Welcome to another inspiring episode of the Running Strong Mind-Body Connection podcast! In today's conversation, Karen sits down with Haleh Houshim—a vibrant, two-time best-selling author whose vision for a 200-year life is matched only by her passion for empowering others to live with purpose, vitality, and joy.

Together, they dive deep into powerful topics, including overcoming the darkness of domestic violence, harnessing the transformative power of journaling, and stepping into self-love and intuition. Karen and Haleh Houshim share their personal journeys of breaking free from limiting beliefs and societal programming, reminding us all of the importance of embracing our true, infinite selves. They explore the connection between mindset, health, and longevity, and discuss what it truly means to live each day in highest joy and alignment.

If you're ready for a soul-nourishing dose of wisdom, self-discovery, and contagious energy, you're in the right place. Let's dive in!

Jennifer Tolo's journey is one of transformation, resilience, and awakening. Growing up as a driven athlete, Jennifer channeled her determination into a successful career as a critical care nurse, thriving on the fast-paced adrenaline and a deep desire to help those in need. Like many, she felt compelled to fix healthcare's flaws, earning a master's in administration to drive change from the inside. However, life's unexpected turns began rewriting her script.

The birth of her second son and his neonatal stroke marked a profound turning point, opening Jennifer's eyes to the gaps in Western medicine and stirring long-dormant spiritual gifts she'd been taught to suppress. Immersing herself in holistic nursing, Jennifer became Reiki certified, studied nutrition, earned her personal training credentials, and dove into mindfulness and neuroscience—all to support her son's recovery and her family's wellbeing.

Her journey became more urgent when her third son was diagnosed with leukemia as she carried her fourth child. Balancing motherhood, business ownership, and her pursuit of holistic healing, Jennifer learned to blend both traditional treatments and integrative modalities. As she practiced and taught wellness techniques, she was forced to confront her own health crisis—a stroke scare that became her wake-up call to self-care.

Through adversity and a relentless quest for knowledge, Jennifer transformed from a hard-driving nurse to a passionate advocate for holistic family wellness. Her story inspires others to embrace both science and intuition, prioritize self-care, and find healing—even amid life's greatest challenges.

Welcome to another episode of Running Strong Mind-Body Connection, where we explore the transformative power of aligning mind and body for real, lasting strength and joy. In today's conversation, host Karen Bonnett Natraj sits down with the incredible Shadrack Biwot, a former professional runner from Kenya turned coach and massage therapist, whose unique perspective on patience, presence, and self-kindness is bound to inspire.

Raised in Kenya, Shadrack Biwot shares how growing up outdoors, running everywhere, and being connected to nature shaped his approach to both running and life—a stark contrast to the fast-paced, competitive mindset many experience in the U.S.

Together with guest host Karen Bonnett-Natraj, they dive deep into what it really means to "run your own race," break free from negative self-talk, and find joy in the moment—whether you're chasing big athletic goals or simply looking for more peace and balance.

This episode is packed with wisdom on letting go of unnecessary stress, embracing curiosity, and filling your own cup so you can better support others. You'll hear practical tips for grounding yourself, building meaningful connections, and recognizing that perfection isn't the goal—authenticity and self-appreciation are.

Tune in for not just expert insight, but also heartfelt storytelling and a reminder that nature, self-reflection, and kindness are available to us all. If you're ready to unlock a deeper mind-body connection or just need a gentle nudge back to what matters most, this episode is for you.

Welcome to another episode of Running Strong Mind-Body Connection, hosted by Karen Bonnett-Natraj. In this inspiring conversation, Karen Bonnett-Natraj sits down with Sunita, an avid hiker and yoga teacher, to explore the powerful link between mental resilience, physical endurance, and nature.

Sunita shares her recent journey completing the Tour du Mont Blanc, a legendary 110-mile trek across France, Italy, and Switzerland with over 35,000 feet of elevation gain. From training sessions on the iconic "Cardiac" hill to overcoming jet lag and self-doubt, Sunita opens up about the challenges, surprises, and breakthroughs she experienced on this demanding adventure.

Together, they discuss the importance of preparation, the unexpected community found on the trails, and how practices like yoga and breathwork can transform your experience outdoors. Sunita also reflects on the gratitude and clarity that nature brings, while Karen Bonnett-Natraj shares tips on injury prevention and the mental fitness strategies at the heart of her coaching philosophy.

Whether you're a runner, hiker, or simply someone seeking connection and inspiration, this episode is filled with wisdom, practical advice, and the spirit of saying "yes" to new adventures. Join us as we dive into building mental and physical strength—one step, and one breath, at a time.

Welcome to another inspiring episode of Running Strong Mind-Body Connection! Today, host Karen Bonnett-Natraj sits down with the amazing Dr. Grazyna—an electrical engineer turned age-reversal specialist who's living proof that thriving at any age is possible.

At 74 with a biological age of 58, Dr. Grazyna shares her transformational journey, expert insights, and the science behind reversing aging and optimizing health.

Together, Dr. Grazyna and Karen Bonnett-Natraj explore the powerful link between mind and body, revealing why true strength isn't about pushing harder, but rather finding harmony and flow. Whether you're an athlete, a wellness seeker, or anyone curious about living healthier and younger, this episode is packed with tools, stories, and practical wisdom for shifting self-sabotage to self-love and unlocking your full potential.

Get ready to challenge old beliefs about aging, discover the importance of the mind-body connection, and learn how small lifestyle changes can have profound results.

Plus, stick around for actionable tips and resources to start your own mental fitness journey. If you're ready to feel inspired, empowered, and equipped to run strong in every area of your life, this is the episode for you!

Welcome to another episode of Running Strong Mind-Body Connection! In this inspiring conversation, host Karen Bonnett-Natraj sits down with Jennifer Hough—international best-selling author, TEDx speaker, and founder of The Wide Awakening—to explore the profound link between our physical performance, mindset, and the principles of physics. Jennifer, affectionately called a "cosmic instigator," shares her wisdom on how aligning our thoughts, emotions, and biology can help us shift from self-sabotage to self-love, overcome anxiety, and achieve sustainable success.

Together, Karen and Jennifer break down complex concepts like quantum physics, epigenetics, and neuroscience, making them accessible and practical for runners and anyone seeking transformation. They discuss actionable tools—from future activation techniques to the importance of "blissipline"—and share transformative stories that demonstrate how changing our thoughts can instantly impact our physical wellbeing and performance.

Whether you're training for an ultramarathon, recovering from burnout, or simply searching for a deeper connection to yourself, this episode will inspire you to tap into the universal laws that govern not only the universe but also your own potential. Tune in to learn how to upgrade your mental fitness and embrace new paradigms for thriving in sport and in life!

Welcome to another episode of Running Strong Mind-Body Connection! I'm your host, Karen Bonnett-Natraj, and in today's episode, we welcome the inspiring Dr. Greg Yuen. Dr. Yuen's fascinating journey began when he was just 12 years old, after the passing of his grandmother sent him on a lifelong quest for longevity and wellness. Through decades of experience spanning Western medicine, psychiatry, massage therapy, and becoming a Tai Chi instructor, Dr. Yuen has come to believe that mindful self-massage—dō-in—may be one of the most powerful and accessible tools for cultivating the vital energy, or "chi," in our bodies.

In this episode, Dr. Yuen shares how dō-in can help runners and anyone seeking greater mind-body connection to reduce stress, promote healing, alleviate pain, enhance performance, and support longevity. We dive deep into Eastern philosophies, energy techniques, and practical acupressure points you can use before, during, and after your runs. Whether you're chasing a finish line or simply want to feel more aligned inside and out, this conversation is full of wisdom and actionable takeaways for your journey.

Tune in to hear Dr. Yuen's expert insights, learn how to boost your own flow of chi, and discover why loving attention to your body can transform your running and your life!

If you have any trouble accessing the links below, please contact me @themindfulathletecoach@gmail.com

Here is a link to Dr Greg's workshop: https://docs.google.com/document/d/12ISOskPQbhT1vzCiQB21YCjS5Ejzy-cy/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=115999886004146583718&rtpof=true&sd=true

Here are the exercises you can start implementing:

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1zjz31LUP4TNC70qzEQQToW9NgeHKLbFO/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=107694207209257021617&rtpof=true&sd=true

Welcome back to the Running Strong Mind-Body Connection podcast! In this episode, host Karen Bonnett-Natraj is joined once again by the insightful Stacey Anne Bistak, holistic nutritionist and ultra-endurance enthusiast.

Stacy returns for her third visit to share her expertise on the critical role that nutrition, hydration, and electrolyte balance play in both running performance and overall well-being. From practical fueling tips for ultramarathons and the differences between hydration strategies, to the benefits of real food and the power of mindful movement, this conversation is packed with valuable takeaways for runners and anyone interested in building a stronger mind-body connection.

Whether you're lacing up for serious mileage or just looking to feel more energized and connected, get ready for an inspiring, information-rich discussion that will help you fuel your body, nourish your spirit, and run strong at every stage of your life.