Ross and Petar close out an unforgettable first season of the Pod on the Run podcast — a year that started with a simple idea and grew into a community-powered storytelling hub. This episode brings together the voices, victories, and vibrant personalities that shaped 2025 for the Chico running community.

We kick things off with holiday highlights, big mileage energy, and reflections from the BRC Holiday Party before diving into conversations with Jess and Andrew about community, connection, and what makes this group special. Then we explore the future of the club with leadership insights from Logan and Manny as they pass the torch and look ahead to 2026.

Our spotlight interviews feature standout runners and community builders — Morgan Camy fresh off CIM, Geoffrey Chiapella on what’s next, Vanessa Wolfe on the impact of the Ladies Speed workouts, and Joseph Shufelberger on BRC’s growth and spirit.

We also stopped by Fleet Feet for a holiday gear rundown with Kristina and Aidan, plus details on a special $40 gift card giveaway. Finally, we wrap with a heartfelt year-in-review: the moments that moved us, the miles that changed us, and the goals that will carry us into 2026.

It’s gratitude, growth, and good vibes all the way through. We never imagined we’d be here after episode one — and we’re just getting started. Here’s to more miles, more stories, and more community in the year ahead.

What drives someone to lace up, race across the country, and chase 50 finish lines? In this episode of Pod on the Run, Ross and Petar sit down with Sarah Batiste, a marathoner on a mission to conquer every state—already 28 marathons deep across 26 states. Fresh off running two marathons in six days, three in four weeks, and setting a personal best of 3:22 in Indiana, Sarah shares the grit, joy, and quirky rituals that keep her moving forward.

From her iconic Flat Runner Instagram posts to the support of her coach, family, and Fleet Feet Chico community, Sarah’s story is equal parts endurance and heart. Together, we explore the highs, lows, and funny moments from her marathon journey, dive into what led to her Indiana PR, and consider what it means to balance grit with fun. Sarah opens up about the people who show up for her—from her family and boyfriend to the Pub Run crew—and reflects on the mantras, mental tricks, and advice that keep her motivated when the miles get tough.

We also look at what happens beyond the finish line, from post‑race rituals to bouncing back after hard runs, and even peek into Sarah’s identity outside of running. Of course, Petar brings his signature lightning round of rapid‑fire questions, and Sarah shares her vision of crossing that dream 50th state finish line and what comes next after the big goal.

This episode is a celebration of endurance, community, and the joy of running—with plenty of laughs and behind‑the‑scenes stories along the way. Tune in to hear Sarah’s journey, her rituals, and her vision of crossing that final finish line.

In Episode #14 of Pod on the Run, Ross and Petar kick things off with their signature banter - swapping stories from recent runs, race-day antics, and behind-the-scenes moments that set the tone for another unforgettable episode. But this one’s extra special. Why? Because they’re sitting down with a true legend of the local running scene: Mike O’Connell, affectionately known as “The Vegan Badass.” This episode dives deep into legacy, leadership, and what it means to live - and run - by your values.

First up, we lace into the rich history of the Chico Running Club, now celebrating 50 years of community on the move. Mike shares how he first got involved, paints a picture of the early days of Chico’s running culture, and gives us a front-row seat to the evolution of CRC - from weekly runs to community involvement to post-run beers and lifelong friendships. With shoutouts to the unsung heroes who keep the club’s engine running, this segment is a love letter to the people and traditions that make CRC more than just a running group - it’s a family.

Speaking of family, the conversation shifts to the next generation. Mike opens up about running alongside his daughter, who’s part of the Chico Striders, and the joy of watching her grow into the sport. We explore how CRC collaborates with youth programs, what it’s like to be behind the scenes timing races, and how local clubs come together to support the broader running community. There’s even a nod to Fleet Feet and other local partners who help keep the momentum going.

Then we zoom in on Mike’s personal journey: the races, the milestones, and the moments that matter. From his early days pounding pavement to the unforgettable experience of the Twin Cities Marathon, Mike reflects on the training, the storytelling, and the creative camaraderie that fuels his passion. Whether it’s remixing a 35K training run with a custom “I Wanna Be Like Mike” track or mentoring new runners, Mike’s story is a testament to consistency, creativity, and showing up with heart.

Of course, we couldn’t talk to Mike without diving into his plant-powered philosophy. As a proud vegan and endurance athlete, he shares how his lifestyle shapes his training, his meals, and his mindset. We talk protein, race-day rituals, and the cultural shift toward plant-based performance. But more than that, we explore what it means to run with values - and how those values ripple outward into community, connection, and legacy.

Beyond the miles, Mike gives us a glimpse into life off the trail. From his professional pursuits to his love for the North Bay’s coastal trails, he shares the hidden gems that keep him grounded and inspired. Whether it’s a foggy morning run or a quiet moment in nature, this segment reminds us that running is about more than fitness—it’s about presence, place, and purpose.

And just when you think you’ve heard it all, Petar hits Mike with the lightning round: favorite post-run snacks, dream race destinations, go-to gear, and even a few embarrassing race moments. It’s fast, fun, and full of personality - just like Mike.

In the closing moments, Mike offers heartfelt advice for new runners, invites folks to get involved with CRC, and reflects on what it means to be a pillar of the community. Through every mile and every moment, he reminds us that running isn’t just something you do - it’s something you live.