In this deeply inspiring episode, Mike sits down with Phil Robertson, the creator of the Flawed Hero Marathon, a midnight running event that blends radical inclusivity, human resilience, and raw community power.
What started with a cardboard cutout of Phil’s late father and a Facebook post has evolved into one of the most meaningful and emotional endurance events on the UK calendar.
From battling the ego-fueled world of mainstream marathons to supporting runners with cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, stage 4 cancer, and even a Morrison’s mobility scooter, Phil shares what it really means to show up, both for yourself and for others.
If you've ever questioned what you're capable of, this episode is your reminder: you're more than you think.
What We Discussed:
* Why Flawed Hero is more than a marathon, it’s a movement
* The real purpose behind charity running events (hint: it’s not the medal)
* How to challenge your self-imposed limits through community and story
* Why “running time” is often the least important metric
* The surprising mental health power of midnight marathons and micro-communities
* What “post-marathon blues” really feel like, and how to beat them
* How biohacking, breathwork, and barefoot grounding fit into the Flawed Hero mindset
* Why every runner needs to find their “fellow weirdos”
Memorable Quotes
“We’re not perfect, but we’re not broken either. We’re flawed heroes.”
“The marathon isn’t about speed. It’s about belief, resilience, and community.”
“Running is the therapy. The real marathon starts at mile 20 of your life.”
“Some people run sub-3 hours. Others push a mobility scooter through the night. *Both* are heroes.”
“Fundraising isn’t about perfection. It’s about showing your pain, your joy, your reason.”
Tools, Books & Mentions
* Book Recommendation: Key Person of Influence by Daniel Priestley
Final Five (Rapid Fire Round)
* Go-to coffee order? Flat White
* One platform you’d delete? Instagram – “Let’s just drop the gram.”
* Dinner party guests? His late parents and comedian Michael McIntyre
* Advice to get where he is? “Be resilient. Be persistent. Find your fellow weirdos.”
* Top book pick? Key Person of Influence more relevant now than ever
If You Liked This Episode…
👉 Like, share, and subscribe.
👉 Tag a friend who needs this reminder: they are more capable than they think.
👉 Want to run a midnight marathon with 100 legends in 2026? Follow [@flawedheromovement](https://www.instagram.com/flawedheromovement) for updates.