Welcome back to the Running Strong Mind-Body Connection podcast! In this episode, host Karen Bonnett-Natraj welcomes ultra runner and coach Nick Bautista, whose story perfectly embodies the intersection of hustle, healing, and the transformative power of alignment between mind and body.

After meeting at the grueling Route 66 Ultra Run—a 140-mile adventure—Karen Bonnett-Natraj was deeply inspired by Nick Bautista's extraordinary approach to endurance, mental resilience, and purpose-driven performance. Donella Foregren joins the conversation to dig even deeper into what drives Nick Bautista: from his first steps as a non-runner seeking better physical health, to conquering a mind-bending 500-mile race, and his philosophy on training, competition, and staying grounded in the present moment.

Whether you're an ultra-distance runner, just starting your fitness journey, or searching for tools to build true mental strength, this episode will resonate with you. Get ready for real talk on running for your heart, self-discovery on long miles, the importance of personalized coaching, and why sometimes the greatest victories aren't about finishing first—they're about finding freedom, connection, and clarity within.

Welcome to another inspiring episode of the Running Strong Mind-Body Connection podcast! In today's special "Unplugged with Karen" edition, our host Karen goes solo and unscripted, sharing straight from the heart. She reflects on an incredible year of growth for the podcast, filled with powerful stories, uplifting connections, and personal milestones.

Karen opens up about her own journey this past year—from running major races like the Formidable 50K and Javelina 100 to overcoming injury with a blend of intuition, acupuncture, red light therapy, and magnets. She dives deep into the power of listening to your body, setting meaningful intentions (instead of just New Year's resolutions), and maintaining a positive, healthy mindset.

Along the way, Karen celebrates the guests and listeners who have become such an important part of the show's community, hints at exciting upcoming episodes, and shares insights from her work as a mental fitness coach. Whether you're tuning in for tips on mental resilience, healing, or simply looking for a dose of motivation to kick off 2026 strong, this episode is filled with gratitude, authenticity, and practical inspiration to help you unlock your own potential.

So grab your running shoes—or just settle in for a mindful listen—and join Karen on this honest, heartfelt journey of running strong in mind, body, and spirit.

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Welcome to another inspiring episode of Running Strong Mind-Body Connection! In today's "Mo & Me #3," host Karen sits down with her running partner and legendary guest, Mo Bartley, for their first chat of 2026. Together, they reflect on the highs and lows of the past year—the injuries, the setbacks, and those unexpected moments that force every runner to reset their mindset.

From shared stories of recovering from injuries to the joy they find in community, relationships, and running no matter the season, Karen and Mo Bartley dig into how they set intentions for a new year. You'll hear candid advice about staying positive, embracing cross-training, and the importance of surrounding yourself with supportive people. Whether you're aiming for your next ultra or finding motivation on a gloomy winter morning, this episode is packed with humor, wisdom, and practical tips to help you run—and live—with intention in 2026.

Jump in for an honest conversation about resilience, reflection, and the mindset that carries us through every mile, on and off the trail.

Welcome to another inspiring episode of Running Strong Mind-Body Connection! Today, host Karen Bonnett-Natraj sits down with Jessper Maqyindang, an accomplished runner from Los Angeles whose journey began with a childhood diagnosis of asthma.

Instead of letting this challenge hold him back, Jessper Maqyindang transformed adversity into passion—sharing how he built up from short training runs to 5Ks, 10Ks, half marathons, and ultimately, marathon and ultramarathon distances. In this conversation, you'll hear personal stories of perseverance, a mindset focused on growth, and the importance of community in the running world. Karen Bonnett-Natraj and Jessper Maqyindang explore what it means to push past physical and mental barriers, stay present in nature, and inspire others by taking action on big goals.

Whether you're a runner, athlete, or just someone curious about how passion can change your life, this episode will motivate you to listen to your heart and find strength in every step—no matter where you start. Tune in to discover how challenges can turn into triumphs, and what's next for a runner whose curiosity knows no bounds.

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.