Better with Running

In this episode of the Better with Running podcast, hosts Chris Armstrong and Zacca Newman open the show by breaking down their recent performances at the Albert Park 5km. Zacca celebrates a successful return to the racing scene with a sharp 16:25, while Chris reflects on a consistent string of improvements. Despite a 5:00 AM start and a chaotic, aggressive opening 400 meters, Chris clocked a 17:45—a significant jump from his recent outings in Albury and Bendigo.

The spotlight then shifts to the newest addition to the Run2PB coaching ranks, Nikki Curry. With a background as a Physiotherapist and a mother of two, Nikki brings a unique blend of clinical expertise and lived experience to the team. She shares her journey of growing up in a running-centric household and later rediscovering her passion for the sport after starting a family. Her recent results speak for themselves, highlighted by a massive performance leap that saw her move from a 2:54 marathoner to an elite 2:41 personal best, culminating in a 6th-place finish at the 2025 Melbourne Marathon.

As a coach, Nikki details how her elite-level experience and medical background allow her to communicate effectively with athletes facing setbacks or injuries. Nikki’s philosophy is rooted in helping runners of all levels unlock their potential through structured coaching, a journey she knows firsthand is made easier with the right support system and a bit of fun along the way.

The episode wraps up with a signature quick-fire round, offering a lighter look at Nikki’s life outside of the sport. From her current shoe rotation and"soundtrack of her life" plus her preferred way to eat a potato, listeners get a full picture of the person behind the 2:41 marathon time.

Whether you are a parent balancing training with a career or a runner looking to shave minutes off your PB, this episode provides a blueprint for finding balance and high performance in equal measure.

For more Coaching details: https://www.run2pb.co/coach-nikki

The most recent episode of the Better With Running podcast features Chris Armstrong and Zacca Newman discussing their latest training updates and a special interview with Canadian athlete Tony Conforti. Zacca is preparing for his return to racing at Albert Park this weekend, Meanwhile, Chris is in a recovery phase, logging a recovery week of 32km for the week with a focus on strength work and after his recent efforts at the Ballarat Marathon.

This weeks guest isTony Conforti, he shares his remarkable journey of improvement since joining Run2PB with Coach Brady Threlfall at the helm. Starting with a marathon personal best of 3:50, Tony has since shaved nearly 50 minutes off that time, most recently clocking a 3:01:02 at the Georgina Spring Fling Marathon. He discussed the challenges of training through one of the harshest Canadian winters in decades, often running in temperatures between -15°C and -25°C. Tony attributes much of his success to being a "student of the sport," maintaining high discipline, and working closely with his coach.

During the interview, Tony detailed his race execution and fueling strategy, noting that he consumed approximately 90 grams of carbohydrates per hour using Precision Fuel & Hydration gels. He reflected on the valuable lessons learned from a previous race in Toronto, where aggressive pacing in hot and humid conditions led to a difficult finish. This experience helped him remain in control during his latest marathon, where he felt he was "actually racing" rather than just surviving the final kilometers.

The conversation also touched on Tony’s background in rugby and Muay Thai, and how his interest in running grew from a fitness requirement into a passion for progression. As a father with a second child on the way, he balances his training and has a prue joy for it. Looking ahead to the remainder of 2026, Tony aims to continue his trend of spring and fall marathons while potentially incorporating shorter distances to work on his speed.

In episode 294 of the Better With Running podcast, hosts Chris Armstrong and Zac Newman reflect on a massive weekend of racing at the Ballarat Marathon and Half Marathon. Chris shares his personal success in the half marathon, where he clocked a time of 1:21:34—a one-minute improvement from the previous year. He attributes this success to a psychological shift encouraged by his best friend, Lauren, who challenged him to abandon his conservative racing nature and take aggressive risks early on. This strategy forced him to dig deep during a "pain cave" at 18 kilometers, where he found perspective by reflecting on the grit his friend showed during childbirth, ultimately helping him grind out the final 12 minutes of the race.

The episode features returning guest Rory Flanagan, a beloved figure in the Run2PB community who recently secured a marathon PB of 2:40:46 in Ballarat. Rory discusses his background as a former 400-meter runner and soccer player who rediscovered running during COVID, eventually teaming up with coach Benny Stoltz. Despite an "ideal-less" preparation marked by a 10-week Achilles flare-up and missed long runs due to work, Rory managed to peak on race day, supported by an "entourage" on bikes revving him up around the lake.

Rory also provides a spirited update on the Choccy Milk Run Club (CMRC) in Bendigo, describing the group as a mix of "geriatric old men" who provide essential social relief and humor. . The camaraderie was on full display in Ballarat, highlighted by a humorous CMRC sign on the course that provided much-needed laughs during the grueling second lap.

The technical side of racing is explored through Rory’s experiences with gear and environmental conditions. He notes the strong winds in Ballarat, which at one point made his race bib feel like a "spinnaker" pulling him sideways, though he rated the overall conditions as a manageable 6 out of 10 compared to previous "howling" half marathons.

Looking ahead, Rory is setting his sights on the Chicago Marathon in October. He plans to embrace a shorter marathon block while continuing to integrate cross-training on the bike to manage his physical longevity. Zac and Chris express their excitement for his journey, noting that the "crowd support on another level" in U.S. marathons will be a transformative experience for him as he continues to chase sub-2:40.

With thanks to Oat Running Socks for their support of this episode. Check out www.oatrunning.com.au and use the code Run2PB15 for 15% off you order.

In episode 293 of the Better With Running podcast, hosts Chris Armstrong and Zac Newman check in for a final look at the training logs before the highly anticipated Ballarat Marathon. Chris shares insights into a 63km week focused on recovery and body maintenance, featuring a 4 x 2km session designed to touch on half-marathon and 10km efforts while prioritizing longevity. Meanwhile, Zac continues his momentum, "cracking the ton" with a 102km week that included sharp interval work around the Yarra and Albert Park, capped off by a steady 90-minute long run at 4:22/km.

The heart of this episode features the return of Charles Jacobson, a three-time guest who first joined the show back on episode 146. Since returning to the sport in 2019, Charles has undergone a remarkable transformation under the guidance of coach Andy Buchanan. Having once targeted the sub-3-hour barrier, Charles now enters race week with a 2:52 PB and a string of impressive lead-up performances, including a 17:42 at the Bendigo 5km Frenzy and consistent 120-130km training weeks. We hear about his race prep, the taper jitters and how he plans on celebrating the day!

Good luck to everyone heading to Ballarat this weekend!

With thanks to Oat Running Socks for their support of this episode. Check out www.oatrunning.com.au and use the code Run2PB15 for 15% off you order.

Welcome to episode 292 of the Better With Running Podcast! Host Chris Armstrong is joined by fellow Run2PB coaches Andy Buchanan and Zac Newman . Andy returns to the show to catch us up on his transition from spectator to commentator at the recent 5K Frenzy. While he enjoyed giving back to the local track community, Andy admits he may have gone a bit "rogue" on the mic—at one point discussing lamps—while working alongside the professional Elise Beacom/

The boys dive deep into their training weeks as they prepare for the upcoming XCR season. Chris is finding his stride with his biggest volume in a year, crediting his consistency to following Andy’s conservative coaching. Zac has also hit a significant milestone, cracking the "ton" with a 103km week that included a spicy long run at Yarra Flats.

Andy shares his own massive 153km week, highlighted by a track session of 2km, 700m, and 500m reps followed by a 34km long run. The conversation touches on his build back and race plans for 2026 along with the lthe status of Andy's pride and joy—his new lawn. Andy provides some tips for people preparing for ballarat as the tapers commence and talks through some experiences he has had leading into marathons.

This episode is brought to you in partnership with Oat Running Socks. check out their range at www.oatrunning.com.au

You can score some using the run2pb discount code : Run2pb15, for 15% off the range visit www.oatrunning.com.au

This week on the show, the boys dive into their latest training Zac is knocking on the door of a 100km week, Meanwhile, Chris is banking solid aerobic strength, successfully navigating the "Buchanan Fartlek" and a two-hour long run that included two 6km blocks at marathon effort, holding a steady 4:10–4:15/km as he dials into some strength

This weeks Run2PB Guest is Andrew "Leggo" Leggo, a man who has mastered the art of "dad strength" and the high-stakes juggle of family and fast times. A former footy boundary umpire turned running nuffy! Leggo shares the story of his legendary 2:52 at the Melbourne Marathon—a feat he achieved just one week after the birth of his daughter, Miley, and only 24 hours after signing up. With PBs of 15:51 for 5km and 2:35 for the marathon, he’s now working with coach Matt Davy to prove that while his "selfish" training days might be over, his fastest days certainly aren't, evidenced by his recent 17:47 parkrun PB while pushing his son, Alfie, in the pram.

The conversation covers Leggo’s recent races including an 8th-place finish at the Stawell 2-mile as well as his unique approach to training consistency around a busy lawn-care business. We dig into his "Quick Fire" answers—ranging from his current shoe rotation to his favorite way to cook a potato.

Finally, this episode is brought to you in partnership with Oat Running Socks. Andrew is rewarded for jumping on the show with a pair, you can score some using the run2pb discount code : Run2pb15, for 15% off the range visit www.oatrunning.com.au

As we head into the taper for Ballarat and London, keeping your feet blister-free is the top priority. Oat’s sustainable, high-performance socks are designed to handle everything from track reps to the 42.2km grind, ensuring you have the comfort and durability needed for race day. You can grab a pair and support the brand that supports the Aussie running community.

This week on the Better With Running podcast, coaches Chris Armstrong and Zac Newman dive into a packed weekend of racing results, ranging from the local tracks to international stages. The duo recaps standout performances from events like the Tiger 5 at Collingwood, the Run for the Kids, and the rugged Buffalo Stampede. They also highlight impressive efforts from further afield, including a half-marathon PB in Lisbon and a challenging, humid 10.5K race in Thailand that tested the limits of even the most seasoned runners.

The hosts share updates from their own training blocks, with Chris putting in a solid 74-kilometre week highlighted by a demanding 5x2 minute interval session and a scenic long run through the leafy streets of Benella. Zac reflects on a tough "Mona" Fartlek session where he was "put to the sword" by training partner Jono, reminding listeners that despite how short it looks on paper, the intensity of a 20-minute session never gets any easier.

In a broader discussion about the current "running boom," Chris and Zac explore how the sport is being embraced by new communities, including the rise of "gym bros" and Hyrox athletes joining the ranks. They share humorous anecdotes about receiving unexpected high-fives and encouragement from massive strangers on the trails, debating whether runners have finally moved from being the "scorn of the community" to a culture that even the most dedicated gym rats now respect

This week they are joined by Coach and Athlete Combo, Ben Stolz and Darren Reid . Darren shares his journeyeflecting on his progression from those early days to his current high-performance mindset. The conversation highlights Darren's preparation for the Ballarat marathon, including his favorite training sessions and the specific lessons he has integrated from working closely with Benny. They also delve into the technical side of his training, discussing the importance of sweat testing and finding the perfect balance to ensure peak performance on race day.

Beyond his structured training, Darren provides a glimpse into his personal life and gear preferences during the "Quick Qs" segment. He reveals his current shoe rotation, The hosts don't miss the chance to ask about the strangest sights he's encountered during a run.

The episode wraps up with some reflective advice Darren would offer his 18-year-old self, alongside lighthearted answers about the soundtrack to his life and his go-to favorite icy pole.

Daz was rewarded for coming on the show with a fresh pair of oats to get his kit sorted.

Check out www.oatrunning.com.au

Welcome to episode 289 of the Better With Running podcast! This week, Run2PB coaches Chris Armstrong and Zacca Newman check in to discuss the grit and grind of high-volume training. Chris shares his post-5k Frenzy reset, logging a lighter 45km week and prepping for his first outing in the new ASICS Superblast 3s. Zacca, meanwhile, continues to stack the bricks with a massive 91km week, highlighted by a sharp 30-minute tempo at 3:35 pace and a controlled 23km long run to keep the engine humming.

The episode hits its stride with the return of fan-favorite Chris Hillhouse for his fourth appearance on the show., Chris is currently deep in a marathon build that mirrors his professional life in landscaping. Just as a premium outdoor space requires meticulous site prep before the final aesthetic touches, Chris has been putting in the heavy "earthworks" of high mileage to support his faster track times. We dive into how his recent training block is finally shifting from the rough-in stage to the finishing phase.

Chris shares a training week and some context around some ups and downs in this marathon block.

Of course, it wouldn’t be a catch-up with Hillhouse without some literal landscaping chat and a few "out of left field" takes. We trade the shovels for spoons as the boys dive into some food and drink chat. The show finishes with some much loved world record chat.

Welcome to Episode 288 of the Better With Running podcast. Your hosts, Chris Armstrong and Zac Newman, kick things off with a massive week of training and racing updates. Zac finally joined the "triple-digit club," logging over 100km for the week, Chris, meanwhile, shares his "heavy and sluggish" taper experience leading into the Bendigo 5km Frenzy, where he managed to break the 18-minute barrier (17:56) with a tactical masterclass, starting from the very back of the pack to stay out of trouble before picking his way through the field.

The atmosphere at the Bendigo 5km Frenzy was a major highlight, with the boys praising the unique track-side energy and commentary. A standout "only in local athletics" moment involved Jamie Soares, who realized at the track that his brand-new race shoes were actually two left feet, forcing him to compete in his daily trainers. On the drive home, the post-race vibes reached a peak when Chris spotted a local sprinting down the main road at 3:00/km pace while pushing a shopping trolley—a true testament to the athletic spirit (and occasional chaos) of Bendigo at 9:30 pm.

Returning guest Matt Miller joins the show to discuss his dominant win at the Frenzy, where he clocked a 15:45 PB in his first-ever competitive track race. Matt breaks down the tactical shift of moving with six laps to go to gap the field, proving that his speed is right where it needs to be despite being deep in marathon training. The conversation dives into the transition from high-intensity 5k racing back to the marathon grind, highlighting how these shorter "blowouts" provide a necessary mental break and a physical "ceiling raise" during long aerobic blocks.

The focus then shifts to Matt’s primary target: the Ballarat Marathon. Currently peaking at 105km per week, Matt provides a deep dive into his specific marathon workouts, including a grueling 35km long run featuring 3 x 4km efforts at race pace. . Looking ahead, Matt will use this Sunday's Wangaratta Half Marathon as a final hard stimulus to lock in his goal pace.

Closing out the episode, the trio looks forward to the 2026 XCR season, with Matt expressing his keen interest in representing Bendigo on the cross-country circuit. The episode ends on a lighter note with a heated debate over post-run recovery snacks; specifically, Matt’s controversial admission that he isn't a regular "Icy Pole" consumer. Despite the culinary rift, the boys wrap up with plenty of excitement for the upcoming winter racing schedule and the final weeks of the Ballarat build.

Matt was rewarded for coming on the show with a fresh pair of oats to get his kit sorted.

Partner Offer: By using the code Run2pb20 through the end of March, supporters of the podcast can grab 20% off their next kit upgrade. Go to www.oatrunning.com.au

Welcome to Episode 287 of the Better with Running podcast. Your hosts, Chris Armstrong and Zacca Newman, kick things off with a deep dive into their own training blocks. Chris shares the details of a 64km week highlighted by a 6 x 1km intervals and a scenic 90-minute long run through the trails of Benalla. Meanwhile, Zacca is knocking on the door of the triple digits with a massive 99km week, featuring a disciplined 25-minute continuous threshold at 3:41/km and a solid 23km long run alongside training partners Al and Reece.

The heart of the episode is an interview with Dan Casey, an Echuca-based farmer and a long-term Run2PB athlete. Dan is the ultimate "quiet achiever," having spent the last four years methodically chipping away at his PBs under Chris’s guidance. Since 2022, he has managed to shave an incredible 30 minutes off his half marathon time and 8 minutes off his 10km, proving that consistency and sticking to the plan—especially keeping the easy runs easy—is the most effective formula for long-term progression.

Dan also opens up about the "dark side" of the marathon, recounting a harrowing experience at the 2024 Sunshine Coast Marathon where he collapsed at the 35km mark from severe heatstroke. He describes the terrifying moment of waking up in a garden bed with strangers pouring water on him, a sobering story that underscores the importance of hydration and respecting the distance. Despite the setback, Dan remains focused on his 2026 goals.

We wrap up with a round of "Quick Qs," where we learn Dan is a Garmin loyalist and a zooper dooper man. From farm life in Moama to chasing a sub-1:28 half marathon, Dan’s story is a relatable testament to the "everyday athlete" spirit. As a reward for his hard work and for being such a great guest, we’re sending Dan a fresh pair of Oat Socks to keep those feet comfortable during those early morning farm miles.

Partner Offer: By using the code Run2pb20 through the end of March, supporters of the podcast can grab 20% off their next kit upgrade. Go to www.oatrunning.com.au