Oct. 21, 2025

Keira D’Amato on Motherhood, Mental Health, and Why Exercise Isn’t Selfish

Keira D’Amato on Motherhood, Mental Health, and Why Exercise Isn’t Selfish

In this inspiring 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 ▶️ YouTubeEpisode 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 LinksConnect 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
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