Set the Pace

Latest Episodes:

16 Sub-3-Hour Marathons and Counting: Trailblazer Shawanna White Keeps It Positive Feb 08, 2024

Show notes

We’re joined this week by Shawanna White, the 9th-fastest U.S.-born Black woman marathoner, who was the inspiration for “The List” maintained by Gary Corbitt and consisting of 31 Black American-born women who have run sub-3-hour marathons. Shawanna has run 16 sub-3-hour marathons, more than any other Black American-born woman, and was featured in the documentary Breaking Three Hours: Trailblazing African American Women Marathoners. Tune in to hear Shawanna talk about her running journey, from high school track sprinter to marathoner. She recalls a coach whose belief in her talent for longer distances changed her life and shares how programs like Black Girls Run can help bring women of all ages and abilities into distance running. Shawanna is also a K-8 PE teacher, and she hosts a Friday night dance party on Instagram. Find out what inspired her hashtags #keepitpositive and #sexypace.
LINKS:
Breaking Three Hours: Trailblazing African American Women Marathoners
Shawanna White on IG peachrunner26.2.
Black Unicorn Marathoners 10th Annual Celebrate & Connect Event
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Moving Up: Jenny Simpson Is Ready to Tackle 26.2 at the U.S. Olympic Trials Feb 01, 2024

Show notes

At age 37, Jenny Simpson has seemingly done it all in the world of distance running, having won world championships and Olympic medals at 1,500 meters and eight New Balance 5th Avenue Mile titles. This Saturday, February 3, she’ll take a big step up in distance when she runs her first marathon at the U.S. Olympic Trials in Orlando. In this episode, Simpson shares her origins in the sport—she started in elementary school in Oviedo, FL, just down the road from Orlando—and her nearly 30-year journey to its highest levels. She talks about the many supporters she’s had along the way, from P.E. teachers to coaches to her husband, Jason, who’s also an elite athlete, breaks down the training adjustments she’s made in preparation for taking on 26.2, and reflects on whether she’ll have a home field advantage this weekend. Whether you’ll be watching the Trials race or not, you’ll love this fascinating conversation with one of the best athletes competing today.
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DISCLAIMER

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Beyond the Binary: NYRR's Evolution in Gender-Inclusive Running Jan 30, 2024

Show notes

In a special episode of Set the Pace, NYRR CEO Rob Simmelkjaer welcomes Lauren Lubin April, Founder of April Haus, Inc. and NYRR Advisor, and Christine Burke, NYRR Senior Vice President of Strategic Partnerships and Runner Products, to help unravel the complexities of creating a non-binary division for NYRR events, including the TCS New York City Marathon. Dive into the strategic decisions, including prize money alignments and policy adaptations, that NYRR made to ensure an inclusive and fair environment for all athletes. The conversation extends beyond running, shedding light on broader initiatives promoting diversity, equity, and social responsibility. This episode is a compelling exploration of progress and transformation, offering a fresh perspective on the evolving landscape of sports.
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SUPPORT: Support the Set the Pace podcast! If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.
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"Put an "S" on My Chest: How Running Became Peloton Instructor Rad Lopez's Superpower " Jan 25, 2024

Show notes

This week Rob is joined by Becs Gentry as co-host to speak with her fellow Peloton Instructor Rad Lopez about his fitness journey and how running has become his superpower. The bilingual boxing instructor is a native of the Bronx, who was raised by a single mom in a vibrant Dominican household. He talks about how he fell in love with boxing as a kid at family gatherings and how through sport, he’s able to channel hiscompetitive energy. Find out what motivated him to start running in the first place and what his fitness goals are for 2024 and beyond. Maybe there’s even an Abbott World Marathon Majors six-star medal in his future?
**In our description of Run For The Future, we use the words “young women” broadly to include cisgender, transgender, nonbinary, gender non-conforming, those currently exploring their gender identity, and anyone who identifies as a young woman.
Episode Links:
Team For Kids
Run For The Future
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SUPPORT: Support the Set the Pace podcast! If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.
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Running towards a cure for childhood cancer: Jay Scott and Alex’s Lemonade Stand Jan 18, 2024

Show notes

This week we’re joined by Jay Scott, co-executive director of Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation, a nonprofit he and his wife started in 2005 with a mission to change the lives of children with cancer. Their daughter, Alex Scott, was diagnosed with neuroblastoma, a terminal form of childhood cancer, just before her first birthday. When she was four, she set up a lemonade stand to raise money to help doctors find a cure for childhood cancer. In 2004, when Alex passed away at the age of eight, her stand and the inspiration from it had raised more than $1,000,000 toward finding a cure. Jay talks to us about what keeps him motivated to run marathons and raise money as part of Team Lemon. We also hear from a runner who was on the research team that helped find a cure some kids suffering from neuroblastoma who also ran for Team Lemon.
Episode Links:
How to Stay Active in the Off-Season
Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation
NYRR Charity Partners - NYRR.org/runforcharity
SPONSORS: You can make an impact in the fight against childhood cancer by joining Team Lemon, Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation's charity running program. With charity bib options in the TCS NYC Marathon and the Chicago marathon, or the option to bring your own bib to any race, you can make a difference by raising awareness and much needed funds for research. To join Team Lemon or learn more visit teamlemon.org
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SUPPORT: Support the Set the Pace podcast! If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.
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See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Beyond the Forecast: Ginger Zee's Running Aspirations Jan 11, 2024

Show notes

Explore the personal side of Ginger Zee as she shares her journey into the world of running. We delve into her training routines, the excitement of the United Airlines New York City Half Marathon, and the unexpected joys and challenges of taking on such a monumental race. Get ready for an inspiring glimpse into the mindset of a seasoned meteorologist and running enthusiast.
TRIGGER WARNING: This podcast episode contains sensitive content, including discussions relating to suicide, mental health, and abuse, topics that may be distressing or triggering for some listeners. If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of self-harm or suicide, please seek help from a mental health professional, text the Crisis Text Line at 741741, or call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988.
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SUPPORT: Support the Set the Pace podcast! If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.
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See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Stride into 2024: Our Running Resolutions and Member Spotlight Debut! Jan 04, 2024

Show notes

Gear up for an energizing start to the new year as we kick off 2024 with reflections, resolutions, and a dash of community celebration. Join Rob and Meb as they share their most cherished running moments from 2023, offering a peek into the personal journeys that fueled their passion for the sport. But that's not all – be the first to experience our exciting new segment, "Member of the Week," where we shine the spotlight on a remarkable individual from the New York Road Runners community. Get ready for inspiration, laughter, and a roadmap to an unforgettable year of running ahead!
SPONSORS: Go the extra mile with the Peloton Tread+ this season, now a $1000 off until January 9th. The cushioned slat belt feels like walking, running, and hiking on clouds. No joke. Whether you're training for your next race or looking for the best way to bring your workouts indoors this winter, the Peloton Tread+ will get you moving toward your next goal. Pre-order the Peloton Tread+ today at onepeloton.com. Terms Apply.
FOLLOW NYRR: Instagram | Facebook | X | TikTok
SUPPORT: Support the Set the Pace podcast! If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.
DISCLAIMER

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Reflecting on the Run: Your Questions and Best Moments of 2023 Dec 28, 2023

Show notes

Join us in this special end-of-the-year episode as we take a stroll down memory lane, reminiscing about the highs and lows of the past running year. We dive into the intriguing questions posed by our dedicated audience, exploring topics that matter most to runners like you. But that's not all – get ready for an inspiring journey as we share and celebrate YOUR favorite running moments of 2023. From personal achievements to unexpected triumphs, this episode is a heartwarming testament to the incredible running community we've built together. Tune in for a dose of motivation, camaraderie, and the shared joy that makes every stride memorable.
SPONSORS: New Balance released the Fresh Foam x 1080v13 with a new outsole design to increase forefoot stiffness and enhanced the rocker profile for the smoothest transition ever. You can benefit from their innovation by getting yourself a pair which uses a new Fresh Foam X compound. I’ve noticed an increased energy return, with more cushion and less weight making my long runs more comfortable. Comfort aside I also love the look and how versatile this shoe is, check out the 1080v13 at newbalance.com.
Go the extra mile with the Peloton Tread+ this season, now a $1000 off until January 9th. The cushioned slat belt feels like walking, running, and hiking on clouds. No joke. Whether you're training for your next race or looking for the best way to bring your workouts indoors this winter, the Peloton Tread+ will get you moving toward your next goal. Pre-order the Peloton Tread+ today at onepeloton.com. Terms Apply.
FOLLOW NYRR: Instagram | Facebook | X | TikTok
SUPPORT: Support the Set the Pace podcast! If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.
The content of the podcast is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to serve as medical or professional advice. You should consult your physician or other health care professional before starting any fitness program, particularly if you are pregnant, you have a chronic condition, or if you or your family have a history of heart disease or high blood pressure or have ever experienced chest pain.
DISCLAIMER

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Striding Towards Lasting Health: Cindy Kuzma Unveils the Running vs. Walking Debate Dec 21, 2023

Show notes

In this episode we sit down with the brilliant health journalist and seasoned marathoner, Cindy Kuzma. Together, we unravel the insights from Cindy's recent New York Times article, "Running vs. Walking: Which Is Better for Lasting Health?" Dive deep into the discourse surrounding this age-old debate and discover the surprising truths about the impact of running and walking on your overall well-being. Gain exclusive behind-the-scenes perspectives from Cindy herself and explore the science-backed benefits that can transform your fitness journey. Don't miss this exclusive conversation that promises to reshape your understanding of the age-old question: to run or to walk for lasting health?
SPONSORS: New Balance released the Fresh Foam x 1080v13 with a new outsole design to increase forefoot stiffness and enhanced the rocker profile for the smoothest transition ever. You can benefit from their innovation by getting yourself a pair which uses a new Fresh Foam X compound. I’ve noticed an increased energy return, with more cushion and less weight making my long runs more comfortable. Comfort aside I also love the look and how versatile this shoe is, check out the 1080v13 at newbalance.com.
Runners, get ready to go the extra mile on the Peloton Tread with walking, running, hiking, bootcamp classes, and more. Whether you want cardio or strength training, Peloton Tread will get you moving toward your next goal. Now up to $500 off Peloton purchases. Shop Peloton Tread today at onepeloton.com.
FOLLOW NYRR: Instagram | Facebook | X | TikTok
SUPPORT: Support the Set the Pace podcast! If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.
The content of the podcast is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to serve as medical or professional advice. You should consult your physician or other health care professional before starting any fitness program, particularly if you are pregnant, you have a chronic condition, or if you or your family have a history of heart disease or high blood pressure or have ever experienced chest pain.
DISCLAIMER

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Finding Joy in Every Mile: A Chat with Becs Gentry Dec 14, 2023

Show notes

Lace up your running shoes and tune in for an uplifting conversation with Peloton's Becs Gentry. Discover how Becs turned her passion for running into a fulfilling career that extends beyond the treadmill. From her humble beginnings as a self-proclaimed running commentator to joining the elite broadcast team at the New York City Marathon, Becs shares the highs, the hurdles, and the genuine moments that have defined her journey. Whether you're a seasoned marathoner or just starting your fitness adventure, Becs's story will inspire you to find joy in every mile.
SPONSORS: New Balance released the Fresh Foam x 1080v13 with a new outsole design to increase forefoot stiffness and enhanced the rocker profile for the smoothest transition ever. You can benefit from their innovation by getting yourself a pair which uses a new Fresh Foam X compound. I’ve noticed an increased energy return, with more cushion and less weight making my long runs more comfortable. Comfort aside I also love the look and how versatile this shoe is, check out the 1080v13 at newbalance.com.
Go the extra mile with the Peloton Tread+ this season, now $1000 off for a limited time. The cushioned slat belt feels like walking, running, and hiking on clouds. No joke. Whether you're training for your next race or looking for the best way to bring your workouts indoors this winter, the Peloton Tread+ will get you moving toward your next goal. Pre-order the Peloton Tread+ today at onepeloton.com. Terms Apply.
FOLLOW NYRR: Instagram | Facebook | X | TikTok
SUPPORT: Support the Set the Pace podcast! If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.
DISCLAIMER

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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