Episode 648: Rory Linkletter on Taking Big Risks, Running Fearlessly, and his 2:06:49 PR in Chicago

Rory Linkletter is back on the podcast and he is truly one of the most entertaining, insightful people to talk running with. He just ran a huge PR of 2:06:49 at the Chicago Marathon, and we get into everything that went into that performance — the big swing for the Canadian record, what it felt like to put himself in the race early, and how he managed the moment he realized he’d be running the last 12 miles alone. He breaks down the pace groups, the chaos of early race dynamics, and the confidence that comes from having 13 marathons worth of experience to lean on.

We also talk about what it means to actually race a marathon versus just running one — how fueling, composure, and mindset have evolved for him, and why he’s shifting his focus away from chasing a specific time and toward racing with courage at the front of major marathons. Rory shares openly about coaching transitions, what he learned from Boston, how he’s thinking about LA 2028, and how he balances training with being a dad of two. It’s a fun, honest conversation with someone who isn’t afraid to say big goals out loud and back them up with the work.

Topics we Discussed:

• Chicago PR and the Canadian record chase

• From running marathons to racing them

• Fueling practice on every long run

• Coaching with Ryan Hall to Jon Green

• Composure during the race

• Why he’s shelving the record goal

• Racing the group vs. running your own race

• Building toward LA 2028

• Family travel and dad life

• Sports fandom and downtime

• Books and podcasts he’s into

Media and Mentions:

• Books:

  • Greenlights by Matthew McConaughey

  • Ernest Shackleton and Endurance (explorer and book referenced)

  • Matthew McConaughey’s new book Rory referenced: Poems and Prayers

• Podcasts Rory listens to:

  • Pardon My Take

  • The Bill Simmons Podcast

  • The Ryen Russillo Show

• Sports fandom: Baltimore Ravens, Denver Nuggets, Calgary Flames, Boston Red Sox

Follow us!

• Follow Rory: @rory_linkletter on Instagram.

• Follow Lindsey: @lindseyhein626 and find more shows at sandyboyproductions.com.

• Got a milestone or story for Indy? DM @lindseyhein626 or email lindsey@sandyboyproductions.com so she can give you a shout on race day.

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Join me at my live show! Bring your medals, grab snacks and swag from Athletic Annex, Brooks Running, and more. Use code LINDSEY10 for $10 off tickets.

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