This episode features a conversation with Joseph Mills, who is an International Adjunct Professor in the Master of Sports Coaching program at the University of Denver. That is his formal title. According to his profile, “his research and teaching interests are in the application of social-cultural theories to bridge science (real-world) practice divides in coaching, sport and exercise.”

My interest in Joe’s work stems from my coaching practice. I have started coaching at Leiden Atletiek and privately over the last 12 months and while I’m looking to learn from more established figures in the running-coaching game, I’m also looking to put my own spin on how I do things. That involves thinking critically about some of the foundational presumptions we have about athletics training and what makes a good coach.

I got in touch with Joe after seeing his work referenced in that of Zoe Avner’s who was featured in episode 78. I also saw that they had co-authored some articles together. Joe’s work is very much informed by Michel Foucault, whose work created such a great intervention in thinking about power and knowledge structures.

So, in this conversation we talk about Joe’s relationships with his running coaches; Foucault and discipline; the disciplined athlete; his work as a post-structuralist scholar; running as play; training for racing; the rise of sports science as a discipline.

I want to thank Joe very much for the sincere and open manner in which he shared his thinking and experiences with me during this interview. It’s moments like this that really make me glad that I started this podcast. I’m trying to build a substantial resource of conversations which can be of use to runners and non-runners alike. Apologies to those who are looking for quick answers, tips and gear endorsements. That’s not what my podcast is about. So, if you are liking what you are listening to, please feel to support via the Buy Me a Coffee platform. You’ll be even more of a legend than you already are.

So, dat was hem voor nu. It’s a beautiful, still, calm autumn day in the best city in the province of South Holland in the Netherlands. Doei doei!

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Links:

Andy Fuller/Reading Sideways Press

Strava: Andy Fuller

Instagram: Everyday Runners Leiden

Email: [email protected]

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