The Journey of Running: Embracing the Process and Rediscovering Joy

Interview with John Ferry, co-founder and head coach of Team Wilpers and head coach of NYC’s Dashing Whippets from “Maybe Running Will Help Podcast” with Nicky Tamberrino

Running has a way of becoming more than just a sport—it evolves into a personal journey filled with highs, lows, and moments of profound self-discovery. In a recent conversation with John Ferry, co-founder and head coach of Team Wilpers and head coach of NYC’s Dashing Whippets, we explored the many facets of training, the mental aspect of racing, and the importance of finding your personal “why” in running.

From Marathon Goals to a Half Marathon Reality

My own journey to the Wilmington Marathon took an unexpected turn. Initially, I had planned to train for the full marathon, but life had other plans. Training fell off, illness struck, and doubts crept in. With guidance from John and other voices of reason, I made the tough but ultimately rewarding decision to switch to the half marathon. And you know what? It was the best decision I could have made.

Race day was a beautiful experience—not because I chased a PR or suffered through 26.2 miles, but because I embraced the moment. It was freezing cold, but the sunrise over Wrightsville Beach, the camaraderie among runners, and the sheer joy of running just for the sake of it made the experience unforgettable. Instead of being wrapped up in my own performance, I observed the runners around me—the nerves, the excitement, and the determination that fuels us all.

The Evolution of a Runner

John and I talked about the natural evolution many runners go through. You start by running just to run, then you race to finish, then you get hooked on improving your times. At some point, though, you might hit a wall. You ask, “Where do I go from here?” That’s when runners seek guidance—whether it’s through a coach, a group, or a new challenge.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that success in running isn’t just about getting faster—it’s about finding what running means to you at each stage of life. John summed it up perfectly:

“I want running to enhance your life experience instead of detract from it.”

Training Smarter, Not Harder

As a coach, John emphasized that running isn’t just about logging miles. A personalized approach is crucial—considering life factors, personal stress, and what motivates each individual. His coaching philosophy focuses on:

Setting Goals That Matter: A runner’s goals should be personal, not dictated by external pressures or old PRs.

Training for Sustainability: Doing too much too fast often leads to burnout or injury. Pulling back and adjusting paces appropriately can lead to greater long-term success.

Listening to Your Body: Rest is just as important as the workouts. Having someone give you permission to take a break can be a game-changer.

One of the hardest truths for many runners to accept? Sometimes, slowing down helps you speed up in the long run.

Reinventing the Relationship with Running

John shared his own shift in focus. Once a competitive marathoner, he’s now exploring the excitement of indoor track meets, running events like the 200m, 400m, and 800m for the first time. It’s a reminder that running is not just one thing—it can be whatever you need it to be at any stage of life.

As for me, I’m in a space where I’m figuring out what running means to me now. It’s no longer about chasing times; it’s about movement for my mental health, for clarity, and for joy.

Final Thoughts: Maybe Running Will Help…

To wrap up our conversation, I asked John to complete the sentence: “Maybe running will help…”

His response? “Enhance your overall life experience.”

It can help with fitness, confidence, mental resilience, or simply finding your people. But it should never be something that drains you.

So whether you’re training for a race, returning from injury, or just lacing up to clear your head, remember: running should serve you, not the other way around.