EP. 115 | Rebuilding The Runner ; Recovering from ITB Injury. How a marathon setback became a comeback - told through the lens of athlete, Chanel Cronje.
In this inspiring episode of Making A Runner, host Nic sits down with runner and content creator, Chanel Cronje, to talk about one of the most relatable topics in the sport: injury.After building strong momentum in her training, Chanel hit a wall with ITB syndrome during her Cape Town Marathon 2024 campaign — a race she courageously completed despite pain from as early as kilometer 3. In her 18-week long journey of rehabilitation, strength training, and deep self-reflection, she found a way to overcome and and grow stronger.Together, Nic and Chanel explore:The emotional toll of injury and how to manage itWhy ITB syndrome is so common — and what to do about itThe role of cross-training and rehab in recoveryThe importance of patience, support, and mindset in rebuilding confidenceWhat Chanel learned about herself as both an athlete and a personThis episode is packed with practical advice and motivation for any runner who's had to pause, pivot, and persevere. Whether you’re sidelined right now or simply want to run smarter, you’ll walk away with tools to help you keep moving forward — and proof that the comeback is always stronger than the setback.If you enjoyed the conversation, make sure to share it with a running buddy who will also benefit from it. You can follow more of Chanels journey on her socials @chanel_cronje .
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EP. 114 | How To Achieve Your True Running Potential ; A blueprint on ‘progressing through your running journey’ with Strength Running Podcast Host and Coach, Jason Fitzgerald.
In this episode of Making A Runner, Nic sits down with one of the sport’s most respected voices — Jason Fitzgerald, coach and host of the Strength Running Podcast. From his humble beginnings showing up to his first cross-country practice in basketball shoes, to becoming a 2:39 marathoner and leading coach, Jason’s journey is filled with lessons every runner can learn from.Together, they dive deep into what it means to build lasting progress — touching on the role of genetics, consistency, and smart training through every stage of a runner’s life. Jason unpacks why starting small, racing short, and gradually building up is the key to long-term success — and shares powerful insights on avoiding burnout, staying healthy, and finding joy in the process.Whether you're just lacing up for the first time or chasing personal bests in your 40s and beyond, this episode is packed with practical advice, real talk, and plenty of inspiration to keep you running strong.You’ll also hear Nic reflect on why this conversation was such a full-circle moment — as someone who’s learned so much from Jason over the years.If you enjoy this episode, don’t forget to check out the Strength Running Podcast, give Jason a follow on socials, and — as always — share this episode with a fellow runner who could use some inspiration.
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EP. 113 | The Comrades Race Week YOU Need; Nic and Davey use their previous experiences to take you through what to expect from the days leading up to race day and the big day itself.
Davey is back on the show and with Nic they go over all you need to hear in the build up to the 2025 Comrades Down Run.In this fun and lighthearted episode you can expect to find some golden nuggets of wisdom which are sure to help get you fully prepared for race day along with many laughs from the stories shared. They cover:- Their own Comrades journeys and how they go to the start of this years race.- Mental advice to overcome the difficult moments on race day.- Seconding and on the day support- Carbo-loading strategies- Recovery and Sleep strategies- Morning of the race adviceBelow are some recommended episodes to further guide you and dive deeper on some of the topics discussed in todays conversation.Mental Strength Episode (S3|E30): https://open.spotify.com/episode/7avdvgeljwlpIdWMC0EXiu?si=743fcd0e86d54cd7Carbo Loading Episode (S3|E25): https://open.spotify.com/episode/1IU1PMHHn5QEMLTynH8Dhl?si=fcd6a0ff480145ceWe wish you the best of luck with race day and hope you found the conversation as fun and informative as we did. Remember to share this with a running buddy who needs to hear it and see you all at the start (or the finish)!
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EP. 112 | Rolling With The Punches, Learning To Overcome ; Irvette Van Zyl’s inspiring journey through multiple setbacks & return to elite level running as she lines up for her first Comrades Marathon
In this episode of Making a Runner, host Nic Acampora sits down with South African running icon, Irvette Van Zyl, as she prepares for her very first Comrades Marathon. In this inspiring and deeply honest conversation, Irvette opens up about her rollercoaster journey to the start line, navigating serious injuries, relentless setbacks, and the mental and emotional battles that come with being an elite athlete. Despite facing multiple challenges—including a stress fracture, calf thrombosis, and a torn hamstring—Irvette shares how she found the strength to keep moving forward, the importance of listening to her body, and the lessons learned from knowing when to step back in order to come back stronger. Whether you're an experienced runner or just starting your journey, this episode is packed with relatable moments, practical insights, and a powerful reminder that progress isn’t always linear—but with resilience and self-compassion, anything is possible. As Comrades Marathon approaches, let Irvette's story fire you up, no matter where you are on your own running journey. Enjoy.
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EP. 111 | The Gold Mine for Comrades Down Run Success ; 49 time consecutive finisher & CMA Board Member, Barry Holland, shares the strategy, route & mindset to guide you to your strongest finish yet.
Ready to make the most of your Comrades Down Run? In this episode of Making A Runner, host Nic Acampora sits down with living legend Barry Holland—the only person to have finished 49 consecutive Comrades Marathons and a current CMA Board Member. Drawing on five decades of experience, Barry unpacks the route like only he can, sharing hard-earned tips on pacing strategies, breaking up the daunting 90km, and how to approach those infamous hills (and downhills!) for your best shot at the finish.They discuss the mental side of conquering Comrades, common pitfalls to avoid in the final weeks, and why belief and a solid plan are essential for success. Plus, Barry lifts the lid on this year’s new start and finish procedures, what they mean for runners, and the big changes driving the future of the world’s most iconic ultra.Whether you’re chasing a medal, a PB, or simply determined to cross the line, this is a true gold mine of practical advice and inspiration straight from a Comrades legend. Don’t forget to check out the free Comrades Down Run pacing chart on the Making a Runner Instagram page to help fine-tune your strategy.If you’re running Comrades—or just love the stories behind the world’s greatest ultra—this is the episode just for you!Remember to leave a review and share with your running buddies - Enjoy the Show!
Making a Runner is an inspiring and informative podcast that delves into the world of running. Hosted by Nic Acampora, the show features in-depth conversations with athletes, coaches, experts, and enthusiasts from various running disciplines.
Each episode uncovers the personal journeys, training techniques, and mental strategies of top runners and industry professionals, sharing valuable insights for listeners at every level of their running journey. From beginners looking to take their first steps into running to seasoned athletes aiming to achieve their personal bests, Making a Runner offers practical tips, motivation, and guidance to enhance running performance and overall well-being. The podcast looks to cover a wide range of topics, including race preparation, nutrition, recovery, mental resilience, injury prevention, and the latest trends in the running world.
With a warm and engaging approach plus some lekker South African 'Gees', the host create a supportive space for runners to explore the challenges and triumphs of their sport, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie.
Making a Runner seeks to empower and inspire runners of all backgrounds, ages, and abilities, celebrating the joy of running and the limitless potential that lies within each individual. Whether you're an experienced marathoner or lacing up your shoes for the first time, this podcast is your go-to resource for unlocking the athlete within and making your running dreams a reality.
This is how runners are made....
South Africa