Join us as Heather shares her inspiring journey of transforming challenges into triumphs from her military service and a unique health condition to conquering ultra distances as a push rim wheelchair racing athlete at iconic races like the Donna 110 and Dopey Challenge. As an ADHD athlete, Heather also reveals how she balances focus and energy, offering insights on race accessibility, race day etiquette, the power of community, mental grit and perseverance.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Heather's Journey

02:36 From Air Force to Running

05:25 Military Influence on Mindset

07:18 Transitioning to Adaptive Sports

09:58 Challenges of Wheelchair Racing

15:05 Navigating Race Etiquette

24:12 Advocating for Inclusivity in Racing

26:00 Navigating Accessibility in Major Marathons

27:13 Adapting and Identity: A Personal Journey

28:21 The Donna Ultra: A Tribute and Challenge

30:21 Overcoming Adversity: Grit and Determination

34:54 Celebrating Achievements: Awards and Recognition

40:43 The Achilles Freedom Team: Community and Support

42:44 Disney Dopey Challenge: A Unique Experience

44:02 Creative Costumes: Expressing Identity Through Racing

46:44 Memorable Moments: Interactions and Experiences at Disney

48:49 ADHD, Adaptive Athlete, Songs That Run Us

If you’re enjoying Wired To Run, leaving us a quick rating or review is one of the best ways to support the podcast and help more athletes find the show. We’d also love for you to come hang out with us on Instagram: @wiredtorunpod and Facebook: Wired To Run Podcast where we keep the conversation going beyond the episode. Thanks for being part of this community and running with us.

Have a song that runs you? Send it our way on Instagram, Facebook, or email, and we may feature it on the show during our new series, “Songs That Run Us”

If this episode reminded you that you're not the only runner whose brain sprints faster than their legs, spread the word! Share it with a friend, post it on your stories or send us a message at laceup@wiredtorun.com. We're building the ADHD/neurodivergent running community that should've existed ages ago, and you're helping bring us all together. Even if you don’t have ADHD, but you sometimes relate to feeling overwhelmed, struggle with consistency or motivation in your running journey, you are welcome here!

Unlock the transformative power of music in your running journey with our latest episode, ‘Songs That Run Us: Why the Songs We Run To End Up Running Us’. Explore the profound impact of music on runners, especially how certain songs influence mood and emotional connection during runs. Delve into the dimensions and dynamics behind why music can transform a run from routine to an immersive experience. We’ll discuss how music is deeply intertwined in memories, enhances motivation and emotional regulation for many athletes, not just ADHD runners, and learn why certain songs become your personal anthems. Whether you're seeking motivation, emotional support, or a mental boost, this episode reveals how the right tunes can redefine your run.

Chapters

00:00 The Power of Music in Running

03:00 Emotional Temperature of a Run

05:18 What Makes a Song a Running Song?

07:32 Personal Connections to Music

10:51 Music as a Motivational Tool

13:27 The Science Behind Music and Running

15:50 Rhythm and Perceived Effort

16:55 Music and Mental Engagement

17:48 Songs as Emotional Anchors

20:25 The Anticipation of Music

22:46 Musical Stimulation and ADHD

23:19 Musical Stimulation and Anticipation

28:33 The Emotional Connection to Running Music

38:17 Music as a Structure for ADHD Runners

43:48 Songs That Run Us: Categories and Personal Connections

53:55 Cracking the Code: Analyzing a Song's Impact

If you’re enjoying Wired To Run, leaving us a quick rating or review is one of the best ways to support the podcast and help more runners find the show. We’d also love for you to come hang out with us on Instagram: @wiredtorunpod and Facebook: Wired To Run Podcast where we keep the conversation going beyond the episode. Thanks for being part of this community and running with us.

Have a song that runs you? Send it our way on Instagram, Facebook, or email, and we may feature it on the show during our new series, “Songs That Run Us”

If this episode reminded you that you're not the only runner whose brain sprints faster than their legs, spread the word! Share it with a friend, post it on your stories or send us a message at laceup@wiredtorun.com. We're building the ADHD/neurodivergent running community that should've existed ages ago, and you're helping bring us all together. Even if you don’t have ADHD, but you sometimes relate to feeling overwhelmed, struggle with consistency or motivation in your running journey, you are welcome here!

Join us for an insightful roundtable discussion on navigating some of the challenges of Disney Marathon Weekend registration. Featuring guests Troy, Amy, and Stephanie, this episode delves into the emotional and strategic aspects discovering how factors like FOMO, social media pressure, and evolving registration changes have impacted both these ADHD and non-ADHD runners.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Run Disney Experiences

06:24 Personal Journeys into Run Disney

13:23 The Dopey Challenge and Its Allure

17:42 Changes in Registration Process

24:36 Discussion on Loyalty and Priority Registration

30:03 The Community of Run Disney

31:15 FOMO and Its Impact on Runners

33:46 Emotional Reactions to Missing Races

35:11 The Registration Game

37:44 The Pressure of Registration

40:14 The Dopey Challenge Explained

42:07 Commitment and Accountability in Running

44:30 Social Media Influence on Running Decisions

48:44 Strategies for Race Registration Decisions

51:01 Managing Expectations and Mental Health

52:59 Community Support and Alternatives

59:44 Finding Your Why and Backup Plans

01:02:38 Final Thoughts and Reflections

If this episode reminded you that you're not the only runner whose brain sprints faster than their legs, spread the word! Share it with a friend, post it on your stories or send me a message at laceup@wiredtorun.com. We're building the ADHD/neurodivergent running community that should've existed ages ago, and you're helping bring us all together. Even if you don’t have ADHD, but you sometimes relate to feeling overwhelmed, struggle with consistency or motivation in your running journey, you are welcome here!

Will and Laura open the episode with a tribute to running legend Jeff Galloway and the lasting influence he had on everyday runners especially in the runDisney community before diving into the main topic: Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD) in ADHD runners. They unpack how RSD can show up in training, racing, Strava & social media comparisons, and pace expectations and discuss tools to help runners manage emotional triggers, quiet the inner critic, and keep moving forward.

Chapters

00:00 Princess Half Marathon Weekend Recap

01:00 Tribute to Jeff Galloway

07:29 The Impact of Jeff Galloway's Philosophy

11:03 Understanding Rejection-Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD)

22:54 The Science Behind RSD and Emotional Regulation

33:31 Understanding Running Metrics and Self-Comparison

40:42 The Emotional Impact of Running and Social Media

45:21 Reframing Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria (RSD) in Running

53:36 Data vs. Identity: The Mindset Shift for Runners

58:34 Crafting Your Personal Narrative as a Runner

Takeaways

• Jeff Galloway's influence on accessible running and community building
• Understanding rejection-sensitive dysphoria (RSD) and its impact on runners
• Practical strategies for managing emotional responses and setbacks in running
• The importance of self-validation, compassion, and evidence-based mindset shifts
• Self-Compassion: The Proven Power of Being Kind to Yourself by Kristin Neff, PH.D.
  • Three Components of Self-Compassion - Kristin Neff PH.D.
• Overcoming Avoidance Workbook by Daniel F. Gros, PHD

If this episode reminded you that you're not the only runner whose brain sprints faster than their legs, spread the word! Share it with a friend, post it on your stories or send me a message at laceup@wiredtorun.com. We're building the ADHD/neurodivergent running community that should've existed ages ago, and you're helping bring us all together. Even if you don’t have ADHD, but you sometimes relate to feeling overwhelmed, struggle with consistency or motivation in your running journey, you are welcome here!

Be sure to check out our Instagram and Facebook pages:

Instagram: @wiredtorunpod

Facebook: Wired To Run Podcast

In this episode, Will and Laura explore the emotional crash that often follows completing a race. They discuss why this can happen, how it affects a runner's identity and motivation, and offers practical strategies to reset mindset without shame. Gain insights into the strategic plans and methods they have used to handle the emotional rollercoaster of running with self-compassion, transforming post-race blues into opportunities for growth and renewed connection within the running journey.

Chapters

00:00 The Post-Race High and Its Aftermath

05:10 Understanding the Dopamine Crash

14:51 Identity and Motivation After Achievement

22:31 Rebuilding Rhythm: The Reset Miles

39:47 Finding Your North Star

Takeaways

• The post-race high can lead to a significant emotional drop.
• ADHD runners may experience a unique dopamine crash after races.
• Identity can be closely tied to training and racing, leading to confusion post-race.
• It's normal to feel low after achieving a significant goal.
• The reset miles concept helps in rebuilding a running routine.
• Cues can be more effective than motivation for getting back into running.
• Recovery is a crucial part of training, not something to earn.
• Feeling low after a race doesn't negate the achievement.
• Building a supportive environment can aid in recovery.
• Finding a North Star can provide direction without pressure.

If this episode reminded you that you're not the only runner whose brain sprints faster than their legs, spread the word! Share it with a friend, post it on your stories or send me a message at laceup@wiredtorun.com. We're building the ADHD/neurodivergent running community that should've existed ages ago, and you're helping bring us all together. Even if you don’t have ADHD, but you sometimes relate to feeling overwhelmed, struggle with consistency or motivation in your running journey, you are welcome here!

Summary:

• In this episode, Laura introduces Stephanie, a remarkable individual with a multifaceted life story that includes being an army veteran, a nurse, a cancer survivor, and a passionate runner with ADHD. Stephanie shares her journey of resilience, detailing her experiences in the military, her struggles with ADHD, and her battle with breast cancer. She emphasizes the importance of authenticity and vulnerability, revealing how these traits have shaped her approach to life and running. Throughout the conversation, Stephanie's humor and grit shine through as she recounts her challenges and triumphs, including her unique approach to running and her determination to not let her diagnoses define her.

• As the discussion unfolds, Stephanie reflects on her experiences in the army and how they influenced her discipline and resilience. She shares her journey through cancer treatment, including her decision to participate in running events shortly after her mastectomy and through radiation. The episode highlights the power of community, the importance of mental health, and the strength found in vulnerability. Stephanie's story serves as an inspiration to listeners, encouraging them to embrace their challenges and pursue their passions with determination and heart. In this episode, Laura and Stephanie dive deep into Stephanie's inspiring journey as an ADHD runner and cancer survivor. They discuss her incredible dedication to fitness, including walking over 100 miles in March and participating in various runDisney events, despite facing significant health challenges. Stephanie shares her humorous take on her experiences, including her unique costume choices for races and the resilience she has developed through her medical journey. The conversation highlights the importance of humor, support from friends and family, and the mental strength required to overcome obstacles in both running and life.

• As they reflect on their running experiences, they touch on the emotional aspects of dealing with setbacks, such as DNFs (Did Not Finish) and the courage it takes to adjust race goals. Stephanie emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance and understanding that one’s best can look different each day. The episode concludes with a recap of Laura’s 1st Dopey Challenge which completed with Stephanie by her side and they discuss both their future running goals, the significance of community support, and the lessons learned from their running journeys, ultimately inspiring listeners to embrace their own challenges with resilience and humor.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Stephanie's Journey

01:47 Understanding ADHD and Its Impact

03:09 Military Service and Health Challenges

19:20 Resilience Through Cancer

41:08 Running as a Form of Healing

01:00:11 Pacing and Supporting Others in Running

01:17:31 Conclusion and Reflections on Strength

If this episode impacted reminded you that you’re not the only runner whose brain sprints faster than their legs, spread the word! Share it with a friend, post it to your stories or send us a message at laceup@wiredtorun.com. We’re building the ADHD/neurodivergent running/walking community that should’ve existed ages ago, and you’re helping to bring us all together! Welcome to the Wired Family!

In this episode, Laura and Will discuss how to effectively plan running goals for the new year, especially for those with ADHD. They emphasize the importance of setting realistic and flexible goals, defining personal motivations, and creating a supportive environment. The conversation covers strategies for choosing races, maintaining motivation, and embracing the journey of running, highlighting the significance of community and personal transformation along the way.

Chapters

00:00 Setting the Stage for 2026 Running Goals

01:15 Understanding ADHD and Running Challenges

03:39 Defining Your Why: The Anchor Goals

07:39 Establishing the Big Three Goals

13:06 Choosing Races Wisely

19:08 Creating a Flexible Training Plan

22:39 Externalizing Memory for Success

29:14 Building a Reset Plan for Slumps

32:18 Normalizing Goal Adjustments

34:46 Facing the Dopey Challenge

38:28 Personal Transformation Through Running

Takeaways

• Plan your running goals to avoid burnout.
• Define your 'why' to stay motivated.
• Set a main goal, a supporting goal, and a joy goal.
• Choose races that align with your life circumstances.
• Flexibility in planning is key to success.
• Build a support system to keep you accountable.
• Create a reset plan for motivation dips.
• Adjusting goals is not a sign of failure.
• Find joy in the running experience.
• Community support enhances the running journey.

If this episode reminded you that you’re not the only runner whose brain sprints faster than their legs, spread the word! Share it with a friend, post it to your stories or send us a message at laceup@wiredtorun.com. We’re building the ADHD/neurodivergent running/walking community that should’ve existed ages ago, and you’re helping to bring us all together! Welcome to the Wired Family!

In this episode of Wired to Run, hosts Laura and Will delve into the significance of their podcast, sharing personal stories and insights about living with ADHD as runners. They discuss Laura's journey to her ADHD diagnosis, the emotional complexities surrounding it, and the strengths that come with having ADHD. The conversation emphasizes the importance of community, support, and reframing the narrative around ADHD and running, encouraging listeners to embrace their unique wiring and pursue their passion for running without fear.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Wired to Run Podcast

01:14 The Purpose Behind the Podcast

02:28 Laura's ADHD Diagnosis Journey

04:33 Embracing ADHD: Relief and Understanding

06:52 Grieving the Past: Reflections on Childhood

09:01 Recognizing Strengths in ADHD

12:17 The Duality of Big Picture and Detail Orientation

14:35 Overcoming Fear of Running

16:57 The Mental Tug-of-War in Running

19:24 Addressing Challenges with ADHD and Running

21:10 Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria and Its Impact

24:06 Building a Supportive Community

28:31 The Emotional Benefits of Running

30:29 Running as a Home for ADHD Minds

32:37 Conclusion: Embracing the Journey of Running with ADHD

Takeaways

• The podcast aims to inspire runners with ADHD through real stories.
• Laura's ADHD diagnosis brought relief and understanding of her struggles.
• Grieving for the past is a common experience for those diagnosed later in life.
• ADHD comes with unique strengths that can be celebrated.
• Running can provide clarity and a sense of belonging.
• Fear of running often stems from self-doubt and societal pressures.
• Building a supportive community is crucial for ADHD runners.
• Emotional self-defense can prevent individuals from pursuing their passions.
• Running can improve emotional regulation and mental health.
• Embracing one's unique wiring can lead to a fulfilling running journey.

email: laceup@wiredtorun.com