Run Strong Run Podcast

Stephanie Dunlap
  • 5.0 (16)
  • RUNNING
  • UPDATED MONTHLY

Welcome to the Run Strong Run Podcast. In this podcast, I'll speak to runners who inspire and motivate me to show up as my best self. The discussion highlights back of the pack (BOTP) marathoners who run 26.2 miles in 5 or more hours. To join the discussion live, follow me on Instagram @runstrongrun or TikTok @runstrongrun. About Stephanie: Stephanie is a marathon pacer, mom of four, elementary school administrator, and your number one cheerleader! Stephanie went from couch potato to marathoner in 2012 and "Run Strong Run" was born. Since running her first marathon, she's run over 34 full marathons! Stephanie believes that ALL runners count from the fast to the back of the pack. In Stephanie's words, "If you run, you are a runner!"

  1. Running Through Recovery: Usha’s Inspiring California International Marathon Journey

    12/22/2025

    Running Through Recovery: Usha’s Inspiring California International Marathon Journey

    Send us a text Usha’s story is proof that our bodies — and our spirits — are capable of so much more than we think. In this episode of the Run Strong Run Podcast, Steph sits down with Usha, a marathoner, mom, photographer, and all-around powerhouse who turned years of healing, two major surgeries, and motherhood into a powerful CIM marathon PR. Usha first ran a full marathon back in 2018 at the San Francisco Marathon, finishing in just over six hours with minimal fueling. Then life happened: pregnancy, postpartum recovery, an ectopic pregnancy, emergency surgery, and later a second major surgery. Each time, she had to relearn how to walk before she could even think about running again. Despite all of that, Usha set her sights on the California International Marathon — not just once, but multiple years in a row. In 2024 she finished just behind the sweepers at CIM and didn’t get an official finish time. In 2025, she came back stronger, ran in a saree that she considers a blessing from a sacred temple in India, joined a CrossFit gym to rebuild her strength, used run-walk intervals with Steph’s 5:50 pace group, and crossed the finish line with a HUGE PR: 5:48:55. In this conversation, we talk about: How Usha went from “gym regular” to marathonerNavigating pregnancy, ectopic pregnancy, surgery, and long recoveriesWhat it was like to run CIM in a sareeUsing run-walk intervals and a Gymboss timer to chase a marathon PRMental tricks for getting through the hard miles (hello, “just get to the next tree”)The power of supportive partners and family during marathon trainingUsha’s encouragement for anyone scared to sign up for their first marathonIf you’ve ever wondered, “Can I really do this?” — this episode is your answer. Related Links Connect with Usha on Instagram: @therun_theworkout_themomFollow Steph on Instagram: @runstrongrunLearn more about the California International Marathon (CIM)Interval Running for Beginners: Starting Smart and Strong (Steph’s course)Download a 5:50 Marathon Pace Band🎥 Watch this podcast on YouTube: https://youtu.be/XtP6FGdulc8Support the show Welcome to the Run Strong Run Podcast! The show where I, Stephanie Dunlap, empower runners of all levels to lace up, chase their dreams, and cross every finish line stronger than ever. To join the discussion live, follow me on Instagram @runstrongrun, TikTok @runstrongrun, or on my website at runstrongrun.com About Stephanie: Stephanie is a beginner run coach, marathon pacer, and your number-one cheerleader! Stephanie went from couch potato to marathoner in 2012 and "Run Strong Run" was born. Since running her first marathon, she's run over 60 full marathons! Stephanie believes that ALL runners count from the fast to the back of the pack. In Stephanie's words, "If you run, you are a runner!"

    27 min
  2. Do It Scared: How New Mom “Marathon Mama V” Went from Treadmill Miles to First Marathon in 15 Months

    12/14/2025

    Do It Scared: How New Mom “Marathon Mama V” Went from Treadmill Miles to First Marathon in 15 Months

    Send us a text In this episode of the Run Strong Run Podcast, I sit down with new marathoner and mom of two, Vicky Hurd, a.k.a. @marathonmamav, who went from zero running routine to 26.2 miles at the Every Woman’s Marathon in just over a year. Vicky shares how she went from running eighth-grade cross country “just to make the soccer team” to becoming a runner again after kids, inspired by everyday runners she saw online. We talk about her decision to run one race every month, the brutal first half marathon that almost broke her, and how she turned that experience into a full-hour PR at her next half simply by trusting her plan. We also dive into what it’s really like training for a first marathon as a full-time working mom with a 3-year-old and 18-month-old, why she did most of her early miles on the treadmill out of fear and embarrassment, and how community—online and in person—carried her through the hardest miles of race day in Scottsdale. If you’ve ever wondered, “Can I really do this?” when it comes to a 5K, 10K, half marathon, or full marathon, Vicky’s story will feel like a permission slip to start scared and show up anyway. In this episode, we talk about: How Vicky went from “not a runner” to racing every month for a yearThe couch-to-5K journey that turned into multiple half marathons and a fullThe disaster first half marathon that taught her to stick to her planWhy she spent four months running only on the treadmill before braving the parkTraining for a marathon as a working mom of two small kids (4 a.m. alarms and all)The emotional highs and lows of the Every Woman’s MarathonVicky’s go-to gear and fuel: Goo Tane, Bonk Breaker chews, and Brooks GlycerinHer advice to anyone afraid to take the first step: “Do it scared.”🎧 Listen in if you need a reminder that you belong at the start line—no matter your pace, your age, or how long you’ve been away from running. ✨ Helpful Links Mentioned in This Episode: Download your free 5:50 marathon pace band.Watch the full episode on YouTube.Join the Interval Running for Beginners course (Starting Smart & Strong).Connect with Vicky on Instagram: @marathonmamav Support the show Welcome to the Run Strong Run Podcast! The show where I, Stephanie Dunlap, empower runners of all levels to lace up, chase their dreams, and cross every finish line stronger than ever. To join the discussion live, follow me on Instagram @runstrongrun, TikTok @runstrongrun, or on my website at runstrongrun.com About Stephanie: Stephanie is a beginner run coach, marathon pacer, and your number-one cheerleader! Stephanie went from couch potato to marathoner in 2012 and "Run Strong Run" was born. Since running her first marathon, she's run over 60 full marathons! Stephanie believes that ALL runners count from the fast to the back of the pack. In Stephanie's words, "If you run, you are a runner!"

    26 min
  3. 7 Unforgettable CIM Moments: My Favorite Stories from the California International Marathon

    11/29/2025

    7 Unforgettable CIM Moments: My Favorite Stories from the California International Marathon

    Send us a text In this episode, I’m counting down 7 unforgettable CIM moments from my seven years at the California International Marathon. From my first CIM in 2016, to becoming a three-time ambassador, to officially joining the pace team in 2021, to running with legends like Benny and Bruce — these stories shaped me as a runner, a pacer, and a believer that all runners count. Whether you’re running CIM this year or dreaming about it someday, this episode is packed with inspiration, behind-the-scenes pacing memories, and the start-line magic that makes CIM one of the best marathons in the world. If you’re running CIM this year, I’ll be pacing the 5:50 group again. Come say hi at the expo or at the start line! ✨ Free 5:50 Pace Band ✨ Interval Running for Beginners Course ✨ From the blog: The First California International Marathon (CIM) Six hour Pacer Support the show Welcome to the Run Strong Run Podcast! The show where I, Stephanie Dunlap, empower runners of all levels to lace up, chase their dreams, and cross every finish line stronger than ever. To join the discussion live, follow me on Instagram @runstrongrun, TikTok @runstrongrun, or on my website at runstrongrun.com About Stephanie: Stephanie is a beginner run coach, marathon pacer, and your number-one cheerleader! Stephanie went from couch potato to marathoner in 2012 and "Run Strong Run" was born. Since running her first marathon, she's run over 60 full marathons! Stephanie believes that ALL runners count from the fast to the back of the pack. In Stephanie's words, "If you run, you are a runner!"

    22 min
  4. From Hating the Mile to Every Woman’s Marathon: Miriam’s Journey to 2 Marathons by 30

    11/22/2025

    From Hating the Mile to Every Woman’s Marathon: Miriam’s Journey to 2 Marathons by 30

    Send us a text In this heartfelt and inspiring episode of the Run Strong Run Podcast, Steph sits down with two-time marathon finisher Miriam Perales, who went from hating the mile in PE to crossing the finish line at both the Oakland Marathon and the Every Woman’s Marathon by age 30. Miriam shares how running became her unexpected path to confidence, healing, and community—from early-morning miles in the Central Valley heat to joining thousands of women on the streets of Scottsdale. She opens up about running her first unofficial half marathon during COVID, pushing through the toughest miles of her full marathons, and discovering that there is no one “runner body.” Together, Steph and Miriam talk about: How Miriam went from casual jogger to marathonerThe power of run/walk intervalsThe emotional energy of the Every Woman’s MarathonFinding courage in the back of the packWhy anyone—yes, anyone—can become a runnerIf you need a reminder that all runners count and that you can do hard things, this episode will speak straight to your heart. Expect encouragement, laughter, a few tears, and a whole lot of inspiration. ✨ Helpful Links Mentioned in This Episode: Download your free 5:50 marathon pace band.Watch the full episode on YouTube.Join the Interval Running for Beginners course (Starting Smart & Strong).Connect with Miriam on Instagram: @mperales_066 Support the show Welcome to the Run Strong Run Podcast! The show where I, Stephanie Dunlap, empower runners of all levels to lace up, chase their dreams, and cross every finish line stronger than ever. To join the discussion live, follow me on Instagram @runstrongrun, TikTok @runstrongrun, or on my website at runstrongrun.com About Stephanie: Stephanie is a beginner run coach, marathon pacer, and your number-one cheerleader! Stephanie went from couch potato to marathoner in 2012 and "Run Strong Run" was born. Since running her first marathon, she's run over 60 full marathons! Stephanie believes that ALL runners count from the fast to the back of the pack. In Stephanie's words, "If you run, you are a runner!"

    32 min
  5. From Surgical Menopause to Marathoner: Dawn Klasen’s Back-of-the-Pack Joy, 26.2 Lessons, and an Every Woman’s Marathon Preview

    11/14/2025

    From Surgical Menopause to Marathoner: Dawn Klasen’s Back-of-the-Pack Joy, 26.2 Lessons, and an Every Woman’s Marathon Preview

    Send us a text In this episode of the Run Strong Run Podcast, Stephanie sits down with marathoner and mom of four, Dawn Klasen, whose story proves it’s never too late to start running. Dawn began running in her early 40s after surgical menopause—what started as a way to manage her health quickly turned into a passion that’s carried her across marathon finish lines. Stephanie and Dawn first met at the USA Women’s Marathon in Palm Desert, where Dawn completed her first 26.2, and they’re now gearing up to reunite at the Every Woman’s Marathon in Scottsdale, Arizona. Together they talk about: Starting from zero and building confidence as a new runnerRunning through motherhood, mental health, and real-life chaosPushing through an IT band flare at mile 20Finding strength and joy in the back of the packWhy “all runners count,” no matter pace or distanceIf you’ve ever wondered whether you can run your first race—or if you’re craving some motivation to keep going—Dawn’s story will light you up. 🎧 Listen now and get inspired before the Every Woman’s Marathon!  👉 Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/OoGvuVfZ7IA ✨ Join Run Strong Run Weekly for expert tips, motivation, and training secrets delivered straight to your inbox: JOIN HERE Support the show Welcome to the Run Strong Run Podcast! The show where I, Stephanie Dunlap, empower runners of all levels to lace up, chase their dreams, and cross every finish line stronger than ever. To join the discussion live, follow me on Instagram @runstrongrun, TikTok @runstrongrun, or on my website at runstrongrun.com About Stephanie: Stephanie is a beginner run coach, marathon pacer, and your number-one cheerleader! Stephanie went from couch potato to marathoner in 2012 and "Run Strong Run" was born. Since running her first marathon, she's run over 60 full marathons! Stephanie believes that ALL runners count from the fast to the back of the pack. In Stephanie's words, "If you run, you are a runner!"

    27 min
  6. Finding Joy at the California International Marathon: How Runner Carrie Gilbert Redefined the Meaning of a Personal Record

    11/08/2025

    Finding Joy at the California International Marathon: How Runner Carrie Gilbert Redefined the Meaning of a Personal Record

    Send us a text What if your next personal record wasn’t about speed—but about joy? 🌟 In this uplifting episode of the Run Strong Run Podcast, host Stephanie Dunlap chats with runner Carrie Gilbert, who shares how the California International Marathon helped her redefine what a PR truly means. From her first marathon in Chicago to carrying a notepad of “roses, thorns, and mantras” through CIM 2024, Carrie’s story is all about running with gratitude, connection, and purpose. 🎥 Watch the full interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ProFAE4WgMM Tune in to be inspired by the beauty of slowing down, finding community, and celebrating every step of the journey—because at CIM, all runners count. 💛 🔗 Download a copy of Carrie's Roses, Thorns, and Mantras from CIM 2024. Support the show Welcome to the Run Strong Run Podcast! The show where I, Stephanie Dunlap, empower runners of all levels to lace up, chase their dreams, and cross every finish line stronger than ever. To join the discussion live, follow me on Instagram @runstrongrun, TikTok @runstrongrun, or on my website at runstrongrun.com About Stephanie: Stephanie is a beginner run coach, marathon pacer, and your number-one cheerleader! Stephanie went from couch potato to marathoner in 2012 and "Run Strong Run" was born. Since running her first marathon, she's run over 60 full marathons! Stephanie believes that ALL runners count from the fast to the back of the pack. In Stephanie's words, "If you run, you are a runner!"

    29 min
  7. From Single Mom to Marathoner & Grandma: Alicia Rodriguez on Running, Resilience, and Real Estate

    02/04/2025

    From Single Mom to Marathoner & Grandma: Alicia Rodriguez on Running, Resilience, and Real Estate

    Send us a text In this inspiring episode, I sit down with Alicia Rodriguez—a dedicated marathoner, real estate agent, single mom, and proud grandma. Alicia shares her incredible journey of balancing motherhood, a thriving career, and her passion for running. We dive into our experiences running together at the Run Rocklin Half Marathon, Run the Parkway 20-Miler and the California International Marathon (CIM), and Alicia opens up about how running has shaped her resilience and determination in both life and business. Whether you're training for your next race or looking for motivation to chase your dreams, Alicia’s story is sure to inspire you! Hit play and get ready to be inspired! ⚫ Follow Alicia on Instagram at   / aliciarodriguezrealestategroup   🎥 Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/TTLa7BjCsZg Download your FREE Speed Walking Workout Guide: Download HereSubscribe to the Run Strong Run Newsletter: Subscribe NowEnroll in my Online Running Course for Beginners: Sign Up TodayDon’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share with your running friends. Let’s run strong together! Support the show Welcome to the Run Strong Run Podcast! The show where I, Stephanie Dunlap, empower runners of all levels to lace up, chase their dreams, and cross every finish line stronger than ever. To join the discussion live, follow me on Instagram @runstrongrun, TikTok @runstrongrun, or on my website at runstrongrun.com About Stephanie: Stephanie is a beginner run coach, marathon pacer, and your number-one cheerleader! Stephanie went from couch potato to marathoner in 2012 and "Run Strong Run" was born. Since running her first marathon, she's run over 60 full marathons! Stephanie believes that ALL runners count from the fast to the back of the pack. In Stephanie's words, "If you run, you are a runner!"

    25 min

  8. 01/25/2025

    Boost Your Walk Interval Pace: Expert Tips for Faster, More Efficient Walks

    Send us a text Ready to transform your walk intervals into a powerful part of your run/walk strategy? In this episode, we share expert tips on how to increase your walk interval pace, improve your efficiency, and maintain momentum during your training. Learn how proper form, cadence, and intentional drills can help you walk faster without compromising recovery or performance. Whether you’re training for a marathon, half marathon, or just starting out with run/walk intervals, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you reach your goals. Tune in and take your walking game to the next level! Resources Mentioned in This Episode: Download your FREE Speed Walking Workout Guide: Download HereSubscribe to the Run Strong Run Newsletter: Subscribe NowEnroll in my Running Course for Beginners: Sign Up TodayDon’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share with your running friends. Let’s run strong together! 🎥 Click here to watch on YouTube. Support the show Welcome to the Run Strong Run Podcast! The show where I, Stephanie Dunlap, empower runners of all levels to lace up, chase their dreams, and cross every finish line stronger than ever. To join the discussion live, follow me on Instagram @runstrongrun, TikTok @runstrongrun, or on my website at runstrongrun.com About Stephanie: Stephanie is a beginner run coach, marathon pacer, and your number-one cheerleader! Stephanie went from couch potato to marathoner in 2012 and "Run Strong Run" was born. Since running her first marathon, she's run over 60 full marathons! Stephanie believes that ALL runners count from the fast to the back of the pack. In Stephanie's words, "If you run, you are a runner!"

    7 min
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5
out of 5
16 Ratings

About

Welcome to the Run Strong Run Podcast. In this podcast, I'll speak to runners who inspire and motivate me to show up as my best self. The discussion highlights back of the pack (BOTP) marathoners who run 26.2 miles in 5 or more hours. To join the discussion live, follow me on Instagram @runstrongrun or TikTok @runstrongrun. About Stephanie: Stephanie is a marathon pacer, mom of four, elementary school administrator, and your number one cheerleader! Stephanie went from couch potato to marathoner in 2012 and "Run Strong Run" was born. Since running her first marathon, she's run over 34 full marathons! Stephanie believes that ALL runners count from the fast to the back of the pack. In Stephanie's words, "If you run, you are a runner!"

Information

  • Creator
    Stephanie Dunlap
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2025
  • Episodes
    24
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Run Strong Run
  • Show Website
    Run Strong Run Podcast

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