Running Strong Mind-Body Connection

Karen Bonnett-Natraj
  • 3.0 (2)
  • MENTAL HEALTH
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Uncover the inspiring stories of amateur athletes and their running adventures. Learn about the vital mind-body connection and its impact on sports and daily life. Join us for insights and tips to boost your mental fitness Tune in, get inspired, and run strong!

  1. 15H AGO

    From Trauma to Triumph: Glenn Beachy's Journey of Healing, Forgiveness and the Mind-Body Connection

    What if the missing piece in your performance isn't your training plan, your pace, or your discipline... but your ability to forgive yourself and keep going? In this powerful episode of Running Strong: Mind Body Connection, host Karen Bonnet-Natraj sits down with Glenn Beechy construction business owner, author of A Warrior's Path to Freedom, and a man who spent over 20 years battling internal injuries, alcohol addiction, a million dollars in debt, and the crushing weight of unforgiveness to share how releasing the past didn't just save his life, it gave him back his body, his business, and his freedom.  What would change for you if you stopped carrying yesterday's failures into today's run? If you've ever quit on yourself, spiraled after a bad workout, or wondered why you keep self-sabotaging your goals no matter how hard you try this episode was made for you.  🎧 What You'll Discover in This Episode: How self-forgiveness directly improves physical performance, Glenn's story isn't motivation fluff. After a 14-foot fall off a roof in 2001, he spent over two decades with a torn stomach, dislocated ribs, a damaged spleen, and chronic internal bleeding that no doctor could diagnose. The healing didn't begin with medicine. It began with forgiveness and the results changed every area of his life. Why your emotional garbage shows up in your body, runners and high performers carry more than muscle fatigue. Unforgiveness, guilt, shame, and resentment are not just emotional problems. As Glenn discovered the hard way, they physically block your body from healing and performing. Your mind-body connection is either your greatest asset or your biggest limitation. The real reason you keep quitting on yourself it's not laziness. It's not lack of discipline. Glenn and Karen unpack the hidden cycle of self-sabotage that keeps even the most determined people stuck and the one shift that breaks it permanently. 💬 Runners, entrepreneurs, and everyday warriors are saying: "This is exactly what I needed to hear at 10pm after skipping another run." "I didn't expect a running podcast to make me cry and then want to go train harder." "The forgiveness piece is what nobody else is talking about." 🎯 This Episode Is For You If: You beat yourself up after every bad run, missed workout, or setback You've tried discipline, habits, and training plans but keep falling off You're carrying emotional weight, guilt, resentment, past failures — that you can't seem to shake You want to perform better in running, business, and life without destroying yourself in the process Not sure if forgiveness is really a performance tool? Stay for Glenn's story. You'll leave with a completely different answer. 📖 Mentioned in This Episode: Glenn Beachy | Author, A Warrior's Path to Freedom Available on Amazon Running Strong: Mind Body Connection Podcast | Hosted by Karen Bonnet-Natraj. 👉 Subscribe so you never miss an episode on You Tube

    49 min

  2. FEB 21

    Energy, Awareness, and Inner Guidance: Mind-Body Insights from Laurie Seymour

    Welcome back to the Running Strong Mind-Body Connection podcast! In this episode, host Karen Bonnett-Natraj dives deep into the world of mind-body alignment and potential with special guest Laurie Seymour, host of Wisdom Talk Radio, international executive mentor, and founder of the BACA Institute. Laurie Seymour, a former psychotherapist, shares her personal journey of transformation—from following the call for something "more" in life, to exploring energy, quantum fields, and creative intelligence as doorways to greater self-knowing and resilience. Together, Karen Bonnett-Natraj and Laurie Seymour unpack the importance of trusting your inner guidance, listening to your body's energy, and embracing curiosity over fear, whether you're pounding the trails as a runner or navigating life's daily stresses. Expect inspiring stories, practical wisdom, and powerful insights about harnessing the present moment, raising your frequency, and cultivating deep, authentic connection—with yourself and with others. If you're ready to let go of self-sabotage, move past burnout, and truly thrive from the inside out, this conversation is for you. Let's jump in!   https://mybook.to/UnconditionalRemem https://thebacainstitute.com/quantum-connection-quiz/

    41 min

  3. FEB 13

    Sleep, Nutrition, and Adapting on the Run: Jimmy Layman's Ultramarathon Insights

    Welcome to another episode of the Running Strong Mind-Body Connection podcast! In today's conversation, host Karen Bonnett-Natraj sits down with Jimmy Layman—a true "challenge chaser" whose journey connects music, firefighting, and ultra-running in inspiring ways. From composing a symphonic wind ensemble during his senior year to tackling firefighting and computer engineering, Jimmy's story is a testament to embracing change, learning from each passion, and persevering through uncertainty. After a return to running in 2022 that saw him leap from a 5k all the way to a 100k, Jimmy took on the famous Route 66—first as part of a relay team and then solo, running the full 140 miles. Karen Bonnett-Natraj and Jimmy Layman explore the highs and lows of endurance racing, the mental hurdles of sleep deprivation, and the importance of listening to your body when plans fall apart. Whether you're an ultra-marathon veteran or curious about the transformative power of running, you'll love this honest, humorous, and insightful discussion of what it truly means to "run strong." Prepare to laugh, reflect, and be inspired to challenge yourself in new ways—both on and off the trail.

    57 min

  4. FEB 6

    From Brain Aneurysm to Marathoner: Coach B's Journey to Mind-Body Wellness

    Karen Bonnett-Natraj is the enthusiastic host of the "Running Strong Mind Body Connection" podcast, a show born from her deep belief in the transformative power of aligning mind and body. Karen's journey centers on helping others discover their inner strength—not by pushing harder, but by tapping into self-compassion and flow. Each week, she guides listeners through inspiring stories and practical wisdom from runners, coaches, nutritionists, healers, and everyday warriors who have overcome obstacles and found resilience in their own lives. With a passion for mental fitness, Karen offers tools to shift from self-sabotage to self-love, from anxiety to awesomeness, and from stress to success. Her platform is a supportive community where anyone—whether chasing a finish line, recovering from burnout, or seeking deeper purpose—can find connection, growth, and encouragement. Karen also invites listeners to visit her website, TheMentalFitnessEdge.com, for resources like the saboteur assessment and her mental fitness bootcamp. Through her podcast and coaching, Karen empowers individuals to rewire their brains for more positivity, performance, and joy, proving that we can all run strong in every area of our lives. My Free Gift :  https://www.mentalfitnessbootcamp.org/unleash-free-gift-707888   Welcome to the Running Strong Mind-Body Connection podcast! In this inspiring episode, host Karen sits down with Coach B, a dynamic speaker, wellness advocate, and author who discovered the power of running and mind-body connection after surviving a life-changing brain aneurysm. Together, they dive deep into the transformative journey of healing, resilience, and personal growth—exploring how movement, mindful habits, and self-love can help anyone, regardless of age or background, cultivate energy, joy, and lasting health. You'll hear practical wisdom about building small, sustainable wellness habits, nurturing generational health, and finding your own inner strength—whether you're an athlete, professional, parent, or simply someone longing for a deeper connection to your body and mind. Get ready to be inspired by stories of overcoming adversity, redefining success, and sparking transformation from the inside out. If you've ever struggled with burnout, disconnection, or doubt, this episode is your invitation to get moving, align with your true self, and run strong in every area of your life.

    37 min

  5. JAN 30

    Mind Over Miles: Amy Adams' Epic 280-Mile Solo Run and the Power of Self-Reliance

    Welcome back to Running Strong Mind-Body Connection! In this episode, host Karen sits down with ultrarunner Amy Adams to dive deep into the grit, organization, and mental resilience it takes to tackle the legendary Route 66 Ultra—one of the longest continuous stretches of the historic highway, running 140 wild miles across the Arizona desert. But Amy Adams didn't stop at just the official race—in a jaw-dropping display of determination, she turned around after finishing and completed the entire route again, solo and unsupported, for a monumental 280-mile journey. Along the way, Amy shares what it means to be a "journey runner," from handling logistics, nutrition, and sleep deprivation to overcoming epic mental and physical challenges—including hallucinations and sleep-running headfirst onto the pavement. You'll hear about Amy's roots in the Marine Corps, the injury that led her to running, her unique approach to endurance events, and her commitment to using adventure as a platform for positive change—raising money for Feeding America and inspiring others to push the limits of what's possible. If you're curious what it really takes to run strong in body, mind, and soul, or need inspiration for your own next chapter, get ready for insights, laughs, and jaw-dropping stories from one of the sport's true trailblazers. Hit subscribe, lace up, and lean in!

    1h 10m

  6. JAN 23

    How Wireless Technology Impacts Your Health: Beverly Jensen's EMF Solutions for Families

    Welcome back to Running Strong Mind-Body Connection, the podcast where hustle meets healing and inner strength leads the way. I'm your host, Karen Bonnett-Natraj, and today we're diving deep into our relationship with technology, energy, and health. Joining me is Dr. Beverly Jensen, a health champion, international speaker, and lifelong practitioner of natural medicine whose expertise in electromagnetic radiation (EMR) and its impact on our bodies is truly eye-opening. In this episode, Beverly Jensen shares stories from her childhood, growing up around wireless technology thanks to her father's work in satellite communications, and how early lessons about radiation shaped her advocacy for safer tech habits. We talk candidly about the invisible effects of EMR on everything from our DNA to our sleep, especially in children. Dr. Jensen doesn't just sound the alarm—she offers simple, actionable steps you can take today to protect your home and loved ones. Whether you're curious about holistic health, worried about your family's screen time, or just want to learn about practical ways to minimize technology's physical impact, this conversation is packed with wisdom and inspiration. Tune in for real stories, expert insights, and tips that empower you to align smarter—not push harder—for your well-being.

    57 min

  7. JAN 16

    Breaking Limits and Finding Freedom: Nick Bautista

    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.

    1h 2m

  8. JAN 3

    Lessons Learned From A Year of Running, Healing, and Mind-Body Connection

    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.     Here is the link to explore your journey with Vespa: https://vespapower.com/ Please enter this code at checkout: mentalfitnessedge15

    29 min
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About

Uncover the inspiring stories of amateur athletes and their running adventures. Learn about the vital mind-body connection and its impact on sports and daily life. Join us for insights and tips to boost your mental fitness Tune in, get inspired, and run strong!

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