In this episode, we sit down with Jordan Ditro, founder of the Good Vibes Run Club, to discuss how a personal struggle with a serious back injury led him to create a community focused on positivity through movement. Jordan shares his journey from physical and mental challenges to building a supportive space where people can connect, run, and build friendships.
We also dive into the importance of consistency, mindset, and how Good Vibes Run Club is more than just about running – it’s about spreading good energy and creating lasting connections.
Listen to the episode here
Running can often feel like a solo activity — you throw on your shoes, hit the pavement, and zone out with your thoughts. But for some, running can be much more than just a workout; it can be a way to build community, connect with others, and find positivity through movement. This is the foundation on which Jordan Ditro built the Good Vibes Run Club. What started as a small group of runners meeting on Saturday mornings in Dunedin has grown into a supportive, growing community of individuals who want to stay active, share good energy, and form lasting friendships.
In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at how Jordan’s personal journey shaped the creation of the Good Vibes Run Club, why movement is so much more than just physical exercise, and how this club has grown into a place where people not only run together but also support one another on deeper levels.
A Journey of Adversity and Healing
The story of Good Vibes Run Club begins with a moment of hardship in Jordan Ditro’s life. After suffering a severe back injury that left him barely able to move, Jordan was faced with a life-changing challenge. He went from being an active, athletic person to being immobilized and uncertain about his future. “There was a time I couldn’t even walk,” he recalls, “and I was scared for my life that I wouldn’t be able to do it again.”
This dark period led Jordan to seek solutions that would not only heal his body but also his mind. Through his chiropractor, Caleb, he began to understand the importance of movement in the healing process — not just for the body but for the mind and spirit as well. Caleb introduced Jordan to the idea that movement is a medicine in itself, and this realization sparked a new way of thinking for him.
“It was crazy to think that the same thing that injured me — movement — was the thing that would heal me,” Jordan says. This mindset of healing through movement became the driving force behind Good Vibes Run Club. Jordan wanted to create a space where people could not only run and stay fit but also find mental clarity and support through movement.
Building Community and Lasting Connections
At its core, Good Vibes Run Club isn’t just about running. It’s about creating a space where people from all walks of life and fitness levels can come together, connect, and support each other. What started as a simple Saturday morning run has blossomed into a thriving community. Jordan didn’t expect this when he first launched the club, but what he found was that people were drawn not just to the physical challenge of running but to the sense of connection and positivity that came with it.
One of the most rewarding aspects for Jordan has been watching people from different backgrounds connect through the run club. “The coolest part is seeing people talk and socialize after the run,” he says. “It’s not just about the exercise — it’s about the people.”
Jordan quickly realized that the sense of community and connection was what made Good Vibes Run Club special. Whether it’s a person who’s new to running or someone looking to improve their fitness, everyone is welcome, and the club provides a supportive environment to meet others who share similar goals. “People show up for the run, but they stay for the friendships they build,” Jordan explains.
Positivity Through Movement: More Than Just Exercise
Movement is at the heart of Good Vibes Run Club, but Jordan emphasizes that it’s more than just physical. For him, running is also about mental health. Having gone through his own challenges with injury and mental health struggles, Jordan understands how important movement can be in clearing the mind and creating a sense of accomplishment.
“There are so many people who think they can walk into a doctor’s office and be healed right away,” he says. “But what they don’t realize is that movement is one of the best medicines out there.” This idea of “positivity through movement” is the core philosophy of the run club. It’s not about being the fastest runner or setting personal records — it’s about showing up, getting active, and feeling good about yourself and your day.
Jordan’s personal experience with movement as a form of healing gives him a unique perspective. He encourages everyone to move at their own pace, find joy in the process, and use running as a tool for both physical and mental wellness. “You don’t have to run a marathon,” he says. “You just have to show up and move. That’s the start of something powerful.”
The Power of Consistency and Discipline
One of the biggest lessons Jordan learned through his recovery and the growth of Good Vibes Run Club is the power of consistency. Whether in fitness, business, or life, showing up regularly and staying disciplined is often the hardest part, but it’s also the most rewarding.
“When I started this club, it wasn’t big,” Jordan admits. “There were days when only a handful of people showed up, but I didn’t let that stop me. I just kept showing up, and over time, more people joined.”
This consistency has been a key factor in the club’s growth. Good Vibes Run Club now hosts multiple runs each week, including a fun Tuesday night run with ice cream afterward and a more relaxed Thursday evening group run. Jordan’s journey is a testament to the fact that small, consistent efforts add up over time and can lead to something much bigger than you ever imagined.
For Jordan, the process of showing up and staying committed has taught him invaluable lessons, not just in running but in life. “Discipline is the hardest part,” he says, “but it’s also the most rewarding. When you stay consistent, you start to see the changes — not just in your body, but in your mindset and your life.”
Supporting Local Businesses and Expanding Networks
Another element that makes Good Vibes Run Club unique is its connection to local businesses. Jordan has partnered with local spots like Escape Brewing and Sunset Smoothies, turning Saturday morning runs into events that support the community. These collaborations allow runners to come together for a workout, and afterward, they can enjoy local food, drinks, and conversations.
These partnerships don’t just benefit the runners; they also support small businesses in the community, creating a win-win situation for everyone involved. “It’s amazing to see people come together not just to run but to support local businesses and each other,” Jordan says. “We’re building something bigger than just a run club — we’re building a community.”
The networking aspect of Good Vibes Run Club is also something Jordan is passionate about. He sees the club as a space where people can connect in ways that go beyond running. It’s a place where local business owners, professionals, and community members can meet, share ideas, and support one another’s goals. “We’ve had people land jobs, get new clients, and build friendships all through the run club,” Jordan explains.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Good Vibes Run Club
As Good Vibes Run Club continues to grow, Jordan has big dreams for its future. He envisions it becoming more than just a running group — he sees it as a movement that can expand into other activities, from fitness to mindfulness.
“One day, I’d love to see Good Vibes expand into different areas, whether it’s Good Vibes Golf, Good Vibes Yoga, or even Good Vibes Therapy,” Jordan says. “The possibilities are endless when you focus on positivity and building community.”
Jordan also hopes to use the run club as a way to give back. He’s already thinking about organizing charity races, creating merchandise to raise funds for mental health causes, and finding new ways to support those in need. “I want this to be about more than just running,” he says. “I want to make an impact on people’s lives, whether that’s through fitness, mental health support, or just helping someone find their purpose.”
Join the Movement: How You Can Get Involved
If you’re in the Palm Harbor or Dunedin area and want to experience the Good Vibes Run Club for yourself, it’s easy to get involved. Whether you’re an experienced runner or just looking for a way to get active, the club welcomes everyone with open arms. Here’s what you need to know:
- Saturday Mornings at Escape Brewing in Dunedin, 7:30 AM – A great way to kick off your weekend with a positive, energetic group.
- Tuesday Evenings at 6:30 PM – Join a fun run with ice cream afterward, perfect for those who want to squeeze in a run after work.
- Thursday Evenings – A relaxed group run led by Dr. Evan, with a focus on conversation and community, starting at 6:30 PM.
Whether you’re there for the run, the connections, or just to soak in some good vibes, you’ll leave feeling energized and part of a supportive community.
CONNECT WITH JORDAN:
- Website: https://www.strava.com/clubs/goodvibesrunclub
- Instagram: @good_vibes_runclub
- Facebook: @goodvibesrunclub
CONNECT WITH DONNIE:
- Follow Donnie: @donnie.hathaway
- Follow Palm Harbor Local: @PalmHarborLocal
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