Member Feature 

In this inspiring interview, Running USA’s Leah Etling sits down with Aaron and Kris Olsen, the husband-and-wife team behind Finish Line Engravers. They share the runner-focused journey that led them to launch their business, and how their passion for the sport translates into personalized keepsakes for races nationwide. Hear how pride in their craft and a deep connection to the running community fuels every finish line they help celebrate.

Jay Holder chats with Anthea Dexter-Cooper, the new Executive Director of RunVermont. Appointed in November 2024, Anthea brings a dynamic legal and environmental advocacy background—previously serving as a senior attorney at the Conservation Law Foundation—to helm Vermont’s premier nonprofit in promoting running as a lifelong pursuit. Having spent over a decade in legal practice before leading RunVermont’s staff, board, and its flagship events and programs, she’s deeply committed to community fitness and inclusive access to running. Learn about her vision for the M&T Bank Vermont City Marathon & Relay, strategies to grow participation across all demographics, and how her unique experiences will shape the organization’s future impact across Vermont.

Running USA's Leah Etling sat down with Lena Andersson, the visionary behind Go! Running Tours — a global network that combines sightseeing with sweat, offering guided running experiences in cities around the world. From the company's beginnings to leading a worldwide movement of running tourism, Lena shares her journey, insights on entrepreneurship, and the power of exploring cities one stride at a time.

We sat down with Keith Hildebrandt, the President and Founder of AED Brands, to explore a powerful new partnership with Running USA. Under Keith’s leadership—having launched AED Brands back in 2004 with a mission to support compliant, life-saving AED programs nationwide—AED Brands now offers Automated External Defibrillator (AED) rentals specifically tailored for running events through a collaboration with Running USA. Keith shares how this rental program empowers race organizers to enhance on-course safety without the burden of permanent AED installations—making cutting-edge defibrillator access flexible, affordable, and reliable. Learn more as he outlines the program's design and how it’s elevating athlete safety at races across the country.  

A high-energy host known for his magnetic presence and deep connection to the running community, Ronnel Blackmon brings years of experience as an emcee, announcer, and race day personality at premier running events across the country. His dynamic style and passion for endurance sports have made him a favorite among athletes and race organizers alike. Get to know the emcee of the 2026 Running USA Industry Conference in this new 5 Questions interview with Jay Holder, Running USA Executive Director..