261 | Carey Pinkowski | Chicago Marathon Race Director

We are thrilled to officially welcome Carey Pinkowski to the PodFam! Carey Pinkowski, race director of the Chicago Marathon joins Eric and Erika to trace the evolution of the Chicago Marathon from a 6,000-runner race to a World Major with more than 50,000 participants. He breaks down how the course, the city, and the community shaped the event, and why the race’s success came from building the experience first and letting everything else follow. We discuss the early days of Chicago running, how the marathon course was designed around neighborhoods and transit, and the stories that define race-day culture. Carey also shares what it takes to keep improving an event for 36 years, plus a few unforgettable behind-the-scenes moments from marathon week. During the Tros, hosts Erika and Eric discuss personal milestones, including Erika's new role as an aunt and her upcoming job, while also preparing for the Chicago Marathon. The conversation flows into the excitement surrounding the marathon and the logistics of their upcoming live streaming event at the New England half marathon. Chapters 00:00 Intro and AUNTY SIX STAR 12:20 Guest Segment: Carey Pinkowski and the Chicago Marathon 14:39 The Evolution of the Chicago Marathon 17:33 Personal Journey and Early Experiences 20:22 Building the Chicago Marathon Brand 23:29 Community Engagement and Race Day Experience 26:25 The Role of Neighborhoods in the Marathon 28:55 The Community Connection in Running 31:21 Stories from the Marathon: Challenges and Triumphs 37:05 Planning for the Future: The 50th Marathon 40:38 Chicago: The Best Event City 43:31 The Chicago Spirit in Music 45:29 The Outro Follow us on   / ontheruns   Subscribe to our https://ontherunspodcast.riverside.co...