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Running Tales
Running Tales, presented and produced by husband and wife couple Michelle and Craig Lewis, aims to tell the extraordinary stories of everyday runners. There are so many wonderful and inspiring stories in the world of running - this podcast aims to give as many of them as possible the publicity they deserve.
- 184 - James McLeod: One man's extraordinary running challenge to honour his dad
James McLeod is better known as Jiggsy, a name given to him back in 2003 by his father, Jimmy McLeod.
Sadly, in November last year, Jimmy took his own life at the age of just 52, the kind of loss which no family could ever be prepared for.
But Jiggsy was determined that grief wouldn't become the end of the story. Instead, he wanted to use the loss of his father to create something that might help others.
Already a keen runner, he set out on an extreme challenge to honour Jimmy's memory and raise vital funds for the If U Care Share Foundation.
Throughout 2026, he will be running an average of 52 miles every week for the 52 weeks of the year, with every mile representing the hope that together we can all create a future where fewer families experience heartbreak.
Jiggsy has already raised close to £5,500 - and he's not finished yet. In this episode of Running Tales, we spoke to him about his memories of his father, why he decided to take on such a huge challenge, and how we should all be talking about suicide...
Find out more about If U Care Share: www.ifucareshare.co.uk
Sponsor Jiggsy here: www.justgiving.com/page/2026jm
Follow Jiggsy on Facebook and Instagram.
Visit Running Tales on:
Please Like and Subscribe wherever you listen, watch or read Running Tales.
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Back Running Tales and help us continue to tell the extraordinary stories of everyday runners: https://buymeacoffee.com/runningtales
Our affiliates:
◾TAKE THE BEST PATH: Path Projects offer some of the best running gear in the business.
I love this kit and it looks really cool even on a 48-year-old, decidedly average runner like me!
If you buy anything from Path Projects, Running Tales will get 10% of whatever you pay to help us continue to produce this Substack and the podcast.
Path Projects Affiliate Link
◾SLOTH & DUCK: More than a shop, Sloth & Duck is a movement celebrating the outdoors, purposeful living, and adventure at every pace.
Designed for trail runners and ultramarathoners, their kit is crafted to connect you to nature with comfort, intention, and a splash of whimsy.
Sloth & Duck Affiliate Link
◾DIFFERENT AND UNIQUE: Kibra empowers women to embrace their unique beauty through high-quality activewear designed to cultivate confidence and a resilient mindset.
Their distinctive performance wear supports every journey, while they also partner with global NGOs to bring about meaningful change.
If you buy anything from Kibra, Running Tales will get 30% of whatever you pay to help us continue to produce this Substack and the podcast.
Kibra Affiliate Link
Mon, 05 Oct 2026 - 1h 00min - 183 - Les and Jules Telford: Meet the 'Shit Runners' championing inclusivity
Les and Jules Telford are members of one of the most inclusive clubs and brilliantly named running club around: The Shit Runners Club.
Formed by Shaun Fagen, with the first group operating in Kendal, Cumbria, Shit Runners shuns pace, podiums and perfectly curated Strava posts in favour of showing up and getting out of the door.
Les and Jules take the club's trail running group, helping new runners to learn about the sport and get fitter, healthier and happier.
The couple, who are keen trail runners themselves, are also pushing back the boundaries on running as seniors, taking on races including the 47-mile (75km) The Lap around Lake Windermere.
In this episode of Running Tales, we spoke to Les and Jules about the ethos behind the Shit Runners Club and why the BBC isn't the biggest fan of the club's name...
Find out more about The Shit Runners: https://shitrunnersclub.co.uk
Visit Running Tales on:
YouTube: https://youtube.com/runningtalespod
Please Like and Subscribe wherever you listen, watch or read Running Tales.
Buy Me A Coffee:
Back Running Tales and help us continue to tell the extraordinary stories of everyday runners: https://buymeacoffee.com/runningtales
Our affiliates:
◾TAKE THE BEST PATH: Path Projects offer some of the best running gear in the business.
I love this kit and it looks really cool even on a 48-year-old, decidedly average runner like me!
If you buy anything from Path Projects, Running Tales will get 10% of whatever you pay to help us continue to produce this Substack and the podcast.
Path Projects Affiliate Link
◾SLOTH & DUCK: More than a shop, Sloth & Duck is a movement celebrating the outdoors, purposeful living, and adventure at every pace.
Designed for trail runners and ultramarathoners, their kit is crafted to connect you to nature with comfort, intention, and a splash of whimsy.
Sloth & Duck Affiliate Link
◾DIFFERENT AND UNIQUE: Kibra empowers women to embrace their unique beauty through high-quality activewear designed to cultivate confidence and a resilient mindset.
Their distinctive performance wear supports every journey, while they also partner with global NGOs to bring about meaningful change.
If you buy anything from Kibra, Running Tales will get 30% of whatever you pay to help us continue to produce this Substack and the podcast.
Kibra Affiliate Link
Mon, 28 Sep 2026 - 55min - 182 - Ally O'Rourke: Head Boomeranger on founding the 10 Boomerangs parkrun project
Ally O'Rourke is the founder of 10 Boomerangs, a project which has created community and brought enjoyment at parkrun events across the world.
It was back in June 2024, when South Beach Recreation Reserve Run Director Ally decided to send those ten boomerangs out into the world.
Starting at her Fremantle home in Australia, they have travelled the globe, meeting new temporary owners and taking in the sights and sounds of some of the world's largest cities and smallest towns.
As each boomerang heads around the world their stories are shared on social media, building a new community while bolstering the already established one possessed by parkrun.
Those stories are tracked on a Facebook page, ‘10 Boomerangs ParkFunning, A worldwide ParkFun adventure’.
So far, the boomerangs have visited a host of countries including America, Austria, Canada, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Ireland, Japan, Lithuania, Malaysia, Namibia, South Africa, and - of course - the UK.
In this episode of Running Tales, we spoke to Ally about why she started the project, whether she has been surprised by its success, and the moving story of Boomerang DellB6...
Visit Running Tales on:
YouTube: https://youtube.com/runningtalespod
Please Like and Subscribe wherever you listen, watch or read Running Tales.
Buy Me A Coffee:
Back Running Tales and help us continue to tell the extraordinary stories of everyday runners: https://buymeacoffee.com/runningtales
Our affiliates:
◾TAKE THE BEST PATH: Path Projects offer some of the best running gear in the business.
I love this kit and it looks really cool even on a 48-year-old, decidedly average runner like me!
If you buy anything from Path Projects, Running Tales will get 10% of whatever you pay to help us continue to produce this Substack and the podcast.
Path Projects Affiliate Link
◾SLOTH & DUCK: More than a shop, Sloth & Duck is a movement celebrating the outdoors, purposeful living, and adventure at every pace.
Designed for trail runners and ultramarathoners, their kit is crafted to connect you to nature with comfort, intention, and a splash of whimsy.
Sloth & Duck Affiliate Link
◾DIFFERENT AND UNIQUE: Kibra empowers women to embrace their unique beauty through high-quality activewear designed to cultivate confidence and a resilient mindset.
Their distinctive performance wear supports every journey, while they also partner with global NGOs to bring about meaningful change.
If you buy anything from Kibra, Running Tales will get 30% of whatever you pay to help us continue to produce this Substack and the podcast.
Kibra Affiliate Link
Mon, 21 Sep 2026 - 43min - 181 - Khandie Rees: Conquering The Amazing Northampton Run to raise thousands for charity
Khandie Rees needs some persuading when people tell her she's a runner.
With a dodgy hip and suffering from serious pulmonary problems that mean she probably shouldn't be running at all, Khandie is often found towards the back of the pack at any race she takes part in.
But at Running Tales, we know that your VO2 Max and split times mean nothing compared to the effort it takes to simply get to the start line and what you do with the privilege of running when you get there.
Northampton resident Khandie has completed the town's half-marathon seven times, finishing the latest edition yesterday. But more than that, she has done so despite her doctors telling her she shouldn't even be racing.
Why? Well, Khandie is, by her own admission, simply too stubborn to stop - although she says each year that that race will be her last. But more tellingly, she has raised thousands of pounds for a variety of charities.
Yesterday's run has already seen her raise £1,615 and counting for cancer charity The Lewis Foundation, an organisation which provides gift packs to cancer patients who are in hospital and which has helped a close friend of Khandie's who sadly has terminal cancer.
In this episode of Running Tales, we spoke to Khandie about the challenges she faces to run, her charity endeavours, and why she has developed a strangely dependent relationship with the poo bin at mile nine of The Amazing Northampton Run...
Khandie has raised more than £1,600 for The Lewis Foundation - you can sponsor her here.
Visit Running Tales on:
YouTube: https://youtube.com/runningtalespod
Please Like and Subscribe wherever you listen, watch or read Running Tales.
Buy Me A Coffee:
Back Running Tales and help us continue to tell the extraordinary stories of everyday runners: https://buymeacoffee.com/runningtales
Our affiliates:
◾TAKE THE BEST PATH: Path Projects offer some of the best running gear in the business.
I love this kit and it looks really cool even on a 48-year-old, decidedly average runner like me!
If you buy anything from Path Projects, Running Tales will get 10% of whatever you pay to help us continue to produce this Substack and the podcast.
Path Projects Affiliate Link
◾SLOTH & DUCK: More than a shop, Sloth & Duck is a movement celebrating the outdoors, purposeful living, and adventure at every pace.
Designed for trail runners and ultramarathoners, their kit is crafted to connect you to nature with comfort, intention, and a splash of whimsy.
Sloth & Duck Affiliate Link
◾DIFFERENT AND UNIQUE: Kibra empowers women to embrace their unique beauty through high-quality activewear designed to cultivate confidence and a resilient mindset.
Their distinctive performance wear supports every journey, while they also partner with global NGOs to bring about meaningful change.
If you buy anything from Kibra, Running Tales will get 30% of whatever you pay to help us continue to produce this Substack and the podcast.
Kibra Affiliate Link
Mon, 14 Sep 2026 - 50min - 180 - Chris Luna: How one ultra runner is helping 'Native Men Run'
Chris Luna has been running for about four years, using the sport to achieve physical, mental, spiritual, and emotional balance.
Running has also seen him embrace ultra distances, including competing at the Saddles 100 in Prescott, Arizona - described as an act of endurance that passes through dust, pine, and shifting stone.
Despite not reaching his 100 mile goal, he still managed to rack up 100km at the challenging event.
But for Native American Chris, who has Coahuilteco and Lakota heritage, running is about far more than his own health.
As the founder of Native Men Run, he is aiming to encourage other native men to stay active and live healthy lives.
The ongoing impact of colonialism means many members of the indigenous population in America suffer from health problems and socio-economic challenges.
Chris' aim is that Native Men Run can attract donations in the form of gear, race entries, and coaching scholarships, thus helping more people to enjoy running and find fitness.
In this episode of Running Tales, we spoke to Chris about the benefits running brings for the Native American population, how the birth of his son inspired him to start moving more, and why colonial challenges aren't confined to the past.
Follow Native Men Run on Instagram.
Visit Running Tales on:
YouTube: https://youtube.com/runningtalespod
Please Like and Subscribe wherever you listen, watch or read Running Tales.
Buy Me A Coffee:
Back Running Tales and help us continue to tell the extraordinary stories of everyday runners: https://buymeacoffee.com/runningtales
Our affiliates:
◾TAKE THE BEST PATH: Path Projects offer some of the best running gear in the business.
I love this kit and it looks really cool even on a 48-year-old, decidedly average runner like me!
If you buy anything from Path Projects, Running Tales will get 10% of whatever you pay to help us continue to produce this Substack and the podcast.
Path Projects Affiliate Link
◾SLOTH & DUCK: More than a shop, Sloth & Duck is a movement celebrating the outdoors, purposeful living, and adventure at every pace.
Designed for trail runners and ultramarathoners, their kit is crafted to connect you to nature with comfort, intention, and a splash of whimsy.
Sloth & Duck Affiliate Link
◾DIFFERENT AND UNIQUE: Kibra empowers women to embrace their unique beauty through high-quality activewear designed to cultivate confidence and a resilient mindset.
Their distinctive performance wear supports every journey, while they also partner with global NGOs to bring about meaningful change.
If you buy anything from Kibra, Running Tales will get 30% of whatever you pay to help us continue to produce this Substack and the podcast.
Kibra Affiliate Link
Mon, 07 Sep 2026 - 1h 02min - 179 - Daniel Moores: Why 'Back My Run' app creator wants to help runners find inspiration
When Daniel Moores was mid-way through a difficult long run, his thoughts turned to his grandparents.
Daniel was training to run the Abu Dhabi Marathon in their memory, and imagining speaking to them gave him the boost to get through that tough 30km training run.
An idea started to form in the head of the Birmingham-born runner, who is now based in the Middle East: what if athletes could hear the voices of their loved ones cheering them on as they hit the wall.
He went on to complete the marathon in four hours and 12 minutes, and what began as a very personal moment turned into an idea that allows runners to carry the voices they love through their first marathons, charity challenges and comeback races.
The app lets friends and family record motivational voice notes through a web link, without downloading anything or creating an account. Runners can then play them through their headphones at selected distance milestones in their important events.
In this episode of Running Tales, we spoke to Daniel about Back My Run, why he chose to take on a marathon to honour his grandparents' memory, and what it's like to run in the heat of the Middle East...
Find our more about Back My Run
Visit Running Tales on:
YouTube: https://youtube.com/runningtalespod
Please Like and Subscribe wherever you listen, watch or read Running Tales.
Buy Me A Coffee:
Back Running Tales and help us continue to tell the extraordinary stories of everyday runners: https://buymeacoffee.com/runningtales
Our affiliates:
◾TAKE THE BEST PATH: Path Projects offer some of the best running gear in the business.
I love this kit and it looks really cool even on a 48-year-old, decidedly average runner like me!
If you buy anything from Path Projects, Running Tales will get 10% of whatever you pay to help us continue to produce this Substack and the podcast.
Path Projects Affiliate Link
◾SLOTH & DUCK: More than a shop, Sloth & Duck is a movement celebrating the outdoors, purposeful living, and adventure at every pace.
Designed for trail runners and ultramarathoners, their kit is crafted to connect you to nature with comfort, intention, and a splash of whimsy.
Sloth & Duck Affiliate Link
◾DIFFERENT AND UNIQUE: Kibra empowers women to embrace their unique beauty through high-quality activewear designed to cultivate confidence and a resilient mindset.
Their distinctive performance wear supports every journey, while they also partner with global NGOs to bring about meaningful change.
If you buy anything from Kibra, Running Tales will get 30% of whatever you pay to help us continue to produce this Substack and the podcast.
Kibra Affiliate Link
Mon, 31 Aug 2026 - 36min - 178 - Will Anderson: The man behind £10 parkrun - 'Ten pound gear and a good idea'
Will Anderson is no slouch when it comes to running.
His parkrun PB of 15 minutes and 17 seconds would have most purveyors of the 5k phenomenon reaching for the smelling salts.
But despite his rapid times, Will isn't afraid to scoot round parkruns riding a hobby horse. Or a beanie hat.
Or, indeed, a thick jumper and woollen trousers at the height of one of the hottest summers the UK has ever seen.
That's because Will is the man behind the new Instagram channel, 10poundparkrun, a project which combines the Saturday morning 5k with dubious running gear.
Will's plan is to raise money for charity while enjoying his weekly run. He came up with the idea of spending £10 in a charity shop each week to buy that weekend's running outfit (shoes excluded!).
The more people who take part each week, the more money is taken home by various charities across the country. It's a simple and fun idea which has the power to change lives without the sometime pressure of fundraising for major events.
In this episode of Running Tales, we spoke to Will about how he came up with the idea, the costumes he's worn so far, and whether his new clothing regime has slowed him down...
More about £10 parkrun
Will's slogan for £10 parkrun is '£10 gear and a good idea'. You can become part of that idea by following him on Instagram and letting him know about your own charity shop/parkrun adventures: https://www.instagram.com/10poundparkrun/
Visit Running Tales on:
YouTube: https://youtube.com/runningtalespod
Please Like and Subscribe wherever you listen, watch or read Running Tales.
Buy Me A Coffee:
Back Running Tales and help us continue to tell the extraordinary stories of everyday runners: https://buymeacoffee.com/runningtales
Our affiliates:
◾TAKE THE BEST PATH: Path Projects offer some of the best running gear in the business.
I love this kit and it looks really cool even on a 48-year-old, decidedly average runner like me!
If you buy anything from Path Projects, Running Tales will get 10% of whatever you pay to help us continue to produce this Substack and the podcast.
Path Projects Affiliate Link
◾SLOTH & DUCK: More than a shop, Sloth & Duck is a movement celebrating the outdoors, purposeful living, and adventure at every pace.
Designed for trail runners and ultramarathoners, their kit is crafted to connect you to nature with comfort, intention, and a splash of whimsy.
Sloth & Duck Affiliate Link
◾DIFFERENT AND UNIQUE: Kibra empowers women to embrace their unique beauty through high-quality activewear designed to cultivate confidence and a resilient mindset.
Their distinctive performance wear supports every journey, while they also partner with global NGOs to bring about meaningful change.
If you buy anything from Kibra, Running Tales will get 30% of whatever you pay to help us continue to produce this Substack and the podcast.
Kibra Affiliate Link
Mon, 24 Aug 2026 - 40min - 177 - Joshua Schofield: PGC1-Coaching founder on racing Jacob Kiplimo and the basics every runner should master
Joshua Schofield is a former sub-elite road, track and cross-country runner, who represented England as a Junior Male and for the North of England as a Senior Male.
Josh originally competed in triathlon before finding success as a runner, but it is working as a coach which has defined his place in the running world.
Josh's achievements include coaching at the Loughborough Talent Hub, working with athletes who were training for England and at The Commonwealth Games, and becoming an England Athletics Talented Coach Mentor.
But his biggest success came in 2019 when he formed PGC1-Coaching, originally to help him get through his Master's Degree.
Since then, more than 250 athletes from three continents have been coached at PGC-1 and the club has attracted a host of top level coaches.
In this episode of Running Tales, we spoke to Josh about racing against Jacob Kiplimo, how coaching became his life, and the basics every runner should master...
More about PGC1-Coaching
Find out more about the work Josh and his team do, and how you can become part of PGC1-Coaching: https://www.pgc1coaching.com
Visit Running Tales on:
Substack: https://runningtales.substack.com
YouTube: https://youtube.com/runningtalespod
Please Like and Subscribe wherever you listen, watch or read Running Tales.
Buy Me A Coffee:
Back Running Tales and help us continue to tell the extraordinary stories of everyday runners: https://buymeacoffee.com/runningtales
Our affiliates:
◾TAKE THE BEST PATH: Path Projects offer some of the best running gear in the business.
I love this kit and it looks really cool even on a 48-year-old, decidedly average runner like me!
If you buy anything from Path Projects, Running Tales will get 10% of whatever you pay to help us continue to produce this Substack and the podcast.
Path Projects Affiliate Link
◾SLOTH & DUCK: More than a shop, Sloth & Duck is a movement celebrating the outdoors, purposeful living, and adventure at every pace.
Designed for trail runners and ultramarathoners, their kit is crafted to connect you to nature with comfort, intention, and a splash of whimsy.
Sloth & Duck Affiliate Link
◾DIFFERENT AND UNIQUE: Kibra empowers women to embrace their unique beauty through high-quality activewear designed to cultivate confidence and a resilient mindset.
Their distinctive performance wear supports every journey, while they also partner with global NGOs to bring about meaningful change.
If you buy anything from Kibra, Running Tales will get 30% of whatever you pay to help us continue to produce this Substack and the podcast.
Kibra Affiliate Link
Mon, 27 Jul 2026 - 43min - 176 - Bob Bell-Johnson: How running helped one man come to terms with the pain of grief
For Bob Bell-Johnson, running is not simply about fitness. It is thinking time.
The 39-year-old, from Whaley Bridge in Derbyshire, is training to become a personal trainer, a major career change after a long and complicated journey with his physical and mental health.
Bob was born with a club foot, which required surgery when he was young and left his lower left leg permanently weaker.
Later, he faced serious back problems, including major spinal surgery in 2013 for cauda equina syndrome. After that operation, he used walking sticks for two years.
So running was never the obvious path. As Bob puts it: "Me and running is like eating chocolate with gravy. It can be done but it is not great."
But running has given Bob something he describes as essential: space to think. It has become a way to process grief, rebuild his confidence and take care of his mental health.
Bob was 18 when his mother, Liz, told him she had been diagnosed with sarcoma, a rare type of cancer. She died just over a year later, in November 2005, aged 53.
Liz was outgoing, joyful and deeply present in Bob's life. He remembers dancing around the kitchen with her to Dire Straits, and seeing her in the audience when he played bass in teenage bands.
Losing her at such a pivotal age left a lasting mark. For many years, Bob buried the grief. He has spoken openly about struggling with depression and using alcohol to cope.
More recently, he stopped drinking and found in running a healthier way to process what had happened.
This year, Bob ran the London Marathon for Sarcoma UK. For him, it was not just a physical challenge. It was a way to honour his mum, support others affected by sarcoma and turn reflection into action.
In this episode of Running Tales, Bob talks about grief, running, sobriety, mental health and why being able to run feels like a privilege...
What is sarcoma?
Sarcoma is a rare cancer that can affect bone or soft tissue, including muscle, fat, nerves, blood vessels and connective tissue.
Because these tissues are found throughout the body, sarcoma can appear almost anywhere. There are more than 100 different subtypes, which means people's experiences can vary widely.
Some people first notice a lump. Others may have pain, swelling or symptoms that are harder to explain. Because sarcoma is rare and often little-known, diagnosis can sometimes take longer than it should.
Sarcoma does not only affect the person who is diagnosed. It can affect partners, children, parents, friends and wider families.
For people like Bob, the impact of sarcoma continues long after someone they love has died.
About Sarcoma UK
Sarcoma UK is the national charity for anyone affected by sarcoma.
The charity funds research, provides information and support, campaigns for better treatment, and works to improve awareness and earlier diagnosis.
Sarcoma UK's Support Line is staffed by healthcare professionals and is available for people with sarcoma, family members, friends, carers and healthcare professionals.
You can find out more about sarcoma, Sarcoma Awareness Month and Sarcoma UK's support services at sarcoma.org.uk.
Visit Running Tales on:
Substack: https://runningtales.substack.com
YouTube: https://youtube.com/runningtalespod
Buy Me A Coffee:
Help us continue to tell extraordinary stories: https://buymeacoffee.com/runningtales
◾TAKE THE BEST PATH: Path Projects offer some of the best running gear around.
I love this kit and it looks really cool even on a decidedly average runner like me!
If you buy anything from Path Projects, Running Tales will get 10% of whatever you pay to help us produce this Substack and the podcast.
Path Projects Affiliate Link
Mon, 13 Jul 2026 - 42min - 175 - Chris Marritt: The ultra runner who found the real meaning of failure
When Chris Marritt DNF’d at the Ring O’ Fire, a 135-mile coastal ultra in Anglesey, he started to doubt his whole identity as a runner.
As someone who had been running for nearly 25 years and had racked up 2,000 miles in preparation for the race, dropping out hurt Chris more than he had expected.
He spent the following year trying to repair the damage, while working out what needed to change second time around.
Spoiler alert: redemption was round the corner… and now his full story is set to be chronicled in a forthcoming memoir entitled Did Not Fail, which he will be self-publishing on August 19.
In this episode, we speak to Chris about the real meaning of failure and how that has changed for him, why he'd been nowhere near as well prepared for his first Ring O' Fire attempt as he'd thought he was, and how runners can confront the little voice in their head that tells them to stop...
Find out more about Chris' memoir, Did Not Fail, and register for updates on its publication at didnotfail.wordpress.com
Visit Running Tales on:
Substack: https://runningtales.substack.com
YouTube: https://youtube.com/runningtalespod
Please Like and Subscribe wherever you listen, watch or read Running Tales.
Buy Me A Coffee:
Back Running Tales and help us continue to tell the extraordinary stories of everyday runners: https://buymeacoffee.com/runningtales
Our affiliates:
◾TAKE THE BEST PATH: Path Projects offer some of the best running gear in the business.
I love this kit and it looks really cool even on a 48-year-old, decidedly average runner like me!
If you buy anything from Path Projects, Running Tales will get 10% of whatever you pay to help us continue to produce this Substack and the podcast.
Path Projects Affiliate Link
◾SLOTH & DUCK: More than a shop, Sloth & Duck is a movement celebrating the outdoors, purposeful living, and adventure at every pace.
Designed for trail runners and ultramarathoners, their kit is crafted to connect you to nature with comfort, intention, and a splash of whimsy.
Sloth & Duck Affiliate Link
◾DIFFERENT AND UNIQUE: Kibra empowers women to embrace their unique beauty through high-quality activewear designed to cultivate confidence and a resilient mindset.
Their distinctive performance wear supports every journey, while they also partner with global NGOs to bring about meaningful change.
If you buy anything from Kibra, Running Tales will get 30% of whatever you pay to help us continue to produce this Substack and the podcast.
Kibra Affiliate Link
Mon, 29 Jun 2026 - 1h 02min - 174 - Ian Williams: The marathoner born with Spina Bifida
Ian Williams was born with spina bifida myelomeningocele, a severe form of the condition.
At the time, outcomes were very uncertain, with a survival rate of about 70% and only around 15% of those born with the condition going on to walk unaided - let alone run.
Thanks to an operation in the early weeks of his life, and despite a risky school time pursuit of rugby, Ian bucked that trend and over the last 22 years has completed four marathons and two ultramarathons - including the London Marathon twice.
His journey is demonstrated not only by the races he has completed, but by a scar on the base of his spine that tells the story of the challenges he has overcome.
But Ian's story isn't confined to just his own achievements. In 2004, he founded Fetcheveryone, an independent UK running community which has more than 100,000 users today. In a world of Strava and Instagram influencers, it is a reminder that running is ultimately about community.
In this episode, we speak to Ian about the joys of running the 100m at school, taking part in events as varied as the London Marathon and Race to Meriden, and why the authentic nature of Fetcheveryone works...
Join theFetcheveryone community.
Visit Running Tales on:
Substack: https://runningtales.substack.com
YouTube: https://youtube.com/runningtalespod
Please Like and Subscribe wherever you listen, watch or read Running Tales.
Buy Me A Coffee:
Back Running Tales and help us continue to tell the extraordinary stories of everyday runners: https://buymeacoffee.com/runningtales
Our affiliates:
◾TAKE THE BEST PATH: Path Projects offer some of the best running gear in the business.
I love this kit and it looks really cool even on a 48-year-old, decidedly average runner like me!
If you buy anything from Path Projects, Running Tales will get 10% of whatever you pay to help us continue to produce this Substack and the podcast.
Path Projects Affiliate Link
◾SLOTH & DUCK: More than a shop, Sloth & Duck is a movement celebrating the outdoors, purposeful living, and adventure at every pace.
Designed for trail runners and ultramarathoners, their kit is crafted to connect you to nature with comfort, intention, and a splash of whimsy.
Sloth & Duck Affiliate Link
◾DIFFERENT AND UNIQUE: Kibra empowers women to embrace their unique beauty through high-quality activewear designed to cultivate confidence and a resilient mindset.
Their distinctive performance wear supports every journey, while they also partner with global NGOs to bring about meaningful change.
If you buy anything from Kibra, Running Tales will get 30% of whatever you pay to help us continue to produce this Substack and the podcast.
Kibra Affiliate Link
Mon, 01 Jun 2026 - 46min - 173 - Megan Boxall: How one woman's record-breaking run round Britain was inspired by the Samaritans
Megan Boxall's running journey has a variety of starting points.
In many ways, it started when she took up the sport as a youngster, going on to complete several marathons and triathlons.
Others may argue that it really began in October last year when she set out on a trip that was to take in the entire coastline of Britain, covering 5,240 miles.
Or perhaps its origin was the moment when a desperate and depressed Megan rang the Samaritans.
Wherever you draw your line in the sand, Megan's is an almost unbelievable story of triumph over adversity as she embraced positivity to conquer bad weather, nutritional challenges, and day after day of running to complete 200 marathons in 204 days around the edge of the country.
Megan, who has multiple sclerosis, already had a sub-three hour, 30 minute marathon to her name when she decided to take on Elise Downing's coast-running record.
The challenge was provoked partly by the achievements of her uncle, Tom, who had walked round the coastline in 2003, and by a desire to give back to the Samaritans, who she had called several times while at her lowest point.
Along the way, Megan not only broke Elise's record and raised £67,000 (and rising) for the Samaritans, but met a host of people who proved that Britain has plenty to offer as a country.
In this episode, we speak to Megan about why she decided to tackle such a huge project, the importance of the Samaritans, and what she discovered along the way...
Megan's website:https://meganboxall.com
Every 90 minutes, someone in the UK dies by suicide.
Donate to Megan's fundraiser:https://www.justgiving.com/page/megan-boxall-run-britain
Visit Running Tales on:
Substack: https://runningtales.substack.com
YouTube: https://youtube.com/runningtalespod
Please Like and Subscribe wherever you listen, watch or read Running Tales.
Buy Me A Coffee:
Back Running Tales and help us continue to tell the extraordinary stories of everyday runners: https://buymeacoffee.com/runningtales
Our affiliates:
◾TAKE THE BEST PATH: Path Projects offer some of the best running gear in the business.
I love this kit and it looks really cool even on a 48-year-old, decidedly average runner like me!
If you buy anything from Path Projects, Running Tales will get 10% of whatever you pay to help us continue to produce this Substack and the podcast.
Path Projects Affiliate Link
◾SLOTH & DUCK: More than a shop, Sloth & Duck is a movement celebrating the outdoors, purposeful living, and adventure at every pace.
Designed for trail runners and ultramarathoners, their kit is crafted to connect you to nature with comfort, intention, and a splash of whimsy.
Sloth & Duck Affiliate Link
◾DIFFERENT AND UNIQUE: Kibra empowers women to embrace their unique beauty through high-quality activewear designed to cultivate confidence and a resilient mindset.
Their distinctive performance wear supports every journey, while they also partner with global NGOs to bring about meaningful change.
If you buy anything from Kibra, Running Tales will get 30% of whatever you pay to help us continue to produce this Substack and the podcast.
Mon, 25 May 2026 - 46min - 172 - Abby Heffern: The reality of running a 100-miler
Abby Heffern is an ultra runner and coach, who achieved her dream of completing a 100-mile race at the start of this year.
Couple that with her desire to run not only more 100s, but also 200-mile events, and you might be forgiven for assuming Abby is one of those people who take to extreme endurance running like a duck to water.
The truth is very different, and Abby's Forgotten Florida 100 finish was actually the accumulation of seven years of hard work.
Her journey to 100 took in 13 'warm-up' ultras across a host of distances, and saw her struggle with gastrointestinal issues that threatened to sidetrack her dream.
But Abby's confidence remained unwavering throughout and she eventually used all the experience she had gained to finish as third lady at the race.
Fuelled by a love of the trails and the great outdoors, Abby had been embracing a need for speed and a desire to qualify for the Boston Marathon before she turned to ultra running.
As a running and strength coach, she knows what it takes to achieve hard things and instills the mantra that anything is possible into all her clients.
Abby is also the author of The Wild Dog Write-Up Substack page where she writes about her own experiences, as well as sharing advice and tips on how to become a better runner.
In this episode, we speak to Abby about how she overcame the 100-mile distance, her future plans, and what runners should do if they don't really feel like strength training...
Read The Wild Dog Write-Up on Substack
Visit Running Tales on:
Substack: https://runningtales.substack.com
YouTube: https://youtube.com/runningtalespod
Please Like and Subscribe wherever you listen, watch or read Running Tales.
Buy Me A Coffee:
Back Running Tales and help us continue to tell the extraordinary stories of everyday runners: https://buymeacoffee.com/runningtales
Our affiliates:
◾TAKE THE BEST PATH: Path Projects offer some of the best running gear in the business.
I love this kit and it looks really cool even on a 48-year-old, decidedly average runner like me!
If you buy anything from Path Projects, Running Tales will get 10% of whatever you pay to help us continue to produce this Substack and the podcast.
Path Projects Affiliate Link
◾SLOTH & DUCK: More than a shop, Sloth & Duck is a movement celebrating the outdoors, purposeful living, and adventure at every pace.
Designed for trail runners and ultramarathoners, their kit is crafted to connect you to nature with comfort, intention, and a splash of whimsy.
Sloth & Duck Affiliate Link
◾DIFFERENT AND UNIQUE: Kibra empowers women to embrace their unique beauty through high-quality activewear designed to cultivate confidence and a resilient mindset.
Their distinctive performance wear supports every journey, while they also partner with global NGOs to bring about meaningful change.
If you buy anything from Kibra, Running Tales will get 20% of whatever you pay to help us continue to produce this Substack and the podcast.
Mon, 18 May 2026 - 58min - 171 - Bristol Half Marathon: What makes a great race?
From the nerves of taking on your first big race to embracing crowd support - and the dangers of service station Chinese, what makes or breaks a great half-marathon?
For everyday runners there is far more in play than achieving the perfect splits or knowing which miles to pop your gels at.
Whether navigating the pressure of simply getting to the start line, trying to employ a nutrition strategy that won't end in stomach disaster, finding the bag drop area, or trying to remember why you're doing this in the first place, there is plenty to think about.
On Sunday, Michelle and Craig ran the Bristol Half-Marathon, and in this podcast they outline not only how they got on, but the plusses and minuses of a big city event.
They also meet their friend and uncertain runner, Craig Dowding, a first time half-marathoner with a sub-two hour time on his mind. Will Craig be able to guide him to his dream time?
This is a different episode from what we normally do, but it nevertheless explores what makes running so special, how people can achieve more than they expect by embracing the sport, and asks why thousands of runners take to the streets on a Sunday morning when they could be tucked up in bed...
Visit Running Tales on:
Substack: https://runningtales.substack.com
YouTube: https://youtube.com/runningtalespod
Please Like and Subscribe wherever you listen, watch or read Running Tales.
Buy Me A Coffee:
Back Running Tales and help us continue to tell the extraordinary stories of everyday runners: https://buymeacoffee.com/runningtales
Our affiliates:
◾TAKE THE BEST PATH: Path Projects offer some of the best running gear in the business.
I love this kit and it looks really cool even on a 48-year-old, decidedly average runner like me!
If you buy anything from Path Projects, Running Tales will get 10% of whatever you pay to help us continue to produce this Substack and the podcast.
Path Projects Affiliate Link
◾SLOTH & DUCK: More than a shop, Sloth & Duck is a movement celebrating the outdoors, purposeful living, and adventure at every pace.
Designed for trail runners and ultramarathoners, their kit is crafted to connect you to nature with comfort, intention, and a splash of whimsy.
Sloth & Duck Affiliate Link
◾DIFFERENT AND UNIQUE: Kibra empowers women to embrace their unique beauty through high-quality activewear designed to cultivate confidence and a resilient mindset.
Their distinctive performance wear supports every journey, while they also partner with global NGOs to bring about meaningful change.
If you buy anything from Kibra, Running Tales will get 20% of whatever you pay to help us continue to produce this Substack and the podcast.
Tue, 12 May 2026 - 19min - 170 - Adam Rodriguez: Running 55 marathons in 55 cities in one year
Adam Rodriguez is doing something incredible.
The 29-year-old is currently ticking off the final weeks of an epic challenge which will see him run 55 marathons in 55 different cities in a single year - that's a marathon in every city in the UK.
Along the way, he is raising money for the MOVE Against Cancer charity, the organisation behind the popular and vitally important 5k Your Way initiative.
Adam's story started a few years ago when his mum, Sharon, was diagnosed with B-cell lymphoma. Sharon has thankfully recovered fully, but Adam has not forgotten the relentless strength she demonstrated to take on cancer or the deep effect the disease had on his family.
Last year, he decided to give something back. An occasional runner, he opted to combine a basic aptitude for the sport with the desire to travel - and a challenge that would keep him moving every week of the year.
Of course, 55 marathons means he'll be doubling up on a few weekends, including the final piece of his adventure at the end of June, when he'll complete the challenge by running marathons in Sheffield and Salisbury on consecutive days.
His journey started in early July last year in Hereford, and featured the recent London Marathon. While that was obviously an official race, most of Adam's runs have been self-planned, solo efforts, carefully recorded on Strava and in videos.
In this episode, we speak to Adam about the strong why behind his challenge, how his body has held out, and the opportunity to meet those with cancer at 5k Your Way's end of month parkrun events...
Follow Adam's journey on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/roddersroutes/
Sponsor Adam:https://givestar.io/gs/running-a-marathon-in-every-city-in-england-in-a-year
Visit Running Tales on:
Substack: https://runningtales.substack.com
YouTube: https://youtube.com/runningtalespod
Please Like and Subscribe wherever you listen, watch or read Running Tales.
Buy Me A Coffee:
Back Running Tales and help us continue to tell the extraordinary stories of everyday runners: https://buymeacoffee.com/runningtales
Our affiliates:
◾TAKE THE BEST PATH: Path Projects offer some of the best running gear in the business.
I love this kit and it looks really cool even on a 48-year-old, decidedly average runner like me!
If you buy anything from Path Projects, Running Tales will get 10% of whatever you pay to help us continue to produce this Substack and the podcast.
Path Projects Affiliate Link
◾SLOTH & DUCK: More than a shop, Sloth & Duck is a movement celebrating the outdoors, purposeful living, and adventure at every pace.
Designed for trail runners and ultramarathoners, their kit is crafted to connect you to nature with comfort, intention, and a splash of whimsy.
Sloth & Duck Affiliate Link
◾DIFFERENT AND UNIQUE: Kibra empowers women to embrace their unique beauty through high-quality activewear designed to cultivate confidence and a resilient mindset.
Their distinctive performance wear supports every journey, while they also partner with global NGOs to bring about meaningful change.
If you buy anything from Kibra, Running Tales will get 20% of whatever you pay to help us continue to produce this Substack and the podcast.
Mon, 04 May 2026 - 39min - 169 - Adam Ross: The man taking on a challenge a month to combat homelessness
Adam Ross only recently started running seriously. Now, he's taking on a year long challenge to raise money for and awareness of homelessness charity, Shelter.
Each month in 2026, Adam will be completing a unique endurance challenge, from 10k races to half- and full marathons, with the promise of some even tougher events to come towards the end of the year.
As the co-founder and director of Track Global, a marketing, sales, and distribution advisory partner for property developers, Adam hopes to use his business to raise awareness of homelessness. As such, his project falls under the title of The Track Global 12 in 12.
In this episode, we speak about Adam's upcoming race for April, the Manchester Marathon. He has since completed the race, finishing in under four hours; a feat made even more stunning by the fact he was struggling to run 5k as recently as November.
Running Tales spoke to Adam about the homeless crisis across the UK, why he chose running to highlight the issue, and the challenges that await him over the rest of the year...
Sponsor Adam's on his12 in 12 challenge journey for Shelter.
Visit Running Tales on:
Substack: https://runningtales.substack.com
YouTube: https://youtube.com/runningtalespod
Please Like and Subscribe wherever you listen, watch or read Running Tales.
Buy Me A Coffee:
Back Running Tales and help us continue to tell the extraordinary stories of everyday runners: https://buymeacoffee.com/runningtales
Our affiliates:
◾TAKE THE BEST PATH: Path Projects offer some of the best running gear in the business.
I love this kit and it looks really cool even on a 48-year-old, decidedly average runner like me!
If you buy anything from Path Projects, Running Tales will get 10% of whatever you pay to help us continue to produce this Substack and the podcast.
Path Projects Affiliate Link
◾SLOTH & DUCK: More than a shop, Sloth & Duck is a movement celebrating the outdoors, purposeful living, and adventure at every pace.
Designed for trail runners and ultramarathoners, their kit is crafted to connect you to nature with comfort, intention, and a splash of whimsy.
Sloth & Duck Affiliate Link
◾DIFFERENT AND UNIQUE: Kibra empowers women to embrace their unique beauty through high-quality activewear designed to cultivate confidence and a resilient mindset.
Their distinctive performance wear supports every journey, while they also partner with global NGOs to bring about meaningful change.
If you buy anything from Kibra, Running Tales will get 20% of whatever you pay to help us continue to produce this Substack and the podcast.
Mon, 27 Apr 2026 - 42min - 168 - Ashley Riley: Running, mental health and fighting depression
Ashley Riley has seen first-hand how running can help people with both their physical and mental health.
As an outgoing, comfortable, loud, business owning and confident middle-aged man, Ashley had few obvious worries in life.
But that was before he experienced his first ever panic attack. It was followed by another one. And another.
Within a month, Ashley's panic attacks had turned into bone crushing anxiety and deep, dark depression. Despite four courses of medication, the NHS couldn’t help and a psychotic Ashley was taken into psychiatric care.
Two weeks later he suffered two strokes.
Ashley's recovery has been powered by many things - the love of his family, therapy, routine... and running.
These days, via his male mental health support group, Blue Soul Shoes, Ashley shares his story regularly, talking honestly and openly to businesses and other groups.
Running, and in particular parkrun, have played a deeply meaningful part of his recovery. He runs at the 5k event every week with his 11-year-old son Teddy, taking time to share how physically, emotionally and spiritually, parkrun provides an amazing opportunity for anyone battling their mental health.
Running Tales spoke to Ashley about recovering from - and continuing to counter - depression, the daily run that boosts his mood, and how anyone can be a victim of poor mental health...
Find out more aboutBlue Soul Shoes
Visit Running Tales on:
Substack: https://runningtales.substack.com
YouTube: https://youtube.com/runningtalespod
Please Like and Subscribe wherever you listen, watch or read Running Tales.
Buy Me A Coffee:
Back Running Tales and help us continue to tell the extraordinary stories of everyday runners: https://buymeacoffee.com/runningtales
Our affiliates:
◾TAKE THE BEST PATH: Path Projects offer some of the best running gear in the business.
I love this kit and it looks really cool even on a 48-year-old, decidedly average runner like me!
If you buy anything from Path Projects, Running Tales will get 10% of whatever you pay to help us continue to produce this Substack and the podcast.
Path Projects Affiliate Link
◾SLOTH & DUCK: More than a shop, Sloth & Duck is a movement celebrating the outdoors, purposeful living, and adventure at every pace.
Designed for trail runners and ultramarathoners, their kit is crafted to connect you to nature with comfort, intention, and a splash of whimsy.
Sloth & Duck Affiliate Link
◾DIFFERENT AND UNIQUE: Kibra empowers women to embrace their unique beauty through high-quality activewear designed to cultivate confidence and a resilient mindset.
Their distinctive performance wear supports every journey, while they also partner with global NGOs to bring about meaningful change.
If you buy anything from Kibra, Running Tales will get 20% of whatever you pay to help us continue to produce this Substack and the podcast.
Mon, 20 Apr 2026 - 50min - 167 - Rodney Lowe: Come with us for a 'Run With Rodders'
When Rodney Lowe was at school, he was the kid who teachers told to do one less lap of the sports field than everyone else... just so the class would finish on time.
These days, he runs his own running YouTube channel - 'Runs With Rodders', tackles races and parkruns up and down the country, and is on the verge of taking on the Manchester Marathon.
Rodders uses running to keep his own mental wellbeing on track as he balances a challenging job and home life, to stay fit, and to meet some incredible fellow runners in events up and down the country.
After leaving school, he had been determined to counter his 'last in PE' persona, and started mountain biking before transitioning into running via the Couch to 5k app.
Unfortunately, an angry appendix had other ideas and forced Rodney onto the sidelines - a position he would remain in for the next 15 years.
It was in 2023, when his weight was at its highest level, that work colleagues hassled him into running the Stafford 10k and Rodders turned once more to the trusted Couch to 5k programme.
Increased training saw him conquer that Stafford event, and this time something stuck, with event after event following.
Running Tales spoke to Rodney about his training for Manchester, why he started his YouTube channel, and how running has helped him physically and mentally...
Follow'Run With Rodders' on YouTube
Visit Running Tales on:
Substack: https://runningtales.substack.com
YouTube: https://youtube.com/runningtalespod
Please Like and Subscribe wherever you listen, watch or read Running Tales.
Buy Me A Coffee:
Back Running Tales and help us continue to tell the extraordinary stories of everyday runners: https://buymeacoffee.com/runningtales
Our affiliates:
◾TAKE THE BEST PATH: Path Projects offer some of the best running gear in the business.
I love this kit and it looks really cool even on a 48-year-old, decidedly average runner like me!
If you buy anything from Path Projects, Running Tales will get 10% of whatever you pay to help us continue to produce this Substack and the podcast.
Path Projects Affiliate Link
◾SLOTH & DUCK: More than a shop, Sloth & Duck is a movement celebrating the outdoors, purposeful living, and adventure at every pace.
Designed for trail runners and ultramarathoners, their kit is crafted to connect you to nature with comfort, intention, and a splash of whimsy.
Sloth & Duck Affiliate Link
◾DIFFERENT AND UNIQUE: Kibra empowers women to embrace their unique beauty through high-quality activewear designed to cultivate confidence and a resilient mindset.
Their distinctive performance wear supports every journey, while they also partner with global NGOs to bring about meaningful change.
If you buy anything from Kibra, Running Tales will get 20% of whatever you pay to help us continue to produce this Substack and the podcast.
Mon, 13 Apr 2026 - 46min - 166 - Lisa Jackson: One woman's power to be 'still running after all these tears'
Lisa Jackson has seen every side of running, from completing the gruelling Comrades Marathon to finishing last in a host of marathons.
By embrace her 'flamingo runner' persona alongside a simple enjoyment of the sport, she has discovered the true power of running - becoming a published author along the way.
And when she needed it most, despite a brief departure, running was there for her, helping Lisa find some solace after the loss of her husband, Graham.
Her latest book is the brilliant, Still Running After All These Tears; a simultaneously heart-breaking and inspiring account of coping with Graham's illness, finding positivity at the toughest of times, and the part running played in helping her reclaim her life.
It's fair to say Lisa loves running. Her completion of more than 100 marathons is testament to that. But when her grief over Graham was followed by losing her sister and father as well, all within 17 months, that relationship was tested to its limits.
Still Running After All These Tears is marketed as a survival manual for the broken-hearted and a celebration of the redemptive power of running.
Running Tales spoke to Lisa about the highs and lows of dealing with the medical community and how to navigate serious illness, why running means so much to her, and how she hopes her story will help and inspire others...
BuyStill Running After All These Tears
Visit Running Tales on:
Substack: https://runningtales.substack.com
YouTube: https://youtube.com/runningtalespod
Please Like and Subscribe wherever you listen, watch or read Running Tales.
Buy Me A Coffee:
Back Running Tales and help us continue to tell the extraordinary stories of everyday runners: https://buymeacoffee.com/runningtales
Our affiliates:
◾TAKE THE BEST PATH: Path Projects offer some of the best running gear in the business.
I love this kit and it looks really cool even on a 48-year-old, decidedly average runner like me!
If you buy anything from Path Projects, Running Tales will get 10% of whatever you pay to help us continue to produce this Substack and the podcast.
Path Projects Affiliate Link
◾SLOTH & DUCK: More than a shop, Sloth & Duck is a movement celebrating the outdoors, purposeful living, and adventure at every pace.
Designed for trail runners and ultramarathoners, their kit is crafted to connect you to nature with comfort, intention, and a splash of whimsy.
Sloth & Duck Affiliate Link
◾DIFFERENT AND UNIQUE: Kibra empowers women to embrace their unique beauty through high-quality activewear designed to cultivate confidence and a resilient mindset.
Their distinctive performance wear supports every journey, while they also partner with global NGOs to bring about meaningful change.
If you buy anything from Kibra, Running Tales will get 20% of whatever you pay to help us continue to produce this Substack and the podcast.
Tue, 07 Apr 2026 - 1h 05min - 165 - Raziq Rauf: Running culture, Substack and Harry Styles... 'This Is Running'
Coach, journalist and now author, Raziq Rauf, is well-known in the running/writers world on Substack.
His popular Running Sucks newsletter, where he writes about running culture, run clubs and stories from across the sport, has more than 5,000 subscribers.
He’s currently taking part in the Salomon Off Track Gravel Tour, which involves him talking all things running and going on a gravel run in the uber-cool Salomon Aero Glide 4s.
Raz will also be reading a passage from his debut book, This is Running, a celebration of running that explores the culture, history, brands, races, and people that make this sport we love so special.
Currently available on pre-order, This is Running will be released on April 2 in the UK and five days later in America.
Running Tales spoke to Raz about the success of Running Sucks, why he decided to write a book - and what people can find in it, Harry Styles and the good and bad of celebrity in the running world, and run culture...
Visit Running Tales on:
Substack: https://runningtales.substack.com
YouTube: https://youtube.com/runningtalespod
Please Like and Subscribe wherever you listen, watch or read Running Tales.
Buy Me A Coffee:
Back Running Tales and help us continue to tell the extraordinary stories of everyday runners: https://buymeacoffee.com/runningtales
Our affiliates:
◾TAKE THE BEST PATH: Path Projects offer some of the best running gear in the business.
I love this kit and it looks really cool even on a 48-year-old, decidedly average runner like me!
If you buy anything from Path Projects, Running Tales will get 10% of whatever you pay to help us continue to produce this Substack and the podcast.
Path Projects Affiliate Link
◾SLOTH & DUCK: More than a shop, Sloth & Duck is a movement celebrating the outdoors, purposeful living, and adventure at every pace.
Designed for trail runners and ultramarathoners, their kit is crafted to connect you to nature with comfort, intention, and a splash of whimsy.
Sloth & Duck Affiliate Link
◾DIFFERENT AND UNIQUE: Kibra empowers women to embrace their unique beauty through high-quality activewear designed to cultivate confidence and a resilient mindset.
Their distinctive performance wear supports every journey, while they also partner with global NGOs to bring about meaningful change.
If you buy anything from Kibra, Running Tales will get 20% of whatever you pay to help us continue to produce this Substack and the podcast.
Mon, 30 Mar 2026 - 44min - 164 - George Puckett: From Fatman to Ironman
George Puckett wasn't happy - and he couldn't put his finger on why.
The 31-year-old was living in a beautiful home in Abergavenny, south Wales on the edge of the stunning Brecon Beacons, with his fiancee and one-year-old boy.
But in the midst of making that life, he had forgotten to care for himself. Eating whatever he wanted and not exercising, George had ballooned to 130kgs (20 stone) and was struggling with his confidence as a result.
Hating every picture taken of him and over-thinking all the time, George was not only starting to lose sleep but was suffering panic attacks and palpitations.
Towards the end of last year, he realised it was time to make a change. While out for a walk, he decided he was not only going to start eating better and exercising, he was going to complete an Ironman.
George has already lost more than 30kg - almost five stone - and has now signed up to the Ironman Weymouth 70.3 in September. Aiming to inspire others along the way, George is also raising money for TalkClub, a men's mental health charity which provides therapy, talk sessions, and an exercise class.
Along the way, he wants to go from - as his Instagram account states - 'Fat Man to Ironman'.
Running Tales spoke to George about how running has helped his mental health, how he believes it will always be part of his life, and why he decided to take such a huge step towards physical and mental wellness...
Sponsor George to run Ironman Weymouth 70.3:
Visit Running Tales on:
Substack: https://runningtales.substack.com
YouTube: https://youtube.com/runningtalespod
Please Like and Subscribe wherever you listen, watch or read Running Tales.
Buy Me A Coffee:
Back Running Tales and help us continue to tell the extraordinary stories of everyday runners: https://buymeacoffee.com/runningtales
Our affiliates:
◾TAKE THE BEST PATH: Path Projects offer some of the best running gear in the business.
I love this kit and it looks really cool even on a 48-year-old, decidedly average runner like me!
If you buy anything from Path Projects, Running Tales will get 10% of whatever you pay to help us continue to produce this Substack and the podcast.
Path Projects Affiliate Link
◾SLOTH & DUCK: More than a shop, Sloth & Duck is a movement celebrating the outdoors, purposeful living, and adventure at every pace.
Designed for trail runners and ultramarathoners, their kit is crafted to connect you to nature with comfort, intention, and a splash of whimsy.
◾DIFFERENT AND UNIQUE: Kibra empowers women to embrace their unique beauty through high-quality activewear designed to cultivate confidence and a resilient mindset.
Their distinctive performance wear supports every journey, while they also partner with global NGOs to bring about meaningful change.
If you buy anything from Kibra, Running Tales will get 20% of whatever you pay to help us continue to produce this Substack and the podcast.
Mon, 23 Mar 2026 - 53min - 163 - Mark Doris: Running for baby loss charity, SANDS, in memory of Marco
Mark Doris, has been using running as a vehicle to raise vital funds for SANDS, the UK's leading pregnancy and baby loss charity, for more than ten years.
The charity is close to Mark's heart as he runs in memory of his stillborn son, Marco, who would have been 11 later this year.
His fundraising efforts have seen Mark raise more than £27,000 for SANDS. And along the way, he has tackled a wide variety of runs including obstacle course races and the 95-mile West Highland Way ultra marathon.
The latter event was an epic adventure three years, two attempts and one knee operation in the making. Mark eventually completed the run last year in 34 hours and 29 minutes, a phenomenal tribute to his resilience and the power of running for a cause.
Next on his list is this year's London Marathon, an event he is already training hard for - and will once again be running for SANDS.
Running Tales spoke to Mark about his running and fundraising efforts, the importance of SANDS, and how he managed to beat the West Highland Way...
Sponsor Mark to run The London Marathon for SANDS:
Mark's London Marathon fundraiser
Visit Running Tales on:
Substack: https://runningtales.substack.com
YouTube: https://youtube.com/runningtalespod
Please Like and Subscribe wherever you listen, watch or read Running Tales.
Buy Me A Coffee:
Back Running Tales and help us continue to tell the extraordinary stories of everyday runners: https://buymeacoffee.com/runningtales
Our affiliates:
◾TAKE THE BEST PATH: Path Projects offer some of the best running gear in the business.
I love this kit and it looks really cool even on a 48-year-old, decidedly average runner like me!
If you buy anything from Path Projects, Running Tales will get 10% of whatever you pay to help us continue to produce this Substack and the podcast.
◾SLOTH & DUCK: More than a shop, Sloth & Duck is a movement celebrating the outdoors, purposeful living, and adventure at every pace.
Designed for trail runners and ultramarathoners, their kit is crafted to connect you to nature with comfort, intention, and a splash of whimsy.
◾DIFFERENT AND UNIQUE: Kibra empowers women to embrace their unique beauty through high-quality activewear designed to cultivate confidence and a resilient mindset.
Their distinctive performance wear supports every journey, while they also partner with global NGOs to bring about meaningful change.
If you buy anything from Kibra, Running Tales will get 20% of whatever you pay to help us continue to produce this Substack and the podcast.
Mon, 16 Mar 2026 - 46min - 162 - The Stomp Bro's: The running brothers who beat serious illness
This week's guests, Tom Doherty and Lewis Thompson, have taken overcoming adversity to another level, and are now reaping the rewards through a succession of crazy running challenges.
Tom's story began in 2023 when he was diagnosed with cancer and underwent six hours of surgery. A full year of gruelling treatment followed, but Tom emerged with renewed vigour and a desire to take his second chance at life.
Running has been his challenge of choice, with every mile a reminder of what he's overcome and how far he can go.
His partner in running crime, Lewis, was told he had a blood clot in 2024, eventually resulting in an operation to have a rib removed at the start of last year.
The former golf pro turned to running to get his fitness fix, and signed up for the Leeds Marathon after getting the news his mum had been diagnosed with cancer.
These days, the two friends have joined forces to run side by side through their recovery and across a host of distances from 5ks to ultra marathons. They do so under the moniker of the Stomp Bro's, chronicling their journey on Instagram.
And with the Manchester Marathon and a 100k ultra in the Lake District in their sights, as well as their own newly formed running club, they have plenty of stomping to do.
Running Tales tracked them down at a rare non-stomping moment to ask them about confronting illness at such a young age, finding solace - and power - in running, and becoming The Stomp Bro's...
Visit Running Tales on:
Substack: https://runningtales.substack.com
YouTube: https://youtube.com/runningtalespod
Please Like and Subscribe wherever you listen, watch or read Running Tales.
Buy Me A Coffee:
Back Running Tales and help us continue to tell the extraordinary stories of everyday runners: https://buymeacoffee.com/runningtales
Path Projects:
Path Projects offer some of the best running gear in the business. I love this kit and it looks really cool even on a 48-year-old, decidedly average runner like me!
Visit Path Projects via this link and back Running Tales in the process (affiliate link).
Follow Tom and Lewis:
Check out The Stomp Bro's on Instagram
Donate to Tom and Lewis' Lake District 100k fundraiser for Breast Cancer Now
Mon, 09 Mar 2026 - 44min - 161 - Dan Braddock: Other adventures await serial marathoner and triathlete
Dan Braddock started to get serious about his fitness back in 2010 after years of, in his own words, being on the chunky side.
Initially, he started cycling to and from work, something he enjoyed so much that he rapidly graduated to taking part in cyclosportive events all around the UK.
His running journey started in 2016, when - as with so many people - he began parkrunning. With both cycling and running now part of his life, it was a logical step into the world of triathlon.
Over the eight years that followed, Dan took part in 20 triathlons - despite encountering health problems along the way, including Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and cholesterol, and even a suspected heart issue.
By 2023, his fitness journey had seen him transition to marathons and he completed his first 26.2-miles in Stockholm. He has since completed several European marathons, with London, Copenhagen and Valencia to his name, knocking large chunks off his time as he did so.
Dan is also the man behind the 'Other Adventures Await Me' YouTube channel, where he chronicles his running experiences.
Running Tales spoke to Dan about why he has fallen in love with running, chronicling the stories of runs and runners whatever their ability, and overcoming injury and other setbacks to hit his marathon goals...
Visit Running Tales on:
Substack: https://runningtales.substack.com
YouTube: https://youtube.com/runningtalespod
Buy Me A Coffee:
Back Running Tales and help us continue to tell the extraordinary stories of everyday runners: https://buymeacoffee.com/runningtales
Path Projects:
Path Projects offer some of the best running gear in the business. I love this kit and it looks really cool even on a 48-year-old, decidedly average runner like me!
Visit Path Projects via this link and back Running Tales in the process (affiliate link).
Follow Dan Braddock's journey on his'Other Adventures Await Me' YouTube channel.
Mon, 02 Mar 2026 - 1h 00min - 160 - Becs Gentry: How running supercharged the life of Hoka's newest ambassador
Becs Gentry has made a life out of running.
Hoka's newest Global Brand Ambassador has worked as a coach for some of the biggest names in the sport in cities like London and New York.
Along the way, she has excelled at a range of distances, including trialling for Great Britain's Olympic team.
However, her journey was sparked not by a desire to be an elite athlete and coach, but a need to escape from the pressure of work that will relate to everyday runners across the world.
A keen runner at school, Becs drifted away from running during her time at university but returned to the sport with a bang in 2011.
Initially, it was that need to find a release from the stress of work that prompted her to take running up again. It quickly, though, turned into a new career as Becs became a running coach, firstly for Nike Run+ in London and then for Peloton in New York.
Her own running also went from strength to strength, as she began taking on marathon and ultra marathon events. In 2019, she finished as the first non-elite woman in the New York City Marathon.
And by 2021, Becs had been invited to the British Olympic Marathon Trials, where she finished fourth in a time of two hours, 32 minutes and one second.
Her role at Peloton and road running success has seen Becs gain a loyal following of runners who look to her for inspiration, including more than 200,000 on Instagram.
Running Tales spoke to Becs about how she loves helping others achieve running success, the step up to the British Olympic trials, and her number one tip for all runners...
'Part of a team that moves together':
Hoka welcomed Becs Gentry as its newest Global Brand Ambassador by celebrating her running achievements, including her 2024 completion of seven marathons in as many days.
The running shoe and apparel giant said: "Becs has earned deep credibility within the global running community as a dedicated road runner and accomplished marathoner, with a loyal following of runners who look to her for guidance and inspiration."
The partnership will allow Becs to share her passion for running and inspiring others to move, as well as to engage with Hoka's community across the world.
Hoka added: "An accomplished marathoner, beloved Peloton instructor and mom to daughter Tallulah. Motion is at the centre of all things Becs.
"Now, as our latest Global Brand Ambassador, she's part of a team that moves together."
NOTE: In the interest of full transparency, please be aware that Hoka arranged this interview with Becs Gentry. Our thanks to them for backing our work. Running Tales received no payment of any kind for this interview, and we were given full autonomy on the questions we asked. Thanks again to Becs and Hoka for being part of the Running Tales project.Visit Running Tales on:
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YouTube: https://youtube.com/runningtalespod
Buy Me A Coffee:
Back Running Tales and help us continue to tell the extraordinary stories of everyday runners: https://buymeacoffee.com/runningtales
Path Projects:
Path Projects offer some of the best running gear in the business. I love this kit and it looks really cool even on a 48-year-old, decidedly average runner like me!
Visit Path Projects via this link and back Running Tales in the process (affiliate link).
Mon, 23 Feb 2026 - 53min - 159 - Terrell Johnson: The Substack sensation synonymous with half-marathons
Terrell Johnson is Substack 'Running Royalty'.
With more than 39,000 subscribers, hisThe Half Marathonernewsletter is hugely popular, combining personal stories with those of runners from around the world, training plans, lists of often exotic-sounding races, and intimate community conversations about everything running related.
His own running story started when he was in his mid-20s. At that time, he took on a variety of distances including several marathons. But it was when, in his early 30s, he discovered a love for half-marathons that Terrell really became immersed in the sport.
It may seem strange in today's climate, where races scream at you from every corner of the internet, but in the late 1990s and early 2000s, Terrell struggled to find many half-marathons to run. There was certainly no comprehensive guides telling people how to find them.
If you can't find it, make it - and that's exactly what Terrell did, building his own website. The Half Marathon Guide would become the world’s leading resource for runners looking to run the 13.1-mile distance.
The Half-Marathoner followed a few years later and has created a strong community, with Terrell exploring how running can help people find meaning and spur them on to achieve things they barely thought possible.
Running Tales spoke to Terrell about his love of the half-marathon, what makes running so special, and the exciting races he would love to take on...
Visit Running Tales on:
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YouTube: https://youtube.com/runningtalespod
Buy Me A Coffee:
Back Running Tales and help us continue to tell the extraordinary stories of everyday runners: https://buymeacoffee.com/runningtales
Path Projects:
Path Projects offer some of the best running gear in the business. I love this kit and it looks really cool even on a 48-year-old, decidedly average runner like me!
Visit Path Projects via this link and back Running Tales in the process (affiliate link).
Terrell Johnson on Substack:
Read The Half Marathoner
Mon, 16 Feb 2026 - 42min - 158 - Ross Thompson: The inspiring story of The Orange Running Guy
Struggling with his mental health and looking to lose weight, Ross Thompson made the decision to start running around a year ago.
At first it was a struggle, and Ross was left wondering if running was for him. But he slowly grew to like it, and his efforts were supercharged when he took the decision to create his alter ego: The Orange Running Guy.
Suddenly, his running was more than just a battle with himself. Ross was growing a network of running friends across social media, inspiring him just as he provided them with inspiration.
Now, he has gone from 5k parkruns to planning his first 10k race at the Wolverhampton 10k - which finishes in the stadium of his beloved and orange-wearing Wolverhampton Wanderers. He is even hoping to complete 50k at Endure 24 later this year.
Running Tales spoke to Ross about how running has changed his life, gathering community and aiming to inspire others, and how his daughter created The Orange Running Guy...
Visit Running Tales on:
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YouTube: https://youtube.com/runningtalespod
Buy Me A Coffee:
Back Running Tales and help us continue to tell the extraordinary stories of everyday runners: https://buymeacoffee.com/runningtales
Path Projects:
Path Projects offer some of the best running gear in the business. I love this kit and it looks really cool even on a 48-year-old, decidedly average runner like me!
Visit Path Projects via this link and back Running Tales in the process (affiliate link).
Follow The Orange Running Guy:
Mon, 09 Feb 2026 - 53min - 157 - Sam Kirchin: The bereaved dad who found support in the running community
Like so many other people, Sam Kirchin started running during the Covid pandemic.
The rugby lover said he had been putting on weight even before lockdown started, so turned to running.
He initially hated it, but continued to increase his distance and even started to take part in races.
One person who was always spurring him on was his wife, Lyndsey, who took the decision to enter Sam into the London Marathon - an event he has now completed three times.
The couple even completed the London Landmarks Half-Marathon together, despite Lyndsey not having been a runner.
But, tragically, in January 2024, Sam was hit with an incomprehensible blow when Lyndsey sadly passed away following complications with an existing liver condition.
Unsurprisingly, Sam - who has five children with Lyndsey - went through some dark times, but when he needed them most his running friends - including people he barely knew - were there for him.
First among those who helped were members of Fordy Runs, the club he had already been a member of, while he was also embraced at the parkrun community.
Sam told Running Tales he didn't know where he would be without their support. In our conversation, he revealed how he loves helping others achieve their goals as a parkrun pacer, how he found help from people and places he didn't expect to, and his 5k goal for 2026...
Visit Running Tales on:
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YouTube: https://youtube.com/runningtalespod
Buy Me A Coffee:
Back Running Tales and help us continue to tell the extraordinary stories of everyday runners: https://buymeacoffee.com/runningtales
Path Projects:
Path Projects offer some of the best running gear in the business. I love this kit and it looks really cool even on a 48-year-old, decidedly average runner like me!
Visit Path Projects via this link and back Running Tales in the process (affiliate link).
Fordy Runs:
Find out more about Fordy Runs: https://www.fordyruns.com
Listen to Sam's episode son Fordy Runs Running Club TV.
Mon, 26 Jan 2026 - 46min - 156 - Jack Syder-Mills: The epic New Year's Day run that raised thousands for Brain Tumour Research
While most people were heralding the start of the new year with something fizzy or sleeping as fireworks went off outside, Jack Syder-Mills was welcoming 2026 in an entirely different way.
The Norwich-based runner was heading out to the trails surrounding his home to tackle six half-marathons on New Year's Day.
Jack was taking on the extreme challenge to raise money for the Brain Tumour Research charity. It came after his sister, Ella, was diagnosed with a brain tumour when she was just 22 - incredibly something the then-neuroscience student had self-diagnosed.
While the run would prove tough at times, it was far from the first time Jack has taken on long-distance events. Despite having only started running a few years ago, he has already completed several 50k and 50 mile races and has his sights set on the 100km distance.
Running Tales spoke to Jack about his almost spiritual love of trail running, how he plans to raise more money for Brain Tumour Research by running from Norwich to London, and why he swapped fireworks for fundraising on New Year's Day...
Visit Running Tales on:
Substack: https://runningtales.substack.com
YouTube: https://youtube.com/runningtalespod
You can still sponsor Jack and help raise vital funds for Brain Tumour Research via this link.
Mon, 19 Jan 2026 - 48min - 155 - Steve Cushing: The 75-year-old with a pacemaker who runs ultra marathons
Steve Cushing describes himself as a 75-year-old, retired GP and back of the pack runner with two artificial hips and a pacemaker.
But that only tells half of his story.
He's previously run extreme events including The Ice Marathon, becoming only the ninth person to complete a marathon in the Antarctic, and - at the other end of the heat spectrum - the infamous Marathon des Sables.
Having recently overcome a spate of injuries, Steve is now training to take on the high altitude, multi-day Mustang Trail Race in Nepal.
Running Tales spoke to Steve about why he continues to take on extreme challenges, the incredible charities he is running the Mustang Trail Race for, and how a horse riding accident that nearly killed him was the spark for him to run ultra marathons.
Visit Running Tales on:
Substack: https://runningtales.substack.com
YouTube: https://youtube.com/runningtalespod
Sponsor Steve Cushing to run the Mustang Trail Race and find out more about the event:
https://linktr.ee/stevecushMustang
Steve is running the Mustang Trail Race for two fantastic charities:
PARTNERS IN EDUCATION SWAZILAND (PIES) EVERYBODY COUNTS (Northampton)Mon, 12 Jan 2026 - 48min - 154 - Natalie Crawford: Running defines her, not cystic fibrosis
This is a repeat of an episode which ran in December 2024; more details below.
As a sickly and frail child, Natalie Crawford avoided exercise at all costs. Poor attendance at school and a constant cough that wore her out led Natalie to be diagnosed with asthma.
She spent time in and out of hospital with chest infections, would cough huge amounts of mucus up, and suffered from frequent bouts of pneumonia.
For years, Natalie just thought that was the way her life was and that there was no particular rhyme or reasons to her bouts of illness.
It was only at the age of 28 that she was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis (CF), a chronic condition that causes malnutrition, breathing problems, frequent respiratory infections, and lung disease.
Worse, at the time of her diagnosis, it came with a frightening life-expectancy of 37. And now Natalie was not just fighting for her own health. Her diagnosis had followed swiftly on from that of her son, who was diagnosed with CF while in the womb.
A determined Natalie decided she had to act. Running was to become her weapon of choice.
At first, she joined the gym, walking on the treadmill, and despite the agony in her lungs and constantly being sick afterwards, her fitness started to improve. With the help of her running coach, Aaron, she started to make real progress, learning how to eat, rest and recover like an athlete.
Best of all, she found the exercise loosened the mucus in her lungs, helping her to breathe more easily. With a new diet that saw her take in 5,000 calories a day to help stabilise her weight, she felt healthier than ever before and her infections became fewer and further apart.
A first 5k followed and then a series of half-marathons. The girl who had spent 28 years not exercising was setting new boundaries.
Medical advice around CF said she should be resting, hiding away from the chance of catching bugs, but Natalie was convinced there was another way.
Then, one day, she decided to take on the toughest challenge of her life - running the Birmingham Marathon. Doctors told her not to run a race they said would be "impossible" for her, but Natalie's mantra was to never take no for an answer.
She duly completed the race, becoming one of the first women in the world with cystic fibrosis to run a marathon and inspiring multitudes of others with CF to take up running.
Natalie has gone on to complete more marathons since then, constantly taking on medical orthodoxy and pushing herself to new limits. Throughout her journey, running has become something that will always define her, not cystic fibrosis.
* This podcast first ran in December 2024, when Running Tales was part of the Everyday Athlete Podcast Network. Most of the episodes recorded there were done so live and we do not have access to the original audio, but this episode with Natalie was pre-recorded. We wanted to take this opportunity to share it again and add it to our feed. Of course, all of other episodes on the EAPN still sit on that platform and we'd always recommend people checking them out along with the other pods that sit there.
Mon, 05 Jan 2026 - 1h 02min - 153 - Stephanie Reents: 'We Loved to Run' author on the camaraderie and challenges of college running
Stephanie Reents' new novel, 'We Loved To Run', tells the captivating story of a female US college cross-country team, delving into what makes them tick and the external challenges that threaten to pull them apart.
It's a fantastic read that explores everything from why women run and the pressures it brings, to the relationships teammates build and the coaches whose sometimes dubious methods involve weighing them and punishing under-performing runners by making them lead the toughest sessions.
Further, it dives into college life, addressing issues such as sexual consent, disordered eating, and alcoholism. It's a riveting, and ultimately, uplifting read that propels you into a world of sacrifice, pain, confused identity, and female friendships.
Stephanie was a collegiate runner herself, who went on to run the New York Marathon in a little over three hours. 'We Loved To Run' is her latest publication following 'The Kissing List' - a collection of stories that was a New York Times Book Review Editor's Choice - and 'I Meant to Kill Ye', a bibliomemoir chronicling her journey into the strange void at the heart of Cormac McCarthy's 'Blood Meridian'.
Running Tales spoke to Stephanie about the power and pain of running, why she wrote 'We Loved To Run', and setting new targets as she comes to terms with not being able to run as quickly as she used to.
Visit Running Tales on:
Substack: https://runningtales.substack.com
YouTube: https://youtube.com/runningtalespod
Buy 'We Loved To Run'on Amazon
Mon, 15 Dec 2025 - 52min - 152 - Nikky Lilley: The 5k Your Way Ambassador who beat cancer to run a marathon
Nikki Lilley was a talented runner in her youth, but the pressures of competition sapped some of her love for the sport and it fell by the wayside.
Life and raising a family - with five children - meant she was kept pretty busy over the next few years, but she eventually found her way back to running (and swimming and cycling) in the form of the triathlon.
Age group success followed, but Nikki suffered a serious setback when she was diagnosed with colon cancer. Surgery and chemotherapy, along with a temporary stoma, followed but she was determined to continue exercising.
That included parkrun and becoming a part of 5k Your Way, the empowering community which encourages those with cancer to run, walk or volunteer at their local parkrun once a month.
Nikki eventually had her stoma reversed and is now back to chasing her goals, completing her first marathon less than a year later - and in a smidge over three-and-a-half hours!
Running Tales spoke to Nikki about the support 5k Your Way provides to those with cancer, her own running journey, and the power of community...
Visit Running Tales on:
Substack: https://runningtales.substack.com
YouTube: https://youtube.com/runningtalespod
Further reading:
How the 5k Your Way revolution is 'kindly, quietly, powerfully' getting cancer patients moving
Mon, 08 Dec 2025 - 48min - 151 - Tony Letts: The Northampton runner who conquered UTMB
In some ways, Tony Letts is your average club runner. He trains round his local parks, enjoys parkrun and is a member of his town club, Northampton Road Runners.
Like so many other people, Tony starting running later in life, looking to improve his fitness. Along the way, he found a love of trail running and a desire to run increasingly long distances.
And it's taken him on a journey which is far from average or ordinary. Earlier this year, Tony completed his long-held aim to run the Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc (UTMB), one of the world's toughest races.
UTMB covers 170km (106 miles) around Mont Blanc, starting in Chamonix, France, and traveling through France, Italy, and Switzerland. It has been immortalised by the performances of the likes of Kilian Jornet, Courtney Dauwalter, Jim Walmsley, and Katie Schide.
But UTMB is not the only ultra marathon Tony has conquered, with the Ultra-Trail Snowdonia just one of the other famous races he's completed.
Running Tales spoke to Tony about how he trained and raced UTMB, what made him first start running, and why he loves the sport...
Visit Running Tales on:
Substack: https://runningtales.substack.com
YouTube: https://youtube.com/runningtalespod
Further reading:
How Northampton Road Runners is hoping to supercharge its over-50s
Mon, 01 Dec 2025 - 39min - 150 - Trina Dawkins: Championing voices from the trail
Trina Dawkins is a trail and ultra runner - and perhaps more importantly a champion of women in sport.
She is passionate about women's safety in the running world, and recently ran at the Kielder Marathon - despite being injured - on behalf of the She Runs Free initiative.
Operating in partnership with Altra and BOLDI, She Free Runs aims to promote confidence and security for women runners, especially in remote or less trafficked areas.
Trina also writes her own Substack newsletter, 'Voices from the Trail', where she aims to "amplify voices, break barriers, and celebrate every finish line - visible or not".
Running Tales spoke to Trina about her own running goals - which include taking on a first 100-miler next year, and how we can all work to promote women's safety in the running world...
Visit Running Tales on:
Substack: https://runningtales.substack.com
YouTube: https://youtube.com/runningtalespod
Mon, 24 Nov 2025 - 45min - 149 - Daniel Garner: 'How running gave me purpose'
Daniel Garner was a sporty child, but his life was turned upside down when his mum sadly died from cancer when he was just eight years old.
His parents had already been in the process of a divorce, and Daniels' father left not long afterwards. Although he was able to grow up in a loving family, with his sister and her partner bringing him up, Daniel's loss changed him.
He felt he was missing part of his identity and that he was different to other children. It was something he took into adulthood, and as he reached his early-40s Daniel had become slightly lost.
Having fallen into something of a rut, he was overweight, drinking too much and spent his time finding any excuse to sit around doing nothing.
That all changed when he found running. Happier and healthier, Daniel has become a parkrun regular, joined a running club and last weekend he took on his second ultra marathon in as many weeks.
Running Tales spoke to Daniel about how the sport has changed his life, why it can be hard to take those first vital steps towards trying something new, and how he hopes his mum is proud of what he has done...
Visit Running Tales on:
Substack: https://runningtales.substack.com
YouTube: https://youtube.com/runningtalespod
Mon, 17 Nov 2025 - 45min - 148 - Rugby & Northampton Athletic Club: Celebrating success with trophies and togetherness
It's one of the leading athletic clubs in the Midlands, but the success of Rugby & Northampton Athletic Club goes far beyond the gongs it and its athletes win.
Competing across track and field, cross country and road running, the club has more than 1,000 members ranging from eight years old to those over 80.
It has recreational sport written into its very being - or at least, its constitution - and celebrates runners at all levels.
That's not to say their members aren't competitive though, whatever their age - a fact best demonstrated by a recent first place finish in the Youth Development League Lower Age Group National Final.
Running Tales was recently invited to the club's Moulton College training centre - one of two tracks it uses alongside Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Sports Centre in Rugby to talk about that achievement.
We met with young athletics, coaches and Masters runners, as well as clubs chairman Adrian White...
Visit Running Tales on:
Substack: https://runningtales.substack.com
YouTube: https://youtube.com/runningtalespod
Other links:
Find out more about Rugby & Northampton AC, including how to join the club via this link.
Mon, 10 Nov 2025 - 26min - 147 - Lottie Banks: The chronic back condition forcing one runner to turn to wheelchair racing
Lottie Banks was a keen runner at school, finishing 81st in the Mini London Marathon and winning a bucketload of medals.
But when life and work came calling, running took a back seat.
It was only in her late-40s that Lottie returned to the sport, taking part in races including the London Marathon, Great Eastern Run, and the Big Half.
That last event in London, which was held as recently as September this year, was actually Lottie's 'Retirement Run'.
A chronic back condition had become increasingly worse, and she has recently taken the decision to start a new stage of her athletic journey - as a wheelchair racer.
In this episode of Running Tales, we spoke to Lottie about her early love of running, the joy of movement in whatever form in takes, and the cost of disability...
Visit Running Tales on:
Substack: https://runningtales.substack.com
YouTube: https://youtube.com/runningtalespod
Other links:
Lottie is currently fundraising for a racing chair. You can donate here: https://gofund.me/4148aaf7d
Mon, 03 Nov 2025 - 33min - 146 - Andre Cardin: How one runners' journey to happiness is going via New York
Andre Cardin's big running goal is fast approaching.
Next week (November 2, 2025), he will take on theNew York City Marathon, one of the most famous road races in the world.
But if Andre's New York adventure is inspiring, it is nothing compared to how he get here.
Unfit, overweight and unhappy, Andre took a decision to dedicate his life to becoming a healthier, fitter and happier version of himself.
His tool of choice was running, and it has helped him achieve that goal and more.
Andre has tracked his journey through his increasingly popular Instagram account, @andrerunz, a platform which proved integral to his entry into New York.
In this episode of Running Tales, we spoke to Andre about his running journey, how the sport has changed his life and the big races he now has on the agenda...
Visit Running Tales on:
Substack: https://runningtales.substack.com
YouTube: https://youtube.com/runningtalespod
Other links:
Mon, 27 Oct 2025 - 50min - 145 - Kim Levinsky and Shai Ben-Dor: A journey of becoming
From crossing paths with farm dogs to shimmying over logs, ultra runner Kim Levinsky faced a plethora of physical, mental and altogether unexpected challenges as she set a new Fastest Known Time (FKT) across New York State’s 358-mile Long Path.
Now, a brilliant new feature film, 'The Long Path: A journey of becoming' has been released. It tracks the physical and mental struggle's Kim encountered during her epic run, as well as taking a deeper look at how society treats mental health issues.
During the documentary, Kim reveals her journey from reluctantly starting therapy to becoming a mental health advocate in her community.
In this episode of Running Tales, we spoke to Kim and filmmaker Shai Ben-Dor about the idea behind the film and how they were able to capture her experiences of the trails...
Visit Running Tales on:
Substack: https://runningtales.substack.com
YouTube: https://youtube.com/runningtalespod
Other links:
Watch 'The Long Path: A journey of becoming'
Mon, 20 Oct 2025 - 1h 03min - 144 - Andy Goldsby: Marmcast presenter's journey from overweight to first rate
Andy Goldsby's life was spiralling out of control. Overweight, he was drinking and smoking too much, and it was starting to effect his mental as well as physical health.
It was a chance moment that changed his life. Desperate to make a change, he entered the London Marathon on a whim, never expecting to get in.
The marathon lottery Gods were smiling on him, and to Andy's shock he was - at 20 stone and struggling to climb the stairs - on course to run one of the world's most famous running events.
Buoyed by the chance to reverse a fitness journey that was heading in the wrong direction, he started training and clocking up the miles.
Since then, Andy has become a regular runner, taking on distances from parkrun 5ks to marathons.
Along the way, he has become a run director at Arrow Valley parkrun and more recently joined forces with YouTuber Tim Stent, aka The Middle Aged Running Man, to become one half of the Marmcast pod.
In this episode of Running Tales, we spoke to Andy about how running has changed his life...
Visit Running Tales on:
Substack: https://runningtales.substack.com
YouTube: https://youtube.com/runningtalespod
Other links:
Listen to Marmcast on Apple Podcasts
Mon, 13 Oct 2025 - 53min - 143 - Sarah Lavender Smith: The 10-year making of her Hardrock dream
There isn’t much Sarah Lavender Smith hasn’t done in the world of running.
The Colorado resident has run more than 100 ultras and marathons, winning several at the 50k distance and clocking up many thousands of miles during more than 30 years in the sport.
In 2019, she won the Grand to Grand Ultra, widely celebrated as one of the toughest races in the world.
But Sarah had a ten year itch she needed to scratch: an event as hard to get into as it is to run.
It is a race which features 102.5 miles (165km) and 33,000 feet (10,000 m) of climb through an area of such spiritual significance to her that she can track her family roots there back to 1880.
Sarah’s date with destiny arrived on July 11, 2025 in Silverton, Colorado.
At 6am on that day, she toed the start line of one of ultra running’s most famous races: The Hardrock 100.
In this episode of Running Tales, we spoke to Sarah to find out how her Hardrock adventure turned out...
Visit Running Tales on:
Substack: https://runningtales.substack.com
YouTube: https://youtube.com/runningtalespod
Other links:
Visit Sarah's Mountain Running & Living Substack: https://sarahrunning.substack.com/
Mon, 06 Oct 2025 - 56min - 142 - Emily Moore: From being told she'd never walk unaided to taking on the Marathon des Sables
When Emily Moore was just 19 she suffered a knee injury which led to her being told she'd never walk unaided again, let alone run.
Now, she's on the edge of taking on the toughest footrace in the world, the formidable Marathon des Sables, in April.
After suffering her injury, Emily was determined she would run again, immediately entering the London Marathon.
A painful period of rehabilitation followed, but her dream became a reality with her knee surgeon among those cheering her to the finish line.
Since then, Emily has completed a number of marathons and triathlons, teaching herself to swim along the way.
And last year she turned ultra runner, completing the Glasgow to Edinburgh Ultra in October 2022.That was followed by the five-day, 123-mile Capital to Country Ultra in Nepal last year.
Her decision to powerwalk it, rather than run, saw her discover a unique way of tackling the endurance event that also featured a blessing at a school and a wedding.
Running Tales spoke to Emily about running while pregnant, how the sport has helped her meet friends all over the world, and why the Nepal Capital to Country Ultra saw her find herself again after divorce...
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Visit Running Tales on Substack: https://runningtales.substack.com
Search for Running Tales wherever you listen to podcasts to find our audio version of episodes.
Read our story about the Capital to Country Multi-Day Ultra in Nepal on our Substack page: https://runningtales.substack.com/p/from-capital-to-country-the-spiritual
Wed, 01 Jan 2025 - 35min - 141 - Sho Gray: Aiming for 24-hours of running glory
Sho Gray has a big goal in 2024.
The professional runner, who is the Tennessee state record holder for the 100-mile distance, is betting on himself to make the US national 24-hour race team.
Sho is using his savings to dedicate himself to running in the hope of winning the American 24-hour race championship in November, and in doing so qualifying for the national team.
It’s all a far cry from his first manoeuvrings in the world of running, when as a youngster at a Japanese international school he started taking part in the sport - with the somewhat disputed aim of beating his sister in the cross-country.
Running Tales spoke to Sho about going from enthusiastic amateur to professional, entering the pain cave and exercising his toes, and how he wants to inspire everyone to do whatever their version of better is…
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Visit Running Tales on Substack: https://runningtales.substack.com
Search for Running Tales wherever you listen to podcasts to find our audio version of episodes.
Tue, 13 Feb 2024 - 38min - 140 - Stan Robertson: The street pastor who feeds rough sleepers - and the run to help him do it
This week's Running Tales Podcast has a somewhat different theme.
Our guest is Stan Robertson, the man behind Northampton-based rough sleeper charity Project 16:15.
Running Tales is once again backing the 16:15 Charity Run, which will take place at The Racecourse in Northampton, England on Saturday, March 23.
The event, which aims to raise awareness of and funding for rough sleepers in the town, will take place over six hours - with runners encouraged to run as long or as short a distance as they like over that period.
There is more information about the event on our Substack newsletter page and on the 16:15 Charity Run Facebook group.
Stan started Project 16:15 back in 2018, during the infamous Beast from the East cold snap, when he began delivering hot drinks and food to rough sleepers in Northampton town centre.
His over-riding aim is bring dignity and respect to those on the streets.
You can help fundraise for the 16:15 Charity Run here: https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/fun-run2024
Running Tales spoke to Stan about the dangers rough sleepers face on the streets, how his own experiences of homelessness and addiction help him connect to those he now helps, and whether he will be doing any running himself on March 23...
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Visit Running Tales on Substack: https://runningtales.substack.com
Search for Running Tales wherever you listen to podcasts to find our audio version of episodes.
Tue, 06 Feb 2024 - 30min - 139 - Raziq Rauf: Proving 'Running Sucks' one amazing story at a time
Raziq Rauf is the man behind the increasingly popular 'Running Sucks' Substack, a tongue-in-cheek title for a newsletter that looks at the stories of people doing interesting things to further running culture.
Raz's newsletter has covered subjects as varied as homelessness, racism, body shaming and alcoholism - all from the prospective of those in the running world.
It aims to tell stories that go beyond people's favourite trainers or their marathon training plans. The result is a fascinating and occasionally raw dive into why running sucks and how, ultimately, it is a force for good.
Raz's own running journey began at school, but he only fully embraced the sport as a way of escaping his busy live as a music journalist - no Spotify or Apple playlists for this runner!
Running Tales spoke to Raz about running while being a 'minority of a minority' as someone of south Asian descent, why it's important not to ignore the impact of societal issues on running, and why he called his newsletter 'Running Sucks'...
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Tue, 23 Jan 2024 - 26min - 138 - Helen Ramwell: From reluctant runner to multi-day ultra competitor
Helen Ramwell didn't always wants to run, despite coming from a family that loved the sport.
It was only as a teenager while celebrating New Year that she was provoked to take part in a race, after a family member said she would never be able to complete a half-marathon.
The challenge was too much to resist and Helen's running career was underway. It has since taken in a host of marathons and ultra events, including the 'toughest footrace in the world' - the Marathon des Sables.
Helen took part in that event alongside her father, Richard, who she regularly enjoyed running with.
Sadly, Richard has since passed away but Helen honoured his memory at the end of last year when she took on another multi-day marathon.
She said she felt his presence on her shoulder as she took on the inaugural Capital to Country in Nepal, a five-day, 123-mile romp through the foothills of the Himalayas.
Running Tales spoke to Helen about the women's ultra running scene, running while pregnant, and her much-heralded competitive streak...
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Tue, 16 Jan 2024 - 32min - 137 - Liz Fraser: Why turning 50 is a marathon goal for writer and broadcaster
Liz Fraser has been a passionate runner since a young age, when her mother - who coached youngsters at the Oxford City Athletics Club - introduced her to the sport.
Running has been her constant companion ever since, through the highs of many a 5k, 10k and half-marathon to helping her cope with mental health issues.
A writer, broadcaster and best-selling author, Liz's memoir 'Coming Clean' tells the story of her life with an alcoholic partner, and running has provided solace in harder times.
Now, as she approaches her 50th birthday in October, Liz is aiming to run her first marathon, as well as to roll back the years to record a sub-20 minute 5k and a sub-40 minute 10k.
Running Tales spoke to Liz about how it's ok for women to fiercely pursue their goals and the joy of running in terrible weather...
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Tue, 09 Jan 2024 - 35min - 136 - Denny Krahe: Ultra runner and coach on why people cheat and pushing your body to the limit
Denny Krahe is an ultra runner and coach who runs one of our favourite podcasts about the sport: Diz Runs.
We first caught up with Denny just over a year ago, when we chatted to him about his own running career and his life as an injury prevention specialist.
With changes on the way at Diz Runs, we thought it was a good time to talk to Denny again and to see how he is getting on with some of his running goals.
We also chewed the fat over some of the big issues in the running world, including the seemingly increasing numbers of people cheating in races and just how far he thinks the human body will allow endurance athletes to go...
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You can learn more about Denny Krahe, his coaching, blog and podcast on http://www.dizruns.com/
Wed, 27 Dec 2023 - 34min - 135 - Colin Kirk-Potter: The Dartmoor fell runner who beat Scott Jurek at UTMB
Colin Kirk-Potter grew up running on the fells and a career as a Royal Marine meant fitness was always going to be central to his life.
Back when he joined the Marines, a day on Dartmoor involved brutal training but these days he loves nothing more than to run around its trails and fells - to the stage where he's even written a book about the best routes.
Colin's running has seen him take on extreme races all around the world, including the Bob Graham Round and the Ultra-Trail Du Mont-Blanc, where he even beat ultra running legend Scott Jurek.
But perhaps his greatest challenge came when he struggled with PTSD after serving in Afghanistan. Life in 'civvy street' saw him drinking too much and picking fights, but it was running which helped him to rediscover himself and find peace.
Running Tales spoke to Colin about why running like a toddler is good for you, opening a running shop and becoming coach, and exactly how he came to beat one of the greatest runners of all time...
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You can order Colin's book, Dartmoor Trail and Fell Running: 31 Great Runs, on Amazon: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Dartmoor-Trail-Fell-Running-Great/dp/1906095841
Tue, 19 Dec 2023 - 33min - 134 - Donato - The Poet With Pace: How one man went from non-runner to Boston qualifier
Donato, aka Twitter's Poet With Pace, hasn't always been a runner. Indeed, he didn't even start running until he was in his mid-50s and only took to the sport to raise money for charity.
But once he started, there was no stopping him.
Since completing the Birmingham Half-Marathon in 2015, Donato has gone on to break a Guinness World Record for running the fastest marathon dressed as a hospital patient, completed five marathon majors and raced for England at Master's level.
Along the way he has amassed a YouTube following of close 5,500 subscribers to his 'Chatty Adventures' channel, where he posts race videos.
Running Tales spoke to Donato about how he first started running, finding out he was both good at it and that it brought him joy, and why it took him so long to discover the sport in the first place...
nb.. Donato has requested we only use his first name. We are happy to comply with that request.
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Tue, 12 Dec 2023 - 37min - 133 - Russell Watkin: Running for Tommy’s - and to transform his life
Running has transformed Russell Watkin's life since he started training for next year's London Landmarks Half-Marathon.
When his journey began, Russell was overweight, suffering from high-blood pressure and battling depression, all while dealing with the effects of Long Covid.
He told Running Tales that before he started running, he had never stuck with anything in his life - but that has all changed now.
Spurred on not only by a desire to get fitter and feel better in himself, but through fundraising for baby loss charity Tommy's, Russell has made running a pivotal part of his life.
These days, he feels healthier than ever before and is even planning to take on the London Marathon in the near future.
Running Tales spoke to Russell about pushing through the hard times early on in his running journey, how he gets grumpy when he can't run and why everyone can improve their lives through running...
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You can sponsor Russell to run the London Londmarks Half-Marathon in 2024 by visiting https://llhm.tommys.org/fundraising/Russell-Watkin
Tue, 05 Dec 2023 - 30min - 132 - Jason Bahamundi: How a Puerto Rican kid from the Bronx ran Western States, Rocky Racoon and Cocodona
Jason Bahamundi is an ultra runner who lives by the motto 'all gas, no brakes,' but he only started running when he was 'voluntold' he would be doing a half-marathon for charity.
His first training run left him gasping for breath, but Jason was hooked. Running became a habit that led him to longer and longer races and ever bigger challenges, including completing Western States, the Rocky Racoon 100-miler several times, and Cocodona 250.
Along the way, he has finished a host of Ironman triathlons - not bad for someone who saw running as a punishment at school.
Jason is also the founder of Run, Tri, Bike magazine, which is devoted to celebrating the endurance lifestyle while expanding diversity and inclusion in sport.
Running Tales talked to Jason about championing women in running, sleeping during ultra races, and how running has helped him with his business...
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Read Run, Tri, Bike magazine at https://runtrimag.com/
Tue, 28 Nov 2023 - 35min - 131 - Natasha Swartley: Ultra marathoner on how life in the Navy helped foster a don’t quit attitude
Natasha Swartley wasn't particularly sporty growing up - and running certainly didn't feature on her to do list.
Even after she joined the US Navy at just 18, fitness was a punishment for being 'sarcastic' with push-ups and squats proving particularly unpopular.
But Tasha slowly developed a love of fitness and eventually running, ending up being responsible for training 3,000 men under her watch.
By 2019, she had completed her first ultra marathon - a 50-miler which she conquered despite neglecting race nutrition and training on a treadmill.
Tasha has since left the Navy to become a wilderness EMT, but her love of ultra running has blossomed - despite two DNFs at the 100-mile distance.
Running Tales spoke to her about life in the Navy as a high-ranking woman, hauling ammunition across ships and how it prepared her for running long distances, and the power of three little letters: DFQ.
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Tue, 21 Nov 2023 - 34min - 130 - Rohan Kallicharan: How Olympic legacy runner went from mental health crisis to cusp of 100 marathons
Rohan Kallicharan, a sub-three hour marathoner, is on the verge of something extraordinary.
With more than 80 marathons - including 10 in 10 days - already behind him, the man dubbed by friends as 'Ro Farah' is aiming to reach 100 marathons before he turns 50 next June.
But that achievement will barely touch the surface of Rohan's story.
Over a 15 year period, starting when he was a teenager, he struggled with his mental health, attempting suicide three times before eventually being diagnosed with bipolar disorder.
With a lot of hard work, Rohan was able to move forward with his life, but in confronting his mental demons he began to neglect his physical wellbeing, ballooning up to 19 stone.
It was only when he visited the London Olympic Games in 2012 that Rohan realised it was time to do something about his weight. Shortly afterwards he started running - and he's barely stopped since.
Running Tales talked to Rohan about the mental health benefits of running - and how when he became too focused on times he briefly fell out of love with the sport, his 100 marathon goal, and raising tens of thousands of pounds for Mind, the mental health charity...
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Visit Rohan's website, Run With Perseverance, at https://run-with-perseverance.co.uk/
Sponsor Rohan in his efforts to run 100 marathons before he reaches 50 - all monies go to Mind: https://www.justgiving.com/page/ro-fun-before-fifty
Tue, 14 Nov 2023 - 48min - 129 - Christopher McDougall: Born to Run author on war reporting, running with donkeys and the B-52’s
Christopher McDougall wasn't even a runner when he came across the Tarahumara Indians of Mexico.
He'd been told he was too big. He'd be better off guarding the President or riding a bike than running.
But what he found not only changed his life, but those of thousands of runners across the globe.
In 2009, Christopher published his now famous book on the Tarahumara, 'Born to Run: A Hidden Tribe, Super Athletes, and the Greatest Race the World Has Never Seen'.
Not only did it uncover the secrets of the Tarahumara, who could run incredible distances in super fast times, it opened up his eyes to a whole new way of running.
Christopher has gone on to write two more masterpieces on running, 'Natural Born Heroes' and 'Running With Sherman'.But Running Tales wanted to find out a little bit more about the man behind the books that have inspired so many runners all over the world - and caused headaches among those in the big shoe companies.
We spoke to Christopher about how his father both embarrassed and inspired him by running laps round his school and going on to run three hour 30 marathons while in his 60s, his life as a war correspondent, and what is it like running with donkeys...
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Visit Christopher's website at https://www.chrismcdougall.com/ to find out more about his work and writing.
Tue, 07 Nov 2023 - 50min - 128 - Meet the ultra runner who started jogging to beat a back injury and the pandemic
Anthony has always been active, with martial arts and karate his first love.
But, after suffering from asthma as a child, running was never on his to do list.
That all changed during the coronavirus pandemic, when with contact sports off the menu and an aggravating back injury requiring him to keep moving, Anthony decided to try running again.He's not stopped since.
A resident of Japan, Anthony has embraced that country's love of running, graduating from regular runs to taking on a marathon and soon after an ultra event.
Running Tales spoke to Anthony about how he finished tenth in his first ever marathon - don't mention there were only 27 competitors(!), how running has helped him with his martial arts, and why he's moved into writing about the sport...
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Tue, 31 Oct 2023 - 35min - 127 - Richard Wilcox: The runner who went from couch to 100-miles in a year
After a particularly troubled end to a family holiday, Richard Wilcox's wife gave him an ultimatum: 'Change or we're finished'.
The former Army man was overweight - his five four inch frame carrying 18 stone.
He was suffering from mental health issues and going nowhere fast.It was then he chanced upon a documentary about ultra running that changed his life.
Inspired, Richard declared he would run a 100-mile race within a year.Most people laughed, but he started walking, then jogging and before long he was running hundreds of miles every week.
Within a year, he was ready to take on the Snowdon Ultra 100. It was a race that was to test him to his limits, but one which would help Richard prove the doubters wrong once and for all.
Running Tales spoke to him about his incredible journey to success and the power - for good and bad - of an addictive personality...
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Tue, 24 Oct 2023 - 1h 00min - 126 - Nigel Watson: How one man’s prostate cancer diagnosis didn’t stop him running MDS
The Marathon des Sables had always been on Nigel Watson's bucket list.
But with his plans to tackle the six day, 250km ultra marathon through the heat of the Sahara Desert barely underway, Nigel was rocked by a diagnosis of prostate cancer.
An experienced runner with several marathons under his belt and a history of tackling triathlons that included representing Great Britain for his age group, Nigel was determined not to be beaten by the news and upped his training.
Part of his preparation saw him meet with Doug Richards, a friend of this podcast and Marathon des Sables finisher. Inspired, Nigel set out to complete his extreme goal.
Running Tales spoke to him about how the event went, his previous running success and tackling prostate cancer...
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Tue, 17 Oct 2023 - 25min - 125 - Peter Vickers: The ‘one time’ parkrunner who beat Covid to finish an ultra
From deciding to try parkrun once - and then getting hooked on it - to completing a 35-mile ultra despite contracting Covid, Peter Vickers has fully embraced the world of running.
At 55, he saw people running parkrun around Northampton’s Racecourse and decided to take part the next week - not long later he was running the London Marathon.
In all, Peter has had to come back from three bouts of Covid - the first of which left him feeling he might die and which still sees him battling with his breathing at times.
Along the way, he's raised money for a host of charities and made friends at every corner, aid station and finishing line of his many runs.
Running Tales spoke to him about everything from pacing at parkrun to his ultra endeavours…
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Tue, 10 Oct 2023 - 24min - 124 - Isaac Kenyon: The extreme adventurer using running to raise mental health awareness
Isaac Kenyon is a runner, cyclist, triathlete and extreme adventurer who uses the power of the challenges he takes on to both inspire others and raise awareness of mental health and climate change causes.
His most recent challenge - completed as recently as September 10 (World Suicide Prevention Day) - saw him finish a full Ironman while wearing a 15kg weighted vest.
The vest represented the unseen weight of poor mental health, something Isaac has had to confront himself in the form of often crippling anxiety.
Isaac has used the power of exercise and the outdoors to confront his illness, completing challenges including breaking a world record for the longest continual row of three days and 11 hours, running the 233km Welsh Three Peaks Challenge and rowing 3,000 nautical miles across the Atlantic Ocean in 40 days, from the Canary Islands to the Caribbean.
Running Tales spoke to Isaac about his own anxiety, the power of the great outdoors and becoming one of the youngest international keynote speakers in the world...
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You can learn more about Isaac's mission on https://www.isaackenyon.com/ and his Climate Explorers CIC at https://climateexplorers.co.uk/
Listen to Isaac's Ted Talk at https://www.ted.com/talks/isaac_kenyon_freedom_and_opportunity_from_being_outdoors/details
Tue, 03 Oct 2023 - 36min - 123 - Carlotta James: The woman behind the 4,300km Monarch Ultra
Launched in 2019, The Monarch Ultra is an epic environmental run and conservation project which aims to raise awareness of the at-risk Monarch Butterfly.
That year, a team of ultra runners and environmentalists followed the 4,300km (2,670 mile) migratory route of the Monarchs from Ontario in Canada to central Mexico.They did so as a relay team as part of an incredible 47-day adventure.
The co-founder of the event is Carlotta James, and Running Tales caught up with her to talk about her own running, the plans for this year's version of the Monarch Ultra and why these butterflies are so important...
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This year, the Monarch Ultra will take place in the form of two events:
The Monarch Festival in Peterborough, Ontario, which will include a 10km race in support of reforestation efforts in the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve. This takes place on Sunday, October 15, 2023
The 50km ultra marathon race from Zitacuaro, Mexico to the monarch sanctuary in Cerro Pelón. The ultra takes place on Sunday, November 26, 2023Learn more about the Monarch Ultra: www.https://www.themonarchultra.com/
Tue, 26 Sep 2023 - 35min - 122 - Jake Fedorowski: Bringing non-binary inclusion into the world of running
At school, Jake Fedorowski always felt they weren't the sort of person who played sport.Indeed, if you'd have told them they would end up running marathons, they would have laughed.
But as a non-binary person, Jake's love of running grew after they discovered the Seattle Frontrunners, a running and walking club for the LGBTQIA+ community and its allies.
These days they are both a committed runner and campaigner, championing inclusivity within the running community.
One way of doing this was to create the Guide to Non-Binary Inclusion in Running, which they wrote after making the difficult decision to no longer register or participate in events that didn’t affirm their gender identity.
Jake then began partnering with race organisers, including the team behind the Chicago Marathon, to implement the solutions in the guide.
They also founded Run Beyond (RUNN+), a community for non-binary athletes to connect, and are now the vice president of Seattle Frontrunners.
Running Tales spoke to Jake about what being non-binary means, their own journey - both in terms of their gender and within the world of running - and how they believe the world of running needs to evolve...
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Learn more about the organisations Jake is involved with at the links below:
Seattle Frontrunners: https://www.seattlefrontrunners.org/
The Queer Running Society: https://www.queerrunningsociety.com/
Run Beyond: https://nonbinaryrunning.com/runbeyond
To learn more about Jake’s work and the movement toward non-binary inclusion, visit nonbinaryrunning.com
Tue, 19 Sep 2023 - 37min - 121 - Franjo Mihalić: The Croatian running champion who won the Boston Marathon and Olympic silver
This week, Michelle and Craig are enjoying a (well deserved?) holiday in Split, Croatia so instead of our usual interview style podcast we bring you the story of one of that country’s finest runners.
Franjo Mihalić was a Yugoslav and Croatian long-distance runner best known for his 1958 win at the Boston Marathon and for a silver medal performance at the 1956 Olympic Games.
Those successes were the pinnacle of a career which saw him compete across marathon and cross-country races, breaking a combined 25 Croatian and later Yugoslavian national records in long-distance track events between 5000m and 25km - but which started as a cyclist and footballer.
Today, Running Tales tells his story…
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Tue, 05 Sep 2023 - 10min - 120 - Joe Thomas: Inspired by Goggins - running 100 miles to raise money for MDS UK
When his father, Pete, was diagnosed with Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS) last August, Joe Thomas decided it was time to take on a major challenge.
Despite only being an occasional runner, Joe had listened to David Goggins' story and hit on the target of running a 100-mile race.
He signed up for the 103-mile North Downs Way 100, which runs from Farnham in Surrey to Ashford in Kent - only discovering along the way that he needed to complete a 50-mile race before he could enter.
Earlier this month, Joe completed his challenge of a lifetime by finishing the race - which includes 11,000 feet of ascent - in 27 hours and 55 minutes, well within the 30 hour cut-off time.
Along the way, he has so far raised more than £12,000 for MDS UK - money which will mean MDS patients get the support they need when they receive a life changing diagnosis.
Running Tales spoke to Joe about why he set his sights as high as 100 miles, the joys of eating your way through an ultra and possible future plans to swim the English Channel...
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You can donate to Joe's JustGiving page for MDS UK here: https://www.justgiving.com/page/joe-thomas-ndw100
Tue, 29 Aug 2023 - 36min - 119 - Kim Levinksy: Overcoming closed trails, wet shoes and farm dogs to beat the 358-mile Long Path
Running Tales first caught up with trail runner Kim Levinsky back in April as she prepared to take on the 358-mile Long Path.
Starting from the 175th Street Subway Station in New York City, crossing George Washington Bridge and running across the Catskills all the way to Albany, the Long Path combines woods, a series of 2,900 foot peaks, and trails that pass over lakes and streams.
Kim, who has also completed the Tahoe 200, was hoping to achieve a fastest known time for a supported female on the Long Path.
In July, she did it in nine days and ten hours, registering 378 miles and 72,000 feet of elevation.
Running Tales caught up with Kim to talk about everything from overcoming early injury niggles and shimmying across unsteady logs over raging water to farm dogs and wet shoes...
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You can find more details about, and donate to, Kim's charities for the Long Path FKT at:
Bigger Than The Trail Fundraiser:https://biggerthanthetrail.networkforgood.com/projects/160786-kim-levinsky-s-fundraiser-to-provide-free-counseling
New York-New Jersey Trail Conference Fundraiser:https://www.nynjtc.com/supportkim
Tue, 22 Aug 2023 - 37min - 118 - Martinus Evans: Slow AF Run Club founder on how he overcame prejudice to become a marathon man
When Martinus Evans went to get some hip pain checked out 10 years ago, he was shocked when his doctor ignored the fact he was on his feet for eight hours a day at work and instead concentrated on his weight.
As a larger man, Martinus weighed in at 300 pounds (21 stone), but he was living an active life combining his busy work days with playing basketball at weekends.
But the doctor dismissed him as 'fat,' telling him to start walking to 'lose weight or die'.An angry Martinus replied that he wouldn't simply start walking - he'd run a marathon.
With his hip problem correctly diagnosed by a different doctor, and quickly cured through physio, Martinus started out on his running journey.
Ten years later, he has been an adidas spokesperson, a model on the cover of Runner’s World and a Boston Marathon finisher.
In all, Martinus has now completed eight marathons.
But he wasn't finished.
His personal goals soon turned into a mission to promote running as a sport for people of all shapes and sizes.
The Slow AF Run Club was born and now boasts thousands of members, while a guide to running called 'Slow AF Run Club - The Ultimate Guide For Anyone Who Wants To Run' has become a bible for many new runners.
Running Tales spoke to Martinus about how he has faced prejudice and taunts along the way, and on his mission to make running a truly inclusive sport...
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Find out more about the Slow AF Run Club and Martinus' story at https://slowafrunclub.com/
Tue, 15 Aug 2023 - 28min - 117 - Georgia Francis: My granddad William McKim, Olympian, marathoner and adventurer
Georgia Francis' granddad William, or Bill, McKim represented Great Britain in the 1,500m at the Tokyo Olympics in 1964.
But his fourth placed finish in the heats - narrowly missing out on a place in the finals despite suffering from an illness which should have prevented him competing - doesn't tell his full story.
Not long after the event he beat eventual winner Peter Snell of New Zealand, and a year later he ran a sub-four minute mile - just seven years after Sir Roger Bannister had done so for the first time.
He went on to repeat the feat a year later, before turning his attention to marathons and completing the New York event in two hours 35 minutes.
In later life, Bill went on to climb Everest twice and hike the Inca Trail - something Georgia repeated years later, standing on the same spot he did to overlook Machu Picchu and making an emotional call to him back in England.
Bill has since sadly passed away, but in this episode we talk to Georgia about how he was always destined to be a runner and why he nearly didn't got to Tokyo at all...
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Tue, 08 Aug 2023 - 28min - 116 - Mary McNerney: The woman teaching children to ’Run Like A Cheetah’
Mary McNerney is the brains behind a new running programme for schools in Chicago - and hopefully beyond.
The former school teacher is the founder of Run Like A Cheetah, which has the ambitious mission of teaching social-emotional learning to children through the power of running.
Run Like A Cheetah aims to teach running in a fun, inclusive, non-competitive way to improve children's physical and mental wellbeing, particularly those who may have suffered trauma or come from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Mary hopes running can become a lifelong friend and companion for children who have previously seen the sport as a punishment or simply the means to breed elite athletes.
Running Tales also spoke to Mary about her own running journey which saw her take up the sport at 16 and go on to complete three marathons - Chicago, twice, and New York - as well as enjoy running with her own children...
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Find out more about Run Like A Cheetah here: https://runlikeacheetah.com/
Tue, 01 Aug 2023 - 21min - 115 - Henry Morris: The ultra runner and ‘secret Tory’ who became a Twitter sensation
At the end of May, the man behind a satirical Twitter account outed himself.
That account was the Secret Tory - a topical and sometime controversial lampooning of the Conservative government.And the man behind it is Henry Morris. a fitness instructor and - as it turns out - ultra runner.
The Secret Tory Twitter account, which has close to 200,000 followers, started life as a parody of Tory MP Mark Francois and developed into a sharp-elbowed critique of government policy and personalities.
Although it often bordered on the ridiculous, many pundits speculated the account was run by a disaffected MP or a Westminster insider.Instead, it was Henry Morris.
Running Tales spoke to Henry about the inspiration behind the account, how it got so huge, and - most importantly - all about his running.
Henry abandoned a party lifestyle in favour of ultra running, and has now completed close to 50 ultras including one of 110 miles.
He often runs to raise money and awareness of environmental issues, including the threat posed to wildlife including birds of prey by grouse moors.
We also spoke to Henry about what's next for the Secret Tory, how he trains to run long distances and his plan to run to raise awareness of the plight of the hen harrier...
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Tue, 25 Jul 2023 - 32min - 114 - Tom Mulchinock: How one runner went from alcoholism to taking on 10 marathons in a year
When Tom Mulchinock left school with little more than an addiction for video games and a 'class clown' nature, he found himself numbing real world pressures with increasingly heavy drinking.
Nights out turned to day drinking - to avoid hangovers it was better to just not stop.It wasn't until he reached 30 that Tom realised he needed to get help.
After seeking therapy and moving to Iceland, Tom started practicing mindfulness, going on walks, listening to podcasts - and running.
A first 5k race eventually turned into a running habit and then into a new goal.
Tom is currently aiming to run 10 marathons in a year in 10 different countries - all to rase money for CALM, the Campaign Against Living Miserably.
Running Tales spoke to Tom about how running has helped him stay sober, combat his anxiety and embrace his creative side...
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People can sponsor Tom via JustGiving here: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/10marathons10countries1year
You can also learn more about his challenge and follow his progress via:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tom.mulchinock
Facebook: Runnning For CALM - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=10009242586191
YouTube: Running For CALM - https://www.youtube.com/@rfcalm
Find out more about CALM at https://www.thecalmzone.net/
Tue, 18 Jul 2023 - 29min - 113 - Grayson Murphy: The late bloomer turned two-time world mountain running champion
Grayson Murphy is a running chameleon.
From two-time world mountain running champion to a track star who narrowly missed out on qualifying for the Olympics, the 28-year-old has made a career out of taking on different challenges and distances.
And what a career.
Despite only starting running aged 20, Grayson was soon ripping up records at the University of Utah, setting new standards in the steeplechase, 5,000m and 10,000m events and becoming a five times All-American.
A professional contract followed, but life on the track didn't go exactly to plan to begin with and Grayson made the sudden and surprising switch to trail running.
Victory at the American championship followed - an event she has now won four times - and, on her debut at the race, she won the 2019 World Mountain Running Championships.
Two years later, she returned to the track in style for the Olympic trials, winning her semi-final and finishing sixth in the final of the 3,000m steeplechase.
This year, it was back to the mountains again and a second world championship win as Grayson captured first place in the up and downhill race in Austria.
Running Tales spoke to her about how football (aka soccer) had been her first love, why she loves running such a variety of events and the joys of 'aeroplane arms'...
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Tue, 11 Jul 2023 - 35min - 112 - Doug Richards: Running ’Once Around the Planet’
Doug Richards has just published his third book about running, charting an incredible journey that has seen him run a lifetime total of 24,902 miles.
It's a distance equivalent of the circumference of the Earth’s equator.
In 'Once Around the Planet,' Doug shares his latest running adventures including running a marathon in Venice and taking on a host of island runs including among ancient Moai statues on Easter Island, across volcanic rim trails in the Azores and even into the mysterious confines of the Bermuda Triangle.
Doug's amazing running total was achieved despite the fact he only started running in his 30s, when he found himself out of breath having run up the stairs to see his son.
It was then he decided to get fit - and start running.
It's a habit he's found hard to shift and has seen him run across all seven continents, including in Antarctica and across the Sahara and Gobi Deserts.
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You can buy ‘Once Around The Planet’ from Amazon: https://shorturl.at/iryR1
Tue, 04 Jul 2023 - 29min - 111 - Rebecca Leek: The environmentalist working to stop Britain ’Running Out of Time’
This week ultra runner and environmentalist, Rebecca Leek, will be taking part in a climate relay to raise awareness of climate change.
On Wednesday, June 29, Rebecca is coming to Northampton - the home of the Running Tales Podcast! - to run a leg of the Running Out of Time relay.
The event is the biggest sporting celebration of climate action and nature ever attempted across Britain.
Taking place between June 10 and July 11, the relay will travel 2,661km (1,653 miles) from Ben Nevis to Big Ben.
Rebecca has also made a number of environmental pledges, including using existing clothing and trainers during the event, travelling in a low carbon manner and taking positive action in the community.
It is the latest stage of a running career which only started two years ago - with a "shuffle" after listening to Chris Evans talking running on the radio.
Running Tales also talked to Rebecca about how she felt discouraged to run at school and how she recently won a 71-mile ultra...
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Tue, 27 Jun 2023 - 33min - 110 - Jeremy Singh: From overweight dad to ultra marathoner - and 40,000 run loving Twitter followers
According to his own Twitter bio - @singhcredible - Jeremy Singh went from overweight dad to ultra marathoner.
He now has a 100-mile race set in his sights, having ticked off a 75 mile run last year.
Along the way he has built a strong social media brand, with more than 40,000 people following him his Twitter hints and advice on everything from strength training and nutrition to running plans.
Running Tales also talked to Jeremy about his 'Go for a Run' catchphrase and how everyone can enjoy running...
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You can follow Jeremy Singh's Twitter feed here: https://twitter.com/singhcredible
Tue, 20 Jun 2023 - 33min - 109 - Hannah Phillips: ’No Run Intended’ author on how running changed her life
Hannah Phillips first experiences in running had an element of a comedy sketch about them.
She was first prompted to run after seeing a "fat girl" wearing the same top she had on - a girl who turned out to be her reflection.
Spurred on, she set out to run round her home town of Merthyr Tydfil, only to be stopped by the police for wearing a balaclava she had donned to hide her identity.
Since then, running - in slightly more conventional ways - has changed Hannah's life.
After falling in love with the sport, she decided to run a marathon - a move which prompted her to write a book about her experiences.
That book, 'No Run Intended,' became an unexpected bestseller and propelled her to a job with Welsh Athletics, encouraging other people to take up running.
Along the way running also helped Hannah deal with the heartache of miscarriage, restoring her faith in her body's capabilities...
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Tue, 13 Jun 2023 - 30min - 108 - Ben Davies and Richard Wilcox: The anatomy of a 145-mile endurance race
On this week's Running Tales Podcast, we broke down what it takes to run an extreme endurance race - with the help of two ultra runners who know how to do exactly that.
At the end of May, Ben Davies and Richard Wilcox completed the 145-mile Grand Union Canal Race.
The pair, who finished the event in 42 hours and 22 minutes, are taking part in the three race, 400-mile Canal Slam, which will see them battle against another 145-miler in the Kennet & Avon Canal Race before finishing off with the mere 130 mile Leeds and Liverpool Canal Race.
Running Tales spoke to Ben and Richard about what it takes physically and mentally to prepare to tackle such distances, race nutrition, sleep deprivation, overcoming extreme tiredness, aches and pains, and the feeling you get when you cross the line after running for so long.
Oh, and the joy of eating apples after 110 miles...
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Tue, 06 Jun 2023 - 32min - 107 - David Abbott: How ’Mr Slow Easy Comfortable’ qualified for Boston a year after starting running
David Abbott only started running seven years ago, aged 35, but within a year he had qualified for the Boston Marathon and he's gone on to complete several sub-three hour marathons.
The American, who now lives in Japan, has also become a coach - not least through the prism of Twitter where under the moniker Mr Slow Easy Comfortable (search for @runliftrunlift) he offers reams of advice on everything from how running slower makes you faster, the benefits of weight training and what to do if you're a new runner.
Running Tales also spoke to David about how he grew his Twitter following and running in Japan...
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Tue, 30 May 2023 - 30min - 106 - Raising money for rough sleepers: Why Running Tales put on a charity run for the homeless
We've got something different for you this week on Running Tales.
On Saturday, in association with Michelle's Step Forward With Lewis fitness business, we held our inaugural 16:15 Charity Fun Run in aid of Northampton rough sleeper charity, Project 16:15.
The event lasted six hours but participants could run for as far or as little as they like, with the only requirement being that they either raised money for the charity or gave a donation.
In all, we managed to raise more than £1,100 for Project 16:15.In this episode Michelle speaks to the charity's founder Stan Robertson about why he formed it and about some of the people who have sadly died on Northampton's streets...
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People can still donate towards the 16:15 Charity Run and Project 16:15 here: https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/1615CharityFunRun
Tue, 23 May 2023 - 17min - 105 - Neil Russell: Putting two fingers up at Parkinson’s to take on 970-mile challenge
In little over a week, Neil Russell is set to start an awe-inspiring 970-mile run from London to Barcelona, aiming to complete his journey in just over five weeks.
What makes Neil's challenge even more notable is that the 65-year-old will be doing it despite having been diagnosed with Parkinson's in 2018.
In fact, Neil's final destination is the World Parkinson's Congress, and along the way he is hoping to raise £50,000 for Cure Parkinson's and Parkinson's UK.
It's not the first time he has taken on an incredible challenge to raise money for the two charities, having made £11,000 while running from John O'Groats to Land's End last year.
Running Tales spoke to Neil about his current, gruelling training regime, how running has helped him to "stick two fingers up" at Parkinson's and how the condition effects him on a daily basis and with his running.
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To find out more about Neil's London to Barcelone run visit https://www.neilstillcan.run/london-barcelona
To sponsor Neil, visit https://app.collectionpot.com/pot/3039152/
Tue, 16 May 2023 - 35min - 104 - Rik Vercoe: Raising Phoenix Running Club out of the flames of a red hot running career
As one half, alongside wife Louise, of Phoenix Running, Rik Vercoe has created a hugely popular and inclusive race organiser.
Phoenix offers a wide-range of races and was a pioneer in the creation of lapped events, encouraging runners of all abilities to feel comfortable at organised runs and achieve goals they often never even set out to do.
Rik's own running career has certainly seen plenty of incredible goals smashed, from running a then record 152 marathons/ultras in a year to completing some of the toughest events around, including the North Pole Marathon and the Marathon des Sables.
Running Tales also spoke to Rik about breaking the record for the fastest aggregate time to complete 10 marathons in 10 days, and discovered he has one last marathon ambition left.
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Wed, 10 May 2023 - 37min - 103 - Damon Fox: Running 750km in 12 weeks for children in poverty
Damon Fox ran to take part in this week's Running Tales Podcast - after all, he can't afford to miss any runs right now.
The business development manager for Northampton Town FC Community Trust is currently in the midst of a challenge that will see him run 750km (466 miles) in 12 weeks.
There are 7,500 children in poverty across Northampton (hence the number of kilometres), and Damon is fundraising to support them in their school and home life, and give them opportunities to be involved in activities in the town.
Running Tales also spoke to Damon about his love of parkrun and completing the London Marathon in 2017.
Be warned, this week's episode also features a screaming cat and an unusual interjection about naked sunbathing. You've been warned...
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You can sponsor Damon here: https://www.justgiving.com/page/damon-fox-1678696402252/
To learn more about the 16:15 Charity Run to raise funds to help Project 16:15 help rough sleepers in Northampton, visit https://runningtales.substack.com/p/running-for-rough-sleepers-fun-runners
To sponsor Craig to run for six hours at the event, visit https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/craig-lewis-project-16-15
Tue, 02 May 2023 - 26min - 102 - Colin McCord: How one man's 'fever dream' saw him run five marathons in five weeks
By the time this episode goes live on Tuesday, April 25, Colin McCord will hopefully have completed the London Marathon on Sunday - what will have been his fourth out of five marathons in as many weeks.
With the Great Welsh, Magna Carta and Manchester Marathons also behind him, Colin will complete his challenge next week by taking on the 26.2 mile distance for one final time in April - only his opponent then will be the dreaded treadmill!
Colin is taking on this very personal challenge to raise money for Dementia UK.
His mum, Susan, was diagnosed with mixed dementia in 2018 and Colin is fundraising to help Dementia UK provide information, support and Admiral Nurses to those with dementia and their families.
Running Tales also spoke to Colin about how running has helped him cope with PTSD, something he has suffered with as the result of a traumatic robbery.
Embracing the sport and the running community - including his friends in the Running Punks - has helped Colin with his mental health, and now given him the strength to run for his mum.
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You can sponsor Colin to run five marathons in five weeks for Dementia UK here: https://2023tcslondonmarathon.enthuse.com/pf/5in5
Tue, 25 Apr 2023 - 38min - 101 - Pete Moor: The all-rounder who’s run everything from parkruns to ultras
Pete Moor is a stalwart of the local running scene in Northamptonshire.
With approaching 250 parkruns to his name, the Northampton Road Runner is a regular at events up and down the county - as well as in neighbouring Bedfordshire and Milton Keynes.
Pete is a real all-rounder, taking on races from 5k to ultras with 15 marathons to his name.
But it's not just local events that attract Pete, who combines his love of travelling with that of running.
He's completed three - Boston, Chicago and London - of the six marathon majors, with Berlin, Tokyo and New York firmly on his wishlist.
And despite having the pace to qualify for Boston, he once finished dead last in a gruelling Faroe Islands ultra which took place on landscape, he says, only the resident old ladies could cope with!
Running Tales spoke to Pete about not being able to sleep at Endure 24, his love/hate relationship with marathon running and why he loves being a Northampton Road Runner...
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Tue, 18 Apr 2023 - 30min - 100 - Kim Levinsky: The trail runner hoping for an FKT on the 358 mile Long Path
Trail runner Kim Levinsky is preparing to take on the biggest challenge of her running career - the 358-mile Long Path.
Starting from the 175th Street Subway Station in New York City, crossing George Washington Bridge and running across the Catskills all the way to Albany, the Long Path combines woods, a series of 2,900 foot peaks, and trails that pass lakes and streams - it is a beautiful and challenging route.
Kim, an experienced trail and ultra runner who recently completed the Tahoe 200, is hoping to achieve a fastest known time on the route.
Running Tales spoke to Kim about everything from nutrition to why she is taking on the challenge, as well as her role as a race director with Sassquad Trail Running...
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You can find more details about, and donate to, Kim's charities for the Long Path FKT at:
Bigger Than The Trail Fundraiser: https://biggerthanthetrail.networkforgood.com/projects/160786-kim-levinsky-s-fundraiser-to-provide-free-counseling
New York-New Jersey Trail Conference Fundraiser: https://www.nynjtc.com/supportkim
Tue, 11 Apr 2023 - 34min - 99 - Ady Pendred: The late developer who runs sub-three hour marathons
Ady Pendred was a latecomer to the world of running, but he has gone on to complete several sub-three hour marathons and find a love of trail and ultra marathons.
In recent years, he has stopped chasing times and learned to enjoy running for fun - not that it has slowed him down.
Running Tales spoke to Ady about how time isn't his be all and end all, his love of Lidl trainers and how his body didn't shut down at 50 as we was being told to expect...
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Tue, 04 Apr 2023 - 37min - 98 - Ali Hall: A life in running - from ultras and adventure running to CaniCross and city tours
Ali Hall first started running when she was at boarding school, finding a love of the sport while escaping mental health challenges.
It's a passion she has never left behind, competing in everything from adventure racing to ultra marathons and moving in to the world of coaching with Pyllon.
Along the way, Ali has formed a number of running communities, including setting up a group putting on city running tours and the hugely successful Cani-Sport Edinburgh.
This latter endeavour combined her love of dogs with running - and did her 5k time no harm at all either!
We spoke about everything from sports psychology and the mental health benefits of running to her dream of finishing a 100-mile race...
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Tue, 28 Mar 2023 - 35min - 97 - Mike Harley: Conquering Europe one EU marathon at a time
Back in 2015, Mike Harley decided he wanted to raise money and awareness for Invest in ME, an independent charity which funds research into what is a severe and debilitating illness.
Mike was inspired by one of his oldest friends, Ian, who has been suffering from ME for over 15 years, and instead of simply running a local marathon he decided to combine his love of travelling with a growing desire to run, and complete a marathon in every member country of the European Union.
Ultimately - thanks to a Mr B Johnson and a certain referendum - that ended up being one less race than he had intended, but it still meant completing 27 marathons in places as varied as Cyprus, Estonia and France.
Running Tales spoke to Mike about why he took on the challenge, the logistics of doing marathons across Europe, his favourite races and how he was inspired by talking to people with ME in the cities he visited...
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You can learn more about Mike's challenge at his Mike's EU Marathons website, about the Invest in ME Research charity on their website, or sponsor him at https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/mikeseumarathons
Tue, 21 Mar 2023 - 31min - 96 - Women’s safety and running - A special pod with Dr Ashley Morgan, Angie Skinner and Michele Heller
Every day, in every part of the world, women are being harassed and abused by men while out running.
A recent survey commissioned by Adidas and taking in 9,000 people from the US, Mexico, UK, France, Germany, United Arab Emirates, China, Japan and South Korea, found nine in 10 women are concerned about their safety while running.
The list of issues women can face ranges from cat calling, body shaming, wolf whistles, verbal abuse and heckling to indecent exposure, sexual attention and physical contact.
Worse, women all too often face the daunting prospect of being approached or followed by potential predators, or of being attacked while out running.
In the very worst cases, women have been raped or killed for committing the 'crime' of exercising near a man.
High profile cases such as those of Ashling Murphy in Ireland and Eliza Fletcher in America, both tragically murdered while out running, have garnered media attention - but is the world any closer to solving the issue, and who's job is that anyway?
This roundtable discussion features three women runners who have all experienced abuse and harassment while out running:
Michele Heller: From Illinois in the US, Michele is a keen runner who has completed marathons included Boston, Chicago, New York and London. As a mother with a young child, Michele often runs very early in the morning, when it is dark, in order to be ready for the day when the rest of her family wake up.
Dr Ashley Morgan: From Cardiff in Wales and AKA The Doc from The Running Punks, Dr Ashley Morgan has been running for 35 years - and has experienced male harassment throughout that time. The Doc is a regular commentator on women's safety and the patriarchy, and one of those behind the Twitter hashtag #changethediscourse, which attempts to get people to think and talk about the issue differently.
Angie Skinner: From Chattanooga in Tennessee, America, Angie started running in 2014 for mental health benefits. She is originally from Memphis, close to where Eliza Fletcher was killed, and regularly receives harassment while out running - to the point where she will arm herself with pepper spray and a go guarded ring (a plastic serrated-edge self-defence weapon) for her own safety.
In this wide-ranging discussion, we spoke about everything from their own experiences of harassment and abuse, victim blaming, the potential for women runners to arm themselves for protection, whether it is safe to run in the dark, how men should behave towards female runners and what men can do to be an ally.
This podcast is aimed at provoking discussion, so we would love to hear your experiences and comments.
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Sat, 18 Mar 2023 - 52min - 95 - Rachel Heley: How wild swimming can improve running performance and boost your mood
Rachel Heley is a self-proclaimed fun runner.
While the sport has been with her for most of her life, she's always fell tantalisingly short of any goals - but loved it nevertheless.
However, you are more likely to find Rachel, a born adventurer, in the water.
She discovered wild swimming - or as she simply calls it 'swimming' - during the pandemic, but has always been at home in the water, including taking part in swim/run events.
Running Tales spoke to Rachel about the benefits of cold water swimming, including mood enhancement and muscle recovery - as well as how to take part in the activity safely.
We also spoke about her adventure clothing line, and why she called it Wild Moose...
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Tue, 14 Mar 2023 - 27min - 94 - Gary Shaughnessy: From Parkinson’s diagnosis to completing the world’s hardest triathlon
Gary Shaughnessy has done a lot in the world of running, from completing 40 marathons to raising thousands of pounds for charity.
But perhaps his greatest achievement came in finishing the Arch to Arc Triathlon, dubbed the hardest triathlon in the world.
Starting at Marble Arch in London and heading to the heart of Paris and the Arc de Triomphe, the event consists of an 87-mile run, swimming the English Channel (Gary swapped in a gruelling row for the swim) and 181-miles of cycling.
What makes Gary's success even more remarkable is that it came after he was diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease in 2015.
The triathlon was one of a series of incredible challenges, including several marathons and ultra, that Gary has carried out in aid of Parkinson's UK, a charity of which he is the Chair of the Board of Trustees.
In between he even found time to set a new world record for the longest distance ever run three-legged in 24 hours.
He's not intending to stop yet though, with a host of events booked for 2023, including marathons in Newport, Paris and Madrid, cycling from Liverpool to Ukraine, swimming from St Kitts to Nevis, and a team cycle ride from Dover to Barcelona to attend the World Parkinson's Congress.
In a wide-ranging conversation, Running Tales spoke to Gary about everything from health and wellbeing to his role at England Athletics, where he is the Chair of the Board...
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You can sponsor Gary Shaughnessy for his 2023 events at https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/gary-shaughnessy2 and find more information at https://www.garyschallenges.com/
Tue, 07 Mar 2023 - 33min - 93 - Steve Edwards: Every Run Counts - whether you’re approaching 1,000 marathons or out jogging
Running Tales first spoke to Steve Edwards back in July 2020, shortly after he had completed an incredible 903rd marathon.
Steve only counts official races towards his astonishing total - no virtual runs for him - doesn't count marathons he has to walk in and is aiming to get to his goal with an average time of less than three hours and 30 minutes per marathon.
We caught up with Steve - who has now surpassed 950 marathons - to talk about his role as an ambassador at Every Run Counts.
The new initiative aims to reward people’s every day activities to make the nation fitter, healthier and improve their mental health.
Running Tales also spoke to Steve about marathon training, nutrition and how to avoid the wall, as well as his plans when he finally reached that 1,000 mark...
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Learn more about Every Run Counts on their website, and in our newsletter article on the scheme.
Tue, 28 Feb 2023 - 37min - 92 - Allyson Kent: The cancer patient walking back to happiness with a little bit of help from parkrun
After being diagnosed with breast and ovarian cancer, Allyson Kent was determined to take the disease on.
In 2021, she turned to walking to boost her physical and mental health, eventually completing the marathon distance 52 times in as many weeks.
Gripped by the fitness bug, Allyson has now found Beverley Westwood parkrun - and with it a sudden and unexpected love of running.
Running Tales spoke to Allyson about completing the 5km distance for the first time, her role as an ambassador at 5k Your Way, and what is coming next on her fledgling running journey...
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Tue, 21 Feb 2023 - 21min - 91 - Michael Nielsen: Ultra runner aiming to inspire future generations by sharing his Runner’s Resource
Running coach, personal trainer, podcaster and ultra runner - Michael Nielsen wears a few hats when it comes to his running journey.
As a coach and through his Runner's Resource podcast, Michael is eager to share his knowledge of a sport which he has enjoyed a life-long relationship with.
On his podcast, Michael has not only talked to a succession of runners with fascinating stories, but also shares his own wide-ranging knowledge giving hints and tips on a variety of subjects, from the benefits of pilates to the different energy systems used to fuel your muscles.
We also spoke to Michael about his own running, including taking on 50km trail races and conquering the 50 mile distance…
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You can listen to The Runner’s Resource wherever you get you podcast including Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-runners-resource/id1623169728
Tue, 14 Feb 2023 - 36min - 90 - Rachel Ann Cullen: ’Running for my Life’ author explains how the sport changed her life
Rachel Ann Cullen has run a host of marathons, including London six times, but can now be most often found trail running across Yorkshire.
It's part of her ever evolving running story, which started at 18 when she turned to running to get over a break-up, and later saw the sport transform her life completely.
Suffering from bi-polar disorder and struggling to find her place in the world, Rachel found healing when she laced up her trainers - an incredible story that is told in her first book, 'Running for my Life'.
Rachel's story didn't end there though. When she picked up an injury and couldn't run, her world started to unravel. Battling body dysmorphia she eventually found solace in cycling, a story told in her second book.
Running Tales spoke to Rachel about her incredible journey, and about her most recent book, 'Running for our Lives' which tells the stories of everyday runners overcoming extraordinary adversity...
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You can buy all three of Rachel Ann Cullen's books - 'Running for my Life,' 'A Midlife Cyclist' and 'Running for our Lives' - on Amazon
Tue, 07 Feb 2023 - 33min - 89 - Ken Posner: The Shawangunk Ridge Trail race director on running barefoot, Badwater and minimalisms
Ken Posner has run more than 100 marathons and ultra marathons, including the gruelling 295-mile Badwater Double.
As if that wasn't enough, he does a lot of his running barefoot. He's a self-proclaimed minimalist who eschews many of the modern comforts of running.
Running Tales also spoke to Ken about his role as the race director for Shawangunk Ridge Trail, a 70-mile ultra that takes place just outside New Jersey...
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You can read more about Ken's story on his website: https://www.barefootken.com/
Learn more about and enter the SRT: https://www.runwildhv.org/srtrun
Tue, 31 Jan 2023 - 29min - 88 - Dr Ashley Morgan: ’The Doc’ talks Running Punks, women’s safety, and #poshbogselfies
Dr Ashley Morgan has been running for more than 30 years, but until she found the Running Punks she kept the sport as very much a solitary pursuit.
These days she's very much part of that inclusive community, leading runs on Sunday mornings and taking part in an active online community that talks about everything from posh bog selfies to record reviews (with some running thrown in on occasion!).
Dr Ashley is also a strong voice for women's equality, insisting there is nothing intrinsic for women to fear from running in the dark - and that it is men who need to take responsibility for their actions.
Running Tales started our interview by asking her what exactly Running Punks is, and how she became involved with the group...
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Tue, 24 Jan 2023 - 36min - 87 - Mario Massarelli: The 20 times IronMan finisher who always crosses the line with a smile on his face
Triathlete Mario Massarelli is a 20 times IronMan finisher, with his best performance having seen him qualify for the World Championship in his over 50's age group.
But for Mario, it is the joy of triathlon and the valued time he gets to spend on and with himself that makes running, cycling and swimming - whether in one event or together - such enjoyable pastimes.
Mario has now expanded his love of the sport to become a professional triathlon and running coach with his Lifestyle Triathlon business.
Running Tales spoke to Mario about why a 'no pain, no gain' attitude isn't normally the right answer, how someone's first triathlon is most often not their hardest, and about whether the running, cycling or swimming came first for him...
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Tue, 17 Jan 2023 - 38min - 86 - Tony Collier: Terminal cancer patient raises £20,000 for charity by running every day in 2022
Running Tales spoke to Tony Collier towards the end of last year.
Diagnosed with terminal prostate cancer, Tony - whose running achievements included completing all six marathon majors and the 55-mile Comrades Ultra Marathon in South Africa - had been determined to keep on running.
You can listen to that conversation on Series 2 Episode 26 of Running Tales.
Since his diagnosis, Tony has completed a number of challenges for charity, including recently finishing a run streak of at least 5km every day in 2022.
We could think of no better person to kick off Series 3 of the podcast...
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Visit Running Tales on Substack: https://runningtales.substack.com
Search for Running Tales wherever you listen to podcasts to find our audio version of episodes.
You can sponsor Tony to complete his challenge to run or hike 5km every day in 2022 here: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/5k365days
Tue, 10 Jan 2023 - 22min - 85 - Gary McKee: Closing on 365 - The Marathon Man running to raise £1m for cancer patients
Gary McKee has run 9,355 miles so far this year, raising more than £320,000 along the way so far.
It's all part of his efforts to run a marathon every day in 2022, fundraising for MacMillan Cancer Support and Hospice at Home Cumbria along the way.
Gary is hoping to raise £1m, and is now just 12 days away from completing his incredible challenge.
Running Tales first spoke to him back in June.
We chatted about how previous endeavours have seen him cycle across Brazil, climb Kilimanjaro and trek through New Zealand - and how running has always been at the heart of his fundraising.
With the finish line in sight, we just had to catch up with the Marathon Man for our final episode of 2022...
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Visit Running Tales on Substack: https://runningtales.substack.com
Search for Running Tales wherever you listen to podcasts to find our audio version of episodes.
You can find Gary's fundraising page here: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/threesixfive
The music in this podcast is:"Fearless First" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 Licensehttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Tue, 20 Dec 2022 - 32min
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