Behind the Bib

We’re covering both race day excitement and everyday trails this week. First, I chat with the race director of the Rails to Recovery 5K happening this weekend in Hartselle, AL, to hear what makes this event special and why you should check it out. Then, I sit down with a Huntsville runner who shares why Aldridge Creek has her heart — and her miles — as one of the best-loved greenways in town.Download Episode 35 now and get inspired for both your next race and your next run.Eventeny Link for Rails to RecoveryFacebook Event for Rails to RecoveryUpcoming Races: Safety Day 5k, Marshall Space Flight Center - need Arsenal Access (Sept. 13)Rails to Recovery 5k (Sept. 13)Laz Lake - event at Monte Sano - running out of room, by the time this airs, may be completely out of room. Quatina M. Wolaver Poker Run (Sept. 28)Liz Hurley Ribbon Run 5k (Oct. 18)Helping Hands Half Marathon and 5k 13.1 (Oct. 25)Huntsville Half Marathon 13.1 (Nov. 8)KoC Tootsie Roll 5k and Fun Run (Nov 8)Dam-Bridge Run 10k (Nov. 22)Sign up for ⁠HuntsvilleRuns.com⁠ to get all your local run updates - delivered every Sunday by the always amazing Will Nevin.

In this episode of Behind the Bib, I’m taking you on a cross-country tour through the best marathons in all 50 states — as ranked by RaceRaves. From mountain views in Jackson Hole to the space-age finish line of Rocket City, we’re celebrating the races that define America’s running landscape.I’ll share what makes each marathon special, when they’re held, and how much time you’ve got to cross that finish line — all from the perspective of a runner who’s been first, last, and everywhere in between.You’ll also hear about upcoming Fleet Feet Huntsville races, my collaborations with Back of the Pack Podcast and Run Your Story, and a look ahead at Behind the Bib’s one-year anniversary this January.Stay tuned — whether you’re planning your next race-cation or just looking for motivation to keep moving, this one’s for every runner, no matter the pace.

Every hour. On the hour. Until there’s only one runner left standing.Welcome to Big’s Backyard Ultra — the race that tests not just your legs, but your will to keep showing up. In this episode, we head to Bell Buckle, Tennessee, to talk about the mental game, the strategy, and the sheer stubbornness it takes to run 4.167 miles every single hour… for days.We’ll break down what makes this format so fascinating, how runners like Harvey Lewis and Phil Gore have pushed the limits of human endurance, and why this race has become one of the most captivating events in the ultrarunning world.Whether you’re an ultra veteran or just ultra curious, this one’s all about grit, community, and the beauty of refusing to quit.Because at Big’s, the clock doesn’t stop — until you do.

Every hour. On the hour. Until there’s only one runner left standing.Welcome to Big’s Backyard Ultra — the race that tests not just your legs, but your will to keep showing up. In this episode, we head to Bell Buckle, Tennessee, to talk about the mental game, the strategy, and the sheer stubbornness it takes to run 4.167 miles every single hour… for days.We’ll break down what makes this format so fascinating, how runners like Harvey Lewis and Phil Gore have pushed the limits of human endurance, and why this race has become one of the most captivating events in the ultrarunning world.Whether you’re an ultra veteran or just ultra curious, this one’s all about grit, community, and the beauty of refusing to quit.Because at Big’s, the clock doesn’t stop — until you do.

Y’all, I ran the Halloween Hustle in Conway, South Carolina, and it was everything I hoped it’d be — spooky, fun, and full of personality. We showed up early, took way too many photos of all the Halloween decorations in the dark, and then realized we were late… did we make the start??? You'll have to listen to find out!In this episode, I’m sharing all the details — the 1 Mile, 5K, and 10K courses, the glow-in-the-dark medals (yes, plural), and the post-race BBQ, cider, and mac and cheese that made the finish line feel like a fall festival.If you love small-town races with big personality like I do, this one’s for you! Cypress InnThe Trestle Bakery and CafeThe Crafty RoosterCoastal Race ProductionsUPCOMING LOCAL RACES:OCT 18: Liz Hurley Ribbon Run 5kOCT 25: Helping Hands Half Marathon and 5kNOV 01: KoC Tootsie Roll 5k and Fun RunNOV 08: Huntsville Half MarathonNOV 22: Dam-Bridge Run 10kNOV 30: Ditto Landing 10k DEC 13: Rocket City Marathon weekend

The days are getting shorter, and for many of us, that means running in the dark. But night running doesn’t have to be scary — with the right gear, it can be safe, empowering, and even a little magical.In this episode of Behind the Bib, I break down the essentials for running after dark: from the Noxgear light vest and wrist light, to headlamps, reflective clothing, pet lights, and budget-friendly blinking clip-ons. I’ll share the strategies that help you stay visible to drivers, keep your footing on uneven routes, and protect your four-legged running buddies too.We’ll also talk through practical safety tips — like running against traffic, leaving one earbud out, and letting someone know your route — so you can get your miles in without worry.Whether you’re training for fall races or just trying to keep your streak alive through the shorter days, this is your complete toolkit for night running.NOXGEAR COUPON CODE: BEHINDTHEBIBUPCOMING LOCAL RACESOCT 18: Liz Hurley Ribbon Run 5kOCT 25: Helping Hands Half Marathon and 5kNOV 01: KoC Tootsie Roll 5k and Fun RunNOV 08: Huntsville Half MarathonNOV 22: Dam-Bridge Run 10kNOV 30: Ditto Landing 10k DEC 13: Rocket City Marathon weekend Sign up for⁠ ⁠HuntsvilleRuns.com⁠⁠ to get all your local run updates - delivered every Sunday by the always amazing Will Nevin. Night Running Safety Gear Links:Tracer2 Light Vest (360° LED visibility)👉 noxgear.com/tracer2Wrist Light 500 Lumen (USB-C rechargeable, hands-free)👉 amazon.com/Noxgear-Wrist-LightTracer Lamp (clip-on front lamp, works with vest or solo)👉 Ann Arbor Running Co. – Noxgear Tracer LampLighthound Vest for Pets👉 noxgear.com/lighthound270° Night Runner Headlamp (wide beam, rechargeable)👉 Amazon – 270° LED HeadlampPetzl Tikkina Headlamp (simple, affordable)👉 REI – Petzl TikkinaRabbit Low Light Collection (shorts, tights, tops with reflectivity)👉 runinrabbit.com/collections/low-lightJanji Reflective Capsule (seasonal reflective gear)👉 janji.com/collections/reflective-capsuleReflective Strips / Decals (stick on shoes, bikes, jackets)👉 Etsy – Reflectoes Reflective DecalsClip-On Blinking Lights (budget-friendly multipacks)👉 Amazon – LED Safety Running Lights

Episode 37 – The ABC’s of Running (Without the Jargon Headache)Ever open a training plan and feel like you need a decoder ring? Cadence, tempo, strides, threshold - it’s like a secret language no one gave you the dictionary for. In this episode of Behind the Bib, I break down the ABC’s of running in plain good ol' southern English. From easy runs to intervals, tapering to time trials, you’ll walk (or jog) away knowing exactly what those terms mean and how to use them in your own training.Tune in, take notes if you want, and share this one with a running buddy who’s ever said, “Wait, what’s a tempo run supposed to be?”

Sometimes life just… lifes. Work deadlines, family stuff, injuries, or just plain exhaustion can throw our carefully planned training schedules completely off track. In this episode, I talk honestly about what it feels like when the wheels come off and how to reset without beating yourself up. From giving yourself grace, to getting back into it without getting hurt - I’ll walk through the mindset shifts and practical steps that can help us get back to running strong when life doesn’t play fair.

Episode 34: From Greenways to GatesWe’re covering a lot of ground this week — literally. First up, I’m taking you out east to explore Huntsville’s greenways and what makes them a runner’s hidden gem. Then it’s time for a recap of the Race for Justice, where the miles were meaningful and the memories ran even deeper. And finally… a special announcement about a conversation tied to some of the most infamous gates in running.Download Episode 34 now and get the full story — because this is one you don’t want to miss.UPCOMING LOCAL RACESSafety Day 5k, Marshall Space Flight Center - need Arsenal Access (Sept. 13)Rails to Recovery 5k (Sept. 13)MSFC Safety Day 5k (Sept. 13, Arsenal Recreation Pass req)Quatina M. Wolaver Poker Run (Sept. 28)Liz Hurley Ribbon Run 5k (Oct. 18)Helping Hands Half Marathon and 5k 13.1 (Oct. 25)Huntsville Half Marathon 13.1 (Nov. 8)KoC Tootsie Roll 5k and Fun Run (Nov 8)Dam-Bridge Run 10k (Nov. 22)Greenway Master PlanTrailhead GreenwayFlint River Greenway Little Cove Greenway

This week’s episode heads north — and so did I! First, I recap my trip to Atlanta for the Every Woman’s Marathon popup 5K with Tatiana O'Hara and her incredible community, Best For Last Run Club. Then, we’re back in Huntsville exploring the Wade Mountain Greenway. It is short at just one mile, a little narrower than Indian Creek or Bradford, and the parking lot comes with a shocking surprise under the giant power lines. You get a clear view of the mountain, no real streams, and one small pond that looked more like a mosquito farm than an oasis. Listen on your favorite platform now! Race for Justice (Sept. 1)Safety Day 5k, Marshall Space Flight Center - need Arsenal Access (Sept. 13)Rails to Recovery 5k (Sept. 13)Quatina M. Wolaver Poker Run (Sept. 28)Liz Hurley Ribbon Run 5k (Oct. 18)Helping Hands Half Marathon and 5k 13.1 (Oct. 25)Huntsville Half Marathon 13.1 (Nov. 8)KoC Tootsie Roll 5k and Fun Run (Nov 8)Dam-Bridge Run 10k (Nov. 22)Greenway Master PlanWade Mountain GreenwayTatiana Forbes InstagramTatiana Forbes TikTokBest for Last Running ClubATL BeltLine

We’re kicking off the Huntsville Greenways Tour in West Huntsville, starting with Indian Creek Greenway -- shady, flat, and perfect for everything from long runs to tempo workouts.Then we head to Bradford Creek Greenway, a quieter, shorter trail that’s great for easy runs or a quick shakeout.I break down the trails, what makes them worth running, and how to get the most out of your west side miles.Leave a comment on this episode with your favorite greenway!UPCOMING LOCAL RACESRunning of the Bulls 5K & 1 Mile Fun Run (Aug. 23)Race for Justice (Sept. 1)Safety Day 5k, Marshall Space Flight Center - need Arsenal Access (Sept. 13)Rails to Recovery 5k (Sept. 13)Quatina M. Wolaver Poker Run (Sept. 28)Liz Hurley Ribbon Run 5k (Oct. 18)Helping Hands Half Marathon and 5k (Oct. 25)Huntsville Half Marathon (Nov. 8)KoC Tootsie Roll 5k and Fun Run (Nov 8)Dam-Bridge Run 10k (Nov. 22)Greenway Master PlanBradford Creek MapIndian Creek MapSign up for ⁠HuntsvilleRuns.com⁠ to get all your local run updates - delivered every Sunday by the always amazing Will Nevin. 

In this episode, I take you on a tour of some of the South’s best and most iconic races - from the Yuengling Shamrock Half Marathon in Virginia Beach all the way to the Mississippi Gulf Coast Marathon. We’ll talk about crowd favorites like the Peachtree 10K in Atlanta, the heartfelt mission of the St. Jude Memphis Marathon Weekend, the scenic Mother Earth Brewing Ironclad Half in North Carolina, and the historic Rocket City Marathon in Huntsville. But it’s not all about the big names — I also dive into some wonderfully quirky events you’ve just gotta try, like the Big Foot Boogie in McCaysville, Georgia, and the Barkley-esque Crazies Trifecta in Rainsville, Georgia. Whether you’re chasing PRs or just stories to tell, this episode will have you lacing up and plotting your next Southern race adventure... which is definitely not in Ohio.

In this episode, I recap my experience at the Project Give Back Gold Star Aloha 5K -- spoiler alert: it was a fantastic race I highly recommend. I share what made it special, including the incredible course support, detailed turn-by-turn guidance from the Veterans Serving Veterans Motorcycle Club, and the moving race start led by members of the Wounded Warrior Project.It was a morning full of meaning, medals, and Aloha. Tune in to hear what stood out and why this race should be on your calendar next year.Greenway Grand Prix 10k⁠ - Aug. 1⁠Running of the Bulls 5K & 1 Mile Fun Run⁠ - Aug. 23 ⁠Race for Justice⁠ - Sept. 1⁠Rails to Recovery 5k⁠ - Sept. 13⁠Helping Hands Half Marathon and 5k⁠ - Oct. 25⁠Huntsville Half Marathon⁠ - Nov. 8⁠Dam-Bridge Run 10k⁠ - Nov. 15⁠Every Saturday ParkRun⁠ - it’s a free, timed 5k put on by the fabulous Alasdair Marshall at Hays Farm. Useful Links: ⁠Park Run⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Rocket City Runners⁠⁠⁠⁠Pub Run⁠⁠Sign up for ⁠⁠HuntsvilleRuns.com⁠⁠ to get all your local run updates - delivered every Sunday by the always amazing Will Nevin. 

In Episode 28 of Behind the Bib, I sit down with Alasdair Marshall, the organizer behind the brand-new Hays Farm parkrun. We talk about how this free, weekly 5K came to life, what makes the parkrun community so special, and why showing up on a Saturday morning can change the way you look at running.Alasdair shares what it takes to organize a volunteer-led event like this, how you can get involved, and what to expect if you’ve never been to a parkrun before. Whether you’re chasing a PR, walking with friends, or just looking for a welcoming group to get moving with, this episode will inspire you to check it out.Listen now and find out why Hays Farm parkrun is already becoming a favorite in our running community.

Training for a marathon is life‑changing—but it’s also messy, humbling, and sometimes downright gross. In this episode of Behind the Bib, I’m sharing nine things I wish someone had told me before I ever set foot on a starting line.From the first time I lost a toenail (yep, it happens) to the reality of constant laundry, endless hunger, and juggling shoes for every kind of run, I’m pulling back the curtain on what marathon training is really like. I talk about letting go of perfection, why easy runs sometimes don’t feel easy at all, and how to handle the loneliness that comes with hours on your feet.If you’re thinking about your first 26.2 -- or you’ve already been through it and just need someone to laugh and commiserate with -- this one’s for you. Lace up, press play, and let’s get real. LOCAL RACESGreenway Grand Prix 8k, still building (July 18) Good luck Melanie and Daughter!PGB Corporate 5K Gold Star "ALOHA Run Edition,” 3 or so grateful miles (July 26) I NEED MY COSTUME!!!Greenway Grand Prix 10k, a big finale (Aug. 1)Running of the Bulls 5K & 1 Mile Fun Run, less fun 3 miles, super fun 1 mile (Aug. 23)Race for Justice, 5k, 10k, 5 and 10ks and competitive sleeping in (Sept. 1)Rails to Recovery 5k (Sept. 13), 3 or so miles with a purposeHelping Hands Half Marathon and 5k, 13.1, 3 miles and change (Oct. 25)Huntsville Half Marathon, 13.1 (Nov. 8)Dam-Bridge Run 10k, dang ol’ 6 miles over a dam (Nov. 15)Every Saturday ParkRun - it’s a free, timed 5k put on by the fabulous Alasdair Marshall at Hays Farm. Useful Links: Park Run⁠ ⁠Rocket City Runners⁠⁠Pub Run⁠Sign up for ⁠HuntsvilleRuns.com⁠ to get all your local run updates - delivered every Sunday by the always amazing Will Nevin. 

Heroes, Villains, and a Great Cause: The PGB Gold Star Aloha Run with José.In this episode of Behind the Bib, I sit down with José to talk about the upcoming PGB Gold Star Aloha Run — a race with heart, humor, and a whole lot of hero energy. From the Heroes vs. Villains costume contest to honoring Gold Star families, this event is more than just miles — it’s mission-driven fun for a powerful cause.We also recap the Blackberry Festival 5K and all the summer vibes that came with it.Lace up, suit up (cape optional), and hit play — this one’s got it all.UPCOMING LOCAL RACES/PAID EVENTSGreenway Grand Prix 8k, still building (July 18) Good luck Melanie and Daughter!PGB Corporate 5K Gold Star "ALOHA Run Edition,” 3 or so grateful miles (July 26)Greenway Grand Prix 10k, a big finale (Aug. 1)Running of the Bulls 5K & 1 Mile Fun Run, less fun 3 miles, super fun 1 mile (Aug. 23)Race for Justice, 5k, 10k, 5 and 10ks and competitive sleeping in (Sept. 1)Rails to Recovery 5k (Sept. 13), 3 or so miles with a purposeHelping Hands Half Marathon and 5k, 13.1, 3 miles and change (Oct. 25)Huntsville Half Marathon, 13.1 (Nov. 8)Dam-Bridge Run 10k, dang ol’ 6 miles over a dam (Nov. 15)About:PGB Gold Star 5k

The Hometown Half – A Race I Can’t RecommendThis week, I’m breaking down my experience at the Hometown Half Marathon in Atlanta… and let’s just say, it was rough. From poor communication to safety concerns and a whole lot of confusion, this race was one of the most disorganized events I’ve ever run — and that’s saying something.I’ll walk you through what happened, how we made the best of it anyway (shoutout to Michelle for sweeping with me!), and why this one gets a hard pass from me.It’s not all bad though — we’re keeping it real, staying hopeful, and remembering why we keep showing up.PCOMING LOCAL RACES/PAID EVENTSGreenway Grand Prix 4 Mile, (June 27)Helen Keller 5 Mile & 1 Mile (June 28)Pesky Piranha Youth Triathlon (June 28)Freedom 5k and the Independence Mile, (July 4)Firecracker 5k (July 4)Greenway Grand Prix 8k, (July 18)PGB Corporate 5K Gold Star "ALOHA Run Edition (July 26)About the Race/Event: Park Run Rocket City RunnersPub RunSign up for HuntsvilleRuns.com to get all your local run updates - delivered every Sunday by the always amazing Will Nevin. 

We’re more than halfway through the year, and Episode 23 is packed with the kind of running joy that keeps us going! I recap the inaugural Hays Farm Park Run, the Girl Power Run with Rocket City Runners, and a magical Pub Run that featured a caricature artist AND a triple rainbow (seriously, it happened).I also share what’s coming up on the podcast, shout out some upcoming races, and reflect on how far we’ve come together this year. Whether you’re mid-training cycle or just lacing up again, this one’s for you.

Running With Heart: Dr. Erick Kigen and the Run With Kenyans 5kIn this inspiring episode of Behind the Bib, I sit down with Dr. Erick Kigen — physician, athlete, and race director for the Run With Kenyans event happening Sunday, June 22. Dr. Kigen shares his powerful story of growing up in Kenya, his journey into medicine, and how he’s using running to bring people together and give back to his community.We talk about what makes the Run With Kenyans race so special, the impact of running culture in Kenya, and how he’s built something meaningful right here in the U.S. His kindness, humility, and insight will absolutely stay with you. Don’t miss this beautiful conversation with a truly accomplished runner and leader.UPCOMING RACESGreenway Grand Prix 5k, June 20Cookie Fix Cookie Crusher HSV5k June 21Run with Kenyans June 22Greenway Grand Prix 4 Mile June 27Helen Keller 5 Mile & 1 Mile June 28Pesky Piranha Youth Triathlon (June 28)Freedom 5k and the Independence Mile July 4Firecracker 5k July 4Greenway Grand Prix 8k July 18About the Race: Run with Kenyans RunSignUp Registration Maverick Striders John Hunt Cross Country Park Sign up for HuntsvilleRuns.com to get all your local run updates - delivered every Sunday by the always amazing Will Nevin. 

In this episode, I sit down with Jerry Clifton — the hilarious and high-energy race director of the Rainsville Freedom Run. Jerry’s a true character with a big heart and an even bigger stash of door prizes. We talk about what makes this race so special, why people will do just about anything to get their hands on the coveted RYAN SHRUM HATS!!! and how the Rainsville crew pulls off one of the most fun and festive races in North Alabama.If you like small-town charm, wild stories, and running for the swag, this one’s for you.🎧 Put it on for your next run, drive, or chore session — you’ll be smiling the whole way.