Running on Carbs Podcast

In episode 44, I welcome our first guest to the podcast, acupuncturist Dr. Julie Jerkins, DACM, L.Ac. Together, we explore how endurance runners can benefit from the healing power of acupuncture—from…

What does it mean to be a "lazy runner"? Today, Coach Val dives into the 4 key points that define a lazy runner. Then, gives a real-world analysis of each point.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• The p…

Think kale is just another trendy superfood? Think again. This nutrient powerhouse packs a nutritional kick that could be the key to better running performance.

In this episode, we're breaking down t…

In this episode, we kick off 2025 with an essential guide for aspiring runners. Whether you're completely new to exercise or starting to run for the first time, no matter what your age, Coach Val bre…

Are you tired of starting and stopping your fitness journey? Frustrated with New Year's resolutions that fizzle out by February?

Here's the truth: motivation isn't what's holding you back. In this ga…

Shopping for a runner this holiday season (even if it’s you)? Gear up with gifts to keep her moving and joyful in Episode 39 of the Running on Carbs Podcast.

The holiday season is here, and it’s time…

Do hills make you cringe? Are you avoiding races and routes with even the slightest incline? It's time to change that!

In Episode 38 of the Running on Carbs Podcast, Coach Val shares practical tips a…

Dust off that treadmill, fold those clothes, and hang those jackets in the closet where they belong. It’s time for treadmill speed work!

Whether you love the treadmill or dread the treadmill, there i…

Life never seems to slow down, but it doesn’t mean that we can’t find time to be grateful for the little things. All the small things compound when we recognize and acknowledge our gratitude in these…

Thanksgiving holiday brings with it family, friends and FOOD! Adopting a plant-based lifestyle is full of health and performance benefits, but it can also be challenging those first years, as you lea…

Meal prep isn’t just for busy workweeks; it’s a powerful tool for runners who want to fuel for energy, power and injury prevention!

In episode 34 of the Running on Carbs Podcast, we’re diving into 10…

Return to racing following a serious injury is more than just gratifying; it’s a redemption of the soul.

From crutches to finish line, episode 33 recounts Coach Val’s training for this redemption hal…

You’ve trained hard for months and you’re nearing the final weeks leading up to your race. How do you get to the finish line in tip-top athletic shape? You back off your training.

What?!

Yep, that’s …

Are you tired of the constant injury cycle? Are you continuously training but not seeing your paces increase or your endurance improve?

It may be that you haven’t taken the birds eye view of your tra…

If you’re a runner, then inevitably you will find yourself staring down the barrel of a hard workout or race at some point.

Running is simple but no one ever said it was easy. At some point a little …

Let’s talk about protein…what plant-based nutritional recovery plan would be complete without it?

Athletes (and the general public alike) are fascinated with this macronutrient. Its grams are plaster…

Running after 40 doesn’t have to be hard! In episode 28, Coach Val explores her 8 essential tips for novice runners over 40 to stay healthy and strong while starting out on their running journey. Fro…

What keeps a runner moving? It’s the (simple) carbs! Of course, hydration plays a key role, as well. But, without the right nutrition, energy wanes. Muscles tire. Performance suffers. Energy gels are…

What keeps a symphony of instruments from sounding like noise? It’s the space between the notes that makes the music. Without the intentional pauses, all the instruments just blend together in one bi…

My kindergarten teacher was awesome! She taught us all sorts of life lessons and people skills that translated well into daily life and carried me through to adulthood with a genuine foundation.

We l…