The Extra Mile - The Official Charity Miles Podcast

In this episode of The Extra Mile Podcast, we’re joined by Pat Morrissey and Brendan Cusick of Human Powered Potential—a four-person team that rowed across the Pacific Ocean to raise over $43 million for the Michael J. Fox Foundation. Pat, who lives with early onset Parkinson’s, shares his powerful journey from diagnosis to joining this life-changing mission. Brendan, the team’s skipper, walks us through the inspiration behind the row, the mental and physical preparation, and what it was like to face 30-foot waves and total isolation in the middle of the ocean. Together, they talk about the strength of community, the power of purpose, and how the support they received from thousands kept them moving through even the hardest days. This is a story of resilience, teamwork, and pushing beyond limits for something bigger than yourself. Don’t miss this incredible conversation. Every mile matters.

We're thrilled to share this interview with Kiera Smalls, the Executive Director of the Running Industry Coalition.  The RIDC is an educational nonprofit with a mission to unite the running industry to improve inclusion, visibility, and access for Black, Indigenous, and People of Color.  This is a conversation about how running can be a tool for connection, empowerment, and change, but also how the running community, and how we think about diversity in the running community, is a microcosm for so much more.   In a time where we seem to see a movement in opposition to diversity, equity, inclusion, we are doing our best to double down on these values. At Charity Miles, we believe in inclusivity, and that our diversity is what makes us resilient. It also makes our life experiences so much more rich and enjoyable.   But most of all, because it's the right thing to do. So we're going to try to do our part, in this podcast at the very least, to bring you more voices like Kiera's. — This podcast is sponsored b

We’re excited to bring you this inspiring conversation with Billy Mills, the legendary Olympian who shocked the world by winning gold in the 10,000-meter race at the 1964 Tokyo Olympics. In this episode, Billy shares his incredible journey—from growing up on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation to overcoming adversity, finding purpose through running, and making history on the world’s biggest stage. We explore powerful themes like resilience, unity through diversity, and the impact of giving back. Billy and his wife, Pat, have dedicated their lives to empowering Indigenous communities through Running Strong for American Indian Youth, helping the next generation chase their dreams. A huge thank-you to Billy Mills for sharing his story and to everyone supporting initiatives that uplift and inspire others. Chapters: 00:00 - The Historic 1964 Olympic 10K Final 02:14 - Introducing Billy Mills: A Story of Resilience 06:12 - Billy’s Early Life on Pine Ridge Reservation 13:06 - The Impact of Haskell Indian School 24:16

In this episode, we’re joined by Brad Pitassi, Chief of the Maricopa Fire Department, who shares his incredible journey from EMT to fire chief. We discuss wildfire response, community resilience, and the personal sacrifices firefighters make to keep us safe. Brad’s stories are both eye-opening and inspiring, offering practical tips on disaster preparedness and how we can all support our local heroes. #EveryMileMatters! Chapters: 0:00 – Welcome & Guest Introduction 0:26 – Becoming Fire Chief of Maricopa 1:31 – Inspired to Serve After 9/11 3:23 – Managing Large-Scale Disasters 5:36 – What It’s Like Fighting Wildfires 10:00 – How to Fight a Forest Fire 19:57 – Wildfires in Urban Areas 31:52 – Personal Preparedness Tips 43:36 – Cancer Risks for Firefighters 52:45 – Final Thoughts & Thank You

We’re excited to bring you this inspiring conversation with Charles Costa, an ultrarunner who accomplished the incredible challenge of running 90 marathons in 90 days along the Pacific Crest Trail. In this episode, Charles shares his journey of resilience, his dedication to raising awareness for mental health through organizations like the Jed Foundation, and the lessons he’s learned from this life-changing experience. We explore powerful themes like finding freedom and purpose through running, the connection between physical activity and mental health, and how perseverance can inspire change not just for yourself but for others. A huge thank-you to Charles Costa for sharing his story and to everyone supporting mental health initiatives that truly make a difference. Don’t forget to follow Charles on Instagram at @CharlesCostaOfficial for more inspiration! #EveryMileMatters Chapters: 0:00 Introduction 0:18 Finishing the Challenge 0:39 Background and Motivation 2:07 Discovering Ultra Running 4:00 The Sicily Exp

We're thrilled to share this interview with Dr. Bill Dahut, Chief Scientific Officer of the American Cancer Society. Dr. Dahut is a renowned oncologist and researcher who is helping set the vision for the world’s most innovative cancer research initiatives. In this interview, we cover a wide range of topics, including the groundbreaking research the American Cancer Society is supporting, the critical role of early cancer detection, and how lifestyle choices like diet, and exercise can significantly reduce cancer risk. Dr. Dahut is both inspiring and empowering, because he gives us an inside view for how we can all make an impact —not only by fundraising but also by living healthier lives to reduce our risk of getting cancer. After all, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Huge thanks to Dr. Dahut for his leadership and taking the time to share so much with us. Also a huge thanks to everyone at the American Cancer Society for leading the charge in the fight against cancer, and for giving us all the

We're thrilled to share this interview with Martinus Evans, author, coach and founder of the Slow AF Run Club.   Martinus' journey is not just about running. It's a journey of overcoming setbacks, challenging norms, and motivating people of all shapes, sizes, and speeds to lace up and get moving.   From an “impossible” goal set in a doctor’s office, to founding a movement that encourages tens of thousands of people to get moving, Martinus’ story is about turning doubt into determination and making the impossible inevitable. We have not doubt that you’ll inspired by Martinus’ insights on resilience, grit, and the power of embracing your own journey in running—and in life. -- Of course, we also want to express our sincere gratitude to our partners at Brooks Running, who make interviews like this possible. For over a century, Brooks has been propelled by a never-ending curiosity with how humans move. It drives their every decision and every innovation. Because they believe movement is the key to feeling more ali

Today, I have the immense privilege of walking with one of the most influential thinkers, authors and teachers of our time, Seth Godin. Seth is the author of 21 best-selling books that have transformed how we think about marketing, leadership, and the power of creative work. His books have been translated into over 35 languages, helping readers across the globe learn to challenge the status quo and make a lasting impact. In addition to his writing, Seth is the founder of several successful businesses, including the groundbreaking altMBA, an online workshop that has revolutionized the way people learn to lead and create meaningful change. He also invented email marketing, so we can thank him for that. Above all, Seth is a teacher. He’s taught at some of the most renowned business schools, founded one of the most successful online learning platforms, and spends his time sharing wisdom on everything from business strategy to life philosophy.  In this episode, Seth shares his insights from his new book, This is S

Today we're honored to share a very special interview with the great Harvey Lewis, one of the world’s top ultrarunners of all time. (Also, like Courtney Dauwalter in our last episode, one of the nicest.) Harvey is not only an accomplished runner but also a dedicated high school teacher at the School for Creative and Performing Arts in Cincinnati. He runs to work every day on what he calls his "run commute," and I had the incredible opportunity to join him on one of those runs—from his home all the way to his school, winding our way through Cincinnatti and Kentucky, over and back across the beautiful Ohio River. In this episode, we’ll talk about Harvey’s journey as an ultrarunner, including his record-setting win at Big's Backyard Ultra, where he ran an astounding 454 miles over 4 and a half days. We’ll dive into what drives him to push beyond physical limits, and his approach to inspiring others to live healthy, active lives.  After relistening to and reflecting on this interview, I think that what comes thro

In this interview, I’m incredibly honored to be joined by Courtney Dauwalter, one of the greatest ultrarunners of all time. For those unfamiliar with the ultrarunning world, Courtney has shattered expectations and rewritten records in some of the most grueling races on the planet.  In 2023, she became the first person ever to win the Western States 100, the Hardrock 100, and the UTMB all in the same year -- which is like the ultrarunning triple crown, an achievement that stands alone in the history of the sport. Known not only for her incredible endurance but also her positive attitude, sense of humor, and love of candy and nachos, Courtney has conquered races like the Moab 240 (a 240 mile race in Moab!), which she won by more than 10 hours, and the Big's Backyard Ultra, where she set a women's record of 279 miles. She’s also renowned for her trademark "Shortney" baggy shorts, her love for the "Pain Cave," and her unique ability to push herself through the most difficult physical and mental challenges-- wheth

Today, I'm thrilled to be joined by Alison Mariella Desir, a powerhouse disrupter and activist in the running community and a true advocate for change. Alison is the founder of Harlem Run, a running club that brings people together through running while championing diversity and inclusion. She's also the author of Running While Black, which sheds light on the intersection of race and running. I like to think I’m pretty progressive and aware of the ways that race affects us all personally and collectively.  But reading Alison’s book, my eyes were opened even more to the ways that race continues to shape the running community—and society generally. In this conversation, Alison shares her personal journey, the inspiration behind Harlem Run, and the powerful message in her book that challenges and invites us to all open our eyes to the hidden forces of race in the running world and beyond.  We dive into how running can be a vehicle for social justice, and the importance of creating spaces where everyone can feel

Today’s interview is with Dana Snyder, founder and CEO of Positive Equation, where she helps charities grow their communities and monthly giving programs. This interview will be helpful for anyone that works at a charity—which some of our members do. But, more than that, this interview will provide all of us with insight – and empathy – for how hard our charities work to fundraise in support of the missions we all care about—and, therefore, how we can better support them in that endeavor. Most crucially, I hope Dana’s insight will help us all think less transactionally, and more relationally, about how we support our favorite charities. I also want to give a huge shoutout to our partners at Lifeway Kefir. Lifeway was one of our first sponsors, and their CEO, Julie Smolyansky has become a friend and has been on the pod before too. Lifeway Kefir is purpose-driven brand and a champion for many social causes, supporting initiatives that promote maternal health, girls education and empowerment, the environment, me

Today’s interview is with Nathan Chappell, one of the world’s foremost experts on the intersection between Artificial Intelligence and philanthropy. Nathan serves as Senior Vice President of DonorSearch AI, and is the founder of Fundraising.Ai, a member-centric collaboration of nonprofit professionals with a focus on data ethics, data equality, privacy and security and sustainability. Nathan is also the co-author of The Generosity Crisis, which we discuss in the interview. Nathan elaborates why there is a generosity crisis now and how the remedy for that crisis is for people like us to think less transactionally and more holistically about our relationships with the charities we care about.  I’m sure his message will resonate with all of us. -- Big thanks to our newest partners at Lagoon Sleep, which makes the most comfortable pillow I’ve ever used.  Which is why I reached out to them to ask if they’d sponsor us. No joke, I ordered myself a Lagoon pillow when I saw how many NCAA and Olympic athletes were us

Today's interview is with Brian Reynolds, one of the world's fastest double amputee runners. When Brian was four years-old he contracted a rare form of bacterial meningitis, which led to him having both of his legs amputated below the knee. Despite this, Brian was fairly active as a child-- and did his best to participate in most common childhood sports like baseball, basketball and even hockey.  (He grew up in Boston after all.) When Brian was in college, he got into power lifting... which led to him to join the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society's Team in Training to hike across the Grand Canyon... and then finally to running. Brian is now one of the fastest double amputee runners in the world, having set records in distances from the 5K to the marathon.  Brian happens to live about a mile from me, so we see each other on our morning runs quite often. I'd love to run with him more, but I don't think I can keep up! Last month, the Fleet Feet in our town hosted a trail running film festival featuring several short

Soraya Alexander is the Chief Operating Officer of GoFundMe and as the President of Classy, a GoFundMe subsidiary. Through her work, Alexander supports thousands of nonprofits and hundreds of thousands of people to unlock the world's generosity. GoFundMe is on a mission to help people help each other. Through innovative technology, Classy helps nonprofits raise more so they can do more good in the world. Together, the two organizations help billions of dollars per year get raised for social and environmental good.  In this interview, we discuss the challenges charities face in engaging their supporters, generational shifts in donor expectations, effective fundraising techniques, community building, and the psychological barriers to making donation requests. Soraya shares how GoFundMe and Classy are tackling these challenges and how we, as people who care about charities, can take a more active role in supporting them.   On a final note, I'm happy to share that Charity Miles is developing a partnership with Cl

Laura Putnam is a global wellbeing activator, author of the bestselling book Workplace Wellness that Works, and CEO and Founder of Motion Infusion, a leading wellbeing provider.  She is a highly sought-after keynote speaker and has worked with a wide range of organizations, including Fortune 500 companies, government agencies, academic institutions, and nonprofits. Laura has trained over 40,000 managers and leaders on how to lead wellbeing from the inside-out and outside-in to truly champion wellbeing that works for all. I recently met Laura at the First Coast Worksite Wellness Council's conference in Jacksonville, Florida where she was the keynote speaker. (Shoutout to FCWCC for including us!) After hearing her keynote, I knew we had to get her on the podcast-- not just for our members and partners in our Employee Empowerment Program, but for all our members, most of whom work at companies in one way or another, and in their own capacity have the power to foster a culture of wellbeing. In this interview, we

It’s also a great privilege for me to share today’s interview with Kara Goucher.  Kara is a two-time Olympian, World Championship medalist, and one of the most accomplished and admired long-distance runners of our time.  Beyond her competitive achievements, Kara is also a passionate advocate for clean sport and gender equity, an inspiring speaker, author, podcaster and NBC broadcaster for track and field.  She’s someone who continues to inspire runners of all levels. As we’ll talk about in this interview, two years ago, Kara began slipping while she was running.  And after seeing multiple doctors, she was diagnosed with Runner’s Dystonia, a neurological disorder with some similarities to Parkinson’s.  Many of you may remember the interview I did with my friend, and fellow Team Foxer, Justine Galloway, who also has Runner’s Dystonia.  So this is something we’ll also talk about in this episode. Kara also as a unique and hard-won perspective on the power of brands to affect social change, and the power that we h

Sami Inkinen is the Co-Founder and CEO of Virta Health, which is reversing type two diabetes through nutrition, lifestyle change, and a new standard of medical care. Prior to Virta, Sami was the Co-Founder and COO of Trulia, which many of you probably used to find a house or apartment. Sami took Trulia public and then sold it to Zillow. Sami is also an Ironman Age Group Champion and all-around world-class endurance athlete. To raise awareness about the dangers of sugar and its connection to diabetes, Sami and his wife rowed from California to Hawaii—2,750 miles, completely unsupported.  I've been personally lucky to know Sami for over ten years now.  I was introduced to Sami through the Global Good Fund, a fellowship program for social entrepreneurs.  Sami became my mentor through GGF, and has always been generous with his time and insight whenever I need it through the years. I've wanted to record this interview for a long time. Big thanks to Sami for sharing so much with us. #EveryMileMatters!

Today's interview is with Jenny Lawson, the president and CEO of Keep America Beautiful, a leading national nonprofit that inspires and educates people to take action every day to improve and beautify their community environment. Established in 1953, Keep America Beautiful provides the expertise, programs, and resources to help people end littering, improve recycling, beautify America's public spaces, and restore and support resilient communities.   Before joining Keep America Beautiful, Jenny was the Chief Civic Innovation Officer at Points of Light where she led forward thinking initiatives, partnerships, and campaigns to advance the mission of Points of Light around the world. She designed, led, and championed programs and research to aid companies in achieving their social change goals through the actions of their employees, including the Corporate Service, Council of Leading Brands, the Civic 50, Ranking of Community Minded Companies, and a newly developed digital community, the Community for Employee Ci

On March 8th, I ran the Jerusalem Marathon. As you surely know, Israel is in the middle of a war that started on October 7th.  I, like everyone, have a mix of different feelings about this. But I didn't go to Jerusalem to make a statement about my own feelings. I went to listen and try and share what others in Israel are feeling right now. I think a marathon is a great way to experience the true essence of a place. The New York City Marathon feels like New York City.  The Moab Canyonlands marathon feels like the Moab Canyonlands... And the Jerusalem Marathon feels like Israel.   If you listen to this, I hope you feel it too. #EveryMileMatters