In this powerful episode, I had the honor of sitting down with Jess Motyl-Szary — an inspiring adaptive athlete, advocate, and one of the featured runners in the short film Forward Is a Pace. We recorded this conversation live as part of a Q&A following the film screening, where Jess shared her journey navigating life with multiple diagnoses, and how running has become a way to reclaim strength, joy, and purpose.

Jess doesn’t let her conditions define her — instead, she’s built a life rooted in movement, community, and showing up authentically. From managing chronic illness to completing half marathons and inspiring others along the way, Jess proves that there is no “right way” to be a runner — only your way.

🎧 Please note: Due to a technical issue with the Q&A audio, Jess's microphone comes through clearly, but the questions and comments from myself and the audience are slightly muffled. Thanks for bearing with us — her story is worth the listen.

🎥 Forward Is a Pace is a powerful short film from Team Milk and Every Woman’s Marathon. Learn more and watch it here:
👉 everywomansmarathon.com/documentary

📲 Follow Jess and her journey on Instagram: @jessmotyl

📧 Want to share your story or connect with the pod? Email me at RunnahPod@gmail.com
📸 Follow along: @RunnahPod