Motivate to Move

In this episode of Motivate to Move, we continue our powerful conversation with Boyd Dunleavey, a two-time Acute Myeloid Leukemia survivor who has faced more in life than most could imagine. In Part 2, Boyd dives into what keeps him grounded: healthy eating, positive lifestyle choices, and the power of intermittent fasting. He shares which fasting approach works best for him and how moderation and self-control have become the foundation for his health and happiness — and the perfect title for this episode. Boyd also opens up about living with neuropathy, his two Halifax Marathons (both incredibly tough races), and the sheer determination it took to complete them. Since a serious car accident, he’s run eight of his eighteen marathons, proving once again that his drive and faith know no limits. Of course, there’s a little fun mixed in too — from Disney runs and unforgettable post-race cookies (yes, the chocolate chip and shortbread kind!) to his hopeful plans for another Fredericton full or half marathon this spring, if his health allows. This conversation captures everything Motivate to Move is about: perseverance, gratitude, balance, and the joy of just keeping on moving.Motivate to Move email:motivatetomove.podcast#gmail.comMotivate to Move YouTube channel:https://www.facebook.com/search/top?q=motivate%20to%20movePlease donate blood today and give the gift of life.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/motivate-to-move--4528736/support.

In this episode of Motivate to Move, we welcome back Boyd Dunleavey, a two-time survivor of Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) and someone who has truly stared down impossible odds. Boyd is a longtime listener, and after everything he’s been through, we wanted him back on our show. Boyd was first diagnosed in 2011, and after his cancer returned, he ultimately received a life-saving stem-cell transplant in 2012. His donor, Nathan Barns, was flown by the U.S. Army from Japan to make the donation that would give Boyd another chance at life. Even his doctors have told him how shocking it is that he’s still here today. Boyd’s passion for living shines through in everything he does. He is actively involved with Man Up to Cancer, participates in Disney races, and has run multiple Boston Marathons, along with many other full and half marathons. On top of all that, he plays guitar and brings that same enthusiasm to his music.This episode is Part 1 of a 2-part series, where Boyd shares the beginning of his extraordinary journey — his diagnosis, the stem-cell transplant, his deep faith, and the gratitude he carries forward every day. An inspiring start to a story filled with courage, resilience, and hope.Motivate to Move email:motivatetomove.podcast@gmail.comMotivate to Move Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/search/top?q=motivate%20to%20moveAs always, please give the gift of life and donate blood today.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/motivate-to-move--4528736/support.

In this episode of Motivate to Move, we chat with Savannah Awde, a Fredericton-based adventurer, journalist, and all-around powerhouse. When she’s not working as a reporter and editor for CBC, Savannah can be found pushing her limits — on the trails, in the mountains, or halfway up a frozen waterfall. Savannah recently completed 85 km at Loonie Loops, her longest distance yet! John met her there in the middle of the night — she was smiling, chatting, and moving strongly while he tried to keep up (and didn’t). In July, she took her energy to the Québec Mega Trail, and when she’s not running, she’s out rock climbing, scaling cliffs, or ice climbing in the winter. We talk about what drives her, how she balances a demanding career with her passion for adventure, and the funny, unforgettable moments that come with exploring wild places. From late-night ultrarunning conversations to epic photos hanging off icy cliffs — this episode is as inspiring as it is entertaining. 🎧 Tune in for laughs, motivation, and a healthy dose of “if she can do it, maybe I can too.”Motivate to Move Facebook page:https://www.facebook.com/search/top?q=motivate%20to%20moveMotivate to Move email:motivatetomove.podcast@gmail.comGive the gift of life and donate blood today.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/motivate-to-move--4528736/support.

We wanted to try something a bit different for our 200th episode. We recorded on 2 different evenings, and I would piece it together no problem, right? On Wednesday, we had a massive thunderstorm, and the internet wasn't good; the program stopped recording. Luckily, people stayed to give me more content, and I want to thank them because 15 minutes turned into 90 minutes easily.  The second evening, everything went off without a hitch, awesome. I did get much more content the second evening but that was okay. I put it all together, and hopefully you enjoy some of our favourites. It was a fun way to ask people why they decided to come on our podcast in the first place. We ask more questions and, of course, do some Irrelevant game questions. So many great people to chat with, it's an amazing time with all of them. Motivate to move email:motivatetomove.podcast@gmail.comMotivate to Move Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/search/top?q=motivate%20to%20moveAs always, please give the gift of life and donate blood today!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/motivate-to-move--4528736/support.

Legs for Literacy is back, and I take my mic and my recording program and interview as many people as possible. I want to know how their Legs for Literacy experience went for them. How was the weather and the course? Will they run the event again, and what was the course support like? It is an incredible feeling to hear someone telling you live how they crushed their goal at the finish line—some incredible stories from incredible people. Motivate to Move email:motivatetomove.podcast@gmail.comMotivate to Move Facebook page:https://www.facebook.com/search/top?q=motivate%20to%20moveAs always, give the gift of life and donate blood today.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/motivate-to-move--4528736/support.

We sit down with runner, filmmaker, and world traveller Mark Hemmings, whose running story is anything but ordinary. Mark only started taking trail running seriously in April 2023, and instead of easing in, he immediately set his sights on getting listed on the Fastest Known Time (FKT) website. His target? The legendary Fundy Footpath — a brutally challenging 64.3 km trail along the rugged New Brunswick coastline. Along with good friends Colin Swift and Markus, Mark completed the full route in 17.5 hours, mixing endurance with laughter and the occasional moment of chaos. The entire journey was documented and turned into an 18-minute film, which premiered at the Outdoor Outdoor Film Festival (OOFF) starting October 16th. But Mark’s adventures don’t stop there. When he’s not tearing up trails, he’s leading groups of runners up Mount Fuji in Japan — a country he’s visited 18 times. He shares the wild story of climbing through lava rock, razor-sharp volcanic sand, and even a typhoon, with sideways wind, sideways rain, and moments where crawling was the only safe option. We also get into Mark’s humbling moments — like leaving Loonie Loops feeling discouraged after pushing too hard, too early. Instead of quitting, he’s reframing pride, reworking strategy, and planning smarter. Another 100-miler attempt is definitely coming. Oh, and did we mention he qualified for Boston — again — but never got to race it? Legs for Literacy will be his fourth attempt at redemption. From FKTs to films to typhoons on volcanoes — this one delivers inspiration, adventure, and real talk on resilience.Motivate to Move email:motivatetomove.podcast@gmail.comMotivate to Move Facebook page:https://www.facebook.com/search/top?q=motivate%20to%20moveAs always, please give the gift of life and donate blood today.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/motivate-to-move--4528736/support.

In this episode, it’s just your favourite duo — John and Diane — catching up on everything life, running, and a little bit of lawn bowling! We kick things off with Diane, who says she’s too busy to go to work — and she’s not kidding. Between lawn bowling in multiple leagues, playing with her grandson (and winning, of course), being president of the Centennial Lawn Bowling Club, running, and co-hosting this podcast, her days are jam-packed. Then John shares his experience at this year’s Loonie Loops — a 24-hour trail running event around a beautiful 3.1 km lake loop. Armed with determination (and hiking poles to protect a torn meniscus), John pushed through 33 laps for a total of 102 km, earning himself a spot on the event’s Wall of Fame. He talks about his strategy, mindset, the challenges through the night, and why this was one of the best-run events he’s ever attended. It’s an episode full of motivation, planning, perseverance — and the reminder that sometimes the best things happen when you keep moving forward, one lap at a time. 🎧 Tune in to hear the stories, laughs, and inspiration from the Motivate to Move crew!Motivate to Move email:motivatetomove.podcast@gmail.comMotivate to Move Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/search/top?q=motivate%20to%20moveAs always, please consider giving the gift of life by donating blood today.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/motivate-to-move--4528736/support.

Episode #195 – The New Pickleball of Winter Sports: Stick Curling with Harry McDougall This week on Motivate to Move, we welcome Harry McDougall, who’s bringing fresh energy back to Saint John’s curling scene. After returning home, Harry found the old curling club nearly shut down and lifeless. Instead of letting it fade away, he helped breathe new life into the rink by launching a stick curling league. Now, Friday nights are buzzing with action, and the club proudly hosts the largest stick curling league in Canada. Harry shares how this version of curling makes the game more accessible, fun, and social — and why he believes stick curling is quickly becoming the “Pickleball of Winter sports.” We dive into how the league came together, why participation is growing so fast, and what makes stick curling the perfect fit for all ages. Whether you’re a longtime curler or just looking for a new way to stay active in the colder months, this episode is sure to inspire. 👉 If today’s conversation got you curious, check out your local curling club — you may be surprised to find stick curling happening right in your own community. Give it a try, meet new people, and keep moving all winter long!Motivate to Move Facebook page:https://www.facebook.com/search/top?q=motivate%20to%20moveMotivate to Move email:motivatetomove.podcast@gmail.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/motivate-to-move--4528736/support.

In this episode of Motivate to Move, we welcome Denis LeBlanc, a runner with an extraordinary story. Denis is legally blind, with only about 5% of his vision, yet he is determined to take on his very first full marathon this year at Moncton’s Legs for Literacy event. Denis shares the unique challenges of training and racing with limited vision, and how running with guides helps him safely navigate obstacles on the course. His story is one of perseverance, courage, and refusing to let barriers stand in the way of big goals. Join us as Denis talks about his journey, his determination, and the drive that keeps him moving forward toward 42.2 km. And of course, we wrap things up with a round of The Irrelevant Game — always a fun way to get to know our guests just a little bit better!Motivate to Move email:motivatetomove.podcast@gmail.comMotivate to Move Facebook page:https://www.facebook.com/search/top?q=motivate%20to%20moveAs always, please give the gift of life and donate blood today.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/motivate-to-move--4528736/support.

In this episode of Motivate to Move, we head to Riverview, N.B., for the Greater Moncton Run Club’s annual Ice Cream Run. With both 5 km and 10 km distances on the menu and a Dairy Queen treat waiting at the finish line, it’s no wonder this event sold out with over 200 runners. We brought our mic to Claude D. Taylor School to catch the excitement, chatting with participants about their runs, the atmosphere, and of course — the ice cream. It was the perfect August morning: clear skies, cool air, and plenty of smiles all around. Tune in for a fun, community-focused episode that celebrates running, friendship, and a little reward at the finish line.Motivate to Move email:motivatetomove.podcast@gmail.comMotivate to Move Facebook page:https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100041607699495As always, please consider giving the gift of life by donating blood today.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/motivate-to-move--4528736/support.

In this episode of Motivate to Move, we welcome back four familiar faces: Drew Wallace, Dawson Mossman, Chester Dana, and Tim McDonough. These New Brunswick trail runners took on one of the most unique and challenging events out there — the Vermont 100.Chester and Dawson tackled the 100 km course, while Drew and Tim pushed through the full 100 miles. Along the way, they faced changing weather, tough terrain, and the mental battles that come with ultra distances. What makes this event truly one of a kind? It’s not just runners on the trails — horses are racing too. Imagine rolling into an aid station and seeing buckets of water set out for the horses beside you!We dive into what went right, what went wrong, how they managed the long hours, and the lessons they’ll carry forward. It’s a conversation about grit, strategy, and the pure joy (and suffering) that comes with finishing such a legendary race.Tune in for an inspiring look at the Vermont 100 through the eyes of four determined New Brunswick athletes.Motivate to Move email:motivatetomove.podcast@gmail.comMotivate to Move Facebook page:https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100041607699495As always, give the gift of life and donate blood today.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/motivate-to-move--4528736/support.

Episode 192 – N.B. Women's Trail RunnersIn this inspiring and heartfelt episode, we welcome nine incredible women from across New Brunswick’s trail running scene. Representing Fredericton, Saint John, and Moncton Women’s Trail Running groups, these passionate runners share what the trails mean to them—why they started, what keeps them going, and how showing up, no matter what kind of day they’ve had, has changed their lives. From boosting mental well-being to fostering strong community connections, this episode delves into the empowering world of women’s trail running. Whether you're an experienced runner or just getting started, you’ll find something uplifting and motivating in these stories. 💬 Featuring voices from:Fredericton Women’s Trail RunningSaint John Women’s Trail RunningMoncton Women’s Trail Runners📌 Connect with the groups on Facebook:   Fredericton Women’s Trail Running   https://www.facebook.com/groups/303179978924880/?ref=share&mibextid=NSMWBTSaint John Women’s Trail Running   https://www.facebook.com/groups/385597348226886Moncton Women’s Trail Runners   https://www.facebook.com/search/top/?q=Moncton%20trail%20running%20ladies🌞 Please note: Motivate to Move will be taking a short summer break—we’ll be back with new episodes in four weeks. Until then, keep moving and stay inspired!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/motivate-to-move--4528736/support.

Episode 191 – GMRC Ice Cream Run with Lindsay Laltoo & Colin McQuadeIn this episode of Motivate to Move, we welcome back two familiar faces in the Greater Moncton running scene: Lindsay Laltoo and Colin McQuade. Both are passionate members of the Greater Moncton Running Club (GMRC) and never shy away from a good challenge—or a good cone. We dive into Colin’s experiences at the Boston Marathon, and his unexpected turn at the unofficial “Marathon Pour Tous” in Paris. Lindsay shares her adventures at San Francisco’s wild and wonderful Bay to Breakers, and reflects on running the Cabot Trail Relay for six years, while also being the GMRC’s go-to organizer for that event’s planning and logistics for many more. They also talk about their weekly meetups with the Shediac Run Club, where the post-run ice cream is just as important as the miles. And of course, we talk about the upcoming GMRC Ice Cream Run, happening August 16, 2025, in Moncton!🍦 Sign up here: https://events.runnb.ca/event/gmrc-ice-cream-run/494542/A fun, inspiring conversation about community, commitment, and the sweet rewards that come from putting one foot in front of the other.Motivate to Move Email:motivatetomove.podcast@gmail.comMotivate to Move Facebook page:https://www.facebook.com/search/top?q=motivate%20to%20moveBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/motivate-to-move--4528736/support.

This is #4 in our traveling podcaster series. I enjoy this type of format, and we hope to create more content like this. This time, I'm with my mic at the Tartan 5k Race in Moncton, speaking with some local runners who have just completed a Couch to 5k run. This is the end of the program, and we chat with Julie Stokes about the Couch to 5k program and some of the runners with her, as well as a few who joined in the fun. Motivate to Move email.motivatetomove.podcast@gmail.comMotivate to Move Facebook Page:https://www.facebook.com/search/top?q=motivate%20to%20moveBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/motivate-to-move--4528736/support.

We love welcoming guests back, and this one is special. Nicholas Richards returns to the podcast after his first appearance in Episode 150 – No Fear (if you missed that one, hit play—it’s worth it!). This time, Nick is back with even more incredible stories of pushing his limits for a powerful cause. On June 8th, he took on the Keji Backyard Ultra, running for 32 hours to raise awareness for mental health. As Nick puts it, "this is personal." And yes—the beard came off after this one. But that’s not all. Last year in October 2024, Nick had set his sights on an epic challenge: three laps of Cape Chignecto, covering over 153 km with a brutal 6,400 meters of vertical gain. It’s tough. It’s raw. And it’s exactly the kind of thing that shows what happens when you stare down suffering and conquer it. Get ready for another dose of inspiration, determination, and real talk about the connection between endurance and mental health.Motivate to Move email.motivatetomove.podcast@gmail.comMotivate to Move Facebook page:https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100041607699495As always, give the gift of life and donate blood today.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/motivate-to-move--4528736/support.

In this episode of Motivate to Move, we sit down with ultra-trail runner Allison MacFadden — a woman who’s not just chasing big goals, she’s running straight through them, literally. Allison shares what it’s like to run across entire provinces — first PEI, then Nova Scotia — and why taking on these massive challenges helps her stay grounded, motivated, and in love with movement. But that’s not all. She’s also setting sail (literally) with her husband and two kids on a 7-month adventure aboard a 42-foot sailboat. Yup, you read that right. We talk about the power of jumping into something before you feel ready, how to stay fit in the open water, and why doing hard things with the people you love can change your life. Tune in for a healthy dose of inspiration, a few laughs, and proof that the best way to move forward is to just... jump in.Motivate to Move email:motivatetomove.podcast@gmail.comMotivate to Move Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100041607699495As always, please give the gift of life and donate blood today.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/motivate-to-move--4528736/support.

Ever wonder what it takes to run 100 miles through rain-soaked trails, deep into the night (and the next day)? Meet Nick Landry. In this episode, we chat with Nick about his incredible experience at the Riverlands 100, where he battled the elements for 30+ hours on a soggy, rugged course. With his wife, kids, and mom supporting him as crew, Nick powered through four 25-mile laps, staying strong and well ahead of the 32-hour cutoff. He came prepared with a list of only three reasons he’d allow himself to quit: a broken leg, failure to keep down calories/fluids, or hypothermia. Spoiler alert: he needed none of them. Alongside his good friend Greg Myth, who also crushed his first 100-miler, Nick proves that grit, support, and a good sense of humor can get you through even the muddiest miles. Tune in for an inspiring look at what’s possible when you keep moving—no matter what the trail (or weather) throws at you.Nick writes the best race reports after a big event, and I would suggest checking them out with the link below.https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fhubcitymiles.blogspot.com%2F2025%2F05%2Friverlands-100-mile-endurance-run.html%3Ffbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExbHhDVUkzSTI2NnRjQVpMOQEeMxHRuH2VxE5XOZiRjamY-W7z2ibKpu-0tQmiNVtcku0ctdqvCJ15WaQzKMo_aem_weUtzvWI-ZFkWWO8hQfoHw&h=AT3ihL5v6ZeIZ8toUGHw0i6vv0BJDsQBsXLCI08USvjVuqwO7uf2YEfOH61c0Yx4ibJ4Hw5F-RANq5ZDlVXj8RUrqZL4bDxYuWXoC_nWGaRlPNTMDwvlQ4bxuYt41za_mHPodQMR8OEjyg&__tn__=-UK-R&c[0]=AT2RmADVF0qXt09uAHQmO-M1gRDpeNWBITJgKeI7PS7m4P7zgjV4fyyEF_t7da1-gfay2oJbl6P67_-WVOBMMtrCdAhHoVTzRKfj6Dc7RptfBn-7AahQXjlA65RrMw_MYwtU0ltHcSg3Bt8NYmDWs1vucuQMotivate to Move Facebook page:https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100041607699495As always, please give the gift of life and donate blood today.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/motivate-to-move--4528736/support.

In this special Travelling Podcaster episode, part 3, we hit the ground running—literally—at the Fredericton Marathon! 🎙️🏃‍♀️🏃‍♂️ Join us for a collection of quick, 1–3 minute chats with runners at the start and finish lines of their 10K, half-marathon, and full marathon journeys. From pre-race nerves to post-race joy (and maybe a little soreness), these runners share what keeps them moving. Whether you're training for your next race or just love the energy of race day, this episode is packed with motivation, sweaty smiles, and real stories from real runners. Lace up and press play! 👟🔥Motivate to Move email.motivatetomove.podcast@gmail.comMotivate to Move Facebook page:https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100041607699495As always, please give the gift of life and donate blood today.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/motivate-to-move--4528736/support.

What drives someone to push their limits and give back to the community at the same time? In this episode, we chat with Claudianne Robichaud, who’s gearing up to bike her longest ride of the year at an upcoming Gran Fondo. On top of that, she played a key role in organizing the 2025 Run for Women in Moncton and many years helping with Legs for Literacy. Claudianne shares what keeps her motivated, the joy of being involved in local events, and why staying active is more than just fitness—it’s about connection, purpose, and having fun along the way.Motivate to Move email:motivatetomove.podcast@gmail.comMotivate to move Facebook page:https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100041607699495As always, please give the gift of life and donate blood today.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/motivate-to-move--4528736/support.

In this episode, I take my mic on the road again for the second time to Centennial Park for the 2025 Run for Women. My first interview is with Laura Harris, who finished first overall with a time just over 21 minutes. The speakers make it hard to hear Laura, but after that, we got into a more optimal sound area where you can listen to the interviews more clearly. Hopefully, I will get better at this. We also chat with Sebastien Godin, Michaela Forgeron, Andre Boulard, and Diane Trites. Hopefully, you enjoy our Travelling Podcast Series and tune in next time for another awesome interview. Motivate to Move email:motivatetomove.podcast@gmail.comMotivate to Move Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100041607699495As always, please give the gift of life and donate blood today.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/motivate-to-move--4528736/support.