Run specialty is blessed with talented women who shape the professional and innovative landscape of the industry. As they deftly reimagine their roles as owners, outfitters and everything in between, run specialty’s women craft more diverse and equitable retail environments. To find out just how they do it,  Running Insight turned to four of the finalists in the 2025 Best Running Stores to hear the stories from the women who do run their businesses. Give them a listen.   

Running Lab
Brighton, MI

Kerry Gallagher Hincka, Sales Associate

I began my part-time career at Running Lab in September 2025. I had the pleasure of being an on-call staffer and worked as a greeter on busy days, then on the floor of the  Detroit Free Press Marathon Expo.

Running Lab has been my family’s local running store since it opened in 2011. We have always appreciated the full service, great advice and great products offered. We have also been long time members of Running Lab’s run group, Team Running Lab. 

I have worked retail in many areas and have never had bosses and co-workers who are so committed to each other’s success and happiness. Continued training helps me feel prepared to serve my local community of runners, walkers and folks needing a solution to their daily pain.

The word for my life is active! I have two daughters with intellectual disabilities who are always ready to go for a run. Team Running Lab has been a wonderfully inclusive place for our family. This group encourages my daughters on every run and shares the joy of their accomplishments in both running and the Special Olympics. This inclusion means the world to our family. 

I also run with Ainsley Angels, an organization that pushes people in racing wheelchairs. Ainsley Angels is a part of the inclusion revolution and is my favorite way to run. My happiest running place is when I am chatting with my rider, making my legs theirs and seeing their joy as we cross the finish line together. 

I’d like to give a shout out to Toni Reese, co-owner of Running Lab. She’s a mentor to both me and my daughters. Her love and enthusiasm for us has made our lives infinitely richer. She invited me to join the Running Lab team even though I am older and I love learning from her as she continues to raise the bar at Running Lab.

Jen Crutchfield, Shipping Manager

This year marks my seventh year at Running Lab. Prior to coming here I was an assistant manager at another running store. We did not have a store manager, so my role was basically doing everything. At the time, I was in the process of building my first house, while also working another part time job to make ends meet. I knew that I had to make a change.

A few friends told me Running Lab was hiring and I was relieved to see that it would greatly shorten my commute. I had no idea that small running stores like them even existed. I also did not know what Running Lab was about, but I did know that I enjoyed helping people and running. I reached out to the (then) store manager, Toni Reese, and we set up an interview. It was one of the best decisions I have ever made.

Working in this industry is not just about running or helping a customer find a pair of shoes. Anyone can do that. It’s about going above and beyond in customer service, educating people how great products can change their lives, and making a difference in the community.

As a woman in this field, I feel a sense of empowerment, equality and independence that I have not felt in any other past professions. This has allowed me to grow into a mentor for other young women, in and out of the industry. It’s a powerful thing to be able to help others carry these traits in their daily lives.

I am an ultrarunner in my mid-40s and I’ve always been active. I started running in college to support my sister at her first marathon and have since finished five 100-mile races. I have two major running goals: Get into Western States and qualify for Boston.

Running has become more than a lifestyle. It has enhanced my life and my career in so many ways. I am excited to see the women in this industry continue to impact others like it has impacted me.

Megan Zoll, Marketing and E-Commerce Director

Nearly eight years ago I stumbled upon Running Lab’s group runs. I have been a regular attendee ever since.

Running Lab has always been a welcoming place for me. If I was having a long week or tough day, I’d stop in because it would make me happy. The staff was always so friendly and welcoming. Honestly, I often wondered if it was all a show or if the employees were really that happy working there. 

One day Toni Reese, the store owner, asked me if I would be interested in part-time work helping with events and social media. I already had a full-time job, but Running Lab felt like a place I wanted to be. So I said yes! I quickly found out that the employees did, in fact, enjoy working there just as much as they seemed to. That part-time job lasted four years, and just two months ago I accepted a full-time position. 

The culture in our store is amazing. Everyone gets along really well, and Toni and (co-owner) Ken Larscheid do a great job of helping their employees find space to grow. I stay here because I am passionate about being a part of a community that changes peoples lives. I get paid to do what I love with some really awesome people — that’s not something a lot of people can say.

I am super fortunate to have been able to work with a lot of women in the industry during my short time in it. They are all inspiring to me. I’m so excited to be a part of an industry that can have such an impact on people’s lives. From elite runners to moms looking to get some time to find themselves again, there is a place for everyone.

If someone ever asks if I was a serious runner, I’d laugh and say no. But that’s because I am part of a community of amazing athletes who go achieve all sorts of crazy goals and make it look easy. Over the past two years, I’ve gotten into the ultra space and have run many distances. Last year I ran 70 miles in my first 100-mile attempt. This year I’ll be giving that distance another try.

I’d like to express gratitude to and for Toni Reese. She created the amazing run club that gave me a place to find confidence and strength when I had little of either. I can’t remember when we actually became friends, but now it’s hard to remember a time we weren’t. Her energy and passion for giving back is contagious. If it was not for her reaching out to me, I would have never had this opportunity. It’s rare to work somewhere you love and do something you love with people you consider friends. I get to do it all.

Aleighsha Nichols, General Manager

I am the general manager of Running Lab. I originally worked at Running Lab during my college years from 2017–2018. After that, I spent seven incredible years growing in the industry with Saucony before returning to the store in August. So far, I have had four-and-a-half amazing months back home where it all started.

Running Lab has shaped some of the best years of my life. The community here is unmatched. It is a place where we show up for each other, where I feel supported and where I get to contribute to something meaningful every single day. I came back because I wanted to work somewhere that made me excited to walk through the doors each morning. A place where people truly care about the community, about each other and about making a difference. 

The running industry is one of the most unique spaces I’ve ever been part of. It’s an industry where I can show up as my true self, cheer on others wholeheartedly and even cheer for the competition because we all push one another forward. We want the best for the communities we are in.

As a woman, I’ve experienced both challenges and incredible moments of empowerment. I’m proud to be part of a field filled with strong, inspiring women who uplift and support one another. It is amazing to see so many new store owners, industry leaders, and brand leaders who are strong women here to uplift each other!

I ran competitively in college, but my relationship with running has changed. I now run for mental clarity, stress relief and having fun with friends, not for fast times or performance. Recently, I achieved a huge personal milestone by completing my first marathon with four of my best friends. After swearing I would never run that far again, being surrounded by the Running Lab team has made me consider possibly trying an ultra. LOL! 

Other than racing, my biggest athletic goal is to stay active enough to keep up with my niece and nephews. I want to be the fun aunt who never says no to jumping on the trampoline, playing tag or just being the person who the kids decide to chase for an hour. I want to always be able to keep up with their active lifestyles so I can stay close to them as they grow up.

I have been incredibly fortunate to learn from so many remarkable women who shaped me into the leader I am today. Toni Reese, owner of Running Lab, was my first true mentor. She taught me the power of positivity and how to make every person feel seen, heard and valued. Megan Nedlo, west coast sales manager at Saucony constantly challenged me to grow and pushed me beyond my comfort zone. Lucy Howard, field marketing Lead at Saucony, was one of the best teammates and constructive challengers I have ever had, always encouraging me to reach higher. Chelsea Coulson, senior marketing manager at Keurig, expanded my perspective and taught me how to navigate difficult moments with resilience and curiosity. Alyssa Lett, senior global marketing manager at Saucony, showed me the importance of adaptability and grace under pressure. And Erin Heenan, marketing manager at Saucony, helped me understand marketing on a deeper level and showed me how creating true, impactful connections can elevate everything you do.

These women have been instrumental in my journey, and I’m grateful for their influence every day.

Point 2 Run Co
Chesapeake and Newport News, VA

Andrea Lehmkuhler, Co-Owner

For the last 14 years I’ve been the co-owner of Point 2 Running Company. My dad founded the store with his best friend back in 2011. 

Initially, I wanted to be involved simply to support my dad’s business. I was newly married and my husband and I led group runs early in the mornings and closed the store every Saturday night. At the time it was fun. I was able to connect with people, build relationships and watch the business grow.

Over time, I realized how meaningful it was to influence the culture of the store and serve the community I was living in. My role has changed many times since then, but those things remain guideposts for me today. What motivates me most now is developing and growing our team and creating new opportunities for them. There’s nothing that excites me more than seeing someone gain confidence and excel in a role that truly fits them.

Our community impact has also become more focused through several key initiatives each year under the umbrella of Point 2 Priorities. Being able to help both the customers who walk through our doors – and those who may never – is incredibly meaningful to me.

I’ve really enjoyed seeing how the running industry has grown, particularly with more women stepping into leadership roles. In my experience, the industry has been welcoming and supportive in the circles I’ve been part of and I’m encouraged by the direction it continues to move.

This year, I’m knocking off something especially meaningful: after at least six years of convincing, I finally talked my best friend into running a half marathon with me. Beyond that, I’d love to run several other halfs, gradually improve my speed and continue building consistency.

There are so many strong female leaders in this industry, and I’m fortunate to work alongside some of the very best. I learn every day by watching how they show up, lead and interact with others. Two women who have specifically encouraged me in my own journey are Kathy Dalby of Pacers and Lindsey Mulder of Playmakers. Both helped open doors for me and exemplify thoughtful, encouraging leadership.

Michelle Davis, Store Manager/Nutrition & Accessories Buyer

I am the Point 2 Chesapeake store manager and the nutrition/accessories buyer. I’ve been with the store for about three and a half years.

I initially started part-time as a way to re-enter the workforce after taking time off to raise my kids. I was excited to share my love of running and staying active with others in the community.

The leadership team at Point 2 is amazing. They truly want everyone to succeed and find their unique role. I love getting to know people in our community and discover how we can best serve them. Point 2 has helped me plant roots in a community I plan to call home for many years to come.

I’ve met so many amazing women in the running industry and I’ve always felt welcomed. I’m constantly inspired by these women to chase my new goals, both professionally and personally. Everyone lifts each other up and wants one another to succeed. It’s truly the best industry I’ve been a part of.

I stay fairly active by running a few days each week and supplement that with Pilates, yoga and strength training. Running plays a big role in helping me keep my serotonin levels in check, especially during the winter months.

My main goal this year is to complete a half marathon without injury. Once I accomplish that, I’m aiming to set a personal best in the half and possibly begin training for my first full marathon.

I’d also like to add that Andrea Lehmkuhler, co-owner of Point 2, has played a significant role in helping me find my place. Through her mentorship, I’ve learned the ins and outs of the business, but even more importantly, she has helped me grow as a manager and a person. She consistently leads by example, showing what it means to be the best for our people.

Megan Ebert, Community Marketing Manager

For 13 years I was a chef and worked in several different capacities — I was on the line, I owned a food truck and I taught culinary courses at both the college level and in a kitchen. With two boys and a husband who serving active duty in the U.S. Navy, the work-life balance of the culinary industry took a toll, and I began looking for something different.

When I left my last restaurant job in Spring 2023, I had no idea what I was going to do next. But running has always been a part of my life. That April I raced the Tar Heel Ten Miler in Chapel Hill, NC. When I reached the finish line, I took a moment to appreciate what I had just accomplished. I looked around and saw people high-fiving and cheering as others crossed the line. Everyone was so happy. I remember thinking, “This is someone’s job. I can make this my job.”

A few days later, I went home and Googled “local running stores near me” and found Point 2 Running Company. I read their reviews, learned the story of how they came to be and what they stand for. I also noticed that one of the owners is a woman — bonus. I applied immediately and have been here for a year and a half. I’m now the community marketing manager.

What brought me to Point 2 is what keeps me here. The people at Point 2 lead with kindness and integrity and truly believe in supporting our local community. Plus, I get to work closely with four other amazing, strong and talented “womanagers.” They are smart, hard working mothers and wives who support, encourage and share in our collective goal of creating not just a store, but a community that lifts everyone up.

After the culinary industry, the running industry has been a breath of fresh air. Everyone is welcoming and treats others with respect. At a conference I attended someone said, “No offense, men, we’ve heard enough from you. Now we would like to hear from the ladies. And we’re not just going to shrink it and pink it!” That statement has stayed with me. In that moment, I felt empowered and encouraged to use my voice more.

In this industry, I see strong women with strong voices and I see mutual respect and everyone truly listening. When everyone feels confident sharing ideas, it creates an environment that, in my opinion, can only lead to big possibilities.

My life is mostly centered around my family and the day-to-day routine of work, school, and activities. However, I think it’s important to show my kids what it looks like to set a goal and work hard to achieve it. I turn 40 this year, which gives me five more minutes to qualify for Boston. My goal is to beat my marathon PR and run a 3:20 at the Coast Guard Marathon in April of this year.

Also, shout out to Andrea Lehmkuhler, my boss and one of the owners of Point 2. If you looked up kindness and integrity in the dictionary, you would see her face. She doesn’t demand respect, she earns it by treating everyone with respect. She is the first boss I’ve ever had who asked me what season of life I’m in and genuinely cared about my answer. She understands that we bring our whole selves to work and gives us what we need to be successful both professionally and personally.

Ruthie Cruz, Store Manager

I became a single mom in 2018 and needed to reenter the workforce after more than a decade at home. My skillset felt limited, but I had been a longtime customer at Point 2 and already felt comfortable with the store and the people. I applied for a part-time position as a running consultant position, was hired and immediately fell in love with the work and community. From the very beginning, it felt like home. And now, after more than seven years, I am manager of the Newport News store and I truly can’t imagine working anywhere else.

Since day one, our store’s leadership has been made up almost entirely of women and that has always felt completely normal to me. The run specialty industry, as it exists today, is full of strong, capable women, so my experience hasn’t felt unusual. It has simply felt supportive, empowering and collaborative.

I’m primarily an ultramarathon runner, which means consistent 50-plus mile training weeks. My best friend (an employee at our Chesapeake location) and I have committed to running at least one ultra distance event together every month. As of last December, we’ve completed our 81st consecutive ultra together, averaging nearly 50 miles for each one. We’re already planning a celebration for our 100th, which will take place in 2027.

My boss, Andrea Lehmkuhler, has been an incredible mentor and owner-operator. She is always looking ahead to the next big goal and consistently pushes us beyond our comfort zones in a way that leads to real growth. Her leadership has truly changed my life and given me a store I proudly call “home.” She is the heart and soul of Point 2 and a shining star in the run specialty industry.

FF Charleston
South Carolina

Darrian Cole, Outfitter

I’ve been an outfitter for three years and was initially drawn to Fleet Feet because of my love for all things running. I stay here because I am motivated to help people — whether they are runners, walkers or just someone needing a good shoe. It always feels good to help out. 

I’ve spent most of my life competing in track and cross-country. After retiring from college athletics, I’ve been running more casually and trying out new ways to stay active. My main goal is to continue having fun.

I’d like to give a big shoutout to my mom. She’s my mentor in life and in running. She’s been at all my races to cheer me on and encourage me to do my best. Whenever I’ve faced injury, she’s helped me stay motivated. I don’t think I would still be running at all if it weren’t for her. 

Mindy Hester, Outfitter

For just over four years I’ve been an outfitter and store mom. Before my employment here, I was a customer and active participant in Fleet Feet’s No Boundaries training programs. My daughter, who preceded me as a store employee, suggested that working here might be fun to do part-time (since I’m retired from my “big girl” job of teaching high school). I applied and have been here ever since. 

I enjoy helping customers find the right shoes, encouraging those who have a goal, suggesting high-performance socks, recommending insoles to make a good thing even better, pointing them to our moisture-wicking apparel, helping women find an excellent sports bra and so much more. I genuinely like all my co-workers and I find our management team to be very supportive and generous.

It’s hard for me to think of run specialty as an industry! To me it’s more about relationships and creating a nurturing, supportive environment for the community. To me, being a woman in the industry is a non-issue at the local level — fully half of our staff is female, and every one of them is a competent professional. I do think that me being a more…um…seasoned outfitter gives me some credibility.

Being a woman of a certain age (67), my active lifestyle is more about being able to move and do the things I want to do. I’ve run every distance from 5K to marathon and earlier this year I ran a 21-mile segment of the Big Sur International Marathon while my daughter ran the actual race. I met my own gold standard which included finish the race, don’t be last and don’t throw up.

I have to thank my friend Allison for getting me started running in the first place. And now that I work in the business, I want to also thank my store manager Sarah Harriman for the opportunity. And also Sarah Lerner and Danielle Galluccio for being my mentors, co-workers and friends. And finally, Amy Minkel, the owner of our stores, for keeping me on staff.

Sarah Harriman, Regional Manager

I am the regional manager at Fleet Feet Charleston. I’ve been with Fleet Feet Charleston for 10 years. I started as a part-time outfitter and have grown into my current role. I have a deep appreciation for both the day-to-day and the bigger-picture impact of run specialty.

I was initially drawn to Fleet Feet because of the community-first approach. It wasn’t just about selling shoes, it was about helping people feel confident, supported and capable. What motivates me to stay is the impact the stores have beyond our walls: supporting local races, partnering with schools, youth organizations, healthcare entities and helping more people find their way into movement, even if they don’t see themselves as runners at first. Being part of something that genuinely improves people’s relationship with movement, health, and comfort keeps me invested.

The running industry has given me opportunities to lead, learn, and grow in ways I didn’t initially expect. As a woman, I’ve learned the value of trusting my voice and lead with both confidence and empathy. The relationships I’ve built with customers, community partners, brand partners and fellow leaders have reinforced that strong leadership doesn’t fit one mold. There’s space here for authenticity, collaboration, and long-term impact.

I live a very active lifestyle that blends running, competitive swimming and cross-training. Right now, my focus is on consistency and injury prevention as I continue to grow stronger, especially as I balance my training with a full-time job and parenting several active teens. Long-term, I’d like to continue showing up as a strong, healthy example for my kids.

Sole Sports Run Walk
Greater Phoenix Area

Kelly Mulvany, Sales Associate

I’ve been a sales associate at Sole Sports Run Walk for five years. Before I started working the floor, I was a customer. I wanted to work here because I liked the fact they were a small business rather than a corporation and all the employees were experienced runners.

At Sole Sports I always feel like I belong. All the women runners I’ve interacted with have been so supportive. It’s like a big family of thousands of sisters. As for my active lifestyle, I am all-in on endurance sports. I am an athlete in both running and triathlon. I work at the most amazing running store ever, and I am a coach.

I’d  like to shout Karen McDonnell (co-owner of Sole Sports). Not only has she helped build a running store that is all about helping customers first, but she plays a big role in making Sole Sports a welcoming and thoroughly enjoyable place to work.

Brandy Ray, Sales Associate

I have been a sales associate at Sole Sports for four months. I love helping other people get into running, so applying for a running store job felt perfectly suited for me. The history of Sole Sports/Runner’s Den in the Phoenix area is incredible. Our longevity proves our rich history of helping others. 

After working here for a couple of months, what motivates me to stay is the gratitude customers show me when they find a pair of shoes that works for them. From running to walking, working out to taking those first steps in a comfortable shoe, the smile at the end makes it all worthwhile.

As a Native woman, running has always been a part of my life, including the history of my people. We use running as a way to greet the Creator at the beginning of the day and as a means to maintain our health. Running also gives back to me in many ways — meeting new friends, paying for college and achieving personal records I thought I would never reach. It has also allowed me to give back to the next generation of Native youth by playing running games with them and get them excited about achieving their goals. I run for the earth, my loved ones and for those who cannot.

My collegiate training showed me that my body is capable of running longer distances and more miles than I could have ever have imagined. Now, as a post-collegiate athlete, I am looking at the marathon distance. Moving forward, I hope to find a new spark in longer distances and use running as a tool in my Master’s program.

I’d like to thank my college team at Fort Lewis College for always pushing me to do my best. The women’s team is the first sisterhood team I experienced — iron sharpens iron!

Shelby Heinz, Sales Associate

I have worked at Sole Sports as a sales associate for a little over a year. Before that, I was burnt-out working in finance. I decided to pivot into a field that I’m actually passionate about. My co-workers and the amazing connections I’ve made inspire me to stick around. 

Women have been historically underrepresented in the trail running community and I think it’s great that they’re starting to take up more space at the start line. I am typically on the trail six days a week (usually with my golden retriever). This year I’m race directing the Desert Peak Ultra, a 50k and 100k trail race in Tucson, Arizona.

The running community is a huge part of my life. I am a co-leader in two different local trail running groups.

A mentor who has made a huge impact in my running journey is my physical therapist, Meghan Slavin. Not only does she keep countless runners healthy and injury-free, she also helps out the community by volunteering at races and lifting everyone’s spirits. When she’s not busy helping runners reach their goals, she’s inspiring others by crushing her own races.