Extraordinary Strides

I'm your host, Coach Christine, and today's episode features two incredible women. The effervescent Christina Frattura revisited her strength training roots after an injury, sparking a renewed passion for running. We also have the pleasure of hearing from Julie Cates, an expert in muscle activation techniques and the cohost of the Exercise is Life podcast.

Together, we delve into the transformative effects of strength training, building a supportive community, and the emotional rollercoaster of preparing for and completing marathons.

Before we dive into the episode - sign up today to learn more about the 6-week virtual Back2Basics program to help you focus on the basics of cadence, form, nutrition, and more while building your foundation before kicking off endurance training for Fall races.  Learn more here, and you'll also receive an exclusive 55-minute audio workout preview of what you can expect in the Back2Basics program. 

Have you ever faced an insurmountable obstacle, only to emerge stronger and more passionate than ever? Christina Frattura embodies this spirit, taking us from her initial disdain for running to her inspiring completion of the iconic Boston Marathon.

Her journey is a testament to the power of community and personal drive. When we shift to the personal, the conversation gets raw and real – fears, doubts, and the cathartic release of crossing the finish line all come into play. We tackle how life's demands intersect with marathon training, revealing how a supportive running community can be an absolute game-changer.

Julie Cates joins us to shed light on the importance of strength training, particularly for women combating muscle loss with age. We dive into the undeniable benefits of resistance and impact training to optimize bone density and how these practices go hand-in-hand with endurance sports to forge a strong, agile body ready for life's demands. 

Don't just run your race; let's run it together, stronger and empowered.

Have questions or want to chat? Send a voicemail!

Support the show

Join the newsletter list for updates, special offers, and exclusive behind-the-scenes content.

Join fellow pod and running enthusiasts at The Stride Collective community on Facebook or follow us on Instagram. 

Lacing up for a meaningful run isn't just about the physical challenge; it's a commitment to a cause that reaches the heart and soul of communities. Today's episode is a testament to that very spirit, where I recount running the Boston Marathon in honor of my mom and how it led me to advocate for many causes that are near and dear to my hear. 

I am particularly passionate about youth empowerment through Girls on the Run. Joined by the vibrant Michelle and Brigette, who are not just runners but pillars in their communities, we uncover the profound impact of coaching and running for charity. Their stories are a reminder that the race is not always for the swift but often for those who keep running with purpose.

Running for charity is more than a personal triumph; it's a communal victory. Our discussion highlights the Girls on the Run program's life-changing curriculum, emphasizing emotional resilience and strength. As a coach, I've witnessed firsthand the sheer joy of connecting with young girls, instilling lessons that resonate far beyond the running track. And if you're hesitant because you’re not a seasoned runner, fear not. The program celebrates walking and mindful movement, too. The upcoming all-women's marathon and a potential Dopey Challenge are not just events but beacons of hope and empowerment for communities rallying behind the cause.

But let's get practical—as inspiring as these endeavors are, they require funds to thrive. This episode is packed with creative fundraising strategies that propelled my charitable efforts. From leveraging social media to hosting community events, I share a wealth of ideas that can help you reach and even surpass your goals. 

Whether through engaging raffles, employer donation matching, or unique community-driven events, every bit of effort contributes to a greater narrative. So, tie up those sneakers, tap into the generosity of your network, and let's run this race together—where every mile is a milestone for someone's brighter tomorrow.

Have questions or want to chat? Send a voicemail!

Support the show

Join the newsletter list for updates, special offers, and exclusive behind-the-scenes content.

Join fellow pod and running enthusiasts at The Stride Collective community on Facebook or follow us on Instagram. 

Ever wonder why your running hobby, which started with just a pair of sneakers, seems to be sprinting away with your wallet? Join me, Coach Christine, and financial coach Debra Jacobs of Money Smart for Life, as we lace up to chase down the unexpected costs that come with pounding the pavement. Together, we dissect the financial impact of everything from the latest gear to those coveted race bibs, and how to keep your bank account as healthy as your stride. Want to get started on tracking your running expenses? Get your FREE tracker here.

In this episode, we get real about finding the sweet spot between managing money and chasing dreams, proving that financial planning isn't about tightening the belt, but rather, fueling the life you're running towards. We'll share tips on creating a budget that doesn't feel like a fiscal straitjacket but instead empowers you to allocate funds for the experiences that truly make your heart race.

The finish line of our conversation is all about practical advice for runners who don't want their love for the sport to outpace their financial goals. From comparing the true costs of local races versus international marathons to the importance of investing in safety gear, we cover how to save without sacrificing the joy of the run. Whether you're a casual jogger or a marathon enthusiast, this episode is packed with actionable guidance to ensure that when it comes to running and finances, you're setting the pace, not playing catch up.

Have questions or want to chat? Send a voicemail!

Support the show

Join the newsletter list for updates, special offers, and exclusive behind-the-scenes content.

Join fellow pod and running enthusiasts at The Stride Collective community on Facebook or follow us on Instagram. 

Have you ever felt like giving up when life throws you a curveball? Amanda Hill's journey on the pavement tells a different story—one of unyielding determination and the life-changing impact of running. In our latest episode, we celebrate Amanda's transition from hesitant beginner, guided by the couch to 5K app, to a triumphant half marathon finisher. Her story isn't just about personal records; it's a lesson in resilience, balancing the roles of motherhood, healthcare professional, and many hats, all the while carving out her own "me time" with every stride.

Sometimes, the race isn't about the finish line; it's about the community cheering you on and the lessons learned along the way. That's the heart of our conversation as we recount Amanda's highs and lows, including the emotional whirlwind of training for the Wine and Dine race only to be sidelined by an injury. Yet, her tale doesn't pause there. Witness how she embraced the role of supportive spectator, underpinning the value of a solid support network during recovery, and how she made a comeback with a mindset as strong as her running cadence.

This episode isn't just Amanda's victory lap; it's a playbook for anyone inspired to pursue their running goals. We'll traverse the importance of listening to your body, the nuances of finding a run coach that fits like a snug pair of running shoes, and the shared joy of cultivating new friendships within the running community. Amanda’s experience serves as a beacon for anyone seeking motivation or contemplating the benefits of a personalized coaching partnership. Join us for an episode that's more than just a run—it's a marathon of inspiration, camaraderie, and the relentless pursuit of personal bests.

In this episode, you will also find the reasons why you should hire a coach and the key factors you need to consider before doing so.

Interested in learning more about 1:1 coaching with Coach Christine? Fill out the application here. 

Have questions or want to chat? Send a voicemail!

Support the show

Join the newsletter list for updates, special offers, and exclusive behind-the-scenes content.

Join fellow pod and running enthusiasts at The Stride Collective community on Facebook or follow us on Instagram. 

Transform your running routine with a unique guide you through the art of easy runs with the revolutionary 80-20 rule. Unlock the potential of maintaining 80% of your runs at an effortless intensity to build an unmatched aerobic base, paired with the crucial 20% that ramps up to high intensity for peak performance enhancement. Our latest brunch conversation serves a flavorful mix of wisdom, playful debates, and coaching strategies tailored for runners at every level, all wrapped in the warmth of our shared love for the sport. Speaking of mixed and 80/20 rule? Find out how you can achieve your Optimal Performance Pace here.

Take a step beyond the basics with us and discover varied training techniques, from the freedom of fartlek workouts to the disciplined challenge of tempo runs. Coach Tia Pettygrue dives into her treasure trove of 170 half marathons, sharing the nuanced balance between chasing personal records and basking in the marathon atmosphere.

We also shed light on the Game Changers Mentorship program's inspiring mission. This program empowers women of color with tools ranging from business acumen to financial planning, fostering a more diverse and inclusive coaching community.

As we wrap up this energizing exchange, join in on candid discussions ranging from race day strategies to the playful 'this or that running edition' game. 

Whether you find solace in a solid running playlist or relish the camaraderie of the running community, this episode is your invitation to keep those easy runs easy and carry the joy and insights from our brunch table. 

Lace-up those running shoes and prepare to be uplifted; this conversation is one for the books, or should we say roads!

Have questions or want to chat? Send a voicemail!

Support the show

Join the newsletter list for updates, special offers, and exclusive behind-the-scenes content.

Join fellow pod and running enthusiasts at The Stride Collective community on Facebook or follow us on Instagram. 

Embark on a transformative journey with Coach Christine and the remarkable Coach Stephanie Diaz of The Runner's Roundtable podcast.

First, Coach Christine delves into the seven essential traits that elevate athletes to new heights. This conversation is more than just a lesson in athletics; it's a deep dive into personal success stories and the mastery of time management that resonates with anyone chasing a dream. From the power of curiosity to the art of balancing life's commitments with running goals, we uncover the personalized nature of triumph in sports and beyond.

Feel the beat of your heart sync with every step as we traverse the emotional terrains of marathons, where personal records are etched not just in time but in moments of strength and healing. Stephanie shares an intimate chapter of her running life, where the marathon course became a sanctuary for grief, mirroring the emotional voyages of countless others in the running community. It's about finding solace in the rhythm of your run, embracing growth, and healing through the journey.

As we close this episode, we celebrate the connections forged through running, inviting you to join the conversation and the community that supports it. 

Whether you're lacing up for your first mile or your hundredth marathon, this episode is a testament to the shared experiences and the profound impact of running on our lives. 

So tune in, find your stride, and let's move forward together, one inspirational step at a time.

Have questions or want to chat? Send a voicemail!

Support the show

Join the newsletter list for updates, special offers, and exclusive behind-the-scenes content.

Join fellow pod and running enthusiasts at The Stride Collective community on Facebook or follow us on Instagram. 

Welcome back to Time for Brunch,

Today's episode features two truly remarkable women.

First we get to meet a marathon pacer on a mission! As a vice principal and mother, Stephanie Dunlap thought her marathon-running days were as far-fetched as a fantasy brunch with running legend Kathrine Switzer. Yet, in a heart-to-heart conversation, she reveals her extraordinary transformation from a bystander to a 37-time marathoner, and her commitment to making the sport inclusive for all. Her story is not just about the miles she's conquered, but a testament to the resilience and empowerment that comes with each step, and the balance she strikes between the demands of motherhood, a professional career, and her passion for running.

Transitioning from personal victories to shared triumphs, we explore the selfless world of pacing in marathons.  We delve into the strategies and emotional strength required to support a diverse group of runners, especially those who complete a marathon in six hours or more. It's a celebration of the unsung heroes and an affirmation that the back-of-the-pack runners are every bit as commendable for their endurance and spirit.

You can stay in touch with Stephanie on Instagram here.

Then, we shift from the physical to the mental, embracing the serenity that comes with mindfulness and meditation. With Angela Smith's insights, we discuss starting small, finding your rhythm, and how meditation can help you become a stronger runner and more capable leader.

We cap off the episode by exploring retreat opportunities that pair the calming practice of yoga with the invigorating challenge of running, all within nurturing environments that promise growth and transformation. Join us for this inspiring journey that marries the intensity of marathons with the tranquility of meditation, and be reminded of the extraordinary within the everyday.

Angela invites you to learn more about her meditation coaching by joining her for a special FREE virtual community meditation here.

Or learn more about her April retreat, mindful leadership course, and Momentum Mountain retreat by visiting here.

Have questions or want to chat? Send a voicemail!

Support the show

Join the newsletter list for updates, special offers, and exclusive behind-the-scenes content.

Join fellow pod and running enthusiasts at The Stride Collective community on Facebook or follow us on Instagram. 

Have you ever found yourself intrigued by the endurance and tenacity required to master both the wild trails of ultra marathons and the whims of donkey racing? Our guest, the indefatigable Michelle Stolz, takes us on a thrilling journey through her transition from the structured world of road racing to the unpredictable and rewarding path of trail running and burro racing. Michelle's story is a testament to the power of a single spark to ignite a lifelong passion, as she details her ascent from half marathons to 100-mile trail runs with the same spirit she applies to bonding with her four-legged racing partners.

Want to learn more about Burro Racing? Follow Michelle on Instagram here and check out the Western Pack Burro Association here.

Embarking on an adventure with a donkey at your side is no small feat, and this episode unearths every stone along that track. We share laughter and learning curves as Michelle recounts races with runaway donkeys and the joyous triumphs that come from achieving harmony with these quirky athletes. She offers pearls of wisdom for those curious about stepping into the world of pack burro racing, underscoring the deeper life lessons of assertiveness and respect that transcend the sport. Her insights are a roadmap for both the burro racing neophyte and the seasoned trailblazer looking to venture into new territories of challenge and camaraderie.

Our conversation wraps with a peek into the rich tapestry of community and tradition that enlivens the burro racing scene, from the sharing of local delicacies to the collective narrative passed down through generations. Michelle's aspirations to welcome donkeys into her family and her hopes for the future of this sport—both locally and on international horizons—reflect the heartfelt dedication that buoys this distinctive community. 

So, be "Burro-Brave" and join us for a run on the wild side, where personal growth is but a stride away and the stories of the trail are as boundless as the landscapes we traverse. Keep pace with us, and let your next adventure be guided by the spirited tales and insights from the captivating world of Michelle Stolz. 

Have questions or want to chat? Send a voicemail!

Support the show

Join the newsletter list for updates, special offers, and exclusive behind-the-scenes content.

Join fellow pod and running enthusiasts at The Stride Collective community on Facebook or follow us on Instagram. 

We have an exception guest today, but before we dive into our conversation with ultrarunning coach and podcast host, Meghan Gould, I want to invite you to join in on the March Mileage and Mindset Challenge. Learn more here. 

Get sorted and tackle your monthly mileage together with your team on the way to victory of the Tri-Wizard Tournament of miles, mindset, and magic. 

Then join me in welcoming Meghan, a former Division II softball player turned ultra-marathoner. We share our journeys of overcoming physical adversities and the incredible ways these experiences have sculpted us into the resilient athletes we are today. Learn more about Meghan's transition from competitive softball to long-distance running, which serves as a testament to the strength and empowerment found within the ultra-endurance community.

We tackle the subjects that resonate deeply with women venturing into the world of ultra-running. Safety, the shift from roads to trails, and pushing beyond marathon distances are just a few of the hurdles we discuss, highlighting the evolution of the ultra community into an increasingly welcoming space for female runners. Our discussion aims to inspire and guide more women to lace up their trail shoes and join the ranks, embracing the invigorating challenge and camaraderie that come with the sport. Let's break down barriers and celebrate the diverse joys trail running has to offer, proving that anyone can find their pace and thrive in this exhilarating scene.

As we wrap up this episode, the focus turns to the tactical side of ultra-marathon success. From the "daily shake down" for injury prevention to setting ambitious goals that take us beyond our comfort zones, the conversation is packed with actionable advice for those ready to step up to the starting line of their first ultra. Join our supportive She Runs Ultras community, where we share triumphs, challenges, and the undeniable thrill of running. Your journey is unique, and we're here to cheer you on every step of the way, so come along for the ride and let's make those magical miles count.

Have questions or want to chat? Send a voicemail!

Support the show

Join the newsletter list for updates, special offers, and exclusive behind-the-scenes content.

Join fellow pod and running enthusiasts at The Stride Collective community on Facebook or follow us on Instagram. 

Get ready to elevate your run game and join the magic with our latest episode, where we take you through the enchanting world of Run Disney events and beyond! Whether you're dusting off your sneakers for the Princess run or gearing up for the intensity of the Springtime Surprise Challenge Giveaway Details here.

Plus you still have time to join Wizard World adventure and use VIBEARLYOWL for your "express" ticket to wizarding school fun! 

Plus, we've got the scoop on the Space Coast marathon coming up in December. Excitement is building in the Time for Brunch community, and we're buzzing with plans for future meetups to turn every stride into a shared celebration. 

The expansion of our thriving Facebook community with the Mod Squad initiative, all while staying true to our mission to move, motivate, and connect.

This conversation isn't a monologue; it's a dynamic dialogue shaped by your feedback and stories. Reflecting on the wisdom shared by our diverse lineup of past guests, from serene meditation mentors to gritty ultra-marathoners, has been nothing short of inspiring. 

And now, we're eager to hear from you—what champions would you love to hear next on our show? Your input is reshaping our journey, including the possibility of making our new Thursday release schedule a mainstay. 

As we lace up for the miles ahead, remember that every step we take together weaves an extraordinary narrative into the tapestry of our running adventures.

Have questions or want to chat? Send me a text!

Join the newsletter list for updates, special offers, and exclusive behind-the-scenes content.

Join fellow pod and running enthusiasts at The Stride Collective community on Facebook or follow us on Instagram.