In this episode of The Runner Dudes Podcast, Michael and Dusty welcome their first guest of Season 2, Elizabeth Temple, a runner whose story powerfully captures why so many people lace up—not just for fitness, but for survival, healing, and purpose.

Elizabeth shares her journey into running, from casual miles and Spartan races to marathon training, run clubs, and qualifying dreams. What starts as a conversation about pace and training quickly opens into deeper territory: mental health, divorce, sobriety-adjacent habits, discipline, faith, and the way running can pull you back from some very dark places.

The group talks honestly about compulsive training, learning to slow down, injury scares, and the challenge of finding balance when running becomes your anchor. Elizabeth also opens up about building community through the Crossville running scene, what it’s like to run as a woman, and why accountability—both personal and communal—matters more than perfect splits.

This episode is raw, funny, encouraging, and deeply human. Whether you’re chasing a PR, rebuilding your life one mile at a time, or just curious why runners keep showing up, Elizabeth’s story will remind you that running isn’t just about moving your body—it’s about becoming who you’re meant to be.

Express Footwear

The Exceptional Bean

The Runner Dude Coaching + Consulting

Sight + Sound Creative

Season two is officially here—and the Runner Dudes are back together to kick things off with an honest, encouraging conversation about New Year’s resolutions, quitting, and what real growth actually looks like.

In this episode, Michael, Dusty, and Jimmy dig into why so many well-intentioned goals fizzle out by mid-January, unpacking the idea behind “National Quitters Day” and why failure isn’t the enemy we think it is. They talk candidly about motivation vs. discipline, the pressure to go “all in” too fast, and how unrealistic expectations often derail otherwise good intentions—especially when it comes to fitness, running, and mental health.

The guys share personal stories from sobriety, injury, running, and life, emphasizing that meaningful change rarely happens overnight. Instead, it’s built through small, intentional steps—sometimes starting with something as simple as a walk. Along the way, they explore themes of purpose, accountability, community, and learning to be flexible instead of perfect.

This conversation is for anyone who’s ever felt stuck, overwhelmed, or discouraged by starting (or restarting) a health journey. Whether you’re a runner, walker, or just running-curious, this episode is a reminder that progress beats perfection—and that you’re not behind.

Season two starts right here. Lace up. Let’s go.

Express Footwear

The Exceptional Bean

The Runner Dude Coaching + Consulting

Sight + Sound Creative

In this special episode of The Runner Dudes Podcast, Michael and Dusty turn the microphones toward the people who make their running lives possible—their wives. Joined by Cigi England and Mandy Smith, the conversation pulls back the curtain on what it’s really like to support a runner through early mornings, long training blocks, emotional highs and lows, and the unseen sacrifices that happen behind the scenes.

Cigi and Mandy share honest, often hilarious stories about marriage, military life, mental health, entrepreneurship, and what it means to show up for someone when running isn’t just a hobby—it’s a lifeline. From deployments and PTSD to sobriety, failed marriages, and second chances, this episode highlights how consistency, communication, and support can shape both personal growth and strong relationships.

Whether you’re a runner, a spouse, or someone trying to understand why running matters so much to the people you love, this episode celebrates partnership, patience, and the power of showing up together.

Express Footwear

The Exceptional Bean

The Runner Dude Coaching + Consulting

Sight + Sound Creative

Cigi's Boutique

In this episode of The Runner Dudes Podcast, Michael and Dusty sit down with Ayessa Holbrook for a warm, honest, and often funny conversation about stepping outside your comfort zone and discovering who you’re becoming along the way. Ayessa shares her journey from the Philippines to Tennessee, her love for theatre, and how a simple “nice day” run turned into a life-changing habit.

She opens up about insecurities—like her accent slipping out—and the culture shock of moving across the world, yet also celebrates the confidence and community she’s found at The Exceptional Bean. With encouragement (and a little pressure) from Michael, she went from running a mile to toeing the line at the Turkey Trot and eventually conquering the Haunted Half—panic attacks, self-doubt, and all.

The conversation highlights how running has strengthened her mental health, grounded her spiritually, and helped her rediscover joy and discipline. Whether you're new to running, returning after a long break, or looking for a spark of encouragement, Ayessa’s story is a reminder that growth begins with simply showing up.

*REUPLOAD*

Express Footwear

The Exceptional Bean

The Runner Dude Coaching + Consulting

Sight + Sound Creative

In this episode of The Runner Dudes, hosts Micheal and Dusty—alongside producer Jimmy—welcome special guest Tammie Wright, founder of the Red Silo Runners Club. Tammie shares her journey from reluctant runner to community-builder, explaining how her passion for running grew into creating one of Cookeville’s most inclusive and welcoming run clubs. From her personal story of finding connection through the sport, to the origins of Red Silo Runners at a local brewery, she highlights the club’s focus on camaraderie, accessibility for all paces, and the joy of running for health and friendship. The conversation dives into running culture, safety, the social side of the sport, and how Red Silo Runners continues to grow as a hub for both seasoned athletes and those just lacing up for the first time.

Express Footwear

The Runner Dude Coaching + Consulting

Sight + Sound Creative

In this episode of The Runner Dudes Podcast, hosts Micheal and Dusty welcome back guest Dusty Rawls for a candid and motivating conversation on running, discipline, and overcoming mental barriers. Dusty shares his personal journey from completing a marathon on a zero-carb plan to rediscovering the joy of running after setbacks and injuries. The discussion dives into the importance of consistency over motivation, the pros and cons of solo vs. group runs, and how to overcome self-consciousness about body image. Packed with humor, practical tips, and inspiration, this episode reminds listeners that running—and fitness as a whole—is about progress, health, and joy, not perfection.

Rising Above Dads Podcast

Express Footwear

The Runner Dude Coaching + Consulting

Sight + Sound Creative

In this special anniversary episode of The Runner Dudes Podcast, Micheal, Dusty, and producer Jimmy celebrate one year of inspiring runners, walkers, and the running-curious to take that first step toward physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. The trio reflects on their favorite moments, the growth they’ve experienced, and the powerful role running plays in overcoming challenges—from mental health struggles to major life transitions. With heartfelt stories, honest conversation, and plenty of laughs, this episode is a reminder that small, consistent steps can lead to life-changing transformation.

press Footwear

The Runner Dude Coaching + Consulting

Sight + Sound Creative

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

Express Footwear

The Runner Dude Coaching + Consulting

Sight + Sound Creative