Welcome back to the Running Strong Mind-Body Connection podcast! In this heartfelt episode, host Karen Bonnett-Natraj, certified mental fitness coach and founder of the Mental Fitness Edge, sits down with her friend and returning guest, Dr. Wendy Lyon. Together, they explore “the journey to love” and why building lasting relationships is more like running a marathon than sprinting to the finish line.

Drawing from Dr. Wendy’s personal story—as a former sprinter who rushed into relationships, before discovering the keys to sustaining lasting love—this conversation is packed with wisdom for athletes, coaches, and everyday warriors alike. Dr. Wendy shares insights from 25 years as a relationship coach, including how self-discovery, pacing, mindset, and intentionality are critical for finding and nurturing love. You’ll learn why knowing your values, vision, and self-worth is essential before bringing another person into your life and how rituals of connection, gratitude, and ongoing growth are vital to keeping love strong.

Whether you’re navigating the dating world, wanting to rekindle a relationship, or simply striving for more alignment between mind, body, and heart, this episode will inspire you to run the distance for the love you truly deserve. Be sure to listen in for practical tips, inspiring stories, and details about Dr. Wendy’s free masterclass and resources for creating the relationship you’ve always wanted!

Welcome back to the Running Strong Mind-Body Connection Podcast! In today’s inspiring episode, host Karen Bonnett-Natraj sits down with the multi-talented Danielle . Forsgren whose fascinating journey takes us from the bright lights of the theater world to the innovative realm of medical devices. Danielle shares how her upbringing as a fourth-generation performer shaped her creative drive, why she believes in reinventing oneself throughout life, and how her personal experiences led her to co-found Avisen Medical—a company dedicated to healing by harnessing the body’s natural potential.

Together, Karen and Danielle dive deep into the power of following your passions, the importance of supportive environments, and why prioritizing self-care isn’t selfish—it’s essential. They also explore the science behind Donella’s medical device, the critical role of microcirculation and inflammation in health, and how mind-body practices pave the way for lasting transformation and resilience.

Whether you’re a runner, a creative spirit, or on your own journey toward balance and healing, you’ll find wisdom, practical tips, and a whole lot of encouragement in this episode. So get ready to be inspired, laugh, and maybe even rethink what’s possible for your mind, body, and life.

Welcome back to another episode of the Running Strong Mind-Body Connection podcast, where we dive deep into the intersection of mental and physical resilience. This week, host Karen Bonet-Nataraj is joined by returning guest Mo Bartley for an honest and inspiring conversation all about navigating change—both on the racecourse and in life.

Together, Karen and Mo share their personal stories of overcoming injury, adapting to new challenges, and embracing the inevitable transitions that come with aging, shifting careers, and staying active in the face of setbacks. From tales of sprained ankles and torn Achilles to launching Mo's new "Mo Miles Trail Training" group at the age of 70, this episode is packed with wisdom about finding the silver lining in adversity, discovering the power of community, and learning how the right mindset can turn obstacles into opportunities.

Whether you’re a seasoned runner, recovering from burnout, or simply curious how to build real strength by connecting mind and body, you’ll find both practical advice and plenty of encouragement here. So, lace up, lean in, and get ready to be motivated to make the most out of change—whatever it looks like for you.

Maureen Anne Shea Carranza is a professional boxer, actress, commentator, and speaker, best known in the fight world as “The Real Million Dollar Baby.” Born in the Bronx, New York to Irish and Mexican parents, Maureen rose from humble beginnings to become a two-time world champion and one of the most respected veterans in women’s boxing.

With a professional record of 33 wins (13 by knockout), 3 losses, 1 draw, and 1 no contest, Maureen has held both the WBC Interim Featherweight and IFBA Super Bantamweight World Titles. She’s known for her grit, longevity, and fearless independence—often self-promoting her career and speaking out against inequities in the sport.

Maureen trained under elite coaches, including Hector Roca and Derik Santos, and was Hilary Swank’s sparring partner for Million Dollar Baby. Outside the ring, she’s a commentator, brand ambassador, former TV host, and advocate for both youth mentorship and domestic violence awareness. She’s also been featured in People, Sports Illustrated, E! True Hollywood Story, and more.

Maureen holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from Iona College, and currently lives and trains in South Florida. In 2025, she won yet another pro fight at age 44—proving her staying power in and out of the ring.

Welcome to episode 60 of the Running Strong Mind-Body Connection podcast! In today’s inspiring episode, host Karen sits down with the remarkable Bob Becker, a legendary figure in the ultramarathon world who just set a new record as the oldest finisher of the grueling Badwater 135 at age 80. With nearly two decades of Badwater experience—whether running, crewing, or working with race staff—Bob shares what keeps him coming back to one of the world’s toughest footraces.

Together, Karen and Bob reminisce about the early days of their friendship, swap unforgettable Badwater stories, and dive deep into Bob’s mindset, training, and nutrition strategies that helped him conquer 135 miles across Death Valley. Bob opens up about setbacks, his competitive spirit, the critical role of his crew and coach, and his passion for challenging what’s possible at any age. He also discusses his journey as a race director for the iconic KEYS100 and Daytona 100, the importance of staying active as you age, and his advice for anyone looking to push their limits.

Tune in for a conversation packed with wisdom, humor, and motivation—and discover why Bob Becker proves that age is just a number when it comes to endurance, resilience, and chasing big goals.

Stacey Ann Bistak is a passionate researcher and nutritionist whose journey into the world of electromagnetic frequencies (EMFs) began with a deep curiosity about how modern technology affects our health. Driven by a desire to help others, Stacy immersed herself in understanding the widespread presence of EMF radiation from cell phones, electronics, and even household wiring—all relatively new factors compared to the natural frequencies our ancestors lived with.

Her research revealed that these man-made frequencies can disrupt our bodily rhythms, interfere with sleep, cause fatigue and brain fog, and even inflict cellular damage that may lead to inflammation and cancer. Drawing from both science and personal experience, Stacey became an advocate for practical steps to reduce EMF exposure, such as using speaker mode on phones, avoiding carrying devices close to the body, and taking technology breaks. She also stresses the importance of lifestyle changes like grounding—walking barefoot outdoors—to neutralize harmful charges, and underscores the value of a nutrient-rich diet full of antioxidant-packed fruits and vegetables, which help protect against EMF-induced free radicals.

Through her work, Stacey empowers others with simple, actionable advice, blending her expertise in nutrition with her commitment to holistic well-being and a safer relationship with modern technology.

https://www.FernzHolisticConsulting.com/freesleep

Welcome back to the Running Strong Mind-Body Connection podcast! In this episode, I am joined by the inspiring Dr. Rani a visionary entrepreneur and passionate advocate for holistic wellness.

Dr. Rani's journey is one of profound transformation—she’s a clinical hypnotherapist, certified breathwork, chakra healer, astrologer, author, and founder of Amazing You.

Speaking candidly from her home in the UK, she shares her deeply personal story: from overcoming patterns of workplace bullying and navigating upheaval, to rediscovering purpose and embracing lifelong learning and healing.

Together, Karen and Dr. Rani explore the powerful intersection of energy, intuition, and self-awareness. We discuss the importance of reconnecting with our breath, healing the mind-body connection, and tuning into the messages within us, whether through meditation, hypnotherapy, or the simple act of pausing to breathe.

With insights drawn from both personal experience and professional expertise, Dr. Rani emphasizes that our true potential lies in understanding ourselves beyond the surface, as multidimensional beings with unique life paths and deep connections to the world around us.

Whether you’re a runner, a seeker on a healing journey, or simply curious about the deeper layers of wellness, this episode promises actionable tools, inspiration, and a powerful reminder: the treasure you seek is already within you.

Carolyn joins us from the windswept Falkland Islands, and her journey is nothing short of awe-inspiring. From remote veterinary adventures around the globe to an unexpected and debilitating spinal injury that dramatically altered her life, Carolyn shares how she faced down misdiagnoses, excruciating chronic pain, and a healthcare system that didn’t seem to listen. Instead of accepting a life defined by limitation,

Carolyn turned to her love of running and the outdoors—and through determination, research, and mind-body healing, she forged her own path to recovery.

In this episode, you’ll hear about Carolyn’s return to running after years of immobility, her holistic approach to pain and healing, and the crucial role of mental fitness—addressing trauma, reframing fear, and the power of hope. You’ll also get thrilling stories from her time as a veterinarian at the legendary Iditarod and the epic Mongol Derby, plus plenty of laughs and insights on the healing power of nature and adventure.

Whether you’re an athlete, someone managing pain, or simply curious about the connection between body, brain, and the will to persevere, Carolyn’s journey will leave you inspired and ready to overcome your own obstacles. Let’s dive into this uplifting conversation about resilience, adventure, and the unstoppable human spirit.

Eva Vennari understands the demands of modern life—the constant rush, the endless to-do lists, and the pressure to always be "on."

She noticed that beneath this high-paced routine, people often ignore subtle signals from their bodies: persistent headaches, joint pain, or surprising changes in health that seem “normal for the age” or easy to dismiss.

Drawing from her own experiences, Eva realized these are signs of energetic buildup and residue, caused by pushing ourselves without pause.

Her passion is helping others recognize these patterns and release the invisible stresses that get trapped in their bodies, guiding them toward balanced energy and holistic well-being.

In this insightful episode, join us as we chat with Vaughn Fahie about the power of our voices. Vaughn introduces the fascinating concept of a "voice print"—as unique as a fingerprint—and challenges us to rethink how we share our stories. We dive deep into the advantages and challenges of narrating your story versus writing it, and explore how to quiet that pesky inner critic that makes us doubt our voice.

We also discuss why so few people publish books despite the desire to, and how easy-to-use recording technology is revolutionizing how we preserve family histories. Plus, we reflect on the emotional impact of hearing loved ones' voices, the importance of "everyday" stories, and what might be holding you back from capturing your own unique narrative today. Get ready to be inspired to share your story, one voice memo at a time!

Here are some resources and links for you to check out:

Makemyaudiobook.fun

https://caregiverslike.us

Joseph Schrum is an avid ultrarunner and endurance adventurer, always on the lookout for new challenges and ways to push his limits. During one of his recent training runs, Joseph tackled the demanding Brown King scramble, a grueling 31-mile route with relentless uphill climbs until the final stretch. His goal was to simulate the toughness and fatigue he’d face during the Cocodona 250, aiming to hike hard up to Crown King, take short breaks, and refuel quickly—just as he would in the race’s punishing first 100k.

With nearly 11,000 feet of vertical gain ahead and an estimated 19–20 hours on foot, Joseph approached the day with patience and determination. After finally reaching his van just after 1:30 a.m., he found all the park gates closed, trapping him inside until morning. Forced to rest, Joseph took the situation in stride, embracing every challenge as part of his journey to become a stronger, more resilient athlete.

Jared opens up about his humble beginnings, facing early DNFs (Did Not Finish) and the lessons learned from those experiences. He shares how moving from road to trail running helped him fall in love with pushing his limits and connecting with a diverse, supportive community. Together, Karen and Jared dive into the mindset needed to persevere through setbacks, the importance of learning from mistakes, and how each race—no matter the outcome—becomes an opportunity for growth.

The heart of the episode centers around Jared’s recent Cocodona 250 adventure, a grueling multi-day race through mud, storms, and sleep deprivation. Jared recounts the highs and lows, including the impact of teamwork and the friendships forged on the trail, the invaluable help of crew and pacers (many of whom he’d never met before), and the moments that pushed him to the edge both physically and mentally.

Whether you’re an experienced ultra runner or just starting out, Jared’s story will inspire you to explore your own boundaries, embrace the power of community, and discover what’s possible when you take that next step—no matter how daunting it may seem. Get ready to be motivated, moved, and reminded that in running and in life, it’s often the journey, not just the finish line, that transforms us.

Stacey-Anne grew up in a Western culture, though her parents turned to natural remedies most often, except in an emergency. With their move to Canada, conventional medicine became the norm due to a fast-paced life. However, Stacey-Anne found herself questioning this approach, especially with the burgeoning side effects. 

Over time, she developed a preference for natural methods, valuing the slower but more complete healing they offer, free from unwanted side effects.

Today, an experienced Holistic Nutritionist, Stacey-Anne continues to seek out and practice holistic approaches to well-being, staying committed to a path of natural healing in her everyday life, while helping her clients do the same. 

Check out Stacey-Anne’s website and gift:
https://www.fernzholisticconsulting.com/freesleep

I thank all of you who have been part of my Running Strong Mind Body Connection podcast journey.

I look forward to another year of podcasts

Lori shares her personal story—how her own search for fulfillment led her from unraveling old beliefs to rediscovering her dreams and even moving across the country to live out a childhood vision. Together, they explore the importance of reconnecting with your authentic self, listening to your intuition, and embracing the childlike joy that often gets buried under life’s responsibilities and fears. With practical insights and heartfelt wisdom, Karen and Lori deliver a message of hope: it’s never too late to reinvent yourself, find happiness, and live the life you truly want.

Whether you’re in the midst of transition or supporting someone who is, this conversation is packed with relatable stories and actionable tips for overcoming limiting beliefs, letting go of regret, and rediscovering the power within.

Tune in to get inspired, and remember—there’s always now.

Mike Hoffman’s journey is one of transformation and grit. In January 2024, after reaching his heaviest weight of 266 pounds, Mike—despite spending long days on his feet as a mail carrier—realized it was time to take charge of his health.

Determined for a change, he signed up for “The Proving Ground,” a grueling training weekend in North Georgia run by former Navy SEAL Chad Wright, founder of Project 3 of 7. There, Mike found himself the slowest and heaviest participant, put to the test running endless stairs with his team. On the verge of quitting as his body faltered, he leaned on his teammates’ support and pushed through.

That pivotal moment inspired Mike to start running consistently. He tackled his first 5Ks, then larger races—10K, 12K, 15K. Craving a bigger challenge, he set his sights on ultramarathons. It was during one of these events, the iconic Crown King Scramble, that he shared his story mid-run—reminding everyone that the true victory is choosing to keep moving, one step at a time.

J.D. Leisky brings a powerful story of resilience, transformation, and hope. J.D. shares his incredible journey from being a self-described "gym rat" at the peak of physical fitness—only to suffer a life-altering stroke and discover major heart issues at just 35 years old. Faced with the loss of his athletic identity, J.D. fell into a dark period but ultimately found his way back through unexpected avenues—like shooting hoops on the basketball court and connecting with others who were also facing challenges.

Growing up along the murky creeks of Southern Georgia, Cheryl Wright swam fearlessly in waters teeming with alligators, believing she would see them coming in time to escape.

Looking back, she marvels at the risks her childhood self took, using that memory as a powerful metaphor in her later life. Cheryl found a striking similarity between lurking alligators and the presence of narcissists—both hidden threats that can catch you off guard and leave a lasting mark. Inspired by these experiences,

Cheryl became an author, channeling her story into her book and website, "Everything is Swimming with Alligators," where she shares lessons from her journey and empowers others to navigate the often treacherous waters of human relationships.

Lisa Smith-Batchen’s journey to endurance running greatness didn’t follow a typical path. In high school, she was told she was too slow for the cross country and track teams and struggled with asthma—so she gave up running for years, despite loving it. Everything changed during her last year of college, when she decided to join a 5K Turkey Trot on a whim. Surprisingly, she won the race—and a 20-pound turkey—proving to herself (and her family) that she was a runner after all.

From there, Lisa rapidly escalated her ambitions: from local 10Ks to her first marathon, and soon after, she was talked into running the legendary Badwater 135 ultra marathon by friend and mentor Marshall Ulrich. By 1995, just months after learning what an “ultra” even was, Lisa found herself at the Badwater starting line in Death Valley, and discovered a true passion for extreme endurance. Since then, Lisa Smith-Batchen has become a celebrated figure in the ultrarunning world, known for her bold spirit, rapid progress, and deep love for pushing beyond the marathon into the toughest races on earth.

For years, Dr. Joan Steidinger watched as women’s natural focus on relationships was misunderstood—even pathologized.

Inspired by the cultural impact of books like Women Who Love Too Much in the 1980s and 90s, she felt frustrated by the notion that women’s relational strengths were seen as problems rather than strengths. Determined to change the narrative,

Dr. Steidinger decided to write her own book—one that would celebrate women’s connection-oriented approach through the world of sports, particularly running.

Through research, she discovered that, contrary to stereotypes, women didn’t simply talk more than men—they talked more about relationships.

With her work, Dr. Steidinger aims to normalize and honor the relationship focus of women, showing it as a source of power and community, not a weakness.