In S5Ep12 of the PRP, Adam heads to O’Toole’s to break bread with longtime Michigan running mainstay, data deep diver, impassioned RFB co-organizer and steadfast steward of the sport Danny Johnston, who has been preparing for the Indianapolis Half Marathon. Lauren Wolf, fellow RFB co-organizer, clarinet connoisseur and proud data sorceress joins the show to offer her take on volunteering, larping and of course, the ever-expanding RFB offspring universe.

Together, the crew digs into the story of RFB’s rise—from a casual Monday beer run between friends to one of Michigan’s most welcoming community fixtures. Danny & Lauren reflect on what it means to show up not only as a runner but as a volunteer, guide and advocate. More often than not, they note, supporting someone else’s finish line can be more joyful, and far more fulfilling, than chasing your own.

Things get vulnerable when Danny deep dives into his thoughtful Runner Language Research Project—what began as curiosity has grown into a full exploration of how we speak about the sport we love. He explains how tiny phrases like “just a 5K” or “only eight miles” can unintentionally shrink accomplishments and quietly gate keep newcomers while simultaneously robbing experienced runners of the credit they deserve. He reminds us that language influences not just who feels included, but how we see ourselves.

His mission isn’t to scold but to soften the edges of the sport and widen the on-ramp for anyone who hasn’t yet realized they belong. It’s a call to celebration over comparison, intention over ego and stewardship over splits. A reminder that every run counts, every effort matters—and that your “hard” is still worthy, even on the days you don’t feel impressive.

From clarinet solos to crag lessons, analytics to alleyway 5Ks, this episode highlights what truly makes running magical: the humans. The ones who cheer loud, volunteer hard, carry the vibes (not the boats) and keep the joy alive. A celebration of showing up, lifting up and growing better together.

Exposure therapy, echo chambers and nanner haters oh my! This and more in this laughter-filled, perspective-shifting & data-backed episode of the PRP!

Recorded Monday November 3rd @ 5:00 PM EST