How to Be a Role Model: Mirna Valerio

Ultrarunner Mirna Valerio is a role model for many because by doing what she loves, she shows others what is possible. She’s modeling being a black, fat girl running, moving her body up and over mountains. Which begs the question - what are you modeling for others? Women featured in this episode: Mirna Valerio, AKA "The Mirnavator." Mirna is a full-time ultrarunner, author, and public speaker. She blogs at Fat Girl Running and Runner's World. Want to meet Mirna in person? Our friend Shanti Hodges is hosting a retreat in October. Learn more here and take $50 off with the code, 'SheExplores' at checkout! Hosted by Gale Straub In this episode, you'll hear: Why when Mirna coached high school students, she taught them to love running as a lifestyle How Mirna answers the oft-dreaded question, "What do you do?" How nature and trail running impacts Mirna personally The ways in which joy and suffering balance each other in ultrarunning Why it's important to put in the work, but why it's also important to rest and listen to your body Why Mirna doesn't believe changing one's outward appearance leads to happiness How our culture uplifts a certain beauty standard, and the ways in which Mirna believes this is changing What she's learned from other plus-sized women about what they want their outdoor apparel to be like What Mirna thinks about being a role model for others Who Mirna looks up to in her everyday life Advice for listeners on how they can be a role model Sponsors & Codes: Benchmark Maps: use code SHEEXPLORES for 20% off your order Sawyer: Enter giveaway at She-Explores.com/sawyer World Nomads: Check out their podcast at Worldnomads.com/podcasts Join the She Explores Podcast community on Facebook. Enjoy this episode? Rate us on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. It’ll help other people find us. Visit She-Explores.com Resources mentioned in this episode: Mirna Valerio's Instagram Mirna Valerio's Memoir: A Beautiful Work in Progress The Mirnavator - Short Film produced by REI and directed by Sarah Menzies Mirna's blog, Fat Girl Running Submit your story of going solo in the outdoors! She Explores Facebook Group Music is by Lee Rosevere, Kai Engel, and Steve Combs via Free Music Archive (CC by A license) Music is also by Memory Palace.