Return to Run

Mary Daniels joins Careth Arnold and Amanda Basham to talk through a very real postpartum return to running after a huge year of change. They cover her pregnancy, C-section recovery, breastfeeding challenges, postpartum anemia, and the slow rebuild back toward trail and ultra fitness. In this episode, Mary also shares her path from being a laywer into marketing, coaching, and elite running, plus h...

Abigail West joins us to talk about balancing life as an artist, runner, and new mom. She shares how she kept running through pregnancy, navigated a long labor as a true warrior, and is now easing back into training while managing her artistic career with a new baby. We loved getting to learn more about her art practice and as well as her athletic persuits! Check out her work at:  abigailwest.net...

Careth and Amanda share their most recent expeirences at the Ultra Trail du Mont Blanc this past weekend. Careth shares why she went into the race with no pressure to perform, only to "close the loop" and enjoy the course, while Amanda talks through the mindset shift that kept her from spiraling when she didn't know her place until late in the race. They also get into recovery after Hardrock, the...

Join Careth and Amanda as they dive into summertime training, tackling childcare challenges with school out, and finding motivation during tough times. They explore high-altitude training, race strategies, and the unique hurdles of ultra running in the San Juan Mountains. Tune in for practical race day tips, gear advice, safety insights, and ways to embrace the adventure.     Chapters   00:00 Intr...

In this raw conversation, Careth reconnects with Michelle Senyard to explore her journey from college days to becoming a passionate traveler, adventure photographer, and new mom. They discuss the transformative power of outdoor exploration, spiritual growth, fitness, birth, postpartum, and melting into motherhood.  Chapters 00:00 The YOLO Year: Embracing Adventure Before Parenthood 10:59 Meeting J...

In this episode Careth and Amanda share their recent experiences at the Canyons by UTMB race. Amanda placed 3rd in the 100 mile distance and Careth placed 2nd at the 100k distance. Listen as they give insights to their taper, race, and recovery and hear what is next on the docket!    Chapters:   00:00 Introduction and Recent Adventures 01:15 Travel, Camping, and Post-Race Recovery 02:25 Mental Pre...

In this chat with Ashley, we get to know her as an athlete, mother, and inspirational human. Ashley shares with us her routines, postpartum journey, race ambitions, and a bunch of fun in between. We hope you enjoy getting to know Ashley as much as we did.  Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates 02:53 Athletic Background and Transition to Pregnancy 05:43 Challenges in College Athletics 08...

Amanda and Careth share personal insights about balancing intense training, recovery, mental health, and home chores. They discuss a variety of topics, including training through sickiness, self-coaching, managing seasonal depression, and staying motivated to complete mundane household chores that are never ending. Key Topics: The significance of sleep and rest during tapering and recovery phases...

  Join us as Emkay Sullivan shares her resilient journey through pregnancy, injury recovery, and returning to running. Discover insights on managing Achilles issues, pregnancy fitness, and the emotional aspects of motherhood. In this episode, Emkay  shares her birth story and what it has been like for her so far in this postpartum season. She discusses the physical and emotional challenges, the im...

In this episode we are joined by Leah Yingling! She shares her journey through motherhood, discussing the challenges of parenting schedules, the emotional rollercoaster of pregnancy, her birth story, and return to training. She emphasizes the importance of trust in parenting partnerships and the need for self-advocacy during pregnancy. Leah also reflects on the unique bond created during labor and...

Careth and Amanda discuss recent parenting adventures, the importance of rest, and the complexities of nutrition for runners. They share personal anecdotes about their experiences with naps, food choices for their children, and the struggles of fueling during races. The conversation also touches on the mental aspects of running, the Burrito League, and how community plays a role in their running j...

Kat shares her journey in athletics, detailing her transition from competitive running to navigating motherhood, IVF, and the complexities of raising a child with autism. The discussion highlights the importance of community support, the emotional rollercoaster of pregnancy and childbirth, and the determination to return to competitive running while balancing family life. Kat's story is one of res...

In this episode, Careth and Amanda discuss their experiences with the New Year, solo parenting challenges, and balancing training while having limited childcare. The conversation also delves into the impact of hormonal health on performance and the exploration of various supplements to enhance training. Throughout, they share personal anecdotes and insights on finding balance in their lives as mot...

Brittany Charbonneau joins us! In this episode she shares her journey from a competitive road runner to embracing motherhood and trail running. The discussion delves into the physical and mental hurdles of pregnancy, the joy of finding creative ways to enjoy running, and her return to competition. Brittany's insights on motherhood, mental resilience, and the importance of joy in running resonate t...

Careth and Amanda discuss their recent race experiences from Chiang Mai by UTMB to CIM (California International Marathon), what went well and what did not. They reflect on their performances, share insights on recovery, and talk about their upcoming races. The conversation also touches on family life, holiday traditions, and the balance between training and personal commitments, highlighting the...

In this episode we dive into the challenges and triumphs of ultra running, beginining with Careth's DNF (DId not finish) story from the resent Javelina Jundred race in Arizona at the end of October. We talk shop, discussing the importance of recognizing warning signs during training and learning when to accept fatigue vs. stay strong. Racing can be an emotional roller coaster that requires mentail...

In this conversation, Kaytlyn Gerbin shares her journey of returning to trail racing postpartum, focusing on her recent experience at the Tour des Geants, a 330km mountainous race that took place mid September. She discusses the challenges of balancing motherhood with training, the unique dynamics of racing while being a new mom, and her reflections on recovery. Kaytlyn shares her journey of rebui...

  In this episode, Careth and Amanda catch up on their lives, discussing Amanda's recent move, the challenges of adjusting to a new environment, and the impact on their running and family life. They delve into recent training and what is coming up on their calendars, as well as need for an off season. A casual happy hour conversation with some fun facts sprinkled in.    Send us DM's and Follow us...

In this conversation, Lauren Coury shares her journey as a runner and new mother, discussing her experiences with training during pregnancy, birth, and returning to running postpartum. She reflects on the realities of early parenthood, including breastfeeding and sleep deprivation. The discussion highlights the balance between fitness and motherhood, offering insights into the unique challenges an...

In this episode, Careth Arnold and Amanda Basham share their experiences from the UTMB race, discussing their travel challenges, race day preparations, and the mental and physical hurdles they faced during the event. They delve into the dynamics of competition, fueling strategies, and the emotional aspects of racing, including the joy of finishing and the support from fans. The conversation also t...

In this episode HollyAnn Swann joins us to discuss the challenges and triumphs of balancing motherhood with athletic pursuits. We share personal experiences of birth, postpartum recovery, mental health struggles, and goal setting. The conversation also touches on the pressures athletes face, the journey of breastfeeding, and the significance of shifting focus from outcome-based goals to enjoying t...

In this conversation, Kaylin Gepper shares her journey as a strength and nutrition coach specializing in postpartum health. She discusses the importance of supporting mothers through their fitness journeys, the challenges of balancing motherhood with personal fitness, and effective nutrition strategies for busy moms. Kaylin also shares her own experiences transitioning from a stay-at-home mom to a...

In this episode, Careth and Amanda discuss the chaos of summer family life while balancing their training for upcoming races. They share personal updates, including the challenges of fitting in training amidst family commitments and the nerves associated with race day. The conversation also delves into parenting challenges, particularly sibling rivalry and the anxiety that comes with raising child...

In this conversation, Sarah Jones shares her journey from being a professional athlete to navigating motherhood. She discusses the challenges of balancing her athletic career with family life, the impact of injuries on her running, and her experiences during pregnancy and postpartum. Sarah reflects on her birth experience, the challenges of breastfeeding, and her return to fitness. She also talks...

In this episode of the Return to Run podcast, hosts Amanda Basham and Careth Christine share their personal journeys in running, motherhood, and the challenges of balancing athletic performance with family life. Amanda recounts her experience at the Broken Arrow Sky Race, while Careth reflects on her transition into running post-kids and the impact of the pandemic on her athletic pursuits. They di...