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!