Kati Billow: How To Be A Stronger Runner By Feeling Safer (On PTSD, Alternative Healing, & Nervous System Regulation)

Lucie Beatrix sits down with fellow running coach, Kati Billow to talk about nervous system regulation, mind-body connection, and the softer skills that can turn fitness into real performance. Katie shares how a traumatic NYC subway attack reshaped her relationship with running, coaching, and what it means to keep showing up when a race goes sideways. • growing up in dance and yoga then finding running later • building a running identity through community in New York City • training through family stress and using running as a tether • recovering from trauma and PTSD while still pursuing big goals • therapy, EMDR, acupuncture, and learning nervous system basics • simple daily tools to create safety and stay regulated • plant medicine experiences in a supported container and integration work • Chicago Marathon reflections on heat, pacing pivots, and grit • deciding when to finish versus when to stop for injury • coaching athletes through disappointment with process goals • using personal style and self-expression as a race-day ritual • competition mindset without turning running into a zero-sum game • fueling strategy with Pop Tarts, gels, hydration, and aid stations • next goals including a dedicated half marathon block and recovery My Instagram handle is forgotaboutkati, and her a Substack called The Interval.