Go! Running Talks

About Go! Running Talks

Go! Running Talks is an interview series where Lena chats with the guides, guests, and partners who bring Go! Running Tours to life In each 15–20 minute episode, Lena sits down with our guides, guests, and partners to spotlight their stories, their cities, their travel hacks, and the runs they’ll never forget. It’s inspiring, fun, and refreshingly real. You’ll get personal running stories, surprising travel tips, and the kind of conversations that make you want to book a ticket, explore a new city, and head out for a run with someone you’ve never met before. Whether you’re listening on your commute or tying your shoes for your next run, Go! Running Talks is your weekly dose of movement, curiosity, and the joy of discovering the world on foot. Tune in, get inspired and let’s run the world together. 🌍👟

Publisher

Go! Running Tours

Category

society & culture · sports

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

1 Dec 2025

Latest episode

30 Jun 2026

Latest episodes

18 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   30 Jun 2026

   Running through the Communism Era: Exploring Bratislava with local running guide Lubka

   Join Lena from Go! Running Tours for a conversation with Lubka, our local running guide in Bratislava, Slovakia. I n this episode of Go Running Talks, we explore what makes Bratislava such a fascinating city to discover on a running tour. Lubka was born and raised in Bratislava, has been running since childhood and now combines her love of running with her love of showing visitors her city. We talk about running in Slovakia, including Lubka’s favourite running memory: a relay race across the full width of Slovakia, from the east of the country all the way to Bratislava. She also shares the story of her first marathon and why running two loops past the finish line can be mentally brutal. The episode also dives into Bratislava as a travel destination. Lubka explains the different Go! Running Tours routes in the city, from the classic Bratislava city running tour to the popular Bratislava Gems of Communism tour. This route explores the city’s communist history, Soviet era monuments and unusual architecture, including the UFO shaped restaurant above the bridge, the upside down pyramid of the Slovak Radio building and the climb of more than 200 stairs to one of the city’s most important Soviet monuments. Lubka also shares her best local tip for visitors: do not only stay in Bratislava Old Town. The city has green areas, nearby mountains, Devin Castle, the Danube and boat connections towards Vienna and Budapest. This episode is perfect for runners, travellers, history lovers and anyone planning a trip to Bratislava or Slovakia. Book a running tour in Bratislava: https://gorunningtours.com/p/slovakia/bratislava/ (https://gorunningtours.com/p/slovakia/bratislava/) Explore all Go! Running Tours: https://gorunningtours.com (https://gorunningtours.com) In this episode: 00:00 Welcome to Go Running Talks 00:30 Meet Lubka, our Bratislava running guide 02:00 Running across Slovakia 05:00 The marathon she may never repeat 08:00 Why Bratislava is great for running tours 10:30 Bratislava Gems of Communism 14:00 UFO bridge, Soviet monuments and unusual architecture 17:00 Favourite moments from guiding running tours 20:00 What to do in Bratislava beyond the Old Town 23:00 Devin Castle, the Danube and local travel tips 26:00 Lubka’s best advice for runners #Bratislava #Slovakia #RunningTour #GoRunningTours #BratislavaTravel #ThingsToDoInBratislava #SlovakiaTravel #RunningCommunity #CommunistArchitecture #TravelPodcast

2. 

   12 Jun 2026

   Running connects us in ways that go far beyond distance - Go! Running Tours Guide Victor from Lima

   In this episode of Go! Running Talks, Lena chats with Victor Espinoza about running with purpose, creating meaningful connections, exploring Lima through local experiences, and remembering to be grateful for what our bodies can do. From supporting others through running to discovering a city one step at a time, Victor reminds us why we run.

3. 

   27 May 2026

   20 years in SF. Still never bored of the Golden Gate Bridge - Running San Francisco with a local

   Julia has been running in San Francisco for close to 20 years. She says if she ever gets tired of running across the Golden Gate Bridge, something is wrong. That hasn't happened yet. She's a two-year Go! Running Tours guide in San Francisco, an Ironman finisher, and the person who read the "no crawling" rule in a race registration form and thought: who would ever crawl? Then she ran the Marine Corps Marathon in Washington DC on a very hot day - and understood. In this episode, Lena sits down with Julia to talk about running in one of the most scenic cities in the US, what makes San Francisco's running culture unique, and why her best advice for any runner is simpler than most expect. What you'll hear in this episode: Starting on the high school track team at 14 - not for the sport, just to hang out with friends What makes San Francisco's running community different: world-class trails within 30 minutes of downtown Crossing the Ironman finish line in California - and the early morning waterfront runs she loves just as much The Marine Corps Marathon in DC: heat, cramps, and a rule she finally understood Why you can't really avoid hills in SF - and why that's actually fine The recurring guest who has visited three times and keeps asking for routes she hasn't run yet How even a cloudy day doesn't ruin the Golden Gate Bridge - you just pop out of the woods and there it is Driverless cars as a bonus San Francisco experience Her one piece of advice for every runner Julia's tours in San Francisco: Highlights Tour - 9K Summer of Love - 11K Bridge to Bridge Run - 21K Just Run options: 7K, 10K, 15K, 21K Book a running tour in San Francisco: https://gorunningtours.com/p/usa/san-francisco/ (https://gorunningtours.com/p/usa/san-francisco/) Go! Running Tours connects runners with local guides in 70+ cities worldwide. Whether you're a business traveler, a marathon tourist, or just someone who loves to explore cities on foot - there's a tour for you at https://gorunningtours.com/ (https://gorunningtours.com/)

4. 

   13 May 2026

   How quitting bad habits and running shapes your personality - Running Florence with a local!

   Lapo was born and raised in Florence. His name is typically Florentine. And after almost nine years guiding runners through the city, he's about to reach his 1,000th guest. He's an architect by profession - which means when he runs you past a Renaissance dome or through a hidden courtyard, he sees things most people miss. He's also been running for over 20 years and completed 24 marathons. In this episode, Lena sits down with Lapo to talk about why he calls certain runs "running poetry," the only DNF of his career, and what nine years of running the same city with people from around the world has taught him. What you'll hear in this episode: From smoking to running: replacing one addiction with another - and never looking back What "running poetry" actually means - and why Lapo's running playlist has classical music on it His marathon personal best in 2021 - and the DNF in Rimini that taught him every marathon demands respect The secret viewpoint after Piazzale Michelangelo - where doctors from Alaska watched Florence turn red at sunrise A couple who first ran with him in their 70s, came back five years later and extended their booked 10K all the way to 10 miles - because they wanted to keep going His son Gio joining the guide team - and why early mornings are still not his favorite thing Almost 1,000 guests from every continent - ages 16 to over 80 "Never rush" - why Lapo won't train anyone for a marathon until they've done a half marathon first How running builds self-esteem and teaches you to deal with suffering in all areas of life Lapo's tours in Florence: The Florentine Gems Tour - 8K A Run with a View - 10K Florence Hills Tour - 13.7K Florence Trail Run - 17K Florence Grand Tour - 21K Book a running tour in Florence: gorunningtours.com/p/italy/florence/ (http://gorunningtours.com/p/italy/florence/) Go! Running Tours connects runners with local guides in 70+ cities worldwide. Whether you're a business traveler, a marathon tourist, or just someone who loves to explore cities on foot - there's a tour for you at https://gorunningtours.com/ (https://gorunningtours.com/) Follow us on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/gorunningtours) Follow us on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/GoRunningTours/) Join our Strava club (https://www.strava.com/clubs/492052/discussion)

5. 

   29 Apr 2026

   How did these Boston finishers train for the Boston Marathon?

   This past Monday, three Go! Running Tours guides crossed the finish line at the Boston Marathon. Alan from Montreal. Emily from New York. Jose from Chicago. Three different training cycles, three different race days - and one thing in common: they earned every kilometer. In this special episode of Go! Running Talks, Lena sits down with Alan, Emily, and Jose days after the race to talk about what Boston actually feels like from the inside. The hills. The crowds. The moments where you're ready to quit and somehow don't. What you'll hear in this episode: Why Boston ruins your quads in the first four miles - before you even feel it The Wellesley Scream Tunnel: you can hear it a kilometer before you reach it Alan's Gollum analogy for the mental battle on the Newton Hills Emily's tip that made strangers cheer for her the entire 42.2K The real story behind why Heartbreak Hill is called Heartbreak Hill - from 1936 Is Heartbreak Hill actually as hard as they say? Three runners answer Emily's journey from charity runner to four-time Boston qualifier Jose's first Boston - and why he's already signing up again What all three would do differently next time Alan guides in Montreal. Emily guides in New York City. Jose guides in Chicago. Want to run with a Boston Marathon finisher? gorunningtours.com/p/canada/montreal/ (http://gorunningtours.com/p/canada/montreal/) - gorunningtours.com/p/usa/new-york-city/ (http://gorunningtours.com/p/usa/new-york-city/) - gorunningtours.com/p/usa/chicago/ (http://gorunningtours.com/p/usa/chicago/) Go! Running Tours connects runners with local guides in 70+ cities across Europe, North America, South America, Asia, Africa and Oceania. Whether you're a business traveler, a marathon tourist, or just someone who loves to explore cities on foot - there's a tour for you at https://gorunningtours.com/ (https://gorunningtours.com/)

6. 

   15 Apr 2026

   Tokyo has 23 different worlds. Ihor will help you find yours - Running Tokyo with a local

   Tokyo is not one city. It never was. Ihor, Go! Running Tours' lead guide in Tokyo, has been exploring the city on foot, by bike, and through a camera lens for five years. His conclusion: Tokyo has 23 different wards, and each one is its own world. The 7K and 12K tours he runs with guests cover what would be an entire city center in most European capitals - and still only scratch the surface. In this episode, Lena sits down with Ihor to talk about what it means to find your Tokyo, why the best itinerary is the one that leaves room for the unexpected, and what happens when a runner who loves books, music, and field recording becomes a guide in one of the most layered cities on earth. What you'll hear in this episode: Growing up running 5K every morning in a Ukrainian military boarding school - and  loving it The Japanese running culture shock: masks, gear, and runners who look like they came from another planet Running a marathon in Okinawa where a farm handed out  eggs and a man with salt appeared 10 meters later The "Find Your Tokyo" philosophy - and what Ihor's own Tokyo looks like The toilet tour: a 20K half marathon dedicated to Tokyo's most iconic public bathrooms, built for the Olympics Why Ihor never runs the same road twice on tour "Nerds meeting nerds" - what happens when a guide and a guest are equally obsessed with the same city One piece of advice for every runner, beginner or experienced Ihor's tours in Tokyo: 7K, 12K, and the 20K Toilet Tour Book a running tour in Tokyo Ready to run Tokyo? Find your route with Ihor at gorunningtours.com/p/japan/tokyo/ (http://gorunningtours.com/p/japan/tokyo/) Go! Running Tours is the global leader in running tours and connects runners with local guides in 70+ cities across Europe, North America, South America, Asia, Africa and Oceania. Whether you're a business traveler, a marathon tourist, or just someone who loves to explore cities on foot - there's a tour for you at https://gorunningtours.com/ (https://gorunningtours.com/)

7. 

   1 Apr 2026

   Running Denver with a Local: How Sara Built the City’s Best Running Tours

   Sara Amato wasn't sure anyone would want to run Denver. "It doesn't have the cool architecture and history that European cities do," she told us. She built the tours anyway. Sara is Go! Running Tours' lead guide in Denver - ultra runner, trail lover, and the person behind a running community that turned strangers into lifelong friends on a 42-mile day at the Grand Canyon. In this episode, Lena sits down with Sara to talk about imposter syndrome in running and in guiding, what it's like to show a city you had to learn to believe in, and why Denver's elevation will humble any runner - no matter how fast they are. What you'll hear in this episode: Imposter syndrome in running and in guiding - and how Sara moved through it What rim to rim to rim at the Grand Canyon actually feels like (42 miles, one day, last half is a death march) Building tours in a city without centuries of European history - and why Denver doesn't need it Why Denver's elevation at 5,280 ft hits every runner the same way, no exceptions The RiNo Arts District - murals that change every season, and why it's one of Sara's favorite routes Denver tours from 5K to half marathon - and why Sara recommends going for the longest one Coffee Run Club: the all-female running community built to be welcoming, not intimidating Sara's #1 advice for every runner: fuel your body, no matter what Sara's tours in Denver: gorunningtours.com/p/usa/denver/ (http://gorunningtours.com/p/usa/denver/) Go! Running Tours connects runners with local guides in 70+ cities across Europe, North America, South America, Asia, Africa and Oceania. Whether you're a business traveler, a marathon tourist, or just someone who loves to explore cities on foot - there's a tour for you at https://gorunningtours.com/ (https://gorunningtours.com/)

8. 

   10 Mar 2026

   What Happens when a Hotel GM decides running is part of the guest experience

   Hyatt Regency McCormick Place in Chicago partnered with Go! Running Tours to offer guests something most hotels don't: a guided running service that starts at the hotel door and takes you into the city. Two routes. Both 6K. One along Lake Michigan - past Soldier Field and the Adler Planetarium. One south through Chinatown's Dragon Gate to Ping Tom Memorial Park. Private, guided, available every day, adapted to your pace. The partnership came from a simple observation: business travelers and conference guests want to stay active on the road, but they don't always know where to run or how to make it happen before a full day of meetings. A bespoke running service removes that friction - and adds a layer to the hotel experience that a gym simply can't replicate. In this episode of Go! Running Talks, Lena sits down with Matt Schalk, General Manager of Hyatt Regency McCormick Place, to talk about: Why Hyatt Regency McCormick Place invested in a running service for guests What hotels gain by catering to active travelers and conference attendees How running fits the rhythm of business travel Chicago's South Loop and lakefront trail - what makes them worth running His best running memory: a hidden oceanfront trail near a San Francisco airport hotel What running has taught him about leading a large team Book a running tour from Hyatt Regency McCormick Place: https://gorunningtours.com/hyatt-regency-mccormick/ (https://gorunningtours.com/hyatt-regency-mccormick/) About Go! Running Tours: We're a global network of local running guides offering tours in 80+ cities worldwide. Discover cities by running, with locals who live and love their city. Book your next running experience at https://www.gorunningtours.com (https://www.gorunningtours.com) Subscribe for more conversations and follow us for new interviews.

9. 

   21 Feb 2026

   Shanghai's running culture is booming - here's what it looks like from the inside

   What's it like to run in one of the world's fastest-growing cities? In this episode of Go! Running Talks, Lena talks with Sha (runner, guide, and Shanghai local) about the city's booming running scene, her most unforgettable race experiences, and what makes Shanghai a must-visit for runners. 🏃 In this episode: ➔ How Sha got into running and what kept her going for over a decade ➔ What it was like to run the Pyongyang Marathon in North Korea ➔ How Shanghai's running culture compares to New York and Boston ➔ The best running tours and routes in Shanghai ➔ Post-run food spots and hidden gems for travelers ➔ Tips and advice for runners of all levels 🌍 About Go! Running Tours: We're a global network of local running guides offering tours in 80+ cities worldwide. Discover cities by running, with locals who live and love their city. ➡️ Book your next running experience at http://www.gorunningtours.com (http://www.gorunningtours.com) 🏃 Subscribe for more inspiring stories and follow us for new interviews.

10. 

    9 Feb 2026

    From Basketball Reject to Guinness World Record holder | Alex's Story | Go! Running Talks

    In this episode of Go Running Talks, Lena interviews Alex Grady, a running tour guide based in Atlanta. Alex shares his journey into running, from his childhood experiences to his achievements in marathons, including a memorable run in the London Marathon where he set a Guinness World Record. He discusses the importance of community in running, his recognition for community service, and his passion for writing children's books that teach valuable life lessons. Alex also highlights the various running tours he offers in Atlanta, emphasizing the city's rich history and culture, and shares hidden gems for visitors. At the end you’re going to find quickfire questions and Alex's advice for runners to find their tribe and build connections through running. 🌍 About Go! Running Tours: We're a global network of local running guides offering tours in 80+ cities worldwide. Discover cities by running, with locals who live and love their city. ➡️ Book your next running experience at www.gorunningtours.com (http://www.gorunningtours.com) 🏃 Subscribe for more inspiring stories and follow us for new interviews.

11. 

    10 Jan 2026

    Mexico City Running Tours, Altitude & Volcano Runs with Citla | Go! Running Talks

    In this episode of Go! Running Talks, our host Lena talks with Citla about her journey with Go! Running Tours since 2015, the most popular running tours in Mexico City, and what runners should know before visiting - from altitude challenges to local culture and food. They discuss the famous 15K Mexico City running tour, the unforgettable experience of running on a volcano, and practical tips for runners traveling to the city. Citla also shares advice on pacing, adapting to altitude, and why exploring the city at a relaxed rhythm makes every run more enjoyable. 🎙 Topics covered: • Running tours in Mexico City and what makes them special • The most popular routes, including the 15K tour • What it’s like to run on a volcano • How altitude impacts running performance • Travel and safety tips for runners visiting Mexico City • Why connecting with runners from different cultures matters 🌍 About Go! Running Tours We’re a global network of local running guides offering tours in 80+ cities worldwide. Discover cities by running, with locals who live and love their city. ➡️ Explore all tours at www.gorunningtours.com (http://www.gorunningtours.com) 🏃♂️ Subscribe for more running stories, city guides and interviews with our local guides around the world!

12. 

    27 Dec 2025

    Running with Olympic Champions in Geneva | François' Story | Go! Running Talks

    Meet François, lead guide of Go! Running Tours in Geneva. In this episode, François shares a memorable experience guiding an Indian Olympic champion in Javelin through the streets of Geneva, and what it was like to create a personal moment away from the cameras and media spotlight. François talks about the joy of helping athletes find solitude during high-pressure moments, the importance of personal connections beyond filming and communication, and how some of the most meaningful memories happen when you step away from the public eye. He also shares local insights on what to do in Geneva and what makes running in this city special. This conversation highlights how running tourism creates authentic experiences and lasting memories that go beyond the miles. 🎙 Topics covered: Running with an Indian Olympic Javelin champion Creating moments of solitude for athletes The balance between public appearances and personal time What makes Geneva a unique running destination Local tips and hidden gems in Geneva How running connects people in meaningful ways 🌍 About Go! Running Tours: We're a global network of local running guides offering tours in 80+ cities worldwide. Discover cities by running, with locals who live and love their city. ➡️ Book your next running experience at www.gorunningtours.com (http://www.gorunningtours.com) 🏃 Subscribe for more inspiring stories and follow us for new interviews.

13. 

    14 Dec 2025

    Training with Elite Runners in Ngong Hills | Daniel's Story | Go! Running Talks

    Meet Daniel, lead guide of Go Running Tours in Nairobi and a long-time colleague in our global network. In this episode, he takes us into the world of elite Kenyan runners and what it is like to train in the legendary Ngong Hills, home to some of the fastest athletes on the planet. Daniel shares stories from his running journey, including unexpected encounters with giraffes on the trails and the incredible story of a woman who survived a crocodile attack and went on to become an ultra runner. He also talks about Nairobi’s unique running culture, community life, and the handcrafted bracelets made by local artisans that support families in the area. This conversation is a look into running in Nairobi, training with elite athletes, and understanding why Kenya remains a global hub for distance running. 🎙 Topics covered: • Kenyan running culture and life in Ngong Hills • Training with elite runners in Nairobi • Wildlife encounters while running • The story of the woman who became an ultra runner after a crocodile attack • Cultural insights and travel tips for visiting Kenya • Community projects and handcrafted bracelets 🌍 About Go Running Tours: We operate in more than 80 cities worldwide. Discover cities by running with local guides who live and love their home. ➡️ Book your next running experience at www.gorunningtours.com (http://www.gorunningtours.com) 🏃 Subscribe for more stories and interviews

14. 

    3 Dec 2025

    Running with Kids, Finding Community & Staying Active | Marc's Story | Go! Running Talks

    Meet Marc - long time runner and a valued Go! Running Tours guest. For the first time, we're featuring one of our guests. Marc joined our colleague Mattia in Barcelona and has been part of the Go! Running tours community since then. In this episode, Marc shares his running journey - how he started, how he got serious about it, and the physical and mental health benefits he's experienced along the way. He also introduces us to F3 (Fitness, Fellowship, Faith), a global community of free workout groups for men across the US and beyond. Lena and Marc also talk about running with family. Marc shares how his daughters join him on runs and hikes, and how it's become a great way to disconnect from screens and connect with nature (and dad 😉). 🎙 Topics covered: Marc's running journey - from beginner to committed runner Physical and mental health benefits of running F3: the free fitness community for men Memorable running experiences around the world Exploring Barcelona with Go! Running Tours Running in Davidson, North Carolina Advice for runners of all levels 🌍 About Go! Running Tours: We're a global network of local running guides offering tours in 80+ cities worldwide. Discover cities by running, with locals who live and love their city. ➡️ Book your next running experience at www.gorunningtours.com (http://www.gorunningtours.com) 🏃 Subscribe for more inspiring stories and follow us for new interviews.

15. 

    3 Dec 2025

    Washington DC Running Guide Stories with Andrew | Go! Running Talks

    Meet Andrew, our running guide in Washington DC. In this interview, he shares fun, emotional, and memorable stories from his experiences leading running tours in the U.S. capital (including how he became part of a local running club that supports cancer survivors.) At Go! Running Tours, we offer running tours and walking tours in 80+ cities worldwide, connecting travelers, locals, and corporate teams through movement, culture, and authentic human stories. And today, Andrew shares what it’s really like to guide runners through the capital of the United States. If you want to explore more cities, meet other guides, or book a running experience, visit: gorunningtours.com (http://gorunningtours.com).

16. 

    3 Dec 2025

    From wheelchair to ultras | Ben’s Story from San Antonio

    Meet Ben, one of our running guides in San Antonio, Texas. An example of determination and faith. After a motorcycle accident that left him in a wheelchair, doctors told Ben he would never run again. But with patience, perseverance he not only walked again, he went on to run half marathons, ultra marathons, and now leads running tours through San Antonio’s historic streets. In this episode of Go! Running Talks, Ben shares his journey through recovery, the mental strength behind ultra running, and his favorite hidden gems in San Antonio - beyond the Alamo and the River Walk. Topics covered: • From wheelchair to running again - the comeback story that inspires us all • How ultra marathons became a tool for healing and helping others • Why running without music changed his mindset • Hidden gems of San Antonio that every runner should explore • Ben’s best advice for runners of all levels 🌍 About Go! Running Tours: We’re a global network of local running guides offering tours in 80+ cities worldwide. Discover cities by running, with locals who live and love their city. ➡️ Book your next running experience at www.gorunningtours.com (http://www.gorunningtours.com) 🏃♂️ Subscribe for more inspiring stories from our guides around the world and follow us for new interviews every month.

17. 

    3 Dec 2025

    New York City Running Tours & Local Insights | Go! Running Talks

    Meet Emily, our New York City running guide, in this inspiring conversation about how running shapes the way we experience the Big Apple. From her most memorable tours to her funniest on-the-run moments. In this episode, Emily discusses: How she started her journey into running Running with her dad and what inspired her to keep going Her most memorable and most challenging tours in NYC The biggest mistakes runners make (and her best advice to avoid them) The importance of staying consistent and enjoying every step A hilarious story involving a “very New York” moment you won’t forget! 😄 Whether you’re planning to run in New York City, curious about the local running culture, or simply looking for motivation to stay active, this conversation gives you an authentic glimpse into NYC through the eyes of a passionate runner and guide. Watch the full interview, get inspired, and connect with us at Go! Running Tours New York to explore the city like a local- one stride at a time. 👉 Book your running experience at gorunningtours.com (http://gorunningtours.com)

18. 

    1 Dec 2025

    Copenhagen Running Culture & Sustainability with Michael | Go! Running Talks

    Meet Michael, our Copenhagen running guide, in this conversation about Denmark's capital and the intersection of running with local culture and values. In this episode, Michael discusses: What to do and what not to do when visiting Copenhagen The city's approach to sustainability and how it connects to tourism His personal insights about Copenhagen from a local runner's perspective Whether you're planning a visit to Copenhagen or interested in how cities can promote sustainable tourism through active experiences, this conversation offers insights from a local guide who knows the city well. Connect with Go! Running Tours Copenhagen and book your city exploration at gorunningtours.com (http://gorunningtours.com)

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

1 ratings

Contact Go! Running Talks

Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.