Episode 140: Kathleen Ralls, PhD, on Empowering Girls and Women Through Girls Gotta Run Foundation

Kathleen Ralls is a graduate of the University of Massachusetts Amherst (BA), American University (MAT), and the University of Massachusetts Lowell (PhD). She is an award-winning public educator with 15 years experience in multiple states and countries including Norway, where she was a Fulbright Foundation Roving Scholar of American Studies. Prior to teaching, Kathleen was a sports writer for a local newspaper. She has coached a variety of sports including field hockey, basketball, softball, and track & field. Kathleen lives in Massachusetts with her husband and cat, where she is the slowest runner in her household. How did you get your start in running? Foundation for everything that she did Soccer, as well Running and keeping herself in shape was the key to her success 20s-30s - about herself and clearing her head SRC Run Series Set some goals for the summer Running with family Amazing That people are just getting out and running -How did you get involved in GGR and what has this experience been like for you? Reached out to former director Through her doctoral program Passion project -Tell us more about your unique career path! What inspired you to pursue your many degrees and a career in education? Doctorate - limitless in education What will set her apart? UMass Lowell - had a program Very involved in voting Civics education Gender equity issues in international countries Sports, girls, women’s equity -I see the world through gender Personal and research level Men have the advantage in sports...this angered her Publicity and attention of male athletes What about the females? -Her work with GGR and research Wilder Retreat Wanted to continue running Academic writing...not sure what she wanted to do Had to sit with it for about 6 months Kept field notes and Applied to over 100 jobs Instead, what could she do with this research? Novel about Ethiopian girl runners “How could we ever forget?” - minute 23 - quote for Instagram New theory on creating voice and empowerment Creating a curriculum to have girls reflect on their voice What are the skills that they are developing as athletes Sport - ticket to having a voice and confidence -When did you get involved in coaching and what has been your favorite sport to coach? High school sports Spent time writing at the local paper -What advice would you give to your younger self? Do not take yourself so seriously Value in learning Avoiding perfectionism What does being a Strong Runner Chick mean to you? “I think for me it means walking out my backdoor every morning to go for a run.” Get back, get moving consistently - for mental and physical health