Today we’d like to introduce you to Jason Pippi
Hi Jason, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Neither my husband nor I are St. Louis natives. We both moved to the city independently in our late 20s, drawn by opportunities but without the deep-rooted connections so many St. Louisans seem to share. In a city where asking, “Where did you go to high school?” feels like a cultural rite of passage, breaking into established social circles proved challenging.
When we started Three Run Four, we were living in a loft in Downtown St. Louis and noticed a distinct lack of fitness-focused social communities. We saw an opportunity to create something new—a group that wasn’t about how fast you could run or who you already knew, but about building connections and fostering inclusivity.
Our goal was simple: to bring together likeminded St. Louisians in a laid-back atmosphere where anyone, regardless of pace or experience, could feel welcome. Whether you wanted to work up a sweat, meet new people, or just enjoy a drink after a short run, Three Run Four was designed to be that space. It’s been incredible to watch this community grow and become a place where people can show up exactly as they are and feel a sense of belonging.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Our group was still finding its footing in 2020 when the world had other plans for us. While some running clubs continued meeting throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, we made a deliberate decision to prioritize safety and find creative ways to keep our community connected without meeting in person. From virtual trivia nights to a special challenge encouraging members to support local businesses by buying meals and goods, we did our best to stay relevant and engaged.
Unfortunately, the lack of in-person consistency over that year took a toll. We lost many casual members and struggled to attract new ones. I’ll never forget one post-pandemic group run when my husband and I made up two of the three total runners who showed up. It was disheartening, and I came close to shutting the group down. Managing the club—keeping the social media presence alive, marketing the runs, and dedicating time each week to host events—requires a lot of energy, and at that moment, it felt like an uphill battle.
Then, Mark Spewak called with an unexpected opportunity. 4 Hands Brewing Co. was looking to partner with a running group for weekly runs. Thanks to that connection, we gained a consistent home for our group each Thursday night. That partnership gave us the stability we needed to rebuild, grow, and bring people back together. It reminded me why we started Three Run Four in the first place—to create a community where people feel welcome, supported, and inspired to show up, one step at a time.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
Three Run Four is a welcoming St. Louis running community focused on inclusivity, fitness, and fun. We host weekly group runs starting at 4 Hands Brewing Co., bringing together runners of all paces to log miles, make connections, and enjoy a free post-run beer. Whether you’re training for your first 5K or just looking to meet new friends, you’re always welcome here!
Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
What makes me happiest is seeing genuine friendships form because of our weekly group runs. People who didn’t know each other before their first run with the group are now hanging out, building connections, and creating community outside of our runs. Watching those bonds grow is truly the most rewarding part of leading Three Run Four.
Pricing:
- Free weekly group run
- Free post-run beer
- Free post-run raffle
- Free running hat after 15 group runs
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/threerunfour
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThreeRunFour/
