Ep 193 From Starting Line to Executive Suite: Leadership Lessons from the Running Trail
In this episode of the Rise and Run podcast, we explored the fascinating relationship between running marathons and professional leadership.
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Rise and Run Podcast
Running at Walt Disney World and Beyond
Podcast episodes
Ep 192 Vella Shpringa with Bird in Hand Race Director Lowell Ladd
Ever wonder what it takes to create a race experience with Amish Country charm? Lowell Ladd reveals the secrets behind the Bird in Hand Half Marathon – from camels on course to handcrafted horseshoe medals. Listen to learn why this race feels like “Run Disney North.”
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Ep 191 “So Here’s the Thing…” The Pelkey Running Club Story
“From reluctant runner to club namesake—John Pelkey never imagined his name would travel to all 7 continents on running gear. Discover how a spontaneous joke turned into a worldwide running community that raises money for charity with every hat sold.”
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Ep 190 Going Ballistic With Award-Winning Journalist Henry Abbott
“Fatigue is an emotion, not a physical limit.” Henry Abbott shares how our brains, not bodies, often set our boundaries. His book Ballistic reveals the new science of injury-free performance that could transform your running journey. Hear the full interview on our latest episode!
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Ep 189 Deep Dish or Thin Crust: Vern Runs on Pizza
Ever wondered who’s behind those viral runDisney costume interviews? Meet Vern (@runs.on.pizza), the unofficial sideline reporter capturing the creativity and joy of Disney runners. Her journey from nervous first-timer to community icon is pure inspiration!
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Ep 188 Dr. Michelle Quirk – Coach and Host of the Mindful Marathon
“You’re not a real runner unless you don’t walk.” False! Dr. Michelle Quirk shares why walk breaks are smart training & how to balance getting faster with proper recovery. Listen to her expert advice on Rise and Run podcast! #RunDisney #Running #MindfulMarathon
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Ep 187 The Disneyland Hiatus and the Flying Fenglers
What happens when two running champions who’ve won 45+ races together tackle their first runDisney event? They make history! Meet the Fenglers, who dominated the Springtime Surprise 10-Miler while still stopping for character photos. Their story will inspire you to lace up!
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Ep 186 2025 runDisney Springtime Surprise Weekend Recap
Fire alarms at 12:01 AM, Groot costumes that don’t fit in porta-potties, and Brooks shoes —the untold tales of runDisney’s Springtime Surprise Weekend. Sometimes the best race memories happen before you even cross the starting line! #RunDisney #SpringtimeSurprise
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Ep 185 Listener Questions: Rise and Run Host Edition
Ever wonder what your favorite Run Disney podcast hosts think about their Disney experiences? In episode 185, we answer YOUR questions about our running journeys, favorite characters, and biggest race mistakes. #RiseAndRun #RunDisney
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Ep 184 The Culinary Crown Showdown: Who Takes Home The Golden Whip?
“You show up for the running, but you stay because of the people.” Our interview with the CT 169 runners reveals how a simple goal created lifelong connections. Plus, we crown our Disney restaurant champion! Which eatery took the title? Listen to find out.
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