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Joyful Journeys

Joyful Journeys

By: GOTR NOVA
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About this listen

 Welcome to the Girls on the Run of Northern Virginia Joyful Journeys Interview Series, the podcast highlighting inspirational individuals in the GOTR and NOVA communities. Join us as we hear from a wide array of powerful women, following along with the GOTR curriculum and matching the practice themes each week.

Each episode will feature empowering conversations with public professionals, GOTR volunteers, and program alumni, to name a few. From overcoming obstacles to discovering their inner strength, these stories will uplift and motivate listeners of all ages.

Get ready for a dose of positivity, resilience, and the infectious spirit of Girls on the Run. Whether you're a parent, educator, or someone passionate about empowering the next generation, this podcast is your invitation to be part of the joyful journeys that define Girls on the Run.

You can expect a new episode each week during our spring and fall seasons.Copyright GOTR NOVA Economics Management Management & Leadership
Episodes
  • 2019 - Kelsie Humbert

    2019 - Kelsie Humbert
    Sep 3 2025
    This week on Joyful Journeys, we’re joined by Kelsie Humbert, who shares how the positive team mindset she first discovered through Girls on the Run has carried into her high school cross country and track experiences.

    Kelsie reflects on the valuable life skills she gained from the program, like active listening and using “I feel…” statements to foster understanding instead of conflict, which continue to shape who she is today.

    Tune in to hear some of Kelsie’s favorite Girls on the Run memories and how she’s using what she learned to uplift and inspire her teammates!
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    16 mins
  • 2016 - Kathleen Ecker

    2016 - Kathleen Ecker
    Aug 15 2025
    In this heartfelt episode, we sit down with Kathleen Ecker, a former Girls on the Run coach whose journey with the program began when her daughters joined the team. She shares the joy of staying connected with her former participants and watching them grow, as well as the meaningful lessons the program instills, even for kids who aren’t big fans of running. From her time as a Gamma Phi Beta at George Mason University (GOTR NOVA's current philanthropic partner) to weaving GOTR’s life skills into her own home, Kathleen reflects on the deep, lasting impact of the program on her family and community.
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    16 mins
  • 2015 - Becky & Kai Wheeler

    2015 - Becky & Kai Wheeler
    Aug 6 2025
    In this heartwarming episode, we hear from a mother-daughter duo whose Girls on the Run journey has come full circle. Kai fondly recalls making tie-dye shirts and tutus with her team, and the unforgettable moment when her dad proudly wore his to the 5K. After moving to a new area, GOTR helped Kai find her footing and new friendships, while her mom, Becky, coached and discovered how powerful the program is beyond running.

    Together, they reflect on the growth they witnessed season after season. How the curriculum not only shaped the girls but also brought the team closer together. Kai opens up about a powerful high school experience where, despite being the last to finish a race, she felt uplifted by her coach and teammates, which fueled her commitment to always cheer for the final runner.

    From staying in touch with fellow coaches to cheering on former teammates now competing in college, Becky’s passion for the program continues to shine. And now, as a coach herself, Kai has come full circle, guiding girls through Camp GOTR this summer.
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    18 mins
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