What’s it like to have a running guru/ running events maestro/ running phenomenon/ Boston qualifier as your boss and boyfriend all in one? Quite humbling, actually. Coach Rio exudes an aura of greatness stemming from the many challenges that he has faced on his uphill climb to success. I used to think that I’ve had my share of tough times more than the average joe but watching him exceed everyone’s expectations with my own eyes day in and day out has made me realize how kind life has been to me compared to everything he’s been through, and yet he has managed to pick himself up every single time to become the success story that he is today.

A good friend has openly said that Coach Rio is someone special, her exact words being, “he’s one in a million.” All biases aside, I can’t help but agree and stand in awe at his resilience and determination to succeed in life – a strategy that has proven to be quite effective in his personal life as well, with direct reference to our nine-years-in-the-making Sarah-and-John-Lloyd love story.

Everyday is a school day for me whenever I’m with Boss Kulot, as I fondly call him – from learning how to sell our services to prospective clients, to what to say and what not to say, to delegating work in order to maximize each individual’s or team’s expertise, and to the never-ending search for ways to perfect our craft. You can find all these insights in business management and marketing books but experience is still the best teacher.

In three months, I’ve already learned a lot about the ins and outs of our business but i know there’s still so much to learn. Thankfully, I work in a encouraging and motivating environment that keeps me at the edge of my seat, wondering what the new day will bring. And best of all, I get to deepen my relationship with my hunny as well especially with regards to managing stress and the importance of unconditional love. So far, our partnership seems to be bringing out the best in both of us. Let’s hope it stays that way for a very long time.