Runner Chronicles: Philip Speer
The Runner Chronicles
A chef and a runner—a combination of a love for movement and food. Philip Speer, a celebrated chef, has a unique perspective on life. He talks about the importance of health, sobriety, and community. We got to take a look into his kitchen, beliefs and experiences.
Speer is also the founder of the Comedor Run Club, a movement aimed at changing the ‘after-shift culture.’ Speer has found a way to connect without harming himself or others—something everyone can learn from. A celebration of passion, life, and meaningful relationships, this edition of Runner Chronicles has it all.
Let’s start with an introduction of yourself.
I was always an active child—skateboarding was my main outdoor activity, though I also loved hiking, exploring, and taking in as many sights as I could, whether in rural or urban settings. Moving around a lot, I was always eager to check out my surroundings.
As I entered my late 20s and 30s, I lost touch with my health. The stress and unhealthy habits often found in my line of work took over my need for movement. I gained 100 pounds and continued drinking and using heavily. My addiction to drugs and alcohol spiraled out of control. Fueled by stress, poor health, and substance abuse, I made many reckless decisions. I felt like I was at the mercy of a moving floor—until, after decades, I finally hit rock bottom.
During my time in a rehabilitation center for drug and alcohol abuse, I came face to face with the reality of my condition. A series of medical evaluations made it clear: if I didn’t change my behaviors and prioritize my overall well-being—physical, mental, and spiritual—I wouldn’t have many more years ahead of me. I have recently celebrated my 10th year of active recovery leading to a completely sober lifestyle. Running has played a pivotal role in my ability to remain mentally and physically healthy while staying positive. At 47 years old, I look forward to many more years of running.
When did you first realize your passion for running, and how did it all begin for you?
I needed an outlet, something that could help me regain control of my body and mind. At first, it was just a way to get moving again, but I quickly realized how much it reminded me of skateboarding—freedom, exploration, and pushing limits. Running became a way to reclaim my health, both physically and mentally.
What does running mean to you?
In short, it means freedom. It’s not only an exploration of our surroundings, but running is also an exploration of my limits, both mind and body. I want to have the freedom, to run through the streets and in the woods. Running to me is what skateboarding was for so many years. A freeing feeling of being outside, free of boundaries, be it alone or with others.
Running is a mental and emotional reset for me. It clears my mind, brings me back to the present, and reminds me what my body is capable of. It’s more than just exercise—it’s a form of meditation, a way to release stress, and a practice of self-improvement. I’ve had times where I couldn’t run due to injuries or work demands, and those periods always remind me how much I look forward to it. When I’m not running, I feel a difference in my mood, energy, and overall well-being.
Running has also become a way to connect to some of my most important relationships. My closest friends and I can spend hours on the roads or trails. There is nothing I love more than traveling and running through a new locale with my wife, Trisha. This has become an activity that we look forward to and enjoy together when we take trips, sometimes we event plan trips around running!
Can you share a moment where running changed your mindset or helped you overcome a personal challenge?
One of the most significant moments was when I completed my first race, it was a local half marathon. I never saw myself as a runner, let alone someone who could finish a long-distance event. But crossing that finish line was a moment of clarity—I had taken control of my life. It wasn’t just about the race; it was about proving to myself that I could do hard things, that I wasn’t trapped by my past. The lesson to me was to keep moving forward, even when it’s tough. Consistency in your practice will enhance any possible outcomes, mile after mile, year over year.
You started an amazing running community, the Comedor Run Club.
The Comedor Run Club started as a way to bring hospitality professionals together. Running helped me rebuild my life, and I wanted to create a space where others could experience that same transformation, if they wanted. Why? Bause we’re dying, we’re unhealthy, we’re addicted, we’re stressed. We’re burning out, and it hurts. We show up every day to provide nourishment, entertainment, and inspiration for our guests. That give takes a lot of energy, and we respond by finding outlets to refuel. The embedded culture of late nights out is a temporary relief that creates more anxiety and stress in the long term.
We create a healthier way to connect and build camaraderie that doesn’t cause harm to ourselves or each other.
It’s not just about running—it’s about community, accountability, and support. Seeing others find joy and confidence and a consistent practice through running has been incredibly rewarding. They community has continued to change my life just as much as it’s changed theirs.
As a chef, your schedule can be demanding (right?). How do you balance long hours in the kitchen with training?
It’s definitely a challenge, and I make it a priority. That may be early morning runs before a shift, late-night miles if needed—whatever it takes to get it done. I have also created a hack with the run club, I have it built into my workday. However, the run club is a social space. To train for races or running events, I must find other spaces to fit in my training.
I also integrate alternative movement into my day, lifting weights is almost as important to me as running. I have learned that you can not build a sustainable running practice without cross training. The key is being consistent and making time for what’s important.
How has your understanding of food and nutrition impacted your running performance?
As a chef, I have a deep appreciation and passion for food, not just as fuel but as an entire experience. I understand how different foods can affect energy levels, my recovery, as well as my performance. I focus on eating whole, nutrient-dense foods that keep me feeling strong and energized. I gather as many foods as I can from local markets, farms and many trusted sources (my wife is a local farmer as well!). I am grateful to call upon my experience and relationships in my community to have access to the best ingredients possible. but I also believe in balance—sometimes you just need to enjoy some indulgent foods without overthinking it.
Have you ever faced a period where running felt like a struggle? How did you overcome it?
For sure. There have been times when my motivation dipped or life just got in the way—especially with two daughters, two stepsons, and both my wife and me running our own businesses. When that happens, I remind myself why I started. I’ll switch things up with a new route, run with friends to make it more fun, or just focus on enjoying the movement. I also try to cut myself some slack, though that’s not always easy. Sometimes, stepping back and resetting is exactly what I need to come back feeling stronger.
Lastly, best meal after a run?
My go-to is something simple but satisfying—a good protein-heavy meal with fresh ingredients. A classic favorite is eggs with toast hashbrowns, sausage and bacon, maybe a kale salad (S/O Proud Mary) on the side. Sometimes it’s an indulgent French pastry or a some of our amazing local food community’s delicious breakfast tacos.
But after a big race? A burger always hits the spot. Sometimes the indulgence is just as important as recovery!
