EP 215 - Carolyn Bollozos on Balancing Boston Qualifying Training, Creating Community, and Motherhood
The Elevate Your Running Podcast · Sara Manderscheid
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Show Notes
What does it look like to chase a Boston Qualifier while raising kids, working full-time, and building a running community from the ground up?
In this episode, I’m joined by Carolyn Bollozos, a marathoner, Ironman finisher, working mom of two, and founder of GP Mother Runners — a thriving community of women balancing motherhood and endurance sport.
Carolyn shares her journey from running her first turkey trot in college to completing three Ironmans, and now preparing for her 8th marathon with the goal of qualifying for the Boston Marathon.
We talk about the realities of pursuing big running goals while juggling career, family, and training — and how community can make the entire journey more meaningful.
Carolyn also shares how moving from San Francisco to Michigan inspired her to create GP Mother Runners, a group that has grown to more than 40 members and recently became a nonprofit organization.
In this episode we discuss:
Carolyn’s journey from casual runner to Ironman athlete
The pursuit of a Boston Marathon Qualifier
How working with a coach helped identify training blind spots
Choosing the right race for a BQ attempt
Balancing marathon training with career and motherhood
The power of running communities for women
How GP Mother Runners grew into a thriving nonprofit running group
Why running continues to play such a meaningful role in this stage of life
If you're a runner chasing your next breakthrough, navigating the balance of life and training, or looking for deeper connection through running — this episode will inspire you.
Resources & Links:
Work with Coach Sara + the Elevate Your Running Coaching Team – Coaching and Program
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Elevateyourrunning and sayrahrunshappy
Where to Listen:
Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube Music | YouTube Channel
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