Welcome to another episode of Running Strong Mind-Body Connection! I’m your host, Karen Bonnett-Natraj, and in today’s episode, we welcome the inspiring Dr. Greg Yuen. Dr. Yuen’s fascinating journey began when he was just 12 years old, after the passing of his grandmother sent him on a lifelong quest for longevity and wellness. Through decades of experience spanning Western medicine, psychiatry, massage therapy, and becoming a Tai Chi instructor, Dr. Yuen has come to believe that mindful self-massage—dō-in—may be one of the most powerful and accessible tools for cultivating the vital energy, or “chi,” in our bodies.

In this episode, Dr. Yuen shares how dō-in can help runners and anyone seeking greater mind-body connection to reduce stress, promote healing, alleviate pain, enhance performance, and support longevity. We dive deep into Eastern philosophies, energy techniques, and practical acupressure points you can use before, during, and after your runs. Whether you’re chasing a finish line or simply want to feel more aligned inside and out, this conversation is full of wisdom and actionable takeaways for your journey.

Tune in to hear Dr. Yuen’s expert insights, learn how to boost your own flow of chi, and discover why loving attention to your body can transform your running and your life!

If you have any trouble accessing the links below, please contact me @themindfulathletecoach@gmail.com

Here is a link to Dr Greg's workshop: https://docs.google.com/document/d/12ISOskPQbhT1vzCiQB21YCjS5Ejzy-cy/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=115999886004146583718&rtpof=true&sd=true

Here are the exercises you can start implementing:

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1zjz31LUP4TNC70qzEQQToW9NgeHKLbFO/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=107694207209257021617&rtpof=true&sd=true

Welcome back to the Running Strong Mind-Body Connection podcast! In this episode, host Karen Bonnett-Natraj is joined once again by the insightful Stacey Anne Bistak, holistic nutritionist and ultra-endurance enthusiast.

Stacy returns for her third visit to share her expertise on the critical role that nutrition, hydration, and electrolyte balance play in both running performance and overall well-being. From practical fueling tips for ultramarathons and the differences between hydration strategies, to the benefits of real food and the power of mindful movement, this conversation is packed with valuable takeaways for runners and anyone interested in building a stronger mind-body connection.

Whether you’re lacing up for serious mileage or just looking to feel more energized and connected, get ready for an inspiring, information-rich discussion that will help you fuel your body, nourish your spirit, and run strong at every stage of your life.

Welcome back to the Running Strong Mind-Body Connection podcast! In this heartfelt episode, host Karen Bonnett-Natraj, certified mental fitness coach and founder of the Mental Fitness Edge, sits down with her friend and returning guest, Dr. Wendy Lyon. Together, they explore “the journey to love” and why building lasting relationships is more like running a marathon than sprinting to the finish line.

Drawing from Dr. Wendy’s personal story—as a former sprinter who rushed into relationships, before discovering the keys to sustaining lasting love—this conversation is packed with wisdom for athletes, coaches, and everyday warriors alike. Dr. Wendy shares insights from 25 years as a relationship coach, including how self-discovery, pacing, mindset, and intentionality are critical for finding and nurturing love. You’ll learn why knowing your values, vision, and self-worth is essential before bringing another person into your life and how rituals of connection, gratitude, and ongoing growth are vital to keeping love strong.

Whether you’re navigating the dating world, wanting to rekindle a relationship, or simply striving for more alignment between mind, body, and heart, this episode will inspire you to run the distance for the love you truly deserve. Be sure to listen in for practical tips, inspiring stories, and details about Dr. Wendy’s free masterclass and resources for creating the relationship you’ve always wanted!

Welcome back to the Running Strong Mind-Body Connection Podcast! In today’s inspiring episode, host Karen Bonnett-Natraj sits down with the multi-talented Danielle . Forsgren whose fascinating journey takes us from the bright lights of the theater world to the innovative realm of medical devices. Danielle shares how her upbringing as a fourth-generation performer shaped her creative drive, why she believes in reinventing oneself throughout life, and how her personal experiences led her to co-found Avisen Medical—a company dedicated to healing by harnessing the body’s natural potential.

Together, Karen and Danielle dive deep into the power of following your passions, the importance of supportive environments, and why prioritizing self-care isn’t selfish—it’s essential. They also explore the science behind Donella’s medical device, the critical role of microcirculation and inflammation in health, and how mind-body practices pave the way for lasting transformation and resilience.

Whether you’re a runner, a creative spirit, or on your own journey toward balance and healing, you’ll find wisdom, practical tips, and a whole lot of encouragement in this episode. So get ready to be inspired, laugh, and maybe even rethink what’s possible for your mind, body, and life.

Welcome back to another episode of the Running Strong Mind-Body Connection podcast, where we dive deep into the intersection of mental and physical resilience. This week, host Karen Bonnett-Natraj is joined by returning guest Mo Bartley for an honest and inspiring conversation all about navigating change—both on the racecourse and in life.

Together, Karen and Mo share their personal stories of overcoming injury, adapting to new challenges, and embracing the inevitable transitions that come with aging, shifting careers, and staying active in the face of setbacks. From tales of sprained ankles and torn Achilles to launching Mo's new "Mo Miles Trail Training" group at the age of 70, this episode is packed with wisdom about finding the silver lining in adversity, discovering the power of community, and learning how the right mindset can turn obstacles into opportunities.

Whether you’re a seasoned runner, recovering from burnout, or simply curious how to build real strength by connecting mind and body, you’ll find both practical advice and plenty of encouragement here. So, lace up, lean in, and get ready to be motivated to make the most out of change—whatever it looks like for you.

Maureen Anne Shea Carranza is a professional boxer, actress, commentator, and speaker, bestknown in the fight world as “The Real Million Dollar Baby.” Born in the Bronx, New York to Irish and Mexican parents, Maureen rose from humble beginnings to become a two-time world champion and one of the most respected veterans in women’s boxing.

With a professional record of 33 wins (13 by knockout), 3 losses, 1 draw, and 1 no contest,
Maureen has held both the WBC Interim Featherweight and IFBA Super Bantamweight World Titles. She’s known for her grit, longevity, and fearless independence—often self-promoting her career and speaking out against inequities in the sport.

Maureen trained under elite coaches including Hector Roca and Derik Santos, and was Hilary Swank’s sparring partner for Million Dollar Baby. Outside the ring, she’s a commentator, brand ambassador, former TV host, and advocate for both youth mentorship and domestic violence awareness. She’s also been featured in People, Sports Illustrated, E! True Hollywood Story, and more.

Maureen holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from Iona College, and currently lives and trains in South Florida. In 2025, she won yet another pro fight at age 44—proving her staying power in and out of the ring.

Welcome to episode 60 of the Running Strong Mind-Body Connection podcast! In today’s inspiring episode, host Karen sits down with the remarkable Bob Becker, a legendary figure in the ultramarathon world who just set a new record as the oldest finisher of the grueling Badwater 135 at age 80.

With nearly two decades of Badwater experience—whether running, crewing, or working with race staff—Bob shares what keeps him coming back to one of the world’s toughest footraces. T

ogether, Karen and Bob reminisce about the early days of their friendship, swap unforgettable Badwater stories, and dive deep into Bob’s mindset, training, and nutrition strategies that helped him conquer 135 miles across Death Valley.

Bob opens up about setbacks, his competitive spirit, the critical role of his crew and coach, and his passion for challenging what’s possible at any age. He also discusses his journey as a race director for the iconic KEYS100 and Daytona 100, the importance of staying active as you age, and his advice for anyone looking to push their limits. T

une in for a conversation packed with wisdom, humor, and motivation—and discover why Bob Becker proves that age is just a number when it comes to endurance, resilience, and chasing big goals.

https://keys100.com/

https://daytona100ultra.com/

Welcome back to the Running Strong Mind-Body Connection podcast! In this episode, host Karen welcomes returning guest Stacy Ann Bistak, a nutritionist and wellness advocate with a passion for exploring holistic health. This time around, Stacy dives into the world of electromagnetic frequencies (EMFs)—those invisible forces all around us, from our phones, WiFi, and Bluetooth devices, to the ever-present cell towers and even the lighting in our homes.

Together, Karen and Stacy unpack the ways EMFs might impact our bodies, especially when it comes to sleep, cellular health, and energy levels. They touch on the unique challenges faced by endurance runners, from tackling sleep deprivation in ultramarathons like the Badwater 135, to sharing practical tips for recovery, nutrition, and safeguarding yourself against modern environmental stressors.

They also celebrate the restorative power of nature—think forest bathing, grounding, and the subtle yet powerful benefits of being surrounded by trees and natural essential oils. Plus, they explore healthy fueling strategies for runners, the role of whole foods like root vegetables and honey, and even cover the debate around sun exposure and sunscreen.

Whether you’re an ultrarunner, a wellness enthusiast, or just curious about how everyday technology may be affecting your performance and recovery, this conversation brings fresh insights, actionable strategies, and a reminder that tuning in to your mind-body connection is key to running—and living—strong.