John O’Leary welcomes Martinus Evans to the Live Inspired Podcast as proof that when you believe in yourself, you can do anything.
Growing up on the east side of Detroit next to a drug house, Martinus Evans had to fight his entire life. In his early 20s when he was faced with the choice “lose weight or die”, Martinus vowed to run a marathon (without realizing a marathon is over 26 miles!).
Since then, Martinus has run eight marathons and hundreds of other races in his 300-something pound body, been featured in Men’s Health and Runner’s World and created his own devoted community for those who feel intimidated about running.
Today’s conversation is more than taking the next right step in believing in yourself. Join us on a journey of courage, determination, endurance and what it means to love ourselves unconditionally.
And my friends, as we celebrate Martinus’ accomplishments, you’ll gain encouragement for what you can do in your own life.
Subscribe & listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, Google Play, iHeartRadio, or listen here:
SHOW NOTES:
- Growing up on the east side of Detroit next to a crack house, Martinus lost two bothers before he turned 11 years old.
- Nicknames can sear. As a first grader, Martinus learned that he was overweight and that being overweight was a bad thing.
- Why are you wasting our time? Failing to achieve the mandatory 2.5 GPA to play football, a conversation with his coach motivated Martinus to focus on his grades and recognized it was his opportunity to get out of Detroit.
- Lose weight or die. After learning his obesity was causing his hip pain, Martinus pledged he’d run a marathon.
- “No struggle, no progress.” – Frederick Douglass
- Minutes became miles and miles became marathons. Starting by running just 15 seconds, Martinus refused to give up on his quest to run a marathon.
- Like Michael Jordan, Martinus had a list of people he wanted to prove wrong which motivated him in his marathon training.
- Even with naysayers along the route, Martinus proudly finished his first marathon in seven hours.
- “It may look different than anything and everybody in the examples you’ve seen. But it’s you doing it and that’s all that matters.”
- Learn more about Martinus Evans’ Slow AF Run Club, the global club of runners who feel intimidated about running here.
- Get a copy of Martinus Evan’s book Slow AF Run Club here.
Did you enjoy hearing Martinus defy the odds, you’ll love Sister Buder.
Sister Madonna Buder began running at 48 years young, became a world-class athlete competing in more than 300 triathlons and even became a spokesperson for Nike. If you think you’re too old, too late, too inexperienced, too anything, to embrace a new dream in your life, listen to Sister Buder on ep. 79.
***
About our sponsor: Keeley Companies wholeheartedly believes that if you get the people right -the results will follow. They set themselves apart with a forward-thinking culture that empowers their people and fosters loyal partnerships. Keeley Companies are a proud sponsor, partner, and super fan of the Live Inspired Podcast. Learn more about Keeley Companies.
MARTINUS EVANS' LIVE INSPIRED 7
- Q. What is the best book you’ve ever read?
A. Can't Hurt Me by David Goggins. - Q. What is a characteristic or trait that you possessed as a child that you wish you still exhibited today?
A. More courage. - Q. Your house is on fire, all living things and people are out. You have the opportunity to run in and grab one item. What would it be?
A. My laptop or my first marathon medal. - Q. You are sitting on a bench overlooking a gorgeous beach. You have the opportunity to have a long conversation with anyone living or dead. Who would it be?
A. Both my brothers. - Q. What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
A. When you’re going through hell, don’t stop running. - Q. What advice would you give your 20-year-old self?
A. It’s going to be a wild ride but follow it through because there is so much reward on the other side. - Q. It’s been said that all great people can have their lives summed up in one sentence. How do you want yours to read?
A. No struggle, no progress.
