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This week on the I Don't Know Running Podcast, Lewis and Mitch dive into one of the most exciting Western States Endurance Runs in recent memory! 🏃‍♂️🔥 From Caleb Olson's near-record finish and Killian Jornet's incredible comeback, to Mitch’s return to running (kind of) and Lewis’ big plans—this episode is packed with updates, insight, laughs, and just enough cautionary advice about training too hard too soon.

We also talk about:
✅ The top 10 men’s and women’s results
✅ FKTs and what happened with John Kelly
✅ Pacers vs. no pacers at the elite level
✅ That emotional final hour at the finish line
✅ Why running in extreme heat isn’t as crazy as it sounds

👉 Let us know in the comments: What moment from Western States 2025 got you fired up?

🔔 Subscribe for weekly running talk, from marathons to ultramarathons, training tips, and stories from the trail!

#WesternStates100 #UltraRunning #TrailRunning #IDontKnowRunning #RunningPodcast #FKT #JohnKelly #KillianJornet #CalebOlson #WesternStatesRecap #HappyRunning

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Could YOU run 70 miles a day for over a month? 😳 In this episode of the I Don’t Know Running podcast, we dive into the world of FKTs (Fastest Known Times), highlighting the legendary Appalachian Trail—2,190+ miles of rugged terrain from Georgia to Maine.

We break down what an FKT actually is, the difference between unsupported, self-supported, and supported runs, and how runners like John Kelly, Scott Jurek, and Jennifer Pharr Davis have etched their names into endurance history. John Kelly is currently on the trail right now attempting to beat the overall supported record—yes, LIVE tracking is available!

We also share our own homeownership woes, why van life sounds more tempting by the day, and how running keeps us grounded through it all.

🏃‍♂️ Featuring stories, data, and even some friendly backyard trail dreams, this episode will inspire ultrarunners and casual joggers alike.

🎧 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with your running crew!

🔗 Resources:

FKT Live Tracker: https://fastestknowntime.com/tracking

John Kelly (Random Forest Runner): https://www.facebook.com/RandomForestRunner/



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In this deeply personal episode of the I Don’t Know Running podcast, Mitch opens up about the mental, emotional, and physical toll of losing something that once defined him—running.

After years of racing, training, and building a lifestyle around the sport, a series of health challenges forced Mitch to face life without running. From walking the neighborhood to battling unknown medical issues, to dealing with the weight of identity loss and emotional burnout—this episode is raw, honest, and incredibly relatable for anyone who's ever had something they love taken away.

We talk about:

Navigating injury and grief

Reframing identity beyond athletic performance

The emotional weight of being on the sidelines

Finding purpose through walking, counseling, and community

Advice for supporting friends going through similar seasons

Whether you're an injured runner, someone facing burnout, or just curious how passion and purpose intersect—this one’s for you.

🎧 Subscribe, like, and share with someone who might need this conversation.
🙏 And as always, happy running… or walking, or simply being.

#RunningInjury #RunnerIdentity #MentalHealth #IDontKnowRunningPodcast #Ultrarunning #RunnerSupport #ComebackStory #RunningLife #FitnessStruggles #PodcastEpisode

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Western States season is here, and we are fired up! In this episode of the I Don’t Know Running podcast, Lewis and Mitch dive deep into what makes the Western States 100 the most iconic ultra of them all—from personal memories to the 2024 race preview.

We talk Killian’s return, Walmsley’s surprising drop, the rise of 70+ age group finishers (including an 80-year-old!), and predictions for the men’s and women’s podiums. Plus, we break down Brian Steinberg’s incredible 5-hour YouTube documentary and share how you could pace Killian Jornet this year. Yes, seriously.

👉 Whether you’ve run it, crewed it, or just dream of the golden ticket, this episode is full of love, laughs, and a whole lot of ultra-nerd energy.

📌 Let us know in the comments:
Who do YOU think is going to win Western States this year?
Got a favorite moment or memory from the race? We’d love to hear it.

—

⛰️ Featured Video: Brian Steinberg’s 5-Hour Western States Guide: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b98DAPHJygc
🎥 Channel: Brian Steinberg Runs Too Much: https://www.youtube.com/@BrianSteinbergrunstoomuch

#WesternStates100 #Ultrarunning #TrailRunning #WSER #IveGotTheFeels #UltraMarathon #RunningPodcast #KillianJornet #JimWalmsley #WesternStatesPreview #TrailCulture

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In this episode of the I Don’t Know Running podcast, we dive into 10 of the most unique marathons in the world — from sipping wine in France to dodging giraffes in Kenya, running under the midnight sun in Norway, and freezing your toes off in Antarctica.

🏃 Mitch also shares his experience spectating the Bayshore Marathon (and why he didn’t love it), and we celebrate a friend’s epic Boston Qualifier!

Whether you're looking for your next bucket list race or just love hearing about the wildest ways people cover 26.2 miles, this one's for you.

🌍 Races we cover:
• Antarctica Ice Marathon
• Great Wall Marathon
• Midnight Sun Marathon
• Marathon du Médoc
• Lewa Safari Marathon
• Jungfrau Marathon
• Big Sur Marathon
• Comrades Ultra
• Athens Authentic Marathon
• Polar Circle Marathon

Which one would YOU run? Tell us your dream (or craziest) marathon in the comments!
👇👇👇

#IDontKnowRunning #UniqueMarathons #RunningPodcast #MarathonBucketList #AntarcticaMarathon #GreatWallMarathon #WineMarathon #SafariMarathon #BostonQualifying #RunningCommunity

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Is running a marathon breaking your bank? 🏦 Not anymore. In this episode of the I Don’t Know Running Podcast, Lewis and Mitch break down how to train and race without draining your wallet. From cheap fueling tips and free training plans to smart gear hacks and race entry strategies, they share real-world ideas that actually work—even if you're a "lazy ultrarunner" just getting back in the game.

💸 Learn how to:
– Fuel your training on a tight budget
– Find the best cheap or free running shoes, gear, and supplements
– Train with free apps and run groups
– Get discounted or even FREE race entries
– Save money on travel, lodging, and race day extras

Whether you're doing your first 5K or 10th marathon, this episode is packed with tips to keep you motivated without spending a fortune.

📌 QUESTION FOR YOU:
What’s the craziest way you've saved money while running a race? Let us know in the comments below!

🔔 Like, subscribe, and stay tuned for more running stories, tips, and laughs.
Until next time... Happy Running!

#MarathonOnABudget #RunningPodcast #IDontKnowRunning #CheapMarathonTips #RunningHacks

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Can you still love running when you're not chasing a PR? Absolutely.
In this episode, Lewis and Mitch dive into how to rediscover joy in the journey—not just the destination. Whether you're toeing the line at your first 5K or your 50th ultra, this conversation is for anyone learning how to run for fun, community, mental health, and personal growth.

🗣️ We also respond to listener feedback from California about Courtney Dauwalter and talk stats, 200-mile race history, and why we’re all still learning—even the elites.

💬 Topics include:

Fan mail about Courtney Dauwalter and the Cocodona 250

The energy of starting lines and the power of participation

Why the back of the pack is the heart of every race

Running without a watch: freedom or fear?

The mental and emotional benefits of movement

How to support friends and pace with purpose

Why your best run might be your slowest one

👍 Like, comment, and subscribe to join the conversation and help other runners find the joy in just running.

📣 Drop us a comment: What helps you stay motivated when you're not chasing a new PR?

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In this episode of the I Don't Know Running podcast, we take a deep dive into one of the most grueling and iconic endurance challenges in the U.S.—the Manitou Springs Incline in Colorado. With 2,744 steps, a 2,000 ft elevation gain, and an average 45% grade (peaking at 68%!), this isn't your average “short” hike.

Join Lewis and Mitch as they unpack the incline's wild history, personal stories (like competitive friends drama on the stairs), and staggering stats—like the guy who climbed it 1,825 times in a year 😳. Whether you’re into FKTs, run streaks, or just curious about the kind of person who would do this more than once... this episode is for you.

📸 Plus: we’ll post pictures and video from Mitch’s trip!

👉 Like, comment, and subscribe!
💬 Have you tried the incline? Tell us your experience!

#ManitouIncline #TrailRunning #RunningPodcast #IDontKnowRunning #ColoradoTrails #FKT #InclineChallenge #RunningStories

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