Kamal: Welcome, Trees, to this podcast. I'm really excited to have you here. Trees: Thank you. So am I. Let's start with a little bit about your background. Kamal: OK, I am 44 years old. I have two children: my son is nearly 18, and my daughter, Juno, is nearly 16. I'm divorced, so I'm a single parent. I work as a psychologist and teach psychology didactics to students who want to become teachers. I live in Austin, close by the sea, near Brooch, a very terrific place. I enjoy running often on the sand. Trees: Running on the sand must be an additional workout. Kamal: Yes, it is. Brooch is definitely a touristy town. It's beautiful, only 15 minutes from here. Trees: So you recently ran the Berlin Marathon. How was the experience? Kamal: It was crazy. This was my fourth marathon, but it was the first time I really aimed for a specific goal. Last year, I just enjoyed the run without focusing on my time. This year, I was very focused on achieving a sub-four-hour time, which made the experience very different. I didn't enjoy it as much because I was too focused on my watch and my time. I achieved my goal, but last year was more fun because I was more relaxed and engaged with my surroundings. Trees: It's interesting how focusing on a time goal changes the experience. Was your training different when aiming for a specific goal? Kamal: Yes, last year my time was four hours and 19 minutes, and there was no pressure. My training was relaxed, and I skipped sessions if I wanted. But in August, something clicked, and I started to eat differently and followed my workouts precisely. I also hired a coach to help me achieve my Berlin goal, and I'm still training with him. Having someone watch every step and heartbeat made me more accountable and serious about my training. Trees: It's great that you established accountability with your coach. How did the training impact other aspects of your life? Kamal: Training for the marathon and losing weight made me realize that I can achieve anything if I really want it. I lost 7 kilograms and felt better overall. This change gave me confidence and a sense of accomplishment. Trees: That's fantastic. What got you into running marathons initially? Kamal: I was active but not consistently athletic. My father, a runner, played a big role. Nine years ago, I quit smoking and started running around the park. My father would join me on his bike, providing water and snacks, and supporting me during long runs. My brother, a sports doctor, also gives me advice and support. Trees: It sounds like you have a great support system. How does it impact your running journey? Kamal: My children know how important running is to me and support me silently. My father joins me on runs, and my brother offers medical advice. My mother also supports me quietly. Having this support helps me stay motivated and committed to my training. Trees: What are your future goals? Kamal: I did the Berlin Marathon lottery again, but if I don't get in, I'll do the Amsterdam Marathon. I also plan to run the Paris Marathon on April 7th. Paris is challenging due to its hills, but I'm not aiming for a specific time there. In September or October, I hope to beat my personal best again. Trees: Are you aiming for the World Marathon Majors? Kamal: I'd love to, but it's too expensive for me. Traveling to major marathons like Boston is costly. I prefer closer races like Paris, which are more manageable. Trees: Running has become a lifestyle for you. How has it changed your life? Kamal: Running is my therapy. It helped me overcome depression, and I no longer need medication. It has become a crucial part of my life, making me feel good and function well. I run six days a week, and it keeps me grounded. Trees: It's inspiring to hear how running has positively impacted your life. I wish you all the best for the Paris Marathon and your future goals. Kamal: Thank you! It was great chatting with you.