Molly Barker is an American educator, social entrepreneur, and founder of Girls on the Run International, a running and life-skills development program that has inspired over 2.25 million girls since its inception in 1996. A four-time Hawaii Ironman triathlete and Olympic Trials qualifier in 1996, Molly leveraged her background in social work and teaching to develop the program’s curriculum. After retiring from daily operations in 2013, she served on the commission for Political Reform and founded the Red Boot Way, a communication strategy addressing political divides through curiosity and active listening.
Molly is a sought-after public speaker known for her authenticity and wit, and has authored three books. She has received numerous awards, including the Distinguished Alumni Award from UNC-Chapel Hill and the Daily Point of Light Award from Presidents Barack Obama and George H.W. Bush. Molly currently resides in Charlotte, NC, is a single mother of two, and remains active in the recovery community and advocacy for those facing housing insecurity. She continues to compete in cycling events, with a passion for the ranch roads of West Texas.