Jodie Kirsch-Lachman (right) is joined by her AmeriHealth colleague, Michelle Larsen, at an event to support the Special Olympics.
Workplace wellness is a big part of our company culture at AmeriHealth. That’s why we’re proud to highlight employees who prioritize their health and take full advantage of the well-being benefits AmeriHealth offers its employees.
Marketing Services Manager Jodie Kirsch-Lachman is known by her colleagues as an avid runner who always comes out on top of company-wide step challenges. We sat down with her to learn more about her passion for being active.
Q: Tell us about your history with AmeriHealth and your current role.
A: I’ve worked for AmeriHealth for more than 32 years. I’ve had many positions, but my current role in which I’m responsible for managing AmeriHealth sponsorships and associate events is by far the most rewarding.
Q: How does working at AmeriHealth help support healthy habits like running?
A: Working at AmeriHealth has helped me maintain a healthy lifestyle with walking challenges, bi-weekly exercise classes, onsite wellness activities, and exercise class reimbursement. We have a cart in the office with free healthy snacks like fruit and yogurt. We also often participate in fundraising walks or runs.
Q: When did your love of running begin and how did it become an important part of your life?
A: I started running in 1992 when a coworker invited me to run a 5K challenge through our company. That day during our lunch break, we went to a nearby store, and I purchased running clothes and sneakers! I don’t remember what my time was, but I did finish that race. The rest is history!
Q: Tell us about some of your memorable running accomplishments since then.
A: I placed 3rd in my age group in the Atlantic City (AC) 5K a few years ago. I’ve also placed in the Lincoln Tunnel Run. I’ve completed many races, including half-marathons and two New York City marathons.
Q: Why is it important for you to make time to run?
A: I love running, and it’s part of my daily routine. It gives me the opportunity to go out in the fresh air and take some time to myself. I usually listen to music and just enjoy the moment. It benefits me mentally just as much as it does physically.
Jodie (second from left) at the 2015 Lincoln Tunnel Run.
Q: Do you plan to participate in this year’s AC Marathon? If so, what are you most excited about?
A: Yes, I’ll be running the 5K in October. Now that I’m in a new age group, I’m excited to see if I’ll place again.
Q: Do you have any advice for new runners with upcoming races?
A: You probably won’t be first or last, just somewhere in between, so don’t stress about it. Get out there and keep at it!
Learn more about how you can participate in the upcoming AC Marathon on October 21 and 22.
