By: Greg Koch

​As the owner of 605 Running Company, from a family of entrepreneurs, and someone who is so independent I was born on the fourth of July, I recently took a bold step.

I applied for a job.

You read that right. I took the time to write a resume that speaks to what I’ve been doing for over a decade. I sourced references I believed would speak highly of me. I prayed about it. I got excited about the possibility of doing something new. Yes, I was ready to leave my role as President of my own company.

Why?

Let’s talk about the job. If I'm being honest the thought of not having to provide my own salary for once was very appealing. Investing that money into my current team, new products, or new leadership was nothing short of intriguing; and for real cash flow is always on my mind. Knowing that, I wouldn't take these steps for just any opportunity. Over the past nine months, I’ve dug deep into what makes small, independent businesses successful. I've taken a lot of classes, attended seminars, and read profusely. I wrote a lot on our blog about the challenges and struggles of running our business. Once I started doing that, something amazing happened: other business owners started seeking me out for advice, support, and encouragement.

I was bold enough to say the hard things out loud, and it turns out my struggles were shared by many others. Through this, I began to feel a calling to do more. I wasn’t sure what that would look like until a friend suggested I apply for a role opening in academia—a job that offered unique opportunities to impact our community in meaningful ways.

It feels good to have champions in your corner. Around the time I was considering the position, I went for a run with another friend—someone who works with leaders across the state. This friend told me most leaders don’t necessarily seek out their most impactful roles; instead, someone nudges them toward something they hadn’t yet imagined for themselves. That conversation hit hard. It felt like a nudge toward something special.

So, I did it. I applied. This wasn’t the first time in the past decade that I put myself out there, but it was by far the most serious effort I’ve made. I worked hard to sell myself through a resume, references, and a cover letter. That might surprise some people.

The reality is this: I’ve made significant financial sacrifices to keep 605 Running Company going. This isn’t a complaint. It’s a fact. As someone who’s now been on the hiring side of things, many times for a lot of different roles over the past several months, I see what people in Sioux Falls expect to earn for professional work. For years, I have earned less than what many entry-level jobs pay. An eye opening discovery if I'm being honest. 

That’s why I had to at least explore this opportunity. Let’s be real—my job at 605 Running Company has always been one of passion for me. My work has been fulfilling in nearly every way. My wife has had a long-standing rule: I have to love my job. I’ve not shied away from the fact that she is the breadwinner in our family and her corporate position with all of its benefits allows me to be an entrepreneur. Her rule is clear. I have to LOVE my job and believe me I do.

Back to the job I recently applied for: it was exciting. The work was spoke to my passions. The organization is beloved by my entire family. I had a strong champion pushing me to apply. The pay was competitive for what I've hired other people to do in our community. It was local. I felt like I checked almost every box in the job description.  

Except one: I don’t have a Master’s degree.

That, I’ve been told, was a deal breaker.

Despite having references with Doctorate degrees and plenty of academia experience, despite my decade of real-world experience building a business from the ground up, I didn’t even get a call. Not even an email. I only found out I wasn’t moving forward through a friend involved in the hiring process. After a long period of hearing nothing I can't say I was shocked at the news. 

This hurt. It was humbling. Frustrating. And yes, the process made me angry. Not because I didn’t get the job—but because I didn’t even get a chance. I now know how so many job seekers feel when they pour their heart into an application and get ghosted.

Still, I’m nothing if not a lifelong learner. I recently spoke about resiliency through injury in our monthly mindset webinar with Coach Lauren. One thing I’ve learned: to be resilient, you must adopt a growth mindset. I could fixate on the missing advanced degree that I never had time to pursue. I could believe I’ll never be worthy of a great opportunity. Or I can look at this experience as a lesson.

And I’m choosing the latter.

As a business owner, this experience has already made me rethink how we hire, how we value people, and how we support our team. More importantly, it’s sparked a desire to explore new ways we can grow and offer more. We’ve started asking bigger questions about what’s possible—even when the answers aren't easy or obvious. But this process pushed me to try.

I’ve started researching what benefits and programs might be possible for my team. It’s a slow process, and it feels overwhelming at times, but it’s a step forward. I’m also creating the 605 Running Collective—an advisory board to help elevate our business. I don’t have all the answers. And that’s okay. I’m resilient enough to know what I don’t know.

Books are great. But they don’t hold all the answers.

In the past six months, I’ve also done a lot of work on myself. I’ve realized I’ve been burnt out for a while. The lack of engagement in things that used to bring us energy—demo runs, races, clinics, community events—has been difficult to manage. We’ve innovated, adjusted, and adapted constantly. But sometimes it feels like all people care about is a discount, deal, or a product we've never been able to carry.

I believe a business should make the community better. I volunteer for many different organizations. I give even when I have nothing to give. And yet, I sometimes feel like an imposter in my own community. It hurts when people turn their backs on our team because of price or ego. It’s exhausting being made out as a villain for standing up for my business and its bottom line. I'm well aware that I don't always get things right. I’ve done a lot of personal work to not take things personally—even when we’ve been abandoned or taken advantage of. It’s not easy, but it's necessary to keep moving forward with clarity and purpose.

To my amazing team: I have full faith in all of your abilities. I wouldn't even consider looking for a different job if I didn't trust that we have a crew that could continue to push us forward without me in a leadership role. One of our core values is transparency. I'm not afraid to talk about this experience and to be open about my role within my own company. This year, I’ve invested more 1-on-1 time with each team member and challenged myself to lead with accountability. It’s working. We’ve been operating in a really strong, successful way in 2025—and that’s a direct reflection of your effort and commitment.

But I’ve come to understand that the only way forward is with intention, reflection, and a willingness to grow—even when the path is unclear.

So I keep building. Coaching. Training. Guiding. Teaching. Trying to make a difference. I’m not perfect. I was never trying to be. I’m just committed to learning, leading, and moving toward better.
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This first quarter of 2025 has been a season of growth—personally and professionally. I’ve taken meaningful steps to address burnout, refocus my energy, and lead with more intention. I’m proud of the progress we’ve made at 605 Running Company, and I’m excited for what’s ahead. The vision is becoming clearer every day, and I feel more confident than ever that we’re on the right path—one rooted in clarity, sustainability, and purpose.

And to be clear—I’m not actively seeking new employment. I belong at 605 Running Company. This is my home, my community, and the business I’ve poured my heart into. But just because I own the business doesn’t mean I can’t be open to new possibilities. If the right opportunity comes along that aligns with my values and growth as a leader, I’ll listen. I’m not even 40 yet, and I truly believe my best leadership years are still ahead of me.

P.S. If you’re out there trying, getting ghosted, or doubting yourself—I see you. You’re not alone.
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This experience reminded me why I started 605 Running Company in the first place. It’s never just been about selling shoes—it’s always been about building something meaningful, creating space for others, and doing work that matters. That’s still the mission. And I’m more committed to it than ever.

By: Greg Koch

The last six months have been a time of major transition for 605 Running Company. I went from having five business partners to being the sole owner, which has meant rethinking how we operate, how we grow, and how we continue to serve this incredible community. While it has been a challenge, it has also been an opportunity to evolve, adapt, and refocus on our mission: to build an inclusive, thriving running ecosystem for everyone.

One thing I’ve learned during this time is that I don’t want to do this alone—and honestly, I shouldn’t. The best businesses are shaped by the communities they serve, and I want to invite you to be part of that process. That’s why I’m launching the 605 Running Collective, a group of passionate, engaged individuals who will help guide the future of our business and our local running community.

What is the 605 Running Collective?
The 605 Running Collective will be a small group—six to eight individuals—who care deeply about the future of running in Sioux Falls. This isn’t just about advising a business; it’s about helping shape a movement that keeps our local running culture strong. We need diverse perspectives, fresh ideas, and engaged voices who can help take 605 Running Company into its next chapter.

This initiative isn’t just about benefiting the business—it’s about developing future leaders. I strongly believe in continued education and professional growth. By engaging in this collective, our staff will have the opportunity to be accountable to this group, gain valuable leadership experience, and further their development in a transparent, community-driven way. The 605 Running Collective will be a key cog in our organizational chart, ensuring that we remain accountable to the community we serve.

Here’s how members of the 605 Running Collective will contribute:

• Bring Unique Perspectives to the Table: Whether you’re a coach, race director, business leader, or passionate runner, your experiences offer valuable insights. We need a variety of voices to help us innovate and push forward.
• Engage in Meaningful Conversations: Honest, constructive discussions about what’s working, what needs improvement, and how we can continue to grow will be at the core of this group. These discussions will be rooted in trust and confidentiality, allowing us to share raw facts about the business and gain valuable insight without fear of public dissemination. Members must respect that the information shared in this setting is for the benefit of the group and the business, not for external broadcast.  
• Be a Connector & Problem-Solver: This isn’t just about offering ideas—it’s about helping bring them to life. While this role is primarily advisory, there will be times when we need hands-on assistance. Whether it’s helping source volunteers for events, facilitating introductions to corporate partners, or ensuring our races run smoothly, members of this group will play an active role in making a real impact.
• Provide Steady Guidance in Key Moments: When big decisions arise—whether it’s launching a new program, expanding services, or navigating challenges—I want a trusted team to provide input and support. In our time in business, we’ve faced major shipping issues, a global pandemic, a shifting local landscape of challenges, and national turmoil. Managing these complexities as a retail business, an event business, and a coaching business is tricky. This group will help shape our messaging and response to evolving challenges that impact our business, ensuring that we remain adaptive and resilient.
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Who Should Apply?
I’m looking for individuals who care about the future of our running community and want to actively shape it. Ideal candidates include:

• Local high school or college coaches who understand the needs of athletes at all levels.
• Board members of local running clubs who want to create deeper connections between our store and the broader running community.
• Race directors looking to collaborate and strengthen Sioux Falls’ running events.
• Passionate runners of all levels who love our sport and want to help others find joy in movement.
• Business-minded individuals who can offer guidance on operations, growth strategies, and community engagement.
  
  

Commitment & Expectations
This is a volunteer role—there are no extra perks, discounts, or swag. Joining the 605 Running Collective means you genuinely care about 605 Running Company and the community we serve. Your commitment is to help shape the future of this business and our local running ecosystem, not to receive incentives.
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• Quarterly, In-Person Meetings: Attendance is expected in person—there will be no virtual option. Meetings will be scheduled in advance, and members are expected to prioritize their participation.
• Primarily an Advisory Role: This group will operate on a 95:5 advisory-to-action ratio. Your main role is to provide insights, feedback, and strategic direction. However, there may be occasional needs for assistance, such as sourcing volunteers, connecting with corporate partners, or helping execute key events.
• Commitment to Respect & Confidentiality: Members must respect the confidentiality of business discussions and commit to constructive, honest engagement.
• Three-Year Term: This will be a three-year commitment with the option to renew at the end of the term. 
• Ambassadors for the Brand: While this is an advisory role, members should be engaged in spreading awareness, supporting initiatives, and advocating for 605 Running Company within their networks.
  
  

Join Us & Shape the Future
605 Running Company has always been about more than just selling shoes—it’s about building something bigger. But to do that, I need your help, your voice, and your ideas. If you believe in what we do and want to make a real impact, I encourage you to apply.

I own this company, but I love this community. I want to be clear that while the final decisions about the business are mine alone to make, I deeply value guidance, support, and thoughtful challenge. To be part of this group is to believe in our mission and to be invested in my growth as a leader. I need people who are willing to support, uplift, and push me to be better—not just for the business, but for the community we serve.

I’ll be accepting applications and conducting interviews for the 605 Running Collective through the end of March, with a goal of holding our first meeting in mid-April. Let’s work together to ensure that Sioux Falls remains a place where movement is celebrated, supported, and accessible to all.

By: Greg Koch

At 605 Running Company, we believe in the power of local partnerships to bring our events to life. Today, we’re excited to feature the Sioux Falls Food Co+op, a community-owned grocery store dedicated to providing high-quality, affordable food options while fostering a strong sense of community. We sat down with Becky Squyer, Director of Marketing & Community Outreach, to learn more about their mission, their connection to the running community, and a favorite St. Patrick’s Day memory!
About Sioux Falls Food Co+op & Their Partnership

Can you introduce yourself and your business and tell us what you do?
I’m Becky Squyer, Director of Marketing & Community Outreach at Sioux Falls Food Co+op. We are a community-owned and operated grocery store, open to everyone—whether you’re a member-owner or not. Our focus is on providing high-quality products at competitive prices while fostering a sense of belonging in Sioux Falls.

What inspired your business to partner with 605 Running Company?
The Co+op is always looking for ways to be more involved in the community. Partnering with 605 Running Company connects us with a like-minded group of people who are engaged in caring for their bodies and making healthy choices.

What does supporting local events like this mean to your business?
As a community-driven grocery store, we believe that supporting local events helps us strengthen and grow our network of health-conscious, engaged individuals. Whether you’re a runner, a foodie, or both, we love connecting with people who care about what they put into their bodies.

What’s one thing you wish more people knew about your company?
We are open to everyone! While you can become an owner, you don’t have to be one to shop at the Co+op. We also focus on affordability with our Co+op Basics (everyday pantry staples at great prices), Co+op Deals (rotating sales), and Co+op Fresh Deals (discounts on produce). There’s something for everyone here!
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Will your team be participating on race day?
We’re not sure yet about this specific race, but we are excited to participate in future races!

Do you have a favorite St. Patrick's Day memory?
For me, it’s participating in the Downtown Sioux Falls St. Patrick’s Day parade as a child! I’m a born-and-raised DTSF girl and have lived within a mile of Phillips Avenue my entire life.

A huge thank you to Becky Squyer and the Sioux Falls Food Co+op for their commitment to building a stronger, healthier Sioux Falls. Be sure to check them out next time you’re looking for fresh, high-quality food options in the heart of our city!

By: Greg Koch
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At 605 Running Company, we know that local partnerships are key to making our events truly special. Today, we’re excited to feature CaveGamers, a Sioux Falls-based business that has grown from repairing Xbox 360 consoles to becoming a top retailer of retro video games, systems, and toys. Founded in 2010 by Bobby Brockmueller, CaveGamers has served over 500,000 customers and continues to expand its presence both online and locally. We sat down with Bobby to learn more about his business, their connection to the running community, and, of course, their ultimate race day hype song!


About CaveGamers & Their Partnership
Can you introduce yourself and your business and tell us what you do?
My name is Bobby Brockmueller, and I’m the founder of CaveGamers. We specialize in retro video games, gaming systems, and collectibles. What started as a small project fixing Xbox 360 consoles has grown into an online retail business serving customers across the country. We recently expanded our operations in Sioux Falls with a new 54,000-square-foot office and warehouse to better support our growing customer base.


What inspired your business to partner with 605 Running Company?
As a Sioux Falls-based business, we love supporting local events that bring the community together. The 605 Running Company has created an incredible culture of inclusivity and excitement around running, and we wanted to be a part of that energy. Plus, running and gaming both require focus, strategy, and endurance—so it’s a great fit!


Community & Event Involvement
What does supporting local events like this mean to your business?
Supporting local events helps us connect with the community in meaningful ways. While we primarily operate online, we’re always looking for opportunities to engage with Sioux Falls residents and show our appreciation for the support we’ve received over the years. Events like these allow us to give back while celebrating the incredible people who make Sioux Falls such a great place to live and work.


What’s one thing you wish more people knew about your company?
Many people know us as an online store, but we are deeply rooted in Sioux Falls. We’re passionate about gaming culture and love helping people reconnect with their favorite childhood games. Our expansion here is just the beginning—we’re committed to growing in Sioux Falls and continuing to serve gamers of all ages.


Will your team be participating on race day? If so, what are you most looking forward to?
We’re always up for a challenge, but for this race, we’ll be cheering from the sidelines! We love seeing the excitement and energy that comes with race day, and we can’t wait to support the participants.


Fun & Personal Touch
Do you have a favorite St. Patrick’s Day memory?
St. Patrick’s Day in Sioux Falls is always a great time! One of my favorite memories is just walking through downtown, seeing everyone dressed up in green, and enjoying the community celebrations. The energy is contagious!


If your business had to pick a “hype song” for race day, what would it be?
"Eye of the Tiger" by Survivor—because every great race needs a little training montage energy!


Anything else you’d like to share with the 605 Running Company community?
We’re excited to be part of this event and to continue growing our connections in Sioux Falls. Whether you’re a runner, a gamer, or both, we love being part of this amazing community. Thanks for having us, and good luck to everyone on race day!

A big thank you to Bobby Brockmueller and CaveGamers for their support of the Lucky 7’s Race and their commitment to the Sioux Falls community. Be sure to check out their incredible selection of retro games and collectibles online!

By: Greg Koch
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At 605 Running Company, we know that local partnerships are key to making our events truly special. Today, we’re thrilled to feature Experience Sioux Falls, an organization dedicated to showcasing our city as a must-visit destination. Formerly known as the Sioux Falls Convention & Visitors Bureau, Experience Sioux Falls plays a crucial role in attracting meetings, conventions, sporting tournaments, and leisure travelers. We sat down with Allyson Kasch, Director of Sales, to learn more about their mission, their support for the running community, and of course, their ultimate race day hype song!


About Experience Sioux Falls & Their Partnership
Can you introduce yourself and your business and tell us what you do?
We are Experience Sioux Falls, formerly the Sioux Falls Convention & Visitors Bureau. We are a destination marketing organization whose primary focus is selling the City as a unique destination for meetings, conventions, sporting tournaments, and leisure travelers.

What inspired your business to partner with 605 Running Company?
We recognize the importance of community events to the visitor industry as a whole. We saw this as a valuable opportunity to not only support this amazing event but also to increase awareness of Sioux Falls as a destination on the rise.

Community & Event Involvement
What does supporting local events like this mean to your business?
We believe that supporting events like this creates a stronger sense of belonging, brand awareness, and involvement in the local community. Collaborating with local businesses also helps us identify opportunities for growth and visitor development.

What’s one thing you wish more people knew about your company?
One thing people might not realize about Experience Sioux Falls is that we are a valuable resource, not just for visitors, but also for local businesses. We offer support with event planning, help connect businesses with potential clients, and are always working to promote Sioux Falls to visitors in order to boost the local economy. Our official Sioux Falls Visitor Guides are a great way for businesses to get in front of visitors exploring the City.

Will your team be participating on race day? If so, what are you most looking forward to?
Unfortunately, we are not able to participate.

Fun & Personal Touch
Do you have a favorite St. Patrick's Day memory?
Our favorite memory is watching our beloved Sylvia Henkin in action on St. Patrick's Day. She loved Sioux Falls so much and was an amazing advocate for our great city.

If your business had to pick a “hype song” for race day, what would it be?
"Celebrate" by Kool & The Gang

Anything else you’d like to share with the 605 Running Company community?
We are so appreciative of businesses like 605 Running Company that drive folks to visit Sioux Falls. These types of events not only bring visitors to our city, but they also create a sense of excitement and pride among our local community.

A big thank you to Experience Sioux Falls and Allyson Kasch, Director of Sales, for their support of the Lucky 7’s Race and for their commitment to growing and promoting our incredible city. Be sure to check out their resources to discover even more ways to explore Sioux Falls!