Claim OwnershipAthletics Ontario Running Podcast
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The Athletics Ontario Running Podcast explores the stories behind trail and road running in Ontario. A main goal of the Athletics Ontario Running Podcast will be to reach those that we are not already reaching, to give voice to the underrepresented members of our community and bring these stories to the masses.
All people, all speeds, all terrains, all abilities are welcome. For you, for all, for life.
All people, all speeds, all terrains, all abilities are welcome. For you, for all, for life.
193 Episodes
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The world of running isn't just about PRs and miles—it's about connection. Join us on the Athletics Ontario Running Podcast for an electrifying conversation with Lauren Mantha, the former nurse who traded her scrubs for running shoes and ignited a movement with "A Running List." What started in 2023 as a single charity challenge didn't just transform her body; it reshaped her life. Lauren dives into the unexpected social power she found in local run clubs, calling the experience nothing short of transformative. Inspired by this sense of belonging, Lauren built a resource every runner needs: "A Running List." This incredible website is a one-stop-shop designed to help anyone—from beginner to marathoner—easily find and join run clubs, and she's not stopping there. Hear her ambitious plans to expand this community-finding tool globally! We'll talk about the logistics and magic of organizing community runs, the future fitness goals that keep her moving, and why, for her, the true finish line isn't a banner—it's a vibrant, interconnected community. If you’re looking for a dose of inspiration that proves running is the ultimate team sport, lace up and listen in! Learn more about Lauren at: https://www.instagram.com/laurenmantha/ Register to be an Athletics Ontario member: https://athleticsreg.ca/#!/memberships/athletics-ontario-2025-membership
1This episode of the Athletics Ontario Running Podcast features a special guest from the heart of the city of Toronto: Joe Francisco (@joooe.francisco). Joe sits down with us to share his incredible journey toward a 3:10 marathon at the TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon, an endeavor that is teaching him the true meaning of strength and self-confidence. He also reflects on his homecoming to the Toronto running scene, a community he describes as having "pure Toronto energy." Tune in to hear how being a part of this community team has allowed him to share his personal journey and connect with other runners through Search for Strides. Learn more about Joe at: https://www.instagram.com/joooe.francisco/ Register to be an Athletics Ontario member: https://athleticsreg.ca/#!/memberships/athletics-ontario-2025-membership
Join us for a powerful conversation with Christine Marinho, an endurance athlete whose journey proves that running can be more than just a workout—it can be a path to healing. Christine opens up about how she used running as therapy after her divorce and how it ignited a passion that led her to become a multi-sport athlete and a marathoner. She shares the story of conquering her fear of swimming to complete a triathlon and her ongoing quest to complete the World Marathon Majors, including the upcoming 2025 Berlin Marathon! You'll hear her candid insights on the importance of mental strength, the incredible kindness of the running community, and how she's embracing holistic health, especially during perimenopause. This episode is a testament to the transformative power of endurance sports and a celebration of wellness and community. Learn more about Christine at: https://www.instagram.com/christinemarinho21/ Register to be an Athletics Ontario member: https://athleticsreg.ca/#!/memberships/athletics-ontario-2025-membership
This week on the Athletics Ontario Running Podcast, we sit down with Meher Pavri, London, Ontario native and the Parsi-Canadian soprano who's conquering both the stage and the road. From starring in West Side Story to her award-winning work in Canadian theatre, film, and TV, Meher's passion for performance is unmatched. But what's her secret? We're diving into how she uses running as a "mind-calming practice" and a way to stay grounded. Join us as we uncover how this talented soprano and Miss India-Canada winner is bringing the same dedication and fire to her miles as she does to her melodies. You won't believe what she's training for next! Learn more about Meher at: https://www.instagram.com/meherpavri/ Register to be an Athletics Ontario member: https://athleticsreg.ca/#!/memberships/athletics-ontario-2025-membership
You'll want to lace up for this one! In this episode of the Athletics Ontario podcast, we sit down with elite marathoner Ben Preisner to unpack his remarkable journey from an athlete in Milton, Ontario, to a national and international competitor. Ben shares candid insights on his transition from a team sport to running and his time as a collegiate athlete at the University of Tulsa, where he balanced a demanding chemical engineering degree with grueling training. Ben also dives deep into his mental approach to high-level competition and reveals his intense preparations for the ultimate test: the World Marathon Championships in Tokyo this September 2025. He gives us a behind-the-scenes look at his training, offering his rapid-fire advice on consistency, community, and the joy of running. Learn more about Ben at: https://www.instagram.com/ben.preisner/ Register to be an Athletics Ontario member: https://athleticsreg.ca/#!/memberships/athletics-ontario-2025-membership
From accidental runner to ultrarunner and literary maven, Riley van der Linden is a force of nature. Find out how a move to a new city sparked a passion that led to a jaw-dropping 1000-day run streak and a new perspective on life. We dive into the world of Toronto's vibrant running communities, the secrets behind her popular @runtobooks Instagram account, and the one piece of advice they have for anyone starting their running journey. Don't miss this inspiring conversation that will make you want to lace up your shoes and grab a book. Learn more about Riley at: https://www.instagram.com/runtobooks/ Register to be an Athletics Ontario member: https://athleticsreg.ca/#!/memberships/athletics-ontario-2025-membership
This week, we're joined by local running legend, Harvey Steinhoff, and he's not holding anything back! We're celebrating a milestone as we go inside the incredible second-anniversary story of the Shores of Erie run club—from a simple idea to a thriving community. But that's just the start. Harvey, an official ambassador for the Windsor Waterfront Half Marathon, takes you behind the scenes of the city's premier running event. He'll share his top secrets for preparing for the big day on September 14th, and reveal the untold story of what it really takes to lead a community of athletes. Don't just listen to the journey—run with it. This is one episode you can't afford to miss! Learn more about Harvey at: https://www.instagram.com/altra_harvey/ Register to be an Athletics Ontario member: https://athleticsreg.ca/#!/memberships/athletics-ontario-2025-membership
On this episode of the Athletics Ontario Running Podcast, we sit down with Burlington firefighter, mental health advocate, and runner Ryan Gallagher. Ryan shares the deeply personal story behind his mission to run 21 half-marathons in 21 days to raise funds for Pathstone Mental Health in September 2025. He opens up about how he's navigated his own mental health and sobriety journeys following the loss of his father and a decade of firefighting, and how he found healing through therapy and running. Join us as Ryan inspires listeners to prioritize their mental health and seek the help they need. Learn more about Ryan at: https://www.instagram.com/ryan.runs21/ Register to be an Athletics Ontario member: https://athleticsreg.ca/#!/memberships/athletics-ontario-2025-membership
From July 21st to 25th, 2025, the inaugural SOO 200 made its mark on the ultra running world, bringing a gritty, breathtaking 200-mile challenge to Sault Ste. Marie, thanks to the team at Sinister Sports. Among the brave twenty runners to take it on? AO Running Podcast host and 2025-2026 AO Running Ambassador John Shep, who didn’t just run the race, but lived the full experience of it. Join us on this week's episode to find out all about his adventure, with guest host Ben Kaplan of iRun Magazine! Learn more about iRun Magazine at: https://irun.ca/ Register to be an Athletics Ontario member: https://athleticsreg.ca/#!/memberships/athletics-ontario-2025-membership
Join us on the Athletics Ontario Running Podcast as we dive into the world of running with Dekel Chui, one of the 2025-2026 AO Running Ambassadors! Based in Toronto, Dekel embodies the spirit of "running for joy," sharing his journey of rediscovering the sport and finding profound happiness in every stride. We'll explore his incredible feats, including being part of a team that holds two Guinness World Records for the Fastest Marathon and Fastest Half-marathon in a Five-Person Costume (dressed as a Streetcar!). Beyond the records, Dekel is deeply involved with RunTOBeer (@runtobeer) as a Board of Directors member. Discover how this unique group perfectly blends the joy of running with the camaraderie of post-run socializing. Dekel shares his passion for fostering a more accessible and welcoming running community, where fun and inclusivity are paramount, regardless of pace or ability. Learn more about Dekel at: https://www.instagram.com/dekelchui/ Want to support Wayne Young, Ajax Spiderman? Check out: https://www.instagram.com/runningbeast666/ Discover more about the Athletics Ontario Running Ambassador Program at https://athleticsontario.ca/road-trail-running/athlete-ambassador-program/ Register to be an Athletics Ontario member: https://athleticsreg.ca/#!/memberships/athletics-ontario-2025-membership
Get ready to hit the trails and be inspired! This episode of the Athletics Ontario Running Podcast features the incredible Danni Dickinson, a dynamic runner who's not just hitting the pavement but making a real community impact! Join us as Danni shares her exhilarating journey, a path that truly took off in 2022 when she laced up for her very first race to honour her late father. But Danni's passion extends far beyond personal bests; she's an Athletics Ontario Running Ambassador and a tireless volunteer with Green New Adventures and 5 Peaks (Ontario East), pouring her energy into building vibrant running communities and fostering trail adventures for everyone. Prepare to be motivated as Danni champions the power of running to transform lives, passionately showcasing all types of runners and empowering young girls to embrace their strength, conquer distances, and be incredibly proud of every step. This isn't just about running; it's about building strong communities, one stride at a time! Learn more about Danni at: https://www.instagram.com/danni.d12/ Want to support Wayne Young, Ajax Spiderman? Check out: https://www.instagram.com/runningbeast666/ Discover more about the Athletics Ontario Running Ambassador Program at https://athleticsontario.ca/road-trail-running/athlete-ambassador-program/ Register to be an Athletics Ontario member: https://athleticsreg.ca/#!/memberships/athletics-ontario-2025-membership
Join us on the Athletics Ontario Running Podcast as we chat with Eniola 'Eni' Busari, an inspiring Athletics Ontario Running ambassador who discovered his passion for the sport during the pandemic five years ago. For Eni, running is more than just exercise; it's a spiritual journey that has brought him immense joy and deep camaraderie. Eni shares his remarkable journey from staying active to embracing competitive races, highlighting how each step on the road or trail has deepened his connection to himself and his community. As a captain with ME VERSUS ME and a member of Team Ultra Black's first ultra relay, Eni is passionately dedicated to fostering diversity in running and spreading the transformative joy of the sport. Don't miss this uplifting conversation about finding purpose and happiness through every stride! Learn more about Eniola at: https://www.instagram.com/eni_busari/ Want to support Wayne Young, Ajax Spiderman? Check out: https://www.instagram.com/runningbeast666/ Discover more about the Athletics Ontario Running Ambassador Program at https://athleticsontario.ca/road-trail-running/athlete-ambassador-program/ Register to be an Athletics Ontario member: https://athleticsreg.ca/#!/memberships/athletics-ontario-2025-membership
Join us on the Athletics Ontario Running Podcast as we chat with Keri Wong, an incredible Athletics Ontario Running Ambassador! For Keri, running means so much more than just miles – it's a journey that transformed her into the social and consistent athlete she is today. Discover how Keri's passion for the sport drives her to support others, creating a friendly and welcoming presence whether she's racing or pacing. As a 2025 Canada Running Series (CRS) Community Team member and co-lead for Learn to Run programs and weekly community runs at Kardia in Toronto, Keri embodies how running can build community and empower individuals. Tune in to hear her inspiring insights on the profound impact running has had on her life and countless others! Learn more about Keri at: https://www.instagram.com/bitesandstrides/ Discover more about the Athletics Ontario Running Ambassador Program at https://athleticsontario.ca/road-trail-running/athlete-ambassador-program/ Register to be an Athletics Ontario member: https://athleticsreg.ca/#!/memberships/athletics-ontario-2025-membership
From far and wide - oh Canada! In this episode of the Athletics Ontario Running Podcast, we're thrilled to chat with AO Running Ambassador Mark Jobst. Join us as Mark, a true pillar of the Northern Ontario running community, takes us on a journey through the joys of hitting the roads and trails in the Soo. Discover what makes Sault Ste. Marie a unique destination for runners of all levels, from its scenic routes like the Hub Trail to exciting events like the Salty Marie Trails Fest. Mark shares his incredible insights as an athlete, coach, mentor, and race director, offering a comprehensive look at his immersion in the sport. Learn about his transition from competitive swimming to running, and how he's fostered an incredibly inclusive running scene in Sault Ste. Marie. Plus, Mark dives into crucial topics like injury prevention and the power of community support in achieving your running goals. Whether you're a seasoned marathoner or just starting your running journey, this episode is packed with valuable advice and inspiring stories. Learn more about Mark at: https://www.instagram.com/markjakobjobst/ Discover more about the Athletics Ontario Running Ambassador Program at https://athleticsontario.ca/road-trail-running/athlete-ambassador-program/ Register to be an Athletics Ontario member: https://athleticsreg.ca/#!/memberships/athletics-ontario-2025-membership
Get ready to be inspired on this episode of the Athletics Ontario Running Podcast as we dive into the incredible journey of Nadya Stewart! Hailing from Barrie, Ontario, Nadya isn’t just a dedicated runner — she’s a passionate Athletics Ontario Running Ambassador for 2025-2026, championing a vision of running that’s welcoming, fun, and accessible to everyone. In this episode, hear firsthand how Nadya is breaking down barriers and creating safe spaces for runners of all levels across Ontario. From her inspiring personal journey to her heartfelt advocacy work, she’ll share insights that will motivate you to lace up your shoes and hit the trail—no matter where you are in your running journey. Tune in for a conversation full of heart, hope, and the unstoppable spirit of running! Learn more about Nadya at: https://www.instagram.com/_nadyaruns/ Discover more about the Athletics Ontario Running Ambassador Program at https://athleticsontario.ca/road-trail-running/athlete-ambassador-program/ Register to be an Athletics Ontario member: https://athleticsreg.ca/#!/memberships/athletics-ontario-2025-membership
Join us for an uplifting episode of the Athletics Ontario Running Podcast as we sit down with Deanna Kelly, a passionate runner and official Athletics Ontario Running Ambassador! Deanna shares her unique journey and insights into the running world. In this interview, we'll explore Deanna's personal running story, how she became an ambassador, and her role in fostering a vibrant running community. She'll offer advice for runners of all levels and highlight the importance of connection in achieving your goals. We'll also touch on some of her memorable running experiences. including the Sulphur Springs Trail Race 2025, and future aspirations. Learn more about Deanna at: https://www.instagram.com/deannapkelly/ Discover more about the Athletics Ontario Running Ambassador Program at https://athleticsontario.ca/road-trail-running/athlete-ambassador-program/ Register to be an Athletics Ontario member: https://athleticsreg.ca/#!/memberships/athletics-ontario-2025-membership
Ever wonder what sparks a movement? In this electric episode, we're catching up with Aristotle Domingo, Erin Doucette, Michelle Leduc and Denoja Uthayakumar - our new Athletics Ontario Running Ambassadors! These aren't just runners; they're the heart of Ontario's road and trail community, fueling its growth with pure passion. Join us as we uncover the drive behind their ambassadorship and how they're igniting a vibrant running culture across the province. From conquering challenges to shaping the future of running, get ready to be inspired and motivated to hit your own stride. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just lacing up, this conversation will leave you energized and ready for the road ahead! Discover more about the Athletics Ontario Running Ambassador Program at https://athleticsontario.ca/road-trail-running/athlete-ambassador-program/ Register to be an Athletics Ontario member: https://athleticsreg.ca/#!/memberships/athletics-ontario-2025-membership
Lace up and tune in to a compelling conversation on the Athletics Ontario Running Podcast! We're thrilled to sit down with the inspiring Bernard Abarquez (@everydayfit.bernard), a true advocate for the community aspect of running. Bernard shares his unique insights into the flourishing "run crew culture" – what it means, why it matters, and how these groups are shaping the running landscape. We'll dive into the camaraderie, motivation, and shared experiences that define run crews. Bernard also offers his perspective on the exciting Canada Running Series' Under Armour Toronto 10K, discussing the race experience and how it connects to the broader running community. Tune in to discover how the "everyday fit" mentality, championed by Bernard, transforms individual strides into collective triumphs. Find out all about Bernard at: https://www.instagram.com/everydayfit.bernard Register to be an Athletics Ontario member: https://athleticsreg.ca/#!/memberships/athletics-ontario-2025-membership
This week on the Athletics Ontario Running Podcast, get ready for inspiration and grit! We're diving into the 2025 Sulphur Springs Trail Race, highlighting the ÜNDA Movement team's incredible 100-Mile Relay journey. This is a story of endurance, camaraderie, and the wild's undeniable allure! As Ontario's longest-running ultra marathon (since 1993), SSTR pushes athletes through various distances, from 10K to the daunting 100-mile solo and relay. It's about passion, community, and the incredible support from volunteers and Race Directors. Join us as we explore the ÜNDA Movement team's strategic teamwork, mental fortitude, and sheer determination through 100 miles of rugged Ontario trails. What challenges did they face? How did they conquer the elevation gains and technical terrain? And most importantly, what snacks fueled their epic journey? Find out all about the ÜNDA Movement at: https://www.instagram.com/undamovement See what SSTR is all about at: https://www.instagram.com/sulphurspringstrailrace Register to be an Athletics Ontario member: https://athleticsreg.ca/#!/memberships/athletics-ontario-2025-membership
What happens when passion meets inclusivity in the world of fitness? We find out in this captivating interview with Helen Stoumbos and Mike F. Jean, the passionate individuals dedicated to The Good Games (June 27-29 in Guelph, Ontario). Learn about their unique approach to athletic competition, which includes exciting events like adaptive CrossFit, wheelchair strongman, seated volleyball, and of course, 5k and 10k Trail Runs. Hear about the incredible athletes they champion and the powerful sense of community they've built. Ready to be moved and motivated by the stories behind these inclusive sporting events? Tune in to hear Helen and Mike's story and explore the festival of sport that is The Good Games on this week's episode. Find out all about the Good Games at: https://thegood.games/ (and use the promo code TGG15 for 15% off until the end of May!) Register to be an Athletics Ontario member: https://athleticsreg.ca/#!/memberships/athletics-ontario-2025-membership
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