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

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In 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 runner
• Running through motherhood, mental health, and real-life chaos
• Pushing through an IT band flare at mile 20
• Finding strength and joy in the back of the pack
• Why “all runners count,” no matter pace or distance

If 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

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Welcome 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, or on my website at runstrongrun.com

About 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 50 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!"