this episode of the UKRunChat podcast, we're joined by ultra runners, authors, and adventurers Jen & Sim Benson. They share stories of epic challenges, why ultras feel like "supported adventures," and how the community makes the sport so special. We also dive into their brand-new book, Ultra: The World Atlas of Ultramarathons — a beautifully curated guide to iconic and lesser-known races around the globe. Whether you're dreaming of UTMB, curious about Mongolia's remote ultra, or wondering if you really can walk a 100k, this episode has insights and inspiration for every trail runner. Topics covered: * Jen & Sim's journey from road marathons and climbing to ultras (00:23) * Why ultras are "adventures with support" (03:26) * Races that stood out, including Arc of Attrition 100 and TDS at UTMB (01:26, 06:57) * Inside their new book Ultra — and how they chose which races made the cut (09:01, 13:36) * Bucket-list ultras from Mongolia to the Trans-Alpine (15:02) * Advice for first-time ultra runners: why it might not be as scary as it sounds (17:01) * Walking an ultra — and why it might just be the best way to finish strong and avoid blisters (19:19) * Navigation skills and mountain craft (23:47) * Mental preparation, mindfulness, and dealing with "bad patches" (28:07) * Future races and writing projects (34:30) * The future of ultra running and community growth (40:02) Links: * Jen & Sim Benson on Instagram: @jenandsim [https://instagram.com/jenandsim] * Ultra: The World Atlas of Ultramarathons [https://www.ukrunchat.co.uk/first-ever-atlas-of-ultra-marathons/] * Jen's book The Path She Runs [https://www.ukrunchat.co.uk/book-review-the-path-she-runs-by-jen-benson/]

In this episode of the UKRunChat podcast, Michelle is joined by USA Triathlon coach and author Hilary Topper to talk about her new book, Unlocking the Triathlon: A Beginner's Guide to Competing in a Triathlon. Hilary shares her journey from failing gym class and not knowing how to swim, to taking up triathlon in her 50s, and even an 8.3-mile open water swim. She explains why triathlon is truly accessible for everyone, how runners can make the leap into multi-sport, and why cross-training can make you a stronger, more resilient runner. We cover: * Hilary's journey from treadmill newbie to triathlete and coach * Why she wrote Unlocking the Triathlon * Practical tips for beginners: training plans, essential gear, and transitions * How swimming and cycling can improve your running * Balancing training with work, family, and life * Why triathlon isn't just about racing If you've ever thought "Could I really do a triathlon?" this episode might just convince you the answer is yes. Unlocking the Triathlon: A Beginner's Guide to Competing in a Triathlon is out in January 2026 and is available for pre-order on Waterstones and Amazon. Follow Hilary: * Instagram: @hilarytopper [https://instagram.com/hilarytopper] * Blog: atriathletesdiary.com [https://atriathletesdiary.com/]

Steve Till is back on the UKRunChat podcast for a third time, and this time, we're going deep into ultrarunning. With decades of experience, over 120 marathons and ultras, GB representation at the 24-hour championships, and countless stories from the track to the mountains, Steve shares his wisdom on what it takes to train, fuel, pace, and mentally survive an ultra. In this episode: * How Steve discovered ultras suited him better than shorter races (02:00) * Training strategies: long runs, back-to-backs, and speed work (20:00) * The differences between marathon and ultra training (16:30) * Fuelling and hydration lessons (33:00) * Pacing strategies for different types of ultras (30:00) * Coping with low points and the mental game (38:00) * Listener questions on myths, navigation, training mileage, and recovery (42:00) * Steve's best advice for anyone lining up for their first (or next) ultra Whether you're planning your first 50k or looking for ways to go further, this episode is full of practical takeaways and motivation.

In this episode of the UKRunChat Podcast, we chat to Ioana Barbu, a runner who went from completing her first marathon, to aiming to taking on the entire Beyond the Ultimate Global Race Series across ice, jungle, desert, and mountains, all within a single year. Having never run an ultra before, Ioana's first attempt was the 230 km Jungle Ultra in Peru, a brutal, self-sufficient stage race through rainforest terrain. From there, she's gone on to race in the Namib Desert, the Arctic Circle, the Highlands of Scotland, and the mountains of Kyrgyzstan, often winning or podiuming as she learns on the go. In this conversation, we discuss: * How a friend convinced her to "just sign up" * The realities of racing self-sufficient in remote environments * Adapting to heat, altitude, and cold with Dr Freya Bayne and London South Bank University * Overcoming setbacks, from hyponatremia to a dog bite * What she's learning about female physiology and endurance * And how she's raising funds for Make Some Noise along the way. 🎧 Tune in for a deep dive into resilience, curiosity, and saying yes before you feel ready. Links: * Ioana Barbu on Instagram → @ioanabarboux [https://www.instagram.com/ioanabarboux] * Ioana's fundraising page → makesomenoise.enthuse.com/pf/ioana-barbu [https://makesomenoise.enthuse.com/pf/ioana-barbu] * Beyond the Ultimate → https://www.beyondtheultimate.co.uk/

In this episode of the UKRunChat Podcast, Michelle speaks with Francesca Baker-Brooker about her powerful journey with running and anorexia. Francesca first started running as a student, but what began as a way to fit in soon spiralled into two decades of illness, hospital stays, and setbacks. Now 38, Francesca has rediscovered running in a healthy, joyful way. She shares how support from her husband and family helped her start again, why her first 10k was both awful and life-changing, and how running has shifted her relationship with her body. We talk honestly about fuelling, relapse fears, and the importance of building a life worth being well for. Francesca is training for the London Marathon in support of Coach Core, a charity creating opportunities through sports apprenticeships. Please note: This episode includes discussion of eating disorders, hospitalisation, and fuelling struggles. Listener discretion is advised. Resources: * BEAT Eating Disorders: https://www.beateatingdisorders.org.uk [https://www.beateatingdisorders.org.uk/] * RED-S Project: https://red-s.com [https://red-s.com/] * Coach Core: https://coachcore.org.uk [https://coachcore.org.uk/] Follow Francesca [https://www.instagram.com/andsoshethinks/]

In this episode of the UKRunChat Podcast, we meet Ludwig Moreau, better known on Instagram as @ihaterunningbut [https://www.instagram.com/ihaterunningbut/]. Despite a lifelong dislike of running, Ludwig struck gold with a ballot entry for the 2026 London Marathon on his very first attempt. He shares the rollercoaster of emotions from shock and doubt to determination, what he's learned in his early weeks of training, and why he's fundraising for Amnesty International UK. We also talk about: * How volunteering at the London Marathon changed his perspective. * Balancing training with other sports like CrossFit. * The lessons he's already picked up from books, coaches, and parkrun. * How fundraising has added motivation (and pressure). * Why respecting the marathon distance is key. Plus, we finish with a fun quickfire round, hills vs intervals, running in the cold vs heat, and the first thing Ludwig wants to do when he crosses the finish line.

In this episode of the UKRunChat Podcast, Michelle is joined by Neil, who is preparing for one of the toughest footraces in the world, the Marathon des Sables, a 250km multi-day ultra across the Sahara Desert. Neil shares how he first got into running (from rugby pitches in Bradford to his first London Marathon), what keeps bringing him back to the Shrewsbury Half Marathon, sponsored by Pareto, and how he's training for the desert, from 4am starts and 60-mile training weeks, to sand dunes, heat chambers, and learning how to fuel on the run. We also talk about the community side of running, fundraising for charity, and why he believes running is about self-belief and simply "just doing it."

In this inspiring episode of the UKRunChat Podcast, Michelle chats with Gemma Wright, Senior Account Manager at Pareto FM and headline sponsor of the Shrewsbury Half & Metric Half Marathon. Gemma shares her journey of rediscovering running after a serious hip injury, losing nearly eight stone, and finding strength through running after the loss of her dad. Over the past 18 months, Gemma has transformed her life, tackling parkruns, 10Ks, half marathons, and even her first ultramarathon. She opens up about: * How she went from struggling to walk 10 minutes to completing a half marathon PB at age 43. * The mental and physical challenges of running the Race to the King ultra in 36°C heat. * The role running played in helping her navigate grief and rebuild her confidence. * Training (and racing) alongside her husband Darren, who's been her biggest supporter. * Her goals for the upcoming Shrewsbury Half Marathon, and why it means so much to her to run it as part of her hometown community. Whether you're just starting out, coming back from injury, or chasing big goals, Gemma's story is a reminder that it's never too late to change your life through running. Enjoy 

In this episode we're joined by mountain athlete, skyrunner, and GB SkiMo team member Victoria Thompson  Victoria recently made headlines by winning the Montane Summer Spine Sprint South – finishing 1st woman, 2nd overall, and smashing the course record by over 40 minutes! In this episode, we dive into: 🧭 Her nav style – map and compass always at hand 💪 How cross-training and speed work transformed her running 🏔️ Fastpacking adventures on the TMB & Tour de Monte Rosa 📚 Running the Wainwright guidebook routes ⛷️ Training with the GB SkiMo team Victoria's blend of speed, grit, and mountain spirit is inspiring – don't miss this one. Follow Victoria on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/victoriathompson___/]

In this episode of the UKRunChat Podcast, Michelle catches up with coach and triathlete Scott Hill, who returns to share his insights on training and racing while leading a busy life. Scott talks about the importance of self-reflection and mindset, how to structure consistent training without falling into volume swings, and how to use training to refine your race-day fuelling strategy. We also hear about Scott's recent racing experiences, his role pacing the 90-minute group at the Shrewsbury Half Marathon, and his top tips for athletes who want to balance family, work, and training without losing progress. What you'll learn in this episode: * How self-reflection and flexibility can help busy athletes stay consistent * Why discipline matters more than motivation * Strategies for building training plans without big volume spikes * Practical ways to test and refine your fuelling for race day * Scott's advice for keeping training fun, family-friendly, and sustainable Follow Scott: * Instagram: @ironhill83 [https://instagram.com/ironhill83] * Coaching: TriWolf Coach [https://www.instagram.com/triwolfcoach/]

In this episode of the UKRunChat Podcast, Michelle is joined by Dr Juliette McGrattan, co-founder of 261 Fearless Club UK, to talk about the upcoming 261 Fearless UK Women's Running Conference taking place in Bicester on 13th September 2025. Themed Take the Baton, the conference celebrates the past, present, and future of women's running. Keynote speakers include Kathrine Switzer, the first woman to officially run the Boston Marathon, and GB ultra-runner Sophie Power, founder of She Races. Juliette shares the story behind 261 Fearless, the ethos of its UK running groups, and what attendees can expect from this one-of-a-kind event. From empowering panels with women's running group founders to practical sessions and networking opportunities, this conference promises goosebumps, laughter, and inspiration for every runner.

Ever raced against time itself? ⏳ In this episode, we chat to John Yelland, founder of Mad Hatter Sports Events and race director of the Hourglass race, a unique event where the clock gets faster every lap. Strategy, grit, and community come together in this event format set in the heart of Cornwall. "It's not about speed, it's you against the clock." — John Yelland Enjoy!  #UKRunChat

In this episode, Eilish McColgan speaks to Michelle from her training base in France about her year so far, recent challenges, and future ambitions. Eilish reflects on the unusual build-up to her London Marathon debut, recovery afterwards, and her current focus on training for the Great North Run in September. Eilish discusses the impact of weather conditions on her London performance, how she adjusted training and recovery afterward, and her excitement about returning to racing. She shares insights into her day-to-day life as a professional runner, including her training structure, nutrition habits, and the importance of recovery and mental well-being. Eilish also opens up about her relationship with her mum Liz McColgan, and the invaluable support she receives from her fiancé, Michael. Image credit: @michealrimmer8  [https://www.instagram.com/michaelrimmer8/] Follow Eilish [https://www.instagram.com/eilishmccolgan/]

In this episode of the UKRunChat Podcast, Michelle speaks with Jenny Bushell, a Cumbria-based trail and fell runner, coach, and author of the new Lake District Trail and Fell Running Guide. Jenny shares her journey from Couch to 5K to ultra-running and fell racing in her home county. We dive into the inspiration and process behind her new book, which features 40 carefully curated routes across the Lake District, from beginner-friendly loops to full-day mountain adventures. Jenny offers insights on the differences between trail and fell running, building confidence on descents, how to approach hill climbs, and the essential safety kit to carry in the fells. She also explains how to use poles efficiently and why effort-based pacing matters. Plus, we explore her upcoming challenges, including the Dragon's Back Race and the Seven Valleys. Highlights: * Jenny's transition from road races to mountain adventures * How the guidebook came together and the stories behind the routes * The difference between trail and fell running * Tips for tackling steep climbs and technical descents * Kit advice and safety essentials for the Lake District * Inclusive challenge routes from the Espresso Round to the Bob Graham Links: * 🗺️ The Lake District Trail and Fell Running Guide – Available via Inspired by Lakeland [https://www.inspiredbylakeland.co.uk/collections/books/products/the-lake-district-trail-and-fell-running-guide] and local bookshops * 🌄 Jenny's coaching & adventures: jennybushelladventures.co.uk [http://jennybushelladventures.co.uk/] * 📸 Follow Jenny: @jennybushelladventures [https://instagram.com/jennybushelladventures]

In this deeply personal follow-up episode, Michelle welcomes back ultra-distance runner Steve Till, who opens up about his recent experience with lymphoma. Steve shares how running—especially parkrun, helped him maintain a sense of identity, purpose, and positivity during chemotherapy and beyond. From walking 5Ks during treatment to reflecting on the emotional and psychological impact of illness, Steve's story is a powerful reminder that running can be more than sport. 🔗 Links Mentioned: * Steve's parkrun blog post: https://blog.parkrun.com/uk/2025/05/13/parkrun-has-been-crucial-to-my-treatment [https://blog.parkrun.com/uk/2025/05/13/parkrun-has-been-crucial-to-my-treatment/] Steve and Michelle chat about: * Diagnosis and the decision to keep moving * Parkrun as emotional grounding during chemotherapy * The mental challenge of slowing down * Why staying active—even just a little—can make a huge difference * Lessons from 50 years of running * The value of community and meaningful conversations during illness Bio: Steve Till has represented GB in 24-hour races, run over 100 marathons, and completed more than 600 parkruns. He brings the same focus and discipline from his ultra-running to his recovery, and shares his experience to help others.

In this episode of the UKRunChat podcast, Michelle speaks to Raja Aslam, a foster carer from Blackburn and passionate runner, about his bold challenge to run from Manchester to The Hague, covering a half marathon every day to raise money for the Duke of Edinburgh's Award scheme for foster children.  Raja shares his story of getting into running just before COVID, running marathons during Ramadan, the impact of fostering on his family, and how he hopes to inspire others through his journey. Follow Raja on Instagram: Raja Aslam's Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/rajaaslamruns] Fundraising link: https://www.justgiving.com/page/rajaaslam-manchestertothehague [https://www.instagram.com/rajaaslamruns]

In this episode, we meet Steve Wolfe, a runner on an extraordinary mission to run the distance around the world — 40,075 kilometres — without taking a single day off. Steve opens up about the physical and mental challenges of his streak (now over 3,000 days), the motivation behind it, and how running has helped him through trauma, loss, and PTSD. From running laps of his garden with COVID to launching a local running group, Steve's story is as inspiring as it is humbling. We also discuss: * How he got started after a major health scare * His love-hate relationship with marathons * The role of community in his journey * Fundraising for Kent, Surrey & Sussex Air Ambulance * The one rule he's never broken (except once…) Follow Steve * Instagram: @runtheworldchallenge [https://www.instagram.com/runtheworldchallenge] * Website: https://www.runtheworldchallenge.co.uk/

In this episode of the UKRunChat Podcast, we chat to Bob Yates, who is nearing the end of a monumental challenge — running the length of Britain from Land's End to John O'Groats to celebrate his 60th birthday. We hear how Bob went from a treadmill in the bedroom just over 10 years ago when he took up running, to training for ultras and signing up for a 1,000+ mile adventure. He talks about why he fuels his running on a vegan diet, what the journey has taught him, and how he's raising money for a charity funding life-changing surgery for children in Uganda. Bob's fundraising page: www.humanitydirect.org/bob [http://www.humanitydirect.org/bob] Follow Bob's progress: Strava & Instagram feeds on his fundraising page

UK Eiden, Inspired by Japan's world-famous Hakone Ekiden, brings long-distance team relay racing to UK roads, blending university athletics, corporate participation, and cultural exchange. In this episode, host Michelle catches up with Anna Dingley (UK Ekiden founder) and Matt Seddon (Athletics Director & Oxford University Cross Country Head Coach) after this year's event, which saw university and corporate teams racing along the Thames — with plenty of action, community spirit, and lessons learned! You'll hear about: * The roots of Ekiden and why it's so popular in Japan 🇯🇵 * How UK Ekiden is inspiring UK university and club runners * Standout moments (and challenges) from this year's race * The importance of team spirit in endurance running * Why Oxford got disqualified this year! * Growing UK–Japan cultural links through running * The vision for making UK Ekiden a fixture in the UK calendar Instagram: @ukekiden [https://www.instagram.com/ukekiden] Website: ukekiden.com [https://ukekiden.com/] Photo Credit: Phil Hill

Everything You Need to Know About Treadmill Running – with Joe Justice from Wahoo Fitness Links:In this episode of the UKRunChat podcast, we're joined by Joe Justice, Senior Product Manager for Running at Wahoo Fitness. Joe combines over 20 years of experience as a runner and coach with deep expertise in product strategy to create innovative tools for runners, including Wahoo's latest smart treadmill technology. We cover everything runners want to know about treadmill running, including: What makes a treadmill smart How to get the most out of your workouts on a treadmill How far is too far on a treadmill? How pacing differs indoors Using treadmill data to improve performance How treadmill training fits into marathon or ultra prep What to look for when buying a treadmill Tips to stay motivated and common mistakes to avoid, plus Do we really need the treadmill on that 1% incline? https://www.instagram.com/wahoofitnessofficial/