March 14, 2025 • 31 mins
Join us in this inspiring episode as we explore the beautiful journey of Shelley and Jeff, a couple whose love story intertwines with the world of running. Shelley's path back to running is not just about crossing finish lines; it's a tale of resilience, support, and the kind of partnership that fosters personal growth. After stepping back from running due to health challenges, Shelley found the encouragement she needed in her husband, Jeff, who may not be a runner himself but embodies the essence of a dedicated supporter.
Listen as they share their experiences at the Space Coast Marathon half marathon and the magical moments of participating in runDisney events. Discover how Shelley learned that running is not solely about the destination but about every moment along the way, enriched by the presence of someone who believes in your journey. Jeff’s perspective adds a unique layer to their story, revealing the sacrifices and joys of being a cheerleader for love.
In this candid conversation, you'll hear valuable insights regarding maintaining balance with family, work, and hobbies, especially for those who juggle multiple responsibilities. We dive into the importance of setting personal goals and understanding that care for oneself is crucial to maintaining well-being.
Join us as we engage in a heartfelt discussion about community, support, and the magic that running can create in our lives. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just someone looking for motivation, this episode is sure to resonate.
Don't forget to subscribe, share this episode, and celebrate every extraordinary stride in your life's journey!
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Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Coach Christine (00:01):
Welcome back to Extraordinary Strides.
I'm your host, coach Christine,and today we have a story
that's equal parts heartwarming,inspiring and a whole lot of
fun.
It's not every day that we getto talk about a running journey
in a true love story, but todaywe get both.
Joining me are ShellySwearingen and her husband Jeff.
Shelly is a dedicated educatorin STEM who somehow manages to
(00:22):
balance life's ups and downswhile keeping running and her
strength training a priority.
I should definitely say that,and what makes her story extra
special besides the fact thatshe actually is a runner who
does her strength training isthat she has unwavering support
of her one and only PrinceCharming, jeff, who spoiler
alert, my friends is not an avidrunner, so he's been by her
(00:43):
side through every mile, everyfinish line and every post-run
celebration snack or meal.
So Shelly has made her bigcomeback to running at the Space
Coast Marathon half marathonlast year and then, with Jeff
cheering her on, she steppedinto the magical world of Run
Disney at Princess Weekend, andwe're going to dive into how she
found her way back to running,what training looks like as a
(01:05):
non-pro juggling real life, andwhat it's like to have a
built-in cheer squad thatdoesn't necessarily lace up, but
is still there every singlestep of the way.
So, my friends, let's get intoit and welcome on in Shelly and
Jeff Hi.
Jeff (01:19):
Hello Thanks.
Coach Christine (01:21):
So excited to have you guys here because I
felt like I had just a littleinkling.
I just have been able toscratch the surface of how
special your connection and yourrelationship is at these two
race weekends that I mentioned.
But I wanted to also just kindof dive in a little bit deeper
about how you guys did meet,connect and how running has been
part of your story, at leastfor definitely in this last year
(01:42):
.
So, Shelly, I'm going to startwith you.
Shelley (01:49):
Take us back.
How did running first become apart of your life and what drew
you to it?
Well, I actually startedrunning in high school.
I wasn't a, it wasn't my mainsport, it wasn't my main thing
by any means, but just had somefriends that were like, hey, you
should come out and run trackwith us.
And so I went out and tried itand the two-miler was my thing.
And then the following seasonwas convinced to run
(02:11):
cross-country and startedrunning and it's just been one
of the best things I ever did,even though it wasn't my.
You know, the thing in highschool that I loved.
It has stuck with me all theseyears and it's come and gone and
for years it was just three,four.
Never ran more than five milesfor a long time.
(02:31):
But that was where my journeystarted, was being convinced to
do it in high school.
Coach Christine (02:36):
Were you into a different form of athletic.
Is there something else thatyou loved Was running your
punishment, or were you okaywith it?
Shelley (02:43):
It wasn't my punishment .
Actually, I was a dancer and Iwas on the dance team like the
kick line and did that kind ofstuff.
I was a tigerette, um, and wewould run um just as warmup, and
so it was fun to.
You know, it would run thecouple laps around the school to
warm up.
They would tell us we needed towork on our cardio and I would
(03:06):
be at the end and drag in and Ialso always was super proud
whenever I started running.
Then the couple, two or threeof us that were also running,
we're getting out there andactually enjoying it.
We were running those laps and,you know, encouraging the
others on the team to it's notso bad, we can do it.
Coach Christine (03:23):
I love that.
So you have quite the athleticbackground.
So I'm going to ask Jeff didyou have a sport choice when you
were in school, or was runningyour sports punishment, or was
it really your jam at all?
Jeff (03:35):
Oh, I did everything.
I played football, turned downa D1 scholarship to play
football and to play baseball.
That's what I was still showing.
I was like, yeah, I did all myrunning in college.
I was a pitcher so you had torun all the time, you know so,
in football course, ran, ran,ran, ran.
And I did do track because Iwas faster than most people, but
(03:58):
I I disliked that part of it,so you know so.
But I did for many years andthen I don't know here lately
I've been lazy, I walk but Idon't run.
Coach Christine (04:12):
Hey, I think walking is a phenomenal way to
move our bodies.
It's we know now that like it'sactually like almost one of the
superior forms with low impactsteady state.
So good for us.
By no means of stretchimagination, here are we
definitely saying that walkingisn't incredible.
I find it fascinating thatsports is such a big part of
your lives and actually now Ican see why there's that big
(04:33):
connection in STEM, because I dothink they parallel each other
a little bit.
So I'm kind of curious, thoughfrom my understanding, shelly
and feel free to correct me ifI'm wrong at some point, running
did take a little bit of a backburner for you.
Is that correct?
Absolutely.
Shelley (04:48):
And it's been kind of an on and off.
But after I had my girl thegirls that was, you know it kind
of did just being a mom, didn'trun a lot and I actually have
ulcerative colitis and Crohn'sdisease and went through some
rough years with that and when Istarted to feel a little better
(05:09):
, my first half marathon Isigned up for was to run with
the Crohn's and ColitisFoundation.
When I first did the Miami half, it was in 2008 or 2009,.
I believe was my first run andthen a couple of years later, I
really got into it for a fewyears where I did a lot, and
then in 2018, our family justwent through a lot of hard
(05:32):
things and going through adivorce and things like that.
I just didn't.
I let it all slide, let it allgo, wasn't taking care of myself
for a long time.
Coach Christine (05:40):
So we call it seasons in life, right, and
there's certain seasons in lifethat, unfortunately, we are
having to prioritize otheraspects and sometimes our
wellness does take a little bitof a back burner.
So we're happy to have you backand that's one of the things I
want to talk about, because Iknow that when you guys
connected, I think that runningwasn't a big part of your life,
(06:03):
is that, jeff?
Jeff (06:05):
yeah, that's correct.
I mean she did run and I knewshe ran.
Uh, after we got married and Iwas moving all of her stuff in
and we have this big placardwith all these ribbons and all
these you know her, her numbersand all that kind of stuff, and
it's a beautiful thing.
But I was like holy moly andand then she just slowly kind of
started uh, uh, training alittle bit.
(06:26):
And then you know some of us, Ihit my 50th birthday and and so
everybody had to start runningaround here, so so were you
surprised were you surprised orwere you?
Coach Christine (06:38):
I mean, what were you thinking when?
Because it sounds like Shelly,you eased him into it.
Smart woman you are, it soundslike it wasn't maybe that much
of a shocker, but were yousurprised that it kind of
started adding up and then youtook on a role of like number
one support crew?
Or did you see it coming andyou were pretty happy with it?
Jeff (07:01):
Yeah, you can kind of see it coming.
I mean the number one support,that's just what we do, that's
what I do, uh, and I can see itkind of coming.
And then, especially when shehooked up with you and started
training and having some results, I mean it's something because
she'd be out running and daysI'd go to work and I'd go to
(07:22):
work and I'd see her coming backand I could see her form
getting better.
I could see her getting better.
And you know, I think we justshe kind of started it.
She needs a goal.
So she picked a race and I don'teven remember what the first
race that when we were togethershe started training for.
But you could just see itcoming and coming, and coming.
And then you know now, uh, thehalf marathon, uh is a little
(07:45):
bit more uh involved.
There's a lot of five in themorning getting up and and I get
, I get up that early, so it'snot that big of a deal, but uh,
you know it's because we like tospend in the evenings together,
so it's getting up at the crackof dawn and she does not like
to get up.
Coach Christine (08:02):
So so I feel you girl, I don't like it.
Jeff (08:04):
I don't like it either.
I don't like it either.
Coach Christine (08:07):
I love sleeping in.
It's the best.
I call myself a Goldilocksrunner.
I don't want to go too early, Idon't want to go too late, I
want to just write, but there'snot that option most of the time
.
So, okay, so, jeff, you saw itcoming, you saw that she was
getting more focused on it andagain I think you mentioned it,
shelley you are very metricfocused, you are very goal
(08:27):
oriented, I think, in yourday-to-day life anyway, and it's
been incredible to see howyou've attached yourself and
your identity to just thisconsistency.
I don't ever hear you evercomplaining.
So I'm going to ask Jeff ifthere's any complaining going on
.
But before we get into that, Iwant to know a little bit of
(08:48):
what was it like when youstarted to committing back to
this training and getting intothis time for yourself.
And then I'm going to ask Jeffwhat did he think of seeing you
kind of as you started toprogress in this commitment from
the more casual to how hementioned?
It's definitely a lot morecommitted now where there's a
lot of crack of dawn type ofwake-ups.
Shelley (09:09):
I think it's.
I guess the him seeing itcoming was me doing a 5k here
and there.
You know, 4th of July, afirecracker run on 4th of July,
and here and there, and so itwas doing a little bit and then
it was me turning 50 last summerand you know like, okay, I'm
not gonna let this isn't goingto be, I'm going to take care of
myself and with Jeff support,like not feeling guilty about
(09:33):
doing those things for myself.
I mean it is require the gearthat I need, the, the training
support.
They need the, the time and notfeeling guilty and having that
support.
And then just realizing how thehealth benefits, the stress
relief because my job is verydemanding and does require a lot
(09:55):
, but that being able to get outand do something for myself and
put my book in my ear, my musicin my ear, and being able to go
out and, you know, just stepaway from the hard things
sometimes and do something formyself, and having that support
to not feel guilty and makingthat time.
And it is the commitment alsobecause I do want to have my.
(10:17):
I'd like to have my evening, soI like to get up and get it
done and taken care of in themorning, but it's definitely
been just good that mentally,physically and in every way felt
good, getting back to takingcare of myself and doing
something for myself.
Coach Christine (10:31):
It's been so beautiful to see it from my
perspective, and it's also beenbeautiful to hear about the
support that you receive,because, from day one, I think
you guys have such an incrediblerelationship in that you're
really partners in this game oflife, right?
So it feels like there's a lotof talking about these choices
and balling it back and forth,and I know you mentioned early
(10:52):
on that Jeff was fantastic atsupporting with, like you said,
the gear, because this isunfortunately, this is the most
expensive, inexpensive sportthat I think that there ever
could be.
I do know that I want to talk alittle bit about that, jeff,
because we hear on this side andI'm sure you hear it, but
you're probably a little toohumble to even realize how
incredible your support ofShelly has been.
(11:14):
I think specifically I'm goingto think back to summer, where
it's 98 degrees at four o'clockin the morning and you're
dropping by and bringing hersome fuel or hydration or
supporting her on these longerruns.
Um, how does it feel to kind ofknow that you're such an
(11:34):
instrumental part of hertraining and these goals that
she has?
Jeff (11:40):
Well, again, it's just kind of something I do and it's
something that I enjoy, so it'sfun.
It's not like work, you know,because you're so right.
I mean she gets up, I mean onSaturday, to go do one of her
long runs, and during summer, ifyou don't get up at five, I
mean by the time you're, youknow, three quarters of the way
(12:01):
done.
It's so hot, it's justdangerous.
And then we've never found theexact right thing for her to
carry and hold water and stuff.
So it's just like, well, youknow, I'm not doing anything, so
I come, I get to check on hertoo, you know, because I mean
she's running all over.
I mean it's crazy.
It's like we have a golf cart.
(12:23):
I wouldn't take a golf cart asfar.
Coach Christine (12:31):
I love that you mentioned that because, shelly,
I know some of your runningpaths and you're almost crossing
city lines, like you'reliterally running through cities
, my friend in some of these,you're not just running in your
neighborhood or your town.
Shelley (12:40):
It is, it is and it's.
Yeah, and I like him coming tocheck on me.
It's more fun than carryingextra water with me.
It is, I agree.
It's something to look forwardto when I run.
I agree.
Yeah, I want to get to thispoint before he gets here, so
I'm going to keep going Seeinghis sunshiny face bringing you
gear and stuff.
Coach Christine (12:56):
Yes, Right, it's weird a little bit about
that as well in terms of okay,so you've touched on it Shelly,
you touched on it Jeff.
You guys, this is not likewhere we get to.
We're not sponsored.
Brooks or Nike hasn't comecalling.
You still have really busylives.
You're both very active inchurch and different
organizations.
You both give back to thecommunity.
(13:16):
I know that's very important towho.
You both are Very busy work,jobs.
How do you juggle it all andstill find time for each other?
Jeff (13:29):
That's the hardest part and her biggest sacrifice is she
does wake up at five becauseshe could go run in the evening.
But, like you said, we have achurch group that we lead
together and we do that onThursdays.
We do outreach to our church,you know, and that's not that
often, but I've got a churchmeeting I go to usually once a
week by myself with her, andthen half the time my daughter's
(13:52):
with us and we've got all thesethings going on.
So she does that.
And then the gym she gets upand goes to the gym at five in
the morning and that way we havean evening.
So when we come home, she's ateacher.
She doesn't ever come home ontime.
Coach Christine (14:08):
Right.
Jeff (14:11):
But we make time and what time we get.
We do pretty good together,yeah.
Coach Christine (14:17):
Yeah, and friends, shelly is so passionate
about her work.
I want you guys to know I know.
First of all, thank you forbeing an educator and for what
you do in shaping our futuregenerations.
It's such a thankless job andwe so appreciate it.
But I think that it really doesput a pep in your step, shelly,
and as to part of your DNA, ofwho you are, because I know that
you are so passionate aboutreally pouring yourself into
(14:41):
every aspect of what you do.
So it's quite beautiful to see,and I know, that that kind of
bleeds over both into yourrunning.
I'm curious if you feel likeyou wish that you could impart a
lesson that you've learnedthrough running to maybe some of
your kiddos that you are luckyenough to interact with you, or
some of the different people inthe world.
(15:02):
If you could share a littlenugget of wisdom that you've
learned through running, what doyou think it would be?
Shelley (15:08):
Hard work pays off, I think would be the hard work
pays off and that when you putyour mind to it you can do more
than you ever think you can.
And it would be the two thingsbut I just want to throw out
there too.
While you're saying that and wehaven't talked about this, but
coming back from Ren Disney thisweekend, you would not believe
(15:28):
how excited my middle schoolerswere for me, like they had asked
me to bring my medals to school.
They wanted to know why Iwasn't wearing my race shirt.
They wanted to see pictures.
I had a picture of me runningup on my bell work Monday and
they wanted to see pictures.
I had a picture of me runningup on my bell work Monday and
they wanted to see more pictures.
And they wanted to hear aboutit, because I left school early
Friday to get over there and hadtold some that I was going and
(15:50):
that was so fun to share.
Coach Christine (15:51):
That Exciting let's do it.
Let's talk about Run Disney.
You just experienced your firstRun Disney race.
We spent a little bit of timebefore you jumped onto the
microphone, friends, talkingabout how intense these early
workups are, but I do want toask you, Shelly, first as to was
it different than any otherrace experience that you've had?
Shelley (16:12):
It was so different, very different, and the pros and
cons, like we talked about,it's tiring and exhausting, but
it's exhilarating.
And running through the parkswas just.
There was not, especially forthe first day on the 10K.
There was not a moment I wantedmy run to end and I was like I
(16:33):
even sent.
I had a pouty picture of merunning out of Epcot because I
didn't want.
I sent Jeff, I was like I don'twant it to end.
It was just, it was magical, itis, it is and it's um, it was
really exciting, like and I youknow, living as close as I have
and running, and I've never doneone of those, and so it was.
(16:54):
It was definitely a veryexciting weekend, very awesome
opportunity.
Coach Christine (16:59):
It was exciting to see and to feel your energy
because it is so beautiful.
I mean, again, I know that forfolks that haven't done Run
Disney or maybe aren't big fansof Run Disney, it truly is a
magical experience.
We could probably we could lista lot of cons Cost is probably
at the top of my mind, thoseearly wake-ups is another one
but it really does have a lot ofmagical aspects to it.
(17:20):
I think one of the most magicalaspects to it, though, for what
I saw of you guys, was itShelley, for you running down
Main Street and knowing that youwere going to find your prince
charming right before theCinderella Castle was something
you were very much lookingforward to.
So, jeff, can you give us anidea of how you made this
magical moment happen forShelley?
(17:41):
Because it's not easy.
Spectating on Main Street isnot for the meek by any stretch
of the imagination.
So can you talk us through howyou made it happen and maybe
your experience as a spectatorthere?
Jeff (17:54):
Well, you don't even know, I almost blew it all up.
So the 10K we had our plan.
She got up, took the disney busthere, no problem.
I drove right in park zeroproblem.
Well, she did the same thingthe next day.
And then I get up, after Ishower and I'm getting ready to
go, I looked at my uh map quest.
(18:14):
What the hell did my map quest,apple maps and it shows that
the roads are closed, that youhave have to like walk four
miles.
So I kind of freak out and goout.
I'm like, okay, well then I'mgoing to get on a bus.
I go out there.
There's no buses, no, nothing.
So I sit there.
I'm like I don't really knowwhat to do here, hon, and she's
(18:35):
like it's okay.
And I'm like, yeah, okay.
And so finally I got in theright place and stayed put long
enough that here comes a bus, Iget on there and luckily got
there.
And then I think I'm so late nowbecause she's finally started
and I'm tracking where she'sgoing, and I get there and I
hightail it up and you kind ofgot to wait to get all the way
(18:58):
over to downtown Disney, and ofcourse I beat her easily and
that was something.
Um, you know most of theseraces, they're, you know, just a
bunch of people running aroundand you know you're doing
business.
Well, here, I mean evenspectators.
You walk into main street andthen all the lights are on, all
the people are clapping andcheer and there's a castle and
(19:20):
you know I've taken my daughterthere and now you know shelly's
getting to run up there.
I mean, oh, my goodness, thatwas did you tear up a little bit
.
Coach Christine (19:27):
It's okay, you're amongst friends, you're
in a safe space, my friend, didyou tear up a little bit?
Jeff (19:32):
of course I mean because I've I've got a picture of me
just bawling my daughter on myshoulders and that's about where
we're standing, almost uh, whenI got to see Shelly, which
wasn't the easiest thing in theworld, we're having to talk.
I mean, I've never seen a racewhere you know she calls me.
Okay, I'm coming here, when areyou?
(19:53):
And I'm like hey, there'ssomebody with these big pink
bang stick things sticking up onmy right behind me.
Coach Christine (20:02):
Friends.
It is a dedication.
I mean it truly is to be ableto spectate at Disney.
We've talked about it before inthe podcast.
I'm definitely going to suggestyou guys go back.
If you're thinking you want aspectator For my friends that
are listening in, you're goingto want to listen to that
episode with Lynn, because Lynndefinitely does have a lot of
tips for spectating.
It is not easy.
Main Street is super intensebecause people really do stake
(20:24):
their spots out super earlybecause it is such a magical
experience.
I am so glad to hear that thisfairy tale did have a happily
ever after and you were able tomake it there, because I do know
that, Shelly, I know that youwould have been okay if you
wouldn't have been able to makeit.
I was telling him it was, but Iknow that it was a little extra
special to have him there and,of course, also knowing that
(20:46):
after that he hightailed it backover to the finish line and I
mean there's a lot Friends he'sputting in, some he's putting in
like at least his own halfmarathon during all this process
.
I want you guys to know thatit's definitely dedication and
we love it.
I want to ask you, jeff, what'sone thing that you would tell
other partners of runners thathave fallen madly into this,
(21:09):
madly in love with this sportand or down the rabbit hole of
all of the shiny metal things.
What are some things that youwould maybe suggest them or tell
them?
Or a little nugget of wisdom asto how to best support the
individual as they pursue thesegoals?
Jeff (21:25):
Well, I mean, I imagine everybody's different.
Shelly, she just neededsomebody there to say it was
okay to go do it.
My wife thinks of everybodyelse and herself.
Last I remember, when shejoined you had you know, I'm not
(21:46):
exactly sure, but she had likea trial thing where there's a
group and it didn't cost a wholelot and she was like I think
you want to try this and it.
You know, I think I don't evenremember it was 100 bucks or
whatever it was.
It wasn't a whole lot and I'mlike, well, we'll do it and you
know, see what happens.
Worst case is you hate it andit's horrible.
And then, after it was finished, she's like I don't really want
(22:09):
to finish.
And so I guess my thing is is,if it's it's so much for her
that it has to be.
I mean, I didn't like gettingup at 2.45 in the morning, even
though I stayed in, I was awake,you know all that kind of stuff
.
But it's so amazing seeing her.
She was sending me pictureswhile she's running.
(22:29):
I remember the first couple ofraces she did the first couple
of 5Ks.
I thought, you know, man, youknow that was the first time I
thought, well, I probably betterstart running and try to help
pace her.
But that was before sheadowingreal help, I would have been no
help.
Coach Christine (22:43):
But that's not about that, my friend, that's
going to be one of the questionsI'm going to have, so if that's
coming down the pike.
But so what I'm hearing you sayis that there are going to be
sacrifices, but that's part ofbeing in a relationship
regardless if the person's arunner or not runner, they have
to have their passions, thingsthat kind of that they look
forward to.
And just being that soundingboard and also that person who
(23:06):
helps to encourage them to put alittle bit of themselves first,
that's that's trulyextraordinary.
So, again, I can't express howmuch we love to hear that.
So listen up, my friends thatare out there that maybe are not
don't have quite that samesupport.
You need to send this podcastepisode to your other half,
because this is what it'sliterally all about.
(23:26):
I want to bring it before wemove on from Run Disney because
I do want to hear what's nextfor both of you.
But I would love, shelley,because I feel like one of the
things that is pretty amazingabout the Run Disney world is
because it is a little bitdifferent and by that I mean a
whole lot different than a lotof other race experiences.
And you said you learned a lot.
What are some of the thingsthat you feel like you learned
that if there was a brand newrun Disney person listening in
(23:49):
and they just signed up for arace coming down the pike that
you wish that you knew goinginto it, or that you would want
to impart that knowledge ontothem.
Shelley (23:59):
Gosh, I don't know that .
There's one particular thing, Ithink, more thinking people
that are considering it do it.
And even if it's not somethinglike I don't know, that I'll be
the, you know, can do everysingle one and do it every
single time.
But it is so worth theexperience and I hope I can do
at least one a year and but it'sso worth the sacrifice of the
(24:23):
getting up early.
It's worth the waiting in thelines, going through all of that
to experience that as a runnerI almost felt like it was a
reward for all these years ofputting in the running that I
was doing.
I have worked hard all theseyears and now I get to go run
through Epcot and get to go runthrough the castle and down Main
Street, and now I get to go runthrough Epcot and get to go run
(24:43):
through the castle and downMain Street.
That it's, you know.
Yes, there's the early morningsand all of that, but it's
absolutely worth that experience.
Coach Christine (24:51):
I'm going to hear it, as what I'm hearing is
that it's really almost comingfrom a place of gratitude, that
this is something we get to doand, yes, it is incredibly
rewarding after years oftraining.
So I think that if you haveyeah, I love that that
encouragement with folks, and Ithink that's something valid to
think of as well.
We see in social media quite abit where you see folks that are
(25:13):
like they're doing it everyweekend, or it doesn't have to
be that.
It can be something that wehave a bit more sparse in our
life or it's something that welook forward to maybe every five
years.
But trying to have that as anexperience that we budget for
and plan for, I think is prettyexceptional on its own as well.
Shelley (25:29):
All right, I would say go.
Oh sorry, no, you go.
I was going to say I was goingto say just go and enjoy it and
have fun too.
I guess that's too, that notworrying about my pace and my
time and just getting out thereand being able to take it all in
.
Coach Christine (25:43):
Yes, and I cannot reiterate that enough.
If you guys want to run forspeed, there are tons of
hometown races that cost afraction of the cost, that do
not have that on-course supportand entertainment.
But run Disney.
It's truly about immersingyourself into it.
I'm curious what's next forboth of you guys.
Shelly, I know we're going tobe seeing you and Jeff again in
(26:06):
just a couple of weeks, shamrockbut do you have any other big
goals on your horizon, since weknow that you're a goal metric
focus kind of gal?
Shelley (26:17):
Well, I will surely sign up for Space Coast for next
fall to keep going.
I do and, like Jeff saidearlier, I need to have and I
like having a race on the booksand to keep my run and my goal
to keep going and not to get youknow those seasons and now that
(26:40):
I've been back at it for comingup here in a year, in a couple
months, the biggest goal is tostick with it and not let it end
.
And I see these ladies outthere of all ages, out there
running and I want to keep withit.
Coach Christine (26:55):
That's my goal too.
For the record, I want toliterally run until like the
last possible day, Jeff.
What about you?
What's next Are we going tohave?
Jeff (27:06):
you tow up to the line at maybe a Run Disney 5K or 10K oh,
I don't know about Run.
Coach Christine (27:08):
Disney, but maybe another race.
Jeff (27:11):
Do tell.
I mean you know it's prettyaddicting when you're there.
I mean you like especially me,I don't run now, but I did and
I'm like 5K, even the 10K wouldhave been easy.
We did that before breakfastevery morning and so I know I'm
capable of it.
So maybe I mean I'm not totallyagainst it.
(27:32):
It's, you know, it's a ways off.
Coach Christine (27:37):
Am I?
Well, I don't know, I don'tknow.
My friend, as you mentioned,you've already put in.
You pretty much did a halfmarathon, a half marathon day,
racing around and trying to findShelly at that castle, in the
finish line and afterwards.
So, um, we're here to supportyou, friend, just as you've been
in such a great support forShelly.
So let us know when we cancheer you on as well.
With that said, I'm going toask you guys maybe to share any
(28:02):
last thoughts that you wouldhave about what running has
meant to you in this season ofyour life.
Shelley (28:12):
I think it's been this time around has just been so
different.
I feel like it's me totallytaking care of myself.
It's that turning 50 andlooking at things differently,
whereas I don't have to get outand beat anybody or beat any
certain time, I just have totake care of myself and love
(28:36):
what I'm doing and I guessthat's just the run, keeps me
sane, I guess keeps me feelingphysically with having the
Crohn's and colitis and livingwith that immunosuppressant, the
medicines, and the feeling likeI'm in control of something in
(28:57):
my life and feeling good aboutwho I am and what I'm doing.
I love being able to set a goaland reach it and feel great
about where I am and thatfeeling of knowing that I have
such an incredible support andthat Jeff and I really are doing
life together and we truly doenjoy everything we do doing
(29:18):
things together.
So I love that I can be outthere at the races and see him
there and also knowing that Ihave the support, you know, 110
percent.
Coach Christine (29:28):
I love this.
I want to thank you guys forbeing such an inspiration
because, honestly, yourrelationship is just so
beautiful to witness, even inthe little small pockets of time
, that I've been able to see howmuch you do truly care for each
other.
Shelley (29:40):
Shelly, do you want to give a shout out to maybe some
of your students that were therecheering you on for your run
Disney, oh gosh that would be sohard because once I start
saying names, there was a girl,little girl Peyton, that she was
actually at Epcot later thatday and she was like my aunt
said, she would have taken me ifI'd known.
There was another girl, elena,who signed up for a race, and
(30:02):
then just I mean a bunch of mygirls that are the boys too, I
can't say just the girls, but abunch of the girls that just
have been super sweet, superexciting.
Coach Christine (30:19):
Another girl's faith, just a lot of them, super
sweet girls that just have beenalong cheer me on Well, they're
lucky to have you, and I'm gladthat you were able to get that
support, because it sounds likeagain, they were super excited.
And let's mention theinspiration that you're
providing, because that's alwaysincredible, guys.
I want to thank you so much fortaking time to chat with me and
for sharing this lovely lovestory with our audience.
(30:41):
It's been such a funconversation.
Shelly, your story is one thatis truly going to resonate with
so many runners, and we're allprobably going to be calling in
asking you exactly how can weclone Jeff, or at least have
some of like?
Maybe he can do a seminar forsome of our running spouses.
So, to everyone listening,whether you're the one putting
in the miles or the one waitingat the finish line, I want you
to know that you do matter andwe love to have you as part of
(31:03):
this community.
I hope this episode reminds youthat every runner's journey is
unique and every support systemmatters.
If you love this conversation,be sure to subscribe, leave a
review and share it with someonewho needs to hear it, and until
next time, keep moving forward,keep embracing the journey and,
as always, dare to beextraordinary.
Welcome back to Extraordinary Strides.
I'm your host, coach Christine,and today we have a story
that's equal parts heartwarming,inspiring and a whole lot of
fun.
It's not every day that we getto talk about a running journey
in a true love story, but todaywe get both.
Joining me are ShellySwearingen and her husband Jeff.
Shelly is a dedicated educatorin STEM who somehow manages to
(00:22):
balance life's ups and downswhile keeping running and her
strength training a priority.
I should definitely say that,and what makes her story extra
special besides the fact thatshe actually is a runner who
does her strength training isthat she has unwavering support
of her one and only PrinceCharming, jeff, who spoiler
alert, my friends is not an avidrunner, so he's been by her
(00:43):
side through every mile, everyfinish line and every post-run
celebration snack or meal.
So Shelly has made her bigcomeback to running at the Space
Coast Marathon half marathonlast year and then, with Jeff
cheering her on, she steppedinto the magical world of Run
Disney at Princess Weekend, andwe're going to dive into how she
found her way back to running,what training looks like as a
(01:05):
non-pro juggling real life, andwhat it's like to have a
built-in cheer squad thatdoesn't necessarily lace up, but
is still there every singlestep of the way.
So, my friends, let's get intoit and welcome on in Shelly and
Jeff Hi.
Jeff (01:19):
Hello Thanks.
Coach Christine (01:21):
So excited to have you guys here because I
felt like I had just a littleinkling.
I just have been able toscratch the surface of how
special your connection and yourrelationship is at these two
race weekends that I mentioned.
But I wanted to also just kindof dive in a little bit deeper
about how you guys did meet,connect and how running has been
part of your story, at leastfor definitely in this last year
(01:42):
.
So, Shelly, I'm going to startwith you.
Shelley (01:49):
Take us back.
How did running first become apart of your life and what drew
you to it?
Well, I actually startedrunning in high school.
I wasn't a, it wasn't my mainsport, it wasn't my main thing
by any means, but just had somefriends that were like, hey, you
should come out and run trackwith us.
And so I went out and tried itand the two-miler was my thing.
And then the following seasonwas convinced to run
(02:11):
cross-country and startedrunning and it's just been one
of the best things I ever did,even though it wasn't my.
You know, the thing in highschool that I loved.
It has stuck with me all theseyears and it's come and gone and
for years it was just three,four.
Never ran more than five milesfor a long time.
(02:31):
But that was where my journeystarted, was being convinced to
do it in high school.
Coach Christine (02:36):
Were you into a different form of athletic.
Is there something else thatyou loved Was running your
punishment, or were you okaywith it?
Shelley (02:43):
It wasn't my punishment .
Actually, I was a dancer and Iwas on the dance team like the
kick line and did that kind ofstuff.
I was a tigerette, um, and wewould run um just as warmup, and
so it was fun to.
You know, it would run thecouple laps around the school to
warm up.
They would tell us we needed towork on our cardio and I would
(03:06):
be at the end and drag in and Ialso always was super proud
whenever I started running.
Then the couple, two or threeof us that were also running,
we're getting out there andactually enjoying it.
We were running those laps and,you know, encouraging the
others on the team to it's notso bad, we can do it.
Coach Christine (03:23):
I love that.
So you have quite the athleticbackground.
So I'm going to ask Jeff didyou have a sport choice when you
were in school, or was runningyour sports punishment, or was
it really your jam at all?
Jeff (03:35):
Oh, I did everything.
I played football, turned downa D1 scholarship to play
football and to play baseball.
That's what I was still showing.
I was like, yeah, I did all myrunning in college.
I was a pitcher so you had torun all the time, you know so,
in football course, ran, ran,ran, ran.
And I did do track because Iwas faster than most people, but
(03:58):
I I disliked that part of it,so you know so.
But I did for many years andthen I don't know here lately
I've been lazy, I walk but Idon't run.
Coach Christine (04:12):
Hey, I think walking is a phenomenal way to
move our bodies.
It's we know now that like it'sactually like almost one of the
superior forms with low impactsteady state.
So good for us.
By no means of stretchimagination, here are we
definitely saying that walkingisn't incredible.
I find it fascinating thatsports is such a big part of
your lives and actually now Ican see why there's that big
(04:33):
connection in STEM, because I dothink they parallel each other
a little bit.
So I'm kind of curious, thoughfrom my understanding, shelly
and feel free to correct me ifI'm wrong at some point, running
did take a little bit of a backburner for you.
Is that correct?
Absolutely.
Shelley (04:48):
And it's been kind of an on and off.
But after I had my girl thegirls that was, you know it kind
of did just being a mom, didn'trun a lot and I actually have
ulcerative colitis and Crohn'sdisease and went through some
rough years with that and when Istarted to feel a little better
(05:09):
, my first half marathon Isigned up for was to run with
the Crohn's and ColitisFoundation.
When I first did the Miami half, it was in 2008 or 2009,.
I believe was my first run andthen a couple of years later, I
really got into it for a fewyears where I did a lot, and
then in 2018, our family justwent through a lot of hard
(05:32):
things and going through adivorce and things like that.
I just didn't.
I let it all slide, let it allgo, wasn't taking care of myself
for a long time.
Coach Christine (05:40):
So we call it seasons in life, right, and
there's certain seasons in lifethat, unfortunately, we are
having to prioritize otheraspects and sometimes our
wellness does take a little bitof a back burner.
So we're happy to have you backand that's one of the things I
want to talk about, because Iknow that when you guys
connected, I think that runningwasn't a big part of your life,
(06:03):
is that, jeff?
Jeff (06:05):
yeah, that's correct.
I mean she did run and I knewshe ran.
Uh, after we got married and Iwas moving all of her stuff in
and we have this big placardwith all these ribbons and all
these you know her, her numbersand all that kind of stuff, and
it's a beautiful thing.
But I was like holy moly andand then she just slowly kind of
started uh, uh, training alittle bit.
(06:26):
And then you know some of us, Ihit my 50th birthday and and so
everybody had to start runningaround here, so so were you
surprised were you surprised orwere you?
Coach Christine (06:38):
I mean, what were you thinking when?
Because it sounds like Shelly,you eased him into it.
Smart woman you are, it soundslike it wasn't maybe that much
of a shocker, but were yousurprised that it kind of
started adding up and then youtook on a role of like number
one support crew?
Or did you see it coming andyou were pretty happy with it?
Jeff (07:01):
Yeah, you can kind of see it coming.
I mean the number one support,that's just what we do, that's
what I do, uh, and I can see itkind of coming.
And then, especially when shehooked up with you and started
training and having some results, I mean it's something because
she'd be out running and daysI'd go to work and I'd go to
(07:22):
work and I'd see her coming backand I could see her form
getting better.
I could see her getting better.
And you know, I think we justshe kind of started it.
She needs a goal.
So she picked a race and I don'teven remember what the first
race that when we were togethershe started training for.
But you could just see itcoming and coming, and coming.
And then you know now, uh, thehalf marathon, uh is a little
(07:45):
bit more uh involved.
There's a lot of five in themorning getting up and and I get
, I get up that early, so it'snot that big of a deal, but uh,
you know it's because we like tospend in the evenings together,
so it's getting up at the crackof dawn and she does not like
to get up.
Coach Christine (08:02):
So so I feel you girl, I don't like it.
Jeff (08:04):
I don't like it either.
I don't like it either.
Coach Christine (08:07):
I love sleeping in.
It's the best.
I call myself a Goldilocksrunner.
I don't want to go too early, Idon't want to go too late, I
want to just write, but there'snot that option most of the time
.
So, okay, so, jeff, you saw itcoming, you saw that she was
getting more focused on it andagain I think you mentioned it,
shelley you are very metricfocused, you are very goal
(08:27):
oriented, I think, in yourday-to-day life anyway, and it's
been incredible to see howyou've attached yourself and
your identity to just thisconsistency.
I don't ever hear you evercomplaining.
So I'm going to ask Jeff ifthere's any complaining going on
.
But before we get into that, Iwant to know a little bit of
(08:48):
what was it like when youstarted to committing back to
this training and getting intothis time for yourself.
And then I'm going to ask Jeffwhat did he think of seeing you
kind of as you started toprogress in this commitment from
the more casual to how hementioned?
It's definitely a lot morecommitted now where there's a
lot of crack of dawn type ofwake-ups.
Shelley (09:09):
I think it's.
I guess the him seeing itcoming was me doing a 5k here
and there.
You know, 4th of July, afirecracker run on 4th of July,
and here and there, and so itwas doing a little bit and then
it was me turning 50 last summerand you know like, okay, I'm
not gonna let this isn't goingto be, I'm going to take care of
myself and with Jeff support,like not feeling guilty about
(09:33):
doing those things for myself.
I mean it is require the gearthat I need, the, the training
support.
They need the, the time and notfeeling guilty and having that
support.
And then just realizing how thehealth benefits, the stress
relief because my job is verydemanding and does require a lot
(09:55):
, but that being able to get outand do something for myself and
put my book in my ear, my musicin my ear, and being able to go
out and, you know, just stepaway from the hard things
sometimes and do something formyself, and having that support
to not feel guilty and makingthat time.
And it is the commitment alsobecause I do want to have my.
(10:17):
I'd like to have my evening, soI like to get up and get it
done and taken care of in themorning, but it's definitely
been just good that mentally,physically and in every way felt
good, getting back to takingcare of myself and doing
something for myself.
Coach Christine (10:31):
It's been so beautiful to see it from my
perspective, and it's also beenbeautiful to hear about the
support that you receive,because, from day one, I think
you guys have such an incrediblerelationship in that you're
really partners in this game oflife, right?
So it feels like there's a lotof talking about these choices
and balling it back and forth,and I know you mentioned early
(10:52):
on that Jeff was fantastic atsupporting with, like you said,
the gear, because this isunfortunately, this is the most
expensive, inexpensive sportthat I think that there ever
could be.
I do know that I want to talk alittle bit about that, jeff,
because we hear on this side andI'm sure you hear it, but
you're probably a little toohumble to even realize how
incredible your support ofShelly has been.
(11:14):
I think specifically I'm goingto think back to summer, where
it's 98 degrees at four o'clockin the morning and you're
dropping by and bringing hersome fuel or hydration or
supporting her on these longerruns.
Um, how does it feel to kind ofknow that you're such an
(11:34):
instrumental part of hertraining and these goals that
she has?
Jeff (11:40):
Well, again, it's just kind of something I do and it's
something that I enjoy, so it'sfun.
It's not like work, you know,because you're so right.
I mean she gets up, I mean onSaturday, to go do one of her
long runs, and during summer, ifyou don't get up at five, I
mean by the time you're, youknow, three quarters of the way
(12:01):
done.
It's so hot, it's justdangerous.
And then we've never found theexact right thing for her to
carry and hold water and stuff.
So it's just like, well, youknow, I'm not doing anything, so
I come, I get to check on hertoo, you know, because I mean
she's running all over.
I mean it's crazy.
It's like we have a golf cart.
(12:23):
I wouldn't take a golf cart asfar.
Coach Christine (12:31):
I love that you mentioned that because, shelly,
I know some of your runningpaths and you're almost crossing
city lines, like you'reliterally running through cities
, my friend in some of these,you're not just running in your
neighborhood or your town.
Shelley (12:40):
It is, it is and it's.
Yeah, and I like him coming tocheck on me.
It's more fun than carryingextra water with me.
It is, I agree.
It's something to look forwardto when I run.
I agree.
Yeah, I want to get to thispoint before he gets here, so
I'm going to keep going Seeinghis sunshiny face bringing you
gear and stuff.
Coach Christine (12:56):
Yes, Right, it's weird a little bit about
that as well in terms of okay,so you've touched on it Shelly,
you touched on it Jeff.
You guys, this is not likewhere we get to.
We're not sponsored.
Brooks or Nike hasn't comecalling.
You still have really busylives.
You're both very active inchurch and different
organizations.
You both give back to thecommunity.
(13:16):
I know that's very important towho.
You both are Very busy work,jobs.
How do you juggle it all andstill find time for each other?
Jeff (13:29):
That's the hardest part and her biggest sacrifice is she
does wake up at five becauseshe could go run in the evening.
But, like you said, we have achurch group that we lead
together and we do that onThursdays.
We do outreach to our church,you know, and that's not that
often, but I've got a churchmeeting I go to usually once a
week by myself with her, andthen half the time my daughter's
(13:52):
with us and we've got all thesethings going on.
So she does that.
And then the gym she gets upand goes to the gym at five in
the morning and that way we havean evening.
So when we come home, she's ateacher.
She doesn't ever come home ontime.
Coach Christine (14:08):
Right.
Jeff (14:11):
But we make time and what time we get.
We do pretty good together,yeah.
Coach Christine (14:17):
Yeah, and friends, shelly is so passionate
about her work.
I want you guys to know I know.
First of all, thank you forbeing an educator and for what
you do in shaping our futuregenerations.
It's such a thankless job andwe so appreciate it.
But I think that it really doesput a pep in your step, shelly,
and as to part of your DNA, ofwho you are, because I know that
you are so passionate aboutreally pouring yourself into
(14:41):
every aspect of what you do.
So it's quite beautiful to see,and I know, that that kind of
bleeds over both into yourrunning.
I'm curious if you feel likeyou wish that you could impart a
lesson that you've learnedthrough running to maybe some of
your kiddos that you are luckyenough to interact with you, or
some of the different people inthe world.
(15:02):
If you could share a littlenugget of wisdom that you've
learned through running, what doyou think it would be?
Shelley (15:08):
Hard work pays off, I think would be the hard work
pays off and that when you putyour mind to it you can do more
than you ever think you can.
And it would be the two thingsbut I just want to throw out
there too.
While you're saying that and wehaven't talked about this, but
coming back from Ren Disney thisweekend, you would not believe
(15:28):
how excited my middle schoolerswere for me, like they had asked
me to bring my medals to school.
They wanted to know why Iwasn't wearing my race shirt.
They wanted to see pictures.
I had a picture of me runningup on my bell work Monday and
they wanted to see pictures.
I had a picture of me runningup on my bell work Monday and
they wanted to see more pictures.
And they wanted to hear aboutit, because I left school early
Friday to get over there and hadtold some that I was going and
(15:50):
that was so fun to share.
Coach Christine (15:51):
That Exciting let's do it.
Let's talk about Run Disney.
You just experienced your firstRun Disney race.
We spent a little bit of timebefore you jumped onto the
microphone, friends, talkingabout how intense these early
workups are, but I do want toask you, Shelly, first as to was
it different than any otherrace experience that you've had?
Shelley (16:12):
It was so different, very different, and the pros and
cons, like we talked about,it's tiring and exhausting, but
it's exhilarating.
And running through the parkswas just.
There was not, especially forthe first day on the 10K.
There was not a moment I wantedmy run to end and I was like I
(16:33):
even sent.
I had a pouty picture of merunning out of Epcot because I
didn't want.
I sent Jeff, I was like I don'twant it to end.
It was just, it was magical, itis, it is and it's um, it was
really exciting, like and I youknow, living as close as I have
and running, and I've never doneone of those, and so it was.
(16:54):
It was definitely a veryexciting weekend, very awesome
opportunity.
Coach Christine (16:59):
It was exciting to see and to feel your energy
because it is so beautiful.
I mean, again, I know that forfolks that haven't done Run
Disney or maybe aren't big fansof Run Disney, it truly is a
magical experience.
We could probably we could lista lot of cons Cost is probably
at the top of my mind, thoseearly wake-ups is another one
but it really does have a lot ofmagical aspects to it.
(17:20):
I think one of the most magicalaspects to it, though, for what
I saw of you guys, was itShelley, for you running down
Main Street and knowing that youwere going to find your prince
charming right before theCinderella Castle was something
you were very much lookingforward to.
So, jeff, can you give us anidea of how you made this
magical moment happen forShelley?
(17:41):
Because it's not easy.
Spectating on Main Street isnot for the meek by any stretch
of the imagination.
So can you talk us through howyou made it happen and maybe
your experience as a spectatorthere?
Jeff (17:54):
Well, you don't even know, I almost blew it all up.
So the 10K we had our plan.
She got up, took the disney busthere, no problem.
I drove right in park zeroproblem.
Well, she did the same thingthe next day.
And then I get up, after Ishower and I'm getting ready to
go, I looked at my uh map quest.
(18:14):
What the hell did my map quest,apple maps and it shows that
the roads are closed, that youhave have to like walk four
miles.
So I kind of freak out and goout.
I'm like, okay, well then I'mgoing to get on a bus.
I go out there.
There's no buses, no, nothing.
So I sit there.
I'm like I don't really knowwhat to do here, hon, and she's
(18:35):
like it's okay.
And I'm like, yeah, okay.
And so finally I got in theright place and stayed put long
enough that here comes a bus, Iget on there and luckily got
there.
And then I think I'm so late nowbecause she's finally started
and I'm tracking where she'sgoing, and I get there and I
hightail it up and you kind ofgot to wait to get all the way
(18:58):
over to downtown Disney, and ofcourse I beat her easily and
that was something.
Um, you know most of theseraces, they're, you know, just a
bunch of people running aroundand you know you're doing
business.
Well, here, I mean evenspectators.
You walk into main street andthen all the lights are on, all
the people are clapping andcheer and there's a castle and
(19:20):
you know I've taken my daughterthere and now you know shelly's
getting to run up there.
I mean, oh, my goodness, thatwas did you tear up a little bit
.
Coach Christine (19:27):
It's okay, you're amongst friends, you're
in a safe space, my friend, didyou tear up a little bit?
Jeff (19:32):
of course I mean because I've I've got a picture of me
just bawling my daughter on myshoulders and that's about where
we're standing, almost uh, whenI got to see Shelly, which
wasn't the easiest thing in theworld, we're having to talk.
I mean, I've never seen a racewhere you know she calls me.
Okay, I'm coming here, when areyou?
(19:53):
And I'm like hey, there'ssomebody with these big pink
bang stick things sticking up onmy right behind me.
Coach Christine (20:02):
Friends.
It is a dedication.
I mean it truly is to be ableto spectate at Disney.
We've talked about it before inthe podcast.
I'm definitely going to suggestyou guys go back.
If you're thinking you want aspectator For my friends that
are listening in, you're goingto want to listen to that
episode with Lynn, because Lynndefinitely does have a lot of
tips for spectating.
It is not easy.
Main Street is super intensebecause people really do stake
(20:24):
their spots out super earlybecause it is such a magical
experience.
I am so glad to hear that thisfairy tale did have a happily
ever after and you were able tomake it there, because I do know
that, Shelly, I know that youwould have been okay if you
wouldn't have been able to makeit.
I was telling him it was, but Iknow that it was a little extra
special to have him there and,of course, also knowing that
(20:46):
after that he hightailed it backover to the finish line and I
mean there's a lot Friends he'sputting in, some he's putting in
like at least his own halfmarathon during all this process
.
I want you guys to know thatit's definitely dedication and
we love it.
I want to ask you, jeff, what'sone thing that you would tell
other partners of runners thathave fallen madly into this,
(21:09):
madly in love with this sportand or down the rabbit hole of
all of the shiny metal things.
What are some things that youwould maybe suggest them or tell
them?
Or a little nugget of wisdom asto how to best support the
individual as they pursue thesegoals?
Jeff (21:25):
Well, I mean, I imagine everybody's different.
Shelly, she just neededsomebody there to say it was
okay to go do it.
My wife thinks of everybodyelse and herself.
Last I remember, when shejoined you had you know, I'm not
(21:46):
exactly sure, but she had likea trial thing where there's a
group and it didn't cost a wholelot and she was like I think
you want to try this and it.
You know, I think I don't evenremember it was 100 bucks or
whatever it was.
It wasn't a whole lot and I'mlike, well, we'll do it and you
know, see what happens.
Worst case is you hate it andit's horrible.
And then, after it was finished, she's like I don't really want
(22:09):
to finish.
And so I guess my thing is is,if it's it's so much for her
that it has to be.
I mean, I didn't like gettingup at 2.45 in the morning, even
though I stayed in, I was awake,you know all that kind of stuff
.
But it's so amazing seeing her.
She was sending me pictureswhile she's running.
(22:29):
I remember the first couple ofraces she did the first couple
of 5Ks.
I thought, you know, man, youknow that was the first time I
thought, well, I probably betterstart running and try to help
pace her.
But that was before sheadowingreal help, I would have been no
help.
Coach Christine (22:43):
But that's not about that, my friend, that's
going to be one of the questionsI'm going to have, so if that's
coming down the pike.
But so what I'm hearing you sayis that there are going to be
sacrifices, but that's part ofbeing in a relationship
regardless if the person's arunner or not runner, they have
to have their passions, thingsthat kind of that they look
forward to.
And just being that soundingboard and also that person who
(23:06):
helps to encourage them to put alittle bit of themselves first,
that's that's trulyextraordinary.
So, again, I can't express howmuch we love to hear that.
So listen up, my friends thatare out there that maybe are not
don't have quite that samesupport.
You need to send this podcastepisode to your other half,
because this is what it'sliterally all about.
(23:26):
I want to bring it before wemove on from Run Disney because
I do want to hear what's nextfor both of you.
But I would love, shelley,because I feel like one of the
things that is pretty amazingabout the Run Disney world is
because it is a little bitdifferent and by that I mean a
whole lot different than a lotof other race experiences.
And you said you learned a lot.
What are some of the thingsthat you feel like you learned
that if there was a brand newrun Disney person listening in
(23:49):
and they just signed up for arace coming down the pike that
you wish that you knew goinginto it, or that you would want
to impart that knowledge ontothem.
Shelley (23:59):
Gosh, I don't know that .
There's one particular thing, Ithink, more thinking people
that are considering it do it.
And even if it's not somethinglike I don't know, that I'll be
the, you know, can do everysingle one and do it every
single time.
But it is so worth theexperience and I hope I can do
at least one a year and but it'sso worth the sacrifice of the
(24:23):
getting up early.
It's worth the waiting in thelines, going through all of that
to experience that as a runnerI almost felt like it was a
reward for all these years ofputting in the running that I
was doing.
I have worked hard all theseyears and now I get to go run
through Epcot and get to go runthrough the castle and down Main
Street, and now I get to go runthrough Epcot and get to go run
(24:43):
through the castle and downMain Street.
That it's, you know.
Yes, there's the early morningsand all of that, but it's
absolutely worth that experience.
Coach Christine (24:51):
I'm going to hear it, as what I'm hearing is
that it's really almost comingfrom a place of gratitude, that
this is something we get to doand, yes, it is incredibly
rewarding after years oftraining.
So I think that if you haveyeah, I love that that
encouragement with folks, and Ithink that's something valid to
think of as well.
We see in social media quite abit where you see folks that are
(25:13):
like they're doing it everyweekend, or it doesn't have to
be that.
It can be something that wehave a bit more sparse in our
life or it's something that welook forward to maybe every five
years.
But trying to have that as anexperience that we budget for
and plan for, I think is prettyexceptional on its own as well.
Shelley (25:29):
All right, I would say go.
Oh sorry, no, you go.
I was going to say I was goingto say just go and enjoy it and
have fun too.
I guess that's too, that notworrying about my pace and my
time and just getting out thereand being able to take it all in
.
Coach Christine (25:43):
Yes, and I cannot reiterate that enough.
If you guys want to run forspeed, there are tons of
hometown races that cost afraction of the cost, that do
not have that on-course supportand entertainment.
But run Disney.
It's truly about immersingyourself into it.
I'm curious what's next forboth of you guys.
Shelly, I know we're going tobe seeing you and Jeff again in
(26:06):
just a couple of weeks, shamrockbut do you have any other big
goals on your horizon, since weknow that you're a goal metric
focus kind of gal?
Shelley (26:17):
Well, I will surely sign up for Space Coast for next
fall to keep going.
I do and, like Jeff saidearlier, I need to have and I
like having a race on the booksand to keep my run and my goal
to keep going and not to get youknow those seasons and now that
(26:40):
I've been back at it for comingup here in a year, in a couple
months, the biggest goal is tostick with it and not let it end
.
And I see these ladies outthere of all ages, out there
running and I want to keep withit.
Coach Christine (26:55):
That's my goal too.
For the record, I want toliterally run until like the
last possible day, Jeff.
What about you?
What's next Are we going tohave?
Jeff (27:06):
you tow up to the line at maybe a Run Disney 5K or 10K oh,
I don't know about Run.
Coach Christine (27:08):
Disney, but maybe another race.
Jeff (27:11):
Do tell.
I mean you know it's prettyaddicting when you're there.
I mean you like especially me,I don't run now, but I did and
I'm like 5K, even the 10K wouldhave been easy.
We did that before breakfastevery morning and so I know I'm
capable of it.
So maybe I mean I'm not totallyagainst it.
(27:32):
It's, you know, it's a ways off.
Coach Christine (27:37):
Am I?
Well, I don't know, I don'tknow.
My friend, as you mentioned,you've already put in.
You pretty much did a halfmarathon, a half marathon day,
racing around and trying to findShelly at that castle, in the
finish line and afterwards.
So, um, we're here to supportyou, friend, just as you've been
in such a great support forShelly.
So let us know when we cancheer you on as well.
With that said, I'm going toask you guys maybe to share any
(28:02):
last thoughts that you wouldhave about what running has
meant to you in this season ofyour life.
Shelley (28:12):
I think it's been this time around has just been so
different.
I feel like it's me totallytaking care of myself.
It's that turning 50 andlooking at things differently,
whereas I don't have to get outand beat anybody or beat any
certain time, I just have totake care of myself and love
(28:36):
what I'm doing and I guessthat's just the run, keeps me
sane, I guess keeps me feelingphysically with having the
Crohn's and colitis and livingwith that immunosuppressant, the
medicines, and the feeling likeI'm in control of something in
(28:57):
my life and feeling good aboutwho I am and what I'm doing.
I love being able to set a goaland reach it and feel great
about where I am and thatfeeling of knowing that I have
such an incredible support andthat Jeff and I really are doing
life together and we truly doenjoy everything we do doing
(29:18):
things together.
So I love that I can be outthere at the races and see him
there and also knowing that Ihave the support, you know, 110
percent.
Coach Christine (29:28):
I love this.
I want to thank you guys forbeing such an inspiration
because, honestly, yourrelationship is just so
beautiful to witness, even inthe little small pockets of time
, that I've been able to see howmuch you do truly care for each
other.
Shelley (29:40):
Shelly, do you want to give a shout out to maybe some
of your students that were therecheering you on for your run
Disney, oh gosh that would be sohard because once I start
saying names, there was a girl,little girl Peyton, that she was
actually at Epcot later thatday and she was like my aunt
said, she would have taken me ifI'd known.
There was another girl, elena,who signed up for a race, and
(30:02):
then just I mean a bunch of mygirls that are the boys too, I
can't say just the girls, but abunch of the girls that just
have been super sweet, superexciting.
Coach Christine (30:19):
Another girl's faith, just a lot of them, super
sweet girls that just have beenalong cheer me on Well, they're
lucky to have you, and I'm gladthat you were able to get that
support, because it sounds likeagain, they were super excited.
And let's mention theinspiration that you're
providing, because that's alwaysincredible, guys.
I want to thank you so much fortaking time to chat with me and
for sharing this lovely lovestory with our audience.
(30:41):
It's been such a funconversation.
Shelly, your story is one thatis truly going to resonate with
so many runners, and we're allprobably going to be calling in
asking you exactly how can weclone Jeff, or at least have
some of like?
Maybe he can do a seminar forsome of our running spouses.
So, to everyone listening,whether you're the one putting
in the miles or the one waitingat the finish line, I want you
to know that you do matter andwe love to have you as part of
(31:03):
this community.
I hope this episode reminds youthat every runner's journey is
unique and every support systemmatters.
If you love this conversation,be sure to subscribe, leave a
review and share it with someonewho needs to hear it, and until
next time, keep moving forward,keep embracing the journey and,
as always, dare to beextraordinary.
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