Today we’d like to introduce you to Armani.
Hi Armani, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
What began as an attempt to impress a girl turned into a lifelong love affair with her and running. I was just getting started when Alex Johnson of Start 2 Finish told me I should run a marathon; before I even knew how far that was. That leap of faith marked the beginning of something far bigger than I could have imagined.
Today, I have the honor and privilege of managing Charlotte Running Company Dilworth, a space that’s more than just a store; it’s a hub for connection, growth, and community. I stand on the shoulders of giants like Scott Dvorak founder and Harry Chandler, co-owner whose vision and belief in people build the foundation we continue to grow on.
Alongside me is my wife, Heather Taylor, the creative visionary behind so much of what we do. Her ability to dream boldly and execute with heart continues to shape our path. And then there’s Naim Bell; a quiet force with an unmatched knack for making things happen. Together, we’ve launched the sole, rooted in authenticity and purpose. It’s a community built to serve, uplift, and connect. Along with us there’s Peyton Dixon a creative force and Dan Keller MR RUNCLUB himself; a safe space in the running community.
I try to lead by serving by identifying and empowering new leaders, by making space for others to shine. This work is not about titles or accolades; it’s about people. My deepest yearning is to unite Charlotte through movement and love, showing what’s possible when we come together on foot and in sole.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It definitely hasn’t always been a smooth road. Early on, there were moments when I found myself wondering what the grass might look like on the other side of the industry. That curiosity was real, but so was the sadness I felt just imagining a life without Charlotte Running Company. That feeling alone was enough to ground me and remind me where I belonged.
Of course, there were practical realities too; like providing for my family and meeting their economic needs. But I’ve always believed that God blesses effort. So I committed myself fully to what He’s given me, and I’ve seen that faith rewarded time and time again.
Another turning point was realizing that passion alone wasn’t enough. It couldn’t just be about the fun, the giveaways, and the community vibes; those are vital, but I also had to make the store more profitable. Otherwise, we wouldn’t have another 25 years to serve this community. Learning to balance the joy with the business side was a challenge, but it was one I welcomed. Because in doing so, I knew I’d be able to serve more people, more sustainably, and in a finer way.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
At my core, I’m a community builder who just happens to do it through running. I manage Charlotte Running Company, one of the few running specialty stores in the country with Black-ownership. Our shop is more than a place to buy shoes; it’s a cultural touchpoint, a gathering space, and a launchpad for movement, both literal and social.
What I do spans from curating the best gear and fitting runners properly, to creating meaningful spaces for connection and growth. I specialize in people! seeing them, serving them, and helping them realize their potential however I can. Through the sole, we’ve been able to break down barriers, amplify voices, and bring people together in ways that go far beyond the miles.
I’m most proud of the intentional culture we’ve built; one where people feel they belong and celebrated. That doesn’t happen by accident. It comes from leading by serving, from elevating new leaders, and from keeping the mission people-centered.
What sets me apart isn’t just what I sell; it’s how I serve. My work is rooted in love, faith, and the believing in the power of healing and uniting. I show up with consistency and care, and I try to leave every space better than I found it. At the end of the day, I want Charlotte to be more connected because we dared to run toward each other. We are the sole.
We all have a different way of looking at and defining success. How do you define success?
I define success by how my family sees me; especially my wife and children. If they’re proud of the man I am, then I know I’m on the right track. One moment that has stuck with me was when my 8-year-old asked how I’m able to connect with people so well. That question made me appreciate that she saw that in me. But not because of what it said about me, but because it showed me that she noticed and admired something I never set out to be praised for. I told her that people are important to me, and I just want them to feel that.
For me, success isn’t measured in money or accolades. It’s about the quality of my presence and the impact I have on others. Whether that’s growing leaders, helping someone feel more confident in their body or their stride, or simply being a safe space for someone who needs it; that’s what matters most to me.
I believe we’re here to serve, to connect, and to leave people and spaces better than we found them. If I can do that consistently, especially in a way that my family sees and feels, then I consider myself successful.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://charlotterunning.com
- Instagram: @crcdilworth @thesole.clt @armani.mcdonald
