Meet Erin: March's Inspiring Member

We love witnessing how women's lives are transformed through Moms on the Run. That transformation is evident in Erin Rheault's life. A part of Forest Lake (MN) Moms on the Run, Erin went from a non-runner in 2011 to head coach in 2018 to franchise owner in 2020. She has learned running is not only beneficial physically, but it has proven to be her greatest therapy and closest community. Read on for a conversation with Erin to learn more of her story. 

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Q: How and when did you first get involved in Moms on the Run? Were you a runner before MOTR? 
A: I got involved in 2011. I was a full-time childcare provider as well as having two small children. A friend called me and said her neighbor was a coach for a group called Moms on the Run and invited me to go with her. It was the perfect way to get out of the house a few nights a week. I had never been a runner, but always wanted to try.

Q: What has been your favorite Moms on the Run memory?
A: There are so many! What always stands out, no matter the race, are that my MOTR friends are always cheering me on. If I have to pick one, it was the first year a bunch of us went to Ragnar Wisconsin and ran our first trail run. It was so much fun being together!

Q: What are some benefits you’ve gained from running?
A: Running obviously provides great physical benefits such as heart health and weight loss. I discovered this almost immediately. However, I kept up with running because it is such a great stress reliever. It also helps with my depression and anxiety. Sometimes, the best therapy is a run. With this, I have more patience as a wife and mother.

Q: Tell us about the community you’ve built with Moms on the Run.
A: In the years I have been active with MOTR, there have been new babies born; losses of parents, grandparents and spouses; divorce; beloved members that move away; illnesses and so much more. We have laughed together and cried together. During our runs, week after week, we can share our darkest secrets and greatest triumphs. We can lean on each other and count on one another. The ladies I have met through MOTR are some of my dearest friends. It is so nice to meet for coffee or lunch and talk about our love of running — and everything else! 

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When it all began. Erin, (pictured standing sixth from left), with her Forest Lake Moms on the Run team her first year: 2011.

Q: You recently became an owner of our franchise that started it all — Forest Lake — and opened Chisago Lakes (MN). Why did you decide to become an owner and what are your goals for your franchises?
A: Being a business owner has always been a goal of mine. From 2007 to 2014, I owned/operated an in-home childcare business. I loved being a business owner. Recently, I had been looking into several small business ideas, but nothing really jumped out at me. I love coaching MOTR so when the opportunity came up to purchase Forest Lake and open Chisago Lakes, I believed it was the answer to my prayers! This is a business I was very familiar with, great resources and the ability to help others. My goal for the franchises are to build a community to the standards of the company. A place where women can come together for fitness, friendship and, most of all, fun! 

Q: Tell us a little about your personal life (i.e. your family, other hobbies, etc.)
A: I have been married to my husband since 2003. We have a 15-year-old daughter and almost 14-year-old son, two cats and a dog. Currently I work as an office manager for a semi-truck tire company. As a family, we enjoy camping and boating. I like to refurbish old furniture and love the farmhouse/shabby chic look. In my spare time, I enjoy reading, writing and crocheting, however, I do not do them nearly as much as I would like to!

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