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Motivate to Move

Motivate to Move
Author: John Leygraaf
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© Copyright John Leygraaf
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John and Diane discuss what motivates people to move . What it is that gets them up in the morning or after work to keep themselves in shape . Plus we will have guests and ask them what it is they do and why they do it .
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/motivate-to-move--4528736/support.
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/motivate-to-move--4528736/support.
214 Episodes
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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.
Tonight we welcome a very special guest, BACK to our show, Jos Eijkelestam from Dutch Viking Events. Jos spends many hours coming up with events that he and his volunteer crew put on for anyone who enjoys trail running. We talk about the events that Jos has planned this year, we discuss some events he is going to drop and why. Out of bad news comes silver linings, and we talk with Jos about one of those good news stories. After competing in the Dark 50 two years ago, I see firsthand how Passionate Jos is about creating events that everyone loves. At the end of the day, people were still smiling. We know Dutch Viking Events is going to have a stellar year, and I can't wait to register ASAP.Dutch Viking Events Facebook page:https://www.facebook.com/p/Dutch-Viking-Events-100085089302602/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.
I wanted to get out of my comfort zone and interview some fine runners before and after a race. What better time to start than to head out to Grande-Digue for the annual 5-15 km runs and do some interviews? It is a well-run event, and it is a shame to hear this could be the last year for the run. In this episode, I take my new mic and chat with several different people to get their take on several things about the race. A different way of doing content, but I really enjoyed myself, and so did these runners. Windy and cool with some rain early, but a typical day for this time of year. Let us know what you think, folks, later.Motivate to Move Email:motivatetomove.podcast@gmail.comOur 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.
Sometimes, in life, you meet people with a positive outlook who inspire everyone around them. This week's guests, Mike Hanson and Dave Morin, do exactly that. Mike and Dave are setting out to raise $1 million by running 10 marathons in 10 days in 10 provinces, 10in10in10. Raising awareness and money for Autism Aspergers Friendship Society, KidSport, and Big Brothers Big Sisters. Starting in St. John's, Newfoundland, on May 16th and finishing up in Calgary, Alberta Sunday, May 25. We discuss where the idea of 10in10in10 came from, how it started, and how it was planned. The training and planning for this run are challenging, and the mileage can be tough. We are going to link the contact email below and the 10in10in10 website. We hope our listeners consider donating any amount they can afford for this amazing challenge. A great discussion with some great people for a great cause, how can you say no? Be safe out there.Email for more information on the 10in10in10.contact@10in10in10.ca10in10in10 website link.https://www.10in10in10.ca/Motivate to Move email.motivatetomove.podcast@gmail.caOur Facebook page, check us out.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 part two of our episode with Richard Faulkner, we discuss how Richard had full support from everyone in the school system and how his job helped pay to keep him in shape. Now that Richard is retired, he is still very active and lives a very active lifestyle—hiking, mountain biking, and paddling all over the world. Just because you're retired doesn't mean you can't stay active. We discuss large Alligators and snakes in Florida, how you need a healthy respect for Nature. Richard helped start the Gentlemen's League in Hillsborough and played in the league. Set up some ice time at the local arena for all kinds of activities for the classes. Badminton was a big part of our school PE classes, and Richard was front and centre, teaching us kids how to be active and have fun doing it. Don't forget to check out Baymount Outdoor Adventures. The link is below.Baymount Outdoor Adventures web page: https://www.baymountadventures.com/Motivate to Move Facebook page:https://www.facebook.com/search/top/?q=motivate%20to%20moveMotivate to Move email:motivatetomove.podcast@gmail.comAs 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.
This week, we had a fantastic discussion with Richard Faulkner, whom I have wanted on the show for a long time. Retired teacher and business owner who lived in Hillsborough. This ended up being part one of a two-part episode. We discuss Baymount Outdoor Adventures and how that came about. Kayaking in the Bay of Fundy at Hopewell Rocks and the experience of the tour before and after High tide. Cave tours at White Rock, hiking, and much more. A fascinating story about the land where White Rock is now and how it came into the hands of Caledonia High School. That land was used to make a beautiful Orienteering map that has been used for years by Orienteers from all over the world. Most important is the teaching Richard did in Caledonia. Richard felt there should be an educational component to all the activities offered at the school, and he succeeded. We finish this episode off with a story about an activity that was created by a student at Caledonia. How it became so popular with everyone. There is so much in this episode, we hope you come back and listen to part 2 next week.Baymount Outdoor Adventures:https://www.baymountadventures.com/Motivate to Move email:motivatetomove.podcast@gmail.comMotivate to Move Facebook page, check us out.https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100041607699495Remember to 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.
It was a nice chat with Diane about the warmer weather to come, and how the snow is melting and the sun is shining. Diane and I sit down and talk about some upcoming running events in the Maritimes. How about a virtual run around New Brunswick? Sure why not? We are looking forward to doing recordings at some of these events on-site creating some new content for our listeners. Stay tuned folks and remember to be safe out there.Motivate to Move email, let us know who should be on the show:motivatetomove.podcast@gmail.comMotivate to Move Facebook page:https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100041607699495Remember to 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.
Amanda Mills Sirois is back on our podcast this week. We asked Amanda back on our show for an update on how her Olympic run went. Amanda was not an official runner at the Olympic event but her best friend Allison, and another good friend Collin ran the Olympic course. It was an amazing experience and a great story. The 3-2-1 initiative, what is it and why is it important? Amanda helps answer those questions in this episode, sharing how she led her 13-year-old daughter with Down Syndrome along a 5 km route. There is so much in this episode and we know you will enjoy every minute so pull up a chair, take a load off, and enjoy.Motivate to Move email, let us know who should be on the show: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.
great talk i am curious to check out the website and learn more. Thank u. my walk in the rain was enjoyable