In Episode 10 of At Your Own Pace, Mike sits down with Ana, one of the first Mexican women invited to run the Boston Marathon, who is a passionate runner and coach whose journey through the sport has been one of growth, belief, and transformation.

Ana shares how running became a space for self-discovery — from navigating new environments and unpredictable weather to facing the intense mental battles that come with marathon racing. She reflects on her first marathon experience, the emotions that come with pushing past limits, and the lessons that extend far beyond race day.

Together, we explore how running is as much about mental strength as physical endurance, why community support is essential, and how trusting yourself can change everything — both on the course and in life.

This episode is a reminder that progress matters more than perfection, belief is the first step toward achievement, and sometimes you don’t just show up to run — you show up to fly.

In this episode of At Your Own Pace, Mike sits down with Mike Bauer for an honest conversation about running as a lifestyle — not just a sport.

They dive into why consistency matters more than speed, how progress in running is rarely linear, and what it means to build mental resilience through both training and everyday life. Mike Bauer shares his personal journey balancing running with real-world responsibilities, setting realistic goals, and learning to embrace discomfort — on the run and beyond it.

This episode explores how running can support mental and emotional health, why community plays such a critical role in staying motivated, and how slowing down can actually lead to long-term success. At its core, this conversation is a reminder that every runner’s journey looks different — and that the process matters just as much as the destination.

In this episode of At Your Own Pace, Mike sits down with Ali Brettnacher for an honest, heartfelt conversation about what running looks like when you strip away pace, performance, and comparison — and focus instead on people, purpose, and connection.

Ali shares her journey from once hating running to fully embracing it as a source of community and meaning, shaped by family influence, life’s chaos, and a growing desire to show up for others. Together, Mike and Ali explore how running evolves from something that can feel like punishment into something deeply joyful when rooted in shared experiences, vulnerability, and support.

They talk openly about setbacks, injuries, and disappointment — and why being kind to yourself through those moments matters just as much as consistency and discipline. Ali also discusses the inspiration behind creating her Finish Lines and Milestones podcast, driven by a belief that every runner’s story is worth telling, not just the fastest or most visible ones.

A powerful part of the conversation centers on running for a cause, particularly Ali’s involvement with Ainsley’s Angels, and the transformative emotional impact of pushing athletes with disabilities. Mike and Ali reflect on how crossing a finish line alongside someone else can completely redefine what success means.

At its core, this episode is a reminder that running isn’t about pace or comparison — it’s about the connections you make, the stories you collect, and learning to honor your own journey. You belong in this space exactly as you are.