A Moment Can Change Everything
In 1967, Kathrine Switzer set out to run her own race in business—by first proving she could run her own race in sports.
Today, I watched an inspiring special on her journey, a pioneer in the fight for women’s freedom. While progress has been made, our work isn’t done—many women around the world still lack basic rights, education, and business opportunities.
As the first woman to officially enter the Boston Marathon, Switzer defied the belief that endurance sports were for men. During the race, an official physically tried to remove her, but with support from her team, she pushed forward and finished strong—proving that women belong in every arena.
But she didn’t stop there.
Switzer turned her victory into a movement, building an international business and nonprofit network that empowers women to break barriers—not just in sports, but in leadership, business, and life. Her story is a reminder that persistence, courage, and a strong support system create lasting change.
From Athlete to Entrepreneur
Switzer wasn’t just a pioneer in women’s sports—she built a successful business empire around empowerment, leadership, and advocacy.
1. Founder of 261 Fearless, Inc.
Switzer turned her iconic race number, 261, into a global nonprofit, helping women gain confidence through running. 261 Fearless Inc. offers training programs, leadership development, and networking opportunities, creating a business model centered on community empowerment.
- Impact: The organization has chapters worldwide, giving women access to leadership training through sports(261fearless.org).
2. Author & Speaker – Turning Her Story into a Brand
Switzer monetized her journey by writing books, including “Marathon Woman”, and building a speaking career on resilience, leadership, and entrepreneurship.
- Impact: She speaks at corporate events, leadership summits, and women’s business conferences, proving that a powerful story can be the foundation of a successful business (Katherineswitzer.com).
3. Media & Broadcasting Entrepreneur
As a sports broadcaster, Switzer became the first woman to commentate on televised marathons, using her platform to amplify women’s achievements in sports and business.
What This Means for Women in Business
Switzer’s journey isn’t just about running—it’s about breaking barriers in every industry. Women in AI and consulting, business strategy, and professional services face similar challenges:
- Being underestimated or excluded from leadership roles.
- Navigating male-dominated industries like technology and consulting.
- Overcoming financial and systemic obstacles to business growth.
Her story teaches us that success requires courage, persistence, and strategic action—whether you’re launching a consulting firm, leading a company, or scaling a business.
Three Key Business Lessons from Switzer's Journey
1. Take Action, Even When You’re Told No
Switzer entered the Boston Marathon despite the barriers. Women in business must do the same—launch the startup, pitch the idea, apply for the leadership role.
Don’t wait for permission—claim your space.
2. Build a Strong Support System
Switzer had a team that protected her and helped her succeed. In business, this means:
- Finding mentors and allies who champion your success.
- Joining networks of women entrepreneurs for support and collaboration.
- Partnering with people who elevate your vision.
No one succeeds alone—build your network strategically.
3. Turn Challenges into Opportunities
Switzer turned her struggle into a thriving business, proving that obstacles can be stepping stones. If you face rejection, bias, or roadblocks in business:
- Leverage your story—your journey is your brand.
- Use setbacks to refine your strategy and strengthen your positioning.
- Create impact beyond your business—lead initiatives that empower others.
The best entrepreneurs use challenges as fuel for growth.
How to Take Control of Your Own Race in Business
Women today don’t just want to participate—they want to lead, scale, and build lasting impact. Here’s how:
1. Start Before You Feel Ready
Every successful entrepreneur had doubts at the beginning. The key is to take action anyway.
2. Invest in Leadership & Business Strategy
Building a business requires more than expertise—it requires strategic planning. Work with consultants, mentors, and experts to accelerate your growth.
3. Build Visibility & Personal Branding
Success isn’t just about what you do, it’s about who knows you do it. If you’re in consulting, AI technology, or business leadership, make sure your voice is heard.
4. Join a Community of Like-Minded Women
Surround yourself with women who are breaking barriers and building legacies. The right network creates opportunities, partnerships, and support.
Run Your Own Race - Join the B3 Consulting Community
Switzer’s story is inspiring, but inspiration alone doesn’t drive success. To break barriers in business, you need a plan, strategy, and the right network.
That’s where the team at B3 Consulting comes in.
At B3 Consulting, we help women in business, consulting, and leadership create actionable plans to scale, grow, and lead with confidence.
Join the community today. Here’s how:
- Subscribe for exclusive insights on leadership, consulting, and business growth.
- Schedule a meeting to discuss how to accelerate your success and run your own race in business.
The finish line isn’t waiting—neither should you.
Contact us to take the next step.
Photo Credit: Getty Images and thank you to Katherine Switzer for her interview and advocy on behalf of women. Please visit her site to connect and grow your network.
