Human Performance Outliers Podcast with Zach Bitter Episode 454: Running Shoe Innovation | Todd Falker
Sep 5, 2025
Todd Falker, Product Lead at Puma and a lifelong runner with 100 marathons under his belt, shares insights on running shoe innovations. He explores how advanced designs affect performance and comfort, emphasizing the impact of technology on injury prevention. Falker discusses the challenges of balancing fatherhood with a running lifestyle and shares anecdotes about his experiences transitioning to better footwear. The conversation also touches on training strategies for marathons versus ultras, revealing the psychological aspects of age in racing.
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New Dad, New Recovery Realities
- Todd Falker describes new parenthood and reduced sleep affecting training and recovery.
- He balances goals, recovery, and realistic training after turning 40 and becoming a dad.
Motivation Shift To Exploration
- Todd moved to Europe to race and travel, shifting motivation from PRs to experiences.
- He values seeing new places over strictly chasing fast times now.
DNF In Berlin For Family And Sanity
- Todd recounts dropping from a Berlin 100k after severe stomach issues around mile eight.
- He chose to DNF and enjoy Berlin with family instead of enduring 20 more hours of slow progress.