Kentucky Running

Running for the Planet: Reforest Frenzy, ASICS Updates & Microplastic Madness

Sat, 14 Mar 2026 05:30:00 -0400

This episode covers how the local running community can protect the Kentucky trails they love. First, Meredith McKinney from ASICS breaks down the latest tech in the Cumulus 28 and the highly anticipated Superblast 3, while explaining how ASICS is integrating recycled materials and carbon-tracking into their manufacturing.

Then, Chrissie Balding from Lexington’s Sustainability Section introduces Common Threads Lex and their upcoming free screening of Microplastic Madness. She discusses the reality of plastic pollution in Kentucky’s waterways and offers practical ideas for runners looking to reduce their environmental footprint.

Kentucky Running is produced by John's Run/Walk Shop in Lexington, Kentucky, and sponsored by Currex insoles.

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Order ASICS shoes from John's Run/Walk Shop

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Shamrock Shuffle Turns 20 | Lexington Habitat for Humanity

Sat, 28 Feb 2026 04:00:00 -0400

Matt talks with Laura Daley and Jordan Amis from Lexington Habitat for Humanity about the 20th annual Shamrock Shuffle 3K. Learn about how this St. Patrick's Day tradition started, the impact it's had on Kentucky families, and what we can expect in 2026.

It's one of many events happening in March. Matt delivers a rundown of what will be a very busy and fun month at John's Run/Walk Shop.

Kentucky Running is produced by John's Run/Walk Shop in Lexington, Kentucky, and sponsored by Currex insoles.

Join our run/walk clubs!

Announcing 2026 Races | Mizuno Wave Inspire 22

Sat, 03 Jan 2026 00:15:00 -0400

Matt talks with John's Run/Walk Shop Race Director Eva Jackson and General Manager Riley Marshall about the 2026 lineup for John's Bluegrass Racing Company. Learn about this year's Run the Bluegrass; Iron Horse; Beer, Bourbon & Wine XC Series, and more.

Plus, Mizuno tech rep Hope Nixon joins the show to drop details on the latest version of the Wave Inspire.

Kentucky Running is produced by John's Run/Walk Shop in Lexington, Kentucky, and sponsored by Currex insoles.

Join our run/walk clubs!

Pelvic Floor Health for Runners | Kelsey Karnes, MoveSmart

Sat, 22 Nov 2025 07:31:00 -0400

Kelsey Karnes from MoveSmart physical therapy is back to discuss the prevalence of pelvic floor dysfunction, specifically as it relates to runners. While it's primarily a women's health issue, it can affect men too.

Kelsey emphasizes that while these issues are common, they're not normal. She talks about symptoms to watch for as well as treatment and prevention. Read Kelsey's blog posts on this topic at movesmartky.com.

Plus, Matt announces the opening of John's Run/Walk Shop's new store in the Hamburg area!

Kentucky Running is produced by John's Run/Walk Shop in Lexington, Kentucky, and sponsored by Currex insoles.

Join our run/walk clubs!

Preventing Lower Extremity Injuries | UK Sports Medicine Research Institute

Sat, 01 Nov 2025 04:45:00 -0400

In this conversation, Dr. Alex Edison and Dr. Jen Xu from the University of Kentucky Sports Medicine Research Institute discuss lower extremity injuries, particularly focusing on the ankle and foot.

They explore common injuries among runners, prevention strategies, the importance of warming up and recovery, the role of the brain in injury prevention, and the significance of proper footwear. The conversation emphasizes the need for load management, understanding pain signals, and the rehabilitation process for injured athletes.

Learn more about the UK Sports Medicine Research Institute

Kentucky Running is produced by John's Run/Walk Shop in Lexington, Kentucky, and sponsored by Currex insoles.

Join our run/walk clubs!

Hitting the Trails with Trail Sisters, Lexington | Chrissie Balding & Leah Combs

Sat, 18 Oct 2025 00:00:00 -0400

In this conversation, Matt speaks with Chrissie Balding and Leah Combs about the Lexington chapter of Trail Sisters, a national organization aimed at creating an inclusive community for women in trail running. They share their personal journeys into trail running, the importance of having a supportive women-specific community, and the challenges women face in the sport. The discussion also covers safety tips for new trail runners an the environmental responsibilities of trail running.

Trail Sisters (main organization site)

Trail Sisters, Lexington

John's Central KY Trail Club

Kentucky Trail Run Series

Kentucky Running is produced by John's Run/Walk Shop in Lexington, Kentucky, and sponsored by Currex insoles.

Personal Trainer Jaiden English: Balancing Running, Weightlifting, and Inspiring Others

Sat, 04 Oct 2025 01:00:00 -0400

Matt sits down with Jaiden English, a weightlifter, runner, and certified personal trainer. Jaiden shares her journey from fitness novice to marathon runner, detailing how she balances running and weightlifting, the importance of nutrition, and her passion for helping others online at @jaidenglish_fitness on Instagram.

Tune in for practical tips on managing fitness routines, overcoming mental hurdles, and finding joy in healthy activity.

Plus, HOKA tech rep Derek Knabe returns to the show to give details on the new Arahi 8 and other shoes available at the Silent Disco happening Oct. 4 at John's Run/Walk Shop.

Kentucky Running is produced by John's Run/Walk Shop in Lexington, Kentucky, and sponsored by Currex insoles.

Join our run/walk clubs!

Black Girls RUN! in Louisville and Beyond

Sat, 20 Sep 2025 04:00:00 -0400

In 2009, Black Girls RUN! was created in an effort to tackle the growing obesity epidemic in the African-American community and provide encouragement and resources to both new and veteran runners.

Dania Britt and Tamekka Cornelius, Ambassadors for the Louisville chapter, talk to us about the impact this organization has made on women in Kentucky.

Plus, John's Run/Walk Shop has a HUGE announcement. Listen to this episode for the big news!

BlackGirlsRun.com

Black Girls RUN! Louisville, KY

Kentucky Running is produced by John's Run/Walk Shop in Lexington, Kentucky, and sponsored by Currex insoles.

Join our run/walk clubs!

All About Super Shoes!

Fri, 05 Sep 2025 04:30:00 -0400

If you've heard the term "super shoe" and had no clue what they are or if they're right for you, this episode will bring you up to *ahem* speed.

John's Run/Walk Shop's Running Shoe Buyer Kellen Ague-Kneeland joins the show to discuss the history and innovations of super shoes. He drops knowledge on super shoes' materials, their benefits to runners, and which ones you can find on JRWS shelves.

Kentucky Running is produced by John's Run/Walk Shop in Lexington, Kentucky, and sponsored by Currex insoles.

Join our run/walk clubs!

How to Keep Your Feet Safe on the Court

Wed, 04 Jun 2025 16:45:00 -0400

Tennis and pickleball are popular sports, but not everyone wears the right shoes to keep their feet secure and safe. In this episode, our ASICS tech rep, Meredith McKinney, explains the importance of proper court footwear and the options ASICS offers.

Join us on June 11 for Nightfall Pickleball. You could win a free pair of ASICS court shoes!

Kentucky Running is produced by John's Run/Walk Shop in Lexington, Kentucky, and sponsored by Currex insoles.

Join our running clubs!

Hydration Tips with Lance Bollinger, University of Kentucky

Fri, 30 May 2025 04:45:00 -0400

Summer running in Kentucky means having to pay extra attention to hydration. On this episode, Lance Bollinger, Associate Professor in the Dept. of Kinesiology and Health Promotion at the University of Kentucky, provides valuable information on how proper hydration can keep you safe and improve running performance.

Kentucky Running is produced by John's Run/Walk Shop in Lexington, Kentucky, and sponsored by Currex insoles.

Join our running clubs!

Healing Through Outdoor Activity | Julie Bretigan, Life Adventure Center

Fri, 16 May 2025 07:09:00 -0400

Julie Bretigan is the Executive Director of Life Adventure Center in Versailles, a nonprofit that uses outdoor adventure to unlock resilience in people who have experienced trauma. We'll talk about their impact and how you can support their mission.

Kentucky Running is produced by John's Run/Walk Shop in Lexington, Kentucky, and sponsored by Currex insoles.

Join our running clubs! Use code SUMMERRUN25 by June 13, and join for just $25.

How Yoga Benefits Runners | Cara Meade, Creative Yoga

Fri, 02 May 2025 17:08:00 -0400

Cara Meade from Creative Yoga in Lexington joins the show to discuss how yoga can benefit runners. If you're looking for new ways to improve your running performance, listen to this episode and consider yoga.

Plus, our Brooks Guru gives us details on the Ghost 17.

Learn more about yoga for runners in this blog post from Cara. And learn more about yoga on Now: a Podcast by Creative Yoga.

Kentucky Running is produced by John's Run/Walk Shop in Lexington, Kentucky, and sponsored by Currex insoles.

Join our running club!

Special Olympics Kentucky's Impact | Brent Wallace

Fri, 18 Apr 2025 04:30:00 -0400

We're excited to bring on Special Olympics Kentucky as our race beneficiary for Run the Bluegrass. Brent Wallace joins the show to discuss his many years as a Special Olympics volunteer. He tells us about their opportunities for athletes with intellectual disabilities, a common misperception of Special Olympians, and what not to do at the Polar Plunge.

Learn more at soky.org.

Kentucky Running is produced by John's Run/Walk Shop in Lexington, Kentucky, and sponsored by Currex insoles.

Join our running club!

How Insoles Can Help Your Feet | John Mascari, Currex

Fri, 04 Apr 2025 04:45:00 -0400

Of course, getting the right pair of shoes is essential for foot health. But shoes are only part of the solution. John Mascari of Currex talks to us about the advantages of insoles. Running, walking, standing ... whatever you're doing, a good pair of insoles can make a huge difference in health, comfort, and running performance.

Kentucky Running is produced by John's Run/Walk Shop in Lexington, Kentucky, and sponsored by Currex insoles.

Join our running club!

UK DanceBlue: 20 Years of Fighting Pediatric Cancer

Fri, 21 Mar 2025 05:00:00 -0400

University of Kentucky's DanceBlue is an entirely student-run organization that fundraises year-round for the DanceBlue Hematology/Oncology Clinic and culminates in a 24-hour no sitting, no sleeping dance marathon.

On this episode, UK students Anneli White and Sammy Tate, both of whom are part of this year’s DanceBlue committee, discuss the impact DanceBlue has had on Kentucky children.

We'll also deep dive into the HOKA Skyflow. Listen and click below to see how you can join John's Run/Walk Shop and HOKA in supporting DanceBlue.

Support UK DanceBlue March 24-30, 2025

Learn more about UK DanceBlue

Donate to DanceBlue

DanceBlue social media: @uk_danceblue

DanceBlue Podcast

Learn about the HOKA Skyflow

Cody Johnson's Skyflow review

Kentucky Running is produced by John's Run/Walk Shop in Lexington, Kentucky, and sponsored by Currex insoles.

Join our running club!

Run, Reforest, Repeat | Heather Wilson, Reforest the Bluegrass

Fri, 07 Mar 2025 04:00:00 -0400

We love trees! In this episode, Heather Wilson explains why you should too.

Heather is the Senior Program Manager of Urban & Community Forestry and former City Arborist for LFUCG. She tells us about the importance of a robust urban canopy and the impact Reforest the Bluegrass has had on our community for over a quarter century.

You can support Reforest the Bluegrass by joining us on March 22 at the Reforest Frenzy 5K, 10K, and 1-Mile Dash. Sign up today.

Plus, ASICS tech rep Meredith McKinney gives us the details on the new Cumulus and Superblast shoes. Thanks to ASICS for sponsoring the Reforest Frenzy!

Kentucky Running is produced by John's Run/Walk Shop in Lexington, Kentucky, and sponsored by Currex insoles.

Join our running club!

A Sneak Peek at Lexington's Next Park | Allison Lankford, Gatton Park on the Town Branch

Fri, 21 Feb 2025 04:00:00 -0400

Converting an old, 10-acre parking lot into a vibrant public park is no small feat, but it's about to become a reality later this year. Gatton Park on the Town Branch is nearing completion. Executive Director Allison Lankford joins Kentucky Running to discuss the project's history and what we can expect when the park launches.

gattonpark.org | Facebook | Instagram

Kentucky Running is produced by John's Run/Walk Shop in Lexington, Kentucky, and sponsored by Currex insoles.

Join our running club!

Safety Tips for Runners | Varinka Ensminger

Fri, 07 Feb 2025 04:00:00 -0400

How can you protect yourself on the roads and the trails? What gear is essential for runners to carry? What should you do if you think you're being followed? These aren't fun questions to think about, but they're important ones.

Varinka Ensminger is an accomplished runner, a security manager for the Department of Defense, a trainer for the U.S. Army, and a former forensic detective for the Lexington Police Department. In this episode, Varinka shares a wealth of knowledge on runner safety. She'll share tips on essential safety gear, how to find the safest spots to run, what to do if you're being followed, and more.

Plus, we'll check in with Conor, our Brooks Guru, for details on the new Glycerin and Adrenaline.

Links to resources discussed in this episode:

Kentucky Running is produced by John's Run/Walk Shop in Lexington, Kentucky, and sponsored by Currex insoles.

Join our running club!

Avoiding Underfueling and Disordered Eating | Katie Ullery-Syvarth, RD, LD, CSSD

Thu, 16 Jan 2025 17:33:00 -0400

Katie Ullery-Syvarth is a registered dietician who works with athletes to address issues of underfueling and eating disorders. In this episode, Katie talks about proper fueling, warning signs of eating disorders, and how coaches and parents can help young athletes who might be experiencing disordered eating.

Nutrition.At.Play

JRWS Training Programs

HOKA Bondi 9

Kentucky Running is produced by John's Run/Walk Shop in Lexington, Kentucky, and sponsored by Currex insoles.

Join our running club!

Frontrunners vs Red Light Runners | Jason Schubert

Fri, 03 Jan 2025 11:29:00 -0400

After the tragic loss of one of their members, Frontrunners Lexington launched an initiative to quantify the number of drivers running red lights in Lexington. Matt talks to Jason Schubert of Frontrunners to discuss this community-led effort and what the next steps will be as they work toward a safer city.

Kentucky Running is produced by John's Run/Walk Shop in Lexington, Kentucky, and sponsored by Currex insoles.

Join our running club!

A New Path for RunTheBluegrass | Eric Patrick Marr

Thu, 12 Dec 2024 04:45:00 -0400

For years, RunTheBluegrass has been one of Kentucky's premier running events. On this episode, John's Run/Walk Shop General Manager Riley Marshall talks with RunTheBluegrass founder Eric Patrick Marr to discuss the exciting news about America's Prettiest Half Marathon.

They describe what makes RunTheBluegrass special and what updates are being made now that the race is under the management of John's Bluegrass Racing Company.

Kentucky Running is produced by John's Run/Walk Shop in Lexington, Kentucky, and sponsored by Currex insoles.

Join our running club!

Smart Ways to Recover | Kelsey Karnes, MoveSmart Physical Therapy

Fri, 29 Nov 2024 03:00:00 -0400

Physical therapist Kelsey Karnes of MoveSmart returns to Kentucky Running to discuss recovery strategies. How does recovery differ based on the distance you're training for? How do busy runners build in recovery time? What's the best time to foam roll? Listen for Kelsey's answers to these questions and more.

Kentucky Running is produced by John's Run/Walk Shop in Lexington, Kentucky, and sponsored by Currex insoles.

Join our running club!

Girls on the Run Central Kentucky | Heidi Guckenberger

Fri, 08 Nov 2024 05:00:00 -0400

Heidi Guckenberger is the Executive Director of Girls on the Run Central Kentucky, which has spent the past 15 years helping local girls build confidence and healthy relationships through running. Heidi discusses the history of the organization and the impact its made in Central Kentucky.

We also talk with our New Balance tech rep about the latest version of the popular 1080 ... and how you could win a pair!

Kentucky Running is produced by John's Run/Walk Shop in Lexington, Kentucky, and sponsored by Currex insoles.

Join our running club!

Yes for Parks! with Griffin VanMeter

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 11:24:00 -0400

Griffin VanMeter joins John's Run/Walk Shop General Manager Riley Marshall to discuss the Yes for Parks ballot initiative. Griffin wants the city to establish a dedicated fund for Lexington's parks, providing over $8 million annually to improve and develop neighborhood parks, playgrounds, walking and hiking trails, and other recreation facilities in our city. Learn more at yesforparkslex.com.

Kentucky Running is produced by John's Run/Walk Shop in Lexington, Kentucky, and sponsored by Currex insoles.

Join our running clubs!

Living Green in the Bluegrass: Chrissie Balding, City of Lexington

Fri, 11 Oct 2024 05:00:00 -0400

Lexington’s GreenCheck program is a great way for local businesses to work toward more environmentally friendly practices. To learn more about this program, we talk with Chrissie Balding, from the City of Lexington Division of Environmental Services Sustainability Section.

She tells us about GreenCheck, Reforest the Bluegrass, and what individuals can do to make sure Central Kentucky stays healthy and beautiful for generations to come.

We also chat with our Brooks Guru, Conor, about the brand new Glycerin Max. Head to John's to try on this new high-cushion daily trainer!

Kentucky Running is produced by John's Run/Walk Shop in Lexington, Kentucky, and sponsored by Currex insoles.

Episode Links:

GreenCheck | City of Lexington Sustainability | Live Green Lexington | Reforest the Bluegrass | Reforest 5K

Other Kentucky Running episodes about sustainability:

Recover Brands | A Week Without Driving | Sneaker Impact

Fueling Your Run: Nutrition Tips with Kayla Dudick

Fri, 27 Sep 2024 05:00:00 -0400

University of Kentucky HealthCare registered dietician Kayla Dudick joins the show to talk about nutrition for runners. She educates us about carbs, vitamins, protein for vegetarians, fad diets, and more.

We also discuss the recently launched John's Bluegrass Running Club, a community of local runners and walkers with fun member perks. Learn more at our website.

Kentucky Running is produced by John's Run/Walk Shop in Lexington, Kentucky, and sponsored by Currex insoles.

Sustainable Race Apparel: Recover Brands

Fri, 06 Sep 2024 08:26:00 -0400

To make our races more environmentally friendly, John's Bluegrass Racing Company has been getting race shirts from Recover Brands. On this episode, we talk with Recover Marketing Director Adam Bratton to discuss their mission, their process, and how to watch out for greenwashing.

Kentucky Running is produced by John's Run/Walk Shop and sponsored by Currex Insoles.

Learn more about Recover Brands, and read their article on greenwashing.

Tales from the Trails: Ultrarunning with Frank Howatt

Fri, 23 Aug 2024 09:07:00 -0400

Thinking about getting into ultrarunning? Local runner Frank Howatt gives advice and shares his experiences. We talk about food, hallucinations, and why ultrarunning is kinder to runners over 50.

We also learn more about Altra's new Experience line of shoes with our Altra tech rep Jordan Chance.

Kentucky Running is produced by John's Run/Walk Shop.

A Week Without Driving

Fri, 09 Aug 2024 08:52:00 -0400

As runners, we want safer, more accessible roads. But for some people, being on the roads isn't a choice; it's a necessity. How can we put ourselves in the shoes of those who aren't able to drive and envision ways of making Kentucky roads more accessible for all of us?

On this episode, we talk to Ford McElroy about Lexington's Week Without Driving Challenge and its goal of getting local drivers to be more aware of the challenges of getting around when you don't have the luxury of a car.

We also talk to our Saucony rep about the Guide, the return of the Hurricane, and more.

Kentucky Running is produced by John's Run/Walk Shop.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Why Lexington Needs Public Track Access

Fri, 26 Jul 2024 08:51:00 -0400

This summer's All Comers' Track Meets proved Lexingtonians of all ages are interested in track and field. So, why don't we have public track access?

Riley, Kellen, and Matt from John's Run/Walk Shop discuss the benefits of public track use in communities and what we can do to bring those benefits to Lexington.

Kentucky Running is produced by John's Run/Walk Shop in Lexington, recently named one of the nation's 100 Best Running Stores for 2024.

Frontrunners Leads the Pack for LGBTQ Runners in Kentucky

Fri, 12 Jul 2024 09:00:00 -0400

Frontrunners Lexington encourages and supports LGBTQ+ runners and walkers in Central Kentucky. We talk to members Roy and Sherri about how this group promotes health and fitness while creating a welcoming environment for all.

We also learn more about running shoe brand Mizuno, and their latest release, the Neo Vista.

Kentucky Running is produced by John's Run/Walk Shop in Lexington, recently named one of the nation's 100 Best Running Stores for 2024.

Going One Degree Beyond with 361 Degrees

Fri, 28 Jun 2024 04:25:00 -0400

Get to know one of our shoe brands, 361 Degrees. Brand manager Phil Anthony joins the show to discuss the new shoe coming to John's in July, how 361 Degrees got started in the United States, and an odd collaboration involving an MVP basketball player.

Kentucky Running is produced by John's Run/Walk Shop.

Don't Skip Speedwork

Fri, 14 Jun 2024 08:57:00 -0400

Learn about why speedwork is essential no matter what distance you're training for. We talk with Gary Steele, a USTAF-certified coach with over 40 years of track coaching experience. We also check in with our ASICS tech rep Meredith McKinney to learn about the shoes she'll bring for you to try out during the All-Comers Track Series this summer. Kentucky Running is presented by John's Run/Walk Shop. Sign up for the All Comers Track Series.

Adidas: 3 Stripe Life Comes to Central Kentucky

Fri, 31 May 2024 08:49:00 -0400

Learn about the newest running shoe brand coming to John's Run/Walk Shop. You might have heard of them ... little company called adidas.

Our adidas tech rep Bret Freed joins the show to dive deeper into the brand's history, the shoes we’re carrying as of June 1, and whether I’m mispronouncing "adidas."

Kentucky Running is produced by John's Run/Walk Shop in Lexington, Kentucky, and sponsored by Currex insoles.

Join our running club!

Sneaker Impact Gives Old Shoes New Life

Fri, 17 May 2024 08:52:00 -0400

Most people think that when they're done with a pair of shoes, the only option is tossing it in the trash. But Sneaker Impact has found a better option. They collect old shoes and use them to make a positive - and global - environmental and economic difference.

We talk to Bryan Huberty, Director of Run Specialty for Sneaker Impact. He explains what the business does and how you can help keep your shoes out of landfills.

We also cover three new shoes from HOKA (including one that's not exactly "marathon-legal" ... but still a ton of fun to run in). And, we talk about the Global Running Day party we'll be putting on with HOKA.

Kentucky Running is produced by John's Run/Walk Shop.

Training Your Mental Game

Fri, 03 May 2024 04:01:00 -0400

Yes, running requires proper physical training, but you can't ignore the mental side of running. We talk with Dr. Ashley Samson, a professor in the University of Kentucky’s Department of Kinesiology and Health Promotion. She’s conducted research on athletes and taught courses on sports psychology and sociology. She's also been sharing her insights on the mental aspects of running every month on the John’s Run/Walk Shop blog. Tune in as we dive deeper into psychological tips for running performance.

We also talk to our Altra tech rep Jordan about trail shoes and other Altra updates coming soon.

Kentucky Running is produced by John's Run/Walk Shop.

Tips for Running Injury-Free

Thu, 18 Apr 2024 18:17:00 -0400

We chat with physical therapist Kelsey Karnes of Move Smart⁠ about preventing injuries, working cross-training into your running routine, and running-related issues that affect women specifically.

We also get into tech talk, covering spring shoe releases, including a popular shoe brand making its way to John's Run/Walk Shop in the very near future!

Kentucky Running is presented by John's Run/Walk Shop