The UKRunChat podcast.

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/

In this episode of the UKRunChat podcast, we welcome Steve Till, a true endurance sport veteran. From finishing last in his first school race to representing Great Britain in 24-hour running events, from completing more than 100 marathons to walking 100 miles in under 24 hours as a Centurion, Steve has dedicated his life to the pursuit of distance. We explore the origins of his running journey, the highs and lows of competition, what fuels his passion, and what he's learned over four decades of movement. Steve has competed in 100km and 24-hour running events for his country, has won medals in national championships, has run more than 100 marathons, over 500 parkruns, and is a Centurion, having race walked 100 miles in less than 24 hours. But it wasn't always that way. His running passion was ignited in 1971, watching the European Championships on TV, but he spent the first few years of his running life coming last in school sports day races and then university cross country events. Finally hard work triumphed over talent, and he moved up the rankings, finally securing that much-sought-after Great Britain call-up in 1996. Steve believes that having exactly the right target in any walk of life can supply all the motivation you need to put yourself in with a chance of achieving it. In his case, that was a GB vest; in yours, perhaps promotion, that dream job, doing Couch-to-5K or your first marathon. If you hit upon a goal and a light bulb goes on in your head and you say, "If I could just achieve that, I could die happy," then you've got the right one. That sort of goal is so compelling, it delivers all the impetus you need to do the work necessary to get there. Here are 26 career highlights – above and below 26.2 miles! 2021 500th parkrun 2011 Ran Chicago Marathon (Completing set of current Marathon Majors – London, Berlin, New York City, Boston, Chicago) 2003 100th marathon 1996 Represented GB in European 24-hour Championships 1996 Represented England in Anglo-Celtic Plate 100km Run Championships (England beat Scotland, Ireland and Wales) 1996 Ran in 100th Boston Marathon 1995 2nd in National 24 hours Run Championships 1995 3rd in Compton 40 miles trail race 1994 3rd in National 24 hours Run Championships 1994 1st in Humberside 24 hours Run Championships 1994 3rd in National 100km Run Championships 1989 Ran New York City Marathon 1987 2nd in Solihull 24 hours Run Championships 1986 1st in Totton Half Marathon 1985 3rd in Southampton Marathon 1985 3rd in Surrey 50 miles Walk (successor to London to Brighton) 1984 Ran Berlin Marathon 1984 5th in Foster's Quadrathon (2m swim, 50km walk, 100m bike, marathon) 1984 2nd in London to Brighton Walk 1983 3rd in London to Brighton Walk 1983 6th in Foster's Quadrathon (2m swim, 50km walk, 100m bike, marathon) 1983 Surrey 100 miles Walk – qualified as Centurion 768 (Have to walk 100 in under 24 hours in a judged race) 1982 2nd in London to Brighton Walk 1982 3rd in Bradford 50km Walk 1981 7th in London to Brighton Walk (most famous ultradistance walk in the world) 1981 Ran 1st London Marathon' Check out Steves website [https://www.therunoflife.com/]

Running Through It All: Pregnancy, Parenthood & Recovery from Injury with Olympian Stephanie Davis In this episode of the UKRunChat podcast, Michelle welcomes back Olympic marathoner, coach, and new mum Stephanie Davis. Since her last appearance, Steph has navigated the highs and challenges of pregnancy, birth via C-section, postpartum recovery, and a return to running — all while continuing her coaching work with Runna. Steph shares openly about: Managing a bone stress injury that disrupted her Olympic hopes Staying active during pregnancy, adapting training, and tuning into her body Recovering from a C-section and returning to running with patience and support The emotional and physical realities of the postpartum period Her evolving role as a coach with Runna, and the exciting next chapter with Strava And lots more....... Whether you're pregnant, postpartum, coaching others, or managing your own return from injury — Steph's honesty, and practical tips will resonate. Steph is a Coach at our partners Runna. You can get an extended free trial of Runna using the code UKRUNCHAT1 [https://join.runna.com/lKmc/refer?deep_link_sub1=UKRUNCHAT1] Follow Steph on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/steph_davis26/]

In this episode of the UKRunChat Podcast, Michelle speaks with Endurance Physio Mike James, who brings a wealth of experience from marathons, Ironmans, and ultra events, offering both scientific and lived perspectives on the rise of ultra running. The conversation explores the surge in popularity of ultra marathons—why so many runners are skipping traditional distance progressions, the physical and psychological demands of ultras, training strategies, injury risk management, and the value of walk-run strategies and time-on-feet over mileage obsession. Whether you're considering your first ultra or looking to train smarter, this episode is packed with nuanced, practical advice from someone who's seen (and run) it all. Topics Covered: Why more runners are skipping straight to ultras The mental vs physical challenge of ultra distances Why each ultra is different: terrain, elevation, distance, and format Planning training based on lifestyle, not ideal circumstances Importance of "time on feet" vs mileage Walk/run strategies and their value for race day Customizing training blocks and weekly frequency Avoiding injury - risk reduction vs prevention Why recovery is often more important than more training Why evidence for injury prevention is weaker than most believe And lots more!  Follow Mike on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/the_endurance_physio/] or on X [https://x.com/theEndurancePT]

Simon Blair turned to ultra running as a way to manage his mind, find focus, and push past limits he once thought defined him.  Diagnosed with ADHD later in life, Simon shares how endurance sport, including the Marathon des Sables, became more than just a physical test for him. Listen to Michelle and Simon discuss: Living with ADHD and receiving a diagnosis as an adult. Using ultra running to manage focus, emotions & resilience. Behind the scenes of Beyond Limits, his new documentary. Why we need more awareness, earlier diagnosis, and real conversation. Follow Simon on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/simon_blair_shbre/]

In this episode of the UKRunChat podcast, we're joined by Lily Canter and Emma Wilkinson, the authors of Ultra Women, a powerful book that shines a light on the untold stories of women in endurance sport.. We explore the inspiration behind the book, the process of gathering and curating such raw and personal narratives, and what these stories reveal about identity, resilience, and representation for women. From elite athletes to everyday heroes, Ultra Women isn't just about running, it's about freedom, resilience, and mental strength. Lily and Emma reflect on what they learned through writing these untold stories, how the sport is changing, and what still needs to happen to create truly inclusive spaces in ultrarunning. Find the Ultra Women book here [https://www.canburypress.com/products/presale-ultra-women-by-lily-canter-and-emma-wilkinson-isbn-9781914487101?srsltid=AfmBOooJPNd6zZ79au_BUlsxciOit1Sjz5-mzGl2r-Qi_owFnWthJhG8]: Follow Lily [https://www.instagram.com/lilycanter/] on Instagram Follow Emma [https://www.instagram.com/emmawjourno/] on Instagram

This week on the UKRunChat Podcast, we speak with adventurer & mental health advocate Alex Staniforth [https://www.instagram.com/alexstaniforth_/] about his most ambitious challenge yet – climbing all 446 mountains in England & Wales in just 50 days. 🏔️ But this episode is more than a challenge breakdown – it's about why Alex does what he does, how he overcame personal struggles, and how he's turning endurance into impact through his charity, Mind Over Mountains. Alex is a survivor of two Mount Everest disasters which have given Alex a unique perspective on success and failure, and a new purpose to inspire others and leave something bigger behind. Website: www.alexstaniforth.com/446challenge [http://www.alexstaniforth.com/446challenge] Donate: www.justgiving.com/page/446challenge [http://www.justgiving.com/page/446challenge]