Lydia Jennings: Running Is a Lifelong Friend - R4R 307

“Running is a lifelong friend.”  That’s how microbiologist Dr. Lydia Jennings describes the sport she first embraced as a teenager at boarding school. She calls it her “best relationship” with herself. Like all relationships, it has its ups and downs, but it’s a central part of her life not only for physical and mental health, but as a tool for scholarship, environmental activism, and to be present in her community. It’s taken her to the Boston Marathon; on a 50-mile run to honor Indigenous scholars, documented in Run To Be Visible; and across 135 miles of the desert Southwest to change the way that we think about the literal and metaphorical skin of the Earth. For complete show notes and links, visit our website at runningforreal.com/episode307.   Thank you to Legacy of Speed, Paceline, and Allbirds for sponsoring this episode.   Check out the Pushkin Industries x Tracksmith new podcast, Legacy of Speed When two Black sprinters raised their fists in protest at the 1968 Olympic Games, it shook the world. More than 50 years later, the ripple effects of their activism are still felt. In this new series from Pushkin Industries, get to know the runners who took a stand, and the coaches and mentors who helped make them fast enough — and   brave enough — to change the world. Hosted by Malcolm Gladwell. Find Legacy of Speed here or on your favorite podcast player. Go here and use the code TINA15 to get free shipping at Tracksmith. With your purchase, Tracksmith will donate 5% to my favorite non profit, Runners for Public Lands!   Want to get rewarded for that next run? Well, Paceline thinks you should. That's why they'll turn your physical activity into cash back: get 150 minutes of movement a week and boost your cash back from 2.5 percent to 5 percent on eligible Health & Wellness purchases made with your Paceline credit card. Restrictions, terms and conditions apply. Go to pacelinefit.app.link/TINA for details. They also have a free rewards app that lets you earn gift cards and discounts to some of your favorite brands.   Allbirds’ products are made from natural and recycled materials, and best of all, they know who they are. They are confident in what they do, and are changing the entire running industry before our eyes. You can see their entire collection on their website.   Thanks for listening! We know there are so many podcasts you could listen to, and we are honored you have chosen Running For Real.  If you appreciate the work that we do, here are a few things you can do to support us: Take a screenshot of the episode, and share it with your friends, family, and community on social media, especially if you feel that the topic will resonate with them.  Be sure to tag us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram If you are struggling through something a guest mentions, chances are others are too, and you will help them feel less alone.  Leave an honest review on iTunes or your favorite podcast player. Your ratings and reviews will really help us grow and reach new people. Not sure how to leave a review or subscribe?  You can find out here. "Thank you" to Lydia.  We look forward to hearing your thoughts on the show.