Our Story
Who We Are: A purpose-driven community committed to supporting, learning, and growing together.
Welcome to Run Slower – where individuals on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth come together in a vibrant community focused on self-development and growth mindset. We're more than just a brand; we're a movement celebrating the power of progressing at your own unique pace. The vision is rooted in the principles of purpose, persistence, patience, and progress. Purpose provides direction and motivation, persistence ensures commitment despite adversities, patience allows for grace in navigating challenges, and progress signifies growth and development. Let's stride, laugh, and inspire each other as we journey toward our best selves. We're here to nurture your potential, support your path, and celebrate your victories, every step of the way.
Sign up for the Run Slower Newsletter HERE
“Exploring your dreams cost nothing, avoiding those dreams can cost you everything” -Scott Papek Founder of Run Slower
In the heart of the music business for two wild decades, I wore many hats. Imagine the chaos, the thrill, and the front-row view of greatness every single day. It was a ride, but after a whirlwind 20-year career, I decided to hit pause and adjust.
Becoming a full-time nature photographer and entrepreneur was my next chapter. Selling my art led to the dreamy opening of my own gallery. It was fantastic until it wasn't. Burnout from career number two hit hard, and I found myself at a crossroads, desperately seeking my next path.
Enter a game-changer: Hiring a coach. It flipped my perspective. I believed going all-in, pushing hard at any cost, was the only way to succeed. It served me well in two challenging industries, but the toll on my mental health and relationships was steep. Mindset coaching taught me to slow down, be present, cultivate a growth mindset, and find my purpose – it was a transformation.
Operating from a growth mindset, I achieved things beyond my wildest dreams. I became accredited in Positive Psychology, and certified in mindset coaching. I've written a book Age Is Your Edge, How to Find Purpose and Fulfillment in Midlife and the proud co-author alongside Dr. Larry Widman – a high-performance psychiatrist and elite mindset coach "Max Out Mindset for Parents", A Guide for Adults, Parents, And Families To Help Be In The Best Position To Max Out In Sports And Life.
Coaching others to reach their goals is an absolute gift.
And my running journey. At 49, I started running slowly. I conquered my first 5k at 50, ran my first half marathon at 51, and crossed the marathon finish line at 52 – a seven-hour endeavor that broke me but was only possible with the Run Slower mindset. My non traditional journey has taught me that humans can achieve almost anything with purpose, persistence, and patience.
The Run Slower mission is to build a community that celebrates those who go at their own pace. I want to throw a vibrant party in the back and create kick-ass hats that embody the spirit of individuals who chart their unique course.
I'm Scott Papek, Founder of this community. I am married to Julie and have 11-year-old twins, Gabe and Adele Papek.
Join me in celebrating life's diverse journeys – Run Slower: because crushing life on your terms is the ultimate victory.