November 13, 2023 • 20 mins
Mad Cow Running Company has been a wonderful asset to the McMinnville community. The store provides all the shoes, equipment, and encouragement you need to get outside and get moving! Owner Monica Moore joined the show to tell us her vision for the store and a healthier community.
Mark as Played
Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Karen Wilson:
Welcome to The BLC Connection Podcast. (00:02):
undefined
I'm Karen Wilson and your host for today.
These small episodes focus on local businesses that excel atparticular parts of customer care.
Today's guest is Monica Moore with Mad Cow Running.
Thank you for being with us, Monica.
Monica Moore: Thank you, Karen. It's a pleasure to be here. (00:20):
undefined
Karen Wilson: Yeah, I tell you, there was so much excitement in the community when we found out what was going to be in there. (00:23):
undefined
And as I put kind of like in my little notes on it, you know, doyou have to be just mad
crazy yourself to open up a running shoe store or outfitterstore in McMinnville?
(00:43):
I mean, what did you think about that?
Monica Moore: Well, it was a risk. (00:45):
undefined
You know, I knew going into it, it might be a risk, but it was arisk that I was willing to take.
Karen Wilson: Well, being in a small town, a lot of times, we don't have access, and we'll get into all of that. (00:52):
undefined
But it's so nice to have just access to top quality tennis shoesand equipment, hiking,
running, all of that in McMinnville.
So let's start, I guess, as I put pun intended here, cow in theroom.
(01:13):
How did you come up with your name?
Monica Moore: Well, I moved to Murfreesboro 11 years ago to finish my teaching career, and I didn't know a soul. (01:16):
undefined
So I joined a running group, and the running group that I joinedwas Mad Cow Running.
Karen Wilson: Okay. (01:28):
undefined
Monica Moore: So when I had this idea to move back home and open up a running store, I thought, that name is catchy. (01:29):
undefined
So I kind of stuck with it, you know, have the cow.
So kind of McMinnville.
So that's how I came up with the name.
And I have to tell you, when I first opened, I had a lot ofpeople coming in to the store thinking we were an ice cream
(01:50):
parlor.
Karen Wilson: Oh, wow. (01:50):
undefined
Monica Moore: I guess they just saw a big cow out front. (01:51):
undefined
Karen Wilson: Right. (01:54):
undefined
Monica Moore: But that's how I come up with the name. (01:55):
undefined
It was just catchy, and I thought it would catch people's eye ona sign, Mad Cow Running Company.
So, I went with it.
Karen Wilson: Everybody knows you don't want to be in front of a mad cow. (02:03):
undefined
They're very determined.
And they they do run a lot faster than what we give them creditfor, for sure.
Monica Moore: Yes, ma'am. (02:11):
undefined
Karen Wilson: So tell – you come from a big sports background. (02:12):
undefined
Tell our audience about the impact that sports and running havehad on your life.
Monica Moore: Well, I think the biggest thing in sports growing up, it was just the accountability. (02:22):
undefined
You know, sports teaches you so much more than just sports.
And with the running, when I got into running, I didn't enjoyrunning.
You know, playing sports, running was seen as punishment.
You know, you run sprints if you don't do well in a game.
(02:42):
But again, when I moved to Murfreesboro to finish up my teachingcareer, I didn't know anyone.
So I joined a running group, and then I was hooked.
So, you know, moving back home, running has brought me joy.
You know, it's such an emotional, mental, stressful release.
(03:04):
And the people that are now in my running group are some of mybest friends.
Karen Wilson: Yeah. So, you know, like you said, many of us that are not runners think of running as (03:08):
undefined
punishment. But from what people say, once you get acclimated toit and you get your
breathing down and stuff, it's very therapeutic.
Monica Moore: It is. You just have to keep coming back. (03:27):
undefined
I'll never forget the very first mile I ran.
I hated it, you know, and but thank goodness, I had a gentlemanin Murfreesboro that held me accountable.
He said, "I'll see you next week." So I kept going and keptgoing and now, you know, I run every single day.
Karen Wilson: So if you are trying to get started in this, we'll start with running. (03:46):
undefined
There are so many other aspects of your business there.
But is it kind of where you start out with just like a minute ata time or even less if you, you know, 30 seconds
at a time, and then walk and then add a little more?
Monica Moore: Yes, ma'am. When people ask me, how do you get started running? (04:08):
undefined
I tell them to go slow.
You know, start with an interval, a minute walk, a minute run,you know, and then build on that.
And then you can go to two minute intervals and three minutes.
And, you know, before long it's just one foot in front of theother.
You know, pace doesn't matter.
(04:29):
Distance doesn't matter.
It's just such a great feeling to be out there and be moving.
Karen Wilson: Yeah, I do a little work on the treadmill, and I tend to have to have my headphones, and I kind of do it a song at a time (04:34):
undefined
or even a beat at a time, or something like that.
If there's the chorus, and it's very motivating, then I may pickup my feet and run for as long as they sing that part.
You know, I'm still beginning, so.
Monica Moore: Right. (04:53):
undefined
Karen Wilson: Whatever, I guess works for whoever's trying to do it. (04:54):
undefined
Monica Moore: Yeah. And if they don't have a way to track their time, you know, I'll say, "Let's run to that tree. (04:57):
undefined
Walk to the next tree." It's like I said, it's such a releasejust to be out moving, and you don't even have to
run. We have walk groups at the store.
Karen Wilson: Yeah, let's talk about that because, I mean, that's something, I guess, that you've created that anybody can participate, most (05:12):
undefined
anybody, in a walk group.
And then if you want to escalate to the running, I guess youcan.
But walking is, from what the studies show, very beneficial.
Monica Moore: I have to tell you, walking has been a blessing to many people that have joined our group. (05:29):
undefined
We've had people join our group that have lost weight just bywalking with the group, and people that have gone off medication
that was on maybe blood pressure medication.
So it does have that healthy benefit to it as well.
Karen Wilson: Well, I know too. (05:49):
undefined
You know, when you walk with other people, there's a therapeuticpart of it because you get to talk.
You may talk about your day.
You may talk about your family and things like that.
And then that's motivation.
You're bonding with people to show up the next day and do itagain and again.
Monica Moore: Yes, and I always say the miles go by faster when you're talking. (06:07):
undefined
Karen Wilson: Yeah, yeah. Either talking or got your music one. (06:11):
undefined
One of the two, that's for sure.
So whenever you meet up, how often do your groups meet?
Monica Moore: We meet every Tuesday night at 6 p.m. (06:20):
undefined
for the run group, and we do have walkers that come to that.
And then Wednesday nights at 5:30, we have just a walk group,where we don't do any running.
We just walk three miles.
So we meet run group every Tuesday night and walk group everyWednesday night.
Karen Wilson: And then I guess you're encouraging them to pick up multiple nights a week, if possible, and to keep that (06:38):
undefined
going.
Monica Moore: Yes, ma'am. My walk group, they actually meet at 5:30 some mornings and walk. (06:47):
undefined
Karen Wilson: Okay. Not for me, but some people are morning people, that is for sure. (06:54):
undefined
So what gave you the confidence to open up a running andoutfitters company in McMinnville,
small town USA.
Monica Moore: Well, I was a teacher for 27 years, and I'd been thinking that I'd like to open up a running store in McMinnville. (07:09):
undefined
McMinnville has meant so much to me, and I want to see peopleout moving and be healthy.
But I was on a five year plan.
I was going to teach for 30 years, and then retire fromteaching.
But things just happened, and I just saw it as an opportunity tofast forward that plan.
(07:34):
And so I moved back home to McMinnville and things fell intoplace.
And I opened the store, and it was – this community has meant somuch to me and my family that I
wanted to give back.
I love to see people out moving and walking and, you know, Iwant to see our groups grow.
(07:56):
And it's just so healthy to do so.
I guess that was the confidence, you know.
You have a dream, and then you just jump in.
Karen Wilson: Really almost can't think too much about it. (08:06):
undefined
Of course, you want to have a business plan and stuff like that.
Monica Moore: Yes, ma'am. (08:10):
undefined
Karen Wilson: In place. But I know McMinnville has become such a more active city with (08:11):
undefined
the, you know, better sidewalks are being put in place.
We've got the area at the Milner Rec Center, where people canwalk, the beautiful greenways and things like that.
Now, I noticed, I was fascinated by your Facebook pages, too,because you all have done spotlights on people that participate
(08:37):
in your groups. And one fella is a trail runner, looks like.
And that's interesting too.
We've got trails all over Tennessee.
Monica Moore: Yes, ma'am. We do have a great place at the Milner Rec Center to run and walk. (08:44):
undefined
You know, there's lights.
It's a safe place.
The greenway is wonderful.
Once a month, we try to get together, and we'll go do a trailrun.
We'll go to Rock Island.
There's a nice little loop at Rock Island you can do.
It's a little over two miles.
(09:05):
Some Saturdays, we'll drive up to Stone Door and run a loop upthere.
It's a 45 minute drive.
I'm actually hosting a race next April at Cumberland Caverns.
We're going to run the trails up there, and then we're going torun through the cave.
So we are surrounded by such beautiful places to run.
And there's just something about trail running.
(09:27):
You know, you get out on the trail, and you're just sonoticeable of all the nature and trees, and it's just
beautiful.
Karen Wilson: It is. It is. (09:36):
undefined
I've never done trail running, but I'm that would be my ultimatedream to be able to do that.
So I guess I was impressed with the quality and especially theselection that you have grown
into. Last time, I went in.
I'm on my third pair of shoes there from your store, which Ilove the – oh gosh, I'm terrible with brands.
(10:00):
The brands have changed so much.
It's not just Nike and Brooks and things like that, although youdo have that.
How do you keep up with, I guess, the latest and greatest inshoes?
Monica Moore: Well, I go to a conference every year that comes around in November. (10:12):
undefined
It's called The Running Event, and it's just like a conferencefor shoe store owners.
They talk about the greatest and newest shoes coming out andother products as well.
I have wonderful sales reps.
You know, I carry the brands that I've experienced.
(10:32):
You know, if I don't believe in the brand, then I'm not going tocarry it.
So we do have a lot of shoes and a lot of different brands, buteach brand represents something different for each person.
Karen Wilson: I know mine are the – you'll probably know exactly what brand I'm talking about. (10:44):
undefined
They have the water footbed.
Monica Moore: Altra. (10:51):
undefined
Karen Wilson: Altra. Yes, I love the Altras and the –. (10:51):
undefined
Monica Moore: Hoka. (10:55):
undefined
Karen Wilson: Hoka. Okay, that's a big thing right now too. (10:55):
undefined
I see those, and then the On Clouds are big as well.
And you carry all those brands?
Monica Moore: Yes, ma'am. (11:03):
undefined
Karen Wilson: Yeah. And the Brooks and everything. (11:04):
undefined
What is your personal favorite running shoe?
Monica Moore: I run in the Hoka and Saucony, depending on the type of run I'm doing that day. (11:10):
undefined
Karen Wilson: Kind of just depends on whether I guess it's on a trail or whether it's paved or – (11:15):
undefined
Monica Moore: Yes, ma'am. A slow run, a speed run. (11:21):
undefined
But my dog is named Hoka, so that kind of gives you an idea.
I like the shoe.
Karen Wilson: Well, they are very nice and lots of cushion. (11:29):
undefined
And like I said, things have really changed as far as athleticwear goes.
And that was kind of leading into my next question.
How do you describe the change from Converse or the originalNike to the running,
hiking and walking shoes?
(11:49):
What are the differences that you see now that benefit theathlete?
Monica Moore: A lot of it, just like the change in anything, the change in technology, that's the biggest thing. (11:54):
undefined
Tennis shoes or running shoes walking shoes, are so much lighternow than from when I was growing up with the –
Karen Wilson: Converse. (12:06):
undefined
Monica Moore: Converse All Star Chuck Taylors. (12:07):
undefined
Karen Wilson: Yeah. (12:09):
undefined
Monica Moore: A lot of shoes will use a Pebax foam, which is a lot lighter. (12:11):
undefined
It's a lot springier, more bounce.
A lot of them use carbon plates or a fork plate in the bottom ofthe shoe.
It's just so much technology.
It depends on the run you want to do.
There's minimalist shoes and neutral shoes and max cushionshoes, stability shoes.
(12:33):
So each person that comes into the store, I just talk to them,see what's going on and what they're doing, and then I try to fit
them with the same shoe.
But it's all technology.
They're trying to make them more cushion, lighter and faster.
Karen Wilson: And, of course, you know, I didn't realize until probably a few years ago that your shoes run out a lot (12:47):
undefined
faster than what we think they do.
You know, if you're exercising quite often, is it a year?
Six months? What do you recommend for changing it out?
Monica Moore: The rule of thumb is you ought to get about 400 miles out of a pair of shoes. (13:05):
undefined
You know, I don't get that many, but I'm a heel striker, so Iwear mine out more.
And a lot of that is just the foam on the bottom of the shoe.
Karen Wilson: And then you all, I know have inserts and things like that that you do as well. (13:20):
undefined
For those of us that may have, you know, particular arch issueor things like that.
Monica Moore: Yes, ma'am. I carry two brands of inserts. (13:32):
undefined
One of them is Currex and the other one is Aetrex.
But we have a 3D foot scanner at the store where you can comestand on it.
It tells me all about your feet.
You can walk across the scanner, and it tells me your gait, andthat just helps me know what type of insert, if you need an
(13:53):
insert or what type of shoe that you need.
Karen Wilson: Okay, well that's very good. (13:55):
undefined
And technology, I mean that's awesome.
Another impressive factor about Mad Cow is the sense ofcommunity that you foster and encourage.
You encourage people to join the walking and running groups, andit looked like you've got a pretty diverse group that
participates in that.
And that's been going on, I guess, since your inception.
Monica Moore: Yes, ma'am. (14:17):
undefined
I have to kind of look back and just smile.
When I first started, we would have three people at our rungroup, one being me.
And now, you know, we'll have 25 to 30 people at the run group.
And I have to brag on this community.
They have just embraced the store and the run group, the walkgroup.
(14:40):
We have more and more people coming, new people.
People that have been a part of the run group invite theirfriends.
So it just keeps growing, and it's them.
You know, I just provide a place and a time and a route, andthey show up.
Karen Wilson: And I guess they're forming friendships and bonds with each other, too. (14:56):
undefined
I notice a lot of them seem to travel to different 5K's ormarathons and things like that around.
And it seems like that they stick with it looks like, too.
Monica Moore: Yes, ma'am. And that's the good thing. (15:12):
undefined
You know, when we first started, people really weren't open torunning.
You know, some people would say, well, I like to run by myself.
But now those same people, like you said, are traveling to racestogether.
They're hanging out together outside of the run group.
And that's what you like to see.
Karen Wilson: Yeah, lots of friendships being formed. (15:30):
undefined
So, you know, your family, you really can't think about theMoore family without all of the
entrepreneurship that you all have done in McMinnville.
Tell me what the support of McMinnville has meant to yourfamily.
Monica Moore: This community has been just wonderful. (15:49):
undefined
You know, my dad's been in business for most of his life.
And, you know, they've supported him.
My sister was an educator.
She quit teaching and bought Depot Bottom.
Karen Wilson: That's right. I forgot about that. (16:06):
undefined
Monica Moore: The support for her has just been amazing. (16:06):
undefined
And then, you know, they both encouraged me to follow my dream.
You know, you don't know if you don't try.
But McMinnville just means so much to my family.
And they've always supported.
I've had uncles. My grandfather had a business.
So I can't thank this community enough for their support.
Karen Wilson: Yeah, you all have had your hand in everything from real estate to lumber to now, shoes and apartment (16:27):
undefined
complexes and all kinds of things.
Monica Moore: Yes, ma'am. (16:37):
undefined
Karen Wilson: A diverse family with lots going on. (16:37):
undefined
You know, you referenced all the changes in footwear and thingslike that.
And of course, we're a technology company.
What do you feel like the impact of technology has been onpersonal fitness?
Monica Moore: Just start with the equipment. (16:54):
undefined
The technology of equipment has just been amazing.
You know, like I said, there's carbon plated shoes.
I never thought that I would see that and semi-carbon platedshoes.
So the technology in the footwear, it's just made you faster.
It's provided you more cushion, which is better for your body.
(17:15):
You know, if you're out pounding the pavement and that extracushion is nice, especially at my age.
Technology in terms of watches, you know, you can track yourdistance, track your pace, track your heart rate
. Just so much data depending on the watch that you get.
Clothing, you know, sweat wicking, you know, take that sweat awayfrom your foot.
(17:40):
So moisture wicking socks.
It's had a really good impact.
But at the end of the day, it's just all about getting out andmoving.
The technology is nice, but you don't have to have it.
Karen Wilson: Yeah, that's true. (17:51):
undefined
That's a good point to make.
The technology seems like it's there for regardless of whatyou're going for, you know, you can
get high-end stuff which your store sells.
You've got clothing.
You've got the moisture wicking and all the socks and things likethat too.
(18:11):
And then, you know, if you're not quite ready for the high-endstuff, maybe start out with something a little less expensive.
Monica Moore: Yes. And we offer that at my store as well. (18:18):
undefined
You know, we have the most expensive, most technological shoes,or we just have that everyday trainer if you're
starting out. You know, it's all about price point.
Technology is nice, but like I said, you don't have to have it.
I grew up in the age where there was no cell phones, and we didjust fine.
Karen Wilson: Yeah. (18:40):
undefined
Monica Moore: You know, my main thing with Mad Cow Running Store is, my main goal is just to get people in this community more (18:40):
undefined
active, more healthy.
You know, like I said, it's just such an emotional release.
I like to see happy, healthy people.
Karen Wilson: Yeah, yeah. (18:56):
undefined
Well, it's a wonderful asset for McMinnville.
I can't tell you how many people I see coming and going fromyour store.
It's a very active place as far as commerce goes.
There's always someone in and out.
And I see your shoes on people's feet all over the community.
Monica Moore: Well thank you. (19:15):
undefined
Karen Wilson: And as I said, I'm on my third pair, and they are so comfortable. (19:17):
undefined
And, you know, as you said, you know, you've got everything fromwalking to running to hiking.
And I noticed the last time I was in, you had a lot of hikinggear too.
Monica Moore: Yes, ma'am. Because we are in the center, or I like to call it, you know, we're very close to Rock Island, Fall Creek Falls, (19:34):
undefined
Stone Door.
And I've been surprised a lot of people just drive by comingfrom Nashville.
They're going to Fall Creek Falls, and they see the sign, sothey stop and buy hiking shoes.
So we do have a lot of trail gear, hiking boots.
(19:57):
We have waterproof hiking shoes, regular hiking shoes, runningshoes, just a plethora of different types of
trail shoes.
Karen Wilson: Yeah, I've seen toss up water bottles and things like that. (20:06):
undefined
I know, you know, I've got a trip coming up.
I'm going to lucky enough to get to go to Zion National Park forthe first time, and it is so nice to have a local resource to
go buy things and not have to go out of town to get the gearthat you want to take on trips and things.
Monica Moore: Yes, ma'am. It is. (20:28):
undefined
Karen Wilson: Well, thank you so much, Monica, for being our guest on this special episode of The BLC Connection Podcast. (20:29):
undefined
We invite our listeners to tune in for future episodes and sharethis content with other businesses.
Until next time, this is your BLC Connection.
undefined
I'm Karen Wilson and your host for today.
These small episodes focus on local businesses that excel atparticular parts of customer care.
Today's guest is Monica Moore with Mad Cow Running.
Thank you for being with us, Monica.
Monica Moore: Thank you, Karen. It's a pleasure to be here. (00:20):
undefined
Karen Wilson: Yeah, I tell you, there was so much excitement in the community when we found out what was going to be in there. (00:23):
undefined
And as I put kind of like in my little notes on it, you know, doyou have to be just mad
crazy yourself to open up a running shoe store or outfitterstore in McMinnville?
(00:43):
I mean, what did you think about that?
Monica Moore: Well, it was a risk. (00:45):
undefined
You know, I knew going into it, it might be a risk, but it was arisk that I was willing to take.
Karen Wilson: Well, being in a small town, a lot of times, we don't have access, and we'll get into all of that. (00:52):
undefined
But it's so nice to have just access to top quality tennis shoesand equipment, hiking,
running, all of that in McMinnville.
So let's start, I guess, as I put pun intended here, cow in theroom.
(01:13):
How did you come up with your name?
Monica Moore: Well, I moved to Murfreesboro 11 years ago to finish my teaching career, and I didn't know a soul. (01:16):
undefined
So I joined a running group, and the running group that I joinedwas Mad Cow Running.
Karen Wilson: Okay. (01:28):
undefined
Monica Moore: So when I had this idea to move back home and open up a running store, I thought, that name is catchy. (01:29):
undefined
So I kind of stuck with it, you know, have the cow.
So kind of McMinnville.
So that's how I came up with the name.
And I have to tell you, when I first opened, I had a lot ofpeople coming in to the store thinking we were an ice cream
(01:50):
parlor.
Karen Wilson: Oh, wow. (01:50):
undefined
Monica Moore: I guess they just saw a big cow out front. (01:51):
undefined
Karen Wilson: Right. (01:54):
undefined
Monica Moore: But that's how I come up with the name. (01:55):
undefined
It was just catchy, and I thought it would catch people's eye ona sign, Mad Cow Running Company.
So, I went with it.
Karen Wilson: Everybody knows you don't want to be in front of a mad cow. (02:03):
undefined
They're very determined.
And they they do run a lot faster than what we give them creditfor, for sure.
Monica Moore: Yes, ma'am. (02:11):
undefined
Karen Wilson: So tell – you come from a big sports background. (02:12):
undefined
Tell our audience about the impact that sports and running havehad on your life.
Monica Moore: Well, I think the biggest thing in sports growing up, it was just the accountability. (02:22):
undefined
You know, sports teaches you so much more than just sports.
And with the running, when I got into running, I didn't enjoyrunning.
You know, playing sports, running was seen as punishment.
You know, you run sprints if you don't do well in a game.
(02:42):
But again, when I moved to Murfreesboro to finish up my teachingcareer, I didn't know anyone.
So I joined a running group, and then I was hooked.
So, you know, moving back home, running has brought me joy.
You know, it's such an emotional, mental, stressful release.
(03:04):
And the people that are now in my running group are some of mybest friends.
Karen Wilson: Yeah. So, you know, like you said, many of us that are not runners think of running as (03:08):
undefined
punishment. But from what people say, once you get acclimated toit and you get your
breathing down and stuff, it's very therapeutic.
Monica Moore: It is. You just have to keep coming back. (03:27):
undefined
I'll never forget the very first mile I ran.
I hated it, you know, and but thank goodness, I had a gentlemanin Murfreesboro that held me accountable.
He said, "I'll see you next week." So I kept going and keptgoing and now, you know, I run every single day.
Karen Wilson: So if you are trying to get started in this, we'll start with running. (03:46):
undefined
There are so many other aspects of your business there.
But is it kind of where you start out with just like a minute ata time or even less if you, you know, 30 seconds
at a time, and then walk and then add a little more?
Monica Moore: Yes, ma'am. When people ask me, how do you get started running? (04:08):
undefined
I tell them to go slow.
You know, start with an interval, a minute walk, a minute run,you know, and then build on that.
And then you can go to two minute intervals and three minutes.
And, you know, before long it's just one foot in front of theother.
You know, pace doesn't matter.
(04:29):
Distance doesn't matter.
It's just such a great feeling to be out there and be moving.
Karen Wilson: Yeah, I do a little work on the treadmill, and I tend to have to have my headphones, and I kind of do it a song at a time (04:34):
undefined
or even a beat at a time, or something like that.
If there's the chorus, and it's very motivating, then I may pickup my feet and run for as long as they sing that part.
You know, I'm still beginning, so.
Monica Moore: Right. (04:53):
undefined
Karen Wilson: Whatever, I guess works for whoever's trying to do it. (04:54):
undefined
Monica Moore: Yeah. And if they don't have a way to track their time, you know, I'll say, "Let's run to that tree. (04:57):
undefined
Walk to the next tree." It's like I said, it's such a releasejust to be out moving, and you don't even have to
run. We have walk groups at the store.
Karen Wilson: Yeah, let's talk about that because, I mean, that's something, I guess, that you've created that anybody can participate, most (05:12):
undefined
anybody, in a walk group.
And then if you want to escalate to the running, I guess youcan.
But walking is, from what the studies show, very beneficial.
Monica Moore: I have to tell you, walking has been a blessing to many people that have joined our group. (05:29):
undefined
We've had people join our group that have lost weight just bywalking with the group, and people that have gone off medication
that was on maybe blood pressure medication.
So it does have that healthy benefit to it as well.
Karen Wilson: Well, I know too. (05:49):
undefined
You know, when you walk with other people, there's a therapeuticpart of it because you get to talk.
You may talk about your day.
You may talk about your family and things like that.
And then that's motivation.
You're bonding with people to show up the next day and do itagain and again.
Monica Moore: Yes, and I always say the miles go by faster when you're talking. (06:07):
undefined
Karen Wilson: Yeah, yeah. Either talking or got your music one. (06:11):
undefined
One of the two, that's for sure.
So whenever you meet up, how often do your groups meet?
Monica Moore: We meet every Tuesday night at 6 p.m. (06:20):
undefined
for the run group, and we do have walkers that come to that.
And then Wednesday nights at 5:30, we have just a walk group,where we don't do any running.
We just walk three miles.
So we meet run group every Tuesday night and walk group everyWednesday night.
Karen Wilson: And then I guess you're encouraging them to pick up multiple nights a week, if possible, and to keep that (06:38):
undefined
going.
Monica Moore: Yes, ma'am. My walk group, they actually meet at 5:30 some mornings and walk. (06:47):
undefined
Karen Wilson: Okay. Not for me, but some people are morning people, that is for sure. (06:54):
undefined
So what gave you the confidence to open up a running andoutfitters company in McMinnville,
small town USA.
Monica Moore: Well, I was a teacher for 27 years, and I'd been thinking that I'd like to open up a running store in McMinnville. (07:09):
undefined
McMinnville has meant so much to me, and I want to see peopleout moving and be healthy.
But I was on a five year plan.
I was going to teach for 30 years, and then retire fromteaching.
But things just happened, and I just saw it as an opportunity tofast forward that plan.
(07:34):
And so I moved back home to McMinnville and things fell intoplace.
And I opened the store, and it was – this community has meant somuch to me and my family that I
wanted to give back.
I love to see people out moving and walking and, you know, Iwant to see our groups grow.
(07:56):
And it's just so healthy to do so.
I guess that was the confidence, you know.
You have a dream, and then you just jump in.
Karen Wilson: Really almost can't think too much about it. (08:06):
undefined
Of course, you want to have a business plan and stuff like that.
Monica Moore: Yes, ma'am. (08:10):
undefined
Karen Wilson: In place. But I know McMinnville has become such a more active city with (08:11):
undefined
the, you know, better sidewalks are being put in place.
We've got the area at the Milner Rec Center, where people canwalk, the beautiful greenways and things like that.
Now, I noticed, I was fascinated by your Facebook pages, too,because you all have done spotlights on people that participate
(08:37):
in your groups. And one fella is a trail runner, looks like.
And that's interesting too.
We've got trails all over Tennessee.
Monica Moore: Yes, ma'am. We do have a great place at the Milner Rec Center to run and walk. (08:44):
undefined
You know, there's lights.
It's a safe place.
The greenway is wonderful.
Once a month, we try to get together, and we'll go do a trailrun.
We'll go to Rock Island.
There's a nice little loop at Rock Island you can do.
It's a little over two miles.
(09:05):
Some Saturdays, we'll drive up to Stone Door and run a loop upthere.
It's a 45 minute drive.
I'm actually hosting a race next April at Cumberland Caverns.
We're going to run the trails up there, and then we're going torun through the cave.
So we are surrounded by such beautiful places to run.
And there's just something about trail running.
(09:27):
You know, you get out on the trail, and you're just sonoticeable of all the nature and trees, and it's just
beautiful.
Karen Wilson: It is. It is. (09:36):
undefined
I've never done trail running, but I'm that would be my ultimatedream to be able to do that.
So I guess I was impressed with the quality and especially theselection that you have grown
into. Last time, I went in.
I'm on my third pair of shoes there from your store, which Ilove the – oh gosh, I'm terrible with brands.
(10:00):
The brands have changed so much.
It's not just Nike and Brooks and things like that, although youdo have that.
How do you keep up with, I guess, the latest and greatest inshoes?
Monica Moore: Well, I go to a conference every year that comes around in November. (10:12):
undefined
It's called The Running Event, and it's just like a conferencefor shoe store owners.
They talk about the greatest and newest shoes coming out andother products as well.
I have wonderful sales reps.
You know, I carry the brands that I've experienced.
(10:32):
You know, if I don't believe in the brand, then I'm not going tocarry it.
So we do have a lot of shoes and a lot of different brands, buteach brand represents something different for each person.
Karen Wilson: I know mine are the – you'll probably know exactly what brand I'm talking about. (10:44):
undefined
They have the water footbed.
Monica Moore: Altra. (10:51):
undefined
Karen Wilson: Altra. Yes, I love the Altras and the –. (10:51):
undefined
Monica Moore: Hoka. (10:55):
undefined
Karen Wilson: Hoka. Okay, that's a big thing right now too. (10:55):
undefined
I see those, and then the On Clouds are big as well.
And you carry all those brands?
Monica Moore: Yes, ma'am. (11:03):
undefined
Karen Wilson: Yeah. And the Brooks and everything. (11:04):
undefined
What is your personal favorite running shoe?
Monica Moore: I run in the Hoka and Saucony, depending on the type of run I'm doing that day. (11:10):
undefined
Karen Wilson: Kind of just depends on whether I guess it's on a trail or whether it's paved or – (11:15):
undefined
Monica Moore: Yes, ma'am. A slow run, a speed run. (11:21):
undefined
But my dog is named Hoka, so that kind of gives you an idea.
I like the shoe.
Karen Wilson: Well, they are very nice and lots of cushion. (11:29):
undefined
And like I said, things have really changed as far as athleticwear goes.
And that was kind of leading into my next question.
How do you describe the change from Converse or the originalNike to the running,
hiking and walking shoes?
(11:49):
What are the differences that you see now that benefit theathlete?
Monica Moore: A lot of it, just like the change in anything, the change in technology, that's the biggest thing. (11:54):
undefined
Tennis shoes or running shoes walking shoes, are so much lighternow than from when I was growing up with the –
Karen Wilson: Converse. (12:06):
undefined
Monica Moore: Converse All Star Chuck Taylors. (12:07):
undefined
Karen Wilson: Yeah. (12:09):
undefined
Monica Moore: A lot of shoes will use a Pebax foam, which is a lot lighter. (12:11):
undefined
It's a lot springier, more bounce.
A lot of them use carbon plates or a fork plate in the bottom ofthe shoe.
It's just so much technology.
It depends on the run you want to do.
There's minimalist shoes and neutral shoes and max cushionshoes, stability shoes.
(12:33):
So each person that comes into the store, I just talk to them,see what's going on and what they're doing, and then I try to fit
them with the same shoe.
But it's all technology.
They're trying to make them more cushion, lighter and faster.
Karen Wilson: And, of course, you know, I didn't realize until probably a few years ago that your shoes run out a lot (12:47):
undefined
faster than what we think they do.
You know, if you're exercising quite often, is it a year?
Six months? What do you recommend for changing it out?
Monica Moore: The rule of thumb is you ought to get about 400 miles out of a pair of shoes. (13:05):
undefined
You know, I don't get that many, but I'm a heel striker, so Iwear mine out more.
And a lot of that is just the foam on the bottom of the shoe.
Karen Wilson: And then you all, I know have inserts and things like that that you do as well. (13:20):
undefined
For those of us that may have, you know, particular arch issueor things like that.
Monica Moore: Yes, ma'am. I carry two brands of inserts. (13:32):
undefined
One of them is Currex and the other one is Aetrex.
But we have a 3D foot scanner at the store where you can comestand on it.
It tells me all about your feet.
You can walk across the scanner, and it tells me your gait, andthat just helps me know what type of insert, if you need an
(13:53):
insert or what type of shoe that you need.
Karen Wilson: Okay, well that's very good. (13:55):
undefined
And technology, I mean that's awesome.
Another impressive factor about Mad Cow is the sense ofcommunity that you foster and encourage.
You encourage people to join the walking and running groups, andit looked like you've got a pretty diverse group that
participates in that.
And that's been going on, I guess, since your inception.
Monica Moore: Yes, ma'am. (14:17):
undefined
I have to kind of look back and just smile.
When I first started, we would have three people at our rungroup, one being me.
And now, you know, we'll have 25 to 30 people at the run group.
And I have to brag on this community.
They have just embraced the store and the run group, the walkgroup.
(14:40):
We have more and more people coming, new people.
People that have been a part of the run group invite theirfriends.
So it just keeps growing, and it's them.
You know, I just provide a place and a time and a route, andthey show up.
Karen Wilson: And I guess they're forming friendships and bonds with each other, too. (14:56):
undefined
I notice a lot of them seem to travel to different 5K's ormarathons and things like that around.
And it seems like that they stick with it looks like, too.
Monica Moore: Yes, ma'am. And that's the good thing. (15:12):
undefined
You know, when we first started, people really weren't open torunning.
You know, some people would say, well, I like to run by myself.
But now those same people, like you said, are traveling to racestogether.
They're hanging out together outside of the run group.
And that's what you like to see.
Karen Wilson: Yeah, lots of friendships being formed. (15:30):
undefined
So, you know, your family, you really can't think about theMoore family without all of the
entrepreneurship that you all have done in McMinnville.
Tell me what the support of McMinnville has meant to yourfamily.
Monica Moore: This community has been just wonderful. (15:49):
undefined
You know, my dad's been in business for most of his life.
And, you know, they've supported him.
My sister was an educator.
She quit teaching and bought Depot Bottom.
Karen Wilson: That's right. I forgot about that. (16:06):
undefined
Monica Moore: The support for her has just been amazing. (16:06):
undefined
And then, you know, they both encouraged me to follow my dream.
You know, you don't know if you don't try.
But McMinnville just means so much to my family.
And they've always supported.
I've had uncles. My grandfather had a business.
So I can't thank this community enough for their support.
Karen Wilson: Yeah, you all have had your hand in everything from real estate to lumber to now, shoes and apartment (16:27):
undefined
complexes and all kinds of things.
Monica Moore: Yes, ma'am. (16:37):
undefined
Karen Wilson: A diverse family with lots going on. (16:37):
undefined
You know, you referenced all the changes in footwear and thingslike that.
And of course, we're a technology company.
What do you feel like the impact of technology has been onpersonal fitness?
Monica Moore: Just start with the equipment. (16:54):
undefined
The technology of equipment has just been amazing.
You know, like I said, there's carbon plated shoes.
I never thought that I would see that and semi-carbon platedshoes.
So the technology in the footwear, it's just made you faster.
It's provided you more cushion, which is better for your body.
(17:15):
You know, if you're out pounding the pavement and that extracushion is nice, especially at my age.
Technology in terms of watches, you know, you can track yourdistance, track your pace, track your heart rate
. Just so much data depending on the watch that you get.
Clothing, you know, sweat wicking, you know, take that sweat awayfrom your foot.
(17:40):
So moisture wicking socks.
It's had a really good impact.
But at the end of the day, it's just all about getting out andmoving.
The technology is nice, but you don't have to have it.
Karen Wilson: Yeah, that's true. (17:51):
undefined
That's a good point to make.
The technology seems like it's there for regardless of whatyou're going for, you know, you can
get high-end stuff which your store sells.
You've got clothing.
You've got the moisture wicking and all the socks and things likethat too.
(18:11):
And then, you know, if you're not quite ready for the high-endstuff, maybe start out with something a little less expensive.
Monica Moore: Yes. And we offer that at my store as well. (18:18):
undefined
You know, we have the most expensive, most technological shoes,or we just have that everyday trainer if you're
starting out. You know, it's all about price point.
Technology is nice, but like I said, you don't have to have it.
I grew up in the age where there was no cell phones, and we didjust fine.
Karen Wilson: Yeah. (18:40):
undefined
Monica Moore: You know, my main thing with Mad Cow Running Store is, my main goal is just to get people in this community more (18:40):
undefined
active, more healthy.
You know, like I said, it's just such an emotional release.
I like to see happy, healthy people.
Karen Wilson: Yeah, yeah. (18:56):
undefined
Well, it's a wonderful asset for McMinnville.
I can't tell you how many people I see coming and going fromyour store.
It's a very active place as far as commerce goes.
There's always someone in and out.
And I see your shoes on people's feet all over the community.
Monica Moore: Well thank you. (19:15):
undefined
Karen Wilson: And as I said, I'm on my third pair, and they are so comfortable. (19:17):
undefined
And, you know, as you said, you know, you've got everything fromwalking to running to hiking.
And I noticed the last time I was in, you had a lot of hikinggear too.
Monica Moore: Yes, ma'am. Because we are in the center, or I like to call it, you know, we're very close to Rock Island, Fall Creek Falls, (19:34):
undefined
Stone Door.
And I've been surprised a lot of people just drive by comingfrom Nashville.
They're going to Fall Creek Falls, and they see the sign, sothey stop and buy hiking shoes.
So we do have a lot of trail gear, hiking boots.
(19:57):
We have waterproof hiking shoes, regular hiking shoes, runningshoes, just a plethora of different types of
trail shoes.
Karen Wilson: Yeah, I've seen toss up water bottles and things like that. (20:06):
undefined
I know, you know, I've got a trip coming up.
I'm going to lucky enough to get to go to Zion National Park forthe first time, and it is so nice to have a local resource to
go buy things and not have to go out of town to get the gearthat you want to take on trips and things.
Monica Moore: Yes, ma'am. It is. (20:28):
undefined
Karen Wilson: Well, thank you so much, Monica, for being our guest on this special episode of The BLC Connection Podcast. (20:29):
undefined
We invite our listeners to tune in for future episodes and sharethis content with other businesses.
Until next time, this is your BLC Connection.
Popular Podcasts
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com
On Purpose with Jay Shetty
I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!