By: Greg Koch
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​Certain people are put into your life for a reason. I’ve written and spoken often about the joy I’ve found in being a dad. My daughter is a gift, and I’m thankful every day for what my wife and I call our little family. In my last blog, I briefly mentioned paternal postpartum depression. I’m no expert in mental health, but I do know that with the joy of becoming a dad came feelings, emotions, and struggles I wasn’t prepared for. I honestly didn’t think these challenges would even affect me. That’s the thing about parenting: it’s not what you think it’s going to be. Your body and mind do things you cannot prepare for.

It won’t surprise anyone that I wasn’t quick to seek out professional help for managing depression. What I did have was a running coach, who also happened to be a parent. Jacqui Meadors had her fourth child two weeks after my daughter, Violet, was born. Jacqui has been my running coach and friend for years, but we didn’t really start running together until Violet and Shuler were born. 

This story starts, as many running stories do, with a race. About six weeks after our children were born, Mission Haiti hosted a charity fun run. My wife Chelsea and I agreed some sunshine and exercise would do us good, so I showed up to run, and Chelsea came with Violet to walk. Jacqui was there walking as well, with a double stroller and multiple kids in tow, making parenting look effortless. The day went so well that we made plans for coffee at Jacqui’s house. That magical day—donuts, babies napping, and genuine connection—changed our perspective as new parents. Simply put, Jacqui was there for Chelsea and me and has continued to be there ever since.

Eventually, Jacqui was ready to start running again. We began meeting most Tuesdays and built a Friday group run. Running with Jacqui has been a steady and grounding force in my life through five years of challenges and triumphs. Sometimes, people are put into your life for a reason, and I’m incredibly thankful for Jacqui’s friendship.

Here’s what Jacqui shared in our 12 Days of 5Ks spotlight:

Holiday Reflections
What does the holiday season mean to you, and how do you celebrate this time of year?

"I really enjoy the holiday season! My favorite holiday is actually Thanksgiving, but I love to see the excitement of Christmas through the eyes of my children. I also find this time of year is a good time to reflect on all I have been given and, in return, what I can give to others."

Connection to 605 Running Company
How has 605 Running Company impacted your running journey or your connection to the local running community?

"605 Running Company has meant so much to me over the past ten years. It is where I have met some of my closest friends, and the company has allowed me to grow in my philanthropic development. I find that 605 Running Company is so much more than running; I have made great memories, connections, and friendships in the Sioux Falls area (and beyond!)."

Favorite Running Memories
What is one of your favorite memories involving running with 605 Running Company or participating in one of our events? What is your favorite running adventure of all time?

"One of my favorite memories is group runs. One of the very first ones, I went with my sister and her friend, and we were all given a pair of Balega socks. I do not remember any part of the run, but I do remember the people I was with! Shortly after, I attended another run and met Sara Lefebvre, the brains behind starting Sioux Falls Women Run. On another group run, I went with my husband; he pushed the single stroller, and I pushed the double stroller. In regards to events, my best memories are running the races and then hanging out with friends in the shop before and after. My favorite running adventure of all time? Not sure, but probably a combination of all my marathons. The training and races themselves are adventures for sure."

Personal Running Goals
Looking ahead to 2025, what are your running goals or ambitions? Are there any races or challenges you’re excited about?

"For the upcoming year, I would like to take one more chance on a marathon. I am not getting any younger, so I know my speed may not be there, but I am always willing to put in the work and effort to maximize my potential. I’d like to toss in a half marathon leading up to the marathon and, of course, I want to stay healthy."

Holiday Inspiration
What inspires you to keep running during the colder months? Any tips or motivation to share for staying active through winter?

"Living in the cold weather can be challenging, but I get through it in a few different ways. To begin, I start counting weekends once the first real cold hits. My friend’s philosophy is that we only have to make it through 10 weekends. We can all manage 10 weekends! The other thing I do is embrace flexibility. My coach, Derrick Ettel, has me train through the winter to maintain base mileage so that I am prepared for my spring goals. When the weather is challenging for a scheduled quality workout or long run day, I like to switch around days and change up my schedule. Finally, I make sure I reach out to my friends and try to keep those group runs active."

Community Appreciation
What message would you like to share with other members of the 605 Running Company community during this season of giving?

"There are so many ways to give. Think about your community and what speaks to you. You do not have to be the loudest or most visible person to make an impact."

Jacqui’s wisdom and support have made an incredible difference in my life and in our running community. During this season of giving, I hope her reflections inspire you as much as they’ve inspired me.

By: Greg Koch

When you think about the Dos Equis commercials featuring the “Most Interesting Man in the World,” I can’t help but think about Ben Devlin, our Weekend Manager at 605 Running Company. For the past seven years, Ben has been an anchor for our shop and an irreplaceable part of our culture.

Ben described himself as a “fine arts kid” who didn’t discover running until college. This unique perspective has helped him thrive in his role. Fluent in German, a historian, a teacher, and an incredibly well-read individual, Ben’s intellect and warmth influence everyone he meets. We often joke about his social media presence—he’s most active on Goodreads and Strava—but his real influence comes from the way he shapes the people and environment around him.

For me personally, Ben has been a rock. During my struggles with paternal postpartum depression and finding a work-life balance as a retail entrepreneur, Ben stepped in as a leader. His ability to listen, support our team, and ensure the weekend shift was always running smoothly was vital to our success. Ben filled the gaps when I couldn’t and helped maintain the sense of community and professionalism our customers expect.

But Ben’s talents extend far beyond 605 Running Company. He also works full-time at The Old Courthouse Museum, where his job could involve anything from building exhibit structures to conducting detailed historical research. He’s my go-to source for anything related to Sioux Falls history, U.S. presidents, and more.

In the spirit of our 12 Days of 5Ks, I asked Ben to reflect on his experiences and insights:

Holiday Reflections
“I usually think about opportunities during the holiday season. The beginning of a new year makes me excited for setting new goals, making new friends, and having new experiences. A tradition of mine is to listen to history mini-series podcasts about the presidents, the constitution, and the space race while I do most of my winter running on the north side of the bike trail.”

Connection to 605 Running Company
“It’s impossible for me to overstate the impact 605 Running Co. has had on my life and running. The store has helped me become a more ambitious runner and provided me with tools to achieve my goals. More importantly, it’s introduced me to many inspirational people, and I’ve made lifelong friends along the way.”

Favorite Running Memories
“I’ve grown to love my role during the Sioux Falls Skedaddle Half Marathon. I’m one half of the team that drops off and picks up aid stations along the race course. By the time we’re cleaning up stations, we eventually catch up to runners and get to cheer them on with the aid station crews. Seeing the runners’ appreciation makes lugging tables and water jugs around hours before the race starts worth it. Running in races is a lot of fun, but you get a completely different feeling of joy while working for them.”

Holiday Inspiration
“For me, the hardest step is the first one out the door. Once you’re out there, your body does a remarkable job warming up within the first couple of miles. Just make sure to invest in good winter gear and layer appropriately!”

Ben’s humility, strength, and creativity make him truly one-of-a-kind. Even in challenging conditions—like tonight’s frigid 15-degree weather with gusty winds—he inspires me to keep going.
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Ben Devlin isn’t just our “Most Interesting Man.” He’s a leader, a mentor, and a friend. Thank you, Ben, for everything you do for 605 Running Company and the Sioux Falls community.

By: Greg Koch
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​Sometimes you come to a fork in the road with two clear and obvious paths. Then there are those rare individuals who find a third path—the artists, the innovators. That’s exactly how I’d describe Morgan Sauer, Marketing and Community Engagement Manager at 605 Running Company. Today, Morgan didn’t just join me for a 5K; she redefined what running in Sioux Falls could look like by taking me on paths I had never considered running before.

This creativity and fresh perspective are why Morgan is such an integral part of our team. But beyond her role at 605, Morgan has achieved something truly extraordinary—she recently published her first novel, The Hero Dies in the End. This new adult novel, which can be found at Barnes & Noble and other retailers, is the product of grit, creativity, and determination.

Morgan started writing during a difficult chapter in her life—recovering from an injury that kept her sidelined from running. With a broken body and a lengthy recovery ahead, she poured her energy into crafting her book. Inspired by her own journey of transition and growth, the story carries Christian undertones and speaks to new adults navigating life beyond school.

Join Tonight for Morgan’s Book Open House!
We’re excited to celebrate Morgan’s incredible achievement with an open house at our Bridges location tonight from 6-8pm. This is your chance to:

• View snapshots of her editing process
• Meet Morgan in person
• Purchase her book
• Have your copy signed!

Let’s show up as a community to support this incredible accomplishment.

A Deeper Look at Morgan’s Journey
In our interview, Morgan shared her love for the holiday season, running in the snow, and pushing her limits. She’s looking ahead to 2025 with big plans to conquer new trail races and continue exploring the world—whether that’s hiking Sequoia National Park or tackling the Glacier Hills Ultra.

As we celebrate the holiday season and the incredible people in our community, let’s take a moment to recognize Morgan for her artistry, passion, and dedication to 605 Running Company. She reminds us that every journey—whether it’s a run or writing a novel—starts with a single step.

On how 605 Running Company impacted her life, she said:

“When I first started working at 605, I had been battling an injury for over a year and could barely run 1 mile daily. The community surrounding 605 continually inspired me to keep running. It reminded me how much of a positive effect running has on my life and others.”

Morgan also reflected on her favorite memory with 605:

“One of my favorite memories was my first year helping with the Skedaddle Half Marathon. It snowed, sleeted, and rained all before the race began—and people still had fun. It shows how hardy the people who live here truly are. We can find fun in just about anything.”

As for winter running, Morgan’s love for the snow shines through:

“I LOVE winter. Running in the snow will never not put a smile on my face. The air is so crisp and refreshing. There’s nothing like the crunching cadence of a run down a snowy road or path.”

Finally, her message for the 605 Running Co. community during this season of giving was heartfelt:

“We are pretty darn blessed to have a running community such as this so I’d like remind everyone of this fact. There are so many people without a dedicated running store, or even enough people around to do a group run. So cherish it, and support it.”

Call-to-Action:
Don’t miss tonight’s event! Stop by The Bridges from 6-8pm to support Morgan, celebrate her incredible accomplishment, and be inspired by her journey.

By: Greg Koch

Early this morning, I had the privilege of running with Dr. Emily Wanless as part of my 12 Days of 5Ks series. Emily is not only a professor at Augustana University but also a cornerstone of the 605 Running Company community. Since day one, Emily and her husband Ryan have supported us in countless ways, sharing their energy, enthusiasm, time, talents, dollars, and wisdom as we’ve built a thriving running ecosystem here in Sioux Falls.

Emily’s running journey is truly inspiring. Whether it’s racing alongside a donkey, traversing the mountains of France, or supporting others at iconic races like the Black Hills 100 or Hitchcock, she brings a spirit of fun and adventure to every experience. From pace teams to finish lines to aid stations, Emily’s presence is felt far and wide in the running world—and always in the most positive way.

Holiday Traditions and Reflections
For Emily, the holiday season is all about family, friends, and cherished traditions. This year, she’s celebrating with her family in Idaho, where her Christmas Eve includes a cooking competition, snowy dog romps, and orange cinnamon rolls on the way to a private mountain ski day.

“It’s all about games, stockings, music, and lots of laughter,” she says.

Connecting with 605 Running Company
When Emily first joined a 605 Saturday morning group run, she didn’t think group running was for her.

“I ran alone in the dark and didn’t consider myself a ‘real’ runner,” she admitted.

But after that first run, everything changed.

“I had a fun conversation with a few people, and when I came back the next week, it was like picking up right where we left off. That connection turned into community, and suddenly I was setting race goals, attending events, and making lifelong friends.”

Her story is a testament to what we’ve always hoped 605 Running Company would be—a place where anyone can find belonging and joy in running.

Favorite Memories and Future Goals
One of Emily’s favorite memories is running the Susan G. Komen breast cancer race with her husband Ryan, who was pushing Sunny—a breast cancer warrior—in an adaptive chair that the two of them worked to bring to 605 Running Company. 

“Hearing Sunny encourage Ryan to push faster and feeling the energy of the crowd made it a truly special day,” she recalls.

I had the privilege of joining them on this race and recall flying down the streets of Downtown at a near 20-minute 5k time to the delight of Sunny!

As for 2025, Emily is aiming for a 100-mile qualifier in her pursuit of a Hardrock 100 entry. She’s also looking forward to the inaugural Tuthell 50K here in Sioux Falls, an event that will grow our ultrarunning community while raising funds for local nonprofits.

Winter Running Inspiration
Running in the colder months doesn’t slow Emily down. Although she and I did agree that we don't mind the treadmill nearly as much these days. She embraces winter with problem-solving—dialing in the right gear, exploring fresh gravel routes, and finding joy in the stillness of snowy days.

Her tip for others?

“Run with friends whenever possible. Wind at your back is always better with company!”

Season’s Greetings to the 605 Community
As I reflect on Emily’s journey, I’m reminded of the incredible people who make our 605 Running Company community so special. During these 12 days, I may not be able to run with everyone, but I couldn’t be prouder of the incredible community we’ve built together. 10-years in business has afforded me an opportunity to meet some incredible people that wouldn't be in my life without running.

Emily’s message captures it perfectly:

“Cheers, y’all. We truly are a lucky, lucky bunch!”

Let’s keep that spirit alive this holiday season.

By: Greg Koch

This morning, I laced up my shoes and ventured out onto the ice for a run with a longtime acquaintance, John Meyer. I determined that our friendship traces back to a Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce Lunch and Learn event in 2010. At the time, I was working full-time with my family at The Cookie Jar, and my mom sent my sister Becky and me to learn about social media marketing—something still brand new and groundbreaking at the time. I'm also certain my Mom was thrilled to get us out of the store even for an hour during those days. This was most certainly her idea of team building. 

During today’s run, John reminded me of another connection: meeting my sister Christine through a group called Sioux Falls Up & Coming. That group, looking back, included some incredible leaders in the local business community—many of whom have gone on to do amazing things.

John is someone I deeply admire. He’s sharp, hardworking, and devoted to his family and his home state. As girl dads, SDSU fans (Go Jacks!), coaches, and entrepreneurs, we have a lot in common. His visits to the shop are always lively, filled with great conversation and inspiring ideas. This morning, we met at one of my favorite Sioux Falls parks, McKennan Park, and navigated his weekly group run route—a 5K that felt far too short given how much we had to catch up on.

What makes John unique is his approach to fitness and life. He’s tackled incredible challenges, like an event that was simply ski-hill repeats equivalent to climbing Mount Everest, and he’s currently maintaining a daily fitness streak for 2024. Whether it’s his physical pursuits or his creative content creation, John exemplifies what it means to push toward "better."

Here’s what John had to say about his journey, running, and his vision for 2025:

Holiday Reflections
For John, the holidays are about family, food, gratitude, and recharging.

“It’s one of the best times of the year,” he said.

His family celebrations are a mix of traditions—time in Brookings with his large family of 10 adults and 10 grandkids, followed by a week in Phoenix soaking up the sun with his wife Paige’s parents.

Connection to 605 Running Company
“605 has shown me the power of community and running,” John said.

While he loves running solo, the connections he’s made through 605 have added a new dimension to his journey.

“What 605 does so well is connect people with a shared passion and then serve those people through products, events, and training.”

Favorite Running Memories
One memory stands out above the rest: running the Zippy Mile with his daughter, Margot.

“I think she was maybe seven at the time,” John recalled. “It was her first official race, and she was PUMPED to get a medal. I loved running beside her and cheering her on. I got glimpses of what I hope will be decades of running races together.”

Looking Ahead to 2025
John is still contemplating his next big challenge. In 2023, it was running The 437 Project, and in 2024, he’s on track to meet his goal of exercising 30 minutes every day.

“Maybe it’s time for another marathon,” he mused.

But that’s not all: John is ready to take on a new kind of challenge in 2025.

“This is the first time I’ve said this out loud, but I’m going to write a book in 2025. That’s my news.”

Winter Running Inspiration
For John, winter running builds resilience.

“If you can run outdoors in the winter, even just once a week, you’ll feel so much better when the snow melts and the sun comes up early in March and April,” he said.

His advice? Invest in good gear, embrace the frigid air, and prove to yourself that you can do hard things.

Community Appreciation
Reflecting on his gratitude for Sioux Falls, John summed it up perfectly:

​“Sioux Falls is an ambitious, supportive community with big plans and dreams. I’m honored to call it home. I challenge everyone to figure out how they can make themselves and Sioux Falls just a little bit better in 2025.”

John Meyer embodies the spirit of 605 Running Company—a shared passion for running, a commitment to community, and a drive to continually push boundaries. I’m grateful for his friendship and inspired by his vision for the year ahead. Here's to more miles together in 2025, John!