Advertise on podcast: Running on Optimism

This episode goes out with a huge congratulations to all who finished the Boston Marathon just over a week ago. And with that said, I’m thrilled to have Shana Miller, creator of Stiletto Running, back to chat with me about her Boston Marathon experience. Shana had run the Boston Marathon two times prior to this year’s, but this was the first time she ran it as a qualifier. And though a bought with COVID in January put a wrench in her training, she was going to make it to that start line come hell or high water. Shana has been running to 2012, with the Philadelphia Marathon being her first marathon at the time. Since then she’s run several marathons and numerous half marathons, the half is her favorite distance in fact. She set her sights on a BQ shortly after undergoing a full hysterectomy. She decided that if she was going to get back to running, she was going to go all out and set big goals. In 2019 Shana ran a qualifying time for Boston at the Baystate Marathon, and her 26.2-mile victory lap through the Boston area took 2 years to come fruition. Shana shares with me what it was like to take five weeks off of her training due to COVID and what big plans she has in her crosshairs now that the Boston Marathon is all done. A for me personally, I’m so excited to get to meet Shana in person at the Brooklyn Half Marathon on May 21. We love this exciting running community. Follow Shana on Instagram at @stilettorunning . Check out her shop of really unique running gear at www.stilettorunning.com And bonus: for more on the nail wrap Shana mentioned, check out @sarahmariedesignstudio on Instagram or visit her website at www.sarahmarie.run

In today’s episode I speak with Denny Krahe, run coach and host of the podcast DizRuns Radio. Denny, I think like a lot of runners I’ve spoken to, kind of fell into running – or in his case, stumbled through a Disney marathon in 2012 incredibly under-trained swearing he would never do that again. He did find his way back to running and has made it his full-time job. Born and raised in Michigan, Denny made his way to Florida, where he calls home now with his wife and daughter, for college. From there he pursued his graduate degree in Tennessee where he was the athletic trainer. He would watch his athletes do their track workouts and that was when he became more interested in running. He would run some laps in between meets or between training sessions. He realized that he actually enjoyed running, though he didn’t slap the “runner” label on himself until much later. He decided in 2012, after moving back to Florida, to sign up for the Disney Marathon because: why not? What he learned quickly during that race was how much he didn’t know about marathon running – or at least not yet. Denny’s first marathon story is one of my favorites because of its honesty and relatability so I won’t spoil it for anyone, you’ll just have to listen. Clearly, Denny has learned a lot since then and continues to learn and grow has his career as a coach progresses. He is still working on his “Road to 50” in hopes of running a marathon in each of the 50 states. Check out www.dizruns.comfor more on Denny’s coaching and to listen to DizRuns Radio. You can also find Denny on Instagram @dizruns and on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/dizruns . As for me, you can let me know what you think at [email protected]

In today’s episode Caroline Moyer and I talk about her long-standing relationship with running that took a brief hiatus as she recovered from a terrible bike accident. But she’s working her way up to get back on that proverbial horse and is training for her first Iron Man this September all while beginning her new position as a pediatric oncology nurse. As they say, not all super heroes wear capes, and nurses are definitely included. Caroline has been running since middle school on her school’s cross-country team. She’s just fell in love with the freedom of running and kept that love through high school. Even when things got too competitive for her as she was seeking recruitment to college athletic departments. The competition dimmed her love of the sport but only slightly until she rediscovered running as a destressing tool rather than it being a competitive sport. She ran her first 26.2 in 2021, and she did it just for fun! (What? No medal?!) She then ran the Philly Marathon in November at a time to potentially qualify for Boston – she just has to wait a few months to see if she made the cut. In the meantime, she was hoping to begin her next adventure into completing an Iron Man as she is also an avid swimmer, when she got into a terrible bike accident in which she flipped over the handle bars of her bike and dislocated her shoulder; an injuring requiring surgery and a lot of rehab. She’s now slowly working her confidence back to be able to return to bike riding and still has her hopes set on a September Iron Man event. Caroline also shared with me that this April, she will begin her position at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia as a pediatric oncology nurse, which if you know me, you know how much nurses hold a special place in my heart. Listen to her whole story in this episode and let me know what you think at [email protected].

In today’s episode, Chris Heimerman, host of the podcast 40,000 Steps Radio shares with us his deeply personal journey to sobriety. Chris is an incredible advocate and resource for those struggling with addiction. He and I really dive into a lot in this conversation and what running meant for him before and after deciding it was time for him to seek help in battling alcoholism. Chris was an accomplished journalist who had already run several marathons. He lived with his wife and two kids, and like many people was hiding a secret in nearly plain sight: he was battling with alcohol abuse. Chris often found it difficult to talk about his addiction because he was able to hide it so well. He would call them "Mickey Mouse" problems. He never hit what people would look at as rock bottom, but that's what his message is: there are so many people battling in silence, but you are not alone.  Now Chris wants to help anyone battling addiction and mental health issues. He shares his story in hopes of making others feel less alone. If you are in a mental health crisis, immediately call 9-1-1 You can also reach the National Suicide Prevention Hotline 24/7 at: 800-273-8255 And Chris encourages anyone to reach out to him if they just need an ear. You can email him at: [email protected] You can find more information about his podcast, his story, and his blog at: www.40000steps.com

In today’s episode I talk with Jeffrey James Binney ultramarathoner, comedian and actor whose documentary film Once is Enough chronicles his journey to his first 100-mile race which also happens to be one of the most difficult, the Leadville Trail 100. Jeffrey and I talk about running, sure, but we get into a few stickier conversations like what health looks like at all sizes, veganism (if you can consider that a sticky topic), and diversity in the running community specifically trail running, and how an inclusive attitude doesn't automatically signify a diverse community. But back to running, Jeffrey grew up on a pig farm but never considered himself an outdoorsy person until he realized the immense peace he found running trails. He decided to give running a try after picking up a Trail Runner Mag in the waiting area while his mother was in the ICU. Jeffrey went to the shoe store and got his first running shoes to hit the trails and it was almost like love at first step. After running his first 20-mile trail race, he decided he wanted to take on a bigger challenge... a MUCH bigger challenge and signed up for the Leadville Trail 100, which was also the subject of his documentary. Spoiler alert: He did not complete that 100-mile race but often, as we all know too well, it's from our failures that we often learn the most. Jeffrey's story to completing his first 100 miles ultra is inspiring, but his general, day I say, optimism is really where it's at. You can watch "Once is Enough" on Amazon at: https://www.amazon.com/Once-Enough-Jeffrey-James-Binney/dp/B085GHM2CB Check out Jeffrey at www.jjb.life and find his amazing reels on Instagram @jeffreybinney

Today’s conversation is a little different, but I’m really thankful to get to reinvite two guests back, powerlifter and endurance runner Jess of Everwild Performance and marathoner and registered dietitian nutritionist Jen Scott for a well-rounded conversation on nutrition and strength and their place in running and training. Jess and Jen are an absolute wealth of information and so it’s an absolute honor and treat to get to pick their brains at the time time for a bit on why embracing nutrition and lifting is important to long life of running, which I don’t know about you, but is definitely part of my plan to keep doing this thing I love for as long as my body allows. As a registered dietician nutritionist, Jen focuses on sports nutrition. Her deep understanding of the importance of fueling appropriately for training, Jen works with runners on developing individualized nutrition plans, emphasis on the individualized! She knows that no two runners are the same and needs vary person to person. Jess combines her love of running and heavy lifting to help others be their best, most injury-free running self. She began her power lifting journey in 2021 and continues to pursue new goals in lifting. Jess truly believes that knowledge is power so at the beginning of the pandemic, she developed her book "Grit" which is a runner's guide or really an incredible resource with detailed information on how to become you strongest running self with hours of research to back it up. In our conversation, we dive right into busting myths runner should maybe stop perpetuating on what is the best size for running performance, as well as talk about some things that Jen and Jess hope more people might talk about. I am always learning so much from them both! You can find Jess on Instagram at @everwild.performance and more information on how you can work with her at www.everywildperformance.com. Jen can be found on Instagram at @marathonmama_rd and find out how Jen can help you fuel your running goals at www.endurancehealthandnutrition.com

Today’s conversation is with Nita Sweeney, ultramarathoner and award-winning wellness author of the running and mental health memoir, Depression Hates a Moving Target: How Running with My Dog Brought Me Back from the Brink and co-creator of the writing journal, You Should Be Writing: A Journal of Inspiration & Instruction to Keep Your Pen Moving. Nita’s memoir personally helped me change my mindset to stay on course with my own marathon training, and so I’m just thrilled to get to share this conversation with all of you. Nita was facing a point in her life where she was in a deep depression and nearly suicidal when a friend posted on Facebook about her most recent run. Nita found her way to a couch to 5k plan that was the start of her running journey, even if conspicuous at first. She used her dog as a decoy when she stepped out of the house for her very first interval of running. What followed was Nita pushing her own limits and discovering the magic of running. Nita’s always practiced meditation and so was able to channel that skill in running and she focused on her form through Chi Running method. She has since completed several marathons and an ultramarathon. You can purchase her memoir Depression Hates a Moving Target: How Running with My Dog Brought Me Back from the Brink at the following: https://www.amazon.com/Depression-Hates-Moving-Target-Running/dp/1642500135 https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/depression-hates-a-moving-target-nita-sweeney/1130148744 You can also pre-order her new book coming out this August at: https://www.target.com/p/make-every-move-a-meditation-by-nita-sweeney-paperback/-/A-85661373 https://www.amazon.com/How-Make-Every-Move-Meditation/dp/1642509892 https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/make-every-move-a-meditation-nita-sweeney/1140921417 Check out Nita on Instagram and Twitter: @nitasweeney and her website www.nitasweeney.com Get in touch with me with questions, comments or an opportunity to chat with me by email [email protected]

Today’s conversation is with Dr. Kim Rodriguez, founder of the running group Latinas Running and owner of the chiropractic practice Kirocare Family Wellness in Marietta, Georgia. Dr. Rodriguez’s own health journey ultimately led her to place where she’s created, and hopes to maintain and grow spaces for athletes of all ages, shapes, sizes and abilities to feel comfortable getting outdoors and enjoy moving their body. In college, Kim was diagnosed with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and struggled with the changes it brought to her body. But rather than hiding from challenges, Kim decided to turn this into a moment of empowerment and along the way found running. While on her running  the Disney Princess Half Marathon, she realized that there weren't many people who looked like her and took that opportunity to create a space for anyone else who feels underrepresented in the running community and so Latinas Running was born. In addition, in her chiropractic practice Kirocare Family Wellness she creates a body positive environment where she hopes her patients know that health does not have one size or look.  Dr. Rodriguez encourages people to set boundaries when it comes to comments about their physical appearance and to find their best self whatever that may look like. For more, follow her practice on Instagram: @kirocarefamilywellness  or visit https://kirocarefamilywellness.janeapp.com/ Check her personal IG: @dr.kimpossible And Latinas Running at @latinasrunning 

Today I have the absolute honor to share my conversation with Yulady Saluti second place winner of the Atlantic City half fighting through chronic pain with running. Yulady is a breast cancer survivor and person with an ostomy, but mostly she’s an inspiration to those seeking representation in running while reaching incredible running goals. Yulady made the difficult decision a few years ago to have a permanent ostomy. She practiced yoga for many years to channel the pain and discomfort until she reach a point where many of the poses she loved were painful to her. She knew she needed to find another form of movement especially to get her through pandemic lockdown, but wasn't sure what that would look like until she saw an boy running laps through their neighborhood. That's when she decided to give running a try for the first time in August of 2020. What she's been able to accomplish since then is a combination of natural talent, and physical and mental fortitude. She hopes to help others going through the same or similar feel like they can also be part of the amazing running community and find their own way through their diagnoses. Follow Yulady on instagram at @yulady

Amanda Brooks, run coach, creator of Run to the Finish and author of the book Run to the Finish: The Everyday Runner’s Guide to Avoiding Injury, Ignoring the Clock and Loving the Run shares why 10 years ago she made the life changing decision to shift from a journalism background and ecommerce to creating her Run to the Finish brand. She had already found a way to combine her love of research and running to find what worked best for her and to help others by developing her blog Run to the Finish (when blogging was the the thing to really get your brand out there). But while working full time and dedicating almost full time hours a week to Run to the Finish, Amanda found herself at a point where she needed to decide if this was where her career would take her. Amanda shares what that shift looked like for her. I was particularly excited to chat with Amanda because it was her out of the box "Couch to Marathon" plan that helped me return from a stress fracture in May and complete my first marathon this past November, and I do credit her 30 Day Core Challenge with keeping my ITB syndrome at bay for training. I just really really love how much Amanda loves running for the sake of running. She's turned it into a well-researched art that brings her joy and she shares that with her clients; there's not much better than that from your run coach. For more check out runtothefinish.com  You can also purchase Amanda's book at your favorite bookseller or at my favorite, Better World Books, at: https://www.betterworldbooks.com/product/detail/Run-to-the-Finish--The-Everyday-Runner-s-Guide-to-Avoiding-Injury--Ignoring-the-Clock--and-Loving-the-Run-9780738285993 You can also follow Amanda on Instagram and get daily, dare I say, optimism for your running journey at @runtothefinish

Shana Miller, 9 time marathoner and 38 time half marathoner, shares what set the wheels in motion to achieve all these running goals after 40. She was never a runner before then but when her 40th birthday approached she decided to aim high and put a half marathon on her bucket list. At the time she wasn't sure where this would all go, much less could she have imagined that she would eventually combine her love of running and eye for fashion trends to build her own business. But when she completed that first half in just over two hours, she realized that there was room for more and she kept pushing for it and setting new goals. When she underwent a complete hysterectomy in her mid-40s she used that opportunity to prove that she wasn't about to let anything slow her down. So much so, that she set her sights on achieving a Boston Qualifying Time (spoiler alert: she's running Boston in 2022!!! Go Shana!) Her story is not just about finding her love of running later in life, but really about feeling good in her own skin and wanting to inspire other women to find that self love by whatever means (but running is definitely a great way to start).  Her online shop Stiletto Running is completely unique. Shana designs all her leggings patterns with a partner designer, and puts together the designs for her tops on her own. She follows current trends and loves keep her fingers on the pulse on Pantone color of the year, which sets the colors trends for designers and I personally can really appreciate. And just for Running on Optimism listeners, Shana is offering 25% off to her shop www.stilettorunning.com using the code: OPTIMISM You can follow Shana on IG at @stilettorunning ****** Follow Running on Optimism IG @running_on_optimism Sonia's running journey IG @26.2forIzzy email me: [email protected]

We had an epic NYC Marathon weekend that started with our Izzy participating in a one-mile race through Central Park sponsored by New York Road Runners. A one-mile run can be a feat for any 8-year-old, but especially for Izzy who at 12 months old was diagnosed with a spinal cord tumor. As you may know, Izzy is my inspiration for running. She works hard every single day to rehab from what the tumor, surgery, and 14 months of chemotherapy did to her little body. But she fights every day to show that tumor who is really in control and this Run with Champions race was no different. What Izzy lacks in physical ability, she more than makes up for in heart and brilliance so I wanted to shine a spotlight on her major accomplishment as she completed the one-miler on her own in her walker. To make the race even more epic, Jenny Simpson and Meb Keflizighi were waiting for at the finish line despite her coming in dead last, to congratulate her. That image of her really gutting it out for 27 minutes to finish her miler was what carried me through 26.2 miles through the five boroughs of New York City just two days later. My IT band which has troubled me for years but took a break for the last few months decided that mile 4 of the marathon would be a great time to become terribly inflamed once again. From there the rest of the race was a suffer-fest, but I’m proud to say that I crossed that finish line hand-in-hand with Marco whose support was absolutely everything for those 5.5 hours it took to complete race. What’s next for us? More marathons! NYC was my first but certainly not my last. But for our Izzy? Well, you’ll just have to listen through the end to hear what she says. You can follow along with Izzy’s journey on Instagram at @IzzyLivingHerBestLife