The CITIUS MAG Podcast | A Running + Track and Field Show

“My mentality is if I'm going through that high mileage and adding that stress in, I don't want to also have to worry about workouts and putting my body in a hole where I can't recover for a week or two down the road. I think that's very different than how a lot of other people approach training, but for me it's been working.”

For the first time in over 30 years, an American man has won the Los Angeles Marathon.

On Sunday, Matt Richtman stamped his name in the history books, breaking the tape in 2:07:56—a massive personal best and a statement win in only his second marathon. The 25-year-old ASICS athlete didn’t just claim victory; he dominated, pulling away from a world-class field with a decisive move that turned the streets of LA into his own personal proving ground.

The performance did have so many people scratching their heads thinking: “Who?” I am here to answer all of those questions.

Today, we sit down with Matt to break it all down:

– The moment he knew he could win—and the fearless move that sealed it

– Why he had no set plan going in but let instinct take over

– What’s next after a 2:07 breakthrough in just his second marathon

– Why his training on Strava doesn’t make sense but maybe after he explains it - it makes a bit more sense

– Why he’s got a traditional and old-school approach to training

– And how it feels to be part of the next generation pushing U.S. marathoning forward

This episode is for anyone who loves the thrill of a bold race and the promise of what’s to come.

Host: Chris Chavez | ⁠@chris_j_chavez on Instagram 

Guest: Matthew Richtman | @richtman13 on Instagram

SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS

KETONE-IQ: Level up your training with Ketone-IQ – a clean shot of energy with no sugar or caffeine. Or try the new Ketone-IQ + Caffeine, combining 5g of ketones with 100mg of green tea caffeine for a smooth, sustained boost. It’s used by pro runners like Des Linden and Sara Hall. Proven to enhance endurance, focus, and recovery, ketones are 28% more efficient than glucose. No crashes, no bonking—just next-level performance. Take the shot. Feel the difference. Save 30% off your first subscription order & receive a free six pack of Ketone-IQ with KETONE.com/CITIUS.

RUNNA: Runna is the #1 rated personalized running app designed to help you crush your goals no matter the distance. Runna is trusted by hundreds of thousands of runners around the world and makes expert coaching accessible with personalized training plans that fit every goal, fitness level, and schedule. Whether it's someone's first 5K or it's someone chasing a marathon PB, they are here to help runners train smarter, stronger, and love every step of the way. Sign up for Runna today and get your first two weeks free using the code CITIUS.

OLIPOP: Big name sodas are rolling out bold new flavors in 2025, but the real buzz is happening in the prebiotic pop aisle. If you haven't already jumped on the Olipop train yet, now's the time. BuzzFeed just came out with an article that recently named Olipop the best overall soda for flavor — and with a lineup that includes classic root beer, vintage cola and cherry vanilla, it's easy to see why. Try Olipop today and save 25% on your order using code CITIUS25 at checkout at DrinkOlipop.com.