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Episode Notes
Keira D'Amato joins Early Miles to unpack one of the most unconventional journeys in American distance running. From five-time Virginia state champion to collegiate All-American at American University, her early trajectory pointed toward elite competition—until injuries, burnout, and an insurance-denied surgery led her to step away from the sport entirely. Nearly a decade later, after marriage, motherhood, and a full professional career, she returned to running with a 90-second effort that would ultimately evolve into an American record in the marathon.
In this conversation, she details the mindset shift that fueled her second chapter: embracing failure, prioritizing long-term consistency, rebuilding strength after injury, and redefining success beyond results. She discusses Olympic Trials disappointment, racing strategy, aging as an elite athlete, training adaptations in her 40s, and the value of structured development over chasing quick gains. For runners at any level, this episode reinforces a core principle—progress is built through patience, resilience, and the courage to start again.
Don’t Call It a Comeback by Keira D'Amato Official Purchase Link: https://static.macmillan.com/static/smp/dont-call-it-9781250344946
Connect with our founder & host:
https://www.instagram.com/stevegonserdpt/
Connect with our guest:
Website: https://keiradamato.com/hello/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/keiradamato/
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"#5 Don't Call It a Comeback: Keira D'Amato" is an episode of Early Miles with Steve Gonser. Runtime 1 hr 35 min. Published February 13, 2026. Hit play above to stream it here, or open the free Spot Sports app for background play and offline downloads.
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Quick FAQ
- When was this episode published?
- February 13, 2026.
- How long is this episode?
- 1 hr 35 min.
- What podcast is this from?
- Early Miles with Steve Gonser. Browse the full back catalog on the show page.
- What does this episode cover?
- Early Miles with Steve Gonser covers running. This episode runs on the show's regular cadence.
