This episode of That First Mile Podcast is all about what happens when running becomes a family affair.

Randy sits down with his wife, Lili, daughters Liliana and Juli, and Ryan to talk about their experience running Ragnar together as a family.

They talk about the miles, the laughs, the exhaustion, the unexpected moments, and what it was really like spending 200 miles together as a family. Ragnar is hard enough on your legs, but doing it with the people you love creates a completely different experience.

This isn’t just a story about running a relay. It’s about family, memories, pushing each other when things get tough, and realizing that sometimes the best miles are the ones you share with other people.

Family ties. Tired thighs. A whole lot of memories.

What if the right pair of running shoes could change your life?

In this episode of That First Mile Podcast, we’re joined by Rosemary Rios, manager of Sole II Soul Sports in Visalia, CA, to talk about far more than shoes. We explore how proper shoe fitting can prevent injuries, build confidence, and help people take that very first step toward a healthier lifestyle.

Rosemary shares her journey into the running community, what she has learned from helping runners of every experience level, and why local running stores continue to play such an important role in bringing people together. We also discuss common mistakes runners make when buying shoes, how often they should be replaced, and what every new runner should know before lacing up.

Throughout the conversation, we reflect on the connection between running and mental health, the power of community, and how small steps can lead to life-changing transformations.

Whether you’re training for your first 5K, your next marathon, or simply looking for motivation to get moving, this episode is packed with practical advice and inspiration.

Thank you for listening to That First Mile Podcast. If this episode encouraged you, please follow the show, leave a review, and share it with someone who’s ready to take their own first mile.

In this episode of That First Mile Podcast, we dive into the Northwest Passage Ragnar—one of the most demanding relay experiences you can put a team through.

From unpredictable weather and overnight legs to the mental battle that hits when sleep disappears and miles stack up, this breakdown takes you inside the real experience of what it takes to keep moving when everything in your body is asking you to stop.

We talk teamwork, mindset shifts, leadership in the van, the dark hours no one posts about, and the small moments that turn into the biggest memories.

This isn’t just a race recap—it’s what endurance actually feels like when it gets uncomfortable, chaotic, and real.

Because every strong finish starts with That First Mile.

In this powerful episode of That First Mile Podcast, Randy sits down with his brother-in-law Oscar Soto—a husband, father, and new grandfather who spent years working as a truck driver, pushing through long hours on the road and the physical toll that came with it, including injuries that have followed him into this season of life.

Oscar opens up about sacrifice, family, and what it means to keep showing up even when life has worn you down. He also shares a deeply personal look at his role as a supporter of his wife Paolo Soto, who has trained for multiple half marathons and completed the Marine Corps Marathon—and how watching her discipline and commitment inspired him in ways he didn’t expect.

This is more than a conversation about fitness. It’s about legacy, family, and taking that first step toward change—no matter where you are in life.

Izayah Campos was deep into marathon training when life took a sharp turn—he shipped out to U.S. Navy boot camp. In this episode, we dive into what it takes to pivot from personal goals to something greater, the discipline required to succeed in boot camp, and how fitness prepared him for the mental and physical challenges ahead.

We talk about unfinished goals, resilience, and what comes next as Izayah looks to pick up where he left off—both in his running journey and his new path in the Navy.

Whether you’re starting your fitness journey, chasing a goal, or navigating a major life transition, this episode will remind you: your first mile doesn’t disappear—it evolves.

Starting a fitness journey isn’t about having the perfect plan.
It’s not about motivation.
And it’s definitely not about feeling ready.

It’s about taking that first step—when everything in you is telling you to wait.

In this episode of That First Mile, we sit down with Carianne Fernandez, who is just getting started on her fitness journey. No highlight reel. No “after” picture. Just the real, honest experience of what it feels like to begin from zero.

Carianne opens up about:
• The fear of starting
• Feeling out of place and unsure
• What day one actually looks like
• The mental battle nobody sees
• And why small steps matter more than perfect plans

This conversation isn’t about perfection—it’s about progress.

If you’ve ever told yourself “I’ll start Monday”… this is your moment.

Because the truth is—nothing changes until you do.

68 countries. 500+ cities. That First Mile Podcast reflects on its growing global reach and the message behind it—discipline, consistency, and taking action even when it’s uncomfortable. This episode is for everyday people building better habits, pushing through challenges, and taking their first mile one step at a time. Includes thanks to listeners, guests, and co-hosts, plus a call for questions, reviews, and ratings.

Keywords: motivation, discipline, running mindset, self-improvement, consistency, mindset coaching, fitness motivation, personal growth, mental toughness
Before you go, I ask you to do three things:
⭐ Leave a rating
💬 Drop a review
❓ Send your questions for future episodes

Because this isn’t just a podcast.

It’s a community.

After 26 years in the United States Navy, retiring as a Senior Chief Petty Officer Mika Strange, lived a life built on discipline, leadership, and doing the hard things—day in and day out.

But this conversation isn’t just about military service. It’s about what happens after. It’s about identity, transition, and finding your next ‘First Mile’ when the structure you’ve known for decades is suddenly gone.

If you’ve ever had to start over, push through uncertainty, or redefine who you are—this one’s for you.

Let’s get into it.

On this episode Randy welcomes back our resident therapist Ana. She welcomes Rossie Ballard owner of Fit Warriors in Visalia, CA who is a Personal Trainer and Health Coach. They discuss an often over looked issue.

Eating disorders are complicated and frequently misdiagnosed. In this episode, we examine the emotional and mental processes that underlie disordered eating, how it affects day-to-day functioning, and what recovery can truly entail. This discussion provides understanding, knowledge, and hope whether you're going through a difficult time yourself or helping someone else.

In this episode of That First Mile Podcast, Randy brings back Ana (Therapist) and Paola for a conversation how the ideas in Atomic Habits can help you stop relying on motivation and start building systems that work—even on low-energy days.

We discuss what works, what is more difficult in real life, and how to form habits without becoming burned out or striving for perfection. This episode is ideal if you've ever had trouble staying motivated, being consistent, or "starting over."

This week's podcast combines therapy and running/exercise. Randy talks to two therapists, Ana and Karina, who both enjoy running. Each has completed numerous 5 and 10 k races, marathons, and half marathons. They discuss with Randy that treatment doesn't always take place on a couch; it might occasionally occur in the middle of a run.

This is your space to move your body, clear your head, and get real about life, mental health, and everything in between. Ana and Karina are running along side you, sharing honest conversations about mental health, stress, growth, and being human. No pressure. No perfection. Just one step at a time. Lace up, breath deep - Let's go!  

Gaby Gonzales returns to the podcast this week to talk about her running journey. She talks about her experience running the 50th annual Marine Corps Marathon. We talked about her sources of motivation. What upcoming runs does she have? Hearing from her is always enjoyable.  Enjoy, we hope. 

This week's podcast has Jaylynn Campos returning to discuss training her parents, aunts, and uncles. She is assisting with core exercises, mobility, and strength training. Jaylynn is taking advantage of this chance to set herself up for success in her future career as a sports therapist. Her dream job would be to work as a professional sports trainer for a major league. She is an exceptionally intelligent young woman with a promising future.

Liliana returns with Randy to discuss all of her achievements in 2025. She was ecstatic to discuss finishing the 50th annual Marine Corps Marathon. Takes us back to talk about the thrilling audience, the distance, and the inspiring US Marines. Talked about all of her 2026 goals. We hope this podcast episode with her is enjoyable.

After 6 months Randy is back! He brings you up to speed on the Nike After Dark run in Los Angeles that the ladies ran. Lili, Liliana, Paola, Gaby and Randy ran the 50th Annual Marine Corps Marathon. Randy just completed the California International Marathon. We are back! More to come.

At last, the ladies will be running the Nike After Dark Half Marathon in Los Angeles! Sandy, Lili, Gabby, and Paola discuss their objectives, readiness, and expectations with Liliana and Randy. Since this is Liliana and Sandy's first half marathon, a special shoutout to them! When they kill it, we can't wait to talk to them about this race! I wish them all the best of luck!

Liliana and Randy are back and sharing their activities after taking a few weeks off. Liliana was working and enjoying the atmosphere at Coachella. Randy participated in the Big Sur Marathon, running 21 miles. They talk about how much they appreciated each of those events. As the family gets ready for their next half marathon, Liliana keeps everyone informed about their progress. A special announcement has been made: the family has decided which marathon to run. We appreciate you for listening to our podcast. 

Liliana and Randy have some HUGE news to share on this week's podcast. Liliana's first half marathon decision has finally been made! She brings back her mother (Lili) and her aunts (Sandy, Gaby, and Paola) to share the news with the audience. They discuss training schedules, the half marathon, and the anticipation that accompanies the announcement. Enjoy, we hope!

Liliana will be hosting this week. She talks to her sisters, Sara and Juli. Juli has a broken foot and is getting better. After she recovers, she wants to get back on track. For the past few years, Sara has lived abroad. She comes back to the United States and tries to restart it. Liliana wants to accompany her sisters on this adventure.

This week, Liliana and Randy welcome Alfredo Muniz-Rivera, the former host of Come Hike with Me, back. Since he began his fitness adventure, it was crucial to acknowledge and appreciate his accomplishments, including losing weight and becoming a runner. Liliana is taken back in time by Randy and Alfredo. Alfredo talks about his newfound passion of running, including its highs and lows. We hope this special podcast is enjoyable. 

Liliana and Randy welcome Michael Fleming to this week's podcast. In the U.S. Navy, Matt and Randy were stationed on Air Craft Carrier USS Constellation (CV-64). After catching up, they talk about Matt's fitness journey and how it inspired him to make lifestyle changes for his own well-being. He gave Liliana advice as she gets ready for her own half marathon after running his first. 

On this weeks podcast Randy and Liliana interview someone Liliana has known here whole life, her mother! We talk about the drive to maintain consistency. The ability to maintain concentration when running, especially when negative thoughts start to seep in. Liliana talks about how observing her mother run and be active as a child inspired her to follow in her footsteps as an adult.

Marcus Espino, the 2025 Best Buddies Friendship Walk Honorary Chair, is introduced by Liliana and Randy this week. Marcus and Liliana discuss their relationship via Best Buddies. Raise awareness, celebrate, and donate to help us spread the word about Best Buddies' goal! 

Jose De La Cruz, also known as Sparky, is interviewed by Liliana and Randy on this week's That First Mile Podcast. While hiking with 510 Hikers from Oakland, California, Randy and Sparky got to know one another. They would occasionally chat after realizing they had a similar passion for running. Sparky is really good at running, so Randy and Liliana wanted to learn more from him. He offered them advice on motivation, training, and maintaining focus. We hope the discussion is enjoyable. 

This week Randy and Liliana go over results from the families first race of the year. Liliana shares about her week and how that affected her training leading to race day. Don't forget to subscribe to join us on our next journey as we train for our next family race. 

This week we are taking it back to the Family's very first run. Randy talks to Levi, Izayah, and Jaylynn. This is from a year and half ago. Let's see what they were talking about with Randy. Then we will have those 3 back to see how they are doing now. 

Liliana talks about her training setbacks and how she managed the week in today's podcast. We also give a brief overview of the family's current running adventures. Randy and Liliana discuss four Black Americans who are long-distance running pioneers. Theodore "Ted" Corbett, Lisa Elder, Marilyn Bevans, and Aaron Morris.

On this weeks episode of That First Mile Podcast Lili and Randy talk to the Mother and Daughter duo Gaby and Jaylynn. They share the stories about their love for running. Gaby talks about all the half marathons she's run. They both talk about their amazing experience running the SOCAL Ragnar. A 200ish relay race from San Diego to Huntington Beach California. 

In this weeks episode we have Katy Schauer join Randy and Liliana on That First Mile Podcast. Katy is a friend of Randy's they met while serving in the Navy. She shares her journey being in the Navy and new fitness goals as she enjoys life as a new grandmother. 

On this weeks podcast Liliana and Randy talk to Sandy and Natalia about beginning their running journey. Sandy is Liliana's Aunt and Randy's Sister-in-law. Also, Natalia's Mom. We talk to them about their goals for 2025. We hope you enjoy this weeks podcast as these ladies are an inspiration to us all. 

On this weeks episode we talk to family members Paola and her daughter Sophia! They talk with Randy and Liliana about how Sophia watched her Mom complete the Golden Gate Half Marathon and how it motivated her to start running at 8 (soon to be 9)!  

On this week's podcast Randy introduces his host Liliana Torres. Liliana is on her journey and is preparing to run her first Marathon in Oct 2025. She will join Randy every week as they encourage their family (and themselves) to run a marathon! 2025 is going to be a big year for everyone. Like, share, and subscribe to That First Mile Podcast.

After a long layoff That First Mile Podcast is back for 2025! 

This is the inaugural episode of the "That First Mile" podcast.  Randy discusses the necessity of the name change.  The significance of the name change, as well.

Ryan Grant, Randy's youngest son, visits this week to share his story.  He explains to his dad why he decided to participate in the Family Move Challenge.  They discuss his objectives, his motivations for getting involved, and the changes he wants to make to his way of life.  It was crucial to have Ryan go on first as he begins his weight-loss challenge because he personifies the value of starting "That First Mile."

Hope you enjoy as this family trains for a marathon.

The Come Hike With Me podcast this week has special guests Oracio, Gabriela, and Jaylynn Campos on the episode titled "Why U Runnin."  This week, Lili takes over as co-host.  They began boxing with Randy after Sara went to join the US Navy.  When Randy made the decision to run a marathon, he enquired as to how they would feel about running one as a family.  Randy was inspired to ask the whole family because of their enthusiasm.  As the family gets ready for this task, they discuss their objectives on this week's podcast.

In this week's episode, Sara and Randy are joined by Philip and Camillia Grant, who talk about why they decided to take on the family's marathon challenge.  They talk about the cognitive and physical difficulties they anticipate.  They decide what they want to accomplish in the following six to seven months.  Hope you had fun!

As the Come Hike With Me Podcast shifts its emphasis. Randy (Grant) and new cohost Sara (Limon) talk about the podcast's future.  Randy aspired to run a marathon while deployed in Iraq 16 years ago but has yet to accomplish it.  Sara seeks for ways to keep in shape after graduating from Navy Boot Camp.  So the two of them decided to turn it into a family challenge.  Everyone agreed, much to their astonishment.  We've arrived! They may switch to the Why U Runnin Podcast, but this is not confirmed, so stay tuned.

On this week's episode of Come Hike With Me we have United States Navy Retired Chief Petty Officer Claudette Griffith stop in to chat with the fellas.  She is a Black Woman from the Southside of Chicago who served over 21 years in the Navy.  From a very early age she developed a love for the outdoors.  Since retiring that love has only grown as she has done marathons (26.2 miles), half marathons (13.1), horse back riding, and of course hiking.  Sit back enjoy as Claudette tells all about her love for being outside. 

Fredo and Randy are back after a 5 month hiatus.  As everyone knows sometime life can get in the way.  But, they are resilient and they are back to talk about the time away.  Randy took a trip to Virginia and they were able to visit Shenandoah Nation Park together.  The fellas laughed and talked all about the experience.  Would like to thank everyone who has tuned in and motivated them to get back to the podcast.  They've missed you!  

This week the fellas interview Adriana Quintana a teacher at Madera High School in Madera, CA.  Mrs. Quintana is helping two dozen students achieve their goal of starting a Hiking Club at the Madera High School.  It was brought to the fellas attention through different social media hiking groups that they are a part of and thought it was important to share the story of the students of the Madera High School Hiking Club.  The students do fundraisers to help raise money to be able to go on these hikes.  They also have a Go Fund Me as well, so help these students get out and enjoy nature.  We hope you enjoy this weeks episode with Mrs. Quintana!

https://www.gofundme.com/f/madera-high-school-hiking-club

Mona has lived in the shadows of Yosemite National Park her entire life.  Believe it or not she had never visited the park until now.  We took Mona on two hikes that day.  First was to lower falls a fairly easy 2 miles.  Second was on the Mist Trail which was a little of 5 miles!  She was able to knock the hikes out with no problems and loved every minute of it.  

After taking a few weeks off Fredo and Randy are back! They explain the life changing event that rocked the Muniz family.  Fredo opens up his heart and shares how is recovering and healing.  Thanks for your continued love and support.  

This week on Come Hike With Me Podcast Ramona and Randy interview Jess.  She is retired from the U.S. Navy and her and Randy have sailed the world together.  Now, she dedicates her life to hiking, backpacking, traveling and van life.  Join us as she shares stories from her hikes and her experiences as woman on the trails.  

This week Fredo and Randy discuss preparing for a hike and the equipment needed for you to get out on a hike.  Hiking is such an amazing experience and we want to help everyone be prepared.  This weeks guest is Ana Grant and she shares how she helps Randy prepare for all his hikes.  She talks about the importance of hydration, shoes, food, navigation and first aid.  Tune and tell us what you think.  Hope you enjoy.

Ramona Flores is back!  This week she is our guest host! We are lucky that she was able to fill in and help out.  Ramona and Randy discuss his recent hike in Yosemite National Park.  Randy shares with everyone that Yosemite is still awesome!  They talk about how to prepare to starting or becoming a hiker.  Ramona shares her keys too consistency.  We hope you enjoy!

On this weeks episode Fredo and Randy are getting back on track.  They had a better time with with those barriers and are hopefully are on the healing side of things.  Fredo is getting his routine with his walking down!  Cheer him on as he does.  Randy is finally back in the gym and also logging those miles.  Let's hold them accountable.

On this episode we bring in the amazing. Ramona Flores.  She has played such an amazing role in so many peoples lives and once you hear her story you will see why the guy's wanted her to be apart if this journey.  She's a mother, grandmother, and a motivator to so many.  They get to know the woman and her journey.  Everyone we hope you enjoy Ramona Flores.

As always thanks for checking out the Come Hike With Me podcast!

When this Podcast began Fredo and Randy thought they were ready to get the journey going right away.  Well, it didn't quite happen that way.  Troubles at home slowed the process down for each of them.  Barriers and struggles that everyone has to deal with hit each of them.  But with support, these two friends helped one another deal with life and get back on a path to achieving the goals they set out for from the beginning.  Everyone has things they go through so it's important heal and take care of it.  We hope you enjoy!

This week Fredo tells us his journey on what brings him to wanting to become an happy and healthier version of himself.  He talks about his upbringing in Puerto Rico then onto Buffalo, NY.  He joins the U.S. Navy meets his wife and starts his family.  We appreciate you for coming back this week and checking us out.

Welcome back everyone to Come Hike With Me Podcast!  Thanks to those that tuned in to episode one and came back for episode 2.  In this week's podcast Randy shares a brief story of who he is and how he got here. We hope you enjoy! Thanks again. #hiking

Randy and Fredo begin their Podcast careers by talking about hiking, health, and diversity in a very entertaining relaxed way.