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The Cowbell Podcast - Extraordinary Everyday
The Cowbell Podcast - Extraordinary Everyday
Author: Kelvin Yip, Dave Stewart
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© Kelvin Yip, Dave Stewart
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Dive into inspiring stories of everyday runners and athletes balancing day jobs, family life, and the relentless challenges of endurance racing. Our guests aren’t professionals—they’re passionate athletes pushing their limits, overcoming adversity, and achieving personal milestones against all odds.
From adaptive athletes and comeback stories of those battling injuries to runners chasing personal bests, we celebrate the resilience, grit, and determination that define the ultra-running spirit.
Join us to learn from their experiences, gain valuable insights, and find motivation for your own.
From adaptive athletes and comeback stories of those battling injuries to runners chasing personal bests, we celebrate the resilience, grit, and determination that define the ultra-running spirit.
Join us to learn from their experiences, gain valuable insights, and find motivation for your own.
22 Episodes
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In this deeply moving episode of The Cowbell, we sit down with ultra runner, father, husband, and self-taught app builder Anthony Cribbs @anthonycribbes_runs, as he prepares to take on the GPT 100 Miler @gpt100miler in the Grampians once again.Anthony’s story is one of resilience, gratitude, and perspective. From starting trail running during lockdowns to pushing through brutal races like Buffalo and Wonderland, he’s faced every kind of challenge the trails can throw at him. But nothing could have prepared him for the biggest test of his life, when his newborn daughter, Tallulah, was rushed to hospital at just two weeks old with a life-threatening heart condition.Anthony opens up about that terrifying day, the miraculous recovery that followed, and how the experience reshaped his outlook on life and running. Now, he’s returning to the Grampians with a new purpose - running to raise funds and awareness for HeartKids @heartkids, the organisation that supports families of children with congenital and acquired heart disease.It’s an extraordinary story of endurance, family, and the true meaning of heart, both on and off the trail.Fundraising for HeartKids: https://heartkidscommunityfundraising.org.au/anthony-cribbes/posts/why-im-running-100-miles-for-heartkids@anthonycribbes_runs@heartkids@gpt100miler
In this episode of The Cowbell, we sit down with adventurer and artist Elise Marcianti @elisemarcianti. From navigating the challenges of an eating disorder to finding freedom through trail running, pole, mural art, and highlining, Elise has built a life fuelled by curiosity and courage. She shares her solo 300km Alpine hike, her passion for community, and how creativity and adventure help her redefine what’s possible. This conversation is an inspiring reminder that every day can be an adventure when you choose to live fully.@exploreyourcore_@elisemarcianti
n this episode of The Cowbell, we sit down with Cindy Chenhall @cindychenhall, a mum, hairdresser, artist, and trail runner who laughs that she runs like a “dim sim thrown down on a plane.” But what began as a joke has become the story of an ordinary dim sim who found her way to becoming an extraordinary 100km ultra mum.Cindy shares how a freak pancreas injury led her to running, how she discovered grit and joy on the trails, and how her “give it a go” mindset fuels both her art and her life. She speaks about the power of her trail tribe, the lessons she’s passing on to her kids, and the courage it takes to show up authentically.Most movingly, Cindy reveals the deeply personal reason she’s tackling her first 100km at the Surf Coast Century , a running for her brother Neil, who lives with multiple disabilities. Her journey is proof that you don’t need to be perfect to inspire others, just brave enough to take the first step.@bycindyc@cindychenhallThe Cowbell Podcast episode is brought to you by Kelvin Yip from "Endu1 - Endurance Fuel & Hydration" @endu1sportsnutrition and Dave Stewart @_daventures_, the legendary trail race MC.
From firefighting in the Blue Mountains to taking on brutal ultras and leading a .....challenge, Gavin Clifton lives life in constant motion. In this inspiring conversation, Gavin shares his journey from a restless cross-country kid to a trail running community leader and the driving force behind the ....... We dive into his highs and lows on the trails, the gruelling reality of his first miler at the ........, the mental resilience that connects firefighting to ultrarunning, and the powerful story behind ....... This episode is about community, purpose, and pushing through when every part of you wants to stop.https://www.firiesclimbformnd.org.au/@firiesclimbformndThe Cowbell Podcast episode is brought to you by Kelvin Yip from "Endu1 - Endurance Fuel & Hydration" @endu1sportsnutrition and Dave Stewart @_daventures_, the legendary trail race MC.
After a life-altering ovarian cancer diagnosis at 41, Heather Hawkins laced up a pair of Dunlop Volleys and never looked back. From that first 4km fun run to conquering 7 marathons on 7 continents in 7 days — including the North Pole — Heather has turned adversity into adventure, purpose, and strength. In this deeply inspiring episode of The Cowbell, Heather shares how running not only became her recovery but her reason to keep pushing limits, raising awareness for ovarian cancer, and seeking out remote and rugged experiences — from the icy Arctic to the sun-scorched sands of the Marathon des Sables.Now 60, an age-group record holder on the track, author, mother, and adventurer, Heather proves it’s never too late to redefine what’s possible. Her story is a testament to the extraordinary that lies within us all — if only we’re brave enough to take the first step.Instagram :@_heather_hawkinsFacebook :Heather HawkinsLinkedIn :https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-hawkins-280b53149/Adventurous Spirit Book : https://www.booktopia.com.au/search?keywords=heather+hawkins+adventurous+spirit&productType=917505&pn=1Audible :https://www.audible.com.au/pd/Adventurous-Spirit-Audiobook/B074XF4TG1Ovarian Cancer fundraising :https://fundraising.ovariancancer.net.au/heather-hawkinsMarathon des Sables documentary :https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7ZPCHIW6VocThe Cowbell Podcast episode is brought to you by Kelvin Yip from "Endu1 - Endurance Fuel & Hydration" @endu1sportsnutrition and Dave Stewart @_daventures_, the legendary trail race MC.
The inaugural Ultra Trail Jervis Bay was more than just a race – it was a true test of resilience, mindset and community spirit. In this special roundtable episode, we catch up with four Endu1 athletes who each brought something extraordinary to the course.🏃♀️ Emma Power fought through a painful setback mid-race but never stopped smiling🐾 Amy Hewett found unexpected strength – and friendship – in the darkest beach stretch🦘 Dale Pearce, running solo and vision-impaired, tackled the course with groundbreaking tech and sheer grit🔥 Harry Hudson, a triathlete turned ultra runner, completed his longest race yet... and what he did the next day left everyone speechlessFrom deep sand to deeper strength, from small moments to big breakthroughs – this episode is packed with powerful stories, surprising turns, and a whole lot of heart.🎧 Tune in for laughs, lessons and one unforgettable twist that no one saw coming.The Cowbell Podcast episode is brought to you by Kelvin Yip from "Endu1 - Endurance Fuel & Hydration" @endu1sportsnutrition and Dave Stewart @_daventures_, the legendary trail race MC.
In this special live episode, recorded on the shores of Jervis Bay as the sun set over Voyager Park, we bring you a momentous panel conversation from the inaugural Ultra Trail Jervis Bay. Hosted by Dave and Kelvin, this was the very first Cowbell Podcast recorded in front of a live audience — and what a way to kick things off.We’re joined by four inspiring everyday athletes:🏃♀️ Emma Power – Endu1 athlete and UTMB CCC finisher, chasing down her next big goal🏃♂️ Matt Lewis – Local turned triathlete taking on his first ultra🌿 Dr Kita Ashman – Ecologist and WWF scientist finding meaning through movement🧗 Chris Mein – GM of Paddy Pallin and passionate adventurer redefining what "trail" meansTogether, they share stories of personal transformation, pre-race nerves, ecological connection, community spirit, and of course — their cowbell moments. Whether you're chasing your first 100km or just need a dose of inspiration, this one’s for you.The Cowbell Podcast episode is brought to you by Kelvin Yip from "Endu1 - Endurance Fuel & Hydration" @endu1sportsnutrition and Dave Stewart @_daventures_, the legendary trail race MC.
Four years ago, Adrian Copeland was stuck in a cycle of weekend binge drinking. Today, he’s a 300-mile ultra finisher, Ultraman survivor, Finke Desert rider, Everest adventurer, and an all-round endurance beast. In this episode, Adrian shares his raw, no-filter transformation story – from hitting rock bottom to climbing (almost literally) the world's highest peaks.We dive into his darkest moments, wild hallucinations in the Arizona desert, being stalked by a mountain lion, that infamous Macca’s bag moment, and why a 12km open-water swim gave him a whole new perspective on what it means to truly achieve something.He opens up about the importance of community, the power of his crew (especially his daughter and partner Sian), and how mindset – not medals – defines greatness. Whether you're chasing finish lines or fighting personal demons, Adrian’s story will leave you inspired to go further, dig deeper, and bang that cowbell with pride.The Cowbell Podcast episode is brought to you by Kelvin Yip from "Endu1 - Endurance Fuel & Hydration" @endu1sportsnutrition and Dave Stewart @_daventures_, the legendary trail race MC.
Lisa Sherman is a Sydney based nutritionist, recreational running coach and ultra runner who has built a life around the joy and challenge of running. In this episode, Lisa shares how she combines her love of nutrition, coaching and the trails to help others and herself go further than they ever thought possible.From solo road runs to directing backyard ultras and conquering legendary events like Coast to Kosciuszko (twice), Hume & Hovell, Ultra Trail Australia, and 24 hour track events, Lisa talks about what it means to test yourself physically and mentally through pain, problem solving and persistence. Her mantra? Just keep moving forward.Whether it’s the simplicity of a long run, the discipline of training, or the community that shows up at 1am to help you chase loops at Centennial Park, Lisa’s story reminds us that running isn’t just about racing, it’s about connection, courage and discovering what you’re truly capable of.@lisa_nutrition_coaching@im_still_standing_sydney | https://coasttokosci.com/The Cowbell Podcast episode is brought to you by Kelvin Yip from "Endu1 - Endurance Fuel & Hydration" @endu1sportsnutrition and Dave Stewart @_daventures_, the legendary trail race MC.
After four unforgettable days in the Blue Mountains, we sit down post-race to unpack the mud, the miles, and the madness of Ultra Trail Australia 2025.In this special episode of The Cowbell, three runners — each with their own unique challenge — share what it took to conquer their goals: a first-time miler fuelled by hallucinations and determination, an adaptive athlete backing up a world record with grit and heart, and a coach who ran the UTA treble (11k, 22k, 50k) across three relentless days.We talk sleep deprivation, solo missions, surprise aid station angels, and how cowbells in the dark can carry you to the finish line.This is trail running at its rawest. One community. One goal. One hell of a weekend.Ultra Trail Australia: https://www.instagram.com/ultratrailaustralia/Sam from Pop Running: https://www.instagram.com/sam.poprunning/Mick Marshall: https://www.instagram.com/mickmarshall_/The Cowbell Podcast episode is brought to you by Kelvin Yip from "Endu1 - Endurance Fuel & Hydration" @endu1sportsnutrition and Dave Stewart @_daventures_, the legendary trail race MC.
In this episode of The Cowbell, we sit down with the inspiring Mel Warman – founder and CEO of Boobs on the Run and NSW Chair of the Mother’s Day Classic.What started as a simple Facebook post has grown into a powerful movement that's helped over 5,000 women lace up, discover their strength, and find community through running. With a deeply personal mission, Mel shares how the loss of her mother to breast cancer became the spark to create change – one stride at a time.We unpack how Boobs on the Run offers more than just training plans. It’s about creating safe, inclusive spaces for women of all ages and backgrounds to run, reconnect, and reclaim their wellness. We also dive into her work with the iconic Mother's Day Classic – a national event that, over the past 27 years, has raised:💗 $46.1 million for the National Breast Cancer Foundation💙 $1.2 million for the Ovarian Cancer Research FoundationWhether you’re a complete beginner or a veteran ultra-runner, this episode is filled with heart, humour and a reminder that motion is more than medicine – it’s empowerment.Boobs On The Run: www.boobsontherun.com.au / @boobsontherunMother's Day Classic: https://www.mothersdayclassic.com.au/fundraisers/boobsontherun / @mothersdayclassicausThe Cowbell Podcast episode is brought to you by Kelvin Yip from "Endu1 - Endurance Fuel & Hydration" @endu1sportsnutrition and Dave Stewart @_daventures_, the legendary trail race MC.
Rodney “Rocket” Cottam served as an elite soldier in the Australian Army from 1999 to 2004, involved in high-level operations both at home and abroad. But his military career was cut short after a near-fatal motorbike accident left him with life-changing injuries and led to a medical discharge. After years of intensive rehab, Rodney pivoted into a successful two-decade career in financial services, leading high-performing teams across funds management and mortgage lending.Now an ultra trail runner and proud Ambassador for Invictus Australia, Rodney competes in 100km and 100-mile races around the world. In this deeply personal episode, he shares how he’s channelled the habits, discipline, and mental toughness forged in the military into a new purpose—one fuelled by endurance, service, and resilience. From spinal surgery and bionic reconstruction to running 560km to raise funds for veterans, Rodney’s story is a powerful testament to the human spirit. Run Rocket Run - runrocketrun.com / @runrocketrunInvictus Australia - invictusaustralia.org / @invictusaustraliaThe Cowbell Podcast episode is brought to you by Kelvin Yip from "Endu1 - Endurance Fuel & Hydration" @endu1sportsnutrition and Dave Stewart @_daventures_, the legendary trail race MC.
In this deeply inspiring episode of The Cowbell, we sit down with Charlie Maher, proud Western Arrarnta man, 2010 Indigenous Marathon Project graduate, and now an IMF Ambassador. Charlie’s story isn’t just about running – it’s about resilience, identity, community, and the quiet power of leading by example.Back in 2010, Charlie made history as one of the inaugural four runners in the Indigenous Marathon Project, becoming the first Indigenous Australian to finish the New York Marathon. That spark became a flame – and over the next decade, he went on to complete the Boston, Gold Coast, Tokyo, Berlin, and Chicago Marathons, eventually becoming the first Indigenous Australian to complete all six World Marathon Majors when he crossed the finish line in London in 2022.Through it all – from a humble upbringing near Alice Springs to travelling the world through sport – Charlie has remained grounded by his strong faith, his deep cultural roots, and the unwavering love of his family (Talitha, Frankie, and Boston). With the support of the Indigenous Marathon Foundation, Charlie transformed not only his own life, but continues to quietly inspire thousands through his actions, not words.Joined by co-hosts Dave and Kelvin, and a special return from Cowbell's very first guest, Brendan Verrier, this episode is a moving reminder of the power of opportunity, the importance of staying true to where you come from – and the impact one person can have when they run with purpose.🔔 This is one Cowbell moment you’ll never forget.The Cowbell Podcast episode is brought to you by Kelvin Yip from "Endu1 - Endurance Fuel & Hydration" @endu1sportsnutrition and Dave Stewart @_daventures_, the legendary trail race MC.
In this powerful episode of The Cowbell, we sit down with one of Australia's toughest and most authentic ultra-endurance athletes — Thomas Dade @tomdade11. From a young boy battling anorexia and self-doubt to summiting some of the world's highest mountains and conquering some of Australia's most gruelling ultra races, Tom’s story is one of grit, vulnerability, and transformation.We explore Tom’s journey from body image struggles and mental health challenges to finding purpose in pushing his physical and mental limits. He shares how impulsive decisions led to climbing Mount Elbrus, Aconcagua, and racing in Nepal's 223km Everest Ultra — nearly costing him his life. Tom opens up about chasing validation through pain, learning to train with intention, and discovering fulfilment beyond the finish line.You’ll hear raw reflections, lessons in resilience, and the moment that brought his father to tears — Tom’s ultimate “Cowbell Moment.” Whether you're an athlete, adventurer, or someone looking for inspiration to keep showing up, this one hits deep.Follow Tom's journey: @tomdade11The Cowbell Podcast episode is brought to you by Kelvin Yip from "Endu1 - Endurance Fuel & Hydration" @endu1sportsnutrition and Dave Stewart @_daventures_, the legendary trail race MC.
At just 20 years old, Miah Noble @miahrosenoble is already one of Australia's rising stars in the trail running world — but her journey to the start line has been anything but easy.In this raw and powerful episode, Miah opens up about how she discovered running during the COVID lockdowns and how it became her sanctuary as she navigated anorexia, OCD, ADHD, and the emotional complexities of growing up. From heartbreak to healing, Miah shares how trail running — and love — helped her reclaim her life.We explore her rise in the sport, the role of community and support in her comeback, and her ultimate dream: to become the best female trail runner in the world. Miah offers practical insights into her fuelling strategy, training mindset, and how she’s preparing for the upcoming Buffalo Stampede — including tips, tricks, and lessons learned the hard way.But more than that, Miah’s story is a beacon for the next generation of athletes. Her courage, honesty, and determination to show up as her full self — even in the face of mental health battles — makes her a role model for young people everywhere.Miah’s achievements on the trails speak for themselves:🥇 1st female, 5th overall – Rapid Ascent Silvan Trail Run (22km)🥇 1st female, 5th overall – Adelaide Trail Runners Wonderland Run (50km)🥇 1st female, 5th overall – Rapid Ascent Surf Coast Century (50km)🥉 3rd female, 11th overall – Single Track Roller Coaster Trail Run (23km)🥇 1st female, 2nd overall – Ultra Endurance Great Southern Endurance Run (56km)🥇 1st female, 5th overall – Two Bays Trail Run (56km)🥇 1st female, 11th overall – Warburton Trail Fest Donna Double Vertical Kilometre (22km)This episode is for anyone chasing big dreams, facing silent battles, or simply needing proof that it’s possible to rise — again and again.Miah Noble: @miahrosenobleTom Dade: @tomdade11Endu1 Endurance Fuel and Hydration: @endu1sportsnutritionMiah's Running Coach: Steve Brennan @weaponruncoachDave Stewart: @_daventures_
In this special episode of The Cowbell Podcast, we celebrate International Women’s Day with an extraordinary guest - Jess Baird Walsh. A mother of three, entrepreneur, and ultra-runner, Jess has been running every single day for nearly 1,000 days. But what started as a personal challenge became something much bigger - a journey of resilience, self-discovery, and purpose.An unexpected twist of fate led Jess to discover the Indigenous Marathon Foundation (IMF), founded by Australian running legend Robert de Castella, and to cross paths with Charlie Maher, the first graduate of the Indigenous Marathon Project. That encounter gave her a new mission - to raise $1 million for IMF, supporting Indigenous runners and leaders.Beyond endurance sports, Jess is the founder of Capital X, an initiative dedicated to bridging the investment gap for women in technology and startups. She shares her experience as a female founder, the challenges of raising venture capital, and how persistence - both in business and on the trails - can drive meaningful change.As we honour International Women’s Day, this episode is a testament to the strength, resilience, and determination of women pushing boundaries in every field.🎧 Tune in to hear Jess’s powerful story and what keeps her going—one step at a time.🔗 Go to Jess's fundraising page https://runningtoraisefunds.imf.org.au/page/JessicaBairdWalsh🔗 Find out more about IMF 🔗 Find out more about Capital-X The Cowbell Podcast episode is brought to you by Kelvin Yip from "Endu1 - Endurance Fuel & Hydration" @endu1sportsnutrition and Dave Stewart @_daventures_, the legendary trail race MC.
In this episode of The Cowbell, we sit down with the electrifying Emma Rose – psychologist, ultra-runner, and mother – whose journey into running started as a way to heal and evolved into a movement for change. Emma shares how she went from avoiding cross-country races in school to running 180km in a tutu to raise funds for paediatric hospitals.We dive into the mental resilience needed for ultra-running, the power of movement in mental health, and how embracing imperfection can lead to extraordinary achievements. Emma’s story is a testament to grit, passion, and the belief that movement isn’t just about running – it’s about transformation.To donate and help with this cause:https://mountaintomelbourne.raiselysite.com/Tune in for a conversation filled with inspiration, laughter, and a reminder that sometimes, the best way to move forward is just one step at a time.🎙️ Join us as we fuel the extraordinary with Emma Rose! 🚀✨The Cowbell Podcast episode is brought to you by Kelvin Yip from "Endu1 - Endurance Fuel & Hydration" @endu1sportsnutrition and Dave Stewart @_daventures_, the legendary trail race MC.
What kind of person runs 100km on a treadmill… in scrubs… for charity? Meet Amy Hewitt—a vet, ultra runner, and unstoppable force of nature. In this episode ofThe Cowbell Podcast, Amy shares how she turned endurance running into a mission, raising $12,000 for veterinary mental health and creatingBarking Mad Ultra, Australia’s first ultra where dogs race alongside their humans.From running through pain caves to rescuing dogs (and even performing a chicken C-section!), Amy’s story is wild, inspiring, and proof that the extraordinary is found in those who dare to chase it.🐶🏃♀️Follow The Cowbell Podcast on Instagram and tag someone with an extraordinary story we should feature next!The Cowbell Podcast episode is brought to you by Kelvin Yip from "Endu1 - Endurance Fuel & Hydration" @endu1sportsnutrition and Dave Stewart @_daventures_, the legendary trail race MC.
In this powerful and deeply inspiring episode of The Cowbell Podcast – Every Day Extraordinary, we sit down with Dale, a low-vision adaptive runner whose story redefines resilience, grit, and the true meaning of endurance.Dale spent 30 years as a [find out from the pod] , never imagining he would one day become a runner. But in January 2023, his world changed when he lost sight in his left eye. Despite doctors' reassurances, just a few months later, his right eye was also affected, leaving him legally blind.Rather than let his vision loss define him, Dale embraced a new path - one that led him to the trails. 💡 What does the world look like for Dale?💡 How does he train, race, and navigate ultra-trail terrain without depth perception?💡 What keeps him pushing forward, even when the odds seem impossible?Join us for this extraordinary conversation about adaptation, mental toughness, and breaking barriers. Whether you’re an athlete, coach, or someone looking for inspiration, Dale’s journey will challenge your perspective on what’s truly possible.The Cowbell Podcast episode is brought to you by Kelvin Yip from "Endu1 - Endurance Fuel & Hydration" @endu1sportsnutrition and Dave Stewart @_daventures_, the legendary trail race MC.
In this special episode, we introduce our new co-host, Dave Stewart, a voice many of you might already recognise. From energising start lines to celebrating countless finish-line moments, Dave has been a key figure in Australia’s running scene.Join us as we dive into a great chat about his journey, his passion for connecting with runners, and the unique role he plays in creating unforgettable race-day experiences. You’ll get an inside look at what makes Dave the perfect fit for The Cowbell Podcast and learn why he’s more than just an emcee—he’s a storyteller, motivator, and now, part of our team.Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just starting out, this episode is packed with insights, inspiration, and a behind-the-scenes look at the extraordinary everyday stories that make our sport so special.🎧 Listen now and get to know Dave Stewart, our new co-host of The Cowbell Podcast!The Cowbell Podcast episode is brought to you by Kelvin Yip from "Endu1 - Endurance Fuel & Hydration" @endu1sportsnutrition and Dave Stewart @_daventures_, the legendary trail race MC.























