Finding Strength & Energy one Stride At A Time: An Interview with Stride Forward Coaching
When it comes to feeling your best, nutrition and movement go hand in hand—kind of like brunch and good conversation or a cozy sweater and a crisp fall day. That’s why I’m excited to introduce you to Stride Forward, a program not just about running (no, you don’t have to start training for a marathon), but about helping women navigate life transitions with confidence, strength, and a supportive sisterhood.
Stride Forward is a full-body, full-life transformation that goes way beyond exercise. It's a program designed to help women feel stronger, more energized, and more self-assured through expert-led discussions on nutrition, menopause, mindfulness, and confidence-building—all wrapped up in a supportive community. Oh, and did I mention it ends with an in-person retreat? (Because who wouldn’t want a getaway with like-minded women?!)
Members of the Stride Forward Program including owners Jenny and Jenn
I wanted to feature Jenny Crow and Jenn Pellegrini, the brilliant minds behind Stride Forward, because so many people struggle to find a movement routine that actually feels good, fits into their busy lives, and supports their health goals without feeling like another thing on their to-do list. At Nourish Freely, I focus on helping people regain energy, improve digestion, and feel better in their bodies—without the stress of conflicting health advice. Stride Forward aligns perfectly with this because it’s all about moving in a way that complements your life, not complicates it.
In this interview, Jenny and Jenn share how their program helps women feel stronger, more confident, and re-energized—without the pressure of "perfect" fitness routines. Let’s dive in!
Meet Jenn and Jenny from Stride Forward
Jenny (blue shirt), Jenn (pink shirt)
Cassaundra: Thanks for joining us today! Can you start by sharing a bit about Stride Forward and what inspired you to create this program?
[Jenny]: “Jenn and I met at a pivotal time in our lives, having both recently left our full-time jobs to pursue careers that offered balance and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact. We share a deep passion for fitness and wellness, all while navigating a stage in life where our bodies don’t move quite the way they used to.
When Jenn approached me with the idea of a mind-body coaching program to support women through the challenges of midlife, I immediately knew our visions aligned. Together, we created Stride Forward Coaching, built on the belief that movement in your body creates movement in your life.
Stride Forward is a holistic coaching experience designed specifically for women in midlife, helping them develop mental strategies, prioritize self-care, and create lasting positive change. More than just a program, we are a supportive community of like-minded women on similar journeys. And to celebrate our progress, we cross the finish line together—culminating in an unforgettable in-person retreat.”
Cassaundra: Your program focuses on providing personalized running programs based upon your fitness level and lifestyle with a retreat at the end for an in-person race. But it offers much more than that. Can you share how your approach is unique compared to other fitness or wellness programs?
[Jenn]: “At Stride Forward, we're all about helping women in midlife find their groove again through movement and meaningful connections. Jenny and I started this journey when we realized that between work, family, and the whirlwind of perimenopause, we'd lost sight of ourselves. We weren't just running out of steam; we were running out of joy.
Unlike traditional fitness programs that focus on personal bests and medals, our 12-week virtual coaching experience places running as a supportive element rather than the main focus. We offer expert-led discussions on nutrition, menopause, mindfulness, and confidence-building, providing participants with tools to embrace change and confidently step into their next chapter. Throughout the program, women train both mind and body, form deep connections, and culminate their journey with an in-person retreat, celebrating their achievements together.
It's a beautiful blend of virtual meet-ups twice a week and an in-person retreat that feels like a reunion with old friends. Together, we move forward, embracing whatever comes next with open arms and confident strides.”
Cassaundra: Your program is 12 weeks long. What can participants expect over their 12 weeks with you?
[Jenn]: “At Stride Forward, we offer a 12-week holistic coaching experience designed to empower women in midlife. Here's what Stride Forward Sisters (SF Sisters) can look forward to:
Join a Community of Like-Minded Women
✅ Welcome Package: Receive a special package in the mail to make you feel like the VIP you are.
✅ Personalized Running Program: Tailored to your fitness level and lifestyle.
✅ Signature Event Destinations: Choose to run a 10K or Half Marathon in one of our selected locations, such as Key West, DC, or Minneapolis.
✅ In-Person Retreat and Celebration: Culminate your journey with a retreat that includes the race and a celebration of your achievements.
✅ Online Community - Dive deeper into conversation from coaching sessions, supportive accountability run partners, share fun photos and valuable resources.
Mind and Body Coaching
✅ Structured Group Sessions: Participate in 12 weeks of virtually structured group coaching, held twice a week for one hour each session.
✅ One-on-One Coaching: Benefit from two personalized sessions with experienced, Certified Master Coaches.
✅ Everyday Resources and Tools: Gain access to resources and tools that you can incorporate into your daily life.
Throughout the program, you'll train both your mind and body, form deep connections with fellow participants, and embrace your next chapter with confidence.”
Cassaundra: What kind of people benefit the most from your program? Is it designed for beginners, advanced individuals, or a mix?
[Jenn]: “Stride Forward is designed for women at various stages of their running journey. In our inaugural event, we welcomed SF Sisters ranging from seasoned runners to those with a love/hate relationship with running. This diversity mirrors the experiences of Jenny and me. Jenny has extensive running and racing experience, but now finds joy in blending her runs with intentional walks, embracing the beauty of nature—and that's perfectly okay!
Beyond running experience, our program is tailored for evolving women ready to redefine midlife. It's ideal for those seeking mental and physical well-being, navigating personal transitions, craving support, and yearning for personal growth, balance, and confidence.”
Cassaundra: I know a lot of people hesitate to start a new program because they worry it won’t fit into their busy lives. How do you help clients stay consistent and see progress?
[Jenn]: “I get it—starting something new can be daunting, especially with our jam-packed schedules. At Stride Forward, we totally understand that life is busy, and that's why we've designed our program to fit seamlessly into your routine. Our 12-week journey isn't about quick fixes; it's about real, lasting change. We meet virtually twice a week for one-hour sessions, so you can join from wherever you are—no extra commuting time needed. Plus, these sessions are recorded, so if life happens and you miss one, you can catch up when it suits you.
We also believe in the power of community. You're not doing this alone; you'll be part of a supportive group of women who are all navigating similar life transitions. This sense of connection makes the journey enjoyable and keeps you motivated.
One of our amazing SF Sisters shared that joining the program felt like taking a risk at first, but it quickly turned into a reunion with old friends. It's about making time for yourself, connecting with others, and embracing the process.
So, while it does require commitment, we make sure it's manageable and, most importantly, worth it. After all, you're investing in yourself, and you deserve that time and care.”
Stride Forward group members at Key West retreat.
Cassaundra: You just wrapped up your latest round of participants, culminating in an incredible retreat in Key West. What was that experience like, and what feedback have you received from those who attended?
[Jenn]:” Participating in Stride Forward was a transformative experience for the group and us coaches! The camaraderie and openness among the group allowed all of us to freely discuss topics we often shy away from lead to deeper connections and personal growth.
At the start, many of us identified with roles like mother, spouse, or health-conscious individual. By the end, we embraced new identities: adventurers, risk-takers, and my personal favorite, "don't think, just goers"—a mantra that one of our sisters introduced, fueling our entire journey.
During our Celebration Race Retreat weekend, we came together like old friends, sharing warm hugs and heartfelt moments. There was yoga, pre-race visualization, celebration dinner, cuban coffee (had to be there) and of course the race! One highlight was when two of our sisters decided to run and cross the finish line together, creating an organic, magical moment that bonded them for life.
I love how one SF Sister shared that coaching helped her discover more time for herself, learned new things, and created a network of supportive women. Another SF Sister noted that our coaching experience and platform offered a safe place to be and to share our vulnerabilities and vulnerable stories and to share how we feel about being women and diverse women with diverse experiences all going through midlife transitions helped the group individually and to grow with each other.”
Cassaundra: Can you share some of the biggest transformations or success stories from your group members?
[Jenny]: “Each of our participants came from diverse backgrounds and life experiences, yet every single one described their journey with Stride Forward as transformational.
One participant, who initially dedicated zero time to herself, emerged from the program carving out five hours a week for self-care—realizing not only that it was possible but that prioritizing herself led to real, positive change.
Another shared how the safe and supportive environment of the group gave her the courage to open up about things she wouldn’t normally discuss. Through this, she gained valuable insight and found comfort in sharing her experiences with others.
And while our program isn’t solely about running, one participant pushed past her limits by completing a 5K, 10K, and half-marathon—all in just two days!
By the end of the program, our participants described themselves in three powerful words: adventurous, badass, risk-takers!”
Cassaundra: What do clients often say they feel after working with you?
[Jenny]: “At the close of each session, we take time to check in and understand how our participants are feeling. Here are some of the words they used to describe their experience:
✨Connected
✨Encouraged
✨Inspired
✨Motivated
✨A sense of camaraderie
✨Brave
These powerful words reflect the impact of the journey and the strength of the community we build together.”
Recent SF members running over the finish line in Key West!
Cassaundra: Inside your program, you have many experts come in to share with your participants. What are some of the experts that participants can expect inside your program?
[Jenny]: “Jenn and I are committed to providing a truly holistic and transformative experience for each participant. Knowing this was our vision, we also recognized that we didn’t have all the answers—and we couldn’t do it alone. To enrich the journey, we’ve brought in expert speakers across various fields, including:
• A mindfulness expert to guide participants in cultivating presence and resilience
• A nutrition expert (Nourish Freely) to help fuel both body and mind through middle-age
• OBGYNs to dive deep into menopause (because how often do you get a full hour with your doctor?)
• A psychologist to explore the barriers to confidence and how to overcome them
• The founder of Girls on the Run, who led an inspiring conversation around identity, asking: “If we are not that, then who are we?”
Cassaundra: Wow, this sounds like an amazing resource of experts. How do you see this translate in the lives of your participants?
[Jenny]: “By bringing together this wealth of knowledge and experience, we ensure our participants receive the most well-rounded, empowering journey possible.
We don’t just bring in expert speakers—we also provide participants the opportunity to work directly with them for deeper, personalized support.
I’ve personally had the pleasure of working with Cassaundra on my nutrition journey. After hearing her share her own experience of healing her gut, I knew she was exactly the guide I needed.
Cassaundra is incredibly thorough, patient, and deeply committed to helping me heal. She created a simple, easy-to-follow plan tailored to my needs, but her support goes beyond just a plan—she holds me accountable, takes a holistic approach, and genuinely cares about my progress every step of the way.
Her dedication has made a profound impact, and I know she brings the same level of care and expertise to everyone she works with.”
How to Get Started with Stride Forward
Cassaundra: Can you share more about this next group of participants and why someone should join?
[Jenny]: “We’re thrilled to announce the kickoff of our next signature event on February 24th, culminating in an in-person retreat in Washington, DC, at the Women’s National Half-Marathon and 8K!
This experience is designed for women navigating life transitions, providing an opportunity to:
Redefine midlife with confidence and purpose Prioritize self-care and embrace life’s changesJoin a supportive, empowering tribe of like-minded womenFocus on mind, body, and spirit in a safe, uplifting space
If you’re ready to step into this transformative journey, we’d love to have you with us!”
Cassaundra: How do participants join? Where can they find you?
[Jenny]: “Participants can register on our website or follow us on Facebook , Instagram, or LinkedIn
Exclusive Discount for the National Women’s Half-Marathon & 8K!
Stride Forward has been given a special discount for participants registering for the National Women’s Half-Marathon and 8K in Washington, DC!
Use the link below to register and apply the following discount codes at checkout:
🏃♀️ STRIDEFORWARD10 – Save $10 on the Half-Marathon🏃♀️ STRIDEFORWARD5 – Save $5 on the 8K
Register here: National Women's Half Marathon & 8K | Washington, DC”
Final Thoughts
Cassaundra: Any last words of encouragement for someone hesitant to start their journey?
[Jenny]: “A powerful mantra emerged from our last cohort: ‘Don’t Think, Just Go!’
Taking that first step toward investing in yourself can feel like the hardest part—but the rewards are truly life-changing. When you join a group of like-minded women in a safe and supportive space, you open yourself up to growth in ways you may not have thought possible.
As coaches, we’ve learned to be fluid, allowing the conversations to unfold naturally—because the wisdom, experiences, and insights within the group are invaluable.
By the end of this journey, you’ll:✨ Boost your self-esteem💖 Learn to prioritize self-care🤝 Form deep, lasting connections
So take the leap. Don’t think, just go!”
Final Thoughts & How to Get Started
Stride Forward isn’t just another fitness program—it’s a game-changer for building strength, confidence, and consistency with a network of like minded women. If you’re ready to transform Your Midlife Journey with Strength, Support, and Sisterhood, Stride Forward is the place for you.
Stride Forward’s next program starts on February 25th, and spots are limited! Don’t wait—secure your spot now before they fill up
Sign up now and take the first step toward a stronger, more energized you!