QUOTE from corianin: I've started lifting weights so I'd like to build up some good muscle tone and thin out a little. Then I think I will add in running as a steady part of my exercise routine. What's better to start out with? Small intervals of running then quick passed walking, or just plain jogging at a moderate steady pace? Any suggestions on shoes for heavier people?

I would second Likesspace: the easier way to start is to alternate jog with walk. For legs (regardless of age, weight) it is much easier to alternate jog walk (45 sec-1 min walk, 30-60 sec jog) for 30 minutes than to try to jog/run constantly even as less as for 3 minutes. Walking use different muscles than jogging, the walk breaks help to recover your jogging muscles.
Runnersworld offer an excellent starter program:
http://www.runnersworld.com/home/0,...?site=NewRunner
You can read more about the importancy of walk break from Galloway's book, he is one the leading expert of running injury prevention - http://www.jeffgalloway.com/)

Finding the right shoes is a real science. You can read a lot about this here:
http://www.runnersworld.com/home/0,1300,1-52,FF.html
As you can see they repeateadly advice to find either a store where there are expert salespeople or a veteran runner who can help you to check your legs. Usually overweight people need arch support - all the big running shoes manifacturer offer this type of shoes. There are three versions of many shoes: regular, (extra)wide, arch support
I remember when I started to jog with 35 lbs excess weight. As if I have had a 100 lbs baggage on my back...
Stay away from asphalt, concrete... Treadmills, trails, packed dirt roads or - my favorite - a nearby high school track?