I Don't Know Running

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I Don't Know Running

Lewis Hayden and Mitch Brouwer

195 episodes

1 day ago

Send us a text In this episode, Lewis survives grasshopper season 🌱🦗 and discovers a wild new fitness challenge — combining golf and an ultra run. Yes… someone ran 92 miles and played 810 holes of golf in 24 hours. New life goal? Maybe. 😅 Meanwhile, Mitch celebrates a BIG win — not running today — and reflects on rebuilding fitness, embracing rest, and hitting his first 5-mile run again. 👏 Then, we dive into the Running Paradox: how different cultures view running — from spiritual journeys ...

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Health & Fitness,

All content for I Don't Know Running is the property of Lewis Hayden and Mitch Brouwer and is served directly from their servers with no modification, redirects, or rehosting. The podcast is not affiliated with or endorsed by Podjoint in any way.

Send us a text In this episode, Lewis survives grasshopper season 🌱🦗 and discovers a wild new fitness challenge — combining golf and an ultra run. Yes… someone ran 92 miles and played 810 holes of golf in 24 hours. New life goal? Maybe. 😅 Meanwhile, Mitch celebrates a BIG win — not running today — and reflects on rebuilding fitness, embracing rest, and hitting his first 5-mile run again. 👏 Then, we dive into the Running Paradox: how different cultures view running — from spiritual journeys ...

Show more...

Health & Fitness,

Episodes (20/195)

I Don't Know Running

Running Reimagined: Grasshoppers, Golf Ultras & Cultures Who Run Differently | Episode 181

Send us a text In this episode, Lewis survives grasshopper season 🌱🦗 and discovers a wild new fitness challenge — combining golf and an ultra run. Yes… someone ran 92 miles and played 810 holes of golf in 24 hours. New life goal? Maybe. 😅 Meanwhile, Mitch celebrates a BIG win — not running today — and reflects on rebuilding fitness, embracing rest, and hitting his first 5-mile run again. 👏 Then, we dive into the Running Paradox: how different cultures view running — from spiritual journeys ...

1 day ago

38 minutes

I Don't Know Running

CFC 100K Recap: 50 Miles, 11k’ Vert, and the Mental Game I Lost (and Learned From) | Episode 180

Send us a text We went all-in on the California Fall Classic 100K—remote aid, relentless climbing, and a day that turned into a masterclass in ultra mindset. Lewis ran ~50 miles (≈11,000 ft gain) before pulling the plug at Warm Springs, and this episode is the honest debrief: what went right, what tanked, and how to fix it next time. What’s inside Course reality check: almost no flat; it’s either up or down Crew logistics: easy to crew, minimal cell service, simple station access The hard...

1 week ago

46 minutes

I Don't Know Running

Trail Running: Escaping Urban Overload - Finding Peace Beyond the Pavement | IDKR Episode 179

Send us a text This week on the I Don’t Know Running Podcast, Lewis and Mitch are soaking in race week vibes — the California Fall Classic 100K is here, and Lewis hopes he’s celebrating a finish by the time you hear this one! Between healthy-eating jokes, beet salad debates, and a surprise virtual 100-miler signup attempt 🤣, the guys dive into something we all need more of: getting off the pavement and finding peace on the trails. Join them as they unpack: 🌲 Why trail running (and time in n...

2 weeks ago

38 minutes

I Don't Know Running

A Stroke, Kindness on the Run, and the Road to Recovery | IDKR Episode 178

Send us a text This week’s episode takes a very real — and unexpected — turn. Lewis and Mitch dive into the chaos of everyday running life, from impatient drivers to moments of pure kindness on the road. But what starts as a lighthearted chat quickly becomes a powerful conversation when Mitch opens up about a sudden stroke that changed everything. 🎙️ In This Episode: The growing rush of drivers — and how runners can stay safe. The surprising kindness of strangers (and how we sometimes reac...

3 weeks ago

43 minutes

I Don't Know Running

The Hidden Costs of Running Races | Are You Paying More Than You Think? | IDKR Episode 177

Send us a text Race registrations used to be simple — mail in a form, get a cotton T-shirt, and go run. But today? It’s a maze of add-ons, cancellation policies, and sneaky fees. In this episode, Lewis and Mitch break down the true cost of racing — from marathon entry fees that have doubled, to $50 5Ks, to whether those “insurance” and “VIP” packages are even worth it. We’ll dig into: How registration sites and convenience fees quietly add up Why cancellation and deferral policies are so ...

4 weeks ago

39 minutes

I Don't Know Running

👉 Why Rest & Recovery Might Be Your Secret Weapon | IDKR Episode 176

Send us a text In this week’s episode of the I Don’t Know Running Podcast, Lewis and Mitch dive deep into a topic every runner struggles with: recovery. From mixing up training with walk/run intervals to recognizing when slowing down actually makes you stronger, they share honest stories, laughs, and research-backed insights about the importance of rest. We cover: Why active recovery beats complete rest 🏃‍♂️ The dangers of the “no days off” mentality How even elites like Kipchoge use slow...

1 month ago

35 minutes

I Don't Know Running

Are Virtual Races the Future of Running? | IDKR Episode 175

Send us a text Virtual races exploded during the pandemic, but do they still have a place in the running world today? In this episode of the I Don’t Know Running Podcast, Louis and Mitch dive into the debate: Are virtual races just glorified training runs with medals—or do they provide real value, accessibility, and motivation for runners everywhere? We share our own experiences with virtual marathons, discuss programs like the NYRR Virtual 6 and runDisney’s virtual series, and explore how t...

1 month ago

31 minutes

I Don't Know Running

Is Running Addicting? | Finding Balance, Faith & the Runner’s High | IDKR Episode 174

Send us a text In this episode of the I Don’t Know Running podcast, Lewis and Mitch dive into the question: Is running addicting—or is it just part of who we are? From the joy of small wins (like stringing together three miles after a long layoff) to the deep lows of injury, we explore how running can shape identity, regulate mood, and even become a coping mechanism. We also talk about: 📚 Ryan Hall’s book Run the Mile You’re In and the connection between faith and running 🤯 The science beh...

1 month ago

38 minutes

I Don't Know Running

AI Training Plans vs. Human Coaches (and Why UTMB’s Website Drives Us Crazy) | IDKR Episode 173

Send us a text In this episode of the I Don’t Know Running Podcast, Lewis and Mitch dive into a hot topic in the running world—AI training plans vs. hiring a coach. Can artificial intelligence really guide you through a 100K ultra, or is the wisdom and accountability of a human coach irreplaceable? Along the way, Lewis shares updates from his California Fall Classic 100K training cycle, including how he’s handling knee flare-ups, back-to-back long runs, and even practicing “aid station” stra...

2 months ago

38 minutes

I Don't Know Running

Run-Walk Recovery, Zone 2 Training & Updates from the Trail | IDKR Podcast Episode 172

Send us a text This week on the I Don’t Know Running Podcast, Mitch shares his journey back from injury using a run-walk approach and the lessons he’s learning along the way. Meanwhile, Lewis dives into his 100K training, the grind of running in the summer heat, and why Zone 2 training has become the key to staying healthy. We also cover: Injury recovery, knee pain, and learning when to actually rest How slowing down can make running more enjoyable (and social!) Stretching & recovery ...

2 months ago

38 minutes

I Don't Know Running

Stop Doing This on the Trails! | Trail Running Etiquette | IDKR Podcast Episode 171

Send us a text In this episode of the I Don’t Know Running Podcast, Lewis and Mitch dive into the unspoken (and sometimes ignored) rules of trail running. From yielding to uphill runners and bikers, to respecting horses, hikers, and even wildlife, we unpack what it means to be a good steward of the trails. We also share stories of surprising encounters, muddy mistakes, headphone mishaps, and why respecting closures is so important for preserving the spaces we love. Whether you’re a seasoned ...

2 months ago

35 minutes

I Don't Know Running

First Ironman Journey + 130-Time Triathlete Stories | IDKR Podcast | Episode 170

Send us a text In this episode of I Don’t Know Running, Lewis and Mitch sit down with Nick, who’s about to tackle his very first full Ironman after starting from ZERO just a year ago, and Susan, a legendary triathlete with over 130 full-distance races under her belt (and 400+ triathlons total!). We talk training highs and lows, race-day nerves, unexpected challenges, and why the “witching hour” at the finish line is pure magic. Susan shares wild and hilarious stories from two decades of raci...

2 months ago

1 hour 6 minutes

I Don't Know Running

Toenails, Vomit & Dehydration: How Far Would You Go to Finish an Ultra? | IDKR Podcast | Episode 169

Send us a text Would you pop a blister mid-race? Drain a hematoma on the trail? Peel off a black toenail just to keep moving? In this episode of the I Don’t Know Running Podcast, we dive into the wild (and sometimes gross) things ultrarunners do to get to the finish line. We’re talking toenails, vomiting stories, hallucinations, dehydration struggles, and the fine line between being a badass and being reckless. Plus, we throw in a little Michigan accent lesson and a reminder that safety alwa...

3 months ago

40 minutes

I Don't Know Running

🎽 From Gear Fail to $900 Watch: How to Actually Research a Race | IDKR Podcast | Episode 168

Send us a text In this episode of the I Don’t Know Running Podcast, Lewis shares how one small heart rate monitor issue spiraled into a full-blown shopping spree—including a new Garmin watch, trail shoes, and more (thanks, Mark 😅). Then, we break down the ultimate race research checklist—everything you should know before signing up for your next race: ✅ Where to find legit race info ✅ What every race website should include (but often doesn't) ✅ How to avoid race-day surprises (like no bathro...

3 months ago

50 minutes

I Don't Know Running

Boston Changes the Rules! New Qualifying Standards Stir Controversy | IDKR Podcast | Episode 167

Send us a text Boston just shook the running world. In this episode of the I Don’t Know Running podcast, Louis and Mitch dive deep into the Boston Marathon’s newly announced qualifying changes for 2027 — specifically targeting net downhill races like those in the REVEL series. From time penalties to outright disqualifications, these rule updates have serious implications for runners on the edge of qualifying. We unpack: What the new qualifying tiers mean (5- and 10-minute penalties) Why r...

3 months ago

42 minutes

I Don't Know Running

Back to the Start: Signing Up for a 100K After a Long Break | IDKR Podcast | Episode 166

Send us a text After a year off from consistent running, Lewis shares the aha moment that reignited his passion—and led him to sign up for the California Fall Classic 100K. From dealing with injury, rediscovering motivation, and booking last-minute flights, to breaking down a 15-week ultra training plan, this episode dives into the mindset, mistakes, and excitement that come with getting back on the trail. Mitch and Lewis unpack the highs and lows of making a big commitment, discuss race log...

3 months ago

36 minutes

I Don't Know Running

Western States Mayhem: Near Records, Meltdowns & Massive Comebacks - IDKR Podcast | Episode 165

Send us a text This week on the I Don't Know Running Podcast, Lewis and Mitch dive into one of the most exciting Western States Endurance Runs in recent memory! 🏃‍♂️🔥 From Caleb Olson's near-record finish and Killian Jornet's incredible comeback, to Mitch’s return to running (kind of) and Lewis’ big plans—this episode is packed with updates, insight, laughs, and just enough cautionary advice about training too hard too soon. We also talk about: ✅ The top 10 men’s and women’s results ✅ FKTs a...

3 months ago

46 minutes

I Don't Know Running

He’s Chasing the Fastest Appalachian Trail Record | I Don’t Know Running Podcast - Episode 164

Send us a text Could YOU run 70 miles a day for over a month? 😳 In this episode of the I Don’t Know Running podcast, we dive into the world of FKTs (Fastest Known Times), highlighting the legendary Appalachian Trail—2,190+ miles of rugged terrain from Georgia to Maine. We break down what an FKT actually is, the difference between unsupported, self-supported, and supported runs, and how runners like John Kelly, Scott Jurek, and Jennifer Pharr Davis have etched their names into endurance histo...

4 months ago

38 minutes

I Don't Know Running

Losing Running: When Injury Shakes Your Identity | Episode 163

Send us a text In this deeply personal episode of the I Don’t Know Running podcast, Mitch opens up about the mental, emotional, and physical toll of losing something that once defined him—running. After years of racing, training, and building a lifestyle around the sport, a series of health challenges forced Mitch to face life without running. From walking the neighborhood to battling unknown medical issues, to dealing with the weight of identity loss and emotional burnout—this episode is ra...

4 months ago

52 minutes

I Don't Know Running

Why Western States 100 Gives Us All the Feels | Race Preview + Big News! IDKR Podcast | Episode 162

Send us a text Western States season is here, and we are fired up! In this episode of the I Don’t Know Running podcast, Lewis and Mitch dive deep into what makes the Western States 100 the most iconic ultra of them all—from personal memories to the 2024 race preview. We talk Killian’s return, Walmsley’s surprising drop, the rise of 70+ age group finishers (including an 80-year-old!), and predictions for the men’s and women’s podiums. Plus, we break down Brian Steinberg’s incredible 5-hour Yo...

4 months ago

33 minutes