Sneaker Impact News Hosted by Bryan the Botanist

In this episode of Sneaker Impact News, host Bryan the Botanist welcomes Arthur Alexander, captain of the Late Night Menu Crew and Nike Run Club pacer in Miami for the Baptist Health South Beach and Brickell Run Clubs. Arthur delves into his transformation from a Nike employee to a key figure in Miami's running scene, highlighting his involvement in creative entrepreneurship and DJing. He sheds light on his various projects, including the Late Night Menu Crew's bi-monthly runs and major marat...

Catching up with one of our favorite store partners, Rochester Running Company, at the annual Run Summit conference in St. Louis!

In Episode 12 of Sneaker Impact News, Bryan the Botanist interviews Kiera Smalls, the first Executive Director of the Running Industry Diversity Coalition (RIDC). Based in Philadelphia, Kiera discusses her journey from a non-runner to a marathon finisher, despite her asthma. She highlights her work with the RIDC, focusing on improving inclusion, visibility, and access for BIPOC individuals in the running industry. Key initiatives include the 'Run the Block' program, aiming to increase Black o...

In this episode of Sneaker Impact News, host Bryan the Botanist interviews Harry Chandler, a prominent figure in the running industry co-owner of the Charlotte Running Company, vice president of the Running Industry Association, and chair of the Running Industry Diversity Coalition. The discussion covers Harry's personal journey from Michigan to becoming a significant advocate for diversity and inclusion within the running community. Harry shares insights into his early days, the transformati...

In Episode 10 of Sneaker Impact News, host Bryan the Botanist interviews Valeria Rodriguez, an inspiring figure with a multifaceted life as a runner, mom, illustrator, teacher, and survivor. Valeria shares her journey from a physically challenging childhood to becoming a state-champion runner and securing a college scholarship. Despite pressure and injuries, her competitive spirit and resilience shine through. Post-college, she ventures into the Peace Corps, becomes a mom, and later, integrat...

Meet Lucien Boulet aka Hot Chocolate aka the Peoples Champ! OooooWeeeee!In this episode of Sneaker Impact News, host Bryan the Botanist welcomes Lucien Boulet, also known as Hot Chocolate, in their brand new studio, marking Lucien as the first in-person guest. Lucien, an ultra runner, entrepreneur, and father, shares his inspiring journey from starting running at the age of 38 to participating in extreme ultra-marathons including 200-mile races and the notable Badwater 135. Lucien discusses h...