This week, we learned it’s not just marathon PB’s at risk from Strava mule cheats – legit marathon qualifying times are getting messed up too.

In the WTF segment, we cover a few events that got the fellas' seal of approval, plus an influencer keeping it real and owning his actions.

Liam’s got his running mojo back, so we wrap up with our New Year’s running resolutions.

Courtney’s been hitting hard sessions out West and training with fast mates over Christmas.

We chat racing shoe weights, the top options from big brands, and finish with advice on the best way to track your running progress each week.

Show Notes:

Richie Porte Swim Set

WTF Segment

Water Run

Canicross

Dan Jones - The Porfessional Amateur

Shoe Maps

@worlderunners Racing Shoe Weight Chart

@staykalcerteam Shoe Rotation Map

Aroma Armour Bags for Shoe Smell

This week, we’re chatting about where our running motivation is at as we head into the Christmas madness. 

We also put an AI training program to the test—how smart is it, really?

And we’re diving into power equations in running, exploring whether they can help level the playing field and settle the debate of who’s the "better" runner, regardless of weight.

Courtney’s WTF segment is a wild ride, from Simon Says games to the mystery of the "Strava Mule." Trust us, you’ll want to know what that is.

Oh, and we’re debating whether competition is actually good for kids, and wondering if there’s a shift happening in nightclubs—could running be the answer to it all?

NOTES:

WTF SEGMENT REELS

Simon Says - ludwigs streamer games

Half marathon juggling - @runnerjmd

Courtney is in Los Angles at the Red Bull Athlete Performance Centre to find longevity in his running. Liam is running around with rocks at the bottom of Currumbin Creek. We go in-depth to discuss what qualifies as a run coach? What running cues will help YOU! The poll is in on what is the most popular Australian marathon to run in 2025. We finish with a new treadmill doing things different in a saturated industry.

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The peoples' poll is in! Liam & Courtney debate who is the best known runner in Australia - "Noise" or Performance. Headphone etiquette. We have the data to prove aerobic exercise will help you live longer. We give our take on the 3 endurance events you have to do in Australia. And confirm that Courtney can't ride a dirt bike like he can run.

Link for the article - Physiology Speaking

Co-Hosted by a Triple M Radio Host and an Olympian & Red Bull Endurance athlete. Today we chat what we've been up to this week, what the best Aussie marathon is to run? bit of footy off the back of the AFL Final and the pro training hours.

Co-Hosted by a Triple M Radio Host and an Olympian & Red Bull Endurance athlete. Today we chat what we've been upto this week, aggressive rehab techniques the rise of the running influencer and mastering negative splitting.

Co-Hosted by a Triple M Radio Host and an Olympian & Red Bull Endurance athlete. Have a listen to the intro episode about who we are, what we do for a day job and why a running podcast now?

This week, Liam is finally ready to share the big news about his new Radio gig! Hint: he's coming to the Gold Coast.

We dive into the growing trend of running and ask: Is it becoming too popular for its own good?

Courtney returns from his trip to Victoria, bringing more of the quirky WTF event content we've come to love.

Gout Gout! The hype is real, but where is this phenomenon headed next?

Plus, Liam calls out for listener questions—turns out more of you are tuning in than we thought! 

Thanks for listening and being part of the conversation.

Notes:

2024 Kettlebell Juggling World Games Freestyle Battle

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DA7XitTsfw3/?igsh=MTFnYW4zYWFyeTd2Zg==

German Man Runs Marathon while baking a Cake 

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DC5AnjjRd5-/?igsh=MWVkbGlpemxuNHhuZw==

Board Shoe Racing

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DC11SKzta1R/?igsh=enAzbjFscGZueHk=

This week, Courtney's out filming with Subaru in the Victorian Alpine Region, where he’s checking out the running hotspot of Falls Creek for the first time.

Liam’s got a real-world review of the new Pegasus 41s after making an appearance at Nike’s Sunset Runout on the Gold Coast.

Courtney also takes aim at some popular running tech, arguing it might be a bit of a scam—with some help from the guy behind the Norwegian Method talking on the Greg Bennett Podcast.

And to wrap things up, we’re continuing unique events—like the High Country Flyathon. Do we really need it? It’s a mix of running and fishing, and we’re not sure if it’s genius or just plain weird.

Notes:

The Greg Bennett Show - EP256

Silly season is here! Between sportsman lunches, Pro-Am golf, Christmas parties, weddings, and influencer runs, there's never a dull moment. This leads Liam to bring up the challenge of the infamous ‘Beer Mile’. Courtney shares insights into the three most unique races he’s ever competed in. We also take on the role of acting CEO at World Athletics, and once again discuss the Brisbane 2032 Olympics. And of course, we tackle the challenge of taming the infamous ‘brown snake’!

This week, we kick things off with our thoughts on the viral Mike Tyson fight on Netflix. Then, we dive into the topic of 'shitting yourself in races.' Liam shares his experience at the Friday 5km relay event on the Gold Coast. Courtney talks about his visit to a fitness conference and some of the wild energy products he discovered. We also discuss more 'Run Club' comparisons – which one would you join? And to wrap up, we share some Instagram comedy about Strava users.

Show notes:

World Champ pleads for TV not to film

Woke AF Sachets 

@MattsLyon - Every person who uses strava

This week Liam has been playing dressed up as Bluey’s dad at the Triple M office!

Courtney has a whinge about randoms running on his shoulder in Sydney while in town for the Red Bull Cliff Diving event. Summer is here - we discuss the pre-morning run service station visits.

Liam gives his verdict on the Salomon S-Lab Spectur 3hr marathon shoe.

We announce this week’s poll results of where YOU want to run - Noosa vs Tassie.

And finally main stream content creators are doing our job of pointing out the insanity in the current trend of running across Australia with a bit of parody.

*Show notes:

Liam in Dress Up

Bluey’s World Brisbane

Salomon S-Lab Spectur

IG Reel - @kickitforward & @lachy.mcintyre

This week we recap our Noosa Triathlon Weekend spent with who's who of Australian sport. Propose the need for a Clydesdale Category to be introduced in Marathons. Look into the mix of top 20 race shoes at the New York Marathon and expose a home brand carbon plated run shoe.

Show Notes

Brayden Mercer

20 Fastest Shoes at New York

Kiprun Shoe

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We're gearing up for Noosa Triathlon weekend.

We give our thoughts on how the Brisbane Olympics should change in 2032.

We rate recovery techniques - 'spoiler' Netflix wins!

Liam talks about motivation & 'David Goggins' phenomenon.

And Courtney gives Liam a shoe designed to help achieve a 3hr marathon to test.

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Courtney's back from Los Angles. Liam has a big night out at his 40th! We discuss the new Woman's Marathon World Record & a new secret illegal shoe. Courtney describes what different types of run sessions help you achieve. And this week's listener question we discuss is 'What's the ONE endurance event in Australia you have to do?'

Follow ⁠@inthebeginningpodcast⁠

Follow ⁠@liamjflanagan⁠

Follow ⁠@mrcourtneyatkinson

We kick off with a quick look at a Birkenstock map of Sydney—though, oddly, no mention of Crocs?

We’ve got some great listener feedback on GPS watches this week, plus a shout-out to a few of the running resolutions sent in for 2025.

Liam's Updates: Liam fills us in on the progress of his new breakfast radio show, and when locals can tune in.

Courtney's Recap: Courtney talks about joining the ‘Gold Coast Run Co’ on New Year's Eve for their annual tough 25 x 400m session. This got him thinking about the three hardest athletes he’s ever trained with.

This week's WTF Segment covers backward marathons, triathlons with dogs, and trail running paired with whiskey.

Closing Thoughts: We wrap up by discussing a running philosophy by Mario Fraioli that really resonated with Courtney—sticking to the fundamentals vs trying to get fancy with your training.

Show Notes:

The Sydney 'Birkenstock border'

Man ‘breaks world record’ for fastest marathon… running backwards!

@juleskennel - CaniTraithlon

@jhwang - Dramathon

Follow the Fundamentals - art of running training - Mario Fraioli

We kick off with cricket but it's about shoes! What’s 19-year-old Konstas doing rocking green Adidas Sambas in the official PM’s photo. 

This sparked some yarns from Courtney’s time in Europe.

Liam compares parenting to running. 

We chat gear: Birkenstock Recovery Clogs, Oakley Hybrid Glasses, and prototype Asics.

In the WTF segment, we visit Minnesota for some icy adventures before man vs horse races -  leads to chat of ‘Six Foot Track’ the most iconic trail race in Australia..

We wrap up with listener questions on post-injury training and electrolytes around workouts.

SHOW NOTES:

• Cricket: Kostas in Adidas
• Birkenstock Recovery Clog + Self Massage Tools

WTF Segment

• Crocs-wearing runner posts 1:06:33 half-marathon in Utah
• Run N Plunge - Embrace Noth Run Club
• Horse vs Man Marathon
• History of the Six Foot Track | Sixfoot
• Oakley Flex Scape
  

Courtney gets a reminder of the classic: “If it’s flooded, forget it!”

Liam’s kicked off his new radio show, which means he’s on pro running hours from here on in.

Crocs are having their moment in marathon news, but we reckon we’ve got something to one-up ’em with some new innovation.

This week’s WTF segment is all about food, with a cheeky mix of chicken and donuts.

We’ll have a bit of a yarn about the ice bath trend – is it all it’s cracked up to be?

And we’ll round things out with some listener questions on sponsorships and heart rates.

Show notes:

Mo Farah Youtube

Dean Boxall

Goat Loop Guessing Game is on the 27th January

Dom Tomato Instagram Reel

WFT Segment…

Tainmen Mountain Jumping Competition, China

Food at aid station - Runner: I need a chicken leg

Krispy Kreme Challenge 
The cold Plunge trend audio from Podcast ‘The Growth Equation’

20.6 Bumper Stickers. Cliffy Young, and some love for the Aussie Chopperoos kick us off this week.

Courtney wraps up his time in Japan with some stunning Kyoto trails, while Liam takes on the Australia Day Burleigh Swim Run Challenge.

The WFT segment features stilt racing, a robot vs. man half-mara race, giant LEGO, and an event with Indiana Jones-style torches.

And did you know there’s now a Contiki for runners?

Show Notes:

- 26.6mile the new stickers

- Cliff Young

- Shout out to the Chopperroos 

WFT Segment:

- BMX Flatland guy - Matthias Dandois

- Stilt racing

- Robot vs Man Half Marathon

- Build your own house with giant Lego?

- Power tool racing should be an Olympic sport?

- 🔥🔥 Race aux Flambeaux

- Need for a 3rd Space

- Contiki Started Run Tours

Courtney calls in from Japan while Liam talks about his love for fluro calf socks.

We discuss some predicted 2025 running trends, Nike’s shift back to focusing on sport, and their new female cycling team.

Liam shares how he's feeling good running trails, though we're not sure if he’s getting recognized as the new Gold Coast Radio guy or from In the Beginning.

The WFT segment covers in-tune cycling, Sydney horse racing tracks, and wife throwing, before wrapping up with listener questions and a kind note all the way from the mountains of Norway.

Show notes:

Burleigh Swim Run Australia Day Challenge

2000 vs 2024 IG runners - @samcornforth

Running trend forecast for 2025 - @Runnersmood

VKTRY Recovery Clog with Carbon Fiber Plate Inside

Salomon Sense Aero 7" Shorts

Electrolytes in Australian Service Station Sports Drinks

WTF

Artistic Cycling

Weird Finnish Events - Wife Carry & Sauna Champs

Make Ways Foundation - Shoe Donations

Courtney gets caught red-handed stealing Strava crowns.

Liam’s opening up about his skinfolds and taking us through his new 8-week challenge.

We also dive into a serious question—how far would you run for a free burrito? Spoiler: it’s a true story.

Then, we chat about which sports are actually good for helping you live longer, and if you’re heading to Tokyo, you might not need to pack your own gear—you can hire it there!

We wrap up with some listener questions on pre-run stretching, running socks, and some classic dad advice.

SHOW NOTES:

Hedges Av Runner vs Cyclist 

Chipotle City Challenge on Strava - web article

Sports that make you live longer

How a co-worker act when someone wears New Balance in the workplace

Rental shoes - Asics Run Tokyo Marunouchi

This week, Liam is grappling with the challenge of returning to threshold runs.

Courtney discusses the delicate balance between injury and just running sore.

Do you typically do your long run on Sundays? Why? Is this tradition becoming outdated?

Athletics Australia Coaching weighs in on mileage, while we revisit the topic of skin folds.

Journaling – it's not for everyone, so do what works for you!

In gear this week we have some fun gift giving + Nike’s crazy new futuristic patent.

SHOW NOTES:

Mileage from Athletics Australia Coaching

Will Ashcroft - Process Driven 2025 

Calipers - article

Trail Kings Podcast - EP33: Courtney Atkinson

ASICS in the clouds

Crazy Nike patent 

This week, Liam gets his hands on one of Courtney’s old training journals from his teen years.

We also chat about two running bibles from legends Arthur Lydiard and Rob De Castella.

We dig into Strava Business data—everything from the most popular running shoes to the average run pace.

Liam hasn’t tried his Chinese shoe gift yet, but he does give the new Salomon Aero Glide 3 trail shoes a spin.

And yeah, we’re not loving the new Apple Watch trend—just a heads-up!

SHOW NOTES:

11 year old 3000m World Record

Deek: The making of Australia's world marathon champion

Arthur Lydiard: Running to the Top

NOTE: This episode was recorded before the SE QLD cyclone – thinking of everyone affected & hoping all are safe.

This week we discuss the Red Bull Race the Sun 2025 Edition, a 345km team relay with a sunrise start on June 13th.

Red Bull Race the Sun Applications Link

Liam gets called out on his marathon math, while Courtney spills the truth about the Salomon Golden Trail route he has got Liam involved in down at Kunanyi, Hobart.

Listener comments this week include tractor names for Clydesdale categories, track work riders, and more on nasal breathing.

Finally, we talk about sunnies with a digital data dashboard.

SHOW NOTES:

Hyrox Brisbane Results

HOKA wearers - from the betoota advocate

Salomon Golden Trail Course - Kunanyi

Engo Digital Sunglasses

This week, we want to join Jelly Roll’s Losers Run Club.

We’ll chat about foot strikes, making XC great again, world limbo records, and the Sydney marathon winner found guilty of doping.

We’ll also let you know the average global marathon time.

We’ll sneak a look at another of Courtney’s journals.

And we’ll do a deep dive into what some of the big running brands are up to with their marketing choices.

SHOW NOTES:

Jelly Roll Losers Run Club

Shoe types game

Do you know your foot strike?

English XC Champs 

Liam’s WTF for the ages - Limbo

Nike took their runners to the London eye 

Elmo & On

Hoka one stop corner store 

Special Show: On Location in Hobart for the Salomon Golden Trail Race, Kunanyi

In this episode, we recap Liam's exciting match race with Pete, Salomon Australia's Brand Manager. The race covered 25 kilometers, including a challenging climb up Mt Wellington with a total of 1,600 meters of elevation gain!

We also take a deeper dive into Salomon's French heritage, their rise in the sneaker boom, and how the outdoor brand navigates the emerging trends and categories in the industry today.

This Week’s Episode is full of announcements:

When you’re listening to this we’ll be on the ground in Hobart at the Salomon Kunanyi Golden Trail Event. We've got some last-minute tips from Courtney on how to tackle those challenging trails.

Next Wednesday, we kick off the ‘In the Beginning... Runs Gold Coast’ Marathon Series! Over the next 12 weeks, we'll be getting training advice from Olympic great and one of Australia’s most decorated distance runners, Benita Willis, who will be guiding us through the journey.

In this episode, we dive into some major topics, including the latest updates on the Brisbane Olympics, changes to modern pentathlon, and Queensland’s Street Smart Runners Campaign with Matt Hauser.

Plus, we’ll be sharing the feedback from the question: “Do you know who wins the marathon you run in?” — and there’s been some interesting responses!

SHOW NOTES:

Modern Pentathlon changes the horse for ninja warrior? Obstacle racing?

Matt Hauser - street smart

Man running 500 miles on psychedelics

Drive to survive Season 8 renewed - Courtney was wrong!

What is with running? Cavendish Half Marathon in Paris

Hell of the West

Dirt & Dust Festival

Tradie Boots Asics 

Salomon Boots Tactical

Big news this week: KIPCHOGE is coming to the Sydney Marathon!

Liam sets a new personal best with a 1km time, while Courtney is down in Melbourne for the F1.

"ROB IT, TO GET IT!" – Is this the best shoe marketing campaign ever?

BMX Olympic Gold Medalist runs a 3:08 marathon after only 6 weeks of training!

We also dive into the preview of the Salomon Golden Trail Kunanyi.

And we wrap up with listener questions – including tips on run etiquette. Just remember: Stay LEFT!

SHOW NOTES:

Rob it, to get it!

Cross fit for sale 

Taka Kasuga - Arc’teryx

This week the running updates are coming after the SE QLD Cyclone.

Courtney goes in depth on drug testing in his career

Drive to Survive, White Lotus, what netflix is showing us about sports & wellness trends.

Our listeners ask for more love of Brooks?

We have some WTF notable mentions

Finish with some listener questions on pain meds & running falls

SHOW NOTES:

WTF:

Ski jumps race pulled via horse

World record for peanut buttering 

Taser ball

World record marathon in a wind turbine

In The Beginning… Runs ASICS Gold Coast Marathon

Imagine if you could have Australia’s greatest ever distance runner guide you through your training for the Gold Coast Marathon…

Well stop dreaming because In The Beginning podcast has teamed up with the legendary four time Olympian and Gold Coast Marathon ambassador Benita Willis for a special 12 week series focused on the road to the GC Marathon. 

In this episode, we get to know athlete Benita Willis and learn how she developed her passion for guiding athletes of all levels to achieve their best marathons.

We’re chatting:

🍺 AFL controversy — Darcy Fogarty’s beer tattoo & the marketing madness

🎽 Grand Slam Track? Hot or Flop? + a listener’s London Landmarks Half story

🎉 Ryan Kelso’s big pitch for the Armidale Running Festival (with a possible custom In The Beginning brew!)

👟 Gear chat, training updates & more

Subscribe and join the run!

Follow the podcast on Instagram @inthebeginningpodcast⁠

Courtney on ⁠Strava⁠

Liam on ⁠Strava⁠

LINKS // Episode Mentions & Extras:

- Darcy Fogarty x Coopers x JR Smith Supreme Collab

- Michael Johnson on Influencers vs Elite Athletes 

- Choose Running – Gerald Demolsky 

In the Beginning.. Runs Gold Coast Marathon

We’re kicking off a special Gold Coast Marathon series, and to start things strong, Liam and Courtney have a yarn with Aussie running legend and coach Benita Willis.

In this ep, we chat through some big goals (yep, including Liam eyeing off a sub-3 marathon 😅), what it really takes to prep for race day, and how to juggle training with everyday life.

Benita also maps out a smart approach for both Liam and first-time runner Bronte LangBrook – covering everything from pacing and recovery to setting goals that won’t break your body or your spirit.

Whether you’re chasing a PB or just hoping to make it to the finish line, there’s something in here for every runner.

👉 Want tailored coaching? Check out laceuprunning.com.au

You can follow the podcast on Instagram at ⁠⁠@inthebeginningpodcast⁠⁠

Courtney on ⁠⁠Strava⁠⁠

Liam on ⁠⁠Strava⁠

This week’s chat is all over the place—in the best way possible! We dive into listener podcast picks, Sydney Marathon prize money, and Liam’s big 8-week challenge results. Plus, Courtney breaks down the quest for optimal running weight (science or sorcery?).

From the ancient beer-loving brotherhood of Geelong 🍻 to the brand-new Armidale Running Festival, there’s plenty to unpack. And, of course, the age-old debate: Powerade or Gatorade? Which fuels the best performance? 🏆

Tune in and join the convo! 🎧

SHOW NOTES:

The ancient order of froth blowers

Matt Lyon - keep it simple stupid 

Running’s fastest marathon age…. From trackhouse

Local events shoutout - Ryan Kelso - Armidale Running Festival

This Week:

• ​Courtney pulls 6Gs (and holds his guts)
• ​Strava buys Runna App — big move
• ​Boston: winner gets flattened, still wins
• ​Alex Yee’s marathon debut + secret shoes
• ​Group runs = fewer bonks
• ​Pooping beats podiums (for running fame)

🎧 Up next on Wednsday: Gold Coast Marathon Series with Benita on strength + pivoting your marathon goal

Follow the podcast on Instagram ⁠⁠@inthebeginningpodcast⁠⁠⁠

Courtney on ⁠⁠⁠Strava⁠⁠⁠

Liam on ⁠⁠⁠Strava⁠

SHOW NOTES:

Strava acquires Runna App

Robot half marathon

Zone 2, HRV & the Truth About Heart Rate Training — Presented by Polar - key partner of the Gold Coast Marathon.

This week we’re joined by Jon Easdown — sports scientist, Polar solutions specialist — to break down the science behind heart rate zones, recovery data, and wearable tech.

From zone 2 training and lactate thresholds to heart rate drift and the gold-standard chest strap, Jon shares practical tips for runners of all levels. Plus, a sneak peek at the next big frontier in wearables: real-time lactate monitoring.

The BIG Polar SALE is coming soon! April 28th - May 11th 2025

Up to 30% OFF

THE Gold standard for heart rate monitors and running watches

You’ll also get a fast direct delivery, 2-year warranty, easy returns. 

Check out Polar.com on 28th April for 2 weeks only.

Liam and Courtney unpack a pacing scandal at the Canberra Marathon—how far off is too far off your pacing target?

They dive into the rise of Aussie sprint stars, and whether a little rivalry between Gout Gout and Lachlan Kennedy could take things up a notch.

Plus:
▪️ Race report from Nike’s After Dark Half Marathon 🌙
▪️ Retro running gear chat
▪️ Strava heatmap hacks
▪️ And the Uno-inspired tip for marathon shoe strategy 🎴

Tune in for plenty of run chat & bold takes.

Follow the podcast on Instagram ⁠@inthebeginningpodcast⁠⁠

Courtney on ⁠⁠Strava⁠⁠

Liam on ⁠⁠Strava⁠

Show notes:

@joshpughcomic - runners before social media

Saucony trending for 2025

Strap in — we're kicking off a 12-week sprint to the Gold Coast Marathon!

In this first episode, Courtney and Liam tee things up with Aussie marathon royalty and Olympic legend, Benita Willis, who’s steering the ship as coach for the crew.

We’re also joined by Bronte Langbroek — brand new to the marathon game and ready to give it a red-hot crack.

From Bronte’s goal to run the whole way to Liam gunning for that sub-3, there’s plenty of nerves, laughs, and marathon wisdom in the mix.

Benita lays down the goods on how to train smart — we’re talkin’ pacing, recovery, sleep, snacks, and yep... the occasional ice bath.

Whether you're chasing a PB or just keen to survive the distance, come along for the ride and get amongst it.

👉 Want tailored coaching? Check out ⁠laceuprunning.com.au⁠

You can follow the podcast on Instagram at ⁠⁠⁠@inthebeginningpodcast⁠⁠⁠

Courtney on ⁠⁠⁠Strava⁠⁠⁠

Liam on ⁠⁠⁠Strava⁠

Bronte on Instagram

It’s a big chat. We kick off with our first-ever giveaway thanks to the legends at Polar, before diving into the Gold Coast Suns ‘nepo baby’ drama, Courtney’s next marathon mystery, Kiwi endurance grit, tech in shoes and sailing, and Liam’s update after officially pulling out of GCM.

🚨 GIVEAWAY TIME 🚨

We’re giving one lucky runner the ultimate setup — a Polar Pacer GPS running watch AND H10 heart rate strap 🎁

Whether you're training for your first 5K or lining up for your next marathon, this combo will level up your running game. Huge thanks to the legends at Polar Australia for making it happen.

HOW TO ENTER:

1️⃣ Subscribe to In The Beginning podcast

2️⃣ Leave us a comment on Spotify or Apple

3️⃣ That’s it — you’re in the running!

We’ll draw the winner in 2 weeks. Go on, treat your future self.

Follow the podcast on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@inthebeginningpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Courtney on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Strava⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Liam on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Strava⁠

With five weeks to go, Bronte smashes her 30K run (despite being sick), our coach from Lace Up Running, Benita Willis warns against getting too ambitious with marathon pace, and Liam makes the tough call to pull out of the race.

Plus, a deep dive into race gels, aid station strategy, and why planning your fuel matters more than you think.

Contact Benita at Lace Up Running

Bronte on ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠

Follow the podcast on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@inthebeginningpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Courtney on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Strava⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Liam on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Strava⁠

Courtney’s bouncing back, Liam’s breaking down (again), and Bronte’s smashing the 30K!

This week, the team dives into the wild world of the Enhanced Games, the madness of UTA trail jams, and William G’s run across Australia—beers, banter and record-breaking.

Plus: Strava’s new labels, the mystery of mismatched racing shoes, listener shoutouts from Scotland and a very big guest tease.

One of us is running, one of us isn’t, but the pod rolls on.

Follow the podcast on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@inthebeginningpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Courtney on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Strava⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Liam on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Strava⁠

Show Notes:

Enhanced Games

Salomon Golden Trail - Great Wall Race

Ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes at the Gold Coast Marathon?

We chat with Ryan McDonald, Athlete Services and Elite Program Manager, about everything from elite athlete demands to course tweaks, crowd science, and how to make the most of race day.

Whether you're running, spectating, or just curious, this episode has all the insider tips you need to know for this year's Gold Coast Marathon.

Follow the podcast on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@inthebeginningpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Courtney on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Strava⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Liam on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Strava⁠

This week, Courtney and Liam kick things off with the top 5 running songs as voted by 500 runners – are they the perfect playlist picks or total misses?

Then it’s back to the treadmill as they share their recovery runs, training tweaks, and Strava hacks as the Gold Coast Marathon looms closer.

Plus, they dive into the Gold Coast Pro’s surprise venue switch and what it means for future comps, and the buzz around Wrexham AFC’s upcoming Aussie tour

#running #marathon #fitness

Follow the podcast on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@inthebeginningpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Courtney on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Strava⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Liam on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Strava⁠⁠

SHOW NOTES:

TrackHouse Running Songs

It’s a full house in the studio this week as Courtney returns, and Bronte gears up for her longest run yet – a 30K mix of trail and road. 

Benita shares essential advice on how to handle race day shoe choices, pacing strategies, and how to stay mentally tough when the going gets tough.

Plus, Courtney’s back with some perspective on dealing with injury setbacks and how to reset goals with just seven weeks to go until the Gold Coast Marathon.

Tune in for training insights, runner confessions, and a bit of banter to keep you going.

Contact Benita at ⁠Lace Up Running⁠

Bronte on ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠

Follow the podcast on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@inthebeginningpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Courtney on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Strava⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Liam on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Strava⁠⁠

In this week's episode we go down some rabbit holes! Topics include:

• ​Trail Running vs. Eco-Tourism: Are we sacrificing raw adventure for accessibility?
• ​Aussie Records: Sam Clifford and Izzy Bat-Doyle smash 10K national records — but why aren’t they household names?
• ​Highs and Lows: From record-breaking splits to gut-wrenching injuries — the rollercoaster of elite endurance sports.
• ​Strava Predictions: Can AI really predict your marathon time after a month off running?
• ​Wings for Life World Run Wrap-Up: 71km to win — why the global charity run brings out the best in athletes.

Follow the podcast on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠@inthebeginningpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Courtney on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Strava⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Liam on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Strava⁠

SHOW NOTES:

Sam Clifford

Cam Wurf

My Issue With Modern Hiking - Better Hiking

ASICS Speed race Tokyo

Eight and a half weeks out from race day and Liam’s calf is cactus. Again!

So we brought in one of the best — Olympic team physio and Gold Coast Physio & Sports Health director Britt Caling — to unpack how to stay unbroken on your marathon build.

In this episode:

– Bone stress, calf dramas & the U-curve of injury risk

– Why “just running” isn’t enough: strength, sleep & activation tips that work

– What to do when you’re sick during training (plus the myth of running through it)

– How to build a personalised pre-run routine (without losing your morning coffee)

– When to actually go see a physio, and what good physio care should include

– “Sleep monsters”, race hallucinations & the wild world of adventure racing

🎧 Whether you’re chasing a PB or just hoping to make the start line, Britt’s advice is gold.

Courtney’s back in the studio, Liam’s (sorta) back from injury, and the pod is back in full swing. We chat rites of passage in elite sport—are locker room hazings a thing of the past? Plus, stories from Lightning Ridge (spoiler: it’s no resort) and a load of Strava-fuelled chaos from Tinder run clubs to Cliff Bar nightclub ads.

Also on deck:

• Courtney’s retro triathlon kit breakdown (radars + rad shorts)

• London Marathon wrap: Yee, Kipchoge, and a 1M entry prediction

• Nose strip showdown begins

• Listener Qs: Are carbon shoes worth it if you’re not Kipchoge?

🎧 Tune in, send us your Strava mishaps, and don’t forget to subscribe.

📩 Audio DMs always welcome—bonus points for calling Liam “sub-elite.”

Follow the podcast on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠@inthebeginningpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠

Courtney on ⁠⁠⁠⁠Strava⁠⁠⁠⁠

Liam on ⁠⁠⁠⁠Strava⁠

Show Notes:

Tinder Soulmates Challenge on Strava

Clif Bar x Strava 

9 weeks to go til the Gold Coast Coast Marathon and on this episode:

• ​Bronte Langbroek hits a half-marathon wall ​
• ​Benita Willis from Lace Up Running teaches why running slow wins marathons
• ​Liam Flanagan battles calf injury blues + pool running fails
• ​Nine weeks to go — mindset, mistakes, and motivation!

🎧 Perfect for first-timers, comeback runners, or anyone stuck in the injury trenches.

Contact Benita at ⁠Lace Up Running⁠

Bronte on ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠

Follow the podcast on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@inthebeginningpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Courtney on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Strava⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Liam on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Strava⁠⁠

This episode is brought to you by Southern Cross University, naming sponsor of the 10km event at the Gold Coast Marathon.

We dive into both the physical and mental prep for the Gold Coast Marathon with two experts from Southern Cross University. Dr. Gabe Fernandez, senior physiotherapist, breaks down why Achilles and calf injuries are so common and how to build strength and endurance leading up to race day.

And Dr. Melanie Clark, post-doctoral research fellow, shares mental strategies for staying focused and calm during training and how to handle setbacks like injuries or bad training days.

Plus, we talk about the exciting new physiotherapy course launching at Southern Cross University next year and their long-running support of the Gold Coast Marathon.

Tune in for actionable tips, injury prevention insights, and a fresh perspective on running mindset.

This week we recap the wild highs of Red Bull Race the Sun — frost, sprint finishes, and why it’s our favourite kind of chaos. Courtney and Liam share the races they’d relive, from China to Red Bull Defiance. Trail running 101 for beginners, thoughts on socks, the Big Five Marathon, and… is Liam back in for Gold Coast?

Follow the podcast on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@inthebeginningpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Courtney on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Strava⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Liam on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Strava⁠

In this weeks Gold Coast Marathon Series Episode we have two-time Comm Games champ Michael Shelley joining the pod to unpack his iconic Gold Coast Marathon win, give us all the pro-tips to run the Gold Coast Marathon route, old-school training methods, racing without a watch, and why his coach told him a marathon is just about “getting tired.” A must-listen for first-time marathoners and running purists alike.

Follow the podcast on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@inthebeginningpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Courtney on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Strava⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Liam on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Strava⁠