Inspired Soles

307. Lindsey Hein | On Running, Motherhood, Rejection & “Doing It All”

Got feedback about this episode? Send Carolyn a text In this episode, I’m chatting with Lindsey Hein, host of I’ll Have Another Podcast and founder of SandyBoy Productions, about the wonderfully chaotic reality of balancing running, motherhood, work, and all the other things that fill a life. We talk about how Lindsey manages four kids, three podcasts, coaching, race announcing and more, including her approach to “free-range parenting” and the question of when kids are ready for a phone. She recaps her recent Around the Crown 10K with her two oldest boys, opens up about a tough “no” from the Indy Monumental Marathon, and shares the very random story behind her connection to the Holderness Family. We also talk about injury, identity, rejection, and the importance of being willing to show up as your real, imperfect, wonderfully human self. SPONSOR: SEND IT - Greeting cards designed for those who sweat Use code INSPIREDSOLES at senditcards.com to claim 15% off your purchase - no minimum required. Follow Send It on Instagram: @senditgreetingcards Listen to Send It founder, Sarah Beairsto, on episode 267 of Inspired Soles Resources we talked about in the interview: The Holderness Family Weighted Vest video Road to the Trials interview with JaQuavious Harris Connect with Lindsey: Instagram: @lindseyhein626 Podcasts: I'll Have Another, Relay, Road to the Trials SandyBoy Productions Network Connect with Carolyn: Instagram: @inspiredsolescast or @carolyn.c.coffin You can help spread the running love! The best way to SUPPORT Inspired Soles is to share your favourite episode(s) with friends, subscribe, or leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Connect on Instagram @inspiredsolescast or email guest ideas to inspiredsolescast@gmail.com.

• Transcript

306. Jeff Cunningham | Slay the Dragons & Run Strong in the Final 10K of Your Marathon (re-run)

Got feedback about this episode? Send Carolyn a text Pacing a marathon is simple in theory but brutally hard in practice. Go out too fast, and the fire-breathing dragons will find you in the final 10K. Go out too cautiously, and you’ll spend the last miles wondering if you left time on the table. In this episode (originally aired September 16, 2025, episode 256), I’m joined by Jeff Cunningham — a lifelong runner, NCAA Academic All-American, and coach of countless Boston Marathon qualifiers and multiple U.S. Olympic Trials qualifiers. Jeff has a gift for blending humor with hard truths, and today he breaks down why pacing is the most important (and most misunderstood) part of the marathon. We discuss: Why you can undo 16 weeks of training in the first 45 minutes of the race How to build trust in your fitness so you don’t panic early The psychology of pacing and emotional momentum Why finishing strong is far better than blowing up Jeff’s signature advice on patience, perspective, and keeping the long view If you’re running a fall marathon, this conversation will fire you up and give you the tools to run your smartest race yet. SPONSOR: DIG DEEP ENDURANCE FUEL. Smarter fuel. Lighter impact. Use code INSPIRED10 at checkout to save 10% on your online order at digdeepef.com. Connect with Jeff: Instagram: @jdcunningham97 @theconsistentlygoodpodcast @cunninghamrunning The Consistently Good Podcast Cunningham Running Resources & Related Episodes: Jeff on Relay with Peter Bromka: Beware of the Dragons Inspired Soles Episode with Polly (Jeff’s Canadian elite athlete) Connect with Carolyn: Instagram: @inspiredsolescast or @carolyn.c.coffin You can help spread the running love! The best way to SUPPORT Inspired Soles is to share your favourite episode(s) with friends, subscribe, or leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Connect on Instagram @inspiredsolescast or email guest ideas to inspiredsolescast@gmail.com.

305. Jadyn Keeler | Canadian Half Marathon Champ Chases National Record in Copenhagen

Got feedback about this episode? Send Carolyn a text At just 23 years old. Jadyn Keeler is quickly establishing herself as one of the most exciting young distance runners in Canada. Fresh off her graduation from the University of North Dakota, Jadyn has moved to Flagstaff, joined Golden Peaks Track Club under coaches Terrence Mahon and Jen Rhines, signed a professional contract with Adidas, and earned a spot on Team Canada for the World Road Running Championships in Copenhagen. In this episode, we talk about her remarkable half marathon debut in Edmonton, where a course-measuring error added roughly 700 metres to the race just as she was on pace to challenge the Canadian record; what it’s like to receive the backing of Canadian running stars like Natasha Wodak and Rory Linkletter; her transition from NCAA athlete to professional runner; and what she believes she can accomplish in Copenhagen. Plus, we dig into the confidence that comes from knowing you’ve put in the work—and why there may be some very exciting things ahead for this rising Canadian star. SPONSOR: SEND IT - Greeting cards designed for those who sweat Use code INSPIREDSOLES at senditcards.com to claim 15% off your purchase - no minimum required. Follow Send It on Instagram: @senditgreetingcards Listen to Send It founder, Sarah Beairsto, on episode 267 of Inspired Soles Connect with Jadyn: Instagram: @jadynkeeler YouTube Channel: @jadynkeeler Connect with Carolyn: Instagram: @inspiredsolescast or @carolyn.c.coffin You can help spread the running love! The best way to SUPPORT Inspired Soles is to share your favourite episode(s) with friends, subscribe, or leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Connect on Instagram @inspiredsolescast or email guest ideas to inspiredsolescast@gmail.com.

304. Dr. Shawna Darou, ND | Is It Really Perimenopause? A Deep Dive Into Carolyn’s Symptoms & Bloodwork

Got feedback about this episode? Send Carolyn a text In this episode, I’m joined by naturopathic doctor, metabolic health expert, and seriously fast masters runner Dr. Shawna Darou for a conversation that takes us from the marathon to the 800m—and then gets surprisingly personal. At 54, Shawna has traded long-distance racing for the track and recently ran an incredible 2:30 for 800m, with a potential Canadian 55–59 age-group record on the horizon. We also dive deep into my own experience with perimenopausal symptoms, bloodwork and changes in my running and body, as Shawna helps me explore whether everything I’ve been experiencing really can be chalked up to changing hormones. We talk about metabolic health, insulin resistance, continuous glucose monitors, DEXA scans, hormone replacement therapy, protein, fibre, carbohydrates and carbohydrate timing, strength and cardiovascular exercise, and why “normal” isn’t necessarily optimal—for women in midlife or for any athlete looking to stay healthy, strong and competitive as they age. SPONSOR: DIG DEEP ENDURANCE FUEL. Use code INSPIRED10 at checkout to save 10% on your online order at digdeepef.com. Register for TRACKTASTIC 🌈: https://mraweb.ca/event/tracktastic/ Connect with Dr. Shawna Darou: Instagram: @drshawnadarou Website: drshawnadarou.com Podcast: Unstoppable At Any Age Apple Spotify Carolyn's Episode: Why Running Is Never Just About Running Connect with Carolyn: Instagram: @inspiredsolescast or @carolyn.c.coffin You can help spread the running love! The best way to SUPPORT Inspired Soles is to share your favourite episode(s) with friends, subscribe, or leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Connect on Instagram @inspiredsolescast or email guest ideas to inspiredsolescast@gmail.com.

303. Elliott Cooke, BSc, MPT | Tracktastic: Why Every Road & Trail Runner Should Try the Track

Got feedback about this episode? Send Carolyn a text What if getting on the track could make you a better–and happier–road or trail runner? In this episode, I sit down with physiotherapist, runner, dad, and owner of Up & Running Physiotherapy, Elliott Cooke, to talk about the many benefits of incorporating track running and speed work into your training, why track doesn’t have to be intimidating, and how stepping outside your usual running routine can make you stronger and more confident. We also talk about Tracktastic, Winnipeg’s fun and slightly silly introductory track meet, which Elliott has participated in and supported as a sponsor for several years. Whether you’re a seasoned speedster, a road runner who hasn’t touched a track in years, or someone who’s never stepped foot on one, there’s plenty here to inspire you to give it a try! SPONSOR: goodr sunglasses. Ready to upgrade your eyewear to something functional, fashionable, fun, and affordable? Head to goodr.com/INSPIRED to claim $10 off your first order. Register for TRACKTASTIC 🌈: https://mraweb.ca/event/tracktastic/ Connect with Elliott: Website: https://upwpg.com/ Instagram: @upandrunningphysio Connect with Carolyn: Instagram: @inspiredsolescast or @carolyn.c.coffin You can help spread the running love! The best way to SUPPORT Inspired Soles is to share your favourite episode(s) with friends, subscribe, or leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Connect on Instagram @inspiredsolescast or email guest ideas to inspiredsolescast@gmail.com.

302. Johnny Coffin | How a 2:36 Marathoner Got Fast Without Skipping Steps

Got feedback about this episode? Send Carolyn a text How did Johnny Coffin get so fast? That’s the question my husband—and unofficial Inspired Soles co-host—gets asked all the time, so in this episode, we’re finally digging into the story behind the speed. Johnny recently celebrated his 45th birthday and is currently in the best shape of his life, having run PRs at the 5K, 10K, 10-mile, half marathon, and marathon (2:36:39!) over the past year. But his journey to becoming a 2:36 marathoner was anything but overnight. We talk about his injury-plagued early years, the decade he spent focused primarily on getting faster at the 5K, his gradual transition to the marathon, and the training, fueling, recovery, strength, and patience that have allowed him to continue improving without major injury. Along the way, we weave in five principles of effective run training—and unpack why sometimes the best way to get faster is to slow down. SPONSOR: DIG DEEP ENDURANCE FUEL. Use code INSPIRED10 at checkout to save 10% on your online order at digdeepef.com. Register for TRACKTASTIC 🌈: https://mraweb.ca/event/tracktastic/ Connect with Johnny: Instagram: @bestjohnnyever Connect with Carolyn: Instagram: @inspiredsolescast or @carolyn.c.coffin You can help spread the running love! The best way to SUPPORT Inspired Soles is to share your favourite episode(s) with friends, subscribe, or leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Connect on Instagram @inspiredsolescast or email guest ideas to inspiredsolescast@gmail.com.

301. Peter Bromka | Running Nerds Unite: Boston, Josh Kerr, Sub-2 & More

Got feedback about this episode? Send Carolyn a text If you love running beyond just the act of putting one foot in front of the other, this episode is for you. Peter Bromka joins me for a deep dive into the running nerd weeds as we talk about the current state of the sport, from the Boston Marathon's evolving qualifying process and Josh Kerr's mile world record, to two men breaking the two-hour marathon barrier, the future of track & field, and why the 1500m deserves its own Netflix documentary. We also talk about Peter's own journey—from running 2:19 marathons and narrowly missing an Olympic Trials qualifier, to finding his competitive fire again as a masters runner returning from injury. Expect big-picture conversations, plenty of running rabbit holes, and a whole lot of appreciation for this sport we love. SPONSOR: goodr sunglasses. Ready to upgrade your eyewear to something functional, fashionable, fun, and affordable? Head to goodr.com/INSPIRED to claim $10 off your first order. Connect with Peter: Instagram: @bromka Podcast: Road to the Trials & Relay Essays The Bubble of a Dream Burn the Boat The Marathon Doesn't Owe You Anything Connect with Carolyn: Instagram: @inspiredsolescast or @carolyn.c.coffin You can help spread the running love! The best way to SUPPORT Inspired Soles is to share your favourite episode(s) with friends, subscribe, or leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Connect on Instagram @inspiredsolescast or email guest ideas to inspiredsolescast@gmail.com.

300. Chasing 99 Minutes: Celebrating the Women of Project-99

Got feedback about this episode? Send Carolyn a text Episode 300 is unlike any other in the history of Inspired Soles. Instead of interviewing an Olympian or reflecting on six years of podcasting, Carolyn hands the microphone to the 15 women of Project-99—a group of everyday runners training together to break 1:40 in the half marathon at the Fort Garry Rotary Half Marathon this September. Through their own voices, they share why this goal matters, the doubts they're overcoming, and what they hope to discover along the way. This isn't the story of how Project-99 ends—it's the story of how it begins. Whether you're chasing a personal best, returning to running, or simply wondering what's still possible, this episode is a reminder that some of life's biggest breakthroughs happen when we dare to dream big... together. SPONSOR: DIG DEEP ENDURANCE FUEL. Use code INSPIRED10 at checkout to save 10% on your online order at digdeepef.com, or purchase in store at bigskyrun.com. Connect with Caroline Fisher of Big Sky Run Co: Instagram: @bigskyrunco Website: bigskyrun.com Connect with Carolyn: Instagram: @inspiredsolescast or @carolyn.c.coffin You can help spread the running love! The best way to SUPPORT Inspired Soles is to share your favourite episode(s) with friends, subscribe, or leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Connect on Instagram @inspiredsolescast or email guest ideas to inspiredsolescast@gmail.com.

299. Matthew Van Schepdael | Elite Speed, Marathon Dreams & Giving Back

Got feedback about this episode? Send Carolyn a text I'm joined by one of Manitoba's fastest runners and one of its biggest champions, Matt Van Schepdael. Just weeks away from defending his PhD in Microbiology and preparing for his marathon debut at the Toronto Waterfront Marathon, Matt shares his journey from university track standout to elite road racer. We talk about balancing high-performance sport with academics, the lessons he's learned from his best and toughest races, why giving back to the running community is so important to him, and what excites him most about tackling 42.2K for the very first time. Whether you're chasing a personal best or simply looking to find your place in the running community, I think you'll really enjoy this conversation. SPONSOR: goodr sunglasses. Ready to upgrade your eyewear to something functional, fashionable, fun, and affordable? Head to goodr.com/INSPIRED to claim $10 off your first order. Connect with Matt: Instagram: @mattvanschep Connect with Carolyn: Instagram: @inspiredsolescast or @carolyn.c.coffin You can help spread the running love! The best way to SUPPORT Inspired Soles is to share your favourite episode(s) with friends, subscribe, or leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Connect on Instagram @inspiredsolescast or email guest ideas to inspiredsolescast@gmail.com.

298. Michelle Baxter | Two Things Can Be True, People!

Got feedback about this episode? Send Carolyn a text Runner, coach, and content creator Michelle Baxter (@therunnersplate) has inspired thousands by sharing her journey to a sub-3 marathon and proving that some of our best running can come after 40. But this season has brought unexpected challenges—including a prolonged recovery after Boston and a race that fell well short of her expectations. In this conversation, Michelle and Carolyn explore the emotional complexity of running, the realities of chasing ambitious goals in your 40s, navigating changing bodies, people-pleasing, social media honesty, and why disappointment and gratitude can coexist. Because sometimes the most honest answer isn't either/or. It's both. SPONSOR: DIG DEEP ENDURANCE FUEL. Use code INSPIRED10 at checkout to save 10% on your online order at digdeepef.com. Connect with Michelle: Instagram: @therunnersplate Website: www.therunnersplate.com Connect with Carolyn: Instagram: @inspiredsolescast or @carolyn.c.coffin You can help spread the running love! The best way to SUPPORT Inspired Soles is to share your favourite episode(s) with friends, subscribe, or leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Connect on Instagram @inspiredsolescast or email guest ideas to inspiredsolescast@gmail.com.

297. Sasha Gollish | Hug Rugs, Half Marathons & Happy Hour

Got feedback about this episode? Send Carolyn a text One year after wondering if she'd ever race again, Sasha Gollish returned to the Manitoba Half Marathon and ran away with the win. But this episode is about so much more than the race. After spending an unforgettable weekend together in Winnipeg, Sasha and Carolyn relive the laughs, the adventures, the friendships, the race-day excitement, and the many little moments that made the weekend so special. It's a joyful conversation about community, gratitude, and the simple pleasure of getting to do what you love with people you love. SPONSOR: goodr sunglasses. Ready to upgrade your eyewear to something functional, fashionable, fun, and affordable? Head to goodr.com/INSPIRED to claim $10 off your first order. Connect with Sasha: Instagram: @sgollishruns Strong Girl Talk Podcast with Molly Hurford Unstoppable, Sasha's Strong Girl Publishing Mental Performance Journal If you want your copy signed, drop Sasha a DM on Instagram! Previous Inspired Soles episodes Ep 108: 3rd at Canadian Marathon Championships Ep 165: Perimenopause & the Competitive Athlete Ep 252: Navigating Running Transitions & the Power of Better Questions Connect with Carolyn: Instagram: @inspiredsolescast or @carolyn.c.coffin You can help spread the running love! The best way to SUPPORT Inspired Soles is to share your favourite episode(s) with friends, subscribe, or leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Connect on Instagram @inspiredsolescast or email guest ideas to inspiredsolescast@gmail.com.

296. Alison McPherson | Introducing Dig Deep Endurance Fuel, the First Dissolvable Carb Stick

Got feedback about this episode? Send Carolyn a text What if there was a better way to fuel endurance athletes? Alison McPherson is an accomplished marathoner, trail runner, running coach, and co-founder of Dig Deep Endurance Fuel. Just weeks after running 2:47 at the Ottawa Marathon and days removed from a 5th-place finish at the Manitoba Marathon, Ali joins me to share the story behind the world's first dissolvable carbohydrate stick. Alongside her dad, Russell, Ali set out to solve some of the biggest challenges in endurance nutrition: sticky gels, single-use packaging, high costs, and the lack of flexibility for individual athletes. The result is a customizable, convenient, sustainable, and affordable fueling option designed by endurance athletes, for endurance athletes. We dive into the origin story of Dig Deep, the science behind its unique fueling approach, and why Ali believes endurance athletes deserve smarter fuel with a lighter impact. SPONSOR: DIG DEEP ENDURANCE FUEL. Use code INSPIRED10 at checkout to save 10% on your online order at digdeepef.com. Connect with Ali & Dig Deep: Instagram: @digdeepef, @rhythmruncoaching, @ali.mcpher Website: digdeepef.com, rhythmruncoaching.com Previous Inspired Soles episode: EP 236: From Winning a Trail 50K to Running Sub-3 at the Boston Marathon (All in One Month) Connect with Carolyn: Instagram: @inspiredsolescast or @carolyn.c.coffin You can help spread the running love! The best way to SUPPORT Inspired Soles is to share your favourite episode(s) with friends, subscribe, or leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Connect on Instagram @inspiredsolescast or email guest ideas to inspiredsolescast@gmail.com.

295. Johnny Coffin | What Happens When One Runner Is Hitting PRs and the Other Is Hitting the Wall?

Got feedback about this episode? Send Carolyn a text Johnny Coffin returns to Inspired Soles for what has to be his tenth appearance on the podcast, making him an unofficial co-host—and fan favourite. In this episode, Johnny and Carolyn share a training update since the Boston Marathon, including their recoveries, their experiences racing the Ottawa 10K Canadian Championships and Canadian Masters Championships (where both earned bronze medals), and their plans for the upcoming Manitoba Half Marathon. But while Johnny's fitness continues to soar and he chases what could be the fastest half marathon of his life, Carolyn finds herself in unfamiliar territory after months of disappointing performances and ongoing medical investigations. Together, they discuss what it's like when one runner in a relationship is thriving while the other is struggling, how they support each other through the highs and lows, and the lessons they're learning along the way. SPONSOR: goodr sunglasses. Ready to upgrade your eyewear to something functional, fashionable, fun, and affordable? Head to goodr.com/INSPIRED to claim $10 off your first order. Connect with Johnny: Instagram: @bestjohnnyever Previous Inspired Soles episodes: EP 287: Boston Marathon Recap EP 271: The Marathon Project: PBs, DNFs & Perspective EP 266: Chasing Big Goals at The Marathon Project EP 240: Sub-35 10K & Ottawa Race Weekend Recap EP 230: Ask Carolyn Anything + Colour Commentary from Johnny EP224: Do You Control Strava, or Does It Control You? EP 211: Coffin's Chicago Marathon Recap: The Bodily Fluids Episode EP 202: Paris Olympic Track & Marathon Recap EP 55: Road to the 2021 Boston Marathon EP 12: Slow the BLEEP Down Connect with Carolyn: Instagram: @inspiredsolescast or @carolyn.c.coffin You can help spread the running love! The best way to SUPPORT Inspired Soles is to share your favourite episode(s) with friends, subscribe, or leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Connect on Instagram @inspiredsolescast or email guest ideas to inspiredsolescast@gmail.com.

294. Dr. Duane Scotti | The 3 Most Common Marathon Injuries (and How to Treat & Prevent Them)

Got feedback about this episode? Send Carolyn a text What are the most common injuries marathon runners face—and do you really need to stop running when they happen? In this episode, physical therapist, running coach, and Healthy Runner Podcast host Dr. Duane Scotti returns to Inspired Soles to break down three of the most common injuries he sees in runners: proximal hamstring tendinopathy (PHT), iliotibial band syndrome (ITB), and Achilles tendinopathy. We discuss what causes these injuries, how to treat them, and most importantly, how to prevent them from derailing your training. Duane also shares why loading tendons is often more effective than stretching them, the dangers of over-striding and transitioning too quickly to zero-drop shoes, plus the simple dynamic warm-up he recommends for masters runners. Whether you're dealing with a nagging injury or hoping to avoid one altogether, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you stay healthy and running strong. Connect with Duane: 5-minute Warm-Up Routine Instagram: @sparkhealthyrunner Healthy Runner Podcast on Apple and Spotify Website: sparkhealthyrunner.com Spark Healthy Runner YouTube Channel Coaching & Resources: learn.sparkhealthyrunner.com PHT Resource ITB Resource Achilles Tendonitis Resource Healthy Runner Facebook Group Duane's past episodes on Inspired Soles: Year-Round Consistent Training for Marathon Success Return to Running Safely After Time Off It's All About That Base (Training) SPARK Your Training With Prehab Why Road Runners Should Try Trails Connect with Carolyn: Instagram: @inspiredsolescast or @carolyn.c.coffin You can help spread the running love! The best way to SUPPORT Inspired Soles is to share your favourite episode(s) with friends, subscribe, or leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Connect on Instagram @inspiredsolescast or email guest ideas to inspiredsolescast@gmail.com.

293. Whitney Heins | Solving the Final 10K Marathon Puzzle

Got feedback about this episode? Send Carolyn a text Whitney Heins knows a thing or two about chasing big goals. The founder of The Mother Runners, coach, podcast host, mother of two, and 2:54 marathoner has spent years pursuing her marathon potential—and like many of us, she's still trying to crack one of the sport's greatest mysteries: how to truly nail the final 10K. In this conversation, Whitney shares how she went from a 3:15 marathoner to running sub-3, the lessons she's learned through injury setbacks and ambitious goals, how she balances motherhood, business ownership, and competitive running, and what happened when her spring goal marathon was postponed just days before the race. We also dive deep into the marathon puzzle itself, exploring the physical and mental challenges of those final miles and why Whitney believes her best marathon may still be ahead of her. Whether you're chasing a marathon breakthrough or simply trying to balance running with the rest of life, this conversation is packed with wisdom, perspective, and inspiration. SPONSOR: goodr sunglasses. Ready to upgrade your eyewear to something functional, fashionable, fun, and affordable? Head to goodr.com/INSPIRED to claim $10 off your first order. Connect with Whitney: Instagram: @themotherrunners Podcast: The Mother Runners Website: themotherrunners.com Connect with Carolyn: Instagram: @inspiredsolescast or @carolyn.c.coffin You can help spread the running love! The best way to SUPPORT Inspired Soles is to share your favourite episode(s) with friends, subscribe, or leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Connect on Instagram @inspiredsolescast or email guest ideas to inspiredsolescast@gmail.com.

292. Darolyn Walker | 3:05 at Boston, Multiple Sclerosis, and Redefining What It Means to Be a Runner

Got feedback about this episode? Send Carolyn a text I’m joined by Winnipeg runner Darolyn Walker for a powerful and perspective-shifting conversation about running, resilience, and redefining what success looks like. Darolyn’s story spans more than two decades — from competing at a high level in her university and national track days, to navigating a multiple sclerosis diagnosis in her mid-20s, to raising three children while continuing to train, race, and adapt through unpredictable health challenges. We focus in particular on her remarkable performance at the Boston Marathon, where she ran 3:05:37 while living with MS — a result that sits at the intersection of high level performance and deep gratitude for simply being able to run. But this conversation isn’t really about times or records. It’s about identity, acceptance, letting go of old definitions of success, and finding meaning in movement through changing seasons of life. SPONSOR: Cure Hydration. Staying hydrated isn't just about water — you also need electrolytes. Real ingredients. Real hydration. Visit curehydration.com/INSPIREDSOLES for 20% off. Connect with Darolyn: Instagram: @darolynwalker Facebook: @darolyn.walker.7 Connect with Carolyn: Instagram: @inspiredsolescast or @carolyn.c.coffin You can help spread the running love! The best way to SUPPORT Inspired Soles is to share your favourite episode(s) with friends, subscribe, or leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Connect on Instagram @inspiredsolescast or email guest ideas to inspiredsolescast@gmail.com.

291. John Gay | Olympic Steeplechaser on Injury, Identity & His Marathon Debut

Got feedback about this episode? Send Carolyn a text Olympian steeplechaser John Gay joins the show ahead of his marathon debut at the Ottawa Marathon. We dive into his journey through a challenging stretch of injuries, and how it forced him to rethink training, rebuild confidence, and lean on his support system — including his wife Camille, his coach Jon Green, and fellow athletes/friends. We also explore his evolution from Olympic finalist in the 3000m steeplechase to first-time marathoner, what it means to start a new chapter in his running career, and what he’s learned from hosting The Shakeout Podcast. Connect with John & The Shakeout Podcast: Instagram: @John_e_gay, @ShakeoutPodcast The Shakeout Podcast Live podcast recording at the Ottawa Race Weekend Expo Friday, May 22nd @ 6:00 PM EST World Athletics: https://worldathletics.org/athletes/canada/john-gay-14678397 Connect with Carolyn: Instagram: @inspiredsolescast or @carolyn.c.coffin You can help spread the running love! The best way to SUPPORT Inspired Soles is to share your favourite episode(s) with friends, subscribe, or leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Connect on Instagram @inspiredsolescast or email guest ideas to inspiredsolescast@gmail.com.

290. Cassandra de Winter | Top Canadian at Boston in Just Her 3rd Marathon

Got feedback about this episode? Send Carolyn a text 32-year-old Cassandra de Winter ran 2:34:43 in the 2026 Boston Marathon professional field to finish as the top Canadian woman — a nearly five-minute PB in just her third marathon. Cassandra shares her remarkable rise in both road and trail running, her background in rugby and powerlifting, and what it looks like to self-coach while raising three young children alongside a deeply supportive husband. We also talk about the difficult decision to withdraw from the Oldman Backyard Ultra due to SI joint issues, after using the event to raise funds for Youth One, a Lethbridge-based organization providing free mentorship and support services for youth ages 11–18. SPONSOR: Cure Hydration. Staying hydrated isn't just about water — you also need electrolytes. Real ingredients. Real hydration. Visit curehydration.com/INSPIREDSOLES for 20% off. Connect with Cassandra: Instagram: @cassdewinter.runs Website: https://cassruns.com/ Connect with Carolyn: Instagram: @inspiredsolescast or @carolyn.c.coffin You can help spread the running love! The best way to SUPPORT Inspired Soles is to share your favourite episode(s) with friends, subscribe, or leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Connect on Instagram @inspiredsolescast or email guest ideas to inspiredsolescast@gmail.com.

289. Waldo Cheung, MPT MSc | Do Running Shoes Really Matter? (And What Matters More)

Got feedback about this episode? Send Carolyn a text I’m joined by returning guest Waldo Cheung—physiotherapist, educator with The Running Clinic, and one of my go-to voices for the science of running—for a timely conversation on shoes, injury risk, and what actually matters most. We explore the shift from the minimalist shoe movement of the early 2010s to today’s super shoe era, and whether all this innovation has meaningfully changed how and why runners get injured. Waldo shares what he’s seeing clinically, how footwear may influence (but not determine) injury patterns, and why training load—more than anything on your feet—remains the biggest driver of both performance and breakdown. If you’ve ever wondered whether your shoes are helping, hurting, or just distracting you from the bigger picture, this one’s for you. PROJECT-99 Application Form: https://forms.gle/h3fihkbD3Ag8J3UF6 Connect with Waldo: Instagram: @rehabinapinch Website: https://runrehab.pro/ LinkedIn: rehabinapinch Waldo's previous Inspired Soles episodes 209: Understanding & Managing Running-Related Pain 174: Shoes, Technology, Research & Masters Running Resources Waldo mentioned: The Running Clinic Course: https://therunningclinic.com/ Minimalist index: https://therunningclinic.com/minimalist-index/ @thepostrunsnack Connect with Carolyn: Instagram: @inspiredsolescast or @carolyn.c.coffin You can help spread the running love! The best way to SUPPORT Inspired Soles is to share your favourite episode(s) with friends, subscribe, or leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Connect on Instagram @inspiredsolescast or email guest ideas to inspiredsolescast@gmail.com.

288. Brant Stachel | The Hard Truths Runners Need to Hear (But Don’t Always Want To)

Got feedback about this episode? Send Carolyn a text Brant Stachel returns for a powerful conversation about the hard truths runners need to hear — and why they matter. A mental performance coach, registered psychotherapist, and author of Fast and Free: Mindset Training for Endurance Athletes, Brant has a unique ability to challenge athletes while still meeting them with empathy and understanding. In this episode, we explore the many counterintuitive principles of endurance training — from slowing down to get faster, to the reality that fitness is built in recovery — along with the uncomfortable patterns that often hold runners back. This is an honest, thought-provoking conversation about growth, self-awareness, and what it really takes to reach your potential. If you’re ready to think differently about your training, this one’s for you. SPONSOR: Cure Hydration. Staying hydrated isn't just about water — you also need electrolytes. Real ingredients. Real hydration. Visit curehydration.com/INSPIREDSOLES for 20% off. PROJECT-99 Application Form: https://forms.gle/h3fihkbD3Ag8J3UF6 Connect with Brant: EP 272 of Inspired Soles on his new book, Fast and Free Instagram: @fastandfreecoaching @brant_stachel YouTube: @FastandFreeCoaching Podcast: The Fast and Free Podcast Website: runfastandfree.com Connect with Carolyn: Instagram: @inspiredsolescast or @carolyn.c.coffin You can help spread the running love! The best way to SUPPORT Inspired Soles is to share your favourite episode(s) with friends, subscribe, or leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Connect on Instagram @inspiredsolescast or email guest ideas to inspiredsolescast@gmail.com.