In episode 304 of the Better With Running podcast, hosts Chris and Zac open the show by discussing their recent weekly mileage and training adjustments.

The core of the episode features a guest appearance by runner Anthony Ricupero and his coach, Forest Robinson, who join the hosts to discuss Anthony's path to breaking the three-hour marathon barrier. Anthony shares his personal evolution from playing Australian Rules football to becoming a dedicated distance runner, ultimately culminating in a 2:58:34 finish at the Gold Coast Marathon. He reflects on the specific mental and physical hurdles he had to overcome throughout his training block to achieve this time.

Coach Forest Robinson provides professional insight into the strategy behind Anthony's success, highlighting the necessity of maintaining consistency while adjusting plans to fit the athlete's specific needs. A significant portion of this discussion covers the practical difficulties of balancing high-mileage training with a demanding career in the construction industry. Forest emphasizes that there is great reward in helping others reach their goals, a sentiment that anchors his coaching philosophy.

To wrap up the episode, the group shifts to more casual topics, including a debate surrounding the controversial new Nike training gear known as "moth cloth" for its intentional holes. The conversation concludes with a quick-fire question segment, covering topics ranging from favorite local dessert spots to the strangest things the runners have witnessed while out on the road.

Finally, this episode is brought to you in partnership with Oat Running Socks; Anthony is rewarded for jumping on the show with a pair, and listeners can score some using the run2pb discount code "Run2pb15" for 15% off the range by visiting www.oatrunning.com.au.