Episode 615: Allie Buchalski on Trusting the Process, Sports Psychology, and Running with the Brooks Beasts

Hey friends! I’m so excited to share this conversation with Allie Buchalski with you. Allie runs professionally for the Brooks Beasts, focusing on the 5,000 meters, and she’s someone I’ve wanted to have on the show for a long time. She’s incredibly down-to-earth, has a great sense of humor, and brings a thoughtful perspective to racing and training. Allie ran for Furman University, where she finished second at the 2018 NCAA Outdoor Championships in the 5K. Right out of college, she signed with Brooks, and she just re-signed with them, continuing her training under coach Danny Mackey in Seattle. She recently placed fifth—just milliseconds out of fourth—at the USATF 5K Road Championships in Indianapolis, and we recorded this episode shortly after that race. Our conversation ended up being even more reflective and grounded than what we originally planned to chat about in person. We talk about how working with a sports psychologist has shifted her mindset in racing and how that’s changed her career trajectory. Allie opens up about her love for basketball, growing up in Georgia, and the unique way she approaches racing with both intensity and joy. She also shares a bit about her goals for this season and what it means to her to represent Brooks and compete at a high level. This was one of the easiest and most natural interviews I’ve ever recorded, and I can’t wait for you to hear it! Thanks for being here, and if you enjoy the episode, please consider leaving a rating and review or joining us over on Patreon to support the show. Happy listening! What we talked about: 5:00- Her race in Indianapolis at the US 5k Champs 14:00- Her mom’s diagnosis with cancer 21:10- What’s next on Allie’s racing calendar 22:05- Growing up and finding her passion and drive in sports 27:45- Running for Furman University 35:00- The decision to sign with Brooks Beasts 50:00- Focus on nutrition 57:40- Looking ahead to USAs 1:05:00- Working with a sports psychologist 1:11:00- Celebrating the small wins 1:13:00- Hobbies outside of running 1:18:00- End of podcast questions Show notes: The Book of Thorns Heart of a Husky Running For My Life Think Like a Champion Connect with Lindsey: Lindsey on Instagram Lindsey on Twitter Support our sponsors: Lagoon Use the code “Lindsey” for 15% off your order Previnex Use code “LindseySuperfoods” for 15% off if you purchase the Gut and Greens Superfood Use the code “another” for 15% off OR use code “LindseyStrength” for 15% off if you purchase their new Muscle Health Plus Cornbread Use the code “Another” at checkout for 20% off your order