Back of the Pack Podcast

This week on The Back of the Pack Podcast: Second Wind, we tackle the quieter, tougher side of the comeback: recovery. Whether you're healing from injury, surgery, burnout, or a personal storm, the mental game can be the real mountain to climb. Kyle opens up about his own recovery journey after two open-heart surgeries and explores how running—and not running—affects our identity, confidence, and hope. From lost pace to rediscovered purpose, this episode is for anyone who's had to start over, slow down, or sit on the sidelines wondering if they'd ever feel like themselves again. Recovery isn't just about getting back on your feet—it's about finding your footing in a whole new way.

Week one of ultramarathon training is in the books—and it was a sweaty one! In this episode, we kick things off by checking in on how training is feeling so far, especially as the summer heat settles in. Then we dive into two weekend race recaps, starting with Saturday's Fighting Fentanyl 5K in Shawnee, KS—a meaningful event with a powerful cause. Sunday brought the Village Shalom Father's Day 10K, where the course was fast, but the humidity was faster. Let's just say… it wasn't my finest race performance. We close out the episode by talking about how humidity messes with your running—from elevated heart rate to that feeling of running through soup. If you struggled in this weekend's weather, you're not alone. Lace up and tune in for some honest race reflections, training talk, and weather wisdom from the back of the pack.

This week on The Back of the Pack Podcast: Second Wind, we're flipping the script and handing the mic to the women. Kyle is joined by special guest Hillary Burgess—a San Antonio-based runner, influencer, wife, and mom of two—who opens up about the wild mental marathon of motherhood, burnout, body image, and invisible labor. From emotional load to lacing up, we dive into how running offers not just endorphins, but escape routes. Hillary gets real about mom guilt, the pressures of social media, and why sometimes the strongest thing you can do is admit you're struggling. It's heartfelt, it's honest, and yes—there may be some laughter!. Whether you're a runner, a parent, or just trying to keep it together, this one's for every woman carrying more than miles on her back.

While host Kyle is out of town, we're thrilled to welcome Gretchen and Elaine from "The Happy Pace Podcast" out of St. Louis as our guest hosts! These incredible women have mastered something that frankly boggles our minds – they record their entire podcast while actually running. That's a level of multitasking that would have Kyle gasping for air and forgetting his own name by mile two. In this episode, Gretchen and Elaine are joined by Eric Strand, a fellow runner who just conquered Grandma's Marathon in Duluth, Minnesota. Eric brings his post-marathon wisdom and stories from the North Shore, and you can check out more of his running adventures on his YouTube channel at https://youtu.be/fV5WXgMovDA?si=EZvmWq_Vy4qAE8_6.Unfortunately, our St. Louis friends have been dealing with more than just training miles lately. Recent tornado activity has devastated parts of their beloved running routes, including the park where The Happy Pace Podcast typically records their on-the-run episodes. Despite these challenges, Gretchen and Elaine continue to embody the resilience and positive spirit that makes the running community so special. How You Can Help St. Louis Recovery Efforts: The tornado damage has impacted not just running trails, but entire communities. If you'd like to help with recovery efforts, here are two ways to make a difference:General St. Louis Disaster Relief: https://www.stlvolunteer.org/disasterForest Park Recovery (including running trails): https://www.forestparkforever.org/tornado-recovery?fbclid=PAQ0xDSwKrmPtleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABp2ZJ4Aof6y8KNM1I8_0Rz3chykinlevaVaEOxyPmDLQ42VLDpZEJWJN_pyp8_aem_ZynP-fP7esfHJrra7jkMPAThe running community has always been about supporting each other through both miles and challenges – this is a perfect opportunity to show that Back of the Pack spirit extends far beyond race finish lines.

This week on The Back of the Pack Podcast: Second Wind, we launch our June Mental Health Awareness Month series with the most personal episode Kyle has ever recorded. In an unfiltered, no-interview format, Kyle opens up about his 15-year journey through mental health struggles stemming from divorce, single parenting, two open-heart surgeries, and the complex layers of modern masculinity that often leave men suffering in silence. Drawing from CDC statistics showing men die by suicide four times more often than women, Kyle explores the cultural conditioning that teaches men to "man up" instead of speak up, and how phrases like "don't cry" and "handle it" create dangerous emotional isolation. Through deeply personal stories about divorce, co-parenting challenges, his heart condition, and the overwhelming pressure of carrying it all quietly, Kyle demonstrates how life's compounding stressors can break even the strongest men. But this isn't just about the struggle – it's about survival through movement. Kyle reveals how running became his lifeline when words failed, offering structure in chaos, serving as meditation in motion, and providing the one safe space where a grown man could process pain without explanation or judgment. From his work with Team Fidelis supporting veteran suicide prevention to finding community in the back-of-the-pack philosophy, this episode proves that while running doesn't fix everything, it can give you strength when you have nothing left and remind you that moving forward – no matter how slowly – is always better than standing still.

This week on The Back of the Pack Podcast, we dive deep into the 52nd running of the legendary Hospital Hill Half Marathon in Kansas City, Missouri – Kyle's ninth time tackling this challenging course that's been testing runners for over five decades. From the notorious hills that give this race its name to the unique atmosphere that makes it a Kansas City tradition, we break down every aspect of this iconic event and what keeps runners coming back year after year. We then shift gears to celebrate an incredible milestone as we honor our running buddy Dan's achievement of completing his 200th half marathon – a testament to consistency, dedication, and the pure love of the 13.1-mile distance. The episode wraps up with an important discussion about the unexpected challenge Mother Nature threw at runners across the Midwest this weekend: wildfire smoke from Canada that created hazardous air quality conditions affecting everything from the Hospital Hill Half Marathon to the Fargo Marathon. We explore how these increasingly common environmental factors impact race day decisions, runner safety, and performance, providing essential information every endurance athlete needs to understand about training and racing when air quality becomes a concern. Whether you're a Hospital Hill veteran, inspired by incredible milestone achievements, or concerned about environmental impacts on running, this episode covers the full spectrum of our weekend racing reality.

This week on The Back of the Pack Podcast: Second Wind, we take a brief look ahead to this weekend's Hospital Hill Half Marathon before diving into a heartfelt conversation about the behind-the-scenes reality of podcast creation. We open up about the costs, time, and passion that go into bringing you twice-weekly episodes, and introduce you to our Patreon community at patreon.com/TheBackofthePackPodcast where listeners can directly support the show's growth and sustainability. We share our genuine appreciation for the 17 incredible supporters who've already joined our mission, while explaining how Patreon benefits both creators and the running community we've built together. From exclusive content to the unique rewards we offer our patrons, we break down exactly how these monthly contributions help us invest in better equipment, expanded coverage, and more engaging content for the entire back-of-the-pack family. We even share our ambitious (and slightly ridiculous) goal of reaching $550 monthly support – complete with Kyle's promise of a half marathon in a nightgown if we ever hit that milestone! Whether you're curious about supporting your favorite podcasts, interested in the business side of content creation, or simply want to understand how small contributions can make a massive difference in keeping independent media thriving, this candid conversation shows our appreciation for every listener who makes this community possible.

This week on The Back of the Pack Podcast, we deliver a comprehensive update on everything happening in our running world, starting with Kyle's volunteer experience at this morning's Going the Distance 5K & 10K where he witnessed the race from the other side of the finish line. We then dive into a sobering reality check about the true physical toll of back-to-back racing, using Kyle's recent calf injury from the Fly Over Challenge as a real-world case study of how consecutive half marathons can lead to serious muscle strains or tears that sideline runners for weeks. Drawing from medical expertise and personal experience, we break down the warning signs, recovery protocols, and prevention strategies that every ambitious runner needs to understand before attempting back-to-back endurance events. We also catch up on our recent guest highlights, reflecting on the impactful conversations we've shared from Libby Davis and the Fighting Fentanyl 5K's life-saving mission, to the inspiring multi-generational spirit of Village Shalom's Father's Day races, and our groundbreaking on-location episode at Rendezvous Climbing Gym. Whether you're recovering from your own racing injury, planning future challenges, or simply want to stay connected with the diverse Kansas City running and fitness community, this episode offers honest insights, practical wisdom, and the reminder that sometimes the most important finish line is the one that gets you home healthy.

This week on The Back of the Pack Podcast: Second Wind, we break new ground with our very first on-location recording at the incredible Rendezvous Climbing Gym in Leawood, Kansas! Join us for an exclusive behind-the-scenes experience with owner Mark Messner, whose fascinating journey from educator to runner to climbing gym entrepreneur will inspire anyone chasing their passion. Mark expertly draws the surprising connections between the running and climbing communities – from the mental toughness required to push through challenging moments to the supportive atmosphere that welcomes athletes of every level. Get an insider's tour of this state-of-the-art bouldering facility, where no ropes or harnesses are needed, just your determination and chalk-covered hands. Whether you're intimidated by the idea of climbing or consider yourself a seasoned athlete, Mark showcases how Rendezvous offers something for everyone – from beginner-friendly walls easier than climbing a ladder to the ultimate V9 challenge that will test even elite climbers. Located at 13124 State Line Road and open Monday-Saturday 10AM-10PM and Sunday 10AM-4PM, this isn't just a gym – it's a community where runners can discover their next adventure and cross-training opportunity. Don't miss this unique episode that might just inspire you to trade your running shoes for climbing shoes and discover muscles you never knew you had!

This week on The Back of the Pack Podcast, we celebrate the perfect Father's Day gift – a community run with purpose. We're joined by an inspiring panel from Village Shalom retirement and memory care facility in Overland Park, as they prepare for their annual Father's Day 5K & 10K on June 15, 2025. Board Chair Bob Gerson shares the heart behind this tradition, while we're treated to wisdom and wonderful stories from 95-year-old running legend Alan Poisner, whose presence alone proves that movement truly is the fountain of youth. Representatives Hope Howe and Ben Heisler complete our roundtable, offering insights into Village Shalom's mission, the race's evolution, and what makes this course uniquely special. From the facility's rich history of compassionate care to the inclusive nature of this multi-generational event, our conversation highlights how this isn't just another 5K or 10K – it's a celebration of fathers, families, and the joy of movement at every stage of life. Whether you're looking for a meaningful way to celebrate Father's Day, curious about racing well into your 90s, or simply want to support a worthy cause, this episode will inspire you to lace up and register for this June 15th tradition that brings the Kansas City running community together across all ages.

This week on The Back of the Pack Podcast, we bring you a conversation that transcends running and touches on an urgent public health crisis affecting our communities. We sit down with Libby Davis, founder of "Keepin' Clean for Coop" and the Cooper Davis Memorial Foundation, who shares the heartbreaking story behind her mission after losing her son to fentanyl poisoning. Libby reveals the shocking reality that Kansas leads the nation in fentanyl-related deaths per capita among 15-19 year olds, and how a lethal dose is small enough to fit on a pencil tip. We discuss the upcoming Fighting Fentanyl 5K on June 14th at Mill Valley High School – not just a race, but a powerful movement combining fitness with life-saving education. Learn how last year's event helped put awareness ads in front of Kansans over 9 million times, and how the new team registration option is building community support. This episode goes beyond typical race coverage to address a crisis every parent, educator, and community member needs to understand. Whether you're joining the 5K or simply want to protect your loved ones, this conversation about youth mental health, deceptive social media drug sales, and prevention strategies could literally save lives in your circle.

This week on The Back of the Pack Podcast: Second Wind, we dive into the exciting world of local multisport events with special guests Josh and Katy from Johnson County Parks and Recreation Department (JCPRD). These race directors extraordinaire pull back the curtain on organizing some of the Kansas City area's most beloved endurance events, including the Kill Creek Triathlon, Shawnee Mission Park Triathlon, and Heritage Park distance races. The spotlight shines especially bright on their groundbreaking new initiative – Team Tri913 – a youth triathlon program launching this summer designed to introduce the next generation to the joys of swimming, biking, and running. Get the inside scoop on this innovative program's structure, goals, and how it's creating accessible pathways for kids to experience the transformative power of endurance sports. Plus, hear the exclusive announcement about how The Back of the Pack Podcast will be partnering with JCPRD at this year's Shawnee Mission Triathlon to enhance the experience for participants and spectators alike. Whether you're a triathlon enthusiast, a parent looking for youth athletic opportunities, or simply curious about the people behind your favorite local races, this conversation showcases the passionate community builders making multisport magic happen in Johnson County.

This week on The Back of the Pack Podcast, we tackle the grueling "Fly Over Challenge" - an ambitious weekend of back-to-back half marathons across two states in just 24 hours. Join us as we recount our journey from the rolling hills of the Top City Half Marathon in Topeka, Kansas on Saturday morning to the spirited streets of the Lincoln Half Marathon in Nebraska on Sunday. We break down every aspect of this double-header weekend: from navigating the capital city courses and managing the three-hour interstate drive between races, to the mental and physical battle of waking up with 13.1 miles already in the legs and facing another starting line. You'll hear unfiltered insights about course conditions, crowd support, medal quality, and the unique characteristics that make each race special, along with the reality of what it takes to complete 26.2 miles split across consecutive days. Whether you're considering your own back-to-back challenge or just enjoy the vicarious thrill of extreme running adventures, this comprehensive race review delivers the complete Fly Over Challenge experience from start to finish(es).

This week on The Back of the Pack Podcast: Second Wind, we roll out the red carpet for special guest host Karin Velez, the award-winning creator behind the "Just Grow Something Podcast." In this nutrition-focused episode, Karin brings her expertise to tackle one of running's most misunderstood rituals – carb loading. Far beyond the simplistic "pasta party" approach the night before a race, Karin delivers a comprehensive FAQ-based breakdown that transforms how runners should think about strategic carbohydrate consumption. She expertly navigates the science behind proper carb loading, dispels common myths that may be sabotaging your race performance, and offers age-specific approaches that acknowledge how our nutritional needs evolve throughout our running journey. Whether you're preparing for your first 10K or your twentieth marathon, Karin's practical, evidence-based strategies will revolutionize your pre-race nutrition plan and potentially unlock performance gains you never thought possible. Don't miss this essential episode that finally answers the question: "Am I really carb loading correctly, or just eating extra pasta?"

This week on The Back of the Pack Podcast, we take you on our whirlwind adventure to the Bluegrass State for the Kentucky Derby Festival race weekend! Follow our journey as we road trip to Louisville, swing by the iconic Louisville Slugger Museum to see baseball history in the making, and then tackle not one but two races in 24 hours. We break down Friday night's KDF 5K experience, complete with its unique evening atmosphere, before diving into Saturday morning's main event – the miniMARATHON half marathon that puts runners right through the historic Churchill Downs. Hear our unfiltered account of the weekend's highs (beautiful course sections, dual race medals) and lows (aid station chaos and overzealous pacers that left runners scrambling). We'll share our honest assessment of this Derby Festival tradition, practical tips for future participants considering the challenge, and whether the trek to Kentucky was worth it for this racing experience. Whether you're looking for your next destination race or just enjoy hearing about running adventures gone slightly sideways, this episode delivers the complete Louisville racing experience from start to finish line.

This week on The Back of the Pack Podcast, we deliver a triple-header of running excitement! We kick things off with our breakdown of the 2025 Boston Marathon results, analyzing the elite performances and standout moments from America's most prestigious road race. Next, we share our experience at the Easter Egg 5K and 10K in Overland Park, Kansas, giving you the inside scoop on this springtime tradition. The main event follows as we preview our upcoming adventure to the GE Appliances Kentucky Derby Festival miniMarathon in Louisville, diving into this iconic race's rich history from its humble 1974 beginnings to today's 15,000-strong field. We explore the unique course highlights – including the thrilling run through Churchill Downs – and share essential Louisville running culture, from popular training routes along the waterfront to the city's vibrant running community. Whether you're considering this race for your calendar, planning a running trip to Derby City, or just curious about one of the Midwest's largest half marathons, we've packed this episode with insider information, local tips, and travel insights to get you as excited about Louisville as we are!

This week on The Back of the Pack Podcast: Second Wind, we share a remarkable story of accountability from The Running Well store that transformed a minor expo table mishap into a lesson in ownership and integrity. After mentioning the incident on Monday's episode, the store reached out with an apology, demonstrating the power of taking responsibility in the running community. Inspired by this gesture, we dive deep into how accountability shapes every aspect of our running journeys: from the honesty required in training logs and the ownership of race performances (both triumphant and disappointing), to the responsibility we hold in recovery practices and as stewards of our running environments. We explore how the most respected athletes, races, and brands demonstrate accountability, and why developing this trait might be as important to your long-term running success as any training plan. Whether you're struggling with consistency, managing a running setback, or looking to deepen your connection to the running community, this episode offers practical insights on how taking ownership can transform not just your running, but your relationship with the sport itself.

This week on The Back of the Pack Podcast, we take you behind the scenes and onto the course of the celebrated Rock the Parkway Half Marathon weekend! Join us as we recount our adventures at the bustling expo where we connected with fellow runners at our podcast table, and then follow along for our comprehensive review of this iconic Kansas City race - from the rolling hills to the fantastic crowd support that makes this event a regional favorite. After breaking down the course, organization, and our personal experiences, we dive into a timely discussion about age-appropriate recovery for runners in their 40s and 50s. Having just completed our third half marathon in three consecutive weekends, we share essential insights on why recovery needs change as we age, optimal rest periods between races, the most effective recovery modalities for masters runners, and how to avoid the common recovery mistakes that can derail your running journey. Whether you're considering Rock the Parkway for 2026 or looking to maximize your longevity in the sport, this episode delivers race-tested wisdom for the back-of-the-pack community.

This week on The Back of the Pack Podcast, we dive into the mental battlefield of endurance running after surviving the brutal El Dorado Half Marathon in Kansas. Join us as we recount our harrowing experience battling the unholy trinity of running conditions: 40-degree temperatures, punishing 50mph winds, and relentless rain that left us questioning our life choices by mile nine. After breaking down the race itself, we explore powerful mental strategies that can save your race when your brain is screaming to quit - from segmenting the course into manageable chunks and employing mindfulness techniques to using visualization, positive self-talk, and even strategic distraction methods. Whether you're a seasoned runner or just starting out, this episode offers practical mental tools to transform your approach to difficult races, terrible weather conditions, and those inevitable dark moments when finishing seems impossible. Discover how to rewire your thinking and find strength when your body and mind are ready to surrender.

This week on The Back of the Pack Podcast, we dive into the fascinating world of virtual races and challenges, inspired by a listener request! We explore how these accessible alternatives to traditional racing evolved from niche events into a global phenomenon during the pandemic, and why they've maintained their popularity even as in-person events return. From single-day virtual 5Ks to year-long distance challenges that take you across continents, we break down the different formats, highlight successful platforms like The Conqueror Challenges and Lazarus Lake's Great Virtual Race Across Tennessee, and discuss both the benefits and criticisms of this racing style. Whether you're a medal collector, a runner seeking flexibility, or simply curious about how technology is reshaping the running community, this episode unpacks everything you need to know about participating in races and challenges from anywhere in the world. Join us as we lace up virtually and explore this innovative approach to running events that's here to stay.

This week on The Back of the Pack Podcast, we tackle the highs and lows (quite literally) of the Liberty Half Marathon in Missouri, sharing our unfiltered experience with those notorious hills that tested every runner's resolve. From course highlights to post-race celebrations, we give you the complete rundown of this challenging event. Then, inspired by some race day struggles, we dive into a powerful discussion about the runner's sphere of control - distinguishing between what we can meticulously prepare for and what we simply must accept on race day. Whether you're a seasoned ultrarunner or a 5K enthusiast, this episode offers practical wisdom to reshape your approach to training, racing, and the inevitable obstacles that come with pursuing finish lines. Join us for an honest conversation about finding peace with the uncontrollables while maximizing your potential through the aspects of running you can influence.

This week, The Back of the Pack Podcast brings you the colorful world of Andrew, better known throughout Kansas City as the KC Cosplay Runner. From 5Ks to half marathons, Andrew transforms the race course into his personal runway, sporting a different themed costume and curated playlist for every event. Discover how this unique approach to running began, how Andrew crafts his elaborate outfits, and the meaningful impact he's making by turning heads while raising funds for charity. Whether he's dashing through downtown Kansas City or logging solo miles, Andrew brings joy to spectators and fellow runners alike with his creative spirit. Join us for this inspiring conversation about combining passion for running with cosplay creativity and community service, proving that not all heroes need to run at the front of the pack to make a difference.

The Back of the Pack Podcast: Second Wind dives into the legendary Barkley Marathons this week, an ultramarathon so brutal it's been dubbed "The Race That Eats Its Young." Join us as we explore this mysterious 100+ mile event through Tennessee's unforgiving Frozen Head State Park, where runners navigate by compass through briar-filled terrain with 65,000 feet of elevation change. Discover the eccentric traditions created by founder "Lazarus Lake," from the unpredictable cigarette-lit start to the somber playing of "Taps" for fallen runners. With only 22 finishers since 1986, this isn't just an ultramarathon—it's an almost mythical challenge that represents the outer limits of human endurance. Whether you're an aspiring ultrarunner or just fascinated by extreme sporting events, you won't want to miss this deep dive into one of running's most notorious and captivating challenges.

Join us for a special anniversary episode of The Back of the Pack Podcast as we celebrate three years of running adventures! Host Kyle recaps the festive Westport St. Patrick's Day 4 Mile race while expressing heartfelt gratitude to the friends from "The Happy Pace Podcast" who traveled from St. Louis to join the celebration. This milestone episode offers a nostalgic look back at the podcast's humble beginnings and most memorable moments, paired with exciting glimpses into what's ahead for the show. The biggest revelation? Kyle's announcement that he's taking on his most ambitious challenge yet – a 50 mile Ultra Marathon this September! Whether you're a loyal listener or first-time tuner, this episode captures the authentic community spirit that has kept this podcast going strong for three years, proving that the journey truly is better at the back of the pack.

Join Kyle on The Back of the Pack Podcast: Second Wind as he finally unpacks his unforgettable Rock 'n' Roll Las Vegas weekend from February. From touchdown in Sin City on his birthday to crossing two finish lines over two days, Kyle delivers an unfiltered account of what happens when birthday festivities collide with racing ambitions. Experience the thrill and challenges of Vegas's iconic nighttime races as Kyle navigates the world-famous Strip during the 5K and Half Marathon while battling the aftermath of birthday celebrations. This episode offers a candid look at destination racing, complete with course insights, travel tales, and the ultimate lesson on balancing vacation indulgence with race performance. Whether you're planning your own race-cation or simply enjoy vicarious running adventures, Kyle's Vegas double-header story proves that what happens in Vegas... makes for an entertaining podcast episode!

Join Kyle on this poignant episode of The Back of the Pack Podcast as he unpacks the bittersweet second annual B.E.A.R.D. Run 10K – a race created to honor local running legend Scott Green's 300th career race while battling terminal cancer. What began as a powerful community celebration with 500+ runners last year dwindled to just 156 participants this year, raising difficult questions about how we honor our fallen running comrades. Kyle doesn't hold back in addressing the race's organizational challenges, including the unmarked turnaround that sent runners off course, but focuses more pointedly on the Kansas City running community's fading commitment to Scott's legacy. With next year marking the third and final B.E.A.R.D. Run – as Scott himself requested – this episode serves as both reflection and rallying cry. Listen as Kyle shares his personal disappointment and issues a heartfelt challenge to runners everywhere: How will we show up for the final chapter of a race that meant everything to a runner who gave so much to our community? This isn't just about a race – it's about remembering why we run together in the first place.

Join us for an episode of The Back of the Pack Podcast that tackles a surprisingly common runner's nemesis – dogs on the chase! Host Kyle dives into "When Good Runs Go Ruff," inspired by a listener's harrowing experiences with canine pursuers during her training runs. This entertaining yet practical episode unpacks why dogs chase runners in the first place and equips you with a complete survival guide: from mapping "danger zones" and perfecting the "stop and stand" technique to exploring whether treats might turn foes into friends. You'll hear real stories from fellow runners who've faced everything from terrifying pack encounters to unexpected canine friendships. Whether you're a dog lover who just wants peaceful runs or someone whose heart races at the sound of barking, this episode delivers the perfect blend of science, strategy, and humor to help you navigate the unpredictable world of four-legged encounters on your running routes. Remember, at The Back of the Pack Podcast, "I make the mistakes, so you don't have to" – even when those mistakes involve accidental dog races!

Join us for an immersive recap of the 2025 "La Petite Roche" Marathon weekend as The Back of the Pack Podcast takes you behind the scenes of Little Rock's Mardi Gras-themed race extravaganza! Host Kyle pulls back the curtain on his double-race challenge – conquering both the 5K on Saturday and the Half Marathon on Sunday – while also sharing the excitement of connecting with runners at the two-day expo. From travel adventures to race-day triumphs and everything in between, this episode offers an insider's perspective on one of the running world's most festive weekends. Whether you're curious about running multiple events on consecutive days, interested in the unique Mardi Gras atmosphere of this year's races, or simply want to experience the energy of a major marathon weekend through a back-of-the-packer's eyes, this episode delivers authentic insights and entertaining stories that will have you feeling like you were right there celebrating in Little Rock!

Join Kyle on The Back of the Pack Podcast: Second Wind as he lives up to the show's unofficial motto: "I make the mistakes, so you don't have to." In this eye-opening episode, Kyle candidly shares his Las Vegas birthday blunder when celebrating turning 45 coincided with the Rock 'n' Roll Las Vegas 5K. Follow his perfect storm of pre-race errors – from early morning travel and desert dehydration to downing multiple beers before toeing the starting line. With scientific precision and self-deprecating humor, Kyle dissects exactly how alcohol sabotaged every system in his body, from muscle function and energy levels to coordination and recovery. Whether you're a competitive runner or casual jogger, this cautionary tale delivers valuable insights about the surprising ways alcohol undermines athletic performance. Tune in for this refreshingly honest look at what happens when birthday celebrations and race ambitions collide!

Join us for an enlightening episode of The Back of the Pack Podcast where we welcome back our beloved guest host and award-winning podcaster, Karin Velez from the Just Grow Something Podcast. While Kyle continues his Las Vegas running adventure, Karin takes the reins to demystify the science behind VO2Max - a topic our listeners have been eager to understand. Known for her exceptional ability to break down complex scientific concepts, Karin unravels the mysteries of this crucial fitness measurement that runners often hear about but rarely fully comprehend. Whether you're a seasoned athlete or just starting your running journey, you won't want to miss this listener-requested deep dive into the science that could transform your understanding of running performance and cardiovascular fitness.

Join us for an illuminating journey through Las Vegas's unexpected running paradise on this week's episode of The Back of the Pack Podcast: Second Wind. Beyond the dazzling casino lights and entertainment shows, we explore the vibrant running community that calls the desert city home. From the iconic Rock 'n' Roll Las Vegas Marathon that shuts down the famous Strip at night to the challenging trails of Red Rock Canyon, discover how running has transformed Vegas into a premier destination for athletes. We'll reveal how this thriving running scene generates over $200 million in annual economic impact, uniting 40,000 runners from around the world for an unforgettable nighttime marathon experience. Whether you're a seasoned runner or just curious about the intersection of sports and Sin City, this episode offers a fascinating look at how Las Vegas has evolved into a bucket-list destination for runners worldwide.

Buckle up for a triple-header of race reviews that's more action-packed than a Presidents Day mattress sale! Join host Kyle as he burrows underground for the Groundhog Run's Tunnel to Tunnel Challenge, sprints to the finish before the Super Bowl kickoff, and laments the mysterious case of the phantom ice storm that stole the Sweetheart Run. But wait, there's more! Kyle dives into the art of spotting personal progress - because sometimes your biggest victories aren't just about beating your PR. Whether you're here for the race tales, the Kansas City winter running adventures, or just want to know if Kyle actually saw his shadow in those underground tunnels, this episode delivers faster than a post-race pizza order!

Ever feel like one weekly dose of The Back of the Pack just isn't enough? Well, grab your recovery shoes because we're about to double your running podcast joy! Welcome to The Back of the Pack Podcast: Second Wind - where we're breaking free from the race course to explore all the paths that make up a runner's life. In this debut episode, host Kyle unveils his vision for this Friday favorite-to-be, where we'll dive into everything from crushing fitness goals and parenting adventures to mental health victories and whatever wild tangents catch our breath along the way. Think of it as your post-long-run coffee chat, where the conversation flows as freely as your favorite electrolyte drink. Whether you're a longtime Back of the Pack faithful or just stumbling upon our running family, lace up and join us for this exciting new chapter. Warning: May cause spontaneous motivation and uncontrollable desire to sign up for another race... or maybe just finally organize that gear closet!

This week, we're diving deep into the world of hills, hills, and... oh yeah, more hills! Join host Kyle as he chats with Michael Russel about the upcoming Liberty Half Marathon and William Jewell 5k - where 'flat' is apparently a four-letter word. From the pre-race expo to the post-race celebrations, Michael spills all the details about this Hy-Vee sponsored event that's doing more than just torturing runners' quads - it's supporting the Liberty Hospital Foundation. Whether you're curious about the course (did we mention it's hilly?), want to learn about the charitable impact, or just need motivation to train on some inclines, this episode is your perfect training partner. Bonus: Find out why runners keep coming back to this challenging March event, despite their calves' formal protests!

Join host Kyle as he takes you on a wild southern road trip that somehow involved two races, one dolphin-themed medal, and enough BBQ stops to fuel a small army. From Kansas City to Gulf Shores, this episode chronicles the Big Beach Marathon Weekend where Kyle tackled both the Safari 7k and Half Marathon to claim the coveted Dolphin Challenge. Whether you're here for the race stories, the travel mishaps through six states, or just want to see if Kyle actually survived running on beach sand, this episode has it all. Bonus: YouTube and Facebook viewers get to witness the beautiful bling that made all those miles worth it... or at least that's what Kyle keeps telling himself.

She's BAAAACK! Our great friend Karin, from the Just Grow Something Podcast is back to drop her knowledge! This time she is going to talk to you about strength training. Now before your chicken butt runs off, Karin is going to make this so simple, even Kyle can understand! Now that's simple! So tune in while Karin breaks it all down for you. She will keep your running career going, we can promise you that!

Brrrr! Well that was cold! This past weekends Battle of the Bean 5k was sure an eye opener! Or an eye freezer depending on how you want to look at it! Most of the US is in the ice box right now, with more cold air on the way. Let's talk about cold weather running. I know, I know, but we have to cover it at least once a year. It's reverse psychology, because if we talk about it now, we won't need it for the rest of 2025. Right? RIGHT!

Let's put the finishing bow on 2024. Here we will cover every race we did in the last year. Get a the speedy review on all the places we've been. The good, the bad, and the ugly! If here is anything you want to hear more about, reach out to the podcast! We'll get you covered. We finish out the year and get heading full speed into 2025! Don't forget our big push on Intagram! Give us a follow @backofthepackpodcast on the Gram!

Happy New Year! After a week off, we are back with our first episode of 2025! We already have one race under our belt, as we ran the Time Travel Half Marathon in Parkville, MO to start the New Year. We will tell you all about this race and get everything lined up for 2025. We had a great year in 2024, but this boat doesn't sail without your help! Enjoy the review, then hear all the ways you can help your favorite running podcast in 2025.

We are back from our trip to Mississippi. In three words, things went NOT AS EXPECTED. We will break down all the events of the weekend. We will wrap up 2024 with a little bow and send everyone into their Holiday season! Thank you for a great year with The Back of the Pack Podcast. We can't wait to continue on in 2025!

While Kyle is in Mississippi, we are being taken over this week by Gretchen and Elaine from The Happy Pace Podcast! The only podcast recorded while running! This week they are going to bring on a guest and talk about virtual racing, running on the treadmill, and more running knowledge from the other side of Missouri. The St. Louis Legends join us, so tune in and find YOUR Happy Pace!

It's a little more somber week for The Back of the Pack Podcast. We will discuss a great new race we did in Kansas City, KS that was unfortunately born out of tragedy. We will discuss how to try to create a triumph even in the most difficult of situations. It is not easy and it is not immediate. We will also honor our 2024 Rexy Maddox who has finished his battle with cancer while gaining his wings. Join us for a more difficult episode.

We're here for our first December episode. The year is almost over! What?!?! This week we are going to catch up on our race reviews, lay out the rest of the year, and then yes we are piggy backing! Our friends over at the Happy Pace Podcast put out an episode and we had to talk about it! We are talking DNF's. Yes, the dreaded runner term no one wants to hear. We will talk about how to approach them when they happen. Join in and make sure that this is an episode you take all the way to the finish line.

Who doesn't love a new challenge? We have breaking news in this brand new episode of The Back of the Pack Podcast. The introduction of the new Fly Over Challenge with the Top City Half Marathon in Topeka, KS and the Lincoln Marathon (and half) in Lincoln, NE. We speak to both race directors on this new challenge taking place in May 2025.. Tune in and don't miss out!

Another race weekend on the road for The Back of the Pack Podcast. We were in Rolla, MO for the Honoring Our Heroes Half Marathon. This race review was requested by a fan of the show, so we saddled up and went on a bit of a road trip to check this event out. It was an absolutely great race that we cannot wait to tell you all about. Join us as we deep dive this small Missouri race and yes, we will definitely hope to be back next year!

It is Veteran's Day here in 2024. A day to honor those who serve. This week we ran two Veterans Day themed races. One of them turned out to be a most difficult of 5k! We'll do a quick review of these and talk about some other military themed events coming up in 2025. Some we have done, some we are learning about for the first time. So join us as we cruise though November and make our annual stop to honor our heroes!

A weekend off for us, but the running world kept on spinning! The 2024 New York Marathon is in the books! A few races to cover, and then the eagerly awaited episode on the Galloway Run Walk Run Method. We'll break it down and talk about how it effects us on race day. We throw in a little runners etiquette to cap things off. Lastly, we have a BIG question for all of you in this episode. We need to know what you think, so listen in and let us know!

We are back from Year Two at The Good Life Halfsy in Lincoln, NE. We enjoyed this race so much last year, we had to come back for another round! This time we brought a team with us! 70 runners joined our team this year. We had a table at the expo, met the folks, and ran the race. It was just about as good a weekend as one could have in Lincoln, NE. Join us as we breakdown all things Good Life, and go over this crazy month of October 2024!

Welcome to Season Three! It was the Garmin Kansas City Marathon weekend. The official start of our new season. We had a wonderful time at the expo for two days at Union Station and at the race itself! Congratulations to all the finishers! Next up for us is the Good Life Halfsy in Lincoln, NE. Our second year heading up to the land of the Corn Huskers for this 13.1 mile jaunt through Lincoln. We cannot wait to see you there and get our SEVENTY person team picture! Join us as we kick off our new season with nothing but great things!

That's right! Season two of The Back of the Pack Podcast is coming to a close. That's okay though, because season three starts next week! Join us as we talk about the 2024 Chicago Marathon. We also have a couple race reviews to catch up on, a race expo we attended, and an article you won't believe! Some races make the strangest decisions! Before we head off to the Garmin KC Marathon, come get caught up with everything that's been going on since our return from Berlin!

We are back from the 2024 Berlin Marathon! The record race for most marathon finishers ever, and we were a part of it! We will be breaking down the entire experience! The good, the bad, and certainly the ugly. This was a trip like no other! The things we do to chase the World Marathon Majors. So settle in for the longest BotP episode EVER! We are off to Germany for 42km of fun!