In the lead up to the global charity event Wings for Life World Run in May, the Why I Run podcast has been launched to inspire a community of runners whatever stage they’re at in their journey.
It’s for everyone who takes part in the activity, from running enthusiasts, to runners who struggle to get themselves out the door, and everyone in between.
The podcast is hosted by TikTok star Erin Azar, who has openly shared that she doesn’t run to hit the fastest speeds or go the longest distances, along with broadcaster and world record-breaking swimmer, Ayo Akinwolere, who has previously trained for a half-marathon.
Erin says: “I’m so thrilled to be a part of this podcast, because we’re talking with both professional athletes and everyday runners. All of the guests have amazing insights and experiences that positively impacted me in some way after each interview.”
Ayo adds: “Why I Run is a unique podcast bringing together some incredible humans and it tries to unlock the reasons behind their joy of running and movement. Each story is so fascinating and inspiring, I can’t wait for people to listen in!”
Every Thursday over the next ten weeks, Erin and Ayo will meet guests who share their passion for plodding and what drives them to run. The first episode explores the power of running as a creative outlet with British poet and novelist Helen Mort, and Australian triathlete, Courtney Atkinson.
Sharing how running gets the creative juices flowing, Helen Mort tells host Ayo: “I get all my best ideas when I’m away from a desk. If I’m stuck, or trying to create something new, I like to go out for a walk or a run and take that idea with me. Nine times out of ten, it’s the best way of working on it, and processing it.”
Guests in the upcoming series include founder of Plogga, Erik Ahlström, Sandile Mkhize who became paralysed by a motorcycle accident, but found hope again when competing in the Wings for Life World Run, dancer, Angyil McNeal, and professional athlete, Ida Mathilde.
The Why I Run podcast from Red Bull will be available on redbull.com/whyirun, Apple, Spotify, and on all major podcast platforms from Thursday, 3 March.
