In this episode of Extraordinary Strides, we sit down with Gwendolyn Bounds, an award-winning journalist and author of Not Too Late: The Power of Pushing Limits At Any Age. Gwendolyn shares her inspiring journey from a successful career and fulfilling life to taking on the unexpected challenge of obstacle course racing in her mid-40s. We dive into the pivotal moments that led her to this path, the life lessons she’s learned along the way, and how she continues to push her own limits.

Key Discussion Points:

• Catalyst for Change: How a simple question at a dinner party set Gwendolyn on a path to explore the hardest physical challenges she could take on.
• Overcoming Impostor Syndrome: Gwendolyn's strategies for overcoming self-doubt and impostor syndrome as she began training and competing in Spartan Races.
• The Role of Age in Pushing Limits: The advantages that come with age, including patience, wisdom, and the concept of being "Seasoned, Savvy, and Unstoppable."
• Obstacles as Life Lessons: Gwendolyn shares how the physical challenges of obstacle course racing mirror the obstacles we face in life and how they can teach us resilience and commitment.
• Body Image and Athleticism: A candid discussion about how Gwendolyn's perception of her own body evolved as she pushed her physical limits and what she learned about overcoming body image issues.
• Learning from All Ages: The importance of staying open to learning from those younger than us and how that has shaped Gwendolyn's journey.
• Coping with Mortality: Gwendolyn reflects on how facing her own mortality after a melanoma diagnosis reshaped her perspective on life, aging, and the role of physical activity.

Links Mentioned:

• Get Gwendolyn Bounds' Book: Not Too Late: The Power of Pushing Limits At Any Age
• Sign Up for Gwendolyn’s Newsletter: Stay updated on her latest adventures, writing, and insights by signing up here.

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Have you ever wondered what makes running more than just a form of exercise? Join me, Coach Christine, on this thrilling episode of Extraordinary Strides as we unlock the secrets to making your runs both enjoyable and effective. Learn how to harness the magic of a "sunshine and rainbows pace," understand the playful nature of "fartlek," and discover the real benefits behind using fuel belts or hydration vests. Plus, get the lowdown on hill repeats, interval training, and how to power up your finishing kick to nail every workout with confidence.

Get ready to expand your running vocabulary as we break down essential runner jargon. From understanding the importance of negative splits to the significance of getting properly fitted for your running shoes, this episode covers it all. We also delve into the joys of personal records (PRs) and personal bests (PBs), offering valuable tips on how to execute recovery runs effectively. And for those curious about the euphoria of runner's high, we explain how endocannabinoids play a role in enhancing your mood and well-being.

Lastly, we shine a spotlight on the incredible spirit of the Extraordinary Strides community. Join the Stride Collective Facebook community page and be part of a network that celebrates every step of your journey. We show our heartfelt appreciation for each member's contributions and encourage everyone to stay connected and motivated. Whether you're a seasoned runner or just starting, this episode promises to inspire and equip you with the knowledge to make every stride extraordinary.

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What does it take to rediscover a passion that you thought was lost forever? Meet Carmen, also known as Katina Hedges, whose journey from the heat of Mexico to the cold climates of Michigan in the U.S. serves as a testament to resilience and determination.

This episode of Extraordinary Strides chronicles Carmen's incredible path from a college runner to a gold medalist at the Michigan Senior Olympics, and her unwavering drive to compete in the 2025 Nationals in Des Moines, Iowa. Along the way, Carmen shares how a friend's simple invitation to run sparked a lifelong love for the sport, and how a charity walk for Parkinson's in 2015 reignited that flame after years of life's twists and turns.

Transitioning between countries and climates, Carmen initially used running as a stress reliever and found a supportive community that fueled her passion. We reminisce about a time when race invitations came by mail and running was free from the distractions of gadgets and social media. Even through life's hiatuses, including marriage and career changes, Carmen's story emphasizes the importance of perseverance and simplicity. Whether it's overcoming weight gain or navigating the changing landscape of modern running, Carmen's narrative is a powerful reminder of the persistent call to get back on track.

Carmen's journey is not merely about running; it's about the spirit of competition and personal growth. From qualifying for the Senior Olympics through social media discovery to setting records in race walking, her story is filled with mental and physical challenges that shape her resilience. At 65, she finds strength in pursuing bucket list goals, overcoming osteoarthritis, and even revisiting her passion for Hawaiian dancing.

Carmen's story is an inspiring call to never give up on your dreams, no matter the obstacles. Join us for an episode brimming with motivation, where Carmen's extraordinary strides encourage us all to take bold steps toward our ambitions.

Keep up with Carmen and walk toward your own health inspiration here.

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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.