Leadership, Legacy & Love at the Memorial Marathon
First, meet Jennifer Nakayama, President and CEO of Downtown OKC. Jennifer is also a Memorial Trustee! We’re excited to chat with her and hear how Downtown OKC gets ready for race weekend.
Then, hear from David Holt, Mayor of Oklahoma City, as we chat about the golden age of OKC, his leadership, and his continued commitment to one of our city’s most meaningful traditions.
And last but certainly not least, meet Mason and Kelsey Hudson! Mason and Kelsey credit the Memorial Marathon for bringing them together…Listen as they share their story of finding love and overcoming obstacles.
Join us every Friday for a new episode. Let us know your questions and tell us your running story at okcMarathon.com
Latest Podcasts
S5 : E9•March 06, 2026
Leadership, Legacy & Love at the Memorial Marathon
Meet the people behind Oklahoma City's race weekend — the leaders building the city and the couple the Marathon brought together.
S5: E8•February 27, 2026
Building Healthy Habits
Meet the trio powering kids’ health, OKC’s running scene, and race‑day tech—Dr. Steiner, Mark Bravo, and Jackie Levi—bringing stories, energy, and behind‑the‑scenes magic to the mic.
S5: E7•February 20, 2026
Stronger With Every Step
This episode features News 9 anchor Robin Marsh, veteran runner Kim Burden of Oklahoma City Landrunners, and first-time marathoner Devin LaTray sharing inspiring stories of resilience and wellness.
S5: E6•February 13, 2026
Elite Energy & First-Time Finish Lines
This week’s episode features Chris Hale of Red Coyote, Miss Oklahoma City Katelyn Woods preparing for her first half marathon, and Hawi Keflezighi of Hawi Management sharing insights on his elite runners and the energy they bring to races like the Memorial Marathon.
S5: E5•February 06, 2026
Running for Everyone: Powering Community, Access & Fun
This week’s episode dives into community, inclusion, and the joy of running for athletes of all abilities.
S5: E4•January 30, 2026
Three Journeys, One Finish Line
Three runners at very different stages of life share how training for the OKC Memorial Marathon is about more than the race—it’s about service, remembrance, and finding purpose one mile at a time.
S5 : E3•January 23, 2026
Local Voices, Big Impact
In this week’s episode, you’ll hear some fun conversations with a number of local people making big impact.
S5 : E2•January 16, 2026
The City Runs Together
In this week’s episode, we’re bringing you all the energy and excitement from the 2026 Memorial Marathon Kickoff Training Run!
S5 : E1•January 09, 2026
We're Ready for You, 2026!
We’re kicking off a brand-new season of the Memorial Marathon Podcast in 2026 by diving into unforgettable running stories, powerful resilience, and inspiring voices you won’t want to miss.
S4 : E14•May 02, 2025
25th Annual Memorial Marathon Champions!
Whether you walked, ran, wheeled, volunteered, or cheered—this episode is for you. 25 years later, this race is still so much more than running!
S4 : E13•April 17, 2025
Why We Run
We are 1 day from April 19 and 1 week from Marathon Weekend! In this very special episode, we talk with some family members, a survivor and first responder about what this race means to them and why it is the Run to Remember.
S4 : E12•April 11, 2025
Governing the Course
Get ready to hear from OKC representatives on preparations for race weekend and a quick chat with Governor Kevin Stitt.
S4 : E11•April 04, 2025
Coaching, Community, and Race Day Excitement
Oklahoma coaching great Sherri Coale, News 9 anchor Robin Marsh, and Tana Cashion with Devon Energy share their thoughts on what makes the Memorial Marathon such a memorable experience.
S4 : E10•March 28, 2025
Impact, Resilience, and Sustainability
We've got an interesting episode this week about OKC, the Oklahoma Standard, and the importance of taking care of our planet.
S4 : E9•March 21, 2025
Building Community, Crossing Finish Lines
Learn more about pacing and get ready for a major Finish Line announcement for runners on this week’s episode!
S4 : E8•March 14, 2025
Teach, Volunteer and Inspire
We’re talking about coaching, volunteering, and community on this week's episode!
S4 : E6•February 28, 2025
Mimosas and Marathons!
We’re talking about one of the best cheer zones on the course!
S4 : E5•February 21, 2025
Preparing for Race Weekend!
Preparing for Race Weekend: tips, motivation, and community involvement!
S4 : E4•February 14, 2025
Wellness and Running
Episode 4 dives into running trends and how running can help your mental health.
S4 : E3•February 07, 2025
A Surprising Refueling Tip
Marathon Medical Director Dr. Brian Coleman gives advice on nutrition and refueling – one of his suggestions really surprised us!
S4 : E2•January 31, 2025
From the Beginning to Celebrating 25 Years
The Marathon is celebrating 25 years! Learn how it began and what it means to runners and our city today.
S4 : E1•January 24, 2025
2025 Kickoff Training Run
Runners laced up and came out for the Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon’s Kickoff Training Run.
S3 : E18•May 02, 2024
Celebrating Our Champions!
From YOU can do it... to YOU did it, we applaud you and all our winners! We’re celebrating champions including familiar and fresh faces, a 13 year old track sensation and our new, five-time women’s winner.
S3 : E17•April 27, 2024
LIVE from the Expo!
Hosts Kristin Fares and Kari Watkins take the Podcast LIVE during day one of the Health & Fitness Expo! Hear from Family Members, Survivors, Volunteers, Running Legends, Past Winners and more! We chat with more than a dozen people about their 2024 experience.
S3 : E16•April 18, 2024
Why We Run
This week, we honor and remember those impacted by the Oklahoma City bombing on April 19th, 1995.
S3 : E15•April 11, 2024
It's a Team Effort!
Year after year, the Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon continues working with many partners to find ways to better the course and bring out the community.
S3 : E14•April 04, 2024
Miles of Motivation
What motivates you? OKC shows up to support and motivate the Memorial Marathon participants!
S3 : E13•March 28, 2024
Tips for First-Time Runners
Carlee Daub and Christie Thomas, from WAHOO! Running, share many helpful tips for all levels of runners.
S3 : E12•March 21, 2024
Can You Beat the Gov?
This week we meet a marathoner with “Amazing Feet,” Westminster Presbyterian Church demonstrates the Oklahoma Standard and here’s a challenge, “Can You Beat the Gov?”
S3 : E11•March 14, 2024
A Shared Experience: OKC and Boston
Oklahoma City and Boston have a shared experience of people coming together to help others after a terrorist attack.
S3 : E10•March 07, 2024
We Celebrate Champions!
Celebrating lives gives hope. Hear how our three guests step up to bring joy to the community.
S3 : E9•February 29, 2024
The Unity in Our CommUNITY
This week, we hear from three special guests about how they feel the impact of OKC’s community.
S3 : E8•February 22, 2024
Finding Your Fuel!
How do you fuel your body? Here are tips and tricks on how to train and eat properly to prepare for Race Day.
S3 : E7•February 15, 2024
A Family Member Shapes Young Lives
How one teacher shows her students the power of the Marathon and Memorial Museum!
S3 : E6•February 08, 2024
Safety: Race Weekend and During Your Training
Our OKCPD partners do all they can to make this the safest event possible!
S3 : E5•February 01, 2024
168 Banners Inspire Thousands
Meet the new Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum Chair of the Board, the race runs right by her house. Then, go behind the scenes with the Start Finish Line Chairman and why the 168 banners are his main focus, and a young News 9 reporter shares why he never forgets.
S3 : E4•January 25, 2024
Too Cold to Train?
Winter weather doesn’t stop runners but what’s the smart way to train? The Marathon’s Medical Director has essential tips.
S3 : E3•January 18, 2024
Which Race is Best for Me?
Getting off the couch and running in the 2024 Run to Remember – how and when do you know which race to run this year?
S3 : E2•January 11, 2024
We're Off and Running!
Almost 1,000 runners took up a new challenge and joined the Memorial Marathon Kickoff Training Run – experiencing the new 5K course for the first time.
S3 : E1•January 04, 2024
More in Store for '24!
Happy New Year! Hear from some of last year's winners and David Payne.
S2 : E19•May 04, 2023
2023 Post-Race Wrap Up
The 2023 Oklahoma Memorial Marathon is officially behind us! In this final episode of the season, hear post-race reactions from Marathon winners and participants.
S2 : E18•April 28, 2023
Live from the 2023 Expo
Broadcasting live from the floor of the 2023 Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon Health & Fitness Expo, host Kristin Fares and Race Director Kari Watkins speak to runners, family members, survivors, volunteers and much more!
S2 : E17•April 27, 2023
See You at the Start Line
The 2023 Memorial Marathon is finally here! Get last-minute tips and insights from roundtables of runners, hear “Things to Know Before You Go,” find out how Nichols Hills United Methodist Church participates and worships on Race Sunday and listen to OKC Thunder General Manager Sam Presti’s recent inspirational remarks about the Marathon.
S2 : E16•April 20, 2023
Plan Your Race Weekend
Race Weekend is almost here and it starts at the Memorial Marathon Health & Fitness Expo! Find out what to expect this year from OU Health’s Kelli Hayward Walsh. Plus, hear why the free streetcars are the best way to get around, and Chickasaw Nation Secretary of Commerce Dan Boren explains why the Nation is sponsoring the relay shuttles and why they have been such a steadfast supporter of the Marathon.
S2 : E15•April 13, 2023
Why We Run
As we enter this week of remembrance leading up to April 19, hear from a powerful lineup of guests who remind us Why We Run. Congressman Frank Lucas recounts his harrowing memories from that day in 1995, Nick Chafey shares how his family coped after losing his mother in the Oklahoma City bombing and Jennifer Hilger explains how the Why We Run series is a special way honor the victims, family members and first responders.
S2 : E14•April 06, 2023
A Community United
Just two weeks after losing their daughter to anencephaly, Keri Young and her husband found comfort and support at the Memorial Marathon. Find out how the Marathon’s neighborhood support is unique and hear how Ainsley’s Angels makes endurance events possible for children with special needs.
S2 : E13•March 30, 2023
Accepting the Challenge
At 80 years old, Dan Little has completed the World Marathon Challenge twice, running seven marathons on seven continents in seven consecutive days. Pioneering broadcast journalist Linda Cavanaugh reported on the Oklahoma City bombing and now has a new role as Senior Marathon ambassador. And find out what relay teams can expect on Race Day.
S2 : E12•March 23, 2023
Leading By Example
The Comanche Nation’s new Chairman and retired Lt. Colonel Mark Woommavovah has run all over the world, from Indian Country to the Iraqi Green Zone. Then hear how seniors can prepare for the new Senior Marathon. Plus, get the inside scoop on the new Finish Line Festival beer garden.
S2 : E11•March 16, 2023
The Resilience of Running
Boston Marathon Race Director Dave McGillivray recounts the moments after the Boston Marathon bombing and talks about the Memorial Marathon as a Boston qualifying event. Plus find out how pacers can help you set a new PR and learn about the Marathon’s new and improved gear check process.
S2 : E10•March 09, 2023
Running With Purpose
If you’ve ever thought about hiring a running coach, this episode is for you. Find out how they can take your training to the next level, plus get all the details on the Kids Marathon and meet a runner who sings her way to the finish line.
S2 : E9•March 02, 2023
The Mayor’s Message
Oklahoma City Mayor David Holt talks about the Marathon’s powerful impact and what’s new in 2023. Amanda Scofield from the Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality details the Marathon’s recycling and composting efforts. And three sisters explain how training together has strengthened their bond.
S2 : E8•February 23, 2023
A Story of Survival
Oklahoma City bombing survivor Polly Nichols and her husband Larry Nichols recount their harrowing story and decades-long commitment to the Memorial and Marathon. Michael Luchsinger details how he assists the Marathon in all things logistics, and water stop volunteers Dylan Motley and Scott Briggs explain what runners can expect on Race Weekend.
S2 : E7•February 16, 2023
We Run to Remember
Oklahoma City bombing victim family member Ryan Whicher reminds us Why We Run, registered dietitian Katie Eliot is back with new nutritional tips to fuel your runs and representatives from the Oklahoma City CVB have must-see recommendations for out-of-town marathoners.
S2 : E6•February 09, 2023
The Legend & The Course
Running legend Joan Benoit Samuelson is back with tips and a report on running her first Marathon in 3 years, find out what’s changed in the new Run to Remember mobile app, and meet two course marshals who’ll talk about what they do on Race weekend.
S2 : E5•February 02, 2023
Keeping You Safe
Find out how the Memorial Marathon keeps runners safe during inclement weather, meet an Oklahoma transplant running her first Run to Remember and hear how the Marathon is prepared for medical emergencies.
S2 : E4•January 26, 2023
The Message
Get all the details of the Memorial Marathon’s new partnership with Griffin Media and KWTV News 9, plus find out how to prevent running injuries and why the Marathon is the “Goldilocks” of races.
S2 : E3•January 19, 2023
The Mission
This week we explore the mission of the Memorial and Marathon, discuss marathoning and motherhood and find out how the Marathon honors the lives of lost loved ones.
S2 : E2•January 12, 2023
Senior Marathon
Get all the details of the new Senior Marathon, the post-race burgers are back and celebrate the life of the late “Ran Them All” marathoner Larry Qualls.
S2 : E1•January 05, 2023
New Year, New Season
Welcome back to season 2 of the Run to Remember podcast! Meet the new race director of operations, get race-ready tips from a marathon training roundtable and find out #whywerun from Sara Sweet.
S1 : E17•April 28, 2022
Post-Race Wrap-Up
That’s a wrap! The 2022 OKC Memorial Marathon is in the history books and runners and winners share their race weekend experience with host Kristin Fares and Race Director Kari Watkins.
S1 : E16•April 22, 2022
Live From the 2022 Expo
From the floor of the Marathon Health & Fitness Expo, the Run to Remember podcast host and Marathon race director talk to runners, family members of bombing victims, survivors, community members and some of the legends in the sport.
S1 : E15•April 21, 2022
Let’s Marathon!
For this race week episode, you’ll hear from representatives of the Boston Marathon and Abbott World Marathon Majors. Two past winners weigh in on the significance of the race and update us on what they’re doing now. Plus, discover a can’t-miss OKC tradition that takes place downtown on race week.
S1 : E14•April 14, 2022
Carrying the Legacy Forward
Police and fire chiefs recall their response to the scene of the bombing. A legendary football coach discusses his connection to the tragedy and the foundation he created as a result. Go behind the scenes with the producers of the free Friday night concert. And find out what to expect at this year’s Health & Fitness Expo.
S1 : E13•April 07, 2022
Like Mother, Like Daughter
In this episode, you’ll meet our host’s daughter as they discuss their marathon training journey, learn of the connection between an NBA team and the OKC National Memorial & Museum, find out where the Marathon route intersects with Route 66, and hear from the sponsor of the Half Marathon race.
S1 : E12•March 31, 2022
Can You Beat the Gov?
Learn more about the Governor’s Relay Challenge, pick up strength and nutrition tips from a pair of running coaches, get the latest health update on the race, and meet a representative of OKC’s Latino community, who talks about the 5K race.
S1 : E11•March 24, 2022
The Power of Perseverance
Meet a running legend who’s stayed the course despite a series of setbacks, hear from a woman who’s enjoying success in a traditionally male-dominated field, learn about the Heritage Hills and Mesta Park neighborhoods, and meet a businesswoman and mom who’s running her first marathon.
S1 : E10•March 17, 2022
Yes, You Can
Hear from a father who is half of an inspirational running duo, meet another legend in running, learn about the beginnings of Oklahoma City’s Asian District and its place along the course, and share in the story of a local runner who’s training for her very first marathon.
S1 : E9•March 10, 2022
For the Love of Running
Hear one of the legends of running talk about his love for the sport, meet a four-time OKC Memorial Marathon winner, check out a playlist specifically created just for runners, and learn more about the Marathon’s health and wellness partner.
S1 : E8•March 03, 2022
Nutrition & Training
Meet one of the founding fathers of the OKC Memorial Marathon, pick up fueling tips from a pair of nutritionists, hear about one of the newer neighborhoods along the course and go behind the scenes with two runners who have participated in every single Memorial Marathon.
S1 : E7•February 24, 2022
Making Memories
In this episode, you’ll hear from two KFOR-TV on-air personalities, get tips from a longtime running coach, meet the mayor of The Village and learn what representatives from the Oklahoma City Convention and Visitors Bureau think is the biggest strength that the city has to offer.
S1 : E6•February 17, 2022
The Gift of Running
Meet the executive chairman of the Memorial Marathon’s presenting sponsor, learn about the Yukon Runners and Walkers club, get to know leaders from the Voice of Praise Baptist Church, and hear from the head of the Downtown OKC Partnership.
S1 : E5•February 10, 2022
Super Bowl
Meet the wife of one of the Super Bowl coaches, get running tips from online trainers, go behind the course with an Oklahoma Supreme Court Justice and hear from the Marathon medical directors.
S1 : E4•February 03, 2022
Gorilla Hill
Learn the story behind one of the Marathon’s best course traditions, plus hear from a rapper and Emmy Award-winning artist, get running and race day tips from a longtime Landrunners trainer and meet the new chairman of the Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum.
S1 : E3•January 27, 2022
Gear Up
Get the latest training, gear and nutrition tips from the owners of Red Coyote. Go behind the scenes with the Marathon’s longtime race announcer. Hear the fascinating story behind the Deep Deuce section of the course. And meet two key players who are working diligently to make this race a success.
S1 : E2•January 20, 2022
Getting Started
A running ambassador, civic leaders and race representatives talk about the Run to Remember and why it’s so important to the community. Plus, get an inside glimpse at what it takes to put on an event of this magnitude.
S1 : E1•January 12, 2022
Why We Run
Learn about the Run to Remember from the perspective of those most impacted by the bombing — family members, survivors and first responders. Plus, get training tips from a Hall of Fame runner and hear from the Oklahoma City mayor and Memorial Marathon race director.
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