Inner Monologue: I Don't Want To. Tough. Keep Going.

What happens when the thing that has always felt like part of your identity suddenly feels hard? In this honest and relatable Inner Monologue episode, charity runner alumni and new 261 Fearless Coach, Ellen Frazier shares the story of one of her favorite races and the mantra that carried her through it: "Is it that I don't want to, or I can't do? I don't want to. Tough. Keep going." As she reflects on that race, Ellen also opens up about a more recent struggle, feeling disconnected from running, despite identifying as a runner for much of her life. As a proud member of the Fearless Fun Patrol, Ellen has spent countless miles encouraging and empowering women at events like the Boston Marathon and Every Woman's Marathon. Yet in this season, she finds herself facing a different challenge: finding the motivation and belief to encourage herself. With a beautiful blend of vulnerability, humor, and wisdom, Ellen explores what it feels like when self-empowerment takes a temporary leave of absence, and how the support of trusted run friends can help carry us forward when our own confidence feels out of reach. This episode is a reminder that even the people who inspire others sometimes need encouragement themselves, and that perseverance doesn't always look powerful. Sometimes it simply looks like taking the next step. Whether you're feeling strong in your running right now or questioning every step, Ellen's reflections offer a compassionate reminder that you're not alone and that sometimes the most fearless thing we can do is simply keep going.