In this episode of MindBodyMarathon, Dr. Leo Kormanik and his wife, Samua, open up about their personal journey with autism in honor of Autism Awareness Month. They share heartfelt stories about Samua’s daughter, Naomi, who was diagnosed with autism at age three and a half after experiencing developmental regression. Samua discusses the challenges and emotional struggles she faced early on, including feelings of isolation and the severity of Naomi’s initial condition. The episode highlights how, through relentless effort, early intervention, and integrating healthy lifestyle habits, Naomi has grown into a vibrant, social young woman who now thrives with a job and an active life. Their story aims to inspire and offer insights for families navigating similar journeys, emphasizing that Naomi’s progress is the result of hard work, not luck.

In this emotional reflection, the speaker recalls a powerful childhood memory of reading about Helen Keller learning to say "water," which subconsciously fueled her determination years later when her daughter, Naomi, was diagnosed with autism. She shares the intense journey of recognizing early signs in Naomi—speech regression, extreme tantrums, lack of eye contact, and sensory sensitivities—and the drive it sparked to seek immediate interventions. She describes attending a pivotal autism conference that introduced her to functional medicine approaches, emphasizing dietary changes like going gluten- and dairy-free as foundational to Naomi’s progress. Throughout, she highlights the perseverance, constant learning, and adjustments made to help Naomi grow, emphasizing that autism requires proactive, intentional support rather than passive acceptance.

The speaker shares how significant interventions—like dietary changes, the use of a hyperbaric oxygen chamber, and early therapy—dramatically helped both of her children, Naomi (diagnosed with autism) and Isaac (later diagnosed with ADHD), to progress without medication. She details the intense challenges faced with Naomi’s behavior in early years and how persistence with therapies, strict diet control (especially avoiding gluten, dairy, sugar, and food dyes), and emotional stability within the family environment made major differences. She emphasizes not becoming overwhelmed by all treatment options at once but instead focusing on manageable, incremental changes, highlighting how even her own stress levels could directly impact Naomi’s behavior. Other factors, like lunar cycles, gut health, going organic, and choosing good therapists, also played critical roles. Ultimately, she encourages other parents to stay calm, committed, and consistent, reassuring that pushing through difficult moments builds long-term success for children with special needs.

The speaker recounts the early struggles of traveling with Naomi, who has autism, sharing a vivid memory of a chaotic family trip to Myrtle Beach where Naomi became overwhelmed, leading to a massive public meltdown that required police intervention. This difficult experience, rather than discouraging them, became a catalyst for growth as they returned the following year, using consistent preparation and reminders about behavior to help Naomi improve. They emphasize that progress didn’t happen by luck but through repeated effort, patience, and preparation. Additionally, they discuss the crucial role of supplements in Naomi’s health management, explaining how her body's difficulty detoxifying requires high doses of vitamin D, omega-3s, magnesium, and B vitamins. Over time, Naomi adapted from being highly sensitive even to disguised supplements to now easily swallowing pills, showing how persistence and creative problem-solving were key in her development.

In this heartfelt conversation, Naomi, an 18-year-old with autism, shares her joys, challenges, and dreams. She proudly talks about picking out her own outfit, her love for activities like dancing, soccer, basketball,...

Dr. Leo Kormanik, discusses some of his key points in his Amazon Best selling book "Faster Without Fail" at Fleet Feet Running Shoe store in Pepper Pike, OH. He pulls out some of his key topics about running form, training tips, and salient advice on how to run pain free and faster than ever.

He also does a Question and Answer section at the end. The topics vary from clarification on certain running form topics, to how to fix shins splints, advice on nutrition, how to stop heel striking, and many more.

You can order the Dr. Leo Kormanik's book Faster Without Fail on Amazon at https://amzn.to/4eEsB7M.

Be sure to also check out Dr. Leo's Running Rehab YouTube page at www.YouTube.com/@RunningRehab.

On this episode of the MindBody Marathon podcast, host Dr. Leo Kormanik is joined by co-host Zach Goulet and guest Tina Ryee, the race director of the Women’s SixK. Tina shares the inspiring backstory of how the race came to life — a journey that began nearly a decade ago when she was working a draining job in Colorado. Feeling disconnected from her running roots, Tina began daydreaming about creating something more meaningful. Her passion for running and a desire to contribute something empowering to the community led her to envision a unique, women-focused race.

After moving back to Ohio, Tina accepted a grad assistant coaching role and interned with race director Jim Chaney of Run to You Racing. During COVID, the idea of an all-women’s event took shape more seriously. Recognizing that USA Track and Field had never hosted a 6K road championship, she and Jim submitted a proposal. To their surprise, USATF approved it, and in 2021, the first-ever Women’s 6K Championship race was held in Canton, Ohio.

The 6K distance was a deliberate and meaningful choice. Tina, a former collegiate runner and All-American in cross country, wanted the event to stand out and reflect her experience. Since the 6K is the standard distance for women’s collegiate cross country championships across all NCAA divisions, it felt like a perfect fit. The race has since grown into more than just an elite competition — it’s become a powerful, community-driven event under Tina’s nonprofit organization, inspiring women of all backgrounds. With stories of new mothers and individuals in recovery finding empowerment through participation, Tina reflects on how the race not only uplifts others but has empowered her personally as well.

Tina Ryee, director of the Women’s SixK, dives deeper into the inspiration and mission behind the race, explaining how its unique 6K distance subtly encourages women to push past their perceived limits — especially for those newer to running, like Dr. Leo’s wife, who found the 6K an empowering step beyond the 5K without the intimidation of a 10K. The race is hosted under Tina’s nonprofit, Top Tier Athlete, originally created during her coaching years to help young female athletes improve. Now reimagined, the organization aims to provide year-round impact through mentorships, entrepreneurship workshops, community running groups, and scholarships — particularly for women overcoming hardships. Tina highlights the race’s growing support from the community and major sponsors like PNC Bank, as well as its inclusivity, from elite runners to local women reclaiming their power through movement. The race has become more than a one-day event; it’s a celebration of resilience, community, and the belief that with vision and support, anyone can create lasting change.

The conversation highlights the transformative impact of pushing past personal limits, especially for those overcoming hardship, with an inspiring example of an elite runner named Annie who rebounded from a disappointing Olympic trials race to win a major 6K event. Her comeback symbolized empowerment and resilience, aligning with the race's deeper purpose of uplifting women at all levels. The course itself was designed with intention—starting at Malone, symbolic for the organizer, and structured as a fast, point-to-point, mostly downhill route to both challenge and encourage runners. It mirrors life’s journey: a tough climb followed by a freeing descent. The unique start, where elites are cheered on by community runners, sets a powerful tone. With added elements like a post-race festival and new emcee, the event continues to grow, maintaining its mission to inspire and celebrate women through running.

The episode highlights exciting updates and heartfelt moments surrounding the upcoming Women’s 6K event. Nicolina, a beloved local personality, will emcee the race, bringing energy and empowerment to Stark County. New divisions have been introduced,...