I Don't Know Running
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The I Don't Know Running podcast is about how we're all learning to run in some way or another. Whether you're just starting to run a mile or you've ran 100's of marathons and are now in the ultra world, this is for you. We all continue to learn and have something to share. So join us in the discussion and help us make everyone's running experience better. We will talk about our experiences, your experiences, gear, races, and much more.
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Send us a text This week on the I Don’t Know Running Podcast, Lewis and Mitch are soaking in race week vibes — the California Fall Classic 100K is here, and Lewis hopes he’s celebrating a finish by the time you hear this one! Between healthy-eating jokes, beet salad debates, and a surprise virtual 100-miler signup attempt 🤣, the guys dive into something we all need more of: getting off the pavement and finding peace on the trails. Join them as they unpack: 🌲 Why trail running (and time in n...
Send us a text This week’s episode takes a very real — and unexpected — turn. Lewis and Mitch dive into the chaos of everyday running life, from impatient drivers to moments of pure kindness on the road. But what starts as a lighthearted chat quickly becomes a powerful conversation when Mitch opens up about a sudden stroke that changed everything. 🎙️ In This Episode: The growing rush of drivers — and how runners can stay safe. The surprising kindness of strangers (and how we sometimes reac...
Send us a text Race registrations used to be simple — mail in a form, get a cotton T-shirt, and go run. But today? It’s a maze of add-ons, cancellation policies, and sneaky fees. In this episode, Lewis and Mitch break down the true cost of racing — from marathon entry fees that have doubled, to $50 5Ks, to whether those “insurance” and “VIP” packages are even worth it. We’ll dig into: How registration sites and convenience fees quietly add up Why cancellation and deferral policies are so ...
Send us a text In this week’s episode of the I Don’t Know Running Podcast, Lewis and Mitch dive deep into a topic every runner struggles with: recovery. From mixing up training with walk/run intervals to recognizing when slowing down actually makes you stronger, they share honest stories, laughs, and research-backed insights about the importance of rest. We cover: Why active recovery beats complete rest 🏃♂️ The dangers of the “no days off” mentality How even elites like Kipchoge use slow...
Send us a text Virtual races exploded during the pandemic, but do they still have a place in the running world today? In this episode of the I Don’t Know Running Podcast, Louis and Mitch dive into the debate: Are virtual races just glorified training runs with medals—or do they provide real value, accessibility, and motivation for runners everywhere? We share our own experiences with virtual marathons, discuss programs like the NYRR Virtual 6 and runDisney’s virtual series, and explore how t...
Send us a text In this episode of the I Don’t Know Running podcast, Lewis and Mitch dive into the question: Is running addicting—or is it just part of who we are? From the joy of small wins (like stringing together three miles after a long layoff) to the deep lows of injury, we explore how running can shape identity, regulate mood, and even become a coping mechanism. We also talk about: 📚 Ryan Hall’s book Run the Mile You’re In and the connection between faith and running 🤯 The science beh...
Send us a text In this episode of the I Don’t Know Running Podcast, Lewis and Mitch dive into a hot topic in the running world—AI training plans vs. hiring a coach. Can artificial intelligence really guide you through a 100K ultra, or is the wisdom and accountability of a human coach irreplaceable? Along the way, Lewis shares updates from his California Fall Classic 100K training cycle, including how he’s handling knee flare-ups, back-to-back long runs, and even practicing “aid station” stra...
Send us a text This week on the I Don’t Know Running Podcast, Mitch shares his journey back from injury using a run-walk approach and the lessons he’s learning along the way. Meanwhile, Lewis dives into his 100K training, the grind of running in the summer heat, and why Zone 2 training has become the key to staying healthy. We also cover: Injury recovery, knee pain, and learning when to actually rest How slowing down can make running more enjoyable (and social!) Stretching & recovery ...
Send us a text In this episode of the I Don’t Know Running Podcast, Lewis and Mitch dive into the unspoken (and sometimes ignored) rules of trail running. From yielding to uphill runners and bikers, to respecting horses, hikers, and even wildlife, we unpack what it means to be a good steward of the trails. We also share stories of surprising encounters, muddy mistakes, headphone mishaps, and why respecting closures is so important for preserving the spaces we love. Whether you’re a seasoned ...
Send us a text Would you pop a blister mid-race? Drain a hematoma on the trail? Peel off a black toenail just to keep moving? In this episode of the I Don’t Know Running Podcast, we dive into the wild (and sometimes gross) things ultrarunners do to get to the finish line. We’re talking toenails, vomiting stories, hallucinations, dehydration struggles, and the fine line between being a badass and being reckless. Plus, we throw in a little Michigan accent lesson and a reminder that safety alwa...
Send us a text In this episode of the I Don’t Know Running Podcast, Lewis shares how one small heart rate monitor issue spiraled into a full-blown shopping spree—including a new Garmin watch, trail shoes, and more (thanks, Mark 😅). Then, we break down the ultimate race research checklist—everything you should know before signing up for your next race: ✅ Where to find legit race info ✅ What every race website should include (but often doesn't) ✅ How to avoid race-day surprises (like no bathro...
Send us a text Boston just shook the running world. In this episode of the I Don’t Know Running podcast, Louis and Mitch dive deep into the Boston Marathon’s newly announced qualifying changes for 2027 — specifically targeting net downhill races like those in the REVEL series. From time penalties to outright disqualifications, these rule updates have serious implications for runners on the edge of qualifying. We unpack: What the new qualifying tiers mean (5- and 10-minute penalties) Why r...
Send us a text After a year off from consistent running, Lewis shares the aha moment that reignited his passion—and led him to sign up for the California Fall Classic 100K. From dealing with injury, rediscovering motivation, and booking last-minute flights, to breaking down a 15-week ultra training plan, this episode dives into the mindset, mistakes, and excitement that come with getting back on the trail. Mitch and Lewis unpack the highs and lows of making a big commitment, discuss race log...
Send us a text This week on the I Don't Know Running Podcast, Lewis and Mitch dive into one of the most exciting Western States Endurance Runs in recent memory! 🏃♂️🔥 From Caleb Olson's near-record finish and Killian Jornet's incredible comeback, to Mitch’s return to running (kind of) and Lewis’ big plans—this episode is packed with updates, insight, laughs, and just enough cautionary advice about training too hard too soon. We also talk about: ✅ The top 10 men’s and women’s results ✅ FKTs a...
Send us a text Could YOU run 70 miles a day for over a month? 😳 In this episode of the I Don’t Know Running podcast, we dive into the world of FKTs (Fastest Known Times), highlighting the legendary Appalachian Trail—2,190+ miles of rugged terrain from Georgia to Maine. We break down what an FKT actually is, the difference between unsupported, self-supported, and supported runs, and how runners like John Kelly, Scott Jurek, and Jennifer Pharr Davis have etched their names into endurance histo...
Send us a text In this deeply personal episode of the I Don’t Know Running podcast, Mitch opens up about the mental, emotional, and physical toll of losing something that once defined him—running. After years of racing, training, and building a lifestyle around the sport, a series of health challenges forced Mitch to face life without running. From walking the neighborhood to battling unknown medical issues, to dealing with the weight of identity loss and emotional burnout—this episode is ra...
Send us a text Western States season is here, and we are fired up! In this episode of the I Don’t Know Running podcast, Lewis and Mitch dive deep into what makes the Western States 100 the most iconic ultra of them all—from personal memories to the 2024 race preview. We talk Killian’s return, Walmsley’s surprising drop, the rise of 70+ age group finishers (including an 80-year-old!), and predictions for the men’s and women’s podiums. Plus, we break down Brian Steinberg’s incredible 5-hour Yo...
Send us a text In this episode of the I Don’t Know Running podcast, we dive into 10 of the most unique marathons in the world — from sipping wine in France to dodging giraffes in Kenya, running under the midnight sun in Norway, and freezing your toes off in Antarctica. 🏃 Mitch also shares his experience spectating the Bayshore Marathon (and why he didn’t love it), and we celebrate a friend’s epic Boston Qualifier! Whether you're looking for your next bucket list race or just love hearing ab...
Send us a text Is running a marathon breaking your bank? 🏦 Not anymore. In this episode of the I Don’t Know Running Podcast, Lewis and Mitch break down how to train and race without draining your wallet. From cheap fueling tips and free training plans to smart gear hacks and race entry strategies, they share real-world ideas that actually work—even if you're a "lazy ultrarunner" just getting back in the game. 💸 Learn how to: – Fuel your training on a tight budget – Find the best cheap or fre...
Send us a text Can you still love running when you're not chasing a PR? Absolutely. In this episode, Lewis and Mitch dive into how to rediscover joy in the journey—not just the destination. Whether you're toeing the line at your first 5K or your 50th ultra, this conversation is for anyone learning how to run for fun, community, mental health, and personal growth. 🗣️ We also respond to listener feedback from California about Courtney Dauwalter and talk stats, 200-mile race history, and why we...
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