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What does it look like to build a business after the kids leave home—and turn it into the heartbeat of a local running community? We sit down with Jeri Hogue, owner of Southwest Runners, for a candid conversation about risk, resilience, and the long game of showing up when no one else does. Jerry shares how a seventh-grade PE nudge became a lifelong passion, why her husband’s steady support mattered when the tears came, and how a small decision—hosting a twice-weekly trail run—grew from a family jog into a 45+ person crew.

We dive into the realities most small business owners recognize: wearing every hat from buyer to bookkeeper, learning the unique tastes of a town like Farmington, and competing with the ease of online shopping. Jeri walks through practical lessons on fitting shoes to prevent injury, keeping runners on the trails safely, and creating an experience the internet can’t match. She also opens up about identity and confidence—how entrepreneurship turned an introvert into a coach who guides first marathons and cheers big life changes, from weight loss to new PRs.

There’s momentum ahead, too. Jeri and Southwest Runners are partnering with Tonique Racing to support Hood Mesa trail events with 5, 9, and 15-mile options, plus brand partners like Brooks, Saucony, and Mizuno stepping in to elevate race day. The bigger takeaway: success has shifted from chasing profit to building trust, health, and community—mile by mile. If you’ve ever wondered whether it’s too late to start, or how to anchor a brick-and-mortar shop in a digital world, this story will meet you right where you are.

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Be sure to follow or subscribe! And, if you're a local business owner who'd like to be featured - or know someone whose story should be told - get in touch at Ken@StrategicHorizonsConsulting.com

This show is brought to you by Strategic Horizons Consulting (a division of Ken Collins Marketing).

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