The Enduring Impact of Sports: A Conversation with Linda Flanagan

Podcast interview by Nicky Tamberrino of Maybe Running Will Help

In a recent episode of the “Maybe Running Will Help” podcast, host Nicky sat down with Linda Flanagan, a former high school running coach, author, and lifelong athlete. Their conversation explored the profound impact sports can have on personal development, both in childhood and adulthood. This blog post highlights the key themes of their discussion, focusing on the importance of maintaining curiosity, the evolving role of sports in one’s life, and the significance of fostering a healthy relationship with physical activity.

The Power of Curiosity and Open-Mindedness

When asked how she would describe herself, Linda emphasized her hope to be seen as curious and kind. She explained that her approach to life and sports is rooted in a sense of intellectual honesty, striving to remain open-minded and willing to change her perspectives based on new information. This mindset, Linda believes, has been crucial not only in her personal growth but also in how she approached her role as a coach and mentor.

Linda’s curiosity led her to explore various sports during her childhood, from softball and tennis to running. This early exposure to different activities allowed her to develop a love for running, which would later become a central part of her life. Her journey into running began informally, sparked by casual runs with her sister, and evolved into a lifelong passion that she eventually shared with her children and the athletes she coached.

Running as a Lifelong Pursuit

Linda’s running journey truly blossomed after college, during her time at Oxford, where she experienced a uniquely self-driven and organic approach to sports. Unlike the structured, coach-led systems common in the U.S., Oxford’s running culture was entirely student-run, with participants showing up purely out of personal interest and passion. This environment, Linda noted, played a significant role in her development as a runner and shaped her perspective on the value of self-motivation in sports.

As she transitioned into adulthood, Linda’s relationship with running evolved. Initially, running was about pushing her limits and achieving personal bests, culminating in her attempt to qualify for the Olympic trials. However, as life moved forward and she became a mother, running took on a new purpose: a means of maintaining mental health and finding peace amidst the chaos of raising young children.

Nurturing a Healthy Relationship with Sports

Linda’s approach to parenting reflects her belief in the importance of allowing children to find their own path in sports. She and her husband, both active and athletic, chose not to succumb to the pressure of enrolling their children in organized sports at an early age. Instead, they encouraged their kids to explore a variety of activities, playing with them casually in the yard and letting their interests guide their involvement in sports.

This philosophy of following the child’s lead, while providing gentle nudges when necessary, proved successful. Each of Linda’s three children found their own unique way to engage with physical activity, from running to playing various sports, all without the pressure to excel or perform at a high level. Linda believes that sports should be about enjoyment and personal fulfillment, rather than a means to an end, such as college scholarships or professional careers.

The Bigger Picture

Linda’s insights highlight the broader purpose of sports in both youth and adulthood: fostering a love for movement, building community, and developing life skills such as discipline, resilience, and teamwork. She emphasizes that while competition can be a healthy motivator, it’s crucial to ensure that sports remain a source of joy and not a source of pressure or stress.

As Nicky and Linda concluded their conversation, they reflected on the idea that running—and sports in general—can be a powerful tool for improving one’s mood, mental clarity, and overall well-being. Whether it’s helping to manage the challenges of daily life or providing a sense of accomplishment, sports offer countless benefits that extend far beyond physical fitness.

Ultimately, Linda’s story serves as a reminder that the true value of sports lies in the lifelong lessons they teach and the enduring joy they bring, regardless of where you start or how your journey evolves.

This blog post is inspired by the latest episode of the Maybe Running Will Help podcast, hosted by Nicky Tamberrino, also known as @1classy_motherunner on Instagram. Tune in to hear Linda Flanagan’s inspiring journey on your favorite streaming platform. For more motivation and updates, be sure to follow @mayberunningwillhelp on Instagram. We’re proud to sponsor this show and support its mission to inspire and connect runners across our community.