Real Life Runners with Angie and Kevin Brown

In episode 381 of the Real Life Runners podcast, we dive into why running can feel more challenging over 40, and provide actionable strategies to counteract these challenges. We discuss the importance of tailoring your training to your current abilities and debunk myths about needing expensive gear like carbon-plated shoes. Emphasizing the critical role of proper sleep for recovery, we offer pract...

In this episode of the Real Life Runners Podcast, we discuss our tried-and-true strategies to prevent and treat muscle cramps that many runners face. We tackle topics like common causes of running cramps, such as dehydration, under-fueling, and improper footwear, as well as behavioral changes like attempting new terrains or intensity levels. We share solutions from our own experiences, including p...

In episode 379 of the Real Life Runners Podcast, we focus on women experiencing perimenopause and dive into the three most common training mistakes they make, leading to decreased energy, weight gain, and reduced performance. We discuss hormonal changes, particularly the decline in estrogen and its effects on muscle and bone health, emphasizing the need for appropriate training and recovery. We ex...

In episode 378 of the Real Life Runners podcast, we introduce 'The Gap and the Gain,' a powerful concept derived from the book of the same name by Dan Sullivan and Dr. Benjamin Hardy. This episode delves into how focusing on the gains rather than the gaps can dramatically improve not only your running performance but also your overall satisfaction in life. We discuss the mental shifts re...

In episode 377 of the Real Life Runners Podcast, we delve into the concept of voluntary suffering in running and debate whether it's a necessary component of our sport. We share our unique perspectives on what constitutes voluntary suffering and how it varies among runners. Our discussion includes personal anecdotes about training for different distances, from miles to marathons, and even ult...

Balancing Training and Sustainability: Episode 376 of Real Life Runners In episode 376 of the Real Life Runners podcast, we discuss the challenges of balancing all the advice on training, eating, and living healthier lives for optimal performance, especially for real-life runners with busy schedules. We delve into the science and practicalities behind different training philosophies, including the...

'Eat Less, Move More' - you've heard this right? It seems like it's just the accepted advice if you want to lose weight - but is this good advice for runners? We explore the negative impacts of calorie restriction on active individuals, discussing how it can lead to decreased performance, muscle loss, and hormonal imbalances. Emphasizing the importance of properly fueling the b...

In episode 374 of the Real Life Runners Podcast, we explore the popular concept of zone two training and dispel common myths around it. We explain why solely relying on zone two is not sufficient for improving running performance. The episode delves into the importance of integrating various effort levels, particularly sprint training, which brings numerous benefits, such as increased muscle recru...

In episode 373 of the Real Life Runners Podcast, we delve into the concept of Mudita—sympathetic joy—and its significance in sports and personal life, emphasizing the importance of genuine joy for others' successes. This episode also highlights key takeaways from Olympic events and commercials, pointing out how these lessons can make us better runners and humans. Additionally, we share insigh...

In episode 372 of the Real Life Runners podcast, we dive into our favorite stories and lessons from the recent Olympics. We discuss inspiring performances from various athletes, particularly in running events, and what runners of all levels can learn from these elite competitors. The conversation spans topics such as overcoming challenges, the importance of fueling and cooling during races, and th...

In Episode 371 of the Real Life Runners podcast, we discuss how our body's symptoms and signs, like pain and discomfort, are often messages that need to be interpreted rather than squashed or ignored. We explore how to distinguish between soreness and pain, the importance of understanding your body's signals, and the various factors including training practices, lifestyle, and mental str...

What are small details that don’t take a lot of time but make a big difference when done over time? Today we are talking about those things. We draw an analogy to deep cleaning our house, relating it to how small changes and consistent habits in training can significantly impact performance over time. We discuss the integration of mobility work, fueling correctly, and incorporating strides into a...

In this episode of the Real Life Runners Podcast, we delve into comprehensive strategies for running safely and effectively in the heat. We discuss the science behind heat-related challenges, including heat adaptations, cardiac drift, and dehydration. The workshop covers practical tips to maintain consistency, manage effort levels, and protect against heat illnesses.  02:22 Understanding the Body&...

In this episode, we delve into the emotional foundation of actions, discussing how all actions are fundamentally driven by emotions, particularly fear and love. We explore how a fear-based approach to running can lead to unsustainable actions, stress, and potential injury, and identify fear-driven motivations in both beginners and experienced runners.  We also highlight how a love-based approach f...

"You either get what you want or the lesson that you need." In episode 367 of Real Life Runners Podcast, we follow up on last week's discussion about committing to the process by focusing on how to evaluate training outcomes. Regardless of whether you achieve your desired results or not, there's always significant learning to be gained. We talk about the importance of listing t...

Stop Second Guessing Yourself: Embrace Your Running Decisions In this episode of the Real Life Runners Podcast, we discuss the importance of avoiding second-guessing yourself, particularly in running and training plans. Emphasizing the significance of making informed decisions, sticking to them, and giving training plans enough time to show results. We also share personal anecdotes and practical s...

In episode 365 of the Real Life Runners Podcast, we share personal updates on their training and lives, offering insights that listeners can apply to their own running and overall health. Kevin discusses his recovery journey after surgery and how he gradually reintroduced running, emphasizing the importance of listening to one's body and flexibility in training plans. Angie delves into her re...

In this episode of the Real Life Runners Podcast, we delve into the importance of proper fueling and nutrition to become a more efficient runner. Topics covered include daily nutrition, pre-run, mid-run, and post-run fueling strategies, and the impact of specific diets and fasting on performance. Emphasizing the need for high-quality whole foods and consistent eating habits, while also addressing...

Episode 363 of the Real Life Runners Podcast delves into Part 2 of becoming a more efficient runner, focusing on running form. We emphasize the importance of proper running posture, optimal cadence, and correct arm swing. We discuss common mistakes like running too upright or hunched over, overstriding, and excessive arm cross-over, offering practical tips on how to correct these issues. The episo...

In episode 362 of our Real Life Runners Podcast, we discuss how to become more efficient runners by focusing on three key areas: maintaining consistency, incorporating strength and mobility work, and ensuring proper recovery. We address common misconceptions influenced by social media, emphasizing that short-term hacks and shortcuts are less effective than consistent, sustained effort. We advocate...

In episode 361 of the Real Life Runners Podcast, we explore the paradox of running's duality—how it both matters greatly and not at all. Kevin shares his 100-mile race experience, highlighting the importance of balancing dedication with perspective. We discuss the need for flexibility in training and dieting, cautioning against rigidity. Referencing 'The Passion Paradox,' we emphasi...

In Episode 360 of the Real Life Runners Podcast, we dive into strategies for making a successful comeback after an extended break due to injury, surgery, or life circumstances. Kevin shares his personal experience of returning to running after hernia surgery and outlines three key points for a successful return: extending your timeline for return, listening to your body, and not neglecting strengt...

In episode 359 of the Real Life Runners podcast, we discuss the importance of including three types of runs in your training regimen to avoid injury, increase motivation, and achieve your running goals: easy runs (L2), tempo runs (L5), and hard intervals (L8). We explain the physiological and mental benefits of each run type, emphasizing the necessity of variation for progress and enjoyment. Easy...

In this week's episode, we debunk some common misconceptions about stretching for runners. Drawing on my experience as a physical therapist, we discuss how many runners wrongly blame pain and injuries on inadequate stretching. We focus on correcting the top three stretching mistakes: not stretching at all, stretching too much, and stretching incorrectly. We stress the importance of dynamic mo...

In this podcast episode, Megan Blacksmith, co-founder of Zesty, shares her transformative journey from extreme running and health complications to discovering the power of Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP). Megan discusses the idea that 'success leaves clues' and how to overcome limiting beliefs and patterns in both life and running. She details her personal experiences with postpartum...