Each week, we'll be profiling members of our action team. Tune in and learn some more about these amazing women.

In Their Shoes: Jen V

Q1: Who are you? Describe your work, life, and sport of choice.

I’m Jen Steele, Founder and Coach at Misadventure Run Coaching. When I’m not hitting the roads, you can find me with my husband and two small girls soaking up the sun at the beach. 

Q2: What is your sport of choice? How did you get started with it? Do you compete in races, if so what's your favorite distance?

I didn’t find running until I was *almost* an adult. My senior year in college, a friend convinced me to run a 10k with her. After struggling for years to run a 13-min mile on the treadmill, this was a huge leap! That race, the atmosphere, was incredible. It hooked me on running. My favorite distance now is the half marathon--enough to need to train hard for but not as consuming as a full-marathon. 

Q3: What is your driving force behind your sport?

Running has been a way for me to get out my competitive drive in a healthy way. I can compete against myself and see what I can do. I love the feeling of giving everything I have. I also love that it lets me set an example for my girls of so many things -- healthy body image, loving your body, and working hard for something. 

Q4: What are three words that people use to describe you?

Efficient, dedicated, thoughtful 

Q5: What is your favorite thing to listen to while working out (music, podcast, audiobook, etc)...or do you prefer to go without headphones?

I am a bit all over the place--for hard runs or races, music is definitely my go-to, but for easy runs I like podcasts or audiobooks (helps keep those easy runs easy). During training cycles, I force myself to go without because it’s good mental training for me. 

Q6: What is your favorite meal or recipe?

I love to make baked ziti! It’s delicious, easy to serve to lots of people, and pasta and cheese--how can you not love it??? 

Q7: Name a book you recommend to all your friends?

The Night Circus by Erin Morgensern is amazing--the language is so beautiful. 

Q8: What is your secret pleasure TV show to indulge in?

I love what my best friend calls “scut tv.” Real housewives, Vanderpump Rules...if it’s on Bravo or Andy Cohen is involved, I’m in. 

Q9: Last question - what are your favorite workout shoes?

Brooks Ghost have been my go-to for years, but I didn’t love the last iteration so I’ve been at a loss pretty much all of 2021. Looking for my next GTS.