Welcome to Milkweed and Monarchs. I’m Dawn Klem, and today, I share the story of how I unexpectedly became a runner—motivated not by personal ambition, but by the desire to encourage my daughters to embrace team sports.

Growing up, I never considered myself an athlete. I was a cheerleader, but I always wished my mother had pushed me toward something more—perhaps cross country or track. When my daughters reached middle school, I saw an opportunity to give them what I had missed. They loved the outdoors, but hesitated to join a team. So, I made a bold decision: I would start running myself.

With the help of my colleague Lois—a seasoned marathon runner—I embarked on a journey that tested my endurance, reshaped my mindset, and ultimately led me to my first 5K race. From training in freezing temperatures to overcoming self-doubt, every step brought new challenges and unexpected rewards.

This episode is about perseverance, about stepping outside your comfort zone, and about the surprising ways in which personal growth can inspire others. Join me as I recount the highs and lows of my first 5K run and the lasting impact it had on my family.