Coach Val to discuss your individual training and plant-based nutrition questions. Pick a date for your call here: https://calendly.com/coachval-running-on-carbs/30min?month=2025-01   eBook Download (Free option): Meals That Move You: 10 Efficient Meal Prep Tips for Plant-Based Runners by Coach Val https://mailchi.mp/f06c2e45b101/mealsthatmoveyou   Kindle Version: Meals That Move You: 10 Efficient Meal Prep Tips for Plant-Based Runners by Coach Val https://amzn.to/4fFyd1B Running Journal log book by Coach Val https://amzn.to/4fwXpr5 Follow us on Instagram @Running.On.Carbs  Join us on Facebook at Running on Carbs Coaching  Watch on YouTube at Running on Carbs  Order training plans https://finalsurge.com/coach/RunningOnCarbs Running on Carbs Blog https://running-on-carbs.com/ Affiliate links included. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases that helps to support this podcast and keep it ad-free. Music by BoDleasons (Wings of Your Freedom) from Pixabay

    36 min
  8. 05/22/2025

    Marathon Month: Tune-up Race Recap: La Jolla 1/2 Marathon

    In Episode 59 of the Running on Carbs Podcast, Coach Val continues her dive into "Marathon Month" with a recap of the La Jolla Half Marathon tune-up race. Learn the benefits of a tune-up race within a longer training plan and how to incorporate it into your next race plan. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to run along the coast of southern California, you’ll love Coach Val’s mile-by-mile recap of this iconic course. As mentioned in the episode: Season 1 Episode 24: Boost Confidence & Steady Race Nerves with this One Training Element   Join the ACR Program (Advanced Reader Copy Program) and get early access to all of Coach Val’s books before they hit the stores. The program is free to join and there is no obligation to participate. You’ll receive an invitation to receive a free copy whenever a new book is launched. Sign up here  https://mailchi.mp/ff1bb70ec34d/arcprogram   Running on Carbs Linktree https://linktr.ee/runningoncarbs   Need help creating a supportive nutrition plan and running program to support your training and fitness goals? Schedule a no-obligation, 20-minute strategy call with Coach Val to discuss your individual training and plant-based nutrition questions. Pick a date for your call here: https://calendly.com/coachval-running-on-carbs/30min?month=2025-01   eBook Download (Free option): Meals That Move You: 10 Efficient Meal Prep Tips for Plant-Based Runners by Coach Val https://mailchi.mp/f06c2e45b101/mealsthatmoveyou   Kindle Version: Meals That Move You: 10 Efficient Meal Prep Tips for Plant-Based Runners by Coach Val https://amzn.to/4fFyd1B Running Journal log book by Coach Val https://amzn.to/4fwXpr5 Follow us on Instagram @Running.On.Carbs  Join us on Facebook at Running on Carbs Coaching  Watch on YouTube at Running on Carbs  Order training plans https://finalsurge.com/coach/RunningOnCarbs Running on Carbs Blog https://running-on-carbs.com/ Affiliate links included. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases that helps to support this podcast and keep it ad-free. Music by BoDleasons (Wings of Your Freedom) from Pixabay

    1h 3m
5
out of 5
5 Ratings

About

Running on Carbs Podcast is hosted by Coach Val, a wife, empty-nester mom and executive level professional who has a love and passion for helping other driven women pursue their own running goals and plant-based way of eating. We talk about everything running related from training for races to mindset to prepping plant-based meals that fit a busy lifestyle. There are no apologies for loving carbs on this podcast! Yeah, protein is important, and we’ll talk about that too, but carbs are our jam. Although, we do [mainly] focus on the healthy kinds. Coach Val is a double certified run coach through UESCA and RRCA. She is also a National Certified Personal Trainer and Fitness Nutrition Coach that specializes in plant-based nutrition and a Correctional Exercise Specialist. Music by BoDleasons (Wings of Your Freedom) from Pixabay Follow us on Instagram @Running.On.Carbs Join us on Facebook and YouTube at Running on Carbs Sign up for our email list https://mailchi.mp/3121d5f70acc/podcast-notifications Order training plans https://finalsurge.com/coach/RunningOnCarbs