No One Runs Alone: The Secret to Back on My Feet’s Impact

Okayyyyy Phil!

Phil Zuniga is the Back on My Feet Alumni joining us for this week's conversation. Man. I love a an inspo story and he sure has got a good one!

I also love people who love people. Like Nathan Watt - the CEO of Back on My Feet who also joins us for this episode.

All around this was a feel good hour! And one of my favorite interviews. Both because I just adore this organization, and because I rarely get to challenge myself by organizing all my thoughts and TWO other voices.

All in all, we nailed it TBH.

If you're not familiar with Back on My Feet, the nonprofit uses running to help individuals experiencing homelessness and addiction rebuild their lives. But as Nathan explained, the real transformation isn't about becoming a runner. It's about discovering you're capable of more than you thought.

Phil is the perfect example of that. He started running less than and year ago with Back on My Feet during treatment for alcoholism - and with the support of the organization, Phil pursued a dream he had nearly abandoned: becoming a firefighter. The support he received helped him navigate applications, connect with resources, and prepare for a fire academy. And somehow, within this year he also traveled to London to represent Back on My Feet in the London Marathon!

What struck me most wasn't the marathon, the fire academy, or even the incredible comeback. It was Phil's mindset. Every setback became another challenge to overcome. Every obstacle became proof that he was stronger than he thought. His story perfectly captures why I love Back on My Feet so much. The organization isn't just helping people run. It's helping people rediscover who they are.

Back on My Feet is always looking for runners to get involved. If you're near one of their 14 cities, you can volunteer at a Circle Up run on Monday, Wednesday, or Friday mornings at 5:30 a.m. If those early mornings aren't your thing, you can also run for Back on My Feet as a charity partner at one of the World Marathon Majors. They still have charity bibs available for Sydney and Berlin, and Tokyo 2027 is already open. You can learn more and get involved at https://backonmyfeet.org

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