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I Don't Know Running

I Don't Know Running

Author: Lewis Hayden and Mitch Brouwer

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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.
180 Episodes
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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...
Send us a text In this episode of the I Don't Know Running podcast, we take a deep dive into one of the most grueling and iconic endurance challenges in the U.S.—the Manitou Springs Incline in Colorado. With 2,744 steps, a 2,000 ft elevation gain, and an average 45% grade (peaking at 68%!), this isn't your average “short” hike. Join Lewis and Mitch as they unpack the incline's wild history, personal stories (like competitive friends drama on the stairs), and staggering stats—like the guy who...
Send us a text This week on the I Don't Know Running Podcast, we're diving deep into one of the most epic ultramarathons out there — the Cocodona 250. From record-breaking performances to wild weather swings and strategic 10-minute trail naps, this race has it all. We cover: 🏔️ What makes this 250+ mile race so iconic 🏃 Course record highlights from Dan Green and Rachel Entin 🌩️ The impact of Arizona’s unpredictable weather 💤 Sleep strategy hacks during multi-day ultras ❌ Courtney Dauwalter’...
Send us a text This week on I Don’t Know Running, Lewis admits he's a lazy ultrarunner with lunch money and Mitch just wants better coffee. But don’t worry—we eventually get to the topic: staying consistent with your running! We break down the real reasons why consistency matters, how it affects your physical, mental, and emotional health, and how to overcome the common motivation killers like bad weather, family schedules, and that comfy couch. Plus, strategies that actually work—from setti...
Send us a text Welcome back to the I Don't Know Running Podcast! This week, Lewis and Mitch are bringing the energy — talking about grumpy old men vibes, hilarious listener comments, and why running with your dog might just be the best thing ever. 🐕🏃‍♂️ We kick things off with a shoutout to James is Talking — a fellow runner sharing his journey on YouTube. Be sure to check out his channel here: James is Talking YouTube Channel! https://www.youtube.com/@UCEYTPodaWbzoDbnPtZUy9Sg Then we...
Send us a text From the gritty 5Ks of the '70s to the virtual races of today, running has come a long way—and we’re breaking it all down. In this episode of the I Don’t Know Running Podcast, Lewis and Mitch continue their generational deep dive, this time focusing on how running events have changed over the decades. We cover everything from: The classic era of local road races The marathon boom of the 2000s The rise of themed races and fun runs Gen Z’s influence on the future of running ...
Send us a text In this episode of the I Don’t Know Running Podcast, Lewis and Mitch dive into the generational divide in running. From vintage sweatshirts to Nike shoe pods, we explore how Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z approach running—motivations, tech, fashion, races, and more. Who’s running for mental health? Who’s chasing PRs? And who’s just trying to make it through the week in New Balance and jean shorts? We’re not here to judge (okay maybe a little), but we are here to laugh, compare...
Send us a text 📦 What's in your race day bag? In this episode of the I Don’t Know Running Podcast, Lewis and Mitch dive deep into the essential marathon gear every runner needs and get real about the pre-race jitters we all feel—yes, even seasoned marathoners! From shoes and socks to nipple guards and positive self-talk, we’re covering it all (with the usual laughs and randomness, of course). 🎯 Whether you’re prepping for your first marathon or your fifteenth, we’ve got tips to help you feel...
Send us a text In this episode of The I Don't Know Running Podcast, Lewis and Mitch are back—boot-free (almost) and ready to talk about the training myths that runners hear all the time. Do you really need to run every day? Will more miles actually make you better? Does stretching actually prevent injury? We dig into the good, the bad, and the funny when it comes to common running advice. From marathon-specific myths to general training misconceptions, we’re sharing what we’ve learned (and la...
Send us a text In this episode of *The I Don’t Know Running Podcast*, we sit down with returning guest Shawn as she shares her powerful story of finally conquering the 100k distance at The Black Canyon 100K in Arizona! 🏃‍♀️🌵 From past DNF setbacks to training challenges in snowy Michigan, Shawn opens up about the highs, lows, and everything in between—including hydration mistakes, nutrition struggles, the stunning Arizona desert views, and how she *never gave up* even when things got ...
Send us a text Trail running is on the rise, and in this episode of The I Don’t Know Running Podcast, we dive into the stats proving it! 📈🏃‍♀️ With participation skyrocketing, races getting longer, and more runners shifting from road to trail, we explore why this trend is set to explode in 2025. Along the way, Lewis shares his eventful morning (featuring dog poop and a high-speed Audi ride), Mitch updates us on his recovery and first steps, and we discuss just how tough it is to get into the...
Send us a text Ever wondered how to run without getting tired? In this episode of the I Don't Know Running Podcast, we dive into strategies for beginners looking to run longer with less fatigue. From pacing techniques and mindset shifts to nutrition and recovery, we cover everything you need to know—whether you're training for your first mile or tackling an ultra marathon. 🏃‍♂️ Key Topics Covered: ✔️ How beginners can build endurance ✔️ The importance of pacing and gradual progression ✔️ Nut...
Send us a text In this episode of The I Don’t Know Running Podcast, we’re diving into essential running techniques that can make your runs more enjoyable and efficient—whether you’re just getting started or looking to improve! 🏃‍♀️💨 From posture and breathing to foot strike and knee drive, we cover practical tips that can help you feel better and go farther. Plus, we go down some hilarious rabbit holes about bizarre world records (caterpillar marathons, anyone? 🐛) and dream up some creative ...
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