Jun 11, 2021
Meet BGR! Digital Content Creator, Danielle Barnes!
Q: What’s your favorite part about the writing process?
A: Content development. I love seeing a thought, a moment or an idea morph into a full-fledged story.
Q: Where do you get your ideas for content that you write for Black Girls Run?
A: Life! My life’s experiences and that of my family and friends. I’m always jotting down random thoughts in my Notes app. Sometimes the story has already been written for me right there in those Notes.
Q: What do you enjoy most about writing for Black Girls Run?
A: I enjoy the creative freedom to write inclusive, relatable stories on an inspiring, motivating and wide-reaching platform. I first learned about BGR! just three years ago and I remember being so inspired. I hope my storytelling inspires at least one person visiting the site to become a member and join the movement!
Q: What was your best running experience?
A: Getting over my fear and intimidation of joining a local running group. I’ve been a part of this inclusive, diverse and supportive running community for almost a year now. The encouragement offered by this group of runners of all ages, backgrounds and abilities has been so inspiring.
Q: What was your favorite race that you participated in?
A: The “Best Day Ever!” race in my hometown this past April. It was a 10K and it was my first race ever! The event was live. Cars along the route honked horns, bikers riding by shouted, “You got this!” I felt invincible in the home stretch and there’s nothing like the feeling of fellow runners cheering you on, screaming your name as you approach the finish line. It truly was THE. BEST. DAY. EVER!
Q: Why did you start running?
A: I started my running journey in 2019 a few months after my 50th birthday. I was inspired by my bestie Pam, a fellow BGR! member and BGR! Ambassador in Greensboro. For years, I watched her from the sidelines and for years I would always say, “I can’t run” to which she would always say, “Yes, you can” and so I did!
Q: What do you like to do for self-care?
A: I like to enjoy the outdoors in all seasons. I take a solo walk, hike or run in winter, spring, summer and fall. I take myself out to dinner, often!.Sometimes I will stay in, order from my favorite take out spot and read a good book. I also make it a priority to treat myself to a luxurious spa experience at least three times a year. Valentine’s Day, my birthday and New Year’s Eve.
Q: What is your favorite healthy snack?
A: Stove popped popcorn topped with nutritional yeast.
Q: What is one fun fact about you?
A: I’m obsessed with my birthday! I make plans months in advance. If it’s a milestone birthday, I start making plans years in advance! I celebrate the day of, the week of and the entire month of and I haven’t worked on my actual birthday in more than 30 years!
Read Danielle’s latest article here.