Today we’d like to introduce you to Nicole Zalud.
Hi Nicole, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Hi! My name is Nicole Zalud and this is The Story Behind Women Run Jax!
Three years ago, I moved from Athens, Georgia to Jacksonville, Florida, not knowing a single person.
At 21 years old it was one of the most exciting yet isolating seasons of my life. Starting over in a new city without friendships or familiarity forced me to grow but it also left me feeling deeply alone.
Running became my outlet. It was where I found peace, clarity, and a sense of freedom I couldn’t quite put into words.
Through running, I met two incredible women who quickly became my best friends. They were more than just running partners they were my community, my support system, and a reminder that connection was possible even in the most unfamiliar places. But about a year and a half ago, they moved away.
And just like that, I found myself back where I started—running alone.
Those solo runs felt different. What once brought me joy started to feel heavy with loneliness. I realized how hard it was to find genuine community in Jacksonville, especially if you weren’t going out to bars or drinking. I kept asking myself, why is it so hard to meet like-minded women who just want to connect, grow, and move their bodies together?
During those quiet miles, an idea kept coming back to me:
What if I created the community I was looking for?
That’s where Women Run Jax was born.
What started as a response to loneliness turned into something so much bigger a space where women can come together, feel seen, build friendships, and grow into the best versions of themselves. This isn’t just a run club. It’s a community rooted in connection, encouragement, and shared purpose.
Women Run Jax is for the girl who just moved here and doesn’t know anyone.
For the woman looking to meet people outside of the typical social scenes.
For those who want to network, grow, and surround themselves with like-minded, driven women.
For anyone who simply wants to feel like they belong.
My love for running started here in Jacksonville, but it was the feeling behind it that changed me—the gratitude, the freedom, the reminder that being able to run is a privilege. That feeling is something I wanted to share with others.
I truly believe we are not meant to do life alone. Community is essential—not just for growth, but for joy.
Women Run Jax is my answer to that need.
As this community continues to grow, I can’t help but feel so grateful for every friendship formed, every story shared, and every woman who shows up.
I’m so excited to see what the Lord has in store for this community. 🤍
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Moving to Jacksonville without knowing anyone was harder than I ever expected. Starting over meant walking into every space alone, trying to find connection in a place that didn’t yet feel like home.
After my closest friends moved away, the loneliness hit even deeper. What used to be joyful runs together turned into miles by myself. Running was still my escape but it also became a reminder that I didn’t have a community to share life with.
It wasn’t easy trying to meet people either. So much of the social scene revolved around going out or drinking, and I found myself craving something more meaningful real connection, real conversations, real friendships.
There were moments I questioned if I’d ever find “my people” here.
Moments where the loneliness felt heavy.
But those struggles are exactly what led me to create something different.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I’m a Lifestyle Director based in Jacksonville, Florida, where I curate, plan, and host engaging events that bring people together and foster a strong sense of community.
Who else deserves credit in your story?
Yes! during the beginning of the run club my friend Samantha Chiok was very present and helped me bring this vision to life with her support, I truly appreciate her for being there for the community and myself. <3
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/womenrunjax?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==
