I Don't Know Running

Lewis Hayden and Mitch Brouwer
  • 4.7 (15)
  • RUNNING
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

The I Don't Know Running podcast is about how we're all learning to run in some way or another. Whether you're just starting to run a mile or you've ran 100's of marathons and are now in the ultra world, this is for you. We all continue to learn and have something to share. So join us in the discussion and help us make everyone's running experience better. We will talk about our experiences, your experiences, gear, races, and much more.

  1. 6H AGO

    Decoding Runner’s Dreams: What Your Sleep Reveals About Performance | IDKR Episode 190

    Send us a text What do your running dreams actually mean? In this episode of the I Don’t Know Running Podcast, Lewis and Mitch dive into the strange, vivid, and sometimes stressful dreams runners experience — from being late to the starting line, to legs that won’t move, to those magical dreams where you’re flying effortlessly down the trail. We explore how sleep, training load, stress, and recovery all influence dream content, and what those dreams might be telling you about your performance, fatigue, and overall health. Is it anxiety? Adaptation? Overtraining? Or just your brain doing its thing? We also talk about: Common runner dreams (heavy legs, missed starts, endless climbs) What science says about sleep, REM cycles, and motor learning How bad sleep often shows up before bad performance When dreams can be a warning sign vs. a positive signal Ultra-running, sleep deprivation, hallucinations, and trail weirdness Practical ways runners can use sleep as a training metric We’re not dream experts — just runners sharing interesting research, personal experiences, and a few laughs along the way. 👉 Drop a comment: What’s the weirdest running dream you’ve ever had? 👉 Subscribe for more honest, relatable conversations about running — fun, frustrating, and everything in between. Happy running. 🏃‍♂️ Check out our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/IDKR Support the show

    26 min

  2. 12/28/2025

    The Psychology of Pacing: How Runners Blow It Early (And How to Fix It) | IDKR Episode 189

    Send us a text Pacing isn’t just about splits, GPS watches, or fitness — it’s about decision-making under stress. In this episode of the I Don’t Know Running Podcast, Lewis and Mitch dive deep into the psychology of pacing and why so many runners blow up before fatigue ever truly sets in. From race-day adrenaline and comparison traps to fear-based pacing and watch obsession, we unpack the mental mistakes that quietly sabotage great races. But this episode goes beyond running. We explore how mindful pacing — patience, restraint, awareness, and emotional control — applies not just to marathons and ultras, but to training, work, relationships, and life itself. If you’ve ever gone out too fast because you felt amazing early… or played it too safe and left time on the table… this one’s for you. In this episode, we cover: Why pacing is mostly a mental skill, not a physical one Common psychological traps that ruin race execution How adrenaline, ego, fear, and comparison derail pacing plans Mindful pacing strategies for race day Training your brain to pace, not just your legs Why “boring” early miles are a sign you’re doing it right How better pacing on race day mirrors better decision-making in life Whether you’re chasing a PR, a BQ, or just trying to run smarter and enjoy the process more, this episode will help you stay controlled when it matters most. 👉 Drop a comment and share your own pacing lessons or race stories — we’d love to hear them. 🎧 Subscribe for weekly conversations about running, mindset, and everything we don’t know. Happy running. Check out our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/IDKR Support the show

    43 min

  3. 12/21/2025

    Running in Your 50s: What Changes, What Hurts, and What Still Works | IDKR Episode 188

    Send us a text Running in your 50s is different—and that’s not a bad thing. In this episode of the I Don’t Know Running Podcast, we talk honestly about what changes as runners get older: slower recovery, new aches and pains, declining speed, shifting motivation, and learning to let go of chasing PRs. We also share what still works, what needs to change, and how adjusting expectations can actually make running more enjoyable and sustainable. We cover: - Why speed and VO₂ max decline with age (and why it’s normal) - Recovery, sleep, and why rest matters more than ever - Strength, mobility, and training smarter—not harder - Managing mindset, ego, and expectations as a runner in your 50s - Finding joy in running beyond pace and race times - How to keep running for decades without burning out or breaking down If you’re in your 40s or 50s—or heading there—this episode is about giving yourself grace, adapting your training, and continuing to love running for the long haul. 🎧 Listen, laugh, nod along, and remember: you can’t outrun Father Time—but you can run alongside him. 👉 Follow us on YouTube, Facebook, and Patreon for more conversations about running, aging, and all the things we still don’t know. 🏃‍♂️ Happy running. Check out our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/IDKR Support the show

    37 min

  4. 12/14/2025

    The Ultimate Christmas Gift Guide for Runners (From $5 to “Are You Serious?”) | IDKR Episode 187

    Send us a text Winter is here, the roads are icy, and somehow our houses are falling apart — so naturally, we decided to talk about Christmas gifts for runners 🎄🏃‍♂️ In this episode of the I Don’t Know Running Podcast, Lewis and Mitch break down the best gift ideas for runners at every price point, from easy stocking stuffers to big-ticket items you only buy for someone you really love (or yourself). We cover: Budget-friendly stocking stuffers every runner actually uses Cold-weather essentials like base layers, gloves, and traction Mid-range gifts runners won’t buy for themselves (but should) Big-ticket gear like watches, headphones, hydration vests, and recovery tools Completely unrealistic, totally necessary “runner fantasy gifts” Whether you’re shopping for a runner, married to one, or are one trying to “accidentally” share this episode, we’ve got you covered. 🎧 Listen if you’re running through winter, slipping on ice, or just need gift ideas that won’t get returned. 📌 Subscribe for more honest runner conversations 📘 Follow us on Facebook ▶️ Watch on YouTube 🎙 Available on all podcast platforms Because running is fun… And sometimes not so fun. Check out our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/IDKR Support the show

    36 min

  5. 12/07/2025

    Are You Ready for Remote Runs? | 3 Safety Pillars | IDKR Episode 186

    Send us a text How far do you really have to go before you’re “remote”? Spoiler: not as far as you think. In this episode of the I Don’t Know Running podcast, Lewis and Mitch talk about how quickly a simple run, walk, or short hike can turn into a serious situation when you’re underprepared—whether you’re a mile from the house, on a local trail, or dropping down to the Western States Trail after a race. What starts as a story about a windy walk with the grandkids and a “quick” hike out west turns into a much bigger conversation about remote preparedness for runners and outdoor lovers. 🧭 What We Cover in This Episode 🧠 Pillar 1: Mindset & Limits Why a go/no-go decision should be non-negotiable How to match your route to how your body and mind actually feel that day Why you don’t need to be 10 miles into the woods to be considered “remote” 🏃 Pillar 2: Knowing Your Body Hydration isn’t just water—why electrolytes and sodium matter Training your gut to handle calories over hours, not just miles Why relying on one food source can wreck your day (hello, bar fatigue) 🚫 Pillar 3: Avoiding Unnecessary Risk How pace can become a hazard, not a goal, on technical or exposed terrain Adjusting expectations for climbs, descents, and unfamiliar routes Real examples where “it’s just a short hike” almost wasn’t so simple 🎒 10 Essentials We Talk Through We also walk through a practical list of “non-negotiables” to think about for remote runs, hikes, and adventures, including: Navigation beyond just your watch or phone Light/illumination if you’re out longer than planned First aid, repair tape, and emergency blankets Extra food and water (plus ways to treat water) Communication plans and tools, from “tell someone where you’re going” to locator beacons Whether you’re running trails, exploring new routes after a race, or just heading out “for a quick hike,” this episode will help you plan smarter, pack better, and get home safely to the people who care about you. 🎧 Listen, learn, and then go enjoy those adventures—prepared. Check out our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/IDKR Support the show

    39 min

  6. 11/30/2025

    Runner vs Non-Runner Language: Why Our “Easy Run” Isn’t Easy | IDKR Episode 185

    Send us a text In this episode of the I Don’t Know Running Podcast, Lewis and Mitch dive deep into the hilarious, confusing, and sometimes awkward language barrier between runners and non-runners. From “easy runs” that aren’t actually easy, to why runners own more shoes than they have feet, we unpack the quirks that make running culture so unique. Mitch also shares updates on his string of doctor visits, the ongoing search for answers, and what it’s like getting back into running slowly — only to be met with well-meaning comments like “At least you’re out there!” Meanwhile, Lewis reflects on water-cooler conversations, misunderstood jargon, and the gap between runner expectations and non-runner reactions. Whether you’re a seasoned runner, brand new to fitness, or someone who thinks “tempo run” sounds like a medical condition, this episode will make you laugh, nod your head, and maybe even explain why your runner friend is the way they are. In This Episode: 🏃‍♂️ Why runners say “easy” but mean “controlled aerobic suffering” 💬 Water-cooler moments between runners & non-runners ❤️ Mitch’s health updates, AFib concerns & rebuilding fitness 👟 Shoe walls, chafing, anti-chafe gear & why running is expensive 😂 Fartleks, intervals, negative splits — and all the misunderstood lingo 🔥 The emotional “why” behind running : https://x.com/runningonx/status/1991744729248329938?s=46 🙌 Why ANY movement — running, walking, lifting — matters more than the jargon Perfect For: • Runners who want to laugh at themselves • Non-runners trying to understand the madness • Anyone returning from injury or rebuilding fitness • People who have ever asked, “Why do runners DO that?” Join the Conversation Share a funny moment where a runner/non-runner totally misunderstood you! 👇 Drop your stories in the comments — we’ll read some on an upcoming episode. 🎧 Listen on all platforms 📺 Watch full episodes on YouTube 👍 Like, Subscribe & Share if you’re part of the running community (or trying to understand one!) Until next time: happy running, happy resting, and whatever you do… don’t forget the anti-chafing. Check out our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/IDKR Support the show

    33 min

  7. 11/23/2025

    The Crazy Foods That Keep Ultrarunners Moving (Coke, Broth & Grilled Cheese) | IDKR Episode 184

    Send us a text Lewis and Mitch hit record deep in a gray fog, fresh off mid-day naps and low brainpower… so of course they talk about the thing that keeps ultrarunners going when everything feels bleak: aid station food. In this episode of the I Don’t Know Running podcast, they break down the classic, the weird, and the downright magical foods that can save your race—from salty potatoes and pickle juice to Coke, ramen, grilled cheese, and mashed potatoes. They share stories from races like Tunnel Hill, Woodstock, Kettle Moraine, Javalina, and more, and why some runners sign up almost just for the buffet. 🫗 In this episode: Running in a “gray fog” and why naps can backfire Why ultra aid stations are nothing like 5K/10K/road marathon tables Salty & savory staples: potatoes, chips, pretzels, pickles Sweet quick hits: candy, watermelon, gummies & why “all sweet” eventually fails Lifeline drinks: Coke, ginger ale, broth, coffee + hot chocolate combos The comfort foods: grilled cheese, quesadillas, bacon, mashed potatoes & pizza Famous races known for aid stations: Western States, loop races, and more How food can be mental fuel as much as physical 💬 Question for you: What’s the one aid station food or drink that absolutely saved your race? Drop it in the comments—we want to hear your best (and worst) fuel stories. 👇 Stay connected: Subscribe on YouTube and your favorite podcast app Find us on Facebook: I Don’t Know Running Podcast Support the show on Patreon - see link below  Until next time, happy running—and may your next aid station have warm grilled cheese and cold Coke. #running #ultrarunning #trailrunning #aidstation #marathon #IDontKnowRunning Check out our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/IDKR Support the show

    36 min

  8. 11/16/2025

    The Craziest Olympic Marathon Ever: The Insane 1904 St. Louis Disaster | IDKR Episode 183

    Send us a text This week on the I Don’t Know Running Podcast, Lewis and Mitch dive into one of the wildest, most chaotic, and downright unbelievable events in running history: the 1904 St. Louis Olympic Marathon. But first… Lewis got NEW CONTACTS and he’s telling literally everyone. 😂 Mitch tries to keep him on track (he fails), but eventually they shift gears into the true highlight of this episode: a marathon so outrageous it sounds fictional. 🔥 Inside This Episode: Why starting a marathon at 3:00 PM in August is a horrible idea Runners inhaling so much dust they nearly died Wagons, dogs, cars, trains… and NOT a closed course The Cuban runner who arrived in street clothes, ate rotten apples, took a nap, and STILL finished 4th The man who hitched a car ride, jogged into the stadium, and almost won The REAL champion… fueled by brandy, egg whites, and rat poison (!!!) Only 14 of 32 runners finished — the worst completion rate in Olympic history Why this marathon changed the sport forever 🎧 If you love running lore, bizarre history, or just wild stories — this episode is a must-listen. 👟 Listen & Follow ▶️ YouTube UCTK9nr_UkR1iL2bluka2rTg 🎧 Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/6UcuyDBShWsLzt3vK6LRyj?si=dcf2f93c6dfb4e50 🎙 Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/i-dont-know-running/id1597602539 💬 Facebook Community https://www.facebook.com/Idontknowrunningpodcast/ 🙏 Patreon Supporters — you rock! Thanks for tuning in! See you next week as we keep exploring the iconic, historic (and sometimes ridiculous) world of running. Happy running! 🏃‍♂️💨 Check out our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/IDKR Support the show

    31 min
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4.7
out of 5
15 Ratings

About

The I Don't Know Running podcast is about how we're all learning to run in some way or another. Whether you're just starting to run a mile or you've ran 100's of marathons and are now in the ultra world, this is for you. We all continue to learn and have something to share. So join us in the discussion and help us make everyone's running experience better. We will talk about our experiences, your experiences, gear, races, and much more.

Information

  • Creator
    Lewis Hayden and Mitch Brouwer
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    204
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 I Don't Know Running
  • Show Website
    I Don't Know Running

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