United States
"I could be wrong, but I know I'm not." - Kara Goucher.
You know it's a good episode when Kara drops that quote.
In this episode, Des and Kara cover a topic that you DID ask for. They give you their hot takes on the return of Shelby Houlihan from her 4-year ban. As you might expect, it is complicated, so find some paper towels and put them under those armpits... it gets warm-ish in here over the second half of the episode.
First, they recap an amazing weekend in Houston with their perspectives on all of the races, including those that aren't getting enough attention - Erika Kemp's 2:22 and Weini Kelati's second American record. And yes, they give Conner Mantz his flowers too while covering "the shove" and talking about what his race might mean for his confidence in future marathons. Can he be the one to break through for the American men in a World Major?
Then, they shift the discussion to Shelby Houlihan's return covering everything from their initial reactions to her ban and now to the media coverage of her "comeback." As you might expect, this is a difficult topic to cover, but Des and Kara do not shy away from discussing all sides of it. Agree or not, the hope is that we can all turn now to just seeing her race.
As usual, this episode ends with a top 5 that includes a special shout-out to the new Glycerin 22 coming soon from Brooks. You can pre-order yours here to support them and the pod: https://www.brooksrunning.com/en_us/womens/shoes/road-running-shoes/glycerin-22/120434.html?dwvar_120434_color=020
In this Bonus Episode, I speak with Erika Kemp, professional road runner for Brooks, after her 2nd place performance at the Houston Marathon 2025. Not only was this race an 11 minute PB, Erika was also able to lower her own record for Fastest American Born Black Runner. We talk about her race, he race days shoes, and trusting in her training. 0:00 intro 1:41 feeling strong at the end of the race 2:45 how cold was it 4:09 warming up for marathon vs 5k 5:31 start line congestion 6:24 what was the race plan with your pacer 7:10 race nutrition 9:22 maintaining composure throughout the race 10:28 deciding how to cover the moves 11:57 running the full marathon in houston for the first time 14:24 race day shoes 16:33 Erika's Shoe Rotation 19:40 when did the leader break away? 22:46 what's it like to wear the flag? 24:58 was Erika surprised 25:51 Fastest American Born Black Woman 27:15 what was different training for houston 29:01 9 day cycle 29:45 volume for this training block 30:55 believe in the training 31:38 seeing it all come together 32:33 track szn? Follow Erika on IG https://www.instagram.com/imtinyrik/reels/
“Immediately after dropping out of the Trials, Kurt [Benninger] was very quick to be like, ‘You will see the benefits of this. It's not today, but this is not for nothing.’ It's nice to come full circle 11 months later and get that payoff.”
My guest for today’s episode is Erika Kemp, fresh off a remarkable performance at the 2025 Houston Marathon, where she shattered her personal best by 11 minutes to finish second in 2:22:56. This race wasn’t just a breakthrough; it was a statement. Erika now ranks 12th on the all-time U.S. marathon list and has cemented her place as one of the top American distance runners.
We dive into how Erika turned setbacks, like her tough day at the 2024 U.S. Olympic Trials, into fuel for her Houston success. She shares what it’s been like working with coach Kurt Benninger, her approach to marathon training, and how she’s taking confidence from a performance like this for her career moving forward, whether it’s chasing another World Marathon Major or earning a spot on the U.S. team for the World Championships.
Host: Chris Chavez | @chris_j_chavez on Instagram
Guest: Erika Kemp | @imtinyrik on Instagram
SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS
SPOKANE SPORTS COMMISSION: In Spokane, Washington, there’s Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter and now, Fast.. Fifth Season is hosting elite indoor track and field events all throughout January and February. All events take place at the Podium Powered by STCU, SPOCAN’s state-of-the-art indoor track facility. Learn more at SpokaneSports.com/FifthSeason
OLIPOP: I’ve got a question for you: how’s your Dry January going? Whether you’re crushing it or just dipping your toes in, our friends at Olipop are here to make it a lot more fun—and way more delicious. It’s not just another soda—it’s soda reimagined. Think of all the nostalgic flavors you love, but with way less sugar and a third of your daily fiber in every can. Get 25% off all your orders at DrinkOlipop.com using code CITIUS25 at checkout.
The oldest annual marathon in the world is almost here! The 127th Boston Marathon will welcome world record holders, first-time racers, and 30,000+ people in between to the starting line in Hopkinton, Massachusetts before they begin the 26-mile trek across eastern Massachusetts to the famous Boylston Street finish line. Both the men’s and women’s pro fields feature historic firsts and legendary talent, as well as an early preview of many of the major players in the hunt to represent Team USA at the 2024 Olympics.
In this episode, Chris Chavez, Kyle Merber and Dana Giordano preview all of the elite race action and share their predictions. We are also joined by 2x U.S. Champion Erika Kemp, 2:10 marathoner CJ Albertson and Brooks double amputee runner Brian Reynolds. We also share our final predictions for the race.
Most importantly, join us live on the CITIUS MAG YouTube channel on Monday morning at 9 a.m. for our squad’s expert race commentary.
The race kicks off on Monday, April 17th with a 9:37 a.m. start for the pro men, 9:47 a.m. start for the pro women, and a 10:00 a.m. start for the open race (wheelchair pros kick off a little after 9 a.m.). You can follow the action by downloading the BAA Racing app or online (live tracking link not available yet). The race will be broadcast locally on WCVB (ABC) and around the U.S. on ESPN and the ESPN app.
SUPPORT THE SPONSORS
OLIPOP is a prebiotic soda with only 2-5g of sugar that is actually good for your gut health. – and it's delicious. Use code CITIUS25 for 25% off non-subscription orders. Learn more at https://DrinkOlipop.com (click the link or use our promotional code for the discount)
BROOKS RUNNING: The Brooks Hyperion House is coming back to Boston! Join us mere steps from the marathon finish line at 137 Newbury Street on April 14th - 18th for a five-day pop-up experience featuring group runs, free swag, and a chance to shop the all-new Brooks x Des Run Boston Collection.
GARMIN: Introducing the Forerunner 965 from Garmin, the ultimate GPS running and triathlon smartwatch. With a bright uhmold touchscreen display and lightweight titanium bezel, this premium watch is designed for athletes who demand the very best. Learn more here: https://www.garmin.com/en-US/https://www.garmin.com/en-US/
SAYSKY: Are you a runner looking for high-performance and quality apparel that also embodies a relaxed and fun attitude? Look no further than SAYSKY. Established in Copenhagen in 2013, SAYSKY is on a mission to bring a fresh perspective to the running apparel industry. Use code CITIUS15 at checkout for 15% off all your orders. Applies worldwide at https://saysky.us/
HOW TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST
🎙️ Subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts.
💵 Pledge any dollar amount to us on Patreon.com/CITIUSMAG or Hit us on Venmo @CITIUSMAG
