From the Bronx to Oaxaca: It Was Always About Community with Lenin "Lenny" Grullon

In this episode of Beyond Running, host Mau Diaz sits down with Lenin Grullon, co-founder of Boogie Down Bronx Runners, to talk about almost ten years of building one of NYC's most respected community running crews. They talk about what it actually took to build a running club from scratch, how Lenin's "community first" philosophy shaped every decision along the way, and the challenges of staying true to that mission as the club grew from a handful of runners into a full-blown family. Lenin opens up about the early mornings, the doubts, and the moments that made it clear this was bigger than just running. The conversation also crosses borders. Mau and Lenin dig into the story of when Lenin brought Boogie Down Bronx Runners to Oaxaca to experience Aire Libre in person, and what it meant for two running communities from completely different worlds to connect through the same love of the sport. It's a reminder that running has a way of building bridges, no matter where you're from.  

Before it was a sport, running was simply part of life. For Dustin Martin, a proud member of the Navajo (Diné) Nation, that truth runs deep and it set him on a path that wound through Division I competition and the halls of Columbia University before bringing him back to where it all began. Because coming back is the part that matters most. Back to the Southwest, back to the young people who need what he once needed, and back to Wings of America, the organization that helped shape who he is. Now serving as Chief Visionary Officer, Dustin sits down with Mau Díaz to talk about the long road that led him here, and the road still ahead. It's a conversation about what running carries when it's tied to land, to identity and to survival. About building programs that don't just develop athletes, but grow leaders. Wings of America exists to put running in the hands of Native youth, not as a path to scholarships or podiums, but as a practice rooted in health, identity, and pride. Dustin has spent fifteen years making sure that mission stays alive and grows. In this conversation he talks about where he comes from, what running means in Indigenous communities, and what it looks like to build something that truly belongs to the people it serves.  

What does it really mean to run, not just as exercise, but as a culture, a community, a way of being in the world? Raziq Rauf has spent years thinking about that question, and now he's turning those thoughts into a book. This is Running is his debut, and it arrives backed by the loyal readership of his newsletter, Running Sucks, a name that captures exactly the kind of honest, irreverent love for the sport that defines his voice. In this conversation with Mau Díaz, Raziq talks about what drew him to write seriously about running, the people and stories that shaped the book, and why he believes the sport deserves the same depth of cultural attention we give to music, food, or film. It's a conversation about obsession, craft, and the strange beauty of a thing millions of people do every day without ever quite being able to explain why. Raziq brings to the conversation something rare in running media: a literary sensibility that doesn't take itself too seriously. He's not here to optimize your training or sell you a shoe. He's here to ask why any of us lace up in the first place, and what we find, or lose, or become along the way.

In this episode of the Beyond Running Podcast, Manuel "Eme" Morato sits down with Leslie Vallecillo, Josh Holland, and Philip Mangan to revisit an unforgettable expedition through the wild landscapes of British Columbia. The group, supported by Vivobarefoot, was dropped deep into the backcountry by helicopter and set out to hike ten peaks in minimalist shoes, an experience that pushed their physical, mental, and emotional boundaries while deepening their connection to nature and one another. Together, they reflect on what it means to move through the world with intention and awareness, stripped down to the essentials. Each guest shares what the journey revealed to them about endurance, trust, and the power of collective experience. The conversation also touches on the upcoming documentary that captures their adventure: an intimate portrayal of both the challenge and the beauty found in reconnecting with the wild. This episode is both a reflection and a teaser: a glimpse into an expedition that became more than a physical test, it became a lesson in humility, presence, and the profound sense of belonging that emerges when humans return to the rhythms of the Earth.

In this episode Mau Díaz is joined by Aaron Kerehoma, a movement guide, runner, and guardian of Māori ancestral knowledge. Aaron brings together his passion for movement and his deep connection to Māori traditions, offering a unique perspective on how ancient wisdom can inform the way we live, move, and connect today. Mau and Aaron begin by exploring some foundational Māori concepts, uncovering the ways in which these ideas can expand our understanding of community, balance, and respect for the natural world. Aaron shares how these teachings guide his approach to running and movement, turning them into practices of alignment with both the body and spirit. The conversation also reflects on the unforgettable Aire Libre experience Aaron guided in New Zealand, where participants discovered not only the breathtaking landscapes of Aotearoa but also the cultural and spiritual depth of the Māori worldview. Through Aaron's words, we are reminded that movement is more than exercise, it's a way of healing, connecting, and honoring the wisdom of those who came before us.  

In this episode of the Beyond Running Podcast, Mau Díaz sits down with Rob Watson, a lifelong runner, lululemon Run Ambassador, coach, and host of Rob Talks Running, to explore the deeper journey behind a life built around movement. Rob shares his story of how running became his compass, not only shaping his career but helping him navigate challenges, identity, and reinvention along the way. Together, Mau and Rob reflect on what it means to devote yourself to something fully, to chase performance, and then to learn how to let go. They talk about the emotional highs of professional competition, the quiet struggles that don't show up on race results, and the process of rediscovering joy and purpose in running after the spotlight fades. Rob speaks candidly about vulnerability, mental resilience, and the importance of community, both in training and in life. This conversation is not just for runners, it's for anyone who has ever asked what comes after striving, or how to stay grounded while pushing toward big goals. Through humor, humility, and hard-earned wisdom, Rob reminds us that growth isn't just about getting faster: it's about knowing when to pause, when to pivot, and how to keep showing up.  Follow Rob Watson https://www.instagram.com/robtalksrunning/  

In this episode Mau Díaz sits down with Jessie Zapo—ultrarunner, art therapist, multidisciplinary artist, and community builder. Known for blending movement, expression, and healing, Jessie has carved out a unique path where running, art, and care for others converge. Her work is rooted in the belief that the body is not only a vehicle for endurance, but also a medium for emotional and creative release. Mau and Jessie begin by tracing her early journey as a runner—how it started, what kept her coming back, and how it evolved into something much deeper than physical training. Jessie shares how running has helped her process her own inner landscape, while simultaneously strengthening the communities she's been part of. For her, running is both a solitary and collective act—an anchor in difficult times and a bridge to meaningful connection with others. The conversation then moves into the rich intersection of running, art, and healing. Jessie opens up about her work as an art therapist and how movement fuels her creative practice. She explores the idea of running as ritual, as a canvas, and as a tool for transformation—not only for herself but for those she supports in her community. This episode is a powerful reflection on how running can go beyond the physical to become a pathway to wholeness, creativity, and care. Follow Jessie: @jessiezapo

In this episode of the Beyond Running Podcast, host Mau Díaz sits down with Nicholas Charlier, a leader in the health and movement industry with over 13 years of experience. Nicholas has built a career around creating impactful programs that inspire connection, healing, and a deeper understanding of the human body. As the driving force behind Vivobarefoot's community programs and the innovative VivoHealth platform, Nicholas has integrated education, research, and coaching into a global network that supports a holistic approach to well-being. Together, Mau and Nicholas go into the transformative power of movement and the art of reconnecting with nature through running. Nicholas shares his insights on the benefits of barefoot running, exploring how it allows us to engage with our surroundings more authentically and fosters a stronger connection to the natural world. They discuss how healing, both physical and mental, is deeply intertwined with movement and how running can be a profound practice of mindfulness and presence. Nicholas also shares his journey as a trail runner, competing in half-marathon and marathon distances, and how his personal experiences have shaped his professional philosophy. This episode offers a thoughtful conversation about the intersection of running, wellness, and community, leaving listeners inspired to explore their own paths to deeper connection, healing, and joy through movement.

In this episode of the Beyond Running podcast, Mau Díaz sits down with Maxime Galpin, a runner, meditator, and guide for Aire Libre's French Pyrenees experience. Maxim has spent years exploring the intersection of movement and mindfulness, creating Zen and Run—a practice that merges running with meditation, helping people connect more deeply with themselves and the natural world. Together, they explore the ways in which running can become more than just a physical pursuit—it can be a form of presence, healing, and inner exploration. Their conversation begins with the magic of the French Pyrenees experience, where Maxime leads runners through breathtaking landscapes while fostering a deep sense of connection among participants. Mau and Maxime reflect on how the shared journey of running in these remote mountains creates a powerful bond, allowing people to slow down, be present, and truly engage with both nature and each other. This profound sense of community and presence sets the stage for their deeper discussion on Zen and Run and the philosophy behind merging meditation with movement. Maxime shares how mindfulness has transformed his own running practice, turning each step into an act of awareness and grounding. He and Mau discuss the benefits of slowing down—both in running and in life—and how tuning into the present moment can make movement more fulfilling. Whether you're an experienced runner or someone looking for a deeper connection to the sport, this episode offers insights into how running can be a gateway to greater self-awareness, balance, and joy.

In this episode of the Beyond Running Podcast, Mau Díaz reconnects with writer, poet, and endurance runner Josh Lynott for a compelling follow-up conversation. After previously appearing on Josh's podcast, Mau brings the dialogue full circle as they explore the deep and surprising connections between running and art. Together, they delve into how movement can be more than just physical effort—it can transform into a form of creative expression and storytelling. Josh shares his unique perspective on running as an art form, drawing from his experiences as a writer and endurance athlete. He reflects on the parallels between the discipline required in training and the creative process of writing, highlighting how both involve perseverance, vulnerability, and the pursuit of meaning. The conversation touches on the ways running and art intersect to create stories, evoke emotions, and allow us to connect with ourselves and the world in profound ways. This episode invites you to see running through a new lens—not just as a sport or activity but as a deeply creative and human act. Whether you're a runner, an artist, or someone who seeks inspiration in the everyday, this conversation with Josh Lynott will leave you with fresh insights on the power of movement, creativity, and storytelling.