Who Am I? Who Are We As Athletes When We Can’t Compete

In this episode I’m sharing my personal journey.. It has been a challenging season since the pandemic.  I faced various obstacles, including COVID-19, two knee surgeries, financial struggles, and my most recent surgery. 

 Many athletes find their identity in their sport, but it has been difficult to compete due to a plethora of reasons which I discuss.. It led me to reflect on who I am and the roles I play in life.I underwent surgery recently.. I share my fears surrounding the surgery and my desire to live without regrets. In this episode, I discuss the challenges athletes face and the importance of perseverance and self-discovery.

Join me as I navigate the difficulties of being an athlete who has faced many obstacles in return to my sports.  How I am finding resilience, and discovering my path. 

Episode Highlights:

• Athletes face many challenges in life
• Struggles with COVID-19, injury, finances, etc
• An Athlete’s identity
• Importance of perseverance and self-discovery
• The Many Facets of Individuals 
• The Unique Challenges of the Female Athlete 

In this episode, the last of Season 6 I’m sharing my personal journey. It has been a challenging season since the pandemic.  I faced various obstacles, including COVID-19, two knee surgeries, financial struggles, and my most recent surgery. 

 Many athletes find their identity in their sport, but it has been difficult to compete due to a plethora of reasons which I discuss.. It led me to reflect on who I am and the roles I play in life.I underwent another surgery recently. I share my fears surrounding the surgery and my desire to live without regrets. In this episode, I discuss the challenges athletes face and the importance of perseverance and self-discovery.

Join me as I navigate the difficulties of being an athlete who has faced many obstacles to return to my sports.  How I am finding resilience, and discovering my path. 

Episode Highlights:

• Anna emphasizes self-compassion in sports
• Encourages athletes to explore their identity beyond sport
• Shares her favorite and worst races
• Advises athletes to focus on process and consistency
• Works with many everyday people, especially women
• Practice changed due to Covid
• Highlights importance of having a support team
• Emphasizes availability of resources for everyone

Guest Bio

As a psychotherapist and life coach, Anna Marcolin has built a thriving private practice over the past 25 years. Her specialties include supporting corporate and individual clients in the areas of anxiety and depressive disorders, leadership and team building, relationship challenges, imposter syndrome, and confidence. 

Anna has helped hundreds of people heal from trauma, break through limiting beliefs and confidently go after the life they want through her evidence-based, holistic approach. She breaks through to her clients quickly with her unique ability to connect with authenticity, empathy, and humor.

Anna’s power comes from success in the world of triathlons, a sport that’s been a constant in her adult life. As a medaled and sponsored triathlete with hundreds of races behind her, Anna has honed skills that make her an exceptional life coach and therapist including mental flexibility, focus, and endurance. This experience has given Anna insight into the presence of stress and self-doubt that many of us face in our high-pressured society.

With an unwavering belief that every human being deserves a deeply fulfilling life, Anna meets clients where they are and gives them the tools they need to truly thrive.

To invite Anna to speak to your team or work one-on-one, please contact
hello@annamarcolin.com

Connect with Anna Marcolin

Connect  with Anna Marcolin on Facebook.

Connect with Anna Marcolin via email

Connect on Anna Marcolin  on  Instagram

Connect with Anna Marcolin via website 

Listen to Anna Marcolin Podcast- Badass Confidence Coach

Did you enjoy today’s episode?

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David Redmond started  his triathlon journey following his divorce. He has  a family history of high blood pressure. He knew he was at risk if he did not get off his couch and become active. Watching an IronMan World Championship on TV  was his  initial inspiration. 

As a young man growing up in Indiana, David was very active in sports. He played basketball, football and even some baseball. After college, he did some boxing at the gym but pretty much remained inactive until his divorce in 2010. 

David  relies on the triathlon community to stay inspired and get the training he needs.. Despite not having a dedicated coach, David has done well for himself completing for IronMan  70.3 races and two full ones 140.6 races. He says he owes this success to the Atlanta triathlon community.

David is a  man who wears many hats. David is an actor, he picked up the guitar during Covid. David Redmond also considers himself a bit of an adrenaline junkie going as far as racing with the bulls in Spain for his 50^th birthday.

Episode Highlights:

• The young David becomes involved in multiple sports.
• How David became interested in triathlons.
• David  talks about some memorable races, the good and the bad.
• David tells us how he relies on the community to train and race in the Ironman.
• Running with the bulls in Spain.
• What’s in the future for David in his triathlon journey?
• David talks about his acting career and his hopes for the future.
• Injuries and their effect on performance.
• Some life lessons David has learnt from racing in the Ironman.

Guest Bio

David Redmond (51 yrs old) considers himself to be more of an athlete than a runner or triathlete. He has completed 6 Ironman distance races: (4) Half Ironman and (2) Full Ironman. He began his triathlon journey in 2011 after his divorce. He found himself unmotivated to go to the gym and was just going through the motions.. David has a family history of high blood pressure. David knew that he had to remain active and change certain eating habits. He is unsure when he will compete again but the Atlanta Triathlon Community provides plenty of opportunities to run, bike or swim in group settings.

David played football and basketball growing up in Southern Indiana. After high school, he continued his football career at Murray State University, where he was a 3-year starter. He also completed his degree in Electrical Engineering and became a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc (Spring ’91 Eta Beta). Academically he also completed his MBA – International Business and Master’s in Information Systems at Georgia State University. He is currently an IT Portfolio Manager for Inspire Brands.

Outside of training for triathlons, David dabbles in acting: Snake in the Grass -USA, Love Match Atlanta – Bravo and The Resident – Fox are some of his latest projects. He hopes to expand on his acting endeavors once his son graduates high school in 2024. David also picked up the guitar during COVID and has enjoyed the 2-year journey that he has experienced thus far. Lastly, David is a bit of an adrenaline junkie who recently ran with the bulls in Spain

Connect with David Redmond

• Connect with David on Facebook
• Catch David on Instagram.

Did you enjoy today’s episode?

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If you have questions, comments, or possible show topics, email

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On today’s episode, we will hear from renowned wellness expert and distance running enthusiast, Dr. Nina Cherie Franklin. Also known as That Salad Lady across multiple media including YouTube and TikTok. Dr. Franklin will talk us through her journey of keeping fit since the age of 12 to date even through motherhood.

Dr. Franklin has extensive knowledge about food and nutrition given that she has a plethora of academic degrees and certifications. She will talk to us about her passion with food and nutrition how she moved from academia to create the “That Salad Lady” brand. Why she feels like this way she has more impact on the world than she ever would have hoped to. 

Besides sharing some of her recipes, she will teach us how to create our own salad bowls filled with foods we love and how to not feel guilty about certain foods. 

Episode Highlights:

• Dr. Franklin  starts running prompted at age twelve.
• Dr. Franklin speak about her experience running marathons.
• She talks about remaining active even after a difficult pregnancy.
• Balancing running, motherhood and work.
• So, what motivates Dr. Franklin to keep active?
• Nutrition academia and gaps in research particularly with black women.
• Dr. Franklin drops academia to become That Salad Lady.
• Dr. Franklin shares some of her salad bowl recipes.
• Dr. Franklin shares some life lessons and words of wisdom for us.

Guest Bio

Nina Cherie Franklin, PhD is a healthy living coach, globally recognized wellness expert, and the woman behind the blog and brand “That Salad Lady” and “That Salad Lady University.”Leveraging her scientific knowledge, academic background and extensive experience in health, nutrition and fitness, Nina inspires healthy eating and living through practical hands-on experiences, and empowers lasting lifestyle change through continuing education offerings andlifelong learning opportunities.

As a commentator and regular contributor to scientific journals and national media

publications, Nina influences and challenges the wellness industry and is a strong advocate for making healthy living more approachable, accessible and inclusive.

About “That Salad Lady”

As That Salad Lady, Nina Cherie Franklin couples her advanced degrees and decades of

experience in health, fitness and nutrition with her obsession for salad making.

Leveraging her blog and brand and recently launched University, she educates and empowers

everyday people by promoting small diet and lifestyle changes through salad making to,

ultimately, cultivate healthier, happier relationships with food. By teaching people how to build their bowl.

That Salad Lady helps people gain more confidence through a greater sense of

control over their eating patterns, food choices, and overall ability to make healthy, satisfying

meals.

As Nina Cherie Franklin, PhD she remains active in contributions to scientific journals and

national media publications in order to continue her efforts to influence the wellness industry

and to advocate for making healthy living more approachable, accessible and inclusive. But That Salad Lady is here to prove that this can all start with a salad.

Credentials.

Degrees.

·      PhD in Kinesiology, Nutrition and Rehabilitation; UIC.

·      MS in Movement Science (Clinical and Applied Exercise Physiology); UIC.

·      Diploma in Clinical Massage Therapy; Soma Institute, Chicago, IL.

·      BS in Kinesiology (Exercise Science, Fitness and Health Promotion); UIUC.

Certifications

·      Certified Group Exercise Instructor; ACSM

·      Certified Health Coach; ACE Fitness

·      Certified Exercise Physiologist; ACSM

·      Certified Clinical Massage Therapist; NCBTMB

Connect with Dr. Nina Franklin

·      Connect with Nina Cherie Franklin on her website  Healthy Living Coach and Wellness Expert.

·      Connect with  That Salad Lady

·      Connect with Nina on Linkedin.

·      Connect with Nina on Facebook.

·      Watch That Salad Lady on TikTok.

·      Connect with Nina on Instagram.

·      Catch up with That Salad Lady on Twitter.

·      Connect with That Salad Lady on Pinterest.

·      Watch That Salad Lady on YouTube.

Did you enjoy today’s episode?

Please subscribe and leave a review.

If you have questions, comments, or possible show topics, email

runningischeaperthantherapyolb@gmail.com.

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Alex Torres, an Ironman Triathlete, shares his journey of overcoming challenges and realizing his potential to become an Ironman. Alex started his athletic journey as the “runt of the Torres family,” but through hard work and determination, he proved everyone wrong and accomplished his goal of becoming an Ironman.

One of the key pieces of advice that Alex shares is to never forget your “why.” This is what will keep you motivated and inspired during the long and tedious moments of training. He also emphasizes that discipline and perseverance are essential in becoming an Ironman, but these qualities are anchored on your “why.”

Another important point that Alex mentions is that you don’t have to have the most expensive equipment to participate in a triathlon. He was once embarrassed by his lack of fancy gear, but he was reminded that it’s all about the “engine,” meaning the person themselves.

To sum it up, becoming an Ironman is achievable if you have the physical capability, financial means, and most importantly, the determination and commitment to see it through. Find your “why,” stay committed, and never let anyone tell you that you can’t do it. The choice is yours to cross that finish line and hear your name being called as an Ironman.

Episode Highlights:

• Alex has completed multiple Iron Man races
• Dreams of writing a book
• Apologizes to younger self for past hurts
• Believes everything is possible with effort
• Encourages listeners to find their “why” and stay committed
• Iron Man requires grit, determination, perseverance and discipline
• Success depends on aligning all elements with your “why”
• You have the choice to cross the finish line, whatever the distance

Guest Bio

Alexander Torres is a native of Gary, IN.  Alumnus of Indiana University. He is a former member of the Horace Mann High School track & cross-country teams.  He continued his running in the United States Army as a member of the Commander’s Cup Team.

Alex ran his first marathon in 2004, the Chicago Marathon.  He has  ran the Chicago Marathon every year it has been held since 2004.  Alex is currently registered for the 2023 Chicago Marathon which will be his 19th consecutive Chicago Marathon. Alex first official race as an adult post military was the marathon distance.

In 2010, he decided to compete in his first Ironman race, Ironman Louisville.  His first triathlon was the full Ironman distance. To date Alex has completed 14 full Ironman races.  Alex is currently scheduled to race Ironman Coeur d’Alene 2023 and on tap to race in the Ironman World Championship in Kona, HI in 2024 after qualifying via the legacy program.

Professionally Alex is in the pharmaceutical industry as an Executive Institutional Representative in Grand Rapids, MI in the area of surgical anesthesia and heart failure.

He is a husband and father of 5 children.

Connect:

Connect with Alex Torres via Facebook 

Did you enjoy today’s episode?

Please subscribe and leave a review. If you have questions, comments, or possible show topics, email runningischeaperthantherapyolb@gmail.com.

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This episode features two athletes sharing their journeys, successes, and challenges. This mother-and-son duo in sports always finds a way to support each other!  Dr. Petriece  Culberson started her fitness journey while serving in the US Army. Her son Jullien “Jules” CulbersonJules was  exposed to sports even while in the womb. He was pushed in a stroller as his mom ran with her mom group.  Dr Culberson attributes her time in the armed forces and participating in sports in making her disciplined and driven. She uses this drive in competition, pushing herself to be the best she can be. 

Jules has always played sports: basketball, football, soccer were his major sports when he was younger. Unfortunately an injury ended his football career in middle school.. He did not let his injury deter him. Taking an unfamiliar path, Jullien tried out for and made his high school swim team, and completed in his first triathlon at school. Recognizing the significant underrepresentation in the swim community, Jullien also accepted a position to give swim lessons to young children, making a personal commitment to ensure that African-American children were well trained in basic swim techniques. 

 Dr. Petriece  Culberson decided to compete in a triathlon and  her son joined her. Team Culberson was formed and their first event was an indoor triathlon together .Jules continued to accompany mom to her races  and it sparked a desire in him to do more and in Spring 2022 they completed a half distance 70.3 together. 

Together,  triathlons  have created a stronger bond between this mother and son duo— they are truly an inspiration and prove that triathlon is a sport for all ages and that fitness can be a fun family affair. 

Episode Highlights:  

• Dr. Culberson start in fitness
• Dr. Culberson first endurance race experience and what she learned from it 
• Jules started in fitness 
• The injury that could have ended Jules fitness journey 
• Jules pivot to become a swimmer
• Jules role in sharing his gift with the next generation 
• Dr. Culberson first triathlon after she resumed the sport
• Jules training for his first 70.3 Half distance Triathlon
• Team Culberson  Journey to complete Ironman North Carolina 70.3 as a Duo

Guest Bios:

Dr. Petriece Culberson

At her first duty station, she joined a proud group of service men and women in her unit who exceeded the maximum points required to earn the infamous Army Badge for Physical Fitness Excellence. Her love for health and fitness resulted in a nomination and selection by her leadership to attend a newly developed health and fitness program for the US Army. Following extensive physical and academic training, Petriece earned the title of Master Fitness Trainer for the US Army. Throughout her military career, Petriece taught physical fitness training and oversaw Army Physical Fitness Testing at numerous military bases stateside, abroad, and while deployed.

While stationed in Turkey, in support of Operation Northern Watch, Petriece completed her first half marathon at the age of 27. She was humbled by the experience and quickly realized that although she could run two-miles for the military fitness test effortlessly, 13.1 miles was hard, really hard. This humbling experience was the beginning of her distance running journey. Following her retirement, Petriece decided that she would not run again for a very long time.

She was tired. She quickly realized that she missed running. She missed the time alone with her thoughts and the physical results that running produced. Petriece gradually returned to running and walking short distances (5k/10K). In 2010, less than two years after her retirement, Petriece tragically lost her mother. In search of holistic methods to help her manage grief and depression, Petriece turned to meditation and running. Running became her outlet, driving her to complete over 50 half marathons, a few marathons, 50k, and 50M distances within a few years.

She found peace, solitude, and healing in her running journey. In 2017, Petriece re-entered the world of triathlon. It would be over 20 years since her first triathlon. She was a mediocre swimmer but had enough skills to prevent drowning. Her son, who was the Co-Captain of his high school swim team at the time, joined her. She recalls being lapped by her son while she walked the laps. At the time she could not swim 25 yards without holding on the lane line ropes. With determination, training, and support from her son, Petriece went on to complete numerous local sprint and olympic triathlons, often making the podium. Her new-found love for triathlons led her to successful completion of the Ironman 70.3 distance and Ironman 140.6 distance within two years of her return to triathlon.

Most recently, Petriece completed Ironman North Carolina 70.3 with her son, Jullien.This was the highlight of her triathlon journey. The best proud mom moment ever! While she admits that age and injury have impacted her ability to be as quick as she used to be, she is committed to continuing her health and fitness journey, incorporating triathlon along the way.

Dr. Petriece Culberson is a 20-year retired Army Veteran currently employed by the federal government. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Human Services/Psychology, a Master’s degree in Education, and a Doctorate’s degree in Management and Organizational Leadership. She is the owner of BloomPrint (Life) Coaching, an avid traveler, and a certified scuba diver. During her free time, she enjoys volunteering in support of the underserved in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex.

Jullien “Jules” Culberson

Jullien Culberson was born in Wiesbaden, Germany while his mother was serving in the US Army and his father played for an overseas basketball club. From birth, Jullien spent many days in the gym while his mother led fitness training for military service members and his father practiced basketball. Jullien began his love for sports at the age of five. For four years, he played basketball with a local basketball club while simultaneously playing soccer for a Southern California Soccer Club.

At the age of ten, he relocated to Texas with his family where he was reintroduced to football. Jullien played several seasons with Plano Sports Authority until an injury brought his football future to an unfortunate end. Jullien did not let his injury prevent him from excelling in sports. Taking an unfamiliar path, Jullien tried out for and made his high school swim team. Recognizing the significant underrepresentation in the swim community, Jullien accepted a position to give swim lessons to young children, making a personal commitment to ensure that African-American children were well trained in basic swim techniques. In this capacity, Jullien also served as a Swim Team Coach for a local swim club in North Texas.

While swimming could not replace his love for football, soccer, and basketball, Jullien was proud to make a presence in an under-represented sport, ultimately earning his position as the team Co-Captain. During his four-year stint on the swim team, Jullien played water polo and completed his first triathlon during the off season.

In 2017, Jullien accompanied his mother for an Indoor Triathlon. The following years he supported his mother as a Sherpa as she trained for and competed in Ironman 70.3 and Ironman 140.6 distances. Witnessing the Ironman journey up close and personal sparked his curiosity. He competed in local triathlons and in Spring of 2022, he registered and committed to his first Ironman 70.3 alongside his mother. The mother-son team affectionately known as Team Culberson, successfully completed Ironman North Carolina 70.3 in October 2022.

Connect with Team Culberson 

• Connect with Jullien “Jules” Culberson  on Instagram
• Connect with Dr. Petriece Culberson on Instagram 
• Connect with Dr. Petriece Culberson on Facebook

Did you enjoy today’s episode?

Please subscribe and leave a review. If you have questions, comments, or possible show topics, email runningischeaperthantherapyolb@gmail.com.

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Some of the most important lessons are the ones we learn from failure.  Lloyd Henry is  a 32-time Ironman & long-course finisher. He overcame the stigma of athletes losing their drive after a loss. He had no background in sports, but progressed  to become a sub-3-hour marathoner He has competed in numerous running events (5k to ultra-marathon) including the Boston Marathon and Comrades Marathon (South Africa). He has been running since 2002 and coaching triathletes since 2004.

He uses all his personal experiences to coach effectively.  Coach Lloyd Henry  takeaways, experiences, and lessons he took and it makes him an effective, compassionate coach. He enjoys seeing his clients as they progress and experience those “ah-ha” moments. 

Listen to how an inspiring couch potato turned into the first African-American to finish an Ironman on six continents in 2016 and  make it to the Ironman World Championship in Kona, Hawaii.

Episode Highlights:  

• Coach Lloyd Start In Endurance Racing 
• The Challenge That Start Lloyd Henry Triathlon Journey 
• From Couch to Triathlons
• Learning How to Swim Competitively using Total Immersion 
• The Trials and Errors of Training and Racing
• What Lloyd Learned from His DNF (did not finish)
• Defining What Is Fun 

Guest Bio: 

Lloyd Henry is a 32-time Ironman & long course finisher and in 2016 became the first African-American to finish an Ironman on six continents plus the Ironman World Championship in Kona, Hawaii. In addition to the triathlon, Lloyd is a sub-3-hour marathoner and has competed in numerous running events (5k to ultra-marathon) including the Boston Marathon and Comrades Marathon (South Africa). He has been running since 2002 and coaching triathletes since 2004.

Form and technique are the focal points of Lloyd’s coaching style. As a coach, he enjoys seeing clients experience that “ah-ha” moment. Whether it is gliding through the water with ease, finally feeling like a fish in the water, the feel of gravity pulling them forward as they fall into a run, or the sudden outburst of “I‘m running, and it doesn‘t hurt.” He has helped clients learn to swim, improve their stroke, compete in a triathlon, move from the couch to a 5k, finish their first marathon, qualify for Boston and hear those famous words “You Are An Ironman.”

A native of St. Croix, US Virgin Islands, Lloyd has a B.S. in Biology, M.S. in Medical Science, PMP, and an MBA. He is also an avid scuba diver, snowboarder, gardener, and Crucian market basket weaver

Connect with Coach Lloyd Henry 

• Connect with Coach Lloyd Henry  on Facebook
• Connect with Coach Lloyd Henry  on Instagram
• Connect with Coach Lloyd on his webpage

Did you enjoy today’s episode?

Please subscribe and leave a review. If you have questions, comments, or possible show topics, email runningischeaperthantherapyolb@gmail.com.

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Pivoting can provide stress and uncertainty as it is changed from an original plan. Change can also be somewhat scary.  It can mean changing one’s life, whether it’s a job, a move, or a new journey.  Pivoting can be risky yet beneficial. Pivoting lets people follow their passions, although with a new or renewed focus. Pivoting can foster growth. Adapting to a new setting may help one grow and further find themselves. It may allow a new sense of purpose, and a renewed passion. 

Changing one’s life can initially be sad as you are in a sense saying goodbye or saying later to something that was initially planned. Life happens, and many times it is not as we planned it. We have to make adjustments.  My favorite spectator  sport football  is all about adjustment, and the best teams know how to do it well. Pivoting is far from  simple but in order to keep moving we have to learn to have peace in the process. Often the end is so much better than the initial plan. 

In this episode, I will share my journey and experiences and how I am finding peace in my pivot.

Episode Highlights:  

•  The Pivot Podcast one of my new favorite podcast
• How to continue once the newness wears off
• The Team Concept and how this concept helps in achieving goals
• Realizing that things are not always don’t work out as plan 
• Sports used to convey key life lessons
• Knowing that consistent movement is key
• Update on my recovery, injuries, and future plan 
• The importance of living in the moment and being grateful 
• How I am pivoting 

Episodes Mentioned: 

New Year, New You!!!

Ask The Doctor: What Is Microfracture Surgery?

Did you enjoy today’s episode?

Please subscribe and leave a review. If you have questions, comments, or possible show topics, email runningischeaperthantherapyolb@gmail.com.

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Get a copy of the book; Running Is Cheaper Than Therapy: A Journey Back to Wholeness. It is available in hardback, paperback, and newly released audio form

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Facebook @ouilifeouilove33

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Today I am discussing a very interesting topic “ Homecoming: What Does It Mean to Come Home”. I stumbled across the topic during my Homecoming to my Alma Mater, Florida A & M University (FAMU) a few weeks ago. Those of you who know me, and/or are regular listeners know that I love FAMU. My mother helped spark my interest in physical therapy. FAMU A&M was one of two  Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) that had physical therapy at the time. FAMU was within driving distance for me. After I went to a program called TOPS- early orientation I was sold and the rest is history.  I have very many fond memories of my years at Florida A&M. One thing in particular that stood out was my professors and how caring they were for the students. I met some of my lifelong friends/family- FAMUly. 

Homecoming: What Does it Mean to Come Home.  You may be asking how does this relate to endurance sports? Well the feeling I get when I go to homecoming is one of rejuvenation, one of enlightenment. I get the same feeling when I go to race meetups with Fast Chix founded by Col. Yvonne Spencer or triathlons where there is a large presence of Black Triathletes Association ( BTA) such as Chicago Triathlon, and various other 70.3 and full distance IronMan races.  The Race, various World Major Races, and the Reggae Marathon race are other road races with the same feel. Members of these various groups are like family, and how can I not mention my first running group United Nations. I get that feeling  even if I don’t or can’t race for whatever reason.  The emotions attached to being among your tribe or crew is  priceless.  

It was members of these various groups  that helped me move when my place caught on fire in Philly. Drove me to surgery and picked me up. Brought me food when I was recovering from surgery. Took me to doctor’s appointments when I could not drive. 

Running is Cheaper Than Therapy is not just a podcast about endurance sports, but also, it is  based on movement from a wholeness aspect. People participate in sports for many different reasons including, physical and mental well-being as well as the connections that come with associating with fellow athletes. Homecoming is about feeding your spirit and staying connected to people with whom you click. It is about finding joy in whatever you do and the people you do it with.

Episode Highlights:  

• Homecoming at Florida A&M University.
• Some fond memories at Florida A&M University.
• What community means to me
• What does in mean to come home and how it relates to endurance sports?
• How to feed your spirit and how the endurance sports community means so much 

Did you enjoy today’s episode?

Please subscribe and leave a review. If you have questions, comments, or possible show topics, email runningischeaperthantherapyolb@gmail.com.

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Aaron Hickman started his fitness journey at 15 years of age because the requirement to join the high school basketball team was also to be on the cross-country team. After high school, Aaron took an 8-year hiatus from running before emerging into running events in the Chicagoland area.

Since then, Aaron has competed in 10 obstacle courses, 5 triathlons, and about 15 endurance running events. Initially, Aaron did not take triathlons seriously, but his first Chicago Triathlon experience was an awakening experience. He soon learned the dedication and training that is necessary to successfully complete a race. He progressed from the Olympic distance. After he found success in the Olympic distance he sought the assistance of a coach He is particularly proud of his completion of Ironman Louisville in 2015. He continued to race Full Distance IronMan 140.6 races but after his initial success he thought he could continue to successfully race without the actual intensity of training that he committed to for his first full distance race.

He learned the hard way that he had to respect each race. He recently completed IronMan Wisconsin for the second time in the worst conditions September 2022. He has learned that in order to successfully complete a race you need to train the body, you need to also train the mind as both are needed to be victorious.
 

Episode Highlights:

• Aaron starts running in high school.
• After a long hiatus, Aaron returns to  endurance sports.
• Aaron love for obstacle course racing.
• How Aaron becomes a triathlete
• The 2015 Louisville Full Ironman 140.6 race.
• Racing an Ironman event in a  monsoon.
• Lessons about the body and mind connection during a race
• Aaron Hickman has some words of wisdom

Guest Bio

Aaron Hickman began his fitness journey at the young age of 15 while involved with his high school cross-country team. It was at that time that he embraced the moment of running free among his peers as a means to focus on his happiness and not worry about anything around mmm.

Between high school and college, a long hiatus was taken. It wasn’t until 8 years later that Aaron was exposed to the running events in the Chicagoland area. Since then, he has taken part in over 10 obstacle course races, 5 triathlons, and 15 running endurance events. His most inspiring accomplishment came in 2015 at Ironman Louisville. It was at that moment he realized the power of the mind.

Through his accomplishments and tribulations, he hopes to motivate newcomers entering the endurance sport by letting them know it’s a long, rugged journey, however, the reward is well worth it.

Connect with Aaron Hickman 

• Connect with Aaron on Facebook

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Get a copy of the book Running Is Cheaper Than Therapy: A Journey Back to Wholeness. It is available in  hardback, paperback, and newly released audio form.

Connect with Dr. Ouida Brown

Instagram @ouilifeouilove

Facebook @ouilifeouilove33

Twitter @ouilifeouilove

Youtube @ouilifeouilove

Sign up for my newsletter http://bit.ly/OuilifeOuiloveNewsletter