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Extraordinary StridesAuthor: Christine Hetzel
Welcome to Extraordinary Strides, the podcast that celebrates the spirit of running and the inspiring stories of those who lace up their shoes and hit the pavement. Here, we dive into the heart of what makes running an extraordinary adventure.Whether you're a seasoned marathoner or just starting out, Extraordinary Strides is your go-to source for expert tips, motivational stories, and the camaraderie of the running community. Our episodes feature seasoned runners, coaches, and everyday athletes sharing their triumphs, challenges, and the joy they find in every run.Join us for casual, uplifting conversations that will leave you excited to put on your running shoes and hit the road. We believe that every run, no matter the distance, is a step towards something greater.So, subscribe now and join our community of runners who are making every stride extraordinary. At Extraordinary Strides, we're here to inspire, motivate, and celebrate with you every step of the way! Language: en-us Genres: Fitness, Health & Fitness, Running, Sports Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it Trailer: |
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Alabama to Georgia: Iconic Books, Bucket-List Races & Running Adventures | Running, Reading, and Racing in the USA
Episode 10
Wednesday, 1 July, 2026
What can a great book, a bucket-list race, and a memorable local running route tell us about a state?Welcome to Episode 1 of Running, Reading, and Racing in the USA, an Extraordinary Strides five-part summer series celebrating America’s 250th anniversary through the stories we read, the places we explore, and the finish lines we dream about.In this first episode, we travel alphabetically from Alabama through Georgia, pairing iconic books, popular reads, and unexpected wild cards with must-run races, racecation inspiration, local running gems, and a few delightfully specific state facts along the way.Featured States: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, and Georgia.We are talking Rocket City Marathon, Mount Marathon Race, Lost Dutchman Marathon, Little Rock Marathon, Big Sur International Marathon, BOLDERBoulder, Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend, Gate River Run, and the AJC Peachtree Road Race.On the reading side, expect everything from To Kill a Mockingbird, Homegoing, Into the Wild, The Great Alone, Stargirl, True Grit, East of Eden, White Oleander, The Joy Luck Club, The Shining, Their Eyes Were Watching God, Bad Monkey, Swamplandia!, The Color Purple, and Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.You will hear why Mount Marathon is often called one of the toughest 5Ks in the world, why California belongs on every runner’s racecation radar, what makes Florida running both magical and mildly unhinged, where to chase desert views in Arizona, and which states deserve more attention from readers and runners alike.Tell me what I missed and what you’re adding to your must-run list, then subscribe, share with a running-and-reading friend, and leave a review so more people can find the series.Have questions or want to chat? Send a voicemail!Support the showJoin the newsletter list for updates, special offers, and exclusive behind-the-scenes content.Join fellow pod and running enthusiasts at The Stride Collective community on Facebook or follow us on Instagram.







