Runner's Tribe Podcast

Episode Intro

In this episode, we have an inspiring conversation with professional runner Joe Klecker. If you're a runner or simply passionate about the sport of Track and Field, this episode is for you. 

Throughout our conversation, Joe shares valuable insights into the world of competitive running, from the importance of team culture to the mental and physical preparation required for top-level races.

During the first part of our conversation, Joe reflects on his journey as a runner, sharing how his upbringing in a running family shaped his passion for the sport. We delve into his training regimen, the challenges he's faced, and his approach to setting and achieving goals.

We also dive into the dynamics of team culture and the impact it has on performance. Joe discusses the significance of surrounding oneself with the right people and how a supportive team environment can elevate individual and collective success.

In the final part of our conversation, Joe opens up about his aspirations for the future, including his pursuit of making the Olympic team again. We explore the mental aspects of racing and the importance of holistic preparation beyond physical training.

So, whether you're a seasoned athlete or just lacing up your shoes for the first time, join us as we uncover the mindset and strategies behind elite-level running with Joe Klecker.

Episode Summary

In this episode, Joe Klecker opens up about his recent race, where he faced significant challenges due to injuries. He underscores the pivotal role of mindset and mental strength in conquering obstacles and reaching one's goals.

Delving into his family's deep-rooted involvement in running, Joe sheds light on the unwavering support they offer. He also touches upon the escalating competitiveness within the sport and the elevated standards athletes are held to.

The conversation extends to the importance of fast times in track and field as indicators of top-tier performance. Additionally, we explore the impact of storytelling in the sport, emphasizing the need to celebrate athletes' journeys to spark interest and engagement.

Joe shares insights into the tight-knit team culture within his training group, attributing much of their success to this cohesive environment. He pays tribute to his parents as his ultimate inspiration in running.

Looking ahead, Joe expresses his eagerness for future races, particularly the marathon, and discusses the rigorous mental and physical preparation essential for peak performance. Throughout the conversation, Joe's unwavering determination and focus on the upcoming Olympic trials shine through.

Key Takeaways

• Fast times in track and field indicate a high level of performance and contribute to the sport's progress.

Chapters

00:00: Introduction and Apology

00:32: Discussion about Recent Race

01:29: Dealing with Injuries and Recovery

09:23: Family Background and Support

14:28: Mental Strength and Competing at the Highest Level

23:05: Competing in a Highly Competitive Field

25:18: The Changing Landscape of Running

30:55: The Importance of Fast Times in Track and Field

35:39: The Power of Storytelling in Track and Field

39:23: The Role of Team Culture in Performance

42:11: Creating a Strong Team Culture

47:14: The Meaning of Making the Olympic Team

51:18: Dream Races and Goals

53:36: Inspiration and Role Models in Running

56:01: Preparing Mentally and Physically for Races

References

Lets Run Article About OAC: https://www.letsrun.com/news/2020/08/on-establishes-pro-group-in-boulder-to-be-coached-by-dathan-ritzenhein-joe-klecker-is-groups-first-signing/ 

The On Athletics Club - https://www.on.com/en-ch/stories/the-on-athletics-club 

Fueling the Pursuit Interview - https://ucan.co/blogs/energy-lab/olympic-distance-runner-joe-klecker-on-training-and-preparing-with-purpose 

Guest: 

Joe Klecker - @joe_klecker 

Host:

Jon Rankin - https://gobemore.co/ | @chasejonrankin

Learn More:

RunnersTribe - https://runnerstribe.com/ | @runnerstribe

Tarkine - https://tarkine.com/ | @tarkineathletics 

Episode Notes

When it comes to the sport of running, every sprint, every breath, and every challenge is a testament to the resilience and spirit of an athlete. Today on the RunnersTribe podcast, I dive into the remarkable journey of a good friend of mine, Will Leer, a former professional American middle-distance star renowned for his dedication and achievements on the track. As a two-time indoor national champion in 2013, a world relays silver medalist in 2014, and a top 8 finisher in the 1500 meters at the World Indoor Championships in 2014, Will's career epitomizes the relentless pursuit of excellence.

But there's more to Will than just his accolades. Beyond the track, he has embraced new passions, finding as much joy in the tranquility of nature as in the adrenaline of competition. This conversation isn't just about running; it's a deeper exploration of life after the finish line, the pursuit of new challenges, and the enduring spirit that defines a true athlete.

Join us as we uncover the layers of Will Leer's journey, from the peaks of his racing career to the new adventures that keep the essence of his athletic spirit alive. Lace up for an inspiring episode that goes beyond the track, right here on the RunnersTribe podcast.

Summary

In this conversation, Jon Rankin and Will Leer discuss their experiences in running and the state of Track and Field. The conversation covers various topics related to track and field, including athletes' showmanship and storytelling, standout American athletes, field events, the Prefontaine Classic, and the mental side of running. They also dive into the role of storytelling in sports marketing and the impact of shoe technology on performance. They highlight the importance of creating visibility for athletes and celebrating their achievements. The conversation concludes with a discussion on standout athletes in track and field and the highly anticipated race between Jakob Ingebrigtsen and Josh Kerr.

Takeaways

• Storytelling plays a crucial role in sports marketing, as it helps create a connection between athletes and fans.

Chapters

00:30: Rediscovering Running and Skiing

04:00: Running as a Social Outlet

05:06: Finding New Passions

07:02: Unfinished Business in Running

08:12: The State of the Sport

09:38: Athletes' Stories and Social Media

11:32: The Power of Storytelling in Sports Marketing

13:05: The Impact of Shoe Technology

14:31: Making Track and Field Entertaining

16:26: Under Armour's Focus on Running

20:28: The Challenge of Making Track and Field Popular

22:35: Telling Athletes' Stories

23:34: The Excitement of Fast Running

25:12: The Evolution of Running Shoes

27:07: Elevating Athletes and Celebrating Their Achievements

29:21: Creating a Special Experience for Runners

31:42: Standout Athletes in Track and Field

34:29: Athletes' Showmanship and Storytelling

36:24: Standout American Athletes

38:21: Field Events: Shot Put and Discus

39:17: Ryan Krauser's Dominance in Shot Put

40:15: The Athleticism of Field Event Athletes

41:14: Emerging Stars in Field Events

42:21: Yared Nuguse and His Story

47:12: Prefontaine Classic: Ingebrigtsen vs. Kerr

49:18: Yared Nuguse's Competitiveness

52:29: The Mental Side of Running

55:08: The Pursuit of Excellence in Running and Life

59:09: Question for the Next Guest

References:

Yared Nuguse - @yaredthegoose

Jakob Ingebrigtsen - @jakobing

Josh Keer -  @joshhkerr

2024 Prefontaine Classic - https://www.preclassic.com/ | @preclassic

Guest:

Will Leer - @williamleer

Host:

Jon Rankin - https://gobemore.co/ | @chasejonrankin

Learn More:

RunnersTribe - https://runnerstribe.com/ | @runnerstribe

Altitude training has always been a hot topic for middle distance and distance runners. Many of the world’s best runners spend large chunks of the year at altitude, sucking in that thin air to stimulate the body into producing more erythropoietin (EPO), and therefore more red blood cells, which of course carry oxygen around the body.   

We thought it would be cool to catch up with a man who has spent the last decade pioneering altitude training systems, mainly altitude tents and altitude rooms.  Rico Rogers is a retired professional cyclist, and first experienced altitude training whilst competing professionally. He is, of course, of the opinion, that without it, the chances of true success at the elite level is limited.   We hope you enjoy…

This episode is brought to you by Asics and Fractel.

ASICS has just released the new GEL-NIMBUS™ 26.  With cloud-like cushioning and soft grip, it delivers unmatched comfort - the new GEL-NIMBUS™ 26 shoe is ASICS'  most comfortable shoe yet.  Now available via ASICS.com and specialty running stores. 

 "Exciting news from the world of running apparel – Fractel, a Queensland-based startup founded by passionate runners, has just launched their equity crowdfunding campaign. With a mission to revolutionise sustainable performance apparel, they're inviting you to be part of their journey. Investment starts from just a few hundred dollars, making it an incredible opportunity to support and own part of a brand that's making waves in the industry. Fractel isn't just about hats; they're about community, sustainability, and innovation, having already made a significant impact with over 100,000 products sold worldwide. Don't miss out on this chance to invest in a company that's doubling down on making a difference. Check out the link in our show notes to express your interest and learn more about how you can join Fractel's exciting adventure. Expression of interest will close March 4th, so be quick for exclusive access.

Steve Moneghetti is still a household name throughout most of Australia.  Along with De'Castella, he is without a doubt one of Australia's most recognisable runners.

With world champs bronze and Commonwealth Games gold medals donning his trophy cabinet, and with a 2:08.16 PB, Mona was the elite of the elite in the 90’s and would still be one of Australia’s best today.

At 61 years of age, Mona still runs, and pretty fast too. Last year he pumped out a 33-minute road 10km at 60. 

We caught up with Mona to discuss not just the old days, but what is happening now, how he still manages to run so fast as a masters athlete, and also his thoughts on a range of things, from Gen Gregson, Pat Tiernan and Brett Robinson to super shoes and Kelvin Kiptum.  

This episode is powered by Tarkine.  Tarkine is a rapidly growing Australian company that makes high-tech running apparel and shoes, in an ethical and sustainable way.  From high quality running hat and shirts, to soft and comfortable merino wool socks.   Our recently released Trail Devil shoe got voted by ‘Believe in the Run’ website as one of the biggest surprises of 2023, and has found its way onto the feet of some of Australia’s best runners.  Tarkine is run by Australians, in Australia, and all product is shipped from Perth, Western Australia.  Check them out at tarkine.com and use code runnerstribe for 10% off your order…

Luke Mathews is best known for his bronze medal at the 2018 Commonwealth Games 800m. But, as many will know, there was a period there around 2018 to 2020 when Luke was close to unbeatable on the domestic scene. 

But during the Covid year, Luke started battling injury, and hasn’t made it back to his best since.  

We caught up with Luke and dived deep into his career including his training and races, including his time at Melbourne Track Club, his intense battle with injury and heaps more…..

Just quickly before we jump into this.  This episode is powered by a brand close to my heart, Tarkine.  Tarkine is a rapidly growing Australian company that makes high-tech running apparel and shoes, in an ethical and sustainable way.  Our recently released Trail Devil shoe got voted by ‘Believe in the Run’ website as one of the biggest surprises of 2023, and has found its way onto the feet of some of Australia’s best runners.  Tarkine is run by Australians, in Australia, and all product is shipped from Perth, Western Australia.  Check them out at  tarkine.com and use code runnerstribe for 10% off your order…

Kiwi middle-distance runner, Samuel Tanner, is well known to those who dig their 1500m running.  A 3:31 1500m guy (finishing 6th at the 2022 Comm. Games), Tanner is a previous collegiate 1500m record holder over 1500m.  Fresh off a semi-final appearance at the Budapest world champs 1500m, we sat down with Tanner for a deep dive into his training, college days, thoughts on Jakob Ingebrigtsen, and more.

This episode is brought to you by:

-          Spike.au :  Explore Spikes.au for Australia's largest range of replacement spikes, and enjoy fast & free delivery this track season. Click HERE…..

This episode is also brought to you by Fractel:

-          " Fractel Headwear was born in Australia and is proudly trusted by over 50,000 happy customers. Their focus is premium, performance headwear, designed for a community that loves to get outside and run. "

Lastly, if you enjoy this episode it would mean a lot if you press subscribe and take the time to leave a 5-star review. This way, we can keep punching out yarns like this for many years to come.

Amy Bunnage is one of Australia’s most exciting and talented young runners.

Amy is well known in the Australian running community, after a stellar junior career. During these years Amy won six Australian championships. 

Amy is perhaps best known for breaking the Australian U20 3000m record when she clocked 8:51.90 at the 2023 Sydney Track Classic as a 17-year-old, where she finished third behind Jessica Hull. The time is the 14th fastest all-time by an Australian of any age.

We caught up with Amy at a pivotal moment in her career. She has just kicked off a 4 year scholarship at Stanford University, and interestingly she has just signed an NIL deal with On Running.  

We sat down with both Amy, and her long-time friend, who now works for ON Running, Craig Mottram, to dive deep into the NIL deal, and what it really means for Amy.....

Riley McGown has come from the clouds over the last few years, and now holds a firm place within Australia's top half a dozen 800m runners.

With a PB of 1:46.08, Riley, together with a bunch of other hungry Australians, are knocking on the door of true world class status.

We caught up with Riley right after his first world champs in Budapest, as he settles down for some base training before the Australian summer season kicks off......

This episode is sponsored by Asics. 

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James Hansen is a tough Tasmanian based middle distance runner  that 's been knocking on the door of major championship teams for many years.