10: Breaking Barriers: Push-Rim Racing, ADHD and the Power to Keep Racing with Heather Cohen

Join us as Heather shares her inspiring journey of transforming challenges into triumphs from her military service and a unique health condition to conquering ultra distances as a push rim wheelchair racing athlete at iconic races like the Donna 110 and Dopey Challenge. As an ADHD athlete, Heather also reveals how she balances focus and energy, offering insights on race accessibility, race day etiquette, the power of community, mental grit and perseverance.Chapters00:00 The Journey of Resilience in Running03:06 From Air Force to Adaptive Athlete05:49 Transitioning to Wheelchair Racing08:55 Challenges and Triumphs in Racing11:47 The Importance of Community and Support15:05 Navigating Race Etiquette and Safety18:08 Advocacy and Inclusivity in Racing21:00 Experiences in Ultra Racing24:03 The Role of Costumes in Racing26:56 Memorable Moments in Disney Races47:08 Running My Own Race49:25 ADHD and Racing Life53:38 The Role of Coaching and Support54:55 Navigating ADHD and Sports01:01:00 Understanding ADHD in Athletes01:02:30 Finding Your Tribe01:04:34 Favorite Races and Experiences01:07:22 Upcoming Goals and Challenges01:10:23 Songs That Run Us01:32:41 Closing Thoughts and Reflections If you’re enjoying Wired To Run, leaving us a quick rating or review is one of the best ways to support the podcast and help more runners find the show. We’d also love for you to come hang out with us on Instagram: @wiredtorunpod and Facebook: Wired To Run Podcast where we keep the conversation going beyond the episode. Thanks for being part of this community and running with us.  Have a song that runs you? Send it our way on Instagram, Facebook, or email, and we may feature it on the show during our new series, “Songs That Run Us” 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 us a message at [email protected]. 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!