The Run Around Iowa
By Lance Bergeson
The podcast dedicated to interviews and insights on the individuals who are making headlines in distance running and triathlons in our great state.
The Run Around IowaApr 26, 2022
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43:09
Season 4, Episode 8: A conversation with former Dordt University All-American Eric Steiger
Eric comes on the show to talk about his debut races with the new Fitness Sports Distance Project team. Eric tells how he's sure he injured his hamstring a year ago and what he did to recover from the injury. The native of Lynden, Washington, details how he ended up in Sioux Center and at Dordt. He talks about the culture of success that has been built at the small Christian NAIA school and some special memories from the school's first NAIA team championship in 2022 in Tallahassee, Florida. Eric is asked about his hobbies, and he comes up with one that reflects his Washington heritage. He also looks ahead to some possible career goals he has in running.
Apr 19, 202454:09
Season 4. Episode 7: A conversation with Lisa Uhl and Lance's top-10 road racing efforts this decade
Lance starts the podcast by talking about an overnight running retreat that will be held in rural Cresco in mid-June. Then, listen to a March 22 interview with 2012 Olympian and four-time NCAA champion Lisa Uhl. Lisa talks about former teammate Betsy Saina's fine performances after having a child. She gives her thoughts on the pro career of former Cyclone great Cailie Logue, who ran at the world cross country championships on March 30, and her favorite road races. Then, Runablaze team leader Tyson Wieland comes on the program to talk about his new Iowa Road Racing League that is modeled after a series in the 1980s. Tyson also challenges Lance to come up with his top-10 Iowa road racing performances so far this decade. Both present their lists in countdown order and add in several efforts, some outside of Iowa, that were also noteworthy.
Apr 05, 202401:04:05
Season 4, Episode 6: A conversation with former Oskaloosa and Grand View standout Carter Huyser
Carter talks about how he ended up going from Grand View to Kansas Wesleyan, where he is coming off his best indoor season yet. He mentions similarities between his current program and the one he left last spring. Carter talks about teammates with whom he still stays in touch with. He tells of his favorite sport and how it has taken off in popularity in his new home of Salina, Kansas. The conversation turns to hair, where Carter admits he does spend quite a bit of time getting it to look just right. He tells of runners he likes to watch and many are in the NAIA ranks. He also tells if he will be running at historic Drake Stadium again.
Mar 27, 202454:06
Season 4, Episode 5: A conversation with Indian Hills track and field coach Brent Ewing
Brent comes on the podcast after winning his first NJCAA team title at the men's indoor meet at Gainesville, Florida, on Saturday. The former Centerville prep and Central College standout talks about the returning athletes and newcomers, including three former Iowa preps, who helped the Warriors win by 7.5 points. Brent talks about his two new assistants, both former Indian Hills athletes who stepped in to fill big roles during the team's run to a championship. He also tells of Olympic silver medalist and former Warrior Kenny Bednarek's impact on recruiting. Brent talks about the challenge of recruiting and how the team's indoor success will translate when the Warriors head to the outdoor season.
Mar 08, 202458:15
Season 4, Episode 4: A conversation with former Boone High and Drake University great Brogan Austin
Brogan opens the podcast by talking about a rash of injuries that have stalled his professional career since joining the Tinmam Elite team after winning the USA Marathon Championships at the end of 2018. The resident of Longmont, Colorado tells why 2024 is a make-or-break year for him. The former Iowa state champion and Drake Relays champion tells of his new interests. He gives his view of the success of Tinman teammate Reed Fischer and gives his thoughts on the best races of his career. Brogan also tells why he wants to take parts of his rural upbringing to Colorado someday. He gives an update on his brother, Chandler, and gives advice on a book you should read.
Feb 29, 202456:07
Season 4, Episode 3: Taking a look at news in Iowa distance running
Lance starts the podcast by mentioning the three former or current Iowa collegians who have impressed him this indoor track and field season. He takes a look back at the U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials and the highs and lows for former Iowa collegians. He tells of a new road race coming to Adventureland in May and the biggest star to come to the new Fitness Sports Distance Project team. He also shares breaking news on Iowa State competing at the Penn Relays again and what that might mean for the Drake Relays.
Feb 22, 202425:45
Season 4, Episode 2: A conversation with former Iowa Central Community College great Biya Simbassa
Biya talks about his preparation going into the U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials in Orlando on Feb. 3, where he will be among the top Americans to watch. The Under Armour athlete talks about the impact his coach, marathon great Ryan Hall, has made on his career. Biya, a former Sioux City North prep, also talks about what he has learned from his debut marathon in Prague in May, when he ran 2:10. He also comments on his confidence level and flying under the radar going into Orlando.
Jan 26, 202454:06
Season 4, Episode 1: A conversation with former Iowa State runner Tyler Jermann
In this interview from Jan. 6, Tyler talks about a nagging Achilles injury that has hampered his training. The former Iowa State runner, with Minnesota Distance Elite for six years, explains why he gravitated to the marathon. He talks about his 36th-place finish at the U.S. Marathon Trials in 2016 and how it propelled his career forward. Tyler, making his third trials appearance next month and the fourth former Iowa collegian interviewed in this series, details his favorite races. Tyler provides the primary reason he was disappointed when the Twin Cities Marathon was canceled in October. He talks about the difficulty of setting new personal records in the marathon after setting the bar so high. Tyler also looks at new running challenges that could be appealing.
Jan 09, 202447:60
Sesson 3, Episode 39: A conversation with former ADM prep and IMT half marathon winner Mason Frank
Mason details an injury-filled 2023 that has centered around a bad ankle. He tells his strategy for running the U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials marathon on limited mileage. Mason talks about a big change in his life and describes the hectic finish in the 2022 Napa Valley marathon that allowed him to qualify for the trials in Orlando by just three seconds. He gives his opinion on the tougher marathon standards and tells if he or his girlfriend, an elite runner, score better on an age-graded scale.
Dec 29, 202356:36
Season 3, Episode 38: A conversation with former Iowa Hawkeye runner Kevin Lewis
Kevin is the second guest during this series on former Iowa collegians and Iowans who have qualified for the U.S Olympic Marathon Trials. Kevin talks about being a new dad and taking his family to Florida for a team training camp before the marathon in Orlando in February. He tells of overcoming a leg injury that stalled his 2023 racing season. The former Ottumwa High prep star describes the area that he wants to improve on over the next month. He also mentions the key workout he completes that gets him ready for a fast marathon.
Dec 19, 202345:47
Season 3, Episode 37: A conversation with U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials qualifier Emma Huston
The podcast opens with big news from Ames, where director of track and field and cross country Jeremy Sudbury was given a contract extension through 2030. Lance looks at the impact of the move on the program. Then, former Des Moines Roosevelt and Drake University star Emma Huston is interviewed to start the series on former Iowa collegians who have qualified for the U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials in February. Emma talks about changing her plans after her tuneup race for the marathon, the Twin Cities Marathon, was canceled in October. The Drake record holder in the 1,500, 5,000 and 10,000 tells why she leans so much on her coach, Jacob Kaemmer. Emma details her best and worst races of her career and the biggest reason she chose to attend Drake. She also tells her favorite day of the Drake Relays and why December is a fun month for her.
Dec 07, 202356:32
Season 3, Episode 36: A conversation with ex-Linn-Mar great Josh Evans and a recap of NCAA nationals
Lance opens the podcast by talking about the Iowa State men's cross country's second top-five nationals in three seasons and two big reasons why. He also gives the highs and lows from the DIII meet in Pennsylvania. Then, listen to an interview with former Linn-Mar great Josh Evans from Nov. 10. The Iowa Gatorade Runner of the Year tells how he got his start in running. Now 27 years old, Josh tells of his recruitment to Iowa State and his struggles right off the bat under new director Martin Smith. He gives reasons for his struggles and if his departure was mutual. Josh says why he went to Division II Colorado School of Mines and why his start in Golden got off to a slow start. He tells why the Orediggers' distance medley relay All-American finish and school record were highly unlikely. Josh describes how he met his wife, Kayla, and the joy he gets coaching the Ankeny High boys cross country team. He mentions an annual tradition he and his fellow former Mines graduates keep alive each year. Josh also gives his opinion of who is the most famous Linn-Mar alum.
Nov 21, 202301:10:27
Season 3, Episode 35: Interviews from NCAA Division III Midwest Regional cross country from Waverly
Lance opens the show by paying tribute to an Iowa State distance great who died on November 9. Then, he hits the highlights from the NCAA Division I Midwest Regional from Stillwater, Oklahoma. Then, hear interviews from Division III Midwest Regional champion Lexi Brown and fourth-place Shaelyn Hostager of team champion Wartburg College. Central College's Caroline McMartin and Megan Johnson talk about their top-10 performances and leading the Dutch to nationals for the first time in over four decades. Simpson College senior Spencer Moon talks about his fourth all-regional performance. Central senior Noah Jorgenson chats about returning to nationals after finishing eighth Saturday. Wartburg junior Sam Kinzer, another all-region performer, also comments on his season and the Knights' hopes for the national meet.
Nov 14, 202348:07
Season 3, Episode 34: Interviews with Iowa State coaches Jeremy Sudbury and Amy Rudolph from Big 12s
Lance opens the podcast with another top result from an Iowa native at the SEC championships. He delves into the Drake men's Missouri Valley Conference title and the Bulldogs' hopes for a berth at NCAA nationals. He looks back at the American Rivers Conference meet and an excellent performance by the host Central College women challenging No. 3-ranked Wartburg. He also looks at the big winners from the NJCAA Region XI meet in Creston. Then, the talk turns to the Big 12 Championships on Ames. Women's coach Amy Rudolph talks about her team's performance and the state of the program. Director of track and field and cross country Jeremy Sudbury then discusses the team's effort Saturday, mining the transfer portal, recruiting internationally and optimism for cross country nationals and track and field season. Lance then closes out the podcast by talking about Iowa athletes' run to earn U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials qualifying times.
Oct 31, 202344:22
Season 3, Episode 33: A chat with former Iowa State runner Maggie Davis, now a coach at Black Hills
In this interview from October 14, Maggie talks of her quick transition to assistant coach at Black Hills State, located in Speardish, South Dakota. She tells the coaches who influenced her when she was a prep at Mount Vernon/Lisbon and why she waited until her senior year to go out for cross country. She tells when she decided to run in college and why she chose to attend Iowa State over Northern Iowa. Maggie describes how she thought her career was over before telling a funny story of meeting Iowa State's coach for the first time. She tells of the pressure she faced to stay on the Cyclone roster and struggling with "imposter syndrome" during her career. Maggie relives some of her favorite moments as a Cyclone and keeping up with her great workout partners and teammates. She tells what she learned from coaches Amy Rudolph and Jeremy Sudbury both as an athlete and assistant coach with the Cyclones last year. Maggie describes why she loves coaching and one of her favorite activities outside of track and field and cross country.
Oct 26, 202301:02:19
Season 3, Episode 32: D.M. Marathon recap, look at NCAA regionals, a new endeavor by Fitness Sports
Lance starts the podcast with his thoughts on the IMT Des Moines Marathon under new director Jake Jass. Hear interviews from half marathon winners Cody Baele and Emma Huston and their future goals. Lance then dives into the outlook at Division I NCAA regionals for the Iowa universities when they compete at Stillwater, Oklahoma, on the second weekend in November. He also gives the prospects for the Wartburg College teams in Division III and Dordt University in NAIA. The talk shifts to a new project started by the owners of the Fitness Sports running store that should be an eye-opener. Lance discusses Ironman's new series and how that will affect the pros in central Iowa. He also mentions a former Wartburg athlete who is asking for assistance from the running community.
Oct 20, 202346:18
Season 3, Episode 31: A conversation with new IMT Des Moines Marathon race director Jake Jass
Jake tells about how his dad inspired him to try a triathlon and how a friend of his first go him started on working triathlons. Jake, an Ankeny High graduate and Ironman Des Moines race director, tells about changes he has made with this year's race and tweaks he hopes to make in the coming years. Jake gives his outlook on the cancelation of the Twin Cities Marathon and how that could affect his race. He goes into the decisions behind when it is unsafe to race and why the 2022 Ironman Des Moines event was held in stifling heat. He tells why the elite field has been scaled back for 2023 and one of his favorite things to do when he's not in the office or spending time with his wife and son.
Oct 12, 202351:22
Season 3, Episode 30: Interviews with Runablaze's Austin O'Brien and Cody Baele and other Iowa news
Lance starts the episode by talking about college freshman phenom and former Ballard great Paityn Noe, who won the Chili Pepper 5K title while leading Arkansas to the team title. He talks about a big appointment for Drake Relays director and Drake director of track and field Blake Boldon, who has been very busy this summer and fall. He gives a good example of why the marathon appears alive and well in the U.S. Lance gives his thoughts on the Twin Cities Marathon cancelation Sunday and what he would have done had he been put in that situation. The podcast closes with interviews with the men's winners of the 5K and half marathon races at the 40th Capital Pursuit on Sept. 24. Austin O'Brien and Cody Baele describe their very different goals for October and November.
Oct 03, 202344:19
Season 3, Episode 29: A conversation with Sam Grotewold of the New York Road Runners
Sam, a Simpson College alum, tells how an invitation by coach Keith Ellingson to join the Storm cross country team in the mid-1990s changed the trajectory of his life. Sam turned that moment into something much more when he applied for a job as a web editor at the New York Road Runners. Sam tells the story of interviewing for the job and not thinking he would get it. Sam, the NYRR director of professional athletes since 2005, reveals one of the hardest days of his career in 2012. He explains why he believes the Fifth Avenue Mile is the best race in the world. He says why this race stresses him out much more than the New York City Marathon. Sam gives his view of the biggest change in distance running the past 10 years and why Iowa native Jenny Simpson is one of his favorite people in running. He also talks about how former Iowa State All-American Annie Frisbie made him a believer a couple of years ago and the process of moving elite runners from Midtown Manhattan to Staten Island on marathon morning.
Sep 22, 202301:00:53
Season 3, Episode 28: Updates on top professional distance runners from Iowa and much more
Lance goes solo for this show. He talks about two men who ran for Iowa colleges who will be racing for Team USA at the World Road Racing Championships in Latvia next month. He tells why the decision by the City of Des Moines and Drake University to create a world record sign downtown will appear foolish soon. He talks about marathons upcoming for two of the best American marathoners, former Iowa State greats Betsy Saina and Annie Frisbie. He tells of changes with Iowa runners at the Minnesota Distance Elite team and gives well-wishes to a former Iowa ultramarathoner who is recovering from a terrible car accident. He closes the show by giving his top villains in marathoning for 2023.
Sep 15, 202327:46
Season 3, Episode 27: Wrapping up year-long series with former Center Point-Urbana prep Josh Yeager
Lance starts the podcast by highlighting some of the best performances by Division I athletes from Iowa in season-opening cross country races. He also gives his view on conference realignment and if it will affect NCAA Division I teams. He offers his take on the recent World Athletics Championships and talks about an upcoming road race to put on your calendar. Lance also talks about his next project for the podcast. Josh Yeager then comes on to talk about a recent trip he took. The former Drake athlete now with the Minnesota Distance Elite team tells what he has learned from a younger Josh who battled injuries while running for the Bulldogs. He also provides his support system that got him through the rough times in the last year when he thought he his pro career might be at an end. Josh also takes a look at what his racing season could look like in the fall and winter.
Sep 04, 202346:56
Season 3, Episode 26: A conversation with Kyle Wagner of the IATC Exchange Zone podcast
Kyle comes on in an interview from August 22 to talk about where the top two seniors in the Class of 2023 - record-breaking Jackson Heidesch and Paityn Noe - will be running at this fall. Kyle, a former assistant coach at Iowa State, also tells where some other top graduates will be running out outside of Iowa. Then, Kyle takes a deeper dive into Iowa's four Division I and the freshmen who have signed to attend those schools. The conversation shifts to the top seniors to watch for the 2023 high school cross country season as well as a few underclassmen who should impress this year and coming years. Kyle also gives his view on the teams to beat in the four classes for boys and girls cross country.
Aug 27, 202355:11
Season 3, Episode 25: A conversation with Utah head coach and former UNI runner/coach Kyle Kepler
Kyle, the director of women's track and cross country at the University of Utah, comes on the program to address Utah's move to the Big 12 Conference and the impact it will have, if any, on recruiting and scheduling with the women's teams. He talks about the outlook for the Utes in their final cross countey season in the Pac-12. Kyle looks back at the special weekend he had coming back to Iowa in April, when his his team won the Relays Cup at the Drake Relays. He tells about growing up in Webster City and the impact his coaches and youth leaders had on him, and when he made the decision to focus on cross country instead of football. He also looks back at the Chris Bucknam era at Northern Iowa and the challenges that the Panthers face competing in the improved Missouri Valley Conference. Kyle also talks about his family and if his two young daughters have shown an interest in cross country and track.
Aug 18, 202301:01:07
Season 3, Episode 24: A chat Iowa Central assistant and ex-Dubuque Senior runner MacKenzie Gaherty
MacKenzie talks about her new coaching job at her alma mater - Iowa Central Community College - and the process of coming back to coach with director of track and field Dee Brown. She also explains why she enjoys Fort Dodge so much. The former Dubuque Senior standout explains what she learned from coaching at Gustavus Adolphus in Minnesota last spring and when she knew she wanted to become a runner in college. MacKenzie tells the story of how she ended up at Iowa Central and then at Minnesota State. She talks about her memorable final cross country season with Minnesota State when the Mavericks made history by qualifying for nationals. McKenzie also details a big reason why Dubuque produces so many standout runners.
Aug 11, 202350:19
Season 3, Episode 23: A monthly chat with Josh Yeager and interviews from the Bix 7 road race
Lance opens the podcast by talking about some news involving Drake University All-American Isaac Basten, Drake Relays director Blake Boldon and cross country scheduling. He then gives his opinion on who deserved to win the Iowa State Female Athlete of the Year Award. Then, some of the top athletes from the July 29 Quad-City Times Bix 7 race are featured. Bix winner and USA 7 Mile champion Biya Simbassa, top Quad-Citian Devin Allbaugh and University of Iowa All-Big Ten runner Max Murphy give their insights on their races and their futures. The monthly interview from July 26 with former Center Point-Urbana prep and Drake athlete Josh Yeager concludes the show. Josh tells of his trip back to Iowa, a familiar face joining his Minnesota Distance Elite team and where he plans to jump into a race in the next two months.
Aug 04, 202335:08
Season 3, Episode 22: A conversation with Iowa triathlete Tyson Wieland of the Runablaze Iowa team
Tyson comes on the show to discuss the good and disappointing from last weekend's Ironman 70.3 triathlon. The former Iowa Central and Johnston High runner talks about how a poor 2022 triathlon racing season had changed his outlook for this season. Tyson discusses athletes on the Runablaze team who are shooting for earning a spot in the U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials. The Des Moines resident details some ideas he has to boost the in-state rivalry with fellow race teams Running Wild Elite and Crown Running and the organization of October's Blazing 5K race. He talks of how he met his future wife Elise, a former Southeast Warren runner, and why he had doubts they would have a second date. Tyson tells of how their honeymoon to New York showed how Elise is the perfect partner for him. He describes the perfect scenario where he returned to John Deere as a product design engineer this year and his family's long history with the company. Tyson says a younger brother could be following in his path as a swimmer and tells if he wants to remain a cat dad.
Jul 28, 202301:04:23
Season 3, Episode 21: A conversation with former Pleasant Valley High standout Nick Yanek
Nick comes on the show to tell where he is headed after recently graduating from Notre Dame with a master's in business administration. Nick tells where he gains his inspiration for achieving so much in his life academically and athletically. He describes his early years as a runner starting out and how big sister McKenzie, a former Alabama and Vanderbilt runner, provided a tough act to follow. Nick mentions a tough state cross country meet with his Pleasant Valley High team and why the meet was memorable years later. He talks about an eating disorder that he struggled to beat while running at the University of Georgia and who helped him get back to a positive position. Nick relives an odd COVID-19 year with the Bulldogs and how graduating from Georgia in just three years created a different obstacle. He tells of his deep involvement with the LGBTQ+ group at Notre Dame and the circumstances behind him telling his friends, teammates and family he was gay. Nick finishes the show by detailing the experiences he learned from doing the marathon, including Boston in April when he was the top finisher from Iowa, and why he believes this October's Chicago Marathon will be his best marathon yet.
Jul 18, 202301:04:47
Season 3, Episode 20: Checking in with former Center Point-Urbana and Drake runner Josh Yeager
Lance starts the podcast by giving a bit of the behind-the-scenes details it took to complete the podcast with Cailie Logue. He talks about a recent race from Shelby Houlihan and a big move from former Pleasant Valley prep Devin Allbaugh. Lance also mentions an athlete he is interested in watching at the USA Championships that start Thursday. He also tells of his experience running in New York on vacation. Josh Yeager then comes on the program to chat about strides he is making in his return from injury and exercises he does to improve his core and hips. Josh also tells when he thinks he could return to racing.
Jul 06, 202341:07
Season 3, Episode 19: A conversation with 13-time Big 12 champ and 6-time All-American Cailie Logue
Cailie joins the program just over a week after finishing sixth at the NCAA Track and Field Championships in the 5,000 and 10,000 meters. Cailie talks about her final races as a Cyclone and how she prepared for the heat of Austin, Texas. She discusses the differences in coaching philosophy from Andrea Grove-McDonough to her current coach, Amy Rudolph, and the lessons she learned from "Coach Amy." She tells if she will be pursuing a professional career and staying in Ames for a while pursuing her master's degree. Cailie tells the reasons she decided to attend Iowa State over her other primary finalists, Oklahoma State and Arkansas. Cailie describes the special relationship the team's distance runners have with Lisa (Kohl) Uhl and is asked who she thinks will be the next breakout distance running star for the Iowa State program next year. She talks about growing up on Erie, Kansas, and why she appeared destined to become a distance runner. Cailie is quizzed on one specific piece of knowledge about Iowa State and she finishes the show with her thoughts on her teammates and her time in the Cyclone program.
Jun 26, 202301:16:51
Season 3. Episode 18: A conversation with former Ankeny Centennial and Iowa standout Emma Gordon
Before the interview, Lance pays his respects to former Storm Lake St. Mary's prep star Paul Yak, who was found dead near a trail in Delray Beach, Florida, on May 26. Then he brings on Emma Gordon, who started a podcast called Hawt Guy with fellow Hawkeye Maddie Block just over a year ago. He asks he how they came up with the name and their most memorable shows and if the podcast will ever come out of a hiatus. The former Ankeny Centennial prep talks about her standout final cross country season with the Hawkeyes, when she was 18th at the Midwest regional in Columbia, Missouri. Emma shares why that race was especially memorable for her. She chats about an experiment that went wrong during the most recent outdoor season. Then she delves into her prep career that started at Mediapolis. Her first love was soccer, but Emma says a bit of bad timing led her to cross country and distance running for good at Centennial her junior year. Emma tells of her embarrassing first practice at Centennial. She then lists some of the universities that turned her down when she was hoping to run in college and the story of how she eventually ended up at Iowa. Emma mentions if there is more running in her future and her internship in downtown Des Moines this summer. She also tells her favorite thing about living in Iowa City.
Jun 13, 202301:01:14
Season 3, Episode 17: A conversation with Ironman 70.3 Des Moines athlete Carrie Van Quathem
Carrie participated in the 2022 Ironman World Championships at Kona. She tells of the struggles she and other triathletes faced during brutal conditions at the 2022 Ironman Des Moines race. She describes how technology has changed in the sport from her first triathlon at the Hy-Vee event in 2008. Carrie gives listeners an idea of a typical week of workouts that includes one long bike ride and one long run. She says why she's a big supporter of the YMCA and how her family has to be on board with her decision to do an Ironman. Carrie talks about her early days in track and field and how she was a star jumper and hurdler, not a distance runner, at Wall Lake View Auburn High School. She details one of her favorite memories in sports that came immediately after a big disappointment. She describes what she could write on her wrist for inspiration at Sunday's race and an impact she hopes to make even before Sunday's race. Carrie also shares her names for her bikes, the first which was a $400 model.
Jun 07, 202357:11
Season 3, Episode 16: A conversation with UNI runner and former Waverly-Shell Rock prep Emma Hoins
The sophomore talks about a strong conclusion to her sophomore season with the Panthers that included her coming within 7 seconds of qualifying for the NCAA West Prelims in the 3,000 steeple. Emma tells of the meeting she arranged with UNI coaches to see if they were interested in bringing her aboard and her reasons for leaving Hawkeye Community College one academic year early. Emma gives her reasons why she decided at age 18 to get rebaptized and her special relationship with former Charles City rival and now Iowa State runner Kiki Connell. Emma details the art of the steeplechase event and listen where she uses the phrase "kick people's butts." The church youth leader tells of how a meeting with former Iowa State great Abby Caldwell helped change the trajectory of her prep running career. Emma gives the background behind the Waverly-Shell Rock Go-Hawks nickname and why she periodically deletes her Instagram account. She also tells of a special friend and the fun trip they took and whether her hair if naturally curly.
May 30, 202355:49
Season 3, Episode 15: A tribute to ex-D.M. Marathon director Chris Burch and a chat with Josh Yeager
The podcast opens with a new intro song, followed by acknowledgment of the work done by Chris Burch. Burch started his new job as operations director of the Principal Charity Classic on April 27. Lance tells of the many accomplishments Chris achieved in nearly 18 years at the helm of the IMT Des Moines Marathon and who has succeeded him in the role. Josh Yeager then comes on the program for a monthly chat to talk about his slow return to running. Josh also gives his opinion on the state of professional running and if the Drake Relays was hurt by too many competing meets. He also is asked his ideal spring racing season were he to target racing at the U.S. Track and Field Championships in early July.
May 23, 202342:19
Season 3, Episode 14: A conversation with former Griswold prep and Wichita State star Rebekah Topham
Rebekah comes on to discuss her health, which includes a diagnosis of Lyme disease. The resident of Wichita says she still suffers the effects from the disease and assorted ailments connected to the problem. Rebekah talks about a tough transition to college academics and the struggles that came with it. She discusses her recent performances on the track and why she hasn't given up on running professionally. She also tells why she turned down a chance at modeling not too long ago and how she is focusing on her health.
May 12, 202347:11
Season 3, Episode 13: A critique of 113th Drake Relays and a closer look at a program shutting down
Lance offers his frank assessment of the Drake Relays and where director Blake Bolden and the Drake administration need to improve for future years and if the traditional bad weather for the event can ever be overcome. He also looks at Upper Iowa's decision to eliminate men's track and field and cross country and if there are other programs in Iowa that could be on the chopping block.
May 06, 202331:44
Season 3, Episode 12: Checking in with Josh Yeager and a big change with Iowa State track and field
Lance opens the podcast by talking about a new 15,000-square-foot addition to the Lied Center that will be a huge benefit to the Cyclone track and field, cross country and wrestling programs. He gives his thoughts on the upcoming Drake Relays and why California is now the place for collegians to race for fast times. Then, Josh Yeager comes on to talk about his slow return back to running, starting a new job, his preferred shoes and his good and bad memories from past Drake Relays events.
Apr 21, 202341:39
Season 3, Episode 11: A conversation with former Iowa Central national champion Eleonora Curtabbi
Eleonora takes a break between classes to talk about her journey to Iowa and Fort Dodge for two years and if she likes her current home in Canyon, Texas, better than Fort Dodge. The reigning NCAA Division II steeplechase champion chats about what she thinks about late in races. Eleonora, a native of Turin, Italy, describes why she doesn't join her family in downhill skiing, a popular activity in her home city. She talks about her favorite stadium she had competed in and remembers her memorable races at Division II outdoors last year and cross country nationals four months ago. Eleonora tells of dating a fellow runner for the past four years and why her small apartment is a hub of activity most nights. She also gives insight into her chances of winning a repeat national title in May.
Apr 11, 202345:39
Season 3, Episode 10: Iowa Wolves indoor marathoners and Dordt seniors Joe Anderson and Trey Engen
Lance was at the Iowa Wolves indoor marathon, held on conjunction with the IMT Des Moines Marathon and DMOS on March 22 to interview all four runners - Jan Atchison, Dennis Haney, Bruck Huckfeldt and Kiersten Hathaway. All four finished their marathons and offer their feelings on the experience - both highs and lows. Then, listen to an interview with Dordt University seniors Joe Anderson and Trey Engen. They helped the Defenders win the men's NAIA cross country title in November - the school's first team title in any sport. The former Central Lyon-GLR and Algona High runners talk about their memorable first meeting, the championship culture in Sioux Center and Joe's marriage last summer and hobby away from running. After Joe has to leave, Trey chats about the road to becoming a lawyer and challenging for an NAIA outdoor title in May.
Mar 30, 202301:17:06
Season 3, Episode 9: Interviews with ESPN announcer John Anderson and Chip Albright and Josh Yeager
Lance opens the podcast with an honor for a former Iowa State grad. Then, he airs portions of an interview he conducted with sports broadcaster John Anderson, who works the track and field and New York City Marathon events for ESPN. John talks about his love of Iowa, affection for the Drake Relays, why he went to broadcasting track and field and what the sport has to do to attract more viewers. Iowa Wolves marketing leader Chip Albright then talks about a marathon that will be held at Wells Fargo Arena on Wednesday during an Iowa Wolves game. Chip talks about his inspiration for the promotion, getting Chris Burch and four members of the IMT Des Marathon committee on board and if this an event that could be duplicated in the future. Then, Josh Yeager comes on to talk about more injuries that have derailed his spring track season. The former Center Point-Urbana star also chats about a big change upcoming in his life.
Mar 20, 202354:20
Season 3, Episode 8: A chat with Grand View NAIA champion and former Pekin runner Isaiah Wittrock
Isaiah talks about last weekend's NAIA national indoor meet when he racked up his 10th and 11th All-American honors. Isaiah describes his run to the NAIA 1,500-meter title a year ago in Alabama. The former Pekin athlete, who won four state titles as a senior in 2018 to lead the Panthers to the Class 1A team title, tells when he decided to fully commit to track and field. Isaiah details how he chose Grand View and how he met his future wife, Sara. He talks about becoming a new father in May and some challenges that will entail. Isaiah also shares one of his hobbies away from running and if he will try for a repeat NAIA 1,500 championship in May.
Mar 10, 202301:00:12
Season 3, Episode 7: A chat with UC-Santa Barbara cross country coach, ex-UNI runner Shayla Houlihan
Shayla comes on the podcast to talk about how she ended up in sunny Southern California. She details her incredible first season with the Gauchos when she led the men's team to a conference title. Shayla tells of her growth as a coach with the Under Armour Dark Sky team in Flagstaff, Arizona before coming to California. She describes her journey in running from Northern Iowa to Utah and when she knew it was time to retire from professional running. She also shares one big similarity her program shares with Northern Iowa. She gives an update on younger sister and 2016 Olympian Shelby Houlihan, who is just over halfway through an Athletics Integrity Unit ban after a failed drug test and how she and her family surprised Shelby recently. Shayla tells if she recruits Iowa even though the Gauchos have a roster heavy with Californians. She also gives her thoughts on whether runners are predestined to be elite based on their genes.
Mar 03, 202356:51
Season 3, Episode 6: A conversation with former Iowa Central Community College legend Adva Cohen
The Olympian from Israel and former NJCAA athlete of the year in cross country and track tells of her funny story of coming to Fort Dodge and Iowa and not being prepared for what she would find. Adva, a new member of the Under Armour Mission Run Dark Sky Distance team in Flagstaff, Arizona, talks about her late start in running and why, in part, she became a professional runner at age 26. Adva shares one big reason she is good at the steeplechase and why she hasn't raced since August. The native of Jerusalem talks about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict in her home region. The three-time first-team All-American for New Mexico tells of her favorite place she has visited, her experiences of running in the Olympics and if she expects to have tough competition in the Israeli trials for the Paris Olympics next year.
Feb 20, 202354:04
Season 3, Episode 5: Checking in with Josh Yeager and the topic of records in track and field
Lance starts the podcast by talking about the preponderance of records broken in track and field and whether the technology makes these records inflated. He also talks about the Ironman 70.3 event coming to Des Moines. Then Josh comes on to chat about his first month back running from a stress reaction in his leg. The former Center Point-Urbana prep and Drake athlete also goes into some cons with running on the treadmill and outdoors in Minnesota in February. Josh is also asked about his opinion on shoe technology.
Feb 14, 202340:04
Season 3, Episode 4: interviews with athletes and coaches from Saturday's Iowa State Classic
Hear interviews from Iowa State's Cebastian Gentil, a winner in the men's 800 meters. Drake University junior Isaac Basten, the winner in the men's mile, Indian Hills coach Brent Ewing, Northern Iowa sophomore and former Waverly-Shell Rock prep Emma Hoins, former Dowling Catholic runner Tyler Schweizer, now running for Saint Louis University, Drake Relays director Blake Boldon and changes with that event and Iowa State junior Janette Schraft, a former Glenwood prep.
Feb 06, 202345:03
Season 3, Episode 3: A conversation with Loras NCAA champ and ex-Cedar Rapids Prairie prep Mike Jasa
Mike comes on the show to talk about his victory the day before in an 800 meters at the University of Iowa. He also chats about running the No. 2 effort all-time in the 600 meters in Davenport the week before that clinched USTFCCA national athlete of the week honors. Mike details his wrestling background that included an appearance at state and injuries that derailed several of his seasons. He talks about the different dynamic of running 5Ks in cross country and then sprints and hurdles in track and field. Mike describes 40 of the most memorable minutes of his life when he made history at the Drake Relays with a pair of high school titles in three races. He also tells of the moment when Loras coaches knew he would no longer be running 400 hurdles and instead concentrate more on 800s. Mike talks about his new bride Beth, her influence on him and their honeymoon in August. He also tells of goals he has this season and beyond.
Jan 24, 202301:02:08
Season 3, Episode 2: Checking in with regular guest Josh Yeager and Iowa State track coaching news
The podcast opens with news on a new Iowa State assistant track and field coaching hire. Then, former Center Point-Urbana prep standout Josh Yeager comes on to provide his progress from a stress reaction in his leg. The Minnesota Distance Elite athlete tell of his adjustment to using a product called LightSpeed Lift, which reduced his body weight by 25 pounds while running on a treadmill. Josh also talks about a test that showed he has low bone density and what's next in his plan. He also chats about adding a dietitian and changes he is making with his food intake.
Jan 18, 202337:18
Season 3, Episode 1: A conversation with Dan Curts. former Big 12 champion in the 5,000 meters
Dan talks about a move back to the Eastern time zone, to Vermont/New Hampshire, during the pandemic to train with longtime American standout Ben True. He goes into detail what working with Ben has meant to him. Dan also describes how his interest in mountain/elevation running got started. He talks about his time in Ames and how team tactics were used in many championship races. He also gives his viewpoint on why the Martin Smith era ended a couple years ago. Dan tells why he feels he has a gift for mountain running and the popularity of the sport in Europe. He also tells some of the challenges he encountered while racing in Italy last September.
Jan 10, 202301:02:24
Season 2, Episode 55: The best audio clips from the show in 2022
The podcast starts with a few news items involving track teams in Iowa. The top audio segments from 2022 are introduced, in chronological order. They include stories and conversation from former Davenport Assumption a d Iowa athlete Mallory King; former Marion and Mount Mercy prep Annie Ertz; former Cedar Falls prep and current Northwest Missouri State athlete Caroline Cunningham; Des Moines marathoner John Taylor III; former Des Moines Christian prep Oksana Johnson; former Western Dubuque and Wartburg College runner Joe Freiburger; former Crestwood prep and current Baylor student Ellie Hodge; professional triathlete Jess Smith of Clive; former Sioux City North and current South Dakota runner Merga Gemeda; former Iowa State All-American Hillary Bor; former Earlham High prep Andrea Haus; and former Marion High and current Maranatha Baptist runner Jeremy Fopma.
Jan 03, 202350:33
Season 2, Episode 54: A chat with former Marion High star and four-time NCCAA champion Jeremy Fopma.
Jeremy comes on to talk about his fourth consecutive National Christian College Athletic Association Division II cross country title won last month in Missouri while running for Maranatha Baptist on Wisconsin. Jeremy chats about pursuing a master's of divinity degree and about his marriage to Maddy. He describes how he wants to dedicate time in the future toward a professional running career, with an eye on qualifying for a U.S. Olympic Trials race. He also tells of an unglamorous summer job that has taught him several lessons. Jeremy tells of his large family and how he got his start in running. He also describes his memorable state track and field individual title that boosted Marion to a state team championship. Jeremy also is asked a question to show how he has matured in just a short time. He also is asked about an inspirational athlete who has encouraged him during his time at Maranatha in Watertown.
Dec 20, 202256:47
Season 2, Episode 53: A fun conversation with former Earlham High prep Andrea Haus
Andrea comes on the show to talk about her marathon debut, a 3:02 at the Indianapolis Monumental Marathon last month in challenging conditions. She tells if she has gotten the marathon bug or if this dare from her friends has been completed. Andrea, a former Hamline University all-conference runner and coach, tells how she ended up as the marketing and events coordinator at Mill City Running in the Twin Cities and the joy she experiences with her job. Andrea also explains what a speckler does. The former 15-time state track qualifier in middle distance events at Earlham talks about the special role she played in her best friend's wedding. Andrea also shares a fun race that she will be participating in in March. She also tells some of her favorite foods as well as new workouts she thought she would never enjoy when she was at Hamline.
Dec 12, 202248:04