Welcome to another episode of Run Hard Mom Hard! Our guest, Rachel Drake, shares her insightful journey through pregnancy, postpartum, and her return to competitive trail running. As a professional athlete sponsored by Nike Trail, Osprey, and Spring Energy while simultaneously pursuing a Ph.D., Rachel opens up about the challenges and triumphs of being a mother, athlete, and student.

Key Takeaways:

1. Mom Guilt and Training: Rachel talks about the reality of mom guilt in training and balancing family life with her passion for running.
2. Training Through Pregnancy and Postpartum: She shares her experiences training during and after pregnancy, including dealing with injuries and adapting her routine.
3. Professional and Personal Balance: Rachel discusses how she balances her professional commitments with her personal life, emphasizing the importance of taking care of oneself.
4. Future Goals and Races: She shares her upcoming goals, including her aspiration to participate in the Western States 100 and her training approach for the Black Canyons race.

Notable Quotes:

1. "It's important to trust your body and intuition postpartum; don't rush the process." - Rachel Drake
2. "Having kids does make you a better athlete in a lot of different ways." - Rachel Drake
3. "It's okay not to 'bounce back'; embrace the journey of getting to know your new body." - Rachel Drake

Links Mentioned in Episode:

• Nike Trail: Nike Trail Running
• Osprey Packs: Osprey Running Packs
• Spring Energy: @spring_energy
• Rachel Drake's Instagram

Rachel Drake's story is a powerful testimony to the strength and resilience of mother-runners. Her journey offers valuable insights and inspiration to mothers who are navigating the complex world of parenting and pursuing their passions in running and beyond.

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