Running Podcasts
Runners are a special breed – we quickly become obsessed with our sport because of the joy and challenge that running brings to our lives. When we’re not running, you can bet we’re thinking about running, talking about running, or planning our next run or race season. With this obsession, comes a thirst for knowledge about how to become better, stronger runners. With so many blogs, social media influencers, and Podcasts out there, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and unsure of what advice to follow – so I’m going to narrow it down for you! I’ve been running consistently for the last three and a half years, and have spent hundreds of miles listening to different running podcasts. Although I like tons of podcasts, there are a handful that I come back to run after run because of the great hosts, useful information, interesting guests, and good laughs! So, after a little back and forth about who made it, here is a list of my top five favorite running podcasts, in no specific order:
1. Running Explained Podcast, Elisabeth Scott: https://www.runningexplained.co/podcast
Elisabeth Scott is a certified running coach, and the founder and host of the Running Explained Podcast. She and her guests cover any and all running topics, offering specific and concise information in a way that won’t overwhelm you. Perfect for beginners and seasoned runners, you’ll learn things as simple as how to train on the track or how to properly taper, and as complex as the mechanics of running and proper fueuling. If you have a question about base-training, cadence, marathon training, walk-running, nutrition, just put a keyword into the podcast search and I’m certain there is an episode that will be useful to you!
2. Run Smarter Podcast, Brodie Sharp: https://runsmarter.online/the-run-smarter-podcast/
As a runner, you may have had to deal with an injury or two…or three. The Run Smarter Podcast sheds light on runners’ most common injuries, why they happen, how to prevent them, and what to do if you find yourself in the frustrating situation of being injured. Guests include runners, coaches, and physical therapists who all share advice based on personal experience and knowledge of the sport. If you’re thinking, “I’m not injured, so I don’t need this podcast,” think again! The best way to deal with an injury is to prevent it, and Brodie aims to do just that by giving us the tools to become smarter runners.
3. Ultra Running Guys, Jeremy Reynolds & Jeff Winchester: https://theultrarunningguys.com/podcast/
If this podcast doesn't make you feel like we ALL belong in the ultra running scene, then I don't know what will! Jeremy Reynolds and Jeff Winchester banter between themselves and talk to their audience as if they're family. They're the fun uncles that you hope to see at the next big get together, which just so happens to be a 100-mile run. They host guests of all running abilities, including a married couple who have completed several 100-mile races in under 24 hours by using a run/walk/run method! Funny, welcoming, and honest, Jeremy and Jeff offer an open invitation for all of us to join the ultra community and will make you say crazy things like, "maybe I CAN run 100 miles."
4. Another Mother Runner, Sarah Bowen Shae & Dimity McDowell: https://anothermotherrunner.com/category/another-mother-runner-podcast/
Sarah Bowen Shae and Dimity McDowell are the creators of this podcast geared specifically toward mothers. Through their own experiences, anecdotes, and guest interviews, Sarah and Dimity help moms everywhere learn how and when to balance training and momming (no matter how old your kids are). They provide tips from goal setting and hydration to breast-feeding on race day and running back-to-back marathons. Their guests share stories about completing their first half marathons, triathlons, snowshoe races and even a naked 5k, proving that moms can brush off the mom-guilt and go after any goal they want. No topic is off limits, which you'll quickly find out from their TMI Tuesdays. This may be the Holy grail of Mother Running!
5. Blue Ox Running Podcast, Alicia & Adam Condit: https://www.blueoxrunning.com/podcast
As owners of the Blue Ox Running store, Alicia and Adam Condit are an integral part of the Eau Claire running scene. Their energy is magnetic and draws in crowds of runners every week for their group runs. For those of us who don’t live in Eau Claire and feel the FOMO, there’s the Blue Ox Running Podcast! The Condits share updates on their races, running successes and setbacks, and what’s going on around the store. They interview local runners and keep it real yet lighthearted and fun. One of the number one reasons people come back to the Eau Claire Marathon year after year is because of the amazing community and spectators – If you’re wondering what that’s all about, take a listen to the Blue Ox Running podcast and you’ll understand.
And there you have it. My favorite running podcasts. On your next long run, listen to one or two episodes and let me know what you think!
Thank you for reading – I hope to see you at the 2023 Eau Claire Marathon weekend!
-Maria Long, 2023 ECM Ambassador