Ep 86: Running with What We Carry - Finding Our Strength and Grace, with Coaches Gerald Collins & Michelle Quirk

In this episode, I sit down with fellow run coach Gerald Collins, founder of Run Rev Coaching and host of Stronger Than the Struggle, a podcast which explores the intersection of running, grief, and mental health.

Gerald shares his deeply personal story of losing his mother and how that loss led him to running as a path back to purpose, connection, and healing.

Together, we talk about how grief shows up in our lives and our running, and why movement can be a powerful tool for processing difficult emotions.

This conversation is a reminder that grief is not linear, healing doesn’t follow a timeline, and that sometimes, showing up for even a few minutes is enough.

What we talk about:

• Gerald’s journey from loss and depression to finding purpose through running
• Why physical activity can support mental health and where it fits alongside therapy 
• The role of community in healing 
• How grief can show up differently from day to day
• Redefining success in training during difficult seasons
• The power of small, sustainable changes, starting with just 5 minutes
• Letting go of “only” and “just” when we talk about our efforts

A few key takeaways:

• “You never get over the person you lost. You learn to live without them.”
• The goal isn’t perfection but rather, consistency with grace.
• Training should fit into your life, not the other way around.
• Small wins count. Five minutes counts. It all adds up.

Connect with Gerald on his website: https://www.runrevcoaching.com

Follow him on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/runrevcoach_gerald

And have a listen to his podcast: Stronger Than the Struggle

Follow Coach Michelle on Instagram. https://www.instagram.com/Mindful.Marathon

If you have questions about your own training, reach out on Coach Michelle's website, and let's explore working together for personalized support. https://mindful-marathon.com

*** The information contained in this podcast is intended to serve as educational information and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. You should consult your primary care physician before undertaking any fitness regimen or exercise, which can pose serious health risks if undertaken or performed improperly. All content, including text, graphics, images, and information, contained in the videos is for general information purposes only and does not replace a consultation with your own doctor/advanced practice provider. ***