Finding Strength in Community | Enduring Minds Guest: Shannon Booker
Endurance sports often push us to our limits—mentally, physically, and emotionally. But for many, running becomes more than just a form of exercise; it becomes a way to heal, cope, and grow. In the sixth episode of the Enduring Minds Podcast, Run Tri Bike founder Jason Bahamundi sits down with Shannon Booker, founder of Sole Project and city captain for Adidas Runners, to discuss his journey through mental health struggles, the importance finding strength in community, and the transformative power of emotional intelligence.
From Escape to Empowerment: Shannon’s Mental Health Journey
Like so many, Shannon Booker initially turned to running as a means of escape. He was struggling with depression and used running as a way to cope with personal challenges. However, instead of confronting his emotions, he found himself using running to escape from them, pushing his body to the brink without the necessary balance of rest and nutrition.
Shannon recounts a pivotal moment when his doctor warned him that he was “running on fumes.” That wake-up call forced him to reassess his approach to running, health, and self-care. It wasn’t just about the physical exertion; it was about addressing the emotional and mental toll he had been carrying.
The Role of Finding Strength In Community
After moving to Atlanta, Shannon discovered the running group Movers and Pacers, a diverse and welcoming community of runners who emphasized connection over competition. Through this group, he realized that running didn’t have to be an escape—it could be a way to process emotions, build meaningful relationships, and create a space for vulnerability.
One of the most profound moments in his journey came when he opened up to his family about his struggles with depression. The support and love he received reinforced the importance of speaking up and breaking the stigma surrounding mental health, especially among men.
ADVERTISEMENT
Building a Movement: The Birth of Sole Project
Shannon’s personal growth and community involvement led to the creation of Sole Project, an initiative dedicated to supporting marginalized communities through running and giving back. What started as a small running event has grown into a movement that provides essential items to those in need. Since its inception in 2020, Sole Project has collected and distributed over 3,000 pairs of shoes and 1,000 hygiene kits to individuals experiencing homelessness in Atlanta.
Additionally, during the 2020 social justice movements, Shannon organized the Atlanta chapter of Adidas Runners and led the Movers and Pacers initiative to create safe spaces for meaningful conversations. Events like their Juneteenth runs and collaborations with LGBTQ organizations have helped foster connection, inclusivity, and a sense of belonging for many runners who previously felt out of place in traditional fitness spaces.
The Importance of Emotional Intelligence and Self-Care
One of the most profound messages Shannon shares in his conversation with Jason is the importance of emotional intelligence and setting personal boundaries. He speaks candidly about his experience with overtraining, which led to him collapsing at mile 21 during the Detroit Marathon. His doctor later told him that his body had essentially given out from the strain. This wake-up call led Shannon to shift his mindset from running as a form of escape to a practice that supports mental and physical well-being.
He also discusses the concept of sitting with your feelings, allowing yourself to process emotions rather than suppressing them. As a man, he admits he once struggled with the pressure to appear strong and invulnerable. However, by embracing openness, he found healing and deeper connections with those around him.
Giving Back: The Impact of Sole Project
Shannon’s journey through mental health struggles and self-discovery led him to found Sole Project, an initiative dedicated to giving back to the community that supported him in his darkest times. Since its inception, Sole Project has made a tangible impact in Atlanta, donating thousands of pairs of shoes, organizing Juneteenth events, and partnering with LGBTQ+ organizations to create inclusive spaces for all athletes.
His powerful message, “What you’re going through is okay. God’s got you,” has resonated with many who struggle with mental health. By sharing his experiences and leading by example, Shannon is helping break the stigma surrounding mental health in endurance sports and beyond.
Listen to the Full Episode
Shannon’s story is one of courage, vulnerability, and the transformative power of running. Tune in to Episode 6 of the Enduring Minds Podcast on the Everyday Athlete Podcast Network by Run Tri Bike to hear the full conversation between Shannon and Jason Bahamundi. You’ll walk away with powerful insights on mental health, finding strength in community, and why learning to sit with your emotions is a game-changer for endurance athletes and beyond.
ADVERTISEMENT