Podcasts – Marathon Training Academy: Recent Episodes
Angie and Trevor
In this episode Coach Angie shares how to have the confidence to trust your training to go the distance on race day. This is how you finish 26.2 miles when your longest distance in training is only 20 miles. Plus, Trevor is back from a 45 day tour through Italy, Austria, Germany, Slovenia, Croatia, and Portugal. Hear his “pro tips” for traveling in these countries.
Links Mentioned in This Episode*Speak with a MTA Running Coaching* about your goals! We are here to help you get to the next level.
*MetPro.co* -get a complimentary assessment and consultation with a metobolic coach.
*Run the Athens Marathon* with Angie, Trevor, and Dean Karnazes! See this page for details.
*Altra Running -Altra shoes are designed with the Altra Fit, with room for your toes for comfort, balance, and strength. Use code MTA10* for 10% off. And Stay Out There with Altra.
*The Richmond Marathon* in Richmond, Virginia. Sign up for the Capital One 8k!
*Drury Hotels -where the extras are not extra! Use our link to save 10% on your stay or use the code RN2025*.
Imagine surviving your first marathon, only to nearly die from drinking water. In this episode, a Barcelona-based listener shares his terrifying battle with water intoxication—and the powerful life lessons he took from the finish line. Plus, Trevor breaks down his ultimate, off-the-beaten-path “Beer Hall Crawl” through Bavaria. Tune in to discover the hidden local spots most American tourists completely miss!
Links Mentioned in This Episode*Speak with a MTA Running Coaching* about your goals! We are here to help you get to the next level.
*Run the Athens Marathon* with Angie, Trevor, and Dean Karnazes! See this page for details.
*Altra Running -Altra shoes are designed with the Altra Fit, with room for your toes for comfort, balance, and strength. Use code MTA10* for 10% off. And Stay Out There with Altra.
*The Richmond Marathon* in Richmond, Virginia. Sign up for the Capital One 8k!
*AG1 Next Gen* has new flavors: Citrus, Tropical, and Berry. Get a free Welcome Kit with your first order which includes AG1 Travel Packs, a shaker bottle, metal canister, and a bottle of AG Vitamin D3+K2.
*Yohay Elam* Linkedin profile.
In this episode we speak with Dimity McDowell about her new book The 27th Mile: How to Smooth the Rough Transition Out of Your Running Years. Dimity has written for numerous publications including Runner’s World, ESPN, The New York Times, and Sports Illustrated. In 2010 she cofounded Another Mother Runner. A mother of two, she lives in Denver, Colorado, with her husband and two dogs.
Links Mentioned in This Episode*Speak with a MTA Running Coaching* about your goals! We are here to help you get to the next level.
*Run the Athens Marathon* with Angie, Trevor, and Dean Karnazes! See this page for details.
*Altra Running -Altra shoes are designed with the Altra Fit, with room for your toes for comfort, balance, and strength. Use code MTA10* for 10% off. And Stay Out There with Altra.
*The Richmond Marathon* in Richmond, Virginia. Sign up for the Capital One 8k!
*AG1 Next Gen* has new flavors: Citrus, Tropical, and Berry. Get a free Welcome Kit with your first order which includes AG1 Travel Packs, a shaker bottle, metal canister, and a bottle of AG Vitamin D3+K2.
*IQBAR* brain and body-boosting bars, hydration mixes, and mushroom coffees. Their Ultimate Sampler Pack includes all three! Get 20% off plus FREE shipping. Just text “MTA” to 64000.
*Dimity’s Book*: The 27th Mile
In this episode we bring you along on our epic 80-mile running adventure in the Italian Dolomites. Hear trail running tips from our expert mountain guides, and inspiration from podcast listeners who joined us in the Alps!
Special thanks to Jeff Thompson, Carly Brown, Louise Turner, Liz Mukherji, Bekah Shininger, Sonia Dolan, Hank Grabowski, Melissa Bently, Julia Cassandra, Marybeth Duke, Bud Haas, Sheila O’Neil, and our guides from Run the Alps: Bruno Yates, Alistair Crompton, and Marion Giraud!
Links Mentioned in This Episode*Speak with a MTA Running Coaching* about your goals! We are here to help you get to the next level.
*Previnex* -makers of Joint Health Plus and Muscle Health Plus -two products I take every day that help me maximize my recovery and performance as a long distance runner. Use code MTA for 15% off your first order.
*Altra Running -Altra shoes are designed with the Altra Fit, with room for your toes for comfort, balance, and strength. Use code MTA10* for 10% off. And Stay Out There with Altra.
*The Richmond Marathon* in Richmond, Virginia. Sign up for the Capital One 8k!
*AG1 Next Gen* has new flavors: Citrus, Tropical, and Berry. Get a free Welcome Kit with your first order which includes AG1 Travel Packs, a shaker bottle, metal canister, and a bottle of AG Vitamin D3+K2.
*Our Instagram*: see photos @marathonacademy
*Bekah Shininger Instagram*: for more fun videos from our trip see @bekinreallife
Day 1: OrtiseiDistance – 18.76 km / 11.73 miles
Elevation Gain – 457 m / 1522 ft
Elevation loss – 1029 m / 3427 ft
Day 2: Plattkofel HütteDistance – 24.57 km / 15.35 miles
Elevation gain – 1,340 m / 4462 ft
Elevation loss – 1034 m / 3443 ft
Day 3: SelvaDistance – 16.04 km / 10 miles
Elevation gain – 642 m / 2137 ft
Elevation loss – 1369 m / 4558 ft
Day 4: San CasianoDistance – 16.59 km / 10.37 miles
Elevation gain – 980 m / 3263 ft
Elevation loss – 1024 m / 3409 ft
Day 5: Refugio LagazuoiDistance – 18.36 km / 11.48 miles
Elevation gain – 1287 m / 4285 ft
Elevation loss – 311 m / 1036 ft
Day 6: CortinaDistance – 22.32 km / 13.95 miles
Elevation gain – 354 m / 1178 ft
Elevation loss – 1882 m / 6267 ft
Day 7: CortinaDistance – 10.76 km / 6.73 miles
Ascent – 574 m / 1911 ft
Descent – 975 m / 3246 ft
In this episode we bring you part 2 of our Ask the Coach Q&A as we tackle questions about fueling for an ultra, shin splints, bunions, super shoes, strength training, runner’s trots, knee pain, fueling, and running postpartum.
*Speak with a MTA Running Coaching about your goals! We are here to help you get to the next level. Lagoon Sleep* -With Lagoon pillows, you’ll fall asleep faster because you’re matched with the pillow that will be most comfortable for your sleep position and body type. Use the code “MTA” for 15% off your first purchase.
*Altra Running -Altra shoes are designed with the Altra Fit, with room for your toes for comfort, balance, and strength. Use code MTA10* for 10% off. And Stay Out There with Altra.
*AG1 Next Gen* has new flavors: Citrus, Tropical, and Berry. Get a free Welcome Kit with your first order which includes AG1 Travel Packs, a shaker bottle, metal canister, and a bottle of AG Vitamin D3+K2.
*IQBAR* brain and body-boosting bars, hydration mixes, and mushroom coffees. Their Ultimate Sampler Pack includes all three! Get 20% off plus FREE shipping. Just text “MTA” to 64000.
*Coach Angie Spencer* is a running coach and registered nurse who has finished 72 marathons (including 6 ultramarathons). She lives in central Pennsylvania with Trevor and their three sons.
*Coach Abby Omerza* is the Head Coach at MTA and has a Master of Science in Exercise Physiology and Fitness Leadership. She’s a Boston qualifier, ultra-runner, and triathlete who lives near Chicago, Illinois.
In this episode Coach Angie and Coach Abby answer questions about running marathons (and getting faster) after age 50, considerations for female runners in menopause and perimenopause, heart rate training, the Maffetone Method, ultra training and more! Thanks to everyone who sent in a question!
*Speak with a MTA Running Coaching about your goals! We are here to help you get to the next level. MetPro.co* -get a complimentary assessment and consultation with a metobolic coach.
*Lagoon Sleep* -With Lagoon pillows, you’ll fall asleep faster because you’re matched with the pillow that will be most comfortable for your sleep position and body type. Use the code “MTA” for 15% off your first purchase.
*Altra Running -Altra shoes are designed with the Altra Fit, with room for your toes for comfort, balance, and strength. Use code MTA10* for 10% off. And Stay Out There with Altra.
*IQBAR* brain and body-boosting bars, hydration mixes, and mushroom coffees. Their Ultimate Sampler Pack includes all three! Get 20% off plus FREE shipping. Just text “MTA” to 64000.
*Coach Angie Spencer* is a running coach and registered nurse who has finished 72 marathons (including 6 ultramarathons). She lives in central Pennsylvania with Trevor and their three sons.
*Coach Abby Omerza* is the Head Coach at MTA and has a Master of Science in Exercise Physiology and Fitness Leadership. She’s a Boston qualifier, ultra-runner, and triathlete who lives near Chicago, Illinois.
In this episode, we speak with longtime Academy member Cari Masek, who ran her first marathon after being inspired by an episode of this podcast. Running has changed her life — giving her the confidence to set goals, dream big, and inspire others.
Links Mentioned in This Episode*Run Coaching*. Work with an expert MTA Running Coach.
*June 3 is Global Running Day and UCAN is doing their biggest sale of the year! Get 40% OFF sitewide with code MTA40*. Stock up on long-lasting, easy-on-the-gut fuel, including the NEW Strawberry Kiwi and Citrus Energy Gel + Electrolytes.
*Altra Running -Altra shoes are designed with the Altra Fit, with room for your toes for comfort, balance, and strength. Use code MTA10* for 10% off. And Stay Out There with Altra.
*AG1 Next Gen* has new flavors: Citrus, Tropical, and Berry. Get a free Welcome Kit with your first order which includes AG1 Travel Packs, a shaker bottle, metal canister, and a bottle of AG Vitamin D3+K2.
*Cari Masek* is an avid runner, race pacer, and coach. She races every distance from 5k to 50k, with her favorite being the Half Marathon. Having completed over 100 half marathons, she is currently working on a ONE STATE goal to run every half in Ohio.
She volunteers as a pacer at seven local half marathons, a race director at two local races, and as a coach for three different kids programs. She has been the head coach of the Centerville Striders Elementary Cross Country team for fourteen years. Knowing she is making a positive impact on the next generation of runners (k-6th grade) means more to her than any personal accomplishment.
Cari ran her first marathon after being inspired by an episode of the Marathon Training Academy and would say running has absolutely changed her life too, teaching her to set goals and dream big. The running community is the best and she is grateful to be a part of it.
In this episode we share our top three gear picks, running books, favorite marathons, runners we admire, interesting things we’ve found on a run, embarrassing running mishaps, daily healthy habits and more!
Links Mentioned in This Episode*Run Coaching*. Work with an expert MTA Running Coach.
*Previnex* -makers of Joint Health Plus and Muscle Health Plus -two products I take every day that help me maximize my recovery and performance as a long distance runner. Use code MTA for 15% off your first order.
*Altra Running -Altra shoes are designed with the Altra Fit, with room for your toes for comfort, balance, and strength. Use code MTA10* for 10% off. And Stay Out There with Altra.
*IQBAR* brain and body-boosting bars, hydration mixes, and mushroom coffees. Their Ultimate Sampler Pack includes all three! Get 20% off plus FREE shipping. Just text “MTA” to 64000.
In this episode we speak with bestselling author Martin Dugard about the inspiring people who made running mainstream. The first NYC Marathon only had 127 runners (only 1 woman). Now it draws over 50,000 runners (half of whom are women) and over 2 million spectators. Martin Dugard explains how we got here. Hear about Steve Prefontaine, Frank Shorter, Joan Benoit, Grete Waitz, Bill Rogers, Jim Ryun, and others.
Links Mentioned in this Episode*Run Coaching*. Work with an expert MTA Running Coach.
*Altra Running -Altra shoes are designed with the Altra Fit, with room for your toes for comfort, balance, and strength. Use code MTA10* for 10% off. And Stay Out There with Altra.
*AG1 Next Gen* has new flavors: Citrus, Tropical, and Berry. Get a free Welcome Kit with your first order which includes AG1 Travel Packs, a shaker bottle, metal canister, and a bottle of AG Vitamin D3+K2.
*Lagoon Sleep* -With Lagoon pillows, you’ll fall asleep faster because you’re matched with the pillow that will be most comfortable for your sleep position and body type. Use the code “MTA” for 15% off your first purchase.
Martin Dugard is the author of a dozens #1 NYT bestsellers. He is a Fellow of Great Britain’s Royal Geographical Society, board member of USA Track and Field Foundation, and a high school distance running coach.
His new book is called The Long Run: Steve Prefontaine, Frank Shorter, Joan Benoit, Grete Waitz, and the Decade That Made the Marathon Cool.
In this episode Angie and Trevor discuss the watershed moment that just happened at the London Marathon when two runners smashed the 2 Hour Barrier in the marathon. Sabastian Sawe of Kenya ran 1:59:30 and Yomif Kejelcha of Ethiopia finished 2nd in 1:59:41! How did we get to this moment and what can we learn from it?
Links Mentioned in This Episode*Run Coaching*. Work with an expert MTA Running Coach.
*MetPro.co* -get a complimentary assessment and consultation with a metobolic coach.
*Altra Running -Altra shoes are designed with the Altra Fit, with room for your toes for comfort, balance, and strength. Use code MTA10* for 10% off. And Stay Out There with Altra.
*IQBAR* brain and body-boosting bars, hydration mixes, and mushroom coffees. Their Ultimate Sampler Pack includes all three! Get 20% off plus FREE shipping. Just text “MTA” to 64000.
*AG1 Next Gen* has new flavors: Citrus, Tropical, and Berry. Get a free Welcome Kit with your first order which includes AG1 Travel Packs, a shaker bottle, metal canister, and a bottle of AG Vitamin D3+K2.
In this episode we speak with Sara Hall about her new memoir ‘For The Love Of The Grind’! Sara won the Master’s Division at the 2026 Boston Marathon with a time of 2:31:55.
Sara Hall has been competing for over twenty years and has been nationally ranked for almost three decades. She is a previous American record holder in the Half Marathon when she ran 1:07:15 at the Houston Half in 2022. Sara and Ryan Hall live in Flagstaff, Arizona, and have four adopted daughters from Ethiopia.
*For the Love of the Grind* is a love letter to running, and the story of Sara’s growth as an athlete, wife, and mom.
Links Mentioned in This Episode*Run Coaching*. Work with an expert MTA Running Coach.
*UCAN -Try the FREE UCAN Trial Sample Pack which includes bars, powders, gels, and hydration products — 6 total items. Just pay shipping. Save 25% on your entire order with code MTA*.
*Altra Running -Altra shoes are designed with the Altra Fit, with room for your toes for comfort, balance, and strength. Use code MTA10* for 10% off. And Stay Out There with Altra.
*IQBAR* brain and body-boosting bars, hydration mixes, and mushroom coffees. Their Ultimate Sampler Pack includes all three! Get 20% off plus FREE shipping. Just text “MTA” to 64000.
*AG1 Next Gen* has new flavors: Citrus, Tropical, and Berry. Get a free Welcome Kit with your first order which includes AG1 Travel Packs, a shaker bottle, metal canister, and a bottle of AG Vitamin D3+K2.
Trevor and Angie here just jumping into your podcast feed with an important announcement! Do you dream of running the Authentic Athens Marathon? This coming November we are teaming up with Dean Karnazes for a special tour for listeners to the MTA Podcast. Join us in Athens, Greece, for 7 days of running, sight-seeing, trying amazing cuisine, and hanging out with other likeminded runners (and spouses).
The trip starts on *November 5th and ends November 13th 2026*. The tour is near capacity so please email us soon if you want to go!
SEE THIS PAGE FOR DETAILS: https://www.marathontrainingacademy.com/athens-marathon-tour-with-mta-and-dean-karnazes
The *Authentic Athens Marathon* follows the historic route from the seaside village of Marathon to the Panathenaic Stadium, where the first modern Olympic Games were held in 1896. This route commemorates the legendary feat of the marathon runner Pheidippides, who, according to tradition, ran from Marathon to Athens in 490 BC to announce the Greek victory at the Battle of Marathon, before collapsing and dying of exhaustion.
Our host *Dean Karnazes is author of the book The Road to Sparta -Reliving the Ancient Battle and Epic Run That Inspired the World’s Greatest Footrace*. Dean has been featured on The Today Show, 60 Minutes, The Late Show with David Letterman, CBS News, CNN, ESPN, The Howard Stern Show, NPR’s Morning Edition, Late Night with Conan O’Brien, the BBC, and many others. He has appeared on the cover of Runner’s World, Outside, and Wired magazine’s, and has been featured in TIME, Newsweek, People, GQ, The New York Times, USA TODAY, The Washington Post, Men’s Journal, Forbes, The Chicago Tribune, The Los Angeles Times, the Wall Street Journal and the London Telegraph, to mention a few.
In this episode, Trevor and Angie take you behind the scenes of what happened after Trevor completed his first marathon in 2011. Flashback with us to a sub-4 breakthrough in New Orleans, road trips to Alaska, running through the Olympic Stadium in Munich, trail adventures in the Alps, and the incredible listener community that literally hosted us in their homes from Missoula to Switzerland. You never know what running a marathon will lead to next!
Links Mentioned in this Episode*Run Coaching*. Work with an expert MTA Running Coach.
*Lagoon Sleep* -With Lagoon pillows, you’ll fall asleep faster because you’re matched with the pillow that will be most comfortable for your sleep position and body type. Use the code “MTA” for 15% off your first purchase.
*Previnex* -makers of Joint Health Plus and Muscle Health Plus -two products I take every day that help me maximize my recovery and performance as a long distance runner. Use code MTA for 15% off your first order.
*Drury Hotels* -where the extras are not extra! Use our link to save 10% on your stay.
MTA meetup in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, 2014MTA meet up at the 2015 Marine Corps Marathon2016 MTA meet up at the Berlin MarathonWith Andy and Franziska at Oktoberfest 1 week before the Munich Marathon2018 camper trip to Alaska for Angie to run the Juneau MarathonWith Barbara and David after The Jungfrau Marathon in SwitzerlandTony, Dominique, and boys. This family was a Godsend at the end of the Kaisermarathon in AustriaRunning in the Italian Alps in 2021Lake Tisza relay in Hungary with Krisztian and HuckWith MTA fans Fiona, Ron, and Brummell at the Beer Lovers’s Marathon in BelgiumGroup photo with the amazing runners who joined us in 2024 for the TMBfrom our 2025 running retreatRace morning at the Dublin Marathon 2025
In this episode Coach Angie shares what she’s learned about training as she’s gotten older. She ran her first marathon in 2008 and has since completed 72 marathons and ultras. What has she learned about recovery, nutrition, strength, and balancing running with life? Enjoy!
Links Mentioned in This Episode*Lagoon Sleep* -take their awesome 2 minute sleep quiz to find your match. Use the code “MTA” for 15% off your first purchase.
*The North Face* offers everything you want to outfit your next outdoor adventure from rugged, expedition-proven luggage to haul all of your gear, to award-winning trail running footwear and performance apparel! Never Stop Exploring
*IQBAR* brain and body-boosting bars, hydration mixes, and mushroom coffees. Their Ultimate Sampler Pack includes all three! Get 20% off plus FREE shipping. Just text “MTA” to 64000.
In this episode we speak with Mike Wardian -the 51 year old adventure runner who recently set the record for fastest 50k on Seven Continents in Seven Consecutive Days! He’s also planning to row across the Atlantic Ocean.
Links Mentioned in This Episode*Run Coaching*. Work with an expert MTA Running Coach.
*Air Doctor Pro* air purifier: use promo code MTA to get UP TO $300 off today! AirDoctor comes with a 30-day money back guarantee, plus a 3-year warranty—an $84 value, free!
*IQBAR brain* and body-boosting bars, hydration mixes, and mushroom coffees. Their Ultimate Sampler Pack includes all three! Get 20% off plus FREE shipping. Just text “MTA” to 64000.
Michael Wardian short bio: Husband, Father, Ship Broker, Sponsored Elite Runner (sponsored by Teva), Speaker, Running Coach, Chess Player, Pickleballer, Beekeeper, Guinness World Record Holder, Race Director, Dog Runner. Wardian has set 25 Fastest Known Time running records in five countries and he races frequently at multiple distances. He has won national championships at 50k, 50 miles, and 100k. He has completed the 7 Continents Challenge three times, set a FKT on the AT, and has run across the US.
In this episode Angie shares the story of how she went from struggling to train for her first marathon to becoming a Marathon Maniac, 50 State Marathon finisher, ultra-runner, and coach. We hope her story will be an inspiration to you!
Links Mentioned in This Episode*Run Coaching. Work with an expert MTA Running Coach.MetPro.co* -See what it’s like working with your own metabolic coach!
*IQBAR* brain and body-boosting bars, hydration mixes, and mushroom coffees. Their Ultimate Sampler Pack includes all three! Get 20% off plus FREE shipping. Just text “MTA” to 64000.
*AG1 Next Gen* has new flavors: Citrus, Tropical, and Berry. Get a free Welcome Kit with your first order which includes AG1 Travel Packs, a shaker bottle, metal canister, and a bottle of AG Vitamin D3+K2.
In this episode we pay tribute to *Jeff Galloway* (1945-2026) who passed away on February 25th at the age of 80. Jeff was an Olympian, author of over 20 books, and the creator of the Galloway Run/Walk/Run method (also called “Jeffing”).
Hear an excerpt from our 2015 interview with Jeff; plus Coach Angie explains how to incorporate the Run/Walk/Run Method in your training.
Links Mentioned in This Episode*Run Coaching*. Work with an expert MTA Running Coach.
*MetPro.co* -See what it’s like working with your own metabolic coach.
*UCAN* -get the Trial Sample Pack for free with our link, just pay shipping!
In this episode we reach into the podcast vault and play a recording from when Trevor ran his first full marathon. This is an entertaining look at the joy and agony a first-timer feels, especially someone who once hated running.
After two years of hard work Trevor was able to transform himself from a desk potato to a successful marathon finisher. He ran the 2011 St. Louis Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon with a finishing time of 4:31:40. He’s since completed 25 marathons and two 50ks.
Links Mentioned in This Episode*Run Coaching*. Work with an expert MTA Running Coach.
*IQBAR* brain and body-boosting bars, hydration mixes, and mushroom coffees. Their Ultimate Sampler Pack includes all three! Get 20% off plus FREE shipping. Just text “MTA” to 64000.
*AG1 Next Gen* has new flavors: Citrus, Tropical, and Berry. Get a free Welcome Kit with your first order which includes AG1 Travel Packs, a shaker bottle, metal canister, and a bottle of AG Vitamin D3+K2.
*Drury Hotels* -where the extras are not extra! Use our link to save 10% on your stay.
*Altra Running* -Altra shoes are designed to fit the natural shape of feet with room for your toes, for comfort, balance, and strength. So you can focus on what really matters: Getting out there!
In this episode we are joined by Coach Henry Howard to talk about the myths and facts around ultramarathon training . . . and answer questions from podcast listeners.
Henry Howard was coached by Angie from 2014-2016 and was able to PR, BQ, and run his first ultra. Now he is a coach on our team helping clients reach their potential! He is a Certified Running Coach, 3:16 marathoner and has multiple Boston, NYC, and Chicago qualifiers. He has finished more than 45 marathons and ultras (50k to 100 miles) with some podium finishes. Most recently he finished the Dinosaur Valley 100k in 15:11!
Links Mentioned in This Episode*Run Coaching*. Work with an expert MTA Running Coach.
*IQBAR* brain and body-boosting bars, hydration mixes, and mushroom coffees. Their Ultimate Sampler Pack includes all three! Get 20% off plus FREE shipping. Just text “MTA” to 64000.
*AG1 Next Gen* has new flavors: Citrus, Tropical, and Berry. Get a free Welcome Kit with your first order which includes AG1 Travel Packs, a shaker bottle, metal canister, and a bottle of AG Vitamin D3+K2.
*Altra Running* -Altra shoes are designed to fit the natural shape of feet with room for your toes, for comfort, balance, and strength. So you can focus on what really matters: Getting out there!
In this episode Ultramarathon Man Dean Karnazes shares the 4 P’s for achieving big goals and how he pushes through the tough miles. Plus, you will learn the history of the world’s first marathon (held in 1896). And we share details about the epic 2026 Athens Marathon Tour which will be co-hosted by MTA and Dean Karnazes!
Links Mentioned in This Episode*Athens Marathon Tour with Dean Karnazes and MTA*. The tour starts on November 5th and ends November 13th 2026. Space is limited so please email us if you want to go!
*Run Coaching*. Work with an expert MTA Running Coach.
*Altra Running* -Altra shoes are designed to fit the natural shape of feet with room for your toes, for comfort, balance, and strength. So you can focus on what really matters: Getting out there!
*UCAN* -get the Trial Sample Pack for free with our link, just pay shipping!
*Dean Karnazes* has pushed his body and mind to inconceivable limits. Among his many accomplishments, he has run 50 marathons, in all 50 US states, in 50 consecutive days. He’s run across Death Valley in the middle of summer, and he’s run a marathon to the South Pole.
His list of competitive achievements include winning the World’s Toughest Footrace, the Badwater Ultramarathon, and winning the 4 Deserts Challenge, racing in the hottest, driest, windiest and coldest places on earth.
He’s the author of 5 books:
- Ultra Marathon Man -Confessions of an All Night Runner
- 50/50 -SECRETS I LEARNED RUNNING 50 MARATHONS IN 50 DAYS
- Run -26.2 Stories of Blisters and Bliss
- A Runner’s High -My Life in Motion
- The Road to Sparta -Reliving the Ancient Battle and Epic Run That Inspired the World’s Greatest Footrace
A NY Times bestselling author, he’s been featured on The Today Show, 60 Minutes, The Late Show with David Letterman, CBS News, CNN, ESPN, The Howard Stern Show, NPR’s Morning Edition, Late Night with Conan O’Brien, the BBC, and many others. He has appeared on the cover of Runner’s World, Outside, and Wired magazine’s, and has been featured in TIME, Newsweek, People, GQ, The New York Times, USA TODAY, The Washington Post, Men’s Journal, Forbes, The Chicago Tribune, The Los Angeles Times, the Wall Street Journal and the London Telegraph, to mention a few.
In this episode we bring you a marathon success story with Katie Low -who was able to transform her training and achieve the dream of running a BQ at the California International Marathon. In this conversation Katie shares how she went from being chronically fatigued and under-fueled to having more energy for training and running a marathon without hitting the wall!
Katie works as a character animator at Walt Disney Animation Studios and is co-host of the Animation Happy Hour Podcast.
*Talk to our Head Coach* about your goals in 2026. Free 30 minute consultation.
*Joint Health Plus* by Previnex -prevention is the best medicine and you need to protect your joint cartilage from breakdown. Get 30% off during their Black Friday Sale (no coupon code needed) or use code MTA for 15% off your first order the rest of the year.
*AG1 Next Gen* has new flavors: Citrus, Tropical, and Berry. Get a free Welcome Kit with your first order which includes AG1 Travel Packs, a shaker bottle, metal canister, and a bottle of AG Vitamin D3+K2.
*IQBAR* brain and body-boosting bars, hydration mixes, and mushroom coffees. Their Ultimate Sampler Pack includes all three! Get 20% off plus FREE shipping. Just text “MTA” to 64000.
This is our annual book episode! Angie and Trevor discuss the books they enjoyed in 2025– top picks for both fiction and nonfiction.
Links Mentioned in This Episode*Run Coaching*. Work with an expert MTA Running Coach.
*MetPro.co* -See what it’s like working with your own metabolic coach.
*Altra Running* -Altra shoes are designed to fit the natural shape of feet with room for your toes, for comfort, balance, and strength. So you can focus on what really matters: Getting out there!
*AG1 Next Gen* has new flavors: Citrus, Tropical, and Berry. Get a free Welcome Kit with your first order which includes AG1 Travel Packs, a shaker bottle, metal canister, and a bottle of AG Vitamin D3+K2.
*IQBAR* brain and body-boosting bars, hydration mixes, and mushroom coffees. Their Ultimate Sampler Pack includes all three! Get 20% off plus FREE shipping. Just text “MTA” to 64000.
The Book Episode: Our Top Reads in 2025Angie got through a total of 241 books in 2025. (95 fiction and 146 nonfiction)(audio = 144, hardcopy = 94, ebook = 3).
Authors We Interviewed on the PodcastHere are the books we featured on the podcast this year. See links to the author interviews.
- Think Like a Runner by Jeff Horowitz
- How to Run the Perfect Race by Matt Fitzgerald
- The Norwegian Method by Brad Culp
- The Explorer’s Gene by Alex Hutchinson
- Ballistic by Henry Abbott
- Extreme Balance by Joe DeSena
- The Runaway Housewives of the Appalachian Trail by Kitty Robinson
- Fuel for Thought by Renee McGregor
- Don’t Call it a Comeback by Keira D’Amato
- Lootie’s World Run by Marie Leautey
- The Running Ground by Nicolas Thompson
Angie’s Top 10 Non-Fiction Reads:*The Art of Memoir* by Mary Karr
Memoir is one of my favorite genres and this book takes a peak behind the scenes on writing an engaging memoir. In fact, Mary Karr weaves in so many personal anecdotes that it doesn’t feel like a how-to book at all. Some of the core principles she talks about have to do with dealing with the truth as you remember it, turning vulnerability into art, and finding your unique story. Everyone from the casual reader to someone who wants to write a memoir will enjoy this book.
*Awake* by Jen Hatmaker
I’ve followed Jen Hatmaker on Instagram for a number of years and she has a very funny and relatable way of sharing her life. Her latest book is a memoir and talks about the dissolution of her 25 year marriage and how she had to come awake to many important areas in her life as a result.
*Bad Therapy- Why The Kids Aren’t Growing Up* by Abigail Shrier
The author is an investigative journalist who argues that aspects of the mental health industry is harming American children by over-diagnosing and over-treating normal struggles. It’s important to get children the mental health help that they need but Shrier warns that normal developmental challenges and emotions are sometimes mislabeled as mental disorders which can lead children to adopt an “illness identity.”
*It Didn’t Start With You* -How Inherited Family Trauma Shapes Who We Are and How to End the Cycle by Mark Wolynn
This book talks about how trauma and epigenetic are linked. Trauma can change how our genes work and influence stress responses, health, and mood and these alterations can be passed down to future generations, which can help explain intergenerational trauma. This was a very eye opening book and helpful for anyone processing struggles linked to family history.
*The Marvelous Pigness of Pigs* by Joel Salatin
Since reading Michael Pollan’s book, The Omnivore’s Dilemma, I’ve been working on getting the meat our family eats from ethically sustainable sources. Joel Salatin, owner and operator of Polyface Farms, makes the case for how farming and ranching practices need to change (for the good of the environment, the animals, the farmer, and society in general).
*Inner Excellence* by Jim Murphy
This is a book that was first published back in 2009 and was updated in 2020. It has been used by many professional athletes and high achievers to develop a stronger mental and emotional game. NFL player, A.J. Brown of the Philadelphia Eagles, was filmed reading this book on the sidelines of a January 2025 playoff game and the book started selling thousands of copies. Some of the principles in the book that resonated with me were detaching self-worth from outcomes so that your identity isn’t tied to results or achievements. Instead of asking, “How did I do?” Ask, “What did I learn?” Another important take-away was learning to gain control over my inner world. We don’t have to believe everything our mind tells us. Yes, we should recognize emotions and thoughts but then come back to our core values to develop self-mastery.
*Estrogen Matters* -Why Taking Hormones in Menopause Can Improve Women’s Well-Being and Lengthen Their Lives- Without Raising the Risk of Breast Cancer (Revised and Updated) by Avrum Bluming and Carol Tavris
As a woman in perimenopause I’ve been educating myself on how to make this transition in life work for me. As a result I started using Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) two years ago and it has improved my life physically, mentally, and emotionally. Thankfully the FDA removed the black box warning on HRT in 2025 after years of misinformation. This book is a must read for women in their mid-30’s and up, those who have experienced surgical menopause, or anyone who wants to understand the role of estrogen more completely.
*From Strength to Strength*– Finding Success, Happiness, and Deep Purpose in the Second Half of Life by Arthur C. Brooks
Brooks is a Harvard professor and happiness columnist for The Atlantic. He draws on philosophy, social science, biography, and spirituality to offer a helpful roadmap for aging well in the second half of life. In order to embrace, and not fight, the inevitable decline we need to redefine success (moving away from being primarily validated by money or job titles) and look to internal measures like a deeper sense of purpose, wisdom, strong relationships, and service to others.
*Nuclear War: A Scenario* by Annie Jacobson
Annie Jacobson is one of those authors from which I will read anything she writes. In this rather bleak (but fascinating) book she lays out the history of nuclear programs throughout the world and presents a scenario in which nuclear weapons are used. Spoiler alert- there are no good outcomes.
*Breath- The New Science of a Lost Art* by James Nestor
I’ve struggled with allergies since childhood, dealing with a lot of nasal congestion. As a result I was a mouth breather and this book challenged me to take a look at my breathing patterns and make some changes. Over the course of a year I trained myself to breathe through my nose during the day (but nighttime was a bigger challenge). A few months ago I started using mouth tape at night (and an airflow clip nasal dilator called Snore Less Now to open up my airway). I’ve experienced better mouth hygiene and deeper sleep as a result.
Honorable Mentions (nonfiction) Hidden Potential by Adam Grant
* All the Way to the River by Elizabeth Gilbert
* Slow Productivity by Cal Newport
* Evidence Not Seen by Darlene Deibler Rose
* Revenge of The Tipping Point by Malcolm Gladwell
* The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins
* Invisible Women by Caroline Criado Perez
* Everything is Tuberculosis by John Green
* You Could Make This Place Beautiful by Maggie Smith
* The Next Conversation by Jefferson Fisher
Angie’s Top 10 Fiction Reads:The Grey Wolf by Louise Penny (#19 in the Armand Gamache series) and The Black Wolf* (#20 in this series)
If you enjoy mysteries and thrillers this series is excellent. I’ve particularly enjoyed listening to them on audiobook since I’m not a French speaker and would probably mispronounce many names and places otherwise.
*The Life Impossible* by Matt Haig
I’ve enjoyed every book that author Matt Haig has written and this one was no exception. The Life Impossible follows a retired math teacher named Grace who is grieving the loss of her husband and son. She receives an unexpected inheritance which forces her outside of her comfort zone, helping her to deal with her past and find new purpose for the future.
*Demon Copperhead* by Barbara Kingsolver
This book is a modern retelling of Charles Dicken’s David Coperfield. It follows a boy named Damon Fields who is born into poverty in modern rural Appalachia. He has a very tumultuous life particularly because of the weakness of the foster care system. The book deals with some very heavy subjects but it’s ultimately a story of resilience and the power of finding hope in community and through art.
*The Burning White* by Brent Weeks
This is the fifth and final book in the Lightbringer Series, a modern fantasy set in a world governed by light and the magic of Chromaturgy. In this world, some people called drafters have the ability to harness light to create a physical substance called “luxin.” Each color has unique powers and identity and the drafter is changed over time.
*Red Rising Series* by Pierce Brown
My teens had read this series a few years ago so I was a bit late to the game. But once I finished the first book, Red Rising, I devoured the other five in this fantasy/sci-fi series and am eagerly waiting for the final book to be released in the summer of 2026. The series centers on class warfare because of a rigid caste system and the main character gets involved in an attempted revolution. This fast paced series is full of action and violence and is set in space.
*The Measure* by Nikki Erlick
In this book everyone who reaches a specific age receives a box revealing their lifespan. The story follows eight people who wrestle with the decision whether to open their boxes or not and what to do with the information they get. Ultimately it’s an uplifting book that encourages us to live life to the fullest.
*Twice* by Mitch Albom
This is a magical realism novel about a boy named Alfie who discovers that he gets two chances at everything in his life. It has a very engaging storyline (which kept me guessing until the end). It really made me see even more value in imperfection and the growth that comes from learning.
*Marble Hall Murders* by Anthony Horowitz
This mystery follows freelance editor Susan Ryleland who finds herself unwillingly entangled in the death of an author whose book she is working on. I enjoy a mystery that keeps me guessing.
*The Loneliness of Sonia and Sunny* by Kiran Desai
I enjoyed the audiobook version of this book which follows the story of Sonia and Sunny who are both Indian immigrants to the United States and who are navigating love, family, country, class, and race.
Trevor’s Top Reads in 2025:Trevor managed to finish 41 books last year. These ones rose to the top:
*How the Irish Saved Civilization* -The Untold Story of Ireland’s Heroic Role from the Fall of Rome to the Rise of Medieval Europe by Thomas Cahill. Basically, the Irish saved civilization because their monasteries preserved classical texts, learning, and book making after the fall of the Roman Empire. Irish monks later established monasteries on continental Europe which became centers of learning.
*American Nations* -A History of the Eleven Rival Regional Cultures of North America by Colin Woodard. This was a paradigm shaping book and provides the best explanation that I’ve heard for regional differences in the USA.
*As You Wish* -Inconceivable Tales from the Making of The Princess Bride (1987) by Cary Elwes. If you love the movie, listen to the audio book as Cary Elwes and other cast members share behind-the-scenes stories.
*The Shortest History of Ancient Rome* -A Millennium of Western Civilization, from Kingdom to Republic to Empire: A Retelling for Our Times by Ross King. Trevor is a big fan of the Shortest History Series because they provide short overviews without getting too myopic or tedious.
*Mark Twain* by Ron Chernow. This is a 1,200 page tome or 45 hours on audio book. Fun fact! Twain smoked between 22-40 cigars per day. Let’s end with some Mark Twain quotes:
“The only way to keep your health is to eat what you don’t want, drink what you don’t like, and do what you’d druther not.”
“Age is an issue of mind over matter. If you don’t mind, it doesn’t matter”.
“Never argue with stupid people, they will drag you down to their level and beat you with experience.”
“The man who does not read good books has no advantage over the man who cannot read them”.
It’s time for our annual Year In Review where we take a look back at the top records, breakthroughs, and notable stories to come out of the running world in 2025. We bring you both the inspiring and the bizarre, it’s all in here!
Links Mentioned in This Episode*Run Coaching*. Work with an expert MTA running Coach.
*Join the Academy* and access our new course Optimizing Your Running Form by Coach Athena!
*Altra Running* -Altra shoes are designed to fit the natural shape of feet with room for your toes, for comfort, balance, and strength. So you focus on what really matters: Getting out there.
*AG1 Next Gen* has new flavors: Citrus, Tropical, and Berry. Get a free Welcome Kit with your first order which includes 5 AG1 Travel Packs, a shaker bottle, metal canister, and a bottle of AG Vitamin D3+K2.
*MetPro.co* -For the first time ever, MetPro is offering MTA listeners a full 30-day experience for just $95 with absolutely no strings attached! See what it’s like working with your own metabolic coach. Limited to the first 30 people.
In this episode Coach Athena joins the podcast to answer questions about optimizing running form. Athena ran her first marathon in 2002 and she learned some lessons the hard way! Listen as she answers questions about over-striding, heel striking, glute activation, core strength, proper form while running hills, and if it makes sense to tinker with your natural running form. Enjoy!
Links Mentioned in This Episode*Run Coaching*. Work with an expert MTA running Coach.
*Join the Academy* and access our new course Optimizing Your Running Form by Coach Athena!
*Joint Health Plus* by Previnex -prevention is the best medicine and you need to protect your joint cartilage from breakdown. Get 30% off during their Black Friday Sale (no coupon code needed) or use code MTA for 15% off your first order the rest of the year.
*Altra Running* -Altra shoes are designed to fit the natural shape of feet with room for your toes, for comfort, balance, and strength. So you focus on what really matters: Getting out there.
*IQBAR* brain and body-boosting bars, hydration mixes, and mushroom coffees. Their Ultimate Sampler Pack includes all three! Get 20% off plus FREE shipping. Just text “MTA” to 64000.
*AG1 Next Gen* has new flavors: Citrus, Tropical, and Berry. Get a free Welcome Kit with your first order which includes 5 AG1 Travel Packs, a shaker bottle, metal canister, and a bottle of AG Vitamin D3+K2.
*Coach Athena* has a Masters degree in Exercise Science and Health Promotion and is an Exercise Physiologist. She is also a RRCA Level 2 Certified Running Coach, UESCA Ultra Run Coach a Certified Personal Trainer, Corrective Exercise Specialist, Performance Enhancement Specialist, and Certified Coach in Menopause for Athletes and Women Are Not Small Men courses and Menopause Fitness Specialist. She has completed 18+ marathons (5 Boston qualifiers), 11+ ultras, countless half marathons and numerous obstacle race 1st place finishes. She lives and trains in San Antonio, Texas.
In this episode we bring you an interview with Doug Mayer -writer, ultra runner, and founder of Run the Alps. Hear Doug’s thoughts on cultivating an endurance mindset, new trends in trail running, and what it’s like to run in the Italian Dolomites. Plus, Trevor shares key takeaways from his journey to North America’s largest trade show for runners.
Links Mentioned in This Episode*2026 Running Retreat* in the Italian Dolomites with Run the Alps. See this page for details. The tour starts on June 16th 2026. (8-nights, 9-days).
*Run Coaching*. Work with an expert MTA running Coach.
*UCAN* -get the Trial Sample Pack for free with our link, just pay shipping!
*Altra Running* -Altra shoes are designed to fit the natural shape of feet with room for your toes, for comfort, balance, and strength. So you focus on what really matters: Getting out there.
*IQBAR* brain and body-boosting bars, hydration mixes, and mushroom coffees. Their Ultimate Sampler Pack includes all three! Get 20% off plus FREE shipping. Just text “MTA” to 64000.
*Drury Hotels* -Get 10% off your stay with our link!
Doug Mayer grew up skiing in New Hampshire’s White Mountains and in a past life he worked as a Producer for the NPR show Car Talk. Today he is the owner of Run the Alps and writes for a number of trail running media outlets, including Outside, Trail Runner, and Ultrasignup. His latest book is ‘The Last of the Giants’, a graphic novel about running Italy’s 330-km long Tor des Géants trail race. He also wrote ‘The Race that Changed Running: The Inside Story of UTMB‘. He lives in Chamonix, France, with his partner and dog Izzy.
In this episode we speak with Nicolas Thompson -CEO of The Atlantic and author of the book, ‘The Running Ground -A Father, A Son, and the Simplest of Sports’. Hear his reflection on how running helped him amid personal crises; getting faster after 40; and how he finds time to fit running into his day.
Links Mentioned in This Episode*Run Coaching*. Work with an expert MTA running Coach.
*Altra Running* -Altra shoes are designed to fit the natural shape of feet with room for your toes, for comfort, balance, and strength. So you focus on what really matters: Getting out there.
*IQBAR* brain and body-boosting bars, hydration mixes, and mushroom coffees. Their Ultimate Sampler Pack includes all three! Get 20% off plus FREE shipping. Just text “MTA” to 64000.
*MetPro.co* -For the first time ever, MetPro is offering MTA listeners a full 30-day experience for just $95 with absolutely no strings attached! See what it’s like working with your own metabolic coach. Limited to the first 30 people.
Nicholas Thompson (born 1975) is an American technology journalist, author, and media executive. He has been the chief executive officer of the American magazine The Atlantic since February 2021. Thompson previously worked as editor-in-chief of Wired and The New Yorker’s website. He is the author of two non-fiction books, is a contributor for CBS News, and regularly appears on CBS This Morning and CBSN. Thompson competed in running as both a high school student and briefly on his college team at Stanford. In 2021, Thompson set the American 45-49 age-group record at the 50-kilometer distance after running 3:04:36 at the Brooks Row River 50K in Oregon. As of 2025, he had completed the New York City Marathon 12 times, running his fastest time of 2:29 at the age of 44.
In this episode we take you to Charm City Run in Frederick, Maryland, to speak with store owner Josh Levinson about running shoe tech and terminology. How are running shoes engineered these days and what is the insider terminology you should know? Learn about stack height, heel-to-toe drop, stability, energy return, carbon and nylon plates, midsole foam durometer, torsional rigidity, gusseted tongue, and more.
Josh and Kara Levinson opened their first specialty running store in 2002. Charm City Run now has 7 locations (six in Maryland and 1 in Delaware) and 200 employees!
Special thanks to Academy member Stefanie Smith for arranging this interview!
Links Mentioned in This Episode*Run Coaching*. Work with an expert MTA running Coach.
*Altra Running* -Altra shoes are designed to fit the natural shape of feet with room for your toes, for comfort, balance, and strength. So you focus on what really matters: Getting out there.
*Joint Health Plus* by Previnex -prevention is the best medicine and you need to protect your joint cartilage from breakdown. Get 30% off during their Black Friday Sale (no coupon code needed) or use code MTA for 15% off your first order the rest of the year.
*IQBAR* brain and body-boosting bars, hydration mixes, and mushroom coffees. Their Ultimate Sampler Pack includes all three! Get 20% off plus FREE shipping. Just text “MTA” to 64000.
*The Virginia Credit Union River City Half* -March 7 in Richmond, Virginia.
*2026 Running Retreat* in the Italian Dolomites with Run the Alps. See this page for details.
*Athens 2026 Marathon Tour* with MTA and Dean Karnazes. It’s going to be epic!
In this episode Coach Angie recaps the New York City Marathon and answers the question: does it live up to the hype? She shares her trepidation going into the race -especially after running a marathon the previous weekend. Hear tips on race-day logistics; and what’s it was like to run through the Five Boroughs.
Links Mentioned in This Episode*Run Coaching*. Work with an expert MTA running Coach.
*Run the London Marathon* in 2026 with Sports Tours International USA. They have guaranteed bibs for London, Berlin, Sydney, and Cape Town!
*Altra Running* -Altra shoes are designed to fit the natural shape of feet with room for your toes, for comfort, balance, and strength. So you focus on what really matters: Getting out there.
*UCAN* -get the Trial Sample Pack for free with our link, just pay shipping!
*AG1 Next Gen* has new flavors: Citrus, Tropical, and Berry. Get a free Welcome Kit with your first order which includes 5 AG1 Travel Packs, a shaker bottle, metal canister, and a bottle of AG Vitamin D3+K2.
Trevor and Angie here just jumping into your podcast feed to make an important announcement! Next summer we are hosting a running retreat in the beautiful Italian Alps, the Dolomites, and are inviting any listener to the podcast who wants to go!
The Dolomites are known for their unique jagged appearance and mix of Italian and Austrian culture and cuisine. We will trail run from village to village through this mountain paradise and finish at the famous resort town of Cortina D’Ampezzo where the 2026 Winter Olympics will be held.
The tour starts on June 16th 2026. Please email us if you are interested in going!
SEE THIS PAGE FOR DETAILS: https://www.marathontrainingacademy.com/running-retreat-in-the-dolomites
In this episode we bring you to the Dublin Marathon in Ireland for one of our “World Famous Race Recaps”! Hear voices of MTA Podcast listeners we met in Ireland, inspiring stories, and various shenanigans.
Links Mentioned in This Episode*Run Coaching*. Work with an expert MTA running Coach.
*Run the London Marathon* in 2026 with Sports Tours International USA. They have guaranteed bibs for London, Berlin, Sydney, and Cape Town!
*Altra Running* -Altra shoes are designed to fit the natural shape of feet with room for your toes, for comfort, balance, and strength. So you focus on what really matters: Getting out there.
*Joint Health Plus* by Previnex -prevention is the best medicine and you need to protect your joint cartilage from breakdown. Use code MTA for 15% off your first order!
*UCAN* -get the Trial Sample Pack for free with our link, just pay shipping!
The Irish Life Dublin Marathon was held for the 42nd time on Sunday, October 26, 2025. This is the largest mass participation sporting event in Ireland and one of the top five marathons in Europe. Special thanks to the listeners to the MTA podcast and spouses who met us in Dublin!
Jennifer and Ryan
David and Melissa
Sarah and Chris
Kevin and Lynn
Heidi
Cortney and Jon
Pat and Monica
Louise and Rachel
Kelsey and Clayton
Kathleen
Thanks also to Irish runners Niall, Djin, Kevin, Eoin from Sports Tours, Rose, Stephen, and Des!
Race morningGap of DunloeCliffs of Kerry
In this episode we speak with Alexi Pappas -Olympian, filmmaker, actor, and bestselling author. Listen as Trevor and Angie chat with Alexi about goal setting, navigating change, the importance of mentors, how she gets through the later miles of a race, and more!
*Bio:* Alexi Pappas was an NCAA All American athlete at Dartmouth College and the University of Oregon. She is a dual citizen and represented Greece in the 2016 Olympics setting a 10,000 meter national record. She has served as a guide runner for a para-athlete named Lisa Thompson in marathons and triathlons and is still chasing her own running goals. Her first book is called, ‘Bravey: Chasing Dreams, Befriending Pain, and other Big Ideas’ and she is currently at work on her second book. She hosts the Mentor Buffet Podcast and makes her home in Los Angeles where she loves running trails.
Links Mentioned in This Episode*Run Coaching*. Work with an expert MTA running Coach.
*Altra Running* -Altra shoes are designed to fit the natural shape of feet with room for your toes, for comfort, balance, and strength. So you focus on what really matters: Getting out there.
*AG1 Next Gen* has new flavors: Citrus, Tropical, and Berry. Get a free Welcome Kit with your first order which includes 5 AG1 Travel Packs, a shaker bottle, metal canister, and a bottle of AG Vitamin D3+K2.
*IQBAR* brain and body-boosting bars, hydration mixes, and mushroom coffees. Their Ultimate Sampler Pack includes all three! Get 20% off plus FREE shipping. Just text “MTA” to 64000.
*Run the London Marathon* in 2026 with Sports Tours International USA. They have guaranteed bibs for London, Berlin, Sydney, and Cape Town!
In this episode we speak with Marie Leautey -a French runner who became the fastest woman to run around the world: 4 continents, 680 marathons, and 28,249 kilometers!
Links Mentioned in This Episode*Run Coaching*. Work with an expert MTA running Coach.
*MetPro.co* -For the first time ever, MetPro is offering MTA listeners a full 30-day experience for just $95 with absolutely no strings attached! See what it’s like working with your own metabolic coach. Limited to the first 30 people.
*AG1 Next Gen* has new flavors: new flavors: Citrus, Tropical, and Berry. Get a free Welcome Kit with your first order which includes 5 AG1 Travel Packs, a shaker bottle, metal canister, and a bottle of AG Vitamin D3+K2.
*The Virginia Credit Union River City Half* -March 7 in Richmond, Virginia.
IQBAR brain and body-boosting bars, hydration mixes, and mushroom coffees. Their Ultimate Sampler Pack includes all three! Get 20% off plus FREE shipping. Just text “MTA” to 64000.
*Athens Marathon Tour* with MTA and Dean Karnazes
Bio: Marie Leautey who goes by the nickname “Lootie” is a former international CFO turned record breaking runner. Always a nomad at heart, she finally embraced her true passion in 2022, becoming the second woman- and fastest ever- to run a complete circumnavigation of the globe. She is the author of the book Lootie’s World Run- The Extraordinary True Story of the Fastest Woman to Have Run Around the World and currently lives in Greece with her partner.
In this episode we speak with three runners from Team Abbott — a community of runners who have faced serious health challenges but didn’t let those challenges define them!
About Our Guests*Elizabeth Pehota* (Boston, MA): Three days out from running the 2022 Berlin Marathon, Elizabeth Pehota experienced a feeling of pins and needles in her hands, feet and thighs, and an unnatural resistance while running. Soon after, she was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS), a chronic, unpredictable disease of the central nervous system. As someone who shares her daily life on social media, Elizabeth, @healthy_cheers on Instagram, only recently opened up about her diagnosis, but has already formed relationships with other MS patients around the world. Elizabeth is an Abbott World Marathon Major Six Star Finisher and received her seventh star in Sydney.
*Ed Barnes* (Douglas, MA): Ed was born with a congenital heart condition and at age 15 he started to experience frequent dizziness – to the point of nearly passing out – leading him to undergo open heart surgery to receive an Abbott artificial aortic heart valve. This year, after completing the Boston Marathon, Ed became the first person with an artificial heart valve to finish all seven Abbott World Marathon Majors.
*Mary Tawney Suarez* (Fullerton, CA): Just before the pandemic, Mary started experiencing seizures and was diagnosed with Epilepsy and a brain cyst. One year later, she started experiencing back pain and numbness in her legs, which was revealed to be the degeneration of the cerebral and lower part of her spine. Despite these obstacles, Mary has continued running, and just finished the Berlin Marathon.
Links Mentioned in This Episode*Run Coaching*. Work with an expert MTA running Coach.
*MetPro.co* -For the first time ever, MetPro is offering MTA listeners a full 30-day experience for just $95 with absolutely no strings attached! See what it’s like working with your own metabolic coach. Limited to the first 30 people.
*AG1 Next Gen* has new flavors: new flavors: Citrus, Tropical, and Berry. Get a free Welcome Kit with your first order which includes 5 AG1 Travel Packs, a shaker bottle, metal canister, and a bottle of AG Vitamin D3+K2.
*The Virginia Credit Union River City Half* -March 7 in Richmond, Virginia.
*Drury Hotels* -Get 10% off your stay with our link or use the code RN2025.
*Team Abbott* -a community of runners, many of whom have overcome health challenges, who are committed to inspiring others through their running journeys. To submit your story for a chance to join Team Abbott, visit abbott.com/marathons.
In this episode Coach Angie Spencer and Coach Erin Smith answer questions about running two marathons in the Fall, tune-up races, Fartlek runs, hill training when you live in a flat area, hip pain, IT band pain, sore legs, and more!
*Coach Angie Spencer* has run 70 marathons and ultras, including a marathon in every US state. She is a RRCA and USATF Certified Running Coach and Registered Nurse. Angie loves books and dark chocolate.
*Coach Erin Smith* has run everything from a 5ks to 100 milers as well as timed events and multi-day stage races. She is a RRCA Certified Running Coach and school teacher. Erin loves trail running, yoga, and helping runners with big goals.
Links Mentioned in This Episode*Run Coaching*. Work with a MTA running Coach.
*Joint Health Plus* by Previnex -prevention is the best medicine and you need to protect your joint cartilage from breakdown. Use code MTA for 15% off your first order!
IQBAR brain and body-boosting bars, hydration mixes, and mushroom coffees. Their Ultimate Sampler Pack includes all three! Get 20% off plus FREE shipping. Just text “MTA” to 64000.
*The Arcus2 RB9X by IceBug* -the ultimate shoe for running in any condition!
In this episode we apply the famous Hero’s Journey framework to marathon training and talk about how you can overcome obstacles, transform into a stronger runner, and gain the wisdom to inspire others!
Links Mentioned in This Episode*Run Coaching*. Work with a MTA running Coach.
*STEP SPORTS TOKYO* -a newly renovated flagship running store. Show them this episode and get 7% off plus tax-free service. Valid until the end of March 2026.
*Shokz– the industry leader and pioneer in open-ear headphone technology. Use code MTA for $10 off!*
IQBAR brain and body-boosting bars, hydration mixes, and mushroom coffees. Their Ultimate Sampler Pack includes all three! Get 20% off plus FREE shipping. Just text “MTA” to 64000.
*AG1 Next Gen* has three new flavors: Citrus, Tropical, and Berry. Get a free Welcome Kit with your first order which includes 5 AG1 Travel Packs, a shaker bottle, metal canister, and a bottle of AG Vitamin D3+K2.
In this episode we chat with *Keira D’Amato* author of the new book, ‘Don’t Call it A Comeback -What Happened When I Stopped Chasing PRs and Started Chasing Happiness’. Keira ran competitively in college but was sidelined with an ankle injury and decided to step away from running. After having two children she started running again to get in shape and have time for herself. Fast-forward to 2022, she broke the American record in the marathon, at the age of 37, with a blazing-fast time of 2:19:12!
Links Mentioned in This Episode*Run Coaching*. Work with a MTA running Coach.
*UCAN* -get the Trial Sample Pack for free with our link, just pay shipping!
*The Richmond Marathon* on November 15, 2024 -America’s Friendliest Marathon!
*Shokz– the industry leader and pioneer in open-ear headphone technology. Use code MTA for $10 off!*
Don’t Call It a Comeback -book by Keira D’Amato to be released on September 9th 2025.
In this episode we speak with Christina Henderson about the current state of the running industry and trends that are bringing more people into the sport. Brands today are focusing on: localism, sustainability, digital integration, and experiential retail. What does that mean for you as a consumer of running-related products and culture?
Christina Henderson is the director of The Running Event -North America’s premier run and outdoor specialty retail conference and trade show. She has been recognized as one of the “25 Women to Watch” in the running industry. Christina is a graduate of Columbia University and the University of Texas at Austin.
Links Mentioned in This Episode:*Run Coaching*. Work with a MTA running Coach.
*Joint Health Plus* by Previnex -prevention is the best medicine and you need to protect your joint cartilage from breakdown. Use code MTA for 15% off your first order!
IQBAR brain and body-boosting bars, hydration mixes, and mushroom coffees. Their Ultimate Sampler Pack includes all three! Get 20% off plus FREE shipping. Just text “MTA” to 64000.
*AG1 Next Gen* has new flavors: new flavors: Citrus, Tropical, and Berry. Get a free Welcome Kit with your first order which includes 5 AG1 Travel Packs, a shaker bottle, metal canister, and a bottle of AG Vitamin D3+K2.
*The Richmond Marathon* on November 15, 2024 -America’s Friendliest Marathon!
*Drury Hotels* -clean rooms and free food and drinks at the 5:30 Kickback. Use our link for 10% off!
*The Running Event* -massive trade show and industry conference on December 2-4, 2025.
In this episode we speak with Renee McGregor -sports dietitian and author of the book, ‘Fuel for Thought: A Practical Guide to Fueling for Your Adventures’.
Renee McGregor is a leading sports dietitian, specialising in Eating Disorders, REDs, The Female Athlete, Athlete Health and Performance. She’s worked with athletes across the globe, including supporting Olympic (London, 2012), Paralympic (Rio, 2016) and Commonwealth (Queensland, 2018) teams.
We want to give listeners a head’s up that we will be talking about eating disorders and REDs during this episode.
What is REDs (Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport)
The basis of REDs is low energy availability, or insufficient energy in the body to allow for the work that the individual wants to do. Low energy availability comes with a cost to our sport but also is costly to all the biological processes in our body, including the brain, heart, lungs, hormonal, and digestive systems. When low energy availability is combined with under recovery (training and general life stresses can all contribute to this) it throws the body into REDs. Some people can have unintentional or accidental REDs where the person doesn’t understand how much energy is required to maintain their biological functions and the training load. On the other hand, intentional REDs is a conscious decision to restrict intake or overtrain and usually involves some aspects of disordered eating and/or exercise dependency.
Sponsor Links*Run Coaching*. Work with a MTA running Coach.
Shokz– the industry leader and pioneer in open-ear headphone technology. Use code MTA for $10 off!
MetPro.co -For the first time ever, MetPro is offering MTA listeners a full 30-day experience for just $95 with absolutely no strings attached! See what it’s like working with your own metabolic coach. Limited to the first 30 people.
AG1 Next Gen has new flavors: new flavors: Citrus, Tropical, and Berry. Get a free Welcome Kit with your first order which includes 5 AG1 Travel Packs, a shaker bottle, metal canister, and a bottle of AG Vitamin D3+K2.
Fuel for Thought -book by Renee McGregor
In this episode we speak with Kitty Robinson, a listener to the podcast who shares what it’s like to keep running through pregnancy, raising a large family, and surviving both brain and heart surgery. Kitty exemplifies the saying, “You can do hard things”! She’s author of two books: ‘Sometimes Courage’ and ‘The Runaway Housewives of the Appalachian Trail’.
Links Mentioned in This EpisodeShokz– the industry leader and pioneer in open-ear headphone technology. Use code MTA for a discount!
IQBAR brain and body-boosting bars, hydration mixes, and mushroom coffees. Their Ultimate Sampler Pack includes all three! Get 20% off plus FREE shipping. Just text “MTA” to 64000..
AG1 Next Gen -get a FREE bottle of AG D3K2, an AG1 Welcome Kit, AND 5 of the upgraded AG1 travel packs with your first order.
Run the London Marathon in 2026 with Sports Tours International USA. They have guaranteed bibs!
In this episode we bring you to the Swiss Alps as we run from village to village with listeners to the MTA podcast. Plus we recap the legendary Eiger Ultra Trail race, which is part of the UTMB World Series.
*Special thanks to James and Susie Jin, Brad Rudler, Marcia Salovitz, Ryan Shea, Bekah Shininger, Robin Walters, Liz Sur, Marcia Mathison, Candis Ubiles, Mindy McCune, Kate Mattern, Alistair Crompton, Marion Giro, and Run the Alps!
Links Mentioned in This Episode*Run Coaching*. Work with a MTA running Coach.
*COROS Watches* will help you train according to heart rate. Use code MTA and get an additional free watch band with your purchase! Just pick the band you want, add it to your cart, and use code MTA.
*Joint Health Plus* by Previnex -prevention is the best medicine and you need to protect your joint cartilage from breakdown. Use code MTA for 15% off your first order!
*UCAN* -get the Trial Sample Pack for free with our link, just pay shipping!
*The Richmond Marathon* on November 15, 2024 -America’s Friendliest Marathon!
In this episode we speak with Joe De Sena an accomplished athlete, leader, and founder and CEO of Spartan. His goal is to get 100 million people off the couch. His new book is called, Extreme Balance: Paradoxical Principles That Make You a Champion. Life will throw many obstacles in your path, learn how an “unfixed mindset” can truly elevate your game.
Links Mentioned in This EpisodeShokz– the industry leader and pioneer in open-ear headphone technology. Use code MTA for a discount!
IQBAR brain and body-boosting bars, hydration mixes, and mushroom coffees. Their Ultimate Sampler Pack includes all three! Get 20% off plus FREE shipping. Just text “MTA” to 64000..
AG1 Next Gen -get a FREE bottle of AG D3K2, an AG1 Welcome Kit, AND 5 of the upgraded AG1 travel packs with your first order.
Run the London Marathon in 2026 with Sports Tours International USA. They have guaranteed bibs!
The Richmond Marathon on November 15, 2024 -America’s Friendliest Marathon!
Extreme Balance -book by Joe De Sena, Ben Askren, and David Sacks, Ph.D.
We have another international running adventure planed this year and you are invited. We are going to Ireland to run the Dublin Marathon on October 26th 2025. Do you want to go?
We have *6* spots left. Please email us or sign up with this link. Enter code MTA at checkout.
*Dates: Friday October 24th to Tuesday October 28th 2025 (3 night or 4 night options)*
The Dublin Marathon is the fourth largest marathon in Europe and requires a lottery or charity entry. The lottery has ended but worry not, we have guaranteed race entries through our sponsor Sports Tours International.
The course is relatively flat course with a 7 hour cut-off. It passes through many of Dublin’s famous 18th century Georgian streets and the beautiful Phoenix Park, Europe’s largest urban park. The race crosses the city, north and south of the river Liffey.
What is included:* Guaranteed race bibs for up to 2 runners * 3-4 nights accommodation at the 4 star Hyatt Centric The Liberties Hotel * Daily complementary breakfast * Welcome reception Friday evening * Shakeout run Saturday morning and escorted trip to the expo. * MTA meet-up later that day * Post-race party for all guests The Jamison ExtensionThe next day, for those who want to stay an extra night, we are visiting the Jamison Distillery where the famous Jameson whiskey is made for a cask draw and tasting. We will have a guided tour of their warehouse and hear all about our ‘Grain to Glass’ process. Then we plan to visit a famous pub or two like the Temple Bar Pub.
Spots are limited, so please email us if you are interested or sign up on the Sports Tours website with this link: https://sportstoursinternational.com/event/irish-life-dublin-marathon/
Enter code MTA at checkout to get notified about special events and meetups with Trevor and Angie in Dublin!
Cheers!
In this episode we interview Henry Abbott -sports journalist and author of the book ‘Ballistic, The New Science of Injury-Free Athletic Performance’. Plus, we run down our 7,000 mile road trip across the USA!
Henry Abbott is an award-winning journalist and founder of TrueHoop. He led ESPN’s 60-person NBA digital and print team, which published several groundbreaking articles and won a National Magazine Award. He lives in New Jersey. In the book, Ballistic, he blends cutting-edge science with gripping storytelling and argues that we are on the cusp of a new era in sports medicine, built around the science of ballistic movements―leaping and landing―and the unique fingerprint of your body’s physics.
Links Mentioned in This Episode*Run Coaching*. Work with a MTA running Coach.
*MetPro Nutrition Coaching* -speak with a Metabolic Expert about your goals and get actionable steps toward fueling for performance, losing weight, adding muscle, or changing your body composition. Get $500 off their concierge coaching.
*IQBAR* brain and body-boosting bars, hydration mixes, and mushroom coffees. Their Ultimate Sampler Pack includes all three! Get 20% off plus FREE shipping. Just text “MTA” to 64000..
*AG1 Next Gen* -get a FREE bottle of AG D3K2, an AG1 Welcome Kit, AND 5 of the upgraded AG1 travel packs with your first order.
*The Greenbrier River Trail Marathon and Half Marathon* in beautiful Pocahontas County, West Virginia. With this being one of the few WV marathons, it’s great for those 50-staters out there.
*Drury Hotels* -clean rooms and free food and drinks at the 5:30 Kickback. Use our link for 10% off!
*Book*: Ballistic- The New Science of Injury-Free Athletic Performance by Henry Abbott
Angie at the Silver Creek Trail Half Marathon in Washington
In this episode we visit with Olympic runner and Boston Marathon champion Des Linden. Hear about how she has used the words of doubters to her advantage; her shift to ultra and trail running; her thoughts on super shoes and more!
About Des LindenAfter being a two time all American at Arizona State University Des decided to give professional running a try. She went on to represent the United States in the 2012 London Olympics and the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics women’s marathon. In 2018, she became the first American woman in 33 years to win the Boston Marathon. She holds the women’s 50K world record of 2:59:54 set in 2021. The 2025 Boston Marathon was her final professional road race.
Des and her husband make their home in norther Michigan and operate a coffee company together. Des is sponsored by Coros, big thanks to Coros for arranging this interview! Don’t forget that you can use code MTA and get an additional free watch band with your purchase of a Coros watch.
Links Mentioned in This Episode**Run Coaching. Work with a MTA running Coach.
**COROS Watches will help you train according to heart rate. Use code MTA and get an additional free watch band with your purchase! Just pick the band you want, add it to your cart, and use code MTA.
**Riverbend Ranch -quality beef raised on American Ranches without hormones or antibiotics. Taste the difference for yourself. Use code MTA at checkout to receive $25 off your first order.
**Joint Health Plus by Previnex -prevention is the best medicine and you need to protect your joint cartilage from breakdown. Use code MTA for 15% off your first order!
**The Richmond Marathon on November 15, 2024 -America’s Friendliest Marathon!
**The Drury Hotel Company -we stayed at the downtown Cleveland Location and loved it! Use our link for 10% off!
**AG1 Next Gen -get a FREE bottle of AG D3K2, an AG1 Welcome Kit, AND 5 of the upgraded AG1 travel packs with your first order.
Des Linden Instagram: @des_linden
In this episode Coach Angie and Coach Erin answer questions about heart rate training, running in the heat, warm up drills, hydration, electrolyte sources, strength training, anxiety before long runs, finding time to train, and more! Thank you to everyone who sent in a question!
*Coach Angie Spencer* has run 70 marathons and ultras, including a marathon in every US state. She is a RRCA and USATF Certified Running Coach and Registered Nurse. Angie loves books and dark chocolate.
*Coach Erin Palos* is a Certified Running Coach and professional photographer. When she began her running journey it was all she could do to run a mile but she now she is a Boston qualifier, 12X marathoner, ultra runner and Half Ironman finisher. Erin lives in LA and loves to run with her huskies!
Linis Mentioned in This EpisodeRun Coaching. Work with a MTA running Coach.
COROS Watches will help you train according to heart rate. Use code MTA and get an additional free watch band with your purchase! Just pick the band you want, add it to your cart, and use code MTA.
Run the London Marathon in 2026! Preregister now for a travel package with Sports Tours International.
Lagoon Sleep -take their awesome 2 minute sleep quiz to find your match. Use the code “MTA” for 15% off your first purchase.
IQBAR -brain and body-boosting bars, hydration mixes, and mushroom coffees. Their Ultimate Sampler Pack includes all three! Get 20% off plus FREE shipping. Just text “MTA” to 64000.
In this episode we speak with Ultramarathon Man, Dean Karnazes, about the storied history of the marathon and the land that birthed the legend -Greece. And in the quick tip segment, Coach Angie answers a listener question about how to improve your marathon time as a masters runner.
Named by TIME magazine as one of the “100 Most Influential People in the World,” Dean Karnazes has pushed his body and mind to inconceivable limits. Among his many accomplishments, he has run 50 marathons, in all 50 US states, in 50 consecutive days. He’s run across Death Valley in the middle of summer, and he’s run a marathon to the South Pole.
On ten separate occasions he’s run a 200-mile relay race solo, racing alongside teams of twelve. His list of competitive achievements include winning the World’s Toughest Footrace, the Badwater Ultramarathon, and winning the 4 Deserts Challenge, racing in the hottest, driest, windiest and coldest places on earth.
A New York Times bestselling author, Dean is a frequent speaker and panelist at many running and sporting events worldwide.
Mentioned in This EpisodeGolden Marathon Tours Athens VIP Package -Dean’s tour company
Lagoon Sleep -take their awesome 2 minute sleep quiz to find your match. Use the code “MTA” for 15% off your first purchase.
AG1 Next Gen -get a FREE bottle of AG D3K2, an AG1 Welcome Kit, AND 5 of the upgraded AG1 travel packs with your first order.
Speak with a Running Coach about one-on-one coaching or join the Academy and use a MTA training plan.
In this episode we talk heart rate training with Dr. Phil Maffetone who is the creator of the MAF Method (180 minus your age) and an internationally recognized researcher in endurance science.
Dr. Phil Maffetone has worked with endurance athletes for more than thirty-five years. He is the author of eighteen books on health and fitness. He is perhaps best known for the Maffetone Method of heart rate training. Some of his clients have included running guru Dr. George Sheehan, famed New Zealand coach Arthur Lydiard, marathon great Grete Waitz, and six-time Hawaii Ironman world champion Mark Allen. Outside the sports arena, Dr. Maffetone has coached a variety of people in the entertainment field, including musicians James Taylor and Johnny Cash, The Red Hot Chili Peppers, and producer Rick Rubin.
Links Mentioned in This EpisodeRun Coaching. Work with a MTA running Coach.
COROS Watches will help you train according to heart rate. Use code MTA and get an additional free watch band with your purchase! Just pick the band you want, add it to your cart, and use code MTA.
Joint Health Plus by Previnex -prevention is the best medicine and you need to protect your joint cartilage from breakdown. Use code MTA for 15% off your first order!
The Richmond Marathon on November 15, 2024 -America’s Friendliest Marathon!
IQMIX -a zero-sugar drink mix from IQBAR that hydrates, boosts your mood and promotes mental clarity. Text MTA to 64000 to get twenty percent off all IQBAR products, plus FREE shipping. Message and data rates may apply.
Dr. Maffetone’s two websites:
https://philmaffetone.com
https://maffetonemusic.com/home
Updated MAF 180 Formula:Subtract your age from 180.
- Modify this number by choosing one category below that best applies to you:
If you have or are recovering from a major illness (including any operation or hospital stay), are in rehabilitation, have been prescribed any regular medication, or are chronically overtrained, subtract an additional 10. - If you are injured, have regressed or not improved in training (such as poor MAF tests) or competition, get more than two colds, flu or other infections per year, have seasonal allergies or asthma, are overfat, are acutely overtraining, or if you have been inconsistent, just beginning or returning to exercise, subtract an additional 5.
- If you have been training consistently (at least four times weekly) for up to 2 years without any of the problems mentioned in (a) or (b), no modification is necessary (use 180 minus age as your MAF HR).
If you have been training for more than 2 years without any of the problems listed above, have made progress in your MAF tests, and have improved competitively, add 5.
The resulting HR is the high end of the HR range with the low being 10 beats below. Train at this heart rate to build a strong aerobic base and improve the body’s ability to burn fat for fuel.
What people are saying,
“Excellent podcast episode! One of his interviews on MTA years ago got me started to run regularly, take care of my nutrition and many more things. I‘m forever thankful for his insights and wisdom!” -Steffen
In this episode we speak with Alex Hutchinson, author of the book ‘The Explorer’s Gene -Why We Seek Big Challenges, New Flavors, and the Blank Spots on the Map’.
Alex Hutchinson is the author of the New York Times bestseller ‘Endure’ and is a science journalist and Outside magazine’s longtime Sweat Science columnist. He has a PhD in Physics from Cambridge University and a MS in Journalism from Columbia. He was a long-distance runner for the Canadian national team and lives in Toronto.
His new book, The Explorer’s Gene, refutes the myth that the age of exploration is dead. The itch to discover new things persists in all of us, expressed not just on the slopes of Everest but in the ways we work, play, live, and run.
Links Mentioned in This EpisodeRun Coaching. Work with a MTA running Coach.
AG1 Next Gen -get a FREE bottle of AG D3K2, an AG1 Welcome Kit, AND 5 of the upgraded AG1 travel packs with your first order.
MetPro Nutrition Coaching -speak with a Metabolic Expert about your goals and get actionable steps toward fueling for performance, losing weight, adding muscle, or changing your body composition. Get $500 off their concierge coaching.
IQMIX -is a zero-sugar drink mix from IQBAR that hydrates, boosts your mood and promotes mental clarity. Get 20% off plus FREE shipping. Just text “MTA” to 64000.
The Greenbrier River Trail Marathon and Half Marathon in beautiful Pocahontas County, West Virginia. With this being one of the few WV marathons, it’s great for those 50-staters out there.
The Explorer’s Gene -book by Alex Hutchinson
Alex Hutchinson’s website
In this episode we bring you a conversation with Robin Walters -who just completed the Boston Marathon. This is a story about overcoming an acute injury, training through winter conditions, and what it’s like to accomplish a goal many years in the making!
Links Mentioned in This EpisodeRun Coaching. Work with a MTA running Coach.
Run the London Marathon in 2026! Preregister now for a travel package with Sports Tours International.
UCAN -we have been fueling with UCAN since 2013. As a listener to the podcast you can try UCAN Edge gels for FREE! all you pay is the cost of shipping. You can also get 20% off anything in their store with the code MTA.
AG1 Next Gen -get a FREE bottle of AG D3K2, an AG1 Welcome Kit, AND 5 of the upgraded AG1 travel packs with your first order.
In this episode we play an interview we did on the ‘I’ll Have Another Podcast’ with Lyndsey Hein. Lyndsey invited us to participate in her Behind the Mic series -where she interviews fellow podcasters in the running space. Hear us discuss podcasting, parenting, travel, books, our favorite marathons, and more!
Lindsey Hein lives in North Carolina with her husband of 15 years, Glenn and their four boys. She’s the founder of the podcast network SandyBoy Productions and host of I’ll Have Another and Why is Everyone Yelling? with Lindsey Hein. Lindsey has run 17 marathons and one half ironman. She loves podcasting, hosting live interviews and coaching runners!
Mentioned in This EpisodeWork with a Running Coach in 2025 or join the Academy and use a MTA training plan.
Joint Health Plus! -Protect your joint cartilage from breakdown. Use code MTA for 15% off your first order.
MetPro Nutrition Coaching -speak with a Metabolic Expert about your goals and get actionable steps toward fueling for performance, losing weight, adding muscle, or changing your body composition. Get $500 off their concierge coaching.
IQBAR -brain and body-boosting bars, hydration mixes, and mushroom coffees. Their Ultimate Sampler Pack includes all three! Get 20% off plus FREE shipping. Just text “MTA” to 64000.
In this episode we speak with Brad Culp -author of the book The Norwegian Method. Plus, Coach Angie discusses the value of Zone 2 Training.
Brad Culp is a sports journalist who has contributed to many triathlon publications. Culp has finished more than 100 races (including 15 marathons). He currently resides in Illinois with his wife and two children.
His new book is titled *The Norwegian Method-The Culture, Science & Humans Behind the Groundbreaking Approach to Elite Endurance Performance***.
Links Mentioned in This Episode Lagoon Sleep -take their awesome 2 minute sleep quiz to find your match. Use the code “MTA” for 15% off your first purchase.
AG1 -It’s the perfect time to start a new healthy habit and AG1 is offering new subscribers a FREE $76 gift when you sign up. You’ll get a Welcome Kit, a bottle of D3K2 AND 5 free travel packs in your first box.
IQBAR -brain and body-boosting bars, hydration mixes, and mushroom coffees. Their Ultimate Sampler Pack includes all three! Get 20% off plus FREE shipping. Just text “MTA” to 64000.
Work with a Running Coach in 2025 or join the Academy and use a MTA training plan.
In this episode we celebrate the 15 Year Anniversary of the Podcast! Listeners call in to tell us what running marathons and half marathons has taught them about life.
Runners from all over the world shared their inspiring stories, mantras, and advice. Thanks to everyone who sent in a voicemail, and THANK YOU ALL for supporting the podcast for the last 15 years!
Sponsor LinksDrury Hotels -our longest running sponsor! They have over 150 locations in 25 states; free food and drinks (the 530 kickback), clean rooms, great locations, indoor/outdoor pools, popcorn, reasonable rates. Get 10% off your stay with our link!
UCAN -we have been fueling with UCAN since 2013. As a listener to the podcast you can try UCAN Edge gels for FREE! all you pay is the cost of shipping. You can also get 20% off anything in their store with the code MTA.
Speak with a Running Coach about one-on-one coaching or join the Academy and use a MTA training plan.
In this podcast episode we talk about why you should run the World Marathon Majors; and how to get into the Berlin, Chicago, and NYC Marathons.
Plus we share a special announcement about a trip we are hosting to Dublin, Ireland!
The Abbott World Marathon Majors is the most prestigious marathon series in the world, hosting over 250,000 runners per year, and millions applying for a bib. There are basically 4 ways to get into each marathon as a non-elite runner.
- Enter the lottery
- Run for charity
- Qualify with a fast time
- Travel with a tour company
But as you will hear, there are many exceptions, nuances, and backdoor ways to get into the Majors.
Links Mentioned in This EpisodeSports Tours International USA -Join us at the Dublin Marathon! Get a race bib and 3 nights at a 4-start hotel. Use code MTA when you book your spot.
Joint Health Plus! -Protect your joint cartilage from breakdown. Use code MTA for 15% off your first order.
AG1 -It’s the perfect time to start a new healthy habit and AG1 is offering new subscribers a FREE $76 gift when you sign up. You’ll get a Welcome Kit, a bottle of D3K2 AND 5 free travel packs in your first box.
Speak with a Running Coach about one-on-one coaching or join the Academy and use a MTA training plan.
Here’s your guide to getting a race bib for the Tokyo, Boston, London, and Sydney Marathons! Our next episode will focus on Berlin, Chicago, and New York.
The Abbott World Marathon Majors is the most prestigious marathon series in the world, hosting over 250,000 runners per year, and millions applying for a bib. Many runners in our audience are working toward their Six Star Medal (Angie only needs 1 more star).
There are basically 4 ways to get into each marathon as a non-elite runner.
- Enter the lottery
- Run for charity
- Qualify with a fast time
- Travel with a tour company
But as you will hear, there are many exceptions, nuances, and backdoor ways to get into the Majors. We hope you enjoy this episode!
Links Mentioned in This EpisodeMetPro + MTA Coaching Deal. Special offer we’ve never done before limited to the first 30 people, signup for MetPro Nutrition coaching will also get MTA Run coaching included at no additional cost. $200 a month savings.
Lagoon Sleep -take their awesome 2 minute sleep quiz to find your match. Use the code “MTA” for 15% off your first purchase.
Sports Tours International USA -our top recommended marathon tour company for runners in the USA, UK, France, and Ireland.
AG1 -It’s the perfect time to start a new healthy habit and AG1 is offering new subscribers a FREE $76 gift when you sign up. You’ll get a Welcome Kit, a bottle of D3K2 AND 5 free travel packs in your first box.
Speak with a Running Coach about one-on-one coaching or join the Academy and use a MTA training plan.
In this episode we speak with Matt Fitzgerald author of the book ‘How to Run the Perfect Race -Better Racing Through Better Pacing’. Matt will explain why many runners struggle with pacing in the marathon. We also take a look at the concept of “Work Rate”; and the central governor theory of fatigue versus Brehm’s motivational intensity theory.
Links Mentioned in This EpisodeJoint Health Plus! -Protect your joint cartilage from breakdown. Use code MTA for 15% off your first order.
UCAN -try UCAN Edge gels for FREE all you pay is the cost of shipping. You can also get 20% off anything in their store with the code “MTA”.
Speak with a Running Coach about one-on-one coaching or join the Academy and use a MTA training plan.
Book: How to Run the Perfect Race -Better Racing Through Better Pacing
Matt Fitzgerald is a coach, nutritionist, and author of books on endurance sports including Pain & Performance, 80/20 Running, How Bad do you Want it and his most recent book “How to Run the Perfect Race- Better Racing Through Better Pacing.” He is cofounder of 80/20 Endurance and a lifelong endurance athlete.
In this episode we are joined by Coach Amber from MetPro to tackle nutrition questions sent in by listeners. We discuss meal timing, hydration, protein sources, menopause, how to balance performance and fat loss goals, managing cravings, fueling for an ultra, and we even dive into the current buzz around GLP1 medications.
Whether you’re training for a marathon or an ultra, you’ll get practical nutrition advice to help optimize your running. Thanks to everyone who sent in a question!
Links Mentioned in This EpisodeMetPro + MTA Coaching Deal. Special offer we’ve never done before limited to the first 30 people, signup for MetPro Nutrition coaching will also get MTA Run coaching included at no additional cost. $200 a month savings.
AG1 -It’s the perfect time to start a new healthy habit and AG1 is offering new subscribers a FREE $76 gift when you sign up. You’ll get a Welcome Kit, a bottle of D3K2 AND 5 free travel packs in your first box.
Coach Amber Velasquez has a Master of Health Sciences and is a Licensed and Registered Dietitian and a certified personal trainer. She’s a coach at MetPro and loves all things nutrition & fitness.
When we had her on the podcast last year it was our most listened to episode in 2024 according to Spotify.
In this episode we interview a long-time member of our community named Debbie Gelber who has reinvented herself through running. A self-described late bloomer to the sport, she stepped on the treadmill at age 40 with a goal of losing weight, over a decade later she’s training for her 51st marathon!
Debbie Gelber is a Fine Arts Instructor at South Plains College in Levelland, Texas. She is currently training for the Tokyo Marathon working with MTA Coach Carrie.
Links Mentioned in this EpisodeSpeak with a Running Coach about one-on-one coaching or join the Academy and use a MTA training plan.
The Drury Hotels -they have free breakfast and free food and drinks in the evening -something they call the 5:30 kick back. They have more than 150 locations in 26 states. Use our link to save 10% on your stay.
AG1 -It’s the perfect time to start a new healthy habit and AG1 is offering new subscribers a FREE $76 gift when you sign up. You’ll get a Welcome Kit, a bottle of D3K2 AND 5 free travel packs in your first box.
IQBAR -brain and body-boosting bars, hydration mixes, and mushroom coffees. Their Ultimate Sampler Pack includes all three! Get 20% off plus FREE shipping. Just text “MTA” to 64000.
Debbie Gelber’s website: https://debrunsto50.wordpress.com
In this episode we interview Dakotah Popehn who finished as the first American woman at the Olympic Marathon in Paris!
There was a time when she couldn’t fathom running 26.2, and actually DNF’d at her debut marathon. But she didn’t give up! Listen as Dakotah shares the lessons she’s learned along the way, tips on building mental strength, and the importance of getting good sleep during training.
Sponsor LinksLagoon Sleep -take their awesome 2 minute sleep quiz to find your match. Use the code “MTA” for 15% off your first purchase.
UCAN -try UCAN Edge gels for FREE all you pay is the cost of shipping. You can also get 20% off anything in their store with the code “MTA”.
Speak with a Running Coach about one-on-one coaching or join the Academy and use a MTA training plan.
Most people first heard of Dakotah Lindwurm at the 2024 Olympic Trails. She has since gotten married and goes by Dakotah Popehn. Dakotah is a 29 year old elite runner from Minnesota who has raced everything from the mile to the marathon. She won the Grandma’s Marathon in 2021 and 2022; finished 3rd at the US Olympic Trials in 2024; and finished as the first American female at the Paris Olympic Marathon with a time of 2:26:44. She lives with her husband in the Twin Cities.
In this episode we speak with Jeff Horowitz author of the book ‘Think Like a Runner -Understanding Why We Run and How to Do It Better’. Learn about the importance of “finding your why”; the difference between chronological age versus training age; and recommended training changes for older runners.
Formerly an attorney, Jeff quit law to pursue his passion for endurance sports. He currently teaches running at the George Washington University and has completed over 200 marathons and ultras across six continents.
Links Mentioned in This EpisodeSpeak with a Running Coach about one-on-one coaching or join the Academy and use a MTA training plan.
Joint Health Plus! -Protect your joint cartilage from breakdown. Use code MTA for 15% off your first order.
IQBAR -brain and body-boosting bars, hydration mixes, and mushroom coffees. Their Ultimate Sampler Pack includes all three! Get 20% off plus FREE shipping. Just text “MTA” to 64000.
Think Like a Runner book.
In this episode we speak with Alistair Crompton, a trail guide with Run the Alps, about his latest adventures and what it’s like to run in the Swiss Alps. Plus, Coach Angie shares tips on training for an ultramarathon.
Links Mentioned in This EpisodeSwitzerland Running Retreat with Angie, Trevor, and Run the Alps.
The Drury Hotels -they have free breakfast and free food and drinks in the evening -something they call the 5:30 kick back. They have more than 150 locations in 26 states. Use our link to save 10% on your stay.
AG1 -It’s the perfect time to start a new healthy habit and AG1 is offering new subscribers a FREE $76 gift when you sign up. You’ll get a Welcome Kit, a bottle of D3K2 AND 5 free travel packs in your first box.
IQBAR -brain and body-boosting bars, hydration mixes, and mushroom coffees. Their Ultimate Sampler Pack includes all three! Get 20% off plus FREE shipping. Just text “MTA” to 64000.
Speak with a Running Coach about one-on-one coaching or join the Academy and use a MTA training plan.
Alistair Crompton is a mountain running & trekking guide, yoga teacher, and vegan chef based in Chamonix, France. He is originally from the UK when he’s not running he enjoys skiing and paragliding. Alistair will be one of our guides this year on our Running Retreat in Switzerland with @RunTheAlps
In this episode we share tips for achieving your running goals in 2025! Plus, we take a look at what fellow runners (and listeners to the podcast) have planned this year.
Good news! You don’t have to figure it out on your own. Get the expert training and accountability you need to be a faster, stronger, runner. Let’s talk about your biggest challenges and see how we can elevate your training. Speak with a coach.
Mentioned in This EpisodeMetPro -Become Your Best Self with their Proven Weight Loss strategies. You can take a free assessment and speak with a Metabolic Expert. Get $500 off their concierge coaching as a lister to the podcast.
AG1 -It’s the perfect time to start a new healthy habit and AG1 is offering new subscribers a FREE $76 gift when you sign up. You’ll get a Welcome Kit, a bottle of D3K2 AND 5 free travel packs in your first box.
Book – Be Useful by Arnold Schwarzenegger
Speak with a Running Coach about one-on-one coaching or join the Academy and use a MTA training plan.
In this episode we look back on the biggest running news, stories, and records in 2024 . . . the historic, the tragic, the inspirational, and the bizarre. We got it all!
Links Mentioned in This EpisodeTake our Audience Survey! We are always looking for ways to improve the MTA Podcast and better serve our listeners.
Speak with a Running Coach about one-on-one coaching or join the Academy and use a MTA training plan.
AG1 -is offering new subscribers a FREE $76 gift when you sign up. You’ll get a Welcome Kit, a bottle of D3K2 AND 5 free travel packs in your first box.
UCAN Energy -Try their Edge gels for FREE! all you pay is the cost of shipping. You can also get 20% off anything in their store with the code MTA.
The Drury Hotels -they have free breakfast and free food and drinks in the evening -something they call the 5:30 kick back. They have more than 150 locations in 26 states. Use our link to save 10% on your stay.
In this episode Angie and Trevor share their favorite books from 2024 (both running and non-running related).
This Episode is Sponsored by . . . Joint Health Plus! -Protect your joint cartilage from breakdown. Use code MTA for 15% off your first order.
Sports Tours International, a company that’s taken runners and spectators to the most popular races around the world for 50 years.
AG1 -the ultimate daily all-in-one health drink with 75 proven vitamins, minerals and whole food-sourced ingredients. Get a FREE 1 year supply of Vitamin D AND 5 free travel packs with your first purchase.
Work with a Running Coach in 2025 or join the Academy and use a MTA training plan.
The Book Episode: Our Top Reads in 2024Angie read a total of 201 books in 2024 (59 fiction and 142 non fiction; ebook= 3, audio= 115, hardcopy= 92).
Authors We Interviewed on the PodcastIn addition to reading these books we spoke with the authors!
- Dr. Michael Greger, author of the book ‘How Not to Age -The Scientific Approach to Getting Healthier as You Get Older’
- Dave Proctor, author of the book ‘Untethered: The Comeback Story of One of the Longest Fastest Runs in History’
- Dr. Matthew Silver, author of the book ‘Built to Run -The Runner’s Guide to Fixing Common Injuries, Resolving Pain, and Optimizing Running Performance Now and For Life’
- Doug Mayer, founder of Run the Alps and author of ‘Run the Alps Switzerland: 30 Must-Do Trail Runs’ and ‘The Race that Changed Running’.
- Alden Mills, former Navy SEAL, entrepreneur and author of the book ‘Unstoppable Mindset -How to Use What You Have to Get What you Want’
- Marc Pollina, author of the ‘The Boston Marathon Handbook -An Insider’s Guide to Training for and Succeeding in the Ultimate Road Race’
- Tina Muir, co-author of the book ‘Becoming a Sustainable Runner -A Guide to Running for Life, Community, and Planet’
Angie’s Top 10 Non-Fiction Reads1. Outlive- The Science and Art of Longevity by Peter Attia, M.D.
This book explores the factors that affect longevity and aging. It covers a range of topics, including:
- Healthspan- the amount of time a person spends in good health.
- Medicine 3.0- making a shift from reactive to proactive medicine that focuses on prevention.
- The four horsemen- the four major chronic diseases that are vital to prevent for ultimate health span. They are heart disease, cancer, neurodegenerative disease, and Type 2 diabetes.
- Exercise- the most potent tool for enhancing health span. He recommends building strength and stamina to help combat the decline that comes with aging.
- Sleep- poor sleep can trigger a number of negative consequences including insulin resistance, cognitive decline, and mental health issues.
- Diet- he recommends avoiding fads diets and instead following either a Keto or Mediterranean diet.
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Emotional health- poor emotional health issues is one of the biggest roadblocks to longevity. Attia’s approach is to focus on maintaining healthspan rather than just longevity.
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How to Stay Married- The Most Insane Love Story Ever Told by Harrison Scott Key
This memoir covers tough subject matter in a humorous manner. This is the author’s journey to reconcile with his wife after discovering she is having an affair with a family friend. It details his struggles to understand the betrayal, navigate the complexities of their relationship, and ultimately fight to save his marriage through a series of absurd and often darkly comical situations. I think that anyone who is married or has been married will relate because of the challenges of relationships. -
It.Goes.So.Fast: The Year of No Do-Overs by Mary Louise Kelly
This is an honest and compelling memoir that grapples with the choices we make surrounding time and relationships. I think it really resonated with me because my kids are growing up so fast (our middle son is a senior and just turned 18). -
Tightrope: Americans Reaching for Hope by Nicolas D. Kristof and Sheryl Wu Dunn
The authors are journalists who chronicle the individual impact of the American approach to poverty and offers prescriptions for how the United States can adopt a more human approach to those who are struggling with deprivation, addiction, and despair. -
The New Menopause by Mary Claire Haver, M.D.
This book provides a comprehensive guide to navigating perimenopause and menopause. It offers science-backed information on all aspects of the experience, including physical changes, psychological impacts, treatment options, with a focus on addressing the often-overlooked symptoms and highlighting the need for more open discussion about menopause and its effects on women’s health. It particularly emphasizes the importance of understanding the biology behind declining estrogen levels and how to manage associated issues like hot flashes, sleep disturbances, and bone density loss. This book came at a helpful time for me as I was struggling with multiple symptoms of perimenopause and researching options. -
How to Know a Person by David Brooks
This book explores the concept of deeply seeing and understanding others, arguing that by actively paying attention to a person’s story, experiences, and perspectives, we can foster meaningful connections and combat societal fragmentation. This comes about by truly acknowledging and valuing individuals beyond superficial interactions. This book is a guide on how to engage with others with empathy and genuine curiosity to build deeper relationships. -
Awe: The New Science of Everyday Wonder and How It Can Transform Your Life by Dacher Keltner
This book explores the emotion of awe through a combination of research, personal anecdotes, and cultural observations. He defines awe as the feeling of being in the presence of something vast that transcends one’s current understanding of the world. The author offers a framework for cultivating awe in everyday life arguing that brief doses of awe can help with stress, relationships, reasoning, the immune system, and the heart. Keltner believes that awe is a vital force in human life and that it’s what spurs cooperation, community formation, and cultural creation. -
Built to Move by Kelly and Juliet Starrett
The authors provide practical ways to improve your body’s health, mobility and extend your life. The book includes quick and simple assessments to gauge progress and what needs improvement. Built to Move is a collection of 10 simple tests and practices you can use to instantly improve your mobility, fitness, breathing, eating, and sleeping and increase your freedom and overall quality of life. -
Supercommunicators: How to Unlock the Secret Language of Connection by Charles Duhigg
This is a guide to connecting more genuinely and efficiently with other people thanks to identifying three kinds of recurring conversations, and then aligning with others to help everyone feel heard, validated, and get what they want. 1) Practical Conversations: focused on solving problems, making plans, or discussing concrete details about a situation. 2) Emotional Conversations: center around expressing feelings, validating emotions, and showing empathy. 3) Social Conversations: explore how people relate to each other, their shared identities, and their sense of belonging. One of my favorite quotes from the book says, “The right conversation, at the right moment can change anything.” -
Scarcity Brain by Michael Easter
This book explores how our brains are wired to constantly seek more, even when we have enough, due to an evolutionary adaptation to scarcity, leading to behaviors like overconsumption and dissatisfaction. The book aims to help readers understand this “scarcity loop” and develop strategies to break free from it by making conscious choices and re-framing their mindset towards abundance.
Honorable Mentions (non-fiction)The Gift of Adversity by Norman E Rosenthal
The Kingdom, The Power, and The Glory by Tim Alberta
Imagine Heaven by John Burke
The Creative Act by Rick Rubin
The In-Between by Hadley Vlahos
Rethinking Life by Shane Claiborne
The Psychology of Money by Morgan House
The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt
The Situation Room by George Stephanopoulos
Set Boundaries, Find Peace by Nedra Glover Tawwab
Be Useful by Arnold Schwarzenegger
Still Possible by David Whyte
Somehow by Anne Lamont
Women in White Coats by Olivia Campbell
Angie’s Top 5 Fiction Reads1. River of Stars by Guy Gavviel Kay is a philosophical romance set in the Song Dynasty that follows the stories of two main characters, Ren Daiyan and Lin Shan, and the complex political and personal dynamics of the Kitai empire. The author paints a very vivid world.
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Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi tells the story of seven generations of a family split in two. One side remains in Africa while the other is brought to America on a slave ship. The novel begins from the perspective of two sisters who are unaware of each other, yet their lives are largely similar until a twist of fate intervenes.
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The Women by Kristin Hannah is a historical fiction novel about a young woman who joins the Army Nurse Corps and serves in Vietnam during the 1960s.
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The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss tells the story of Kvothe, a young man with extraordinary magical abilities, as he recounts his life story. The narrative is framed around his quest to discover the “Name of the Wind,” a powerful magical concept that could grant him ultimate control over the element of wind. Warning before you start– this book is over 700 pages long and the second book in the series is 1,100 pages.
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Prodigal Summer by Barbara Kingsolver is a novel that tells the story of three intertwined love stories that take place in a small town in Appalachia during a single summer. The story is set against the backdrop of the Virginia mountains and is full of ecological concepts and biological facts.
Trevor’s Top Reads in 2024Here are Trev’s top picks mentioned on the podcast . . .
- Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl
- Untethered: The Comeback Story of One of The Longest Fastest Runs In History by Dave Proctor
- Unstoppable Mindset by Alden Mills
- Nexus: A Brief History of Information Networks from the Stone Age to AI by Yuval Noah Harari.
- The Shortest History of Japan by Lesley Downer
- The Japanese Mind: Understanding Contemporary Japanese Culture -by Roger J Davies
THANKS FOR READING!
In this episode we talk about how you as a long distance runner can let your mind wander as your body keeps moving forward mile after glorious mile! How to ‘put your legs on autopilot’.
Links Mentioned in This EpisodeWork with a Running Coach in 2025 or join the Academy and use a MTA training plan.
MetPro Nutrition Coaching -speak with a Metabolic Expert about your goals and get actionable steps toward fueling for performance, losing weight, adding muscle, or changing your body composition. Get $500 off their concierge coaching.
Sports Tours International, a company that’s taken runners and spectators to the most popular races around the world for 50 years.
Saysky High Performance Running Wear -Use code MTA15 to get 15% off running tights, shorts, tops, singlets, jackets, vests, sports bras and anything across their entire product line worldwide.
Trevor and Angie here just popping into your podcast feed to make an important announcement! Next July we are running the Eiger Ultra Trail in Switzerland and are inviting any listener to the podcast who is interested in joining us there!
The Eiger Ultra Trail by UTMB is so popular that is already sold out, but we have access to race bibs through our partner Run The Alps. The epic course has unrivaled mountain scenery on highly runnable trails. There’s a distance for every level for those who want to try a European trail race. The race offers a 16k, 35k, 51k, and 101k.
We are doing this race as part of a 9 day running retreat that starts on July 12th, 2025. Spots are limited so please email us if you are interested. See this page for all the details. Let’s run!
In this episode we speak with MTA Coach Athena and her client Melanie Toelcke who ran through the Grand Canyon from rim-to-rim-to-rim. This is a challenging 48 mile point-to-point run, in 100 degree temps, through one of the greatest natural wonders of the world!
Links Mentioned in This EpisodeSpeak with a Running Coach about one-on-one coaching or join the Academy and use a MTA training plan.
Run the Eiger Ultra Trail with Angie and Trevor in 2025! Visit this page to read how you can join us in a Switzerland next summer for an unforgettable running adventure.
UCAN Energy -Try their Edge gels for FREE! all you pay is the cost of shipping. You can also get 20% off anything in their store with the code MTA.
AG1 -get the Black Friday offer for all of November! Every week of November, AG1 will be running a special Black Friday offer for a free gift with your first subscription, in addition to the Welcome Kit with Vitamin D3+K2.
The Drury Hotels -they have free breakfast and free food and drinks in the evening -something they call the 5:30 kick back. They have more than 150 locations in 26 states. Use our link to save 10% on your stay.
AirDoctor the air purifier that filters out 99.99% of dangerous contaminants so your lungs don’t have to. This includes allergens, pollen, pet dander, dust mites, mold spores and even bacteria and viruses. Promo code MTA and you’ll receive UP TO $300 off air purifiers!
In this episode we speak with Tara Dower who set the fastest know time (FKT) on the Appalachian Trail by running an average of 54 miles per day for 40 days!
Links Mentioned in This EpisodeSports Tours International, a company that’s taken runners and spectators to the most popular races around the world for 50 years.
Joint Health Plus! -Protect your joint cartilage from breakdown during runs. Use code MTA for 15% off your first order.
AquaTru -receive 20% OFF any AquaTru water purifier with code “MTA“ at checkout.
Speak with a Running Coach about one-on-one coaching or join the Academy and use a MTA training plan.
Tara Dower is an Altra Elite Athlete based in Virginia, who recently completed the 2,197.4 (3,535 kilometres) mile Appalachian Trail in a record setting 40 days, 18 hours, and 5 minutes. That’s 13 hours faster than the record set in 2018 by Belgian runner Karel Sabbe. Prior to Dower’s breakthrough, only 10 people had ever managed to traverse the AT in 50 days or less.
Find Tara on Youtube at Tara Treks.
The Appalachian National Scenic Trail — commonly known as the Appalachian Trail or simply “the A.T.” — is the longest hiking-only footpath in the world, that travels through fourteen states along the crests and valleys of the Appalachian Mountain Range.
In this episode we speak with Academy member and coaching client, Kofo Obasanjo-Blackshire, about the ups and downs of training for a personal best in the marathon.
Kofo started running to lose baby weight after her second pregnancy. Through consistency and patience she has dropped her marathon time from 4:40 to 3:53.
Kofo Obasanjo-Blackshire was born in Lagos, Nigeria, and lives in the United Kingdom with her husband and two sons. She holds a PhD from King’s College London. Her father Olusegun Obasanjo was the president of Nigeria from 1999-2007. She has completed 16 marathons and trains with MTA Coach Nicole.
Links Mentioned in This EpisodeSpeak with a Running Coach about one-on-one coaching or join the Academy and use a MTA training plan.
Run the Alps with Angie and Trevor in 2025! Visit this page to read how you can join us in a Switzerland next summer for an unforgettable running adventure.
AG1 -get the Black Friday offer for all of November! Every week of November, AG1 will be running a special Black Friday offer for a free gift with your first subscription, in addition to the Welcome Kit with Vitamin D3+K2.
MetPro Nutrition Coaching -speak with a Metabolic Expert about your goals and get actionable steps toward fueling for performance, losing weight, adding muscle, or changing your body composition. Get $500 off their concierge coaching.
Saysky High Performance Running Wear -Use code MTA15 to get 15% off running tights, shorts, tops, singlets, jackets, vests, sports bras and anything across their entire product line worldwide.
In this episode we bring you to the Košice Marathon in Slovakia -Europe’s Oldest Marathon. Plus, Coach Angie shares tips on how to train to beat course cut-offs.
The Košice Marathon started in 1924 after Vojtech Bukovsky visited the Olympic Games in Paris. A few weeks later he organized the first Košice Marathon on October 28th 1924, one hundred years ago!
Sponsor LinksJoint Health Plus! -Protect your joint cartilage from breakdown during runs. Use code MTA for 15% off your first order.
UCAN Energy -Try their Edge gels for FREE! all you pay is the cost of shipping. You can also get 20% off anything in their store with the code MTA.
Saysky High Performance Running Wear -Use code MTA15 to get 15% off running tights, shorts, tops, singlets, jackets, vests, sports bras and anything across their entire product line worldwide.
The Richmond Marathon -Meet Trevor and be a part of America’s Friendliest Marathon November 16th!
- Join our 3-mile shakeout run on Friday, November 15, at 11 a.m. in downtown Richmond highlighting the finish area for the Allianz Partners Richmond Marathon and the T Tyler Potterfield Memorial Bridge
- Come to the post-race meet-up at Hardwood Brewery, offering a chance for runners to connect and celebrate their accomplishments together. Be sure to email us!
Speak with a Running Coach about one-on-one coaching or join the Academy and use a MTA training plan.
with Andrej Aleksiev at the race expo
In this episode we bring you to Slovakia! Trevor speaks with the former prime minister Mikuláš Dzurinda -a transformational leader and avid runner with 39 marathon finishes.
Sponsor LinksSports Tours International USA -enter to win a FREE travel package to the 2025 TCS London Marathon! The package includes a race entry bib plus 4-night hotel accommodation right in the heart of London. You have until midnight on October 20th to enter.
AG1 -the ultimate daily all-in-one health drink with 75 proven vitamins, minerals and whole food-sourced ingredients. Get a FREE 1 year supply of Vitamin D AND 5 free travel packs with your first purchase.
Speak with a Running Coach about one-on-one coaching or join the Academy and use a MTA training plan.
AirDoctor the air purifier that filters out 99.99% of dangerous contaminants so your lungs don’t have to. This includes allergens, pollen, pet dander, dust mites, mold spores and even bacteria and viruses. Promo code MTA and you’ll receive UP TO $300 off air purifiers!
Mikuláš Dzurinda was Prime Minister of Slovakia from October 1998 to uly 2006. During his term Slovakia joined both the European Union and NATO. Today he is a university lecturer and is president of the Wilfried Martens Centre for European Studies. He has run 39 marathons including NYC, London, Athens, and the Košice Marathon (31 times).
Trev in Bratislavawith Andrej Aleksiev
In this episode Trevor brings you to the Berlin Marathon (which celebrated its 50th anniversary). Meet fellow runners and fans of the MTA podcast and hear what it’s like to inline skate the Berlin Marathon.
Links Mentioned in this EpisodeSports Tours International USA -enter to win a FREE travel package to the 2025 TCS London Marathon! The package includes a race entry bib plus 4-night hotel accommodation right in the heart of London. You have until midnight on October 20th to enter.
UCAN Energy -Try their Edge gels for FREE! all you pay is the cost of shipping. You can also get 20% off anything in their store with the code MTA.
AquaTru -receive 20% OFF any AquaTru water purifier with code “MTA“ at checkout.
Speak with a Running Coach about one-on-one coaching or join the Academy and use a MTA training plan.
Photos:
with Bill, Cara, and SaraSkating the Berlin MarathonMTA meet up
In this episode we speak with physical therapy doctor, Matthew Silver, about the Six Laws of Running Form. Dr. Matt is author of the book ‘Built to Run -The Runner’s Guide to Fixing Common Injuries, Resolving Pain, and Optimizing Running Performance Now and for Life’.
Sponsor LinksJoint Health Plus! -Protect your joint cartilage from breakdown during runs. Use code MTA for 15% off your first order.
AG1 -the ultimate daily all-in-one health drink with 75 proven vitamins, minerals and whole food-sourced ingredients. Get a FREE 1 year supply of Vitamin D AND 5 free travel packs with your first purchase.
Speak with a Running Coach about one-on-one coaching or join the Academy and use a MTA training plan.
The Six Laws of Running Form1. Do Not Overstride
2. Cadence is Key
3. Land on the Ball of Your Foot Then Heel Strike
4. Trust Gravity
5. The Heel Pull
6. Achieve True Midstance
Bio: Dr. Matt Silver is a sports physical therapist, running coach, and running form analyst. He founded Alpha Project Physic & Performance, where he shares his innovative approach to helping distance runners, marathoners, ultra runners, and athletes to run better with less pain and reach their running goals. He is the author of “Built to Run— The Runner’s Guide to Fixing Common Injuries, Resolving Pain, and Optimizing Running Performance Now and For Life.” He and his wife make their home in Frederick, Maryland.
In this episode we speak with Dr. Michael Greger author of the book ‘How Not to Age -The Scientific Approach to Getting Healthier as You Get Older’.
Plus, Coach Angie shares tips on how to make your next marathon go smoothly!
Episode SponsorsMetPro Nutrition Coaching -speak with a Metabolic Expert about your goals and get actionable steps toward fueling for performance, losing weight, adding muscle, or changing your body composition. Get $500 off their concierge coaching.
AG1 -the ultimate daily all-in-one health drink with 75 proven vitamins, minerals and whole food-sourced ingredients. Get a FREE 1 year supply of Vitamin D AND 5 free travel packs with your first purchase.
The Richmond Marathon -Meet Trevor and be a part of America’s Friendliest Marathon November 16th!
Speak with a Running Coach about one-on-one coaching or join the Academy and use a MTA training plan.
Michael Greger, M.D. FACLM is a physician, best selling author, and internationally recognized professional speaker on a number of important public health issues. All proceeds from his speaking engagements and the sale of his books are donated to charity. He’s the author of four NYT Bestsellers: How Not to Die, The How Not to Die Cookbook, How Not to Diet And his newest book How Not to Age.
Dr. Greger is a graduate of the Cornell University School of Agriculture and the Tufts University School of Medicine. His Instagram account NutritionFacts.org has 1.2 million followers.
In this episode with speak with Laura Green, comedian and public speaker with a viral presence on social media helping runners laugh and enjoy the run.
This is a fun conversation about how Laura got into running marathons and what it’s like to make a living as a content creator in the running space.
Links Mentioned in This Episode Laura Green on Instagram @Lauramcgreen
The Drury Hotels -they have free breakfast and free food and drinks in the evening -something they call the 5:30 kick back. They have more than 150 locations in 26 states. Use our link to save 10% on your stay.
AG1 -the ultimate daily all-in-one health drink with 75 proven vitamins, minerals and whole food-sourced ingredients. Get a FREE 1 year supply of Vitamin D AND 5 free travel packs with your first purchase.
Speak with a Running Coach about one-on-one coaching or join the Academy and use a MTA training plan.
Bio: Laura Green is a comedic content creator who aims to get runners to have a good laugh at themselves. The ultimate goal is to make the viewer feel more connected to the running world by letting them all in on the inside jokes of being a runner. She’s followed by over 200,000 people online.
Laura a physical therapist and mother of three. In college she competed in the 800 meters at Northeastern University in Boston. After college she traveled the world and helped found the San Fransisco chapter of November Project in 2013.
In this episode we speak with Carrie Tollefson about what it was like to be a track & field commentator at the Olympic Games. Carrie will give you a behind-the-scenes look at the Paris Olympics. Plus we share five ways to “get after it” in your marathon training!
Sponsor LinksJoint Health Plus! -Protect your joint cartilage from breakdown during runs. Use code MTA for 15% off your first order.
MetPro Nutrition Coaching -speak with a Metabolic Expert about your goals and get actionable steps toward fueling for performance, losing weight, adding muscle, or changing your body composition. Get $500 off their concierge coaching.
AG1 -the ultimate daily all-in-one health drink with 75 proven vitamins, minerals and whole food-sourced ingredients. Get a FREE 1 year supply of Vitamin D AND 5 free travel packs with your first purchase.
The Richmond Marathon -Meet Trevor and be a part of America’s Friendliest Marathon November 16th!
Speak with a Running Coach about one-on-one coaching or join the Academy and use a MTA training plan.
Carrie Tollefson is a former middle-distance runner from Minnesota. She won the 1500m at the 2004 US Olympic Trials and made it to the semi finals in the 2004 games in Greece. Carrie attended Villanova University and got a degree in communications. She continues to make her home in Minnesota with husband Charlie and her three children. Carrie is the host of the C Tolle Run Podcast. She also works as an analyst and broadcaster for a variety of media outlets covering events such as the NYC Marathon and most recently the Olympic Games.
In this episode we roundup the news, stories and statistics from the 2024 Olympic Marathon and other running events. Plus, Trevor shares what he’s been doing in Europe for the last three weeks.
Sponsor LinksSidekick -muscle scraping tools that are must-haves in your injury prevention tool box! We recommend the ‘My Personal PT Bundle’. Use our link for 15% off your order.
UCAN Energy -Try their Edge gels for FREE! all you pay is the cost of shipping. You can also get 20% off anything in their store with the code MTA.
Speak with a Running Coach about one-on-one coaching or join the Academy and use a MTA training plan.
Want to lean more about Olympic running events? See this post.
In this bonus episode Trevor sits down with Doug Mayer, founder of Run the Alps, to discus the joys of trail running. Doug shares his biggest tip for achieving longevity in running, and describes the unique trail races in France, Switzerland, and Italy.
Doug Mayer grew up in the US, cross country skiing in New Hampshire’s White Mountains with his older brothers. In a past life he worked as a Producer for the NPR show Car Talk. Today he runs his business Run the Alps and writes for a number of trail running media outlets, including Outside, Trail Runner, and Ultrasignup. His latest book is Run the Alps Switzerland: 30 Must-Do Trail Runs. He lives in Chamonix, France with his partner and dog Izzy.
AG1 -the ultimate daily all-in-one health drink with 75 proven vitamins, minerals and whole food-sourced ingredients. Get a FREE 1 year supply of Vitamin D AND 5 free travel packs with your first purchase.
In this episode we bring you on a 114 mile journey around the highest mountain in the Alps -the famous Tour du Mont Blanc. We begin in Chamonix, France and then cross into Italy, Switzerland, and back to Chamonix with listeners to the MTA podcast.
Listen as we describe the beauty and the challenge of the trail, the mountain culture of the Alps, and the endurance mindset of the runners who joined us there.
*Special thanks to Angie Spencer, Jeff Thompson, Anna Haberzettle, James and Susie Jin, Kelly Heffner, Becca Schaldt, Parker Watson, Deborah Brown, Tamra Ludlow, Alistair Crompton, Marion Giraud, and Run the Alps!
Episode SponsorsSidekick -muscle scraping tools that are must-haves in your injury prevention tool box! We recommend the ‘My Personal PT Bundle’. Use our link for 15% off your order.
UCAN Energy -Try their Edge gels for FREE! all you pay is the cost of shipping. You can also get 20% off anything in their store with the code MTA.
The Richmond Marathon -Meet Trevor and be a part of America’s Friendliest Marathon November 16th!
Run the Alps -the Chamonix based tour company we used.
We ran a total of 183.09km (114.43 miles)
We climbed 9,810m (32,667ft)
We descended 10,424m (34,711.92ft)
In this episode Coach Angie shares four principles to help you embrace the truth that you can do hard things . . . and shares her favorite books on the topic. Plus, Trevor figures out how to do hard things the lazy way.
Sponsor LinksMetPro Nutrition Coaching -speak with a Metabolic Expert about your goals and get actionable steps toward fueling for performance, losing weight, adding muscle, or changing your body composition. Get $500 off their concierge coaching.
Joint Health Plus! -Protect your joint cartilage from breakdown during runs. Use code MTA for 15% off your first order.
AG1 -a foundational nutrition supplement. Get a free 1-year supply of Vitamin D3K2 and 5 free AG1 travel packs with your first purchase.
Book ListWhen you do hard things you’ll definitely get resistance and push back from some people but you’ll also inspire more people to live courageous lives. I like to read memoirs of people who share the ups and downs on the road to success. There are some great books and podcasts out there about courageous people.
- Let Your Mind Run by Deena Pastor
- Can’t Hurt Me by David Goggins
- A Beautiful Work in Progress by Mirna Valerio
- Running Outside Your Comfort Zone by Susan Lacke
- The Long Run by Matt Long
- Marathon Woman by Kathrine Switzer
- Spartan Up by Joe De Sena
- Unbroken by Laura Hildebrand
- Out There by David Clark
- What Doesn’t Kill Us by Scott Carney
- It’s Great to Suck At Something by Karen Rinaldi
- Do Hard Things by Steve Magness
- Running Outside Your Comfort Zone by Susan Lacke
- Extreme Ownership by Jocko Willink and Leif Basin
- Endure by Alex Hutchinson
- Choose Strong by Sally McRae
- The Gift of Failure by Jessica Lahey
- Bravey by Alexi Pappas
- Out and Back by Hillary Allen
- Comfortable with Uncertainty by Pema Chodrin
- Everything is Figureoutable by Marie Forleo
- Master of Change by Brad Stulberg
- The Comfort Crisis by Michael Easter
- Grit—The Power of Passion and Perseverance by Angela Duckworth
- Chop Wood, Carry Water by Joshua Medcalf
- The Unstoppable Mindset by Alden Mills
- Mindful Running by Mackenzie L. Havey
In this episode Coach Angie shares tips (and stories) to help you better deal with hot weather during training and on race day.
Links Mentioned in This EpisodeSidekick Muscle Scraping Tools -Use our link for 15% off. We recommend the My Personal PT Bundle.
The Drury Hotel Company -save 10% on your stay with our link! Over 150 locations around the USA.
PATH Projects Shorts and Gear -Use our link for 10% off! Trevor loves the 9 inch Graves PX shorts.
The Richmond Marathon -America’s Friendliest Marathon.
AG1 -a foundational nutrition supplement. Get a free 1-year supply of Vitamin D3K2 and 5 free AG1 travel packs with your first purchase.
Go further in your running with the help of a MTA Running Coach
Summer ranks among many people’s favorite season of the year but many runners have mixed feelings, especially when it comes to their training. They’re often surprised to find that keeping momentum going during the summer can be a challenge. If you’re struggling to be consistent in your marathon training this summer you are not alone!
In this episode Coach Amber, RD, joins us to answer nutrition questions sent in from listeners to the podcast.
We discuss fueling with candy versus gels, the best time to carb load, hunger during those heavy mileage weeks, ideal protein intake, afternoon crashes and sugar cravings, iron deficiency, nutrition during peri-menopause, weight-loss, snacking, low-carb eating, nutrient combining, and more!
Sponsor LinksMetPro Nutrition Coaching -speak with a Metabolic Expert about your goals and get actionable steps toward fueling for performance, losing weight, adding muscle, or changing your body composition. Get $500 off their concierge coaching.
UCAN -try UCAN Edge gels for FREE! all you pay is the cost of shipping. You can also get 20% off anything in their store with the code MTA.
Coach Amber Velasquez has a Master of Health Sciences and is a Licensed and Registered Dietitian and a certified personal trainer. She’s a coach at MetPro and loves all things nutrition & fitness!
In this episode we speak with Jasmin Paris -a British ultrarunner who became the first woman to finish the Barkley Marathons in its 38 year history! (Only 20 people have finished Barkley before the cutoff).
Links Mentioned in This EpisodeJoint Health Plus! -Protect your joint cartilage from breakdown during runs. Use code MTA for 15% off your first order.
*Exakt Health -a physical therapy app that specializes in the rehab of running injuries and prevention. Download and test the app with a 7-day free trial via the Apple or Google Play Store and with the code ‘MTA*‘ you get up to 40% off the 3- and 6-month subscriptions.”
AG1 -a foundational nutrition supplement backed by multiple research studies. Try AG1 and get a free 1-year supply of Vitamin D3K2 and 5 free AG1 travel packs with your first purchase.
View this post on InstagramA post shared by Marathon Training Academy (@marathonacademy)
Jasmin Paris became the first woman to complete the Barkely Marathons, finishing in 59:58:21, just 99 seconds inside the cut-off time.
She received significant media attention in 2019 for her overall win at the Spine Race where she set a new race record finishing the 268 miles (431.3 km) in 83 hours 12 minutes and 23 seconds, becoming the first woman to win the event overall.
Paris has an undergraduate degree from the University of Liverpool (2008) and a Ph.D. from the University of Edinburgh (2020). She is a small-animal vet and a senior lecturer in the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies at the University of Edinburgh. She and her husband and two children and make their home in Scotland.
In this episode with speak with Alden Mills, a former Navy Seal platoon commander, entrepreneur, and author of the book ‘Unstoppable Mindset -How to Use What You Have to Get What you Want’.
Links Mentioned in This EpisodeMetPro Nutrition Coaching -speak with a Metabolic Expert about your goals. $500 off their concierge coaching with our link!
*Exakt Health -a physical therapy app that specializes in the rehab of running injuries and prevention. Download and test the app with a 7-day free trial via the Apple or Google Play Store and with the code ‘MTA*‘ you get up to 40% off the 3- and 6-month subscriptions.”
AG1 -a foundational nutrition supplement backed by multiple research studies. Try AG1 and get a free 1-year supply of Vitamin D3K2 and 5 free AG1 travel packs with your first purchase.
About Alden MillsAlden Mills is a 3-time Navy Seal platoon commander and author of multiple books including Unstoppable Mindset. Before joining the Navy he was a National Collegiate Champion rower, earning Gold and Silver medals at the Olympic Festival.
Alden is an Inc. 500 CEO of Perfect Fitness. Awarded 40+ patents worldwide and founder of multiple businesses. He and his family make their home in California.
In this episode we speak with Dr. Brad Schaeffer -a podiatrist, foot surgeon, and star on TLC’s ‘My Feet Are Killing Me’.
Dr. Brad shares tips on dealing with heel pain, Morton’s neuroma, achilles tendinitis, arch pain, corns, blisters, and bunions.
Links Mentioned in This EpisodePrevinex makers of Joint Health PLUS® and Muscle Health PLUS -usethe code MTASTRENGTH and you’ll save 15% off your entire order!
Sidekick Tool -must-haves in your injury prevention tool box! We recommend the My Personal PT Bundle. Use our link to get 15% off your order.
The Richmond Marathon -Be a part of America’s Friendliest Marathon on November 16th 2024!
Dr. Brad Schaeffer is and expert podiatrist at Central Park Sole in NYC. He is a Board Certified Foot Surgeon and runner. He can be seen on the TV show “My Feet Are Killing Me” -which ran for four seasons on TLC. The show is like Dr. Pimple Popper for feet. The doctors handle extreme and bizarre foot issues of desperate patients.
In this episode we share training tips for running a down hill race and recap our trip to the Revel White Mountains Marathon in New Hampshire.
SponsorsIceBug Running Shoes. Icebug’s traction-packed running shoes excel in all conditions while treading lighter on the planet. Use code “MTA” to save 15%!
MetPro Nutrition Coaching. -You can speak with a Metabolic Expert about your goals and get actionable steps toward fueling for performance, losing weight, adding muscle, or changing your body composition. Go to: MetPro: MetPro.co/MTA to get $500 off their concierge coaching.
UCAN Energy -UCAN is offering the MTA community an exclusive chance to try Edge gels for FREE! All you pay is the cost of shipping. Look for the Marathon Training Academy Sample Pack!
In this episode we speak with Academy member and coaching client, Robin Walters, about how she ‘leveled-up’ her life through marathon training!
Once upon a time she hated running but now she’s a Boston Marathon qualifier.
Hear how she dreamed big, took consistent action, and ran strong on race day.
Episode SponsorsTalk to a running coach about training for a BQ or PR.
Previnex makers of Joint Health PLUS® and Muscle Health PLUS -usethe code MTASTRENGTH and you’ll save 15% off your entire order!
The Richmond Marathon -Be a part of America’s Friendliest Marathon on November 16th 2024!
AG1 -If you want to take ownership of your health, start with AG1. Try AG1 and get a FREE 1-year supply of Vitamin D AND 5 free AG1 Travel Packs with your first purchase.
In this episode with speak with Marc Pollina author of the ‘The Boston Marathon Handbook -an ‘Insider’s Guide to Training for and Succeeding in the Ultimate Road Race‘. Plus, we give you a quick run down of what happened at this year’s Boson Marathon.
LinksTalk to a running coach about training for a BQ or PR.
MetPro Nutrition Coaching -speak with a Metabolic Expert about your goals and get actionable steps toward fueling for performance, losing weight, adding muscle, or changing your body composition. Get $500 off their concierge coaching.
UCAN -try UCAN Edge gels for FREE! all you pay is the cost of shipping. You can also get 20% off anything in their store with the code MTA.
The Boston Marathon Handbook -new book by Marc Pollina
Marc W. Pollina is a writer, runner, and entrepreneur. He has completed 26 marathons, including 19 Boston Marathons as a bandit, a charity runner, and a sub-3 qualifier. Pollina earned a BA in English Literature from Hampden-Sydney College and studied digital transformation at MIT.
In this episode we speak with Emily Sisson who will be competing for the USA at the 2024 Olympics. She previously held the American half marathon record and currently holds the American marathon record.
She ran 2:22:42 to place 2nd at the US Olympic Marathon Trials and earned a spot at the Paris Games (with Fiona O’Keeffe and Dakotah Lindwurm).
Links Mentioned in This EpisodeSidekick Tool -must-haves in your injury prevention tool box! We recommend the My Personal PT Bundle. Use our link to get 15% off your order.
The Richmond Marathon -Be a part of America’s Friendliest Marathon on November 16th 2024!
AG1 -If you want to take ownership of your health, start with AG1. Try AG1 and get a FREE 1-year supply of Vitamin D AND 5 free AG1 Travel Packs with your first purchase.
Emily Sisson Follow her on Instagram
UCAN Energy -UCAN is offering the MTA community an exclusive chance to try Edge gels for FREE! All you pay is the cost of shipping. Look for the Marathon Training Academy Sample Pack!
In this episode coach Angie explains how to effectively use walking during marathon training and on race day. Learn when walking is advantageous and how to do run/walk intervals (Galloway Method).
SponsorsThe Las Vegas Marathon -take the city of Las Vegas by storm at the Inaugural event on November 3, 2024! This iconic race will showcase the best of all that Las Vegas has to offer with a Red Rock Canyon start, a tour of downtown Summerlin, the eclectic Arts District, the Las Vegas Strip, and an exciting Fremont Street finish. This is one race that you can’t miss. Etch your name on the archives of running history and become a member of the Las Vegas Marathon’s inaugural group of finishers. Register today using code MTA20 for $20 off on your registration!
MetPro Nutrition Coaching. -You can speak with a Metabolic Expert about your goals and get actionable steps toward fueling for performance, losing weight, adding muscle, or changing your body composition. Go to: MetPro: MetPro.co/MTA to get $500 off their concierge coaching.
In this episode we bring you along with us to Japan as we recap the Tokyo Marathon. Learn what makes this marathon unique and hear from local MTA podcast listeners about Japanese running culture!
Episode SponsorsUCAN Energy -UCAN is offering the MTA community an exclusive chance to try Edge gels for FREE! All you pay is the cost of shipping. Look for the Marathon Training Academy Sample Pack!
Room to Read -help us with our charity goals! Educate a child in an underprivileged country for 1 year for only $50.
AG1 -If you want to take ownership of your health, start with AG1. Try AG1 and get a FREE 1-year supply of Vitamin D AND 5 free AG1 Travel Packs with your first purchase.
In this episode we speak with fellow podcaster Tina Muir co-author of the book ‘Becoming a Sustainable Runner -A Guide to Running for Life, Community, and Planet’. Listen as Tina shares why she quit running in 2017 and what brought her back to the sport!
Links Mentioned in this EpisodePrevinex makers of Joint Health PLUS® and Muscle Health PLUS -usethe code MTASTRENGTH and you’ll save 15% off your entire order!
Drury Hotels -use our link to save 10% on your stay!
Tina’s new book -Becoming a Sustainable Runner
Originally from St. Albans, England, Tina Muir was a professional runner who represented Great Britain and Northern Ireland in a world championship. She’s a writer, mom, and host of the Running for Real Podcast.
In this episode we bring you part 2 of Ask the Coach Q&A as we field questions about nutrition, fueling, training plans, when to do leg day, breaking 2 hours in the half, perimenopause, running postpartum, how to race Boston, the impact alcohol has on training, and more!
Links Mentioned in This EpisodeFree consultation call with MTA Running Coach.
MetPro Nutrition Coaching -get $500 off their concierge coaching.
Drury Hotels -use our link to save 10% on your stay!
Inside Tracker -20% off a blood test
Coach Abby Omerza is a RRCA Certified Coach with a Master of Science in Exercise Physiology and Fitness Leadership. She’s a Boston Marathon Qualifier, ultra-runner, and triathlete.
Coach Cindy Neldner is a RRCA Certified Running Coach with Masters of Science in Health Services Admin. A former Division 1 Collegiate Heptathlete turned marathoner, she has finished 25 marathons to date.
In this episode we are joined by two coaches on our team and answer questions sent in from Academy members and listeners about running injuries, ultra training, shakeout runs, super shoes, mileage per week, and more!
Sponsor LinksFree consultation call with MTA Coach.
Previnex makers of Joint Health PLUS® and Muscle Health PLUS -usethe code MTASTRENGTH and you’ll save 15% off your entire order!
UCAN Energy -UCAN is offering the MTA community an exclusive chance to try Edge gels for FREE! All you pay is the cost of shipping. Look for the Marathon Training Academy Sample Pack!
Thanks to everyone who sent in a question!
Coach Carri Marlow is a RRCA Certified Running Coach; UESCA Certified Ultra Marathon Coach; Personal Trainer, Fitness Nutrition Specialist and Race Director of a trail series in Wisconsin.
Coach Jena Ziegler is a RRCA & UESCA Certified Running Coach and a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) specialized in runners. She’s passionate about helping injured runners get back to running!
In this episode we share tips on running a big city marathon, like one of the Abbott World Marathon Majors. Plus, we speak with an official charity partner of the Tokyo Marathon about literacy rates for children, especially girls, around the world.
Links Mentioned in this EpisodeRoom to Read -help us with our charity goals! Educate a child in an underprivileged country for 1 year for only $50.
REVEL White Mountains Marathon & Half – join us on May 5, 2024 in Conway, New Hampshire! Email us for discount code.
AG1 -If you want to take ownership of your health, start with AG1. Try AG1 and get a FREE 1-year supply of Vitamin D AND 5 free AG1 Travel Packs with your first purchase.
About Room to ReadFounded in 2000 on the belief that World Change Starts with Educated Children®, Room to Read is creating a world free from illiteracy and gender inequality.
They are achieving this goal by helping children in communities facing deep education inequalities develop literacy skills and a habit of reading, and by supporting girls as they build skills to succeed in school and negotiate key life decisions.
Room to Read has benefited more than 39 million children and has worked in 23 countries and in more than 49,000 communities, providing additional support through remote solutions that facilitate learning beyond the classroom. Room to Read aims to benefit 40 million children by 2025.
In this episode we speak with Canadian ultra-runner Dave Proctor author of the book Untethered: The Comeback Story of one of the Longest Fastest Runs in History. In 2022 Dave ran across the entire length of Canada in 67 days, averaging 105.3 kilometers (65.4 miles) per day!
Links Mentioned in This EpisodePrevinex makers of Joint Health PLUS® and Muscle Health PLUS -usethe code MTASTRENGTH and you’ll save 15% off your entire order!
The Las Vegas Marathon. The Inaugural Las Vegas Marathon will take place on November 3, 2024, and will host a marathon, half marathon, and 7.02 Mile Race inspired by the 702 area code of Las Vegas. Contact us for $15 off coupon code!
Untethered -book by ultra-runner Dave Proctor
photo credit: Dave Proctor
About Dave ProctorDave Proctor @runproctor is an ultra-runner from Alberta Canada who in 2022 became the fastest person to run across Canada. He started in Newfoundland and ran to Victoria, British Columbia – a distance of 7,159 km (4,448 miles).
He currently holds Canadian records for the longest distance run in 24, 48, and 72 hours, along with a world record for the longest distance run on a treadmill in 12 hours. He is the father of 3 children and works as a sports massage therapist.
In this podcast episode we speak with metabolism expert Angelo Poli about how to stick to your New Year’s goals and the ‘Seven Disruptive Behaviors for Improving Your Nutrition’!
LinksMetPro -Thanks to MetPro Nutrition Coaching for another great year! You can speak with a Metabolic Expert about your goals and get actionable steps toward fueling for performance, losing weight, adding muscle, or changing your body composition.
AG1 -If you want to take ownership of your health, start with AG1. Try AG1 and get a FREE 1-year supply of Vitamin D AND 5 free AG1 Travel Packs with your first purchase.
The Drury Hotels -get 15% off your stay at any of their 150 locations with our link.
Angelo Poli is a personal trainer, metabolism expert, and co-founder of MetPro. He’s worked with over 20,000 people helping them reach their body composition goals and dial in their nutrition.
In this podcast episode we give you a healthy dose of motivation as you think about your marathon training in the new year! Hear how fellow runners are dealing with setbacks, setting goals, and taking on new challenges.
Links Mentioned in This EpisodeSubscribe to our Newsletter -get news updates and take our forthcoming audience survey!
Join the Academy -Get expert help and support in becoming a stronger version of yourself through marathon training.
Talk to a Running Coach -free consultation call with our head coach.
REVEL White Mountains Marathon & Half – May 5, 2024 in Conway, New Hampshire! Email us for discount code.
UCAN Energy -UCAN is offering the MTA community an exclusive chance to try Edge gels for FREE! All you pay is the cost of shipping. Look for the Marathon Training Academy Sample Pack!
Book: Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl
In this episode we round up the biggest news from the running world in 2023 including records, notable achievements, inspiring moments, and interesting stories!
Also, we wrote an MTA Holiday Letter you can read here.
Sponsor LinksAG1 -If you want to take ownership of your health, start with AG1. Try AG1 and get a FREE 1-year supply of Vitamin D AND 5 free AG1 Travel Packs with your first purchase.
UCAN Energy -UCAN is offering the MTA community an exclusive chance to try Edge gels for FREE! All you pay is the cost of shipping. Look for the Marathon Training Academy Sample Pack!
MetPro -Thanks to MetPro Nutrition Coaching for another great year! You can speak with a Metabolic Expert about your goals and get actionable steps toward fueling for performance, losing weight, adding muscle, or changing your body composition.
In this episode we share our favorite books from 2023 (both running and non-running). Plus Trevor attempts to relate Socrates to marathon training!
Sponsor LinksLagoon Sleep -Save 25% off the Performance Pack (a pillow, silk pillowcase, travel bag and runners cap) – that’s $70 off! Or save $120 off the Peak Sleep Set (2 pillows and 2 silk pillowcases).
Joint Health PLUS -The main active ingredients are clinically proven to reduce joint pain, reduce joint stiffness, and improve joint flexibility in just 7-10 days. Save 20% by using code MTA20 before Dec 20th!
REVEL Mt Charleston Marathon & Half -will take place on April 6, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada. We ran this last year and loved it! Use our code to save $10 off your registration!
2before -a natural sports performance superfood made from New Zealand Blackcurrant berries. Get 30% off a 20 pack, plus free shipping when you use code “MTA” at checkout.
Book Talk 2023Authors we Interviewed on the Podcast from this Year* The Longest Race: Inside the Secret World of Abuse, Doping, and Deception on Nike’s Elite Running Team by Kara Goucher * Good for a Girl: A Woman Running in a Man’s World by Lauren Fleshman * Choose Strong: The Choice That Changes Everything by Sally McRae * It’s a Marathon, Not a Sprint: My Road to the Marathon and Ph.D. by Dr. Vanessa Corcoran * The Race That Changed Running: The Inside Story of UTMB by Doug Mayer * Slow AF Run Club: The Ultimate Guide for Anyone Who Wants to Run by Martinus Evans * Long Run to Glory: The Story of the Greatest Marathon in Olympic History and the Women That Made it Happen by Stephen Lane * Master of Change: How to Excel When Everything Is Changing – Including You by Brad Stulberg * Run Smarter- Evidence Based Guidance and Expert Opinions to Help you Survive and Thrive as a Runner by Brodie Sharp
My Top 10 Non-Fiction ReadsI read a total of 250 books in 2023 (105 fiction and 145 non fiction).
- In Order to Live: A North Korean Girl’s Journey to Freedom by Yeonmi Park
- River Flow: New and Selected Poems by David Whyte
- Good Inside- A Guide to Becoming the Parent You Want to Be by Dr. Becky Kennedy
- All My Knotted Up Life by Beth Moore
- Maybe You Should Talk to Someone: A Therapist, Her Therapist, and Our Lives Revealed by Lori Gottlieb
- Dopamine Nation- Finding Balance in the Age of Indulgence by Anna Lembke
- Ultra Processed People- The Science Behind Food That Isn’t Food by Chris van Tulleken
- Life in Five Senses- How Exploring the Senses Got Me Out of My Head and Into the World by Gretchen Rubin
- Sure, I’ll Join Your Cult- A Memoir of Mental Illness and the Quest to Belong Anywhere by Maria Bamford
- Adult Children of Emotionally Immature Parents- How to Heal from Distant, Rejecting, or Self-Involved Parents by Lindsay C. Gibson
My Top 5 Fiction Reads1. The Midnight Library by Matt Haig 2. The Covenant of Water by Abraham Verghese 3. Shantaram by Gregory David Roberts 4. The Running Grave by Robert Galbraith (book 7 in the Cormoran Strike Series) 5. The Book Eaters by Sunyi Dean
Trevor’s Top Non-Fiction ReadsTrevor read a total of 60 books in 2023.
- The Untethered Soul: The Journey Beyond Yourself by Michael Singer
- Skip the Line: The 10,000 Experiments Rule and Other Surprising Advice for Reaching Your Goals by James Altucher
- Why the Dutch are Different: A Journey into the Hidden Heart of the Netherlands -Ben Coats
- Medieval Horizons: Why the Middle Ages Matter by Ian Mortimer
- Grandma Gatewood’s Walk: The Inspiring Story of the Woman Who Saved the Appalachian Trail by Ben Montgomery
- Rescuing Socrates, How the Great Books Change My Life and Why They Matter for a New Generation by Roosevelt Montas
In this episode we bring you a marathon success story with Chris Farrands.
Chris started running three short years ago, lost 90 pounds, and transformed himself into a sub-3 hour marathoner!
Listen as he shares why he decided to take control of his health; the misery he experienced at his first marathon, and the smarter training plan he used for his second marathon.
Sponsor Links from this EpisodeTalk to Coach Nicole, head coach at MTA about your goals. Schedule a 30 minute consultation call.
Lagoon Sleep -Save 25% off the Performance Pack (a pillow, silk pillowcase, travel bag and runners cap) – that’s $70 off! Or save $120 off the Peak Sleep Set (2 pillows and 2 silk pillowcases).
MetPro Metabolic Coaching -speak with a Metabolic Expert about your goals and get actionable steps toward fueling for performance, losing weight, adding muscle, or changing your body composition. Get $500 off with our link!
2before -a natural sports performance superfood made from New Zealand Blackcurrant berries. Get 30% off a 20 pack, plus free shipping when you use code “MTA” at checkout.
The Drury Hotels -get 15% off your stay at any of their 150 locations with the code ‘RUN’.
In this episode you will hear a live podcast recording at the Richmond Marathon expo. Trevor joins Lindsey Hein, Martinus Evans, Cynthia Vissers, and Dr. Lisa Mitro to talk about ‘finding community in the running space’.
They also share advice for first-time marathoners, favorite mantras and pump-up songs, dealing with post-race blues, how to make the running space more inclusive, and more!
Links Mentioned in this EpisodeJoin our awesome online community and get access to training plans, strength program, and more!
Oladance Open Earbuds -They have 360° Superior Sound but never enter the ear, so there is no ear fatigue. Use promo code MTA20 to save 20% on the OWS1 and OWS2.
Joint Health PLUS® by Previnex -our top recommended joint supplement for runners. Use the code MTA20 for 20% off site-wide until December 20th!
UCAN Edge Gel -get an Edge Gel Sample Pack for FREE! All you pay is the cost of shipping. Returning customers can save 20% with our link on other products.
PATH Projects -running shorts, pants, hats, and beanies. Use our link to receive 10% off your first order!
Photos from the MTA Meet Up
In this episode we reveal seven questions you can use to evaluate your training. These questions reveal the key adjustments, changes, and tweaks you can use to fine tune your training and hit your goals in the marathon. Let’s help you get “dialed in”!
Links Mentioned in this EpisodeTalk to Our Head Coach about your goals. Free call.
MetPro Metabolic Coaching -speak with a Metabolic Expert about your goals and get actionable steps toward fueling for performance, losing weight, adding muscle, or changing your body composition. Get $500 off with our link!
AG1 by Athletic Greens -the ultimate daily all-in-one health drink with 75 proven vitamins, minerals and whole food-sourced ingredients. Get a FREE 1 year supply of Vitamin D AND 5 free travel packs with your first purchase.
Sidekick Muscle Scraping Tools. Try the My Personal PT Bundle! Get 15% off with our link.
Oladance Open Earbuds -They have 360° Superior Sound but never enter the ear, so there is no ear fatigue. Use the promo code MTA20 to save 20%.
Seven Questions to Ask Yourself
Prepared and ConfidentMassive congrats to our client Haley from Ireland on finishing 3:13:51 at the Dublin Marathon!! She writes,
“After finishing the Paris marathon (my second marathon) earlier this year in 3:20:04 I felt I’d gone as far as I could on my own so decided to get in touch with the Marathon Training Academy. Coach Nicole said she had the perfect coach in mind for me and paired me with Coach Kris.
As Coach Kris and I started working together from a recovery period post race, I found that incredibly helpful. I was unsure what a down time period should look like. I didn’t want to lose all my fitness but equally didn’t want to overtrain so I could be in the best place to start the training block for my next goal race, the Irish Life Dublin marathon on 29 Oct 2023. I had a really clear goal of running 3:15.
I have a habit of signing up to too many events at all kinds of distances but coach Kris taught me the respect you need for a distance, and of being sure of your goals. If your goal is to improve your marathon time, be laser focused on that. It really helped me start to take things a bit more seriously (whilst still having fun).
What I loved about the training schedule was the flexibility. I wanted to run everyday so coach Kris scheduled that for me and told me to rest whenever I felt I needed it. I was also able to keep my weekly social track session and all my social runs.
By the time Dublin came around, I felt prepared and confident. I’d never experienced that before, being on the start line and knowing the plan. Of course marathons throw up all sorts, but I enjoyed Dublin more than any race. Coach Kris said the goal was to feel good for as long as possible and I truly felt amazing until mile 21 when the dig-deep mode began
Crossing the finish line in 3:13:51 I was so elated I sobbed. But honestly even if I hadn’t smashed my goal time. Thanks so much to my amazing Coach Kris and the MTA! You do great things for people” -Haley from Ireland
In this episode we replay a popular interview we did with Kathrine Switzer -trailblazer who broke the gender barrier and became the first woman to run the Boston Marathon with a bib number.
This conversation is a nice follow-up to our last episode about the first women’s Olympic Marathon.
Listen as Kathrine recalls what it was like to run the Boston Marathon in 1967, and shares tips on keeping fit in later life!
Links Mentioned in this EpisodeLagoon Sleep -With Lagoon pillows, you’ll fall asleep faster because you’re matched with the pillow that will be most comfortable for your sleep position and body type. Use the code MTA for 15% off your first purchase.
AG1 by Athletic Greens -the ultimate daily all-in-one health drink with 75 proven vitamins, minerals and whole food-sourced ingredients. Get a FREE 1 year supply of Vitamin D AND 5 free travel packs with your first purchase.
MetPro Metabolic Coaching -speak with a Metabolic Expert about your goals and get actionable steps toward fueling for performance, losing weight, adding muscle, or changing your body composition. Get $500 off with our link!
Kathrine Switzer | Marathon Woman -See Kathrine’s schedule and learn more about her book.
261 Fearless -a supportive global community which empowers women to connect and take control of their lives through the freedom gained by running.
Iconic Photos of Kathrine Switzer’s 1967 Boston Marathon:
In this episode we speak with Stephen Lane, author of the book ‘Long Run to Glory -The Story of the Greatest Marathon in Olympic History and the Women Who Made it Happen’.
Though the modern Olympics began in 1896 it took until 1984 before women had their own marathon event. Learn the inspiring stories of trailblazing women who changed the running world!
Links Mentioned in this EpisodeLagoon Sleep -With Lagoon pillows, you’ll fall asleep faster because you’re matched with the pillow that will be most comfortable for your sleep position and body type. Use the code MTA for 15% off your first purchase.
Sidekick Muscle Scraping Tools. Try the My Personal PT Bundle! Get 15% off with our link.
Oladance Open Earbuds -They have 360° Superior Sound but never enter the ear, so there is no ear fatigue. Use the promo code MTA20 to save 20%.
The Marathon Running Podcast by Letty and Ryan
Long Run to Glory book by Stephen Lane.
In this episode we share the recording from Trevor’s live interview and Q&A with Scott Jurek at the Boulder Marathon in Boulder, Colorado.
Scott Jurek is one of the most decorated ultramarathoners of all time! He’s also a Boulder local, NYT Bestselling Author, physical therapist, and dad.
Scott answers questions about dealing with race-day nerves, hitting the wall, taking on your first ultra, heat vs. cold therapy, stack height on shoes, stretching for runners . . . and more!
Links Mentioned in this EpisodeJoint Health PLUS® by Previnex -our top recommended joint supplement for runners. Save 15% with code MTA
UCAN Edge Gel -try 6 Edge gels for FREE! All you pay is the cost of shipping. Returning customers can save 20% with our link on other products.
The Richmond Marathon in Richmond, Virginia. Come meet us on November 10-11th!
Boulderthon website. The 2024 race will be on September 22nd.
Scott Jurek’s website. Check out the books ‘Eat and Run’ and ‘North’.
Scott Jurek has claimed victories in nearly all of ultrarunning’s elite trail and road events including the historic 153-mile Spartathlon, the Hardrock 100, the Badwater 135-Mile Ultramarathon, and—his signature race—the Western States 100-Mile Endurance Run, which he won a record seven straight times. Scott has also taken the running world by storm with his 2015 Appalachian Trail speed record, averaging nearly 50 miles a day over 46 days—and the United States all-surface record in the 24-Hour Run with 165.7 miles: 6.5 marathons in one day. He’s a NYT Best Selling author of the books Eat and Run and North.Boulderthon
This session was recorded at the Boulderthon -Colorado’s Largest Fall Race Series: Run a 5k, 10k, Half, or Full, at the foothills of the Rockies, in the stunning running mecca of Boulder.
I ran the half this year and loved it! The course is beautiful and not too hilly. Check out the medal below.
In this episode we speak with Academy member JJ Stark-Modlin. Once upon a time she hated running and was even advised that, because of her injuries, she’d never be able to run a full marathon.
She has since run 27 marathons and dropped her finishing time from 5:06 down to 3:32.
After a ten year journey she qualified for Boston at the Revel Big Cottonwood Marathon in Utah.
Her coach told her “Let the race come to you”.
Links Mentioned in this EpisodeTalk to Our Head Coach about your goals. Free call.
AG1 by Athletic Greens -the ultimate daily all-in-one health drink with 75 proven vitamins, minerals and whole food-sourced ingredients. Get a FREE 1 year supply of Vitamin D AND 5 free travel packs with your first purchase.
MetPro Metabolic Coaching -speak with a Metabolic Expert about your goals and get actionable steps toward fueling for performance, losing weight, adding muscle, or changing your body composition. Get $500 off with our link!
Oladance Open Earbuds -They have 360° Superior Sound but never enter the ear, so there is no ear fatigue. Use the promo code MTA20 to save 20%.
Chances are you will not be the same runner in five years. In this episode we speak with Brad Stulberg -performance coach and author of the new book ‘Master of Change: How to Excel When Everything is Changing —Including You’.
Links Mentioned in this EpisodeTalk to Our Head Coach about your goals. Free call.
Lagoon Sleep -With Lagoon pillows, you’ll fall asleep faster because you’re matched with the pillow that will be most comfortable for your sleep position and body type. Use the code MTA for 15% off your first purchase.
Sidekick Muscle Scraping Tools. Try the My Personal PT Bundle! Get 15% off with our link.
Oladance Open Earbuds -They have 360° Superior Sound but never enter the ear, so there is no ear fatigue. Use the promo code MTA20 to save 20%.
The Boulderthon in Boulder, Colorado, October 7-8th. Trevor is doing a live podcast with Scott Jurek on Saturday Oct. 7th. Use the code MTA20 to save $20!
The Richmond Marathon in Richmond, Virginia. Come meet us on November 10-11th!
Master of Change book by Brad Stulberg
Brad Stulberg researches, writes, and coaches on health, well-being, and sustainable excellence. He is the bestselling author of The Practice of Groundedness and co-author of Peak Performance. Stulberg regularly contributes to the New York Times, and his work has been featured in the Wall Street Journal, Washington Post, Los Angeles Times, The New Yorker, Sports Illustrated, Outside Magazine, Forbes, and other outlets. He is on faculty at the University of Michigan’s Graduate School of Public Health. In his coaching practice, he works with executives, entrepreneurs, physicians, and athletes on their mental skills and overall well-being. He lives in Asheville, North Carolina.
In this episode we’re helping runners troubleshoot pre-run and intra-run fueling, bonking; nutrition for peri-menopause and menopause; how to add more protein to your diet, including vegan protein sources; dealing with nausea after a race; and the 3 essential nutrition practices you don’t want to ignore!
Running doesn’t have to suck! In this episode we explore the relationship between fitness and play. Learn about the psychology of “movement play” and seven ways to have fun while training for a marathon. And don’t forget you’ll have a great time as an Academy member hanging out with us online! Learn more here.
In this episode we speak with Doug Mayer -journalist and author of the book “The Race That Changed Running, The Inside Story of UTMB”. Plus we’ll tell you about a running retreat in the Alps we are hosting next year and how you can be a part! The Ultra-Trail du Mont Blanc (UTMB) in Chamonix, […]
In this episode we speak with Martinus Evans author of the book, Slow AF Run Club. Hear how Martinus got into running while weighing over 300 pounds and how he overcame the challenges faced by slower runners! Martinus Evans has run more than eight marathons since his doctor told him to “lose weight or die”. […]
In this episode we speak with Steven Waldon -a coach on our team who just returned from a 155 mile run across the Gobi Desert in Mongolia! 🇲🇳 The Gobi March is a 7-day, 250 km / 155 mile footrace in Central Mongolia. Through the seven days competitors traverse through the vast Mongolian steppes, sand […]
In this episode we speak with Marty Gardner -an Academy member who went from a self-described overweight depressed man who lacked self confidence, to a Marathon Maniac and ultra runner! In May he completed the Keys 100, a point-to-point race from Key Largo to Key West, Florida. In the quick tip segment, Coach Angie shares […]
In this episode we feature questions sent in by listeners about carbon plated shoes, minimalism, shoe rotation, inserts, wear patterns, shoe size selection, pronation, GPS watches and more! We are joined by Fred Joslyn -a local running store owner and 3X winner of the Steamtown Marathon. Fred Joslyn is the owner of Fleet Feet Mechanicsburg […]
In this episode we speak with Sally McRae -a professional mountain runner, mother of two, and author of the book ‘Choose Strong -The Choice That Changes Everything’.
In this episode we bring you along to the Beer Lovers’ Marathon in Belgium. Hear funny stories from race day and get inspiration from fellow runners! This episode is the culmination of 18 days of travel, soundbites with European listeners, many fine Belgium beers, and a gallop through a wild and raucous marathon. Trevor ran […]
In this episode we speak with Dr. Vanessa Corcoran -a listener to the podcast who found parallels between training for a marathon and pursuing her Ph.D.
As a historian, Vanessa shares how people in the Middle Ages practiced endurance through making pilgrimages, and why this bears resemblance to modern day runners seeking self-transformation through the marathon.
Links Mentioned in this EpisodeSidekick -muscle scraping tools keep your muscles healthy by improving blood flow, helping you treat your running injury faster so you can get back to doing what you love. Use promo code ‘MTA’ to save 15% off your order.
MetPro Metabolic Coaching -speak with a Metabolic Expert about your goals and get actionable steps toward fueling for performance, losing weight, adding muscle, or changing your body composition. Get $500 off with our link!
It’s a Marathon, Not a Sprint book by Dr. Vanessa Corcoran
About Vanessa Corcoran (from her Amazon author’s page)
Although she spent her childhood with her nose in a book, ducking when any ball was thrown in her direction, Vanessa Corcoran is now a 2-time Boston Marathon finisher, and has run 99 road races. Currently an advising dean at Georgetown University, Vanessa earned her Ph.D. in medieval history from The Catholic University of America. Vanessa lives in Washington D.C. with her husband Patrick and their daughter, Lucy. This is her first book.
In this episode we share how to get the best out of yourself as a Masters Runner. (Any runner past the age of 40 is considered a Masters Runner). Joining us is Tony Schollum -a listener to the podcast who ran 2:48 at Boston in the 50-54 age division!
Links Mentioned in this Episode Joint Health PLUS® by Previnex -our top recommended joint supplement for runners. Save 15% with code MTA
Sidekick -muscle scraping tools keep your muscles healthy by improving blood flow, helping you treat your running injury faster so you can get back to doing what you love. Use promo code ‘MTA’ to save 15% off your order.
The Richmond Marathon in Richmond, Virginia. Come meet us on November 10-11th!
2500 Mile Challenge -be part of our new distance challenge inspired by the Dutch artist M.C. Escher.
The Social Distancing Run Facebook Group
Tony Schollum is an avid runner and member of our Social Distancing Run (SDR) group on Facebook. For his “day job” Tony is Executive Director of Finance & Supply Chain Technology, in Corporate Services IT, at Kaiser Permanente -one of the largest not-for-profit health plans in the US.
Tony and his wife Sona have been married 20 years and have 2 teenagers (just like us). Tony has completed 13 Marathons and “a guzillion half-marathons” over 3-4 decades. Marathon-wise his most recently his first Boston, and first “official” sub-3hr marathon.
He’s is very active in our Social Distancing Run FB group -our free group for our virtual challenges that we started in 2020 when all the in-person races were cancelled.
In this podcast episode we break down the news from the 2023 Boston Marathon plus three coaches from our team join us to share tips on running a qualifying for Boston.
Sponsor LinksMetPro Metabolic Coaching -speak with a Metabolic Expert about your goals and get actionable steps toward fueling for performance, losing weight, adding muscle, or changing your body composition. Get $500 off with our link!
The Revel Big Cottonwood Marathon and Half in Salt Lake City, Utah. September 9th. Email us for $15 off coupon code!
Oladance Open Earbuds -They have 360° Superior Sound but never enter the ear, so there is no ear fatigue. Use the promo code MTA20 to save 20%.
Long Run Coffee -Coffee for runners infused with essential electrolytes. New customers get free shipping!
Special guests for this episode include three MTA Coaches who ran Boston this year. They said the crowds seemed extra fired up!
- Coach Antonio finished in 3:20:25 (new PR) at the age of 59.
- Coach Kristyn is a 2:58 Marathoner and a 1:16 Half Marathoner and has qualified as a sub elite runner for multiple races.
- Coach Steve is a 2:53 marathoner with 50+ marathon and ultra finishes and a 3:30 pacer at the NYC Marathon.
Coach Kris at the famous Citgo sign
In this episode we recap our trip to Las Vegas to run the amazing Revel Mt. Charleston Half Marathon, and Trevor shares “The Lazy Runner’s Guide to Success!”.
Sponsor LinksJoint Health PLUS® by Previnex -our top recommended joint supplement for runners. Save 15% with code MTA
*Sidekick* -muscle scraping tools keep your muscles healthy by improving blood flow, helping you treat your running injury faster so you can get back to doing what you love. Use promo code ‘MTA’ to save 15% off your order.
Oladance Open Earbuds -They have 360° Superior Sound but never enter the ear, so there is no ear fatigue. Use the promo code MTA20 to save 20%.
The Revel Rockies Marathon and Half in Denver, Colorado. June 3rd. Email us for $15 off coupon code!
The Boulderthon in Boulder, Colorado, October 8th. Trevor is doing a live podcast episode at the expo. Use the code MTA20 to save $20!
Greenbrier River Trail Marathon and Half -takes place on Sunday, October 8, 2023 in beautiful Pocahontas County, West Virginia!
The Richmond Marathon in Richmond, Virginia. Come meet us on November 10-11th!
AG1 by Athletic Greens -the ultimate daily all-in-one health drink with 75 proven vitamins, minerals and whole food-sourced ingredients. Get a FREE 1 year supply of Vitamin D AND 5 free travel packs with your first purchase.
Photos from our Vegas (Mis)AdventureTim and Autum at Excalibur Hotel (before they were robbed)
Trevor and Angie with MTA Coach Kris
Tim, my brother-in-law, ran his first half marathon
with Bill Drinkward who ran a PR in Vegas!
With Teri and Brenna, long-time listeners to the MTA Podcast
Table 1 at the Hofbrauhaus Vegas
at the Hoover Dam with our snazzy Revel hats
In this episode Coach Angie and Coach Nicole tackle questions about calf cramps, running with a busy schedule, speedwork drills, snacks for plant-based runners, fueling during menopause, getting back into running after a health challenge, picking yourself up after a DNF, and more!
Links Mentioned in this Episode:Free 30 minute consultation call with Coach Nicole. Let’s talk about your goals!
UCAN Edge Gel -try 6 Edge gels for FREE! All you pay is the cost of shipping. Returning customers can save 20% with our link on other products.
MetPro Metabolic Coaching -speak with a Metabolic Expert about your goals and get actionable steps toward fueling for performance, losing weight, adding muscle, or changing your body composition. Get $500 off with our link!
Greenbrier River Trail Marathon and Half -takes place on Sunday, October 8, 2023 in beautiful Pocahontas County, West Virginia!
AG1 by Athletic Greens -the ultimate daily all-in-one health drink with 75 proven vitamins, minerals and whole food-sourced ingredients. Get a FREE 1 year supply of Vitamin D AND 5 free travel packs with your first purchase.
Meet the MTA Coaches . . .
Angie Spencer is the Co-Founder of Marathon Training Academy. She is a Registered Nurse and a Level 2 RRCA Certified Running Coach. She has completed 70 Marathons and ultras; she’s run a marathon in every US state and notched a PR of 3:19 at the age of 41. Angie has 3 sons and is a lover of books and dark chocolate!
Nicole Hart is the Head Coach at Marathon Training Academy. She is a Level 2 RRCA Certified Running Coach, Certified Personal Trainer, Certified Sports Conditioning Specialist, and Registered Nurse. She is a Boston Qualifier, finisher of several ultramarathons up to 50 miles, more than a dozen marathons, dozens of halfs, and team relay races. Nicole also has 3 kids and lives in central Pennsylvania.
Trevor Spencer (MA Organizational Leadership) is the manager and producer of the Marathon Training Academy Podcast. Not too long ago he was a total non-running desk potato but has since completed 19 marathons, one 50k, 22 half marathons, and a Spartan Trifecta. He loves to write about himself in the third person. In addition to running Trevor loves international travel, entrepreneurship, German beer, heavy metal , and making Angie roll her eyes.
In this podcast episode we speak with Lauren Fleshman -one of the most decorated American distance runners of all time and author of the book, ‘Good for a Girl -A Woman Running in a Man’s World’.
In the quick tip segment we answer the question: can runners benefit from using infrared saunas?
Links Mentioned in this EpisodeLauren’s memoir Good for a Girl
Joint Health PLUS® by Previnex -our top recommended joint supplement for runners. Save 15% with code MTA
Sidekick -muscle scraping tools keep your muscles healthy by improving blood flow, helping you treat your running injury faster so you can get back to doing what you love. Use promo code ‘MTA’ to save 15% off your order.
Oladance Open Earbuds -They have 360° Superior Sound but never enter the ear, so there is no ear fatigue. Use the promo code MTA20 to save 20%.
UCAN -get a free sample pack of 6 Edge Gels! Just pay the shipping.
Lauren Fleshman is one of the most decorated American distance runners of all time, having won five NCAA championships at Stanford and two national championships as a professional. Her writing has appeared in The New York Times and Runner’s World. She is the brand strategy advisor for Oiselle, a fitness apparel company for women, the co-founder of Picky Bars, a natural food company, and is the coach of Littlewing Athletics in Bend, OR. She is the author or Good for a Girl—A Woman running in a Man’s World. She lives in Oregon with her family.
In this episode we speak with Olympian Kara Goucher about her new book The Longest Race -a personal memoir and an inside look at one of the biggest scandals in the running world! Plus, you will hear what inspired her to dream of going to the Olympics, how she made the jump from the track to the marathon, and her passion for the sport.
Links Mentioned in the EpisodeThe Longest Race -Kara Goucher’s book.
Access the Podcast Vault -all of our back podcast episodes are in the vault for MTA Members!
Sidekick -muscle scraping tools keep your muscles healthy by improving blood flow, helping you treat your running injury faster so you can get back to doing what you love. Use promo code ‘MTA’ to save 15% off your order.
MetPro Nutrition Coaching -speak with a Metabolic Expert about your goals and get actionable steps toward fueling for performance, losing weight, adding muscle, or changing your body composition.
Oladance Open Earbuds -They have 360° Superior Sound but never enter the ear, so there is no ear fatigue. Use the promo code MTA20 to save 20%.
Athletic Greens -Get 5 free travel packs and a 1 year supply of vitamin D with your first purchase.
Kara Goucher is a 3 time NCAA champion, 2 time Olympian, winner of the silver medal in the 10,000 meters at the 2007 Wold Championships, and a podium finisher at the Boston Marathon and NYC Marathon. She is a running analyst for NBC sports and co-host of the Clean Sport Collective podcast, promoting fair play in sports. She also co-hosts the Nobody Asked Us Podcast with Des Linden. Kara lives in Colorado with her family. Her latest book is The Longest Race: : Inside the Secret World of Abuse, Doping, and Deception on Nike’s Elite Running Team.
In this episode we bring you a joint podcast session with Brodie Sharp from the Run Smarter Podcast. Listen as we discuss how to handle hitting the wall, what to look for in a training plan, and many questions about running injuries. Lots of info to help you run smarter!
Links Mentioned in this EpisodeAthletic Greens -Get 5 free travel packs and a 1 year supply of vitamin D with your first purchase.
UCAN -get a free sample pack of 6 Edge Gels! Just pay the shipping.
InsideTracker -analyzes your blood, DNA, and fitness tracking data. Get 20% off the entire InsideTracker store with our link.
The Drury Hotels -get 15% off your stay at any of their 150 locations!
The Run Smarter Podcast with Brodie Sharp
Topics we cover in this conversation* When is it okay to run with pain? * What to look for in a training plan * The link between life stress and injury * How to sharpen your mental game * The pain, rest, weakness downward spiral * What to do when injuries aren’t getting any worse or any better * Tips for preventing and better handling “hitting the wall” * Overlooked but important aspects of a good training plan
Enjoy!
In this episode we bring you a success story with Parker Watson -an Academy member and coaching client who, after getting a wake-up-call from his doctor, used marathon training to take control of his health and change his life!
In this fun conversation Parker shares how he struggled through his first half marathon and thought “running a full marathon is nuts”. Hear how he lost 60 pounds, completed two marathons, and fell in love with running by learning to slow down.
Sponsor LinksPersonalized Run Coaching through Marathon Training Academy
MetPro Nutrition Coaching. Parker lost 60 pounds with MetPro after hearing about them on the podcast! Save $500 with our link.
Oladance Open Earbuds. They have 360° Superior Sound but never enter the ear, so there is no ear fatigue. Plus you never lose track of what’s happening around you. Use the promo code MTA20 to save 20%.
Revel Rockies Marathon and Half in Denver, Colorado. Run this fast beautiful race on June 3, 2023.
Long Run Coffee -Coffee for runners infused with essential electrolytes. New customers get free shipping!
With Parker Watson at the Richmond Marathon 2022
In this podcast episode we speak with Jacky Hunt-Broersma an amputee runner who finished 104 marathons in 104 days!
Jacky is an Arizona based ultrarunner who was born and raised in South Africa. She lost her leg in 2001 at the age of 26. In 2020 she became the first amputee to run 100-miles on a treadmill finishing in 23 hours 38 minutes. In 2022 she set a Guinness Record for Most Consecutive Days to Run a Marathon Distance (Female). This interview will reinforce the truth that, “You are capable of so much more than you think you are”.
Links Mentioned in this EpisodeJoint Health PLUS® by Previnex -our top recommended joint supplement for runners. Save 15% with code MTA
Oladance Open Earbuds. They have 360° Superior Sound but never enter the ear, so there is no ear fatigue. Plus you never lose track of what’s happening around you. Use the promo code MTA20 to save 20%.
PATH Projects high performance running hats and beanies. Use our link for 10% off your first order!
Jacky Hunt-Broersma Instagram @ncrunnerjacky
In this episode we speak with Emily Sisson -the current American Record holder in both the marathon and half marathon! You will hear Emily talk about her early influences and what a typical day in her life looks like as an elite runner; the non-negotiable habits that help her stay healthy; and how rest and recovery contributed to her faster race times.
Links Mentioned in this EpisodeUCAN -get a free sample pack of 6 Edge Gels! Just pay the shipping.
Joint Health PLUS® by Previnex -our top recommended joint supplement for runners. Save 15% with code MTA
REVEL Mt Charleston Marathon and Half Marathon -April 1st in Las Vegas, Nevada
InsideTracker -analyzes your blood, DNA, and fitness tracking data. Get 20% off the entire InsideTracker store with our link.
Emily Sisson, age 31, is an American distance runner who holds the American record in the marathon set at the 2022 Chicago Marathon where she ran 2:18:29. That’s a 5:17 per mile (3:17 km) pace. She also owns the American record in the half marathon (breaking her own record) set this year at the Houston Half Marathon with a time of 1:06:52. She represented the USA in the 10,000 meters at the Tokyo Olympic Games. She runs for New Balance in Flagstaff, Arizona.
In this podcast episode we discuss high performance eating with metabolic expert Angelo Poli. In this deep-dive interview you will learn about:
- High performance foods for runners
- Cooking in bulk macros for greater efficiency
- The wisdom of having reliable routines
- Meal timing
- Nutrient combining
- Pre and post workout fueling considerations
- The 3 categories of carbohydrates (Angelo’s thoughts on low-carb diets)
- What happened when Trevor ate peanuts before a race
- And why we let our kids talk us into buying an air fryer
We like talking to Angelo at the beginning of a new year and this might be our best interview with him yet. Enjoy!
Sponsor LinksMetPro Nutrition Coaching. Speak with a Metabolic Expert about your goals and get actionable steps toward fueling for performance, losing weight, adding muscle, or changing your body composition. Save $500 with our link!
Athletic Greens -Get 5 free travel packs and a 1 year supply of vitamin D with your first purchase.
Angelo Poli is a personal trainer, metabolism expert, and co-founder of MetPro. He’s worked with over 20,000 people helping them reach their body composition goals and dial in their nutrition.
In this podcast episode we talk about how to think big and take action in running and life! Plus, we discuss books that we in enjoyed in 2022 and share our top picks (both fiction and nonfiction).
Links Mentioned in This EpisodeRun Coaching -train with us to nail your goals in 2023
Athletic Greens -Get 5 free travel packs and a 1 year supply of vitamin D with your first purchase.
Oladance Open Earbuds. They have 360° Superior Sound but never enter the ear, so there is no ear fatigue. Plus you never lose track of what’s happening around you. Use the promo code MTA20 to save 20%.
InsideTracker -Analyzes your blood, DNA, and fitness tracking data. Get 20% off the entire InsideTracker store at insidetracker.com/mta.
Our Favorite Books we read in 2022 (blog post)
The Beer Lovers Marathon in Liège, Belgium
“It is not death that a man should fear, but he should fear never beginning to live.” -Marcus Aurelius
In this podcast episode we look back on 2022 and round up the biggest news from the running world including records, notable achievements, tragedies, inspiring moments, and bizarre stories! Plus we look back at what went down here at MTA: races run, travel, podcast guests, and new additions.
Sponsor LinksStrength Training For Runners Program – our new Academy resource for lifting heavy while training for a marathon (and in the off season). Includes beginner level and advanced level. Become an Academy member today! Join here.
Oladance Open Earbuds. They have 360° Superior Sound but never enter the ear, so there is no ear fatigue. Plus you never lose track of what’s happening around you. Use the promo code MTA20 to save 20%.
InsideTracker -Analyzes your blood, DNA, and fitness tracking data. Get 20% off the entire InsideTracker store at insidetracker.com/mta.
UCAN -Try UCAN EDGE gel and Energy Bars. Get 20% off with the code MTA
2,000 Mile Challenge -inspired by the Great Wave Off Kanagawa
In this special podcast episode we hear from listeners about what motivated them to become long distance runners. Plus, Coach Angie shares tips on how to start (or resume) a strength training routine.
Thank you to everyone who sent in a voicemail recording to help us celebrate reaching episode 400!
Sponsor LinksStrength Training For Runners Program – our new Academy resource for lifting heavy while training for a marathon (and in the off season). Includes beginner level and advanced level. Become an Academy member today! Join here.
Oladance Open Earbuds. They have 360° Superior Sound but never enter the ear, so there is no ear fatigue. Plus you never lose track of what’s happening around you. Use the promo code MTA20 to save 20%.
MetPro Nutrition Coaching. Speak with a Metabolic Expert about your goals and get actionable steps toward fueling for performance, losing weight, adding muscle, or changing your body composition. Save $500 with our link!
From the community:
I recently ran a half marathon and got a PB with a time of 1 hour 56 mins and 26 seconds. I’m so thrilled. I want to thank my amazing MTA Coach Antonio because, with his kind support and weekly training plans, I have had a brilliant 2022. On May 1st had my first sub 2 half marathon!
In October, I ran my first-ever marathon in Chicago! And my recent PB was the cherry on top of a great running year. Also, thanks to Angie and Trevor, I have been listening to your podcast since 2016, and you are right; running a marathon really does change your life! -Jacqueline
In this podcast episode Coach Angie shares tips on running through pregnancy and the postpartum period. Special guests include three moms (a nutritionist, a strength coach, and a pediatrician) who share stories and advice on training for a marathon after having a baby.
Sponsor LinksThe Drury Hotels -get 15% off your stay at any of their 150 locations!
Athletic Greens -Get 5 free travel packs and a 1 year supply of vitamin D with your first purchase.
InsideTracker -Analyzes your blood, DNA, and fitness tracking data. Get 20% off the entire InsideTracker store at insidetracker.com/mta.
Consultation Call with MTA Running Coach
Big thanks to Coach Jenn Giles, Coach Athena Farias, and Dr. Christina Piron for joining us on this episode!
Running During Pregnancy and the Postpartum PeriodThere can be many challenges associated with running during pregnancy and returning to running in the postpartum period. This journey will be unique to every single person and there’s no “one size fits all” template. Remember that the recommendations that we’re giving here are not a substitute for the advice of your healthcare provider.
My Story . . .Running during pregnancy and the postpartum period is not something that is currently fresh on my mind. My youngest son just turned 12 so it’s been a while since I’ve been through that myself, but I do remember much of what the process was like.
My third son, Liam, born October 1st, 2010. I either ran or cross-trained up until the day he was born.
With my first two pregnancies I wasn’t a runner yet although I did try to workout regularly and stay active. The third time around I had just come off running my second marathon (where I was excited to break 4 hours) in the fall of 2009 so I had a high fitness base going into the pregnancy. I was able to continue running my normal mileage at an easier intensity until around 22 weeks into my pregnancy. At that point my round ligaments couldn’t take the impact anymore and I had to transition to doing all low impact exercises.
It was a big mental adjustment for me not to be able to run all the way through pregnancy but my body had different ideas and I chose to listen to it. I’m always happy to hear when women are able to run through their entire pregnancies.
9 Month Long Endurance EventDuring pregnancy the primary goal is doing what you can to have a safe and healthy experience. There is a lot going on in your body at this time. Even during the 1st trimester (which is up to 13 weeks) your body may not outwardly look that different but it is working hard on fetal development and it’s important to respect that.
Most women experience some degree of fatigue or low energy during this time and often some morning sickness or generalized nausea and food aversions. Internally, the maternal cardiac output increases by 30-50% and blood volume doubles. Breathing rate also increases during exercise, especially during the 3rd trimester (which is week 27 and above) when you have a larger body mass to sustain.
It’s important to listen to your body and be okay with the fact that you’ll have to slow down and possibly even stop running temporarily. I’ve heard it said that pregnancy is a time to “train for two, not for you.”
I recently saw some information in Instagram from The Fit Midwife that said,
“Not all heroes wear capes! Did you know that pregnant women live nearly at the limit of human endurance?
Researchers from Duke University studied athletes such as elite runners and cyclists in the Tour De France in a bid to identify the absolute limit of human endurance. Their research showed that the human body can cope with a maximum energy expenditure of 2.5 times its resting metabolic rate (which on average is around 4,000 calories).
What is so interesting about this is that when it comes to pregnant women, at their peak their energy expenditure is around 2.2 times their metabolic rate. So, in a nutshell, growing tiny humans means your body is pushing the boundaries of your human capabilities in a way only otherwise experienced by exceptionally elite athletes.”
Pregnancy is basically a 9 month long endurance event!
Is it Safe to Run During Pregnancy?
Experts have varying opinions on what is safe and advisable during the pregnancy and the postpartum period. If you have a chronic medical condition, a high risk pregnancy, or history of miscarriage then you should always act with more caution and follow the advice of your doctor in regard to exercise.
- But in general aerobic exercise like running has been proven to be safe during a normal pregnancy and most women don’t need to lay aside their running or strength training routine during this time.
Another thing to keep in mind is that every pregnancy is unique even if this is not your first child. This is a time to exercise more caution and listen to your body. Now I certainly don’t advocate laying off all exercise for nine months but it isn’t a time to take on bigger challenges that you’re not conditioned for either.
Pregnancy, childbirth and the postpartum period are much like a marathon experience and require a lot of patience with the process.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) which always takes a very conservative approach and states that,
“Continuing to run or do other aerobic activity during pregnancy for 30 min on most days of the week can reduce backaches, constipation, bloating, and swelling; prevent or treat gestational diabetes; increase your energy; improve your mood; improve your posture, muscle tone, strength and endurance; help you sleep better; and improve your ability to cope with labor pain.”
They also say,
“If you were a runner before you became pregnant, you often can keep running during pregnancy, although you may have to modify your routine.”
So if you’ve been running regularly before pregnancy then it’s fine to continue running at that level with less intensity during pregnancy as long as you listen to your body and adjust accordingly. However, pregnancy is not the time to train for a marathon for the first time or try and set PR’s. Your body needs to be invested in the healthy development of the baby.
Challenges You Might FaceThe body will also present different challenges during the three trimesters of pregnancy. During the 1st trimester nausea, exhaustion and dizziness can be common. During the 2nd trimester the center of gravity shifts, joints and ligaments get looser and women may start dealing with bladder pressure, urinary frequency and occasionally stress incontinence.
You will see a wide range of what people can do during pregnancy and this was true for me as well. During my 3rd pregnancy I experienced a lot of fatigue in the 1st trimester (which is very normal) and felt great during the 2nd trimester.
I was able to do a half marathon and 15k during this time. However, once I got to around week 22 my center of gravity had shifted enough that it was putting a lot of pressure on the round ligaments. Even though I was wearing a belly support band any high impact activity caused a lot of discomfort. So I transitioned to low impact actives such as using the stationary bike, elliptical, yoga and strength training. In fact, I worked out by cycling and some strength training the day my son was born.
General Advice during Pregnancy 1. Focus on training for a healthy pregnancy. Having a healthy baby is the number one goal and personal running goals will take a backseat during this time. 2. Listen to your body. In your head you may think you should be able to still run a certain pace or distance but it’s important to slow down. Don’t feel pressured to keep running through your pregnancy if you don’t want to and don’t feel pressured to stop if you feel good. 3. Don’t neglect core strength. Keeping your back, abdominal, hip and pelvic floor muscles strong will give you a more comfortable pregnancy and easier postpartum recovery. Just make sure not to do exercises that diminish blood flow to the uterus like those that require lying on your back or doing things like crunches from the 2nd trimester on. You also don’t want to hold your breath during exercises. 4. Make sure to wear comfortable and supportive exercise clothes. You may need a larger size of running shoes as your feet can relax and swell during pregnancy. Compression socks and a belly support band can also be helpful for more support and to promote better blood flow. 5. Your center of gravity shifts during pregnancy which can feel a bit more unstable at times. Make sure that you don’t run frequently on uneven surfaces or highly technical trails. It’s also important to warm up and cool down carefully. Relaxin, the hormone that relaxes your ligaments, is way more elevated during pregnancy and this will result in looser joints and ligaments that can make you more vulnerable to injury. 6. If you have the following symptoms at any time during pregnancy be sure to stop exercising and contact your healthcare provider immediately. Things to watch for include: abdominal cramping, vaginal bleeding, dizziness, chest pain, calf pain or swelling, or uterine contractions. The Health of the BabyIs there any evidence that athletes have healthier babies?
Obviously there aren’t any guarantees but generally a healthy mom results in a healthier baby. Studies show that exercise during pregnancy lessens back pain, prevents excessive weight gain, improves sleep quality, and reduces delivery complications and time spent in labor. In addition, exercise during pregnancy results in babies that have healthier blood vessels even into adulthood and helps protect against heart disease.
A study from the University of Montreal found that the babies of mothers who exercised had brains that were more active and mature and had advanced neurodevelopment. Infants are also less likely to be underweight, have better heart development, and better heart rate variability. They also perform better on tests of fine motor skills and had advanced coordination. This may be due to better blood, oxygen, and nutrient flow through the placenta.
Postpartum RecoveryLet’s shift gears from pregnancy to the postpartum period. The timing of when you start exercising again post-pregnancy depends on how much you exercised during the pregnancy and what type of delivery you had. If you had an uncomplicated vaginal birth you will be able to begin exercising sooner than someone who experienced complications or had a cesarean birth.
Evidence shows that safe and appropriate exercise postpartum helps prevent urinary incontinence and uterine prolapse. It also promotes blood flow to avoid complications like varicose veins, leg cramps, edema and blood clot formation. Improved circulation promotes healing of pelvic tissues and strengthens uterine and pelvic ligaments and tendons. As an added benefit, exercise in the postpartum period has been shown to decrease the incidence of postpartum depression.
General postpartum exercise recommendations include starting back slowly by walking several times per week and doing light core and pelvic floor strengthening exercises. Your joints and ligaments are going through a big transition post-delivery and your center of gravity will start shifting. Be sure to take it easy for the first 2-6 weeks (or whatever your doctor recommends). Listen to your body and proceed accordingly.
If you do start running during the first 6 weeks make sure that you take it slowly to avoid getting injured. Even if you were an avid marathoner you don’t want to jump back into heavy training right away. Your abdominal muscles will be very lax and this can throw your running form off and lead to back discomfort or other injuries. You’re also at a higher risk for stress fractures during this time. Be patient with yourself and remember that it’s important to rebuild a solid running base. Don’t take shortcuts and get injured.
My Postpartum Return to RunningAt the Little Rock Marathon 5 months after having a baby.
My goals post-pregnancy were simply to let my body recover and slowly build back my running base. I walked during the first 1-2 weeks postpartum and then in the coming weeks slowly added in some running intervals to my walks. It was all about building back endurance before speed. I did deal with some plantar fasciitis at first and had to build slowly to keep this from getting worse.
I did do a marathon 5 months after my third son was born but I took it easy the whole time and walked the second half of the race. Then came the process of building on my new running base, regaining strength, and gradually dropping my times down.
I believe this gradual process was what enabled me to set a marathon PR around 19 months later.
Top 3 Things I Learned After Building Back from PregnancyThe process of training during pregnancy and the postpartum period is such a learning experience. Here is what I personally learned during this phase of my running life:
- Pregnancy can make you a tougher and smarter runner. For me, running a marathon is way easier than childbirth. But both pregnancy and running raise your pain threshold, help you develop patience with the process, and make you realize that you can handle more than you think.
- Be comfortable with the decisions you make and take it a day at a time. I was pregnant for a 4th time in 2012 and lost the baby at 18 weeks. It was natural to wonder if my running had anything to do with this miscarriage even though the pathology report showed that the baby suffered from a genetic condition. Still, it was a very tough period of time as we dealt with this loss and as I had to again rebuild my running base. Having the habit of running was very helpful to me both physically and emotionally.
- I learned not to just train for races but to train for life. Being a strong and healthy person is so much more important to me than making a certain race goal. I want to run the rest of my life and enjoy all the unique opportunities and experiences running brings my way.
In this episode we share rookie mistakes that must be avoided on race day as Trevor brings you (via the wonders of podcasting) to the Richmond Half Marathon. Plus, listen as our nutrition coach explains adaptive thermogenesis and metabolic recovery.
In this podcast episode we speak with Christopher McDougall and Eric Orton about how to experience what good running feels like. Plus, you will hear what the real-life characters from the groundbreaking book ‘Born to Run’ are up to today. Christopher McDougall is one of America’s most popular adventure-sport writers, with more than 2 million […]
In this podcast episode we speak with plant-based runner and fellow podcaster Claire Bartholic. Claire explains how she took an hour off her marathon time to ultimately run a PR of 2:58 at the age of 42! What are the keys that allowed her to make such a dramatic improvement in the marathon? Let’s find […]
In this podcast episode Angie recaps the Wineglass Marathon in New York and shares lessons learned from running 70 marathons. She’s keeping it real and sharing the beautiful and “horrible” struggle that can ensue over the course of 26.2 miles. Race Recap: The Wineglass Marathon The last time I ran the Wineglass Marathon in Corning, […]
In this podcast episode we speak with Steve Magness -performance coach and author of the book ‘Do Hard Things -Why we get Resilience Wrong and the Surprising Science of Real Toughness’.
In this podcast episode we are joined by fellow podcaster Chris McClung from Running Rogue to answer questions sent in from audience members. Questions include: how late in life can you PR?; VO2 Max; how maintenance plans work; training for back to back marathons; when to do Yasso 800s; thoughts on processed fuels; and how […]
In this podcast episode we speak with Dr. Tamanna Singh -sports cardiologist at the Cleveland Clinic and active marathoner. The discussion includes heart rate variability, how coronavirus effects the heart muscle, the impact of alcohol on marathon training, and more!
In this podcast episode we bring you a marathon success story with Bill Drinkward -a coaching client from Bend, Oregon. Bill shares how he went from a disastrous DNF at the Honolulu Marathon to getting smarter in his training and qualifying for Boston. He recently completed his first 50 trail ultra in 9 hours and […]
In this podcast episode we speak with ultra runner Dave Proctor (one tough cowboy!) who ran coast to coast across Canada 🇨🇦 in 67 days (4,448 miles) and broke the Trans-Canada record. Dave provides a unique and look into the endurance mindset -that will help you get through challenges of your own. Interview with Dave […]
In episode we speak with fellow podcaster Thomas Bailey who in 2017 decided to get sober and change his life. He found a love for long distance running and ran his second marathon in 2:48. Plus we will give you a final recap of our 39 day road trip in Europe.
In this podcast episode we speak with 2X Olympian Molly Huddle and 2X NCAA Champion and cross-country coach Sara Slattery about what they learned from interviewing 50 top female distance runners.
In this podcast episode we take you along with us to France as we recap the beautiful but rugged ‘Marathon du Mont-Blanc’ that ascends up to 2,540 meters (8333.333 feet) above the town of Chamonix. Hear soundbites from Trevor’s “sufferfest” in the Alps and get inspired to do epic stuff! Marathon du Mont-Blanc […]
In this podcast episode we speak with lifestyle physician Dr. Darren Clair about the stress hormone cortisol. Why are we more stressed out than our ancient ancestors and what can we as runners do about it? Plus, we share an update from our roadtrip in Europe and Trevor tells a story about being stuck in […]
In this podcast episode we explain how long distance running is an exercise in self-leadership. Hear how to take control of your thoughts, influence your emotions, and discipline your body to accomplish your running and fitness goals!
In this podcast episode we speak with Erin Azar -the mother of 3 who became an internet sensation after sharing hilarious videos of training for her first marathon as a, “slightly overweight person who drinks too much beer”. If you’ve ever struggled in your running I know you’ll resonate with what Erin has to share.
In this podcast episode we speak with Jamie Tizzard -a mother of two from southern California who has been completing our virtual run challenges. In 2020 she found herself scrolling through Facebook and responded to an ad for the 100 Mile Challenge. It was the push she needed to get off the couch, become a […]
In this bonus episode we bring you the recording from a live event Angie co-moderated at the Boston Marathon. Hosted by our friends at , you will hear tips and stories from Meb Keflezighi, Emily Sisson, Emma Bates, and Tommie Runz.
In this podcast episode we bring you one of our “world famous” race recaps as Angie describes the 2022 Boston Marathon. -Hear about the amazing stories that came out of this year’s marathon. -Soundbites from the MTA meet up -Plus two coaches join us to share tips on running a Boston qualifying (BQ) time. Race […]
In this podcast episode we will share how you can use emotional intelligence (EQ) strategies to harness the power of your emotions during marathon training. Learn how delayed gratification helps you succeed as a long distance runner. When negative emotions flood in, the practice of “emotion spotting” can help your rational brain take over!
In this podcast episode we speak with Keira D’Amato, the 37 year old mother of two, who broke the American record in the marathon this year running 2:19:12! Listen on Apple Podcasts Listen on Spotify Listen on Android Keira describes her running career as “the road less travelled”. Hear how she went from injury and […]
In this podcast episode we bring you a marathon success story with MTA coaching client Delorean Ostrom who is running a marathon every month in 2022 to raise money for the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation. We spoke with Delorean just a few days after he finished the Snickers Marathon in Athens, Georgia. This was his 2nd marathon […]
In this podcast episode we speak with Dr. Stacy Sims a physiologist, nutrition scientist, and expert on sports performance for female athletes who are in perimenopause and postmenopause.
A study by the University of Gothenburg in Sweden found that 46% of runners reported some type of injury over the course of a year. In this episode Coach Angie shares tips on coping with a running injury and setting yourself up for success during the recovery process!
In this episode Coach Angie answers a question from a discouraged runner and shares statistics, tips, and hope on dealing with an injury so you can keep doing what you love.
In this podcast episode you will hear how Angie stumbled into running marathons and what gave me the idea to start the MTA Podcast 12 years ago (wow, I’m feeling old). Fellow podcaster Lisa Tamati (from New Zealand) interviews us about how we got started, our favorite and toughest marathons, overcoming challenges, and the lessons […]
In this podcast episode we bring you a marathon success story as we speak with Academy member Dipti Pandya, a radiologist and mother of two, who just completed the Disney Dopey Challenge. You will hear about the setbacks she faced during her training, including a cancer diagnosis, how she finds time to train, and what […]
In this podcast episode we speak with metabolic expert and Angie nutrition coach Angelo Poli about how to recondition the body’s metabolism and fuel, think, and perform like an athlete.
In this episode we bring you a run-down of the biggest running news from 2021 and tips on achieving your running goals in the new year! Plus, Angie shares the top picks from her non-fiction reading list. Top Running Stories from 2021 Every Year we recap the biggest stories from the running world. Here’s what […]
In this episode we speak with Abdi Abdirahman -who represented team USA at the Olympic Marathon in Tokyo at the age of 43. He is the oldest American runner ever to make the Olympic team and the only distance runner to make the Olympics 5 times.
In this podcast episode we speak with ultra-runner Sally McRae winner of this year’s Badwater 135. Sally shares thoughts on overcoming fear as well as practical tips on running defensively on trails.
In this episode we speak with Brad Stulberg who is a performance coach and author of the book The Practice of Groundedness -a transformative path to success that feeds not crushes your soul. Interview with Brad Stulberg Brad is the author of The Practice of Groundedness as well as Peak Performance and The Passion Paradox. […]
In this podcast episode we replay a popular episode from the Podcast Vault where we discuss Issues Faced by Slower Runners, “Tales from the back of the pack”. Plus Coach Angie gives a quick roundup of the 2021 New York City Marathon -winners, celebrities, and special moments. Issues Faced by Slower Runners (Replay Episode) To […]
In this podcast episode we speak with Harvey Lewis winner of the 2021 Badwater 135 and Big’s Backyard Ultra where he ran 354 miles in 3 1/2 days! Interview with Harvey Lewis Harvey Lewis is a school teacher from Cincinnati, Ohio, and accomplished ultra runner. He has represented Team USA at the International Association of […]
In this podcast episode we recap the 125th Boston Marathon. Feel the energy from the crowds and hear from runners at the MTA Meet up. Coach Angie takes you along the course and shares interesting facts about the world’s most prestigious marathon. The date of the 2021 Boston Marathon was changed from Patriot’s Day in […]
In this episode we speak with Brendan Leonard author of the book I Hate Running And You Can Too -How to Get Started, Keep Going, and Make Sense of an Irrational Passion. Hear why it’s ok to walk in a marathon and why you get to create your own definition of success. We also […]
In this podcast episode we speak with Dave McGillivray the longtime race director at the Boston Marathon. Always picked last for sports due to being short, Dave found running at an early age. He first attempted the Boston Marathon at 17. In this conversation you will hear what his grandfather taught him about training for […]
In this episode Trevor shares what it was like to run a brutal trail marathon in the Italian Alps with 2,863 meters (9,393.04 feet) of elevation gain. And in the quick tip segment we feature a question about how many calories to consume on long run days versus lower mileage days. Race Recap: Running in […]
In this podcast episode we speak with Lisa Tamati -endurance athlete, author, and mindset expert. And in the quick tip segment, recommendations on healthy snacks to help keep your hunger in check between meals. Lisa Tamati is probably New Zealand’s best known ultra runner. She’s been on the scene for 25 years running the toughest […]
In this episode we speak with rocket scientist and runner Melissa Corley Carter PhD who took on the challenge of running a marathon on every continent. And in the quick tip segment we feature a question about intermittent fasting for runners.
In this podcast episode we look back at the Olympic Marathon results and other inspiring moments from Tokyo. And in the quick tip segment, we feature a question sent in from a listener about anabolic diets for runners. A Look at the Tokyo Olympic Marathon 2021 The Tokyo Olympics are officially in the books! A […]
In this episode you will hear explanations of the various Olympic track events, a preview of the men’s and women’s marathon, and tips from Coach Angie on some effective speed workouts to do on your local track.
In this episode we speak with Hillary Allen, author of the book Out and Back -A Runner’s Story of Survival Against All Odds. In 2017 she nearly died at an ultramarathon when she fell 150 feet off an exposed mountain ridge and had to be rescued by helicopter. She returned two years after her accident […]
In this podcast episode speak with ultrarunner and Best Selling Author Dean Karnazes. His new book is called A Runner’s High -My Life in Motion. Plus we’ll give you a quick run down of our summer adventures in Costa Rica. We are currently traveling the country with our kids. Enjoy! Interview with Dean Karnazes Dean […]
In this episode we bring you part of Ask the Coaches Q and A where the Coach Angie and Coach Nicole answer questions sent in from listeners. In this session we discuss training by time versus training by distance, busting through plateaus, hill runs, pacing, lifting heavy, how Angie stay motivated when she was dealing […]
In this podcast episode Coach Angie and Coach Nicole answer questions about pre-run warm up drills, how to return to training after an injury, training for two races only a month apart, speedwork, rest days, ultra training, and 12/24 hour time events. Thanks to everyone who sent in a question! Ask the Coaches Q and […]
In this episode we share how to get back into training, by evaluating your fitness level, choosing a training plan, and just going for it.
In this episode we speak with Dr. Stacy Sims, PhD., an Environmental Exercise Physiologist and Nutrition Scientist specializing in sex differences in endurance training. She’s the author of the book Roar which I swear I recommend to someone at least once a week! Dr. Sim’s research has had a big impact on my thinking, especially […]
In this episode Angie recaps the Revel Wasatch Marathon in Utah, her 67th marathon to date. Plus you will hear how to modify your goal when things go wrong. Race Recap: The Revel Wasatch Marathon The limited edition Revel Wasatch Marathon and Half Marathon took place on April 30 & May 1st, 2021. The race […]
In this podcast episode we speak with Michael Crawley, author of the book, Out of Thin Air -Running Wisdom and Magic from Above the Clouds in Ethiopia. Dr. Crawley lived and trained with elite runners in Ethiopia for 15 months to learn their secrets.
In this podcast episode Coach Angie will share how, when, and why to successfully taper before a race so you can get to the starting line rested and feeling strong.
In this episode we speak with Jonathan de Sola Mendes a 100 year old veteran of WW2 and the Korean War who completed the New York City Marathon at the age of 96! Interview with Jonathan de Sola Mendes Jonathan de Sola Mendes was born November 3rd, 1920. As a dive bomber pilot in the […]
Do you strength train? In this episode and blog post I share the story of how strength training improved my running. I also answer great questions sent in by listeners. Plus I’ll give you some tips on how to get started correctly. Hopefully you were able to listen to Part 1 and were convinced of […]
Strength training is something that has had a positive impact on my development as a runner. I felt a huge shift in my training and mindset when I decided to focus on being strong instead of trying to be thin. We lose muscle mass as we age so it’s important that you choose to get […]
In this episode we speak with Dr. Daniel Lieberman, professor of Biological Sciences at Harvard University, whose influential research has helped popularize the idea that humans are born to run. His new book is called Exercised -Why Something We Never Evolved to Do is Healthy and Rewarding. Interview with Daniel Lieberman Daniel Lieberman is a […]
In this podcast episode you will hear how to successfully increase the mileage you run while minimizing your risk of injury.
In this episode we interview Dick Beardsley–2:08 marathoner, running ambassador, and motivational speaker. His neck-and-neck race against Alberto Salazar at the 1982 Boston Marathon is famously known as the “Duel in the Sun” and lives on as Boston Marathon lore. In 1989 Dick suffered severe injuries from a farming accident that badly mangled his body […]
n this episode bring you an interview with Yolanda Holder, the Walking Diva, who has walked over 550 marathons and ultras and has a Guiness World Record for most marathons completed in a calendar year. And in the quick tip segment, Coach Angie will answer a questions sent in by a listener about pursuing big […]
In this episode we speak with weight loss expert Angelo Poli about why some people have better luck sticking to their resolutions and how to better understand your body’s metabolism. In the quick tip segment Coach Angie answers a question about transitioning to a higher or lower drop running shoe. Conversation with Weight Loss Expert […]
In this episode we talk about how when it comes to achieving your running goals, habit beats motivation every time. Plus Coach Angie shares tips on how to read more books in 2021.
In this episode we take a look back at some of the top running related news and stories of 2020. Even in a chaotic year there were many positive and inspiring things that happened! Plus we’ll tell you about a 300 mile run challenge to keep you motivated in the new year. 2020 Year in […]
This episode we talk with the authors of the book Making Your Way -The Wobbly Road to Success and Happiness in Life and Work. In this conversation you will hear how to adjust and thrive as a runner when your training or your life takes an unexpected turn like it did in 2020. Interview with […]
Angie and I were guests on the We Got the Runs Podcast episode 28. We talked about Angie’s 50 state marathon goal and other stories from our life. Enjoy! Listen here.
In this episode we speak with mindset expert John Assaraf -author of the book ‘Innercise -The New Science to Unlock Your Brain’s Hidden Power’. Plus we try to answer the question, “Will races come back in 2021?” Interview with John Assaraf John Assaraf is a leading expert on mindset and behavior who specialized in helping […]
In this episode we speak with Sara Hall -professional runner, mother of four, and 2nd place finisher at the 2020 London Marathon. Plus, Coach Angie shares tips on improving your 5k time. Interview with Sara Hall Sara Hall is a three-time NCAA track and field runner up in the 5000 meters and indoor 3000 meters, and a 7-time All-American, […]
In this episode we speak with physical therapy doctor, Ben Shatto, about how you can become more resistant to running injuries. And in the quick tip segment Angie shares thoughts on staying fit during the holidays. Becoming Resistant to Running Injuries Dr. Ben Shatto, PT, DPT, OCS, CSCS is a physical therapist who specializes in […]
In this episode we speak with Marshall Ulrich, a legendary ultra runner, record holder and competitor on the World’s Toughest Race Eco Challenge Fiji on Amazon Prime. And in the quick tip segment, Angie will share how to keep running strong as you get older.
In this episode Coach Joel Pearson joins us to answers questions sent in by the community about building endurance, injury prevention, running streaks, speedwork, stretching before a run, the ‘5 Biomotor Abilities’, and more!
In this episode we bring you an ask the coach Q&A as Angie answers questions about hydration, heart rate training, over-training, cadence, pre-race fueling, leaky bladders, and more! Ask the Coach Q&A Running in the Heat Any advice on managing increased heart rate while running in the heat. -Stephanie Part of running in the heat […]
In this podcast episode Angie recaps the Pine Creek 50 Miler, a true “strugglefest”.
Every year we read about runners who are struck by cars, bitten by dogs, or physically attacked while running. In this episode Coach Angie shares important safety tips on how to be a defensive runner. 💪 Running Defensively When I talk about safety for runners it’s a topic that I wish we could avoid. I […]
In this podcast episode we bring you a conversation with Coree Woltering— an ultra-runner and competitor on the Amazon Prime series World’s Toughest Race: Eco Challenge. He also set the fastest known time (FKT) on the 1,200 mile Ice Age Trail in Wisconsin this year. And in the quick tip segment, Coach Angie shares a […]
In our new podcast episode we speak with Dr. Tamanna Singh a marathoner and cardiologist at the Cleveland Clinic about how runners can be proactive about their heart health. Plus we’ll tell you about a 100 mile virtual challenge you can complete between now and the end of the year. Interview with Tamanna Singh Dr. […]
In this episode we speak with Phil Shin, a listener to the podcast who’s been battling liver cancer while continuing to train for marathons and inspire others. Interview with Phil Shin We met Phil at the MTA Meet Up just before the 2019 London Marathon. Phil was diagnosed with liver cancer in 2018 and had […]
In this podcast episode we play an interview Trevor gave on a South African running podcast about tips for beginners, how to stick to your training if you are a rebel, and obstacle immunity. Plus coach Angie will teach you how to safely run in the heat without killing yourself.
In this episode we dive deeper into one of Coach Angie’s favorite mantras, “I Can Do Hard Things” to explain how to shift your mindset to embrace challenges in running and life.
In this episode we speak with ultrarunner and long-time listener to the MTA podcast Eric Strand who recently set the Fastest Known Time on the Katy Trail to raise money for front line hospitality workers. Plus, Coach Angie will share tips on how to mentor a new runner. Interview with Eric Strand Our friend Eric […]
In this episode we speak with Dr. Greg Wells, a Canadian physicist, adventurer and author of the book Rest, Refocus, Recharge: A Guide for Optimizing Your Life. Interview with Dr. Greg Wells Greg Wells is a performance physiologist, a researcher in translational medicine, and CEO of a Wells Performance a global consulting firm. He is […]
In this episode we remember David Clark, ultrarunner, dad, coach, and author of the book Out There -A Story of Ultra Recovery. David was an inspiration to thousands around the world and a former guest on the MTA Podcast back in 2015. We recently heard the news that David unexpectedly died on May 21, 2020 […]
Dathan Ritzenhein is a three-time Olympian, American Record setter, World Championship Bronze Medalist, and USA Champion. He ran professionally for 16 years. On May 7th he announced his retirement. In this episode we bring you a live Q and A session where Dathan answers questions about his career, training tips, and what he would tell his […]
In this episode we speak with fellow podcaster and running coach Jason Fitzgerald about how to get the most enjoyment out of a virtual race. Plus Angie recaps her first ever virtual marathon. How to Have Success in a Virtual Race Jason Fitzgerald is creator and founder of Strength Running and is a USA Track […]
In this episode we speak with Dr. Chris Napier, Canadian runner and author of the book The Science of Running -Analyze Your Technique, Prevent Injury, and Revolutionize Your Training. Interview with Dr. Chris Napier Chris Napier, PhD. is a Canadian physical therapist and Clinical Assistant Professor in the Department of Physical Therapy at the University […]
n this episode we speak with longtime listener and Academy member Rhonda Foulds who competed 100 marathons after being diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease and undergoing multiple brain surgeries. Plus Angie answers a question from a listener who asks, “Can I Really Run a Marathon?”.
In this episode we speak with Florian Neuschwander an inspiring German runner who just set the World Record for fastest 50k on a treadmill! Plus, coach Angie shares tips on how to stay fit when you are isolated at home and we hear from a MTA coach living with his family in China under home […]
In this episode we discuss how to stay motivated when your race is cancelled or postponed. Plus we tell you about a virtual race we are hosting called the “Social Distancing” Distance Run!
In this episode we speak with Angelo Poli about the science of metabolic rate, dieting, and body transformation. Plus Angie shares tips on racing a half marathon.
In this special episode we celebrate the 10 Year Anniversary of the podcast and take a look back at episode #1 and why we started running marathons. Plus, Angie will tell you how to stay motivated in your running year after year.
In this episode we speak with the authors of the book ‘Rebound’ about how to train your mind to bounce back stronger from sports injuries.
In this episode Coach Angie talks about what it takes to achieve a massive goal in your running plus she answers questions sent in by Academy members about her 50 state marathon journey.
Angie was interviewed recently on the C Tolle Run Podcast which is hosted by our friend Carrie Tollefson. They chat about her journey, her favorite marathons, weight loss, extreme fatigue, and what’s next. Listen here: https://www.ctollerun.com/angie-spencer/
In this long awaited episode Angie recaps the Revel Kulia Marathon in Hawaii the final race in her quest to run a marathon in every state, and her fastest finish yet! Plus you will hear practical tips on how you can run a PR (personal record) this year.
In this episode we take a look back at Angie’s 50 state marathon quest as she prepares to run her final race. This has been a 12 year project in the making with many ups and downs along the way!
In this episode Angie discusses the importance of working on your weak areas in marathon training so that you can become a stronger version of yourself. Plus we speak with an Australian runner who is mobilizing the running community to support those affected by the divesting bushfires.
In this episode we share how you can make the next year (and the next decade) successful in running and life. Plus a rundown of our favorite books from 2019!
In this episode we take a look back at what happened in the running world in 2019 -the records, breakthroughs, and bizarre, unbelievable, and inspirational stories that made headlines. And in the quick tip segment, we discuss if the Nike Next% should be your next shoe.
In this episode we speak with British runner Nick Butter who is the first person in history to run a marathon in every country on Earth. Plus, in the quick tip segment Angie shares tips on safely running in cold weather.
In this episode we bring you an interview with Gene Dykes the fastest marathoner over age 70 who ran a blistering 2:54:23. Plus we take you on the ground at the Philadelphia Half Marathon in Philadelphia Pennsylvania.
In this episode Angie recaps the Manchester City Marathon in New Hampshire her third marathon in 30 days! Plus you will hear how to safely train for and recover between races that are close together. And . . . we speak with two runners who have made a half marathon comeback after pregnancy.
In this episode we speak with running shoe expert Brian Metzler author of the new book ‘Kicksology -the Hype, Science, Culture, and Cool of Running Shoes’. Plus Angie shares tips on how to get the most out of your shoes; and you will hear from a runner who’s been who’s been listening to the MTA […]
In this bonus podcast episode you will hear the replay from our live event at the New York City Marathon. Angie spoke on a panel with fellow podcasters Tina Muir, Carrie Tollefson, and Emily Abbate about marathon stories and the ups and downs of training.
In today’s show we celebrate reaching our 300th podcast episode by hearing from our amazing listeners! We asked runners to call in and tell us where they live, what they do for a living, and what races they have on the calendar. Plus Angie recaps her recent marathon in Vermont -which she is calling one […]
In this episode Angie recaps the Hartford Marathon in Connecticut -her 60th marathon and fastest to date. Plus Trevor recaps the Kaisermarathon in Austria. And in the quick tip segment you will hear how to set yourself up for a marathon PR.
In this episode we bring you an interview with Hall of Fame running coach Bob Larsen! Plus Angie will tell you about a GPS watch with a super long battery life.
In this podcast episode we speak with Matthew Futterman, sports editor at the New York Times, about his new book ‘Running to the Edge -A Band of Misfits and the Guru Who Unlocked the Secrets of Speed’.
In this episode we speak with ultra runner Courtney Dauwalter -winner of the 2019 Ultra Trail du Mont Blanc, the most prestigious trail ultramarathon in Europe. And in the quick tip segment you will hear about nutrition strategies for building muscle and promoting recovery. And in the quick tip segment you will hear about nutrition […]
In this episode we discuss how to fuel effectively for a long run or race. Plus, we answer questions sent in from listeners about carbo loading, considerations for female athletes, fueling for an ultra, and more.
In this episode we speak with Dean Karnazes ultra runner, best-selling author, and running diplomat. And in the quick tip segment you will hear how to manage hunger during marathon training while still losing weight and keeping your energy level stable.
In this episode we answer questions sent in by Academy members about finding time for strength training, when to stretch, how to avoid cramping at the end of a marathon, and more, as we bring you part two of our Ask the Coach Q & A. In the quick tip segment Angie shares top book […]
In this ‘ask the coach’ episode as we answer questions about hill work, tricks to increasing speed, what to eat before a race and more. Plus we give you a rundown of our 7,719 mile road trip across America and Angie will explain how to maintain your habit of running while traveling.
In this episode we bring you an interview with Susan Lacke, author of the new book ‘Running Outside The Comfort Zone -An Explorer’s Guide To The Edges of Running’. And in the quick tip segment Coach Angie answers a question about what to do if your training plan doesn’t have the correct number of weeks […]
In this episode we tell you all about our Summer Ultramarathon Sufferfest in the mountains of South Dakota and Montana. Plus coach Angie will explain how to effectively go from marathon to 50k!
In this episode we bring you a special joint podcast episode with Olympic runner and podcaster Carrie Tollefson from C Tolle Run. And in the quick tip segment, Coach Angie will explain how to communicate expectations with your running partner before you race together.
In this episode Angie recaps the beautiful Charlevoix Marathon in Michigan where she ran a BQ! Plus she will tell you how to keep pushing in a marathon. And in the quick tip segment we help you do a mid-year running goal review.
After a life-long struggle with addiction and faced with turning 40 Jon Lepley decided to run a marathon. In the quick tip segment, Coach Angie explains how to intelligently gauge your response to training so you know if what you’re doing is working.
Just a quick heads up that you can find all the discount codes we mention on the MTA Podcast on our Resources page of the website. The Resources page lives under the “About Page”. Go to “About” and select “Resources” from the dropdown menu.
Scroll down the page you will a see a list of codes and links in alphabetical order. Happy running!
Angie and I were on episode 27 of the Jerod Martin Health Podcast to talk about our favorite marathons, what makes elite runners different, what we can learn from the elites, advice for beginners, the runner’s high, what working with a coach can do, and more. Listen here.
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In this podcast episode we bring you a special conversation with our nutrition coach, Natalie Mason, about how marathoners can lose weight and still maintain energy to do what they love.
And in the quick tip segment I’ll share how you can incorporate lower body strength training into your routine and never skip leg day again!
Weight Loss Tips for Marathoners Our Guest on This Episode Natalie Mason is a Managing Dietitian at MetPro -a company that provides concierge nutrition and fitness coaching. She has a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition & Food Science and Masters of Science in Nutrition Sciences. She’s a Registered Dietitian and Board Certified Specialist in Sports Dietetics.
In this conversation will you hear why marathon training doesn’t automatically lead to weight loss, the most common mistakes runners make with their diet, how the principle of “contrast” through “up adjusting” and “down adjusting” leads to metabolic proficiency, and the shocking number of runners who do zero strength training.
How This Interview Came About In late 2015 I started inexplicably gaining weight despite keeping up my marathon training schedule (I ran 10 marathons and ultras that year) and eating as healthy as I knew how. The weight continued to pile on much to my chagrin.
I finally realized that I was dealing with a hormonal imbalance -probably due to a combination of stress and other factors. I began working with a functional medicine doctor who put me on thyroid medicine for one year until my hormones balanced. Thankfully, I was able to go off all medications but the extra weight (about 35 pounds) did not budge.
I encourage people to appreciate their bodies and keep pursuing their running goals no matter what they weigh. But as a runner the extra weight does impact your joints, energy levels, and can effect your marathon times. For me it was like carrying around an extra 35 pound weight on all of my runs and in daily life.
I started working with Natalie from MetPro in November of 2018 and have lost 26 pounds at the time we recorded this podcast episode. I was initially skeptical at first but MetPro has been an amazing system for helping me reduce fat and keep my energy levels high for doing what I love . . . which is running marathons! And Natalie is a wonderful coach as you will hear in our interview.
Also Mentioned in This Episode MetPro -Using Metabolic Profiling, MetPro analyzes your metabolism and provides you with an individualized strategy to obtain your weight or body composition goals.
NuNee -designed specifically to relieve that dreaded Runner’s Knee pain. Use code MTA10 for a 10% discount.
High Performance Lifting -Strength Training Program for Runners developed by Jason Fitzgerald.
Love Beets -ready-to-eat beet products, perfect for beet lovers and beet newbies alike! Use code MTA at checkout for 20% off online orders.
Varidesk -converts any desk into a standing desk and is designed with durable, best-in-class materials that fit in any environment or workspace.
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In this episode we bring you a fascinating conversation with runner and filmmaker Sanjay Rawal about indigenous running cultures around the world, running as an act of meditation, and the world’s longest certified footrace –The Self-Transcendence 3100 Mile Race in New York City!
Interview with Sanjay Rawal Sanjay Rawal worked in the human rights and international development sectors for 15 years in over 40 countries before focusing his love for photography and storytelling onto filmmaking. A lifelong runner, Sanjay was happy to lose the pounds he gained eating Mexican food in farmworker towns and take on a project about running. His new film, 3100: Run and Become, opened in theaters in Fall 2018. He has had a daily meditation practice for 27 years and was a middle-distance runner in high-school and college and currently runs an average of 50 miles per week.
Navajo runner
“Marathon Monks” of Japan
African Bushman subsistence hunters
Ashprihanal Aalto from Finland holds the course record at the 3100
The Self-Transcendence 3100 Mile Race will start on June 16th 2019. Eight runners have entered the race this year including Ashprihanal for the 15th time.
Also Mentioned in This Episode Link to the movie website: 3100 Run and Become
Link to the race: The Self-Transcendence 3100
Races we are signed up for this summer: view our itinerary page.
NuNee -designed specifically to relieve that dreaded Runner’s Knee pain. Use code MTA10 for a 10% discount.
MetPro -Using Metabolic Profiling, MetPro analyzes your metabolism and provides you with an individualized strategy to obtain your weight or body composition goals.
*Tigerbalm Active* -a non-sticky gel with a cool-to-warm sensation that helps with muscle fatigue and recovery. Pick up Tiger Balm Active today at your local CVS or Rite Aid store
Varidesk -converts any desk into a standing desk and is designed with durable, best-in-class materials that fit in any environment or workspace.
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In this episode we bring you an interview with Alexi Pappas, Greek-American distance runner, Olympian, actor and filmmaker. And in the quick tip segment, we discuss a study that claims that walking boosts creativity.
Interview with Alexi Pappas Alexi Pappas represented Greece in the 2016 Summer Olympics Women’s 10k event. She set a new national record for her country running 31:36:16! She has moved up to the marathon distance with an eye toward representing Greece in the 2020 games. She also co-wrote and starred in the movies Tracktown and Olympic Dreams.
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A post shared by Alexi Pappas (@alexipappas) on Mar 17, 2019 at 2:34pm PDT
In this conversation you will hear . . .
- Why Alexi decided to pursue professional running
- The nuggets of wisdom Deena Kastor has given her
- The pressure that elite runners face
- What it was like to live at the Olympic Village in Rio
- What it means to be a “bravey”
- Lessons from her debut marathon in Chicago
- How she got into acting and filmmaking
- Why people watch running movies
- And a look at her daily training routine
Some of My Fav Alexi Papas Tweets
run like a bravey, sleep like a baby, dream like a crazy, replace cant with maybe through sunny & shady.
— Alexi Pappas (@AlexiPappas) August 31, 2014
be as kind to yourself as you are hard on yourself
— Alexi Pappas (@AlexiPappas) February 20, 2018
greet the day
like it’s going to go
your way— Alexi Pappas (@AlexiPappas) January 6, 2019
remember where you came from
remember where you’re going
vision comes before growing— Alexi Pappas (@AlexiPappas) January 2, 2019
Also Mentioned in This Episode Alexi Pappas on the web: Website, Instagram, Facebook
Generation Ucan -keeps your blood sugar stable and allows your body to burn fat. Use the promo code “MTAALEXI” to save 15% off your order.
Lactigo -a topical gel that improves athletic performance and recovery. LactiGo is an effective, fast-acting topical gel with menthol and carnosine that helps people maximize their athletic performance and speed muscle recovery. Apply directly to the skin above the desired muscles for targeted relief. Use the code MTA for a 10% discount!
Varidesk– converts any desk into a standing desk and is designed with durable, best-in-class materials that fit in any environment or workspace.
Biolite 330 -Transform your lowlight runs with BioLite HeadLamp 330, an ultra-thin, no-bounce headlamp that is so comfortable, you’ll forget you’re wearing it! Use code MTA at checkout for 15% off your order.
Ted Talk –How Walking Can Make You More Creative by Marily Oppezzo
University of Bristol Study -tracked 200 students and faculty and found that those who performed aerobic exercise at the beginning of the day were 23% more productive than those who did not.
Brooke Taylor, the host of Good Things Radio had me on the show to talk about what I’ve learned from interesting guests we’ve had on the MTA Podcast. Brooke is a terrific interviewer with a smooth radio voice!
She is an Academy member and running her first full marathon on May 19th.
Listen to the episode here.
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This podcast episode is our long-awaited race recap of the 2019 London Marathon.
We’ll tell you all about our trip to the U.K. and what it was like to run this amazing race.
This is a beast of an episode with lots of stories, tips, shenanagains and sound bites so kick back and enjoy!
London Marathon Race Recap The 39th edition of the London Marathon was held on 28 April, 2019. This marathon has been continually operating since 1981 and this year there were a record of 42,906 starters (414,168 tried for a ballot place) and 42,549 finishers on The Mall.
The marathon has raised 1.3 billion dollars for charity since it started. Their tag line this year was “thanks a billion.”(3) After several years of not getting in through the lottery system we were very excited to get charity spots with the UK based John Muir Trust and to raise money to plant trees on a property they manage in Scotland.
Pre-Race: Trevor’s dad flew out from Washington state to watch the boys while we were gone and we’re so grateful to him. However, our trip got off to a slightly rough start when I came down with the flu 12 hours before our flight went out. Fortunately my stomach was fully recovered by two days before the marathon and sickness didn’t slow us down on our site seeing.
Here are some of the things we did while in London … took a walking tour of London, toured Westminister Abbey, The Churchill War Rooms, The Tower of London, and The British Museum, and ate a lot of great meals.
MTA Meet Up: We had our MTA meet up near the expo on Saturday for an afternoon British tea which consisted of tea, sandwiches, and a variety of deserts and scones. We had a great turnout and are so thankful to everyone who came out! The MTA podcast was dubbed “The People’s Podcast” by Phil Shin, one of the runners at the meet up. I think we’ll keep the nickname.
MTA Meet Up
With Academy member Niall from Ireland
Race Morning The London Underground offers free transportation on race day when you show your bib, which is a very nice touch. One thing to be aware of is that not all underground locations are open on race day so you want to carefully plan how to get to your particular start line (for us it was in Greenwich Park).
Riding the train to Greenwich Station on marathon morning
It took us an hour and a half to get from our hotel to the start area via public transportation. There was also nearly a mile walk to get to the corral area. You also want to allow for time to get your drop bag to the appropriate location (they provide specific clear plastic drop bags), use the port-a-loos (long lines, bring your own toilet paper), and get into your assigned starting corral by the time limit (although some volunteers were letting people into their assigned corral after the deadline.
The lines to the port-a-loos
Race morning logistics can be a bit more challenging at large marathons, especially since at London there are three separate start areas. Another thing to remember is that depending which coral you are in it could be up to an hour or so after the official start before you cross the start line. This is important to consider when it comes to ditching throw away clothing and doing last minute nutrition/hydration.
The Course The London Marathon is known as a flat and fast, point to point course. It has blue lines painted on the course which would be the exact marathon distance if you were able to follow it directly (the tangent). However the reality is that you’ll end up weaving around other runners and going further than 42.2 km/26.2 miles. The course was clearly marked with both kilometers and miles and there was a timing mat every 5k.
Pace Teams: According to the website there were 65 pacers from the Runner’s World x New Balance Pace Team, ranging from 3:00 hour to 7:30 pace. Pacers were carrying large flags displaying their times and were available in each of the three starting areas. However, I noticed that the 4:00 pacer for the red start disappeared at mile 5. Trevor finished before the 4:30 pacer but his official time was 4:38.
The first 3km of the marathon are spent heading east from Greenwich Park and this is a good time to go with the flow and watch your feet with the large pack of runners around you. It can be crowded for the first 5 or 6 miles since all three starts merge at the 5k mark. This is the section of the course with the most noticeable downhill so you might notice faster splits during this beginning section.
At around the 10k mark the course goes by the Cutty Sark (a British clipper ship built in the late 1860’s) and this area has a ton of spectators (which narrows the course a bit).
The Cutty Sark
Crowd support is amazing through the whole marathon but it quiets down a bit until 20-22km where there are more crowds and where runners cross the Tower Bridge and hit the halfway mark. It was here that there was approximately a mile section where we could see faster runners who were at the 22 mile point. One thing that struck me is that most of them looked like they were in a lot of discomfort. Later on there’s the Isle of Dogs and Canary Wharf section of the course which is a bit quieter. The crowds pick up again around 35km at Shadwell and the final 5k passes some amazing landmarks including Big Ben and Buckingham Palace before turning into the finish line area at The Mall.
Aid Stations:
There were 19 aid stations on the route situated as follows: 13 had water in 250 ml bottles with a flip-top lid. They requested that you drain the bottles before discarding so that they could be recycled. Sports drink was available at 5 locations (2 with compostable cups) and at mile 23 they had the Ooho sachets which are 25 ml seaweed capsules filled with sports drink. They are edible and biodegradable, vegan and allergen free. You were supposed to consume them like a cherry tomato.
I really enjoyed having the small bottles of water because I was able to hang onto it and consume water as needed. I didn’t use any of the sports drinks, gels, or other food on the course (there were lots of people handing out various items separate from the official aid stations). I brought UCAN bars with me and ate half a bar every 5 miles. Since the start time was later I was able to have a normal breakfast that morning and then just started on my fueling strategy during the race.
Finish: The finish line area was exciting with enthusiastic crowds as you cross the final timing mats. They gave out a nice medal with several of London’s landmarks on one side and the course on the other, the finishers shirt, and a bag of food at the end (included in the bag was sports drink, a variety of different snack foods, and a heat sheet). Then there was the gear check pickup followed by the meet and greet area which had letters of the alphabet in order to meet friends/family.
Trevor saw MTA listener Simon Wright at the finish
Winners: Elite Men:
- 1st: Eliud Kipchoge (Kenya) – 2:02:37 (4th time winning London, beat his own course record and set the 2nd fastest time ever)
- 2nd: Mosinet Geremew (Ethiopia) – 2:02:55
- 3rd: Mule Wasihun (Ethiopia) – 2:03:16
- 5th- Sir Mo Farah (GB)- 2:05:39
Elite Women:* 1st: Brigid Kosgei (Kenya) – 2:18:20 * 2nd: Vivian Cheruiyot (Kenya) – 2:20:14 * 3rd: Roza Dereje Bekele (Ethiopia) – 2:20:51 * 6th- Emily Sisson (US) 2:23:08, made her marathon debut running the 6th fastest American time on an eligible course
Men’s Elite Wheelchair:
- 1st: Daniel Romanchuk (US) – 1:33:38
- 2nd: Marcel Hug (Switzerland)- 1:33:42
- 3rd: Tomoki Suzuki (Japan) – 1:33:51
Women’s Elite Wheelchair:* 1st: Manuela Schar (Switzerland) – 1:44:09 * 2nd: Tatyana McFadden (US)- 1:49:42 * 3rd: Madison de Rozario (Australia)- 1:49:43
Ever Presents The Ever Presents are a group of 11 runners who have completed every London Marathon since 1981 (this was the 39th year). We saw a feature on TV pre-race about the oldest Ever Present, Kenneth Jones, age 84. He talked a bit about his training and goal of making it to 40 years in a row. He finished this year in 7:40. Another Ever Present, Chris Finill age 60, clocked a time of 2:59:46, breaking the three-hour barrier for the 38th time in 39 races. There will be 10 Ever Presents running London in 2020 as one didn’t finish this year. (7)
Costumes The London Marathon is known for lots of costumes. On the way to the race we talked to a runner who was carrying an ostrich costume in a bag. I later saw him at the start line. Other costumes viewed along the way included rhinos, a two person dragon, a two person dog, trees, a sleeping bag, a tent, a flip flop, a running shoe, a Mrs. Doubtfire looking old lady, a banana, etc..
Ambulance Team
Oh look the Queen!
Rhino Vicky
There were 38 official Guinness World Records set out of 78 attempts. The Guinness World Records has worked with the London Marathon for the last 12 years with on the finish line verification. This inspires some fun and creative costumes. We all know it’s challenging enough to run a marathon while not in costume so mad respect to anyone who attempts this.
Lukas Bates dressed as Big Ben to run the marathon hoping to run the fastest time for the Guinness World Record dressed as a landmark. The video of him trying to cross the finish line in the costume went viral (if you haven’t seen it do yourself a favor, stop everything and go watch it now below). He was running for the UK Alzheimer’s Society and raised 5,000 pounds.
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This is not what you need after 26.2 miles…
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My Experiences Running for the John Muir Trust
As I mentioned earlier the week didn’t get off to the best start with my bout of stomach flu. Fortunately I was feeling normal by two days before the marathon but I didn’t run for five days pre-marathon. We ended up doing so much walking around London that I decided to give my body extra rest and call it good. I also tried hard to get as much sleep before the race as possible (which can sometimes be challenging in a different time zone). Race Day Nerves One of the things that I always get super nervous about (especially during large marathons) is logistics. It can be a challenge to know how much time to leave to get to the start area. By the time we had arrived at Greenwich Park and had walked to the bag drop area I had basically 20 minutes to get into my corral.
The starting area atmosphere was exciting with lots of nervous chatter and the noise of announcers coming through the speakers. There was a screen close to the start line that was showing each wave start as well as drone footage panning the huge crowds. There were runners packed in as far as the eye could see in front and back.
They released my wave and we officially crossed the start line to the cheers of crowds lining the starting area. It was exciting and a bit surreal to be running such an amazing marathon. And no matter how many marathons a person has done there’s always that looming question mark about how the race is going to go. Thankfully the weather was perfect for a marathon.
Keep Calm and Carry On I found the first few miles to be pretty congested and had to stay mentally focused to keep on pace especially around the aid stations and anytime the road would narrow. There were spectators along nearly the whole route which always keeps me from zoning out. Despite the amount of runners on the course I posted fairly fast 5k and 10k splits which made me a little nervous. On one hand I was feeling mostly good, but I was afraid that I’d get handed a piano later in the race by going out too fast. The British expression, “Keep calm and carry on” came to mind.
How Much Do You Want to Suffer? By the 10 mile mark my right hamstring was making a few protests and I started dealing with some negative thinking. The marathon gives you a lot of time to think! Here are some of the things going through my mind (among many): How will I ever keep up this pace? If I’m hurting now, it will probably only get worse. How hard do I want to work/suffer to go sub-4? I really had to work hard to bring my thoughts into a more positive space and enjoy the experience and scenery around me.
Another interesting diversion was that there were a lot of costumes and the crowds were yelling the names of runners who had put their names on their shirts. There were also cheer sections for various charities stationed along the course and they made a lot of noise. I thought I kept hearing my name until I realized that there was an Andrew running around me. I realized that I was thankful that I didn’t have my name on my shirt because I find it distracting to get called out like that (but many people find it motivating so know what works for you).
“I’m Stronger After Mile 20” The London course is nearly ideal since it’s fairly flat and the small hills were quickly followed by a downhill section which really made me feel like I’d achieved something. On the up-hills sections I reminded myself that I’d trained on much more challenging hills which felt like a mental boost.
I started looking forward to getting past the 20 mile mark and decided that my mantra would be “I’m stronger after mile 20.” I knew that with my marathon experience I could more easily push through the challenges and pain than many newer marathoners out there. I also started paying more attention to my mile splits and realized that I needed to keep my pace sub-9:30 if I was going to finish in under four hours. Chanting my “I’m stronger” mantra under my breath I really did feel strong the last 10k. In fact, there were many runners who would abruptly start walking in the middle of the course which made those final miles feel a bit congested. I had to do a fair amount of weaving around people to stay on pace.
3:59:30 As happens during nearly every marathon sometimes the last few miles of a race can feel like a bit of a blur. I remember going through a couple tunnels, running down the Royal Mile, and hearing the announcer at the finish line and the cheering crowds. I had a good burst of final speed to cross the finish line in 3:59:30 which made me feel surprisingly emotional.
I didn’t realize it would feel so good to meet my goal and finish my first sub-4 marathon in over three years. I felt so incredibly grateful for my strong, healthy body and the good training cycle I’d had. It was great to get that medal put around my neck and be able to finish my 57th marathon (and 4th World Marathon Major). Trevor also finished strong with a time of 4:38.
Also Mentioned in This Episode Generation UCAN -the revolutionary new way for runners to fuel. UCAN keeps your blood sugar stable and allows your body to burn fat. Use the promo code “MTALONDON” to save 15% off your order.”
CEP Compression. Check out the latest tall compression sock from CEP, the 3.0 with an updated look, upgraded fit and feel thanks to a blend of 16 yarns, with the same best in class graduated compression, now just a little easier to put on. Use the code “Podcast” to save 15% through June 1, 2019.
VARIDESK -the world’s leading standing desk solution, converting any desk into a standing desk so you can maintain a healthy active lifestyle in the office or at home.
Biolite -This amazing headlamp runs for up to 40 hours on a single charge! Plus, it’s super bright, you can tilt it with one hand, and it’s so comfortable you’ll forget you’re wearing it. Use the code MTA at checkout for 15% off your order.
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In this podcast episode we speak with Martin Dugard author of the book To Be A Runner -How Racing Up Mountains, Running with the Bulls, or Just Taking On a 5-K Makes You a Better Person (and the World a Better Place).
Interview with Martin Dugard Martin Dugard is the author of the memoir To Be A Runner, a series of essays which takes the reader around the world as he recounts his personal journey through the world of distance running.
He has written books on famous explorers like David Livingston, Christopher Columbus, and Captain James Cook, and his writing has appeared in Esquire, Outside, Sports Illustrated, and GQ.
He is also a NYT Best Selling author and co-author with Bill O’Riley of the Killing Series, which has sold over 15 million books.
He lives in Orange County, CA and coaches a local high school cross-country team.
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In this podcast episode we bring you inspiring stories from this year’s Boston Marathon. Plus we will give you a run-down of the final results and soundbites from race weekend. And in the quick tip segment, Angie answers a question about what officially counts as a marathon or half marathon.
The Boston Marathon 2019 2019 was the 123rd edition of the Boston Marathon. There are around 500,000 spectators who come out every year to cheer on the 30,000 plus runners. This provides a nearly 200 million dollar boost to the local economy.
The Boston Marathon is hosted by the Boston Athletic Association which was established in 1887. In 1897 the BAA hosted a 24.5-mile road race for 15 participants (only 10 finished). In 1924 the course was lengthened to 26 miles, 385 yards to conform to the new Olympic standard.
The BAA’s symbol is the unicorn and it still appears on today’s marathon medals. Official Boston colors are yellow and blue.
Around 9,700 volunteers work the Boston Marathon each year.
Most of the race is run outside of Boston. The course starts in Hopkinton and goes through Ashland, Framingham, Natick, Wellesley, Newton, and Brookline before entering Boston at mile 24.
The BAA reserves around 3,000 spots (of 30,000) for its charity runners. Participants who ran on behalf of more than 260 non-profit organizations raised $36.6 million for charity at the 2018 Boston Marathon and figures will probably be similar this year.
Heartbreak Hill, one of the most iconic features of the course, comes between miles 20-21 after the Newton Hills. Although it’s only a 91 feet climb the name started after the 1936 race when runner Johnny Kelley patted fellow runner Tarzan Brown on the back as he passed him. This spurred Tarzan Brown into action and he went on to win the race (thereby “breaking” Kelley’s heart near that hill).
Marathon Monday
The marathon wasn’t always on a Monday. Up until 1969 the race was always on April 19th, Patriot’s Day, a civic holiday commemorating the battles of Lexington and Concord during the American Revolution. In 1969 officials changed the race to always be the third Monday in April which is known as Marathon Monday.
Boston Strong
The mantra “Boston Strong” came about after two bombs exploded at the finish line in 2013 which killed two people and injured 260 others. The city of Boston responded by more than a million spectators coming out to support the 2014 race in which Meb Keflezhighi wrote the names of the victims on his bib and went on to win the race. (2)
Qualifying Times
It continues to get more challenging to get into Boston with a qualifying time. A total of 30,458 applications were received for qualifiers, a significant increase from recent years. 7,384 qualifiers were unable to be accepted due to field size limitations. Qualifiers who were four minutes, 52 seconds (4:52) or faster than the qualifying time for their age group and gender were accepted into the 2019 race. Qualifying standards will be five minutes faster for all age groups, starting with the 2020 Boston Marathon.
2019 Winners Men
The men’s pack stayed together until around mile 21 when Geoffrey Kirui dropped the pace from 5:06 to 4:31 and the lead pack dropped down to five. Then there was an exciting sprint finish down the length of Boylston St. for the third closest men’s race ever.
- 1st- Lawrence Cherono (Kenya) in 2:07:57 (he said,” I was so focused because I’ve never won a major marathon”),
- 2nd- Lelisa Desisa (Ethiopia) in 2:07:59 (who said that this was the first time he’s ever been outsprinted),
- 3rd- Kenneth Kipkemoi (Kenya) 2:08:07.
- The first American was Scott Fauble in seventh with 2:09:09 and Jared Ward, who finished eighth in 2:09:25 with a PR.
Women:
Worknish Degefa of Ethiopia took the lead around mile 4 and would go on to expand this lead to 3 minutes by mile 18.
- 1st- Worknish Degefa winning time was 2:23:31
- 2nd- Edna Kiplagat of Kenya, 2:24:13.
- 3rd-American Jordan Hasay posted a time of 2:25:20.
- Des Linden the defending champion finished 5th in 2:27:00
Men’s wheelchair:
- 1st- Daniel Romanchuk (USA) 1:21:36
- 2nd- Masazumi Soejima (Japan) 1:24:30
- 3rd- Marcel Hug (Switzerland) 1:26:42
Women’s wheelchair:
- 1st- Manuela Schar (Switzerland) 1:34:19
- 2nd- Tatyana McFadden (USA) 1:42:35 (at one point she tipped over in her wheelchair)
- 3rd- Madison de Rozario (Australia) 1:41:36
Notable and Inspiring Finishers Joan Benoit Samuelson
Joan Samuelson, age 61, finished in 3:04. She made history 40 years ago with a 2:35:15 Boston finish, enough to win Boston and break the course record. This year, to celebrate the 40th anniversary, she planned to run within 40 minutes of her record-breaking time. She did better and finished within 30 minutes of that goal.
Gene Dykes
Glen Dykes, age 71, broke his own age-group record, posting the fastest course time for a 70-to-74-year-old with a time of 2:58:50. This is after some pretty huge races earlier in the year like the Arches Ultra 50 Miler in Moab in late January, and then the 200-mile Delirious Western Endurance Scenic Trail race in Australia three weeks later. That one took him 101 hours to complete, including five encounters with venomous snakes. “At one point, I spotted a Tiger snake below me when I was in mid-stride,” he recalls. “I had to twist my body and throw myself into the underbrush to avoid it. But these ultra distance adventure runs are great fun, especially when they include sleep deprivation. You get flashbacks afterwards—the good kind.” (3)
Stephen VanGampleareThe non-elite man who finished 1st is a Colorado engineer named Stephen VanGampleare who ran a massive PR of 2:18:40, the 26th fastest time of the day. He was initially disappointed by the BAA’s change which started Wave 1 two minutes after the elite men. He not only finished as the top amateur in the race, he also qualified for the 2020 U.S. Olympic Trials in the process.
Adrianne Haslet
Adrianne Haslet is a survivor who lost her left leg in the 2013 Boston Marathon finish line bombings and had been training to run this year’s marathon. But she was struck by a car while in a crosswalk in January. Despite this tough new challenge she persevered in getting back to running, and ran the BAA 5K, her first race back. “I wanted to run this race so badly. I may have walked, but I never gave up.” (4)
Ben Beach
Ben Beach is one of the Boston Marathon Legacy runners and ran his first Boston Marathon at age 18 in 1968. He is now 69 and suffers from a rare neurological disorder that sends his lower leg extended sideways and nearly parallel to the ground with each stride. “I’ve made my peace with that. This is what running is like for me now.” His Boston personal best of 2:27:26 was set in 1981. He finished this year in just over 6 hours after dealing with cramping for more than half the race.
“I feel good about the streak,” he said. “And I don’t want it to end. I’m struck by how adaptive human beings are. Runners know that the even slightest imbalance will almost guarantee an injury, but here I am, still bumbling along. The way my body has adjusted – it amazes me. I intend to be back in Hopkinton next April and to make up for this lackluster performance,” (5)
Marko Cheseto
Marko Cheseto is a double amputee who lost both his legs about six inches below the knee to frostbite in 2011. Originally from Kenya, he had come to study at the University of Alaska in Anchorage. In his senior year, deeply upset over the suicide of another UAA runner from Kenya, Cheseto overdosed on pills and disappeared into the woods around the UAA campus. He was the subject of a massive search and rescue operation. On the third day he stumbled into a hotel near the campus with his shoes frozen to his feet. After his recovery Cheseto remained in Anchorage, graduated with a degree in nutrition, got married, had three children, and has become an American citizen. Eighteen months after losing his feet, he resumed running once he was fitted with a pair of running blades.
“One thing I just told myself was the condition that I have is just a phenomenon that happened in my life,” Cheseto said on Marathon Monday. “It does not define who I am. I still have my inner power.” He finished in 2:42 with a new PR. His goal is to run a sub-2:10 marathon. (6)
Michael Herndon
Michael Herndon, age 31, a Marine veteran from Ohio was the picture of determination. His legs locked up near mile 22 forcing the Afghanistan veteran to eventually get down on his hands and knees to crawl. He refused to give up, drawing inspiration from three fellow comrades who didn’t survive a bombing attack overseas. Herndon’s fellow Marines Matthew Ballard and Mark Juarez and British journalist Rupert Hamer died in 2010 from an improvised explosive device’s blast in Afghanistan. When his Achilles tendon starting giving him trouble on Monday and his legs gave out near the end of the race, Herndon chanted his fallen comrades’ names aloud to help himself focus on finishing.
Once Herndon crossed the finish line, he was lifted into a wheelchair to receive medical attention. This was his first marathon which he finished in 3:38 and he’s determined that it won’t be his last. He said this about his inspiration, “They are not here anymore. I am here, and I am able. I am lucky to still have all my limbs. I can still be active. I find fuel in the simple idea that I can run. Some cannot.” (8)
Dave McGillivray
Boston race director Dave McGillivray has the tradition that each year after he completes his duties he runs the race himself. He’s run the Boston Marathon for 46 consecutive years (16 years as a regular runner and 30 years after the race as the race director) and this year he brought it up to 47 times (he’s run 157 marathons in total). This year’s marathon came just six months after triple bypass surgery. “I would definitely put it up there as the toughest one and the most challenging,” McGillivray said. “But it probably was the most special, given that I wasn’t sure exactly what to expect.” The 64-year-old ran Boston this year for Team Big Heart and raised over $100,000 to create awareness about heart illness. “My mission now in life is to create an awareness that just because you’re fit, doesn’t mean you’re healthy, and that if you feel something, do something about it,” he said. “There were times in my life when I thought I was invincible, and I never thought they were warning pains. I just thought they were challenging pains. And now I realize there are warning pains out there, and you have to really recognize the difference and act on them. That’s what I did, and, as a result, I gave myself a second chance.”(9)
Sources
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www.boston.com/sports/boston-marathon/2017/04/14/why-a-world-record-set-in-the-boston-marathon-wouldnt-officially-count
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www.mentalfloss.com/article/27483/11-fast-facts-about-boston-marathon
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www.podiumrunner.com/gene-dykes-returns-to-the-marathon-distance-monday-in-boston_177008?fbclid=IwAR2Fw99Eid1w1cuxcqVY3-GTDYPHspaTso5nh2cZmEfXdVOcxRIsNMSgF54
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www.runnersworld.com/news/g27054165/boston-marathon-celebrity-runners/
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www.bethesdamagazine.com/bethesda-beat/sports/bethesda-runner-extends-boston-marathon-streak/
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www.boston.com/sports/boston-marathon/2019/04/15/in-2011-marko-cheseto-lost-his-feet-to-frostbite-today-he-ran-the-boston-marathon-in-less-than-three-hours
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www.runnersworld.com/news/a27045741/boston-marathon-results-mens-winner/?source=nl&utm_source=nl_rnw&utm_medium=email&date=041519&src=nl&utm_campaign=16093140&utm_term=AAA%20–%20High%20Minus%20Dormant%20and%2090%20Day%20Non%20Openers
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www.boston.cbslocal.com/2019/04/15/boston-marathon-man-crawls-across-finish-line/?fbclid=IwAR1JJsU0pddsnpcOOvFxSnGpH546H59yyqBUKQWsqizmnae3hEJMzwGBdnI
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www.boston.com/sports/boston-marathon/2019/04/16/after-heart-surgery-dave-mcgillivray-runs-2019-boston-marathon
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www.marathonmaniacs.com/criteria-faq/
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www.100halfmarathonsclub.com/counting.html
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www.baa.org/
Also Mentioned in This Episode Generation UCAN -the revolutionary new way for runners to fuel. UCAN keeps your blood sugar stable and allows your body to burn fat. Use the promo code “MTABOSTON” to save 15% off your order.”
On Running– The shoe brand that Angie is wearing at the London Marathon. Try a pair of On’s for yourself for 30 days and put them to the test. Yes, that means actually running in them before you decide to keep.
VARIDESK -the world’s leading standing desk solution, converting any desk into a standing desk so you can maintain a healthy active lifestyle in the office or at home.
NuNee -designed specifically to relieve that dreaded Runner’s Knee pain. Use code MTA20 for a 20% discount.
Lactigo -a topical gel that improves athletic performance and recovery. LactiGo is an effective, fast-acting topical gel with menthol and carnosine that helps people maximize their athletic performance and speed muscle recovery. Use the code MTA for a 10% discount.
Biolite -headlamp that runs for up to 40 hours on a single charge, it’s super bright, you can tilt it with one hand, and it’s so comfortable you’ll forget you’re wearing it. Use the code MTA at checkout for 15% off your order.
Trevor’s Boston Trip Trevor had a chance to go and cheers on the runners this year. The highlight of his trip was meeting up with listeners to the podcast. Big thanks to Coach Steve Waldon, Mitch Goldstein, Tom and Cari Hardin, Henry Howard and his wife Manju and mother-in-law Karen, Logan Collier and her friend Rachel, Mike Emmerling and his son Mike, Randy Mays, Beck Straley, Karima Modjadidi, Ingrid Sell-Boccelli, and Lena Katharina for coming to the MTA Meet Up!
MTA Meet UP
Trevor with Ryan Hall and Tom Hardin
Trevor with MTA Coach Steve Waldon
Trevor with ultra runner Stephanie Howe Violett
With fellow podcaster Tina Muir
With Tim Hadzima of Abbot World Marathon Majors