LOLZLetter 317 | Running as You Age Series
With Erica, William, and Loehr
Welcome,
I know I owed a newsletter on Thursday, but I got the flu all of last week and spent no time on my computer from Monday–Friday. I still haven't written my Los Angeles Marathon recap. It was a rough bout, and despite getting the flu shot this year, my immune system was weakened by running the marathon.
Do I think I ran the Los Angeles Marathon on the first day I had the flu? There is that possibility because there were some weird things that I couldn't really explain but figured it was just what happened on the day. Feeling nauseous for a few miles for no reason, as well as being more sore after this marathon than my first. I try not to play the what if games though.
Thankfully, I'm flu negative, but I do know it may be a longer road to get rid of congestion and feel good. I'll probably run easy runs until I feel like I'm ready/able to feel good running any workouts again. Anyway, enough about me...back to the newsletter.
If you are new this week, I'll start in the 20s and then each week go up the age groups. I'm still looking for those who are age 70 and above so if you have someone in mind, let me know. This week I'm chatting to Erica, William and Loehr in their 50s.
In case you missed it:
Erica Agran: Marathoner, Travel Runner, and Chicago Tour Guide
Erica Agran has been running for nearly 40 years, ever since a middle school coach saw something special in her stride. Now 53 and based in Chicago, she’s still lacing up, traveling the world, and encouraging others to run for joy...not just pace. From marathons to guided city runs, Erica’s love of the sport has only grown with time.
How did you start running?
I've been running since the summer before 9th grade in 1985. A coach saw me running the 800-meter in 8th grade and encouraged me to try out for the high school cross country team. That was the beginning.
What kind of changes have you noticed since you started running—mentally or physically?
I’ve always had a more athletic build and running gave me strong, muscular legs. Unfortunately, like many runners, I was told thinner was better and that I was "big for a runner," which led to years of body shame and poor dieting choices.
Over time, I learned that being thinner didn’t make me a better runner. If I had a dollar for every time someone said, "You don’t look like you could run a marathon," I’d be rich. Mentally, running has shown me I’m strong. I’ve learned to take hard things one step at a time, and running always makes me feel better...whether I start in a good mood or not.
Do you train for the same things each year?
Yes, I tend to run the same races and mostly train for marathons. I always say I’m going to train for shorter races like the 5K or the mile, but I rarely do. It’s just harder for me to focus on speed!
What’s the best advice you’d give other runners?
Don’t forget that running is supposed to be fun...and you probably paid to be there! I was once upset about a race, and a friend asked, “Did someone pay you to come here today?” That stuck with me. Also, have some perspective. If I could run that "disappointing" time now, I’d be thrilled. Your worst day is someone else’s dream finish...so be kind, especially to yourself.
Anything else you want people to know?
I love running when I travel! I started doing running tours in Rome (2018) and Athens (2019), and now I guide with Go! Running Tours. If you're ever in Chicago, come run with me!
Where to find Erica:
Photos: Cycle for Survival Team Page
Instagram: @ericaagran
Blog: Erica Finds
Erica Agran shows that running isn’t just about finish times: it’s about the journey, the community, and the joy. With decades of experience and a love for exploring on foot, she brings heart and perspective to the sport. Whether you’re racing in Chicago or sightseeing in Europe, Erica reminds us that every run is worth celebrating.
Thank you Erica for your time!
Meet William M: Runner with a Love for Runcations and Trail Adventures
William M might describe himself as “older than the internet,” but his passion for running feels brand new every time he laces up. Living in Fort Worth, Texas, he’s spent the last 15 years discovering how running can improve both body and mind. From treadmill jogger to travel-runner, William has embraced the journey...one mile at a time.
How did you get started?
I’ve been running regularly since 2010, so about 15 years now. I started running to add cardio into my gym routine...so at first, it was all treadmill miles. I ran outside only occasionally until late 2011, when I got bored with indoor running and began exploring new cities on foot during work travel. By 2012, I’d pretty much ditched the treadmill and made outdoor running my main thing.
What kind of mental changes have you noticed since starting?
Running helps me feel more confident and focused. Early morning runs, especially, give me a sense of accomplishment that carries into the rest of my day. It really puts me in a better mood overall.
And physically?
When I started running longer distances, my fitness level really improved. I used to be asthmatic and always needed an inhaler—especially in cold weather...but I haven’t used one in over 11 years. My resting heart rate is also super low (50–55 bpm), which sometimes alarms doctors until I tell them I’m a runner...it’s always a funny moment.
Do you stick to the same kind of training?
Pretty much. I run 3–4 miles a few times a week and a longer run of at least 10K on Sundays. If I’m prepping for a race, I gradually increase the distance. I’ve run two full marathons and around 25 half marathons. These days, I aim for one half per year: not to chase PRs, but for fitness and a sense of achievement.
What advice would you give to other runners?
Don’t worry about what other people are doing...run how you want.
Get the right shoes.
Run the mile you’re in.
Don’t try to do math in your head while running...it never adds up right.
Find a local run group for accountability and connection.
And of course, sleep well and stay hydrated.
Anything else you’d like to share?
I love running in new places. If you haven’t taken a “runcation,” I highly recommend it…look into races in places like Banff, Glacier, or Yellowstone. Trail running in areas like Seattle is also amazing and shows you a whole new side of the sport (and the occasional two-legged mountain goat).
William’s running journey reminds us that it’s never too late to start: and never too late to fall in love with running again and again. From solo treadmill miles to group runs and scenic trails, he’s found joy in every step. His best advice? Hydrate, explore, and run for you.
Thank you William for your time!
Meet Loehr Young: From BMX to Sobriety to Soulmate Sports
From BMX to jet skis to finding his rhythm on the bike and his strength through running, Loehr’s journey is anything but typical. Now four and a half years into running, he’s thriving with a new perspective on fitness, competition, and self-care.
What’s your background with sports?
As a kid, I went to the Y and did everything, especially track meets where I did pretty well. I used to run to and from the UGA track to jump into local meets, but I eventually decided running was boring and shifted into BMX. I went all in—racing, dirt jumps, a half pipe in the backyard…the works, until I got my driver’s license. After that, I had a bit of a break from sports, but I ended up racing jet skis. Living over an hour from water made that tough, so I picked up mountain biking to cross-train and that turned into my main passion.
How did you find your way back into running?
Honestly, it came from a major life shift. My alcoholism nearly killed me, and after I got sober, I was told not to exercise due to the damage it caused. I listened for a while, but eventually realized I was alive but not living. I got back on the bike with a new perspective, and from there, I became open to trying more including running.
How long have you been running now?
About four and a half years.
What changes have you noticed since you started?
Physically, I’ve never been stronger. My cycling performance took off once I developed my running legs. Mentally, it’s like all movement, people say not to use exercise as therapy, but honestly, it totally is. And running really scratches that competitive itch.
Do you train for the same things now as when you started?
Yeah, mostly. But over time, I’ve started looking at longer distances and other challenges. The goals evolve.
What advice would you give someone starting out?
Just start. Be open, be flexible, but stay consistent: that’s where the real magic is. And know this: you are capable of way more than you think you are.
Anything else you’d like to share?
Taking care of yourself should be a habit, not a luxury. One hour a day is only 4% of your time: no excuses.
Where to find Loehr:
Instagram: @loehryoung
Loehr’s story proves that it’s never too late to start over and never too early to bet on yourself. Whether it’s cycling, running, or just staying consistent, he reminds us that showing up is what really counts. It’s not just about chasing finish lines: it’s about living fully, one mile at a time.
Thank you Loehr for your time!
What is Keeping Me Entertained?
