Today we’d like to introduce you to Terri Bush.
Hi Terri, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My journey with running began in 2001, following the loss of my brother to cancer. A smoker like him, I quit and started running a few months later. Initially clueless, I was driven by a deep desire to learn this new sport. Having been a “back of the pack” runner for most of my life, I embraced this as an opportunity to discover a new, healthy lifestyle. I dedicated years to experimenting and learning what worked, overcoming challenges like injuries, being overweight, and balancing a full-time job. Through it all, I never stopped pursuing my dreams.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
No, my road wasn’t smooth. I had to completely change the way I thought, ate, and saw myself. But it all began with small steps that, over the years, gave me an entirely new life and body. The first big change was quitting smoking — I went from being a two-pack-a-day smoker to a non-smoker. For me, it was a real “scared straight” moment. The first time I saw my brother in the hospital after his cancer diagnosis, it shook me to my core. Seeing my big, tough brother lying in that bed, in pain and hooked up to IVs, terrified me. I walked out of that hospital, crushed the pack of cigarettes in my purse, threw them away, and never touched them again.
That was in 2001. Sadly, my brother lost his battle in 2004.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Run Fierz?
I started my coaching business because I remember being that woman who always thought, “I want to be a runner,” but then came up with every reason why I couldn’t. I told myself, I’m a smoker. I’m overweight. I don’t have time. I don’t even know where to start. Those thoughts held me back for years. Now, I want the individuals I coach to see themselves as athletes—even if they’re just beginning—because the hardest part of running is simply getting out the door.
What sets me apart from other coaches is that I truly understand the struggles of starting out—trying to train, not having the answers, and feeling like you have to figure it all out on your own. That’s why I’ve built RunFierz as supportive community where runners can connect through group training and calls. They can ask questions, share experiences, and gain that sense of belonging and teamwork that keeps motivation strong.
Who else deserves credit in your story?
My Mom for sure was my biggest cheerleader. She too was diagnoised with Ovarian Cancer in 2013 which she beat but sadly Ovarian Cancer is a very aggressive form of Cancer and in 2015 it returned as Breast Cancer and she lost her battle to it in 2016.
Also getting into running groups, going to races, and now running ultra marathons the community is so supportive.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://RunFierz.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575243899936
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/runfierz-undefined-4704a6335
