Rise and Run

Your training can be solid and you can still step into the corral feeling unsure and that doesn’t mean you’re broken. This week we go after the part of running that decides how you respond when it gets hard: confidence. We’re joined by Dr. Sindra Kampoff, performance coach and author of The Confidence Habit, to translate sport psychology into simple tools you can actually use during Run Disney training and on race morning. We talk about why runners get trapped in comparison, outcome pressure, and perfectionism, then shift into practical resets like Learn, Earn, Return, building a range of goals (gold, silver, bronze), and using identity based “I am” statements to stop treating confidence like something you’re born with. If negative self talk hits mid race, Sindra shares two go to strategies: pre planned power phrases and her “truth meter” questions that help you replace a spiral with something more useful. You’ll also hear us swap our own stress regulation habits, share community updates, and close with a packed race report including a Sydney Marathon recap with big hills and an iconic Opera House finish. If you want mental skills for runners that are as trainable as your long run, this conversation belongs in your race season toolkit. Subscribe so you don’t miss what’s next, share this with a running friend who needs a confidence boost, and leave us a review with the one phrase you want in your head on your next start line. Cindra’s Links Instagram The Confidence Habit Book The High Performance Mindset Podcast Dr. Cindra Kamphof Website Rise and Run Links Rise and Run Podcast Facebook Page Rise and Run Podcast Instagram Rise and Run Podcast Website and Shop Rise and Run Patreon Runningwithalysha Alysha’s Run Coaching ( Mention Rise And Run and get $10 off ) Send us Fan Mail Support the show Rise and Run Podcast is supported by our audience. When you make a purchase through one of our affiliate links, we may earn a commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Sponsor Links Magic Bound Travel Stoked Metabolic Coaching Affiliate Links The Start Line Co. Fluffy Fizzies Mona Moon Naturals Rise and Run Amazon Affiliate Web Page Kawaiian Pizza Apparel GoGuarded

A long run can be tough, but this week proves it can also be downright ridiculous: surprise humidity, shaky confidence, and yes, a flying insect that turns one runner into an unwilling protein experiment. We share real training updates for the ramp-up to Wine and Dine and Marathon Weekend, including why “trust the process” is more than a slogan when the miles start to bite. We also talk practical hot-weather strategy, from carrying fluids to testing electrolytes, and what we’re noticing after trying Hydro Patch on long runs (helpful, not magic, and definitely not a replacement for water). Then we bring on our guest, Devin Siebold, the former educator turned stand-up comedian behind the viral Theme Park Comedians content. Devin tells the story of leaving the classroom, what comedy taught him about people, and why laughter is often a signal of safety when life feels heavy. If you love Disney World, Epcot, Broadway references, and sharp Disney-adult humor, his behind-the-scenes look at writing and filming in the parks is a blast. We also dig into Devin’s runDisney journey, favorite race memories, and why fundraising bibs matter to him, including St. Jude's and No Kid Hungry. From a Tower of Terror fear challenge done for charity to the little details that make race weekends unforgettable, this conversation hits both the heart and the funny bone. If you’re enjoying the show, subscribe so you never miss a training-season boost, share the episode with a runDisney friend, and leave us a quick review to help more runners find the Rise and Run community. Devins Links themeparkcomedians Instagram devinsiebold Instagram Rise and Run Links Rise and Run Podcast Facebook Page Rise and Run Podcast Instagram Rise and Run Podcast Website and Shop Rise and Run Patreon Runningwithalysha Alysha’s Run Coaching ( Mention Rise And Run and get $10 off ) Send us Fan Mail Support the show Rise and Run Podcast is supported by our audience. When you make a purchase through one of our affiliate links, we may earn a commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Sponsor Links Magic Bound Travel Stoked Metabolic Coaching Affiliate Links The Start Line Co. Fluffy Fizzies Mona Moon Naturals Rise and Run Amazon Affiliate Web Page Kawaiian Pizza Apparel GoGuarded

Dean Karnazes has done things most runners can barely picture, but the lesson he brings to our mic is refreshingly simple: you do not have to go fast, you just have to go. We catch up with Dean on a Greece running tour built around the history of Marathon and a heartfelt tribute to Jeff Galloway, then dig into what endurance really demands when the miles stop being fun and start becoming a choice you make over and over again. We also get practical for the runDisney crowd with training timelines for Wine and Dine and Marathon Weekend, plus the real talk that comes with late-summer running: humidity, dew point, and how to stay consistent when motivation fades. Dean calls heat “poor man’s altitude,” and we unpack what that means for training, racing, and staying safe. You will also hear specific strategies that translate to any goal, from a first 5K to a first Dopey, including how to embrace discomfort, train to your personality, and recover in ways that keep you running for years. On top of that, we react to the newly released Wine and Dine medals, share meetup and community updates, and spotlight runners chasing big dreams, including Arno Tessers’ plan to run all nine World Marathon Majors in one year while filming a documentary. If you want motivation that is not fluffy, plus Run Disney planning you can actually use, this one delivers. Subscribe for more runDisney training help, share this with a running friend, and leave a review if the episode helps you stay consistent. What is one goal you will “just go” after this season? Deans Links Ultramarathon Instagram Ultramarathonman Website Arno Links Run Arno Run Run Arno Run on YouTube Rise and Run Links Rise and Run Podcast Facebook Page Rise and Run Podcast Instagram Rise and Run Podcast Website and Shop Rise and Run Patreon Runningwithalysha Alysha’s Run Coaching ( Mention Rise And Run and get $10 off ) Send us Fan Mail Support the show Rise and Run Podcast is supported by our audience. When you make a purchase through one of our affiliate links, we may earn a commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Sponsor Links Magic Bound Travel Stoked Metabolic Coaching Affiliate Links The Start Line Co. Fluffy Fizzies Mona Moon Naturals Rise and Run Amazon Affiliate Web Page Kawaiian Pizza Apparel GoGuarded

D23 always feels like a fireworks show for Disney fans, but we watch it with runner brains: What will all these new lands, refurbs, and construction walls mean for runDisney race weekends? Our friend Amanda from Once Upon a Marathon returns for a deep-dive recap of the D23 Parks Panel, and we do the fun thing we usually avoid: a little course speculation. We break down EPCOT’s Spaceship Earth refurb talk, Animal Kingdom updates like the long-awaited Expedition Everest Yeti fix and Tropical Americas progress, and what Magic Kingdom construction could mean for how we enter and exit the park on marathon day. We also talk Villains Land scope, Hollywood Studios’ Monstropolis timeline, and the Figment reimagining that brings Dreamfinder back into the spotlight. To round it out, we cover race reports from all over and spotlight Brooke’s trip to Alaska for the Anchorage Half Marathon, complete with coastal trails, mountains, and a finish-line spread that will make runDisney runners laugh. Subscribe for weekly runDisney training tips, community stories, and park news through a runner’s lens, then share your biggest D23 takeaway with us and leave a review. Amanda’s website: Once Upon A Marathon Amanda’s IG: @onceupamarathon Rise and Run Links Rise and Run Podcast Facebook Page Rise and Run Podcast Instagram Rise and Run Podcast Website and Shop Rise and Run Patreon Runningwithalysha Alysha’s Run Coaching ( Mention Rise And Run and get $10 off ) Send us Fan Mail Support the show Rise and Run Podcast is supported by our audience. When you make a purchase through one of our affiliate links, we may earn a commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Sponsor Links Magic Bound Travel Stoked Metabolic Coaching Affiliate Links The Start Line Co. Fluffy Fizzies Mona Moon Naturals Rise and Run Amazon Affiliate Web Page Kawaiian Pizza Apparel GoGuarded

You can train for a race and still wonder if you’re allowed to call yourself a runner. That quiet doubt shows up in a lot of places, on long walks that feel endless, on crowded courses where you’re watching your footing, and especially when your watch tells a story you do not like. We get honest about those moments, then share practical ways to keep moving as Wine and Dine training hits week eight, including how to schedule back to back days without burning out and a simple run walk interval that can make long sessions feel mentally lighter. Then we sit down with Hildee Weiss, author of Embracing My Inner Athlete, whose story will hit home for anyone who started later, felt self conscious, or carried that “I’m not an athlete” label for years. Hildee talks about the turning point that pushed her to prioritize herself, the early fears that kept her from running, and how one 5K can start a chain reaction of confidence. We also dig into imposter syndrome, why adults struggle to claim the word “athlete,” and how comparison can hijack training even when you’re doing the work. One of the biggest takeaways is a mindset shift that sounds small but changes everything: moving from “I have to run” to “I get to run.” If you’re training for your first runDisney event, worried about pace, or just trying to find joy again, this conversation is for you. Subscribe to the podcast, share it with a friend who needs a nudge, and leave us a review. What’s the best running advice you’ve ever received? Hildee’s Links Insatgram Blog Embracing My Inner Athlete Book Rise and Run Links Rise and Run Podcast Facebook Page Rise and Run Podcast Instagram Rise and Run Podcast Website and Shop Rise and Run Patreon Runningwithalysha Alysha’s Run Coaching ( Mention Rise And Run and get $10 off ) Send us Fan Mail Support the show Rise and Run Podcast is supported by our audience. When you make a purchase through one of our affiliate links, we may earn a commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Sponsor Links Magic Bound Travel Stoked Metabolic Coaching Affiliate Links The Start Line Co. Fluffy Fizzies Mona Moon Naturals Rise and Run Amazon Affiliate Web Page Kawaiian Pizza Apparel GoGuarded

One loop. One river. A whole lot of miles. What happens when a runDisney community takes over a relay event in New Jersey and decides the real finish line is friendship, not pace? We’re joined by Greg, Jack, Chrissie, Ilyana, and Stephen to recap Loopy Looper weekend, where teams rack up loops, tents turn into mini HQs, and every lap feels like a mix of training run and backyard party. We talk through the details that make a looped relay and ultra event work: simple course navigation, timing-bib handoffs that do not waste energy, and the heat management basics that matter most in August humidity. You’ll hear what people actually ate and drank, why salt and pickle juice became MVPs, and how run-walk-run plus strength training can leave your legs surprisingly OK after big mileage. Then Stephen drops the kind of story that makes you sit up straight: a first ultramarathon that’s also a 100-miler, finished inside the 30-hour cutoff, with tight aid-station discipline and a clear goal of staying healthy. We also share the glow loop night run, family finish moments, and why so many runners say the solo miles are great but the relay “party” is the point. If you’re training for runDisney, curious about relay races, or wondering how to keep motivation high in the offseason, this one’s for you. Subscribe, share the show with a running friend, and leave a review telling us: would you ever try a loop event like Loopy Looper? Rise and Run Links Rise and Run Podcast Facebook Page Rise and Run Podcast Instagram Rise and Run Podcast Website and Shop Rise and Run Patreon Runningwithalysha Alysha’s Run Coaching ( Mention Rise And Run and get $10 off ) Send us Fan Mail Support the show Rise and Run Podcast is supported by our audience. When you make a purchase through one of our affiliate links, we may earn a commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Sponsor Links Magic Bound Travel Stoked Metabolic Coaching Affiliate Links The Start Line Co. Fluffy Fizzies Mona Moon Naturals Rise and Run Amazon Affiliate Web Page Kawaiian Pizza Apparel GoGuarded

runDisney can look effortless on Instagram: a castle photo, a medal shot, a costume selfie, and done. Then reality hits at 1:30am when the alarm goes off again, you’re juggling corrals and buses, and there are still miles of dark highway between the highlight reel moments. That’s why we’re thrilled to welcome back Lisa Dinoto Glassner after four years to talk about her new book, The Run Disney Companion: Your Race Day Guide From Fantasy To Finish Line And Beyond. We get into what the guide is really built for: helping first-time runners pick a race, register, train, pack, fuel, sleep, and actually enjoy the weekend without feeling overwhelmed. Lisa shares the misconception she wants to correct most often: these are real races, even when there are characters and tutus. Her most underrated tip is also the simplest: protect your sleep, because you cannot out gel bad sleep. We also talk why the history of runDisney matters, how veterans can still find meaning in the “lessons learned” side of the book, and what moments are almost impossible to explain until you experience them, especially cheering the final finisher. Along the way, we keep it classic Rise and Run: training updates (including Greg’s Wawa-themed 50K plan), a fun “What Would Alysha Do” segment with the Merlin Bird ID app, and a race report spotlight from the Jack and Jill downhill half marathon with its famous tunnel and gravel pacing curveballs. If you’re chasing a proof of time, planning Wine and Dine, Princess, Marathon Weekend, or dreaming about Dopey, this conversation gives you a clearer plan and a better mindset. Listen now, then subscribe so you don’t miss what’s next, share the episode with a runDisney friend, and leave a review to help more runners find our running family. Lisa’s Links The Castle Run The Castle Runner on Instagram Rise and Run Links Rise and Run Podcast Facebook Page Rise and Run Podcast Instagram Rise and Run Podcast Website and Shop Rise and Run Patreon Runningwithalysha Alysha’s Run Coaching ( Mention Rise And Run and get $10 off ) Send us Fan Mail Support the show Rise and Run Podcast is supported by our audience. When you make a purchase through one of our affiliate links, we may earn a commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Sponsor Links Magic Bound Travel Stoked Metabolic Coaching Affiliate Links The Start Line Co. Fluffy Fizzies Mona Moon Naturals Rise and Run Amazon Affiliate Web Page Kawaiian Pizza Apparel GoGuarded

runDisney didn’t start as a massive, must-register-in-minutes phenomenon. It grew into that, and Jon Hughes was in the middle of the turning points. We finish our conversation with the Track Shack leader who helped bring the Walt Disney World Marathon to life, then watched it evolve into a global runDisney culture where first-timers, costumers, walkers, and marathoners all belong on the same course. Jon shares when the races first felt “bigger than expected,” why the paper signup era created real confusion about sellouts, and how new weekends and concepts like Wine and Dine’s early night-race vibe reshaped logistics. We also get the origin story of the Goofy and Dopey challenges, including the moment the Dopey name clicked and why well-trained multi-race runners can actually fare better than people who show up underprepared for a single event. Along the way we talk characters, entertainment placement, and the simple reason so many people start running at Disney: they feel safe and welcomed. Back with the hosts, we bring it to the present with summer training honesty: slowing down in heat and humidity, staying consistent through wind and bad air quality, and holding onto the mindset that your current pace might be someone else’s dream. Plus, Julia joins us for the race report spotlight to celebrate her 50th half marathon at Presque Isle and a strong finish as she lines up an ambitious season ahead. If you enjoy the show, subscribe, share it with a running friend, and leave us a review so more runners can find the Rise and Run community. Send us Fan Mail Support the show Rise and Run Podcast is supported by our audience. When you make a purchase through one of our affiliate links, we may earn a commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Sponsor Links Magic Bound Travel Stoked Metabolic Coaching Affiliate Links The Start Line Co. Fluffy Fizzies Mona Moon Naturals Rise and Run Amazon Affiliate Web Page Kawaiian Pizza Apparel GoGuarded

runDisney feels like it’s always been there, but it hasn’t. The real story includes years of pitching, countless meetings, tough operational compromises, and a whole lot of faith that runners would actually show up. We’re joined by Jon Hughes from Track Shack, the first race director of the Walt Disney World Marathon and one of the key voices who helped convince Disney a marathon belonged on property. Jon takes us back to the early days of Track Shack, when running specialty stores were rare and races were often built from scratch just to grow the sport. We dig into what makes a great race director, why course design and logistics matter more than most people realize, and how Disney’s marketing excitement didn’t always match the realities of operations. You’ll hear how the marathon finally got the green light, why the early course didn’t fully match the dream, and what it felt like to face a start line that ballooned to 8,400 runners before the first race ever happened. We also keep things practical and personal: training updates in peak summer heat, hydration lessons, the mental tricks that get us out the door, plus community news like our charity fundraising plans and the first-ever Rise and Run virtual trivia night. Then we roll into race reports from across the Rise and Run family, from local 5Ks and an 8K series with a baked potato finish to truly wild endurance feats. If you love runDisney history, marathon origin stories, or smart training talk that’s honest about real life, hit play. Subscribe, share the episode with a friend training for their next race, and leave a quick review to help more runners find the Rise and Run family. Track Shack Website Track Shack Instagram Rise and Run Links Rise and Run Podcast Facebook Page Rise and Run Podcast Instagram Rise and Run Podcast Website and Shop Rise and Run Patreon Runningwithalysha Alysha’s Run Coaching ( Mention Rise And Run and get $10 off ) Send us Fan Mail Support the show Rise and Run Podcast is supported by our audience. When you make a purchase through one of our affiliate links, we may earn a commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Sponsor Links Magic Bound Travel Stoked Metabolic Coaching Affiliate Links The Start Line Co. Fluffy Fizzies Mona Moon Naturals Rise and Run Amazon Affiliate Web Page Kawaiian Pizza Apparel GoGuarded

We hit a milestone and decided to do something worthy of it: build our own ranked list of the best road races in America. From the New York City Marathon’s five-borough roar to Boston’s history-soaked mystique, Chicago’s electric crowds, and the Marine Corps Marathon’s landmark-heavy patriotism, we talk through the races that feel bigger than a finish time and why they earn a spot on a true bucket list. We also keep it real for the runDisney community. Springtime Surprise registration moved faster than many expected, so we share what sold out when, what that might mean for the season ahead, and why charity bibs can be a smart Plan B. Then we dig into why runDisney itself belongs near the top of a “great American races” conversation, plus how we’d rank the current race weekends if you’re choosing your first one. And because July 4th means Peachtree, we spotlight the Peachtree Road Race with firsthand stories about the expo challenges, the party-on-the-streets vibe, the sneaky tough hill miles, and the iconic finisher shirt that makes Atlanta runners come back year after year. We also pause to remember Jeff Galloway, share a powerful origin story from his past visit, and reflect on how his encouragement continues to shape runners everywhere. If you like running culture, race travel ideas, training honesty, and a little friendly debate, press play. Subscribe, share this with a runner who needs a new goal race, and leave a review if the show helps you keep moving, what’s your pick for the best road race in America? Rise and Run Links Rise and Run Podcast Facebook Page Rise and Run Podcast Instagram Rise and Run Podcast Website and Shop Rise and Run Patreon Runningwithalysha Alysha’s Run Coaching ( Mention Rise And Run and get $10 off ) Johns Fundraising Link For The Special Forces Foundation Send us Fan Mail Support the show Rise and Run Podcast is supported by our audience. When you make a purchase through one of our affiliate links, we may earn a commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Sponsor Links Magic Bound Travel Stoked Metabolic Coaching Affiliate Links The Start Line Co. Fluffy Fizzies Mona Moon Naturals Rise and Run Amazon Affiliate Web Page Kawaiian Pizza Apparel GoGuarded

The reason you started running is probably not the reason you keep running, and that’s the point. We open with a simple community question from our friend Alan, then hand the mic to friends whose answers stretch from “I’ve never been an athlete” to “running became my only quiet place.” You’ll hear how stress, family health scares, grief, postpartum life, and plain old curiosity can turn into a steady running habit and a stronger sense of self. We also get practical about summer training when the weather stops cooperating. We talk dew point, humidity, pacing, hydration, electrolytes, treadmills, and the mental game of making smart adjustments so you stay healthy enough to reach the starting line. There’s also a useful health sidebar on the cardiac calcium screen and why some runners consider it for peace of mind. Then we hit the runDisney news and community buzz: Springtime Surprise registration and the messy feelings around Perfect status communication, plus a marathon playlist update and a corral prediction data project. We wrap with race reports, including a standout spotlight from Alicia on the Leadville Heavy Half, a brutal and beautiful 15.5-mile mountain race topping out at 13,185 feet, and a powerful moment of running in someone’s memory. If this one resonates, subscribe for more, share it with a running friend, and leave a review. What’s your running “why” right now? Rise and Run Links Rise and Run Podcast Facebook Page Rise and Run Podcast Instagram Rise and Run Podcast Website and Shop Rise and Run Patreon Runningwithalysha Alysha’s Run Coaching ( Mention Rise And Run and get $10 off ) Johns Fundraising Link For The Special Forces Foundation Send us Fan Mail Support the show Rise and Run Podcast is supported by our audience. When you make a purchase through one of our affiliate links, we may earn a commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Sponsor Links Magic Bound Travel Stoked Metabolic Coaching Affiliate Links The Start Line Co. Fluffy Fizzies Mona Moon Naturals Rise and Run Amazon Affiliate Web Page Kawaiian Pizza Apparel GoGuarded

Summer training has a way of turning simple runs into big questions: Why is my pace suddenly slower, how do I stay safe in the heat, and what actually matters in the first weeks of a runDisney build? We sit down with our friend Coach Chris Twiggs to get real answers you can use right away, whether you’re gearing up for Wine & Dine, Marathon Weekend, or dreaming about Dopey. Chris takes us from the mountains to the sidewalks, starting with the Hardrock 100, a legendary 100-mile loop in Colorado with 33,000 feet of climbing, high-altitude reality, and the famous finish-line rule: you kiss the rock. From there, we move to the training most of us are doing now. We talk consistency over speed, how to stop comparing yourself to last season, and why “pixie dust” is not a training plan even when the races are full of magic. The heart of the conversation is heat training and performance. We break down what heat does to your body, how to acclimate on purpose, and how to cool yourself during runs. Chris shares clear red flags to stop a workout, plus hydration and electrolyte cues that too many runners miss. We also cover treadmill strategy, long-run pacing as a speed limit, and why your treadmill is usually more trustworthy than your watch indoors. We also spotlight the Miles To Go 5K in Orlando (with a virtual option) and celebrate race weekend stories, including Nannah’s first marathon at Grandma’s Marathon and her mom, Ellen’s, half marathon PR. Listen, share with a running friend, and leave us a review, then tell us: what’s the one habit you’re locking in to stay consistent this season? Chis Twiggs’s Links Hard Talk Podcast Customized Training Miles to Go Links Miles to Go Website Miles to Go 5K Regitration Rise and Run Links Rise and Run Podcast Facebook Page Rise and Run Podcast Instagram Rise and Run Podcast Website and Shop Rise and Run Patreon Runningwithalysha Alysha’s Run Coaching ( Mention Rise And Run and get $10 off ) Johns Fundraising Link For The Special Forces Foundation Send us Fan Mail Support the show Rise and Run Podcast is supported by our audience. When you make a purchase through one of our affiliate links, we may earn a commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Sponsor Links Magic Bound Travel Stoked Metabolic Coaching Affiliate Links The Start Line Co. Fluffy Fizzies Mona Moon Naturals Rise and Run Amazon Affiliate Web Page Kawaiian Pizza Apparel GoGuarded

runDisney didn’t just tease a surprise this time, it delivered one that can blow up travel plans. We react in real time to the Springtime Surprise weekend shifting dates, what that means for resort reservations and DVC juggling, and why having a good travel advisor can save you hours when Disney changes the calendar. Training talk gets practical fast: running in heat without turning it into a competition, how much to slow down as temps rise, and whether “real feel” should drive your pacing more than the number on the thermometer. We compare notes on when we start carrying hydration, electrolytes, and fuel, plus what pre-hydration looks like before a long run so race weekend doesn’t become a dehydration lesson. Then we pivot to something purely fun: a Disney parks and resorts “last meal” draft inspired by the Last Meal podcast. Expect strong opinions and deep cuts, from Sanaa bread service and Morimoto favorites to Tonga Toast, Zebra Domes, Dole Whips, and the Beaches and Cream Kitchen Sink. We wrap with a community-packed race report and a Race Report Spotlight with John. Subscribe, share with a friend, and leave a review, then tell us: what’s on your Disney last meal plate? Rise and Run Links Rise and Run Podcast Facebook Page Rise and Run Podcast Instagram Rise and Run Podcast Website and Shop Rise and Run Patreon Runningwithalysha Alysha’s Run Coaching ( Mention Rise And Run and get $10 off ) Johns Fundraising Link For The Special Forces Foundation Send us Fan Mail Support the show Rise and Run Podcast is supported by our audience. When you make a purchase through one of our affiliate links, we may earn a commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Sponsor Links Magic Bound Travel Stoked Metabolic Coaching Affiliate Links The Start Line Co. Fluffy Fizzies Mona Moon Naturals Rise and Run Amazon Affiliate Web Page Kawaiian Pizza Apparel GoGuarded

Princess registration has turned into its own endurance event, and we felt every mile of it. We break down what we saw during the Princess Half Marathon Weekend queue, why more runners are walking away disappointed, and what might be behind the slower movement now that old workarounds are gone. We also talk through the bigger forces at play like field size limits, staging constraints, rising demand, and the way social media can amplify FOMO and frustration. Then we pivot back to what actually moves the needle: training with humility and consistency. We share practical summer running reminders on hydration and slowing down in heat, plus a smart pacing tool for sticky weather: the Galloway magic half mile. If you’ve ever panicked after getting new training paces, this conversation is for you, especially if you’re trying to build longer run intervals without blowing up. Runner’s World Senior Health and Fitness Editor Donna Raskin joins us to talk longevity, evidence-based fitness advice, and why runDisney stands apart from typical racing culture. She connects movement to independence, community to health, and reminds us that “old” and “overuse” aren’t diagnoses. We wrap with a race report spotlight that hits straight in the heart: Amy returns to racing on the Yellow Brick Road after chemotherapy and celebrates being cancer free. Subscribe for more runDisney news, training talk, and community stories, then share this with a friend and leave a review so more runners can find us. Rise and Run Links Rise and Run Podcast Facebook Page Rise and Run Podcast Instagram Rise and Run Podcast Website and Shop Rise and Run Patreon Runningwithalysha Alysha’s Run Coaching ( Mention Rise And Run and get $10 off ) Johns Fundraising Link For The Special Forces Foundation Send us Fan Mail Support the show Rise and Run Podcast is supported by our audience. When you make a purchase through one of our affiliate links, we may earn a commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Sponsor Links Magic Bound Travel Stoked Metabolic Coaching Affiliate Links The Start Line Co. Fluffy Fizzies Mona Moon Naturals Rise and Run Amazon Affiliate Web Page Kawaiian Pizza Apparel GoGuarded

runDisney training may be between big weekends, but our brains are still in race mode. We start by mapping the season ahead, talking base building, long-run confidence, and how to sneak in hill work even when you live somewhere flat. We also share one of our favorite community rituals: a collaborative Spotify training playlist that turns solo miles into a shared soundtrack and helps you find new “go-to” songs when motivation runs low. Then the mood shifts to the headache a lot of runners felt this week: Princess Half Marathon Weekend registration gets postponed. We talk through what it’s like to sit in the queue, how tough it is when people rearrange work and family schedules, and why the added service fee makes the whole thing sting more. We also wrestle with the uncomfortable question: if races keep selling out fast, what pressure would actually lead to better registration tech and clearer communication? From there, we go full gear nerd with a roundtable on running technology. Garmin vs COROS watches, Shokz bone conduction headphones, hydration vests, the Gymboss interval timer for run-walk training, Strava add-ons, and the new gadgets that tempt us, including ENGO sunglasses with a heads-up display. We also share honest buyer’s remorse, from fueling experiments that wreck your stomach to lights and accessories that never live up to the ads. We wrap with a spotlight that brings the fun back: Andrew the Puppet Runner joins us to share his free summer virtual race (5K, 10K, and half) and why he’s connecting it to fundraising for No Kid Hungry. If you enjoy practical training talk, real world Run Disney updates, and gear advice you can use right away, hit subscribe, share this with a running friend, and leave us a review so more runners can find the Rise and Run family. Puppet Runner Virtual Race Rise and Run Links Rise and Run Podcast Facebook Page Rise and Run Podcast Instagram Rise and Run Podcast Website and Shop Rise and Run Patreon Runningwithalysha Alysha’s Run Coaching ( Mention Rise And Run and get $10 off ) Send us Fan Mail Support the show Rise and Run Podcast is supported by our audience. When you make a purchase through one of our affiliate links, we may earn a commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Sponsor Links Magic Bound Travel Stoked Metabolic Coaching Affiliate Links The Start Line Co. Fluffy Fizzies Mona Moon Naturals Rise and Run Amazon Affiliate Web Page Kawaiian Pizza Apparel GoGuarded

He’s the runner you spot from a distance, not because of a character costume, but because he’s carrying the weight of a whole profession. Fireman Rob joins us to explain why he races in full firefighter turnout gear and what that choice has to do with mental health, hope, and letting people know they’re not alone. We talk about the realities behind the gear: the heat you can’t escape, the sweat-soaked weight that only gets heavier, and the mindset required to keep moving when there’s no “easy mile.” Rob shares how he trains for the uncomfortable, how the fire service teaches calm under pressure, and why the most important skill is learning to talk to yourself kindly when you’re hurting. He also opens up about being part of search and recovery at 9/11, the lasting impact of trauma, and how running became a way to keep moving forward one step at a time. Before the interview, we hit the latest runDisney conversation starters, including the 2027 Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend themes and artwork, the excitement of seeing Jasmine finally headline the Half, and the budget trade-offs many runners are making as prices rise. We also share a practical “What Would Alysha Do” on adapting your training plan when life throws a curveball, plus community updates, YouTube content for Disney resort running routes, and a packed race report full of PRs and proud finishes. If you take one thing from this, let it be Rob’s reminder: keep moving forward. Subscribe so you don’t miss what’s next, share the episode with a running friend, and leave a review to help more Run Disney runners find our community. Fireman Rob Links Fireman Rob Website Fireman Rob Instagram Rise and Run Links Rise and Run Podcast Facebook Page Rise and Run Podcast Instagram Rise and Run Podcast Website and Shop Rise and Run Patreon Runningwithalysha Alysha’s Run Coaching ( Mention Rise And Run and get $10 off ) Send us Fan Mail Support the show Rise and Run Podcast is supported by our audience. When you make a purchase through one of our affiliate links, we may earn a commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Sponsor Links Magic Bound Travel Stoked Metabolic Coaching Affiliate Links The Start Line Co. Fluffy Fizzies Mona Moon Naturals Rise and Run Amazon Affiliate Web Page Kawaiian Pizza Apparel GoGuarded

Boston and London aren’t just marathons. They’re full-body logistics puzzles, city-wide celebrations, and emotional pressure cookers that reveal what your training is really made of. We sit down with runners who lined up at two of the biggest stages in the sport and tell the story from the inside, from expo wins and wallet pain to the moments when the course turns and your plan has to change. Before we get to the World Marathon Majors recap, we share something closer to home: Bob reflects on losing Lily and the unexpected way she helped him find running again after an Achilles injury. From there, we shift into the here-and-now work that supports every big finish line, including staying consistent in the “training valley,” managing summer heat and humidity, and building a recovery routine that actually keeps you healthy. We talk steps, treadmills, dew point, hydration, pacing expectations, protein, electrolytes, and the small choices that add up when training ramps back up for runDisney season. Then we go deep on Boston Marathon and London Marathon experiences. You’ll hear how runners get into Boston through charity fundraising and sponsor pathways, what race morning really feels like in Hopkinton, and how the hills and the finish on Boylston land when it’s your first major or your sixth star. In London, we break down travel and jet lag tactics, an impressively engineered multi-start system, on-site bib printing, iconic landmarks like Tower Bridge, and crowds so loud you can’t hear your own headphones. If you enjoyed these stories and tips, subscribe, share the episode with a running friend, and leave a quick review so more runners can find the Rise and Run community. Rise and Run Links Rise and Run Podcast Facebook Page Rise and Run Podcast Instagram Rise and Run Podcast Website and Shop Rise and Run Patreon Runningwithalysha Alysha’s Run Coaching ( Mention Rise And Run and get $10 off ) Send us Fan Mail Support the show Rise and Run Podcast is supported by our audience. When you make a purchase through one of our affiliate links, we may earn a commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Sponsor Links Magic Bound Travel Stoked Metabolic Coaching Affiliate Links The Start Line Co. Fluffy Fizzies Mona Moon Naturals Rise and Run Amazon Affiliate Web Page Kawaiian Pizza Apparel GoGuarded

A cruise ship can feel like a floating city, but it gets a lot smaller when you spot your people. We’re back with the full recap of the inaugural Rise and Run cruise aboard Royal Caribbean’s Utopia of the Seas, and we’re sharing what surprised us, what we’d do differently, and the moments that turned a trip into a four-night running community meetup. We talk through the send-off at Pop Century (yes, Pluto shows up), the bus ride to port, and that first step onto a ship that feels more like Vegas than a quiet getaway. Then we get into the practical stuff you’ll actually want if you’re planning a cruise: buffet and crowd strategy on embarkation day, how the muster drill works on Royal, where to find calmer adult-only spaces like the Solarium Bistro, and what a sail away party is like when it’s loud, long, and unapologetically high energy. From there, it’s the good stuff: our group cruise run on the Deck 5 track (wind tunnels included), Nassau choices and the Royal Beach Club reality check when the weather doesn’t cooperate, a medaling celebration inside the Pesky Parrot tiki bar, and the Aqua 80s show that had us talking long after curtain call. We also share what it’s like to record a live podcast on a ship, plus the onboard chaos of Price Is Right Live and an escape room win. We wrap with Perfect Day at CocoCay highlights and a look ahead to Cruise 2.0 with a listener survey to shape what comes next. If you love runDisney community energy, running travel tips, and honest trip debriefs, hit play, subscribe, and then share this with a friend who’d absolutely join the next adventure. What would your dream podcast cruise look like? Rise and Run Links Rise and Run Podcast Facebook Page Rise and Run Podcast Instagram Rise and Run Podcast Website and Shop Rise and Run Patreon Runningwithalysha Alysha’s Run Coaching ( Mention Rise And Run and get $10 off ) Send us Fan Mail Support the show Rise and Run Podcast is supported by our audience. When you make a purchase through one of our affiliate links, we may earn a commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Sponsor Links Magic Bound Travel Stoked Metabolic Coaching Affiliate Links The Start Line Co. Fluffy Fizzies Mona Moon Naturals Rise and Run Amazon Affiliate Web Page Kawaiian Pizza Apparel GoGuarded

You can learn a lot about a running community by the questions they ask, and this week our listeners showed up with everything from serious marathon nerves to wildly fun runDisney hypotheticals. We dig into smart offseason training so you do not drift between race weekends: setting a local goal race, building an aerobic base, adding strength and mobility, and respecting summer heat. We also get specific on proof of time strategy, including why certain distances help, what counts for different runDisney weekends, and how planning ahead can change your corral placement and your whole race-day experience. Then we jump into listener questions that are pure runDisney joy. We design dream Disney race courses with more time inside the parks, more Animal Kingdom and Pandora, a better Hollywood Studios stretch, and the return of that iconic World Showcase finish that feels like a true victory lap. We talk bucket list races outside of runDisney, bucket list moments inside Disney, and whether you should chase Dopey, Goofy, or “just the marathon” based on what you actually want your weekend to feel like. The mindset talk gets real when we answer how to calm first-time Dopey and first-time marathon anxiety. We lean on trust-the-process training, run-walk pacing, and practical mental tricks for hard miles and lonely long runs, including music, podcasts, community messages, and finding a group that supports interval runners. Plus, we debate the most important question of all: if you could replace gels with Disney snacks as on-course fuel, what would you pick? If you love runDisney, marathon training, and a community that celebrates every PR, every proof of time, and every finish, hit play. Subscribe, share the show with a friend, and leave a review so more runners can find the Rise and Run family. Rise and Run Links Rise and Run Podcast Facebook Page Rise and Run Podcast Instagram Rise and Run Podcast Website and Shop Rise and Run Patreon Runningwithalysha Alysha’s Run Coaching ( Mention Rise And Run and get $10 off ) Send us Fan Mail Support the show Rise and Run Podcast is supported by our audience. When you make a purchase through one of our affiliate links, we may earn a commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Sponsor Links Magic Bound Travel Stoked Metabolic Coaching Affiliate Links The Start Line Co. Fluffy Fizzies Mona Moon Naturals Rise and Run Amazon Affiliate Web Page Kawaiian Pizza Apparel GoGuarded

Merch sold out by lunchtime. “Perfect” status quietly returned. Someone built a race plan around getting a photo with Boba Fett. That’s the kind of wonderfully specific runDisney chaos we love, and we’re recapping it live from the inaugural Rise and Run Cruise aboard Royal Caribbean's Utopia of the Seas. We break down the 2026 RunDisney Springtime Surprise weekend from the expo to the finish line, including what went smoothly, what still needs fixing, and how to think about merch strategy if you can’t arrive on day one. We also talk about the surprise perfect recognition, why messaging matters for long-time participants, and what runners can do when demand keeps feeding resellers. Along the way we share a big personal update, Greg’s honor of guiding a runner through the New York City Marathon, plus some of the sponsor support that makes these weekends and trips easier to plan. Then we hit the races: the 5K with standout theming and costumes, the 10K from a cheering perspective with behind-the-scenes finish line logistics, and the Inside Out themed 10-miler that closes the runDisney season with moody lighting, core memory vibes, and character stops that spark big feelings. Star Wars energy shows up loud through character lines, which leads to our ongoing debate about whether a full Star Wars race weekend could return and what might be standing in the way. We finish with a rapid-fire race report, a live trivia contest that doubles as a weirdly fun Rise and Run history lesson, and plenty of moments that remind us why the runDisney community keeps growing. Subscribe for more runDisney race weekend recaps, share this with a friend planning their next Disney running trip, and leave a review with your favorite Springtime Surprise moment. Send us Fan Mail Support the show Rise and Run Podcast is supported by our audience. When you make a purchase through one of our affiliate links, we may earn a commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Sponsor Links Magic Bound Travel Stoked Metabolic Coaching Affiliate Links The Start Line Co. Fluffy Fizzies Mona Moon Naturals Rise and Run Amazon Affiliate Web Page Kawaiian Pizza Apparel GoGuarded