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 In this episode of the I Don’t Know Running Podcast, Lewis and Mitch dive deep into the hilarious, confusing, and sometimes awkward language barrier between runners and non-runners. From “easy runs” that aren’t actually easy, to why runners own more shoes than they have feet, we unpack the quirks that make running culture so unique. Mitch also shares updates on his string of doctor visits, the ongoing search for answers, and what it’s like getting back into running slowly — on...
Send us a text Lewis and Mitch hit record deep in a gray fog, fresh off mid-day naps and low brainpower… so of course they talk about the thing that keeps ultrarunners going when everything feels bleak: aid station food. In this episode of the I Don’t Know Running podcast, they break down the classic, the weird, and the downright magical foods that can save your race—from salty potatoes and pickle juice to Coke, ramen, grilled cheese, and mashed potatoes. They share stories from races like T...
Send us a text This week on the I Don’t Know Running Podcast, Lewis and Mitch dive into one of the wildest, most chaotic, and downright unbelievable events in running history: the 1904 St. Louis Olympic Marathon. But first… Lewis got NEW CONTACTS and he’s telling literally everyone. 😂 Mitch tries to keep him on track (he fails), but eventually they shift gears into the true highlight of this episode: a marathon so outrageous it sounds fictional. 🔥 Inside This Episode: Why starting a marath...
Send us a text What makes a marathon truly iconic? Is it the history, the challenge, the crowds — or the story behind the miles? In this episode, Lewis and Mitch explore the most historic and legendary marathons from around the world. From the ancient origins of the race in Greece to modern greats like Boston, London, Chicago, and New York, they unpack what makes these events so meaningful to runners everywhere. 🏛️ The Ancient Athens Marathon — where it all began 🏃♂️ Boston & Yonkers —...
Send us a text In this episode, Lewis survives grasshopper season 🌱🦗 and discovers a wild new fitness challenge — combining golf and an ultra run. Yes… someone ran 92 miles and played 810 holes of golf in 24 hours. New life goal? Maybe. 😅 Meanwhile, Mitch celebrates a BIG win — not running today — and reflects on rebuilding fitness, embracing rest, and hitting his first 5-mile run again. 👏 Then, we dive into the Running Paradox: how different cultures view running — from spiritual journeys ...
Send us a text We went all-in on the California Fall Classic 100K—remote aid, relentless climbing, and a day that turned into a masterclass in ultra mindset. Lewis ran ~50 miles (≈11,000 ft gain) before pulling the plug at Warm Springs, and this episode is the honest debrief: what went right, what tanked, and how to fix it next time. What’s inside Course reality check: almost no flat; it’s either up or down Crew logistics: easy to crew, minimal cell service, simple station access The hard...
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...
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