Everything You Need to Know Before the 2026 Boston Marathon

If you're running the Boston Marathon, this is the only episode you need before race weekend.

In this episode, I’m joined by Boston Marathon finisher Leah Ruiz to break down everything—from the moment you arrive in Boston to the final stretch down Boylston Street.

We cover:

• What to expect at the expo and how to navigate it
• The electric atmosphere around the finish line all weekend
• Pop-up shops and activations across Back Bay
• Race morning logistics: bag drop, buses, and getting to Hopkinton
• What Athlete’s Village is really like (and how to prepare)
• A full course breakdown—including strategy for the Newton Hills and Heartbreak Hill
• What the finish line experience actually feels like

Whether it’s your first Boston or your fifth, this episode will help you avoid common mistakes, stay calm on race day, and make the most of one of the most iconic races in the world.

You earned your spot—now let’s make sure you run it right.