What Runs a Run

Kamal Datta
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Running

Welcome to What Runs a Run podcast where we are exploring the ecosystem that fuels the runners, running communities, organizers and everything in between. This podcast is broken down into mini series diving deep into a specific theme, for example in Tech in 26.2 we chat with entrepreneurs and professionals at the forefront of innovation supporting runners and the running events. If you are a curious athlete, we believe you will enjoy this podcast. Thanks for listening!!

  1. 2d ago

    How Ben Rosario Built Three Running Businesses by Putting Community First

    Ben Rosario shares his journey from elite marathoner to successful entrepreneur and coach, highlighting the evolution of the running industry, building community, and scaling a running store and team. Ben shares insights on long-term athlete development, the evolution of marathon training, and the innovative vision behind The Marathon Project. Discover how technology, training science, and a passion for competition are shaping the future of long-distance running. Key Topics Ben Rosario's transition from athlete to entrepreneurThe importance of team and community in running successEvolution of the running industry over 25 yearsThe business side of running stores and brandsBuilding and scaling a successful running team and storeThe role of sponsorships and athlete managementMetrics for evaluating elite runnersThe impact of technology and nutrition on running culture Long-term athlete development principlesImpact of high-performance shoes and technologyThe evolution of marathon training and threshold workThe story and vision of the Marathon ProjectThe role of AI and technology in coaching and trainingFuture trends in professional and amateur marathon racing Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Ben Rosario's Multifaceted Career 00:06 Introduction to Ben's journey and insights 01:24 Ben Rosario's Elite Running Experience and Insights 02:29 Core principles of long-term athlete development 04:24 The Role of Support Teams in Elite Running 07:47 Impact of high-performance shoes and technology 08:01 Evolution of the Elite Running Business Landscape 11:40 Metrics for Identifying Elite Runners 12:03 Evolution of marathon training and threshold work 14:16 Starting and Scaling Big River Running Company 17:10 Scaling Strategies and Store Expansion 18:06 The story and future vision of the Marathon Project 25:05 The role of AI and technology in coaching 30:40 Personal Challenges in Scaling and Leadership 30:50 Future trends in professional and amateur marathon racing 35:56 Ben's advice for runners and closing thoughts 37:18 Transitioning from Running Stores to Coaching and Sponsorships 40:04 Founding Hoka NAZ and Building a Pro Team 44:10 The Path to Sponsorship and Building a Brand 48:46 Operation and Management of the Elite Team 50:11 Key Takeaways and Future Outlook References: The Marathon Project - https://themarathonproject.com/Hoka Naz Elite team - https://www.nazelite.com/Big River Running Company - https://bigriverrunning.com/

    How Ben Rosario Built Three Running Businesses by Putting Community First

  2. Aug 31

    Revolutionizing Athlete Coaching with AI and Human Hybrid Models

    In this episode, Mats Terweisch, Cofounder of HYBRD (YC'24) shares insights on AI-driven athlete coaching, the hybrid athlete concept, and the future of fitness technology. Discover how data, human oversight, and AI are transforming training and injury prevention. Key Takeaways Hybrid training combines AI and human coaching for optimal results.Data from wearables and sensors is crucial for personalized training.Human oversight remains important for health and injury prevention.Hybrid athletes are increasingly popular across various sports.AI can help prevent injuries by monitoring training loads.Tools like hybrid can make training more consistent and enjoyable.The future of fitness involves integrating AI with human expertise. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 02:53 The Role of AI in Athletic Coaching 06:11 Understanding the Hybrid Athlete Concept 09:03 Data Sources and Their Impact on Training 11:51 Injury Prevention and Consistency in Training 15:09 The Importance of Human Oversight in AI Coaching 18:03 Navigating Data Overload in Athletic Training 23:51 Human Control and AI in Coaching 29:26 The Evolution of AI in Athletic Training 30:52 Trends in Wearables and Strength Training 32:48 The Future of AI and Fitness Apps 36:07 Quality and Focus in AI Development 39:02 Direct User Feedback and Support 44:09 Shifting Mindsets in Fitness Goals References:HYBRD - AI Athlete Coaching PlatformY CombinatorComplete Human Performance - Alex Viada

    Revolutionizing Athlete Coaching with AI and Human Hybrid Models

  3. Jul 13

    The Future of Running and Travel: Personalization, Community, and Experience Over Speed

    In this episode of Travel in 26.2 series of What Runs a Run podcast Lena Anderson shares her inspiring journey of founding Go Running Tours, transforming city exploration through guided running experiences. Discover how her background in corporate strategy, innovative business models, and passion for running have shaped a global enterprise that combines travel, fitness, and local culture. Key Topics Journey from corporate career to entrepreneurshipBusiness model evolution and scalingBalancing tourism, safety, and local insightsImpact of COVID-19 on running tourismFuture trends in running and travel Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Go Running Tours 01:07 Transition from Corporate to Running Tours 03:47 The Concept of Running Tours 06:08 Starting Go Running Tours in Copenhagen 12:04 Building the Business Model 21:06 Evolution of the Running Industry 22:57 Balancing Running and Tourism 24:23 Setting Expectations for Running Tours 26:15 The Value of Local Guides 28:40 Safety and Convenience in Running Tours 30:29 Supporting Major Running Events 32:53 Sustainability in Running and Travel 37:33 Corporate Wellness and Running Tours 40:52 Rapid Fire Insights on Running 42:55 The Future of Running and Travel Resources: Go Running Tours #RunningTours, #Travel, #BusinessModel, #CityExploration, #RunningCulture, #Sustainability, #GuideExperience, #TravelIndustry, Entrepreneurship, Global Expansion

    The Future of Running and Travel: Personalization, Community, and Experience Over Speed

  4. Jun 23

    Why Carbon Offsetting Isn’t Enough — Inside the Shift to Insetting in Major Sports Events

    In this episode we are exploring how the New York Road Runners are leading sustainability efforts in large-scale events, focusing on decarbonization, offsetting, insetting, and innovative eco-friendly practices. We sit down with Ali Criscolo, Head of Sustainability & Corporate Social Responsibility at New York Road Runners (NYRR) and dig into insights on strategies, challenges, and impactful initiatives shaping the future of sustainable sports events. Key topics Sustainability initiatives at New York Road RunnersInsetting vs offsetting explainedStrategies for reducing environmental footprint of marathonsCommunity engagement in sustainability effortsInnovations in eco-friendly race materials Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Sustainability in Sports 01:50 The Journey to Net Zero by 2040 04:43 Commitment to Sustainability at New York Road Runners 08:49 Understanding Offsetting vs. Insetting 11:50 Innovative Waste Management Solutions 17:51 The Role of Reusable Materials 21:43 Engaging Runners in Sustainability 25:04 The Impact of Medals and Merchandise 28:50 Strategies for Smaller Races 31:11 Team for Climate: A New Initiative 36:51 Challenges in Achieving Net Zero Resources : New York Road Runners Sustainability Initiatives - https://www.nyrr.org/sustainability Insetting and Offsetting Explained - Climate Neutral Now - https://unfccc.int/climate-action/climate-neutral-now Cup Zero - Reusable Cup Program - https://cupzero.com/ Climate Stripes by University of Reading - https://climatestripes.org/ Royal Waste - Composting Partner - https://royalwaste.com/ Mackinroe Farms Compost Facility - https://mackinroefarms.com/

    Why Carbon Offsetting Isn’t Enough — Inside the Shift to Insetting in Major Sports Events

  5. Jun 14

    Unlocking the Power of Sleep for Athletes: 10 Key Insights

    In this episode of What Runs a Run podcast, Dr. Amy Bender shares the critical role of sleep in athletic performance, covering sleep cycles, tracking technologies, sleep disorders, and practical tips for optimizing sleep for athletes and travelers. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the 22 Hour Athlete 03:48 Understanding the Sleep Cycle 07:36 Measuring Sleep: Devices and Accuracy 18:25 Identifying Sleep Issues: The Questionnaire 23:40 Defining Enough Sleep for Different Ages 27:08 Sleep Needs for Athletes vs. General Population 31:21 The Challenges of Night Owls 34:48 Managing Jet Lag for Athletes 40:34 Understanding Sleep Banking 46:18 Techniques for Adjusting Circadian Rhythms 52:33 Cognitive Techniques for Better Sleep References: Athlete sleep screening questionnaire - link

    Unlocking the Power of Sleep for Athletes: 10 Key Insights

  6. May 25

    The 7 Pillars of a Sustainable Finish Line: Redefining 26.2 with Mike Laflin

    In this episode, Mike Laflin, Founder & CEO of Global Sustainable Sport (GSS) shares insights on measuring sustainability in sports, introducing his seven pillars framework and discussing impact data versus commercial data. We explore how sports organizations can leverage data for greater societal impact and sustainability. Key topics: Seven pillars of sustainable sportImpact data versus commercial dataRole of partnerships in sports sustainabilityMeasuring social and environmental impactSports industry’s contribution to society Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Sustainability in Sports 01:18 Mike Laflin's Journey in Sports and Sustainability 08:08 Understanding Global Sustainable Sport (GSS) 14:59 Impact Data vs. Commercial Data in Sports 19:36 The Health Product vs. Entertainment Product Debate 29:01 Navigating the Grey Data Zone in Sports 32:12 The Social Impact of Marathons 39:34 Purposeful Partnerships in Sports 46:29 Participation as a Health Product 53:54 Engaging Diverse Communities 56:41 Advocating for Clean Air in Sports 01:01:26 Rethinking Climate Impact on Events 01:04:43 Governance and Transparency in Sustainability 01:08:47 Harnessing Individual Voices for Sustainability 01:12:25 Long-term Prosperity Beyond One-Day Events 01:16:14 Greenwashing and Authenticity in Sustainability 01:19:42 The Future of Net Zero in Major Marathons 01:22:32 Sustainability Fees: Responsibility of Participants or Brands? 01:25:09 Setting the Gold Standard in Sustainability ResourcesGlobal Sustainability Support (GSS)UN Sport for Climate ActionAirAware

    The 7 Pillars of a Sustainable Finish Line: Redefining 26.2 with Mike Laflin

  7. Apr 23

    The Tactical Runner: Engineering Metabolic Efficiency and Mental Resilience with Dr. Krista Austin

    In this episode, Dr. Krista Austin shares insights on preparing for high performance in endurance sports, focusing on mental readiness, energy fueling, and adaptability. Learn how elite athletes train their bodies and minds to handle unpredictable conditions and push past limits. Krista Gail Austin shares insights on optimizing marathon performance through individualized training, mental resilience, sleep strategies, and the role of technology. Learn practical tips to adapt training plans, manage sleep, and leverage mental drills for better race outcomes. Key topics Readiness as a foundation for performanceBuilding the engine: sustainable fueling strategiesThe command center: mental management during racesIndividualizing training for optimal results Individualized training plansSleep banking and circadian rhythmMental resilience and hitting the wallRole of technology and data in trainingLessons from elite athletes and military training Chapters 00:00 Introduction to High Performance Coaching 11:15 Rebuilding Elite Athletes: The Case of Meb Kofleski 19:32 Fitness vs. Readiness: Key Differences 29:34 Fueling for the Long Haul: Efficiency Over Intensity 35:35 Training the Gut: Fueling Strategies for Race Day 43:05 Hitting the Wall: Physical and Mental Factors 48:09 Brain Fuel: Enhancing Focus and Performance 55:11 Learning from Experience: Adapting to Race Day Conditions 01:00:46 Cognitive Drills and Sleep Banking for Performance 01:06:04 The Debate on Sleep Patterns: Individual Preferences 01:14:57 Individualizing Training Plans for Runners 01:24:28 Navigating Technology Overload in Training 01:32:45 Rapid Fire Insights on Nutrition and Training Reference (s): https://kristaaustin.com/

    The Tactical Runner: Engineering Metabolic Efficiency and Mental Resilience with Dr. Krista Austin

  8. Apr 13

    The Visionary: Michael Nishi: Architecting the Marathon of 2077

    In this episode of What Runs a Run, we go behind the scenes with Mike Nishi, COO of Chicago Event Management, to explore the future of marathon event planning, safety, inclusivity, and industry collaboration. Discover how long-term vision, operational excellence, and open-source sharing are shaping the industry. 💡 Key TakeawaysThe "Peak Bib" Reality: We have reached a point where races are permanently sold out. The "product" is no longer the bib; it’s the community impact and the storytelling that happens 365 days a year.Baked-in vs. Bolted-on: Sustainability and DEI should never be "add-ons" to an event; they must be baked into the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) from day one.The Rising Tide: Elevating small, local races actually strengthens the World Majors. When the entire industry improves its safety and operational standards, everyone wins. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Marathon as a Temporary City 01:49 The 2077 Mindset: Planning for the Future 04:36 Balancing Legacy and Innovation in Event Management 07:03 Visualizing Urban Infrastructure for Events 09:40 The Evolution of the Chicago Marathon 13:23 Safety and Data Management in Event Operations 17:06 Decision-Making on Race Day: The Psychology of Cancelation 19:39 Tabletop Exercises: Preparing for the Unexpected 27:26 Open Sourcing Race Management: Sharing Knowledge for Growth 31:07 Building a Compounding Program for Success 32:58 Navigating Sold-Out Races and New Opportunities 36:12 Logistics and Scalability in Race Management 40:49 Inclusivity in Race Operations 46:11 Personal Operating Systems for Event Management 50:47 Reflections on the Future of the Running Industry 🔗 Resources MentionedChicago Event Management: cemevent.comRace Management Program (RMP): https://www.racemanagementprogram.com/NCS4 (National Center for Spectator Sports Safety and Security): ncs4.usm.eduBank of America Chicago Marathon: chicagomarathon.com

    The Visionary: Michael Nishi: Architecting the Marathon of 2077
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About

Welcome to What Runs a Run podcast where we are exploring the ecosystem that fuels the runners, running communities, organizers and everything in between. This podcast is broken down into mini series diving deep into a specific theme, for example in Tech in 26.2 we chat with entrepreneurs and professionals at the forefront of innovation supporting runners and the running events. If you are a curious athlete, we believe you will enjoy this podcast. Thanks for listening!!

Information

  • Creator
    Kamal Datta
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    49
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Kamal Datta
  • Show Website
    What Runs a Run