Running Anthropologist

Running Anthropologist
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Dedicated to exploring the culture of running while learning from mentors, icons and everyday explorers, and to sharing the most unique runs across the US and the globe! Join our movement as we learn together about what motivates us to discover more, about ourselves and the communities we run through... We will have a new featured guest or group each episode and invite you to message us on social media and share your favorite running stories! Dig deeper on our blogsite: https://www.runninganthropologist.com

  1. Twiggs Family in Ukraine, Relief Work and Kyiv Marathon

    OCT 31

    Twiggs Family in Ukraine, Relief Work and Kyiv Marathon

    This episode features the inspiring story of Chris and Diana Twiggs, and their son Brendan Twiggs, who have relentlessly dedicated their time to relief work in Ukraine over the past few years, and perhaps more importantly built friendships of solidarity. Diana Twiggs, a practicing physician, started volunteering with International Medical Relief, providing essential medical care and support in urgent regions. Through Diana’s initiative, Chris and Brendan have joined the cause. Chris, well known in the running community as the National Training Director for the Galloway Run-Walk-Run program, partners with Diana on trips to Ukraine, bringing medical supplies and supporting humanitarian efforts, and spreading the word. Their latest visit included both Lviv—a vital base for relief work close to the Polish border—and the capital Kyiv, where they participated in the Kyiv Marathon, standing in solidarity with Ukraine’s resilient spirit and thousands of fellow runners. They also brought medical relief supplies most recently to Traveling Colonels, a group of military veterans providing critical medical relief to the front lines where through dedicated people across the country. Brendan Twiggs stands out for his ongoing commitment, joining us from the streets of Lviv as we hear the sounds of everyday life in his daily commute. Lviv Volunteer Kitchen—founded in 2014 when Russia invaded Crimea by caring individuals; serves as a place to connect relief workers to needs on the ground. The Twiggs' reflections in this episode emphasize how showing up for others can bridge divides and demonstrate in person that Ukrainians are not forgotten. They also the harrowing actions that everyday Ukrainians are taking to support their neighbors and countrymen as they fight to regain peace while striving to live a meaningful life each day. What can you do? ***Get Involved, Advocate, Give or Learn More*** International Medical Relief: https://internationalmedicalrelief.org/ Medical supplies were also brought to Kyiv through Traveling Colonels: https://thetravelingcolonels.com/ Lviv Volunteer Kitchen Charity: Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/lvivkitchen/ or through local Ukrainian relief networks. Kyiv Marathon: Event info at https://kyivmarathon.org/ and through charity run directories. ***Take Action: Contact Your Representatives*** Your voice matters. Get informed and then urge continued support for Ukraine by contacting your US representatives! Find Your Elected Officials: https://www.usa.gov/elected-officials Direct link for Senate and House contacts. For more inspiring stories and resources in the running community, visit and share: https://www.runninganthropologist.com

    1h 2m

  2. SEP 19

    Talking Running Therapy with Sepideh Saremi

    Moving Forward: Run Walk Talk Therapy with Sepideh Saremi & Launching the Mini Handbook of Running Therapy In this very special episode, we sit down with Sepideh Saremi, founder of Run Walk Talk Therapy—a trailblazer whose groundbreaking approach brings movement and therapy together in the most accessible way possible. Sepideh’s Run Walk Talk method invites people to experience the power of therapy while moving side-by-side, turning a walk or run into a safe space for honest conversation, healing, and personal growth. Whether you’re a seasoned runner, a total beginner, or simply curious about how our bodies and minds are connected, this episode will inspire and equip you. Sepideh shares how Run Walk Talk Therapy breaks down barriers, supports mental health, and welcomes all bodies and ability levels—with no performance pressure and every pace celebrated. You’ll also discover the research behind why walking (or running) while talking can unlock insight, reduce anxiety, and build deeper connections. And that’s not all! We’re thrilled to announce the publication of the Mini Handbook of Running Therapy: How Movement Becomes Medicine for the Mind. Drawing from the latest science, real-world stories, and practical tools, this concise guide is for anyone seeking hope, motivation, or new ways to cope with stress, anxiety, or depression. Whether you’re a runner, walker, therapist, coach, or just looking for a fresh start, the handbook meets you right where you are. Get your copy today! The Mini Handbook of Running Therapy is now available on Kindle and Amazon for 99 cents, or you can download the complete PDF for free. All links are in the show notes and below. Kindle/Amazon: https://a.co/d/53lsZDS Tune in, download the handbook, and join us as we explore Run Walk Talk Therapy and the movement for movement—with Sepideh Saremi. Let’s move minds, together. Read and explore more: www.runninganthropologist.com

    28 min

  3. APR 25

    Boston Recap with Dennis Lavoie

    In this special Boston Marathon episode, we sit down right after the race with Dennis Lavoie—a remarkable runner from Maine living with Usher Syndrome Type 2, which causes both profound hearing loss and legal blindness. Just six years after taking up running, Dennis has completed all six World Marathon Majors, earning the prestigious Six Star Medal. He may be the first person in his para category (both blind and deaf) to achieve this milestone. This year, Dennis’s regular guide was sidelined last minute, and our chance partnership was formed. We share stories from a history-filled weekend, including a pre-race dinner with my mentor Mark Bauman (Boston Marathon streak world record holder and this year’s official starter), and lining up with the competitive para athletes division right behind the elite women. We even had the chance to encourage running legends like Des Linden, Sarah Hall, and Paula Radcliffe. Boston’s course is legendary, and the crowds carried us from Hopkinton through Wellesley’s “scream tunnel” and up the infamous Newton hills. Despite a hip flexor injury, Dennis finished strong—qualifying again for next year. We also discuss the tough Boston qualification process, the rarity of the Six Star Medal, and the power of community and tradition on marathon day. Learn more about Dennis’s story: [Bangor Daily News article]1 Support and learn about para athletes: Team With a Vision See photos and read more: Running Anthropologist Blog: www.Runninganthropologist.com

    40 min

  4. 12/07/2024

    Tunnel Marathons: Destination Race

    Welcome to the latest episode of our podcast, where we are taking you on a journey through the Tunnel Marathon destination race in the beautiful Pacific Northwest. In this episode, we have the pleasure of interviewing the Race Director to get an inside look at the event, as well as hearing from four runners about their experience from start to finish. The Tunnel Marathon is known for its stunning course, which takes runners through a historic railway tunnel that stretches for over two miles, providing a unique and memorable backdrop for the race. With its gradual downhill slope, many runners come to this race aiming for a personal best or simply looking to soak in the breathtaking scenery of the Cascade Mountains. We kick off our episode by speaking with the Race Director, who shares insights into the history of the race, the logistics of organizing such a large-scale event, and what makes the Tunnel Marathon truly special. We then hear from four runners who participated in the event, each with their own unique perspective. From the anticipation at the starting line to the exhilaration of crossing the finish line, we dive into their experiences, challenges, and moments of triumph throughout the race. So sit back, relax, and join us as we explore the Tunnel Marathon and all it has to offer! Explore more at www.runninganthropologist.com or @runninganthropologist on FB/IG

    52 min

  5. 05/07/2024

    Mark Bauman’s Boston Marathon World Record Streak

    This episode features Mark Bauman, from Flint area of Michigan, who has recently set the World Marathon streak record for consecutive finishes at the Boston Marathon. In the bustling world of marathons, where records are made and broken every year under the gaze of cheering crowds and super shoes flamboyantly crash the course, Mark Bauman sets a different course, and tells us about his consistency and keys to training over half a century. He also set the record for completing all Detroit marathons, ever. Despite the remarkable feats and unwavering dedication to the sport, Bauman remains a humble figure, content to let his actions speak louder than words. He categorically shies away from the spotlight, preferring to channel his energy into miles with his long-time running friends and helping new friends get moving in Michigan communities. It's this spirit, coupled with his genuine belief in the goodness of running and others around him, that sets Bauman apart from the crowd. Did I mention that he recently sold his famed running store to three fellow long-time employees for $1.00USD? As he finished his record-breaking Boston Marathon journey today in the heat of Boston running for another 6 hour finish across the hills and into Copely Square, fueled by the support of his community and the camaraderie of fellow runners and family there to witness it, it might just be time his light shines as one of the last true unsung heroes of the running world. Mark may not seek recognition or accolades, but his legacy of runners filling the streets of Michigan resonates far beyond the finish line. Indeed, his story serves as a reminder of the quiet strength and unwavering dedication that define true greatness, both in character and in running. Please visit www.runninganthropologist.com to read more on this episode or any of our past episodes!

    37 min

  6. 12/02/2023

    NYC Marathon & Achilles International, with Blair McConnell

    The TCS New York City Marathon is a race like none other, and many train for years in expectation of being able to take part, including this episode's featured guest Blair McConnell of New Zealand, who came as part of the Achilles International Delegation from his home country. Having been thwarted by the pandemic in 2020, he waited three years longer to run his ultimate destination race, and first marathon, through the 5 boroughs: starting in Staten Island and proceeding over the Marzano Bridge into Brooklyn, then the Bronx, Queens and Manhattan. In this episode, we have a few live clips from just before and just after the marathon alongside Anton McLean (his guide from Christchurch) and Mark Lane-Holbert (myself, guide from USA). However the majority of the episode is recorded with Blair a few weeks after the marathon with him back in Christchurch, adding some perspective. We explore what it's like to join an Achilles Chapter and why he runs with them, how he found his guides, and several high points and considerations of traveling internationally for a marathon. We also discuss some of the challenges of being a visually impaired running in a crowded big city marathon, but juxtapose this with the joy and thrill of immense crowds along the course, including the music and languages of many different cultures represented in NYC along each distinct neighborhood. We also touch on the phenomenon of Park Runs, true to his recent accomplishment of 100 Park Runs! Finally, we ponder his upcoming adventures and what NYC marathon means for what comes next. Needless to say, both of us were extremely grateful for the opportunity and somewhat in awe of the support and organization NYRRs provided us as part of the Achilles International team. If you would like to explore Achilles International, you can visit their website: https://www.achillesinternational.org/ Here, you'll find chapters around the US and the world, and find out more about both athlete and guide opportunities. Finally, you can link to more articles and photos on our blog site: www.runninganthropologist.com If you have a corner of running culture you are exploring, share with us on FB or Instagram. Until next time, Happy Running!

    53 min

  7. 10/03/2023

    Physiotherapy & Running with Richelle Weeks, MSc PT

    Our guest this episode is a talented Physiotherapist and accomplished runner in her own right who has helped many reach their full potential and stay happy and healthy in their running, who also happens to be running a marathon this week! Richelle Weeks specializes in the treatment and prevention of running injuries and has her own practice in Ottawa, Canda. She is trained in Physiotherapy (Masters degree from Dalhousie Univ.), and also holds a degree in Kinesiology degree. Her dual passions of running and Physiotherapy fermented in 2009 as she combined running with her career more intentionally, and began focusing almost exclusively on helping runners achieve their best and avoid injury. She started a popular training program in person and online to help individuals prevent injury, which is how we found her. She also practiced in Goose Bay, Labrador for 10 years at a rural hospital, then in 2018 I moved with her family to Ottawa where I began working in private practice. As we all know, distance running can strain and damage soft tissue like tendons, ligaments, smaller muscles and nerves. An expert sports physical therapist or physiotherapist can perform soft tissue treatments to relieve swelling and pain in these areas and increase functionality for better running, and can provide elements of strength training and "pre-hab" to prevent injury in problem areas. They may also advise runners on proper form, training methods, strategies for preventing injuries, and proper shoe selection and work with them to develop a plan, tailored to their specific needs, for successful running. This is ideally done in tandem with a trained distance running coach, and in some cases, like today's guest, may be one in the same! She loves finding solutions for others and helping others to become more patient runners, to meet their goals via small pieces in each build. She also helps runners to making running "sustainable, consistent and see the big picture". We hope that all runners find a Physio or PT they can trust, that specializes in running or can relate as runner to the struggles we have! This episode may be the beginning of the journey. Please feel free to reach out to Richelle with any questions: Richelle Weeks (@runningwithrichelle) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/runningwithrichelle/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ottawarunningphysio Facebook Strength Series: https://www.facebook.com/groups/4045984508874158 ** People need to email me or write on FB to join. It'll be open for another 6 weeks. Website: https://ottawarunningphysio.org/ Email Holistic Wellness Physiotherapy: rweeks@hwhealth.com

    32 min

  8. 09/14/2023

    Training Tips and Transition to College Running, with KJ Karver

    Cross Country, on grassy fields, golf courses, wooded paths, around ponds, in the mud, in the rain, in the snow... Moving fast and past autumn leaves, wind blows through my hair around each bend as my shoes grip the curved earth. We raise our spirits as we empty our lungs. I stretch to keep the pace with finish line in sight. As soon as I cross, I cannot wait to run again. And I know I am right where I'm meant to be. By Mark Lane-Holbert Inspired by Rock Creek Runner Today's interview is with KJ Karver, a successful high school runner who is starting his collegiate running career at Emory. We had the pleasure of meeting him on Running Anthropologist just before he entered high school, in an interview with his training partner and dad, Marc Karver. Since then, he has won multiple awards and was among the best cross country athletes in the state of Florida, and now seeking to be the best in his NCAA division. He has had several private coaches but still trained and run with his dad often until leaving for university, and this relationship has instilled a sense of dedication, sometimes friendly competition and always a safe place for conversation. In this interview with Kirin solo, we spend a great deal of time discussing what went right in his high school career, what he learned the hard way, and what he would recommend doing differently. He gives some simple tips that represent a treasure trove of knowledge in training for any age, but especially for the unbounded energy of high school runners. We also touch on some youth specific topics, including the basics of college recruiting and how to think about the process ahead of time. Hope you enjoy this peek into what makes a successful runner transitioning to college, both in attitude and practical skills. We are very grateful and wish KJ luck in all his endeavours! Please visit our blogsite or leave us a message on FB/Instagram, at www.RunningAnthropologist.com Here are a few resources to read more about cross country in general, from Runners World and Marathon Handbook: https://www.runnersworld.com/training/a20825636/cross-country-specific-training-tips/ https://marathonhandbook.com/how-to-train-for-cross-country/ Another great resource for workouts and coaches is LetsRun.com Until next time, Happy Running!

    48 min
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Ratings & Reviews

4.7
out of 5
13 Ratings

About

Dedicated to exploring the culture of running while learning from mentors, icons and everyday explorers, and to sharing the most unique runs across the US and the globe! Join our movement as we learn together about what motivates us to discover more, about ourselves and the communities we run through... We will have a new featured guest or group each episode and invite you to message us on social media and share your favorite running stories! Dig deeper on our blogsite: https://www.runninganthropologist.com

Information

  • Creator
    Running Anthropologist
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2025
  • Episodes
    79
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Running Anthropologist