From Meetup to Movement: The Birth of DC Capital Striders

Host Celeste Fong talks with Rick Amernick, founder of the DC Capital Striders, about how a chance Meetup listing in 2006 grew into a large running community and 501(c)(3). Rick recounts early runs on the National Mall, expanding to DuPont and trail runs, partnerships with brands and organizers, and fundraising efforts like a Haiti benefit race.

The episode highlights community-building through running, learning the sport as an adult, and how small actions turned into lasting impact, incorporating both trail culture and charitable initiatives by 2009.