September Podcast: Running on Air + Money Donuts
When Community, Running, and Donuts Collide: Eau Claire Marathon + Royal Credit Union Team Up
Episode 9 of Running on Air brings something new to the Eau Claire Marathon podcast feed. Instead of a typical conversation with a runner or community member, the show teams up with Royal Credit Union’s Money Donuts podcast for a lively crossover episode. The result is a fun, fast-moving look at running, budgeting, community partnerships, and the expanding world of the Eau Claire Marathon weekend.
The conversation begins with introductions from both podcast teams. Adam Ludwig and Emily Wermund represent the Eau Claire Marathon and its storytelling platform. Steve, Cooper and Alexis represent Royal Credit Union and their financial-focused, donut-themed show. The four dive in immediately with the signature Money Donuts question: what donut best represents running? The answers range from sprinkle-covered classics to sweat-glazed comparisons, and it sets the tone for an easy, humorous conversation.
Once the donut debates settle, the group explores the reason for the collaboration. In 2025, the Eau Claire Marathon officially added Royal Credit Union’s long-running Charity Classic 10K to Saturday’s schedule. The Charity Classic began more than thirty years ago through Rock the Riverfront, an annual community event that raised funds for local nonprofits. After decades of success, Royal wanted a new home for the race. The Eau Claire Marathon had recently expanded its weekend offerings, so the partnership formed naturally.
Adam and Emily describe how the Saturday 5K and 10K events grew quickly in recent years. Those races introduced many new runners to the sport and helped people transition from shorter distances to the half and full marathons. The Charity Classic fits seamlessly into that vision. Runners sign up for the race, cast a free vote for their favorite nonprofit partner, and can purchase additional $2 votes if they want to boost the organization they support. First place receives $8,000, second receives $5,000, and third receives $2,000. Royal has seen people purchase hundreds of extra votes during competitive years.
This year’s three Charity Classic beneficiaries focus on community wellness and active lifestyles. The groups include the Chippewa Valley Pickleball Club, the L.E. Phillips Senior Center, and the YMCA of the Chippewa Valley. Each organization will spend race weekend educating runners and encouraging votes. The podcast hosts share their enthusiasm and laugh about which group they personally might choose. The discussion quickly turns into predictions about pickleball growth, Senior Center programming, and new swag ideas like Eau Claire Marathon pickleball paddles.
From charity voting to race preparation, the conversation shifts toward the realities of running. Many people assume running is an inexpensive sport, yet the hosts outline the gear, shoes, coaching, and race entry fees that can add up over time. They talk about budgeting for the sport, buying shoes at specialty stores like Blue Ox Running, and planning ahead to avoid late-registration price spikes. Emily shares her experience hiring a coach after returning to running post-partum, while Adam explains how early planning saves money and prevents training errors. Together, they remind listeners that running can remain affordable with the right approach and a clear plan.
The hosts also discuss the vibrant running culture in Eau Claire. Many out-of-state marathoners are surprised by the scenic course, community support, and high-quality race production. Local runners benefit from strong trail systems, easy access to group runs, and a welcoming community. The group reflects on the value of having a well-organized, nationally recognized marathon right in the region’s backyard. They joke about free post-race beer, themed 5Ks, and the creative swag that appears throughout the year.
This collaboration highlights everything that makes the Eau Claire running community vibrant. It blends fitness, financial wellness, humor, and charity into one energetic conversation. Most importantly, it shows how two local organizations continue to create experiences that bring people together, one race, one doughnut, and one vote at a time.
Listen to the full September episode of “Running on Air” + “Money Donuts” crossover here: Money Donuts/Running on Air Crossover Episode Eau Claire Hometown Media | iHeart
