A Runner’s Life

By Marcus BrownSports Running

A Runner’s Life episodes

February 12, 2024 Bermuda Triangle Half Marathon: Running Adventures featuring Deena Kastor #182
In this episode, join me as we travel from the UK to the Bermuda Triangle Half Marathon Challenge, featuring an exclusive interview with the respected American marathoner, Deena Kastor. With an illustrious career marked by American marathon records and an Olympic bronze medal, Deena offers her invaluable insights and experiences straight from Bermuda.

I share my own journey tackling the mile, 10k, and half marathon courses after overcoming a challenging three-month injury. Along the way, I indulge in local delicacies such as the iconic post-race Dark 'N' Stormy cocktail and delectable fish sandwiches.

The race series boasts impressive event records, including Grete Waitz's '82 triumph with a time of 31:41 on the old course, and Eilish McColgan's sprint in 2020, clocking in at 33:28 on the new route.

During the episode, I catch up with Dennis Mbelenzi, the men’s marathon record holder, as he takes on the full marathon challenge and successfully defends his title. Throughout our conversations, I strive to capture the essence of Bermuda amidst lively discussions in taxis, on boats, and amidst the island's awe-inspiring scenery.

Please be advised that the sound quality may vary due to the natural surroundings.

I highly recommend participating in the race series for an unforgettable experience in 2025. As a special offer, you can receive a 10% discount on entry to the CHUBB Bermuda Triangle Challenge with code 2025Marcus10off. Don't miss out – registration is now open from this link
https://www.bermudatrianglechallenge.com/registration/
44 min
February 06, 2024 Boston Marathon: Phil's Last Dance or Sandbagging? Wesley Snipes & Rob's Beauty Secrets, and Unveiling Magic Pills for Masters Runners! #181
Is Phil's Last Dance in the Boston Marathon a swan song or just a funky two-step of sandbagging? Plus, we unravel the mystery behind Wesley Snipes and his surprising role in making marathons faster. Spoiler alert: it involves less blade action and more running self care!

This episode is sponsored by PILLAR Performance, brings you straight into the heart of sports micronutrition. I'm currently testing PILLAR's products for my Boston and London marathon double. Ready to join the journey? Head to pillarperformance.shop and grab an exclusive 15% off with code MARCUS on your first purchase.

Join the conversation with Corey, Phillip, Rob, and yours truly as we talk about our training build up for the Boston, London and Tokyo marathons. No fluff, just Boston Qualifier marathoners diving into the essence of a runner's life. Candid talks, friendly banter, and a journey beyond the speed.
1 hr 12 min
January 29, 2024 Unstuck: Healing Journey Through Grief and Fitness - Eric Van Delden #180
In episode 180 of A Runner's Life Podcast, we share the inspiring story of Eric Van Delden, who discovered strength and solace in unexpected places following the loss of his wife to cancer in 2020. Join us as we delve into Eric's remarkable journey of resilience, highlighted by the simple act of completing a few press-ups which led to his completion of an astonishing 30,000 push-ups in just a year and a half.
Experience the transformative power of physical activity as Eric navigates grief, finding refuge and purpose in exercise. From his initial two push-ups after his wife's passing to pursuing ambitious fitness goals like multiple half marathons and a full marathon, Eric's dedication reveals a newfound sense of resilience.
Eric shares insights into the tips that helped him get unstuck, emphasising the coexistence of grief and happiness. But Eric's journey extends beyond personal achievements; with the support of his network, he transforms grief into motivation, inspiring others to find their own paths too healing.
Join us as we uncover Eric's remarkable story of perseverance, resilience, and the transformative power of exercise in overcoming grief. From the depths of loss to the heights of personal triumph, Eric Van Delden's journey is a testament to the indomitable human spirit.
Key Points Covered:
Eric's journey from grief to resilience through exercise.
The role of physical activity in processing grief.
Setting and achieving ambitious fitness goals as a form of healing.
Finding support and inspiration through social media.
Balancing grief with newfound happiness and relationships.
The ongoing process of healing and honouring memories.
Tune in to discover how Eric Van Delden turned tragedy into triumph through the power of perseverance and push-ups.
You can watch the full episode on YouTube by clicking this link https://youtu.be/E7Je8GELheE
You can follow Eric on Instagram @eric.push.pull.run
1 hr 33 min
January 11, 2024 Developing Community Bonds Through Running: Enfield Chasers Run Club #179
Join us in a candid conversation with Enfield Chasers' Chairman, Andrew, and Head Coach, Marcus, as they unveil the story about how a community run meetup turned into an England athletics affiliated run club, capturing not just miles on the road but the essence of community. We discuss what Enfield Chasers represents, and look into the hopes and aspirations that drive the committee, and the entire club as they aim to make a positive impact within the community. It's a candid conversation about running, community, and the shared vision that propels Enfield Chasers forward.
54 min
November 20, 2023 Phil's Rules, Rob's Elite Indy Race, CJ's Jordan Quest, and Marcus's Bermuda Bound - Boston Marathoners Round Table #178
Join us for an unfiltered episode as Phil sets the ground rules for CJ and Rob, setting the tone for a candid discussion.
In this episode, we explore the behind-the-scenes of Rob's elite entry into the Indy marathon uncovering insights and a surprising playlist of country songs.
Phil and Rob share the profound impact of family challenges, adding depth to their running journeys. Despite race obstacles, Rob not only triumphs with a personal best but sparks a genuine discussion on mental well-being.
Fresh from a sub-3 performance in Chicago, Phil recounts his sub-3 NYC Marathon, underlining the respect owed to the challenging course. Experience the mid-race twist as PK makes a call to his partner to check his splits.
Cory updates us on Honolulu Marathon training and unveils his pursuit of a Jordan starter pack.
Marcus shares his recovery journey from injury, gearing up for the Bermuda Triangle Challenge on Jan 12-14, 2024. 🏖️ Use code Marathonmarcus10Off for a 10% entry discount!
We dive into our training methods and explore the latest from the Sydney Marathon, where runners have the chance to earn a provisional marathon major star. Tune in to hear our candid reactions and much more!
1 hr 18 min
November 06, 2023 Charlotte Purdue #177
This episode with Charlotte was originally recorded for the Relay Platform, for the Chat with a Pro episode.

Join our hosts Kara Goucher, Laura Thweatt, Marcus Brown, Lindsey Hein, and Peter Bromka as we sit down professional runner Charlotte Purdue. Fresh from her fantastic top 10 finish at the Berlin Marathon, clocking a PB of 2:22:17. Charlotte now holds the title of the second fastest British female marathoner, a time only surpassed by Paula Radcliffe,

After her remarkable performance in Berlin, hitting the Olympic standard, the big question is: will it earn her selection at the Paris 2024 Olympics?

We explore the contrasting marathon qualifying approaches in Britain and the US. Guided by her coach, Nic Bideau, we delve into Charlotte's training leading up to the Berlin Marathon.

From her pivotal role in Purdue Performance a coaching venture she runs with her partner Adam. Balancing coaching duties in Berlin while preparing for her own Olympic qualifying race adds a unique layer to her journey.

In this episode, we also touch on the recent female marathon world record, as we get a glimpse of how elite athletes perceive such milestones while staying focused on their own goals.

Don't miss out on this candid conversation filled with insights, laughs, and a whole lot of running wisdom. A huge thanks to Charlotte for joining us on this episode!
54 min
October 23, 2023 Marathons, Super Shoes, and Post-Race Life - Boston Marathoners Round Table #176
Join us for an in-depth discussion on marathons, world records, super shoes and life after the race!
In this episode of the podcast, Rob and Marcus dissect their recent Berlin Marathon experience, and bring you an unfiltered debrief of the race.
Then, we've got a Chicago Marathon recap from Corey and hear about Phil's story of running a remarkable 2:48 time after completely downplaying his training, it is a testament to his experience as a runner.
We dive into the world of marathon records, with a focus on Tigst Assefa and Kelvin Kiptum's recent achievements. Plus, we tackle discuss super shoes. Do they truly make a difference for amateur runners, or is it all hype?
And when the marathon is over, how do you manage life post-race? We explore the strategies and routines everyone adopts to ease into the daily routine.
What counts as maintenance miles in the off-season? Find out as we break it all down. Join us for an engaging conversation on the marathon experience, records, and everything in between.
1 hr 22 min
October 09, 2023 Rose Harvey #175
This episode with Rose was originally recorded for the Relay Podcast, for the Chat with a Pro episode.

Join our hosts Marcus Brown, Kara Goucher, Laura Thweatt, and Peter Bromka as we dive into a candid conversation with Rose Harvey. Fresh off her podium finish at the Big Half Marathon in London,

Rose was gearing up for the Chicago Marathon. We'll discuss her preparation, training, and insights into being a Puma-sponsored athlete coached by Alistair and Amy Cragg.

Expect insights, not just on running but also some Taylor Swift fun! We're discussing Rose's quest for Olympic Marathon qualification, the power of social media in pro sports, and the mental game that resonates with both elites and amateurs.

Thank you Rose for joining us in this episode!

Photo by @kevmofoto
54 min
October 02, 2023 Chasing Olympic Dreams: Hannah Bast's Berlin Marathon Journey - Boston Marathoners Round Table #174
Join Hannah Bast alongside Corey, Phillip, Rob, and myself on the Boston Marathoners Round Table series. We dive into Hannah’s journey discussing an honest view of pursuing the US Olympic trials qualification standard. We cover the following:
* Fact-checking Rob from past episodes
* The Olympic trial quest leading to the Berlin Marathon
* Teammates, Training, and Triumphs with Hannah and Rob
* Overcoming setbacks and racing forward
* Pacing: Instincts vs. Technology
* Racing Joys and Challenges: Our Favorite Distances
* The Next Leg of the Race
* And Much More!
* There will be a follow-up episode detailing how Berlin went down.
55 min
September 18, 2023Ingebrigtsen vs. Kipchoge - Confidence or Trash Talk? - Boston Marathoners Round Table #173
Join Corey, Phillip, Rob and myself in the Boston Marathoners Round Table, where Boston Qualifier marathoners talk about the essence of a runner's life. From candid talks and friendly banter to delving into the universal runner experience, we go beyond the speed.
The Verdict: Confidence vs. Trash Talk - Ingebrigtsen vs. Kipchoge

Boston Marathon 2024: Application Insights and Representation Challenges

Training updates: 2024 Plans, Berlin and Chicago Preparations

Music that motivates our runs (Check out our Spotify playlist linked below)

Unexpected essentials: Must-Have Race Gear Revealed

And so much more…

https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6ma8qReBs0HzyPEscHrZZj?si=58bd539eedfe45ee
48 min