The Keep Smiling Podcast

#97 The Transformative Power of Running: Celebrating Progress, Finding Balance & Building a Community

Lara Rebecca Season 10 Episode 18

Today we’re joined by Sam, a friend and enthusiastic runner. 


Once overweight and unhappy, he turned his life around through sustainable lifestyle changes, discovering the joy of running. Now, he’s not only achieved an incredible physical transformation, hitting personal bests and smashing records, but also a profound psychological shift. 


So today, we dive into all things running - our personal journeys, insights, goals, ambitions, advice, and memorable race experiences.


We talk of the community essence of running. How it’s about embedding yourself in a group of like-minded people who share your passions and values. It’s an opportunity to build friendships, find your people, and nourish your true self. When you surround yourself with a community that aligns with your principles, life feels more fulfilling, more authentic


We’ll also touch on the challenges many runners face, like getting caught up in the numbers — comparing paces, focusing on race results, and feeling the weight of expectations. But rather than fixating on the statistics, we need to take a step back and recognize how far we’ve come, the barriers we’ve overcome, and practise a little more self-compassion. Of course, it’s great to have challenges, to set goals, and to push ourselves, but running is about so much more than hitting personal bests. It’s about being present in the experience, soaking up the atmosphere, and smiling through the process

@globerunnergriff