Inspiring Others to Experience the Fullness of Their Humanity — Episode 102

It’s hard to believe, but it is already November. One of my
favorite things to do this time of year is get outside and take
in all the beautiful fall foliage and crisp air here in Virginia,
and I’m fortunate to have some great trails close to my home,
which has really benefitted my physical and mental health. So,
I’m thrilled that NRPA is once again partnering with Merrell for
the Hike Your Turf campaign this month, which focuses on
encouraging everyone to get outside and explore their local parks
and trails, as well as the importance of equitable access to
these spaces.


The campaign leads up to National Take a Hike Day on November 17,
so be sure to share all the ways you’re celebrating on social
media using #HikeYourTurf — Merrell will donate $1 to NRPA for
every post using that hashtag, as well as $5 for every email
signup on their website!


One way we’re celebrating this campaign is by welcoming today’s
guest Mirna Valerio — one of Merrell’s ambassadors — to the
podcast. Mirna was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, and she
is a former educator, cross-country coach, ultrarunner, obstacle
course enthusiast, and author of A Beautiful Work in Progress.


Although she began running in high school, Mirna recommitted to
the sport after a health scare in 2008. It was then that her love
for running and all its attendant benefits were reignited. She
soon started her blog Fatgirlrunning, about her experiences as a
larger woman in a world of thinner athletes. Mirna's writing and
athletic story have been featured in tons of publications, and in
the viral REI-produced documentary short, The Mirnavator. She was
also chosen as a 2018 National Geographic Adventurer of the Year.


Tune in to the full episode below to learn more about Mirna, her
passion for running and the outdoors, and what compelled her to
begin sharing her story, which has inspired so many. You’ll also
learn:


How access to local parks and trails has personally
benefitted Mirna’s life.

What she is most proud of among her many accomplishments.

How she unplugs and embraces self-care

How park and recreation professionals can “allow people to
live, to experience, and to express the fullness of their
humanity every time and all the time.”

Why you should #HikeYourTurf on November 17, and more!



Other Links:


Mirna's website

Follow Mirna on Instagram

Follow Mirna on Twitter

Follow Mirna on Facebook

Fatgirlrunning on Facebook

FATGIRLRUNNING Private Facebook Group