Episode 123: Obsie Birru on Being an American-Ethiopian, Finding the Why and Joy in Running, and Giving Back to the Community

Obsie Birru is an Ethiopian born American raised, enrollment adviser at university, graduate student, 5x NAIA National Champion, 18x All American, and part of team USA 2018 Pan American Cross-Country team.  You can connect with her on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/obbirru/ Questions we ask Obsie Include… How did you get your start in running? What was the collegiate transition like? How did you make this choice? You mentioned that your coach cared about you as a “person first, runner second.” Tell us a bit more about this and why it was important to you. You mentioned that running is like a language that unites us. Can you speak more to this and how you see running as a way to bring us together? What was the post-collegiate transition like for you, as well as your performance at CIM? You have a passion for working with younger athletes. What do you enjoy about working with youth runners? What knowledge and lessons do you try to instill in them? You write on your IG profile, “Different is beautiful. I rather be weird than be one of the herd. Ethiopian born American raised proud to be both.” How do you embrace both your Ethiopian roots and American life? We noticed you are involved with ChildServe! Tell us a bit more about this, as well as any other organizations you are involved with. How do you find ways to give back to running? What advice would you give to your younger self? What does being a Strong Runner Chick mean to you?