30. Running Toward Safety With Rhea Deroian

In this unstoppable conversation, Rhea Deroian shares how running became both an escape and a lifeline for her during an abusive marriage, and later as a joyful practice that she used to test potential partners, and ultimately find her person. Rhea takes us from her earliest inspiration (a marathon-running boss named Sue) to her own marathon win, and into the bigger lessons she’s learned about situational awareness, boundaries, healing, and trusting your instincts.Along the way, we talk with the grant writer about why research funding matters, how endurance teaches you to listen to your body, why the clock isn’t the only measure of success, and the book that helped Rhea name what was happening and find the courage to leave: The Gift of Fear.This episode includes a clear PSA on domestic abuse warning signs and resources because nobody should have to navigate fear alone.In This Episode, You’ll HearHow research funding is the real engine behind future cures and why it takes a village of specialistsThe moment running “clicked” for Rhea (and the marathoner named Sue who planted the seed)Why she fell in love with the marathon distance... even when she was wildly underpreparedThe kismet “Sue” connection that helped her win a marathon on a hard dayHow data can be motivating… until it becomes the only thing you value (looking at you, Garmin 😅)The reality of how partners can become jealous of a hobby and how that can turn controllingA candid, powerful conversation about abuse, silence, shame, and what helped Rhea leaveWhy Rhea believes healing is possible and why boundaries still matterThe “sixth sense” we all have, and how to practice trusting itKey TakeawaysThe clock is only one metric. A run (and a life) can be successful in a lot of ways.Support looks like encouragement, not control. If your partner punishes you for having a healthy outlet, that’s information that shouldn't be overlooked.Your gut knows before your brain catches up. If something feels off, it deserves attention.Once it becomes physical, the boundary has been crossed. Safety has to come first.Consistency builds self-trust. Streaks, routines, and movement can teach you how to listen to yourself again.You can grow from hard chapters without glamorizing them. Healing can include compassion and firm boundaries.Notable Quotes“The clock is one metric, but it can’t be the be-all end-all.”“He doesn’t get to take this away from me.”“I realized I wasn’t afraid of what was outside. I was afraid of what was inside.”“Whatever works for you, that’s what you should do.”Resources MentionedThe Gift of Fear by Gavin de BeckerNational Domestic Violence Hotline (U.S.)Phone: 1-800-799-7233Website: thehotline.orgIf this episode hit home:Share it with someone who needs encouragement, clarity, or language for what they’re experiencingSubscribe to Unstoppable: Stories That MoveLeave a review to help more people find these storiesAnd if you want to do something even bigger: This podcast supports the mission of raising $1 million for medical research. Your support helps fund real labs doing real work that saves lives. Donate today at unstoppablestoriesthatmove.com