Life is a series of transitions from one thing to the next, and this year marks a transition for Des with the move from elite marathoning to her next chapter. This episode is about just that and her documentary titled "The Next Chapter," where she talks about the timing and reasons behind this transition for her. If you haven't checked out the documentary already, then do so here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LuPVzH3HN8I. It's a must-watch that will have you wiping your eyes. Kara shares the moment with Des as she relates back to her own transition from elite marathoning.

This episode, however, is not all tears. There are plenty of laughs too, as with any conversation between these two. They also talk about signing and getting autographs, hugs from Taylor Swift, first pitches, Kara's new tattoo, hiding purchases from your partner/spouse, food delivery, and some very fast times on the trails at Tunnel Hill. Plus, you get an update on Kara's running and her dystonia. Though running news was light this week, this conversation has so much good stuff in it.

As always, they finish with an uplifting Top 5 sponsored by Lever Movement. For 15% off on your Lever system, use code NOBODYASKEDUS at levermovement.com.

This is the post-NYC episode you have been waiting for!

First, we catch up on Colt's race on Saturday at the CO state meet where somehow Kara dropped the ball and missed seeing him mid-race. Fortunately, he and his team still ran well, but Des coaches Kara up on how she can be a better specator next year ;). We also get an update on Des's knee and whether or not she will be racing the 50-miler this weekend after running 26.2 in NYC.

Then, it's all about New York where Des and Kara mix together Des's run with Anthony Ramos (to an impressive 4:44) with the excitement in the elite races, especially on the women's side. Did Des really experience what it's like to run with the masses in the main field, or is she still a little bit elitist?! How are her legs feeling after 26.2 miles in what might have been her longest run ever by time on her feet? How about that exciting women's race where so many Americans were in the mix and then Obiri, Lokedi, and Chepkirui fended off the challenges from Hassan who just wouldn't go away?! Plus, what about the men's near-photo finish and amazing races for all of the top Americans? What a day in NYC which never disappoints!

Special thanks to new sponsor Celcius for sponsoring this episode's top 5 to close the episode. Yes, Celcius is an energy drink but did you know they have electrolyte-based hydration powders with no caffeine as well? Kara and Des are both fans so check them out!

Again, we have to give a special thanks to Brooks Running, our presenting sponsor, and to Ketone-IQ for their support of these Tokyo podcasts. If you aren't wearing Brooks shoes yet, then go get some now! And, to get your ketone fix, go to https://ketone.com/pages/nobody-asked-us for 30% off on your subscription order.

In this "quick" one, Des and Kara break down the Men's Steeple and Women's 1500m finals, as well as give their commentary on the Cole Hocker DQ. Beamish being Beamish. Faith being Faith. A 1500m men's final that is now wide open. Keep your eyes glued to the track and your ears glued to Des and Kara's coverage!

We are back at 8 pm ET (Wednesday night in the US) for another live episode on YouTube. Don't miss it!

In this episode, Des interviews Kara on her new book The Longest Race: Inside the Secret World of Abuse, Doping, and Deception on Nike's Elite Running Team. 

You will have to listen and read to learn more, but Des and Kara talk about several elements of Kara's story including never-before-revealed details about her time with the Nike Oregon Project. 

In this episode, Des and Kara give their reactions on the indoor track season including the NB Indoor Grand Prix, Millrose Games, and the US Championships in Albuquerque. They talk about the implications of recent mind-blowing times on the future of the sport, thanks in large part to super-shoe technology coming to the track. Is it good for the sport and will there be a return to an emphasis on pure racing in the near future?

Then, they go back in time to talk about the history of super shoes on the roads and their personal experiences during that transition in 2016-2018, including discussions of how marathon-racing is permanently changed. In particular, Des talks about how her training and racing have changed (or not) since wearing the shoes herself and gives tips on how you might use them as well. 

What do Celestial Seasonings, fried eggs, and a bird with a backpack all have in common? Find out in this episode where you get to learn about how two introverts - Des and Kara - navigate the world of running celebrity, social media, broadcasting and now podcasting. And if you're an extrovert, they give some tips on how to keep your introverted friends happy and energized. Plus, learn more about the "why" behind each of their upcoming books.

In this episode, Des and Kara welcome their first guest - Lauren Fleshman. Lauren is a 4x individual NCAA champion and 2x US national champion. She placed 7th at the World Championships in the 5000m and is now a NY Times best-selling author. Her book - Good for a Girl: A Woman Running in a Man's World - is defining and redefining how we think about elevating women in sport.

Des, Kara, and Lauren first give you a behind-the-scenes look into the book-writing process as Des and Kara also have books coming out soon. Then, they dive into Lauren's book itself and hit several major topics such as the collegiate diet/food culture, oddly-revealing running uniforms for women, what it's like to be an Olympic alternate (something all 3 women have in common), and much more.

3 giants in the sport of running. You get to be a fly on the wall and listen in.

In this episode, Des and Kara take you behind the scenes in the broadcast booth including how they both got into it and the good, the bad, and the really-freaking-hard about making it behind the mic.

Des and Kara share their hot (or perhaps medium?) takes on current events in the world of marathoning. Hear their opinions on the location of the Olympic Marathon Trials, the US Marathon Champs at CIM, Eliud Kipchoge doing Boston and so much more. Plus, find out if Des plans to run the 2024 Trials to try to make it to Paris. Stick around for the "tips" on goal setting and resolutions at the end.

Once competitors and fellow Olympic teammates, now friends and podcast partners, Kara and Des get to know each other in this first episode. We promise you will learn something new about them both!

First of all, we have to give a special thanks to Brooks Running, our presenting sponsor, and to Ketone-IQ for their support of these Tokyo podcasts. If you aren't wearing Brooks shoes yet, then what are you waiting for?! And, to get your ketone fix, go to https://ketone.com/pages/nobody-asked-us for 30% off on your subscription order.

Also, it should be noted that all that all 3 of the women on this World Champs Marathon team are sponsored by Brooks Running - Susanna Sullivan (4th), Jess McClain (8th), and Erika Kemp (52nd). They join Des and Kara on this special episode from the Hyperion House in Tokyo to share their experiences from the race.

Susanna and Jess were both leading at one point, and Erika gutted things out on a tough day. They give you the behind-the-scenes info on the prep, the pre-race time in Tokyo, and of course, the race itself. The bond that these 3 women have is really special and inspiring. As Kara says at the end, if you want to see what it looks like for women to support other women, this is it!

First of all, we have to give a special thanks to Brooks Running, our presenting sponsor, and to Ketone-IQ for their support of these Tokyo podcasts. If you aren't wearing Brooks shoes yet, then what are you waiting for?! And, to get your ketone fix, go to https://ketone.com/pages/nobody-asked-us for 30% off on your subscription order.

Now, check out this episode where Des and Kara recap the exciting finishes in the 10Ks and marathons, as well as the drama from the 1500m (men's and women's) and steeplechase (men's) heats. The US put two women in the top 8 in the marathon, both Brooks athletes! Plus, both marathons came down to finishes on the track with a photo finish in the men's marathon. With kick finishes in the 10Ks, Tokyo is off to an electric start!

Now, mark your calendar for the next YouTube Live episode which will be Monday night at 8 pm ET. You won't want to miss it because there will be special guest athletes joining!

Des and Kara are in Tokyo! This episode was recorded live at the Brooks Hyperion House in Tokyo to preview the men's and women's marathons and 10K races coming up in the next few days. Special thanks to Brooks Running and Ketone-IQ for sponsoring these episodes in Tokyo. We will have at least 6 episodes coming over the next week to cover everything happening at the World Champs.

Go to https://ketone.com/pages/nobody-asked-us for 30% off on your subscription order with Ketone-IQ. 

This episode was streamed live on our YouTube channel. You can find the video on our YouTube channel if you click on the "Live" tab. Then, tune in for our other live episodes in Tokyo on Monday, Sept 15 and Wednesday Sept 17 at 8 pm EST!

The most important thing to know today is that the Tokyo World Champs are incoming this weekend, and Des and Kara will be there covering it all. We will have LIVE podcasts from the Brooks House on our YouTube channel at 8 pm EST on Sept 12 (Friday), Sept 15 (Monday), and Sept 17 (Wednesday). Mark your calendars! Plus, we will be posting other episodes with event recaps, reactions, and hot takes throughout next week. Stay close to your computer and podcast player to catch it all!

For this episode, we prep you for what's to come...

Of course, there is plenty of non-Tokyo content first with some fun catch-up banter, reactions to the Swift-Kelce engagement, and thoughts on the 5th Ave Mile results. Then, they dive into some Tokyo preview content before ending with a fantastic, Lever Lift Up Top 5! Love, laugh, lift!

To support the pod and Lever, use code NOBODYASKEDUS for 20% off here:

https://levermovement.com/collections/lever-store

"See" you in Tokyo!

"What are we even going to talk about? We just did an episode last week..." - Des and Kara before they blink and produce 70 minutes of glorious podcast content.

As such, this "short" episode turned long in all of the best ways. It starts with a laugh-inducing intro with life updates from Des and Kara and ultra training updates from Des. Then, they get into all of the latest running news - 20K US Champs, Sydney Marathon, UTMB, DL Final, GST, and a suprising and very maddening US doping positive.

From leopard-print pajamas to Red Fox Regattas and all the running news that is fit to talk about, this episode was the best kind of "short," meaning that the time listening to it will fly by!

Thanks to Ketone-IQ for sponsoring this episode and helping Des and Kara get revved up for this one. To support Ketone-IQ and support the pod, use code NOBODYASKED for 30% off on your subscription order (PLUS a free gift with your second shipment) at KETONE.com/NOBODYASKED.

Des and Kara are not capable of recording short episodes so this one is long with plenty of straight talk about running drama and the upcoming Chicago + NYC marathon fields. No one wants their episodes short (and curly) after all... 

This one starts with life updates that quickly devolves into hilarious, hotel horror stories. You will be laughing along and thinking about your own nightmare hotel stays. Just make sure you are in a place where you can laugh out loud, because you will, and it might get out of control!

Then, they lean into the recent Tracksmith and trail drama along with the sprinting, where-abouts drama. Does Tracksmith belong in trail and what do we make of Gabby Thomas on TikTok surrounded by books and talking about missed tests?

Finally, they dig into the Chicago and NYC fields complete with way-too-early predictions for each. Des puts Kara on the spot regarding some of the Americans in the fields, and then gives us an NYC confession of sorts. Listen to the end to hear it and stay for an off-the-rails top 5.

This is a fun one. Enjoy!

Gossip? Facts? Real news? This episode has a little bit of all 3 in a back-and-forth dynamic that will leave you laughing and loving it. 

Des and Kara start with an update on their girls trip to Cincinnati to visit their friend @runningcb. There was baseball and tennis and so much walking involved that Kara is still sore today. There were also shenanigans with dog Miles and beer challenges for Des and shared bedrooms. It's safe to say that Des and Kara have entered into a new level of friendship with this trip (and that Crouton might be jealous). 

Then, they turn to all of the running chatter from this past week including a comeback race for Keely, WR attempt for Faith, hope for Yared, and of course, the latest "transparency" from Michael Johnson and Grand Slam Track. They talk doping offenses from Fred Kerley and collegiate Parvej Khan, remind the pros how easy it is to use the whereabouts system, and wonder when more rigorous testing will come to the collegiate and high school level. With NIL expanding, are high schoolers and their parents ready for testers to watch them pee in a cup?!

Finally, they end with an unhinged Lagoon Sleep top 5 (err... 4?).

Now to support the podcast and our sponsor Lagoon, use code NOBODYASKEDUS for 15% off on your first order. You can check it out at this link to take the quiz and find the perfect pillow for you:

https://lagoonsleep.com/pages/lagoon-the-nobody-asked-us-podcast-from-kara-goucher-and-des-linden

We know you want US Champs reactions, but this episode starts with the real post-mortem you've been waiting for... the redux on the Hot Ones challenge where Kara and Des go full TMI on you. They tell you all about the spicy aftermath of last week's episode, and Des shares that she has been going back for more.

Then after quick life updates, they get into in-depth recaps of every event 800m+ at the US Champs. There are almost too many storylines to cover from surprises in the distance events to some sprint drama both on and off the track. There was so much good stuff that it took a full 95 minutes to recap. We can't wait for Tokyo... can you?!

We are mixing it up with this episode, and let's just say that things get a little bit spicy!

If you haven't subscribed to our YouTube channel yet, then now is the time b/c you will want to watch this one there for sure.

In this episode, I (editor Chris) join as host to take Des and Kara through the Hot Ones challenge, using the hot sauce line-up from Season 27 of the show. Hot Ones is the show with hot questions and even hotter wings, but since we recorded this in Austin, we swapped in smoked brisket for hot wings, with all of the same sauces from the show.

To start, we cover fun running questions and then get into deeper life stuff as the bites getting hotter. Des and Kara hang in there pretty well until brisket bite #8, when things drastically fall off the rails as we hit the infamous "Da Bomb" sauce. Des starts sweating dramatically from the sides of her nose, and suddenly Kara can't form a coherent sentence.

In addition to the hilarious spectacle of it, you learn some fun stuff along the way including their post-long-run food of choice, their alt Olympic sport from another life, some very questionable road-trip hygiene choices, and how they remain authentic in the public eye (plus so much more).

How will these two Olympians handle the challenge?!? Tune in to find out!

"If you could smell ringworm... " - Des Linden

Des and Kara took ketones before this episode so you know it's going to be a good one. They start with life updates including a tick bite and a banged-up knee for Des :( and amazing performances from Colt and his team at XC Regionals to qualify for the state meet.

Then, they get spicy and fired up about a host of topics including the recently-announced Treadmill World Championships, a doping storyline on The Morning Show (spoiler alert!), and details about the Ruth Chepngetich doping case. There is plenty to get frustrated about in there, but it is more fun when Des and Kara do it.

Finally, they give a thorough NYC preview covering the international and American fields with hints and picks on who might win and be top American on each side. This is a must-listen before you watch (or run) it on Sunday!

As always, thank you to Brooks Running who is our presenting sponsor.

Thanks also to Ketone-IQ for supporting this episode. To get 30% off on your subscription order and a free 6-pack with your second month, go to this link: https://ketone.com/pages/nobody-asked-us.

Surprise! Des and Kara are bringing you a 3rd episode in as many weeks because they have to talk about the news of this week - US Champs incoming!

This is your comprehensive preview show of every event from 800m and up. They give you all of the favorites AND the athletes to watch who might just sneak onto a podium. Trips to the Tokyo World Champs are on the line, so consider this episode your homework to be ready for the meet which starts THIS Thursday.

You can hear Kara on the call on NBC on Saturday and Sunday, from 4:00–6:00 p.m. ET. Thursday and Friday's events will only be on USATF.tv ($9.99/month for USATF members and $12.99/month for non-members).

Finally, support the pod and support Lever Movement by using code NOBODYASKEDUS for 20% off on your Lever Movement system at levermovement.com.

And we aren't talking about Caesar salad...

Kara and Des are joined in-person by a very special guest on this one. She isn't very talkative, but they can't stop interacting with her throughout the show. You might jump over to YouTube for the full experience on this one.

This episode is a good one that is absolutely jam-packed. You get all of the life updates from both. Des gives us the rundown on pacing Western States and her epic, hut-to-hut trip in Switzerland, where she learned the magic of trekking poles. Now, trekking poles might be coming to a road marathon near you ;). Kara shares about her summer in Minnesota, calling Grandma's and then calling Pre, and the always-welcomed Colt Goucher running news.

Then, they dive into the commentary for which you've been waiting a few weeks... what did they think of the Faith sub-4 attempt and her WR to follow at Prefontaine? Plus, which results at the Prefontaine meet turned their heads, including the women's 5K record and the always-exciting men's 1500m where Yared Nuguse was nipped at the line? Bonus topics include the Donovan Brazier comeback and where oh where is the Grand Slam Track prize money which has yet to be paid? Michael Johnson promised transparency but still has not showed us whether or not GST's wallet is deep enough for the promises made.

Finally, they end with a Lagoon Sleep top five to celebrate all of the July birthdays from the show, including Kara's older sister Kelly.

Now to support the pod and pick up a cooling Otter pillow, use code NOBODYASKEDUS for 15% off on your first purchase at lagoonsleep.com/NOBODYASKEDUS.

You asked for it, and here it is. This is a bonus episode with Des and Kara's freshy fresh takes on the Ruth Chepngetich doping positive and provisional suspension. Ruth shocked the world with a 2:09 WR at the Chicago Marathon last year, and now, it appears that it wasn't real, even as the WR will likely still stand. If you are curious about their reactions, stop everything and press play.

Plus, come back for our regularly scheduled programming on Tuesday, July 22nd when our next episode will land!

In this episode, we take a break from our usual content (due to summer travel) to share a fun interview with Michael Brandt, the founder and CEO of Ketone-IQ. Michael is also a very fast marathoner with goals to one day break the 2:30 barrier.

In this conversation, Michael takes us behind the scenes of Ketone-IQ, including the original story of its founding, the government research that really launched the brand, and the science behind how ketones work as fuel for you and your brain. Plus, good news... it no longer tastes like gasoline (his word, not mine) but comes in great flavors such as peach, green apple, and raspberry lemonade.

Michael also shares his personal running journey, including what's motivating him to chase down big goals and how he personally uses Ketone-IQ along the way.

This one is for the science nerds, the crazy entrepreneurs, and of course, the runners who like to geek out on it all. 

Ketone-IQ is a sponsor of the podcast. To support Ketone-IQ and support the pod, use code NOBODYASKED for 30% off on your subscription order (PLUS a free gift with your second shipment) at KETONE.com/NOBODYASKED.

[Note: this interview was recorded in April 2025 right before Save the 10,000. And don't worry... we will have a fresh episode with reactions on Faith's sub 4:00 attempt and her new WR (and so much more) coming on July 22].

Who is ready for Faith Kipyegon's sub-4-mile attempt?!? We are! Des and Kara are big Faith fans, and they are excited to tune in to the attempt on Thursday. But, what do they really think about it and will she get it?!? Listen in to find out what they think, but be ready for SO MUCH MORE!

Des and Kara start with the usual catch-up chat. You get updates on Des's pacing duties at Western States this weekend and her plans for a running trip to the Swiss Alps after that. Kara shares about her 5K in Duluth on Grandma's Marathon weekend and her first outdoor broadcasting duties of the year at the Prefontaine Classic.

They then talk about Grand Slam Track and their thoughts on the cancellation of the final meet in LA. How are athletes reacting and does anyone have faith that it will be back next year?

Plus, Kara TRIES to get Des's reaction to Boston Marathon's qualification adjustments for downhill marathons, but Des tries very hard not to bite.

There are plenty of hilarious easter eggs in this one, so listen closely. 

Finally, we love a Lagoon Sleep top 5, and this one starts pretty hysterically. You won't get the full hysterics on the audio, so if you want that head to the YouTube version. It is well worth the watch. Plus, go get a Lagoon pillow and sleep better by using code NOBODYASKEDUS for 15% off on your first purchase at lagoonsleep.com/NOBODYASKEDUS.

"It's free. After you pay for it, it's free. Just a one-time fee, that you pay annually." - Portlandia cell phone episode + most track streaming services, probably, but NOT Portland Track Fest (which is truly free to stream!)

In this episode, Portland Track president Jeff Merrill joins the show! Jeff is a former 800m runner himself who spent time at Nike before getting involved with the Portland Track Festival and starting tracklnd.com and Tracklandia. His meet is THIS weekend in Portland, so see the notes below on how to support, attend, or watch (FREE!) from afar. 

Jeff helped Des and Kara with ideation around the Save the 10,000, and here he shares really interesting perspectives on storytelling in track and field and how to make it interesting for the fan/viewer. You'll get all of the behind-the-scenes intel on the 17-year history of the meet, plus the storylines for this year including Donovan Brazier continuing his comeback.

You will love Jeff's thoughtfulness and Des and Kara's thoughtful questions until a top 5 with an epic twist from Kara that will have you rushing to the YouTube version. Check this out and then mark your calendars for Saturday and Sunday to watch the PTF!

Pulling up to this episode is like pulling up to your local library... it's got a little bit of everything in it, except for hopefully those pesky midwestern ticks.

The episode opens with the usual intro banter, where Des characterizes Kara as being in "librarian mode." If Kara is the librarian, then that makes Des the person who is relentlessly trying to make you laugh in there. Thus, we are off to a good start riffing about summers in the midwest, travel, and camps. 

Kara talks about winning an Emmy(!) and about Colt graduating from 8th grade and being on the precipice of both driving and high school. Des shares about her prep for the upcoming Western States training camp. Is she ready to enter the shallower end of one of the most historic 100-milers in the world?

Plus, they bond over their mutual hatred of ticks before turning to discuss their impressions of season one for Grand Slam Track (GST). What do they think so far? Where could it be improved? Will it move the needle on interest in our sport?

Then, they react to a RW article on influencers and phones in races. Should they be allowed? Where is the line to be drawn? Is it good for the sport or just annoying?

Finally, they end with a Lagoon Sleep top 5 where Des questions her chinchilla ways as they both share uplifting moments from their weeks. 

If you love the pod, support our partners and the pod in the following ways...

• Get a pair of Brooks running shoes to support our title sponsor.
• Sleep better by using code NOBODYASKEDUS for 15% off on your first purchase at lagoonsleep.com/NOBODYASKEDUS.
• Use code NOBODYASKED for 30% off on your subscription order (PLUS a free gift with your second shipment) at KETONE.com/NOBODYASKED.

They warmed you up with plenty of pre-race content, Des and Kara and the athletes delivered on exciting races, and now it's time for the cooldown!

Des and Kara recap the Save the 10,000 with all of their reactions and lessons learned. They give you even more build-the-scenes details of the event and discuss whether or not there will be a year 2 for the event. 

But first, there is plenty of intro banter on Des's post-Boston recovery and Kara's Mother's Day with the family. They also give you some teasers on Des's fall racing schedule. Is it a 50-miler or 1-mile race in the plans?!? Kara may have different plans for Des than Des has for herself!

And of course, they finish with a very uplifting Top 5 from Lever Movement. 

To support the podcast, please support our sponsors for this episode - Brooks Running and Lever Movement.

Use code NOBODYASKEDUS for 20% off at levermovement.com.

To get you excited about Saturday night's Save the 10,000 with Des and Kara, this episode is all about Kara's history with the event. She talks about 10,000m legends Lynn Jennings and Billy Mills and how they inspired her to want to be an Olympian. She gives the story of how she WALKED in her very first 10,000 on the track, seemingly swearing off the event for good.

She details coming back to the distance at later time and surprising herself in her 2nd attempt at the distance. Then of course, she shares the play-by-play on her historic medal in the 10,000 at Osaka in 2007 that would change her running life forever. 

This episode is here to remind you why the 10,000 is worth saving. We hope you enjoy. 

If you are in Southern California on Saturday night (May 3rd), then go see the event in person at Mt. San Antonio College in Walnut, CA. Admission is free. Otherwise, you can stream for free on RunnerSpace. The men's race starts at 8 pm PST, and the women's race closes the night at 8:45 pm.

Thank you also to all of the sponsors for the event: BioBrace, Old Spice, Secret, The Sport Specialist, Lever Movement, Pacers Running, and of course Brooks Running. Please show those sponsors some love!

It's race week. Are you ready for this?!? Cue the 2 Unlimited music in your head!

In this episode, Trevor Rhodes joins the show. He is the race director for the meet, and the event wouldn't have happened with him. Des, Kara, and Trevor take you behind the scenes on putting together the Save the 10,000 with Des and Kara. They talk about the budget, key decisions, prize money, the elite fields, and give you some exciting race-week announcements.

They also give special thanks to you for showing up in a big way for the virtual race and with your donations. Plus, they shout-out all of the sponsors for the event: BioBrace, Old Spice, Secret, The Sport Specialist, Lever Movement, Pacers Running, and of course Brooks Running. Please show those sponsors some love!

If you are in Southern California on Saturday night (May 3rd), then go see the event in person at Mt. San Antonio College in Walnut, CA. Admission is free. Otherwise, you can stream for free on RunnerSpace. The men's race starts at 8 pm PST, and the women's race closes the night at 8:45 pm. We can't wait!

From two of your favorite showgirls... this episode covers Taylor's Life of a Showgirl, but it is so much more than that!

Some highlights... neti pot usage, (violent) dreams, books, Hunting Wives, Alanis Morissette, Japanese maples vs. redwoods, Showgirl, TS marathon prediction, Femke Bol to the 800m, Courtney Dauwalter on the roads, pillow talk, motivational sunglasses, and so much more!

And the real question is: do you hear the words in your head when you read to yourself?!

Now, use code NOBODYASKEDUS for 15% off on your first order at Lagoon Sleep.

You can check it out at this link to take their pillow quiz and find the perfect pillow for you: https://lagoonsleep.com/pages/lagoon-the-nobody-asked-us-podcast-from-kara-goucher-and-des-linden.

"People say you should go out on top, and that's what I am doing - because getting to race my final professional marathon in Boston is indeed going out on top." - Des Linden

Those are the words she shared via an ad in the Boston Globe placed and paid for by her and released on race morning. Then, she did indeed go out on top... running 2:26 (as she predicted) and finishing as the first masters finisher against a stacked 40+ field. In this episode, Des gives us the breakdown of her final professional marathon in Boston including the reasons for the decision, the emotions of the weekend, how the race played out, and how she feels now in the aftermath. 

You can feel the emotion through the mics/camera in this one. Kara navigates the questions perfectly, and Des (somewhat reluctantly) shows us her heart. I could give you more, but you really just need to go listen. 

To support the podcast, please support our sponsors for this episode. Use code NOBODYASKEDUS for 20% off at www.levermovement.com or for 15% off on your first purchase at lagoonsleep.com/NOBODYASKEDUS. Same code... two great products!

Live from WBUR Cityspace, this is the 2025 version of Des and Kara from Boston. In this episode, you get all of the normal, fun banter plus a section-by-section rundown of the Boston course from their experiences. If you are racing on Monday, then this is a must-listen before you toe the line for plenty of inspiration and some great course intel. For everyone else, there is plenty of humor and fun anecdotes to go around.

Thank you to WBUR for hosting and to Brooks Running for their title sponsorship of the podcast!

Spring time is here. The leaves are returning to the trees, and we are turning over new ones. 

Some new leaves in this episode: new Brooks foams and new track meets, plus massages (!), excursions (!), and a lot of breaking news for Save the 10,000. 

This episode starts with an update on Des's build to Boston and her plans for the upcoming taper. She details one of her final big workouts and talks about how she listens to her body (vs. a rigid plan) during these final weeks. She also bought not one, not two, but THREE massages which is three more than she usually does in a Boston build!

Kara shares stories from her Costa Rican vacation including adventures in the rain forest and run-ins with the local wildlife. She isn't an "excursion-person" so her friends had her branching out on this trip. Did she love it?!? The jury is still out, and we may need a betting pool on whether or not she will attempt an excursion again.

They then give you updates on Save the 10,000 which is on track to be fully funded thanks to support from amazing sponsors and YOU. Listen in for breaking news about the event that will indeed light up your day (including a Live Pod alert!).

Finally, they preview meet one of Grand Slam Track, before the episode ends with an UPLIFTING top 5 sponsored by Lever Movement. To get 20% off on your Lever Movement system, use the code NOBODYASKEDUS at levermovement.com. Support them and support the pod!

You can also support the pod in the following ways:

• Run in the Save the 10,000 virtual race. Register at www.savethe10000.com. The deadline is THIS Friday, April 11th.
• Join us for the Live Pod before the Save the 10,000. Grab tickets for that here: https://runsignup.com/w/SaveTheWithDesAndKara/Page/Tickets.
• Try some Ketone-IQ using the code on Des/Kara instagram pages for this episode! Thank you to Ketone-IQ for returning as a sponsor!

This episode is a vibe all to its own, and you know it's is a good one when hilarious stuff comes up in the most random of ways.

This episode isn't about chafing, but you get plenty of hilarious (and perhaps a little disgusting) banter on it. Elite or not… every runner can relate to that. 

What else do we have in this one? Let's see…lost toenails, disgusting feet, how-to's on post-chafing showers, socks or no socks(?), the 90's style comeback, OnlyFans, beef with the social media trolls, Disney PTSD, pillow preferences, and we haven't even gotten to the main topics, yet.

On more serious notes, we do get updates on Kara's mom and Des's recent travels, including her race at the NYC Half and her recent course recon in Boston. Plus (as the entrée for this one), Des and Kara talk all about the half marathon distance and the various ways they approached that distance vs. the marathon, including what a strong half meant for marathon training (or not). 

By the end, this episode will have you wishing this editor takes a vacation more often. 

To support the pod, we have two very important requests:
- Go to http://savethe10000.com to join our virtual 10K race and learn more about Save the 10,000 with Des and Kara. 
- Welcome new sponsor Lagoon Sleep and upgrade your recovery routine. Go to lagoonsleep.com/NOBODYASKEDUS and take their awesome 2-minute sleep quiz to find your pillow match. Use the code NOBODYASKEDUS for 15% off your first purchase.

Nobody asked Des and Kara to put on a 10,000 meter track race, but as is the theme for this podcast, here we are! It's officially official. The Save the 10,000 with Des and Kara is happening on Saturday, May 3rd at Mt. San Antonio College (aka Mt. SAC) in Walnut, CA. Listen to this episode for all of the details, and then head to http://savethe10000.com to sign up for the virtual race, get tickets, and check out other ways to support.

Des and Kara are putting up their own money to make this thing happen with sponsors gradually coming on board, but obviously we welcome as much help as possible from this amazing community of listeners. All proceeds from the virtual race and from ticket sales will go to fund this event. In addition, we owe a special shout-out to Trevor Rhodes for his work behind the scenes to make this happen.

While much of this episode is about the details of this event (which you don't want to miss), Des and Kara also catch up on Des's Boston training, the US Indoor Champs, and the US Half Champs with some impressive performances across the board. As usual, they finish with a fun top 5, and now it's your turn to go tell all of your friends about the Save the 10,000! 

It was Adam Goucher's birthday last week. He turned 50. Happy birthday Adam(!) and thank you for prompting the introspection that is a theme throughout the episode. 

It starts with the introspection of hitting age milestones as Kara and Des discuss how it felt hitting 30 and 40 and how they might feel hitting 50. Then, they talk about the introspection of retirement, including how it felt for Kara to retire from running and how she might think about retiring from this latest phase of her career. Des joins in with some hilarious conjecture about disappearing altogether once she is done with the sport. Along the way, they also reflect on journey of their friendship evolving from competitors to podcast cohosts who share a similar perspective on the sport.

Next, the episode turns to introspection on the state of the sport after the latest slate of world records in the men's indoor mile and the men's half marathon. What does it all mean and what are the sources of these jumps in time across the board? Does sodium bicarbonate have anything to do with it and how should we think about the push for professionalism at younger and younger ages? Des and Kara struggle to understand it all but don't just bring the doom and gloom to this one.

Finally, the episode wraps with an UPLIFTING top 5, sponsored by Lever Movement. To get 20% off on your Lever Movement system, use the code NOBODYASKEDUS at levermovement.com. Support them and support the pod!

If you can't get excited about track from listening to these two talk, then you should have your head examined and your pulse checked! Their enthusiasm for the sport is contagious.

In this episode, they start with life updates including recent travels for them both. Des updates us on her trip to Kona and on her Boston prep, and Kara shares about her recent trips for broadcasting. Colt had an amazing opportunity to chase a mile PR at the Armory Track in NYC with the NBC cameras rolling, and Kara gives us the full rundown. Operation #DestroyColt has been officially retired out of necessity!

They then turn to all of the recent indoor track action from NB Indoors and Millrose, where the times have been so very FAST, including two world records set by Americans. The discussion includes all of the big names... Hiltz, Morgan, McClain, Houlihan, Kessler, Nuguse, Hocker, Fisher, and so many more. If you missed the races, get your updates here. If you watched, listen in to hear Des and Kara's takes on it all. The track year (and the podcast year) is off to an amazing start.

"I could be wrong, but I know I'm not." - Kara Goucher.

You know it's a good episode when Kara drops that quote. 

In this episode, Des and Kara cover a topic that you DID ask for. They give you their hot takes on the return of Shelby Houlihan from her 4-year ban. As you might expect, it is complicated, so find some paper towels and put them under those armpits... it gets warm-ish in here over the second half of the episode.

First, they recap an amazing weekend in Houston with their perspectives on all of the races, including those that aren't getting enough attention - Erika Kemp's 2:22 and Weini Kelati's second American record. And yes, they give Conner Mantz his flowers too while covering "the shove" and talking about what his race might mean for his confidence in future marathons. Can he be the one to break through for the American men in a World Major?

Then, they shift the discussion to Shelby Houlihan's return covering everything from their initial reactions to her ban and now to the media coverage of her "comeback." As you might expect, this is a difficult topic to cover, but Des and Kara do not shy away from discussing all sides of it. Agree or not, the hope is that we can all turn now to just seeing her race.

As usual, this episode ends with a top 5 that includes a special shout-out to the new Glycerin 22 coming soon from Brooks. You can pre-order yours here to support them and the pod: https://www.brooksrunning.com/en_us/womens/shoes/road-running-shoes/glycerin-22/120434.html?dwvar_120434_color=020

What a race weekend in Houston! Des and Kara were so happy to be a part of it, including our largest live show yet with 500 people in attendance on Saturday. Thank you to everyone who came out for the show and to Brooks Running and the Houston Marathon team for the hospitality all weekend. 

In this episode, Des and Kara give you predictions for the races in Houston, which are even more fun now that we know the actual results. Then, they go behind the scenes of the 2012 Olympic Marathon Trials in Houston, where Des and Kara made the Olympic team together. They walk you through what they were thinking at each point in the race that day and how it felt for Kara to make her second team and Des her first. Note: you will have to watch the YouTube to see the pics that they reference.

We close with a Q&A from the audience (with great audio this time!), and of course, a Top 5. Stay for their big annoucement near the end and for the hilarious banter throughout. 

Welcome to Season 3 of Nobody Asked Us with Des and Kara presented by Brooks Running!

This is a FUN and INFORMATIVE episode to kick off 2025. Des and Kara start with their usual catch-up banter, updating us on their holiday and New Year activities. Des shares her excitement about another Boston start line coming in April. Kara gives updates on her running with dystonia. They both share hot-takes on the new Aaron Rodgers documentary on Netflix, so mark that off on your 2025 bingo card. Plus as a bonus, they give other TV and movie recs for your TV-binging needs. 

Then, they turn to a detailed, discussion on running contracts, shedding light on some of the reasons you might see a spate of runner retirements on your social feeds. They talk about contract structures, terms, timelines, and the reasons why contracts end. Ultimately, running is business just like any sport, so it is helpful to understand what might be going on behind the scenes in some of these discussions.

Finally, they wrap with a preview of the live show coming up in Houston and finish with the first Top 5 of the year. Happy New Year everyone!

It's October, and marathon season is fully here, which means you will be hearing plenty from Des and Kara over the coming weeks. We know you aren't mad about that!

First, you get some fun intro banter talking about college tours, hotel rooms, raw denim, and happy sweaters from the sale rack. You might want to check out YouTube to see the happy sweater. Can you guess who was wearing it?!

Then as the main course, they recap the results from the Chicago Marathon including Conner Mantz's American Record, before finishing with their takes on the 2nd Athlos meet that happened in NYC this past weekend. The sport of running is alive and well in its many forms, and we are here to cover it all! Next up... NYC!

The most important link you need today is this one: https://performingartshouston.org/events/nobody-asked-us-with-des-kara-2025-01-18-400-pm/.

Go get your tickets for the Houston live show coming up on Saturday, January 18th at 4 pm!

Beyond that, listen to this feel-good episode with Kara and her sisters to round out 2024. Happy New Year everyone!

• Get your fresh pair of Brooks Glycerin Max at brooksrunning.com.
• Get your Olipop fix, use code NOBODYASKEDUS for 15% off at drinkolipop.com.

We have a very special guest for this episode, and you won't want to miss it! In fact, this might be the episode to watch on YouTube if that isn't your normal routine. [Don't forget to hit subscribe while you are there.]

Introducing... Natalie Steele, Des's older and taller and wiser(?) sister!

She joins the show to spill all of the dirt on Des while gushing on her a little bit too. You get an inside peak into their lives as sisters as Kara asks all of the questions you might want to know, including:

• Who was the biggest troublemaker as a child?
• Who had the most boys after her?
• How much did they fight over the landline phone before caller ID?!?
• How were they as teammates on the high school soccer team together?
• What did she think of Des moving away to Arizona State and the Michigan?
• What's it like as a spectator for Des at big races from the Olympics Trials to winning Boston?
• What would surprise us to know about Des?
• Where did they get the adventure travel genes?
• What is she most proud of about Des's journey?

This one is full of so many laughs and all of the feels. Get to know Des in a whole new way through Natalie's eyes!

For this one, we send a special thanks to Brooks Running for being the best presenting sponsor a podcast could have. Go stock up on your favorite Brooks shoes to support the podcast!

And don't worry... Kara's sister episode is coming as the last episode of 2024, releasing on December 31st (Season 2, episode 40). Stay tuned...

Oh my... where do we start with this episode goodness?!?

The highlight of this episode is the long-awaited podcast face-off between Des and her arch-nemesis Dakotah Popehn, nee Lindwurm. They trash talk with all of the intensity of two cats playing with a furry ball before licking each other clean. Combine that with Kara's Minnesota accent showing out in the presence of another Minnesotan, and you can imagine that this episode gets as heated as a cozy, warm blanket on a cold winter's day. Yes, it's amazing...

Dakotah gives us the inside scoop on her race and recovery from NYC, and she takes us back down memory lane to talk about qualifying for the Olympics, what it would have meant to her late mother, and what it was like racing in Paris. Plus, she stares down Des while talking about taking at shot at her 50K record. Kara + Des + Dakotah... what more could you want?! 

How about another half-episode complete with their hot takes on Matt Choi, the venues for Grand Slam Track, an Olipop Top 6, and the very first bleeped words ever on Nobody Asked Us? (Thank you Des for that). All of this adds up to an episode that you just can't miss. 

• Get your very own, fresh pair of the new Brooks Glycerin Max or the new Brooks Adrenaline 24 at brooksrunning.com.
• Send some love to TCS for all they do to support the NYC Marathon and our sport. Tag @tcsnorthamerica in posts about the pod. 
• To get your Olipop fix, use code NOBODYASKEDUS for 15% off at drinkolipop.com.
• Lift yourself up with a new Lever system from Lever Movement. Use code NobodyAskedUs for 20% off on their site: https://levermovement.com/collections/lever-store.

In addition, here is the RW article that Des mentioned on Dakotah: https://www.runnersworld.com/races-places/a60401977/dakotah-lindwurm-emerges-with-unshakeable-self-belief/

First of all, we have to give a massive shout-out to TCS for hosting the Freshy Fresh in their space, right behind the NYC Marathon finish line. They were amazing hosts and also amazing title sponsors for the race, contributing to all of the vibes of the day. We also love how they are using technology to upgrade the runner, the spectator, and the at-home audience experience in so many ways. Plus, they are huge supporters of the podcast, and we love them for it. Thank you TCS!

This episode was recorded just a few hours after Des crossed the finish line and Kara exited the broadcast booth where she called the race on the world feed. The takes and reactions are as fresh as they can be. You get a full breakdown of Des's amazing race and the overall results, plus a quick recap of editor Chris's race in the main field.

Des gives insight into the race within the race - Dakotah v. Des - which she won, and shares the inevitable, NYC-souvenir-sweatshirt purchase that Ryan just couldn't resist for her. Like any freshy fresh, you will feel like you were in NYC yourself, and what a beautiful and amazing day for racing it was.

Editor's note: this was filmed outside near the finish line so there is some background noise which I cleaned up the best I could. It is a hallmark of the freshy fresh episodes, and if that's not your thing, feel free to skip this one and wait for the full NYC recap coming up in a few weeks. 

Live from the Brooks Hyperion House in NYC... it's Nobody Asked Us with Des & Kara!

For those running on Sunday (tomorrow), we highly recommend you listen today or on your way to the start. This one is jammed with tips to get your mind and body ready for this NYC Marathon course. Plus, you get some bonus content on Halloween costumes vs. NYC fashion, the Secret Lives of Mormon Wives, and what Des and Kara used to think when racing each other. Thank you to our live audience for all of the great questions!

Also, thank you to our sponsors for this episode. To support them and in turn support the podcast...

• Get your very own, fresh pair of Brooks Glycerin Max or the new Brooks Adrenaline 24 at brooksrunning.com.
• Download the TCS NYC Marathon app to to track all of your favorite runners including Des and Chris.
• To get your Olipop fix, use code NOBODYASKEDUS for 15% off at drinkolipop.com.
• Save 30% on your first subscription order & receive a free six pack of Ketone-IQ with https://ketone.com/NOBODYASKED.

• Get your fresh pair of Brooks Glycerin Max at brooksrunning.com.
• Download the TCS NYC Marathon app to prep for tracking all of your favorite runners including Des and Chris on November 3rd. Plus, don't forget to tune into the broadcast to see all of the ways technology is changing the broadcast game thanks to TCS.
• Get your Olipop fix, use code NOBODYASKEDUS for 15% off at drinkolipop.com.

[New album cover alert!]

Another year, another live podcast from Chicago, and this one was even bigger with 250+ in attendance!

This episode has everything you would want from a live podcast including a completely-unplanned, surprise guest, who turned Kara into a little bit of an awkward mess ;). 

The show starts with some life and travel updates. Des shares how her latest 2 x 6 mile marathon workout went in prep for NYC, and Kara talks about her disdain for airports and Halloween. Don't worry... the whole bit is saved by images of Des as the Swinging Friar, iykyk. 

They then turn their attention to a Chicago Marathon preview with a focus on the key American storylines up front. Who wins in the battle of Zach Panning and CJ Albertson? Will the American record go down on the women's side? Oh wait... who is that in the audience who is racing with the elites on Sunday? Enter surprise guest, complete with a birthday serenade from the audience!

Unable to top that further, Des and Kara turn to audience questions (captured in full audio by our trusty wireless mic) and then an Olipop Top 5 that you don't want to miss. 

Of course, thank you to everyone who came out for the show and to our sponsors for this episode - presenting sponsor Brooks Running and Olipop. As usual, to support the podcast and get your Olipop fix, use code NOBODYASKEDUS for 15% off at drinkolipop.com.

And, we also have to thank our gracious hosts - Fleet Feet Chicago - who always do it right. If you are in Chicago, get your running gear from Fleet Feet Chicago!