In this special live episode of the Believe in Progress podcast, host Mitch Stoller takes us to the heart of the AACR Philadelphia Marathon. Against the backdrop of one of Philadelphia's most iconic events, this episode captures the energy, determination, and community spirit that make this race unforgettable year after year.

Joined by five inspiring guests—Jim Marino, Bill Rodgers, Rachael Ringer, Todd Wiseman, and Coleen McMahon—we delve into powerful stories of resilience, advocacy, and the shared mission to make progress in the fight against cancer. From the personal journeys of runners to the dedicated work of community leaders and advocates, this episode is a celebration of what it means to push boundaries and inspire hope.

The Believe in Progress podcast provides uplifting, actionable ways to support cancer research and advocacy, including making a donation or starting your own fundraiser. 

Guests

• Jim Marino: Jim is a pancreatic cancer survivor who spent 44 years working for Philadelphia Parks & Recreation. During this time, he was a founding committee member of the Philadelphia Marathon and spent 2009 through 2018 as the Race Director. He was also the Race Director for the Independence Blue Cross Broad Street Run in Philadelphia from 1998 to 2018.
• Bill Rodgers: Best known for his four victories in the Boston Marathon and four straight wins in the New York City Marathon, Bill is one of the most well-known long-distance runners in American history. Bill also represented the United States at the 1976 Olympics in Montreal.
• Rachael Ringer: Rachael is a breast cancer survivor who underwent a double mastectomy. Throughout her New York City Marathon training, she underwent chemotherapy in the mornings and ran in the evenings after work.
• Todd Wiseman: Inspired by Todd’s sister Tessa, Team Tessa is a group of Todd’s family and close friends. Tessa was 28 years old when she passed away from cancer. Visit www.tessawiseman.com to learn more about her story.
• Coleen McMahon: Coleen is a survivor of endometrial, lung, and recently metastatic cancer. Coleen's mantra is to look at cancer as just another of life’s hurdles that provides perspective. When listening to and speaking with others living with cancer, her advice is to make the most of their lives, because we never know what else life has in store for us.  

Key Discussion Points

1. The Philadelphia Marathon Experience

• Our guests share their unique experiences participating in the marathon and what the event means to them.
• Reflections on the connection between running and resilience, both on and off the racecourse.

2. Personal Journeys in Advocacy and Cancer Research

• Each guest discusses his or her journey in cancer advocacy and the role he or she plays in driving progress.
• Stories of how the AACR’s mission has touched their lives and inspired their work.

3. Building a Stronger Community

• The importance of community support and collaboration in advancing cancer research.
• Insights into how events like the Philadelphia Marathon bring people together for a common cause.

4. Inspiration and Call to Action

• How listeners can get involved in supporting cancer research and advocacy through organizations like the AACR.
• Guests’ messages of hope and resilience for runners, patients, and advocates alike.

Additional Resources and Links

• Learn more about the AACR and its mission at AACR.org.
• Explore ways to support cancer research and advocacy efforts through participation in events like the Philadelphia Marathon.

How You Can Help

• Subscribe: Don’t miss an episode! Follow Believe in Progress on your favorite podcast platform or on YouTube.
• Share: Spread inspiration and awareness by sharing this episode with your friends and family.
• Donate: Support cutting-edge cancer research by making a donation to the AACR at AACR.org/donate.

Acknowledgments

This special live episode of Believe in Progress is produced by CollegeCast LLC.

Production Credits

Host: Mitch Stoller

Guests: Jim Marino, Bill Rodgers, Rachael Ringer, Todd Wiseman, and Coleen McMahon

Executive Producer: Anthony Lopes

Executive Producer: Michael Leary

Associate Producer: Heather Holland

Director: Anthony Lopes

Creative Director/Director of Photography: Michael Leary

Second Camera: Anthony Lopes

Editor: Michael Leary