The Eat Your Greens Podcast

Kelli Jones is a personal development coach and adventurer with bionic hips. “We all have places in our lives in which we're blocked”, reads Kelli’s website, the bionicwarrior.com. Kelli's work focuses on helping her clients to identify the blocks in their lives that are holding them back. Working together, they use those very same blocks to their advantage as they go in pursuit of living a limitless life. In this episode of the Eat Your Greens podcast, Kelli shares the journey she’s been on herself, the ‘reset’ which was required to change her life for the better and the learnings that she believes we can all find value in. What’s a limitless life, and how do you create your own? In this week’s episode, Kelli explains… To connect with Kelli, she’s ‘the_bionic_warrior’ on Instagram, and her website is, thebionicwarrior.com. Show notes: 00:57 – Kelli on her story 17:30 – Kelli on the moment she decided to press ‘reset’ on her life and why 26:32 – Kelli on the benefits of the physical, mental, and emotional recovery process 31:01 – Kelli on why rest and recovery is critical for the mind, body, and soul 35:06 – Kelli on how you can start the process of living your own, limitless life 39:31 – Kelli on the benefit of getting on and ‘doing it’, and not just ‘planning for it’ 42:19 – Kelli on why we need to change the relationship we have with perceived failure 46:18 – Kelli on her relationship with her family today 55:26 – Kelli on life’s most valuable lessons so far 58:45 – Kelli on why she committed to exercising 49 days straight 1hr, 1 minute – Kelli on her immediate goal and sub goal 1hr, 5 minutes – Kelli on how to get in contact with her 

Jeff had big plans for 2020. In the autumn of 2019, he signed a pro-contract with Salomon and was planning to race hard in a number of ultra-marathons this year. COVID-19 had different plans. With races cancelled, or at best postponed until 2021, Jeff needed to come up with a new plan. Cue, an FKT attempt on the legendary Backbone Trail in California. “FKT” stands for Fastest Known Time, and the concept of covering a distance faster than anybody else on record has exploded this year. In this episode, Jeff shares his story, how he adapted and pivoted this year to ensure that he would still achieve his goals and what he hopes to achieve in the future. To learn more about the Backbone Trail FKT and watch the awesome video content created by former Eat Your Greens podcast guest, Ali Rogers, head to Jeff’s Instagram account or visit his website: https://www.instagram.com/uponward/ https://www.uponward.com/ Show Notes: 01:13 – Jeff on his story and getting into ultra-running 08:15 – Jeff on the Backbone Trail FKT 11:46 – Jeff on the high and low points during his Backbone Trail FKT attempt 16:42 – Jeff on the importance of making the Backbone trail FKT a team event 20:46 – Jeff on signing with Salomon 24:57 – Jeff on the power and potential of simply asking for what you want 25:55 – Jeff on running the OCC in 2021 and his long term plan to run the UTMB 30:00 – Jeff on what he learnt from training for an FKT that he'll apply to race day training 35:22 – Jeff on what success looks like for him 38:09 – Jeff on what running has taught him about himself.

Ian was living an ordinary life in New Zealand when a series of life-changing events changed his perspective on what did and didn't matter to him in life. Ultimately, it was the realisation that he didn't much like himself, let alone love himself, that led Ian down a path of exploration and self-discovery that resulted in him making seismic changes to his life. Today, Ian is a professional, sponsored, ultra runner who lives an almost nomadic life; combining his love of travel with his other true passion, running long distances. In this episode of the Eat Your Greens podcast, Ian shares his story, the power of movement on the mind, body and soul, and what he's discovered truly matters in life. Follow Ian's journey on Instagram, he's @Ian.Morgan. Show notes: 02:33 - 04:57 - Ian answers 5 quick-fire questions, including "what race is still on your bucket list?" and "what was the best race of your life?" 05:17 - 12:41 - Ian shares 'his story'. 12:42 - 13:59 - Ian on living a life with fewer possessions and the benefits of doing so. 14:19 - 19:09 - Ian on the moment he decided to take up running, 'the why' and the benefits of doing so on his mind, body and soul. 19:15 - 22:36 - Ian on what running has taught him about himself. 22:44 - 23:40 - Ian on a typical training week. 24:03 - 25:49 - Ian on the mistakes he sees people make, when upping the distances they run, and how to avoid making them yourself. 25:57 - 27:26 - Ian on the process of building the life he loves. 27:31 - 28:44 - Ian on the countries in the world he still wants to visit. 29:03 - 30:26 - Ian on why it is never too late to start running and make positive changes in your life.  30:39 - 32:12 - Ian on how he defines success. 32:32 - 34:33 - Ian answers 5 quick-fire questions to end the conversation, including “what’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given?” and “what is the most valuable lesson life has taught you?”

‘The Coolaboration,’ is a fortnightly collaboration between Cool Conversations and Eat Your Greens. Ordinarily only available to download and listen to via the Cool Conversations podcast, I wanted to share just one of the early episodes I enjoyed co-presenting and producing. In this episode, Kenton and I talk about our shared love for the new documentary, TransAmericana, from Rickey Gates and Salomon. Kenton and I also talk about Neil Gresham's awesome ascent of the Iron Crag in the Lake District. Kenton also answers listener questions, including: "Which one of your 14 Everest summits was the hardest and why? Are there any other 8000ers you really want to do?" "What are your top tips for having such mental strength and keeping worry under control?" "If you could sit on top of any mountain and just enjoy the view with a coffee, which one would it be and why?" In short, it’s two friends riffing on topics that interest them, with Kenton sharing his experience and expertise from a lifetime leading incredible expeditions all over the world. To listen and subscribe to Cool Conversations, search Cool Conversations in your podcast app. Kenton is @kentoncool on Instagram, and Cool Conversations is @thecoolconversations

Sabrina is a run-coach, personal trainer, ultra-runner, and a founder of Black Trail Runners. Black Trail Runners is a community and campaigning group which seeks to increase the inclusion, participation and representation of Black people in trail running. In this episode, we talk running long-distances, the racism that Sabrina endured growing up in a small town in Gloucestershire and the work she is now doing within the running community to lead change and create a truly diverse running community for people of all ethnicities. To find out more about Black Trail Runners, head to @Blacktrailrunners on Instagram and to follow Sabrina she’s @sabrunsmiles on Instagram. Black Trail Runners also have their own podcast, called 'The Checkpoint'. To download, listen and subscribe just search 'Black Trail Runners' in your podcast app. Show notes: 01:37 – 06:11 – Sabrina on how she got into ultra-running 06:16 – 12:50 – Sabrina on the fire that burns inside her and why it burns so brightly 13:19 – 19:37 – Sabrina explains what it was like to grow up in a small rural town and endure racism on a daily basis 19:51 – 28:56 – Sabrina on the impact Black Lives Matter has had on the running community 30:05 – 37:59 – Sabrina explains that conversations about the inclusion, participation and representation of Black people in trail running can be uncomfortable, but, that isn’t a reason not to have them 38:15 – 39:48 – Sabrina on the “tokenism” within the running community 39:59 – 46:12 – Sabrina explains what it is like to turn up at a running event and not see anybody else that looks like her 47:02 – 50:44 – Sabrina on the significance of her being featured on the front cover of Runner’s World 51:19 – 56:04 – Sabrina on how people can help and support Black Trail Runners.

Danny Bent is an award winning author and journalist, Guinness World Record holder, celebrated adventurer and community leader. Voted one of the 100 happiest people in the UK, as well as one of the 50 most inspirational people in London, in this episode of the Eat Your Greens podcast, Danny shares his plans for the maiden One Run Global challenge; a running movement that aims to unite the world in December. One Run Global is an idea, in part, inspired by a running relay he organised across America in 2013 following the terrorist attack at the Boston Marathon and which raised $600,000 for the victims of the attack. In this episode, Danny also explains how he helps people who feel chained by life to break free and realise that they’re capable of the incredible. What’s more, he also shares the practical first steps to take if this is something you relate to. To connect with Danny, he’s @danny_bent on Instagram and his website is dannybent.com. To find out more about the One Run Global, go to onerun.global. Show Notes: 02:15 – 07:19 – Danny on how everything changed on April 15th 2013 – when he learned there had been a terrorist attack at the Boston marathon 07:40 – 09:08 – Danny on how a running relay across America broke down social and economic barriers 09:39 – 12:27 – Danny explains what the One Run Global challenge is and how you can sign up 12:37 – 17:16 – Danny explains how he helps people who feel chained by life to break free and realise they’re capable of the incredible and what the key steps are in the process of breaking free and living your best life 18:01 – 21:09 – Danny on the importance (or not) of movement in the process of breaking free 21:14 – 25:24 – Danny on his proudest achievement 25:35 – 28:42 – Danny on how Covid-19 has changed his outlook on life 28:54 – 30:54 – Danny answers 5 quick-fire questions.

John Kelly is one of only 15 people on the planet to have completed the Barkley Marathons. This year, John won the Montane Spine Race, the 268-mile ultramarathon which starts in Edale, in the Peak District, and ends in Kirk Yelthom, Scotland. Held in January, it’s not uncommon for participants to be battered by high winds, torrential rain and snow. The combination of the distance (yes, you did read that correctly – the race is 268 miles long), the elevation of the ascents and descents, bad weather and the subsequent sleep deprivation, means the race is widely considered to be one of the toughest in the world. The Spine Race, which follows the Pennine Way, was the location for yet another of John’s adventures this year. In July, John ran the Pennie Way again (yes, all 268 miles of it) in 2 days, 16 hours, and 46 minutes, setting a new FKT (Fastest Known Time), beating the course record held by Mike Hartley for 31 years, by 34 minutes. The following week, Damian Hall, a previous guest on the Eat Your Greens podcast, beat John’s time and set a new Pennine Way FKT. Fast forward to this August and John embarked on perhaps his biggest challenge; something he dubbed “The Grand Round”. First attempted by him last year, and successfully completed this year, “The Grand Round” links the UK's three big fell running rounds - the Paddy Buckley Round in Wales, the Bob Graham Round in The Lake District and the Charlie Ramsay Round in the Scottish Highlands, by bike. Yes, BIKE! John ran roughly 185 miles, climbed more than eighty thousand feet, over 110 plus summits, and cycled between each round, covering more than 400 miles on his bike in total. Raising money and awareness for The Stephen Lawrence Charitable Trust he completed the Grand Round in less than five and a half days. In this episode, John explains why he runs, when and how he’s made sizeable leaps forward in terms of his performance, and how he assesses, and then decides on, which FKTs and races to participate in. We also discuss John’s relationship with failure and why failing can be good, how he manages his mind when things get tough and the importance of competition. And, of course, we talk about just some of the many FKTs and races he’s participated in! To donate to the Stephen Lawrence Charitable Trust via John’s Just Giving page go to: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/hartleyslam and to connect with John on social media search Random Forest Runner or head to his blog, https://randomforestrunner.com/ Show Notes:  02:07 – 04:22 – John on why he runs 04:33 – 06:39 – John on when he felt like he might have reached his limit 06:46 – 08:05 – Mind or body. Which does John find most difficult to manage during an FKT or race? 08:14 – 09:29 – John on the tools and techniques he deploys to overcome challenging moments 09:43 – 11:10 – John on how he chooses which FKTs and races to participate in 11:14 – 12:03 – John on when he first had the idea for “The Grand Round” 12:28 – 14:19 – John on when he’s seen the biggest improvement in his performance 14:43 – 16:14 - What learnings does John apply from his background in data science and role as a CTO to FKT/race planning and execution and vice-versa? 16:43 – 18:37 – John on how he breaks down challenges and learns from failure 18:46 – 19:48 – John on which failure he’s learnt the most from 20:06 – 21:16 – John on celebration and reflection post FKTs and races 21:59 – 24:16 – John on the importance of competition 25:22 – 26:35 – John on what he prefers, FKTs or races? 27:00 – 31:18 – John on when he first began to realise what he was capable of and which endurance events have taught him about himself 31:26 – 32:36 – John on the character traits he possesses which he hopes to pass to his children 32:46 – 37:21 – John answers 5 quick(ish)-fire questions.

Alex Mason is a multi-discipline adventurer, writer, speaker and designer. In 2015, she decided she’d had enough of sitting at a desk and her 9-5 routine. So, she took a 9 month sabbatical from her job and set off to hike the Pacific Crest Trail in America. It was an adventure that would change the course of her life. In the last 5 years, Alex has summited Mera Peak in the Himalayas, walking the Pacific Crest Trail again, but in the opposite direction, hiked the length of New Zealand along Te Araroa trail, cycled across Australia on a bike called Priscilla, explored Indonesia, rowed the English Channel, walked the Appalachian Trail, and then, at the beginning of 2020, rowed the Atlantic. In this episode, Alex shares her story and some of the tales from her many adventures. We also talk about how societal norms can be a barrier to living your own best life and why failure is not only a good thing, but is something we should actively embrace. To connect with Alex, she’s @masonalexandra on Instagram, and her website is masonalexandra.com. Show notes: 01:40 – 03:30 – Alex on why her friends call her Puff Puff 03:41 – 04:29 – Alex on the significance of avocados 04:44 – 06:21 – Alex on her love of adventure 06:26 – 08:14 – Alex on why she walked the P.C.T 08:20 – 09:37 – Alex on the perceived barriers she felt were stopping her living a more adventurous life 09:56 – 12:31 – Alex on quitting her day job for good 13:04 – 15:43 – Alex on cycling across Australia 17:41 – 25:01 – Alex on rowing the Atlantic 25:17 – 27:17 – Alex on why she likes multi-discipline adventure sports 27:28 – 29:09 – Alex on when she’s been her happiest on an adventure 29:17 – 30:49 – Alex on what she’d tell her younger self and how her relationship with herself has changed 30:51 – 33:14 – Alex on what she plans to do next.

Founded in 2003, Finisterre has long had a reputation for innovation and sustainability. Today, the company is B Corps certified; an accreditation that’s only awarded to businesses which balance purpose and profit. Finisterre, like all other B Corporation companies, is required to consider the impact of their decisions on their workers, customers, suppliers, community and the environment. In short, it’s a global community of leaders, driving a global movement of people, who are using business as a force for good. It’s the subject of much of our conversation with Tom. Tom believes that by inspiring a love for the sea, it will encourage us all to protect it, and, in effect, become guardians of the oceans. We hope you’re as inspired by Tom, and what he and the team at Finisterre has achieved, as we are. To find out more about Finisterre, search “Finisterre”. For the purposes of absolute transparency, Finisterre did not, and nor did Tom, pay us to appear on the Eat Your Greens podcast. We just like what the team do and wanted to learn more. Show notes: 02:01 – 03:00 – Tom on why he finds surfing and the ocean so special. 03:09 – 04:15 – Tom on the benefits of getting close to, or into, the ocean. 04:31 – 06:07 – Tom on how the Cornish coast has changed in the last 20 years. 06:21 – 22:31 – Tom on becoming a B Corps certified company. We talk about the assessment process, the benefits of being a B Corps company and the company’s culture, principles and purpose. 22:57 – 24:29 – Tom on the financial cost of being an ethical, sustainable business. 24:31 – 26:06 – Tom on how COVID-19 has impacted Finisterre. 26:12 – 26:44 – Tom shares his advice for anyone thinking about starting or becoming a sustainable business. 26:47 – 28:17 – Tom on the mistakes he made and his most valuable business lessons learned. 28:24 – 29:47 – Tom on how his leadership style has changed and how his team might describe it. 29:51 – 30:46 – Tom on what he’s most proud of about Finisterre. 31:07 – 31:44 – Tom on what’s next for Finisterre.

Jordan Foster, AKA Project Marathon Girl, is the Head Coach and Owner of PMG Coaching, a coaching service for runners. In this episode, Jordan tells us about how and when she fell in love with running and how that ultimately resulted in her launching PMG Coaching. Jordan also shares her advice on what you should do if you’ve plateaued with your running, the signs you should look out for if you’re worried about burning out from too much training and how her training has changed during her pregnancy. At the time of publishing this podcast, Jordan was 33 weeks pregnant and expecting her first child with Danny, who coincidentally was our guest in episode 19 of the Eat Your Greens podcast. Jordan also talks about how social media can be used as a force for good. The realities of setting up your own business, and what advice she would give other people thinking about starting their own business. To connect with Jordan, she’s @projectmarathongirl on Instagram. PMG Coaching is @pmgcoaching on Instagram. Show Notes: 01:50 – 06:37 – Jordan on when she first fell in love with running. 06:42 – 12:24 – Jordan on how her relationship with running has changed. 12:37 – 15:57 – Jordan on what to look out for if you think you might be over-training. 16:36 – 19:30 – Jordan on the obsessive nature of runners. 19:55 – 22:06 – Jordan on how she has used social media to grow her business. 22:21 – 25:20 – Jordan on starting her own business and her key learnings. 25:24 – 27:22 – Jordan on what she finds most rewarding about being a running coach. 27:42 – 30:57 – Jordan on the common mistakes she sees runners make. 31:08 – 33:18 – Jordan on what to do if you’re a runner and have plateaued. 33:33 – 39:45 – Jordan on how her training has changed during her pregnancy. 39:52 – 41:26 – Jordan on what she loves about running. 41:28 – 42:16 – Jordan on the race that’s still on her bucket list. 42:20 – 45:21 – Jordan on the best race of her life.

Faraz is a travel writer, author and adventurer. In 2011, aged 25, he spent two months leading camels 1,600km across Mongolia, and, in doing so, became the youngest Briton to cross the Gobi Desert on foot. This was to be the first of many magical adventures Faraz would embark on. Faraz is also an international development barrister with over 12 years’ experience in human rights law, including a period working with the United Nations. He’s represented refugees escaping conflict and persecution in countries such as Sri Lanka, Afghanistan and Pakistan, which has included victims of rape, torture and human trafficking. Faraz has advised the Government of Mongolia on comprehensive legal reforms, including its laws on forced and child labour and he is a trustee of Coalition Peace; a charity developing technology to make peace building resources available to local NGO’s, communities and peace initiatives in Africa. In this episode, we talk all things adventure. We also discuss how the world of adventure and adventure travel is marketed and whether a shift in that might assist in making the outdoors feel more inclusive, rather than exclusive, to ethnic minorities. To connect with Faraz, he’s on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter (just search Faraz Shibli). He also has his own website, https://www.farazshibli.com/ Show notes: 01:41 – 03:49 – Faraz on why he walked the Gobi Desert 03:50 – 07:15 – Faraz on what it was like to walk the Gobi Desert 07:16 – 10:30 – Faraz on what came next after walking the Gobi Desert 10:44 – 13:25 – Faraz on what a decade of adventures has taught him about himself 13:26 – 15:05 – Faraz on when he was at his happiest on an adventure 15:12 – 19:12 – Faraz on when things haven’t gone so well on an adventure 19:20 – 23:06 – Faraz on the tactics he deploys to ensure he keeps going when the going gets tough 23:18 – 24:50 – Faraz explains how and when he became a travel writer and author 25:07 – 28:28 – Faraz on what he believes still unites humanity 28:52 – 31:21 – Faraz explains how he thinks the adventure, and adventure travel industry could change to appear more inclusive, rather than exclusive, to those wanting to participate in it 31:36 – 36:05 – Faraz on what the outdoor community, and others, could do to make the world of adventure feel more inclusive 36:45 – 40:13 – Faraz explains what impact under-representation, or, in fact, no representation, of ethnic minorities in the ‘outdoor space’ has 40:47 – 41:35 – Faraz on some of the groups encouraging and supporting diversity in the outdoors 41:39 – 44:27 – Faraz answers 5 quick-fire questions

Like so many other events, the 2020 Ultra-Trail Du Mont-Blanc (UTMB) will not be happening this year. Starting and finishing in the trail running capital of the world, Chamonix, the race, and its sister races are famous the world over in the trail running community. In this episode, Hannah, who you might know on Instagram as @escapingthecity and I talk about her 2019 UTMB. From non-runner to completing the UTMB, Hannah shares her inspiring running story, and why she believes we’re all far more capable of overcoming challenges than we might first think; we just need to believe in ourselves. We also talk about how “life is too short not to take risks,” a mantra Hannah and her boyfriend are living by as they go in search of an even more adventurous life in Canada. This is one inspiring podcast, enjoy! To connect with Hannah, she’s @escapingthecity Show notes:   02:13 – 03:08 – Hannah on her favourite race distance 03:09 – 03:56 – Hannah on the race that is still on her bucket list 03:57 – 05:13 – Hannah on the best race of her life - and why 05:14 – 07:29 – Hannah explains her journey to the UTMB start line 07:30 – 13:28 – Hannah on her UTMB race and the highs and lows 13:29 – 14:41 – Hannah explains how, and why, she keeps on going when things get tough in a race 14:42 – 16:13 – Hannah on the magic of the UTMB finish line 16:14 – 18:31 – Hannah on her low points during the UTMB 18:32 – 20:52 – Hannah on what makes the UTMB so special 20:53 – 21:44 – Hannah explains what running the UTMB taught her about herself 21:45 – 25:54 – Hannah on moving to Canada 25:55 – 27:34 – Hannah shares her advice on training and running an ultra-marathon 27:35 – 28:23 – Hannah on the importance of knowing your why

From a successful business adviser to expedition leader who has stood on top of 6 of the 7 highest mountains on the planet and led expeditions all over the world. When Jo Bradshaw took a leap of faith and decided to change careers her life changed forever. In this episode of the Eat Your Greens podcast, Jo shares her story, and what a story it is! In 2015, Jo was at camp 1 on Mount Everest when an earthquake hit Nepal and triggered a devastating avalanche on the mountain. Jo explains what happened on that tragic day, what it taught her about herself, life, and why whatever happens; living a more adventurous life is always the right path to choose. To connect with Jo, search Jo Bradshaw on Instagram, or head to jobradshaw.co.uk   Show notes:  02:02 – 03:16 – Jo explains why she decided to change careers 03:17 – 06:36 – I ask Jo to explain how she went from Business Adviser to Expedition Leader 06:37 – 08:12 – Jo explains what a typical day looked like as an Expedition Leader pre-Covid-19 08:13 – 09:54 – I ask Jo about her 7-Summits of the World challenge and what is it that she finds so alluring about the challenge and the mountains themselves. 09:55 – 27:40 – Jo and I discuss the 2015 Everest season when she was attempting a summit of the mountain and a devastating earthquake hit the region triggering a catastrophic avalanche. 27:41 – 30:53 – Jo answers the question: Finish the sentence, the best summit I have stood on is? 30:54 – 34:40 – Jo explains which is her favourite mountain in the UK, and why. 34:41 – 36:12 – I ask Jo: what was it her friends saw in her in the 00s that she didn't see in herself, that made them so certain she was ready to live a more adventurous life? 36:13 – 37:43 – What is still on Jo’s bucket list? She explains.

In this episode of The Eat Your Greens Podcast, I talk to Danny O'Reilly about his love of running and how he’s planning to return from an injury fitter and stronger. Danny is currently recovering from a tibia stress fracture, and kindly agreed to come on the podcast and share how he got injured, his road to recovery, how his training will change as a result of his injury and what you and I should be doing (if we aren’t already, I know I’m not!) to avoid getting injured. 50% a jam on the highs of running and 50% on what happens when things don’t go so well, and the learnings that provides. This is a must listen for any runner. To follow Danny on Instagram, search the_running_dan Show notes: 02:16 – 05:52 - Danny on why he runs. 05:53 – 07:24 - Danny on his favourite race distance. 07:25 – 10:48 - Danny on the best race of his life. 10:49 – 12:41 - Danny on the race that’s still on his bucket list. 12:42 – 19:59 - Danny explains how he got injured. 20:00 – 21:27 - Danny on what’s been the most difficult thing about his recovery. 21:28 – 28:02 - Danny explains what he could have done to prevent his injury. 28:03 – 31:26 - Danny on how he’s going to adapt his training in the future. 31:27 – 35:03 - Danny on what getting injured has taught him about himself. 35:04 – 38:25 - Danny shares his advice on how to avoid getting injured.

In this episode of The Eat Your Greens Podcast, we meet Kate Mackenzie, the founder of Harrier, the new outdoor brand for trail runners.  Kate founded Harrier in November 2019. Why? "I became dismayed at the over-commercialisation of trail running. What should be a simple thing to bring a lot of joy was being over-run with extortionately priced 'must have' gear, airbrushed images of elite athletes and hyped-up advertising campaigns," writes Kate on https://harrierrunfree.co.uk/ "The concept for Harrier was born from my own desire to have great quality kit that would last a long time. It's about bringing simplicity and fun back to trail running. We provide everything you need and nothing you don't," she adds. In this episode, Kate shares the Harrier story. What's more, she shares her learnings, what's worked, and what hasn't in the last 8-months, and the type of brand she hopes Harrier will become. From design to testing and then the signing off on production, Kate has done it all. To have achieved this in such a short space of time is impressive. To have achieved this in just 8-months, and during a pandemic, is extraordinary. As our resident running obsessive, DC, said when he shared this podcast with the Eat Your Greens team, “this podcast has it all”: A super inspiring guest, Business & brand chat, Trail running chat, Advice for anyone interested in getting into trail running. We agree. To find out more about Harrier, Google Harrier Run Free or look for @harrier_trail_running on Instagram. Show notes: 02:29 – 03:04    Kate explains when she got into trail running 03:05 – 03:39    Kate explains how trail running differs from traditional running 03:40 – 04:36    I ask Kate what advice would she give to someone thinking about getting into trail running 04:37 – 05:43    Kate explains what kit you actually need to go trail running 05:44 – 06:18    Kate explains what Harrier is. 06:19 – 07:42    I ask Kate: Do you remember when you first had the idea for Harrier? 07:43 – 08:25    Kate explains that it was in November 2019 she first began working on Harrier. 08:26 – 10:22    Kate explains the design, sourcing, testing and production process she’s been through. 10:23 – 12:02    I ask Kate how she keeps the cost of Harrier products down, but, the quality of them, up? 12:28 – 14:47    Kate explains what impact COVID-19 has had on her business. 14:48 – 17:09   Kate explains what pieces of advice have been particularly useful with regards to launching Harrier. 17:10 – 17:37    I ask Kate what she now knows that she wished she’d known at the start of launching Harrier. 17:38 – 18:29    Kate explains what she would do differently if she was to do it all again. 18:30 – 20:03    Kate explains why now is the right time to quit her day job and go ‘all in’ on Harrier. 20:04 – 22:16    Kate and I talk about the reality of setting up your own business. 22:17 – 24:00   Kate tells me what she hopes Harrier will become. 24:01 – 25:14   I ask Kate what she’s learned about herself that she didn’t already know, having launched Harrier. 25:15 – 28:11    I ask Kate: What advice would you give someone thinking about launching their own business? 28:11 – 29:27    I ask Kate: How can people find out more about Harrier? 

Gemma Wilson, or Gem, is the founder of VALA a brand new sports energy gel for cyclists, runners, walkers, and anybody else who’s active, and wants, or needs, fuel when exercising. In this episode of The Eat Your Greens podcast, Gem shares both her own, and, the VALA story. We talk everything from the inspiration for the business and the development of the gel itself, to Gem’s key learnings, working with experts to accelerate the growth of her  business, why everybody should have a mentor and what it’s really like to launch a new sports brand during a global pandemic. Gem also explains why she is so passionate about the links between physical, mental and gut health, how she’s re-trained as a personal trainer and the tactics she’s deploying to get the perfect “work/life balance.” This episode is jam-packed with practical help for anybody interested in setting up their own business or simply wanting to learn more about building a brand from scratch, whilst, at the same time, trying to live a healthier, happier life. To find out more about Gem and VALA, head to @valaenergy on Instagram or valaenergy.com. Show notes: 01:53 – 03:00 – Gem explains what VALA is. 03:01 – 06:15 – Gem tell us what inspired her to create the VALA energy gel. 06:16 – 09:41 – Gem talks us through the ingredients in the VALA gel, how she developed the recipe and who helped her create the final iteration available to buy today. 09:42 – 11:32 – We ask Gem: what makes the VALA energy gel unique? 11:33 – 14:57 – Gem explains how she created a logo that incorporates the brand’s values. 14:58 – 16:01 – Gem tells us what the key stages in the development of VALA were 16:02 – 18:22 – Gem shares those pieces of advice which proved particularly useful to her. 18:23 – 19:38 – Gem tell us when she knew it was time to leave the day job and go all in on VALA. 19:39 – 21:39 – Gem explains what she would do differently if she knew then what she knows now. 21:40 – 27:30 – Gem talks us through how she’s using social media to build the VALA brand and its community. 27:31 – 31:56 - We ask Gem 5 quick-fire questions (spoiler – it ends up being more than 5 questions!). 31:57 – 36:53 – Gem explains what tactics she deploys to manage the “work/life” balance.

In this episode of The Eat Your Greens Podcast, we talk to Jono Sumner, one of the Founders of LifeJacket, the new skin protection brand for men. “Call it bro-tection. Call it buddy-minded. Call it what you want. We just want you to live a longer, healthier and happier life”. That’s the LifeJacket mission. What’s LifeJacket? It’s a new skin protection company designed specifically for men and founded by Jono Sumner, his brother Rob and best mate Billy. The statistic is shocking. Men are almost twice as likely to die of skin cancer than women. What’s more, there appears to be no biological reason for this. Jono says, “It’s simply to do with the difference in habit and attitudes of men compared to women.” In short, we men aren’t very good at taking care of our skin, particularly when it comes to protecting it against the sun. The guys at LifeJacket have a simple but ambitious goal. They want to address this and stop men dying from skin cancer. In this episode, Jono shares the LifeJacket journey, from the initial idea to the development of the products and then the launch of the brand, earlier this year. This is a podcast for anyone who knows they need to take care of their skin better. Yes, boys, we’re talking to you. It’s also for anyone interested in launching their own business. By the way, for the purposes of absolute transparency, we haven’t been paid to do this podcast. We just like the brand a lot, what it stands for, and the guys behind it. Show notes: 02:13 – 02:40 – Jono explains what LifeJacket is. 02:41 – 06:34 – Jono explains how the idea and subsequent launch of LifeJacket came about. 06:35 – 10:43 – Jono tells me why men are nearly twice as likely to die from skin cancer than women. 10:44 – 19:36 – Jono charts the course of bringing LifeJacket to life. 19:37 – 21:43 – Jono summarises the LifeJacket brand and its values. 21:44 – 33:49 – Jono and I talk about LifeJacket’s marketing strategy and its use of social media. 33:50 – 38:04 – Jono and I discuss Lifejacket’s “mission” and his, and the guys, approach to business. 38:05 – 40:02 – I ask Jono: What do you wish you knew 3-years ago that you now know? 40:03 – 44:00 – Jono shares his key learnings having successfully launched LifeJacket. 44:01 – 46:16 – I ask Jono: ultimately, what type of business, community and culture is he, and the guys, trying to build through LifeJacket? 46:17 – 48:18 – Jono explains how you can connect with him and LifeJacket, and, explains what products they sell.

Damian Hall is a journalist, record-breaking ultra-marathon runner and UKA coach. He’s represented Great Britain and achieved competitive results in some of the world’s toughest ultra-marathon races, including the world famous UTMB. He is also a self-proclaimed, “climate emergency hypocrite.” What’s a climate emergency hypocrite? We’ll get to the bottom of that in the podcast. “I thank my mid-life crisis for getting me addicted to ultra-running,” says Damian. Originally a football journalist turned travel writer, and then, outdoor journalist, Damian began running in 2011 when he completed his first half-marathon. The rest, as they say, is history.  Is this podcast about running? Yes. In part. But it’s also about life, learning and the reality of chasing your goals. In this episode, Damian explains how he’s transitioned from being a full-time journalist to an accomplished and highly respected ultra-marathon runner and coach. If you’re interested in transitioning from one career to another, Damian’s advice and key learnings will no doubt be useful intel for you. Damian also talks about how he’s adapted his life to live more sustainably; no easy task when part of your work involves travelling the world to participate in ultra-marathons. A rich and varied conversation, I hope you enjoy listening as much as I did recording it. You’ll find Damian on Instagram here: (https://www.instagram.com/ultra_damo/), on Twitter here: (https://twitter.com/Ultra_Damo). His website is: http://www.damianhall.info/ If you want to watch ‘Underdog,’ the film Damian and I discuss at the start of the podcast, you’ll find a link to purchase it via the Summit Fever Media website (https://www.summitfevermedia.com) Show notes: 01:49 – 02:32 – Damian talks about ‘Underdog,’ the film that documents his 5th place finish at the UTMB. 02:33 – 05:06 – I ask Damian: what came first, journalism, running or coaching? 05:07 – 09:56 – Damian explains how he went from journalist to professional ultrarunner and UKA running coach. 09:57 – 16:51 – Damian and I talk about his 5th place finish at the UTMB. 16:52 – 21:41 – I ask Damian how he turned his passion into a career. 21:42 – 24:56 – Damian shares his advice on how to turn your passion into a career. 24:57 – 30:46 – Damian and I discuss how he has almost entirely stopped writing as a journalist and now focuses on coaching full time. Damian explains what makes a good coach. 30:47 – 42:16 – Damian explains what is a “climate change hypocrite”. 42:17 – 48:53 – I ask Damian which running events he thinks are doing a good job with regards to becoming more environmentally friendly. 48:54 – 50:10 – I ask Damian how people can get in contact with him.

On the 27th December 2013, Maria Leijerstam became the first person in the world to cycle to the South Pole from the edge of the Antarctic continent. In doing so, she set the World Record for the fastest human powered coast to pole traverse, completing the journey in 10 days, 14 hours, and 56 minutes. This is the only Polar World First to be held by a woman. Maria titled the adventure the ‘White Ice Cycle’. Outside the world of adventure, Maria began her career in Rocket Science, and then moved into Project Management roles with multi-national organisations, including BAE Systems, Ford of Europe and Siemens. Today, she still regularly competes in some of the world’s most gruelling endurance events and runs the outdoor adventure company the ‘Burn Series’, in Wales, where she lives with her husband and two daughters. In this episode of the Eat Your Greens podcast, Maria shares her experience and expertise in business and how she’s applied those business learnings to expedition planning, execution, and, vice-versa. With an abundance of thought provoking comments, shared learnings and stories which can be applied to every-day life, this is a conversation you will not want to miss. To connect with Maria, use the contact details below. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marialeijerstam/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marialeijerstam/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/marialeijerstam E-mail: maria@burnseries.co.uk Burn Series: https://www.burnseries.co.uk/ Show notes: 02:05 – 03:45 Maria tells me when she first discovered that she had a love for adventure. 03:46 – 08:03 I ask Maria how she prepared for the White Ice Cycle? 08:04 – 11:03 Maria tells me her most vivid memory of cycling to the South Pole. 11:04 – 15:43 I ask Maria how she deals with the pain she endures during events. 15:44 – 17:37 Mara shares what she learnt about herself as a result of completing the White Ice Cycle. 17:38 – 21:39 Are women who take part in endurance sport getting the respect they deserve? Maria and I discuss. 21:40 – 24:55 Maria explains, based on her experience, where she thinks businesses can often make the most immediate improvements to their operations. 24:56 – 27:34 Maria explains what Lean Six Sigma is. 27:35 – 29:09 I ask Maria about the one piece of advice she always shares at an after dinner speaking engagement. 29:10 – 33:01 Maria tells me about her outdoor adventure company, Burn Series. 33:02 – 38:29 I ask Maria 5, quick-fire, questions. 38:30 – 39:23 Maria and I talk about her book, ‘Cycling to the South Pole’, and where you can buy it. 39:24 – 40:00 Maria shares her contact details.

“Prevention is better than cure.” It’s likely to be a phrase that you’ll have heard many times before. But, what about “prevention is cure?” According to the World Health Organisation, 80% of premature heart disease and stroke is preventable. It is the same for type-2 diabetes. If 4 in 5 cases of premature heart disease, stroke and type-2 diabetes are preventable, why aren't more cases being prevented? As Dr Kamali will explain, perhaps part of the solution is to adopt a “prevention is cure” approach to treating patients who are either showing signs of, or are already suffering from, preventable, premature, illnesses. In this episode, Dr Hamed Kamali explains why what you eat can play a vital part in preventing premature heart disease, stroke and type-2 diabetes. He discusses the changes we can all make to our diets and the positive impact such changes could have on us as individuals, and, the NHS more generally. Dr Kamali is @thepumpscientist on Instagram. Show notes: 01:09 - 03:10 - Dr Kamali explains what we can do to stay fit and healthy. 03:11 - 04:48 - I ask Dr Kamali how his approach to treating his patients might differ to other doctors. 04:49 - 05:35 - Dr Kamali explains what the biggest causes of death in the UK are. 05:36 - 07:53 - I ask Dr Kamali: what percentage of people who suffer from heart disease, stroke and diabetes might suffer from it because of poor diet and little or no exercise? 07:54 - 11:33 - Dr Kamali explains how he approaches a conversation with a patient who he believes may benefit from changing their diet and increasing the amount of exercise they do. 11:34 - 13:26 - I ask Dr Kamali how his patients respond to his approach of “prevention is cure.” 13:27 - 15:43 - Dr Kamali explains what's happening inside someone's body who eats meat and dairy, that isn't happening if you're on a plant-based diet.  15:44 - 18:36 - I ask Dr Kamali if there is anyone he wouldn't recommend to follow a plant-based diet. 18:37 - 22:12 - Dr Kamali explains why the NHS appears not to adopt a “prevention is cure” approach to treating patients. 22:13 - 25:25 - I learn that doctors are incentivised to prescribe medication. 25:26 - 27:27 - Dr Kamali explains that it is never too late to change your diet. 27:28 - 29:45 - I ask Dr Kamali: what impact would an improvement in our diets have on the NHS?  29:46 - 30:58 - Dr Kamali summarises our conversation and shares how you can connect with him.