In this  episode of The Running Wine Mom, Samantha Cieslinski chats with U.S. marathon record holder, mom of two, real estate agent, running store owner, and author Keira D’Amato. Together, they explore what it means to find yourself again after motherhood, redefine success, and embrace movement as medicine for the mind.

Keira opens up about her comeback story, how she balances elite running with parenting, and why she believes joy—not perfection—is the real goal. From tackling mom guilt to learning to rest and recover with grace, Keira’s wisdom offers every mom permission to chase her passions without apology.

Listen On

🎧 Spotify

🍎 Apple Podcasts

▶️ YouTube

Episode Highlights

• 00:01 — Samantha welcomes Keira and introduces her incredible journey
• 02:00 — “Wine, Whine & Win of the Week” segment: Copenhagen, Chardonnay & lost luggage
• 06:00 — The courage to start running again after kids
• 10:30 — Keira on finding balance between family, career, and competition
• 18:00 — Mom guilt, self-care, and redefining priorities
• 24:00 — How aging and motherhood changed her training philosophy
• 36:00 — The mantra that keeps her going: “This is where the magic happens.”
• 43:00 — Her favorite books, guilty pleasures, and race-day routines
• 50:00 — What she hopes her kids learn by watching her chase her dreams

Guest Links

• 🌐 Website: keiradamato.com

• 📘 Book: Don’t Call It a Comeback on Amazon

• 📸 Instagram: @keiradamato

• 🏃‍♀️ Strava: Keira D’Amato on Strava

Connect with Samantha

• 🌸 Instagram: @therunningwinemom_

• ✨ Website: therunningwinemom.com

• 📰 Substack: Subscribe here

Quote to Remember

“Running isn’t selfish. It’s how I come home a better version of me.” — Keira D’Amato

💫 Join the “Run/Walk for Presence” Challenge!
Move intentionally for seven days and reflect on how exercise changes your energy and mindset. Tag @therunningwinemom_
and use #RunningWineMomChallenge for a chance to be featured.