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.

Follow Carolyn on Instagram

Resources & Links:

Work with Coach Sara + the Elevate Your Running Coaching Team – Coaching and Program

elevateyourrunning.com

Instagram – Join the Community

Elevateyourrunning and sayrahrunshappy

Where to Listen:

Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube Music | YouTube Channel

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review! Share your thoughts on how coaching has impacted your journey on social media using #elevateyourrunning.

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PARTNER DISCOUNTS AND LINKS:

Boulderthon 2026: save $20 off the marathon or half marathon with code SARA20

Dynamic Runner:⁠ code SAYRAHRUNSHAPPY for 10% off your subscription

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Cheribundi: code ELEVATE for 15% off

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EP 215 - Carolyn Bollozos on Balancing Boston Qualifying Training, Creating Community, and Motherhood