Meet Liz Ferro

Author. Speaker. Mom. Founder. Force of Nature.

Liz Ferro's story doesn't start with a finish line — it starts with survival. As a child, Liz experienced foster care and sexual abuse. But instead of being defined by those experiences, she found her way forward through movement. Swimming, biking, running — fitness became her refuge, her reset, and ultimately her superpower.

That transformation didn't just change her life. It became the foundation for everything she's built since.    

Girls With Sole

In 2009, Liz founded Girls With Sole, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering at-risk girls through free fitness and wellness programs. What started as a local mission has grown into a nationally recognized movement, earning extensive media attention and changing the lives of thousands of girls across the country.

The program's innovative curriculum — rooted in fitness, self-worth, and resilience — has been celebrated by educators, advocates, and community leaders alike. Liz's published books and coloring book are a core part of that curriculum and are used to inspire girls (and women) everywhere to keep moving forward.

The Books

Liz's writing carries the same energy she brings to every finish line: honest, powerful, and deeply human. Her books and stories are built around one core framework — POWER:

• Perseverance
• Optimism
• Wisdom
• Energy
• Resilience

These aren't just running principles. They're life principles — for anyone navigating change, rebuilding confidence, or chasing something bigger for themselves.

The Athlete

If Liz's mission inspires you, her athletic resume will leave you speechless.

• 🏃♀️ 78 Full Marathons — including one in all 50 U.S. states, completed in just 2.5 years
• 🌍 Marathons on 5 continents — including the Great Wall of China, Antarctica, and a Wildlife Preserve in South Africa
• 🏊♀️ Five Full Ironman Triathlons — including Ironman Zurich in Switzerland
• 🏔️ Two 50K Ultra Trail Races
• 🏅 Escape From Alcatraz Triathlon — San Francisco, California
• Countless road races, adventure races, and triathlons — placing overall and in her age group in many

Recognition & Awards

Liz's work has been recognized by some of the most respected organizations in the country. A partial list of her honors includes:

• 🏆 2022 Toyota & ESPN W Everyday Hero Award — honored in Ojai, California with a $15K grant for Girls With Sole
• 📚 2022 Montaigne Medal Distinction — Eric Hoffer Book Award for Finish Line Feeling
• ⭐ 2018 Smartwomen Award — Progressive Organization
• 💪 2017 Community Changemaker Award — Ohio Alliance to End Sexual Violence
• 🏥 2016 Medical Mutual NEO Pillar Award
• 👩💼 2015 Perspectives Women Who Excel Award
• 🕊️ 2015 Symbol of H.O.P.E. Award

In the Media

Liz's story and mission have been featured in some of the most prominent media outlets in the country:

• NBC TODAY Show
• ESPN W & ESPN Sports Talk
• SELF Magazine
• Runner's World
• Family Circle
• Traditional Home
• Town & Country

Speaking

Liz speaks all over the country — at schools, corporate events, wellness retreats, race expos, and community gatherings. Her talks are rooted in her own lived experience and leave audiences feeling seen, motivated, and ready to move forward.

Interested in booking Liz for your event? Reach out here and let's talk.

"Keep moving forward — with POWER."
— Liz Ferro