This Episode Could Save Your Life: Whitney Heins

Running alone hasn’t become more dangerous.  But it did get a lot more scary in September 2022 when runner Eliza Fletcher was kidnapped and murdered when out for an early morning run. We can’t control the predators in our world, but there are ways that we can run with less fear and more confidence, no matter what time of day.  We can take our power and our confidence back.    I don’t think it’s too dramatic to say that what you are about to hear could end up saving your life. Welcome to the Planted Runner.  I’m Coach Claire Bartholic and my mission is to help you improve your running, your mindset, and your life with science-backed training and plant-based nutrition. On this episode, I’ve brought on someone who was not afraid to use her voice in response to this tragedy, Whitney Heins from The Mother Runners.  You will learn: key safety tips that you should use on every run what you should do if you are threatened on the run, and how to get the skills you need to fight back. Whitney is a sub-3 marathoner, run coach, and creator of The Mother Runners, an acclaimed blog all about the unique running experience we mother runners go through.  Her work has been featured in Runner’s World, The Huffington Post, Women’s Running, US News & World Report, and more. She is also the host of the Passionate Runner Podcast and is a regular contributor to Marathon Handbook and RunnerClick. This is definitely a serious episode on a very heavy topic, but I think you will find that Whitney is finding a way to change the narrative from fear to empowerment. And, as always, be sure to listen to the end for this week’s Mental Strength Minute to fortify your mind in 60 seconds or less.   LINKS: Follow The Mother Runners on Instagram ▶️The Planted Runner is now on YouTube! Click here to subscribe and be automatically entered to win a FREE custom training plan.  Winners chosen each month. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐The Planted Runner Podcast is your perfect running buddy! Subscribe, follow, rate, and review now wherever you get your podcasts.  This is the #1 way to support this work for FREE. ➡️FOLLOW The Planted Runner on Instagram @theplantedrunner for more running, plant-based nutrition and mental strength tips.  📣FREE Ultimate Fueling Guide for runners:  theplantedrunner.com/join 📣Invest in a custom training plan for your next race. Or get a plan to keep you fit in between race. Get one created just for you at theplantedrunner.com/plans RECENT REVIEWS: Best running podcast! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “I’ve been listening to Claire since the Run to the Top podcast and have always enjoyed that show. I love this podcast and enjoy listening on my morning runs. Keep up the great work!” leoleoniii via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 10/22/22   Great for new runners ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "I absolutely love this podcast! Just enough friendly information; each episode is short & concise & packed with great info. Especially the last minute. Host Claire Bartholic is so real & normal; as a beginner runner it’s nice to know you can start running at any age & any fitness..." runtohavefun via Apple Podcasts · Canada · 10/15/22 Love it! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "Love these easy to listen to podcasts + commercial free! Motivational and informational! Claire, you are such an inspiration! Just finished my first 1/2 marathon, and I have so much more to learn!" CourtKell23 via Apple Podcasts · United States of America · 10/14/22