Community Highlights: Meet Erica Segel of Malibu Moves

Today we’d like to introduce you to Erica Segel.

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I’m originally from Rome, Italy, but Malibu and Los Angeles have truly become home for me — thanks in large part to the running community. When I first moved here, I didn’t know many people. It was through running groups and local races that I found my people. This community welcomed me with open arms and made me feel like I belonged, even thousands of miles away from where I grew up.

Over the years, I built a career organizing endurance events, working behind the scenes to create experiences that brought people together through movement. I spent nearly a decade doing this work, and while I loved it, there was always a dream in the back of my mind — a dream to create something of my own. Something that felt even more inclusive, even more connected to the community, and gave back in a meaningful way.

That dream became Malibu Moves. I launched it after a lot of reflection, passion, and persistence — and after seeing firsthand how movement has the power to heal, connect, and transform lives. I wanted to create an event where everyone — whether they walked, jogged, or ran — felt celebrated. An event that honored personal journeys over finish times, and supported the Malibu community, especially after the devastating fires that left such a mark.

One of the biggest milestones in this journey was winning an exclusive contract with the City of Malibu to host Malibu’s only Half Marathon, 10K, 5K, and Kids Run. It was a highly competitive process, with several experienced operators submitting proposals — but they chose me, a small female-owned business, to take on the challenge. That moment is still one of the proudest accomplishments of my life.

Our first inaugural year was a great success — filled with energy, joy, and a true sense of community. Now, getting ready for our second annual event, it honestly feels like a dream come true. Every person who shows up — every smile, every story — reminds me why this journey matters.

Malibu Moves isn’t just a race. It’s a celebration of resilience, belonging, and the simple yet powerful act of moving forward — together.

In addition to building Malibu Moves, I’ve also had the honor of serving as a Board Member for the Malibu Pacific Palisades Chamber of Commerce and as the Chair of their Women’s Leadership Committee for the past three years. That role has profoundly shaped my journey, giving me the opportunity to connect with incredible leaders and mentors who have inspired me, challenged me, and helped me grow — both personally and professionally.

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?
Not at all — but I believe that’s what makes this journey even more meaningful.
When I first started, I had a vision for Malibu Moves, but I had to trust that the City of Malibu — and eventually the community — would believe in that vision too. It was almost a full year of waiting, hoping, and working behind the scenes before I finally received the news that I had been awarded the exclusive contract to organize Malibu’s only Half Marathon, 10K, 5K, and Kids Run. Winning that contract was one of the proudest moments of my life — but it was just the beginning.

After that, there was still so much to do. Getting a brand-new event on people’s radar in a market as competitive as Southern California racing wasn’t easy. As a small, female-owned business, I had to be incredibly resourceful and creative because I didn’t have endless marketing budgets to lean on. Every decision had to be thoughtful. Every connection had to be genuine. I built it brick by brick, one conversation and one email at a time.

Then came an even bigger challenge: the Franklin Fire, followed by the devastating Palisades Fire. It was one of the most difficult moments our community has ever had to face. In the aftermath, there was a moment of deep grief — for what was lost, for the uncertainty ahead. But out of that grief came clarity.

I decided that this year, the event would be dedicated to helping Malibu rebuild and heal. We committed 100% of our event profits to fire relief and recovery efforts, partnering with the Malibu Community Relief Fund to make sure the support reaches those who need it most.

Malibu Moves became more than a race. It became a symbol of resilience — a reminder that even after the hardest seasons, we can come together, move forward, and rebuild stronger than ever.

We’ve been impressed with Malibu Moves, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Malibu Moves is more than just a race — it’s a movement. We organize Malibu’s only Half Marathon, 10K, 5K, and Kids Run, creating an inclusive and transformative experience for participants of all ages, backgrounds, and fitness levels. Set against the breathtaking Pacific Coast Highway and Zuma Beach, our event celebrates movement in every form — whether you’re walking, jogging, or running.

What truly sets Malibu Moves apart is our heart. We believe in honoring every journey, not just podium finishes. We intentionally foster a welcoming, empowering environment where everyone feels seen, celebrated, and supported. And we do it all while giving back — 100% of event profits are pledged to fire relief and rebuilding efforts in Malibu, helping our community recover and thrive after devastating fires.

I’m most proud of how we’ve stayed true to our mission: inclusivity, community, wellness, and impact. From offering a worry-free registration policy to celebrating personal milestones, to building a vibrant post-race festival that brings everyone together, every detail of Malibu Moves is designed with intention.

I want readers to know that when they participate in Malibu Moves, they’re not just signing up for a beautiful coastal race. They’re becoming part of a movement that’s bigger than miles or medals. They’re helping rebuild a community. They’re celebrating resilience. They’re part of something meaningful — something that will leave a lasting impact both personally and collectively.

How do you think about happiness?
For me, happiness is deeply tied to finding and living my life’s purpose. I believe that being alive is a gift — a chance to make a positive impact in our community and in the lives of others. Finding what you are meant to offer to the world is not always easy; it’s probably the hardest part. But when I feel connected to my purpose — when I see the work I’m doing through Malibu Moves creating joy, community, and resilience — that’s when I’m my happiest.

And of course, nothing beats sitting down with my family for a proper Italian meal Good food, simple moments, and being with the people I love — that’s the kind of happiness you can’t buy. It just is.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.malibumoves.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/malibumoves
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/malibumoves
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/99908096/admin/dashboard/
• Twitter: https://x.com/MalibuMoves
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MalibuMoves

Image Credits
Malibu Moves