The People Run Podcast

Fitz Mayi

My name is Fitz Mayi. I’m one of those people who believes you can do anything. Maybe I’m naive, but I’ve seen it in myself and in the incredible people I’ve met. That’s what this podcast is about. I can’t do it for you  but what I can do is inspire. Through wild stories, through experts in the field, and through runners who’ve done it and are doing it now. The road may be hard, but my aim is to shed light on stories of incredible people so you can believe it can be done, and show up for yourself. Whether you’re working a full-time job, raising kids, chasing a new PR, dreaming of going pro, or building your own transformation this podcast is for you. This is The People Run Podcast: the stories of your incredible self.

  1. DEC 9

    Episode 23: HEART ON FIRE: Don Wilson's Mission, Running, and Community

    Don joins The People Run Podcast and shares his journey through running, discipline, community, the training principles that helped him break plateaus and build purpose. From 5K breakthroughs to creating Heart on Fire, this episode dives into mindset, consistency, strength work, and the power of showing up. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the People Run Podcast 04:05 Don's Running Journey and Goals 07:00 Training Techniques and Speed Work 10:01 Strength Training and Cross-Training Strategies 12:52 The Importance of Core and Stability Training 15:58 Weekly Training Schedule and Recovery 18:38 Community Engagement and Heart of Fire 20:08 Thoughts and Future Aspirations 23:58 Training Regimen Breakdown 25:47 The Importance of Consistency in Fitness 26:58 Freddie's Transformation Journey 29:59 The Evolution of Personal Training 34:25 Hard on Fire: The Birth of a Fitness Community 37:23 Boot Camp Experience: What to Expect 41:12 Favorite Workouts and Training Philosophy 44:39 Nutrition and Fueling for Performance 46:40 Nourishing Choices: A Look at Diet and Nutrition 49:22 Balancing Alcohol and Fitness: A Personal Journey 55:30 Content Creation: Merging Passion with Purpose 57:22 The Marathon Mindset: Training, Family, and Balance 01:04:18 Future Aspirations: Building a Community Through Running Follow Us: IG: instagram.com/thepeoplerunpodcast/ YT: youtube.com/@ThePeopleRunPodcast Music: instagram.com/mech__beats/ Follow Don: IG: instagram.com/runstrongdon/ 👉 Subscribe to The People Run Podcast for more real stories from everyday runners, and don’t forget to rate, review, and share this episode with a friend who needs some inspiration.

    1h 8m
  2. NOV 18

    Episode 22: Unstoppable: He Lost 200lbs Twice, Ran a Marathon, and Now He’s Hooked on Ultras - Jeff Humphrey

    In this episode of the People Run Podcast, Jeff Humphrey shares his incredible journey of losing 200 pounds not once, but twice. He discusses the mental and physical challenges he faced during his transformation, the importance of nutrition and training in ultra running, and the role of community support in achieving personal goals. Jeff emphasizes the significance of patience, consistency, and focusing on non-scale victories in the weight loss journey. He also shares his aspirations for future races and his commitment to inspiring others through his story and coaching. 👉 Subscribe to The People Run Podcast for more real stories from everyday runners, and don’t forget to rate, review, and share this episode with a friend who needs some inspiration. Chapters 00:00 The Journey Begins: Jeff's First Weight Loss Story 19:25 The Struggle of Regaining Weight and the Path to Recovery 33:10 Embracing Non-Scale Victories 35:24 The Importance of Process Over Outcome 37:41 Reflecting on the Journey 39:11 Facing Challenges in Ultra Running 47:29 The Role of Support in Endurance Events 48:58 Exploring Different Race Formats 53:05 Training and Nutrition for Ultra Running 59:29 Finding Balance in Enjoying Food 01:02:34 Advice for Those Starting Their Journey 01:06:10 Future Goals and Aspirations Follow Us: IG: instagram.com/thepeoplerunpodcast/ YT: youtube.com/@ThePeopleRunPodcast Music: instagram.com/mech__beats/ Follow Jeff: IG: instagram.com/_jeffhumphrey/

    1h 10m
  3. OCT 21

    Episode 21: Motherhood & New Personal Best's UK Runner Emily

    In this episode of the People Run Podcast, Fitz Mayi talks with Emily, a UK-based runner and mom, about how motherhood reshaped her running. Emily shares how pregnancy and postpartum made her stronger mentally and physically and how becoming a parent gave her new drive to chase personal bests. We also cover: How Emily balances work, running, and family lifeSummer marathon training in the UKThe role of her running club and community supportOvercoming comparison and embracing joy in runningLessons from racing, recovery, and chasing consistency Emily’s story is a reminder that running is about growth at every stage of life and that sometimes, the big challenges create the most strength. 👉 Subscribe to The People Run Podcast for more real stories from everyday runners, and don’t forget to rate, review, and share this episode with a friend who needs some inspiration. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Emily's Running Journey 02:34 Summer Running Challenges and Heat Training 05:45 London Marathon Experience and Race Strategy 08:35 Postpartum Running and Motivation 11:33 Impact of Motherhood on Running Performance 14:30 Exploring Different Running Terrains 17:30 12-Hour Relay Race Experience 20:19 Future Races and Running Goals 31:05 The Rising Costs of Running Events 31:42 Running Clubs in the UK vs. US 35:24 Training Regimens and Club Dynamics 38:52 Social Running and Community Engagement 42:43 Experiences in Competitive Racing 50:21 The Drive Behind Running 53:27 Rapid Fire Questions and Personal Insights 01:00:30 Until next time Follow Us: IG: instagram.com/thepeoplerunpodcast/ YT: youtube.com/@ThePeopleRunPodcast Music: instagram.com/mech__beats/ Follow Emily: IG: instagram.com/running_emz/

    1h 2m
  4. OCT 7

    Episode 20: Mak Foss on Racing, Indy Marathon Prep & Building Society Track Club

    In this episode of The People Run Podcast, Fitz sits down with Mak Foss a Michigan runner chasing big marathon goals while juggling 5 a.m. runs, a full-time job, and building a community through her Society Track Club. Mak opens up about the nerves that come with racing, how she’s preparing for the Indianapolis Marathon, and why community and connection matter more than pace. From the lessons she’s learned about embracing failure to the joy of running without overthinking heart rate zones, Mak’s story is honest, relatable, and inspiring. 👉 Don’t forget to subscribe to The People Run Podcast for more inspiring stories from everyday runners chasing big goals. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Mack and Her Running Journey 03:32 Balancing Work, Running, and Meal Prep 06:13 Morning Running Routine and Organization 09:13 The Role of Caffeine in Running Performance 12:22 Exploring Alternative Energy Sources for Runners 15:17 Racing Strategies and Heart Rate Management 18:01 Mack's Transition from Bodybuilding to Running 21:06 The Unique Challenges of Marathon Training 24:31 Overcoming Analysis Paralysis in Racing Strategies 27:51 The Importance of Strategic Planning in Races 30:56 Building Consistency and Trust in Training 33:13 Creating a Community Through Track Workouts 39:20 Challenges in Organizing a Running Community 45:56 Fashion and Functionality in Running Gear 52:48 Choosing the Right Running Shoes 55:50 The Importance of Recovery and Training Strategies 59:52 Mental Challenges in Racing 01:02:49 Insights from Recent Races and Future Goals 01:17:31 Excitement for Upcoming Races 01:19:46 The Importance of Support Systems 01:24:21 Track Workouts and Personal Preferences 01:26:59 Recovery Tools and Techniques 01:28:22 Dream Races and Future Goals 01:30:41 Tips for First-Time Boston Qualifiers 01:39:05 Until next time Follow Us: IG: instagram.com/thepeoplerunpodcast/ YT: youtube.com/@ThePeopleRunPodcast Music: instagram.com/mech__beats/ Follow Man: IG: instagram.com/runwithmak/ Society Track Club: instagram.com/societytrackclub/

    1h 39m
  5. SEP 30

    Episode 19: From Tragedy to Purpose in 19+ Ultras: Ant DiAndrea’s Story of Resilience, Grit & Passion

    At just 26 years old, Ant DiAndrea has already completed 19+ ultras, including several 100 milers, and raised over $10,500 for orphans and inner city kids. But his story runs much deeper. At age 10, Ant’s life was forever changed by tragedy. Instead of letting it define him, he chose to rebuild with purpose leaning on running, faith, and community. From the 48 hour “Dreadmill” challenge, to crewing with his wife at every race, to climbing stairs for 24 hours to support cancer patients in Philly, Ant embodies resilience, grit, and giving back, as he would put it the Philly way. This is a powerful reminder that running is about more than finish lines it’s about the people, the purpose, and the impact we leave behind. 👉 Subscribe to The People Run Podcast for more real stories from everyday runners, and don’t forget to rate, review, and share this episode with a friend who needs some inspiration. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Ant DiAndrea 02:07 The 48-Hour Treadmill Challenge 05:24 Nutrition and Challenges During the Challenge 10:28 Motivation Behind the Fundraising 11:43 Ant's Personal Story and Background 15:10 The Philly Spirit and Community Involvement 18:49 Turning Adversity into Motivation 23:12 The Power of Reading and Personal Development 27:42 The Journey into Running and Ultras 29:46 Journey into Ultra Running 32:50 The Shift to Endurance Training 35:37 Nutrition and Weight Management 38:33 Strength Training and Coaching Philosophy 50:00 Coaching Principles and Recovery Strategies 55:45 Learning Through Experience 57:03 Blending Old and New Training Techniques 58:38 Lessons Learned from Ultra Running 01:03:49 The Importance of Support Systems 01:07:16 The Role of Family in Endurance Sports 01:15:10 Future Races and Goals Follow: IG: instagram.com/thepeoplerunpodcast/ YT: youtube.com/@ThePeopleRunPodcast Music: instagram.com/mech__beats/ Ant DiAndrea: Follow: IG: instagram.com/ant_diandrea/ 48 Hrs Dreadmill YT: youtube.com/watch?v=ljy8RkMaMxM Support Ant’s fundraising here: https://secure.legacydonations.life/np/publicaccess/fundraisingShortcuts.do?name=DiAndreaPHL24&

    1h 21m
  6. SEP 23

    Episode 18: Running Smarter with Sota Maehara: Training, Coaching, and Lessons from the Journey

    In this episode of The People Run Podcast, I sit down with Sota Maehara runner, coach, and YouTube creator known for breaking down training science into simple, actionable lessons for everyday runners. Sota shares his journey from Japan to Australia, how he ramped up his training during COVID, and the lessons that shaped his running career.  We dive into: ✅ The benefits of tempo runs vs. cruise intervals✅ Smart long run strategies and common mistakes to avoid✅ How nutrition, sleep, and recovery impact performance✅ His coaching philosophy and why communication matters✅ Balancing life, running, and content creation on YouTubeIf you’ve ever wondered how to train smarter, avoid injuries, and build long term fitness, this episode is packed with insights you can use today. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Sota Maehara 02:39 Sota's Running Journey: From Japan to Australia 05:36 Early Running Experiences and Discovering Endurance 09:48 The Shift to Trail Running and Its Appeal 11:45 Influences and Inspirations in Running 13:28 The Role of Exercise Science in Running 15:35 Coaching Philosophy and Individualized Training 19:29 Tempo Runs vs. Cruise Intervals: A Deep Dive 25:53 Long Run Strategies for Different Distances 29:19 Training for Ultras: Balancing Fun and Performance 34:19 Long Run Strategies and Coaching Insights 37:52 Common Mistakes in Training 41:42 The Importance of Recovery and Nutrition 46:02 YouTube Journey and Its Impact on Running 48:27 Self-Coaching and Training Preferences 52:49 Foot Strengthening and Shoe Rotation 56:47 Balancing Life, Running, and Content Creation 58:47 Hobbies and Interests Beyond Running 59:58 Family and Friends' Perception of Running Life 01:01:06 Future Goals in Running and Content Creation Follow: IG: instagram.com/thepeoplerunpodcast/ YT: youtube.com/@ThePeopleRunPodcast Music: instagram.com/mech__beats/  Check out Sota’s YouTube channel here:  YT: youtube.com/@SotaMaehara IG: instagram.com/sotamaehara

    1h 5m
  7. SEP 16

    Episode 17: Running in Europe vs. America & Jaime’s ‘Late’ Start to Track

    What’s it like to start track at 29 and still hit elite level times? 🇪🇸 Jaime  known as The Corporate Runner  joins me to share his unique journey from soccer in Spain to racing 800s in 1:55 and 5Ks in the 16s, while balancing career, travel, and now life in NYC. We dive into: The big differences between running culture in Europe vs. the U.S.Why you need a license to run official races in Spain.How New York’s social run scene reshaped his love for the sport.His PRs, training philosophy, and the workouts that made him fast.Nutrition staples from a Spaniard’s pantry (and why olive oil > everything).Tips on speed, endurance, and recovery you can apply today.Whether you’re curious about global running culture or want to sharpen your own training, Jaime’s story is proof that it’s never too late to level up. 🎙️ Listen in and subscribe to The People Run Podcast for more conversations with everyday runners chasing extraordinary goals. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Jaime's Running Journey 03:53 Transition from Soccer to Track 06:31 Differences in Track Culture: Europe vs. USA 12:32 The Structure of Track Teams in Europe 17:59 Experiences of Competing at a National Level 23:14 Moving to New York: A New Running Environment 28:38 Social Aspects of Running in New York 34:26 Challenges and Etiquette in the Running Community 35:43 The Ethics of Competition in Running 38:25 Training Smart: Finding the Right Group 39:15 Learning to Train Smart: Lessons from Experience 41:08 Nutrition: A Comparative Analysis of Spain and the U.S. 49:27 Tapering and Carb Loading: Strategies for Race Day 57:53 Long-Term Health: The Importance of Sustainable Habits Follow: IG: instagram.com/thepeoplerunpodcast/ YT: youtube.com/@ThePeopleRunPodcast Music: instagram.com/mech__beats/ Follow Jaime - The Corporate Runner  IG: instagram.com/the.corporate.runner/

    1h 5m

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

My name is Fitz Mayi. I’m one of those people who believes you can do anything. Maybe I’m naive, but I’ve seen it in myself and in the incredible people I’ve met. That’s what this podcast is about. I can’t do it for you  but what I can do is inspire. Through wild stories, through experts in the field, and through runners who’ve done it and are doing it now. The road may be hard, but my aim is to shed light on stories of incredible people so you can believe it can be done, and show up for yourself. Whether you’re working a full-time job, raising kids, chasing a new PR, dreaming of going pro, or building your own transformation this podcast is for you. This is The People Run Podcast: the stories of your incredible self.