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

In Their Shoes: Steph V

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

My name is Stephanie VandenBerg. I am a second grade special education teacher. I am also a wife and mom of two kids with one on the way!! I have been running for the past 15+ years and especially enjoy running on the OCNJ boardwalk!

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?

Growing up I played many different sports including street hockey (my favorite), field hockey, cheerleading and softball. I started running in high school and ran track for about a year. I raced the mile and two mile. In college I started running longer distances and have since completed many half marathons and 7 marathons.

Q3: What is your driving force behind your sport?

Running started out as a negative for me when it turned into more of a control thing for my eating disorder. But ultimately, it has been my saving grace and is now my alone time and also time I get to spend with running friends.

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

Determined, caring, and hard working

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 like to listen to both music and podcasts. I just recently got into podcasts over the last couple years but my favorite is the Ali on the Run show.

Q6: What is your favorite meal or recipe?

My favorite meal is simple but delicious - I love baked ziti. In fact, I love anything that is Italian food! Oh and I could eat a chocolate chip cookie after every meal.

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

I am not much of a reader but my friend recently got me “Let Your Mind Run” by Deena Kastor and I really enjoyed it!

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

I am obsessed with Schitt’s Creek and am currently on my second go around of watching the seasons. I also really enjoy watching Working Moms, Grey’s Anatomy and A Million Little Things.

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

For my easy runs, I love the Brooks Ghost 13, Saucony Ride or the Nike Pegasus 37. For faster runs I love the Brooks Hyperion Tempo or the Saucony Kinvara.