Episode 102: Mike Lee - Film Finish Lines

Episodes

Mar 28

Mike Lee films races for the Monumental Marathon and 500 Festival, and he races them too. At 24 he's run Boston, New York, Chicago and Tokyo, with Sydney and Berlin next.

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About this episode

Mike Lee started Mike Lee Productions during the pandemic as a Butler University sophomore and now creates video for Beyond Monumental, the 500 Festival, and more. I found him through his footage of the Monumental Marathon, then learned he's a sub-3 marathoner who ran his first marathon at Monumental in 3:01:30 as a Butler freshman, followed by a 2:51 at Chicago and Boston and New York three weeks apart.

We talk about running the 2025 Tokyo Marathon after raising money for the Japan Cancer Society and coming back from Achilles tendonitis, why spectators and volunteers deserve more credit, volunteering at the Chicago Marathon as a high schooler, and his chase for all of the World Majors. Mike also shares his love of film photography, his coffee shop series The Blend, and the mantra he borrowed from coach Jeff Cunningham: be the curious amateur.

In this episode, we discuss

Starting Mike Lee Productions during the pandemic as a Butler sophomore
Promoting events at Visit Indy and filming the Monumental Marathon and Indy Mini
Watching photographer Timmy Howard shoot no-handed from a bike
Fundraising for the Japan Cancer Society to run the Tokyo Marathon
Rehabbing Achilles tendonitis with just six good weeks of training before Tokyo
Clean streets, heated subway seats, Pocari Sweat, and a warm race day in Tokyo
Why he wants to make a film about marathon spectators
Volunteering at the Chicago Marathon in high school and running it years later
Starting to run in sixth grade because of his older sisters' summer practices
Choosing Butler and starting a small run club there
A 3:01:30 first marathon at Monumental and a 2:51 at Chicago
Running Boston and New York three weeks apart in 2021
Chasing a Berlin qualifier and all of the World Majors, with Sydney next
A documentary about his running and his love of film photography
His coffee and film series The Blend and the mantra be the curious amateur

Chapters

00:00 · Intro
06:00 · Starting Mike Lee Productions
10:00 · Filming Monumental and the Indy Mini
14:00 · Fundraising for the Tokyo Marathon
17:00 · Coming back from Achilles tendonitis
20:00 · Tokyo race experience
27:00 · Spectators, signs, and volunteers
35:00 · Volunteering at the Chicago Marathon
36:30 · Growing up running in Northbrook
38:00 · Butler and a first marathon at Monumental
44:00 · Chicago, Boston, and New York
47:00 · Training by feel and chasing the World Majors
52:00 · Running family and telling his story
55:30 · The documentary and film photography
1:01:00 · The Blend coffee series
1:10:00 · Dreams, mantra, and what's next

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Where to find Mike

Mike Lee Productions

Mentioned in this episode

Races: Tokyo Marathon, CNO Indianapolis Monumental Marathon, Chicago Marathon, Boston Marathon, New York City Marathon, Sydney Marathon, Berlin Marathon, London Marathon, OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon, Indy Half Marathon at Fort Ben, LA 2028 Olympics
Organizations and charities: Mike Lee Productions, Beyond Monumental, 500 Festival, Visit Indy, Butler University, Japan Cancer Society, Athletic Annex, Tempo Sports Rehab, Roberts Camera, Heartbreak Running Company, Sandy Boy Productions
Other: The Blend (coffee and film series), Jeff Cunningham, Emma Bates, Pocari Sweat, "Way Down We Go" by Kaleo, Abbott World Marathon Majors

Previous guests mentioned

Related episodes

Frequently asked

Who is Mike Lee of Mike Lee Productions?

Mike Lee is an Indianapolis-based videographer and photographer and a 2022 Butler University graduate who started Mike Lee Productions during the pandemic and films events for Beyond Monumental and the 500 Festival.

What is Mike Lee's marathon PR?

Mike Lee ran a 2:51 at the Chicago Marathon as a Butler sophomore, after a 3:01:30 in his first marathon at Monumental, and he is chasing a 2:45 to qualify for Berlin.

How did Mike Lee get into the Tokyo Marathon?

Mike Lee earned his Tokyo Marathon entry by raising about $1,500 for the Japan Cancer Society, a cause close to him after his dad's prostate cancer, and ran the race in March 2025.

What is The Blend by Mike Lee?

The Blend is Mike Lee's video series that pairs film photography with Indianapolis's local coffee shops, highlighting each shop's story while teaching a bit about shooting film.

Support this show

Transcript

This transcript was generated automatically, so it may contain errors.

Ally Brettnacher: this is a Sandy Boy Productions podcast. Welcome to Finish Lines and Milestones, a podcast that celebrates the everyday runner. I'm your host, Ally Brettnacher. If you run, you are a runner, and every runner has a story. Join me each week as I share these stories and we cross finish lines and celebrate milestones together. This podcast is brought to you by Previnex. Previnex provides clinically effective supplements that promote longevity, performance, and everyday health. I have been using Pren X products since January of this year. I had the pleasure and honor of meeting their founder, David Block. He lives in the Carmel, Indiana area. Believe it or not.

And he suggested that I try some of the products and see what I thought. And come to find out I replaced the Green Greens product that I was using with their new Gut and Greens product. And not only is it about half the price, but higher quality and less ingredients, no fillers, and it makes me feel great. I have found that my natural energy is higher. I don't reach for my second cup of coffee anymore. It helps with digestive health and regularity as well. I'm also taking several other supplements that they offer, and I love their NiFi protein powder. You can even mix that with the gut and greens for a tropical smoothie type taste and an easy breakfast.

But if you'd like to try Previnex you can go to previn x.com. That's P-R-E-V-I-N-E x.com, and you can use Code ALLY15 at checkout to get 15% off of your first order. Thank you Previnex for supporting this podcast as well as our upcoming event. Hello and welcome to Finish Lines and Milestones. This is Ally Brettnacher and in case you missed it, I just launched a humongous giveaway for the Indie mini weekend here in Indianapolis, which is May 2nd and third. The races on the third, that Saturday. And in partnership with the Bottleworks Hotel and my friend Lindsay Hein, who is the founder of Sandy Board Productions and the host of the All, have another podcast with Lindsay Hein.

We got so many sponsors together for this incredible weekend getaway giveaway. So if you've never come to Indy to do this race, it's a great excuse to come in town. If you're local, it'd be a great staycation. Let me give you a quick rundown of what is included in this giveaway. So we've got two nights, stay at Bottleworks, which will be, on Friday and Saturday night. Two Indy mini race entries, $100 for the Garage Food Hall, which is where I always go for pizza and beer before a race. And then $150 Athletic Annex gift card. That is our local running store, and they are also online.

So even if you're not local Previnex, we've got Gut and Greens, muscle Health plus joint health and neuro fire protein powder, a huge, amazing bundle. The Athlete, good Luck gift set from Bitch Sticks, Which you will hear about during this podcast. Six Project Lean Nation, PLN Meals. So they have pre-made healthy meals. And a 60 minute mobility session from Transcend Training and Performance. That is my friend Whitney Miller. One 50 minute standard stretch lab session and stretch lab downtown Indy is right across from the Bottleworks. So actually a couple years ago I did that for the first time right after the mini, and it was.

Perfect. I needed it. Two indie mini athlete bouquets. That is of course my business. It's like an edible arrangement, but for runners. So it comes with all the goodies that you would want before a race and after. Lindsay Hines Marathon Training plan bundle, and Erica, Sarah necklace, pen and pastes, a travel shoe bag. Super cute. Great way to travel with your shoes. And then a 24 pack of organic pure fuel maple syrup, run fuel, which you know that I love. And now you need to get used to because there will be maple syrup on course for the Indie mini, albeit not pure fuel. So not my most favorite fuel, but still same kind of thing.

So if you have not yet entered this giveaway. There is a form, there's a link in my bio on Instagram. My Instagram is Ally, @allytbrett_runs also the Bottleworks Hotel in Lindsay Hein. They all have it in their profile as well. You have to follow all three of us and then like the post tag three of your friends. And again, that form is in the link in the bio. So that's a really long-winded way to tell you to. Do this giveaway. It's amazing. I wanna win. Too bad I can't. Thank you so much to all of our sponsors for coming together and making this giveaway possible.

I also went onsite to the Bottleworks Hotel today to check out the event space and it gets me even more energized and excited, not just for this event, but perhaps what we could do in the future. So if you haven't yet gotten your tickets, also do that. We are nearly sold out. We will sell out and it's gonna be cozy. So. Get your ticket. 25 bucks. The goodie bag is more than worth it. The company, the Entertainment with Lindsay interviewing a two time Olympian, Kim Conley and also Cameron Balzer, who ran around the perimeter of the United States last year. Might have somebody else joining us because the U-T-S-A-T-F 5K championships will be at the mini marathon, 5K.

So stay tuned, who knows? But it's gonna be great. And if you're not coming this year, maybe this will put a bug in your ear to think about it for next year. It is an iconic race. And you run around the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. If you've listened to this podcast for a while, you've probably heard me talk about it plenty. So anyway, I'm so excited. It's Spring race season is coming. Um, I got a chance to meet Mike Lee. He has his own production company called Mike Lee Productions, and that's how I found him. I saw some incredible footage from the Indianapolis Monumental Marathon last November.

And found out Mike was the one behind it. And come to find out, he's actually a runner himself and he just did the Tokyo Marathon this last March and is chasing the majors. And I just really love his humble attitude, his kindness, and his running stories. And also, you know, why are you so into film and what he likes to capture, and all of those things. So I can't wait for you to get to know my new friend, Mike Lee. FLAMS - Mike Lee - 4:3:25, 7.31 AM: Welcome Mike Lee. Thank you for having me. I told you right before we recorded that I am embarrassed because I'm trying to do video and I just realized , look at this.

Probably shouldn't have that in the video, but, thank you so much for coming from downtown to do this with me today. Yeah, of course. My pleasure. I'm such a big fan of your content. I just have to tell you that. Thank you. Thank You, you're so talented. Thank you. I, I try my best and you know, I Try and learn something new almost every single week and, just be a sponge to new content and people doing, things that inspire me and, how can I transfer that, you know, into my own style. Yeah. Well, and I'm like, the quality of your content, I'm like, how are you not just blowing up.

And we were just talking about that too, right? Because Instagram and everything else is not very nice. Yes, yes. I keep on telling people like, social currency is such a weird thing to me, and the amount of followers is, , like the currency and you're perceived as, wealthier or, more successful. I'm like, at the end of the day, like they're just numbers, you know? I know, like there are plenty of people doing better things than me that has, like only a hundred followers just because they don't post. Right. And it's all about like, can you be a creator and can you be, a marketer? But some people, , they don't want to be both, and that's totally fine and totally respectable.

Yeah. And yeah, so I, nonetheless, I appreciate the compliment. Of course. When did you start Mike Lee Actually during the pandemic. Okay. So, the pandemic hit sophomore year of college for me. Geez, I'm sorry. Yeah, it, so it, it was a whole ordeal. My, my sister was a senior at that time. Graduation was delayed. , internships and jobs for me were really hard. , and I couldn't find anything, you know, in person or even remote because, funding and, um, everything was cut. And so I just decided to, start my production company then, because everyone needed podcasts. Everyone needed webinars, training videos. Yeah. , and I was like, I'm not doing anything, and if I could do it at the, leisure of, of being at home, , then yeah, I should just start this while I have the time.

Yeah. And how long had you been doing. Photography and video. Have you been interested in that for a really long time? A little bit, yeah. But I didn't know if I wanted to, go fully into like the production side of it. , I was doing video and photo, like during high school. Mm-hmm. And I really just fell in love with it. It's funny, we were talking about editing, , before this. Yeah. I, fell in love with the editing side, believe it or not. Um, a little psychotic. I know. , but I love, like how meticulous you can be, like in the editing room. , and I was like, well, in order to edit things I usually need to, film things.

, and so picked up a camera, I was like, wow, this is actually really cool. I, could also be meticulous, , with a camera and just started to blow up where, Friends of friends needed video work. People were graduating, they needed grad photos and just like really getting any project that I could get my hands on. , and yeah. Now, now we're here. That's so wild. so you're still in college when you started it too? Yes. That's nuts. How old are you? Yes, so I'm 24. 24. Uh, yeah, so I graduated Butler University in 2022. Okay. , and yeah, straight off the bat, freshman year , I had an on campus job, , with video and photo, and I like to call it kind of like controlled freelancing where, A professional would give us client work to do and she would delegate the projects and I was like, well, I also really am liking the client side of it.

Mm-hmm. Can I, you know, shadow you on, client relationships? How do you budget, how do you quote. , and just like, again, being a sponge and seeing the resources that are available to me and just going at it 110%. That's so cool. Thank you. Thank you. 24. Yes. So impressive. Yes. Yes. And when did you start doing work with Indy? Monumental? 'cause that's how I ' discovered you. Yes. Yes. So straight after college, , I went to visit Indy, at their like, marketing team and learned such a great deal about how the city operated, how the city is linked and interconnected. Mm-hmm. And I was like, man, okay, so if I don't know someone or if I don't know an organization, I probably know someone that does.

, and, , my job at Visit Indy was to promote events through social media. and, I was like, well. I'm a huge runner. I want to cover all these running events and obviously Indy, monumental, huge race. Mm-hmm. , top 15th in the country, um, as of I think 2023. Yeah, We're 14th. Now. We're 14th. Amazing. I know. That's exciting. Amazing. Awesome. The main objective of that job was to , put Indy on the map. Mm. And so I highlighted the monumental while I was there, I got the media pass, put that on my portfolio, put that on my resume, everything. And then when I went full-time freelance, they remembered me from last year.

And, we just kind of got to talking and it's like, okay, if this is a good fit. , and obviously I think a lot of races, they wanna hire video people that know the running world. Yeah. And it'd be ideal. And it's like, okay, well you know how crazy marathoners are so, you could highlight it. , and you have an extra edge to some videographer that doesn't. Right. , and also if I truly do believe if you're passionate about something, you're gonna do a better job. , and so really got working there. I also worked with the 500 festival at the Indy Mini and all of their great events.

Oh, so fun. , and so it was just like a natural lead up to the monumental, , and hoping to do that in 2025. And also, , doing the 500 festival things this year. , so just super excited for just like the intersectionality Yeah. Of my two passions, that are running and video. How perfect. Right. And I'm like, well, like truly if I love the things that I'm filming, I'm not working, you know? Yeah. If I'm not on the starting line racing, I want to be there filming. Now, when you film in these events. are you mobile? Yes. Like are you on a bike? Yes.

Riding around town? Like I know you probably know Timmy Howard. Oh my gosh. I aspire to be as mobile as Timmy. He is another level, I think though. Yes. I I shadowed him at the Fort Bend, , race. Yeah. And he had two cameras around his waist biking, no handed going like 15, 16 miles an hour. And like he's turning, he's weaving, he's dodging potholes And then he just like jumps off of his bike to snap some pictures and then on his, Merry way. And you're like. Trying to keep up. Right? I mean, that'd be so hard. And I'm like, Timmy, like, like, what's going on?

Do you do this all the time? And he's like, yes. I was like, okay, cool. So I know how to bike one handed or like no handed. But I don't know if I could do that with, a big camera around my waist. Essentially. You're babies, like you're carrying all your babies. Correct. Correct. And if my insurance saw that, oh, they'd be like, no, we're upping your, yeah, sorry. We're upping your policy. Yeah, yeah, oh, that's so funny to picture. Yes. Because I can, like when I ran monumental last year, last fall, Timmy was on a bike. Like in new fields. Yes. Yeah. No hand I saw, I witnessed it firsthand.

Him being no hand. I'm just like okay. Right. Like I think what I'm doing is hard. Yeah. Running a marathon. But what he's doing is harder. Right. Because he is. Just Yeah. Nonstop the whole day. Yes. Like, I get to stop when I cross the finish line. yeah, He, he's going all day and I, I love his Instagram posts afterwards, you know, with him, with the recovery boots on and just like editing. And I'm like, man, that is the hybrid athlete. Like we, we have absolutely. the power lifters, we have the marathoners. Like no, that's the true hybrid athlete right there. Yes. Yeah. Yeah. So I wanna talk more about Mike Lee Productions, Mm-hmm.

but I wanna hear more about your running journey. Yeah. Yeah. So you just did Tokyo? yes. In March, which is so freaking cool. It was an amazing experience. Yes. I need to hear all about that. Yeah. Yeah. So, , obviously Tokyo is one of the, seven world majors and, right when I completed the domestic, , ones, I was like, well, like What are the odds that I could get into, London, Berlin, and Tokyo and just was doing a deep dive how to get in and how to like, raise money and all the different, possible loopholes that you could do. , and just, Saw that , I could fundraise and I've never fundraised for a race.

, and, you know, I was like, well, this is a great time to do it. , Japan Cancer Society, it lines up with, my personal beliefs. , my dad just went through prostate cancer. Oh, wow. Um, not, not, too long ago. And just, I feel like it's, always a never ending journey, Like it's, mm-hmm. It's always a journey, like once you get the diagnostics. And so just wanted to give back, , in any way that I can and a goal that resonated with, almost everyone else. Yeah. And so just the amount of support just with my fundraising journey. And I only had about FLAMS - Mike Lee - 4:3:25, 7.31 AM: 60 days to come up with the money and I think, did you say how much already?

, so it was about $1,500. Okay. So 1500. It's not crazy, crazy, but still not crazy. Yes, yes. So in about, I would say like only a couple of weeks, people in the Indianapolis and Chicagoland area, They found my page and started donating and, , shout out to Larry as well, , because Oh, from Athletic Annex, Yes. Yes. love Larry. Yes. Shout out to Larry because he was like, I want to help you. I want to help you on your journey. Let's throw, an event with Adidas and let's do a giveaway linked to, your GoFundMe. And just seeing the running community just really support me was such an amazing experience.

And that wasn't even, at the race either. And so just after I fundraise the money, seeing how I could, go to Tokyo and my parents, , obviously came as well, which was super sweet of them. That's so awesome. , and my dad doesn't really like to travel a whole lot and so he was like, man, like that's big travel. Then to Tokyo is, is a huge lift for him. , and he's like, if it wasn't for the marathon, like I don't think I would've gone. And that just shows, how much that they support and, follow, like this journey With me, As crazy as it may seem.

, yeah. and that's not even talking like, so after I fundraise the money, like I went through, an Achilles tendonitis injury. Yeah. And of course those take forever, , to recover and just the whole entire thing formulated where it was just chalk it up to a good experience. Like you made it to Tokyo. Mm-hmm. And you fundraise this money for, A great organization. Great. Cause, , and you know, just did my first international marathon, so, , one for the books for sure. Yeah. How did you end up being able to run it though? Yeah. It, it was really like good timing. , I would say after, I ran Chicago in, in the fall, , about around Halloween time to November, my Achilles just flared up really bad I was actually in New York, uh, filming for the New York Marathon when it flared up and I was like, oh, great.

a city that I have to walk so much, and, you know, like be mobile. So when I got back from New York, just really hit physical therapy really hard twice a week doing all the calf raises in the world. Um, and just like ankle mobility, ankle stability, , hip work, hamstring work, and just was on the bike for forever. just because I knew Tokyo was coming up and once the Achilles healed up, I wanted to hit the ground running. Yeah. , and I didn't want, my cardio and my, cardio work to be lacking, like when I finally was able it to run. Right, absolutely. And so, especially like that's during the winter too, the hardest months, especially for our Midwestern runners.

IMG_8087 v 2: It's rough. FLAMS - Mike Lee - 4:3:25, 7.31 AM: It's rough. Yeah. It's, it's rough. And, you know, luckily, the gym was really accommodating and was really easy for me because I lived downtown and, So just, Thinking about, okay, I need to run at least like Tokyo, like I need to be on the starting line. Like no matter what shape I'm in, yeah. I just need to be, there, I just need to make it right. , and that was just kind of my motivation throughout the whole entire winter. And, uh, yeah, it just turned out really well and had about six weeks , of good training under, under my belt.

Um, Just six. Yeah, just six weeks. Thank God. You're 24, right, right. And I'm like, okay. Like I know I could bounce back from it now. Yes, absolutely. I might pay for it, you know, 10 years down the road, but, you know. Uh, you know, that's, that's incredible. Yeah. Well, and you did the work of the rehab stuff. Mm-hmm. Which I feel like I mean, At least for me, I'm very cliche in that I don't stretch, I don't do my exercises. I've been to see, Jacob Crow here mm-hmm. Where a lot of runners see him at Tempo Sports Rehab. Mm-hmm. And I saw him and I've actually just found the videos he made for me the other day.

'cause I was like, I need to probably start investing in doing this again, because I don't wanna get hurt. Mm-hmm. I don't want to have to take a break. Yeah. Yes. Yeah. And it, it's so important, maintaining your fitness and mm-hmm. Stability, especially like in the ankles and really just being strong from, you know, the feet and up and just, Again, all the runners know, FLAMS - Mike Lee - 4:3:25, 7.31 AM: Your body's connected In one way or the other, And, you know, you're only as strong as your weakest link and you know, yeah. It's just like taking the extra five, 10 minutes before and after, uh, maybe a little bit longer.

Um, it's like, well, don't push your, I'm like, I have five minutes. right. right. I was like, okay. Like maybe for those early morning runs, five minutes. Yeah. , but yeah, if you have the time, like just stretch and just take care of yourself. Yeah, I know. Someday, someday I'll be good at it. Yes. Yes. Maybe. I don't know. We'll see. So, , Mike, what is your family's heritage? Mm-hmm. Are you, you're not Japanese, right? No. No. So Korean. So Korean. , yeah. Yeah. So, the only time that I've been to Korea actually was for a layover flight. That's the only time I've been to Korea as well.

Yep. And gorgeous airport Um, Seoul, I will say. Yes. Yeah. Yes. It's so crazy. I was there for about like five, six hours, , on the way to Cambodia for a mission trip and Oh, wow. , yeah. Such a, such a long flight as well, such a long journey. , but FLAMS - Mike Lee - 4:3:25, 7.31 AM: Such a unique perspective to have. Mm-hmm. And just realizing like there are more perspectives than just like the states. I know that sounds like super ignorant, right. , but, but I mean, yeah. Until you've been outside, it's. really hard to truly understand, I think. right. Right. And just like seeing just such a different world out there.

, and like truly was just really impressed with just the transportation, public transportation in Japan is, is incredible. Super clean, , heated seats on the subway, I will say. Whoa. Amazing. , wow. Yes. That is mind blowing to me. Yes. I was, so after the race, the last three days I was there, snowing sleeting, just ridiculous weather out there. And we hop on the subway, I'm like, why am I starting to get warm? And I, I looked down below and yeah, believe it or not, heated sea seated. that IMG_8087 v 2: Yeah, FLAMS - Mike Lee - 4:3:25, 7.31 AM: is, That is, amazing. Like, just phenomenal.

, I, I loved it. The whole experience , was such an eye-opening experience and just, It makes me want to travel even more. Right. Um, because I was like, okay, if That's how Japan does it, how does Berlin do it? How does, how does London do it? Right? Yeah. Um, and just like being, you know, super wide-eyed to, you know, all of the experiences and just saying yes to any, , just any opportunity that comes my way. I didn't realize that it was, I I guess I'm trying to like, visualize the globe and be like, what hemisphere? What season? But I didn't realize it , was gonna be cold.

Neither Did you know that? I mean, I, I dont know anything about the weather. I thought it was gonna be, I thought it was gonna be at least temperament. Like, you know, the day of the race was really warm. Okay. Uh, About 75 degrees. What? And Sunny. And I was like, man, and I got really dehydrated, during the race. And afterwards I was like, well that's, that explains it because I was training in, negative degrees Yeah. In, in the Midwest. And when you fly across the world and, you know, run a race, About 70 degrees hotter than you're used to, Yeah. you're gonna be a little dehydrated.

Yeah. And I was like, man, I should have thought about that a little bit more. ,but yeah, just super, super unique experience. Again, like I said, traveling in itself is you know, an accomplishment. And then, when you talk about like, nutrition, how to, how to find, you know, the right like diet while you're there getting accommodated. Yeah. What the heck do you eat? it? It was truly like, pretty difficult to find like a pasta restaurant or like Italian place like in Japan. , It's like doing something that's familiar. Um, you know, obviously like the food's very different. , so getting accommodated to, that and, uh, being uber careful, , on that, you know, 48 to 24 hours before the race.

Yeah. 'cause I mean, I think, yeah, don't eat bad sushi like right before. Can you imagine? Oh my gosh. No, , I don't think that there is bad sushi out there I was thinking the same thing. Probably not in Japan. Everything is fresh and amazing. Yes. Everything was phenomenal. But I was like, I can't eat any seafood, you know, really Before, before the raise. Yeah. Um, just because that's not what my body's used to, so. Yeah. Absolutely. They have pizza? Did you like track down pizza? No, I, I didn't track down pizza. No. I mean, it's, I just guess I don't really think about that.

Yeah. What other nuances? I feel like your eye is so much different being, you know, in the field that you're in. Right. Looking at things from a photographer, videographer's, perspective. Yeah. What kinds of things did you notice that were different about the race environment compared to , monumental Yeah. In Indiana? Yeah. Yeah. , first of all, like, this is not a dig on, the US at all, but the streets were so clean and there were no potholes. Oh, that The last thing that you wanna worry about while running a marathon is potholes and divots and sewer lines. Absolutely. just straight concrete, like the whole 26 miles.

And I was like, this is, this is amazing. , and just like seeing the building structure then seeing old and new Tokyo and just seeing the temples mixed in with the skyscrapers. And I, I truly do believe a marathon is the best tour that you can have. Right. Of a city. Yeah. , the first time I was in New York was for the New York Marathon. That was the first time you were in New York. That was the first time. Okay. That is the best. And I was like, okay. Like this is the way to experience, New York and yeah. It is legitimately just a three hour party with, you know, three hours.

Sorry, I have to pause and laugh Like, or five hour party or whatever. Right. right. Yeah. Just, just with, you know, , 50,000 other runners. Yeah. And just like, what an experience and like how, like that, that's just such a great tour of a city. Mm-hmm. Expensive tour. , but, , just such a rewarding one. Yeah. does Tokyo, do they use, , paper cups? Yes. Okay. Yes. So, , everything, everything was just a little bit different. , and instead of Gatorade they had, Pocari sweat, which Pocari sweat. Amazing. Um, I was never heard of that. It's kind of like a fusion of, think about like a Gatorade plus Powerade.

And so a little bit more like watered down than than Gatorade. Okay. But just had a really nice flavor in my opinion. , I don't know the nutrition stats on it, so I couldn't tell you. Right. I don't, Uh, but you know, when you're 20 miles deep and you're like, man, this tastes really good. I'll take it. Right. That's all you can ask for. Yes. What kind of fuel Did they have? Did they offer fuel on the course? They had , such unique snacks along the way. , so I didn't take any just because I, I, you're like, I don't wanna play that game. Right.

I don't wanna play that game. I'm already dehydrated. I don't wanna, fuel. With different snacks that I'm not used to, but Yeah. Think of around like mile 20, , they had a couple different, snacks, uh, you know how like courses had bananas? Sure. Or oranges, you know, like Morton gels? Yeah, yeah. Or yeah. Yeah. , so they had different snacks along the way. Honestly, like, I kind of blackout during during races. Me too. so I don't, I don't remember too much. , but I do remember the scenery just being, you know, so gorgeous, so beautiful. Nothing like I've ever seen before. , and just seeing, Old and new, , Tokyo blended together.

Oh, that's cool. During that experience is, Is really, really awesome. How about the topography? Is it pretty flat? Tokyo Very flat, yes. I was trying to picture all the majors, you know? Mm-hmm. You've seen the graphics of the, like all the elevation profiles? Yes, yes. Okay. So that's nice. Yeah. Nice and flat. Did you run through parks then as well? Like, to get, see some scenery mainly, or was it mainly city? Mainly Mainly street, yeah, mainly city. So we finish at the Imperial Palace, and so that's a huge palace in the middle of the city. and, Just super gorgeous architecture. You have all the, the bright greens and all, all the bright reds of the temples.

And as the photographer And the video person, I'm like. If I only had a camera like, this, has nuts. This would be drive me nuts when you're running. Yes, yes. Yeah. And, but it, it keeps me distracted from the amount of pain that I'm in too. Right. You're like, I'm just gonna take some mental photos. Yes, Yes, Mental photos and just like the, the shadows and the highlights and I could go on and on about that. Yeah. Um, but just, I truly do think Street photographers are at an advantage when they're marathoners too, because they're not paying attention , to the race itself. They're just, you know, looking at different compositions and, and framings.

Yeah. Yeah. What are the moments that you like to capture the most? that's a really hard question in a marathon. That's a really hard question. , I think the next marathon that I highlight or go to, I want to capture nothing of the actual race, but I want to create a video with the spectators. 'cause the spectators are just as crazy because, they're biking, they're finding, you know, the near subway, they're finding, how can I see my one person for, five seconds. Yeah. and , I truly appreciate my parents going out to Tokyo just to see me for 10 seconds of the race maybe. Where were they in the race?

they were, they were, I think if I recall around like mile 14 or so. Okay. And then another time at like 16 or 17. I believe it's all kilometers too. Right, right. So you're like, yeah, yeah. , yeah. Also, no, no mile markers either on the course. Yeah. Um, , but even in the states too. Like you see all these spectators. Yeah. Just looking out for that one person. , and just seeing the passion on their faces and seeing, you know, like when they see that one person just them yelling or supporting or, you know, holding up the signs. Like, I want to create content revolving around the people that are supporting the marathoners, because I truly, I love that.

It, it's such a Thankless like job. Yeah. And it takes so much planning, takes so much. , and a lot of spectators are like, man, like I'm sore after like that day. And I'm like, yeah, yeah, like you, you're gonna be sort, you're gonna be moving, you're gonna be grooving. And it is just, That's such a unique, perspective. , and in the content for beyond monumental, I try to, capture the race and also the spectators because they, have the energy, like they definitely do bring it. Yeah. I love that so much. I have Spectated, , New York City. Mm-hmm. I'd Spectated the year after I ran, I went back 'cause some friends had to defer.

And so. I was like, well, you cheered me on. I'm gonna go back and cheer you on. Mm-hmm. And then I've spectated in Chicago and then obviously monumental and around here. Mm-hmm. I have such an appreciation for like people like my husband who brought our two young kids out. right Yes. you're like dragging kids. And even for him, he was just gonna one spot. Mm-hmm. but like, just to get those kids out the door dressed, you know? Yeah. and, Like get 'em to the, right place at the right time. Like all that's really hard. And I've joked on this podcast before talking about how it's easier than parenting.

Like running a marathon is easier ' cause you just are by yourself. Yeah. It's like, oh, this is a break. I'm, you know. Right. It's hard, but not as hard as, you know, lugging little kids around. Exactly. So yeah, the idea of following a family around a city That they may not even know. Mm-hmm. Mm-hmm. And you know. Being at the expo, answering questions about like how to spectate. Yes. It gives me anxiety 'cause I don't wanna steer anybody wrong, you know? Yes, yes. Because you, just, if you're not there right. For those 10 seconds, your runner Right. Runs by. And, and usually the app is, you know, a couple seconds if not a couple minutes delayed.

Yes. So you can't really trust it. And each app is different. Right. So like, monumental might be early, Chicago might be late. Ugh. Yeah. Um, and only like the veteran spectators know that, which is a little funky to say out loud. , but like my dad has a complete note sheet of like, What time do we need to like be at the race? What time, like, do I need to be at this mile and He will do whatever it takes to like, see me the most during the race. Yeah. And my mom thinks he's a little psychotic, which , he, he, might be. but That's his sport It's the best.

Yeah. That's his sport. , he is so excited to see me race and he will take a city bike, a scooter. , he took a rickshaw in Chicago for a good amount of money, , to to book it, to, to back to Chinatown. And, , yeah, just like the passion that spectators have and it's, It's Like okay, yeah, marathon is an individual sport, but at the same time, A, you're racing yourself and B, the spectators, like that's a sport in itself. Yeah. Like kudos to you. Like put it on Strava. Like I like Right. Truly, truly do that. Yeah. And also signs like people who, Oh, my gosh, yes.

Really put in a lot of effort for signs. I love the creativity, I mean the distraction of being able to read amazing signs is Yes. awesome as a runner. So, yeah. Do you have any that come to your mind that are like some of the best you've seen? I know that's a hard question. Oh my gosh. 'cause there's so many. I, the the one that's top of mind is, uh, Emma Bates posted it the other day. Oh, I know. what you're talking about. And It's, it's the guy that looks naked and he has a sign that says that's covering his, you know, uh, and and it says , run faster or I will drop the sign.

And , , there's a photo of Emma just like having the biggest grin on her face. Yes. And I'm like, I want to know what mile that was at. Because I'm sure that helped her because she's like, oh yeah. Like at least for a couple seconds. I wasn't focused on the race. Yeah. But I was focused on this stupid, you know, kid with a sign Yeah. That like, made her chuckle. Yeah. Like that that in itself , is so worthwhile. Mm-hmm. And so creative. , but I, I do love like a kid holding like a, like a power up sign. I love those too. Like please Yeah.

If you have a kid, create a sign, put it on the course because like you will get so many high fives. Yes. It's the best. So many cheering. Yeah. Yeah. It's amazing. Yeah. Actually, okay, this was at Carmel, maybe it was last year. Mm-hmm. I, they blur together. Yep. But there was this woman. Her kids And she had her phone playing like the Super Mario music. Amazing. And so Like when you hit the sign, she would do the sound effect. That's that's, and I was like, this is above and beyond, ma'am. Like you are you need a medal as well. Yes. Yes. And let's talk about the volunteers too.

Oh. Because Yes, the volunteers just truly make the race happen, And especially I think in Indianapolis. Mm-hmm. Like volunteers, they show up for races. Yeah. Uh, like no matter what it is, no matter what the job is, no matter the weather too. Right. you think about bitching, about running. Oh my gosh. In the wind. Imagine these poor volunteers You can't get the cup to stay still like standing. Yeah. Yeah. And just like, holding it out. Yeah. They're usually going to get wet because runners are clumsy or, you know, they, they will spill. And I don't have good aim. That's, I try not to hit the volunteers.

Correct, correct. you know, but it's like when you're running, like, you, , I'm sorry that, that's the last thing that you know, you're, you're thinking about. Right. Just, it's such a thankless job sometimes. It really is And at the end, I, always like, try and say thank you, And like, thank you for being here. And they just have such a attitude about it And just yeah. Like, I'm here because I like seeing other people succeed. Yeah. And I'm like, that warms my heart and I know that, \ I wouldn't have such a great marathon experience if it wasn't for, the volunteers. Yeah. I like to encourage people to volunteer at races.

Mm-hmm. Yes. Because I, it's like sad and embarrassing to admit, but like before I joined the board for Beyond Monumental. Mm-hmm. I had never volunteered at a race Mm-hmm. and I had run, and this is not a knock if you've never volunteered, but just, it's something to think about I had run, I don't know how many, half marathons and marathons before, a lot, like over 50 And then like probably a handful of marathons. And it just never really crossed my mind to volunteer. Yeah. Yeah. And then with Beyond Monumental, I've started doing that. And you just realize, yeah. the kinds of people that come out and volunteer and why they do it And all that, and you're like man.

I mean, filling up water cups is a sport. Yes. And stacking them, oh my God. upon stacks. Yeah. Holy cow. There's a whole strategy. Right. I had no idea. Right. And so, full circle moment, full, full circle. I volunteered at the Chicago Marathon in high school. You did? And so that's how I got in because the way that, so we, the first year it it was kind of a rites of passage in cross country to volunteer because you had to be a certain age, and I'm young for my age. Okay. Me too. Uh, With a June birthday. Yeah. And I remember all my friends going volunteering when I couldn't.

and they're like, oh my gosh. It was great. We saw the pro athletes, we tried to like. Race, on the sidewalk next to them. But like, we saw all of these runners and it was great. , you need to go like next year when you can. and I remember the first year we were, , handing out water cups and again, thankless job, you're gonna get wet. , you're gonna have to take a bus at like four in the morning because you have to set up. , but you get, you know, jackets, you get hats and like, that's just the coolest thing as a high high schooler.

Yeah. That's, Um, and, you know, you're tracking all the pro athletes on your phone and, , year two was at the finish line with handing out bananas And it's just it's again. It's long hours, but To see people cross the finish line and it's like, man, like I want to do that. one day. Like I wanna run the Chicago marathon one day. And, you know, only a couple years later I was like, all right, like I'm at the start line. Wow. And I saw my, every single year I see my high school volunteering out there. That's cool. And it's such a unique full circle moment, and I'm like, No matter what I accomplish, like I want to be looking back at like, you know, the people that, that started it and, you know, made me realize these goals and these dreams.

Mm-hmm. Um, and it's just such a rewarding thing to be a part of. Yeah. When did you start running? So, I started running in the sixth grade. Okay. And it was only that early, because I had two older sisters mm-hmm. And they wanted to do summer running for high school, and it was at like six 30 in the morning And it was easier for all three of us to go instead of, you know, my, my parents dropping off two, , two of the three. Sure. And then me being home or, you know, whatever. I'm like, can't I just like, sleep in or, you know, do just watch cartoons Right.

Or like just be at home. And they're like, no. Like you're, you're going to this And then just fell in love , with the process and just the delayed gratification of running. I didn't know, it at the time. I just thought that it was too early and, you know, too hot outside to run. Yeah. , but eventually it, it stuck. Wow. That's so funny. What part of Chicago was this that you grew up? Yeah. Uh, northern suburbs. Okay. , so I say Chicago depending on, you know, who I'm talking to. Totally. Uh, but you know, if I say Chicago to a actual Chicagoan, they're like, oh, you're, you're from the suburbs?

Yeah. Uh, but about 30 to 35 minutes north. Okay. Which suburb? Uh, Northbrook, Illinois. Okay. Northbrook. Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. I'm familiar with some. Mm-hmm. like my sister's best friend lives in Hinsdale. Yeah. Which is super nice. Mm-hmm. , oh my gosh, I wish I could remember where, , this guy I met in North Dakota. Hemanchu is from Chicago and he, I forget the name of his running club too, but he volunteers at Chicago every year. Yeah. Nice. , his job is the first aid station. Mm-hmm. Like that is his jam. mm-hmm. , but yeah, the, all those areas I lump into Chicago is somebody from Indy.

Like I'll say I'm from Indianapolis, even though I'm from Carmel. Right. It's like people who aren't from Indiana. No idea. Yeah. Yeah. Okay. Northbrook. And so after high school, what made you pick Butler? Yeah. , Butler was already on my radar because, , conveniently my, my two sisters went there as well. There you go. Okay. Um, and you know, me being the stubborn, youngest, child, I was like, I'm not gonna follow my two siblings. Like, I wanna do my own thing and I want to like, you know make my own path. because mm-hmm. I feel like I've been in the shadow, like of them. And then I started looking into like, Butler's communication school, , the city, the internship opportunities, and I was like, man, like Butler seems like a really good choice.

Um, but I also wanted to run in college, , and that was a huge thing because I wasn't quite good enough to, you know, have D one, like, uh, letters sent, sent to me, but I was looking at D three schools Okay. And trying to, you know, see, can I run and also, have great internship, possibilities in the future. And Butler, I could have walked on, maybe I could have given a shot, but I was like, I'm gonna take the school that has more of the , professional development skill sets. 'cause let's be real, like, I'm not gonna be a professional athlete, So like, why am I going to pick a college based on, you know, the athletic, potential.

Yeah. . And was really lucky, freshman year to get involved in like a run club and, , really just like running with people that also wanted to do marathons and wanted to get into that like scene. And I still run with, a couple of them like now. Oh, that's cool. , and that's just been so rewarding because , I chose the school based on, you know, my career choice. Yeah. And it's like no matter where you are, like you're gonna find runners. Yes. Like no matter, like no matter what. Yeah. Um, if you look hard enough and . If you're just on the monan or the canal, like you're gonna see people Yeah.

, on a regular basis. , and it's such a small world, especially in Indy. It really is. Um, so yeah, just Started off at Butler and just, you know, transitioned my way, like after post grad and it's like, wow. Like Indy's actually a really good city to live in, you know, It is. I'm biased 'cause I grew up here essentially, and I always thought I'd be somewhere else. Mm-hmm. like why would I live in Indiana? Doesn't, seem like I'll go to, Chicago or big city or out west , but nope, here I am and it's the best. Yes. I really love it and it's a great place to be able to travel from.

Mm-hmm. Right. Mm-hmm. And so, What was the first year you ran a marathon? Were you still at Butler when you ran a marathon then? Yes. So that's crazy to me. , After, I was accepted, , into Butler and I was like, well, if I'm not running, I need, I need a goal. I need a tangible goal to set my eyes on. Yeah. And so that summer going into college, I signed up for, , the monumental. And I was like, okay, like I'm gonna train for it my freshman year. And right when I crossed the finish line, I was like, I wanna do another, like, I want like, as crazy as that seems, I was like, something grabbed the hold of me and I just really liked it.

Mm-hmm. Um, it was super rewarding. I didn't know what I could do, like given the training and I, I wasn't a high mileage, , athlete in high school, so marathon training for me, like was still like 40 to 50 miles. . And so I was like, okay, like what can we do on, you know, number two and number three, and like, let's, let's see where this road takes me. , and yeah, like here we are, number 10, loading in, in August. Ooh. So that's So crazy. That's amazing. and what year would've been your first marathon? So 2019. Okay. Yes. Yes. All Right. so you snuck that in, or 2018?

Yeah. Or, Yeah. yeah. Yeah. Okay. 20 18, 20 19, around there, around there. The fall of 2018, I think. Years blur together. Yes. Yes. So, and also the run club you mentioned at Butler. Mm-hmm. What what was the Run club? Yeah, it was a Butler run club and there was only a couple of us, um, you know, Butler's a small school of, you know, four to 5,000 kids and just really trying to, Start a run club there, , with, Four or five people, doing, you know, afternoon runs, morning runs, and just really Facilitating, you know, that, that running community. And it never quite took off, In my four years especially.

'cause the pandemic hit in the middle of it. Right. Ugh. running in groups wasn't necessarily like the smartest thing, , to do like during the pandemic either. Right. , but you know, just like trying to like meet people and like trying to see like, , all right, like, if you're running, you know, Indy Mini, I wanna run with you. And , if you're doing monumental, like, let's train together. , especially because in college, there are so many things to try and so many like different avenues. So just having that accountability with one or two other people, like could be the deciding factor. Yeah. I'm so glad that monumental was your first marathon.

Yes. Yes. what was your marathon time? Uh, 3 0 1 30. Okay. So did that piss you off? 'cause you're like, yes. Yeah. Yeah. That's a dumb question. Of course It, did. It, it, you know, I was like, I have no idea what I'm gonna run today. But at the half I was like, all right, like let's, try and go for it. And, being 90 seconds off, it still qualified me for Chicago, , at that time. and I was like, let's, let's go for Chicago and then Boston, then New York, and it just kind of spiraled, , ever since then. So, , credit, credit, to, uh, beyond monumental for being my first and, , for that Google Ads.

Uh, because you know, when I typed in Indy marathons, like, oh, it was like, boop, that's the one. Yep. That that's the one. And I was like, all right, Like, good, , field size and fast times. and , I was like, okay, like if I could afford it as a college student, I'll do it. Right. Yeah. That's also helpful that it's here and not Yeah. Your first one being in, right? Yeah. Was it, so the next one was Chicago? Mm-hmm. The following fall then? Yes. Yes. and then did you do, what was the timeline from your other ones? Yes. So, , monumental, , from my freshman year and then sophomore year it was Chicago.

, and that's where I ran a 2 51. Um, wow. Yeah. So cut off, 10 minutes, which was amazing. It's huge. Yeah. Huge pr and then that qualified me for, , Boston. And at that time I didn't know it qualified me for New York, and I was like, oh, that's cool. I could just do both because, just do both. Yeah. Just because New York is a fall race. Mm-hmm. And Boston's in the spring, but then the pandemic hit. And so, oh my. Then Boston was like, well, since we missed, , , the race in the spring, we're gonna do a fall race. And I was like, oh, cool.

So I have to do Boston then New York back to back within three weeks of each other. Because , I could have deferred, but I was like, no, I don't want to, defer because, I wanna do it. Yeah. Like, as soon as I can. Yeah. , so yeah, that was number three And, four, , afterwards. back. to Back Back to Back Yeah. Wait, was was Boston first? Uh, Boston was, yes. Boston was first. Okay. Yeah. Yes. And I have not done Boston yet. Yes. I really do hope to work my way to qualifying. I'm getting closer, especially as I age up. But how was that experience?

I. you know, it was now since you're doing video, but, uh, there's a videographer and runner who he said his first experience was like a thumbs up, thumbs down. Okay. , when he crossed the finish line, he went like this and it was because it was the hardest thing and yet the most rewarding thing. , and I truly resonated with that because it was my slowest time. I was banged up going into it with a knee injury, , was not ready for the Newton Hills. I knew people said Heartbreak Hill would break you. And I was like, nah. Like, I'm young, I'll, , I'm invincible.

Like I'm still in college. I could do it. Oh my gosh. At mile 19 when those hills hit. You're not ready for it, especially training in the Midwest. Mm. You're, you know, the only hill I really had access to was Holcomb Hill at like, at Butler. And just because my knee injury, like I didn't do hills too too often. Right. You're not trying to make that mad. Right. No. And I'm like, I'm just gonna try and be as healthy as I can and just , kind of hobbled through Boston, , that year. And I was like, man, I got New York , in three weeks.

So Boston was a 3 0 7 and then bounced back in New York with a 2 59. And I was like, I don't know how I did that, but I did it. , probably not gonna do that again. 'cause that was pretty stupid. Yeah. But I promised myself I'd do Boston again just because I wanted redemption after that. Mm-hmm. and just, you know, I wanted, . Not like my first marathon or first Boston experience to taint that race. Right. , and I wanted to, you know, get revenge on, on Heartbreak Hill. Yeah. Like, I need to Do that again. I need a do over. Yes.

Yeah. do you work with a coach at all for your training? I don't. Okay. Um, so for the past couple marathon builds, I've just been strictly off of feel and just taking a week by week. And just like seeing All right. Like, I know Wednesday's a workout, I know Saturday's a long run. And just being flexible with my schedule as well, with being an entrepreneur. It's like, I might be traveling one week, or I might be, , in the city for, you know, a couple weeks. So let's hit those couple weeks pretty hard. , so just like having some flexibility. My training schedule is really nice.

Yeah. Yeah. Well, it sounds like FLAMS - Mike Lee - 4:3:25, 7.31 AM: You're being smart about it, especially by feel and week by week, especially with somebody who has dealt with injury. Mm-hmm. Mm-hmm. Yeah. Yes. Yeah. So now. We have Berlin, London. Mm-hmm. And Sydney left, right? Sydney? Yes. So what are you doing to go after those Man? I, glad, I'm glad you asked. , somehow, some way I, got into Sydney in August. Um, that is in August. Yes. And so this year, August 31st. which is like not that long from now. Yeah. Not, not too far. You're going this here to Sydney, which is amazing.

Um, so, okay. I was thinking. I saw somewhere you mentioned 2026. Yeah. But you must just not have thought you were gonna get in and Yeah. Yeah. Wow. So, uh, this, this summer, which is amazing. , it's gonna be great. Um, so got Sydney checked off in August and then, , trying to, you know, run for charity or for, uh, like specific run club in, in London. And then I'm only like about two and a half minutes off from Berlin qualifying, and so, oh wow. Okay. I really just want to qualify for Berlin, , and then, you know, try and get lucky for London. , but something about, only, what is that, like three seconds per mile, , for, for Berlin, which doesn't sound that.

Bad when you think about it, but you're like, but it is, it's that's a lot of time. Yeah. You're like okay, like a six 18 converted, you know, down to six 15. Like, ooh, okay. so gotta do Berlin. , 'cause I think, you know, there's something rewarding about like, going after a time. Mm-hmm. Um, and just like something about, running as fast as possible. Um, and, booking that flight is gonna be really rewarding. Yeah. I always, I think about it as like the time it matters in that you're chasing your best. Mm-hmm. It doesn't matter what the time is. Right. But you're chasing your best, your personal best.

Yes. Like you said earlier, you know, you're competing with yourself. And that's the way I try to think about it too, when I think about Boston and I'm feel despair. I'm like, how am I ever gonna do it? And it's like, you know what, just chase your best. Yes. And that's, you know, it'll get you there or it won't, but like, just try to be the best. Right. I'm like, okay, I can. frame it that way versus getting so stressed. Right. ' cause it is really hard. Yes. Yeah. And you know what, what's this, I think the stat is still like 1% of people will ever like run a marathon, right?

Yeah. And it's like, okay, I'm still in the one percentile Totally. I'm still, you know, unique and I'm still, you know, one of those people that are crazy enough to run a marathon. Yeah. and especially with like the boom in running right now. Mm-hmm. It's like you have so many people just like being talented and just qualifying Boston like right off the bat. And it's like just not to get discouraged by, by those people. And comparison is the thief of joy. It really is. And it's like, I'm gonna run my best and I'm gonna run and try and be the best version of myself. Yes.

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Thank you. Bitch Sticks. FLAMS - Mike Lee - 4:3:25, 7.31 AM: Do either of your sisters run or like your parents, have they ever run? Yeah, so my dad, , my dad ran, , all throughout like high school and I believe some in college. And then my sisters ran cross country in high school. Okay. And then the reason why the Lee family knew of Butler was because my oldest, , got a letter from Butler to run , for the 800 meter. Okay, cool. And So she was there for freshman year and then , unfortunately got like two stress fractures on her shins, so had to get surgery on both on your shins.

Um, and I'm like, man. So I think it was A really brutal recovery for her and, um, wow. But she's out in Connecticut now and she loves backpacking and hiking and getting back into the running world and that's been great to see. Yeah. , so all of us are still active, you know, nonetheless. , but again, , I think I mentioned it , it doesn't matter, like if it's a marathon or like a 5K or 10 K, whatever goal that you want to set, , be motivated and be determined to get that goal. , like it doesn't even have to be a physical goal either.

, I believe people can tackle any challenge that they set their minds to. Mm-hmm. , and like that's what I try and Work like that. That's why I'm trying to tell my story a little bit more. Yeah. , to inspire people to tackle that main, goal. I'm glad you brought that up. 'cause I loved how you said that. You're like, I'm not trying to, you know, have this content out there to rag about myself or like whatever, but I want it to inspire other people that they can do whatever they mm-hmm. Set their minds to. Mm-hmm. I saw a quote the other day, and I wish I could remember it verbatim, but it was something like.

to the effect of the reason that marathoners talk about their marathon or the reason runners talk about their marathon so much is because it was So life changing. It's like such a big experience. It's not that I wanna be like, look at me. Right. You know? It's like, no, this was amazing and I want other people to feel that same experience. Yes. So I really like, how you, how you said that because you know, especially as somebody, again, who's so talented, being able to like, See it through your eyes. Yeah. It is really inspiring. Right. And I grew up with the saying, my dad, , always said the saying of like, if you want notoriety or if you want publicity.

In running like, you're in the wrong sport. Like, go play basketball, go play football. Like if you want to be popular, like You're in the wrong sport. Yeah. That's funny. So like, know your why and like, know why you run. And it's not for publicity. It's, it's truly for yourself. And I got lucky because two of my like video and photo friends, they want to get into the documentary like world and they're like, , let's tell your story. It is a tangible like, time goal of hitting Berlin, hitting 2 45, going for all seven world majors. But , what's the true story? Beyond that? Yeah.

It's not just a time goal. Like what are the challenges internally that you're focusing on. Mm-hmm. Or , you know, dealing with what are the pressures that you're going through? And , truly running is just the gateway. Like it is the hook. It is the thing that like gets people to click on, you know? your YouTube video or podcast, but it's the lessons that they learn along the way. And like, I'm hoping that people can transfer those skills to their own lives. Yeah. And maybe I walk for two miles, or maybe I just like walk and like, just, or like run down the block and like see how that feels.

Mm-hmm. Or , what if I just walk into a running store and just buy a pair of shoes? Right. Like, just get started. Right. Um, like that's all I'm, Asking for, you know, for, for my viewers. Yeah. so cool. I love it so much. Thank you I wanna talk more about content production too, and to build IMG_8087 v 2: and to FLAMS - Mike Lee - 4:3:25, 7.31 AM: on what you're just talking about with the documentary. What does that look like? Are you constantly, Every week, doing something? Do you plan to do like a couple things a month? Could you just talk to people about how that?

journey is coming together? yeah. yeah. That's a really good question. , and obviously this is a passion project for all three of us, , And I, I think the biggest barrier for documentary workers are , just getting used to the talent and like, accessibility to, the person, , like both physically, , Being in the same space, but also like asking those tough questions too. And with them being two of my best friends, that's really easy. Mm-hmm. Um, and like being around the camera's already like, pretty comfortable for me, so that's not an issue. , but The issue that we're running into is time, because we all run our own production companies.

We're all like running around the city and like filming certain things. Yeah. And being busy. , and that's the main barrier. But it's setting those early morning, like, you know, alarms and setting, time to like block out for, for filming or Yeah. I'll tell them when I'm doing a long run, that could be good to be filmed or speed workout. Mm-hmm. Um. And so it's really just an open line of communication and it's just been so rewarding, , both on the creative side and also just a, time capsule. Yeah. Because Right. How cool is that? Like I could just watch the Chicago video whenever I want and I'm like, wow, like I did that.

Or, you know, watching like the Tokyo video that's coming out, it's like, sees I really did that I really worked through, you know, my injuries or, mm-hmm. you know, like these different battles. , I like like it's such a good FLAMS - Mike Lee - 4:3:25, 7.31 AM: Staple and like, okay, I was battling this in this time period. Mm-hmm. , I can accomplish X, y, z that's, coming ahead. Yeah. So cool to have. Thank you. I mean, shoot, I don't even have video of my wedding. Yeah. Can you believe that? I, I mean, that's the power of video, right? It really is. And like shame shameless plug to like production companies because Yeah.

It's, It's, a timeless piece. , , and that's why getting into printing out like my work, because yes, digitals really cool, but having something tangible for you to like, look through or just like reflect back on like, with you or, you know, loved ones, That's timeless. Yeah. I'm obsessed. So my love for photography started when I was in high school. Yes. And My high school photography teacher, Mrs. Collier, I really don't know where she is now. I should look her up. But, you know, we did dark room photography in high school and I fell in love with it. like the idea the, that red glow like.

Going in the dark and like learning about how to do that mm-hmm. Was so cool. Yeah. And that was before digital was even a thing. That's How old I am. , Hey, it's coming back. It, but It, is film films. Yes. And when I lived in Broad Ripple as a 20 something, I also took, I took a Dark Room class at the Indianapolis Art Center. Yeah. And loved it. Again, Yes. like, I was like I really miss , the smell of the chemicals, Yeah. you know, all the things that come along with the Dark Room. Mm-hmm. Mm-hmm. Um, and I also worked at Target Photo Lab at one point.

Amazing. Yeah. It was my favorite job probably. that's, awesome. So anyway, all that's to say, like, I just am in awe of how you're using film and like you just announced a film giveaway and I was like, I wish I could do something with. Film. Yeah. yeah. But like tell people about Why, why, film, and like why that's a medium you like and Yeah. Yeah. I, whenever I explain my love for film, I always preface , it's gonna sound pretentious. 'cause I think that there's a world with film, it's like, oh, like film is , better than digital because like, it's tangible and, uh, like, not to knock digital, but , there's something about, , like you said, something about like, seeing your negatives or seeing like your scans.

, and on the flip side, It's so much more meaningful when you take a shot, when you know, it might not turn out, if you don't roll the film properly or if you don't expose correctly. There's so many more like. . I guess, barriers mm-hmm. To getting a good film photo that when it does come out well, or if it's like the shot that you really imagined, it's so much more rewarding. , it's like running that race of a lifetime. It's like, it's not the actual act that is rewarding. It's all of the work that you put in to like the training to like the nutrition, to the diet, to like all the other small goals mm-hmm.

Along the way. And it teaches you like that one shot is , there's such a story behind each frame, , whether that's going around like the city and taking a photo or like for like a coffee shop. Mm-hmm. , it's so rewarding. And also to see the reaction of other people. They're like, wow, like that's film. Or like, That's our city, that's our coffee shop. Yeah. Like, you did that. Yeah. Um, and there's something tangible about it that I just can't, I can't put my finger on, but, , so many people love film photography mm-hmm. For a certain reason. Mm-hmm. Um, and, it's not feasible.

It's expensive. It's a pain. Yeah. You know, , which is so crazy to think about how it's like just flipped because Right. Digital, when digital started, I remember working in the photo lab and it was more expensive mm-hmm. To do digital than it was to do film. Yeah. And now it's just kind of wild how that works. Yeah. And like, truly everything comes back to analog. Mm-hmm. Like, everyone wants to feel like they're like a part of the process. Yeah. I still shoot predominantly digital, , for, for my clients and for myself, but Right. It's like, something about film is just so rewarding. , and like , you're really a part of the process.

Mm-hmm. Now, now this is the perfect segue to talk about the Blend, which I have watched a couple episodes of. Oh, thank you. Yeah, it's so cool. Thank you. Tell people what it is, how you came up with the idea, what to expect from it. Yeah. , yeah. Shameless plug for the blend. If you haven't checked it, please give it a like and a view. , but really just like the love for coffee shops started when I was at Butler and studying at coffee shops was my favorite thing. , not only like studying all day there, but when you get into your car and you smell like coffee beans, like, you know you did something right?

Yeah. Like, you know, you did damage. Like, you know that. Okay. I studied my ass off. Yeah. 'cause I was there. , But just like the people, the ambiance, just like the drinks, again, like something tangible about, you know, doing a pour over coffee or like making espresso. It's gonna take some time. Like it's not instant. , it's an art in itself and just wanting to, pair the like film process. with the coffee process. And when thinking about titles for like the series, I was like, The blend is such a fitting title for it because it's, yes, it's the blend of film and coffee, but also the blend of, you know, coffee beans and the chemicals being Into like brewing coffee.

Yeah. And like the science behind that and film photography. I was like, that's perfect. Yeah. And it's the intersectionality of my two passions. And how can we also support the local coffee community here, right? Yeah. Um, because there's so many coffee shops, . I think in the downtown area there's more local shops than Starbucks. That's so cool. And That's amazing. Yeah. Like that, that's such an impressive stat. And you know, everyone, no matter where you are, , will go to a local coffee shop here in Indianapolis, And it's so rewarding. And if I could give back to the community, to the film and coffee community Yeah.

Like, I wanna do that. So Cool. , and it's like I want to evolve the series where, you know, it's educational, I want it to inspire other photographers to get into film. Mm-hmm. Because it's a daunting task. But yeah. I want people to see, like, Mike Lee can get into film, Like I can. Yeah. And if I could, , have one or two different nuggets in each episode on like how to develop film or how to roll the film properly or how to expose it. Oh my gosh. Yeah. Like I want it to be, I'm not a professional by any means, but like a masterclass, , for it.

Yeah, And really cool. And like giving back to the coffee community at the same time , it's been a really rewarding process. Do you develop your own film or you send it away? Yeah, I send it. Okay. I'm not quite there yet. And, well, I can see, I don't even know. I'm like, where would you go? I mean, the art center I know has a dark room, but like Yeah. I don't know how that would work if you were gonna, there. There's so many, subcategories, I guess. Right. That's so true. , and like, I've, I, I develop it through one of my friends, Joey, and he's been really rewarding because he tells me like how each role, uh, like went and if there are any things that he, like saw in the dark room that I need to improve on.

And it's just been a really collaborative effort. That's so wild. Yes. Yeah. And it's the relationships that you build through, photography. Mm-hmm. And I get to meet all the owners of these coffee shops. Right. And like See why they like , started it and like why they're in the community that they are and like they want serve the community that they're in. Mm-hmm. And just hearing the stories. So it's really just another storytelling avenue Yeah. That I'm a part of. , and I think we're on episode five, episode five's coming out soon. And That's so cool. , really just Getting a lot of good feedback from it too.

how often are you Planning and putting out episodes? Yes. So I'm planning on posting, , every other week. , but every other week. every other week. That's amazing. Um, which is great. And so pushing out film, you know, as much as I can. , but I'll be filming at coffee shops like, you know, a couple times a week sometimes. , we have episode , I think six, seven, and eight already recorded. Yeah. Um, film is already back from the lab. Um, so I have that stockpiled. , I wouldn't be posting that frequently if I didn't get that much feedback, , from the coffee shops. 'cause it's usually a hell yes.

Like we want to be involved. Yeah. Um, like why wouldn't we? Well, exactly. And it's free promotional, , at the end of the day. So, Since I'm getting so much support from it, it's like, well I can't stop now. , and seeing like where that takes me Yeah. It's So cool. Thank you. Thank you. How do you pick where to go? That's a great question. , it's usually like a coffee shop referring me to yet another coffee shop. , and just cold DMing coffee shops and saying like, Hey, like, here's my work. , I would love for you guys to be a part of it.

, and usually just sitting down with the owner or manager it's like, here's what it would, you know, tangibly look like. Yeah. Uh, and I, I, don't want to be obtrusive when I'm at the shops. I want to be a fly on the wall. I want just capture the authentic nature of the coffee shop. Mm-hmm. And so usually they're okay with that. And I don't want to bother service and I just want to like, be there with my camera and like, you know, my video person and then just talking through the process. And it usually takes about an hour to, you know, 90 minutes, , just like being at the shop.

But, , it's just. FLAMS - Mike Lee - 4:3:25, 7.31 AM: Yes. It takes a lot of time. , but at the same time, it's like, it's so, so rewarding. Yeah. Every other week. Yeah. That's wild. I'm like, think looking at the quality of that and Like thinking, man, like I put out weekly episodes and it's so much work and you're like, holy crap. But That is your jam. Yes. Yes. That's my jam. That is your jam. How can people work with you if they want to? If they hear this, they're like, oh, I didn't, I've never heard of Mike Lee Productions. Yeah. I mean, I'm, I'm on Instagram.

I have my website. , I will never turn down a coffee chat That is again my jam. Like I would love to talk to people. I'm an introvert, , like in nature, but like one-on-one meetings is like, where I'm at. So like podcasts is great. Yeah. Um, like just coffee chats like over, you know, some good coffee and it's just, you know, that, that's like the jam. And I always love to tell stories. , so if you have a unique story or if you have A company or organization that has a really unique story that you want to get across, like on the digital platform, I have plenty of experience with that.

So yeah, you do. , I don't section off my clients based on like what they do, but just If they're good people and if they have a good story, like I wanna work with them. Yeah. IMG_8087 v 2: Man, FLAMS - Mike Lee - 4:3:25, 7.31 AM: I could nerd out too, just about all the editing I have. Like you had once one point mentioned on Instagram, I think, hey, like should we get creators together? and I was like can somebody FLAMS - Mike Lee - 4:3:25, 7.31 AM: Teach me how to do stuff? Like I will pay to Like learn how to do the things that I'm trying to tackle.

, because it just seems really overwhelming at times. Mm-hmm. Like we've talked about. And especially doing good work, especially when the stories deserve the good work. Mm-hmm. Mm-hmm. I'm like, oh man, I feel bad that I did this early podcast. That's not gonna get, you know, I'm just getting better and better. Yeah. Yeah. but but it, it's like, how can we break down those barriers where it's like we have YouTube, we have you know, all these websites, but people are craving, like, in person, Teaching or like in person, just like learning. , so it's like if you could grab coffee with one person and just , Hey, can you teach me, like, how to FLAMS - Mike Lee - 4:3:25, 7.31 AM: Edit Mm-hmm.

or like how to like shoot photos. I think people are more Willing to do it than they, than they will admit. Mm-hmm. Um, and it's really rewarding. Like once you do it a couple different times, you're like, wow, like that felt really good. , I think gatekeeping is such a I don't know, Red flag. Red. Yes. Yes. Thank you. Thank you. That's the word, Red flag. Yeah. It's like, wait, okay. You're, we're not gonna be friends then. Right? And it's like a rising tide lifts all shit. Yeah, totally. Like, come on. Like, can't you see that? Especially in a community like Indy, and it's like if we could a uplift meeting at coffee shops and two, like the creative economy.

Yeah. like, come on. , yeah. how How, are you not down for it? Yeah. Well, I'm down. I just, I have different value to bring, I suppose. Yeah. but yeah, I've, I've thought about signing up for a digital photography class at the art center again. Yeah. Just because I recently got a new camera and I just. I was like, I know that there's a way that I could use this to the best of its ability and I'm not taking any advantage of it. Mm-hmm. Like I could probably be videoing with my really good camera, but instead I'm using my iPhone, which is fine, but but it's like, again, like, the resources that you have, like just make do, and like, shout out Robert's camera, like they, oh, Robert's.

They are such a blessing to this community. And I don't think people realize how Having a shop downtown and I don't know what other city has that, like Chicago, you know, you have A couple here and there. But to have a store that develops, that has used gear, that has like the new and up and coming gear in Indianapolis, in the heart of it, That's such a awesome resource that I don't think people, , will utilize too often. Mm-hmm. Mm-hmm. So I wanna segue to talk about what you dream of Yeah. and what you're manifesting. Oh man. tell people what you're dreaming about. Man. I'm dreaming about a lot of different things.

, I would love, again to have like more intersectionality in my life. I think, , I definitely live to work. , I definitely live to work. I, I know that for, for a fact. , that is affirmed by my girlfriend, my friends, my family, and they're like, you just don't stop. And I was like, yeah, because I love what I do. Yeah. , and so definitely like I want to continue that. Um, I want to get more into like the personal branding, , and just having genuine, social media content mm-hmm. Is where I'm going for not necessarily like trying to be an influencer by any means, , but like authentic partnerships.

Yeah. And just like telling my story on a platform and uh, like collaborating with people like Roberts collaborating people, like beyond monumental. Mm-hmm. Like 500 festival, Boston Marathon. Like all of those things are so great. , I'm filming for a heartbreak running company out in Boston That's so cool. Um, This April, which is amazing. Yes. And , that was a dream of mine since I've ran Boston. Like I want to film it like one year. , so to have that Wow. Like actually like be this year is super exciting. , And just capturing different stories, whether that's running camera, gear, film, uh, like those are like kind of my three buckets right now.

Mm-hmm. , and so if I could, you know, do more of that in, 2025 and 2026, I'm here for it. And what about 2028? Oh man. I mean, of course it's the Olympic year. Um, of course the Olympics are, you know, in la That, would be like the icing on the icing, , of the cake. , I think you get there to like be there and just be there with my camera filming, like professional athletes. That would be the dream. , definitely manifesting that, , into existence. Yeah. Um, so yeah, just like How can we go from point A to point B? And I know that there's a lot of work to be done, you know, before 28 comes around.

, but FLAMS - Mike Lee - 4:3:25, 7.31 AM: It's just, again, just like running every single training block will help you, you know, get to the goal that, that you want to be at. Yeah, absolutely. Yeah. The Olympics, man, that would be so incredible. Yeah. You never know who's listening. Right. you know? Exactly. So it's like you gotta put it out there and say, Hey, I wanna be there, I wanna do this. I mean, all the brands, all the different mm-hmm. I mean, there's just so many avenues to get there and, and, it just takes one, right? It just takes one. Like you don't need a million.

It just takes one. So keep on reaching out and it's like for the 10,000 nos that you're gonna get. like you just need one. Yeah. It's so true. Yeah, so true. Oh my gosh. And when you do, this is back to the documentary, Yeah. 'cause I've been thinking about this. Yeah. When you do that do you stockpile all that and edit it all at once? Or do you kind of like edit as you go? That, that's a question for my two friends. Just 'cause I'm more of a, like, creative director, , so I'm not in the editing lab, like editing, um, just because I'm like, I feel like I'm too close to the project.

Like literally you are the project, so you're right, right. I'm like, ah. Like I also don't like editing myself. Yeah. If, if like, that just feels weird. It sucks. I do it a lot. Yes. And I do it with a blend, so I'm just like, I don't wanna do that. Right. , and again, it's like I want an editor to edit like my documentary just because they'll see things that I don't mm-hmm. And , it, it will attract so many people, like them, you know, that might not be in the running world. Mm-hmm. That will be interesting. Yeah. , so if we could draw more eyes, through, you know, start to finish, like, I want to I want to do that.

Yeah. Yeah, for sure. Uh, So good. Well, I hate to do this. I'm gonna ask you the end of the podcast questions. Yeah. But we're not in a rush. Fire away times. Fire, fire, fire away. This is good. So I need to know, Mike, what is your favorite running song and or mantra? Man, I so I don't listen to music while running. it's something that I've just never done. , but that, that doesn't mean I don't, you know, get hype in the car. Right. You like getting, get like going too much. Yeah. Yeah. , but it's usually something with like khal, uh, I love like the song way Down We Go.

Okay. Uh, it's, it's more of like a slower song, but , just something about it, like something about the rhythm just like really gets me going before a, race. , but also like, I heard from Jeff Cunningham who's like a pretty prominent coach in the running community, like be the Curious Amateur And I'm like, that makes so much sense. And what he means by that is like being an amateur of the sport. Amateur is like for the love of, you know, blank. It's like always be a sponge, always be like soaking up knowledge. Be curious, be humble about like where you are too. He always talks about like, I don't call myself a professional, like other people may call me a professional, but I'm always just an amateur of, you know, my career path or like video or like running.

, so having that mantra in the back of my head, I love that? Uh, like during my training build during the race, like that really just Keeps my head up during it. , so I always just like try and keep that close to my heart. Yeah, That's a good one Yeah. Thank you. That's a really good one for life too. and it's like mm-hmm. Stay humble in a lot of ways too, right? Yes. It's like. you Always have more to learn. Yeah. And like staying hungry about it. Mm-hmm. Like always saying yes to new opportunities. Just like dive into the deep end, as, as much.

as you can. Uh, Yeah. So shout out Jeff. Yeah. that's a good one. Okay. And then next finish line or milestone, which we've kind of already given. a lot of that away, but let's reiterate. Yes. , so obviously Sydney coming up, uh, which is great, but I also have Chicago in October. Um, so, uh, Sydney, August 31st, and then recover from the jet lag and then get going for Chicago, , second weekend of October. Yeah. Um, so I have a little bit of time in between, , but not too much, uh, you know, to ddy Deli. Yeah. , but yeah, just like wanting to, say yes to the opportunities that arise.

Gosh. Um, this Chicago will , I'll be a legacy runner after this. So, uh, which will be Okay. How many is that? I think five. Okay. Yes. five. , five will get you a, like legacy status, so you could run, does it have to be in a row? I think so Okay. Yes. Which is a lot. Um, yeah. And I, I don't wanna think about FLAMS - Mike Lee - 4:3:25, 7.31 AM: The money and like the time. We can't think about that. No, no. Yeah. Ignorance is bliss when it comes to that. Oh yeah. Oh my gosh. So for Sydney, how many days before the race will you.

get out there? I think at least three or four. Okay. , I wanna make it a whole trip. , I haven't been there obviously, so it's been a really long time since I have. Okay. Yeah. Okay. If you have any recommendations for Cindy, please send him my way. 'cause uh, it's a whole nother world out there. , and just like the flight, like how do I do that? Who knows? So, yeah. Right. Yeah. Well, ' cause usually my MO would be like, okay, let's get some Ambien and, you know mm-hmm. Sleep. 'cause I can't sleep on a plane without Right. Ambien. , but. Then you're like, well, what's that gonna do to my body?

Yeah. Just all the things you have to think about differently when you're traveling for a world major marathon. Mm-hmm. Compared to just going for vacation. Right, right. The most memorable thing I did in Sydney was I was with my dad and my middle sister, and we climbed the harbor bridge and it was unreal, but I have no idea how that looks in a weak like Sydney marathon. Yeah. I have no idea if that's even possible. Maybe that'll be my shakeout afterwards. Right. Yeah. Like after the race, trying to climb the bridge. Right. Yeah. You just shaking out all the lactic acid. Right. Exactly. Yeah. And then I've done on my Peloton treadmill, they have like the, what is it called?

like a scenic run? Yeah. and they do it in Sydney. And so I've done that just because I can, I guess. And it's kind of cool to see Yeah. like, where people run in certain cities. Yeah. Maybe that'll be my like visualization tactic. Yeah. Leading up to the race. There you go. I'm like, okay. Like hop on the Peloton or like Yeah. One of those scenic runs. Yeah. You totally can. And now they're starting to do content related specifically to FLAMS - Mike Lee - 4:3:25, 7.31 AM: The New York City marathon. Like they have, I think part of the course on there? that's great.

I don't know, but that's really nice 'cause it's like, oh yeah, and sometimes you just need to. do something like that to get your mind somewhere else. Absolutely. Yeah. Yes. Yeah. Yeah. Agreed. okay, Sydney in August, do you have a time goal for Sydney or are you just going for the experience there? I think a little bit of both. Like we will, we'll see how the summer looks. , hoping for a really healthy and good summer training block. , trying high mileage this time. Okay. So we'll see how that goes. I think my body's ready for it, , as I get older too. Like high mileage will be, you know, my friend, , instead of, you know, .

I feel like I've built more muscle and more experience too, and I can, you know, learn and really listen to my body a lot better, , this time around and see like what I need to look out for, , this training block. But like, we'll see, I, I haven't done research on the course yet, , so I don't know, if it's, you know, fast or faster compared to Chicago. Yeah, so I think depending on the summer build, Sydney might be the, , b goal or, Chicago will be the, a goal, right? Um, depending on the weather too. So like Right. Who knows? , but trying to be flexible, trying to roll with the punches, but also like be determined in, you know, the goals that I set forth and, uh, really to just like trying to keep myself accountable through it.

Yeah. Gosh, I can't believe we get to go do that. I'm so excited. I Well, every time we talk about Sydnee, I tell people my dau, my oldest daughter's name is Sydnee. Yeah. And so I'm like, I gotta take her there. I gotta go do the marathon. It's only right. Yeah. But maybe she'll wanna do it. Maybe she wants to run the Sydnee marathon. can you imagine if that were, I don't know, one can dream that is legitimately manifesting. Yeah. Like if your name is Sydnee, shout out to all the Sydney's, right? Like, you have to do the Sydney marathon. you have to go do a Sydnee marathon.

Right. Uh, and do you. Run with anybody today? Like do you run with any of the clubs or do you just primarily work out solo? Yeah. , a lot of it is solo, but, um, my friend Corey, he, he and I, we've been running since the pandemic, , and like through like our Butler days. , but yeah, like I try and get out, like, and visit all the run clubs, um, if I can, but we're, we're usually like a five 15 in the morning type. Yeah. Like crew Corey works at 7:00 AM , and every time I complain about that because yeah, he's like, well, yeah, I work from like seven to four.

Uh, and I was like, what? But like why can you just like, wait, don't, does he have your own business too? No, No, no, So he is okay. Yes. So he he's pretty regiment in that. That makes sense. Um, and I was like, man, like, I don't have to, like, if I didn't have this run, I didn't have to wake up until like noon if I didn't have to. Right. , yeah, you're a good friend. Yeah. you're a really good friend. Thank you. Thank you. Corey will love that when he hears it. Yes, exactly. , but shout out to Corey because he and I, we've been running for, a couple years now and it really just feels like second nature just to, you know, like run with him And we have the same goals too, , and just like really having a good time while running it.

and like he makes it a lot easier. , and I hope it's the same too. , But uh, yeah, it's just Like, trying, trying to find community within like this crazy world of running to Yeah. Yeah. Right. Well, and I just props you for getting up in the morning. ' cause I don't have to at this moment And so, I mean, I do, my kids wake me up, but, I don't have to get up at, you know, four in the morning. Like I used to to go get in miles before my friend Selena, she was the one who had to work Oh, okay. and be at work at eight.

and so we always got up early to get it done before she Yes. Would have to go to work. So. Yes. Yes. , yeah. And so in terms of milestones mm-hmm. Any big milestones out there outside of the obvious one of Getting all the world majors. Yeah. Yeah. I think that's like, that's the key objective I think. , But at the same time it's like, I don't know where this crazy world's gonna take me either. Yeah, that's true. Um, and like the places that I get to see and the people that I get to meet like, that is such a rewarding part of the whole entire process.

, and it's like if I could learn, you know, like at least one thing along the way of each training block mm-hmm. Or like meet one person in every single country or every single race that is, is success to me. Um, and sharing it with, people like back here and bringing people along for the journey. And like, again, like Learning about the course and learning about the culture. Mm-hmm. Like that's such a unique experience of like an international marathon. Yeah. , And just like, again, yeah, sharing it with the platform that I have, , and just like seeing the people invested in it and like, that's been really rewarding.

And also, like, we mentioned earlier, it's a time capsule too. So when I'm older, like seeing that like mm-hmm. It's like, okay, I did that in my twenties, like I did that. Yeah. and uh, I, I feel like it's a Gen Z term, but it's like it's dad lore. , oh, I don't even know what that means. Like, looking back at it, like it's, it's like, oh, like dad, like You did the Sydney Marathon. Like, oh, right. You know, when you're 25, it's like, yeah. Like I did that. Yeah, I did that. Um, and like, here's the video. If like. If that plays back, like you know, in the future.

, but who knows if 4K is gonna be like, you know, like IMG_8087 v 2: like FLAMS - Mike Lee - 4:3:25, 7.31 AM: relevant black and white. Yeah. I know. It'll be like, wow, dad, this, the quality of this is awful. Right, right. But hey, it's gonna come back. It's a weird think about. It's gonna come back eventually. Yeah. Oh my gosh. Do you ever do, we talked about, you know, doing five Ks and stuff like. before, Yeah. do you ever do other distances or is the marathon your main, I mean, obviously your main focus right now chasing the majors, Yeah, but I, I think I always like to incorporate like, races within the training block.

Yeah, that's fine. Like to like incorporate that race day feel. Mm-hmm. And environment. So obviously doing the 10 miler, , if I'm not filming it for the 500 festival. Right. Yeah. , and like doing a half marathon in June or July. Okay. Like leading up to Sydney. , but like, those are just really fun for me because I feel like a marathon is a little bit too serious. , so like for me just to like go out there and just have fun. Yeah. Um, Turkey trots are always a tradition of mine. so, , towing the line with a couple high school friends, like, that's so fun.

And just having that tradition side of running, um, is, is something that I always tap into. Yeah. Uh, Well, thank you so much for doing this. thank you No, thank you for having, me. you've inspired me a ton. Yeah, Thank you. Yeah, absolutely. And that, that's the, that's the goal. So if we can inspire, you know, a couple other viewers and listeners like That, like, I, like we did our job. Yep. Job's done. Yes, yes. Oh, and thank you. Thanks to everybody who's listened or maybe even watch the video. Who knows? I don't know if people will watch it, but yeah, incorporating video is, is, a huge step.

So thank you for doing that. Oh, I'm trying. I'm trying. Mike. Yeah. All right. Thanks everybody. Appreciate it. Happy running. Yay. We did it. Ally Brettnacher: If you enjoyed this Sandy Boy Productions Podcast, finish Lines and Milestones, please go share rate review. I'm gonna ask you to do a couple more things, and that is go buy your tickets for the Indianapolis. I'll have another live show with myself and Lindsey Heine on May 2nd in Indianapolis. And check out the Instagram giveaway. It is humongous. Talk to you soon.

Ally Brettnacher