Explore every episode of the podcast Out and Back
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| #3 - Cow Harbor 10k Preview, Flagstaff Medal in the Marathon, World Championships talk, Hocker DQ, Jakob 5k Revenge | 19 Sep 2025 | 00:49:08 | |
In this episode of the Out and Back podcast, hosts Jacob Thomson and Rory Linkletter discuss the excitement of the fall marathon season, including the upcoming Cow Harbor 10K and the importance of training strategies like fatigue resistance. They recap the recent world championships, highlighting thrilling finishes in both the men's and women's marathons, and celebrate Julia Paternain's historic bronze medal. The conversation also touches on the drama of the 1500m final, predictions for the upcoming 5K races, and the potential for more stadium finishes in road racing, emphasizing the blend of preparation, luck, and the electric atmosphere that championship races bring. Follow us: Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Fall Racing Season 02:04 Race Preparations and Expectations 05:34 Training Philosophy: Fatigue Resistance 12:13 Championship Marathons: Insights from Recent Races 20:33 Highlighting Underdogs: Julia Paternan's Journey 22:54 Dramatic Events: The 1500m Final Recap 23:38 The Blunt Truth of Performance 24:50 Controversy in Competition: The DQ Debate 26:51 Finals and Surprises: The 1500m Race 28:27 The 10K Upset: Gressier's Victory 31:49 Kijelcha's Transition: From Track to Road 33:08 5K Predictions: A Competitive Landscape 36:39 Dark Horse Picks: Surprises in the 5K 40:10 Women's 1500m: Kipjegon and Rising Stars 42:16 Marathon Finishes: The Stadium Experience | |||
| #2 Jon Green - Coaching an Olympic Medalist, Indicator Workouts, Verde Track Club Future | 19 Sep 2025 | 00:47:05 | |
In this episode of Out and Back, hosts Jacob Thomson and Rory Linkletter welcome their first guest, John Green, head coach of the Verde Track Club. The conversation explores John's journey from a successful high school and collegiate runner to a professional coach, discussing his coaching philosophy, the impact of COVID-19 on training, and the importance of athlete engagement. They delve into the challenges of competing on a global stage, the lessons learned from coaching, and the strategies for building a successful team. The episode wraps up with insights on favorite workouts and future aspirations in the world of running. running, coaching, marathon, athlete, training, Olympic trials, coaching philosophy, injuries, competition, professional running Rory Linkletter and Jacob Thomson are professional marathoners chasing fast times and big goals on the roads. Training out of Flagstaff, Arizona, they’ve got plenty of stories from the grind of big mileage, the chaos of race travel, the highs and lows of racing on the world stage and the random stuff that happens between workouts. With a passion for storytelling, running culture, and building community, Rory and Jacob bring listeners behind the scenes of the marathon lifestyle. Training talk with a few detours. Follow us: Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest 02:51 John Green's Journey as a Runner and Coach 05:57 Transitioning from Athlete to Coach 09:06 Coaching Philosophy and Athlete Engagement 12:06 The Impact of COVID-19 on Training and Competitions 14:48 Building a Successful Coaching Team 17:56 Competing on the Global Stage 20:48 Lessons Learned from Coaching and Injuries 24:01 Favorite Workouts and Training Strategies 26:42 Looking Ahead: Goals and Aspirations 29:38 Final Thoughts and Wrap-Up | |||
| #1 - Pilot Episode, Why a Podcast, Marathon is for Everyone | 19 Sep 2025 | 00:40:46 | |
Episode 1: In the inaugural episode of the Out and Back podcast, hosts Rory Linkletter and Jacob Thomson discuss their backgrounds in running, current training regimens, and upcoming marathon goals. They delve into the importance of consistency in training, the challenges of medium long runs, and the debate between taking days off versus running every day. The conversation also covers strategies for racing the Chicago Marathon, emphasizing the mental and physical aspects of marathon preparation. The hosts invite listeners to engage with the podcast and share their experiences in the running community. Show Notes: Rory Linkletter and Jacob Thomson are professional marathoners chasing fast times and big goals on the roads. Training out of Flagstaff, Arizona, they’ve got plenty of stories from the grind of big mileage, the chaos of race travel, the highs and lows of racing on the world stage and the random stuff that happens between workouts. With a passion for storytelling, running culture, and building community, Rory and Jacob bring listeners behind the scenes of the marathon lifestyle. Training talk with a few detours. Follow us: Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Out and Back Podcast 01:12 The Mission Behind the Podcast 04:44 Hosts' Backgrounds and Running Journeys 07:25 Life Changes and Training Updates 09:26 Goals for Upcoming Marathons 12:03 Racing Strategies and Mindset 13:59 Reflections on Past Races 16:49 Preparing for the Final Weeks Before a Marathon 22:46 The Challenge of the Midweek Run 28:09 The Debate: Six Days vs. Seven Days of Running 34:38 Strategies for Racing the Chicago Marathon | |||
| #5 Mike Arishita - CEO & Founder of Blanks Nutrition, How to fuel for a marathon | 01 Oct 2025 | 00:45:36 | |
In this episode of the Out and Back podcast, Rory and Jacob welcome Michael Arashida, CEO and founder of Blanks Sports Nutrition. They delve into the complexities of sports nutrition, emphasizing the importance of individualized fueling strategies for athletes at all levels. Mike shares insights on the art and science of nutrition, the challenges of running a sports nutrition company, and common mistakes made by amateur athletes. The conversation highlights the necessity of practice and experimentation in finding the right fueling methods, as well as the balance between high performance and health. Follow us: Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Blanks Sports Nutrition 01:44 The Importance of Customization in Sports Nutrition 05:00 Art and Science of Fueling for Performance 08:08 Trial and Error in Finding the Right Fuel 12:06 High Performance vs. Health 13:17 Functional vs. Optimal Performance 15:53 Training the Gut for Endurance 19:59 Front-Loading Fueling Strategies 21:30 Understanding Race Day Nerves and Nutrition 30:23 The Art of Fueling: Gels vs. Liquids 34:56 Navigating the Challenges of Running a Nutrition Business 39:11 Common Mistakes Amateur Athletes Make 43:41 Final Thoughts on Nutrition and Performance | |||
| #4 Julia Paternain - World Championship Medalist, Phone calls from Paula Radcliffe and the Uruguayan President | 26 Sep 2025 | 00:47:15 | |
In this episode of the Out and Back podcast, hosts Jacob Thomson and Rory Linkletter welcome Julia Paternain, a bronze medalist at the Tokyo World Championships in the marathon. Julia shares her unique journey from a competitive swimming background to becoming a marathon runner, detailing her experiences in college athletics, her training in Flagstaff, and her preparation for the Tokyo marathon. She discusses the challenges she faced, her strategies for success, and the surreal experience of winning a medal for Uruguay. The conversation highlights the importance of community, the emotional aspects of competition, and Julia's plans for the future as she navigates her newfound success. Follow us: Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Julia Paternine 02:40 Julia's Unique Background and Journey 11:54 Transition to Flagstaff and Training 17:24 Tokyo World Championships Experience 22:37 The Surreal Experience of Success 24:34 Whirlwind Aftermath of the Race 28:22 Deciding the Next Steps 31:34 Preparing for the Tokyo Marathon 42:20 Momentum and Strategy During the Race 44:30 The Thrill of Finishing in a Stadium Julia Paternine, marathon, Tokyo World Championships, bronze medal, running journey, Flagstaff, training, athlete, sports, competition | |||
| #6 - Chicago Marathon Preview, The Record Chase is ON, Your guide to race day! | 09 Oct 2025 | 00:49:09 | |
Be sure to give us a rating and leave a comment! Follow us: We discuss the upcoming Chicago Marathon, focusing on Rory's training, Canadian record attempts, and the competitive landscape of elite marathon running. They delve into the importance of consistency in training, pre-race preparations, and the dynamics of race day. Chicago Marathon Trivia Questions. The conversation also touches on the elite fields for both men and women, highlighting key athletes and their potential performances. And lastly, we offer some tips for runners participating in the event.
Chapters 00:00 Race Week Anticipation 03:07 Training Insights and Record Attempts 05:53 The Importance of Mental Preparation 08:56 Race Week Logistics and Media Obligations 12:09 The Competitive Landscape of the Chicago Marathon 14:55 Interactions with Fellow Athletes 17:51 Marathon Progression and Personal Growth 26:04 The Evolution of a Marathoner 29:12 Preparing for the Chicago Marathon 31:37 Trivia and Insights on the Chicago Marathon 37:20 Analyzing the Men's Field 46:01 Final Thoughts and Race Day Tips | |||
| #7 - Chicago Marathon War Stories, Rory runs 2:06, Way to early 2028 Olympic Trials discussion | 15 Oct 2025 | 00:48:33 | |
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| #8 - Reed Fischer - Tinman Elite's new focus, New York City Marathon, World Championships | 26 Oct 2025 | 00:52:14 | |
Give us a follow and join us on social media if you enjoyed today's episode. Follow us: Today on the Out and Back podcast, we sat down with professional marathon runner Reed Fischer. We talked about Reed bouncing off the World Championships to race the New York City Marathon. We covered how he is preparing for multiple marathons in a season, his experience at the World Championships, and his preparation for the upcoming New York City Marathon. We dove into the evolution of the Tin Man Elite team and the challenges of professional running. Reed shares insights on the competitive landscape of marathon running and his personal goals for the future. | |||
| #9 - Biya Simbassa, 2:06 Marathoner, Top American Seed at New York City Marathon | 01 Nov 2025 | 00:37:59 | |
Please do us a massive favor and like, rate, and share the podcast if you enjoy it! Biya is a former teammate and training partner of both Jacob and Rory. We got to chat with Biya about his new coaching set up with Ian Carter and the workouts that lead to his 2:06 Marathon in Valencia last year. We touch on his fueling and race strategies. We chat about the competition in New York City Marathon and what Biya has done to prepare for the course. Follow us: | |||
| #10 Ran to Japan - Why is Japan so deep in the marathon? Running Youtube, 2:38 to 2:13 Marathon, Olympic Dreams, Building a Community | 09 Nov 2025 | 00:54:06 | |
Please give us a follow, share this episode with a friend, and check out our socials! Join the nearly 100k subs Jake has on YouTube here: Follow us:
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| #11 Brady Holmer - Vo2 Max, How to Increase Volume Safely, Heat Training for Performance, Sub 2:20 at CIM. | 17 Nov 2025 | 00:52:10 | |
Please give us a follow at the links below and share with a friend. Today we chat with Brady Holmer. This was a very science heavy episode. We cover Vo2 Max training in marathons, how to increase volume, marathon fueling, heat training for performance, Brady's personal goals for the upcoming CIM race and more. Follow Brady: Follow us: | |||
| #12 Mica Rivera Wood - Building Instagram and Youtube to 100k, Marathon Debut, Training with Ed Eyestone's group | 23 Nov 2025 | 00:46:27 | |
If you enjoyed this episode, please give us a follow and share it with a friend! Mica Rivera Wood discusses balancing being a creator and an elite runner, her decision to transition from track to marathon running. She reflects on her initial fears and the excitement she feels about taking on this new challenge. Mica shares her thoughts on her potential in both track and marathon running, emphasizing the joy of embracing new experiences in her athletic journey. Follow us: | |||
| #13 - CIM & US Champs Preview, Taper Time, Key Workouts in the Build, Fuel Plan | 01 Dec 2025 | 00:33:39 | |
If you enjoyed this episode - please give us a review and follow! Today we discuss the upcoming California International Marathon (CIM), which is also the USATF Marathon Championships. Go through Jacob's build up, race strategy, and expectations for the competition. We delve into tapering, carb loading, and fueling strategies. We also talk about the rest of the competitive field at CIM. The conversation highlights the excitement surrounding marathon racing and the camaraderie among athletes as they prepare for race day. Follow us: | |||
| #14 Johannes Motschmann - 140 mile weeks, 2:10 Marathon, Best Training Camps | 09 Dec 2025 | 00:57:46 | |
Please hit the follow and subscribe button and leave us a rating! Follow us: | |||
| #15 Joe Whelan - 6 marathons in 1 year, 2:09 at CIM | 14 Dec 2025 | 00:43:56 | |
| #16 Between Reps with Chris - Training Updates, most Overrated, Underrated, and Misunderstood things in Running, How much Volume is too much? | 21 Dec 2025 | 01:09:53 | |
Join Jacob, Rory, and Chris as they dive into a good ole banter style episode that feels like a run with friends. From debating the most overrated running trends to sharing outrageous hot takes, this episode is packed with laughs and unexpected insights. Don't miss out on the fun—tune in and let us know if you agree with our spicy opinions! Follow us: | |||
| #17 JP Flavin - Marathon Project Champion, Brooks Hansons Distance Project, in collaboration with John Gay from the Shakeout Podcast | 02 Jan 2026 | 00:45:05 | |
Follow us: We're kicking off 2026 with a special New Year's Day episode featuring guest host John Gay from the Shakeout Podcast for a conversation with recently crowned The Marathon Project champion JP Flavin, fresh off his win and new lifetime best of 2:09:18. The pros-only event was held in Chandler, Arizona last week. Flavin, a member of the Michigan-based Brooks Hansons Original Distance Project team, discusses his build up for his most recent event and his year-over-year progression in the marathon, with a personal best in each of his last five showings. In addition, JP talks about his decision to move up to the event right out of university, and whether other young distance runners should consider making the jump earlier in their careers. The crew also talks training, fuelling and marathon peaking, while laying out the biggest storylines heading into the new year. Give JP Flavin a follow @JFlavinP | |||
| #18 - Houston Marathon Preview, What's in & What's out for 2026 | 08 Jan 2026 | 00:57:01 | |
| #19 - Canadian Record, Rory runs 59:49 at the Houston Half Marathon | 13 Jan 2026 | 00:42:33 | |
Follow us: In this episode of the Out and Back podcast, Rory Linkletter shares his experience of breaking the Canadian half marathon record. He discusses the immediate aftermath of the race, including drug testing and media obligations, and reflects on the race dynamics, training strategies, and the importance of competition. Rory emphasizes the significance of community support in running and shares his future goals and plans for upcoming races. The conversation highlights the impact of young athletes in the sport and the importance of maintaining a healthy mindset in training and competition. | |||
| #20 Josh Hoey - Indoor 600 World Record, New Training, New Balance Grand Prix, Wanamaker Mile, Bicarb, and Favorite War Movies | 18 Jan 2026 | 00:40:59 | |
In this episode of the Out and Back podcast, host Jacob Thomson and co-host Chris Striegel welcome elite 800-meter runner Josh Hoey. They discuss Josh's recent world record in the 600 meters, his training methods, and the importance of speed endurance. Josh shares insights into his upcoming races, adjustments to his training schedule, and the significance of altitude training in Flagstaff. The conversation also touches on the evolution of racing strategies in the 800 meters, the impact of technology on training, and advice for aspiring young athletes. Follow us: | |||
| #21 Eric Floberg - Floberg Runs, Dad Strength, Discipline, Authenticity in Content Creation, Marathon Training in Chicago | 25 Jan 2026 | 00:55:30 | |
Eric's Youtube Follow us: Summary In this episode, Rory Linkletter and Jacob Thomson sit down with Eric Floberg, a unique figure in the running community known for his engaging YouTube content and inspiring journey in the sport. They discuss Eric's late start in running, his experiences with marathons, the intersection of running and business, and the importance of family in his life. The conversation also touches on Eric's approach to content creation, his recent philanthropic efforts through running, and his training focus as he prepares for upcoming races, including the Boston Marathon. | |||
| #22 - Mailbag, Boston Marathon Fields, Training Updates | 01 Feb 2026 | 00:48:25 | |
Please give the podcast a follow, a 5 star review, and share with a friend with you enjoyed today's episde. Today Rory and Jacob break down the Boston Marathon elite fields, give an update on their training, and answer some loyal listener questions. Follow us: | |||
| #23 Brady Holmer - What really matters when it comes to sleep, caffeine, ketones, lactate training | 08 Feb 2026 | 01:18:03 | |
Check out our links below! We welcomed back our first-ever returning guest, Brady Holmer, for a wide-ranging conversation on performance, recovery, and the details that actually move the needle. We cover everything from Diet Coke and caffeine’s role in performance to what truly matters for sleep and recovery—including optimal sleep routines, practical sleep hygiene tips, and simple adjustments athletes can make right away. Brady breaks down key recovery and readiness metrics like HRV, respiratory rate, and resting heart rate, and how to interpret them in real training contexts. We also dive into lactate clearance, training adaptations, and supplement strategies, including when (and when not) to use ketones, sodium bicarbonate, and Nomio. Throughout the episode, we focus on science-backed, practical approaches to optimizing endurance performance without overcomplicating the process. If you’re interested in training smarter, recovering better, and understanding the “why” behind the data, this one’s for you. Follow us: | |||
| #24 Between Reps - Pacing the AR attempt, Upcoming races, Marathon Myths, Does the treadmill count? | 14 Feb 2026 | 01:03:51 | |
If you enjoy this podcast - please give us a follow and leave a review - It helps the show a ton! Check out our links below. In this episode of the Out and Back Podcast, Jacob and Rory discuss their current training experiences, including Jacob's time in Barcelona where he is pacing for an American record attempt, while Rory races the Mesa Half Marathon. They also share insights from their recent podcast with Brady Homer, updates on upcoming races, and the importance of joining Sandy Boy Productions. The conversation touches on marathon myths, the effectiveness of treadmill workouts, and how to manage health and illness during training. They wrap up with a discussion on listener engagement and future guests. Need a coach? Check out our links below: Follow us: | |||
| #25 Jess Tonn McClain - Boston Marathon, Marathon Fueling, Bicarb for Long Races, Keeping Training Fun, Lower Mileage Approach to the Marathon | 22 Feb 2026 | 00:49:46 | |
Today we sit down with Jess Tonn McClain who was the top American at the 2025 Boston Marathon, 8th place at the 2025 World Championships Marathon, 4th place at the 2024 Olympic Trials Marathon. She will be on the start line with Jacob & Rory at the 2026 Boston Marathon as well. We chat about her Boston Marathon specific training, about stepping away from pro running, and then finding her groove in the marathon post covid. She shares how she enjoys life outside of training and keeps professional running fun. Follow us: | |||
| #26 Dakotah Popehn - Boston Marathon, Minnesota Distance Elite, Overdistance Long Runs | 01 Mar 2026 | 00:50:36 | |
Check out our links below! In this episode, pro marathoner Dakotah discusses her training strategies, altitude training in Utah, race tactics for Heart Break Hill, and insights into the Boston Marathon course. She shares practical tips for marathon preparation and the importance of mental resilience in marathon training. We also talk about her coach, Chris Lundstrom, his training philosophy, and what he has been able to do with the MN Distance Elite Team, even without a corporate sponsor. Follow us: | |||
| #27 Between Reps - Ethan Shuley's Training Deep Dive, Grant Fisher’s Half Debut, USATF Half Marathon Disaster, Boston Marathon Training Updates | 08 Mar 2026 | 01:18:00 | |
Join our newsletter - We'll send your the PDF. Follow us: The Marathon Project Discount Code: outandback Cure Hydration: curehydration.com/OUTANDBACK | |||
| #28 Conner Mantz - Lessons from Injury, Boston Build, Training Insights | 15 Mar 2026 | 01:04:11 | |
Conner Mantz Shokz Documentary Follow us: Thank you to The Marathon Project for supporting this weeks episode. Use Code "outandback" for an additional $25 off your registration. Prices go up on April 1st! Today we are joined by American Record Holder Conner Mantz. We talk about the lessons he has learned from the biggest injury in his career, his Boston build up so far, and about his teammates and training environment with coaching legend Ed Eyestone in Provo, UT. | |||