Running Matters

790kms straight. Running for 6 days. 118 laps of the Backyard Ultra (6.7km) circuit. Anyway way you look at it, the numbers are earth shattering.  This week I got the chance to sit down with the great Sam Harvey. Sam has been described as an ultra running savage but I actually found him to be a scholar and above all else, a professional. The insight I got into draining every last ounce of your mortal potential was outstanding.  We get some very intimate details of Sam's physical exploits at Dead Cow Gully and the mental game required to be top of the ultra running mountain. Sam's singular focus to be the best in the World is so inspiring and his approach is so well considered that you are sure to upskill your running game by just listening in! Enjoy! Special thanks to our partners GU Energy, Fractel and Runnulla. Please subscribe or follow Running Matters to be notified when each episode is released. Feel free to use the online discount codes below: GU Energy Australia (15%): RUNNINGMATTERS Fractel Performance Running Caps (15%): runningmatters Runnulla (10%): Mention Running Matters in store.

This week Haddy chats with 4 time Australian representative Trish McKibbin as she prepares to take on the World later this month in the Pyranees. Trish details her lead up to racing the Short Trail (45km, 3500m+ vert) at the World Trail and Mountain Running Championships. She breaks down challenges around travel, altitude, crazy technical terrain and a seriously stacked field. Trish has had some incredible results across the last few years with wins at Ultratrail Australia, Ultratrail Kosciuszko, Mt Stromlo and Kunyanyi. We dive into Trish's difficulties with stomach problems and fuelling and how she's overcome them as well as the challenges around training load when family, work and running are competing with each other. Trish is a wonderfully knowledgable and determined athlete. Combine that with her role as a physiotherapist and there's a tonne to learn from this episode. Enjoy! Special thanks to our partners GU Energy, Fractel and Runnulla. Please subscribe or follow Running Matters to be notified when each episode is released. Feel free to use the online discount codes below: GU Energy Australia (15%): RUNNINGMATTERS Fractel Performance Running Caps (15%): runningmatters Runnulla (10%): Mention Running Matters in store.

Dave started his running journey as a child, competing in Little Athletics and then progressing as an adult to be a national representative in track, road and cross country running. Over a ten-year career he became a national title winner and achieve multiple podiums in both athletics and cross country championships. Since turning his hand to the dirt, Dave has had wins in most of the major Australian trail races and podiumed internationally at several of the iconic mountain races, in distances from as short as 5km to multi-day events. In his impossibly cool role as an ambassador for The North Face, Dave has found himself in some of the wildest and remote destinations on the planet and his passion for conservation and looking after the disadvantaged shines through strongly. We chat about corporatisation and it's affect on our favourite races, the future of trail running globally and what race directors need to look for to maintain our wild places and the trails we love. This is a frank and open discussion about the state of play in our chosen sport. Dave has a unique perpective being so firmly entrenched in all facets of running and his willingness to share his knowledge is greatly appreciated. Enjoy! Special thanks to our partners Fractel and Runnulla. Please subscribe or follow Running Matters to be notified when each episode is released. Feel free to use the online discount codes below: GU Energy Australia (15%): RUNNINGMATTERS Fractel Performance Running Caps (15%): runningmatters Runnulla (10%): Mention Running Matters in store.      

This week we're excited to present an inspiring conversation with none other than Chris “Rab” Wardlaw—Australia’s renowned two-time Olympian and coach extraordinaire. For decades, Wardlaw has shaped the landscape of distance running in Australia, steering legends like Steve Moneghetti, Kerryn McCann, and Craig Mottram to greatness. This episode promises a rare deep dive into the mind of a true distance-running guru. Wardlaw played a pivotal role during one of the most turbulent moments in Olympic history—the 1980 Moscow Games. He emerged as a vocal advocate for athlete rights and found himself in the trenches—arguing in the media, lobbying Parliament, and standing alongside figures like Ron Clarke to keep the Olympic flame alive for his fellow athletes. His efforts contributed to the Australian Olympic Federation's narrow vote to attend the Games, despite mounting pressure from then-Prime Minister Malcolm Fraser’s government to boycott. This episode lays bare the intersection of sport and principle—and the weight that one voice can carry under pressure. His participation, alongside 120 other determined Australians, came at a steep personal cost: many athletes faced public scorn, and were even labeled “traitors” upon their return home. It would take 45 years before the Australian Parliament formally recognised these athletes in July 2025—offering long-overdue validation and reconciliation. Don’t miss this extraordinary episode where a distance-running icon shares his journey—not just of physical endurance, but of moral fortitude. Episode 135 isn't just a race through miles—it's a race through history. Lace up, press play, and be inspired. Special thanks to our partners Fractel and Runnulla. Interview with Chris Wardlaw begins at 27mins Please subscribe or follow Running Matters to be notified when each episode is released. Feel free to use the online discount codes below: GU Energy Australia (15%): RUNNINGMATTERS Fractel Performance Running Caps (15%): runningmatters Runnulla (10%): Mention Running Matters in store.          

Steph's story is one of bravery and overcoming the challenges life throws at us. We chat with Steph following a successful campaign running the Stockholm and Gold Coast marathons. Steph began her running journey in the midst of her recovery from stage 2 breast cancer, which came as a shock diagnosis in December 2023. After a successful lumpectomy, radiotherapy and ongoing hormone treatment, she was declared 'cancer-free' and began the process of reclaiming her life.  We discuss the process of recovery, re-building and ultimately reaching the physical and metaphorical finish line. Steph is truly an inspiration and the positive vibes flow strongly from her. Along the way she topped the charts as Australian Cancer Research Foundation's (ACRF) top fundraiser and we chat about this amazing charity and it's impact across all cancer research. Goodesy also pops into the chair to discuss drugs in sport and a wrap up of the Diamond League, Sutho 2 Surf and the Elephant Trail Ultra.  Enjoy! Steph Sparks interview at 28mins To donate to the ACRF please go to https://melbmara2025.grassrootz.com/acrf/paul-hadfield Special thanks to our partners Fractel and Runnulla. Please subscribe or follow Running Matters to be notified when each episode is released. Feel free to use the online discount codes below: GU Energy Australia (15%): RUNNINGMATTERS Fractel Performance Running Caps (15%): runningmatters Runnulla (10%): Mention Running Matters in store.        

When the going gets tough, Benn gets moving!  We catch up with Benn following his impressive win at Coast 2 Kosci and chart his course to the astonishing MOAB 240 (miles that is!) in Utah later this year. Benn is one of the most professional and hard working athletes in the Aussie trail running scene. He is also, potentially, one of the most accident prone! Some serious near misses and inspiring stories there. We cover a massive spectrum of running chat. From race mindset and kicking down to parkrun speed after 235km's, to gold standard nipple protection and waking up covered in police tape. Priviledged to have the great man Adam 'Goodesy' Goodes along as co-host and it's great to welcome back Fractel and Runnulla as podcast partners. Enjoy!

Dr Will truly is the Running Science Guru! He has a PhD in sports science and a host of marathons and ultramarathons under his belt. He also has an incredibly clever way of blending the art of running with solid scientific principles and distilling them down to a form that’s easily understandable to the average runner. Dr Will is coming off a very impressive PB at Gold Coast marathon (2:35) so we get to break down his race and pick out the key take aways there. We also dive into the big training and racing topics: The mythical Zone 2 Methods to improve your aerobic fitness Pacing and prediction for successful and enjoyable marathon times Taking the confusion out of the 80/20 rule The advantages of using power output to gauge your training intensity So whether you’re just starting out and struggling to find your rhythm, or you’re a seasoned runner chasing a new personal best give Dr Will a listen. He really does make the complex simple and turns the science of endurance into actionable, everyday tips. You can check some great content from Dr Will at https://www.youtube.com/@drwilloconnor Enjoy! P.S. Listen in for a special discount code from the guys at Lonely Mountain Ultra Thanks to our podcast partners #runnulla #fractel #guenergy #gymeaalliedhealthcentre #basecampaltitude Please subscribe or follow Running Matters to be notified when each episode is released. Feel free to use the online discount codes below: GU Energy Australia (15%): RUNNINGMATTERS Fractel Performance Running Caps (15%): runningmatters Runnulla (10%): Mention Running Matters in store.    

From a tiny town of 1200 people in rural Canada Danette rose to be one of the very best distance runners in the American College system. The crowning achievement was taking out the ultra prestigious NCAA 10km track title. We chat about leaving home at 15 to pursue a running dream and the many challenges of the super competitive and cut-throat college system.  Soon after college, drained and disillusioned by the grind of professional running, Danette quit the sport cold turkey and entered the 'real world'. 14 years, 2 continents and 3 kids later Danette has re-emerged in Australia as a serious running talent. The trajectory of her second coming is extraordinary and the sky seems to be the limit for Danette! A great story and certainly an athlete to watch! We also chat with Sean down at Runnulla about the Mizuno Neo Vista. A super bouncy, super plush, super trainer! Listen in for a great discount from our mates at the Lonely Mountain Ultra. Enjoy! Thanks to our podcast partners #runnulla #fractel #guenergy #gymeaalliedhealthcentre #basecampaltitude Please subscribe or follow Running Matters to be notified when each episode is released. Feel free to use the online discount codes below: GU Energy Australia (15%): RUNNINGMATTERS Fractel Performance Running Caps (15%): runningmatters Runnulla (10%): Mention Running Matters in store.   

David has a wealth of experience in the Ultra World and has recently jumped into to the race director's seat to produce Sydney's newest trail racing series. David and the team at 180 Cadence are delivering the Sydney Trail Half, Sydney Trail Marathon, Sydney Trail Ultra and the big dog Sydney Backyard Ultra.  We chat about what sets these races apart and why you should put them on your race calendar. We also discuss how they've managed to provide Australia's biggest prize purse for a trail race, a whopping $10000 for the male and female winners of the Sydney Backyard Ultra! David also gets stuck into his unusual relationship with the dreaded DNF. His DNF stories are varied, bizarre and heartbreaking. Certainly some lessons to learn there. The guys at 180 Cadence have been kind enough to offer our listeners $20 off race entry for the Sydney Trail Ultra (August) and the Sydney Backyard Ultra (October).  Go to https://www.180cadence.au/ and use the code DNF   Thanks to our podcast partners #runnulla #fractel #guenergy #gymeaalliedhealthcentre #basecampaltitude Please subscribe or follow Running Matters to be notified when each episode is released. Feel free to use the online discount codes below: GU Energy Australia (15%): RUNNINGMATTERS Fractel Performance Running Caps (15%): runningmatters Runnulla (10%): Mention Running Matters in store.

Gen is one of Australia's most accomplished middle-distance runners of all-time, she’s a 3 time Olympic finalist, the Australian record holder and is soon bound for an incredible 4th Olympic Games in Paris. From Gen’s well documented achilles rupture in the steeple chase final at the Tokyo Olympics she has repaired, re-modelled and returned as one of Australia’s premier marathon runners. Throw in pregnancy and the birth of her son Archer into that timeline and you have a seriously inspirational comeback story. The resilience, determination and professionalism of Gen Gregson is impossible to ignore. We get to chat about her early days running barefoot on the farm through to her stunning 2:23 marathon in Valencia. Gen details her plans to prepare meticulously for Paris and the importance of the Australian women’s distance cartel in pushing her along to bigger things. We also discuss drugs in sport, the dating rules at Melbourne Track Club, the benefits or wheat grass shots and the perfect braiding technique for marathon performance! It was an absolute please to have Gen Gregson on the podcast. Enjoy!   Thanks to our podcast partners #runnulla #fractel #guenergy #gymeaalliedhealthcentre #basecampaltitude Please subscribe or follow Running Matters to be notified when each episode is released. Feel free to use the online discount codes below: GU Energy Australia (15%): RUNNINGMATTERS Fractel Performance Running Caps (15%): runningmatters Runnulla (10%): Mention Running Matters in store.  

Dr Zoe is a serious expert in the brain and how it applies to endurance performance. She's a Senior Clinical Neuropsychologist, Head Coach at Connect Performance Training and has 7 Ironman finishes under her belt.  Zoe Breaks down the mental strategies to optimise our running from the point of signing on for the next challenge, the training block, the challenging taper period, throughout the race and the post race debrief. We cover it all in this Expert Edition! We cover goal setting, positive mindset strategies, learning the skill of confidence and how to avoid the dreaded DNF! We also shoot over to Runnulla to review the ON Cloud Eclipse. A quality shoe! Enjoy! Thanks to our podcast partners #runnulla #fractel #guenergy #gymeaalliedhealthcentre #basecampaltitude Please subscribe or follow Running Matters to be notified when each episode is released. Feel free to use the online discount codes below: GU Energy Australia (15%): RUNNINGMATTERS Fractel Performance Running Caps (15%): runningmatters Runnulla (10%): Mention Running Matters in store.  

We catch up with Mikey after his astonishing run of 9:01 to take the win at Ultra Trail Australia 100km. Mikey details the preparation, mindset and logistics that go into creating such an epic performance. We also get an extremely detailed insight into the specific nutrition, hydration and caffeine strategies employed throughout his race. We get to hear where it all began for Mikey and in a real 'This Is Your Life' style we wheel out his high school chemistry teacher, Scott 'Theon' Hazleton to get into the details. We chat about the success of Mikey's training group, the Capital Cowboys, the merits of a post race Mountain Culture and talking smack with Killian Jornet! Enjoy! Thanks to our podcast partners #runnulla #fractel #guenergy #gymeaalliedhealthcentre #basecampaltitude Please subscribe or follow Running Matters to be notified when each episode is released. Feel free to use the online discount codes below: GU Energy Australia (15%): RUNNINGMATTERS Fractel Performance Running Caps (15%): runningmatters Runnulla (10%): Mention Running Matters in store.  

Simone's passion for running is unquestionable and her involvement in the sport spans the entire spectrum of roles. From President of AURA to sweeper at the UTA 11km, Simone does it all and does it well! This week Haddy chats with Sim about her cracks at the Western States 100, UTMB (TDS) and the mighty Coast to Kosciuszko. We get into resilience through preparation with her coaching group and discuss the amazing work AURA is doing to represent and grow the sport we love so much. We dive into the new and exciting proposed formation of the Australian Ultra and Trail Running Association (AUTRA) and the benefits to all runners from grass roots to the elite. Simone also details the progress of the bid to get trail running a spot at the 2032 Olympics in Brisbane and how the formation of AUTRA is such an integral part of the process. Always a pleasure to chat with such a passionate and dedicated volunteer and runner! Enjoy! Special thanks goes to our podcast partners #runnulla #fractel #guenergy #gymeaalliedhealthcentre #basecampaltitude  

Dr Brandi Cole is a Specialist Sport and Exercise Medicine Physician better known these days as the team doctor for the incredible Aussie Women’s football team the Matilda’s. You would have seen her on the field at the Tokyo Olympics and the 2023 FIFA Women’s World cup. She also has a Degree in Physiotherapy and a PhD just in case you were worried she was underqualified! Brandi was an elite athlete herself being the former captain of the Australian Women’s Oztag team, representing NSW in both touch football and hockey plus being a World Champion beach sprinter. She also manages a sports medicine practice is a Mum of 2 kids. This is one serious super woman! This week Haddy gets to the bottom of the overtraining topic with Brandi. They also discuss managing life stress for the athlete and optimally mixing strength training with endurance sports. If you’re looking to avoid injury as a runner then get out the pen and paper for this one! Thanks to our Podcast Partners Runnulla Fractel GU Energy Gymea Allied Health Centre Basecamp Altitude Training

This week Haddy chats with the incredible and evergreen Lou Clifton following her win at the LMU 50miler. They discuss her success at the UTMB-CCC, representing Australia in Chang Mai and a record breaking 24hr track performance among many other recent highlights. We then enlist guest host Scott 'Theon' Hazleton to chat with 104km champion Gerald MacPherson who shares some valuable tips on operating at the pointy end of the field. Sean Tindale pops in for a review of the extremely versatile Salomon Sense Ride 5 and to unveil Runnulla's newest stocking stuffer. Enjoy!

Stars of the Lonely Mountain Ultra Part 1. This week Haddy chats with race director Scott 'Theon' Hazelton to debrief an incredibly successful event up in beautiful Orange.  We then get to meet a couple of the stars of the show in 104km winner Anna Pillinger and 32km speed demon Leo Peterson. Both of these incredible athletes are multiple Aussie representatives put on a serious show over and around Mount Canobolas during the LMU.  Enjoy! Special thanks to Sean and Jen at Runnulla for their support of the show! Time stamps Scott 2:20 Anna 23:50 Leo 50:25

In Ep122 Haddy gets out the red carpet for Tokyo Olympian, Australian Marathon Record holder and recently crowned Australian Marathon Champion Sinead Diver. We chart Sinead's meteoric rise from non-competitive runner aged 33 to Australian Record holder aged 45. Sinead provides great insight into the life of an elite runner and the mind-set and dedication required to compete at the highest level. She describes her incredible achievements with a simplicity and humility that is equally endearing and inspiring. Sinead is a true legend of Aussie sport! We review the recent Sydney Marathon and it's chances at becoming the next World Major and discuss the recent obliterating of the World Marathon record. Enjoy! Special thanks to Runnulla for their ongoing support! P.S. Don't forget to sign up for the Lonely Mountain Ultra. October 14th/15th in beautiful Orange. Use the promo code RM10.   

When it comes to race nutrition Chappo is the man to listen to. He has a wonderful ability to wade through the misinformation and present concise, evidence based advice to the athlete. On top of this, Chappo has tested the science on himself and landed on the most practical nutritional strategies that actually work. This week Haddy and Chappo dive into some nutrition specifics in the lead up to the Sydney Marathon. They cover: Keeping adequately fueled in the last phase of marathon training Avoiding illness pre-race Evidence based nutritional supplements Carb loading Pre-race meals and routines Race nutrition strategies for Half and Full Marathon Post race recovery and hydration Get your pens out and soak up the pearls of wisdom in this episode. Your marathon PB might depend on it! Haddy also reviews the Asics Metaspeed Edge+ with Sean from Runnulla. Think he's found his race shoes!  

Wolf and Haddy catch up with Steve Redfern for a live recording at Runnulla, hosted by the Godfather Sean Tindale. Steve chats about his participation in the Sri Chinmoy Self Transcendence 3100 Mile Race, which takes place each year in NY. It involves running around a half mile block in Queens, from 6am to midnight each day for 52 days, to achieve 3100 miles or 4989km! The journey was eventful, he lost 80% feeling in his feet and toes and was still recovering six months after the race! We also discuss his debut in the Barkley Marathons, one of the more obscure Ultramarathons in the world, which took him eight years to get to the start line. The race requires the participants to complete 5 loops of 20 - 25 miles each, while searching for 13 books hidden throughout the course, each loop has about 5000m of elevation! If that's not hard enough, it was -9 deg C! Steve's a humble legend and we thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to interview him and share his stories.  

Matty and Scott Hazelton catch up to preview the 2023 Lonely Mountain Ultra. That’s right, it’s back in 2023 and it will be bigger and better than ever. With distances of 11k, 22, 30, 50k, 50m and 100k, runners tackle the foreboding peak of Mount Canobolas (the Lonely Mountain). With the race village pumping below, this year with the completion of capital works, the summit will be transformed into a real party atmosphere with the main aid station perched right at the top. The village can be spotted 600 vertical meters below. Onsite camping, or a quick drive to town for any number of accommodation choices, why not set aside the weekend of 14th/15th October 2023 and come and run in the Lonely Mountain Ultra. Check them out on Facebook, Insta and of course their website. Entries open with an early bird discount in early 2023. We also catch up with Sean from Runnulla to review the On Cloudmonster. Please subscribe or follow Running Matters to be notified when each episode is released. Feel free to use the online discount codes below: GU Energy Australia (15%): RUNNINGMATTERS Fractel Performance Running Caps (15%): runningmatters T8 Running kit (10%): RUNNINGMATTERS20 Runnulla (10%): Mention Running Matters in store. Raidlight (20%): runningmatters20 Raffertys Coastal Run entry discount: RMPOD21 Cronulla Beer Co (10%): CBC10 Koda Nutrition (15%): RUNMAT15 #runnulla #raidlight #fractel #gymeaalliedhealth #basecampaltitude #guenergy #cronullabeerco #runningmatterscoaching #kodanutrition