When former elite marathoner Tina Muir started Running for Real in 2017, she had a specific finish line in mind: she envisioned a podcast that would inspire runners of all levels and backgrounds.
Though originally known for her fast times (like a 2:36 marathon), the decision to publicly disclose her eating disorder and amenorrhea had earned Muir a reputation for relatability, honesty, and authenticity, which in turn informs every episode of her show.
Now among the top 10 running podcasts on iTunes, Running for Real’s audience growth has been steady and organic. Her success, Muir says, is largely due to three factors: her preparation for each show, the topics she covers, and, her unique perspective.
Muir believes that the amount of work she puts into preparing for each episode sets her apart from other hosts. While it’s not unusual for her to interview high-profile runners and health and fitness experts who have also appeared on other shows, she always poses unique questions. Her strategy for coming up with interesting questions? “I try to put myself in the shoes of the listener, asking the questions that they would want to know.”
She remembers interviewing ultramarathoner Dean Karnazes, who has been on shows including 60 Minutes, The Late Show with David Letterman, and CNN. “Dean had perfected his answers to most questions commonly asked,” says Muir, “but I made sure to go deeper with my questions, [...]
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