Marathon Training Academy

In this episode we bring you to the Dublin Marathon in Ireland for one of our “World Famous Race Recaps”! Hear voices of MTA Podcast listeners we met in Ireland, inspiring stories, and various shenanigans.

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Run Coaching. Work with an expert MTA running Coach.

Run the London Marathon in 2026 with Sports Tours International USA. They have guaranteed bibs for London, Berlin, Sydney, and Cape Town!

Altra Running -Altra shoes are designed to fit the natural shape of feet with room for your toes, for comfo...

In this episode we speak with Alexi Pappas -Olympian, filmmaker, actor, and bestselling author. Listen as Trevor and Angie chat with Alexi about goal setting, navigating change, the importance of mentors, how she gets through the later miles of a race, and more!

Bio: Alexi Pappas was an NCAA All American athlete at Dartmouth College and the University of Oregon. She is a dual citizen and represented Greece in the 2016 Olympics setting a 10,000 meter national record. She has served as a guide runner for a para-athlete named Lisa Thompson in marathons and triathlons and is...

In this episode we speak with Marie Leautey -a French runner who became the fastest woman to run around the world: 4 continents, 680 marathons, and 28,249 kilometers!

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Run Coaching. Work with an expert MTA running Coach.

MetPro.co -For the first time ever, MetPro is offering MTA listeners a full 30-day experience for just $95 with absolutely no strings attached! See what it’s like working with your own metabolic coach. Limited to the first 30 people.

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In this episode we speak with three runners from Team Abbott — a community of runners who have faced serious health challenges but didn’t let those challenges define them!

About Our Guests

Elizabeth Pehota (Boston, MA): Three days out from running the 2022 Berlin Marathon, Elizabeth Pehota experienced a feeling of pins and needles in her hands, feet and thighs, and an unnatural resistance while running. Soon after, she was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS), a chronic, unpredictable disease of the central nervous system. As someone who shares her daily life on social media, Elizab...

In this episode Coach Angie Spencer and Coach Erin Smith answer questions about running two marathons in the Fall, tune-up races, Fartlek runs, hill training when you live in a flat area, hip pain, IT band pain, sore legs, and more!

Coach Angie Spencer has run 70 marathons and ultras, including a marathon in every US state. She is a RRCA and USATF Certified Running Coach and Registered Nurse. Angie loves books and dark chocolate.

Coach Erin Smith has run everything from a 5ks to 100 milers as well as timed events...

In this episode we apply the famous Hero’s Journey framework to marathon training and talk about how you can overcome obstacles, transform into a stronger runner, and gain the wisdom to inspire others!

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Run Coaching. Work with a MTA running Coach.

STEP SPORTS TOKYO -a newly renovated flagship running store. Show them this episode and get 7% off plus tax-free service. Valid until the end of March 2026.

Shokz– the industry leader and pioneer in open-ear headphone technology. Use code MTA for $10 off!

IQBA...

In this episode we chat with Keira D’Amato author of the new book, ‘Don’t Call it A Comeback -What Happened When I Stopped Chasing PRs and Started Chasing Happiness’. Keira ran competitively in college but was sidelined with an ankle injury and decided to step away from running. After having two children she started running again to get in shape and have time for herself. Fast-forward to 2022, she broke the American record in the marathon, at the age of 37, with a blazing-fast time of 2:19:12!

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In this episode we speak with Christina Henderson about the current state of the running industry and trends that are bringing more people into the sport.  Brands today are focusing on: localism, sustainability, digital integration, and experiential retail.  What does that mean for you as a consumer of running-related products and culture?

Christina Henderson is the director of The Running Event -North America’s premier run and outdoor specialty retail conference and trade show. She has been recognized as one of the “25 Women to Watch” in the running industry. Christina is a graduate of Columbia University and the Univ...

In this episode we speak with Renee McGregor -sports dietitian and author of the book, ‘Fuel for Thought: A Practical Guide to Fueling for Your Adventures’.

Renee McGregor is a leading sports dietitian, specialising in Eating Disorders, REDs, The Female Athlete, Athlete Health and Performance. She’s worked with athletes across the globe, including supporting Olympic (London, 2012), Paralympic (Rio, 2016) and Commonwealth (Queensland, 2018) teams.

We want to give listeners a head’s up that we will be talking about eating disorders and REDs during this episode.

What is REDs (Re...

In this episode we speak with Kitty Robinson, a listener to the podcast who shares what it’s like to keep running through pregnancy, raising a large family, and surviving both brain and heart surgery. Kitty exemplifies the saying, “You can do hard things”! She’s author of two books: ‘Sometimes Courage’ and ‘The Runaway Housewives of the Appalachian Trail’.

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Shokz– the industry leader and pioneer in open-ear headphone technology. Use code MTA for a discount!

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In this episode we bring you to the Swiss Alps as we run from village to village with listeners to the MTA podcast. Plus we recap the legendary Eiger Ultra Trail race, which is part of the UTMB World Series.

*Special thanks to James and Susie Jin, Brad Rudler, Marcia Salovitz, Ryan Shea, Bekah Shininger, Robin Walters, Liz Sur, Marcia Mathison, Candis Ubiles, Mindy McCune, Kate Mattern, Alistair Crompton, Marion Giro, and Run the Alps!

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Run Coaching. Work with a MTA running Coach.

COROS...

In this episode we speak with Joe De Sena an accomplished athlete, leader, and founder and CEO of Spartan. His goal is to get 100 million people off the couch. His new book is called, Extreme Balance: Paradoxical Principles That Make You a Champion. Life will throw many obstacles in your path, learn how an “unfixed mindset” can truly elevate your game.

Links Mentioned in This Episode

Shokz– the industry leader and pioneer in open-ear headphone technology. Use code MTA for a discount!

IQBAR brain and body-boosting bars, hydration mixes, and mu...

We have another international running adventure planed this year and you are invited. We are going to Ireland to run the Dublin Marathon on October 26th 2025. Do you want to go?

We have 6 spots left. Please email us or sign up with this link. Enter code MTA at checkout.

Dates: Friday October 24th to Tuesday October 28th 2025 (3 night or 4 night options)

The Dublin Marathon is the fourth largest marathon in Europe and requires a lottery or charity entry. The lottery has ended but worry not, we have guaranteed...

In this episode we interview Henry Abbott -sports journalist and author of the book ‘Ballistic, The New Science of Injury-Free Athletic Performance’. Plus, we run down our 7,000 mile road trip across the USA!

Henry Abbott is an award-winning journalist and founder of TrueHoop. He led ESPN’s 60-person NBA digital and print team, which published several groundbreaking articles and won a National Magazine Award. He lives in New Jersey. In the book, Ballistic, he blends cutting-edge science with gripping storytelling and argues that we are on the cusp of a new era in sports medicine, built...

In this episode we visit with Olympic runner and Boston Marathon champion Des Linden. Hear about how she has used the words of doubters to her advantage; her shift to ultra and trail running; her thoughts on super shoes and more!

About Des Linden

After being a two time all American at Arizona State University Des decided to give professional running a try. She went on to represent the United States in the 2012 London Olympics and the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics women’s marathon. In 2018, she became the first Am...

In this episode Coach Angie and Coach Erin answer questions about heart rate training, running in the heat, warm up drills, hydration, electrolyte sources, strength training, anxiety before long runs, finding time to train, and more! Thank you to everyone who sent in a question!

Coach Angie Spencer has run 70 marathons and ultras, including a marathon in every US state.  She is a RRCA and USATF Certified Running Coach and Registered Nurse. Angie loves books and dark chocolate.

Coach Erin Palos is a Certified Running Coach and professional photographer. When s...

In this episode we speak with Ultramarathon Man, Dean Karnazes, about the storied history of the marathon and the land that birthed the legend -Greece. And in the quick tip segment, Coach Angie answers a listener question about how to improve your marathon time as a masters runner.

Named by TIME magazine as one of the “100 Most Influential People in the World,” Dean Karnazes has pushed his body and mind to inconceivable limits. Among his many accomplishments, he has run 50 marathons, in all 50 US states, in 50 consecutive days. He’s run across Death Valley in the mi...

In this episode we talk heart rate training with Dr. Phil Maffetone who is the creator of the MAF Method (180 minus your age) and an internationally recognized researcher in endurance science.

Dr. Phil Maffetone has worked with endurance athletes for more than thirty-five years. He is the author of eighteen books on health and fitness. He is perhaps best known for the Maffetone Method of heart rate training. Some of his clients have included running guru Dr. George Sheehan, famed New Zealand coach Arthur Lydiard, marathon great Grete Waitz, and six-time Hawaii Ironman world champion Mark...

In this episode we speak with Alex Hutchinson, author of the book ‘The Explorer’s Gene -Why We Seek Big Challenges, New Flavors, and the Blank Spots on the Map’.

Alex Hutchinson is the author of the New York Times bestseller ‘Endure’ and is a science journalist and Outside magazine’s longtime Sweat Science columnist. He has a PhD in Physics from Cambridge University and a MS in Journalism from Columbia. He was a long-distance runner for the Canadian national team and lives in Toronto.

His new book, The Explorer’s Gene, refutes the myth that...

In this episode we bring you a conversation with Robin Walters -who just completed the Boston Marathon. This is a story about overcoming an acute injury, training through winter conditions, and what it’s like to accomplish a goal many years in the making!

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Run Coaching. Work with a MTA running Coach.

Run the London Marathon in 2026! Preregister now for a travel package with Sports Tours International.

UCAN -we have been fueling with UCAN since 2013. As a listener to the podcast you can try UC...

In this episode we play an interview we did on the ‘I’ll Have Another Podcast’ with Lyndsey Hein. Lyndsey invited us to participate in her Behind the Mic series -where she interviews fellow podcasters in the running space. Hear us discuss podcasting, parenting, travel, books, our favorite marathons, and more!

Lindsey Hein lives in North Carolina with her husband of 15 years, Glenn and their four boys. She’s the founder of the podcast network SandyBoy Productions and host of I’ll Have Another and Why is Everyone Yelling? with Lindsey Hein. Lindsey has run 17...

In this episode we speak with Brad Culp -author of the book The Norwegian Method. Plus, Coach Angie discusses the value of Zone 2 Training.

Brad Culp is a sports journalist who has contributed to many triathlon publications. Culp has finished more than 100 races (including 15 marathons). He currently resides in Illinois with his wife and two children.

His new book is titled The Norwegian Method-The Culture, Science & Humans Behind the Groundbreaking Approach to Elite Endurance Performance.

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Lagoon Sleep -take their awesome 2 minute sleep...

In this episode we celebrate the 15 Year Anniversary of the Podcast! Listeners call in to tell us what running marathons and half marathons has taught them about life.

Runners from all over the world shared their inspiring stories, mantras, and advice. Thanks to everyone who sent in a voicemail, and THANK YOU ALL for supporting the podcast for the last 15 years!

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Drury Hotels -our longest running sponsor! They have over 150 locations in 25 states; free food and drinks (the 530 kickback), clean rooms, great locations, indoor/outdoor pools, popcorn, reasonable rates...

In this podcast episode we talk about why you should run the World Marathon Majors; and how to get into the Berlin, Chicago, and NYC Marathons.

Plus we share a special announcement about a trip we are hosting to Dublin, Ireland!

The Abbott World Marathon Majors is the most prestigious marathon series in the world, hosting over 250,000 runners per year, and millions applying for a bib. There are basically 4 ways to get into each marathon as a non-elite runner.

Here’s your guide to getting a race bib for the Tokyo, Boston, London, and Sydney Marathons! Our next episode will focus on Berlin, Chicago, and New York.

The Abbott World Marathon Majors is the most prestigious marathon series in the world, hosting over 250,000 runners per year, and millions applying for a bib. Many runners in our audience are working toward their Six Star Medal (Angie only needs 1 more star).

There are basically 4 ways to get into each marathon as a non-elite runner.

In this episode we speak with Matt Fitzgerald author of the book ‘How to Run the Perfect Race -Better Racing Through Better Pacing’. Matt will explain why many runners struggle with pacing in the marathon. We also take a look at the concept of “Work Rate”; and the central governor theory of fatigue versus Brehm’s motivational intensity theory.

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In this episode we are joined by Coach Amber from MetPro to tackle nutrition questions sent in by listeners. We discuss meal timing, hydration, protein sources, menopause, how to balance performance and fat loss goals, managing cravings, fueling for an ultra, and we even dive into the current buzz around GLP1 medications.

Whether you’re training for a marathon or an ultra, you’ll get practical nutrition advice to help optimize your running. Thanks to everyone who sent in a question!

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MetPro + MTA Coaching Deal. Spec...

In this episode we interview a long-time member of our community named Debbie Gelber who has reinvented herself through running. A self-described late bloomer to the sport, she stepped on the treadmill at age 40 with a goal of losing weight, over a decade later she’s training for her 51st marathon!

Debbie Gelber is a Fine Arts Instructor at South Plains College in Levelland, Texas. She is currently training for the Tokyo Marathon working with MTA Coach Carrie.

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In this episode we interview Dakotah Popehn who finished as the first American woman at the Olympic Marathon in Paris!

There was a time when she couldn’t fathom running 26.2, and actually DNF’d at her debut marathon. But she didn’t give up! Listen as Dakotah shares the lessons she’s learned along the way, tips on building mental strength, and the importance of getting good sleep during training.

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In this episode we speak with Jeff Horowitz author of the book ‘Think Like a Runner -Understanding Why We Run and How to Do It Better’. Learn about the importance of “finding your why”; the difference between chronological age versus training age; and recommended training changes for older runners.

Formerly an attorney, Jeff quit law to pursue his passion for endurance sports. He currently teaches running at the George Washington University and has completed over 200 marathons and ultras across six continents.

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Speak with a Running Coach about one-on-o...

In this episode we speak with Alistair Crompton, a trail guide with Run the Alps, about his latest adventures and what it’s like to run in the Swiss Alps. Plus, Coach Angie shares tips on training for an ultramarathon.

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Switzerland Running Retreat with Angie, Trevor, and Run the Alps.

The Drury Hotels -they have free breakfast and free food and drinks in the evening -something they call the 5:30 kick back. They have more than 150 locations in 26 states. Use our link to save 10% on your st...

In this episode we share tips for achieving your running goals in 2025! Plus, we take a look at what fellow runners (and listeners to the podcast) have planned this year.

Good news! You don’t have to figure it out on your own. Get the expert training and accountability you need to be a faster, stronger, runner. Let’s talk about your biggest challenges and see how we can elevate your training. Speak with a coach.

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MetPro -Become Your Best Self with their Proven Weig...

In this episode we look back on the biggest running news, stories, and records in 2024 . . . the historic, the tragic, the inspirational, and the bizarre. We got it all!

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In this episode Angie and Trevor share their favorite books from 2024 (both running and non-running related).

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Joint Health Plus! -Protect your joint cartilage from breakdown. Use code MTA for 15% off your first order.

Sports Tours International, a company that’s taken runners and spectators to the most popular races around the world for 50 years.

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In this episode we talk about how you as a long distance runner can let your mind wander as your body keeps moving forward mile after glorious mile! How to ‘put your legs on autopilot’.

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Work with a Running Coach in 2025 or join the Academy and use a MTA training plan.

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Trevor and Angie here just popping into your podcast feed to make an important announcement! Next July we are running the Eiger Ultra Trail in Switzerland and are inviting any listener to the podcast who is interested in joining us there!

The Eiger Ultra Trail by UTMB is so popular that is already sold out, but we have access to race bibs through our partner Run The Alps. The epic course has unrivaled mountain scenery on highly runnable trails. There’s a distance for every level for those who want to try a European tr...

In this episode we speak with MTA Coach Athena and her client Melanie Toelcke who ran through the Grand Canyon from rim-to-rim-to-rim. This is a challenging 48 mile point-to-point run, in 100 degree temps, through one of the greatest natural wonders of the world!

Links Mentioned in This Episode

Speak with a Running Coach about one-on-one coaching or join the Academy and use a MTA training plan.

Run the Eiger Ultra Trail with Angie and Trevor in 2025! Visit this page to read how you can join us in a Switzerland next summer for...

In this episode we speak with Tara Dower who set the fastest know time (FKT) on the Appalachian Trail by running an average of 54 miles per day for 40 days!

Links Mentioned in This Episode

Sports Tours International, a company that’s taken runners and spectators to the most popular races around the world for 50 years.

Joint Health Plus! -Protect your joint cartilage from breakdown during runs. Use code MTA for 15% off your first order.

AquaTru -receive 20% OFF any AquaTru water purifier with code “MTA“ at checkout.

Speak with a...

In this episode we speak with Academy member and coaching client, Kofo Obasanjo-Blackshire, about the ups and downs of training for a personal best in the marathon.

Kofo started running to lose baby weight after her second pregnancy. Through consistency and patience she has dropped her marathon time from 4:40 to 3:53.

Kofo Obasanjo-Blackshire was born in Lagos, Nigeria, and lives in the United Kingdom with her husband and two sons. She holds a PhD from King’s College London. Her father Olusegun Obasanjo was the president of Nigeria from 1999-2007. She has completed 16 ma...

In this episode we bring you to the Košice Marathon in Slovakia -Europe’s Oldest Marathon. Plus, Coach Angie shares tips on how to train to beat course cut-offs.

The Košice Marathon started in 1924 after Vojtech Bukovsky visited the Olympic Games in Paris. A few weeks later he organized the first Košice Marathon on October 28th 1924, one hundred years ago!

Sponsor Links

Joint Health Plus! -Protect your joint cartilage from breakdown during runs. Use code MTA for 15% off your first order.

UCAN Energy -Try their Edge gels...