From Surgical Menopause to Marathoner: Dawn Klasen’s Back-of-the-Pack Joy, 26.2 Lessons, and an Every Woman’s Marathon Preview

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the Run Strong Run Podcast, Stephanie sits down with marathoner and mom of four, Dawn Klasen, whose story proves it’s never too late to start running. Dawn began running in her early 40s after surgical menopause—what started as a way to manage her health quickly turned into a passion that’s carried her across marathon finish lines.Stephanie and Dawn first met at the USA Women’s Marathon in Palm Desert, where Dawn completed her first 26.2, and they’re now gearing up to reunite at the Every Woman’s Marathon in Scottsdale, Arizona. Together they talk about:Starting from zero and building confidence as a new runnerRunning through motherhood, mental health, and real-life chaosPushing through an IT band flare at mile 20Finding strength and joy in the back of the packWhy “all runners count,” no matter pace or distanceIf you’ve ever wondered whether you can run your first race—or if you’re craving some motivation to keep going—Dawn’s story will light you up.🎧 Listen now and get inspired before the Every Woman’s Marathon! 👉 Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/OoGvuVfZ7IA✨ Join Run Strong Run Weekly for expert tips, motivation, and training secrets delivered straight to your inbox: JOIN HERESupport the showWelcome to the Run Strong Run Podcast! The show where I, Stephanie Dunlap, empower runners of all levels to lace up, chase their dreams, and cross every finish line stronger than ever. To join the discussion live, follow me on Instagram @runstrongrun, TikTok @runstrongrun, Facebook @runstephstrongrun or on my website at runstrongrun.comAbout Stephanie:Stephanie is a beginner run coach, marathon pacer, and your number-one cheerleader! Stephanie went from couch potato to marathoner in 2012 and "Run Strong Run" was born. Since running her first marathon, she's run over 60 full marathons! Stephanie believes that ALL runners count from the fast to the back of the pack. In Stephanie's words, "If you run, you are a runner!"