LetsRun.com's Track Talk: The Home of Running and Track and Field

Werjo, Rojo & Jon break down the inaugural World Ultimate Championships in Budapest, debating whether the made-for-TV format should ever replace the traditional Worlds and whether it devalues USAs as a selection meet. The crew dives into Jakob Ingebrigtsen's dominant 5,000m and his viral mixed-zone interview, plus a debate over whether Hobbs Kessler's " bronze" actually proves anything given how tight the American trio finished. Elsewhere: Melissa Jefferson Wooden's wind-and-altitude-adjusted 200m may be the best ever run, Josh Kerr's closing splits get the stat-nerd treatment, and Nikki Hiltz finally breaks through for a global top 3. Jess Hull takes silver behind Likina Amebaw's dominant 5,000m run. The back half tackles the newly awarded 2029 (Nairobi) and 2031 (Munich) Worlds, sparking an argument over altitude-fueled world records, Kenya's doping record, and whether skipping Europe three Worlds in a row is a mistake. Closes with Megan Eckert's six-day world record and a very "messy" Hyrox controversy. 🎁 🎧 Get a 2nd LetsRun podcast every week + bonus content: for 50% off your first year: Join the Supporters Club — https://www.letsrun.com/subscribe LINKS WTW: World Ultimates By The Numbers, Megan Eckert's 636-Mile Week, and the Grossest Finish in Hyrox History LetsRun.com Message Board Thread: Praise For Jonathan Gault's Jakob Ingebrigtsen Question Fifth Avenue Mile Recap 2026 World Athletics Ultimate Championships Coverage Matt Lawton: Kenya's Doping Record and the 2029 Worlds TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Sponsor Break And Show Preview 00:49 Budapest World Ultimate Championships Kickoff 05:04 Comparing Ultimate Championships To Grand Slam Track 09:58 Can The Ultimate Championships Sustain Financially 13:16 Should The Ultimate Championships Replace Worlds 16:19 Altitude And Future World Records In Nairobi 19:43 Debating The Event Schedule And Prelims Format 22:18 USAs Selection Stakes Under Threat 26:01 Grading The Meet's Innovations And Stats 30:59 Hobbs Kessler Third Place Debate 33:49 Ranking Algorithm Controversy And Predicted Finish Errors 37:26 Sprint Recap: Kenny Bednarek, Bolt And Lyles 44:20 Melissa Jefferson Wooden's Historic 200 47:05 Josh Kerr And Cam Myers Closing Splits 50:32 Jakob Ingebrigtsen Vs Cole Hocker Debate 53:53 Josh Kerr's Historic Season Recap 55:55 Amy Hunt Vs Josh Kerr Sports Personality Debate 60:06 Women's Sprints And Middle Distance Recap 64:01 Nikki Hiltz Breakthrough Medal 67:07 Jessica Hull And Likina Amebaw 5000 Recap 70:19 Did Americans Benefit From Weak Fields 71:46 Fifth Avenue Mile And Message Board Buzz 73:33 Jakob Ingebrigtsen's Viral Mixed Zone Interview 77:57 2029 And 2031 Worlds Awarded To Nairobi And Munich 81:59 Why Europe Is Being Skipped For Three Worlds 84:32 Is Kenya Ready To Host A World Championships 86:59 Kenya's Doping Record Under Scrutiny 90:32 Could Nairobi Host The Last Worlds Marathon 92:04 Megan Eckert Sets Six-Day Running World Record 93:09 Hyrox Controversy Sparks Debate 97:47 Wrapping Up And Contact Information 99:00 Emmanuel Wanyonyi's Stunning 800m Upset CONTACT Email: podcast@letsrun.com Call or text: 1-844-LETSRUN (1-844-538-7786) ABOUT THE LETSRUN.COM PODCAST Since 2000, LetsRun.com has been the independent home of elite running. Described by the New York Times as the "influential website that serves as something of a superego for American running," the podcast is the weekly deep dive into the world of track and field and elite distance running. The show is hosted by LetsRun.com co-founders Weldon Johnson, a 2-time Team USA member, and Robert Johnson, a former Cornell coach who helped pace the marathon world record, along with award-winning senior writer Jonathan Gault. Together they move beyond PR headlines to provide insider reporting and unfiltered debate serious fans rely on.

Get the full podcast by getting our Ultimates' Pass or joining the Supporters Club for a full year for 50% off Cancel anytime . Money back guarantee https://www.letsrun.com/subscribe Jakob Ingebrigtsen served notice he's still the king of the 5000, blitzing a stacked field (five Americans in the top seven) to win the first-ever World Ultimate Championship 5000m title, closing in 12.6 for his final 100m after admitting his 2025 buildup didn't have a lot of real training. He got asked by Jon about not-pushing the pace in the 5000, and left the door open on doubling back in the 1500m and eventually chasing the 5000m world record. Cole Hocker was 2nd, Parker Wolfe 3rd, Nico Young 5th, Grant Fisher 6th, and Graham Blanks 7th. The men's 110m hurdles delivered the night's photo finish, with NCAA sophomore Ja'Kobe Tharp out-leaning defending world champ Cordell Tinch by a hundredth of a second to become the Ultimate champion, while Bradley Franklin's third-place finish reignited debate over why NCAA athletes can't legally collect prize money they've already earned. Timestamps: 00:00 Jakob Ingebrigtsen Wins World Ultimate 5000m Title 03:12 Supporters Club News And Rojo's Late-Night Call 05:30 Grilling Jakob On Tactics And The Cowardice Question 09:42 Henrik Reveals Jakob's Wild Comeback Training 13:00 Breaking Down The Race's Blistering Final Lap 18:16 Five Americans In The Top Seven Reshape US Depth 21:03 Jakob's Injury History, World Record Hopes, And Donovan Brazier Comparisons 24:44 Reviewing The Rest Of The American Field 29:48 Quick Hits: 800m Prelims And A Photo-Finish Hurdles Classic 35:30 NCAA Prize Money Debate And Day Two Preview 38:22 Jakob Ingebrigtsen Interview 49:04 Henrik Ingebrigtsen Interview 68:19 Rojo's Live 5000 Watchalong 80:57 Final 500m 81:58 Rojo's Reaction To Jakob winning Contact us: Email podcast@letsrun.com or call/text 1-844-LETSRUN podcast voicemail/text line. Want a 2nd podcast every week? And savings on running shoes? Join the LetsRun.com Supporters Club today for exclusive content, a bonus weekly podcast, shoe savings, and more. Cancel anytime . https://www.letsrun.com/subscribe Check out the LetsRun.com store. https://shop.letsrun.com/ We've got the softest running shirts in the business. Thanks for listening. Please rate us on your podcast app and spread the word to friend.

🏃 Join the Supporters Club for exclusive World Ultimate Championships coverage , bonus podcasts from Budapest, and more. Use code for 50% off a yearly membership ($50) with a free super soft T-shirt, or grab a one-off World Ultimates pass for $9.99. Predict the men's 5,000 winner for a free 1-off subscription. Email letsrun@letsrun.com Go to letsrun.com/subscribe . EPISODE SUMMARY The World Ultimate Championships kick off Thursday in Budapest, and the LetsRun crew breaks down every distance event in a rapid-fire preview. The women's 800 sparks the biggest debate: Robert Johnson is baffled by polls showing Femke Bol as the Olympic favorite over Audrey Werro, who has run the three fastest legitimate times in history. The women's 1500 is wide open after Klaudia Kazmirowska's stunning Diamond League final win, and Jessica Hull still chases her first major title. On the men's side, Josh Kerr is the rare odds-on 1500 favorite after a dominant season, while the men's 5000 sets up a dream matchup between Parker Wolfe, Cole Hocker, and Jakob Ingebrigtsen—with Berhanu Balu controversially absent. Clayton Young announces he's targeting Conner Mantz's American marathon record at Chicago, but Vincent Mauri and Charles Hicks may have something to say about that. 🎁 🎧 Get a 2nd LetsRun podcast every week + bonus content: Join the Supporters Club — https://www.letsrun.com/subscribe LINKS LetsRun.com Supporters Club Cathal Dennehy's Women's 800 Poll on X Josh Kerr Exclusive Article (Wednesday on LetsRun.com ) Vincent Mauri on Strava TIMESTAMPS 0:00 Supporters Club https://www.letsrun.com/subscribe 01:10 World Ultimates Preview and Supporters Club 03:38 Ultimate Stars Madden Curse and Key Absences 06:22 Women's 800 Preview: Werro vs Bol vs Hodgkinson 07:05 Is Femke Bol Overrated in the 800? 12:41 Werro's Pacing and the Olympic Debate 17:47 Women's 1500 Preview: Wide Open Field 22:28 Women's 5000 Preview and Hailu's Double Bid 25:49 Men's 800 Preview: Can Anyone Beat Wanyonyi? 30:17 Jakob's Double and the 1500 Schedule 32:14 Wanyonyi's Dominance and How to Beat Him 36:34 Brandon Miller and Donovan Brazier's Comeback 39:58 Men's 1500 Preview: Josh Kerr and the Field 48:14 Men's 5000 Preview: Wolfe vs Hocker vs Ingebrigtsen 55:49 Clayton Young Targets the American Marathon Record 59:26 Vincent Mauri and the Chicago Marathon Dark Horses 63:53 Closing: Budapest Meet-Ups and Upcoming Coverage CONTACT Email: podcast@letsrun.com Call or text: 1-844-LETSRUN (1-844-538-7786) ABOUT THE LETSRUN.COM PODCAST Since 2000, LetsRun.com has been the independent home of elite running. Described by the New York Times as the "influential website that serves as something of a superego for American running," the podcast is the weekly deep dive into the world of track and field and elite distance running. The show is hosted by LetsRun.com co-founders Weldon Johnson, a 2-time Team USA member, and Robert Johnson, a former Cornell coach who helped pace the marathon world record, along with award-winning senior writer Jonathan Gault. Together they move beyond PR headlines to provide insider reporting and unfiltered debate serious fans rely on.

🏃 Orosport USA Cooling vests, headbands, and wristbands to help you train and race through the heat. Save 10% with code LETSRUN https://www.orosportsusa.com/letsrun Aletheia the wearable running-form sensor that gives athletes and coaches instant feedback and drills. Free 30-day trial with code LETSRUN10 https://www.aletheia.run/start-my-free-trial EPISODE SUMMARY Weltklasse deilvered. Two world records (Alison Dos Santos in the 400 hurdles, Masai Russell in the 100 hurdles) and American victories from Parker Wolfe and Cole Hocker heading into Diamond League Final and the World Ultimate Championships. Will Jakob Ingebrigtsen double in the 1500 and 5000 in Budapest? What about Josh Kerr's selective-but-high-stakes race schedule, and Parker Valby ending her season as the US leader with a 14:39. Plus, Sydney Marathon results and a stunning run from a 46-year-old and Athlos abruptly canceling its New York meet. 🎁 🎧 Get a 2nd LetsRun podcast every week + bonus content: Join the Supporters Club — https://www.letsrun.com/subscribe https://www.letsrun.com/subscribe LINKS Renato Canova's post on Femke Bol's training Week That Was: Littergate at UTMB, Athlos Gets Cancelled, Cam Myers Won't Stop Racing, a 46-Year-Old Runs Wild in Sydney Nick Willis posting about what athletes do in retirement TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Show Preview & Weekend Recap 02:05 Weather Talk, Cross Country & Sponsor Reads 06:59 Zurich Diamond League Recap 12:09 Jakob Ingebrigtsen's Doubling Dilemma 14:05 Is Josh Kerr Racing Enough? 19:10 Jakob's Appreciation Post & DL Final Qualifying 25:11 Ranking America's Top 5,000m Men 27:31 Parker Valby's Season Ends 30:26 Parker Valby's Injury-Shortened Season 33:34 Diamond League Entry Standards & Valby's Case 39:18 Assessing Parker Valby's 2026 Season 42:47 Femke Bol's Surprising Training Paces 44:35 Femke Bol's Training and Canova's Comments 48:57 Diamond League Final Snubs & the 2028 Calendar 51:50 Sydney Marathon: East Africans Lose Ground 56:49 World Marathon Majors Expansion Debate 60:10 Marathon What-Ifs & Hagos Gebrhiwet's Return 62:46 The 46-Year-Old Marathon Sensation 66:26 Athlos Cancels Its Second 2026 Meet 69:54 Comparing Athlos to Grand Slam Track's Finances 75:19 What's the Long-Term Vision for Athlos? 80:07 Ticket Sales, Attendance & Track's Fan Problem 83:11 Baltimore Orioles Shoutout & Postgame Banter 86:11 The MLB Wild Card Race Heats Up 87:58 Show Wrap-Up & What's Next CONTACT Contact us: Email: podcast@letsrun.com Call or text: 1-844-LETSRUN (1-844-538-7786) ABOUT THE LETSRUN.COM PODCAST Since 2000, LetsRun.com has been the independent home of elite running. Described by the New York Times as the "influential website that serves as something of a superego for American running," the podcast is the weekly deep dive into the world of track and field and elite distance running. The show is hosted by LetsRun.com co-founders Weldon Johnson, a 2-time Team USA member, and Robert Johnson, a former Cornell coach who helped pace the marathon world record, along with award-winning senior writer Jonathan Gault. Together they move beyond PR headlines to provide insider reporting and unfiltered debate serious fans rely on.

🏃 Run Smarter Every Stride with Aletheia https://www.aletheia.run/start-my-free-trial A wearable running sensor that analyzes your form every stride and provides personalized tips and exercises. Free 30-day trial with code LETSRUN10 for 10% off your membership. https://www.aletheia.run/start-my-free-trial EPISODE SUMMARY Ethan Strand won a Diamond League 1500 in Silesia, something Matthew Centrowitz, Cole Hocker, and Jessica Hull have never done. What does it mean? World Athletics breaks its own qualification rules to engineer the Jakob Ingebrigtsen vs. Josh Kerr showdown at the World Ultimate Championships in Budapest. Yomif Kejelcha runs 56:51 in Buenos Aires, but suspicious splits raise questions about whether the half marathon world record will be ratified. Rai Benjamin commits to a bold 400/400 hurdles double at World Ultimates, and the US men's middle distance dominance reaches historic levels. 🎁 🎧 Get a 2nd LetsRun podcast every week + bonus content: Join the Supporters Club — https://www.letsrun.com/subscribe LINKS 10 Years After Rio: Matthew Centrowitz on Olympic Gold, Cole Hocker, Josh Kerr, the Golden Age of the 1500m WTW: Is Yomif Kejelcha's 56:51 World Record Legit? Collen Kebinatshipi, Marileidy Paulino Make 400m History Was Devon Allen Screwed? There's at Least a 99.9% Chance That He Was If You Lined Up Every NCAA Men's XC Champ in Their College Prime, Who Wins? Aletheia Run — Free 30-Day Trial LetsRun.com Supporters Club LetsRun.com Shop TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Sponsor and Intro 02:00 Ethan Strand Wins Diamond League 1500 08:41 Do Tactics Matter in Middle Distance Racing? 12:35 Strand's Post-Race Tactics and Silesia Breakdown 15:26 Is the US the Best Middle Distance Country in the World? 20:24 Strand's Ceiling and Upcoming Races 26:44 Jakob and Kerr Get Into World Ultimates 28:28 Should World Athletics Break Its Own Rules? 34:07 Rai Benjamin's Bold 400/400 Hurdles Double 36:42 Historic 400-Meter Seasons for Cabanatchippy and Paulino 42:26 Yomif Kejelcha Runs 56:51 Half Marathon 46:56 Could Yomif Kejelcha Be the Next Kipchoge? 49:02 World Marathon Majors Are Losing Their Meaning 50:47 Rojo Raises Concerns About Kejelcha's Splits 56:32 Shoe Technology and What Records Mean Now 59:58 Melissa Jefferson Wooden's 100m Win Streak 65:29 Galen Rupp's Half Marathon and Masters Record 67:55 Centro Running 100 Miles a Week for Fun 74:07 Zurich Diamond League Preview 76:57 Greatest NCAA XC Champion of All Time 80:58 Outro and Supporters Club CONTACT Email: podcast@letsrun.com Call or text: 1-844-LETSRUN (1-844-538-7786) ABOUT THE LETSRUN.COM PODCAST Since 2000, LetsRun.com has been the independent home of elite running. Described by the New York Times as the "influential website that serves as something of a superego for American running," the podcast is the weekly deep dive into the world of track and field and elite distance running. The show is hosted by LetsRun.com co-founders Weldon Johnson, a 2-time Team USA member, and Robert Johnson, a former Cornell coach who helped pace the marathon world record, along with award-winning senior writer Jonathan Gault. Together they move beyond PR headlines to provide insider reporting and unfiltered debate serious fans rely on.

🏃 The perfect product to improve your running form Aletheia Run is a wearable running sensor that analyzes your form and gives personalized correction drills. Use code LETSRUN10 for a free 30-day trial and 10% off your first year: https://www.aletheia.run/start-my-free-trial EPISODE SUMMARY On the 10-year anniversary of Matthew Centrowitz's iconic Olympic 1500-meter gold in Rio, the 2016 champion joins Jonathan Gault and Weldon Johnson to reflect on the race that changed American distance running. Centro reveals why the final was so slow, breaks down the decisive inside move that won him gold, and explains why winning left him struggling for motivation. The trio dives into Cole Hocker's unorthodox tactics, Josh Kerr's 3:42 mile, the unprecedented parity in the men's 1500, and Centro's new life—including a Chicago Marathon side bet with Evan Jager and Kyle Merber. The episode closes with an epic trivia showdown. 🎁 🎧 Get a 2nd LetsRun podcast every week + bonus content: Join the Supporters Club — https://www.letsrun.com/subscribe LINKS Matthew Centrowitz's 2016 Olympic 1500m Final TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Rio Olympic 1500m Audio from NBC 01:05 Aletheia.Run Sponsor 02:09 Start of Podcast: The 10-Year Anniversary of Rio Gold 03:38 Blessing and a Curse: Life After Winning 09:02 How Mainstream Was the Olympic Gold? 14:28 Contracts and Fame in Track and Field 19:02 Breaking Down the Rio 1500 Final 21:53 The Patent Move and a 450-Meter Kick 25:45 Why the Race Was So Slow 27:07 Behind the Scenes: The Brazil Soccer Delay 30:37 Unprecedented Parity in the Men's 1500 34:28 Will Fast Championship Racing Continue? 39:01 Josh Kerr's 3:42 and the Depth of the Event 42:45 Cole Hocker's Tactics Analyzed 49:43 Centro's Relationship with Hocker 53:48 Ben Thomas's Unorthodox Training System 56:57 Life After Running: What Centro Is Doing Now 57:52 Chicago Marathon Side Bet with Jager and Merber 64:57 Trivia Warm-Up: Centro's Career 64:57 Centro's Dad and the 1976 Olympic Trials 68:10 From NCAA Races to Daegu Bronze 76:02 The Heartbreaking 2012 Olympic Fourth Place 77:25 General Track and Field Trivia 78:06 Women's 1500 Debut and Distance Firsts 82:11 Sub-Eight Steeple and Mo Farah's Losses 85:46 Centro vs. Galen Rupp at Pac-10s 88:13 Racing Kerr, Jakob, and the Motorcycle Story 94:01 Kip Keino's Olympic Legacy 94:58 1500 Meter Legends Lightning Round 99:06 Mile and 1500 Barrier Breakers 100:56 Final Question: First Sub-3:30 1500m CONTACT Email: podcast@letsrun.com Call or text: 1-844-LETSRUN (1-844-538-7786) ABOUT THE LETSRUN.COM PODCAST Since 2000, LetsRun.com has been the independent home of elite running. Described by the New York Times as the "influential website that serves as something of a superego for American running," the podcast is the weekly deep dive into the world of track and field and elite distance running. The show is hosted by LetsRun.com co-founders Weldon Johnson, a 2-time Team USA member, and Robert Johnson, a former Cornell coach who helped pace the marathon world record, along with award-winning senior writer Jonathan Gault. Together they move beyond PR headlines to provide insider reporting and unfiltered debate serious fans rely on.

(Sorry we had a lot of silence in the other podcast we released. this ons is cleaned up) 🏃 The Perfect Product for this Cross County Season Aletheia Run is a wearable running sensor that analyzes your form and gives personalized correction drills. Use code LETSRUN10 for a free 30-day trial and 10% off your first year: https://www.aletheia.run/start-my-free-trial The Euros delivered big storylines: Audrey Werro beat Keely Hodgkinson again in the women's 800m, fueling debate about their futures and a possible world record, while Andreas Almgren obliterated the men's 10,000m field with a 19-second front-running masterclass. Ireland's Mark English claimed a historic first-ever men's individual Euro gold. Stateside, Jonah Koech's doping ban details raise fresh questions about USADA's admission process, and USATF's decision to send the 2028 Olympic Trials back to Eugene for a sixth straight cycle sparks debate over fairness, and missed opportunities elsewhere in the country. The Diamond League also returns this week: Jakob Ingebrigtsen takes on Cole Hocker in Silesia, while Brandon Miller faces Marco Arop and Emmanuel Wanyonyi in Lausanne. 🎁 🎧 Get a 2nd LetsRun podcast every week + bonus content: Join the Supporters Club — https://www.letsrun.com/subscribe LINKS Aletheia Run running form sensor — Start your free trial Thread: Keely's career is over — and post of the week from Doffshat Jonathan Gault's "A Week That Was": Euros vs. NCAAs research Jonah Koech handed reduced doping ban — USADA update LetsRun Shop T-Shirts Join the Supporters Club TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Cold Open & Sponsor: Aletheia Run 01:29 Show Intro: Euro And Trials Headlines 04:45 Werro Beats Hodgkinson In The 800 08:37 Fans Debate Hodgkinson's Future 12:40 A New Era In The Women's 800 15:10 Could Athing Mu Make A Comeback? 17:12 Mark English's Historic Euro Gold 20:37 Euros Versus NCAA: Which Is Harder? 23:09 Chaos In The Men's 1500 26:29 Almgren's Stunning 10000m Runaway 32:07 Breaking Down Almgren's Front-Running Gamble 36:46 The Jonah Koech Doping Case 38:50 Inside The Blood Passport Violation 40:54 Weighing Doping Punishments And Incentives 42:56 Comparing Doping Cases: Houlihan And Gatlin 45:30 2028 Olympic Trials Return To Eugene 48:41 Debating Eugene's Trials Monopoly 54:39 The Mount SAC Saga 56:15 Why LA Skipped The Olympic Trials 58:27 Trials Crowds And Ticket Economics 1:00:40 World Ultimates And Diamond League Ahead 1:01:41 Diamond League Preview: Lausanne And Silesia 1:07:33 Chasing World And American Records 1:11:25 Closing And Supporters Club Plug

Did you miss the first edition of our Training Talk video series? You are in luck as the Supporters Club embargo has ended! In this exclusive 1-on-1 interview, LetsRun.com co-founder Robert Johnson sits down with Dr. Marius Bakken—13:06 5000m runner, two-time Norwegian Olympian, medical doctor, and the true mastermind behind the double threshold "Norwegian Method" training system used by Jakob Ingebrigtsen and elites worldwide. Bakken breaks down the physiological logic behind double threshold, why the muscular system (not the heart or lungs) is the true limiting factor for distance runners, how to properly use lactate meters, super shoe technology, and why easy days MUST stay easy. If you liked interview, then you need to read the article we wrote as he answered some additional questions via email after we recorded. 📖 READ THE FULL ARTICLE & EMAIL Q\&A: 👉 https://www.letsrun.com/?p=327012 📚 GET MARIUS BAKKEN'S NEW BOOK ("The Norwegian Method Applied"): 👉 https://lasso.to/3choBS6Q1Y Time Stamps 0:00 - Introduction & The Launch of LetsRun Training Talk Live 2:16 - Sitting in the Call Room: The Quest to Catch African Distance Runners 5:10 - How Marius Bakken’s Winter Base Model Inspired the Ingebrigtsens 7:29 - Bridging Joe Newton’s Mileage with Peter Coe’s Interval Precision 9:21 - Discovering How Kenyans Naturally Train at Threshold Effort 10:42 - The Science & Logic Behind Double Threshold Workouts 12:31 - Re-Framing Double Threshold: "One Long Session with a Long Break" 14:06 - The TRUE Limiter in Distance Running: Muscular System vs. Heart/Lungs 15:26 - Why Easy Days MUST Stay Easy to Protect Muscle Elasticity 16:20 - The Sample Training Week: Balancing Threshold Days and the "X Factor" Workout 17:51 - How Less is More: Maximizing Training Load at the Lowest Muscular Cost 20:14 - Recovery Windows: Controlling the Muscular Adaptation Phase 21:33 - How Beginners & Recreational Runners Can Safely Build Volume 23:59 - What to Do If You Miss a Threshold Workout in Your Schedule 24:32 - Bridging the Gap: Why Western Distance Runners Have Caught Up 26:34 - Marius Bakken's Historic 2002 LetsRun Forum Thread ("Kenya vs. USA") 28:40 - Controversial Altitude Training Experiments in Kenya & Bolivia 30:57 - Did Kenyans Intuitively Train Sub-Threshold Better Than Westerners? 33:37 - Why Marius Chooses Medical Practice Over Full-Time Coaching 34:17 - Will Continuous Lactate Monitors Make Distance Running "Too Perfect"? 36:09 - High School Days at York High School & Transitioning to High Volume 37:24 - The Craziest Training Experiments: 5,000m Altitude & Ketosis Weeks 39:28 - Why Cross-Training (Cycling/Swimming) Doesn't Replace Specific Running Movement 43:55 - Adapting Double Threshold & Intensity Control for High School Athletes 45:24 - Why Every Serious Runner Should Try a Lactate Monitor ($300 Shoe vs $300 Meter) 48:59 - Marius Bakken’s Current Fitness & Weekly Training Routine at Age 48 50:45 - The Future of Continuous Lactate & Gate Monitors 51:34 - Is Double Threshold Ideal for the Western Coaching Mindset? 54:54 - Why a Gap Still Exists Between Westerners & Africans in the Marathon and Cross Country 56:30 - Super Shoes: Injury Reduction, Ankle Stiffness, & Track Depth 59:31 - Could Bob Kennedy or Seb Coe Have Run Faster on the Norwegian Method? 1:01:37 - Zatopek’s Early Double-Session Repeats vs Modern Double Threshold 1:02:30 - Muscle Biopsies & Determining Athlete Event Specialization 1:03:25 - Can Jakob Ingebrigtsen Come Back Stronger From His Injuries? 1:04:54 - Working With Karsten Warholm’s Coach, Leif Olav Alnes 1:07:24 - Did Bakken See Any Doping While Training in Kenya (2000–2002)? 1:08:22 - Closing Thoughts & Upcoming Guest Coaching Appearance Contact us: Email podcast@letsrun.com or call/text 1-844-LETSRUN podcast voicemail/text line. Want a 2nd podcast every week? And savings on running shoes? Join the LetsRun.com Supporters Club today for exclusive content, a bonus weekly podcast, shoe savings, and more. Cancel anytime . https://www.letsrun.com/subscribe Check out the LetsRun.com store. https://shop.letsrun.com/ We've got the softest running shirts in the business. Thanks for listening. Please rate us on your podcast app and spread the word to friend.

The week's edition of the Track Talk podcast focses on Jakob Ingebrigtsen’s return in the European Championships 5,000 meters. We start as Rojo reacts to the 5000 final as it happened live. Jonathan Gault then joins to discuss what the result says about Jakob’s form, Jimmy Gressier’s race tactics, and whether Jakob still has the endurance and finishing kick for major 5,000-meter races later in the season. The conversation then turns to Jonah Koech’s positive test and his unusual late-career improvement, including the timing of the announcement, the gap in public explanation, and the impact on athletes who were moved down by his results. The episode closes with a recap of World Juniors in Eugene, highlighting Emmanuel Kiprono and several American standouts, while debating which junior performances are most likely to translate to senior success. Time Stamps 0:00 – Jakob Returns (LIVE Euro 5000 commentary) 3:35 – Race Tactics Unfold 6:46 – Jakob Takes Control 8:12 – Final Lap Drama 10:56 – Jakob Seals Victory 11:55 – Post-Race Breakdown 14:10 – Championship Tactics Debate 17:21 – Jakob’s Comeback Verdict 18:54 – Gressier’s Race Choices 21:54 – Surprise Results Checked 22:39 – Why Jakob Wins 24:17 – Hocker Looms Ahead 25:19 – Jonah Koech Doping News 27:51 – Koech’s Sudden Rise 30:45 – Testing Questions Raised 33:17 – Suspicious Training Load 35:28 – Blood Doping Debate 38:11 – Hobbs Kessler Fallout 43:09 – World Juniors Recap 43:24 – Emmanuel Kiprono’s Stunning Run 47:49 – American Sprint Doubles 50:53 – Quincy Wilson versus Jayden DeLeon 58:25 – Claire Stegall’s Breakthrough Medal Contact us: Email podcast@letsrun.com or call/text 1-844-LETSRUN podcast voicemail/text line. Want a 2nd podcast every week? And savings on running shoes? Join the LetsRun.com Supporters Club today for exclusive content, a bonus weekly podcast, shoe savings, and more. Cancel anytime . https://www.letsrun.com/subscribe Check out the LetsRun.com store. https://shop.letsrun.com/ We've got the softest running shirts in the business. Thanks for listening. Please rate us on your podcast app and spread the word to friend.

🏃 Presented by Orosport USA Cooling vests, headbands, and wrist wraps to help you train through the heat — use code LETSRUN for 10% off. orosportsusa.com/letsrun 👟 LetsRun Shoe Deals — Nike Vomero 18 $93, Pegasus $87 (40% off), Vaporfly 4 $143 (47% off) Josh Kerr's Commonwealth Games mile annihilation reignites the debate over where he ranks among history's greatest milers, with Rojo's "beat every great miler ever" thought experiment digging up crazy closing splits from Noureddine Morceli and Jim Ryun. Coach Danny Mackey weighs whether Kerr should chase a 1500m world record or protect his health for the World Ultimate Championships. Elsewhere, Abdihamid Nur and Alicia Monson's decision to skip USAs for a faster race in Belgium sparks a debate over what national titles are actually worth. And on the college side, Kenyan half-marathoner Dennis Kipkogei's commitment to Texas gets a debate going on the NCAA ranks. 🎁 🎧 Get a 2nd LetsRun podcast every week + bonus content: Join the Supporters Club — https://www.letsrun.com/subscribe LINKS If All The Top Milers in the World Lined Up, Would Kerr Win? The Pareto Frontier: Jonathan Pritchard's closing-speed data deep dive Did Texas Just Sign the Favorite for the 2026 NCAA XC Title? Changing allegiances from Jakob to Kerr (forum thread) Colorado Buffaloes loading up on Africans for 2026 XC (forum thread) Shoe deals Need a VPN? — https://www.letsrun.com/vpn Free LetsRun shirt — https://shop.letsrun.com TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Sponsor Intro & Episode Preview 02:45 Off-Air Banter: VPNs, Weather & Cooling Gear 08:52 Josh Kerr's Commonwealth Games Mile Domination 12:57 Kerr's World Ultimate Championships Outlook 18:45 Could Kerr Beat Every Miler in History? 23:10 Comparing Eras: Ryun's Kick vs. the Doping-Era 90s 26:53 Danny Mackey's Decision on a 1500m World Record Bid 34:00 Other Commonwealth Games Standouts 36:22 Africa's Distance Running Decline & the Kipsang Mystery 40:50 Jakob Ingebrigtsen's Fitness, Qualifying Rules & Fan Rivalries 48:30 Skipping USAs: The Nur & Monson Debate Begins 53:49 USATF Points System Under Fire 58:12 Off-Topic Tangent: Wejo's College Racing History 1:02:38 USATF Foundation Grants & Accountability 1:06:58 Dennis Kipkogei Headlines Texas' Loaded Recruiting Class 1:10:28 Full-Ride Scholarships & the NCAA Funding Arms Race 1:16:41 Conference Realignment, Age Caps & Remote Coaching Fantasies 1:21:53 Colorado's Kenyan Recruiting Rumor & International Talent Debate 1:26:35 World Juniors Preview & Closing Thoughts CONTACT Contact us: Email: podcast@letsrun.com Call or text: 1-844-LETSRUN (1-844-538-7786) ABOUT THE LETSRUN.COM PODCAST Since 2000, LetsRun.com has been the independent home of elite running. Described by the New York Times as the "influential website that serves as something of a superego for American running," the podcast is the weekly deep dive into the world of track and field and elite distance running. The show is hosted by LetsRun.com co-founders Wejo, a 2-time Team USA member, and Rojo, a former Cornell coach who helped pace the marathon world record, along with award-winning senior writer Jonathan Gault. Together they move beyond PR headlines to provide insider reporting and unfiltered debate serious fans rely on.

🏃 Presented by Oro Sport USA Beat the summer heat with ORO Sport's cooling vests, headbands, and wristbands. Use code LETSRUN for 10% off at orosportusa.com . Aletheia — a wearable stride sensor that decodes your running form with PhD-level biomechanics feedback. Free 30-day trial with code LETSRUN10 at aletheia.run . LetsRun Shoe Deals — Nike Vomero 18 $93, Pegasus $87 (40% off), Vaporfly 4 $143 (47% off) Summary The US Champions left Eugene for the first time since 2019, heading to Icahn Stadium on Randall's Island. in NYC. Cooper Lutkenhaus capped a near-perfect season with a dominant 800-meter title at just 17 years old, while Nikki Hiltz made it an amazing 9 straight US titles. Grant Fisher suffered a stunning upset in the 10K, Donovan Brazier's comeback stalled badly, and Jonathan Gault's "nearly man" take on Vincent Ciattei aged spectacularly in less than 24 hours. Plus, Jakob Ingebrigtsen announces his return at European Championships, Commonwealth Games sprint times defy belief in the Glasgow rain, and an in-depth interview with marathon rising star Charles Hicks at 99:59 ****on chasing 150-mile weeks and the 2:06 Olympic standard. 🎁 🎧 Get a 2nd LetsRun podcast every week + bonus content: Join the Supporters Club — https://www.letsrun.com/subscribe LINKS Shop LetsRun — 24% off all T-shirts with code JULY24 LetsRun Shoe Deals — Nike Vomero 18 $93, Pegasus $87 (40% off), Vaporfly 4 $143 (47% off) Oro Sport USA — code LETSRUN for 10% off Aletheia Running Sensor — free 30-day trial, code LETSRUN10 Hobbs Kessler Interview Jonathan Gault on Vincent Ciattei as a 'Nearly Man' Commonwealth Games 100m Final Nomio broccoli shot Supporters Club LetsRun VPN TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Intro and Sponsors 00:51 Welcome and Weekend Overview 04:36 Cooper Lutkenhaus Caps a Near-Perfect Season 07:05 Teen Phenoms and Why Lutkenhaus Is Different 12:45 Nia Akins Wins Her Third US 800 Title 14:22 Grant Fisher Upset in the 10K 20:06 Only 37% of World Team Members Showed Up 22:57 Nikki Hiltz's Historic Nine Straight US Titles 25:39 Can Nikki Win World Ultimate? 30:46 Wanyonyi-Chipchurchir Baby and World Ultimate Outlook 33:44 Wes Ferguson's Breakout and the D2 Pipeline 39:02 Donovan Brazier's Lost Season 45:00 Noah Lyles, Ciattei, and Mackay: Winners and Losers 47:24 Gault's 'Nearly Man' Take Ages Terribly 54:36 Hobbs Kessler on Sacrifice and Going All In 58:26 What Does Going All In Really Mean? 62:48 Addy Wiley's Breakout Weekend 64:17 Jakob Ingebrigtsen Returns at European Championships 68:47 Commonwealth Games Mile Preview 70:09 Commonwealth Games Shockers: Sprints and 10K 74:09 Glasgow Sprint Times Defy the Conditions 79:44 Kai Robinson Wins Gold, Kenya Stumbles 82:48 USAs in New York: Attendance and the Future 89:04 Can You Sell a Four-Day Track Meet? 94:03 Pros and Cons of Icahn Stadium 99:59 Interview: Charles Hicks on Marathon Training 104:20 Hicks on Mileage as the Number One Variable 112:00 The Altitude Experiment in Park City 119:43 Chasing the 2:06 Olympic Standard 122:27 Training Data and What It Actually Tells You 126:54 Fueling, Nomio, and the Broccoli Shot 131:39 Hicks' Best Jerry Schumacher Story Contact Email: podcast@letsrun.com Call or text: 1-844-LETSRUN (1-844-538-7786) About the LetsRun podcast Since 2000, LetsRun.com has been the independent home of elite running. Described by the New York Times as the "influential website that serves as something of a superego for American running," the podcast is the weekly deep dive into the world of track and field and elite distance running. The show is hosted by LetsRun.com co-founders Weldon Johnson, a 2-time Team USA member, and Robert Johnson, a former Cornell coach who helped pace the marathon world record, along with award-winning senior writer Jonathan Gault. Together they move beyond PR headlines to provide insider reporting and unfiltered debate serious fans rely on.

🏃 Presented by Aletheia Run Aletheia Run is a sensor and app that captures a force portrait of your running mechanics, giving you feedback and drills to run more efficiently and avoid injury. Get a free 30-day trial and 10% off with code LETSRUN10 — linkhere https://www.aletheia.run/start-my-free-trial EPISODE SUMMARY Jo sh Kerr shattered Hicham El Guerrouj's 27-year-old mile world record in London, running 3:42.66, while training partner Brandon Miller stunned the field with a career-best 1:42.19 in the 800m. Wejo, Rjo and Jonathan debate whether Kerr's mark is more believable than the EPO-era record it replaced, whether he should chase the 1,500m world record this year, and how his rivalry with Jakob Ingebrigtsen now stacks up. Coach Danny Mackey joinsus at 73:31 to recount race day, the chaotic pacing situation, and what comes next for both athletes. Elsewhere: the NCAA scraps altitude and flat-track conversions in a move the hosts call one of the dumbest rule changes in years, Niels Laros ends his season with an Achilles injury, and USATF Outdoors kicks off in New York with several top milers sitting out. 🎁 🎧 Get a 2nd LetsRun podcast every week + bonus content: Join the Supporters Club — https://www.letsrun.com/subscribe LINKS **** Aletheia Run Sensor & App Use code LETSRUN10 Brandon Miller junior phenom video After breaking mile world record, can Josh Kerr become the first man to run 3:25 for 1500m? **** Free USAs tickets giveaway TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Sponsor Intro 00:29 This Week in Track: Kerr's Record and More News 06:46 Fake Josh Kerr 08:28 Reflecting on the Mile World Record 13:59 The Drug Era and Believing in Records 17:56 What's Next for Josh Kerr 21:46 Chasing a 1,500m World Record 27:54 Debating Kerr's Recovery and Peak Fitness34:05 Injuries Rock the Miling Ranks 42:14 Should Niels Laros Get Achilles Surgery? 45:34 Kerr vs Ingebrigtsen: The Head-to-Head Record 47:03 Brandon Miller's Historic 800m Win 50:57 Miller's Turbo Kick Explained 56:51 USA Outdoor Championships Preview 1:03:50 Who's Skipping USAs and Why 1:08:53 NCAA Scraps Altitude Conversions 1:13:31 Guest Danny Mackey: Race Day Morning in London 1:19:36 Watching the World Record Unfold 1:25:36 The Workouts Behind the Record 1:31:24 Training for a Championship vs a Record 1:34:10 The Case for a 1,500m World Record Attempt 1:37:39 Commonwealth Games and Brandon Miller's Rise 1:42:40 Reworking Miller's Training and Kick 1:47:40 Whose Idea Was the World Record Attempt? 1:52:52 A Perfect Night in London 1:55:32 Sponsor Outro Aletheia Run Sensor & App Use code LETSRUN10 Contact Us Email: podcast@letsrun.com Call or text: 1-844-LETSRUN (1-844-538-7786) ABOUT THE LETSRUN.COM PODCAST Since 2000, LetsRun.com has been the independent home of elite running. Described by the New York Times as the "influential website that serves as something of a superego for American running," the podcast is the weekly deep dive into the world of track and field and elite distance running. The show is hosted by LetsRun.com co-founders Weldon Johnson, a 2-time Team USA member, and Robert Johnson, a former Cornell coach who helped pace the marathon world record, along with award-winning senior writer Jonathan Gault. Together they move beyond PR headlines to provide insider reporting and unfiltered debate serious fans rely on

🏃 Improve your running form with Aletheia Aletheia is a biomechanics sensor and app that analyzes your running form stride by stride, then delivers personalized feedback and exercises to help you run more efficiently and reduce injury risk. LetsRun visitors get a free 30-day trial and 10% off your first year with code LETSRUN10. https://www.aletheia.run/start-my-free-trial Jonathan Gault, Rojo & WEjo break down a huge week in track: E mmanuel Wanyonyi's 2:11.83 world record 1000m at a stacked Diamond League Monaco, then preview Saturday's London Diamond League, where Josh Kerr targets Hicham El Guerrouj's 27-year-old mile world record with Yared Nuguse also in the mix. They debate the doping-era asterisks on El Guerrouj's mark, rabbit strategy, and whether Marco Arop or Emmanuel Wanyonyi could snap the 800m world record on the same night**. Graham Blanks'** near-win in Monaco sparks a Grant Fisher comparison and a 2028 Olympic 5,000m/10,000m draft. Elsewhere: Keely Hodgkinson's world record hopes look shaky, USA Championships heads to New York for the first time in decades, and England faces Argentina in a World Cup semifinal. 🎁 🎧 Get a 2nd LetsRun podcast every week + bonus content: Join the Supporters Club — https://www.letsrun.com/subscribe LINKS Josh Kerr's Mile World Record Attempt Preview Aletheia Run (free trial, code LETSRUN10 Running with the Buffaloes: Beyond Fast by Chris Lear Discussion: What would El Guerrouj run with today's tech LetsRun.com Shop (T-shirts) TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Sponsor: Try Aletheia Run use code LETSRUN10 01:25 Welcome, Show Preview & World Cup Banter 05:16 Monaco Diamond League Recap 10:22 Grant Blanks vs Grant Fisher 15:03 5000m Talent Pool & 2028 Olympic Draft 19:16 London Preview: Josh Kerr's Mile World Record Bid 25:04 Rabbit Strategy for the Record Attempt 28:23 Doping Era Debate: El Guerrouj's Legacy 33:40 El Guerrouj's Historic Splits & Pacing 36:40 Wildcard Predictions: Birnbaum 40:29 Yared Nuguse's World Record Chances 46:40 Final Predictions: Does the Record Fall? 52:36 Keely Hodgkinson & The 800m Debate 56:07 800m World Record Watch: Arop vs Wanyonyi 62:37 Supporters Club & Beer Run Recap 64:44 Hurdles Rivalry: Thorpe vs Britt 71:11 USA Championships Head to New York 74:53 England vs Argentina: World Cup Semifinal Contact us: Email: podcast@letsrun.com Call or text: 1-844-LETSRUN (1-844-538-7786) ABOUT THE LETSRUN.COM PODCAST Since 2000, LetsRun.com has been the independent home of elite running. Described by the New York Times as the "influential website that serves as something of a superego for American running," the podcast is the weekly deep dive into the world of track and field and elite distance running. The show is hosted by LetsRun.com co-founders Weldon Johnson, a 2-time Team USA member, and Robert Johnson, a former Cornell coach who helped pace the marathon world record, along with award-winning senior writer Jonathan Gault. Together they move beyond PR headlines to provide insider reporting and unfiltered debate serious fans rely on.

🏃 Big Savings on a great running shoe & stay healthy with Aletheia.Run Save big here on Under Armour running shoes, including the Velocity Speed 5 and Sharon Lokedi's Boston-winning marathon shoe , now discounted in last year's colors here. Aletheia is a biomechanics sensor and app that analyzes your running form stride by stride, then delivers personalized feedback and exercises to help you run more efficiently and reduce injury risk. LetsRun visitors get a free 30-day trial and 10% off your first year with code LETSRUN10. https://aletheia.run/ Also celebrate the LetsRun.com Shop's 250th anniversary sale — use code JULY4 for 25% off at shop.letsrun.com . EPISODE SUMMARY Fresh off the 2026 Prefontaine Classic, Wejo, Rojo, & Jonathan Gault break down a meet with no world records but plenty of drama. Nikki Hiltz stuns Faith Kipyegon for the biggest win of their career, while Tate Taylor's blistering 19.75 200m into a headwind raises questions about his amateur status and Nike NIL kit. Brandon Miller outkicks Cooper Lutkenhaus in the 800m, and the crew debates Donovan Brazier's stalled season and a possible Colorado-Flagstaff training gap. Brewing tension between training partners Sha'Carri Richardson and Melissa Jefferson-Wooden after a razor-thin 100m finish and pointed post-race comments. Elsewhere: an AP article riddled with apparent AI-generated errors, Josh Kerr's looming mile world record attempt in London, and a full slate of World Cup banter. 🎁 🎧 Get a 2nd LetsRun podcast every week + bonus content: Join the Supporters Club — https://www.letsrun.com/subscribe LINKS Nikki Hiltz upsets Faith Kipyegon in the 1500m at Prefontaine Tate Taylor runs 19.75 in the 200m at Prefontaine Discussion: Would Sha'Carri vs MJW rivalry be different if they were male Ed Murphy Track Classic 400m watch: Samuel Ogazi's pro debut Associated Press article with apparent AI-generated errors on the Prefontaine Classic Sha'Carri Richardson - Melissa Jefferson-Wooden 100m rivalry Aletheia running form sensor and app — use code LETSRUN10 for a free trial at aletheia.run TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Sponsor / Intro 01:23 Prefontaine Classic Preview and World Cup Banter 07:42 Nikki Hiltz Makes History 11:33 Debating Nikki Hiltz's Path Forward 17:33 Tate Taylor's Stunning 200 24:04 Brandon Miller Upsets Lutkenhaus 28:30 Donovan Brazier's Search for Answers 32:53 Josh Kerr's Mile World Record Bid 37:29 Colin Solomon's Rough Day at Pre 39:38 Coaching Carousel and World Cup Wrap-Up 41:53 Aletheia Free Trial with code LETSRUN10 42:58 Cam Myers and the Commonwealth Games Duel 48:34 Monaco Preview and the 400m Watch 52:45 The Sha'Carri Richardson-Melissa Jefferson Rivalry 55:36 Is This Rivalry Sustainable? 1:02:23 Lessons From Past Training Partner Rivalries 1:04:04 Wrapping Up: Lukaku, Palace, and World Cup Talk 1:10:31 Closing Thoughts and What's Next 1:11:39 Outro: Aletheia and Under Armour Contact us: Email: podcast@letsrun.com Call or text: 1-844-LETSRUN (1-844-538-7786) ABOUT THE LETSRUN.COM PODCAST Since 2000, LetsRun.com has been the independent home of elite running. Described by the New York Times as the "influential website that serves as something of a superego for American running," the podcast is the weekly deep dive into the world of track and field and elite distance running. The show is hosted by LetsRun.com co-founders Weldon Johnson, a 2-time Team USA member, and Robert Johnson, a former Cornell coach who helped pace the marathon world record, along with award-winning senior writer Jonathan Gault. Together they move beyond PR headlines to provide insider reporting and unfiltered debate serious fans rely on.

Jonathan Gault and Rojo preview a stacked Prefontaine Classic, from Cooper Lutkenhaus chasing the American 800m record and Jackson Spencer's s hot at Alan Webb's high school mile mark, to a loaded Bowerman Mile featuring Yared Nuguse, Cole Hocker, Niels Laros and Cam Myers, and Faith Kipyegon's much-anticipated return in the women's mile. They also break down the men's and women's 100m fields, Keely Hodgkinson's build toward a world record attempt, and Marco Langan's surprise pro signing. At 50:52 US 100m champion Kenny Bednarek joins to discuss switching from the 200m to the 100m at Pre, his rivalry with Noah Lyles, his elaborate recovery routine, his Grand Slam Track experience, and his goals for the Ultimate Championship in a season without Worlds or the Olympics. 🎁 🎧 Get a 2nd LetsRun podcast every week + bonus content: Join the Supporters Club — https://www.letsrun.com/subscribe TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Cold Open 00:24 Prefontaine Classic Weekend Preview 02:15 Podcast Schedule Banter and Supporters Club 04:42 RoJo's Parenting Story 06:16 Cooper Lutkenhaus Chases the American Record 12:33 Donovan Brazier's Disappointing Season 16:08 Jackson Spencer's Bid for Alan Webb's Record 19:30 Men's Two Mile and Marco Langan's Pro Signing 25:42 Faith Kipyegon's Return to the Mile 30:59 Bowerman Mile Field Preview 34:21 Bowerman Mile Predictions 40:27 Steeplechase, Women's 800, and Keely Hodgkinson 45:55 Men's 100 and Saturday's Sprint Showdowns 50:52 Kenny Bednarek guest 55:02 Favorite Racing Venues 58:21 Travel, Recovery, and Pre-Race Routine 62:01 2026 Goals and the Budapest Double 65:09 Rivalry with Noah Lyles 67:33 Secrets to Consistency and Recovery Investments 75:31 Reflecting on Silver Medals 77:45 Training Partner Sam Blaskowski 81:38 Grand Slam Track and Athlete Pay 86:30 Prefontaine Preview and Closing Thoughts Contact us: Email: podcast@letsrun.com Call or text: 1-844-LETSRUN (1-844-538-7786) ABOUT THE LETSRUN.COM PODCAST Since 2000, LetsRun.com has been the independent home of elite running. Described by the New York Times as the "influential website that serves as something of a superego for American running," the podcast is the weekly deep dive into the world of track and field and elite distance running. The show is hosted by LetsRun.com co-founders Weldon Johnson, a 2-time Team USA member, and Robert Johnson, a former Cornell coach who helped pace the marathon world record, along with award-winning senior writer Jonathan Gault. Together they move beyond PR headlines to provide insider reporting and unfiltered debate serious fans rely on. Find out more at http://podcast.letsrun.com

🏃 Presented by Aletheia.Run Use code LETSRUN10 to save 10% and get a Free 30 Day Trial Aletheia is a biomechanics sensor and app that analyzes your running form stride by stride, then delivers personalized feedback and exercises to help you run more efficiently and reduce injury risk. LetsRun visitors get a free 30-day trial and 10% off your first year with code LETSRUN10. https://aletheia.run/ EPISODE SUMMARY Welcome to the LetsRun.com Track Talk Podcast. Another busy weekend has taken place and we are pumped to break it down for you. Podcast listener Niels Laros is back and better than ever – at least in the 800, where he ran a 1:43.83 pb to earn a dominant win in Hengelo. We’ll tell you why he’s now our favorite for the Bowerman mile. It was actually double Dutch as Femke Broeders-Bol joined him with a 1:57.41 win at the same meet. Across the North Sea, Georgia Hunter Bell earned a dominant 800m win at the British champs but Keely Hodgkinson left the start line of the 400m in tears. The Kenyan Commonwealth Games trials were chaotic as always, and we’ll tell you how that dysfunction benefits USA and Europe. And America has another Diamond League winner thanks to Addy Wiley’s 800 win in Doha. in the high school ranks, Quincy Wilson was beaten by another rising high school 400m star - is Jayden Deleon now the US’s #1 400m prospect? Plus some of America’s best runners are still MIA in 2026 - where are Athing Mu, Jonah Koech, Josh Hoey etc.? Plus lots of World Cup talk at the end. LINKS How much mileage is too much for a high school cross country runner? T Jayden Deleon runs super fast to take US U20m crown from Quincy Wilson -- is he now the better 400m prospect? Dutch delight in Hengelo: Niels Laros gets pb, Femke Broeders-Bol kicks to victory at FBK Games Sha'Carri Richardson runs 10.77 - her fastest time in nearly 2 years - at low key meet at high school track in Florida Addy Wiley Wins Doha Diamond League 800 Jenny Simpson Shows ‘Encouraging Improvement’ After Track Collapse — Already Asking About Her Mile Time Nike Outdoor Nationals vs New Balance Nationals: Which Meet Is Better? TIMESTAMPS 01:43 – Welcome & Episode Intro: Breaking down a massive weekend in track and field. 02:47 – Jonathan’s World Cup Vacation & Rojo's Life Advice: The guys banter about showing up every day versus taking trips to see Harry Kane. 06:32 – Kenyan Commonwealth Games Trials Chaos: Analyzing the last-minute scheduling, the messy two-section 10,000m final, and how administrative dysfunction impacts athletes. 14:28 – Timothy Cheruiyot's Rejuvenation: A deep dive into the Men's 1500m Kenyan trials, Cheruiyot's consistency under Thomas Lewandowski, and the tactical pacing of the race. 21:21 – Rosemary Longisa's Incredible Double: Praising the Iowa State-bound NCAA champ making the Kenyan squad just a week after collegiate nationals. 23:38 – Jenny Simpson Health Update: Addressing the scary situation at the Sir Walter Miler event and sending well-wishes to an American legend. 25:01 – The 2026 MIA Report: Where are reigning US Champion Jonah Koech, Olympic Champion Athing Mu, and World Indoor record-holder Josh Hoey? 29:54 – Puma Shoe Lawsuits: Exploring the rumors, athlete complaints, and how footwear changes affect elite performances. 35:44 – The Dutch Wonder Twins in Hengelo: Niels Laros drops an incredible 1:43.83 800m PB, and Femke Bol handles the pressure in the women's 800m. 46:32 – Keely Hodgkinson's 400m Tears: Interpreting Hodgkinson pulling out of the British Champs 400m final and the immense pressure of chasing world records. 50:27 – US Under-20 400m Showdown: Did Jayden DeLeon pass Quincy Wilson as America’s top high school 400m prospect? 60:37 – Sprinting Stars to Watch: Breaking down Tate Taylor, Jake Odey-Jordan, and the upcoming World Juniors excitement on home soil. 01:03:01 – The World Cup Segment: Jonathan's live reactions, the expanded 48-team tournament, Messi's missed penalties, and Rojo's wild rule change proposals (like expanding the goals in overtime). 01:22:50 – Show Wrap-Up & Supporters Club Plug: How to subscribe, get your LetsRun t-shirt, and final remarks. Contact us: Email podcast@letsrun.com or call/text 1-844-LETSRUN podcast voicemail/text line. Want a 2nd podcast every week? And savings on running shoes? Join the LetsRun.com Supporters Club today for exclusive content, a bonus weekly podcast, shoe savings, and more. Cancel anytime . https://www.letsrun.com/subscribe Check out the LetsRun.com store. https://shop.letsrun.com/ We've got the softest running shirts in the business. Thanks for listening. Please rate us on your podcast app and spread the word to friend. Find out more at http://podcast.letsrun.com

🏃 Presented by Aletheia.Run Use code LETSRUN10 to save 10% and get a Free 30 Day Trial Aletheia is a biomechanics sensor and app that analyzes your running form stride by stride, then delivers personalized feedback and exercises to help you run more efficiently and reduce injury risk. LetsRun visitors get a free 30-day trial and 10% off your first year with code LETSRUN10. https://aletheia.run/ EPISODE SUMMARY Weldon and Robert break recap the Ostrava Golden Spike, where Femke Bol ran a massive 800m PB of 1:57.13 behind Audrey Werro's 1:54.45 and Noah Lyles broke the 150m world record. They debate Simeon Birnbaum's superstar potential after his dominant NCAA 1500, Parker Valby's 14:39 5K PB and what it means for the future, and the outrageous Doris Lemngole NCAA 5K DQ. Then @47:36 in a wide-ranging interview Jonathan Gault talks to Frederik Ruppert the first non African to go sub 8 in the steeplechase. 🎁 🎧 Get a 2nd LetsRun podcast every week + bonus content: Join the Supporters Club — https://www.letsrun.com/subscribe LINKS Ostrava Golden Spike: Noah Lyles 14.68 150m World Record, Audrey Werro 1:54.45, Femke Bol Massive 800m PB 2026 USATF LA Grand Prix Results: Parker Valby Runs Huge PB of 14:39.88 2026 NCAA Outdoor Track & Field Championships Summer Training 101: How to Build Mileage Without Getting Hurt TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Aletheia Run Sponsor / Intro 01:25 Mid-June Track and Field Rundown 03:39 Ostrava Golden Spike Recap 09:44 Femke Bol's 800 & Coach's Prediction 15:19 Summer of LetsRun 17:08 Nathan Green Wins Mile 19:21 Simeon Birnbaum's Superstar? 24:20 Jane Hedengren's 'Subpar' NCAAs 28:21 Parker Valby's 14:39 5000 34:23 Aletheia.Run 37:32 NCAA 5000 DQ Controversy 42:48 USATF LA Grand Prix Highlights 45:10 World Cup Predictions and USA Soccer 47:06 Interview: Frederik Ruppert 50:51 Ruppert on Double Threshold Training 55:30 Breaking the Eight-Minute Steeplechase Barrier 60:05 Ruppert's Training Changes and PB Progression 64:44 European Championship Goals and the Diamond League 69:49 Why German Distance Running Is Thriving 73:16 Supplements, Bicarb, and Race Nutrition 76:27 World Cup Pick and Sign-Off 77:48 Jon's voicemail CONTACT Email: podcast@letsrun.com Call or text: 1-844-LETSRUN (1-844-538-7786) ABOUT THE LETSRUN.COM PODCAST Since 2000, LetsRun.com has been the independent home of elite running. Described by the New York Times as the "influential website that serves as something of a superego for American running," the podcast is the weekly deep dive into the world of track and field and elite distance running. The show is hosted by LetsRun.com co-founders Weldon Johnson, a 2-time Team USA member, and Robert Johnson, a former Cornell coach who helped pace the marathon world record, along with award-winning senior writer Jonathan Gault. Together they move beyond PR headlines to provide insider reporting and unfiltered debate serious fans rely on.

🏃 Presented by Aletheia.Run Use code LETSRUN10 to save 10% and get a Free 30 Day Trial Aletheia Run is a wearable sensor that clips onto your belt and creates a force portrait of your running mechanics. The new iapp includes 170+ running-specific strength and mobility exercises tailored to you. Try it free for 30 days here — use code LETSRUN10 to save 10%. EPISODE SUMMARY Tyler Andrews, a two-time Olympic trials marathon qualifier turned speed mountaineer, joins the LetsRun.com podcast after shattering the record for fastest ascent of Mount Everest, climbing from base camp to summit in 9 hours 55 minutes, over an hour faster than the 22-year-old previous mark. Andrews details the logistical nightmare of speed climbing Everest, from navigating the deadly Khumbu Icefall at night to waiting until the season's final day for a crowd-free mountain. The conversation covers his unconventional training, double threshold sessions applied to mountaineering, hypoxic training at simulated altitudes above 30,000 feet, and living at elevation in Ecuador and Nepal. After going 0-for-6 across three seasons due to broken gear, bad weather, and crowding, everything finally aligned on attempt seven. Andrews also hints at a return to road racing with eyes on the 2028 Olympic Marathon Trials. 🎁 🎧 Get a 2nd LetsRun podcast every week + bonus content: Join the Supporters Club — https://www.letsrun.com/subscribe Use code GOAT50 to save 50%. LINKS Try Aletheia.Run for 30 days Free with code LETSRUN10 LetsRun.com Supporters Club Aequilibrium Speed (Tyler Andrews' shoe) Tyler Andrews instagram Tyler Andrews on strava LetsRun.com newsletter Shop LetsRun.com Training Talk Live with Marius Bakken (Supporters Club exclusive) TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Aletheia Run -Free trial + save 10% with code LETSRUN10 1:20 Start 06:02 Climbing Logistics, Crowds, and Gear 13:03 Training for Everest With Double Thresholds 20:18 Seven Attempts: What Went Wrong 23:34 Proof, Danger, and the Ethics of Speed Climbing 31:08 How Hard Is It to Climb Everest? 34:24 From Marathoner to Mountaineer 39:48 Risk, Ethics, and the 2028 Olympic Trials 43:17 Life as a Full-Time Mountaineer CONTACT Email: podcast@letsrun.com Call or text: 1-844-LETSRUN (1-844-538-7786) ABOUT THE LETSRUN.COM PODCAST Since 2000, LetsRun.com has been the independent home of elite running. Described by the New York Times as the "influential website that serves as something of a superego for American running," the podcast is the weekly deep dive into the world of track and field and elite distance running. The show is hosted by LetsRun.com co-founders Weldon Johnson, a 2-time Team USA member, and Robert Johnson, a former Cornell coach who helped pace the marathon world record, along with award-winning senior writer Jonathan Gault. Together they move beyond PR headlines to provide insider reporting and unfiltered debate serious fans rely on.

🎧 Run smarter with the device that helps improve your form & hopefully prevent injuries - Aletheia.Run Check it out today with a free 30-day trial and 10% off with code LETSRUN10 . Details here The Stockholm Diamond League delivered one of the most jaw-dropping days in recent track and field memory. Seventeen-year-old Cooper Lutkenhaus won his first-ever Diamond League 800 in 1:42.70, as Swiss star Audrey Werro shocked everyone including Keely Hogkinson with her 1:53.98 win- the fastest time in 43 years. Yared Nuguse went back-to-back on the Diamond League circuit, outgunning Australian teenager Cam Myers in the 1500. What's wrong with Kenneth Rooks? Alook ahead to Oslo? and debate the Diamond League Mount Rushmore. 🎁 🎧 Get a 2nd LetsRun podcast every week + bonus content: Join the Supporters Club — https://www.letsrun.com/subscribe?from=public LINKS Aletheia free trial with code LETSRUN10 Cooper Lutkenhaus Wins Audrey Werro 1:53.98 LetsRun.com T-shirts — shop.letsrun.com Join the Supporters Club TIMESTAMPS 0:00 Aletheia.Run free trial with code LETSRUN10 02:29 Intro / Stockholm Diamond League Recap 05:37 Cooper Lutkenhaus Wins Diamond League 800 in 1:42.7 16:30 Audrey Werro Runs 1:53.98, Fastest Women's 800 in 43 Years 22:11 Werro vs. Hodgkinson: A New Women's 800 Rivalry 27:47 Men's 1500: Yared Nuguse Edges Cam Myers 33:15 Nuguse's Diamond League Legacy and American Distance Running 36:55 Men's Steeplechase: El Bakkali Wins, Kenneth Rooks Struggles 39:37 Women's Steeplechase: Bouzayani Breaks Nine, Top Americans Reviewed 46:59 Oslo Diamond League Preview: Lutkenhaus vs. Wanyoni and 5K Showdown 51:53 Diamond League Mount Rushmore and Hocker/Kerr Season Plans 54:57 Outro / Join the Supporters Club 57:47 Aletheia Run Free Trial with code LETSRUN10 CONTACT Contact us: Email: podcast@letsrun.com Call or text: 1-844-LETSRUN (1-844-538-7786) ABOUT THE LETSRUN.COM PODCAST Since 2000, LetsRun.com has been the independent home of elite running. Described by the New York Times as the "influential website that serves as something of a superego for American running," the podcast is the weekly deep dive into the world of track and field and elite distance running. The show is hosted by LetsRun.com co-founders Weldon Johnson, a 2-time Team USA member, and Robert Johnson, a former Cornell coach who helped pace the marathon world record, along with award-winning senior writer Jonathan Gault. Together they move beyond PR headlines to provide insider reporting and unfiltered debate serious fans rely on.

🏃 Join the best club in running & get a bonus podcast every week A super soft T-shirt, and savings on running shoes and exclusive content. Use code GOAT50 — just $5/month for the first year. Money-back guarantee. letsrun.com/subscribe **** Diamond League Rabat delivered fireworks: Kenny Bednarek ran 19.69 in the 200m, El Bakkali got the big win as Frederik Ruppert became the first non-African-born man to break 8:00 in the steeplechase, and Yared Nuguse won his fifth Diamond League race before his big showdown with Cam Myers in Stockholm. The hosts debate whether Cam Myers can break the world record at Stockholm, break down Cooper Lutkenhaus's Diamond League debut, and ask if Keely Hodgkinson will greak the 800m world record this summer. Then Tyler Andrews @68:50 joins to tell the incredible story of his record-breaking 9-hour-55-minute ascent of Mount Everest from base camp to summit — his seventh attempt — and what it took to get there. 🎁 🎧 Get a 2nd LetsRun podcast every week + bonus content: Join the Supporters Club — https://www.letsrun.com/subscribe LINKS LetsRun.com Supporters Club Shop LetsRun.com Sam Blaskowski 9.89 Was Cooper Lutkenhaus's 1:42.27 for 800m the greatest performance ever by a 16-year-old? Thread: Bednarek's 200m at Diamond League Rabat Aequilibrium Speed (Tyler Andrews' shoe) Training Talk Live with Marius Bakken (Supporters Club exclusive) TIMESTAMPS 0:00 Start 01:11 Intro and Episode Preview 07:38 Diamond League Rabat: Bednarek's 200m Dominance 11:49 First Non-African Sub-8 Steeplechase 18:16 Is El Bakkali the Steeplechase GOAT? 20:31 Yared Nuguse's Historic Diamond League Streak 22:46 Cam Myers Mania and the Stockholm 1500 26:00 Can Cam Myers Break the World Record? 33:47 Stockholm 1500 Race Tactics and Sam Blaskowski's 9.89 40:17 Cooper Lutkenhaus's Diamond League Debut 44:44 Keely Hodgkinson's 400 and the 800 World Record Chase 51:22 Will Hodgkinson Break 1:53 This Summer? 53:08 Mechanical Rabbiting and World Record Fantasies 56:08 Alan Webb vs Cooper Lutkenhaus vs Jane Hedengren 63:41 Jordan Anthony vs Noah Lyles in Rome 68:50 Tyler Andrews: Fastest Ascent of Mount Everest 73:31 Climbing Logistics, Crowds, and Gear 80:33 Training for Everest With Double Thresholds 87:49 Seven Attempts: What Went Wrong 91:05 Proof, Danger, and the Ethics of Speed Climbing 98:39 How Hard Is It to Climb Everest? 101:55 From Marathoner to Mountaineer 107:19 Risk, Ethics, and the 2028 Olympic Trials 110:48 Life as a Full-Time Mountaineer CONTACT Email: podcast@letsrun.com Call or text: 1-844-LETSRUN (1-844-538-7786) ABOUT THE LETSRUN.COM PODCAST Since 2000, LetsRun.com has been the independent home of elite running. Described by the New York Times as the "influential website that serves as something of a superego for American running," the podcast is the weekly deep dive into the world of track and field and elite distance running. The show is hosted by LetsRun.com co-founders Weldon Johnson, a 2-time Team USA member, and Robert Johnson, a former Cornell coach who helped pace the marathon world record, along with award-winning senior writer Jonathan Gault. Together they move beyond PR headlines to provide insider reporting and unfiltered debate serious fans rely on.