Shows
Lecka BitesFrom Farm to Fuel: Scaling Real-Food Nutrition in Da Nang & Hoi AnIn this episode of Lecka Bites, Markus takes us to the heart of Lecka’s operations in Central Vietnam. From the ancient streets of Hoi An to the bustling beachfront of Da Nang, he shares an inside look at the brand’s latest product breakthroughs. Get the first scoop on the newly finalized Ultra Gels—featuring a refreshing Passion Fruit Mango and a "real food" Banana Peanut Butter—and learn how the move to locally sourced tapioca syrup is revolutionizing the flavor profile of the Gel 2.0 lineup.Beyond the lab, Markus dives into the vibrant local co...
2026-02-2815 minLecka BitesFrom Vietnam to Vegas: Lecka Bites Scales Real-Food Subscriptions and Global Run CommunitiesJoin Lecka founder Markus Gnirck as he returns to the brand’s roots in Vietnam during the Lunar New Year (Tet) to outline the next phase of the "real food" revolution. From the trails of Northern California to the streets of Manila, Lecka is proving that clean-label, gut-friendly nutrition is the future of endurance sports.In This Episode:Expansion in the USA: We’re welcoming Reno Running Company (NV) and Gold Country Run & Sport (CA) to the Lecka family. Find us near the iconic Western States finish line!The Subscription Launch: Learn how to s...
2026-02-2108 minLecka BitesNew US Partner & Ultra Gel UpdateExciting Developments at Lecka: New Products, Markets, and Growth StrategiesAre you curious about how innovative nutrition brands like Lecka are expanding globally and launching new products? In this post, we’ll explore the latest updates from Lecka, including their upcoming product launches, market expansions, and insights into the health trends shaping their strategy. Whether you're an industry insider or just interested in how brands grow, this overview offers clear takeaways on navigating product innovation and market penetration.Drawing from recent interviews and updates from Markus, Lecka’s founder, we gain practical insights into how a br...
2026-02-1407 min
Lecka BitesLaunch in France & the UAE, Changing Gel Syrup, US updatesIt's been a while since our last episode. Now it is time for an update. We have been busy launching in France and the UAE and are working on more countries like Australia, China and Chile. Fingers crossed!Also, we are replacing the imported brown rice syrup in our energy gels with locally sourced tapioca syrup. We are doubling down on our commitment to only source ingredients close to our factory.In the US, we are trying our best to get into many running shops, while experimenting with our amazon sales.More updates...
2025-11-0416 min
Lecka BitesHow we build communities globallyTwo key elements to building Lecka are having a great product and building long-lasting trust with communities. Everything else will fall into place then. How do we build communities?We work with numerous running clubs around the world. We give them samples to try, we tell the story, and try to understand how we can add value. We work with various sports events where we provide small 10g samples of our bars for checkpoint nutrition. We don't provide actual products for free giveaways. That devalues our products. We work with athletes...
2025-06-1319 min
Lecka BitesLaunch in Puerto Rico, Switzerland and a NO to processed sugarsHear the background story about the launch in Puerto Rico and Switzerland. He takes you through the last few months of work and how those two countries came about. Also, each country brings its challenges and opportunities. We never stop learning!Additionally, learn more about why we stopped the research into a hydration powder based on processed sugars. No dextrin, fructose, sucrose or anything whatsoever can be found in our products. We stay true to our mission of real food nutrition. Find it here:USA: www.getlecka.com
2025-06-0620 min
Lecka BitesThe story behind launching the coffee cacao gelHear the background story of creating and launching the coffee cacao energy gel - the world's first energy gel made from Vietnamese robusta coffee and cacao.From testing with the first ingredients in late 2024 to testing with our athletes and launching it in May 2025, this gives you insights into how we at Lecka create a new product from scratch. Delicious and functional. This gel delivers 100 calories and 90mg of caffeine. Find it here:USA: www.getlecka.comDenmark: www.getlecka.dkVietnam: www.getlecka...
2025-05-2823 min
One More KReinventing Running Shoes: How Zen Running Club is Leading the Sustainability MovementMarkus hosts Andy Farnworth and Hans Koeleman of Zen Running Club to discuss their mission to revolutionize running shoes. With backgrounds at Nike and decades in the industry, they share how Zen is breaking the mold by creating bio-based, compostable shoes that balance performance with sustainability.
The duo explains the challenges of disrupting an industry reliant on petroleum-based materials, from engineering durable bio-fibers to educating consumers. They highlight Zen’s focus on community and storytelling, building a brand that’s as inclusive as it is innovative.
Whether you’re into running, sustainability, or just great storie...
2024-12-1552 min
One More KCelebrating 50 Episodes: Ultra Insights, AI Coaching, and Robot RacesEpisode 50 of One More K is a milestone celebration for Markus and Ned, reflecting on the journey from starting out to becoming an “ultra-marathon” podcast. They revisit key themes from past episodes, like the evolving business of trail running, the passion behind ultra-endurance athletes, and how the sport’s growing popularity is shaping its future.
The duo shares candid thoughts on industry trends, brand innovation, and even touch on quirky topics like AI in coaching and robot racing. Their humorous takes on government cuts to trail funding and the rise of trail lotteries keep the episode lively and re...
2024-12-0743 min
Lecka BitesNo Easy Answers in Sustainable PackagingWe invite our two AI experts, Tom and Ann, who were 'fed' with the latest research on 'eco-friendly packaging'.
They explore the complexities of evaluating the environmental impact of bio-based and fossil fuel-based polymers. The discussion centres around the finding that there is no simple answer to which type of polymer is more environmentally friendly.
The episode highlights a recent study that compared 50 bio-based polymers and 39 fossil-based polymers and found no clear winner in terms of environmental impact.
The research reveals a significant variation in environmental impacts across all materials, making it impossible...
2024-12-0417 min
One More KFoam, Fuel, and Fashion: Jonas Jacquet on the Future of RunningIn this One More K episode, Jonas Jacquet, co-founder of Sporthunger.de, shares his journey from finance in Asia to building a top German endurance nutrition platform. He dives into why he returned to Germany, the gap he saw in high-quality sports nutrition, and how Sporthunger bridges that gap with curated products athletes love.
Jonas reflects on his experience at The Running Event in Austin, where he observed booming trends like foam-soled shoes, trail running fashion, and the high-carb fueling revolution. He also highlights the rise of run clubs and the shift of running into a social...
2024-12-031h 00
One More KShort, Fast, and Thrilling: How SuperTri is Changing the Game with Michael DhulstMarkus and Ned sit down with Michael Dhulst, co-founder and CEO of SuperTri, to talk about shaking up the triathlon world.
Michael shares his journey from working at Volkswagen in China to launching SuperTri, a short-course triathlon league that’s built for athletes and spectators. Compact courses, thrilling formats, and team-based racing are changing the game—and pulling in new fans.
He also dives into the business side: how to connect with participants on an emotional level, the growth of SuperTri E (their e-sports triathlon platform), and the challenges of scaling globally.
With a fo...
2024-11-2345 min
Lecka BitesThe Ultimate Backyard Guide with Singapore Champion Ned PhillipsNot many other people in Asia love Backyard racing as much as Ned Phillips does. He recently won the Singapore Backyard Championship and qualified for the BIG's Backyard World Championship in Tennessee 2025.
How to run a Backyard you might wonder?
Ned takes us through his tips & tricks for one of the most exciting endurance sports right now. This is the ultimate Backyard racing guide. All information in one place:
- training
- timing strategies
- nutrition
- team effort
- gear
... and much more!
Tune in to learn more and be inspired to do your backyard race soon!
Available...
2024-11-1836 min
One More KBuilding Asia's most successful trail racing team, with Ryan BlairRyan Blair, one of the OGs of trail running in Asia, takes us on a wild ride through his journey. From organizing adventure races in the 90s to building Asia’s first professional trail running team, Ryan shares how he turned passion into purpose. Whether it’s pulling off events against all odds or fighting for better opportunities for Asian athletes, Ryan’s been at the heart of it all.
He talks about Sunmaya Buddha, his star runner from Nepal, whose story is as gritty as her racing. Ryan doesn’t hold back on the challenges—like the lack of prize m...
2024-11-1654 min
Lecka BitesPioneering Trail Running In India with Kieren DSouzaIn this Lecka Bites episode, Markus dives into the adventurous life of Kieren D’Souza, India's first ultramarathon runner to complete the grueling Spartathlon—a 246 km race in Greece.
Kieren shares how he left city life behind to pursue trail running in Manali, taking on high-altitude, rugged terrain with limited resources and support.
A true pioneer in Indian ultrarunning, Kieren helped shape India’s emerging trail scene, drawing from his own journey of self-reliance and perseverance. Markus and Kieren discuss the rapid growth of trail running across Asia and the competitive spirit uniting athletes from diverse backgrounds.
With a...
2024-11-1133 min
One More KFrom Ski Slopes to Ultra Trails: The LEKI Story with Michael BrechtelsbauerMarkus and Ned sit down with Michael Brechtelsbauer from LEKI, the legendary pole brand that’s been helping adventurers tackle mountains, trails, and everything in between for over 75 years. Michael dives into LEKI's backstory, from a WWII refugee’s dream of building better gear to becoming a go-to for serious skiers and trail runners worldwide.
He talks about LEKI’s quirky evolution—from clunky early models to today’s ultra-light, high-tech trail running poles. And did you know LEKI experimented with hemp poles? Yes, they’re on a mission to mix sustainability with performance, working with elite athletes who...
2024-11-0852 min
Lecka BitesLessons from the UTMB: Valentin Orange on DNF and GrowthIn this Lecka Bites episode, trail runner Valentin Orange talks about his recent attempt at the UTMB 100-mile race. Valentin shares his rigorous training journey after moving back to the French Alps and how his excitement turned to struggle during the race, with fatigue and knee pain eventually forcing him to stop at kilometre 115.
Reflecting on his DNF (Did Not Finish), Valentin identifies factors such as overtraining, inadequate rest, and lack of focus on nutrition, noting that his mental resilience was also tested.
The experience has prompted him to adjust his approach to future races...
2024-11-0437 min
One More KTrail Running, Memes, and Rap: Ruairi Moynihan on Building Trail GangstazYo, it’s One More K, Markus and Ned,
With Ruairi on the mic, here’s what he said:
Teacher turned runner, now trail scene king,
Reppin' Trail Gangstaz, where the memes do their thing.
He’s raced in Vietnam, from mountains to heat,
Coaching young guns, keeping ‘em on their feet.
Memes got the laughs, but the message runs deep,
From calling out brands to the secrets we keep.
Creative hustle, posts that hit right,
Rap vi...
2024-11-0157 min
Lecka BitesFrom Sahara to Atacama: Fueling Ultra Adventures with Jakob Bloch
Markus sits down with Jakob Bloch, aka the “Danish Ultra Runner,” for an engaging chat on extreme desert races, nutrition strategies, and the challenges of running in diverse climates.
Jakob shares insights from his upcoming race in Chile’s Atacama Desert and his past experiences in the Sahara, highlighting his go-to fuel sources, mental stamina, and team dynamics in these gruelling races.
They also discuss Lecka's latest nutrition products, with Jakob offering valuable feedback. This episode is a must-listen for ultra-endurance athletes and fans of adventurous races worldwide.
(00...
2024-10-2835 min
One More KBalancing Business, Health, and Ultra-Endurance: Joao Andrade's Road to One Hundred GroupIn this episode, Joao Andrade, co-founder of One Hundred Group, discusses his remarkable journey from biotech and health tech entrepreneurship to launching a global trail running series. Joao opens up about two life-changing incidents: a bout with dengue fever and a heart arrhythmia during a trail race in Italy, which led him to reevaluate his fast-paced lifestyle. These experiences, he explains, were pivotal in shifting his approach to business and life, emphasizing the importance of balance and intuition.
Joao details the vision behind One Hundred Group—a global championship for ultra-endurance athletes, focusing on 100-mile, 200-mile, and 100K...
2024-10-2556 min
One More KRaces, Rest, and Running Scandals: Ned and Markus on Backyard, Meditation, and CoachingThis week, hosts Markus and Ned banter through their current challenges—Ned’s backyard ultra race and Markus’ upcoming 10-day Vipassana meditation. Ned hilariously reflects on the absurdity of his running life, having completed 26 marathon-plus runs this year despite feeling underprepared for his next race. Markus, on the other hand, is gearing up for a complete contrast in physical activity—sitting still for 10 days straight. The duo jokes about combining their experiences into one podcast episode of pure silence.
They dive into some big topics, too. From the latest scandals in the ultra-running world, such as Camille Herron’s...
2024-10-1147 min
One More KBuilding Vietnam’s Epic Trail Races with David LloydIn this lively episode of the One More K Podcast, hosts Markus and Ned welcome David Lloyd, the man behind Vietnam’s thriving trail running scene and Topas Trail Series. From his early days of exploring the rugged Welsh mountains to creating Vietnam’s first major trail races, David shares the unexpected journey that led him to establish the Vietnam Mountain Marathon and other iconic races. With a mix of humor and insight, David recounts how a passion project that started with a handful of runners has now grown into a full-fledged movement, attracting thousands of participants from around the...
2024-10-0445 minLecka BitesWinning FatDog 100km & How Tree Planting Helps Ultra Training (with Tyler d'Arcy)In this episode of the Lecka Bites Podcast, Markus sits down with Tyler d'Arcy, an elite Canadian ultra-runner fresh off his impressive win at the Fat Dog 100K race. Tyler shares the unique training journey that led him to victory, including spending months at altitude in Kenya and using his job as a tree planter to build endurance and mental toughness. He talks about how these grueling 12-hour days in harsh conditions prepared him physically and mentally to tackle ultra races, where pushing through pain is part of the challenge. Tyler also dives into the detailed strategy behind his...
2024-10-0327 minLecka BitesWhat is carb loading & how to use it for your ultra raceIn this episode, Markus dives deep into the science of carbohydrate loading for endurance athletes. He explains what carb loading is, how it works, and why it’s essential for events lasting over 90 minutes.
Referencing key research, including studies by Hawley et al. (1997) and Costill et al. (1981), Markus breaks down how to implement this strategy effectively and avoid common pitfalls like bloating or overeating. Tune in for practical tips, research-backed insights, and Markus’s own experience as an ultra-endurance athlete.
Perfect for athletes looking to fuel smarter!
Show Notes:
...
2024-10-0209 minLecka BitesCathrine at the Olympics & how we work with athletesIn this episode, Markus shares how Lecka works with local community athletes rather than big influencers, because as he puts it, "love goes through the stomach" – naturally, a German touch. He highlights their focus on endurance sports, but with a surprising nod to badminton and ultimate frisbee.
The highlight? A chat with Danish para-badminton star Cathrine Rosengren fresh from the Paralympics. She talks about the thrill of competing in front of huge crowds, battling nerves, and even playing until 10 PM — a time when Markus admits he’s usually fast asleep! A fun mix of sports and heartfelt moment...
2024-09-2828 min
One More KTrailblazing in Asia: Sabrina de Nadai on Expanding UTMB and Insights into ChinaIn this episode of the One More K Podcast, hosts Markus and Ned sit down with Sabrina de Nadai, a trailblazing figure in Asia’s trail running scene and the director of UTMB Asia. Sabrina shares her unique journey from a corporate career at L’Oréal to becoming a key player in the region’s trail running community. Starting with the humble origins of the TransLantau race in Hong Kong, she describes how her passion for trail running led her to co-found Asia Sport Connection, growing TransLantau into one of Asia’s premier trail events. Her story offers a fascina...
2024-09-2749 minLecka BitesFiguring out distribution & intro to Danish distributorWe have grown as a brand from Vietnam to over 10 countries in 3 years. How did we do that?
We worked with the community to either do it ourselves (Vietnam, USA) or to grow with distributors in the sport and healthy food segment (Singapore, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Thailand, Cambodia, Indonesia, Denmark, Germany, ...) .
This week's Lecka Bites is about explaining those two models and what we have learned along the way.
Also, the special guest is Christian from Denmark who has been distributing Lecka since 2023. He was the first to get Lecka...
2024-09-2120 minLecka BitesHow to launch on Amazon & Ned takes 48 gels during his 50km runHave you ever wondered how to get your brand on Amazon? Well, we just did it. Markus takes you through the steps of getting on Amazon.com. It took us many months to get listed, but now our gels are available on the US Amazon marketplace.
Also, Markus interviews Ned who just tried a new fueling approach: take 400 calories per hour during his 50km run. He sets a new Lecka gel world record, with 48 gels in total. Who is keen to beat that?
2024-09-1324 minLecka BitesIntro, Why Lecka Bites, The Mother Says HiJoin us for the 1st episode of the Lecka Bites show. Markus goes into the why of doing it, what to expect and he gets one of his biggest fans on the show: his own mother. She talks about the beginnings, the taste and her impressions at the UTMB week in Chamonix. A very personal and raw perspective on building a company, through the eyes of the mother.
2024-09-0320 min
One More KE13: Florian Lamblin (CEO, UTMB International), Hardest Geezer Africa CrossingSend us a textSpecial guest Florian Lamblin (CEO, UTMB International) shares his insights on growing the business of UTMB, how to acquire new races and grow the footprint, where to focus on in Asia, how to support emerging market athletes, how UTMB is actually a tech company, and much more. Plus a run through of the latest events in ultra running, from the Hardest Geezer crossing Africa to races in Nepal and Vietnam, rounded up with Ned’s Drop–Brought to you by Lecka NutritionFollow Us On Twi...
2024-04-121h 06
One More KE12: Jasmin Paris Effect, Ultra Podcast Stats, Wenling 70 RaceSend us a textDiscussing the google trends searches for the current ultra stars, Financial Times comment, ultra running podcast stats, Sunmaya’s win in China, Laz’ walk across America, Ned’s Drop–Brought to you by Lecka NutritionFollow Us On Twitter: @OneMoreK_ Follow Us On Instagram: @OneMoreK_Subscribe To Our Newsletter: www.onemorek.comReach Out: team.onemorek@gmail.comWatch On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@OneMoreK_Available on Apple Podcast, Google Podcast and Spotify. Hit ...
2024-04-0638 min
One More KE11 - Recap Barkley’s Marathon, On Running Quarterly EarningsSend us a textMarkus and Ned do a big deep dive into the Barkley’s Marathon, covering all major runners, times and events from this exciting weekend of ultra history, running through the quarterly earnings of On Running, Ned’s Drop –Brought to you by Lecka NutritionFollow Us On Twitter: @OneMoreK_ Follow Us On Instagram: @OneMoreK_Subscribe To Our Newsletter: www.onemorek.comReach Out: team.onemorek@gmail.comWatch On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@OneMoreK_Available on Apple Podc...
2024-03-2845 minOne More KE10: Lululemon Brand Activation, Brief History Of Ultra RunningSend us a textShow Summary:Digging into the Lululemon brand activation event #FURTHER, comparing other brand activation events and the impact of social media influencers, exploring the history of ultra running starting from the Greeks to modern days of Pedestrianism, Comrades, Western States and UTMB.–Brought to you by Lecka NutritionFollow Us On Twitter: @OneMoreK_ Follow Us On Instagram: @OneMoreK_Subscribe To Our Newsletter: www.onemorek.comReach Out: team.onemorek@gmail.comWatch On Y...
2024-03-211h 01
One More KE7: Ultra Marathon Stats, Strava 2023 Stats, Amer Sport IPO, Jim Walmsley, Tough Mudder Saudi Arabia, TransGrancanariaSend us a textTrail running is the 7th fastest growing sport in the US, Strava 2023 stats, analysis of Amer Sport IPO, Jim Walmsley partners with Neversecond, $480k prize purse for Tough Mudder Race in Saudi Arabia, race recap of TransGrancanaria and New Delhi Marathon, rounded up with Ned’s Drop–Brought to you by Lecka NutritionFollow Us On Twitter: @OneMoreK_ Follow Us On Instagram: @OneMoreK_Subscribe To Our Newsletter: www.onemorek.comReach Out: team.onemorek@gmail.comWatch On Youtub...
2024-02-2959 min
One More KE6: Smart Sunglasses, Impact of AI, NNormal Durability, Kailas & Tor Des Geants, Suunto & UTMB, 9 Dragons HK and Tarawera Race Review - One More KSend us a textTech updates about smart sunglasses and the impact of AI in endurance sports, NNormal publishes a durability lifespan test, Kailas renews their sponsorship with Tor Des Geants, Suunto becomes UTMB sponsor, 9 Dragons HK and Tarawera by UTMB race review, all wrapped up with Ned’s drop of wisdom and inspiration.--Brought to you by Lecka NutritionFollow Us On Twitter: @OneMoreK_ Follow Us On Instagram: @OneMoreK_Subscribe To Our Newsletter: www.onemorek.comReach Out: team.onemo...
2024-02-2259 min
One More KE5: Kelvin Kiptum, Stian News, Ned’s Running team, Lululemon, Black Canyon, HK4TUCSend us a textStarting off the lunar year of the Dragon, Ned & Markus cover the sad news in road Marathon, Stian’s positive drug test, changes in 5k parkrun time keeping, Ned’s imaginary Racing Team, Lululemon’s launch of trail products, race recap of Black Canyon and HK 4 Ultra Trail Challenge, finished by another Drop of Wisdom and Inspiration by Ned –Brought to you by Lecka NutritionFollow Us On Twitter: @OneMoreK_ Follow Us On Instagram: @OneMoreK_Subscribe To Our Newsletter: www...
2024-02-1558 min
One More KE4:UTMB 2022 Financials, Enhanced Games, T100 Triathlon, Apple Vision Pro & GamificationSend us a textAPA Trail Team perspective on UTMB prize money, discussing UTMB financials and shareholding structure, digging into the new Enhanced Games and the new approach to using enhancement drugs in sports, T100 Triathlon launch, impact of Apple Vision Pro on trail running, Ned’s Weekly Drop of Wisdom and Inspiration–Brought to you by Lecka NutritionFollow Us On Twitter: @OneMoreK_ Follow Us On Instagram: @OneMoreK_Subscribe To Our Newsletter: www.onemorek.comReach Out: team.onemore...
2024-02-0857 min
One More KE3: Cost of a US vs. Vietnamese Athlete, Dead Cow Gully Film Review, Global Race Entry Fee ComparisonSend us a textUTMB official statement and response from Kilian and Zach, comparison of costs for a US vs a Vietnam athlete, UTMB sponsorship idea, review of Dead Cow Gully film, Backyard running mental strategies, comparison US/Europe/Asia race entry fees, Ned’s Weekly Drop –Brought to you by Lecka NutritionFollow Us On Twitter: @OneMoreK_ Follow Us On Instagram: @OneMoreK_Subscribe To Our Newsletter: www.onemorek.comReach Out: team.onemorek@gmail.comWatch On Youtube: https://www.yo...
2024-02-0151 min
One More KE2: Zach/Kilian Leaked UTMB Letter, Racing Teams, HK100, Vietnam Trail MarathonSend us a textZach & Kilian’s letter to the 15 top athletes was leaked asking to challenge UTMB, Courtney Dauwalter was on the BBC, a lot of movement of athletes switching racing teams, race recap of Spine Race, HK100, Vietnam Trail Marathon, new FKTs, and of course Ned’s Weekly Drop: It’s You.---Brought to you by Lecka NutritionFollow Us On Twitter: @OneMoreK_ Follow Us On Instagram: @OneMoreK_Subscribe To Our Newsletter: www.onemorek.comReach Out: team.onemorek@gmail.comWatch On Youtube...
2024-01-2555 minOne More KE1: Kick Off, 2024 Predictions, UTMB, Changing Trail Landscape, Race RecapSend us a textMarkus and Ned’s predictions for the 2024 trail running world. Sharing views on the changing trail running world order (UTMB, small races). Race recap of Spine Race, HURT Hawaii, 10km Valencia Female World Record. Ned’s Weekly Drop: The Way Of The Why--Follow Us On Twitter: @OneMoreK_ Follow Us On Instagram: @OneMoreK_Subscribe To Our Newsletter: www.onemorek.comReach Out: team.onemorek@gmail.comBrought to you by Lecka Nutrition (www.getlecka.com) Follow Us On Twitter: @OneMore...
2024-01-1758 min