LetsRun.com's Track Talk: The Home of Running and Track and Field

🏃 Presented by Aletheia Run Aletheia Run makes a sensor designed to help improve your running form, run stronger, and avoid injury. Get a free 30-day trial for LetsRun visitors, plus save 10% off your first year with code LETSRUN10. https://www.aletheia.run/start-my-free-trial Day 1 of USA Indoors delivered a men's 3000m classic. Cole Hocker edged Yared Nuguse by hundredths of a second after Nico Young's costly mistake, cost him a World Indoor spot. Emily Mackay upset Elle St. Pierre in the women's 3K, Sage Hurta Klecker crashed out in the 800m prelims, and 17-year-old Cooper Lutkenhaus looked like a future star. Plus: Tokyo Marathon preview and the USATF TV streaming disaster. Timestamps 00:00 Sponsor / Intro (Aletheia Run use code LETSRUN10 ) 01:00 Men's 3000m Instant Reaction: Hocker, Nuguse, Young 02:30 Hocker Wins Epic Three-Way Battle 10:35 Nico Young's Costly Tactical Mistake 18:01 Could Nico Young Still Make the Team? (1500m Double Entry) 22:11 Women's 3000m: Emily Mackay Upsets Ellie St. Pierre 24:10 Pete Julian Coaching Mackay 30:27 Women's 800m: Sage Hurta Klecker Out in Prelims 34:31 Men's 800m: Cooper Lutkenhaus' Tactical Masterclass 37:08 Debating Cooper Lutkenhaus Race IQ 45:04 Tokyo Marathon Preview 51:05 USATF TV Streaming Disaster 52:48 Day 2 Preview and Closing Find out more at http://podcast.letsrun.com Send us your feedback online: https://pinecast.com/feedback/letsrun/d57e9ce1-651d-4740-8742-0d23e9923229

🏃 Presented by Aletheia Run *Aletheia is an American company making a wearable sensor designed to improve your running form. Their motto is *Run Stronger. Avoid Injury. And Know Why. Get a free 30-day trial plus 10% off your first year with code LETSRUN10. https://www.aletheia.run/start-my-free-trial In one of the coolest stories in running, Ethan Shuley went from a 2:46 marathoner to 2:07:14 in just 15 months — making him the sixth fastest American ever. The 27-year-old unsponsored runner living in Tokyo has shocked the running world. Just two years ago, he hadn't broken 15 minutes for 5K. He ran only one race in college with an 8:45 for 3,000 meters. How did this happen? We dive into his journey — from quitting running at BYU due to injuries, to the Japanese racing philosophy of "send it and die gracefully," training 125+ miles per week on six days, and why he's now a 2028 Olympic contender being coached via Instagram DMs. 🎁 Get a 2nd LetsRun podcast every week + bonus content:Join the Supporters Club: https://www.letsrun.com/subscribe Links: Ethan Shuley's Strava Profile Ethan's YouTube Channel - Dating Apps in Japan Video Brett Larner's Japan Running News Coverage Jake from Run.Japan YouTube Channel Aletheia Run - Get Free 30 Day Trial + 10% off with code LETSRUN10 LetsRun.com Prediction Contest - Win Free Aletheia Sensor Timestamps: 00:00 Sponsor / Intro 03:53 Ethan's 2:07 Marathon at Osaka 08:06 Race Strategy and Cramping 12:55 The Japanese Racing Philosophy 14:41 The Kobe Marathon Experience 17:55 Training Philosophy in Japan 22:20 Training and Mileage Breakdown 25:57 Life in Japan and Going Pro 30:10 Working Full-Time While Training 31:33 High School and College Career 36:01 The Comeback - Lifting to Ultras 38:05 Adapting to Japanese Culture 40:29 Moving to Japan and Language Learning 43:59 Ultra Running and Speed Work 47:51 Doping Questions and Testing 49:48 Injury History and Recovery 56:15 Training Solo vs. With Groups 57:15 Training Partners and 2028 Olympic Goals 60:07 Coaching with Isaac Wood 61:35 Dating in Japan 67:00 Sponsors and Closing Contact us:Email podcast@letsrun.comCall or text 1-844-LETSRUN (1-844-538-7786) About the LetsRun.com Podcast Since 2000, LetsRun.com has been the independent home of elite running. Described by the New York Times as the "influential website that serves as something of a superego for American running," the podcast is the weekly deep dive into the world of track and field and elite distance running. The show is hosted by LetsRun.com co-founders Weldon Johnson, a 2-time Team USA member, and Robert Johnson, a former Cornell coach who helped pace the marathon World Record, along with award-winning senior writer Jonathan Gault. Together, they move beyond the PR headlines to provide the insider reporting and unfiltered debate that serious fans and industry insiders rely on. Go Deeper: Get the Bonus Podcast: Supporters Club members get an exclusive second podcast every week, plus premium articles and forum perks. Join the LRC Supporters Club here Join the Conversation: Post on our world-famous forum Contact Us: Call 1-844-LETSRUN (538-7786) or email letsrun@letsrun.com Find out more at http://podcast.letsrun.com Send us your feedback online: https://pinecast.com/feedback/letsrun/182bc6ce-7f8f-4411-a41d-81ce85176414

🎧 Want a 2nd podcast every week & bonus content? Join the LetsRun.com Supporters Club → https://www.letsrun.com/subscribe?from=public Keely Hodgkinson ran 1:54.87 to break the indoor 800m world record. Can she get the outdoor record next? Ethan Shuley, a 27-year-old American living in Japan who finished one college race, proved Dreams Become Reality as he ran 2:07:14 at the Osaka Marathon to become the sixth-fastest American ever on a record eligible course. The guys debate what a 2:07 means in the super shoe era. Plus: Tshepiso Masalela was DQ'd for a finger gun gesture at Azeddine Habz in Toruń, drawing comparisons to Noah Lyles' celebration. USA Indoors preview features a stacked men's 3K (Nico Young, Cole Hocker, Yared Nuguse, Ethan Strand). Sam Ruthe wrapped his US tour with a 7:43 3K, and Oregon's DMR team survived travel chaos to qualify for NCAAs.https://www.letsrun.com/subscribe Links: Keely Hodgkinson 1:54.87 Analysis Who is Ethan Shuley? Ethan Shuley's YouTube Channel Japan Running News – Brett Larner's Osaka Marathon Recap Maurice Greene Fire Extinguisher Celebration Video Noah Lyles gun salutes: 2022 and 2024 2014 Gabriele Grunewald DQ Controversy- Tons of articles Jimmy Wyner DQ talk https://www.letsrun.com/forum/flat_read.php?thread=3007879 DMR Engelhardt! I still don't believe I just saw that LetsRun.com Message Board Timestamps: 00:00 Music 00:23 Start 05:15 Winter Olympics Coverage and What Track Can Learn 13:30 Ben True's Running and Skiing Career 16:30 Keely Hodgkinson's Indoor 800m World Record 18:16 Can Keely Break the Outdoor World Record? 26:52 Cooper Lutkenhaus vs Keely Hodgkinson World Record Debate 30:30 Ethan Shuley's Stunning 2:07 Marathon in Osaka 38:00 Ethan Shuley's Marathon Progression and Japan Training 44:29 What Does a 2:07 Marathon Mean in 2026? 48:00 Super Shoes and the Changing Marathon Standards 52:36 Masalela-Habz DQ Controversy and Noah Lyles Comparison 58:00 Noah Lyles Comparison and Celebration Debate 63:50 USA Indoor Championships Preview 68:34 Sam Ruthe's US Tour Recap 73:00 Sam Ruthe's Progression and Training Philosophy 77:57 Oregon's DMR Travel Saga and BU Meet Highlights Contact us: Email podcast@letsrun.comCall or text 1-844-LETSRUN (1-844-538-7786) About the LetsRun.com Podcast Since 2000, LetsRun.com has been the independent home of elite running. Described by the New York Times as the "influential website that serves as something of a superego for American running," the podcast is the weekly deep dive into the world of track and field and elite distance running. The show is hosted by LetsRun.com co-founders Weldon Johnson, a 2-time Team USA member, and Robert Johnson, a former Cornell coach who helped pace the marathon World Record, along with award-winning senior writer Jonathan Gault. Together, they move beyond the PR headlines to provide the insider reporting and unfiltered debate that serious fans and industry insiders rely on. Go Deeper: Get the Bonus Podcast: Supporters Club members get an exclusive second podcast every week, plus premium articles and forum perks. Join the LRC Supporters Club here Join the Conversation: Post on our world-famous forum Contact Us: Call 1-844-LETSRUN (538-7786) or email letsrun@letsrun.com Find out more at http://podcast.letsrun.com Send us your feedback online: https://pinecast.com/feedback/letsrun/2d7d839a-ce7b-4769-8f7a-e4a012fc677f

🏃 Like this podcast? Joint our Supporters club to get a 2nd podcast every week. Get a bonus podcast every week, plus premium articles and forum perks.https://www.letsrun.com/subscribe Cole Hocker breaks the American indoor mile record, Nico Young drops an amazing kick to win the 3,000, and Cooper Lutkenhaus keeps rising in the 800 as the guys debate how these performances translate to USA Indoors and World Indoors. Then it’s over to the women: Keely Hodgkinson’s 1:56.33 and what it means for the 800 (and the world record chase), plus Elle St. Pierre’s postpartum American record. After that, the conversation bounces through a wild BU 3,000 finish, marathon and road action, and Noah Lyles’ Tyson Invitational appearance before closing with an interview with Amanda Heidecker and Taylor Wheaton, the co-chairs behind the 2026 World Cross Country Championships in Tallahassee, about what it took to pull it off — crowds, logistics, volunteers, and whether Tallahassee would ever host again. 🎁 Support LetsRun.comJoin the LetsRun.com Supporters Club: https://www.letsrun.com/subscribe Links: LetsRun.com Supporters Club Cole Hocker 3:45 mile + ASICS Sound Running Can the US men sweep world indoors? Elle St. Pierre in Boston Seville Marathon finish video Noah Lyles Tyson Invitational 200m Video Visit Tallahassee Timestamps: 00:00 Sponsor / Intro 07:30 Cole Hocker’s American Indoor Mile Record 18:00 World Indoors Plans And Qualifying Standards 20:45 Sam Ruthe Learns The Pro Game 29:00 Media Pressure And Post-Race Interviews 34:48 Cooper Lutkenhaus And Nico Young Break Out 40:00 800 Tactics: Can Cooper Medal? 47:00 USA Indoors Preview: The Depth Chart 50:00 Asics Sound Running Invite: Atmosphere And Takeaways 53:00 Grand Slam Track Fallout 56:00 Josh Hoey Vs. Cooper Lutkenhaus Debate 1:02:30 Keely Hodgkinson And The Women’s 800 Boom 1:06:50 Lievin Preview And The New 800 Break Line 1:10:04 Elle St. Pierre’s Postpartum American Record 1:17:00 Elle Vs. Nikki Hiltz At USA Indoors 1:22:40 NCAA Mile Record And Age Debate 1:23:55 BU Men’s 3000: Langan-Sands Controversy 1:29:42 Marathon Madness: Alisa Vainio’s Breakthrough 1:34:17 Weini Kelati’s Barcelona Half Marathon Record 1:39:00 Noah Lyles At Tyson Invitational 1:45:04 Interview: Amanda Heidecker And Taylor Wheaton 1:49:00 Tallahassee Feedback, Attendance, And Crowd Energy 1:56:00 How You Host World Athletics: Logistics And Standards 2:01:30 Volunteers And The Behind-The-Scenes Operation 2:07:30 Would Tallahassee Host Again? 2:15:00 The Course, Infrastructure, And What’s Next 2:20:00 Wrap-Up Contact us: Email podcast@letsrun.comCall or text 1-844-LETSRUN (1-844-538-7786) About the LetsRun.com Podcast Since 2000, LetsRun.com has been the independent home of elite running. Described by the New York Times as the "influential website that serves as something of a superego for American running," the podcast is the weekly deep dive into the world of track and field and elite distance running. The show is hosted by LetsRun.com co-founders Weldon Johnson, a 2-time Team USA member, and Robert Johnson, a former Cornell coach who helped pace the marathon World Record, along with award-winning senior writer Jonathan Gault. Together, they move beyond the PR headlines to provide the insider reporting and unfiltered debate that serious fans and industry insiders rely on. Go Deeper: Get the Bonus Podcast: Supporters Club members get an exclusive second podcast every week, plus premium articles and forum perks. Join the LRC Supporters Club here Join the Conversation: Post on our world-famous forum Contact Us: Call 1-844-LETSRUN (538-7786) or email letsrun@letsrun.com Find out more at http://podcast.letsrun.com Send us your feedback online: https://pinecast.com/feedback/letsrun/b7790054-9478-48fc-82cd-b92881312c3a

Femke Bol made her 800m debut. What did we think? Grand Slam Track's bankruptcy plan will pay the athletes nearly everything they are owed, but vendors only 1.5%. Plus: Why track and field will never be popular year-round (and why that's okay), USATF Outdoor Championships are coming to New York for the first time since 1991, and Robert shares his thoughts on ski jumping regulations that you won't believe. The guys also preview this weekend's stacked meets including the ASICS Sound Invite featuring Cole Hocker vs. Sam Ruthe in the mile and Cooper Lutkenhaus in the 800m, answer listener emails, and debate whether cross country running belongs in the Winter Olympics. 🎁 Support LetsRun.comJoin the LetsRun.com Supporters Club: https://www.letsrun.com/subscribe Links: LetsRun.com VPN recommendation Weldon Johnson: Pay the Athletes 85%, Save the League - Inside Grand Slam Track's Bankruptcy Plan USATF Outdoor Championships to be held in New York for first time since 1991 'Penisgate' at Winter Olympics: ski jumpers' acid penis health risks LetsRun.com forum: Jakob Ingebrigtsen injury speculation thread LetsRun.com forum: Cross country in Winter Olympics discussion LetsRun.com forum: Femke Bol 800m debut discussion Femke Bol "Super Bol Sunday" image Timestamps: 00:00 Intro & Jakob Ingebrigtsen's Achilles Surgery 07:59 Cross Country in the Winter Olympics Debate 15:59 Why Track & Field Will Never Be Popular Year-Round 17:59 Femke Bol's 800m Debut: Encouraging or Disappointing? 26:14 800m Pacing Analysis with Justin Rinaldi 35:14 Robert's Ski Jumping Joke 38:14 2026 USATF Outdoor Championships Moving to New York 49:13 Grand Slam Track Bankruptcy Plan Explained 62:14 Preview: ASICS Sound Invite & Valentine Invitational 68:14 Listener Emails: Western Runners & Doping Conspiracy Theories Contact us: Email podcast@letsrun.com or call/text 1-844-LETSRUN (1-844-538-7786) About the LetsRun.com Podcast Since 2000, LetsRun.com has been the independent home of elite running. Described by the New York Times as the "influential website that serves as something of a superego for American running," the podcast is the weekly deep dive into the world of track and field and elite distance running. The show is hosted by LetsRun.com co-founders Weldon Johnson, a 2-time Team USA member, and Robert Johnson, a former Cornell coach who helped pace the marathon World Record, along with award-winning senior writer Jonathan Gault. Together, they move beyond the PR headlines to provide the insider reporting and unfiltered debate that serious fans and industry insiders rely on. Go Deeper: Get the Bonus Podcast: Supporters Club members get an exclusive second podcast every week, plus premium articles and forum perks. Join the LRC Supporters Club here Join the Conversation: Post on our world-famous forum Contact Us: Call 1-844-LETSRUN (538-7786) or email letsrun@letsrun.com Find out more at http://podcast.letsrun.com Send us your feedback online: https://pinecast.com/feedback/letsrun/153b9cb9-1446-409f-aa2b-4a39f698171e

The 118th Millrose Games delivered a great show and we break it all down. But the biggest performance of the weekend was in Boston not Millrose as Sam Ruthe, just 16 years old, ran 3:48 in the mile to become the youngest man ever under 3:50 by more than a full year. Cam Myers dominated the Wannamaker Mile in 3:47, Colin Sahlman broke a 37-year-old NCAA 800m record with a 1:44.7 victory, and Cole Hocker looked every bit the world's best distance runner in winning the two mile. Meanwhile, Roisin Willis set the American indoor 800m record in Boston, Nikki Hiltz got a big win, and Cooper Luktenhaus added another high school record to his collection. But it wasn't all celebrations. Is Bryce Hoppel's window closing? Why can't Ollie Hoare find his form? Is Hobbs Kessler's injury excuse a relief or a red flag? The episode also digs into the controversial decision by World Athletics to invalidate Jacob Kiplimo's 56:42 half marathon world record due to drafting behind the lead vehicle. Plus: Is it good for young stars to experience defeat? Should Cam Myers skip World Indoors for a domestic meet? And what exactly happened with the Millrose pacing lights? 🎁 Support LetsRun.comJoin the LetsRun.com Supporters Club: https://www.letsrun.com/subscribeGet a bonus podcast every week, savings on running shoes, and a free t-shirt when you join for a year. Links: Sam Ruthe's family running history thread: https://www.letsrun.com/forum/flat_read.php?thread=13396729 Thread: Biggest winners of the weekend: https://www.letsrun.com/forum/flat_read.php?thread=14027044 Thread: Cole Hocker is the #1 distance runner in the world right now: https://www.letsrun.com/forum/flat_read.php?thread=14027201 Jacob Kiplimo's world record invalidated: https://www.letsrun.com/forum/flat_read.php?thread=14027173 Millrose two mile pacer responds: https://www.letsrun.com/forum/flat_read.php?thread=14024895 Post of Week on Faster Times Timestamps: 00:00 Intro and Soccer Banter 02:55 Jon's Birthday 05:06 LetsRun Meetup in SF 09:32 Sam Ruthe's Historic 3:48 Mile at 16 11:00 Comparing Teen Phenoms: Ruthe, Ingebrigtsen, Laros, and Myers 26:23 Colin Sahlman's 1:44 800m and NCAA Record 40:08 Bryce Hoppel, Donovan Brazier, and the Men's 800 Landscape 46:00 Cole Hocker Wins Millrose Two Mile 47:23 Is Cole Hocker the World's Best Distance Runner? 55:00 Cam Myers Dominates the Wannamaker Mile 59:00 Hobbs Kessler's Struggles and Ollie Hoare's Decline 64:50 Athing Mu, Jane Hedengren, and Learning to Lose 70:20 Nikki Hiltz Wins the Women's Wanamaker Mile 73:13 Can Hiltz win Olympic gold in LA 2028, what about Faith Kipyegon? 82:30 Cooper Luktenhaus's High School 600m Record 86:00 Roisin Willis Sets American 800m Record 96:25 Jacob Kiplimo's Half Marathon Record Invalidated 100:14 Millrose Pacing Controversy and Weekend Wrap-Up Contact us:Email podcast@letsrun.comCall or text 1-844-LETSRUN (1-844-538-7786) About the LetsRun.com Podcast Since 2000, LetsRun.com has been the independent home of elite running. Described by the New York Times as the "influential website that serves as something of a superego for American running," the podcast is the weekly deep dive into the world of track and field and elite distance running. The show is hosted by LetsRun.com co-founders Weldon Johnson, a 2-time Team USA member, and Robert Johnson, a former Cornell coach who helped pace the marathon World Record, along with award-winning senior writer Jonathan Gault. Together, they move beyond the PR headlines to provide the insider reporting and unfiltered debate that serious fans and industry insiders rely on. Go Deeper: Get the Bonus Podcast: Supporters Club members get an exclusive second podcast every week, plus premium articles and forum perks. Join the LRC Supporters Club here Join the Conversation: Post on our world-famous forum Contact Us: Call 1-844-LETSRUN (538-7786) or email letsrun@letsrun.com Find out more at http://podcast.letsrun.com Send us your feedback online: https://pinecast.com/feedback/letsrun/49680b23-530d-48a7-a115-48a0ba8b22f3

🏃 Join our Supporters Club & Get our Millrose Preview Podcast on FridayGet exclusive access to a second weekly podcast, premium articles, a super soft shirt, and forum perks. Join today at https://www.letsrun.com/subscribe The 2026 indoor season exploded with two world records and jaw-dropping performances at the New Balance Indoor Grand Prix. Josh Hoey, with the help of his brother, got the 800m world indoor record (1:42.50), breaking Wilson Kipketer’s 29-year-old mark. Hobbs Kessler closed in 26.3 to set the 2K world record and beat Grant Fisher. Elle St. Pierre won her comeback race against Jessica Hull. In NY, Cooper Lutkenhaus opened with 1:45.23. Sunday’s Millrose Games has two stellar matchups: the Wanamaker Mile with Cam Myers, Kessler, and three-time defending champion Yared Nuguse, and the two mile where Cole Hocker, Grant Fisher, Josh Kerr, and Geordie Beamish square off and try to go sub-8. Plus, we dig into Grand Slam Track bankruptcy documents revealing Michael Johnson personally loaned $2.7 million to keep the league afloat. Links: Discussion: Biggest Winner of the Weekend — Kessler, Hoey, St. Pierre, Myers? Josh Hoey 800m World Indoor Record coverage Justin Rinaldi’s classy message board post Hobbs Kessler 2K World Record Jon Gault on all the American world records Cooper Lutkenhaus 1:45.23 Elle St. Pierre comeback win Cam Myers 7:27 3K win MJ loan and Grand Slam Track bankruptcy LetsRun San Francisco Meetup (Timeout Tavern) Timestamps: 00:00 Intro / Super Bowl Talk 03:10 Josh Hoey’s 800m World Indoor Record 12:07 The Hoey Family Story and Justin Rinaldi’s classy post 17:10 Should Hoey Run USA and World Indoors? 18:43 Cooper Lutkenhaus’s 1:45 opener 22:42 Winner of the Weekend Debate 29:17 Millrose Games Mile Preview: Hoey vs. Myers vs. Kessler vs. Nuguse 38:47 Millrose Two Mile Preview and Sub-8 Watch 42:02 American Men’s World Record Streak 43:59 Quincy Wilson’s Form and Future Questions 47:57 Noah Lyles’s Elaborate Entrance at New Balance Indoors 60:10 Grand Slam Track Financial Revelations: Michael Johnson’s $2.7M Loan 80:02 Millrose Preview Wrap-Up 82:20 Grant Fisher Joins Us 82:30 Training Between Races: New Balance to Millrose 84:00 Why Americans Are Dominating Indoor Season 87:00 NYC Half Marathon Debut: Why New York? 89:00 From 2K Shape to Half Marathon Shape 91:00 Breaking the 2K World Record but Losing the Race 95:00 World Cross Country and Injury Recovery 99:00 Can Americans Compete on the Roads? 102:00 From Miler to Marathoner: Grant’s Evolution 106:00 Marathon Debut Timeline: 2027 or 2028? Contact us:Email podcast@letsrun.com | Call or text 1-844-LETSRUN (1-844-538-7786) About the LetsRun.com Podcast Since 2000, LetsRun.com has been the independent home of elite running. Described by the New York Times as the “influential website that serves as something of a superego for American running,” the podcast is the weekly deep dive into the world of track and field and elite distance running. The show is hosted by LetsRun.com co-founders Weldon Johnson, a two-time Team USA member, and Robert Johnson, a former Cornell coach who helped pace the marathon world record, along with award-winning senior writer Jonathan Gault. Together, they move beyond the PR headlines to provide the insider reporting and unfiltered debate that serious fans and industry insiders rely on. Go Deeper: Get the Bonus Podcast: Supporters Club members get an exclusive second podcast every week, plus premium articles and forum perks. Join the LRC Supporters Club here Join the Conversation: Post on our world-famous forum Contact Us: Call 1-844-LETSRUN (538-7786) or email letsrun@letsrun.com Find out more at http://podcast.letsrun.com Send us your feedback online: https://pinecast.com/feedback/letsrun/08896db6-8f80-401f-9428-814b73e5eef0

Grant Fisher — double Olympic medalist and world indoor record holder — joins the show to talk Millrose, his NYC Half debut, and what it felt like to break Kenenisa Bekele's 2K world record and still lose to Hobbs Kessler in Boston. 🎁 Support LetsRun.com Join the LetsRun.com Supporters Club: https://www.letsrun.com/subscribe Links: Grant Fisher's Instagram Millrose Games 2 mile NYC Half Marathon New Balance Indoor Grand Prix Timestamps: 00:00 Intro 00:23 Grant Fisher Joins the Show 02:35 Training Between Races: New Balance to Millrose 04:24 Why Americans Are Dominating Indoor Season 07:25 NYC Half Marathon Debut: Why New York? 09:27 From 2K Shape to Half Marathon Shape 10:53 Breaking the 2K World Record But Losing the Race 13:03 World Cross Country and Injury Recovery 16:06 Lessons From 2024: The Dangers of Racing Too Much 18:19 Cross Training on the Bike 21:15 Can Americans Compete on the Roads? 24:53 From Miler to Marathoner: Grant's Evolution 26:55 Marathon Debut Timeline: 2027 or 2028? Contact us: Email podcast@letsrun.com | Call or text 1-844-LETSRUN (1-844-538-7786) About the LetsRun.com Podcast Since 2000, LetsRun.com has been the independent home of elite running. Described by the New York Times as the "influential website that serves as something of a superego for American running," the podcast is the weekly deep dive into the world of track and field and elite distance running. Today's episode is hosted by LetsRun.com co-founder Robert Johnson, a former Cornell coach who helped pace the marathon World Record, along with award-winning senior writer Jonathan Gault. Together, they move beyond the PR headlines to provide the insider reporting and unfiltered debate that serious fans and industry insiders rely on. Go Deeper: Get the Bonus Podcast: Supporters Club members get an exclusive second podcast every week, plus premium articles and forum perks. Join the LRC Supporters Club here Join the Conversation: Post on our world-famous forum Contact Us: Call 1-844-LETSRUN (538-7786) or email letsrun@letsrun.com Find out more at http://podcast.letsrun.com Send us your feedback online: https://pinecast.com/feedback/letsrun/09699345-4839-4d71-b1bf-75870f74b037

🏃 Get your World XC USA gear at shop.letsrun.com — limited stock remaining on the t-shirts! The 2026 indoor season is officially here, and it's heating up fast. This week we break down Josh Hoey's bold announcement that he's targeting Wilson Kipketer's nearly 30-year-old indoor 800m world record at the New Balance Indoor Grand Prix. Can he do it? We debate his chances and pay homage to Kipketer's legendary 1997 season. Plus, Cam Myers ran 3:49 in the mile, the fastest ever in January, and the teen phenom comparisons are flying. We've got updates on Jakob Ingebrigtsen skipping the indoor season entirely (should we be worried about his Achilles?), Grand Slam Track's bankruptcy drama, and breaking news from a top agent about how much athletes actually got paid. On the marathon side, the 2026 Boston Marathon women's field is out, and while it's missing Hellen Obiri, it's absolutely stacked with American talent. Could Fiona O'Keeffe make the podium? And where the heck is Parker Valby? 🎁 Want a 2nd Podcast Every Week? Join the LetsRun.com Supporters Club for bonus podcasts, exclusive content, and a super soft t-shirt: https://www.letsrun.com/subscribeMoney-back guarantee — if you don't like it, cancel and keep the shirt! Links: Discuss this week's episode here LetsRun.com Shop Join the Supporters Club Ross Tucker's Real Science of Sport Podcast / Jakob news Sam Ruthe family running history thread 2026 Boston Marathon Women's Elite Field announcement Valby training with Coburn New Balance Indoor Grand Prix entries Valby running NB games this wknd? Dr. Sander Scorcher meet info Timestamps: 00:00 Intro / World XC Merch Plug 01:02 Episode Preview: Indoor Season Heats Up 03:44 Josh Hoey Announces 800m World Record Attempt 06:58 Hoey's Unconventional Path and Self-Belief 11:16 Wilson Kipketer's Historic 1997 Season 13:00 Why Top 800m Runners Skip Indoors 17:12 Cam Myers Runs 3:49 — Fastest January Mile Ever 19:35 Teen Phenoms: Myers vs. Laros vs. Lutkenhaus 26:20 Ellie St. Pierre vs. Jessica Hull Preview 29:30 Should Hoey Defend His World Indoor Title? 31:00 Jakob Ingebrigtsen Skipping Indoor Season 34:30 Achilles Concerns and Chris Derrick Comparisons 37:35 Grand Slam Track Bankruptcy: Agent Reveals Athletes Got Overpaid 42:20 What's Next for Athing Mu? 43:41 The Incredible Depth of Men's 5000m 46:56 Sam Ruthe: 16-Year-Old Runs 1:45 in New Zealand 50:10 Sam Ruthe's Incredible Running Family History 53:12 Cooper Lutkenhaus Opens 2026 Season 57:20 The Rise of Millrose Games 59:00 2028 Olympic Marathon Trials: Phoenix vs. St. Louis 62:42 2026 Boston Marathon Women's Field Breakdown 67:35 Fiona O'Keeffe's Big Opportunity 74:38 Where Is Parker Valby? 76:38 Sponsorship Shakeups: Elle St. Pierre, Heather McLean 79:13 Outro Contact us: Email podcast@letsrun.comCall or text 1-844-LETSRUN (1-844-538-7786) About the LetsRun.com Podcast Since 2000, LetsRun.com has been the independent home of elite running. Described by the New York Times as the "influential website that serves as something of a superego for American running," the podcast is the weekly deep dive into the world of track and field and elite distance running. The show is hosted by LetsRun.com co-founders Weldon Johnson, a 2-time Team USA member, and Robert Johnson, a former Cornell coach who helped pace the marathon World Record, along with award-winning senior writer Jonathan Gault. Together, they move beyond the PR headlines to provide the insider reporting and unfiltered debate that serious fans and industry insiders rely on. Go Deeper: Get the Bonus Podcast: Supporters Club members get an exclusive second podcast every week, plus premium articles and forum perks. Join the LRC Supporters Club here Join the Conversation: Post on our world-famous forum Contact Us: Call 1-844-LETSRUN (538-7786) or email letsrun@letsrun.com Find out more at http://podcast.letsrun.com Send us your feedback online: https://pinecast.com/feedback/letsrun/8438b800-a410-4d18-a101-82b53b17816a

🎉 Now is the time to join the best club in running The LetsRun.com Supporters Club https://www.letsrun.com/subscribe?from=public use code GOAT50 to save 50% off your first year. 🎉 World Cross Country returned to American soil for the first time in 32 years and Tallahassee delivered! We break down Jacob Kiplimo's dominant third title, Agnes Ngetich's historic 42-second victory margin, and why American men continue to struggle at World XC despite track success. Plus: The Cooper Lutkenhaus flag moment, Rojo's $500 marathon bet. In Houston Habtom Samuel's debut was as success, 59:01 (course record), as four Americans broke 60 minutes (Alex Maier (59:23), Casey Clinger (59:34), Ryan Ford (59:48), Isai Rodriguez (59:57)), Rory Linkletter got the Canadian record (59:49), Taylor Roe became the 2nd fastest American ever (66.20) and American Zouhair Talbi ran 2:05:45. Astacked Millrose two-mile field featuring Cole Hocker, Josh Kerr, Grant Fisher, (Wightman, Beamish, Strand, Blanks, Wolfe). Plus, Andreas Almgren amd Brenda Jepchumba impressed in Valencia. Links: World Cross Country 2026 Coverage LetsRun Forum Thread: Why Are Americans Competitive on Track but Get Destroyed at World XC? Craig Virgin Interview on YouTube Cooper Lutkenhause gets LetsRun Flag Houston Half Marathon coverage Shop the World XC Shirts: shop.letsrun.com Show notes: 00:00 Start 00:24 World Cross Country Recap & Tallahassee Celebration 05:20 The Let's Run Meetup & Craig Virgin's Hope 06:23 Cooper Lutkenhaus & The Let's Run Flag Story 09:04 Athletes & Fans Unite at World Cross 13:02 The $500 Bet & Party Stories 15:18 Jacob Kiplimo & Agnes Ngetich Dominate 17:45 Kiplimo's Legacy & All-Time Greatness 21:20 Why Americans Struggle at World Cross 25:15 US Men's Disappointing Team Performance 28:36 Track vs Cross Country: Different Sports? 30:35 Theories on African Dominance in XC 33:52 Women's Race & Rising Stars (Marta Alemayo wins junior race) 38:30 Should World Cross Return to Tallahassee? 44:04 Australia Wins Mixed Relay Gold 59:05 Houston Half Marathon: Americans Go Sub-60 (Maier,Klinger, Ford, Rodriguez) 1:09:09 Rojo's $500 Marathon Bet Confirmed 1:10:22 Indoor Track Preview: Millrose & New Balance Indoor Grand Prix 1:17:50 Valencia 10K & Brenda Jepchumba's Breakthrough 1:24:38 Final Thoughts & Shoutouts Contact us: Email podcast@letsrun.com or call/text 1-844-LETSRUN podcast voicemail/text line. Spread the word to a friend. Find out more at http://podcast.letsrun.com Send us your feedback online: https://pinecast.com/feedback/letsrun/1a6bd57d-c16d-49e8-b7e9-f1442c32158d

🎉 Thank you Tallahassee! Thank you LetsRun Nation. Now is the time to join the best club in running The LetsRun.com Supporters Club https://www.letsrun.com/subscribe?from=public use code GOAT50 to save 50% off your first year. 🎉 The 2026 World Cross Country Championships are in the books! Live from the LetsRun party in Tallahassee we break down all the action from what was an incredible day for distance running with over 10,000 fans in attendance. East Africa strikes back with dominant performances across all individual races, while Australia claims a historic mixed relay gold. We recap Jacob Kiplimo's third consecutive senior men's title, Agnes Ngetich's dominant 42-second victory in the women's race, and Team USA's results. Plus: the Rocky Hansen controversy , special guest Ned Ryun (Jim Ryun's son) shares incredible stories including how his father received the Presidential Medal of Freedom, Blair Bartlett's breakout performance as a high school junior in her first cross country season, Tyler Daillak's gutsy run finishing top American with one shoe, and a Cooper Lutkenhaus sighting at the course. Join the LetsRun.com Supporters Club at https://www.letsrun.com/subscribe?from=public Contact us: Email podcast@letsrun.com or call/text 1-844-LETSRUN podcast voicemail/text line. Timestamps: 0:00 Than you & join our club 01:25 Introduction & Event Recap 03:35 Senior Men's Race: Jacob Kiplimo Dominates 08:04 Team USA Men's Results led by Parker Wolfe 11:17 Rocky Hansen Controversy 19:50 Senior Women's Race: Agnes Ngetich Dominates 24:21 LetsRun Flag Bearers Join the Show 28:33 Team USA Women's Results 31:24 Graham Blanks 32:25 Ned Ryun: Jim Ryun's Son Joins the Show 38:55 Jim Ryun's Presidential Medal of Freedom Story 45:00 Junior Races & Blair Bartlett Breakout & Tyler Daillak with 1 shoe 50:07 Cooper Lutkenhaus Sighting & Wrap Up Spread the word to a friend. Find out more at http://podcast.letsrun.com Send us your feedback online: https://pinecast.com/feedback/letsrun/5d0722ef-714a-489a-ba3c-881ed45d2a10

Sage Hurta Klecker joins us 77:51 to discuss her amazing 2025, this weekend's world cross country race, and her 2026 plans including a possible American record attempt at the Millrose Games. (Written highlights here) We kick off 2026 with our annual 2025 Quiz,J ohnson vs. Johnson, testing the brothers' knowledge of the past year in running. Then we review our 2025 Bold Predictions (Robert nailed the Emmanuel Wanyonyi call!) and make our 2026 Bold Predictions, including hot takes on Quincy Wilson, Athing Mu, Cole Hocker, and Cooper Lutkenhaus. Plus: Hakone Ekiden TV ratings, Ethiopian athletes denied visas for World XC, Beatrice Chebet's pregnancy announcement, and an interview with Sage Hurta-Klecker ahead of World Cross Country and the Millrose Games. 🎟️ World Cross Country Party — Join us in Tallahassee! Township, 3-6 PM Saturday after the races. RSVP: podcast@letsrun.com 🎽 World XC Prediction Contest — Enter before the race! Contest will be live by Wednesday! 👕 LetsRun Shirts — Almost sold out! Shop at shop.letsrun.com Join the LetsRun.com Supporters Club at LetsRun.com/subscribe — get a free T-shirt and access to the Friday 15 Worlds preview podcast Links: Ethiopian visa rejections article Beatrice Chebet pregnant/ missing world xc Millrose Games tickets Fast People Podcast (Sarah Lorge Butler) Sage Hurta Klecker article Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction & World XC Party Promo 06:14 Quiz: January — Women's Half Marathon Record Breakers 08:23 Quiz: February — Fisher & Nuguse World Records 09:43 Quiz: March — Hobbs Kessler's Fuel 10:54 Quiz: April — Boston Marathon Towns 13:31 Quiz: May — US Diamond League Winners 14:36 Quiz: June — NCAA Distance Titles 16:47 Quiz: July — Women's Marathon World Record 18:24 Quiz: August — First Time US Champions 20:06 Quiz: September — European World Medalists 23:22 Quiz: October — Josh Hoey's Six Coaches 26:12 Quiz: November — Sub-2:09 American Marathoners 30:38 Quiz: December — Brooks XC Championships 33:12 Quiz: Tiebreaker — Cole Hocker's 5K World Championship Time 36:11 Reflecting on 2025 Bold Predictions 40:32 News: Hakone Ekiden TV Ratings 44:40 BP Robert #1 — Quincy Wilson Won't PR in 2026 45:33 BP Jon #1 — Quincy Wilson World Leader in 400m 47:26 BP Weldon #1 — Cole Hocker Breaks Mile World Record at Pre Classic 51:07 BP Robert #2 — Athing Mu Won't Race in 2026 52:33 BP Jon #2 — Non-African Born Man Breaks 8:00 in Steeplechase 53:35 BP Robert #3 — Cooper Lutkenhaus Breaks 800m World Record 1:00:04 BP Jon #3 — Enhanced Games Won't Happen 1:01:48 BP Weldon #2 — Geordie Beamish Won't Win a Steeplechase 1:03:28 BP Weldon #3 — USA Wins the World Cup 1:08:40 News: Ethiopian Athletes Denied Visas for World XC 1:16:06 News: Beatrice Chebet Announces Pregnancy 1:17:51 Interview: Sage Hurta-Klecker 1:25:31 Sage: 2025 Season & Breakthrough 1:28:59 Sage: Training Insights 1:37:45 Sage: Millrose Games 1000m 1:42:21 Sage: Pacing Faith Kipyegon Contact us: Email podcast@letsrun.com or call/text 1-844-LETSRUN podcast voicemail/text line. Spread the word to a friend. Find out more at http://podcast.letsrun.com Send us your feedback online: https://pinecast.com/feedback/letsrun/229af53c-e8e7-4483-a029-7627a2df514a

🏃 Get your World XC shirts today Get your official World XC shirts before they're gone! Shop now at shop.letsrun.com It's the final LetsRun.com podcast of 2025 — our Year in Review episode! What a year it was: Americans breaking world records, Cole Hocker winning 5K gold at Worlds, the rise and fall of Grand Slam Track, Donovan Brazier's incredible comeback, and 16-year-old Cooper Lutkenhaus running 1:42 for 800 meters. We hand out our awards for Race of the Year, Flop of the Year, Runner of the Year, Coach of the Year, and Person of the Year. Plus: the wild stat about non-African born men sweeping distance golds at Worlds, Faith Kipyegon's controversial sub-4 attempt, Fred Kerley's fall from grace, Erriyon Knighton's ban, and Sebastian Sawe's remarkable anti-doping gesture. 🎽 World XC Shirts: Get yours before the deadline! Two designs available at shop.letsrun.com 🎉 World XC Party: Join us at Township in Tallahassee, Saturday January 10th at 3:00 PM after the races! Join the Supporters Club at LetsRun.com/subscribe Links: Discussion:What were your favorite moments of 2025? Discussion: Who were the biggest losers of 2025? World XC Shirts - shop.letsrun.com Dan Michalski feature article Shelby Houlihan pod Evan Jager pod Grand Slam Track bankruptcy thread Timestamps: 00:00 World XC Shirts Promo & Party Info 02:04 Intro: 2025 Year in Review 02:43 Jane Hedengren & US Teen Stars 03:19 Rojo's "Friday 15" Solo Pod 05:01 Robert's Complexity & Ethiopian Guest 06:19 Unbelievable Events of 2025: A List 08:30 Rise of Non-African Born Distance Runners 17:39 Donovan Brazier's Comeback 20:05 Shelby Houlihan's Return 23:45 Evan Jager & The "Likely Doping" List 25:41 Cole Hocker: US Distance GOAT? 32:60 Jakob Ingebrigtsen's Indoor Double Gold 37:10 Grand Slam Track: Flop of the Year 47:46 Indoor World Records: Nuguse & Fisher 48:33 Hobbs Kessler's Tough Year 53:52 Race of the Year: US 800m Final 59:08 American Records & US Runner of the Year Debate 1:04:37 Faith Kipyegon's Sub-4 Attempt Controversy 1:12:52 Fred Kerley's Fall from Grace 1:15:53 Erriyon Knighton's Ban 1:23:34 Sebastian Sawe's Anti-Doping Gesture 1:28:20 Performance & Coach of the Year Awards 1:32:09 Person of the Year: Donovan Brazier Contact us: Email podcast@letsrun.com or call/text 1-844-LETSRUN podcast voicemail/text line. Spread the word to a friend. Find out more at http://podcast.letsrun.com Send us your feedback online: https://pinecast.com/feedback/letsrun/ea24f196-732f-4716-be6d-52dd121ee4f9

It's the final pod before Christmas and we've got a packed episode! Evan Jager joins us at 52:45 to put a bow on his incredible career. The Marathon Project 2.0 results are in — Priscah Cherono wins the women's race at age 45 in a 2+ minute PB, while JP Flavin takes the men's title and Turner Wiley runs 2:09 as an unsponsored father working full-time with D2 college PRs. Ben Rosa becomes the youngest person in history to break 4:00 in the mile and 2:10 in the marathon in the same year. Plus: World Cross Country team announcements from France and Ethiopia, the Emily Venters/Evelyn Kimboy NCAA controversy and what it reveals about FERPA, and our full exit interview with Evan Jager reflecting on his incredible steeplechase career — the 2015 Paris fall, Olympic silver, the Oregon Project split, Fancy Bears, and his new job with Nomio in Sweden. 🎁 Holiday Gift Idea: Give a LetsRun.com Supporters Club Gift Membership for $67 or get the USAXC shirts. https://shop.letsrun.com/ Or join yourself at LetsRun.com/subscribe — use code LETSRUN67 for $67/year or $6.76/month. Links: Marathon Project Results Marathon Project Experience Thread Emily Venters/Evelyn Kimboy Discussion Thread World XC Course Preview Shop LetsRun - New USA XC Shirts, or Give Supporters Club as a gift Timestamps: 00:00 Intro & Holiday Gift Plug 01:06 Introductions, Patriots/Ravens talk, Christmas cards 04:01 Weldon's Central Park run 08:06 Marathon Project Women's Race — Priscah Cherono wins at 45 12:12 Marathon Project Men's Race — JP Flavin , Turner Wiley , Ben Rosa 18:34 Ivy League Runner of the Week: Ben Rosa 21:14 Blue Collar Runner of the Week: Turner Wiley 25:38 Marathon Project viability discussion 28:54 Paul Chelimo marathon pr (2:10:55) 31:58 World Cross Country Preview — France & Ethiopia teams 41:21 Emily Venters/Evelyn Kimboy NCAA controversy 46:21 RoJo's FERPA rant 52:15 EVAN JAGER INTERVIEW START 53:28 Impact on American distance running 54:57 Reflections on retirement 59:54 Turning pro at 19 with Jerry Schumacher 65:30 The brutal first year with Bowerman 70:23 Alberto Salazar & Oregon Project history 75:55 Transition to steeplechase 83:42 The iconic 2015 Paris Diamond League fall 99:49 Rio Olympics silver medal 107:22 2018 injury and career derailment 110:45 Fancy Bears leak response 116:58 Thoughts on Shelby Houlihan 124:34 How he wants to be remembered 127:59 The hair evolution 131:19 Rapid fire: Best kicker ( Ezekiel Kemboi ), greatest rival ( Conseslus Kipruto ) 136:12 New job with Nomio in Sweden 141:29 His daughter's athletic future Shop LetsRun - New USA XC Shirts, or Give Supporters Club as a gift Contact us: Email podcast@letsrun.com or call/text 1-844-LETSRUN podcast voicemail/text line. Spread the word to a friend. Find out more at http://podcast.letsrun.com Send us your feedback online: https://pinecast.com/feedback/letsrun/2fab0394-d64b-4a0b-83ed-dd7765949544

Rosario breaks down the 2025 men's and women's races for you. It's Sunday morning at 9:15 am ET. Get the new shirt here: The LetsRun.com Store 🎁 Holiday Gift Idea: Give a LetsRun.com Supporters Club Gift Membership for $67: link Or join yourself at LetsRun.com/subscribe — use code LETSRUN67 for $67/year or $6.76/month. Contact us: Email podcast@letsrun.com or call/text 1-844-LETSRUN podcast voicemail/text line. Want a 2nd podcast every week? And savings on running shoes? Join the LetsRun.com Supporters Club today for exclusive content, a bonus weekly podcast, shoe savings, and more. Cancel anytime .https://www.letsrun.com/subscribe Check out the LetsRun.com store. https://shop.letsrun.com/ We've got the softest running shirts in the business. Thanks for listening. Please rate us on your podcast app and spread the word to friend. https://www.letsrun.com/subscribe?from=public https://www.letsrun.com/subscribe?from=public Find out more at http://podcast.letsrun.com Send us your feedback online: https://pinecast.com/feedback/letsrun/458dc0a6-dad2-4618-bb0c-274ae7f7bbba

It's mid-December and the running news keeps coming! Grand Slam Track filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy — we dig into the creditor list, the shocking $272K owed to Citius Mag, and what it reveals about the league's spending. On Friday, we broke the news that Athing Mu has left coach Bobby Kersee and moved to Dallas — what's next for her? Plus race recaps from the Brooks XC Championships, the Kalakaua Merrie Mile in Hawaii, and European Cross Country in Portugal. 279.26 we're joined by Yared Nuguse, who previews his quest for a fourth straight Wanamaker Mile title at the Millrose Games on February 1st. Can he break the world record in the indoor mile again? 🎁 Holiday Gift Idea: Give a LetsRun.com Supporters Club Gift Membership for $67: link Or join yourself at LetsRun.com/subscribe — use code LETSRUN67 for $67/year or $6.76/month. Shop LetsRun: Get your USA World XC gold shirts and more at shop.letsrun.comhttps://shop.letsrun.com/ Links: Millrose Games / Wanamaker Mile Tickets Grad Slam Track Bankruptcy & Creditors List Article The Athletic: Grand Slam Track Fundning Breakdown Athing Mu Leaves Bobby Kersee Article Brooks XC Championships Results European Cross Country Results Euro XC finish video that Jon got 1 million views on Kalakaua Merrie Mile Results The Marathon Project Info LetsRun Supporters Club Gift subscription LetsRun Suporters Club subscription for yourself Shop LetsRun Timestamps: 00:00 LetsRun Holiday Merch Plug — Shop.LetsRun.com 01:27 Introductions 03:00 Grand Slam Track Bankruptcy — Creditor list breakdown, athletes owed money 03:23 Flashback: Jonathan Gault's question to Michael Johnson in Jamaica 05:44 Citius Mag paid $272K by Grand Slam Track — Disclosure controversy 08:07 Grand Slam's financial relationship with media outlets 11:37 Athlete Appearance Fee Analysis — Reverse engineering what stars were paid (Sydney McLaughlin, Gabby Thomas, Josh Kerr, etc.) 15:23 How much did Grand Slam actually raise and spend? 19:42 Production costs & other creditors — $3M to TV production, $690K for graphics 24:55 Athing Mu Leaves Coach Bobby Kersee — Moved to Dallas, no new coach announced 26:06 LetsRun Supporters Club plug — Emergency podcast for members 28:36 Speculation: Is Athing Mu retiring? Pregnant? Finding a new coach? 31:46 Top Coach Candidates for Athing Mu — Justin Rinaldi, Chris Catton, Chris Cappo 35:27 Training group concerns for Mu in Dallas 38:36 Brooks XC Championships Recap — Jackson Spencer wins boys, Natasha Dudek wins girls 39:54 NXN vs. Footlocker/Brooks — Do we need two national championships? 45:02 Purpose of dual national championships debate 49:25 Jakob Ingebrigtsen Skips European Cross Country — Injury concerns 53:11 European Cross Country Recap — Jimmy Gressier vs. Thierry Ndikumwenayo, Nadia Battocletti wins women's 55:31 Jonathan's viral tweet of the men's finish 57:51 Nick Griggs (Ireland) & Innes Fitzgerald (UK) — Rising young stars 61:19 Kalakaua Merrie Mile Recap — Josh Hoey wins men's (3:55), Sinclaire Johnson wins women's (4:21 American Record) 65:43 Analysis: Hoey, Hobbs Kessler, Yared Nuguse, Nico Young, Ollie Hoare 71:43 Women's Mile: Sinclaire Johnson dominates Nikki Hiltz 75:23 USA Indoors 1500m Preview — Could be one of the greatest races ever 77:08 The Marathon Project Preview — Paul Chelimo's marathon debut 79:26 Interview: Yared Nuguse — Wanamaker Mile preview, going for 4th straight title 83:00 Will Yared step up to the 2-mile at Millrose? 85:13 Reflecting on the 2025 season — Highs and lows 87:40 Changing tactics for USAs 90:05 Thoughts on the World Championship 1500m Final 92:12 Was Cole Hocker's DQ fair? 95:49 Indoor Season Plans — Targeting the 1500m at World Indoors 97:53 Training dynamics with Geordie Beamish 100:26 Racing the Merrie Mile in Hawaii 102:43 Goals for the 2026 Season — 5K attempt, mile record chase 108:06 The collapse of Grand Slam Track — Yared's perspective as an athlete 115:12 Yared Nuguse on coming out publicly — Reaction from Notre Dame, Ethiopian community, and the running world 121:52 Closing & Holiday Gift Plug — Shop.LetsRun.com Contact us: Email podcast@letsrun.com or call/text 1-844-LETSRUN podcast voicemail/text line. Spread the word to a friend! Find out more at http://podcast.letsrun.com Send us your feedback online: https://pinecast.com/feedback/letsrun/932c4f60-cade-4ce4-a055-bf17d9ee0318

🏃 Presented by Aletheia Run The wearable that helps you run stronger, avoid injury, and know why. Get a free trial (just pay shipping) and save 10% for a year with code LETSRUN10: https://www.aletheia.run/start-my-free-trial Fresh off his victory at the US Cross Country Championships, Parker Wolfe joins the LetsRun.com Track Talk podcast. The 2024 NCAA 5,000m champion and now US Cross Country champion discusses his transition to professional running with Nike's Swoosh Track Club in Flagstaff, training alongside Nico Young, his goals for World Cross Country Championships in Tallahassee, and the incredible depth of American distance running. Plus: teammate trash talk with Ethan Strand, the injury that cost him his NCAA title defense, and why he thinks Team USA can medal at World Cross. Aletheia Run sponsored our US Cross Country coverage this week. Developed by sports scientists in Eugene after two decades of research, it's the only device that gives you a force portrait of your running form, detecting issues invisible to the naked eye. Personalized drills, targeted feedback, and real insight into your biomechanics. Try it free & save 10% with code LETSRUN10 https://www.aletheia.run/start-my-free-trial 🎁 Holiday Gift Idea: Give a LetsRun.com Supporters Club Gift Membership for $67: Click here Or join yourself at LetsRun.com/subscribe — use code LETSRUN67 for $67/year or $6.76/month. Parker Wolfe tshirts Timestamps: 00:00 Aletheia Run 00:20 Gift the gift of LetsRun.com 00:48 Aletheia Run - Run Smarter, Try for Free with code LETSRUN10 02:06 Introduction: Parker Wolfe, 2024 NCAA Champion & US Cross Country Champion 04:28 Training approach: Strength-based, minimal sharpening 06:08 Winning the National Title - Was he surprised? 08:51 Training with Nico Young at Swoosh Track Club 12:02 Future pro rivalries - Competing with teammates for team spots 14:57 Teammate trash talk with Ethan Strand 17:33 Life in Flagstaff - Roommates with Ethan Strand and Liam Murphy 19:23 What he didn't love about college teams 22:01 Moh Ahmed update - Training with the Canadian star 23:05 World Cross Country goals - Team medal potential 25:55 Make the case: Why fans should go to Tallahassee 28:17 The comeback: Six weeks of training to USAs 29:37 Fifth Avenue Mile - The perfect way to end the season 30:36 Physical therapy family - Both parents are PTs 32:27 The altitude-born advantage - Denver native 34:13 ACC Championship incident with Rocky Hansen 36:17 Turning pro with Nike - Why he chose Swoosh Track Club 38:21 Coach Mike Smith's creative training approach 39:21 Video games & free time - Madden, Fortnite, and movie nights 41:34 Bill Belichick at UNC 43:04 2026 Season Strategy - Millrose two-mile, fast 5K 44:02 World Ultimate Championships consideration 46:39 Depth of US distance running - Grant Fisher, Nico Young, Cole Hocker, Graham Blanks 48:22 Americans winning Diamond Leagues - The new normal 50:35 Parker Wolfe t-shirts plug 51:11 Aletheia Run outro 52:06 Give the gift of LetsRun Contact us: Email podcast@letsrun.com or call/text 1-844-LETSRUN podcast voicemail/text line. Spread the word to a friend. Find out more at http://podcast.letsrun.com Send us your feedback online: https://pinecast.com/feedback/letsrun/751a31c1-d108-45f0-81a6-c5ae1be777ac

We break down the massive breaking news that Olympic 800m champion Athing Mu has parted ways with coach Bobby Kersee and relocates\d to Dallas. Plus: Stanford NCAA champion Roisin Willis turns pro early, and Weldon Johnson joins late from all the way out on the West Coast. 🎁 Holiday Gift Idea: Give a LetsRun.com Supporters Club Gift Membership for $67: https://shop.letsrun.com/collections/all/products/gift-supporters-club-membership Or join yourself at LetsRun.com/subscribe — use code LETSRUN67 for $67/year or $6.76/month. Links: Breaking News: Athing Mu Parts Ways with Coach Bobby Kersee Official Message Board Discussion on Athing Mu Roisin Willis Turns Pro Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction: Emergency Podcast 00:53 Breaking News: Mu leaves Kersee 01:50 Athing Mu's career recap: From Olympic Gold to recent struggles 03:33 Analyzing the 2024 season & "disastrous" results 05:59 The move to Dallas: Who will coach her? (Chris Kapo? Local college coaches?) 10:14 Bobby Kersee's reaction: "I loved her attitude" 13:38 Was it burnout, health, or coaching fit? 17:48 Roisin Willis turns pro early 19:30 Weldon Johnson joins the show 23:23 Join the Letsrun.com Supporters Club for $67 a year of $6.76 a month with code LETSRUN67. Join yourself here G ift subscriptions here Contact us: Email podcast@letsrun.com or call/text 1-844-LETSRUN podcast voicemail/text line. Spread the word to a friend. Find out more at http://podcast.letsrun.com Send us your feedback online: https://pinecast.com/feedback/letsrun/4ce3389c-4409-45c3-a229-b11f726a4e92

🏃 Presented by Aletheia Run — The wearable that helps you run stronger, avoid injury, and know why. Get a free trial (just pay shipping) and save 10% for a year with code LETSRUN10: https://www.aletheia.run/start-my-free-trial What a weekend of running! Team USA for next month's World Cross Country Championships in Tallahassee is set, with Parker Wolfe and Weini Kelati your champs as Gracie Morris & Ethan Strand win too.  At BU, Josh Hoey obliterated the world indoor record in the 600 meters while Jane Hedengren crushed the NCAA record in the 5,000 in her first collegiate track race. Then on Sunday, John Korir bounced back from his Chicago disappointment to win the Valencia Marathon in a massive negative split, while Joyciline Jepkosgei outlasted Peres Jepchirchir in the first race ever with two women under 2:15. Plus: Olympic triathlon champion Alex Yee ran 2:06, number two Brit ever behind only Mo Farah. Aletheia Run sponsored our USA XC coverage. Developed by sports scientists in Eugene after two decades of research, it's the only device that gives you a force portrait of your running form, detecting issues invisible to the naked eye. Personalized drills, targeted feedback, and real insight into your biomechanics. Try it free & save 10% with code LETSRUN10: https://www.aletheia.run/start-my-free-trial 🎁 Supporters Club: Join at LetsRun.com/subscribe — use code LETSRUN67 for $67/year or $6.76/month. Links: Aletheia Run Try it free & save 10% with code LETSRUN10 Meetup in Tallahassee - Town Hall, 3-6 PM after World XC USA XC results Josh Hoey 600m World Record Interview Jane Hedengren BU 5K Race Recap Valencia Marathon Results Marco Langan Interview (Warning: F-bombs) Shelby Houlihan Post-Race Comments CIM USA Marathon Championships Results Timestamps: 00:00:00 - Aletheia Run: Train Smarter 00:01:18 - Introductions, Weldon's vacation, prediction contest recap 00:03:17 - Let's Run Meet Up at World XC - Town Hall, 3-6 PM 00:05:45 - Men's USA XC: Parker Wolfe wins, Rocky Hansen impressive 2nd 00:07:20 - USA Track & Field skipping World Relays - budget concerns 00:09:45 - Grant Fisher skipping USA XC discussion 00:11:28 - Team USA medal chances at World XC 00:14:08 - Men's USA XC: Biggest winners & losers - Teare, Hunter, Bosley miss out 00:17:35 - Huge run for Parker Wolfe - why we made the shirts 00:20:27 - Women's USA XC: Kelati wins, Katie Izzo impressive 2nd 00:24:30 - Valby & Tuohy miss the team - what's going on? 00:30:18 - Women's USA XC: NCAA champions struggling as pros 00:35:05 - Grant Fisher at USA XC as spectator 00:36:45 - Mixed Relay Storylines: Gracie Morris & Wes Porter make team 00:40:18 - Alistair & Amy Cragg - Coaches of the Year? 00:42:30 - Atmosphere at USA XC - crowd concerns 00:45:50 - NXN: Jackson Spencer wins, headed to BYU 00:47:38 - Niwot Colorado wins team title - genetics in running debate 00:51:00 - Addy Ritzenhein, genetics, and the nature vs. nurture discussion 00:56:32 - Valencia Marathon Women: Jepkosgei 2:14:00, Jepchirchir 2:14:43 00:58:00 - World #1 Women's Marathon debate: Jepkosgei vs. Assefa vs. Jepchirchir 01:00:15 - Valencia Marathon Men: John Korir dominates 01:02:55 - Non-African born runners & doping discussion 01:04:35 - Alex Yee runs 2:06 - Olympic triathlon champ's marathon debut 01:07:11 - Americans in Valencia: Emma Bates (hemochromatosis diagnosis), Keira D'Amato 01:09:03 - Why is 2:14 the new normal for women's marathoning? 01:13:06 - Male pacers in women's races - is it fair? 01:16:20 - Rojo & Weldon's world record pacing stories 01:19:40 - Josh Hoey obliterates 600m World Record - 1:12.84 01:21:30 - Hoey's split from coach Justin Ranaldi - what happened? 01:27:00 - Can Hoey break the 800m World Record? Heated debate 01:33:21 - Shelby Houlihan's motivation struggles post-suspension 01:40:23 - Jane Hedengren smashes NCAA 5000m Record - 14:44 01:44:40 - Phenoms & burnout - are we pushing too early? 01:48:12 - Other BU Results: Habtom Samuel vs. Marco Langan 01:51:32 - CIM Marathon Results - Molly Born wins, Sarah Hall 2nd at 41 01:54:42 - Upcoming: Brooks XC Championships, European XC Championships Contact us: Email podcast@letsrun.com or call/text 1-844-LETSRUN podcast voicemail/text line. Spread the word to a friend! Find out more at http://podcast.letsrun.com Send us your feedback online: https://pinecast.com/feedback/letsrun/52421a90-45d2-4c8c-bb0e-e42058a687c0

🏃 Presented by Aletheia Run — This Friday 15 is FREE thanks to Aletheia Run! The wearable that helps you run stronger, avoid injury, and know why. Get a free trial (just pay shipping) and save 10% for a year with code LETSRUN10: https://www.aletheia.run/start-my-free-trial It's the biggest weekend in American XC running in a generation! The USA Cross Country Championships are Saturday in Portland, Oregon. We break down the men's and women's fields, make our picks for who makes the World XC team, and debate whether the muddy NXN course will play spoiler. Nico Young or Graham Blanks? Weini Kelati or Shelby Houlihan? What about Valby, Tuohy and Jones? Plus: the Valencia Marathon preview with Peres Jepchirchir, Joyciline Jepkosgei, and Americans Emma Bates and Keira D'Amato chasing fast times, and a quick look at the CIM US Marathon Championships in Sacramento. Show notes & links below. Aletheia Run is sponsoring our US Cross Country coverage this week — making this episode FREE for everyone! Developed by sports scientists in Eugene after two decades of research, it's the only device that gives you a force portrait of your running form, detecting issues invisible to the naked eye. Personalized drills, targeted feedback, and real insight into your biomechanics. Try it free & save 10% with code LETSRUN10: https://www.aletheia.run/start-my-free-trial 🎁 Holiday Gift Idea: Give a LetsRun.com Supporters Club Gift Membership for $67: https://shop.letsrun.com/collections/all/products/gift-supporters-club-membership Or join yourself at LetsRun.com/subscribe — use code LETSRUN67 for $67/year or $6.76/month. Links: Aletheia Run — Free Trial Jonathan Gault's USA Cross Country Preview __ https://www.letsrun.com/ __ Graham Blanks T-Shirt Valencia Marathon Preview CIM US Marathon Championships Info Timestamps: 00:00 Aletheia Run Sponsor & Intro — This Friday 15 is FREE! 02:08 USA XC Preview: Overview — The most exciting US Cross Country in 33 years 08:30 Men's Contenders: Cooper Teare & Drew Hunter — Are the track studs ready for the mud? 18:26 Men's Predictions: The Favorites — Graham Blanks vs. Nico Young, who wins? 25:50 Men's Predictions: The Team — RoJo, Weldon, and Gault make their picks 30:31 USA XC Women's Preview: Favorites — Weini Kelati vs. Shelby Houlihan 39:17 Women's Contenders: The Field — Carrie Ellwood, Emma Grace Hurley, Karissa Schweizer & more 45:40 Women's Predictions: The Team — Parker Valby, Katelyn Tuohy debate 48:28 Dani Jones Debate — Former NCAA XC champ enters the 10K, is she a dark horse? 54:50 Shelby Houlihan & Burrito Track Club — Will she wear the shirt for $5,000? 56:56 Mixed Relay Preview — The 4x2K relay picks 59:03 Valencia Marathon Preview: Women's Race — Peres Jepchirchir, Joyciline Jepkosgei headline 1:01:29 The Favorites: Jepchirchir & Jepkosgei — Who takes the win? 1:02:29 Keira D'Amato & Aging — Can she still compete at 41? 1:05:11 Emma Bates Sub-2:20 Goal — Is this her breakout race? 1:07:09 Australian Record Watch — Sinead Diver's 2:21:43 in danger? 1:13:22 Valencia Marathon Preview: Men's Race — Kelvin Kiptum's course record holder status, tactical racing 1:17:50 College Football Rant — Lane Kiffin, Indiana, and why the sport needs a commissioner 1:21:22 US Marathon Championships — CIM in Sacramento, $20K prize purse, Olympic standard bonuses 1:21:50 Outro & Aletheia Run Plug — Have a great weekend! Contact us: Email podcast@letsrun.com or call/text 1-844-LETSRUN (1-844-538-7786) podcast voicemail/text line. Spread the word to a friend — and thank Aletheia Run for making this episode free! Find out more at http://podcast.letsrun.com Send us your feedback online: https://pinecast.com/feedback/letsrun/a31c885a-1378-4629-8510-4d5715e03d0c