In this episode of The Runner Dudes, Micheal, Dusty, and producer Jimmy welcome guest Dustin Rawls for a candid, often hilarious, and deeply encouraging conversation about breaking stereotypes in running. From battling extreme summer heat to confronting body image pressures, Dustin shares his journey as a larger-framed runner, his “on-again, off-again” relationship with the sport, and how walking can be the best place to start. The crew dives into comparisons, the dangers of toxic running culture, and the importance of going slow, staying consistent, and finding your place in an inclusive running community. Along the way, Dustin opens up about life in Cookeville, his work with the Rising Above Dads podcast for fathers of children with special needs, and why every runner—no matter size, speed, or season—belongs on the road.

Rising Above Dads Podcast

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The Runner Dude Coaching + Consulting

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In this episode, Micheal and Dusty dive deep into the challenge of rediscovering your "why" when motivation runs dry. With honesty and humor, they explore burnout, discipline vs. motivation, mental health, rest, and the importance of starting slow—whether you’re new to running or returning after a break. They reflect on personal journeys through sobriety, PTSD, and identity, emphasizing the power of community, self-care, and grace. If you've lost your spark or are afraid to take the first step, this conversation offers both insight and encouragement to keep moving forward—one honest step at a time.

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The Runner Dude Coaching + Consulting

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In this heartfelt and honest episode, hosts Micheal and Dusty—along with producer Jimmy—dive deep into the spiritual side of running. Through stories of recovery, faith, and failure, they explore how running can be a powerful tool for mindfulness, healing, and self-discovery. From personal journeys through addiction and doubt to rediscovering faith and freedom on the run, the trio shares how movement connects to meaning. Whether you're a runner, walker, or spiritually curious, this episode reminds us that we're all running a race—and it's about more than just the miles.

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The Runner Dude Coaching + Consulting

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In this comeback episode of The Runner Dudes Podcast, Michael and Dusty fly solo—joined by producer Jimmy—to reconnect with listeners and reflect on the physical, mental, and spiritual aspects of running. With humor and heart, they explore summer running struggles, the importance of slowing down, the ego traps of both new and experienced runners, and how simplifying life—including your training—can bring freedom. They emphasize the value of walking, cross-training, and listening to your body. This laid-back, encouraging episode is a reminder that consistency, community, and compassion are the real keys to the runner’s journey.

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The Runner Dude Coaching + Consulting

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In this heartfelt and humorous episode of The Runner Dudes Podcast, hosts Michael and Dusty sit down with Caitlin Robbins—avid runner, business owner, and mom—to talk about her journey from online PE and volleyball to marathons and coaching. Caitlin opens up about the vanity-driven start to her fitness journey, the reality of balancing motherhood, entrepreneurship, and training, and the unexpected role she played in inspiring the very beginnings of Runner Dudes Coaching. The trio dives into running through injury, the importance of safety—especially for women runners—and the magic of finding consistency and joy in the miles. With laughs, wisdom, and encouragement, this episode is a celebration of running as a path to physical and mental resilience.

Ansley and James Hair Company

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The Runner Dude Coaching + Consulting

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In this heartfelt and humorous episode of The Runner Dudes, Michael and Dusty welcome local running standout Alison Mason to the Willow Window Studio. Alison shares her journey from high school track to marathon victories, all while balancing motherhood and life on the farm. She opens up about the healing power of running after the loss of her son and the role it plays in her mental and spiritual wellness. The crew also discusses women’s safety in running, parenting young athletes, training regrets, and funny race day memories. It’s an inspiring conversation full of laughs, honest moments, and deep love for the running community.

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The Runner Dude Coaching + Consulting

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Join "The Runner Dudes," Micheal and Dusty, as they chat with Andy Keel, National Sales Manager for Tennessee-based Swiftwick Socks. The episode explores the often-humorous evolution of running gear, with Andy sharing his own impressive running journey from college walk-on to marathon winner and his career in athletic apparel. Discover the story behind Swiftwick, the importance of high-performance socks, and insights into their locally made products, all delivered with the Dudes' signature blend of information, inspiration, and entertainment.

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The Runner Dude Coaching + Consulting

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Swiftwick Socks

This week, Michael and Dusty are hanging out with Jeff and Chad from El Puente, a wonderful organization in town that's all about making the local Hispanic community feel right at home. They're chatting about El Puente's mission to be welcoming and inclusive, and how we can all do our part to make everyone feel like they belong. Plus, they're pumped about the upcoming "Great Chase Race" 5K – it's a fun run to raise money for El Puente, and they're inviting everyone to come out and join the party. They're dropping some real talk about how awesome the Hispanic community is, and how a little kindness goes a long way. Basically, it's a feel-good episode about community, running, and doing some good!

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The Runner Dude Coaching + Consulting

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El Puente