In today's episode, I interview Claire Boyce and Travis Vaughn from Upward Sports/Upward Running and the Kinda Fast podcast about running, identity, and keeping Jesus at the center of fitness—especially when injury interrupts training.    If you're a faith-driven runner or fitness enthusiast who feels discouraged by injuries or even too intimidated to start, this episode is for you.    What we'll cover: 

• Imposter syndrome and defining what it means to be a runner
• Practical ways to avoid making fitness an idol
• Lessons from recurring injuries
• Rekindling a love for running and embracing all paces

My hope is that you'll walk away with a fresh perspective on running, faith, and what "winning" means to you on your fitness journey. 

🎧 Listen Here

"Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope."

Helpful time stamps:

05:01 Adult Running and Community 

06:57 Runner Identity Mindset 

10:12 Injuries and Training Smarter 

13:00 When Running Becomes an Idol 

16:22 Practical Ways to Keep Balance 

23:31 Training Plans and Defining Wins

About the Kinda Fast Podcast featuring Claire and Travis

My friends, this is my kinda podcast! They are not super serious about running but through their conversations it shows they really do love it—an attitude which leaves room to invite everyone to the table (or the race). Here's a bit more, from their website:

"Kinda Fast is a weekly podcast from the team at Upward Running, created for runners of all paces—whether you’re chasing a PR or just proud you showed up. Hosted by Claire Boyce and joined by Travis Vaughn, the show blends honest conversations, practical advice, and a good dose of humor.

Each episode breaks down trending running topics, training terms, viral moments, and more—making running feel a little more relatable and a lot more fun. If you’ve ever felt kinda fast, kinda not, or kinda confused by what a fartlek is, this is your kind of podcast."

Resources

• Upward Running: check out their app
• Upward Ministry: sports ministry for kids and adults
• For more on identifying idols, check out Tim Keller's book Counterfeit Gods 

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