Another Mother Runner

Sarah and Ellison Weist delight in chatting with professional runner Alysia Montaño, a 2012 Olympian and 7-time (!!!) U.S. Champion in the 800-meters. Due with baby #2 next month, Alysia talks about busting the long-standing myths of staying active during pregnancy. Alysia shares how she is navigating her “shifting” body—and how she schooled her regular UPS driver in the power of a pregnant woman. She tells why she wears a flower in her hair when she runs—as well as how she gained her childhood nickname of Icebox! Find out what “drain the dragons” means in this pro mother runner’s life, and delight at her gotta-grab-life-by-the-horns approach to motherhood. Sarah is awestruck by an insight from Alysia, borrowing the phrase to fuel her marathon. Alysia even shares a bit of her birth story, complete with a BOSU ball. In the intro, Sarah relates a bit more about her Twin Cities Marathon run, and Ellison talks about the books she’s read lately (see list). Dear Alysia joins the conversation at 26:50. My Absolute Darling by Gabriel Tallent Brewster by Bruce Slouka The Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold The Child Finder by Renee Denfield Dying: A Memoir by Cory Taylor To enjoy a free month of Bark Box with order of 6- or 12-month subscription, visit barkbox.com/AMR

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The AMR co-founders have been on the road! First the Retreat, then the Twin Cities Marathon, so in this episode they pause and play catch-up and share details of both fun-filled weekends. The conversation veers from great race signs to fire drills. Sarah gives a race report about her 14th marathon: Find out why she’s so proud of her effort in the final 10K of the 26.2, and how the music fueled her. (Tay-Tay to the rescue!) Sarah tells the tale of running with several mother runners, including across the finish line with her tank-top twinsie. Learn how rain didn’t dampen Dimity’s exuberant cheer-leading for TCM participants. Also, Sarah shares an update on Team AMR member Maggie Palmer, from Episode #277, whose family lived through Hurricane Irma mere weeks after moving to Saint Maarten. To enjoy a free month of Bark Box with order of 6- or 12-month subscription, visit barkbox.com/AMR

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Another recorded-in-front-of-live-audience episode: Listen in as Sarah, Dimity, Coach MK, and Coach Amanda share advice and anecdotes about how to have the best race experience you can. The ladies remind it’s not necessarily the time on the clock that equates to success or enjoyment. They talk about the importance of going out conservatively, then stepping on the gas if you’re feeling strong mid-race. At the end of the episode, the panel takes questions from some of the attendees of the AMR Run + Refresh Retreat in Spokane. No matter what distance race you’re stepping up to the start for, you’ll find in this episode pearls of wisdom to use pre-, during, and post-race. To enjoy a free month of Bark Box with order of 6- or 12-month subscription, visit barkbox.com/AMR

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Dimity hosts a live podcast from the Run + Refresh Retreat, recorded at the wonderful Fleet Feet Spokane! Done in the style of NPR quiz show Wait...Wait...Don't Tell Me, Dimity grills the panelists and audience members on all things running.

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Sarah and co-host Amanda Loudin converse candidly with four women who fell out of their running groove to learn how they are finding their way back—or discovering a new way. The first guest, Maggie Palmer, was just starting to get in a post-move groove when disaster struck—literally: She and her family endured Hurricane Irma on the Caribbean island of St. Maarten. Maggie shares how she and her family are getting back on their feet after being evacuated and landing in Chicago, including how Maggie is enviously eyeing women runners staying at same hotel. Then Jen Rucker tells how back surgery sidelined her. She and Sarah dive into a discussion about the lies we sometimes tell ourselves to get through a challenging situation. Now on the road to recovery (she’s up to running two miles!), Jen stresses the importance of being kind—and patient—to yourself. Next up is Ariel Garl, who shares how she’s been battling severe asthma and collateral health issues for the past two years. Ariel explains how, despite numerous stays in the intensive care unit, she is still striving for a Boston-qualifying marathon time. This mother runner who “falls hard but bounces well” reveals why she sets a 15-minute timer to vent her emotions, and how every day, she chooses to move forward. Finally, Tarleen Weston, a new mom who talks about getting repeatedly “knocked on her bottom” during pregnancy and post-partum. Hear how triathlon training pulled her up and out—and laugh along with the trio when Tarleen tosses out mermaid and Snow White references! The inspiring interviews in this extra-long podcast start at 11:05. To save $30 on purchase of AfterShokz Trekz Titanium headphones + get free sport belt, go to amr.aftershokz.com and use code AMR at checkout. To enjoy a free month of Bark Box with order of 6- or 12-month subscription, visit barkbox.com/AMR

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Sarah and co-host Dimity dive deeply into Dimity’s long-term injury—and the fact it’s going to keep her from running for the foreseeable future. With her signature candor, Dimity talks about why her quarter-century of running has come to a close—and how she is coming to accept that prognosis for the next six months (or longer). Discover why it’s a relief for the AMR co-founder to deliberately take control of her non-running situation, and how she’s remaining active and strong despite the lack of miles on her feet. Hear the determination in Dimity’s voice when she says she’s not going to stop being an athlete, and learn what athletic adventure she’s scheming with a friend. Dimity talks about the importance of “thinking beyond the daily release” running provides and the need to “widen the lens” to see the long-term landscape. Whether you’re in the same proverbial shoes now or know it’ll come one day (hello, aging!), this is an episode we all need to experience. In the intro, Sarah elaborates on the smoke-situation in Portland, and Dimity humble-brags (as well she should!!) about her daughter’s volleyball experiences. The meat of the conversation starts at 22:42. To save $30 on purchase of AfterShokz Trekz Titanium headphones + get free sport belt, go to amr.aftershokz.com and use code AMR at checkout. To enjoy a free month of Bark Box with order of 6- or 12-month subscription, visit barkbox.com/AMR

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Sarah and co-host Adrienne Martini dig deep for a highly informative (and entertaining!) conversation about pelvic floor health with Julie Wiebe, a physical therapist specializing in women’s health and sports medicine + a mom of two. Julie starts by telling of her decade+ mission to find solutions for women athletes for a host of issues and injuries—and how so many of the answers lie in what’s called the “core stabilizing system.” She explains how the three components work together to maintain stability at your center—a crucial element of running form. Julie tells how to improve access to your system, allowing you to regain energy and get more propulsion in your running stride. (Score!) Find out why you should “blow before you go.” And, yes, there’s a lot of talk of leakage, including Julie explaining how incontinence can be a signal of a problem in the system that can lead to (or be the cause of) a host of injuries. She also tells how to find a pelvic floor physical therapist. Laugh out loud at the hashtag the gals bandy about—and delight along with Sarah when Julie gives her full-throated approval of looking for #foundchange while running! To save 20% off registration to Julie’s online course that she talks about at the end of the interview—it’s called The Pelvic Floor Piston: Foundation for Fitness--use discount code MotherRunner20 before midnight PDT on September 15, 2017. (Code is case sensitive.) The convo with Julie begins at 16:20.

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Sarah and co-host Amanda Loudin are here to help you get moving more quickly and how to get yourself (and maybe your kids!) out the door, back at your desk, or off to bed after a workout. This episode is all about trimming time and simplifying your routine to fit in your runs. First up, Sarah and Amanda share tips and hacks from other mother runners plus anecdotal advice from their own decades of running (and, in the case of Amanda: coaching!). Ways to wake up--and get out of bed--more consistently and how to start putting your miles as soon as possible after your feet hit the floor. How to remove obstacles that slow you down, like contact lenses or having to prepare a pre-run snack (thank you, GoGosqueeZ!). Then the duo talks to Sally Kuzemchak, the genius behind the websiteReal Mom Nutrition and author of the time-saving cookbook, Dinnertime Survival Guide. A font of great advice, Sally suggests figuring out your mealtime “pain-points” are (no, she doesn’t mean the kids constantly bickering!!)—then offers solutions to eliminating that barrier. (Including this website and downloadable handouts from Sally’s site.) Sally offers loads of lunch-making guidance, plus ideas for healthy snacks for mother runners. Laugh along with Sarah’s slip of the tongue for another name for a slowcooker, and find out what YoYo Night is—and why it’s a brilliant idea! The advice-giving from Sarah + Coach Amanda starts at 08:22. Special thanks to GoGosqueeZ for sponsoring this episode.  Go to www.gogosqueez.com for product details

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This show is almost like a trio of co-hosts: Sarah and co-host Molly pick the brain of Coach Amanda for insight into training slumps—and advice on how to pull yourself out of one. The coach asserts that, despite what it may feel like, mostly likely the source of your ennui is mental, not physical. She breaks things down, assuring you feeling “tired, hungry, and harried” is to be expected when training for a race, then she outlines how to discern those symptoms from overtraining. Discussing the common conundrum of wanting to skip a run due to exhaustion, Coach Amanda grants you a hall pass to skip an occasional run. Talk turns to the seasons of life—and why sometimes it’s just not the right time to run a race. Molly introduces the notion of “the pleasure of discomfort,” and both she and Sarah give anecdotal advice on how to lean into that feeling. Learn the Rx for missing a week of training, plus the value of a throwing in a benchmark run or workout to re-kindle your enthusiasm. In the introduction, Sarah and Molly talk about #OReclipse mania. The conversation with Coach Amanda kicks off at 12:40.

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Sarah and co-host Molly are joined by two guests who offer valuable insight into prehab: the simple moves that can help you avoid running injuries. First is Britny Fowler, a personal trainer who leads education session on TriggerPoint Therapy products.  This mother runner speaks from experience: After getting talked into running several races by friends, she qualified for Boston Marathon—then ran the race 23 weeks pregnant! Britny provides enlightened advice for starting a prehab routine (just one minute a day!) and how to make it successful. Find out why she suggests we take cues from cats and babies, and how the ABC’s enter into the picture. She answers all sorts of foam rolling questions—including why, when, how long, and how intensely. (And why adding vibration is a game-changer!) Next, the BRFs welcome on MK Fleming, the Train Like a Mother Club heart rate coach and multi-time marathoner. Pregnant with baby #4, MK talks about how her workouts are morphing along with her body. In answering questions culled from the AMR Facebook page, MK explains how to let attitude be your guide on workouts plus the importance of making easy days easy enough. This leads to intriguing side conversation about what constitutes true “rest” on a training plan—and why us mother runners have such a tough time doing it. Coach MK stresses the importance of a short pre-run warm-up and why to ditch an all-or-nothing mentality. Whether it’s Britny’s analogy of training for a fight before getting beat up or MK’s sage advice about the importance of continuing to ask questions, we guarantee words from this episode will reverberate in your head for miles to come! Be sure to nab one of our new hats or visors for $15—sale ends August 20.

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A repeat episode although the guest’s life has changed radically since recording the show: Alison Overholt gave birth to a second child last summer, and a few months prior to that, she was named editor in chief of ESPN The Magazine. The first female editor to head a major sports magazine. A BAMR, for sure!!  Sarah and Dimity welcome Alison, one of the contributors of Tales from Another Mother Runner, who starts by telling how--and why--she morphed from being a hoops player to a runner. Alison reads from her poignant TAMR essay, which deals with the death of her mother and the birth of her daughter. Then, taking the AMR game up a notch, she quotes Sheryl Sandberg's recent talk at Davos (fancy!), followed by lessons she learned about mother running from Kara Goucher. This prompts a conversation about "power words:" Alison's 2015 power word is "focus." (Dim and Sarah land on theirs toward the end of the podcast.) Alison shares a panic-inducing tale of the day before she ran the NYC Marathon; call it The Case of the Missing Shoes with Orthotics in Them. What makes this podcast even more noteworthy? It's the first one to be recorded in Sarah's basement, in a room that does double-duty as the Mother Runner Store shipping hub.

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Sarah and co-host Adrienne Martini talk about running injuries and prevention with Dr. David Geier, a respected orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist in Charleston, South Carolina, and host of his own podcast. Dr. David answers a slew of questions garnered from the AMR Facebook page, starting with what’s causing that (literal!) pain in the butt so many mother runners are feeling. He explains why an MRI isn’t the best test for a labral tear. (Speaking of tests, you’ll definitely ace the word “medial” on the SATs after listening to this podcast!) Dr. David describe the classic symptoms of a stress fracture—and tells why heeding early signs will limit time off running. The good doctor—or, rather, the “Good News Doctor” as Sarah dubs him in the show due to his optimistic outlook on injuries and recovery—talks about how age tinkers with a runner’s body and how to allay some of those changes. The trio covers a whole lot of ground: shin splints, IT Band issues, piriformis syndrome, knee pain, and more, as well as “gear” such as KT Tape and cortisone injections. A must-listen episode, even if you’re currently injury free!! In the introduction, Sarah and Adrienne talk about why shorter long runs are often tougher than lengthier ones. The interview with Dr. David Geier starts at 16:43.

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Sarah and Ellison Weist convene for the fourth annual summer reading podcast to discuss their favorite new books—plus a few fabulous classics. They start with fiction, and the duo soon realizes how many of the novels have a British bent to them. Fittingly, Ellison makes excellent use of the adjective “twee” with regards to a ballyhooed book she recommends steering clear of. Sarah voices her Jetsonian desire about a new way to experience books. Sprinkled amidst the literary conversation are mentions of film and TV adaptations of stories—and numerous “hot vicar” allusions! The BAMRs recommend a few non-fiction tomes. Ever-in-the-know, Ellison also offers numerous suggestions for books coming out in the next few months, including a collection of short stories by Tom Hanks. Below are all the new books mentioned in the episode, plus a few novels Sarah and Ellison can’t let go of. The gals talk movies (and more) in the intro; the book talk starts at 13:49.

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Sarah and co-host Molly Williams tackle the topic of amenorrhea (the cessation of menstrual periods) with two guests. First up: Retired professional runner Tina Muir, who candidly talks about not having a period for nine (9!!) years. Tina admits she ignored the issue for years—and expresses her frustration that experts had no advice to rectify the problem. Tina shares what it was like being the center of a whirlwind of attention when she stopped running specifically to resume her menstrual cycle and start a family—and why she wanted to make the often hush-hush topic public. Find out what Tina, co-host Molly, and Kate Middleton have in common. Then Molly and Sarah welcome on Jennifer Carlson, M.D., a doctor who studies and treats amenorrhea at Stanford University. Jen explains how amenorrhea is part of the female athlete triad—and how the understanding of the triad has evolved over the years. The good doctor tells what factors, in addition to an energy imbalance, could cause amenorrhea, such as stepping up mileage or running intensity. As she says, “It’s surprising how often you see amenorrhea.” The doctor also suggests steps to take to resume having periods if they’ve stopped. In the intro, hear how Sarah uncovered 11 pennies on a recent solo run: intrepid--or idiotic?!? The Modcloth-clad twinsies talk about missing each other while Molly has been sidelined with an injury. Conversation with Tina, then Stanford doc, starts at 11:17.

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Sarah and co-host Amanda Loudin spend some time talking about GPS running watches - the best ways to utilize one as well as how to prevent becoming overly reliant on numbers on your wrist. Coach Amanda talks about why an “easy run” is different on every single run. The gals reveal the definition of running “naked” - and how often you should be doing it. (!!) Hear how wearing a GPS ruined a race for Coach Amanda, yet how useful she finds them for speedwork. (If that’s your jam.) At the other end of the spectrum: The gals discuss the importance of letting your body dictate pace and using a GPS to keep you honest about going slowly enough. These decades-long runners also impart advice on honing your inner GPS. The topic then prances over to the ideal cadence and whether you should fret about hitting some magic number of steps per minute. Voice Memos from other mother runners are woven into the duo’s slightly subversive conversation. In the intro, hear about Amanda’s recent Appalachian mission project with her teenage son plus Sarah’s CT visit with her three kids to see her elderly parents. Plus, discover Sarah’s happy place! The meat of the conversation starts at 21:32. *Try a sample box of 10 (ten!) different KIND Bars for just $10 with free shipping (a $20 value). For details, go to KindSnacks.com/AMR

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Sarah and co-host Ellison Weist delightedly dive into a conversation with respected reporter Gretchen Reynolds. In her New York Times column, mother runner/mountain biker Gretchen reports on new and interesting science to help our bodies function better. The trio starts by talking about dealing with hot weather while running, with Gretchen explaining why a hot bath might be a wise tool before she answers the age-old question of slushie v. frozen underwear. Gretchen shares welcome findings about the performance boost of caffeine as well as good news about the effect running can have on both back and knee health. The three mother runners take an intriguing detour to debate the use of the word “jog.” Find out why you should be doing interval training (especially if you’re north of 40) plus how much you need to run to add to your longevity. This episode is guaranteed to get your mind whirring! In the intro, “Book Bully” Ellison shares her latest gook recommendations; the Q&A with guest Gretchen starts at...

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Sarah and co-host Amanda Loudin welcome Jessica Crandall, a registered dietician nutritionist in Denver specializing in weight management and sports nutrition. This certified group fitness instructor and mother runner answers a host of questions from the AMR Facebook page, starting with clearing up “calorie confusion.” Jessica gives weight-loss and weight-management advice for moms in their 40s and 50s; she presents an intriguing suggestion for improving on-the-run hydration. The marathoner discusses new thinking on carb-loading, including the importance of what the trio dubs “the Goldilocks Balance.” Jessica suggests numerous portable options for on-the-run fuel; find out her three F’s to follow for filling up post-workout. The trio talks protein needs for active women before wrapping the informative, fun conversation with a drool-inducing chat about the Casserole Connection. This pod’s drinking game: Chug chocolate milk or Nuun every time one of the gals mentions chia seeds or dehydrated peanut...

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For the annual Father’s Day episode, Sarah and Dimity welcome with great delight Peter Sagal, the longtime host of the NPR news quiz WAIT, WAIT…DON’T TELL ME. A veteran of more than a dozen marathons, Peter admits he was “a fat little kid,” and he’s still running away from that identity. The mother runners steer the father runner onto a TMI topic, with Peter sharing how he finally solved his pooping problem. Peter admits he isn’t running for a PR anymore; find out which unique race is on Peter’s bucket list. Listen to why Peter unplugs on runs—and even occasionally runs “naked.” Talk turns to treadmills, Chinese noodles, and an impromptu run with Olympic medalist Deena Kastor. Hear Peter describe being 100 yards away from bomb blasts at finish line of 2013 Boston Marathon. Be sure to listen to entire interview, as the humorist and playwright details the manuscript he’s been working on for nearly five years—and just turned in to his editor this week! A favor: Sarah and Dimity would really appreciate you...

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Sarah and co-host Amanda Loudin discuss how to fit in and juggle workouts on a training plan when faced with a disrupted summer schedule or, heck, simply life itself. Coach Amanda answers a slew of questions culled from the AMR Facebook page. In short order, a few themes emerge, including the importance of overall consistency. Coach Amanda reveals whether it’s okay to occasionally split up a long run and whether stroller-miles equate to solo-miles. The duo discuss juggling strength training with a regular running regimen. The coach explains the best way to add in shorter races during a goal-race training cycle. The conversation turns to how sacrifice plays into things, with Coach Amanda offering the sage reminder of, “You can’t get through a marathon on a wish and a prayer.” (Amen!) Before getting to the questions, find out why Sarah and Amanda might be going in circles—as well as a tale with a “Circle of Life” theme. The Q&A starts at ALEX-INSERT-TIME-HERE. *Discover the amazing new maternity workouts...

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The dynamic duo of Sarah and Dimity have a chat with Sarah Robb O’Hagan, renowned business whiz, author of the new book Extreme You: Step Up. Stand Out. Kick Ass. Repeat, and all-around incredibly likable badass mother runner! Sarah (aka “SRO”) shares insight from her book, as well as myriad anecdotes from her days in leadership positions at Gatorade, Nike, Equinox, and now Flywheel Sports, including why she proudly showed up at a new job with her race numbers from a half-Ironman triathlon fresh on her arm and leg. Find out how indoor cycling and being more judicious in her mileage is helping this 45-year-old BAMR with her running. SRO talks about the importance of prioritizing fitness and health to achieve what she calls “work-life fitness.” In addition to giving advice about how to say “no,” SRO elaborates on her life/work mantra of “Fewer. Bigger. Better.” She explains why it’s critical to manage your energy sources—and how to achieve that worthwhile goal. The trio bond over the practice of breaking...

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Sarah and co-host (and best running friend!) Molly gab with each other in their final days of easy-going running before embarking on 18 (!!) weeks of marathon training. They talk about travels with their childhood BFFs, before debating why their eyes water while running. (Any clue??) Molly shares a story about her dog’s #ratfarts, then the conversation turns to wildlife, including brushes with coyotes and possibly Sasquatch. A longtime veterinarian, Molly tells what to do if a dog attacks you on a run. (Remember: “Be like a tree.”) As talk turns to training for the Twin Cities Marathon, the ladies debate the value of multiple 20-mile runs, including the joy of finally getting to tell the long version of stories! Molly offers a pearl of wisdom that is ready-made for a T-shirt slogan or bumper sticker. Find out what discussing time goals and “The Price Is Right” have in common. (Here’s a link to the marathon training plan the Portland duo are following.) Be sure to stick around for special bonus content at...

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Sarah and co-host Dimity chat with two race directors-- Virginia Brophy Achman of Twin Cities in Motion, and Sarah Ratzlaff with ZOOMA, who also worked for runDisney for 11 years. This episode kicks off with a long catch-up session between the AMR co-founders. Find out what Sarah’s watching on Netflix—and why Dimity isn’t. The duo’s conversation winds up with fast-food reminiscences from childhood. When Virginia from Twin Cities Marathon joins the jabber, she shares the 20-degree rule of marathoning plus the port-a-potty ratio favored by race directors. (Who knew?!) Virginia shares race etiquette tips, plus advice on organizing a local race. Sarah Ratzlaff (a.k.a. “Other Sarah”) makes the ladies laugh with behind-the-scenes Disney anecdotes. The trio talk about how the races have changed over the past decade, and Other Sarah tells how she’s bringing her creativity to a boutique race like ZOOMA. Dimity wraps the episode with a heartbreaking, yet life-affirming, tale from the Train Like a Mother Club: Be...

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Sarah and co-host Adrienne Martini serve up a delightful conversation with food writer, cookbook author, and New York Times staff reporter Melissa Clark. Melissa admits she took up running to lose weight and now the sport is “an entrenched part” of her life. After three decades of solo running, Melissa shares she’s now eyeing two races—and on the search for a running buddy. The conversation turns to talk of Melissa’s new cookbook, Dinner: Changing the Game, and the “easy, but interesting, recipes for busy people” in it. The gals talk about the similarities between running and cooking, and Melissa gives tips for making dinnertime prep the best part of your day. (For realz!) She offers sage advice for getting out of a dinner rut, as well as how to impart more flavor to the meals you make. At Adrienne’s request, Melissa details a foolproof method for roasting a chicken, which includes the fabulous sentence: “Open your chicken like a book.” The lively conversation wraps with Melissa and Adrienne singing the...

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Sarah and co-host Molly talk with Tina Vindum, the founder of Outdoor Fitness dubbed “the original al fresco guru” by The Guardian newspaper, about the powerful impact of being active in the outdoors. The author of Tina Vindum’s Outoor Fitness: Step out of the Gym and into the Best Shape of Your Life, this mom of two talks about the importance of being near the natural world, and the amazing effects it has on both body and mind. She explains why negative ions have a positive effect on mood and health. Find out what “park prescriptions” and “forest bathing” are (you can keep on your running clothes for the latter!). The personal trainer/group fitness instructor (and former pro mountain bike racer!) gives practical advice for trail running, including downhill running tips. She also extols the “beauty” of walking lunges, as well as describing a recent wildflower “safari.” But, first, listen to the nightlife adventures of Molly and Sarah, as well as perhaps the spark for a book called Find Change Like a...

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Sarah and co-host Adrienne Martini have a long convo with strength training expert Michele Olson, Ph.D., a professor of exercise science at Auburn University. For starters, find out if Gyrotonic is a swirling beverage—or the next big fitness trend. The ladies then take a deep dive into HIIT (high-intensity interval training). Michele shares the best resistance exercises for runners based on recent studies, and how merge strength-building workouts with training for a half- or full marathon. The talk turns to “dead butt,” including a simple test to find out if you have it and why correcting it can save your knees. Michele describes the most effective ways to do several key exercises, including lunges and step-ups. Sarah and Adrienne suspect BAMRs will soon be able to spot Masters-age mother runners by the fact they hold weights over their heads when doing those simple strengtheners. This podcast is packed with loads of solid, strong advice! *Rev up your runs with Aaptiv, the mobile app with coached workouts...

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Sarah and co-host Amanda Loudin cover the high points of this year’s Boston Marathon, from which world record was broken to how many children the women’s winner has. (And whether it’s more impressive that she won after birthing them…or trained while mothering them!) The gals dissect the once-again unseasonable heat, and why it might have been worse than the 2012 Boston (which they both ran) when temps touched 89 degrees. Find out if Sarah and Amanda hold onto dreams of running Boston again. Listen to the marathon version of a booze cruise Amanda is helping organize for a gal-pal. And marvel along with SBS how the number 50 keeps popping up! *Rev up your runs with Aaptiv, the mobile app with coached workouts for running, indoor cycling, elliptical, yoga, strength training, and more--all set to amazing playlists! For a free month, sign up at aaptiv.com and enter code AMR30

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Listen in as Sarah and Molly gab about changing workout schedules, Sarah’s $1.17 haul (!!) on a recent run, Sarah’s husband “crashing” recent book group gathering, reusable utensils, and more. This segment was recorded as part of upcoming video about Another Mother Runner—stay tuned for that flick!

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Sarah and co-host Dimity delightedly welcome back to the pod Kathrine Switzer, the pioneer in women’s running best known as the first woman to run the Boston Marathon as a registered runner with a bib number. On Monday, April 17, Kathrine will once again run the 26.2 miles from Hopkinton, MA, to Boston to commemorate the 50th anniversary of her historic feat. In this interview recorded in March, Kathrine recounts nearly being pulled off the race course in 1967, when the race director realized she was a female. She talks about how that captured-on-film incident—which she describes as “a radicalizing—and an inspiring—experience” —captured the public imagination. Kathrine and the mother runners talk about the “inherent stressfulness” of big marathons, and she reveals what her 26.2 training looks like now, at age 70, versus as a college student half a century ago. Kathrine talks about helping other women “find their fearless” through the global community she founded, 261 Fearless. And Kathrine talks about the...

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Sarah and co-host Adrienne Martini welcome Louise Green, author of the just-published book BIG FIT GIRL: Embrace the Body You Have.

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Sarah and co-host Amanda Loudin have a good gab with Jean Chatzky, the financial editor of the TODAY Show and author of numerous books, including the just-released AgeProof: Living Longer without Running out of Money or Breaking a Hip. The three mother runners kick things off with talk of running trails and gourmet food, then Jean shares her start in a running—a group decision, it turns out. Jeans talks about her best running friend, who she’s been getting in the miles for more than two decades! Jean reveals intriguing intersections between health and finances, including four things completely in your control that you can do to improve your chances of living a longer, healthier life. She talks about why a small level of stress can “keep you on your game.” The ladies bond over sports bra lamentations, and Jean gives tips for making your running budget go the extra mile. The conversation reaches a hair-raising conclusion. Before diving into financials, though, hear about Sarah’s Seattle adventures with her...

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To celebrate # AMRiversary—seven years since the founding of Another Mother Runner—Sarah and Dimity take a meandering, verbal “stroll” down Memory Lane. The mother runners reveal the genesis of AMR’s signature phrase, “badass mother runner” and the growth of their Facebook following. They reflect on the early days of the podcast, and Sarah shares the warm-fuzzies she feels toward one episode in particular. In signature TMI fashion, Sarah suggests a possible GIF from a podcast moment that stands out in many longtime listeners’ minds. The two extol the magic of mother runner parties, and Dimity admits how the Train Like a Mother Club brings out her maternal side. Along the way, there are revelations about the duo’s book trilogy. Interwoven into the founders’ reminiscences are a dozen Voice Memos from various mother runners, sharing their favorite AMR moments. This hour+ episode is special. *Green Chef is a USDA-certified organic meal kit delivery service that brings delicious dinners right to your doorstep....

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Sarah and co-host Amanda Loudin (calling from her own mom’s house!) have a sit-down with Vicki Lang, a mother of two collegiate runners and a long-time youth cross-country and track coach. Vicki highlights the importance of making running fun for kids to keep them engaged and enthusiastic. The gals talk about the crucial middle school years, a turning point in enthusiasm for sports for many children. Coach Vicki puts forth an intriguing mileage guideline (which takes math-challenged Sarah a few beats to catch!), as well as the beauty of a “progression plan.” The conversation covers the “reverberating” effects of running for kids. Coach Vicki also talks about the importance of proper hydration and quality shoes for young athletes. Voice memos from a bevy of mother runners bring to life the variety of delights (and challenges!) involved with kids and running. Sarah kicks the show off with a conversation with 18-year-old Lucy Williams (middle daughter of her BRF, Molly) to hear what kickstarted her running...

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Sarah and co-host Amanda Loudin talk about how to run faster and hone speed, recognizing from the outset that speed is relative. Coach Amanda suggests approaching speed seasonally over the course of a year, then breaks down all the different “tools” for doing so, starting with hill repeats. The mother runners discuss the slippery beast of a tempo run, which Amanda describes as “comfortably hard.” (An oxymoron?!) Amanda introduces a new-to-Sarah concept of “10 years of improvement,” then they dissect how that’s both good news—and bad. Amanda sings the praises of strides and strength training. She also defines the elements that make up speed. The gals wrap the show with talk of race-day execution. All along the way, Amanda offers up pearls of speed-building wisdom, such as, “getting comfortable with the uncomfortable” and “buy into what you can do, and let it be a shot in your arm.” An invaluable episode for folks looking to set a PR. *Green Chef is a USDA-certified organic meal kit delivery service that...

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Sarah and Ellison Weist, both fifty-somethings, get real, discussing myriad aspects of menopause (both positive and negative) and perimenopause with Dr. Susan Reed, a noted expert in midlife women’s health. As she’s also a mother and a long-time runner/triathlete, Dr. Reed speaks with a deep empathy of mother runners and how menopausal symptoms can throw us off our game (or, rather, workout routine!). Recognizing inability to sleep is a major concern, she offers numerous suggestions for getting more and better quality shut-eye. She talks extensively about various hormonal therapy options to treat symptoms of The Change, including several prescriptions normally used to prevent baby-making, as well as other types of Rx’s. Dr. Reed teases apart what side effects are related to aging versus menopause. Adding some brevity: a frank discussion for (yet another!) use for coconut oil, and find out what type of contest Sarah might enter (but hopefully not win!). Most important take-away from the good doc: Don’t...

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Sarah and co-host/BRF Molly Williams are feeling creaky on this week's running podcast!! With Molly staring down the big 5-0 next month, the best running friends talk about the aches and stiffness that accompany aging—and how runners can fight back. Molly asserts an astute observation about when niggling joint pain or stiffness might kick in. Sarah talks about shuffling her workout schedule, plus why she’s changed up her strength-training routine. Dynamic flexibility drills pop up, too. Other topics that enter into the conversation: Embracing your inner dork. Walking down stairs. Hot older guys. Beards. Before turning to aging woes (and solutions), Sarah and Molly gab pretty much as if they’re on a morning run, chatting about Molly’s recent trip to Victoria, B.C., plus weekend dates with their respective hubbies. Find out which one of those adventures prompts Molly to rave about, “a thick, leathery hide and a roll in the sprinkles.” Guaranteed laugh-out-loud moments so be prepared for odd stares if you...

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Sarah and co-host Adrienne Martini are joined by Sylvia Tara, Ph.D., author of a fascinating new book called The Secret Life of Fat: The Science behind the Body’s Least Understood Organ and What It Means for You and a mother runner who has struggled with her weight since she was a pre-teen. Find out how fat fights back (argh!) when you try to lose it. Dr. Tara encourages listeners to stop chasing siren songs when it comes to fat-loss, and she explains why a diet must work on numerous levels. She explains why intermittent fasting is successful for her, while acknowledging going 16 or 18 hours without sustenance is not for everyone. Talk turns to bacteria and microbiomes, and how it affects calories, fat, and weight management; Dr. Tara gives tips on “tilting” your microbiome in your fat-fighting favor. An intriguing show whether you struggle with your weight or not. In the intro, SBS and Adrienne talk about the shows they’re watching on Netflix—including, ironically, Santa Clarita Diet. *Green Chef is a...

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Sarah and co-host Adrienne Martini chat with four mother runners (including one whose voice will be very familiar to you if you listen to National Public Radio!) about how they manage to merge running with their non-traditional work schedules: Guests include a midwife, dairy farmer, ER nurse, and Tamara Keith, NPR’s White House correspondent and co-host of NPR Politics podcast. Interspersed throughout the episode are Voice Memos from numerous shift workers and other folks who work unconventional hours, adding to the lively conversation about how mother runners rack up miles on little sleep, “catch-as-catch-can” nutrition, and stand-all-day legs. Hear why healthcare workers make ready-to-run Ragnar Relay teammates, and why farmwork is built-in cross-training for running. Find out if Tamara laces up her running shoes at the White House. All these ladies impart important reminders to us all, no matter what our work/life schedules, including “running is not going anywhere” and “it’s going to be great.” (Just...

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After divulging their monthly #foundchange tally and differing opinions of “La La Land,” Sarah and Molly shift gears to talk about a more serious topic: drinking alcohol. Their first guest is Dorothy Beal (a.k.a. Mile Posts), who opens up about taking part in #DryJanuary—and why she’s not resuming drinking even though the teetotaling month is over. This speedy mother of three talks about why, lately, she was drinking due to emotional exhaustion than physical exhaustion, and how her month of sobriety allowed her to experience unexpected personal growth. Next, the Portland duo are joined by Natalie Hanson, a mother runner with four sons who has been in recovery from alcoholism since 2010. Natalie candidly shares her rapid descent into alcoholism (also known as AUD, alcohol use disorder), and she clarifies the difference between heavy drinking and AUD. She admits why, once she admitted having a problem, one of her mantras became, “I’m here to save my ass, not my face.” Natalie provides numerous suggestions on...

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Sarah and Dimity chat up the two newest Train Like a Mother Club coaches, Lindsey Hein and Stephanie Howe Violett. First up is Lindsey (who you might recognize from her own podcast, I’ll Have Another), who laughs about three big goals she tackled basically all at once in her early 20s. This coach of the TLAM Club 5K Success program stresses the importance of not being self-critical and why consistency is key in making running a lifestyle. Learn how a little fellow named Russell is getting in the way of her usually die-hard commitment to watching “The Bachelor.” Then Stephanie, the coach of the first-ever TLAM Club ultramarathon training programs, shares her greatest successes in ultra races, including her recent 100K victory after a year of recovering from injuries. This professional ultramarathoner reveals she had to learn to be patient during her recovery, and she cautions about the dangers of ramping up too quickly post-injury. Find out how real life colors her PhD book-learning in her own life and her...

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Sarah and Ellison Weist welcome Stacy Sims, Ph.D., the respected exercise physiologist and nutrition scientist whose latest book is titled ROAR: How to Match Your Food and Fitness to Your Female Physiology for Optimum Performance, Great Health, and a Strong, Lean Body for Life. Short version: Stacy talks about why mother runners need to stop eating and training like men. This former ultrarunner/triathlete/rower talks about why “one size fits all” is no way to guide weight management. She delves into how to balance losing weight with being properly fueled for a workout—and adequately refueled post-run. (Hint: Stock up on non-fat Greek yogurt!) Stacy also explains why it’s so important to bring up your blood sugar levels before a morning run. The conversation veers toward TMI territory when Stacy admits what hit her halfway through a recent 70.3 triathlon. Hormones dominate much of the rest of the conversation—but in an informative, not moody, way, including the powerful effect female hormones have on...

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Sarah and Dimity have heard from countless frustrated mother runners who have seen the number on the scale creep up instead of down while training for a half- or full marathon. So the gals talk to two guests about running and weight management. First up: sports dietician (and mother of two) Jackie Dikos, who talks about how to find a better balance that’ll make you feel satisfied, not deprived. Jackie also emphasizes the importance of “redefining rewards” for effort. Then the gals gab with Christy Zuzelo, another mother runner of two, but she’s cycled through 60-pound weight loss (and gain) three times. Training for her third marathon, Christy shares her tips for keeping excess weight off for good. (E.g. “If you bite it, you write it.”) Sarah and Christy bond over a shared love of Greek yogurt, and Dimity rants about yet another, “handful of frickin’ almonds.” Warning: Be prepared to drool while Jackie talks about cocoa-laced oatmeal, and when Christy shares her recipe for Lentil Chard Soup.

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In this hour-plus episode, Sarah kicks off the New Year with two co-hosts—dear Dimity and Amanda Loudin—to talk about motivation: how to bolster it now and throughout the year. The three mother runners draw on personal experience as well as professional tips they’ve gathered in their years as freelance health and fitness journalists, starting with the importance of being happy in life. The conversation takes many twists and turns, especially as they discuss the “beauty in suffering” and why you need to “show up” to have some runs become “magical.” There are a lot of numbers bandied about in this episode: Find out what 3-1-2-1 means to Dimity; why 20 minutes is long enough for a mental and emotional reset; and the significance of 18:30. Sneak a peek at Dimity’s 5:00 a.m. lying-in-bed routine, plus Sarah and Amanda’s 30-minute pre-run requisites. And discover how The Boss enters into this entertaining conversation. Whether you need help sticking to a training plan or getting out of bed instead of hitting...

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An annual AMR podcast tradition expanded: As the year reaches its finish line, Sarah chats up each of her co-hosts to recap their running and racing. Adrienne Martini talks about the correct nomenclature of the 26.2 she ran in November: Find out why it’s “her marathon” not her “first marathon.” She discusses why she likes big races—and why she might need an exorcist for exercise! Molly is the first of several co-hosts to expound on how her athletic goals are changing as she ages, and how she has no ego about race results. Talk turns to her daughters entering the running world. Giving birth to a new hashtag, Molly and Sarah unveil their big 2017 race. The conversation dives deeper when Dimity joins, with talk of joy and running as a luxury. Find out what milestone Dimity hit for the first time since becoming a mother runner (or perhaps ever!)—as well as what her 2017 target race. Continuing the aging-runner thread, Amanda Loudin describes how she’s “version 2.0” with racing and running. Nod along as this...

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Sarah and co-host Amanda Loudin enjoy a conversation with Liz Lyles, a professional triathlete and mom of two school-age children. In 2016, Liz not only completed two Ironman-distance triathlons—she won both 140.6-mile races, setting a course record at one of them. Liz talks about how, with each passing year, her learning curve of juggling motherhood and training evolves; she shares the keys to her training and racing success. The Reno resident divulges her feelings toward getting a treadmill as a Christmas gift, then spends quite a bit of time talking herself out of anxieties all mother runners will relate to. When she flashes back to her first triathlon, listeners will learn why her bike-to-run transition was so simple and speedy. Liz reveals her trick for getting through a tough spot in a race, as well as her household mantra of, “do what you can do when you can do it.” Laughter multiplies as the conversation progresses. But first, the work-from-home hosts bond over snow days—and the burning desire...

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Sarah and co-host Dimity welcome a bevy of savvy, sassy guests: the coaches of the Train Like a Mother Club. The gals give a preview of the plans in 2017 (including an exciting triathlon announcement!) as well as some insight into their coaching perspectives. First up is Coach MK Fleming of the hugely popular heart rate training programs, who talks about the importance of believing in “the power of ‘yet’” for “future badassery!” Next on is Amanda Loudin, coach of the traditional programs (and occasional co-host of this podcast), who reveals how she stopped a string of injuries that plagued her for the better part of a decade. An intriguing conversation about track workouts (no, not an oxymoron!) evolves when Amanda talks about what her TLAM Club plans entail. Finally, Jenny Harrison, one of the two new triathlon coaches, empathizes about coming back after a pregnancy (in her case, a twin pregnancy that involved eight weeks of bed rest!). Jenny explains why she loves to coach beginners, whom she encourages...

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Sarah and co-host Amanda Loudin catch up with running luminary and Runner’s World Chief Running Officer, Bart Yasso, days after Bart’s retirement announcement on Twitter. The trio set off talking about how to get into big, mega-popular running races, but the conversation rapidly veers toward amazing anecdotes from Bart’s four decades of running. It’s like the podcast version of the guiding principle Bart shares: “Never limit where running can take you.” Sarah and Bart bond over “tube socks” as he tells how he became the “mayor of running” after nearly expiring while running his first mile. Find out what Bart strongly encourages every runner to do at a race. (Hint: It involves standing around.) He emphasizes the importance of being a runner for life, and how it should guide planning your race calendar. Marvel at Bart’s story about running the 2016 Richmond Marathon with four random women (including two mother runners!), and how this icon made running “cool” for one 14-year-old girl. Bart reflects on his...

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Sarah and co-host Molly Williams have a rollicking time talking with Denver-based chef Elizabeth Buckingham. Elizabeth aims to demystify meal preparation with “chef-y tricks, including how to think two steps ahead to avoid 5:30 p.m. craziness. She shares clever tips for tackling grocery shopping, bonding with Molly over frozen vegetables v. “aspirational” veggies. Talk turns to protein, which is when Elizabeth starts singing her first chorus of praise for quinoa. (Sarah’s eager to try out her suggestion for making it taste more appealing!) She then moves on to exclaiming the benefits of full-fat dairy products and other whole, unprocessed foods. The chef offers mouth-watering-yet-simple suggestions for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks, answering questions culled from the Another Mother Runner Facebook page. After a deep dive into turmeric, listen to new BFFs Molly and Elizabeth bond over bitters. And if you’re looking to play a drinking game while listening to this podcast, we’d suggest chugging (whole...

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Something different for the holiday week! In this podcast, Dr. Justin Ross, Dimity, and TLAM Club Coach MK talk with Monica Knox and Ana Hernandez, two Denver-based mother runners looking to qualify for Boston at the Philadelphia Marathon. Huddled around one mic, the quintet dive into the mental side of the ladies’ race prep and discuss how to maximize performance on marathon day. In the Train Like a Mother Club in 2017, Justin—or “JRo”—will be leading small-group webinars focused on the mental aspects of running: motivation, goal setting, mental toughness, and race execution. Spoiler alert: We checked in with Ana and Monica during the busy Thanksgiving week to see how their races went. Monica had a tough week leading up to Philly, and struggled with the wind and other issues. She did not meet her time goal, but is confident she’ll make it to the Boston starting line. (We are too!) Meanwhile, Ana ran a determined 3:43, well under the 3:55 she needed to run to nab a Boston 2018 bib. *Looking to try...

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Holiday nutrition advice: Sarah and co-host Ellison Weist tuck into a conversation with Ellie Kempton, a Denver-based holistic nutritionist and the official nutritionist of the Train Like a Mother Club. A big believer in “simple advice and cues,” Ellie shares five strategies for surviving the holiday season, including a few that might surprise you. She laughs at how she taught herself to become a slow eater (it’s a method that we suspect might work for many mother runners!). Find out what Ellie refers to as “bubble wrap” as you head to a party, and get advice on how to fill an entree plate once you get there. She encourages gals to eat with gusto instead of fear, saying the holidays need to be about renewal not depletion. The conversation wraps up with the three gals take a deep dive into something called “oil pulling” (who knew?!). Fresh off a visit to Connecticut, Sarah shares a family update—and talks up a chicken recipe she cooked for her clan. And, as promised, here’s the PDF of Ellie talked up...

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Sarah is joined by two co-hosts (who are also the guests!), Adrienne Martini and Christine Hinton, to talk about Adrienne taking on her first 26.2: the New York City Marathon. Learn about the plan Coach Christine designed for Adrienne, and why the training was “very fulfilling” for Adrienne. The coached runner tells why she chose the 50,000-person race to be her one-and-done marathon—and how she got a bib for it even after being shut out of the lottery. (Hint: Every Mother Counts.) When the talk turns to TMI, find out whether the notorious “river of pee” from the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge is an urban legend or not. Laugh along as Adrienne admits to her extreme confusion as to what mile she was at, and drink in knowledge via Adrienne’s hydration epiphany. Hear what caused the marathon runner to choke up near Mile 18—and what boosted her mood soon after. Along the way, listen to other NYC Marathoners courtesy of Voice Memos sprinkled into the podcast. *Join the Stride through the Holidays 5-week program:...

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