Rise Resolute Podcast: Recent Episodes
Gina Meyer, DPT
If you are open to being inspired by gritty women who have pushed through difficulties and finding motivation in the way we are all connected, this podcast is for you. Prepare to be inspired as Gina Meyer, Doctor of Physical Therapy and leader in the health and wellness industry gets up close and personal with athletes who have made it through seemingly insurmountable challenges. Connect to their struggle, find out how they were able to RISE, and apply their lessons to push past even your own expectations for your life. Come RISE with us.
Connect and Rise with Liz Rucker who shares her journey into nonprofit work and calls us all to ask how we can make even a small impact in this world. Liz shares how her faith has guided and sustained her throughout her life. She helps us understand that we have to trust the reason we were placed in this moment in our lives and to be unafraid to look beyond ourselves. When we take our “eyes off self, (our) attitude (elevates) up.” Often we will need to trust, remembering to lean not on our own understanding. When we listen to our intuition and our faith, we can use our gifts to make this world better.
https://talitha.com/ginameyer
Connect and Rise with Jenny Barber, survivor of exploitation and advocate/leader in anti-trafficking. Jenny is the co-founder of Talitha coffee, created as a pathway for survivors to reintegrate into society. Jenny shares her story and reminds us “what an amazing time (it is) to be alive,” when we look at setbacks as points of truth and empowerment. Jenny will inspire you to take whatever you bring to the table and use it for good. Her insight will empower you to become a thriving, fearless overcomer.
https://talitha.com/ginameyer
Connect and Rise with Tina, Breast Cancer Survivor, optimist, and poet. Tina discusses her Cancer journey and shares a few of her wonderful poems as they relate to this ongoing journey of life. Tina will inspire you to share your light from within.
https://talitha.com/ginameyer
Connect and Rise with Lori Hauck, distance runner, accounting professor, business coach, and doctorate student as we process our feeling around the LA fires and discuss how mindset can transform everything. In the 2025 season of the podcast you can expect conversations around living authentically and with intention. This episode will leave you with hope and positivity. Never give up on the things you want most in life and continue onward with optimism.
https://talitha.com/ginameyer
Connect and Rise with Dr Ariella Parker, Doctoral Behavioral Analyst and expert in pivotal response treatment as we discuss growth through all the stages of life, pushing past fear, and giving ourselves grace as we journey through. Ariella’s insight will propel you to take action in your own life, forgive yourself along the way, and believe that growth and joy always await.
https://talitha.com/ginameyer
Connectand Rise with Esther Goetz, author and creator of Moms of Bigs. Esther shares insight that is extremely empowering for moms, but truly can be applied to anyone’s life. Her platform supports giving kids the “wings of freedom to become completely themselves,” and our discussion will propel you, mom or not to do the same. She authentically shares how being at rock bottom can be a gift, moving us forward into becoming more fully ourselves and making an impact on the lives of others. She advocates that we discover parts of ourselves that may have been forgotten and reminds us that self compassion encourages resilience. So be tender with your former self. Self awareness, self compassion, and self acceptance are at the core of all she does. Don’t abandon yourself (in motherhood or at any other time in your life) but continue to embrace all parts of who you are, approaching life with flexibility, curiosity, and wonder.
https://talitha.com/ginameyer
Connect and Rise with Dr. Heidi Lovett, triathlete, ultra-marathoner, author, humanitarian, and so much more! Heidi will remind you of your strength within to rise despite difficulty and struggle. She encourages movement and stepping outside of comfort zones. One cause particularly dear to Heidi is to help minority women learn to swim. Everyone is welcome and can benefit from learning to swim for the health benefits and also to prevent drowning related deaths. Heidi also assists high schoolers in pursuing advanced education. Heidi is a gift to her community and this world! “Doc Sunshine” will fill you with light.
https://talitha.com/ginameyer
The Monday Magic series aims to bring a little positivity to the start of your week. Go crush your Monday!
https://talitha.com/ginameyer
Enjoy the kick off episode of the Monday Magic series which aims to bring a little positivity to the start of your week. Go crush your Monday!
We are revisiting some favorite episodes… Connect and Rise with Monique, Body Positive Advocate and Fitness Entrepreneur, who shares her journey of opening fitness studios aimed at empowering ALL women through movement. Monique responded to a game-changing “no” in her life. She refused to accept that no and moved forward with persistence and passion to make her mark on the fitness world. Monique will encourage you to trust your “knowing” within because each of us has something unique to give the world. She reminds us that we have to speak power and life over ourselves. We are all rich- full of blessings, capability, love, strength, and the beauty of connection.
Connect and Rise with Chanelle Price, 2014 World Indoor 800m Champion. Chanelle shares incredible insight on understanding the power of the mind and how changing our thoughts can have a huge impact on our lives. Chanelle also discusses the importance of having a strong enough "why" which will propel us forward to achieving our dreams even when challenges come. She believes that true bravery is asking for help and that we can give one another strength by sharing our growth through hard times. Chanelle will remind you in difficult moments to reflect on all you've already overcome and remember that you are so much stronger than you know. Keep going.
Connect and Rise with Marisha Charbonnet who shares amazing insight including her personal journey through finding out that she has the BRCA Gene which indicates a high risk of cancer. She describes that though the “ostrich” approach to life’s challenges (burying your head in the sand) may seem easiest, we have to push ourselves to face difficulties head on and view our ability to make decisions as our power. Sometimes the worst thing that happens to you can actually turn out to be the best thing. Marisha speaks about the power of positivity to propel us forward in life and about the way our connections to one another give us needed perspective. She reminds us that everything we go through builds a foundation to fortify us to keep moving forward. Stop playing it safe, choose to be courageous, and live a life you love.
Connect and Rise with Tami Hedrick, multifaceted leader and Community Impact Advocate. Tami shares amazing insight on growth through all of life’s changes and stages. She challenges us to rewrite how we identify ourselves through our struggles. Tami reminds us to be unafraid to dream big and get things done. You will come away ready to go out and “be awesome.”
Connect and Rise with Alesha Brown, CEO and founder of Fruition Publishing. Alesha discusses her personal journey and how she has learned to be resilient in the face of adversity. She explains that “cultivating resilience is the path to fulfillment.” She reminds us that we get to decide what kind of lives we live. Alesha gives profound insight into relationships, explaining how to assess whether a relationship is withdrawing from or making deposits into our internal wells. You will come away not only feeling empowered to take bold action towards your dreams, but also remembering to be joyful in all things- including the simple pleasure of waking up. If you are breathing, there is an opportunity to create a vibrant and meaningful life.
Connect and Rise with Jaqueline Alnes, runner, writer, and author of the recently released book, The Fruit Cure. Jaqueline shares her story reminding us that our value can be found internally and intrinsically and is not based on any external demands that the world may place upon us. She advocates breaking free from an all-or-nothing mentality and invites us to celebrate all parts of ourselves. Making space for failure frees us to explore, play, and enjoy life. Joy awaits.
Connect and Rise with Susan Donnelly, minset and strategy coach for ultra runners who has finished 144 hundred mile races!! Have you ever wondered what it takes to finish a 100 mile race? Or to be a finisher in life? Susan tells us that you start by knowing what you are thinking instead of just reacting. You can then ask yourself if you are willing to make a change in your thinking. Susan discusses how women have been socially conditioned in ways that men have not, often keeping them off balance… Women are told to be beautiful, but not too beautiful, assertive, but not too assertive, successful, but not too successful. Women can shift their thinking and train themselves to think bold thoughts. Susan reminds us to be willing to gamble on ourselves and to also develop a relationship with discomfort and pain. Ask yourself: what am I willing to fight for? And remember, you don’t have to be perfect because you learn by failing. Holding yourself to perfection is unfair to you. You will come away from this amazing first episode of 2024 ready to find out what you are capable of and reminding yourself: all things are possible.
Connect and Rise with Jaci Wilson, runner and holistic run coach. Jaci discusses how developing and working on our mindset must be practiced throughout our lives. She is an advocate for developing a gratitude practice, especially noticing the little and specific moments of joy in our lives. We open our discussion on leadership which will be a theme on the podcast as we head into 2024. Jaci talks about how important it is for a leader to be vulnerable and to keep learning. She also shares how life will continue teaching us the same lessons until we listen. Learning from the recurring themes in our lives can be a game changer. Jaci reminds us that the little things make a big difference and that every “race” has a purpose.
Connect and Rise with Patrice Bening, runner, mom, and Certified Financial Planner who empowers women through Herself by Morton. Patrice shares the amazing story of how she learned boldness from her mother as a child in Romania. She will remind you never to settle and that change is is the only constant in life (so it’s best to get comfortable with being uncomfortable). If we don’t take risks, we won’t know if we can succeed… so give it your all.
Connect and Rise with Tonya Bradley, ultramarathoner, Lupus patient/ Lupus awareness advocate and health equity advocate. Tonya discusses what it means to her to be audacious and tells us more about running the Berlin, Chicago, and London marathons and her plans to also run the New York City Marathon. She reminds us that in running and in life we need to embrace the “I will cross the finish line” mentality- even if it takes longer than we planned or unexpected challenges arise. She discusses how making positive changes in our lives can bring positive people and circumstances our way. Tonya will inspire and encourage you not to wait on pursuing your dreams. It’s never too late!
Connect and Rise with Rette Green, triathlete, mom, and autoimmune warrior. Rette shares some of her journey and reminds us to take the chances. Always take the shots. She reminds us that the things that we value deserve to hold space in our lives; our actions should be bold. Rette also discusses carrying gratitude through it all, honoring the energy within you to press towards your goals. She tells us that on race days (or any difficult situation in life) the grit and bravery we develop through the struggle can be drawn on when needed later in life. Rette calls us to ask ourselves: when the audience goes away, what still matters? Hold those things close and also remember to have ALL THE FUN.
Connect and Rise with Miriam Gilbert, ultrarunner and retired professor, as she discusses life, strength through struggle, and her book: Come What May, I Want to Run: A Memoir of the Saving Grace of Ultrarunning in Overwhelming Times. Miriam discusses what courage and boldness mean to her, shares some of her personal struggles and how they propelled her forward, and tells us how ultrarunning (or anything in life that is truly challenging) can push us to grow in endurance and strength. Miriam believes in embracing everything (the good and the bad, the struggles and the triumphs) in life and reminds us all that no matter what we are going through, JOY awaits.
This is a sweet little episode with my niece Juliana that was recorded earlier in July before our shared birthday. She has such a big heart. The idea of the episode was to talk about an amazing song she knew from a dance performance. She felt very connected to the lyrics which simply put remind us that we are not alone. I love you, Juliana!
Connect and Rise with Adriauna Davis, Founder and Executive Director of The Harmonie Grace Foundation, a nonprofit aimed at empowering and supporting families of at-risk infants to inspire hope and serve those affected by preterm pregnancy and infant mortality. You will be be inspired by Adriauna’s story and her desire to take what she learned from a very difficult time in her life and use it to serve others. She reminds us that boldness builds confidence, to connect with yourself and acknowledge your strengths and your weaknesses, and that you honor yourself and others by sharing your authentic story. As you go through difficult times, remember the mission. Remember your why and don’t stop there.
More information on The Harmonie Grace Foundation:
Website: www.harmoniegracefoundation.org
Email: admin@harmoniegracefoundation.org
Donations
Cashapp: $HGBFoundation
PayPal: theharmoniegracefoundation@gmail.com
Checks and money orders accepted also!
Connect and Rise with Anne Chang, marathoner, coach, mother, and Saucony Canada Ambassador. Anne opens up, sharing some of the struggles she has faced and the strength she has developed through those struggles. She is an advocate of taking the time to process loss and also remembering to live life to the fullest. Anne encourages us to both be objective through difficulty and to choose to have fun (which she reflects on so beautifully after running the Boston Marathon only a few days before the London Marathon). Anne will remind you to be ambitious while staying true to yourself. All things are possible.
Connect and Rise with Jessie Wolinsky @badassblindbabe who has lost most of her vision to retinitis pigmentosa but who has NOT lost her desire to continuing evolving and living an expansive life. She will encourage you to do the same. Jessie shares her journey, including finding out about her diagnosis when she was fourteen and developing her capacity for self love through the challenges that have come in the years since. She reminds us that emotions are not permanent and that we need to get in the habit of asking if an emotion (or how we are spending our time) serves us. Jessie notes that we are all given a lot of ideas on what we should do, but too often we don’t ask ourselves what aligns with our innermost selves or who we want to be. She reminds us to be unafraid to walk with fear. The point of life is to evolve and to continue becoming whoever we want to be.
Connect and Rise with Kriste, runner, writer, producer, meditator, speaker, ambassador, and advocate of changing our narratives on wellness. Kriste describes how internalized ideas and lived experiences sometimes hold us back. She discusses the importance of being receptive and curious- this allows us to continue growing. Kriste will inspire you to “come home to yourself” and do something (even one small, brave thing) that is the next step towards your dream and to “mine the depths of the hard places within you.” You have no idea what opportunities will unfold if you call yourself to be bold.
Connect and Rise with Ashley Davies, movement coach, run club leader, and community connecter in Seattle, WA. Ashley shares how struggle shaped her, how she has learned to create boundaries to protect her space, and the way she is allowing herself to continue to grow. Ashley has a passion for creating an inclusive space for people to “move and be themselves.” She believes deeply in the power of connection and the power of creating welcoming spaces because she believes that we are meant to walk together. So make eye contact, share a smile, and let those you meet feel seen. Ashley encourages us to be bold by always working for change, pushing beyond spaces that are comfortable. This helps us to progress towards building a new tomorrow in which we all feel less alone and more empowered to live vibrant lives.
Connect and Rise with Amanda Sullivan, childhood cancer mom and advocate who is also a health & wellness coach. Amanda shares her story including how she returned to wellness to show up better for herself after her journey through cancer treatment with her daughter. Amanda reminds us that when we set a new goal or dream a new dream, we don't have to be confident as we start, we just have to be courageous. She encourages us all to practice boldness and to continue exploring our purpose. She will inspire you to embark on a “made for more” journey.
Connect and Rise with Monique, Body Positive Advocate and Fitness Entrepreneur, who shares her journey of opening fitness studios aimed at empowering ALL women through movement. Monique responded to a game-changing “no” in her life. She refused to accept that no and moved forward with persistence and passion to make her mark on the fitness world. Monique will encourage you to trust your “knowing” within because each of us has something unique to give the world. She reminds us that we have to speak power and life over ourselves. We are all rich- full of blessings, capability, love, strength, and the beauty of connection.
Connect and Rise with Amanda Fludd, Mental Health and Wellness Speaker, Licensed Psychotherapist, High Performance and Leadership Coach, and runner. Amanda shares incredible insight on the importance of developing the mental tools needed to become the highest version of yourself. Amanda says, "we are brilliant women.” This episode will leave you ready to trust your inner brilliance and move forward with living the life you're meant to live. The world needs you.
Connect and Rise with Breanne Smedley, Elite Competitor Coach for female athletes. Having been an elite volleyball player herself, Breanne went on to pursue sports psychology and now serves as a mindset coach for female athletes and their mothers. As we begin season five with a focus on boldness of spirit, Breanne's insight and tips are sure to propel you forward into a fulfilling year of trusting yourself and embracing what feels right despite what anyone else may think. This episode is packed with amazing insight! Making the shift to more productive thoughts can be a game changer.
Connect and Rise with Dr. Heidi Lovett, triathlete, ultra-marathoner, author, humanitarian, BGR Ambassador and so much more! Heidi discusses loss and how important it can be to slow down and learn to prioritize healing. She shares her story of completing an Iron Man after an initial DNF (she continued on and eventually completed an Iron Man successfully). Heidi discusses how to reset goals and reminds us to be gentle with ourselves. She invites us all to “get out of our space” and encourages us to find the courage to move past negativity. One cause particularly dear to Heidi is to help more young Black women learn to swim. We need more girls to learn to swim for the health benefits and also to prevent drowning related deaths. Heidi is also an advocate for young people to think of themselves as global citizens. She will remind you: on your journey of development, start by forgiving yourself. Then move forward towards a better you and ultimately a better world.
Connect and Rise with Martha M. Garcia, a fully dimensional woman who is passionate about sports, movement, mindfulness, and being a human above any title or identity. Martha discusses embracing the duality of life and reminds us that everyone’s lived experience is different. This allows us each to bring something different to the table. Martha describes courage as taking action to honor what you truly think and feel. She will encourage you to live boldly, with actions that match your words.
Connect and Rise with Caitlin Keen, Olympic Trials Marathoner, winner of the Flying Pig Marathon (twice) in Cincinnati, Ohio and advocate of exercise and movement. Caitlin shares some of her journey and describes the power of making it through challenging situations because being pushed past comfort shapes us for the better. Caitlin encourages us to be our authentic selves and to remember that courage is finding the strength to try even if you're afraid. When we find that courage, amazing things can happen.
Connect and Rise with Jaye, runner, attorney, wife, mom, and breast cancer warrior. Jaye shares her journey, describing how she detected her own cancer through self examination and advocating for the importance of early detection. Jaye beautifully describes how her definition of courage has changed through the stages of her life. Currently, courage is facing each day (as she continues to go through chemotherapy) with an attitude to fight. She reminds us to have the courage to trust ourselves, knowing we are capable of hard things. Jaye will remind you that you CAN keep going even when you feel like you can’t and that staying positive during dark times can be transformative. We are so much stronger than we could ever imagine.
Connect and Rise with Kim, host of the Fit Girl Magic Podcast and Health/Wellness Coach specializing in working with women over 40. Kim shares her journey and describes how we can all benefit from changing our game plan for health at different stages of our lives. “We all want the habits but we don’t want to do the work it takes to get there.” Kim will motivate you to stop longing for the dreams you can see “on the opposite bank of the river” but may feel afraid to swim towards. She cautions us to be careful about comparing our day 1 to someone else’s day 100 and reminds us that consistency is key. Find your why and it will motivate you to get out of bed for that workout or to stop standing on one side of the river looking longingly at the beauty on the other side.
Connect and Rise with Ashley, military veteran, military wife, mom of four, triathlete, runner, and pre/postnatal exercise specialist. Ashley shares her journey after winning a Half Iron Man World Championship at 22 years old. She describes how challenges “are the biggest thing that will make us grow.” And that she always seeks to allow herself to be uncomfortable. Ashely encourages us to do the same, reminding us that we will become so much stronger if we can allow ourselves to push past comfort. We can pour that strength into all facets of our lives. Ashley also shares her faith which is at the center of it all for her. The episode will remind you never to settle for where you are if you’re unhappy. You can put in the work to change. Let this be your next DAY ONE.
Connect and Rise with Adina Crawford, Yoga/Meditation Master and voice for inclusion across all exercise and wellness platforms. In this, her second interview, Adina discusses that courage can be found within each of us. She dispels the idea that there are things we "can't" do and encourages us all to keep pushing past comfort into feeling present and truly alive. Adina discusses a global vision to help one another and reminds us that we expand our opportunities by leaning on one another. This episode is bursting with joy and connection. Living a life we love is possible and together we can and we will.
Connect and Rise with Courtney, Licensed Midwife and new mom. Courtney shares her journey to this point, including how she’s continuing to learn to give herself grace as a new mom. Her powerful insight on feeling our feelings (good or bad) in order to grow stronger will inspire you to keep going and keep feeling. Connected we are stronger.
Connect and Rise with Elizabeth Clor, marathoner and author of Boston Bound. Elizabeth describes her journey and how she found the freedom to be her authentic self. She describes the mental strength she has developed through running and encourages us to believe in our untapped potential.
Connect and rise with Annie, wife, mom, nurse, runner and mental health advocate. Annie shares her journey as she approaches almost ten years since she attempted to take her own life. Her powerful insight about the beauty of life (despite struggles) will lift you up. She also speaks to the profound impact of physical activity/running on our mental and physical health. Through authenticity and self advocacy we can make it through the dark times. Because life is WORTH living.
Connect and Rise with Rebeka (athlete & coach, 8 time USA Track and Field championship qualifier, certified level 2 coach for the USATF, and CSCS) and I as we discuss the power of connection and authenticity, especially when we are in a dark place. Life is messy and hard and sometimes it can be difficulty to give ourselves grace, to reach out when we need a friendly shoulder to lean on, and to be fluid with our goals and expectations for ourselves. We are all uniquely special human beings. The world needs each of us and we can carry each other when the road is difficult. You are loved.
If you or anyone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis or suicidal thoughts, please call:
National Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800-273-8255
The National Suicide Prevention Hotline fields calls 24/7 for anyone with suicidal thoughts or who are in crisis. It offers help for Spanish-speakers and anyone who is deaf or hard of hearing.
Its website also offers many resources to get help for yourself or someone you know.
OR
Crisis Text Line: Text Hello to 741741
Connect and rise with Cara Rego runner, fitness enthusiast, wife and mom of two as we discuss the intersection of movement and mental health. As a self-proclaimed lover of both positive vibes AND pizza, find out more about Cara’s self-love journey and how she has come to a place of health and vibrancy. Cara will encourage you to “stand in the sun,” acknowledging the duality of life and finding space for joy. When you take care of yourself, you build a beautiful well of energy you can share with others.
Connect and Rise with Justina (Founder of the Fijian Girls Foundation) and Marissa as they share the power of women supporting women. Find out the “why” behind the Fijian Girl’s Foundation and how ending period poverty can empower the future leaders of tomorrow. Today as the Senate confirmed Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson to the Supreme Court, making her the first Black woman to serve on the top U.S. court, let us celebrate each other and stand together as women to make a better tomorrow.
Connect and Rise with Jamicka Edwards, Runner and Run Coach Race Director, author, mother and CEO/Founder of the You Matter for Life Foundation. Be inspired by Jamicka’s awesome story of growth and living a life of purpose. Jamicka shares how movement/running changed her and some of the key moments in her life that led her to found You Matter for Life. She reminds us that we never know the impact we can and do make. Jamicka will motivate you both to serve others and to take action in order to progress towards your goals and dreams. You are worthy of a living a life you love. Start now. “You matter to more people in this world than you’ll ever know. And you can make it.”
Connect and Rise with Rose, runner and amputee, who shares her story of strength and perseverance. Rose encourages us to look for the gifts we’ve been given through struggle. She describes how she realized that she needed to choose herself. She discovered that there is never a better moment than this moment right now to make a difference… to use your own voice and your strength. Anyone can give up, but it takes true courage to keep going. Life revolves around living.
Connect and Rise with Christina, DC-based runner, attorney, and member of the Brooks Run Happy Team. Christina shares her journey of choosing courage, even in the most difficult times. She asks us to consider the things we never know we’re good at until we try. She also reminds each of us that sometimes courage is reaching out for help when needed, especially as you face your fears, showing up as your authentic self. Sometimes you’ll have to do it scared…. but if you start “showing up for you and keep showing up for you” you’ll be surprised with the incredible outcomes.
Connect and Rise wIth Sierra Rundini, mother, wife and founder of the Crown & Anchor Women’s Semi-Pro Soccer Club. Find out more about Sierra‘s journey and how she discovered that sometimes there are turning points in life when everything shifts in a different direction than planned. And often the shift turns out to be better than what you had envisioned. Sierra encourages us to take a chance on ourselves and to step off of the normal path. If we can gather our courage to be bold and brave, good things will happen.
Connect and Rise with Lindsay Hawker, Cancer Thriver/Survivor, marathoner, mom, wife and health enthusiast. Lindsay shares her journey through Cancer and how running allowed her to take her power back. Lindsay reminds us that when we go through the most difficult times of our life, our true strength is revealed and can propel us forward. She reminds us that we can stand together and lift each other up. Lindsay calls us all to stand in our power by remembering that forward is forward, no matter how slow. Just keep going.
In this first episode of Season 4, you will meet Haja Isatu Bah, Founder of Uman4Uman, which serves girls in Sierra Leone by providing sustainable menstrual supplies and education. Almost half of the girls in third world countries miss school monthly due to period poverty and eventually drop out. Sustainable pads and education are needed to end this cycle and allow these girls to become the leaders of tomorrow. As we start the new year, this is a great opportunity to build awareness on the struggles and barriers to empowerment that girls face around the world and also to learn how you can help. Start the new year off right by choosing to run a race with ARC to benefit Uman4Uman. ARC’s website (www.activeresoluteconnected.com) has all the details on how to create a fundraising page or you can simply register for a race and make a private donation on your own. The founder of the Rise Resolute Podcast, Gina Meyer, will be running races throughout the year and making a donation each time to help end period poverty! Follow her on IG @riseresolute to find out how you can join in virtually. Become empowered by empowering other women and girls around the world. Happy 2022!
We are honored to interview Dana Klein, ARC Running Coach, for the last episode of 2021! Dana Klein is the Founder of True Potential Running, marathoner, wife and mother. We discuss the incredible impact running and movement can have on our lives. Dana describes the unique benefits of having a run coach and how True Potential Running helps runners start where they are and lean into their individual capabilities. We also discuss Dana's involvement with ARC Active Resolute Connected, including an ARC year-in-review for 2021, participant highlights and where we are headed in 2022. Find out about our mission to empower girls in Fiji in Sierra Leone through access to sustainable menstrual supplies/education AND learn more about how you can get involved. There are so many great things ahead! Thank you for an awesome and impactful 2021. Together we can do great things.
Connect and Rise with Nicole Kolenda, mother, marathon runner, Pediatric Speech and Language Pathologist, Host of the Voice for Possibility Podcast, ARC Mentor and Researcher/Professor at NYU. Nicole shares her journey through Breast Cancer and how she discovered the depth of her strength. Nicole describes running the 2020 New York Marathon virtually only 5 days after her Breast Cancer Diagnosis and how it turned out to be the best gift she could give herself, because it was a chance for her to feel empowered even through struggle. Nicole also discusses how important it is to remember that healing is a verb and shares her mantra: "just put one foot in front of the other." This episode will leave you feeling uplifted and empowered to fill your life with the things you love while also believing in and trusting your own strength.
This episode is so special to me! I look back on the journey with the podcast with deep gratitude and awe. It’s such a privilege to connect with so many incredible women and I look forward to all the interviews that are yet to be. This is Volume 1 of episode highlights, which I created as motivation for myself and whoever may need it at this time. The power of connection and strength through struggle is truly incredible. Keep going. Keep the faith. We can carry each other.
Connect and Rise with Allie, runner, run coach, art therapist and mom. Allie describes her journey and how she was able to rebuild her mental tenacity. She reminds mothers that they can be multifaceted and that it is okay to take care of ourselves so that we can show up more fully for others. Allie shares that when we are facing a difficult moment or day, remembering that it is temporary and remaining flexible can make all the difference. You can keep going.
Connect and Rise with Lauren Grous, former marathoner and now marathon swimmer, who is a two-time USMS National Champion. Lauren shares her ongoing journey through endometriosis and inspires us with her successes as a marathon swimmer, despite chronic pain and multiple surgeries. She shares how using small, short-term goals can help overwhelming tasks seem manageable. Lauren’s lessons from marathon swimming carry over to life… when the sharks are near and the current is pushing you off course, you can find the will to keep going. Though it may seem the odds are stacked against you, Lauren discusses the power of being your own advocate. Don’t give up. Despite incredible pain and many health struggles, Lauren she swims on, expecting the unexpected and always at the ready to meet uncharted waters with resiliency and determination.
Connect and Rise with Lani Woods, urban adventurer and Founder/Host of Black with Endurance. Lani discusses some of the struggles she has overcome and shares powerful insight, encouraging us to find our tribe, resist the urge to compare ourselves to others and make sure we are doing the work. Lani reinforces that women are amazing and strong. She reminds each of us to live life on our own terms, having faith that things will work out. Lani’s words will propel you forward: never forget your worth; you are the prize.
Connect and Rise with Nikki Parnell and Stef Wenninger, ultra runners, moms and co-hosts of the Run Hard, Mom Hard Podcast. This is a special episode specifically geared at empowering mothers to follow their dreams. We discuss the power of showing our children that we are willing to pursue our passions, have grit and never give up. Nikki and Stef discuss why it’s important to find space in our days to feel strong, whether through running or something else that brings us joy. They reinforce the value of breaking the cycle of guilt about taking care of ourselves because it’s the starting point from which we are able to care for others. Nurturing ourselves allows us to show up in everything we do more fully.
Connect and Rise with Alex who is a Kettlebell and Nutrition Coach out of NYC. Alex tells us about her philosophy on fitness (and life) reminding us to work with our bodies, not against them. She describes the importance of being rooted in a "why" that feels good while asking yourself how you can make things more fun. Sometimes we have to remember that beyond all of the doing, there is magic in simply being. Alex certainly has an adbudent mindset and will remind you of your own power to create change within yourself and the world.
Connect and Rise with retired nurse and current ARC participant in our Cancer Fighter and Thriver cohort, Yvonne Frazier. At almost 74 years old, Yvonne will inspire you to fully embrace your unique journey and greet each day with gratitude. She reminds us that we can learn from the highs and the lows in life and says that after her Breast Cancer diagnosis, it was “the call of the pavement” that got her back on her feet. Yvonne’s Cancer journey taught her that it’s ok to struggle. It’s ok to ask for help. Her powerful insight will propel you forward in your own life. It’s your journey, at your pace. No one fights alone.
Connect and Rise with Erika as she shares her journey and insight on running and community. Erika will remind you of the power of discipline and also the power that we each have to lift up our fellow woman. She shares that every run isn't easy, but that running gives us the space to gain confidence, believe in ourselves and even to create positive changes in our lives.
Connect and Rise with Jasmine, runner, working mom and wife. Jasmine shares some of her journey and her incredible insight on building community, remaining curious and taking time to take care of ourselves. She discusses how easy it can be to get so caught up in work, being a mom, being a wife, and putting yourself last and why it's so important to remember to extend kindness to yourself. "The work we do on ourselves becomes the gift we give everyone else." Jasmine also encourages us to avoid allowing others to put their projections on us. Remember your worth and your divine power. Don't miss this impactful episode.
Connect and Rise with Miriam, ultrarunner, author, scholar and Cancer Caregiver. Miriam empowers us all to live fully with gratitude for each day. We discuss ultra running and her role as a Cancer Caregiver, which resulted in her starting Ultracare for Cancer Caregivers, a Go Fund Me Campaign to support Cancer Caregivers and bring them both joy and recpit. Miriam encourages us all to remember that it is our choice to use our time wisely. There are 10,080 minutes in a week and those minutes belong to us. It may take a little extra work or extra planning or extra dedication, but you can make time work for you. And you can also dig deep to be brave, courageous and resilient. Keep your heart open.
“We as women are truly amazing human beings.” Connect and Rise with Natalie Mitchell, runner, coach and mother, as she reinforces how important it is to believe in our own strength. Natalie shares some of her running journey and the story behind landing on the cover of Runner’s World Magazine! She reminds each of us to challenge ourselves to do things that take us out of our comfort zone. Time goes quickly and life doesn’t wait for you. You’ll never know unless you try, so don’t be afraid. Reach for the stars. You will be better for it.
Connect and Rise with Samantha (Sam) Palmer, runner and Assistant Cross Country/Track and Field Coach at the University of Alabama. Sam shares her running journey including how it felt to be the underdog, which shaped her as a runner and a person. Being told no but still having a deep desire to pursue your goals produces grit and perseverance. Struggling also allows us to authentically connect with others. We also discussed the poignant meaning of: “I’m going to love you tomorrow,” emphasizing how important it is to keep things in perspective as we face difficulties and also how important it is to continue loving ourselves no matter what. In the end, you truly can do anything (but not everything). Don’t wait.
When we run, we learn we can do hard things. It can be really difficult to balance motherhood and pursuing our other interests and passions, but developing those parts of ourselves makes us stronger and happier- which is good for our children and for us! Connect and Rise with Meridith, Ultra runner, mom and wife. Meridith shares her insight on continuing to pursue her running goals while balancing motherhood. She shares that when she invites God into her running, her perspective shifts and she connects with a greater plan and purpose for her life. Meredith also reminds us (especially those who are mothers) that we shouldn’t associate guilt with things that bring us joy. Carve out time to take care of yourself and don’t limit yourself by what other people are doing. Break free from being so hard on yourself and go with it, reaching for your unique goals and dreams.
Connect and Rise with Reomona, runner, RN, mom, wife and ARC @activeresoluteconnected mentor. Reomona shares her awesome insight, including how stuggles can lead us to our passions and also that our pain can be used to birth purpose. Reomona believes in self care, which she says allows us to give the world “the best of us instead of the rest of us.” Reomona is a huge advocate for the ARC program and discusses how meaningful it is to be a mentor for ARC athletes, who in turn inspire her. She tells us about how she handles difficult days and the value of shifting you perspective to look for the bright spots. Reomona’s positivity is contagious as she reminds us to enjoy the journey, embrace change, don't miss the moment, be kind and most importantly, love yourself.
Connect and Rise with Kristin Stokes, avid marathoner and certified RRCA Run Coach. Kristin shares her running journey and describes her experience at her first in-person race since the pandemic. Kristin offers amazing insight and advice, encouraging us to surround ourselves with women who lift us up, to be willing to put in the work for whatever it is we want to achieve and to remember that no dream is too big. Running (and life) is a journey that is not defined by one race or work out. Keep putting the work in and it will eventually pay off.
Connect and Rise with Tonya Bradley, runner (and current participant in ARC Active Resolute Connected @activeresoluteconnected), Lupus patient and Lupus awareness advocate, health equity advocate and racial justice advocate. Tonya shares her inspiring story of being diagnosed with Lupus and hitting rock-bottom with her health. She explains how running has helped her physical and mental health and encourages us all to look for the joy in each day. She describes the value of self care and how it allows us to seek happiness in our lives. We can prioritize our own happiness by refusing to give anyone room to disrespect our joy. Tonya shares that “sewing and reaping do not occur in the sane season.” There’s a reason for the season you’re in. Be gentle with yourself. Give yourself room to fail, thereby giving yourself room to grow.
Connect and Rise with Emily Durgin, professional distance runner for Under Armour. Emily shares her running journey and her awesome insight and how to persevere despite struggles and difficulties. She reminds us that sometimes looking at the big picture (rather than getting distracted by the little or big stumbling blocks in each day) can be important to our success. And when the bad days come, you are the one who gets to decide how long they last. You don’t have to prove anything to anyone else. Celebrate your own successes and also remember to celebrate the successes of your fellow women. Together we are stronger.
Connect and Rise with MJ Smith, 48 time half marathoner, Military Officer in the US Air Force, mom and Founder of Temple Running. MJ shares her running journey and how running has given her the mental toolkit to "dig deep and get it done" in times of struggle or challenge. MJ also reminds us to run our own race both on the pavement and in life. When we compare ourselves to others we are not using our energy productively. Instead, we should shift that energy into the constant improvement of ourselves. No matter where you are in your life journey or your running journey, keep going, keep challenging yourself, and don’t forget to be kind to yourself also.
Connect and Rise with Tina, Breast Cancer Survivor, runner and podcast host. Tina discusses her Cancer journey and shares incredible insight on how our most profound struggles can cause us to wake up and truly live. Tina encourages us to see the value of looking inward and asking ourselves what matters in our lives and also what purpose we are meant to fulfill. She reminds us to focus on the way we talk to ourselves. Tina is committed to connecting and supporting women who are battling Cancer on her podcast. She is an incredible advocate for Breast Cancer research. She also reminds us that exercise is one of the most powerful ways to prevent the reoccurrence of Breast Cancer. Be inspired by Tina’s powerful words: (after Cancer I realized) “I couldn’t imagine spending one more day doing something that is not meaningful.” Something painful can be turned into a purpose. Breathe. God is with you.
Connect and rise with Avery, lover of running and good food. ARC mentor. Avery shares how running brought her through so much including the heartbreaking loss of her mother. She speaks powerfully about the positive affect we as women can have on each other. Avery reminds us of the importance of opening up to share our fragile parts (which doesn’t mean we aren’t also very strong) and the incredible impact it can have on our lives. It’s okay to lean on each other. That’s what we are built for. In turn, when we are compassionate to others who show us their true selves, the love and light comes back to us.
Connect and Rise with Nattalyee, ultra marathoner and performer based in NYC who is currently creating a documentary called “The Race Against Race,” aimed at normalizing black runners. Nattalyee shares her very personal journey including finding running after she got sober and how running has changed her life. She also shares how she is processing the loss of her mother due to complications from COVID-19 in December of 2020 and how she pours her soul into peaceful protests in NYC, using her voice to uplift others. Nattalyee reminds each of us that if you put your heart into running it can transform your body, mind and soul.
Connect and Rise with Chloe Hansel, collegiate track and cross country athlete at UC Berkley. Chloe describes how we can all use radical acceptance to navigate these uncertain times. We have to radically accept the things we cannot change and embrace those we can. When we focus on the things within our control: our attitude, our effort, or ability to pivot and grow, any struggle we are going through really becomes more manageable. Changing your attitude when you can’t control things can make all the difference. Chloe also discusses the importance of embracing our own beauty and being confident in who we are as individuals. We are often so hard on ourselves and don't show ourselves the love and compassion we show others. Find out how you can ask yourself an "empowering question" to set the tone for your day and remember when you struggle that “hardships prepare ordinary people for an extraordinary destiny.”
Connect and Rise with Pilar Arthur-Snead, Certified Run Coach, Certified Personal Trainer and seven-time marathoner. Be inspired by her story of deciding to start running in her 40s. Pilar describes how each stage of her growth as a runner took her to a new level of empowerment. Also find out how the “lessons we learn on the pavement can be applied to any struggle we face in life.”Pilar also shares incredible insight coming from her background in theology and Buddhism. We discuss what it means to know yourself, the power of community and the value of remembering one of the most important things running through the hearts of all of us, despite how many outward and inward differences we may have. Don’t miss this episode and the opportunity to remind yourself of the beauty and power you hold within.
Connect and Rise with Kelly Davis Martin who is on the Wellcoaches School of Coaching faculty, serves on the Harvard Institute of Coaching Advisory Board and is an ultra runner, coach, running magazine author, mom and wife. Kelly shares some of her journey, including how her most challenging experiences shaped her into the person she is today. When we go through difficult times, it’s important to remember that life is always preparing us for what is to come. We discuss the power of asking ourselves what we are teaching our children through the way we live our lives and the value of leading with self compassion and self kindness. Our internal dialogue matters and what we do in this moment to show compassion to ourselves (letting go of what used to work because it may not work today) makes a difference in our overall quality of life. Be kinder to yourself and as a result it will spill over to others. Find why Kelly says: “I learned to be kinder as I suffered” and how her words can help you tap into that kindness now. Ultimately, being compassionate and kind with ourselves takes us from surviving to thriving.
Connect and Rise with Becki Spellman, 4-time Olympic Trials Qualifier for the Marathon, coach, wife and mom. Becki shares her running journey and her personal story of struggling with depression after becoming a mother. Find out more about her turning point when she realized that the tools she needed to navigate hard times were already insider her. Becki also poignantly discusses the lasting value of helping our fellow women to rise. If we practice kindness with others, they often send it right back.
Connect and Rise with Lindsley, runner, mom and wife as she describes some of the struggles she has experienced. We discuss the power of a positive attitude (that it's always a choice) and how important it is to stop comparing and really focus on your own life and goals. Lindsay speaks more about her mantra: “Be the energy,” and how we can all apply it to own own lives in order to live more joyfully and to be a positive force in the lives of others.
In the final episode of 2020, connect and RISE with Jewellette Bazemore, a participant in ARC who is finding her wings as a runner. Jewellette shares her story of joining the running community having come from a non-athletic background. She discusses some of the barriers she experienced when starting a running program including sometimes feeling alone and isolated. We talk about the power of connection and being supported in our wellness goals (or in anything we do in life). Sometimes we don’t even know what we need, but ARC brought her tools she could use to keep going. And just when Jewellette wanted to give up, she surprised herself by running “the fastest mile of her life.” As we move into a new year, believe in all that you can do. Good things are ahead. Don’t give up.
Connect and Rise with Linda, athlete, runner, outdoor enthusiast, wife and mom. Linda describes her running journey and the challenges of balancing taking care of herself/following her passions with her responsibilities as a wife, mom and educator. She poignantly shares that we can’t inspire our children if we never pursue our own dreams. Linda also discusses how we can all work to make the running community more welcoming and inclusive. She shares that love changes everything because it helps us to shift our perspective. Often what matters most is the way we perceive what’s going on in our lives and the world. When look at life through the lens of love, we see things differently. Linda encourages all women to believe in the power of consistency and perseverance, which can help each of us accomplish more than we ever imagined.
Connect and Rise with Jennifer, runner and USATF Track and Cross Country Coach. Find out more about Jennifer’s life journey and what brought her back to running. Jennifer also shares how she was shaped by events that happened even before she was born. She motivates us all to dig deep, to remember where we came from, but also to make a commitment to continually evolving. It is important to nurture all aspects of who we are as individuals and to be open to receiving love (before we can give it well). Each season of life can be an opportunity to rewrite our future.
Connect and Rise with Tia, cyclist and woman in automotives. Find out more about Tia's journey in a male-dominated field and the self affirmation techinque that has been working for her since her youth. Tia shines a light on what it looks like to be one of the only females in an organization and how we can draw on our own self love to find the confidence needed. You will be inspired by Tia's empowering outlook and desire to be the best version of herself.
Connect and Rise with Rocky Kitzmiller, Certified Personal Trainer, Weight Loss Specialist, Corrective Exercise Specialist, Hardstyle Kettlebell Instructor and Russian Kettlebell Instructor who has been involved in the health and fitness field for almost 20 years.
Rocky is the founder and owner of RockBody-Fitness—a home studio gym that started in Kailua, HI and moved to Virginia Beach, VA. She is a military spouse of 18 years with two teenager daughters.
Rocky shares her journey both professionally and personally, which was a windy road at times, and encourages each of us to remember how important it is to nurture who we are and take care of our health both mentally and physically. We also discuss A.R.C., a nonprofit designed to empower women through running. Rocky serves as a Military Outreach Coordinator and Virtual Run Coordinator for A.R.C. and discusses the importance of the mission of the organization. She concludes by reminding us to break a goal down into its pieces and stay hopeful. Many of the best things in life require hard work. It won’t be easy but it will definitely be worth it.
Connect and Rise with Lindsay Walter, Charlotte based marathoner and ultra runner, who shares her story of grit and perseverance. At a very young age Lindsay was diagnosed with Alopecia. This resulted in the loss of her hair. Lindsay wore a wig as a child and was teased and made fun of by her peers. She felt emabarassed and alone. At the time, she believed she could never be beautiful without hair. Lindsay found herself in athletics. She played basketball as a youth and took out any negative emotions shooting hoops. Lindsay later went on the play basketball at the collegiate level. She also found solace (and much success) in running and continues to use running as a way to process and manage emotions. Through her journey she has realized that it's okay to feel emotions, but then we have to "lace back up." Don't ever settle for anything but being the best you can be. Never be one dimensional, but work to grow in all areas of your life. Lindsay's story will uplift and inspire you to embrace your unique beauty. Never quit on yourself.
Connect and Rise with Mary Rice-Boothe, runner, educator, wife, and mom. Mary shares her journey through the loss of her father and how it shaped her life. She also discusses donating a kidney to her husband in August of 2020. You will be uplifted by her strength and compassion! Mary also works with school systems across the country to “dismantle systemic racism one brick at a time.” She gives some excellent strategies to apply in our own lives. Mary will inspire you with her insight and encouragement to have the “unpracticed conversations” and also to remember to give yourself grace. When we realize that we can't control the future and open ourselves to be flexible and tolerant in the moment, the beauty of the collective arms of those around us becomes even more apparent and propels us onward.
Connect and Rise with Jessica, Breast Cancer Survivor and Figure Body Builder. Jessica shares her absolutely amazing story of beating the odds and will stun and inspire you with her grit and perseverance. She became a bodybuilder during cancer treatment (she didn’t even let radiation burns stop her from going to the gym). Jess shares how she found the courage to compete as a Figure Body Builder for the first time with only one breast and a chemo port. She will make you believe in the power of indomitable will. Now, one year out, she continues to compete. May we all have that kind of dedication and heart. In Jess’s words, “no one can stop you but you.”
Connect and Rise with Addi Zerrener, Elite Runner, Olympic Trials Marathon Quailifier, Running Coach, and Personal Trainer as she describes her struggles as a runner. Addi shares how she navigated and continues to navigate anorexia nervosa and reminds us how important it can be to open up to others. Sharing our struggles and our journey helps remind us that we are not alone. We also discuss social justice and the importance of ongoing efforts to educate ourselves while also committing to being kind always. When love and compassion are our focus, great things happen.
Connect and Rise with Joy Miles, Pilates Instructor, Triathlon Trainer, Group Fitness Instructor, Running Coach, and US Masters Swimming Coach. Find out what happened when Joy registered for her first triathlon not realizing she didn't know how to swim. Her strength and perserverance will inspire you to do the thing you think or are told you cannot do. Joy also shares her unique perspective on running and biking to work in Chicago during the pandemic and the fear she faces at times. It is an important message for us all to hear in order that our eyes can be opened to the changes that must be made. Joy's outlook will lift you up and inspire you to be you, be authentic, and be fearless. You say I can't do it? Just watch me.
Connect and Rise with Cindy Rakowitz, fitness enthusiast and Founder/Executive Director at Fit 4 the Cause. Cindy shares her pathway to prioritizing health and eventually founding Fit 4 the Cause, which brings exercise therapy and wellness education to the underserved. Cindy also opens up about the losses she has experienced, sharing how she recently decided to commit to working on her mental health to navigate the loss of her husband. Her advocacy for mental health services and breaking any stigma associated is very powerful. We also briefly discuss the state of our world and Cindy offers the most amazing insight: if we are at a loss for what to do or how to help, the best thing we can do is love each other. She puts love out into the world every day through programming with Fit 4 the Cause and her description of the joy she sees in the smiles (over Zoom for now) of those she is able to help will make you a believer. Please check out https://fit4thecause.org/ and donate if you are able.
Connect and Rise with Becky, mother, runner, teacher, and track coach. Becky poignantly discusses the seasons in her life which have revealed her true strength. She starts by describing her journey through infertility. Becky and her husband eventually adopted and now, many years later, she has two awesome boys who are almost ready to finish high school. She can now look back with gratitude, knowing that she was always meant to be their mother. Becky then describes her diagnosis with breast cancer and her ongoing battle against the disease. She became an even more deliberate runner over the course of her treatment, deciding that she would run for anyone who was not strong enough to run and for those who did not win the battle against breast cancer. Her story of bravery and grit will bring a burst of positivity to your day. Becky would like to also remind each of you to do your self exams and get your mammograms. Early detection can save lives!
Connect and Rise with Shannon Mulcahy, Sport Psychology Consultant and Mental Performance Coach, who discusses her journey through the loss of her father. Shannon also shares her insight on how we can navigate difficult times by remembering to ask ourselves what really brings us joy. When everything else is stripped away, we each have to build the skill of self reflection to become clear on who we are and what we want. Shannon offers an excellent reminder about how to filter what you take in on a daily basis, based on whether it inspires you or brings you down. It’s important to tap in to your physiological response to what happens in your day and adjust your thinking and behavior accordingly. This helps maintain a positive outlook and keeps us focused on our true self and our goals. If you stay true to who you are and what you want out of life, there are no limits.
Connect and Rise with Leila, runner and entrepreneur who recently moved to the United States. Leila describes some of the challenges she faced growing up in South Africa and how it shaped her into the determined and strong woman she is today. After experiencing great sadness and difficulty, she made up her mind to take the hard things that happened to her and use them as fuel to become her best self. Leila helps each of us realize the value of asking ourselves: “If my situation is hard, how do I not live there in the hard? How can I work on myself and my life?” Leila shares powerful insight telling us each that we are alive for a reason and it’s not to be sad and angry. We can channel our emotion and passion into doing the most we can with our time on earth. Stay awake in your life and “never sleep on yourself.” Every day is precious time you can use to work towards your own personal greatness.
Connect and Rise with Adina Crawford, Runner, Yoga Instructor, Certified Power, Vinyasa, and Sculpt Instructor who guides meditation weekly. Adina serves on the Honeystinger Athletic Advisory Committee, is a BLACK Girls Run Ambassador, Black Girls Do Bike Lady Shero, Zooma Ambassador, Honey Stinger Ambassador, Nuun Ambassador, TERRY Bicycles Ambassador,Trek Bikes Advocate, and a Micro Campaign Influencer for various brands. She shares her fantastic insight on facing challenges as a female leader in the fitness world who also is African American. She describes the importance of dispelling the idea that someone who exercises should look a certain way. Exercise is for everyone, every shape, size, and color. We also discuss recent events in our world. Adina’s powerful words urge us to embrace one another, to always choose happiness, and to own your craft. When it comes to your life, YOU write the story.
Check out more on Adina at: https://adinacrawford.weebly.com/
Connect and Rise with Cora Fahy, Physical Therapist Assistant, cyclist for charity, avid paddleboarder and Cancer Survivor. Cora takes us through her battle with Breast Cancer and so poignantly discusses how all of struggles in her life (including a considerable amount of loss) prepared her with the tools to handle her diagnosis. She also talks about the foundation she now realizes her family and ancestors gave her upon which to build her strength. Cora describes that we all have a warrior within and when we are faced with a battle, we can access the strength we need to get through. She beautifully reminds us that grief happens to all of us in life, whether we are grieving the loss of a loved one, a marriage, a job, our health... but it's how we respond to that grief that reveals who we are as people. It's always a choice. We can choose to pull on all that we've learned through our struggles to choose bravery. We can choose to show up even when it's uncomfortable. You can choose to remember: you are the strongest person you know. Choose to say it and feel it and then you are it.
Connect and rise with India, runner, co-host of the Run Duo Podcast, and Vlogger. India shares powerful insight as she takes us through both her professional journey and her journey as a runner. In life and in running when things don’t go as planned, you have to step back, adjust, and reset. Challenges are opportunities for growth. India shares how running a marathon molded her into a different person. We also discuss how she navigated her professional journey and that sometimes you have to have peace with stepping away from something that may have been your world for a long time. She shares her experience during the pandemic and the challenges of working from home, guiding us through how we can find the positives and the value of asking yourself what is truly important when you actually have time to slow down and consider it. We wrap up discussing social justice. Racism isn’t new, but what is new is the way eyes are being opened. One important way to combat racism is to have the hard conversations. Don’t ever assume you understand what someone else experiences... get educated. Step back and ask what you can do to make a difference within you. Whatever it is you want to do in life, it’s truly all about starting. If you’ve been thinking about something, just do it. Find strength and positivity within yourself. And never forget your why.
Connect and Rise with Enna, wife, mother, cervical cancer survivor, Massage Therapist, and Personal Trainer. Enna shares her journey through cervical cancer and what she learned along the way, including the moment that she realized that she needed to take charge of her health. Enna also discusses strategies for life that are very relevant as we continue to battle COVID 19 and gives us her perspective on what we can do to be be more active in the pursuit of social justice. Enna reminds us that true change starts in the home, that we have to educate ourselves, and most importantly that we must always strive to choose empathy. She has learned through her struggles that we are all so much stronger than we think, not just as individuals, but also as communities and as a nation. She encourages each of us to evaluate our lives and truly ask not only if we are racially biased, but also if we are actively involved in our community to help change the racial biases of any with whom we come into contact. Lastly, Enna reminds us that despite all of the hard things we are facing on a daily basis, it is still important to take the time to enjoy life. It's all about balance. Don't wait for a gut punch. Make changes now to be more healthy, to protect the vulnerable and to work for justice... but while you're at it, don't forget to eat the cake too.
Connect and Rise with Kendra Chambers, Pro-USA Track and Field Athlete (sponsored by Oiselle) and Athlete Advocate. Kendra’s insight and perspective is so powerful! She discusses how important it is to be patient with yourself, especially during the pandemic. Sometimes the best thing we can do for ourselves is not to look too far into the future but instead to focus on the 24 hours in front of us and what we can do in that day. Kendra takes us through her journey as an elite runner experiencing kidney failure. She reminds us that each new level of our lives will require the next level of our strength and training. In hindsight, you will see that the little things turn out to be a big things, so stay focused on the small things you do on a daily basis. Kendra also shares some very powerful insight about what it means to be seen and heard as a Black female athlete. She provides excellent strategies to get involved and be a part of change. Kendra encourages us all to embrace the beauty that can be found in personal growth. In the pursuit of your “why,” make sure the little things you do every day align with that mission.
Connect and Rise with Hafsa Kamara, 2016 Rio Olympian, Founder of the BrandMe Program, and youth advocate. Hafsa shares her personal journey of becoming an Olympian representing Sierra Leone even when the odds were stacked against her (including her own father's belief that Muslim women did not belong in Track and Field). She reminds us that anything is possible with hard work and determination, even when you think a dream is so big it may never be realized. Hafsa also talks about her current goals which include empowering youth as we continue to demand social justice. She encourages each of us to do what we can because "now is the time for your voice to be heard; now is the time for your actions to matter."
Connect and Rise with Jocelyn, runner, Disney lover, mom, wife, and Physical Therapist Assistant. Jocelyn shares her own personal journey through this pandemic including her strategies for managing anxiety and figuring out how to help yourself. She tells us what it’s like to be working in a long term care facility and how we can all make such a difference by reaching out to older adults whether they are family or not. We also discuss running, the benefits of moving your body, embracing your pace, and remembering to have fun. Joselyn urges us to never forget to live life to the fullest and to remember that we are capable of great things.
Connect and Rise with Erica Agran, running Blogger who has completed 52 marathons and counting! Erica takes us through some of her journey in life/running, providing excellent insight to include being your own advocate and finding the joy and fun in running or whatever fills your days. Erica shares that though running is an individual sport, she stuck with it because of the friends she has made along the way. She tells her own story of injury and how suddenly the things she once took for granted shifted. It brought her clarity and the realization that you never know what is going to happen tomorrow so the best thing you can do is embrace all the joy to be found in today.
Connect and Rise with Amanda Ghent, mother, wife, teacher, music and coffee lover, and runner. Amanda walks us through the loss of her mother and provides powerful insight on “zooming out” and choosing to see seasons of struggle as seasons of growth. She discusses that wishing and wanting a tough season to be gone isn't as productive as taking it on as a part of your journey and continuing to look for the joy. We also talk about the power of asking yourself every day if you are being generous and compassionate as we work together towards equality. Finally, Amanda shares her journey through running injuries and the strategies she’s used and continues to use during the Covid 19 Pandemic. Amanda will motivate you to “make your next steps better than your last.” Don’t miss this episode!
Connect and Rise with Amanda Brooks, author, running coach, and the person behind the popular blog Run to the Finish. We start off talking about the movement for change and equality, discussing the value of tough conversations that have become more normalized. Amanda then shares how running has been a big part of her journey through many moves. She dives in to how she learned to be her own advocate when a health issue arose and presented significant difficulty getting an answer to persistent symptoms. Amanda kept pushing, only to discover as a young woman that her body was making absolutely zero estrogen. She takes us through her journey with functional medicine and tells us how she got her health (and her energy back). Amanda reminds us that resting is important and it's actually where a lot of progress happens. She also suggests that we get back in touch with the joy of running and talks about her awesome new book Run to the Finish which is about "embracing your place in the middle of the pack with humor and learning to love the run you've got without comparing yourself to other runners." Don’t compare. Seek joy. And certainly: find the humor.
Connect and Rise with Casey, three-time Cancer Survivor, Certified Yoga Instructor, Personal Trainer, and Cancer Survivorship Coach as she walks us through her incredible journey of beating Cancer three times. Casey starts off by talking about the current events in our country and her ideas for change. She then talks us through her against-the-odds story, sharing poignant advice like: focus on the things you can control and create a routine for yourself. Casey tells us that we all can access a deeper level of strength (which is many times left untapped) that lies within. She also speaks about the importance of exercise in our lives and how "going back to normal" after Cancer or any struggle in life sometimes just isn't possible. Casey, like most who have survived a major struggle in life, affirms that while you can’t go back to normal, there is still great joy ahead.
Connect and Rise with Coach Dana of True Potential Running. Dana has loved running for most of her life and is now living out her passion by bringing runners into a “running family” as a RRCA, USATF and VDOT certified online Running Coach. Dana shares her story of losing a dear running buddy to Cancer and how she made it through and found peace. She tells us that running can give you the time to internalize who you are as a person. This is particularly valuable as we continue to search within to find ways we can be a part of the movement towards change, justice, and unity. Dana encourages each of us to be unafraid to BE YOU. To improve in any aspect of your life, you must first know who you are and then work from there. So many good things lie ahead.
Connect and Rise with Khadijah Diggs, the first African American, Muslim woman to represent team USA for Triathlon, USAT Ambassador, and Ironman Silver All-World Athlete. Khadijah shares that in her first Triathlon she came in third to last and went on to continue racing (eventually making Team USA). It’s such a passion for her that she says “even if I was losing I’d still be racing.” Khadijah also shares her own journey through racism and discrimination and strategies on how every person can be a part of the change, stepping out of our comfort zone to reach out to someone who looks different. She tells us that if we want our children to be brave, we must be brave ourselves, that no one is alone in their journey and so much more! Be inspired to do your part for change...
Though we do not talk about the need for justice and anti-racism in this episode, it is on our minds and discussed briefly at the beginning of this episode. More conversations on what we can do are planned. We are all a part of the change.
In this episode, Connect and Rise with Hadlee, a health and wellness coach who believes in the power of creating healthy habits. Hadlee takes us through her personal struggles and her journey towards a happier and healthier version of herself. She offers powerful insight on how to BE MORE instead of DOING MORE and why what we do shouldn’t define us or dictate our happiness, rather who we are. She also discusses what life in quarantine has been like for her. She suggests that we look at this time as the invitation that it is. It’s a different invitation for all of us, but try to think of the one opportunity you are given at this time. Focus on it. What are your blessings? How can you tap inward? And when you do, our hope it that you take a moment to thoughtfully consider how you can be a part of the change. Vote. Pursue Justice. Be kind to all.
Connect and Rise with Sarah Silber of Run Fearless Coaching who is a coach, marathoner, trainer, and cytotechnologist. Sarah discusses her journey of deciding to make the changes that she needed and wanted to live a more fulfilling life. She talks about taking risks and daring to look past perceived expectations to embrace a life that brings you joy. We also discuss how Sarah is getting through the pandemic and she shares some strategies that may work for you also. Sarah will lift you up and have you believing that not only can you make it through this health crisis, but you can also thrive and flourish in a life of purpose and passion.
Connect and Rise with Nicole, Wellness Director and runner as she provides poignant insight on journeying through struggle. Nicole takes us back to the first moment she knew running would be a big part of her life and shares her own personal story of recovery from an eating disorder. She talks about avoiding the urge to "crowd source" your life because the answers you seek aren't beyond you, they are within you. Nicole connects us all as we discuss this collective experience we are going through during the pandemic. She encourages each of us to be kind to ourselves as we navigate this new normal. Nicole concludes with a beautiful and uplifting poem by Mary Oliver reinforcing the power of connection. "Whoever you are, no matter how lonely" listen and be comforted because we all have our "place in the family of things."
A special Happy Mother's Day episode for all of the moms out there. I see you. I see the effort it takes to do what you do every day. I celebrate you. The episode includes words of encouragement pulled from my Mama friends who have walked beside me in my own journey of motherhood and from awesome moms with whom I've had the pleasure of speaking on the podcast. I also spend some time sharing a bit more about my own mother, who was my inspiration for the podcast in the first place. She was the embodiment of warmth and connection and I'm happy to share a small glimpse of who she was with you all. Cheers to the moms out there. I think you are pretty incredible. Stay strong and stay connected.
Connect and Rise with Alyssa Kuras, Mindset Coach for Athletes, former competitive swimmer, and mom. Alyssa shares her journey of navigating a new identity after shoulder surgeries prevented her from returning to swimming. She offers great insight on avoiding a fear-based mentality and instead focusing on the things that serve to strengthen you. Her discussion of “flipping the script” will bring you inspiration for your own journey through this health crisis and beyond. You are so much more than you believe you are. Don’t forget the power of tapping into the courage inside you.
Connect and Rise with Steph Bruce, Professional runner for HokaOneOne NAZ Elite, mom, Co-conspirator for Picky Bars, and coach of Running w/ Bruces as she shares her powerful insight on how to keep moving forward through struggle. Steph discusses placing sixth in the U.S. Olympic Marathon Team Trials on February 29, 2020 in Atlanta, GA and talks us through how her plans moving forward had to shift based on the health crisis. She leads us through losing her dad and being held up by her mom (who she tells us has always helped buoy her belief in herself). She discusses how her high school coach shaped her as a person and a runner and her love for her husband who supports her fiercely. Find out how Steph “holds space for two truths,” her passion/job and her family. You can too. Steph also shares her strategies for getting through this crazy time in our world. Find out how you too can adopt the mantra to keep moving forward despite all obstacles. Steph will inspire you to look for ways to embrace the opportunity to keep pressing in your own life. To test yourself when you can and then rise to the challenge to respond.
Connect and Rise with Holly Speers, Team Canada Softball Player who qualified for the 2020 Olympic games in Tokyo, but obviously has to put those dreams on hold due to the global pandemic which resulted in the Olympics being rescheduled. Holly will inspire you with her insight on navigating this crazy time in our world and all that has changed, been rescheduled, cancelled or lost. She tells us her personal strategies for making it through and gives us some awesome tips to apply to our own life. Our world may look different right now, but “we are going to make it through this and it's going to be okay.” Connected we are stronger. Don’t miss this episode!
Connect and Rise with Theresa, avid runner and Occupational Therapy Student at Ohio State University. Theresa gives us important insight on shifting our perspective during this very difficult time in our world. She also offers some tips on staying inspired and on how beginners can get started with running (even if you think you won't like it). It is not easy to see the opportunity that lies within struggle nor to be grateful in the midst of such sorrow, but trying is worth it. It will change everything.
Connect and Rise with Margaret, competitive road runner and trail runner, who has even completed a 120 mile trail race. On this episode, originally aired as a Live Video on Instagram, she shares her insight on how to adapt your training during the health crisis in order to stay safe. She also shares some tips on bringing positivity to your everyday life including finding ways to serve others, giving yourself grace, and tapping into gratitude. We are all connected during this crazy time. Wishing every runner and non-runner the added inspiration you may need to get through the day. Stay strong.
Connect and Rise with Debbie Strand, Physical Therapist, athlete, mom, and wife who is living in Sweden. In the midst of the current health crisis, Debbie offers a boost of inspiration as she shares her insight on the importance of perseverance. As an athlete in her 50's who has been committed to sports and athletics throughout her life, Debbie shares her story of repeated ACL injuries. Find out how Debbie navigated her injuries and why she believes it is so important to keep going no matter what. Debbie will inspire you to continue to believe in yourself and pursue your passions regardless of age or difficulty. It's never too late to set another goal or to dream a new dream.
Connect and Rise on a cross-over podcast episode with Jordan Nicole, Professional Ballet Dancer and host of the Ballet to Business Podcast. Jordan and I have a conversation about growth and how we can still find opportunities for personal growth even during this worldwide health crisis. She shares her amazing story of dancing for the San Francisco Ballet Company starting at the age of 16, struggling with multiple injuries, and how she chose growth after foot surgery temporarily derailed her dancing plans. We discuss some valuable tools we can all use as we navigate this uncertain and scary time. You will come away with renewed energy to focus on the day you’ve being given and the opportunities that lie within.
Connect and Rise with Christine Tyson, Founder of Limitless and Limitless Fit Gym, Mindfulness Practitioner, and mom. Christine is deeply committed to wellness of the mind, body, and soul. She shares her incredible journey as a single mom and will inspire you with her insight on going through some of the toughest situations imaginable. Christine tells us that when we are faced with enormous difficulty, sometimes the best thing we can do is just put our heads down and get through it. She talks about how changed she is having made it through those times and that she "can't go back to yesterday because she was a different person then." Our struggles give us new strength that shapes us and helps us grow. This is a wonderful message, especially at this time in our world. Christine poignantly says of her own journey that it's amazing to look back in awe of her younger self (instead of feeling sad or bad because of the magnitude of the hard things she faced). Join us for an episode that will lift us all to be strong today and in the coming days and weeks as we navigate this health crisis. May we will emerge on the other side in awe....
Connect and Rise with Kirsten Alexis, Adventure Athlete, Content Creator, Drone Pilot, Sky Diver, and High Altitude Mountain Climber as she describes her journey of coming back from a serious back surgery to treat scoliosis at the age of 12. Kirsten powerfully describes coming to terms with her worries that she wasn’t enough and realizing that challenges are often largely mental. She suggests shifting your focus and tells us it’s okay to be afraid, but that you can do it anyway. Each adventure in life and in sports is different. Kirsten decided she was done wasting time. She will help you believe: there truly is nothing you can’t do.
Connect and Rise with Mandana, former dancer who suffered an injury which prevented her from returning to dance but has not stopped her from living a life focused on positivity and growth. Mandala shares her powerful insight on how valuable it can be to stop for a moment to sit with your emotions before being reactive so that you can make the best decision on how to move forward. She talks about listening to your own voice amidst all of the noise (especially when the going gets tough) and shows us that reinventing yourself after injury can actually result in a more positive you, better equipped to lift others along your journey. When we are able to ultimately rise AND also lift up our fellow women, we have definitely succeeded.
Connect and Rise with Lisa Herrington, Founder and Co-Owner of Fit House Davis, group fitness instructor, runner, mom, and wife. Lisa tells us about the power of integrating your passion into what you do in life and also shares her powerful insight on grief and her journey through the loss of a child. She helps us understand the value of owning your grief and then deciding how to move forward. She discusses building our "emotional toolbox" by recognizing the things that bring us joy, in order to use them as tools on our worst days. This is applicable not only to the grief journey but also to any struggle we face in life. Lisa also inspires us all with her decision to live in the light and the positive. She shares that we all have a choice to take the things that happen to us and do something good with them. Lisa powerfully embodies how one person can draw on the athlete mentality to become not just a "Warrior Athlete" but a "Warrior Human." Prepare to be elevated with her inspiring story of how we can all gain more of ourselves even when faced with the most difficult situations imaginable. Life is for living. Go get your joy.
Connect and Rise with Jess, Fitness Enthusiast, single mom, and former Figure Skater, as she describes her journey of learning to never give up on a dream despite the time it may take to accomplish it. Jess shares her personal story of hitting rock bottom with her weight and her health and deciding that she was the only one who could change her life. She was told that she couldn't, which only fueled her desire to get healthy. Jess tells us that even if you feel alone, you aren't and that bad times don't last forever. For all of those out there struggling with their own health or even some other difficulty in life, she says, "I was there. I was in your shoes. I know that it gets really hard some days, but you've got to keep going." Don't let even the most extravagant tragedy get the best of you. Whatever you're facing, whatever you need to accomplish, it can be done.
Connect and Rise on our second episode with the amazing Robin Smith, competitive mid-distance runner, mom, and wife. Robin returns to tell us more about her journey and the conversion of thought needed to break through your own barriers or those that may be placed on you by others. She describes some of her most difficult challenges in life (including being in an abusive relationship) and how she was able to find her way out. She is strong, brave, and a leader for all of us, especially if we are facing a struggle that may seem insurmountable. Robin says, "If I can do it, so can you." Robin also remembers her sister as she faces the first anniversary of her passing and we pause to reflect on how short and precious life is. The time is now, friends. Don't miss this episode.
Connect and Rise with Lisa, runner, banker, wife, and mother as she shares her insight on making the decision to commit to health and wellness. Lisa describes making that commitment in her own life and the progress that followed. She will inspire you with her story of learning to choose happiness along the way. Through life’s challenges (career, motherhood, family, etc.) meeting your goals may not always look the way you envisioned it, but be flexible. It’s never too late. And when the going gets tough, remember that “you can do hard things.” Don’t give up. Stay positive. True success is enjoying the journey.
Connect and Rise with Aasha Marler, Elite Long/Triple Jumper and Olympic hopeful as she shares her journey and how the philosophy of expecting something great instead of wishing for something good has shaped her. Every good story isn’t about only the struggle, but how you overcome it. Ask yourself: what does the pursuit of the 1% mean for you and how can you get there without being too hard on yourself?Aasha shares her perspective and how she has continued to persevere through struggle and loss, with her eyes set on the 2020 Olympic Games. Aasha will remind you to keep going. You’ve got this.
Connect and Rise with Kerri Gallagher, Head Cross Country Coach at Manhattan College and former competitive runner. Kerri shares her journey, including how her competitive running career changed course due to an unexpected medical issue. Kerri talks about holding dreams a bit loosely so that you can be at peace when things don’t go as planned and believe that something better, more beautiful, and more impactful is in store. Kerri will inspire you to let go and trust in your own life. Don’t miss this episode!
Connect and Rise with Holly Speers, Team Canada Softball Player who has qualified for the 2020 Olympic games in Tokyo. Holly will inspire you with her insight on navigating depression and anxiety. She sends a powerful message to us all: we are not alone. She also discusses the importance of believing in yourself and making happiness a priority. Holly encourages everyone to remember that no matter what you are going through, “you will be okay and you are okay.” Find out how to reach out to Holly if you find yourself in a similar struggle. Don’t miss this episode!
Connect and Rise with Chantal Rose-Denman, ultrarunner, mother of four, wife, and cancer survivor. In this amazing first episode of our second season, Chantal shares her very personal story of being diagnosed with a high-grade surface osteosarcoma. Shockingly, her osteosarcoma was found in her leg when it began to impact her running. Doctors at Duke University acted quickly to save Chantal's leg and her life, though she did end up having most of her femur and knee joint replaced with a prostheses. Chantal will inspire you with her insight on learning how to dig deep and keep going even when you want to quit. She gives powerful advice and hope to anyone going through a life-threatening diagnosis. Those of us who have not been tested in such can also apply her wisdom to our everyday lives. Chantal's perspective will shine a light into your life and could quite possibly be the source of inspiration you need to keep fighting whatever battle lies before you, be it big or small. She will remind each of us: "If you can't run, then walk, if you can't walk then crawl... but whatever you do, just keep moving forward."
Connect and Rise with the phenomenal Dotsie Bausch, Vegan Olympian and founder of the nonprofit Switch4Good whose professional cycling career included a medal at the 2012 London Olympic Games, eight US national championships, two Pan American gold medals and a world record. Dotsie shares her amazing journey through struggle, eventually making her way to the Olympic podium at almost 40-years-old. Be inspired as Dotsie shares that her whole life has been a story of not quitting. She encourages each one of us to keep fighting even though “you are going to lose way more than you’re ever going to win.” She tells us that resiliency is a powerful tool that can be learned and practiced. Each hardship is shaping you, friends. Find motivation in knowing that you can apply the (often difficult) lessons you are learning now in the pursuit of your own “ah-ha” moment when the world shifts and your life’s work aligns with your passion.
Connect and Rise with Rebeka Stowe, athlete & coach, 8 time USA Track and Field championship qualifier, certified level 2 coach for the USATF, and CSCS. She is currently one of the first female coaches in the athletic department at the 400-year-old Collegiate School, an all-boys private school on the Upper West side of Manhattan and also works with Nike running in NYC in addition to working with Run with the Lab (online coaching using VdotO2). Rebeka is not only a total bad ass in her field, but also a humble and amazingly inspirational person. This interview is FULL of incredible insight including the value of pursuing both your career (be it athletics or not) and your LIFE with rigor, valuing the people who are meaningful in different seasons of you life, realizing that in vulnerability is power and to constantly develop your mental skills toolbox, and remembering that you “can.” You can handle anything. In moments of struggle, pull on all of your positive training and remember: “I’m a warrior. I can do this.” You’re stronger than you think.
This episode we are changing it up a bit to bring you encouragement and love during this busy (and sometimes overwhelming) time of year. Connect and Rise with Sara Kornokovich, Cindi Havert, Autumn Schubmehl, Lisa Kovacevic, and Kristen Lang. Each brings a different perspective, but the same message this holiday season: you’ve got this! You will be inspired to embrace the joy of the season by holding close those who really matter, letting go of perfection, and caring for yourself and others. Our wish for you is peace amidst the crazy and a moment of pause to be present in your day; it will only come once. Happy Holidays with love.
Connect and Rise with Katie Vanarendonk, Doctor of Physical Therapy, triathlete, Health and Wellness Coach, wife, and mother as she shares her journey of making it through unknown obstacles without a course map to prepare. You will be inspired to choose courage whenever possible and to stay focused on what you want more over what you might want in any given moment. Katie will make you laugh as she describes she her early years and knowing “just enough not to be terrified.” Katie also discusses the importance of community and connectedness. Serving others is so important on this wild journey of life. Just keep showing up for yourself and for those in your life, friends. When you commit to continually being present, at unexpected moments, you’ll find the courage you may not have known you had.
Connect and Rise with Sarah Canney, Founder and Host of @riserunretreat, Top 10 World Snow Shoe Running Champ, wife, and mother as she shares her powerful journey of perseverance. Sarah shares the power of asking yourself who you are and who you want to be when faced with seemingly insurmountable struggles. Her journey through anorexia and bulimia will uplift and inspire you. Sarah is an advocate for self belief and hope. Her message will propel you to lift your own sail and relentlessly seek the destiny that awaits.
Connect and Rise with Morgan Putbrese, Crossroads Adaptive Coach, Crossfit Level 1 Trainer, athlete, and student as she shares her journey through Klippel Trenaunay Syndrome. Be inspired by Morgan's powerful insight into the value of self acceptance and restarting when needed. Morgan discusses how athletics has changed her life and the beauty of rebuilding after each set back (which often comes in the form of another surgery for her condition). She encourages listeners both to stay grateful, humble, and hungry, while also asking yourself what you can give the world. Don't miss this powerful episode.
Connect and Rise with Elizabeth Tretter, Patent Prosecutor, runner, Group Fitness Instructor with Equinox Gyms in NYC, and mom of three as she describes her journey, including moving from Ukraine to the United States when she was 17-years-old, conquering her fears and barriers while pursuing her dreams, and pushing herself through marathon training. Elizabeth describes how it may often be difficult to see the opportunities that lie within life's difficult times and the layers of strength we build as we press on through challenges. There are so many awesome take-aways in this interview, including the value of struggles which require you to step up your game, remembering to be gentle with yourself, and most poignantly, setting an example of strength for your children. Don't miss this episode!
Connect and Rise with Crystal Antila, Canadian lawyer, runner, fitness enthusiast, and mother as she opens up about her battle with depression. Crystal will inspire you with her story of digging deep to both get the help she needed and to access the strength within. She discusses the importance of accessing your support system, shifting your outlook and approach, and choosing to see the positive. Crystal also touches on the gifts running has given her and how exercise can also boost your mental state. We all have the same number of hours in our day- after listening to this interview, you'll be inspired to make yours count!
Connect and Rise with Gia Trevisan, Professional Track Athlete for Italy as she shares her journey through injuries. Gia discusses the value of setting micro-goals, trusting the process, and refusing to settle. Gia shares that realizing that good times are coming in the midst of struggle can help us get throughout. No matter how hopeless you may feel, it’s never over, and you always have a choice to continue watering the seeds you planted, knowing that eventually the fruit will come.
Connect and Rise with Sam Moulding, Barrel racer, horse woman, rancher, and survivor. Sam shares her story of survival after trauma. Her insight is so very powerful. Sam shares that the strength we need is already in all of us. She talks about the life-changing effects of gratitude. She encourages listeners to stop comparing themselves to others and to be brave enough to be themselves. Sam reminds us that we all have a choice, that between stimulus and response there is a space where we can choose how we respond. When we realize this, Sam describes that we can come to a place of power to decide how we choose to live our lives. "If you're humble enough to keep learning, the sky is the limit."
Connect and Rise with Lindsey, scientist, researcher, instructor of first year medical students, former competitive alpine skier, mother and wife as she describes how being unafraid to be different has paved the way into living a life that she loves. Lindsey takes us through her formative early years, which laid the foundation for resilience, including her time as a competitive alpine skier. She then describes her path to a career in science, creating her own sunshine when needed, and embracing the ways that she is different. Lindsey's story is one of true woman empowerment. "When someone says you can't do it, do it twice and take pictures."
Connect and Rise with Hanna Kallmaier, Professional Soccer Player and Coach as she takes us through her journey, which started in Germany when soccer was dominated by males. She then describes the great honor and struggle of moving to the United States to attend college and play soccer at the collegiate level. She will inspire you as she describes how she was able to continually put things in perspective and push through even when she wanted to quit. "You didn't come this far only to come this far."
Connect and Rise with HT, collegiate javelin thrower as she shares her journey of growth. Find out how breaking down your individual process can make all the difference. She also discusses getting real with yourself (because comparison does no one any good) and how attaining your goals comes down to consistent daily decisions made in line with that goal. HT's dad always told her, "if you have a dream, you'd better go get it." This episode is a truly inspiring statement about how to live boldly, persevering through challenges, to become the best version of yourself.
Connect and Rise with Lauren LaRocco, 7 x All-American and Professional Runner for Track Republic. Lauren shares her story of becoming a runner (despite those who told her she wasn't fast enough) how she got through hard times, and the her current struggle with an injury. She has powerful insight encouraging listeners to recognize the things you can control and those you can't, negate your self-doubts, and believe in yourself. "There are no short-cuts and you can't rush your destiny," but don't give up because your dreams are within reach.
Connect and Rise with Kaili Alvarez, Muay Thai Fighter and Title Boxing Club Trainer, wife, and mother. Find out what it’s like to conquer fears and step into the ring as a Muay Thai Fighter. We discuss harnessing your inner fire and how important it is to remember that everyone we encounter (just like opponents in the ring) is a real person like the rest of us. Kaili’s insight is powerful fuel to step into the ring (even figuratively) in your own life. Kaili also shares how becoming a new mother can be one of our greatest challenges as we try to navigate the unpredictable. She shares the power of realizing there is no perfect answer or perfect timing. Her great insight will give you the boost you need to embrace today and trust in the magic of finding your own unique way.
Connect and Rise with Karelle Edwards, Canadian 100 meter Hurdler who has set her eyes on the Road to Tokyo for the 2020 Olympic Games. Karelle's authenticity will inspire you as she discusses how adversity can take us to destinations we couldn't have gone otherwise. She also shares how her father's belief in her (that was stronger than her own at the time) propelled her forward to continue training and pushing herself towards her goals. Most poignantly, she explains how looking back though there are things that her current self may have done differently, she has a firm belief in the value of adversity. Her struggles prepared her for where she was going. How can you embrace adversity and use it as inspiration? Don't miss this episode!
Connect and Rise with Dani Aravich, Adaptive Athlete and runner who is in the process of trying to qualify for the Team USA 2020 Paralympic team. Dani shares her powerful story of being born without her left hand and how focusing on what she can do instead of what she can't has given her the confidence to pursue her dreams. This fantastic episode will propel listeners to believe in their own inner strength. You can do anything; don't be afraid to be uniquely you.
Connect and Rise with Robin Smith, competitive mid-distance runner, co-owner of Specialized Timing, mom, and wife as she shares her stories of loss and her powerful insight on getting through some of the most difficult times. She discusses the value of a strong support network and how never giving up can make all the difference. She will speak directly to your heart with the message: "It's not over until it's over." Don't miss this episode.
Connect and Rise with Jackie Reseigne, avid mountain biker, Marketing Manager for Sky Park Bike Park at Santa's Village, and the founder and director of Trail Social (a local mountain biking club for women). Jackie shares her fantastic insight after surviving a huge life challenge and coming out on the other side with a newfound love for mountain biking and an incredible, supportive community. Find out how “playing” outside can make all the difference. Jackie will motivate you to push through life’s struggles because “only you can make your life better.” You are the boss of your life.
Connect and Rise with Jordan Gray, Professional Track Athlete, American World Record Holder, Decathlete, and "Grit Goddess." Her story of continual struggles and being so broken down that she was literally at rock bottom will inspire you to trust the plan and push through difficulties. Jordan shares much insight, including her father's favorite mantra for her: "Snot Bubble." Find out what that means and more. Jordan will push you to look fear in the eye and realize that though good things often start off scary, greatness is on the horizon.
Connect and Rise with Jordan Nicole, Professional Ballet Dancer and host of the upcoming podcast Ballet to Business. Jordan shares her amazing story of dancing for the San Francisco Ballet Company starting at the age of 16, struggling with multiple injuries, and eventually deciding to have foot surgery. Find out how she found the courage to press through even when the timing wasn't what she expected and she felt as if she had lost a part of her identity. You will be moved by her grace and encouraging words and will come away knowing that no one is alone in their struggles.
Connect and Rise with Jenna Minecci, who has survived 8 knee/hip surgeries and is now a Strength and Conditioning Coach and an author. She shares her personal mantra which she used for motivation during the most difficult days, the power of inner strength, and how controlling your mind can help you control your life.
Connect and RISE with Elisa Au, three-time Karate World Champion and the ONLY female champion from the United States. Elisa shares her journey of returning to the sport, injury, and striving to qualify for the 2020 Olympic Games. Find out how choosing a positive attitude during rehabilitation, breaking an obstacle down into parts, taking a deep breath, and having tenacity both in her sport and in life have made all the difference for her. You won't want to miss this episode!
Rosanne Carter is a Seattle-based Family/Infant Mental Health Therapist, runner, wife, mother, and Cancer Survivor. Connect and RISE as she shares her journey through cancer and shares how important it is to embrace vulnerability. Rosanne also discusses being tested for BCRA gene mutations which put one at risk for breast and ovarian cancer (and other types of cancer). She shares that knowledge is power and that we always have a choice. Rosanne poignantly describes how gratitude shapes her life- even during the most difficult days when she was going through chemotherapy. After treatment, she is now back to running and living a life she loves. Prepare to be inspired by this amazing woman and her generous heart. Rosanne says she always knew that her Cancer diagnosis was bigger than just her- which is so evident in her ability to strengthen us all through her wisdom and grace.
There are going to be plenty of people who tell you you can't. You'll fail. You'll get frustrated. Keep the vision. Find out how Diana Nyad's success swimming from Cuba to Florida without a shark cage can inspire you to find a way.
Katie Ledecky is one of the best swimmers of all time. Find out how you can use one of her simple, yet powerful techniques to live better.
What if you released yourself from fear of failure? What if you decided that failing actually might mean you are doing something right? Connect and Rise as we discuss Lauren Fleshman's approach to fear and failure. Lauren is an incredibly inspiring runner, coach, and person. In this episode you'll hear how pain following a training run caused Lauren to fear that she would fail to succeed and how she overcame negative thoughts that her career was over. Find out how you can apply this idea to your own life, embracing the possibility of failure, to live a bold, experience-rich life.
Mia Hamm is considered one of the greatest (if not the best) female soccer players in history. Join me as I share a small piece of her story and why I am confident it will inspire and motivate you to rise above the struggles you may be facing. Find out more about the motivation behind Mia's famous quote:“I am a member of the team, and I rely on the team, I defer to it and sacrifice for it, because the team, not the individual, is the ultimate champion” and how we can all lean on our personal "team" to see us through.
Wilma Rudolph endured and persevered through paralysis as a child to go on to become one of the most amazing runners of all time. Find out more about her inspiring story and how we can connect to her great spirit to tackle our own personal struggles and choose to RISE.
Connect and RISE with Dana Fallin as she tells the story of her comeback from injury to return to running. Find out how she was able to keep her momentum going through rehabilitation, even on her bad days, and how digging deep allowed her to ultimately RISE and run a race with her daughter only 10 weeks after surgery.
Connect and Rise through the story of Kerri Strug who, despite injury, was able to help her the US Women's Gymnastic's team secure the gold medal in 1996.
Lindsey Vonn is an incredibly inspiring athlete and the greatest US skier of all time. Her fearlessness and perseverance despite many injuries have motivated so many. This podcast focuses on her start and the obstacles she faced before the injuries. Get ready to connect to her story and be inspired to look for opportunities hidden in your own personal struggles.
Connected we can RISE. Bethany Hamilton's journey as a surfer injured in a shark attack is a story of perseverance that can inspire you to dig into your daily routine in order to prepare yourselves for the next "big wave day" in your life.
In this episode you'll hear an athlete's story of triumph through two surgeries, both with lengthy rehabilitation, and how she found the strength to get through and RISE.