The FitMIND FitBODY Podcast

This week's mindful moment is a simple invitation to shift your perspective—literally: sit in a different chair. Choose a seat you wouldn't normally use—the other end of the couch, a chair in another room, or even the floor—and settle in. As you sit, notice how your posture changes, how your breath feels, and what sounds or sensations stand out from this new vantage point. It's amazing how a small physical shift can gently nudge your mental state as well. This practice is mindfulness through subtle disruption—a reminder that even tiny changes can refresh your awareness and help you reset.

There's something beautiful about “boring” training. In this fourth check-in with Matthew, nothing dramatic has happened - no injuries, no big breakthroughs, no chaos. And honestly? That's exactly what we want. After completing an ultra just over a month ago, Matthew has dialled things back sensibly. He's sticking to a three-hour long-run ceiling, building strength through consistent back-to-backs, and focusing on staying healthy rather than chasing ego mileage. We dive into: •Why he caps long runs at three hours (and the research he's been listening to) •The power of repeated back-to-backs instead of one massive weekend •Running in London vs running in proper countryside darkness •Training in relentless mud and fully saturated trails •Road-to-trail shoe choices for Delirious •His detailed blister prevention strategy (including toe sleeves, taping methods and lessons from Fixing Your Feet) •Why treadmill hill reps have entered the chat •The culture shock of going from minus one degree to Western Australian heat •And the wisdom of NOT skateboarding two days before a 200-mile race

Ben is back… and the countdown is officially getting real. In this fourth check-in, we talk training adjustments, sand miles, gear lists (in spreadsheet form

This week's mindful moment offers a gentle way to weave awareness into your daily routine: set a mindful marker for your day. Choose one regular activity—like brushing your teeth, making a cup of tea, or starting your car—and let it become a cue to pause. Each time that moment arrives, take a deep breath, check in with your body, and ask yourself: What do I need right now? This simple habit acts as an anchor—a grounding point in your day that brings you back to presence without needing to stop everything. Small, consistent mindfulness adds up—and this is a beautiful place to begin.

Under 8 weeks to go. Garmin reminders pinging daily. And Gabe Alves? Calm. Calculated. Slightly obsessed with vert… and now ketones

#4 Sym Mercer checks in this month… live from a 47-degree audit site, in high-vis, somewhere in outback Queensland

This week's mindful moment focuses on the everyday actions we usually rush through: open or close something with full awareness. Whether it's a door, a drawer, your laptop, or a cupboard—pause and bring your full attention to the motion. Notice how your hand moves, the sound it makes, the effort your body uses, and the breath that moves with it.   Let this tiny moment become a check-in, a grounding cue that reminds you: you're present, you're alive, you're here. Even the smallest movement can become a doorway to mindfulness.  

In this Delirious WEST 2026 – Check-In 3 episode of the ZenRUN Podcast, we're catching up with Eve Knudson to see how things are really tracking as training starts to gently ramp up. Eve shares how she's mixing running, strength training, swimming and trail time – without locking herself into a rigid weekly plan. Instead, she's leaning into flexibility, planning ahead just enough, and fitting training around work deadlines, family life, and the occasional much-needed sleep-in ☕️ We chat about: • Starting strength training again (and those early “is-this-an-injury?” niggles

In this Delirious WEST 2026 – Check-In 3 episode, I catch up with Kylie Bell to see how training is tracking as the race starts to feel very real. Kylie shares how she's juggling busy shift work, limited time, and long-term ultra prep – including running to work, doing a full shift, then running home again (yes, really). We chat about training on tired legs, getting night running dialled in, and why consistency beats perfection right now. We also talk through: • Strength work coming back into focus • Testing packs, poles, shoes, and backup gear (including zip ties and hair ties!) • Nutrition learnings from Kosciuszko and keeping things simple • Travelling to Japan mid-build and why hiking + moving still counts • Heat worries, weather roulette, and hoping April behaves itself • Crew planning, laminated cheat sheets, and why support crews deserve medals • The fine line between experience and complacency   Kylie brings her trademark calm confidence – not stressed, not panicking, just quietly getting the work done. A great listen if you're balancing life, work, and big endurance goals… or if you've ever thought, “Am I doing enough?”   Delirious WEST event Website – https://deliriouswest200miler.com.au/ Event Facebook Page – https://www.facebook.com/groups/1428304207182387  

In this episode of the ZenRUN Podcast, I finally sit down with the wonderful Melissa (Mel) Clark — local legend, registered nurse, mum of twins, blueberry farmer, triathlete, ultra runner, and one of the most refreshingly honest humans you'll ever hear on a run chat.   Mel and I wander through her life (as we do), from growing up with a twin, to juggling nursing shifts, farming, family life, triathlon training, and running — often late at night with a head torch once everyone else was in bed. This is a real, unpolished conversation about what it actually looks like to keep moving through busy seasons, hormonal chaos, mum guilt, fatigue, and self-doubt.   We talk triathlons, backyard ultras, farm strength, gym hesitations (and finally joining one!), why women are tougher than we give ourselves credit for, and how learning to be kind to yourself might just be the most important training tool of all.   If you've ever felt like you should be doing more… or wondered how “everyone else” fits it all in — this episode will feel like a deep exhale.  

This week's mindful moment invites you to connect with the world around you in a grounded, tangible way: place your hand on a tree, fence, or wall. Wherever you are—at home, outdoors, or even in a public space—pause and rest your hand gently on a surface nearby. Feel its texture, notice its temperature, and let your breath slow as you stay in contact for a few deep inhales and exhales. This simple act brings you out of your head and into your body. It reminds you that you're supported, you're grounded, and you're here—held by the moment and the world around you.  

Today, we're checking back in with my daughter (and fellow Delirious 2026 athlete), Nikki Frost - and let's just say… it's been a week for her.   From finally getting on top of months of gut issues (goodbye mid-run vomiting

In this third check-in with Karin Ridley, we get a very real look at what the final stretch doesn't always look like when you're training for Delirious WEST 2026. After a nasty fall during a Christmas run, Karin has been dealing with a stubborn hip issue that's limited her running and forced a big mindset shift. Instead of panicking, she's doing what experienced ultra runners do best – managing what she can control. We chat about physio visits (finally

Warren Page is one of those runners who makes you feel instantly calmer about your own running journey. Growing up in country Western Australia, Warren's love for movement started early - bikes, bush, freedom, and plenty of mischief. These days, he's a personal trainer, runner, ocean swimmer, and deep thinker who's gradually found his way into trail running and now, ultra-distance goals (including a 100-miler at Delirious). In this episode, we chat about Warren's transition from strength and powerlifting into endurance running, the hard lessons learned from doing too much, too soon, and why walking hills, running tired, and strength training properly have become non-negotiables for him. Warren is refreshingly honest about injuries, shin splints, ego traps, and why slowing down — especially with a walk-run approach — completely changed his relationship with running. This is a grounded, practical, and very human conversation about building durability, staying curious, and learning to listen to your body. If you've ever felt like you're “not built like a runner,” struggled with recurring niggles, or wondered how everyday runners actually prepare for long events — you'll love this one.

This week's mindful moment is a gentle reminder of the power in repetition: do one simple movement repeatedly. Choose a movement—like raising your arms, stretching side to side, or rolling your shoulders—and repeat it slowly and intentionally for a few minutes. Let your breath guide the rhythm: inhale as you move, exhale as you return. The repetition becomes a moving meditation, easing your body and calming your mind without needing to overthink. It's the perfect practice for shifting stuck energy, settling your nervous system, and coming back to yourself—one gentle movement at a time.

In this third check-in with Matthew Farrand, we dive into the real middle phase of Delirious WEST 2026 prep – where learning, adapting, and listening to your body matters more than ticking perfect boxes. Matthew shares a big post-Christmas training milestone: completing a tough 43-mile ultra in the UK winter, with frozen mud, canal paths, head-torch running, and a very honest “this was harder than I expected” reflection. It was proper endurance training – finishing empty, but healthy – and that's a win. We talk through: • What that ultra revealed about fatigue, recovery, and strength gaps • Why quad strength and upper-back conditioning suddenly matter a lot • The surprisingly brilliant idea of switching from trail shoes to road shoes mid-race • Carrying shoes in your vest – pros, cons, and shoulder soreness lessons • Gaiters, poles, packs, and why now is the time to test gear (not race week!) • Fuel experiments – from jelly babies and Kendal mint cake to quesadillas and squash-proof pastries • Why Delirious is basically a moving picnic, not a gel-fest • Letting go of data obsession and trusting feel, experience, and common sense • The shift from “more running” to more walking as specific Delirious prep • Juggling family life, work changes, and fewer weekly runs – without losing momentum • Matthew's grounded philosophy: healthy beats perfectly fit, every time This episode is a great reminder that endurance success isn't about heroic training weeks – it's about consistency, adaptability, and arriving at the start line ready to go. If you're training for something big (or just trying to keep running part of your life), you'll get a lot from this one.   Delirious WEST event Website – https://deliriouswest200miler.com.au/ Event Facebook Page – https://www.facebook.com/groups/1428304207182387  

In this third Delirious WEST 2026 check-in, I catch up with Bianca O'Neill after a huge few weeks of running, learning, and life shifts – and honestly, it's one of my favourite updates so far. We chat about a jam-packed summer of long runs, including the Six Inch Ultra Christmas Party, a New Year's Eve ultra adventure, and Bianca's annual birthday run tradition. The big theme? Confidence is back. After a quieter patch late last year, Bianca's been stacking solid kilometres, testing nutrition properly, and remembering why she loves this stuff. She also shares what didn't quite go to plan on her birthday run (hello sore hip and toilet logistics

This week's mindful moment invites you to reconnect with the ground beneath you—walk barefoot across different textures. If it's safe and comfortable, take off your shoes and explore the surfaces around you: kitchen tiles, carpet, floorboards, grass, concrete. Notice the temperature, the texture, the way your feet adjust with each step.   Your gait will shift, your awareness will heighten, and your body will subtly respond. It's a simple practice that awakens the senses and nourishes your nervous system. Barefoot time is grounding, calming, and a beautiful way to return to the present—one step at a time.  

In this third check-in, I catch up with Ben Pyman as the Delirious WEST 2026 countdown slips into double digits – and the Adelaide heat turns things up a notch. Ben shares how December really went (spoiler: life was busy, but consistency still won), why he's happy with his mileage despite a few missed runs, and how he's thinking about training smarter this year – not just harder. We talk openly about heat management, why long flat road runs can be more fatiguing than trails, and the importance of not trying to “catch up” missed sessions (a lesson learned the hard way last year). This episode also dives deep into gear – from pack changes and shoe upgrades to battery stress, phone charging drama, and why small logistics can quietly drain energy during a multi-day event. Ben reflects on what worked at Delirious last year, what he's simplifying this time around, and how a few thoughtful upgrades can remove unnecessary mental load. There's also plenty of banter – park run competitiveness, age-group honesty, finishing-line fantasies, and a shared appreciation for keeping things simple as race day gets closer. A grounded, practical, and very real check-in from an athlete who knows exactly what matters at this stage of the journey.   ⸻  

In this Check-In 3 episode of the Delirious WEST 2026 series, I catch up with the wonderfully tough and straight-talking Sym Mercer – who is deep in the messy middle of training… with a not-so-cooperative hip. Since we last spoke, Sym's training took an unexpected turn after a big block led to a hospital visit, scans, bursitis, and a cyst that might be masking a stress fracture. Not ideal – especially with 13 weeks to the start line  (less now!). But if there's one thing Sym brings in spades, it's attitude. We talk about adjusting training on the fly – swapping running for gym, swimming, riding, paddling, and carefully reintroducing runs without blowing things up. There's also a big focus on mindset: staying in motion when rest messes with your head, trusting the long game, and accepting that sometimes the goal is simply to get to the start line in one piece. Sym also shares a behind-the-scenes look at planning the epic drive to WA, crew logistics, border biosecurity dramas (goodbye tomatoes and avocados

This week's mindful moment invites you to slow down a simple transition: put on something slowly and deliberately. Whether it's your socks, a jacket, or your favourite jumper—take your time. Notice the texture of the fabric, the way your body moves into it, and the moment your skin meets cloth.   We move through these everyday moments on autopilot, but they're full of opportunities to reconnect. Let this become a full-body check-in—a pause where breath and movement come together. Even the act of getting dressed can become a quiet ritual of awareness.  

In this third check-in with Delirious WEST 2026 athlete Craig Jeffrey, we dive deep into what long-term ultra preparation really looks like – not just the kilometres, but the thinking behind them. Craig shares stories from icy Christmas runs along the Hudson River (including borrowed shoes and a reminder to always carry your runners on flights), back-to-back 50km days on the Yarra, and why those tired-leg weekends actually build confidence rather than break it. We talk about block-style training, mixing intervals and tempo with long efforts, and why repeating huge long runs every weekend doesn't work for everyone. We also unpack poles strategy, pack setup for uncrewed runners, HRV trends after big races, and the strange mental states that can show up deep into a 200-miler – including Craig's unforgettable four-hour memory gap from last year's Delirious. As always, it's an honest, thoughtful conversation about training smarter, adapting with age, and embracing the adventure of Delirious WEST – uncertainty and all. In this episode we cover: • Running through winter in New York and training through travel • Achilles niggles, shoe choices, and why carrying your runners matters • Back-to-back long runs and confidence on tired legs • Block training vs weekly long runs • Tempo, intervals, and staying efficient over long distances • Poles strategy and arm fatigue • HRV, recovery, and what Delirious does to the body • Sleep deprivation, hallucinations, and altered brain states • Why Delirious is as much mental as it is physical

In this Delirious WEST 2026 Check-In 3, I catch up with Gabe Alves as the countdown suddenly drops into the “oh wow… this is actually close” zone – 13 weeks to go

This week's mindful moment invites you to tune into something often overlooked: listen for the silence between the sounds. Whether you're inside or out, begin by noticing the sounds around you—traffic, birds, voices, footsteps. Then shift your attention to the pauses between them. The stillness between notes. The breath between words.   Silence isn't empty—it has a presence of its own, and learning to hear it can gently quiet your mind and ground your body.   It's a simple way to reconnect with the deeper rhythm of your environment—the one beneath the noise.   Spend just five minutes with this practice, and see how it can bring calm and clarity to your day.   For more mindfulness ideas, head over to our ebook with 24 Simple Mindfulness strategies: https://fitmindfitbody.co/books/   Help us spread the mindfulness: 1️⃣ If you're enjoying our podcast, please leave a like and review. Your support helps others discover the joy of mindful running. 2️⃣ Have a story or know a runner who'd be perfect for our podcast? Reach out to us on Facebook/Instagram  or email (hello@zenrun.club ).

In this third Delirious WEST 2026 check-in, I catch up with the ever-thoughtful Eve Knudson, and honestly… this is one of those conversations that reminds you why we run. Fresh off the Three Inch race, Eve shares how a day that “wasn't meant to be a big deal” turned into one of those magic runs where everything just clicks — the legs feel good, the pacing makes sense, the fueling works, and suddenly you realise… maybe the training is actually working. We talk about the power of simple consistency, why Eve has stopped getting caught up in Strava comparison, and how doing less (but regularly) is often more than enough when your goal isn't to win — it's to keep showing up and enjoying the process. There's also plenty of real-life honesty: summer heat in WA, holiday routines, mental fatigue, getting lost on trails, strength training avoidance (very relatable), and the logic gymnastics of spending $18 on coffee but hesitating over a gym membership

In this third Delirious 2026 check-in, I'm sitting down in person with Nikki Frost while she's home in Tasmania for Christmas — which means plenty of giggles, real talk, and a very honest training update. Since we last spoke, Nikki tackled the Mount Buller Skyrun 46km and, while her fitness and strength are clearly trending in the right direction, nutrition is still the big question mark. She shares what happened when the throwing up kicked in again, how close she came to a DNF, and why having her brother Ben crewing made all the difference in getting her to the finish line. We talk elevation, effort, gastric reflux, experimenting with sports nutrition (hello maple syrup gels), and why speed isn't actually the trigger everyone assumes it is. Nikki also reflects on what this means for her Delirious W.E.S.T. journey — spoiler: the distance doesn't scare her, but fuelling over multiple days absolutely matters. There's also a first test of brand-new running poles on the Walls of Jerusalem trails, some upcoming race plans on the horizon, and an unexpected star of the episode: Cocoa Pops as a pre-run fuel strategy (Santa-approved

This week's mindful moment is an invitation to meet yourself with gentle presence: mirror yourself with kindness. Stand in front of a mirror - not to critique, but to see. Notice your posture, your expression, and the quiet strength behind your eyes. Then soften. Smile. And offer yourself a kind thought - something as simple as, “I'm here. I'm trying. And that's enough.” This is not about appearance - it's about acknowledging the person looking back at you. Your story. Your resilience. Your softness. Let the mirror become a moment of connection - not judgement. Spend just five minutes with this practice, and see how it can bring calm and clarity to your day. For more mindfulness ideas, head over to our ebook with 24 Simple Mindfulness strategies: https://fitmindfitbody.co/books/   Help us spread the mindfulness: 1️⃣ If you're enjoying our podcast, please leave a like and review. Your support helps others discover the joy of mindful running. 2️⃣ Have a story or know a runner who'd be perfect for our podcast? Reach out to us on Facebook/Instagram  or email (hello@zenrun.club ).

In this second Delirious WEST 2026 check-in, I sit down with Kylie Bell just weeks after she finished the Ultra-Trail Kosciuszko 100-miler — and wow… this one was an adventure. Kylie shares what it was really like out on the course as conditions went from sunny to savage: extreme winds strong enough to blow runners off walkways, sideways hail, snow crossings in running shoes, relentless rain, and a final climb where safety became the only priority. At one point, runners were literally holding onto each other just to stay upright. We talk about moving through fear and panic when things feel out of control, including a moment where Kylie — still recovering from pneumonia — had to calm herself mid-race and keep going. There's also a powerful reminder here of how important preparation, mandatory gear, and smart decisions are when conditions turn. Despite everything, Kylie finished strong, placed 4th in her age group, avoided blisters entirely (even in snow!), and came out of the race feeling surprisingly good — a testament to experience, patience, and listening to your body. We also chat recovery, Christmas with no rigid training plan (on purpose), gear that actually lasts, simple trail fixes (hello cable ties), and what really matters when you're this deep into an ultra journey. This is a brilliant, honest conversation about resilience, adaptability, and why Delirious WEST will feel very different after what Kylie has already faced. Delirious WEST event Website – https://deliriouswest200miler.com.au/ Event Facebook Page – https://www.facebook.com/groups/1428304207182387 A couple of BIG favours: 1) please like and review this podcast so more people will discover it :) 2) come on the podcast and talk about your running journey and/or refer someone you'd love me to interview (whether you know them or not :) )  Lets not keep the power of running a secret any more!  Hit me up on Facebook/Instagram (ZenRUN.club) or send me an email - Hello @ zenrun.club Don't miss an episode of the ZenRUN Podcast. Subscribe to the podcast on your podcast player :)

In this second check-in with Delirious WEST 2026 athlete Matthew Farrand, we catch up just a week out from Christmas — and honestly, things are ticking along beautifully. Matthew describes his last month as “average”… which quickly turns out to mean consistent, strong, and quietly confidence-building. He's stacking weeks in the high-70km range, ticking off strength, hills, speed work and long runs, and feeling his endurance come together without feeling trashed. We chat early-morning running routines, managing training around family life, and why getting runs done before the day begins just works. Matthew also shares his thinking around breaking long builds into blocks, using a January ultra as a smart training milestone rather than grinding nonstop all the way to April. There's plenty of runner-nerd goodness in here too — from blister management kits and pole practice (urban runners, you'll relate), to destination long runs along the Thames, running through foot tunnels under the river, and soaking up the history that comes with exploring London on foot. This is a calm, grounded check-in that shows what sustainable ultra prep really looks like: patience, planning, curiosity, and enjoying the journey.

This week's mindful moment brings you back to centre - shift your weight side to side. Stand barefoot if you can, feet hip-width apart, and gently sway from left to right. Feel the subtle adjustments in your body as you transfer your weight - how your feet respond, how your core engages, and what muscles quietly support you. There's no need for rhythm or pace—just let your body explore the feeling of balance in motion. This simple movement grounds you, calms scattered energy, and reconnects you with the physical sensation of being here. It's a quiet, centring practice you can return to anytime you need to feel steady again. Spend just five minutes with this practice, and see how it can bring calm and clarity to your day.   For more mindfulness ideas, head over to our ebook with 24 Simple Mindfulness strategies: https://fitmindfitbody.co/books/   Help us spread the mindfulness: 1️⃣ If you're enjoying our podcast, please leave a like and review. Your support helps others discover the joy of mindful running. 2️⃣ Have a story or know a runner who'd be perfect for our podcast? Reach out to us on Facebook/Instagram  or email (hello@zenrun.club ).

In this second check-in with Delirious WEST 2026 athlete Craig Jeffrey, we dive straight into one of Australia's toughest mountain races — the Kosciuszko 100 miler — and unpack what it really takes to keep moving forward when conditions (and your body) aren't playing nice    Craig shares a raw, honest race debrief covering brutal alpine winds, unexpected snow crossings, stomach battles, sore knees, smashed toenails… and still finding moments of flow late in the race.   This is a conversation about experience, self-trust, and learning to race yourself — not the clock, not the field.   Get ready for: •

In this episode we catch up with Ben Pyman to see how training, mindset, and life are shaping up as he builds towards the 100-mile start line. Ben shares how Movember became a powerful reset month — shaving off a decade-long beard, running 200+ kilometres, and using the challenge to open honest conversations around mental health and wellbeing. What started as fundraising quickly turned into something much deeper. We also dig into the nuts and bolts of Ben's training: •What consistency really looks like for him •How structure (without perfection) has changed his running •Using ChatGPT to build an 18-week training framework •Why breaking big plans into small chunks matters •His goals for Delirious WEST (and why finishing in daylight is a BIG motivator) Plus, we get delightfully nerdy about: •Shoes (road vs trail, Tarkines, beach sections) •Blisters, gaiters, and keeping sand out of shoes •Gear overthinking vs simple problem-solving •Why the last finisher deserves just as much respect as the first This is a relaxed, honest, very real conversation about doing the work, staying flexible, and remembering why we run in the first place.

This week's mindful moment invites a playful shift in awareness: watch how your shadow moves. As you walk, run, or go about your day, take a moment to notice your shadow - how it swings, stretches, and shifts with your body. It's a subtle mirror of your posture, alignment, and rhythm, offering gentle feedback on how you're showing up in each moment. You can even play with it - exaggerate your steps or sway your arms and see how your shadow responds.   Beyond movement, it's a reminder that you're here, walking in the light, moving through your day with presence. Let your shadow become a quiet companion that reflects your aliveness and unique rhythm in the world.   Spend just five minutes with this practice, and see how it can bring calm and clarity to your day.   For more mindfulness ideas, head over to our ebook with 24 Simple Mindfulness strategies: https://fitmindfitbody.co/books/   Help us spread the mindfulness: 1️⃣ If you're enjoying our podcast, please leave a like and review. Your support helps others discover the joy of mindful running. 2️⃣ Have a story or know a runner who'd be perfect for our podcast? Reach out to us on Facebook/Instagram  or email (hello@zenrun.club ).

Karin is back… and wow, she's packed a LOT into this check-in. Since we last spoke, Karin has been adventuring her way through Spain, France and the UK — hiking 20–30km a day, tackling a seriously brutal mountain race in Spain, and discovering just how different real mountains are compared to “hills” back home in WA

In this latest Delirious WEST 2026 athlete check-in, I'm catching up with Bianca O'Neill — and wow… a LOT has happened since we last spoke. In this honest and very relatable catch-up, Bianca shares what it was really like racing Feral (yes… that heat, those flies, those cut-offs

This week's mindful moment marks a beautiful milestone—tip 200—and brings us back to the centre of it all: place your hand on your heart. Right now, just pause. Gently rest your hand on your chest and feel the warmth, the rhythm of your breath, and maybe even your heartbeat beneath your palm. It's a quiet moment of connection—simple, still, and grounding. You don't need to say anything, but if a word like calm, gratitude, or presence comes to mind, let it land gently in your awareness. This practice is perfect for starting or ending the day, pausing between tasks, or comforting yourself when life feels heavy. It's a soft, powerful reminder: I'm here. I'm okay. And maybe… thank you, heart, for showing up—every single day. Spend just five minutes with this practice, and see how it can bring calm and clarity to your day. For more mindfulness ideas, head over to our ebook with 24 Simple Mindfulness strategies: https://fitmindfitbody.co/books/ Help us spread the mindfulness: 1️⃣ If you're enjoying our podcast, please leave a like and review. Your support helps others discover the joy of mindful running. 2️⃣ Have a story or know a runner who'd be perfect for our podcast? Reach out to us on Facebook/Instagram  or email (hello@zenrun.club ).

This month's chat with Eve honestly felt like a big exhale. December energy is real, and Eve is right in the middle of it—balancing kids, work deadlines, Christmas chaos, end-of-year functions, tired mornings, and still somehow squeezing in her runs… or gentle walks… or naps… or the occasional lunchtime wine

In this episode, I catch up with my daughter and fellow Delirious W.E.S.T. 2026 runner, Nikki Frost, who's had a very… colourful four to six weeks of training. And by colourful, I mean she left half her stomach contents scattered across the Dandenongs.

This week, I'm so excited to introduce you to my friend and fellow UESCA-qualified ultra coach… Valerie Wong! Val's story is a brilliant mix of determination, adventure, and laugh-out-loud honesty — from growing up in Hong Kong, boarding school in the UK, studying atmospheric science (yes, weather patterns! ☁️), running her first Boston loops, to discovering ultras during the pandemic. She's now an ultra-runner, triathlete, mountain lover, channel swimmer (!!), mum of two, and one of the funniest people I've met in our coaching cohort. This episode is full of real talk, wisdom, and some truly excellent running tips. ⸻ ✨ What You'll Hear in This Episode • Running beginnings in Hong Kong & Boston Val first ran because “everyone in Boston runs!” — her first 1km nearly killed her, but a 5K made her feel unstoppable. • From marathons to Ironman to ultras She completed an Ironman in Austria (“like swimming in Evian water!”) before kids, then rediscovered running during COVID when everything else shut. • How ultras became her ‘freedom sport' during lockdown With races cancelled, she signed up for the distances still allowed — 50K, 70K, then her first 100K. • The magic of mountain running (and how to survive 38°C valleys!) Val shares hilarious and heartfelt stories from Mozart 100, CCC, Snowdon 50K, and Lavaredo — including the moment she burst into tears at an aid station while her crew patched her up like a Formula 1 pit team. • Why introverts often love running Running is where Val recharges, thinks, plans, and escapes the noise. “Everyone go away… it's just me and my thoughts.” • The importance of crew, community & the surprising friendships on the trail Val's stories about crewing, crying, and downhill “controlled falling” are gold. • Training insights from a scientist-runner She talks about RPE, running hills on purpose, and why she increased from 4 to 5–6 days of running to build time on feet. • Identity, motherhood & normalising movement We chat about role-modelling consistency for kids and building a life where movement is normal, not optional. ⸻

Spend just five minutes with this practice, and see how it can bring calm and clarity to your day. For more mindfulness ideas, head over to our ebook with 24 Simple Mindfulness strategies: https://fitmindfitbody.co/books/ Help us spread the mindfulness: 1️⃣ If you're enjoying our podcast, please leave a like and review. Your support helps others discover the joy of mindful running. 2️⃣ Have a story or know a runner who'd be perfect for our podcast? Reach out to us on Facebook/Instagram  or email (hello@zenrun.club ).

In this Delirious W.E.S.T. 2026 check-in, I sit down with the wonderful Gabe Alves, who has had—hands down—one of the most honest and powerful training months of the entire series. Gabe walks us through his experience at Feral, a race that started brilliantly for him… until it didn't. Physically, he was flying. The climbing strength, the pacing, the hills, the timing — everything was lining up for his best Feral yet. But then the mental load of a tough year caught up with him, and the second half of the race became a battle with looping thoughts, emotional overwhelm, and the kind of mental crash only ultra-runners truly understand. This episode covers: • When your legs feel great but your brain taps out • How life-stress can empty your “resilience tank” before you even start the race • The power of pacers, support crews, and someone to break you out of a mental loop • Why physical fitness alone isn't enough in a miler • Post-race recovery, fragility, and the slow climb back • What Gabe's learned — and how he's preparing smarter for Delirious 2026 It's raw, real, and incredibly relatable. And honestly? These are the conversations runners need to hear. Big love to Gabe for showing up with such honesty — there's gold in this episode for every ultra-runner who's ever hit the “why am I doing this?” moment.   Delirious WEST event Website – https://deliriouswest200miler.com.au/ Event Facebook Page – https://www.facebook.com/groups/1428304207182387   A couple of BIG favours: 1) please like and review this podcast so more people will discover it :) 2) come on the podcast and talk about your running journey and/or refer someone you'd love me to interview (whether you know them or not :) )  Lets not keep the power of running a secret any more!  Hit me up on Facebook/Instagram (ZenRUN.club) or send me an email - Hello @ zenrun.club   Don't miss an episode of the ZenRUN Podcast. Subscribe to the podcast on your podcast player :)  

In this month's Delirious W.E.S.T. 2026 athlete check-in, we head all the way to London to catch up with our one and only non-Aussie runner, Matthew Farrand — who's juggling dark winter mornings, school drop-offs, and some seriously solid training momentum.   Matthew shares how his fitness is quietly (and satisfyingly!) building — those long runs now feel easier and the patella niggle that haunted him in August has settled right down. He talks about the mental side of ultra prep too…the boredom voice, the planning, the “where should I run this weekend?” puzzle, and why exploring new neighbourhoods keeps him motivated.   We chat about: • Why dull training is good training

This week's mindful moment invites you to bring presence into one of the tiniest, most ordinary actions: take a breath before you pick something up. Whether it's your phone, a bag, or a kid's toy, pause for just a moment before lifting. Place your hand on the object, feel its shape, and take one slow breath. Notice your intention—are you rushing, reacting, or moving on autopilot?   Then pick it up slowly, feeling your body engage and your breath stay steady. This simple pause turns an everyday movement into a grounding check-in, reminding you that you're allowed to move through your day with more softness and awareness. Spend just five minutes with this practice, and see how it can bring calm and clarity to your day.   For more mindfulness ideas, head over to our ebook with 24 Simple Mindfulness strategies: https://fitmindfitbody.co/books/   Help us spread the mindfulness: 1️⃣ If you're enjoying our podcast, please leave a like and review. Your support helps others discover the joy of mindful running. 2️⃣ Have a story or know a runner who'd be perfect for our podcast? Reach out to us on Facebook/Instagram  or email (hello@zenrun.club ).

In this check-in, Sym Mercer is back — fluoro shirt, big smile, and casually juggling triathlon training while preparing for a 200-mile ultra. Yep… just your average Delirious athlete.

In this first Delirious W.E.S.T. 2026 check-in, I catch up with the always-positive Kylie Bell — and wow, she's had a month! From tackling a tough gravel marathon in the Stirling Ranges (complete with nearly 900m of vert and a sneaky brush with dehydration) to bouncing back from pneumonia, Kylie has had her share of plot twists.  We chat about the mental side of training when things don't go to plan, her stair-repeat session at Shazza's (462 steps… she's counted!), why time-on-feet matters more than chasing monster weekly kilometres, and the pure grit that keeps ultrarunners showing up even when life throws a spanner in the works. Kylie also shares her simple approach to strength training, her plan heading into Ultra Trail Kosciuszko, and her hilarious “beer credits” system for post-race holidays.  She might feel underdone, but honestly? She's tougher than she gives herself credit for — and we'll all be cheering her on. Delirious WEST event Website – https://deliriouswest200miler.com.au/ Event Facebook Page – https://www.facebook.com/groups/1428304207182387   A couple of BIG favours: 1) please like and review this podcast so more people will discover it :) 2) come on the podcast and talk about your running journey and/or refer someone you'd love me to interview (whether you know them or not :) )  Lets not keep the power of running a secret any more!  Hit me up on Facebook/Instagram (ZenRUN.club) or send me an email - Hello @ zenrun.club   Don't miss an episode of the ZenRUN Podcast. Subscribe to the podcast on your podcast player :)  

This week's mindful moment brings a little fun and nostalgia into your day: do a movement you loved as a child. Think back to how you used to move—skipping, spinning, rolling down a hill, or running just because it felt good. Choose one of those simple, playful movements and bring it back for a few minutes today. It's not about exercise or performance—it's about joy, freedom, and reconnecting with the pure, instinctive way your body loves to move. Let yourself laugh if it feels silly—that's part of the magic. This kind of mindful play helps you shake off tension, reset your energy, and rediscover a little lightness in your day. Spend just five minutes with this practice, and see how it can bring calm and clarity to your day. For more mindfulness ideas, head over to our ebook with 24 Simple Mindfulness strategies: https://fitmindfitbody.co/books/ Help us spread the mindfulness: 1️⃣ If you're enjoying our podcast, please leave a like and review. Your support helps others discover the joy of mindful running. 2️⃣ Have a story or know a runner who'd be perfect for our podcast? Reach out to us on Facebook/Instagram  or email (hello@zenrun.club ).

In this first Delirious 2026 check-in, I catch up with the ever-entertaining Bianca O'Neill — ultra runner, full-time legend, and queen of keeping it real. After juggling her aged care prac, study dramas, and 3am runs (yes, really), Bianca admits it's been a tough month — but she's still smiling, learning, and laughing her way through it all. We chat about the juggle of life, the guilt of not training enough, and the reality that sometimes, “tapering” just means shifting where your energy goes. Bianca also shares her secrets for blister-free feet (involving Squirrel Nut Butter and Creepers), her go-to ultra snacks (hello, ham and cheese toasties

In this first Delirious W.E.S.T. 2026 check-in, I catch up with the ever-authentic Eve Knudson, who's been navigating a wild few weeks of recovery, work chaos, house renovations, and life as a mum — all while keeping her running spirit alive. Eve opens up about bouncing back from illness, rediscovering how good running feels after a break, and the tricky balance between being kind to yourself and knowing when to push through. We chat about early alarms, laying out your running clothes to remove resistance, and the power of “permission runs” — heading out for 200 metres and turning back if it's just not the day. From booking accommodation for the big race (thanks, Mum and Dad!) to the importance of routine when life's a little scattered, this episode is equal parts relatable, hilarious, and grounded in real-world running wisdom. Oh, and yes — Eve might just have set her PBs after a bottle of red wine.

This week's mindful moment invites you to shift your perspective—literally: look up when you walk. Whether you're heading down the street, walking through your home, or out for a stroll in nature, try lifting your gaze. We spend so much time looking down—at our phones, our feet, or lost in thought—but above us, the world is alive with movement and light.   Notice the tops of trees, drifting clouds, birds in flight, or the way sunlight filters through rooftops. This small change in direction can open your posture, lift your mood, and help you feel more grounded and present. Walk like someone who's really here—and let the sky be your reminder. Spend just five minutes with this practice, and see how it can bring calm and clarity to your day.   For more mindfulness ideas, head over to our ebook with 24 Simple Mindfulness strategies: https://fitmindfitbody.co/books/   Help us spread the mindfulness: 1️⃣ If you're enjoying our podcast, please leave a like and review. Your support helps others discover the joy of mindful running. 2️⃣ Have a story or know a runner who'd be perfect for our podcast? Reach out to us on Facebook/Instagram  or email (hello@zenrun.club ).

In this episode, we catch up with the ever-cheerful Karin Ridley — freshly minted grandmother (aka “Gigi”

In this first check-in for Delirious W.E.S.T. 2026, I catch up with Craig Jeffrey — who's clocking a casual 160 km a week as he gears up for the Kosciuszko 100 Miler