DFW Running Talk

In this episode of DFW Running Talk, host Chris Detzel sits down with two powerhouses in the Dallas-Fort Worth running community—Eric and Sharon Lindberg from On Your Left!. As the driving force behind some of the most exciting and well-organized races in the region, they share their journey from casual runners to business owners managing over 50 races across the country.

Eric, the self-proclaimed "Chief Running Officer," and Sharon, the "VP of Happy Running," dive into their unique backgrounds—from Eric’s early days in sports marketing with the Indiana Pacers and Dallas Mavericks to Sharon’s fitness and event planning expertise. They talk about how their love for running, community engagement, and, of course, post-race beer led them to create a thriving business that specializes in organizing high-energy, well-branded running events.

Throughout the conversation, they share:

🏃 Their personal running journeys—how Eric lost 50 pounds through running and how Sharon was inspired by a stroller-pushing mom to start her own running adventure.
🏟️ Behind-the-scenes race stories—from managing volunteers to dealing with unexpected race-day surprises (like a hit-and-run porta-potty incident!).
🍺 The importance of making races fun—why their events emphasize party-like atmospheres, great swag, and post-run celebrations.
📈 The business side of race directing—the challenges of managing large-scale events, working with sponsors, and keeping up with the evolving running industry.
💰 How inflation and city regulations are impacting race costs—why organizing a race isn’t as simple as just marking a course and giving out medals.

Eric and Sharon also highlight some of their biggest events, including Mambo Miles 5K, Velvet Hammer 5K, Rahr Oktoberfest 5K, and Form Follows Fitness 5K, plus exciting insights into their future plans.

Whether you're a seasoned runner, a casual 5K enthusiast, or just love a good behind-the-scenes story, this episode is packed with insights, laughs, and motivation. Tune in to hear how these two have made running not just a passion, but a business that keeps the DFW running scene thriving!

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