Turn Up: Music Powers Running | What’s In Your Earbuds? Guest: Santino Williams

At Run Tri Bike, we know that running is more than just putting one foot in front of the other—it’s a rhythm, a vibe, and often, a carefully curated playlist that is powerful. In our latest episode of the Everyday Athlete Podcast Network, we dive into how music shapes race-day energy, transforms long runs, and helps endurance athletes tap into something deeper. Featuring Bay Area music head Santino Williams, this conversation is equal parts laughs, nostalgia, and inspiration.

Building the Ultimate Race Playlist

Santino doesn’t just run—he runs to a soundtrack. His method? Create a themed playlist where one track becomes the emotional centerpiece of the event. Whether it’s Mac Dre hyping up a 10K or Andre Nicotina’s “Dice of Life” setting the tone for a St. Patrick’s Day race, each song tells a story. It’s not random—each pick is intentional, building momentum with every beat.

Soundtracks That Stick With Us

Ever think about what one song you’d listen to forever? We did. Santino picked J Dilla’s Donuts, an instrumental album that’s all feeling, no filler. Jason and Joe chimed in with their own favorites—Motown classics and road trip staples. The result? A deep conversation about how music connects us to memory, movement, and moments that matter.

Musical Heroes and What We’d Play for Aliens

The conversation took a turn for the cosmic—literally. Santino would spend a day with Jerry Garcia. Joe? Blues legend Howlin’ Wolf. But when it came to what track we’d send to represent humanity to aliens? The room cracked up over the perfect chaos of AC/DC’s “Highway to Hell.” Because hey, it is a vibe.

Walk-Up Songs and Sport Psychology

There’s nothing like a good entrance, and Santino knows it. From his personal picks (“The Lonely Bull” and “Epic”) to the legendary entrance songs of MLB closers (we see you, “Enter Sandman”), the panel discusses how music sets the stage not just in sports, but in training and competition.

Community Playlist, Collective Power

The Everyday Athlete Podcast Network Playlist is more than background music—it’s a growing, evolving community soundtrack. With Santino’s additions, we’re inching toward the 30-hour Golden Hour Challenge. One listener even shared how powerful the playlist was and how it got them through a tough long run. That’s the kind of impact we’re all about—music that fuels your finish line.

Join the Movement, Share the Beat

This isn’t just a podcast—it’s a jam session. Drop your go-to race track in the comments, follow the Everyday Athlete Podcast Network Playlist on Spotify, and subscribe for more runner-approved rhythm and motivation. Whether you’re gearing up for your first 5K or hitting your stride in marathon training, there’s a song (and an episode) here for you.

Subscribe TO OUR NEWSLETTER