Running has always been about more than miles.In Episode 16 of The Active You, we're joined by Ross John Jr., founder of Run Like A Native, a nonprofit dedicated to promoting Native athletes, preserving Indigenous running traditions, and using running as a way to connect communities.Ross shares how running served as a vital form of communication for Native Nations through the historic Messenger role, where runners carried important messages between communities long before modern technology. We also dive into the stories of legendary Indigenous athletes like Billy Mills, Lewis "Deerfoot" Bennett, Tom Longboat, Jim Thorpe, and Frank Pierce, whose contributions to the sport deserve far more recognition.Beyond history, we discuss how Run Like A Native is creating opportunities for Indigenous runners today by sponsoring athletes, hosting community events, and encouraging runners to reconnect with nature, community, and the deeper purpose behind every run.Whether you're a lifelong runner, new to the sport, or simply love learning the stories that shaped it, this conversation offers a perspective you won't want to miss.In this episode:🏃 Ross's running journey and the creation of Run Like A Native🌎 The Indigenous history of running and the Messenger tradition🏅 Legendary Native runners who changed the sport🤝 Building community through running🌲 Connecting with the land through movement🎽 Sponsoring the next generation of Indigenous runners👟 What everyone wore to Monday Run Club🍻 Local craft beer to close out the showLearn more about Run Like A Native:Website: https://www.runlikeanative.orgInstagram: @runlikeanativeFacebook: Run Like A NativeIf you enjoyed this episode, be sure to like, subscribe, and share it with a fellow runner. New episodes of The Active You premiere every other Sunday, featuring conversations with runners, coaches, industry leaders, and the people helping shape the running community.