The Optimist’s Guide to Creative Life with Jason Suarez

Join us for a riveting conversation between Mau Diaz, co-founder of Aire Libre, and Anthony Battah, lawyer, devoted father, and newfound environmental activist. Anthony shares the extraordinary tale of his epic journey, running from Canada to Mexico along the path of the Monarch butterfly migration. His mission? To raise awareness about the plight of this endangered species and spark a larger dialogue about environmental conservation. Anthony's passion and conviction shine through as he discusses his belief in our ability to avert environmental disaster and leave a sustainable legacy for future generations. Accompanied by his wife and daughter, who inspired his odyssey, Anthony's story is a testament to the power of familial love and the impact of individual action in the fight for our planet's future.

In this episode, co-founder of Aire Libre, Mauricio Díaz ( @maudac ) engages in a touching and heartfelt talk with passionate multi-marathon runner, coach, and devoted running community builder: Iman Wilkerson ( @on.iman.opia ), a @cieleathletics FRND with whom we had the honor of sharing the trails during our last Oaxaca Day of the Dead experience last November. During this conversation, we explore Iman's transformative journey from her first 5k in 2008 to becoming an experienced marathoner, participating in iconic races like New York and Boston. Beyond the miles, Iman emphasizes the significance of connections formed through running, influenced by her experience in the heart of New York City. Having relocated to sunny San Diego, she continues her running journey, weaving a business around her passion for the sport. We explore the richness of Iman's experiences, unveiling the profound impact of running communities as bridges connecting individuals to city pulses, natural serenity, and, most crucially, each other. Iman emerges as a fervent advocate for the inclusivity defining the best running communities, uniting diverse souls under the shared rhythm of pounding feet and aspirations "There are more communities that are feeling called to step up and to lead, or there are people who are feeling called to step up to lead and not feeling like they have to rest on what already existed. I think that what also comes from that is we don’t have to race to run. For these past few years up until maybe this year, or even parts of last year, you know, we didn’t have races, or races were paused for a little bit, so people were just running for community and just running to run together." – Iman Wilkerson Join us as we dive into the transformative power of running beyond the miles, where each step contributes to a larger connection resonating with the heartbeat of cities, the whispers of nature, and the shared cadence of human connection. Go to the link in our bio to give it a listen!  

Join us in this episode as Mauricio Díaz, co-founder of Aire Libre, engages in a profound conversation with runner Francesca Goodwin. Together, they explore the transformative journey that running can be, especially when intertwined with the healing power of nature. Francesca opens up about her personal struggles with mental and physical health, and how the rhythm of her footsteps on the earth's terrain became a catalyst for healing. Grounded in the natural world, running served as a potent reminder of her life force, providing solace and a path to recovery. The discussion delves into the symbiotic relationship between the human spirit, physical well-being, and the natural environment. Mauricio, drawing from his experience with Aire Libre, adds depth to the conversation by highlighting the collective and supportive nature of the running community. Together, they celebrate the profound connection between mind, body, and nature, emphasizing how running can be a transformative and holistic practice. This episode is an invitation to listeners to embark on a journey of self-discovery through running, to find solace in the embrace of the natural world, and to discover the revitalizing potential that lies within each stride. Join us for this touching exploration of resilience, healing, and the boundless joys that running and nature can bring to our lives. You can find Francesca here: @running_on_joy

In this episode of the Beyond Running Podcast, Leslie Payró sits down with Claudia Corona, an incredible Latina ultra marathoner hailing from the vibrant and diverse city of New York. Claudia's latest endeavor is nothing short of awe-inspiring - she's on a mission to run through all five boroughs of the Big Apple. This conversation delves deep into Claudia's journey of gender, representation, resilience, and the critical role of support in achieving extraordinary goals. Claudia's story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the belief that anyone can accomplish remarkable feats with the right mindset and community. As a Latina woman with a non-normative body type, Claudia shares her experiences and the challenges she's overcome in a sport where representation can be lacking. Her story serves as a beacon of hope for those who might have felt marginalized or underrepresented in the world of running. In this episode, Claudia and Leslie explore the importance of representation in running, touching upon the unique struggles and triumphs that come with breaking down barriers. They discuss the significance of diversity and inclusivity in sports and how it can inspire others to pursue their dreams, regardless of their background or circumstances. Join us for this deeply inspirational conversation with Claudia Rincón as we explore her extraordinary journey, the power of resilience, and the impact of running on her life. Get ready to be inspired and encouraged to chase your own dreams, no matter how big or audacious they may seem.

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Lydia Jennings, a soil scientist, science communicator and runner, to discuss how her scientific interests in soil and her Indigenous ancestry influence her running practice. Lydia shares insights on the interconnections between the land, our bodies, and our communities, and how running has become a way for her to connect with her roots while advocating for sustainable agriculture practices. Join us for a fascinating conversation on the intersection of science, culture, and movement. You can find Lydia here: Website: https://nativesoilnerd.com/ Instagram: @llcooljennings   

In this episode, we sit down with Daniel Maluleka, a Zulu runner who has a deep passion for traveling. Daniel shares stories of how running has changed the way he sees himself and the world around him. He talks about the lessons he has learned and how running has allowed him to explore his identity and connect deeper with his family roots.. Join us for an inspiring conversation with this exceptional human, and learn about the power of running to connect with others. You can find Daniel here: @nomadic_zulu   

In this episode, we have the pleasure of speaking with Sergio Avila, a biologist, (recovering) conservationist, and runner. Sergio has dedicated his life to studying and protecting the ecosystems of North America, particularly the Sonoran Desert. During the interview, Sergio shares his experiences as a scientist and conservationist, as well as his passion for running. He discusses how his love for nature, history and the environment has driven him to pursue a career in science and conservation. In this episode, listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the importance of conservation and the role of science in telling better stories to protect our planet. You can find Sergio here: @sergio_concolor  

For this episode, we talk with author, ultra runner and activist, Mirna Valerio. Mirna Valerio is an absolute force of nature. She has carved out a space for herself in the world of running, and she's doing it on her own terms. As a speaker, author, and activist, Valerio uses her platform to champion body positivity, diversity, and inclusivity in the running community. And don't let her size fool you - this woman can run. Valerio has completed numerous ultra-marathons and has twice conquered the New York City Marathon. Her memoir, "A Beautiful Work in Progress," is a must-read for anyone looking to be inspired by someone who's unapologetically themselves. Simply put, Mirna Valerio is a powerhouse and an inspiration to us all.   You can follow her on Instagram (@mirnavator) and website: https://themirnavator.com/  

For this episode, we talk with author and activist Alison M. Désir about her recently released book, Running While Black. The book itself, and the conversation, investigate complex and necessary topics like white spaces, the healing and hurting that can come from running, and what it means to share your experience. Alison is at the center of a conversation about how the culture around running can change for the better, and continues to share an inspiring story about the people leading the way. You can find Alison on Instagram at @alisonmdesir or her website http://alisonmdesir.com

A few months ago, May 2022, Mau Díaz and Nils Arend decided to run the width of the Baja California Peninsula in one day, from Todos Santos to Cabo Pulmo (140 kms). They knew it would be a challenge, but they never imagined how far this experience would push their physical and mental boundaries. This is a conversation between these two running legends about an incredible adventure that brings to bear the significance of shared experiences. This episode is also a preview of an upcoming experience in January 2023 with Aire Libre Running. Make sure to subscribe to our newsletter to learn all the details, you won't want to miss this one. Mau Díaz is the co-founder of Aire Libre RunningNils Arend is the founder of The Speed Project.