What started as an idea has now turned into twenty episodes of stories, lessons, and incredible people.

From elite runners to parents balancing miles and life, I’ve learned something from every guest and this episode is a reflection on that journey.

In this special episode, I share 10 lessons learned through the first 20 episodes of The People Run Podcast, from mindset and training to community and gratitude.

Thank you to everyone who’s watched, listened, or supported the show in any way. Here’s to the next 20 episodes and the stories still to come.

🎙️ The People Run Podcast real stories, everyday runners

Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Reflection on the Journey
01:27 Lessons Learned from the First 20 Episodes
02:12 The Importance of Starting and Consistency
05:02 Mental Game and Nutrition in Running
07:51 Training Smart and Ignoring the Noise
10:12 Diversity in Running Experiences and Community
12:10 The Value of People in the Running Journey

Follow:

IG: instagram.com/thepeoplerunpodcast/

YT: youtube.com/@ThePeopleRunPodcast

Music: instagram.com/mech__beats/

In this episode of The People Run Podcast, Fitz sits down with Mak Foss a Michigan runner chasing big marathon goals while juggling 5 a.m. runs, a full-time job, and building a community through her Society Track Club.
Mak opens up about the nerves that come with racing, how she’s preparing for the Indianapolis Marathon, and why community and connection matter more than pace. From the lessons she’s learned about embracing failure to the joy of running without overthinking heart rate zones, Mak’s story is honest, relatable, and inspiring.

👉 Don’t forget to subscribe to The People Run Podcast for more inspiring stories from everyday runners chasing big goals.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Mack and Her Running Journey
03:32 Balancing Work, Running, and Meal Prep
06:13 Morning Running Routine and Organization
09:13 The Role of Caffeine in Running Performance
12:22 Exploring Alternative Energy Sources for Runners
15:17 Racing Strategies and Heart Rate Management
18:01 Mack's Transition from Bodybuilding to Running
21:06 The Unique Challenges of Marathon Training
24:31 Overcoming Analysis Paralysis in Racing Strategies
27:51 The Importance of Strategic Planning in Races
30:56 Building Consistency and Trust in Training
33:13 Creating a Community Through Track Workouts
39:20 Challenges in Organizing a Running Community
45:56 Fashion and Functionality in Running Gear
52:48 Choosing the Right Running Shoes
55:50 The Importance of Recovery and Training Strategies
59:52 Mental Challenges in Racing
01:02:49 Insights from Recent Races and Future Goals
01:17:31 Excitement for Upcoming Races
01:19:46 The Importance of Support Systems
01:24:21 Track Workouts and Personal Preferences
01:26:59 Recovery Tools and Techniques
01:28:22 Dream Races and Future Goals
01:30:41 Tips for First-Time Boston Qualifiers
01:39:05 Until next time

Follow Us:
IG: instagram.com/thepeoplerunpodcast/
YT: youtube.com/@ThePeopleRunPodcast
Music: instagram.com/mech__beats/

Follow Man:
IG: instagram.com/runwithmak/
Society Track Club: instagram.com/societytrackclub/

At just 26 years old, Ant DiAndrea has already completed 19+ ultras, including several 100 milers, and raised over $10,500 for orphans and inner city kids. But his story runs much deeper.

At age 10, Ant’s life was forever changed by tragedy. Instead of letting it define him, he chose to rebuild with purpose leaning on running, faith, and community. From the 48 hour “Dreadmill” challenge, to crewing with his wife at every race, to climbing stairs for 24 hours to support cancer patients in Philly, Ant embodies resilience, grit, and giving back, as he would put it the Philly way.

This is a powerful reminder that running is about more than finish lines it’s about the people, the purpose, and the impact we leave behind.

👉 Subscribe to The People Run Podcast for more real stories from everyday runners, and don’t forget to rate, review, and share this episode with a friend who needs some inspiration.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Ant DiAndrea
02:07 The 48-Hour Treadmill Challenge
05:24 Nutrition and Challenges During the Challenge
10:28 Motivation Behind the Fundraising
11:43 Ant's Personal Story and Background
15:10 The Philly Spirit and Community Involvement
18:49 Turning Adversity into Motivation
23:12 The Power of Reading and Personal Development
27:42 The Journey into Running and Ultras
29:46 Journey into Ultra Running
32:50 The Shift to Endurance Training
35:37 Nutrition and Weight Management
38:33 Strength Training and Coaching Philosophy
50:00 Coaching Principles and Recovery Strategies
55:45 Learning Through Experience
57:03 Blending Old and New Training Techniques
58:38 Lessons Learned from Ultra Running
01:03:49 The Importance of Support Systems
01:07:16 The Role of Family in Endurance Sports
01:15:10 Future Races and Goals

Follow:

IG: instagram.com/thepeoplerunpodcast/

YT: youtube.com/@ThePeopleRunPodcast

Music: instagram.com/mech__beats/

Ant DiAndrea:

Follow:

IG: instagram.com/ant_diandrea/

48 Hrs Dreadmill YT: youtube.com/watch?v=ljy8RkMaMxM

Support Ant’s fundraising here: https://secure.legacydonations.life/np/publicaccess/fundraisingShortcuts.do?name=DiAndreaPHL24&