Start lines can carry more than nerves—they can carry whole lives. We kick off Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend with equal parts heart and how-to, celebrating Jack's wedding, sharing practical travel and cheering plans, and diving into two stories that remind us why miles matter.

Wendy opens her journey with honesty about grief’s physical weight after losing her husband; a man who once signed up for a 5K just to support her Dopey dream. She talks about the moment a Thursday Zoom call pulled her back to community, how coaching helped her rebuild a routine from dog walks to long runs, and why she’ll run in hot pinks and hearts to keep love visible on the course. Her insight is clear and kind: grief doesn’t follow rules, so neither should your healing.

We then turn the volume up on community with our annual Rise and Run roll call—Dopey, Goofy, marathon, half, 10K, and 5K—giving first timers and veterans their well-earned spotlight.

Jon’s story brings purpose into sharp focus. A single dad chasing his first marathon to model dedication for his kids, he speaks candidly about battling old habits, choosing to prioritize time rather than “find” it, and refusing to let imperfect weeks derail the goal. His mantra is simple: hard work works. He’s aiming to finish strong, not chase a hero split, and to show his kids that promises kept to yourself change who you become.

Whether you run to heal, to grow, or to prove you can, there’s room for your reason here. Tap play, feel seen, get the logistics you need, and take your next step toward the start line with us. If this episode lifts you, share it with a friend, hit follow, and leave a review so more runners can find their story in our community.

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