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Captain Preet Chandi MBE is a world record breaking explorer, former British Army officer, and physiotherapist. She served in the Royal Army Medical Corps for 16 years before embarking on groundbreaking polar expeditions. In 2022, Preet became the ninth woman in history to ski solo to the South Pole, and the first woman of colour to complete a solo expedition on the continent. Less than a year later, she set out on her next adventure, breaking two Guinness World Records for the longest solo unsupported one-way ski expedition, both for a woman and overall, covering 922 miles in 70 days. She returned to Antarctica in December 2023 to set her fourth world record: the female speed record to the South Pole, completed in 31 days, 13 hours, and 19 minutes. Preet's expeditions are driven by her mission to inspire others to push boundaries. She champions the message that everyone starts somewhere, and that no matter your background or starting point in life, you are capable of breaking barriers and redefining what's possible. In 2025, she established her Community Interest Company, Adventure is Ours CIC, which supports expeditions that promote education, inspiration, climate awareness, and diversity in exploration. Through the CIC, she also delivers outreach, mentorship, and school visits to empower people of all ages. In 2022, Preet started delivered her school talks across the UK, reaching more than 18,000 students. That same year, she was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in the Queen's Birthday Honours. Her achievements have been widely recognised: she received the ‘Inspirational' and ‘Woman of the Year' awards at the inaugural Women in Defence event in 2022, was named ‘Explorer of the Year' in 2023, and in 2025 was awarded the prestigious Geographical Award by the Royal Geographical Society. Past TGP episodes July 8th 2021 - Preet Chandi - Army Physiotherapist, Ultra Runner, first solo unsupported expedition to South Pole! Feb 15th 2022 - Preet Chandi - aka Polar Preet - 1st woman of colour to reach the South Pole New episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast drop every Tuesday at 7 AM (UK time)! Make sure to subscribe so you never miss the inspiring journeys and incredible stories of tough women pushing boundaries. Do you want to support the Tough Girl Mission to increase the amount of female role models in the media in the world of adventure and physical challenges? Support via Patreon! Join me in making a difference by signing up here: www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast. Your support makes a difference. Thank you x Show notes Who is Preet Originally from Darby, but basically living everywhere Spending 16 years in the Army Chatting to Preet previously on the Tough Girl Podcast Making the decision to leave the Army Coming back in debt Getting straight back into work Starting the next fundraising cycle Trying to get unpaid leave Doing her 3rd expedition without telling anyone Trying to cross the landmass on Antarctica on her 2nd trip Not making it The voice in her head, telling her she had failed Feeling the relief when she finished Getting 2 records from the trip Why it's ok to fail Being slated by an article Feeling worried about what people in the adventure community would think of her Wondering if she could get the female speed record? (Needing to break 33 days) Why you don't need to be the best to succeed Learning as she goes on Why 2023 was a tough year and struggling The impact on weight loss on your brain Burnout Starting to feel recovered Wanting to train for the North Pole Having time off Losing her granddad and hearing the news after the trip Building momentum Getting to sleep 8 hrs per night Talking about failure Making mistakes and being able to pinpoint them Being nervous to get started Needing to get going and hitting some storms at the start The voice in her head - being scared to fail, and being called a failure Using her pain relief before she though she would need to Getting a polar thigh industry Starting to move more slowly towards the end Focusing on the next 2hrs Getting home Traumatic growth? The daily pain cave… Being made to slow down The costs of doing these trips Getting help and support Trip 3 - the women's speed record Dealing with the hunger The next big challenge - the north pole Why there is a high chance of failure You can not fail, unless you try Preparing for the misery and suffering The privilege of being on the start line of adventures Lying to herself Why not Preet! Needing luck on the next adventure Wanting to show show much than you can do anything You go and you try Why her trips are bigger than her Why adventure is for anyone Being very driven and being an encourager How to connect with Preet MBE and what it means What's been achieved in 4 years Why you do belong in every single room The importance of the first step Social Media Website: www.polarpreet.com Instagram: @polarpreet Facebook: @polarpreet
Are you making the single biggest mistake in your fitness journey? What if everything you thought you knew about building a strong, muscular physique was wrong, and the secret was hiding in disciplines you've been avoiding? In episode 823 of the Savage Perspective Podcast, host Robert Sikes sits down with dancer and Pilates expert Andrea Leigh to reveal why women should embrace strength training to build bone density and why your mindset around movement might be the only thing holding you back from seeing real results. Andrea explains how simple, consistent movements can completely transform your body and your life.Want to build a truly powerful physique? Join Robert's FREE Bodybuilding Masterclass to discover the key principles for maximizing muscle growth and strength: https://www.ketobodybuilding.com/registration-2Get Keto Brick: https://www.ketobrick.com/Subscribe to the podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/42cjJssghqD01bdWBxRYEg?si=1XYKmPXmR4eKw2O9gGCEuQChapters:0:00 - Why All Women Need To Start Lifting Weights 0:35 - Why Nutrition Is Useless Without This 1:23 - How a Dancer Became a Fitness CEO 2:55 - What Kind of Dance Is Best For Fitness? 3:58 - How a Dance Coach Transformed My Bodybuilding Posing 5:15 - What Is Pilates (And Is It Just For Women)? 7:17 - The #1 Mistake Lifters Make & How Pilates Fixes It 7:47 - Beginner's Guide: Mat Pilates vs. Reformer Pilates 9:06 - How Often Should You Do Pilates For The Best Results? 10:37 - Why Strength Training Is Non-Negotiable For Women 11:59 - What Is a Barre Workout? (It's Not What You Think) 13:34 - Why Most Bodybuilders Are Secretly Weak 14:50 - Are Women Finally Embracing Lifting Heavy? 18:21 - Why "Eating Less" Is Keeping You From Your Dream Body 20:57 - Menopause Weight Gain? Do This, NOT That. 23:32 - "Movement Snacks": How to Get Fit in 2 Minutes 26:42 - The Secret to Burning More Calories Without "Working Out" 29:43 - The Power of "Non-Negotiable" Daily Habits for Success 32:47 - The "Maintenance" Myth: You're Either Growing or Decaying 35:10 - The Mindset Shift That Makes Fitness Effortless 35:53 - A Client's Impossible 100-Pound Transformation Story 39:56 - Got Off Track? The "Flat Tire" Analogy You Need to Hear 40:49 - Is Matcha Actually Healthier Than Coffee? 44:17 - The Launch of "Small Moves, Big Life" 47:10 - How to Take Your Bodybuilding Posing to the Next Level 49:12 - How to Spot a Bad Pilates Instructor (Red Flags) 51:45 - Is Repeating the Same Workout a Waste of Time? 53:12 - Where to Get The Book & FREE Workouts
Robyn Godfrey is an accomplished runner, pacer, RRCA Certified Level 1 coach, and motivational speaker who began her running journey at the age of 47. What started as a personal quest to improve her health and overcome her relationship with alcohol soon evolved into a remarkable achievement: completing seven marathons, including the prestigious World Marathon Majors — London, Chicago, Berlin, Boston, New York, and Tokyo. A dedicated member of the Wilmington Road Runners Club since 2013, Robyn has made a significant impact by coaching and pacing runners, helping them unlock their potential and reach their goals. In addition to her coaching, she has volunteered with organisations like Girls on the Run, empowering young girls to grow both physically and personally through running. New episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast drop every Tuesday at 7 AM (UK time)! Make sure to subscribe so you never miss the inspiring journeys and incredible stories of tough women pushing boundaries. Do you want to support the Tough Girl Mission to increase the amount of female role models in the media in the world of adventure and physical challenges? Support via Patreon! Join me in making a difference by signing up here: www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast. Your support makes a difference. Thank you x Show notes Who is Robyn Making a change in her life at 47 Starting running for 30 seconds on a treadmill Facing serious life hurdles over the years Reinventing herself Chasing after her dream Her early years and not being sporty The why before making the change Not being able to stop over indulging Continuing the journey Starting to run outside and why it was such a different experience Run the 10K Cooper River Bridge Run Training for a year to run a 10K Getting hooked on running Why motivation isn't enough Starting to think about taking on a marathon Running the London Marathon for her 50th Birthday Getting a place through a lottery ticket How the structure of marathon training fitted in well with her mentality Breaking down big challenges into smaller more manageable goals Not being a fast runner, but enjoying the process of marathon training Fitting in training around life and work Carrying a fork Being a party girl and drinking Being social and not needing to drink a lot of wine to do that The Tokyo Marathon Following strict cutoff times 27.8 miles…. Recovering after running Core work and conditioning Strength training for women The mental side of running Being a goal orientated person Run the mile you are in Keep going - things will turn around The lessons learned from running which can be applied to challenging situations Why running can't save you from everything Feelings of guilt Completing her goal of running all of the World Marathon Majors Training on trails and running a 50k at elevation Turning 60 next year Planning to run Sydney Marathon Writing her book How to connect with Robyn Wanting to inspire people to go after their dreams Final words of advice - on how to take the first step Why you can't just rely on motivation The power of community Social Media Website - www.worldmajormarathonfinisher.com Instagram @beachy_runner LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/robyngodfrey Facebook www.facebook.com/robyn.godfrey.3 Book: Running the World: A Runner's Odyssey of Struggle and Triumph in the World Marathon Majors
In this episode of the Tough Girl Podcast, I'm joined by the incredible Julie Weiss — also known as The Marathon Goddess. Julie's story is one of resilience, healing, and purpose. After losing her father to pancreatic cancer, she set out on an extraordinary mission: to run 52 marathons in 52 weeks, raising awareness and funds for pancreatic cancer research along the way. Her journey captured hearts around the world — from the Today Show and O Magazine to countless finish lines across the US. But behind the medals and media attention is a woman who found strength, joy, and hope through running. Now in her fifties, Julie has completed over 118 marathons, raised more than $1 million for research, and continues to inspire others with her message that it's never too late to chase your dreams, honour your loved ones, and find purpose in every step. In this conversation, Julie opens up about: How running helped her heal from grief and depression The challenges and triumphs of running 52 marathons in 52 weeks What it takes to stay motivated and injury-free through massive goals Her empowering “7 C's to Defy Your Limits” — Create, Certainty, Connect, Commit, Consistent, Cause, and Courage Julie's story is a beautiful reminder that transformation begins with one small step — and that every mile can make a difference. New episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast drop every Tuesday at 7 AM (UK time)! Make sure to subscribe so you never miss the inspiring journeys and incredible stories of tough women pushing boundaries. Do you want to support the Tough Girl Mission to increase the amount of female role models in the media in the world of adventure and physical challenges? Support via Patreon! Join me in making a difference by signing up here: www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast. Your support makes a difference. Thank you x Show notes Who is Julie Living in Santa Monica, California, USA Being known as the Marathon Goddess - Running 52 marathon in 52 weeks Raising over $1 million for charity Being excited to share the wisdom she has leaned from running marathons Her childhood and early years Being tall with long legs Starting running at 37 years Not being at athlete at school Taking a different path Becoming a mother at 18 Not doing a lot of exercise in her younger years Feeling at a very low point in her life Going for that first run on the beach Wanting to feel good Keeping on running Coming off anti-depressants Fitting running into her life and making it work for her Joining a running group LA Road Runners Connecting with other people Training for a triathlon first Running her first marathon in March 2008 How running makes her feel Her relationship with her dad Raising funds for Hirshberg Foundation for Pancreatic Cancer Research Taking 10 years to raise the funds Project Purple Deciding to run 52 marathons in 52 weeks The Marathon Guy Being determined Feeling overwhelmed at the start of the goal The start and the different steps involved Reaching out to charities, speaking to her boss The power of having purpose The physicality of the challenge Protein, stretching, foam rolling, strength training, rest, compression tights, physio The standout marathons from the challenge The Leadville Marathon and the challenges of running at altitude The Lake Tahoe Marathon The New York Marathon in 2012 - being cancelled Marathon proposal! Being coached by her husband Qualifying for the Boston Marathon Losing her dad 19th attempt of getting into Boston Marathon Making the decision to run 52 marathons in 52 weeks Not giving up The mental side of the challenge The importance of creating a goal that is important to you The 7Cs - Create, Certainty, Connect, Commit, Consistent, Cause, Courage Enjoying what you've accomplished Writing her book BOOK: The Miles and Trials of a Marathon Goddess: 52 Weeks, 52 Marathons Advice for deciding what to do? The importance of fun Chasing speed and wanting to quality for Boston again Running during peri-menopause and menopause Struggling with the lack of sleep and dealing with a lack of iron Compassion Reaching her 100th Marathon at the LA Marathon Needing to keep on going Being supported by her friends The importance of enjoying the journey and finding the joy How to connect with Julie Words by ― CS Lewis “You are never too old to set a new goal or to dream a new dream.” Social Media Website: www.julie-weiss.com Instagram: @marathongoddess Facebook: @Julie-WeissMarathonGoddess
In this episode of the Tough Girl Podcast, we meet Susan Norman — a former National and World Champion in whitewater kayaking and rafting, hydrologist, coach, and now author of RISK: A Life Saved by the River. Susan's story is one of courage, flow, and resilience. From the roaring rapids of international whitewater competition to the quiet, uncertain waters of parenting her young nephew, she's navigated life's toughest challenges with the same instinct, grit, and grace that made her a world-class paddler. Now retired from her career with the U.S. Forest Service and living in Lake Tahoe, California, Susan reflects on how rivers shaped her identity — not just as an athlete, but as a woman learning to make her own risk assessments, trust her judgement, and face fear head-on. In this conversation, Susan opens up about: Finding belonging and strength in the early days of women's paddling The lessons whitewater taught her about resilience and decision-making Her journey into writing and how storytelling became an extension of adventure What it really means to take good risks — on the river and in life Get ready for a deeply thoughtful episode about flow, fear, and finding freedom through the wild power of water. *** New episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast drop every Tuesday at 7 AM (UK time)! Make sure to subscribe so you never miss the inspiring journeys and incredible stories of tough women pushing boundaries. Do you want to support the Tough Girl Mission to increase the amount of female role models in the media in the world of adventure and physical challenges? Support via Patreon! Join me in making a difference by signing up here: www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast. Your support makes a difference. Thank you x *** Show notes Who is Susan Norman Living in Lake Tahoe, California Working for the US Forest Service Being retired for 7 years Starting her journey and learning new creative writing skills Book: RISK: A Life Saved by the River Her childhood (with her twin brother) and early years Her interest in rivers and how her father inspired her Her transition from teenager to adult White water paddling as an amateur sport Competing as a teenager Jamie McEwan Wanting to increase her skill set Going to high school in the early 1970s Not having many older female role models Dads and daughters on the river Forming a tribe and connecting with the other girls during her teenage years The relationship with her mum who was diagnosed with MS Being raised by a single father Replacing family with the paddling community Being part of the first wave of women getting into a high level of paddling Paddling amongst the best paddlers in the world Analysing and making decisions based on her own risk assessments Learning to trust her own judgement A life saved by the river Working with a writing coach Telling her story, while raising her nephew Taking her nephew on river trips Taking 6 years to write the book Trying to figure out how to raise a child Facing hard things and not being able to see a path through Not knowing how things will turn out and taking it one day at a time Taking challenging in small steps Giving an ultimatum to her partner Going through the teenage years Oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) Adventuring with children and why you should go as soon as you can The power of outdoor adventure sports Managing fear while on adventure and parenting River boarding and learning about the flow of the river water How to connect with Susan Final words of advice with regards to risk and making tough decisions Find the good risk Social Media Website www.susannormanauthor.com Facebook: Susan Norman
Morning chat: Do I cut out carbohydrates to lose weight?Message me with “kickstart” and I'll get you the detailshttps://youtube.com/shorts/Sq0JnIKtdTg?si=3UjdL-Gs0K6MlYy0www.FruciFit.com Helping Wiltshire ladies 40+ get fit and ditch the yo-yo dieting
In this candid and raw Tough Girl Podcast EXTRA episode, we reconnect with the unstoppable Vedangi Kulkarni — the youngest woman to have cycled around the world, who's recently returned from doing it again. Now based in Inverness, Scotland, Vedangi opens up about her second attempt at cycling around the globe — this time not just for the journey, but in pursuit of a Guinness World Record. From racing Lael Wilcox to navigating border delays, funding pressures, and the relentless physical and mental toll of riding across five continents, Vedangi doesn't hold back. This conversation is about pushing limits, embracing failures, and finding strength when things don't go to plan. Highlights from the episode include: Breaking a record in the Himalayas (Manali–Leh Highway) in 2023 Preparing to cycle the world again in 2024 — and finding sponsorship, gear, and coaching Struggles of travelling on an Indian passport and the challenge of visa logistics Being delayed at borders, detained, and ultimately forced to return to the UK mid-ride due to visa expiry Restarting in 2025, finishing the ride under the blazing Indian summer sun Dealing with the post-expedition blues and finding her footing again Vedangi's story is one of resilience, honesty, and fierce determination. Despite knowing she wouldn't get the world record, she kept going — driven by passion, grit, and the belief that stories worth telling are born from adversity. Now, she's looking ahead to her next expedition, ramping up her YouTube and Substack presence, and continuing to speak openly about the realities of life as a woman of colour in adventure sport. Heads-up: This episode includes some strong language. New episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast drop every Tuesday at 7 AM (UK time)! Make sure to subscribe so you never miss the inspiring journeys and incredible stories of tough women pushing boundaries. Do you want to support the Tough Girl Mission to increase the amount of female role models in the media in the world of adventure and physical challenges? Support via Patreon! Join me in making a difference by signing up here: www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast. Your support makes a difference. Thank you x Show notes Who is Vedangi From India but currently based in Inverness, Scotland The Adventure Shed Coming back from her 2nd ride around the world Speaking to Vedangi in Sep 22, 2020 - Vedangi Kulkarni - The youngest woman to have circumnavigated the world on bicycle. Tough Girl Extra Oct 27, 2022 - Vedangi Kulkarni - Adventurer and endurance athlete moving into mountain biking and crossing Svalbard. The focus of this episode - what Vedangi has been up to over the past couple of years Deciding to cycle around the world again 2023 - visiting the Himalayas and going after a point to point record. GWR for being the fastest women to cycle the Manali-leh Highway Getting her win June 2023 - starting to be vocal about her goals in 2024 Getting the sponsorship and funding in place Needing £20k Working with Canyon Bikes Speaking to the bike experts Getting a gravel bike and specking it like a road bike Being an Ambassador for RAB Working with Tailfin - and having custom build gear 3D printed mounts Struggling to get sponsorship from Indian companies Getting only 1 Indian Sponsor at the last moment Training and working with Jon Fearne from E3 Coaching Following a training plan and putting in the best effort with it Applying for visas and planning the route with an Indian passport The challenges of getting to the start line Racing against Lael Wilcox (who was attempting the same record at the same time) “Why do I think I can do this? I don't stand a chance” Mental blocks and challenges The challenges of travelling on a weaker passport Having no room for errors - everything needs to go to plan Why it wasn't a level playing field Speaking with Lael before heading off - women supporting women Knowing that she wasn't going to get the record and keeping on going Having a good story to tell Dealing with setbacks and failures and keeping on going The route and how it was slightly different to the first time Starting on the East Coast of India Riding across Mongolia and then on to Australia Challenges with border crossings and getting detained and delayed Needing to fly back to the UK on Christmas Eve due to UK visa regulations Needing to stay in the UK for 2 months Getting back to India in March 2025 to finish the ride The challenges of the heat - going from Scottish winter to an Indian Summer Feeling satisfied once the ride was finally done. Adventure blues after the ride Planning her next record attempt and expedition. Wanting to push her limits further Why health isn't guaranteed One precious life and you've got to get out there and live it Balancing everything that's going on How to connect with Vedangi on social media Kickstarting her YouTube again Getting more active on Substack Final words of advice for women who want to push on through their barriers Embracing failure and not letting it dim your light - it's not always going to go to plan Be motivated to try your best The journalling process and how it can help mentally with self-esteem Social Media Website: vedangi.info Instagram: @thisisvedangi LinkedIn: Vedangi Kulkarni Twitter: @thisisvedangi Facebook: @wheelsandwords YouTube: @thisisvedangi Link to donate me a small amount: [Buy Me A Coffee]
Morning chat: Remember this when you're a bit tired, stressed…..Message me with “kickstart” and I'll get you the detailshttps://youtube.com/shorts/Sq0JnIKtdTg?si=3UjdL-Gs0K6MlYy0www.FruciFit.com Helping Wiltshire ladies 40+ get fit and ditch the yo-yo dieting
Can we get fit, strong, lean, and have a stack of energy without buying a gym membership, pills, electronic devices, expensive exercise clothes, or equipment? www.maxfitnesscollege.com
Morning chat: What my kids taught me from an anniversary card!Message me with “kickstart” and I'll get you the detailshttps://youtube.com/shorts/Sq0JnIKtdTg?si=3UjdL-Gs0K6MlYy0www.FruciFit.com Helping Wiltshire ladies 40+ get fit and ditch the yo-yo dieting
Morning chat: England Women's Rugby and the power of persistenceMessage me with “kickstart” and I'll get you the detailshttps://youtube.com/shorts/Sq0JnIKtdTg?si=3UjdL-Gs0K6MlYy0www.FruciFit.com Helping Wiltshire ladies 40+ get fit and ditch the yo-yo dieting
Morning chat: Dieting lessons from times tables with the kidsMessage me with “kickstart” and I'll get you the detailshttps://youtube.com/shorts/Sq0JnIKtdTg?si=3UjdL-Gs0K6MlYy0www.FruciFit.com Helping Wiltshire ladies 40+ get fit and ditch the yo-yo dieting
In today's episode, we're talking about creating a fitness and nutrition routine that fits your lifestyle, especially when you're busy. We chat all about how to make quick meals, quality over quantity in workouts, and making your habits repeatable and systemized. Watch the podcast on my YouTube! Coaching/links/transformation roadmap down below:Share feedback/send fanmailGet the Transformation Roadmap - The 10 part series to building your plan to lose fat and build muscle mass. Join the free groupAll links The question is not whether you can do it. The real question is whether you want to keep doing it alone or if you are ready for a plan built around you, your lifestyle, and designed to finally deliver results. You know what to do, but let's make sure it works for your goals. → Apply for my 1:1 Transformation Program - Spots are limited; currently enrolling. Support the showInstagram | TikTok | YouTube | Pinterest
Morning chat: Tip to help with the cooler darker morningsMessage me with “kickstart” and I'll get you the detailshttps://youtube.com/shorts/Sq0JnIKtdTg?si=3UjdL-Gs0K6MlYy0www.FruciFit.com Helping Wiltshire ladies 40+ get fit and ditch the yo-yo dieting
Morning chat: What if I can't do all the exercisesMessage me with “kickstart” and I'll get you the detailshttps://youtube.com/shorts/Sq0JnIKtdTg?si=3UjdL-Gs0K6MlYy0www.FruciFit.com Helping Wiltshire ladies 40+ get fit and ditch the yo-yo dieting
In this Tough Girl EXTRA episode, we catch up with Tiphaine Muller, the intrepid French adventurer who continues to push her boundaries through long-distance cycling and remote, high-altitude trekking. Now 31 and based in Chamonix, France, Tiphaine has spent the last decade traveling the world by bike, exploring five continents. Her latest journey saw her pedaling from the Alps to the Himalayas before tackling one of the toughest and most remote treks on earth: The Great Himalaya Trail (GHT) in Nepal. This conversation picks up from where we left off in her first Tough Girl Podcast interview (November 2021) — where she shared her early adventures and passion for slow travel. This time, we dive deep into her 2024 journey: Cycling from France to Nepal through the Balkans, Turkey, Iran, Central Asia, and the Himalayas — all while managing extreme heat, border crossings, and a strict budget of €10/day. Hiking the Great Himalaya Trail solo (West to East), over 80 days, through towering 5,000m+ passes, remote villages, and ever-changing terrain — while battling physical exhaustion, route-finding issues, and high-altitude nutrition struggles. Tiphaine candidly shares: The logistics and challenges of arranging permits for restricted zones without a guide Her coping strategies for trekking alone in high mountains Cultural highlights from cycling through Turkey and Iran How she funds her travels and balances life back home as a social worker Her future goals — including film-making and another epic cycle across South America This episode is a deep, honest reflection on the highs and lows of big adventures and what it takes — mentally, physically, and emotionally — to keep moving forward when things don't go to plan. Don't miss this inspiring update from a woman who truly lives the spirit of adventure, one pedal stroke and step at a time. New episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast drop every Tuesday at 7 AM (UK time)! Make sure to subscribe so you never miss the inspiring journeys and incredible stories of tough women pushing boundaries. Do you want to support the Tough Girl Mission to increase the amount of female role models in the media in the world of adventure and physical challenges? Support via Patreon! Join me in making a difference by signing up here: www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast. Your support makes a difference. Thank you x Show notes Who is Tiphaine 31 years old Living in Chamonix, France Travelling on and off for the past 10 years Going on 3 big bicycle trips 1st Tough Girl Podcast episode - November 18th 2021 2nd Big Cycle Trip - Cycling from Mexico to Alaska This episode focusing on cycling from France to Nepal and hiking the Great Himalaya Trail Thinking about the next challenge Hiking the High Route of the Pyrenees solo Joking about the Great Himalaya Trail Figuring out the visa and trying to plan for the trail Planning for 6 months and working out how to make it work with the seasons Starting in March 2024 The Route - Cycling Europe really fast in 1 month Going through the Balkan Countries, Greece then the ferry over to Turkey Across Georgia, Armenia, Iran and the Stan countries Highlights and magical moments from the cycle ride Why Turkey is one of her favourite countries Why Iran was really demanding The bike and gear setup for 6 months Dealing with extreme heat and needing to ride during the night to escape the heat Funding the trip and living off savings Living off a daily budget of 10 euro per person per day (while cycling) Earning money working as a social worker Day to day rhythm while riding on the bike Having a rest day every 10 days The Great Himalaya Trail and wanting to walk West to East Needing to go to Katmandu first to sort out all the permits Taking a rest in Katmandu for 10 days Busing to the start of the trail Having 80 days to walk the trail Why the first 2 weeks were super hard Getting lost of the trail; no signs, no gps on the phone, incorrect maps, not knowing which track was the correct one Struggling to stick to the schedule, due to the permits Not having a guide Dealing with problem after problem Walking in the high mountains Needing to have guides while walking in Nepal…. Going through a trekking agency - who will allow you to get the trekking permits without a guide The restricted areas close to the borders Mixing the high routes and the low routes Finding resupply and food on the trail The challenges of cooking at altitude Struggling to get the calories in and needing to focus more on food Needing to eat, even when not hungry Paying for food - and taking cash for 80 days… Coping with the altitude and the high passes over 5,000m Hiking without a guide Connecting with other hikers and Nepalese people What's app group for GHT preparation! Hiking or cycling?! Reaching the end of the hike in December Deciding to continue cycling for another 2 months and visiting China and Malaysia Writing another book? Focusing on film and making 2 videos - a bike film and a hike film! Plans for the future? Wanting to visit South America on the next big bike and cycle trip How to connect with Tiphaine on social media Final words of advice To do something big you need to start with something little Trust yourself Social Media Instagram @littlemisspedals
Morning chat: Lessons from the Devizes Food and Drink Festival TalkMessage me with “kickstart” and I'll get you the detailshttps://youtube.com/shorts/Sq0JnIKtdTg?si=3UjdL-Gs0K6MlYy0www.FruciFit.com Helping Wiltshire ladies 40+ get fit and ditch the yo-yo dieting
Jenn is a long-distance walker, community leader, and passionate advocate for women's wellbeing in the outdoors — especially during menopause. From battling endometriosis, PCOS, and the trauma of an early medical menopause in her 20s, she was once told she couldn't live the active, adventurous life she craved. She's spent the last few years since proving otherwise — one footstep at a time. What began as a personal outlet for healing has evolved into something much bigger: being able to connect women to their strength through hiking, movement, and community. Whether she's leading local walks, multi-day hikes, backpacking or pushing her own limits, she walks with the intention that creating space for people to feel heard, safe and be around nature is of the upmost importance. A qualified lowland leader, speaker, and founder of a thriving women's walking community in Kent, she brings insight, humour, and unflinching honesty to conversations about menopause, mental health, leadership, and what it means to feel powerful in your body again — especially when the world told you not to try. Through her trail stories — from ultra hikes to quiet woodland days — she shows that adventure isn't about speed or summits. It's simply about showing up.
At age 55, Belgian runner Hilde Dosogne set out to break boundaries — and did just that. In 2024, she ran 366 marathons in 366 days, earning her the title of Guinness World Record holder for most consecutive marathons in a year. What makes Hilde's journey so extraordinary is not just the distance she covered, but the relentless dedication she showed while working part-time and managing her daily life with laser-focused discipline. Known as Marathon Woman 366, Hilde didn't grow up in a sporty family. In fact, she didn't seriously take up running until her 40s. But once she did, she never looked back — moving from her first marathon with her husband in 2013 to ultra events like the Marathon des Sables and the legendary Spartathlon in Greece. Inspired by endurance runner Candice Burt, who ran an ultra a day, Hilde set a goal that was bold yet (just) manageable alongside her career — a marathon every single day for an entire year. From battling injuries and illness, to running through Belgian storms and even dislocating a finger mid-run, Hilde's story is one of mental toughness, resilience, and unwavering self-belief. In this episode, Hilde shares: Why she decided to take on this incredible challenge How she structured her days and managed recovery The highs and lows of running every single day The mental strategies that helped her keep going Her thoughts on aging, performance, and redefining what's possible at 55 The deep sense of joy and freedom she finds in running Hilde's story is a reminder that it's never too late to start something extraordinary — and that the only limits are the ones we place on ourselves. New episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast drop every Tuesday at 7 AM UK time. Subscribe and be inspired by stories of women pushing their physical and mental limits across adventure, endurance, and exploration. Support the mission to increase the visibility of female role models in adventure and sport: www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast Show notes Who is Hilde Living in Belgium 55 years old Married with 4 children aged between 18 and 26 years old Working in a chemical company and being passionate about running Being known as Marathon Woman 366 Not growing up in a sporty family and not being encouraged to do sports when she was younger Getting into running after her children were growing up Being focused on building up her career and raising her children Reaching 40 years old and wanting to lose some weight and deciding to run a marathon with her husband in 2013 How her running progressed and wanting to run more marathons and then wanting to run faster and then further Getting a lot of satisfaction from achieving her goals and pushing her limits Deciding to run the coastline of Belgium - 74km Wanting to know what else she could do Deciding to run the Marathon des Sables in Morocco Struggling with sleep in the open tent, and dealing with the sandstorm and the noisy people in the tent Running Spartathlon Ultra Race Running from Athens to Sparta - having 36 hrs to complete the race Needing to qualify for the Spartathlon Running 170km in 24 hrs in 2022 Running the race again in 2023 and running 1 hr faster than the year before Being inspired by Candice Burt running an ultra marathon everyday Realising that running an ultra marathon a day would take up too much time everyday Deciding to run a marathon everyday and break a world record Feeling that running a marathon everyday would be achievable while working at the same time Starting to plan for the event in summer 2024 - wanting to run with other people Applying to Guinness World Records and figuring out the logistics for evidence The time commitment involved and trying to run with other people Being commitment to the hours she was running The hard days, especially when she was feeling sick Dealing with stomach pain and covid. Falling while running and dislocating her finger Dealing with bad weather especially at the start of the year Struggling with her sleep and feeling too excited from the running both physically and emotionally Sleeping during her lunch break Needing to have her days very strictly scheduled The time commitment of running, social media and the info for Guinness World Records The mindset of taking on a daily challenge like this Her resilience coming from having a strict childhood and being very disciplined Seeing her running as a job Feeling gratitude for while she was running Raising funds for breast cancer patients Being supported by the people who ran with her and also supported via social media Daily recovery strategies - having a recovery shake, baths, stretching and a massage 1x per week Being supported by her husband in the house Getting to the end of 366 marathons Running the last week in pain, due to a hamstring injury Preparing an event for the last day Her body was telling her to stop running Stopping running on the 1st January 2025 Feeling very happy that it was over! Getting back into running/walking 10 days later Wanting to do the Spartathlon for the 3rd time Becoming the 24hrs running Belgium Champion Listening to podcasts and music to pass the time Not experiencing many affects from perimenopause and menopause Nutrition and fuelling while running a marathon everyday Which is harder running a fast 5k or running a longer distance? Stretching, foam rolling, core stability exercises and bike riding The biggest lessons learned from taking on this challenge Why the human body can do much more than what we think Doing this challenge at 55 years old Running an average time of 4hrs 5 mins for each marathon Why you can start running at any age Training for the Spartathlon 2025 with a running coach Running coach Benny Fisher How to connect with Hilde on line Words of advice for runners The mind is stronger than the body If you think you can't anymore, you have to think you can do it. Even if you are at a low point in a race. You need to know that it can get better. Why the only reason to stop is if you have a serious injury. Believe that it can get better Think about how you will feel when you give up Think about the people that support you and they will be very happy that you finish and disappointed if you don't Do it for a charity, so you know you are not only doing it for yourself. You have to be strong psychically and mentally Prepare yourself for the difficult moments in the race and think through all the different scenarios that could happen Social Media Website: www.hildedosogne.be/en Instagram: @marathonwoman366/ Facebook: @marathonwoman.2024 Strava: https://www.strava.com/athletes/51029211
Out of Shape? How to Recover and Get Fit Again | Fit Vegan Podcast Ep. #405Join our Free Fit Vegan weekly newsletter: https://fit-vegan-coaching.kit.com/newsletterInterested in working with our world class team, Book your application call here: http://book.fitvegancoaching.com/podcastWelcome to the Fit Vegan Podcast! In this episode of the Fit Vegan Podcast, I share my own journey of getting back in shape after setbacks like a concussion and a twisted ankle. We talk about the challenges of returning to fitness after a break, and why patience, realistic goals, and consistency matter most. I also cover the mindset shifts that make the biggest difference, how to stay positive when progress feels slow, and why your body is more resilient than you think. If you've fallen off track, this episode will show you it's never too late to rebuild your health.In This Episode, We Cover: [00:00–05:38] My Injuries and Struggles: The Reality of Getting Back in Shape[05:39–10:58] Setting Realistic Goals and Building Consistency[10:59–23:03] Mindset Shifts and Motivation for Lasting Progress[22:04–26:27] The Body's Resilience: Final Thoughts and EncouragementKey Quotes“If you're recovering from an injury or you're coming back after not exercising for a long time, which is to have grace for yourself, it is not going to be perfect." -Maxime."I think what makes it easier to deal with it and to progress is just accept that it's only where you're at now, and that you have the power and the ability to change that as long as you're willing to take imperfect and consistent action."-Maxime.My name is Maxime Sigouin. I am the founder of Fit Vegan Coaching and Empire Builders Agency. I have a passion for serving and helping people live to their fullest potential.Book Your FREE Consultation Call Here: http://book.fitvegancoaching.com/podcast- Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maximesigouinofficial/- Join our FREE Fit Vegan Community: www.freefitvegancommunity.com- Youtube Channel : https://linktw.in/AyNrSW
What could your life look like in 30 days if you stopped doing fitness the world's way and invited God into your health? ✨ In today's episode — on the very last day to join the Fit God's Way 30-Day Transformation — you'll hear the vision for what's possible when you let Jesus transform your body, mind, and spirit. This isn't another quick fix. It's a proven, Bible-based fitness plan for Christian women that helps you finally find freedom. Here's what you'll hear: Why worldly fitness will always fail you — and God's way leads to freedom (Romans 12:2) A vision of what your next 30 days could look like with Christ at the center (Isaiah 43:19) The transformation waiting inside the program: peace, freedom, and confidence (Galatians 5:1) Why you don't want to miss this final live round of 2025 (Hebrews 3:15) ✨ Sister, this is it. Enrollment closes tonight. This is your last chance to experience the live coaching, Christ-centered community, and bonuses that make faith and fitness simple and sustainable. Last Day to Join ➡ Start Your 30 Day Transformation Here So if you're ready for a Christian health and fitness plan that brings peace instead of pressure, press play. Remember, You are Storng. COnfdient. His. Get Fit in His Strength and for His Glory, Kim Dolan Leto
In this episode of the Tough Girl Podcast, we journey into the heart of the Amazon and the mind of a remarkable woman pushing the boundaries of science, culture, and conservation—Dr. Rosa Vásquez Espinoza. Rosa is a Peruvian chemical biologist, National Geographic Explorer, UN Harmony with Nature Scientist, and the founder of Amazon Research Internacional. Splitting her time between Bath, England, and the Peruvian rainforest, Rosa blends cutting-edge research with ancestral knowledge to protect biodiversity and uplift indigenous communities. Her journey—from a curious child growing up in Peru to leading expeditions in the Amazon, researching the legendary Boiling River, studying stingless bees, and authoring The Spirit of the Rainforest—is nothing short of extraordinary. Rosa shares how she learned expedition skills later in life, why documenting indigenous science is crucial, and what it means to be a female scientist navigating international platforms like the UN and COP16. This conversation is packed with insight into climate resilience, overcoming self-doubt, and the healing power of nature, science, and community. Rosa's message is a powerful call to action for women everywhere: follow the questions that stay in your head—you never know where they may lead. New episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast drop every Tuesday at 7 AM (UK time)! Make sure to subscribe so you never miss the inspiring journeys and incredible stories of tough women pushing boundaries. Do you want to support the Tough Girl Mission to increase the amount of female role models in the media in the world of adventure and physical challenges? Support via Patreon! Join me in making a difference by signing up here: www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast. Your support makes a difference. Thank you x Show notes Who is Dr Rosa Currently living in Bath Being based between England and Peru Working as a Peruvian scientistic National Geographic Explorer Leading science and conservation efforts in the Amazon Rainforest Having a deep connection to her indigenous roots Her early years living in Peru and relationship with her grandmother Spending time in the city and the mountains Being fascinated by the things she couldn't understand Loving space and wanted to know everything about the planet Having a fascination for science Wanting to dedicate her life to the Amazon Getting her PhD in Chemical Biology from Michigan University Taking a year off to get more work experience and reconsidering her whole life Being able to study traditional Chineses medicine in Beijing in her last year of undergrad The Amazon Boiling River Ted Talk - Andrés Ruzo Book: The Boiling River (TED) by Andrés Ruzo Discovering new microbes in the river Boiling mud Book: The Spirit of the Rainforest: How indigenous wisdom and scientific curiosity reconnects us to the natural world What you can expect from the book Learning expeditions skills later on in life Leading her first expedition Chapter 4 - Stingless Bees - the oldest bees on the planet Capacity building Partnerships with different indigenous groups Climate challenges Climate Anxiety The importance of indigenous science and making sure that it is documented Being motivated to write the book COP16 in October 2024 in Colombia Dealing with self doubt and why the work is not easy Being a voice with the international press Creating space for female indigenous members Being a good team member The importance of community Current expeditions and plans for heading back to the field Funding expeditions Extreme climate explorers BBC - Documenting their work on stingless bees How to find stingless bees Smelling fish in the jungle…. Medicinial Honey?! Comparison to Manuka honey? Her Ayahuasca experience The ego death experience Chapter 11 - becoming a black jaguar How to connect with Dr Rosa Final word of advice for women who want to explore more and get into science and exploration Follow the questions that stay in your head You never know where they may lead. Social Media Website: www.rosavespinoza.com Instagram: @rosavespinoza Facebook: @rosavespinoza9 TikTok: @rosavespinoza YouTube: @rosavespinoza
Maybe you've been asking: Is this just another diet? Will I actually have time for it? With only one day left to enroll in the Fit God's Way 30-Day Transformation, this Bible-based fitness program for Christian women will give you the clarity you need to know if it's the right next step on your health journey. Start Your Fit God's Way 30 Day Transformation Here: https://kimdolanleto.com/enroll Here's what you'll learn: The key difference between the Fit God's Way book and the 30-Day Transformation course Why you don't need to “be fit first” — this Christian women's fitnesss and health program meets you exactly where you are How short, faith-filled lessons and lifetime access make it realistic for even the busiest schedule Why this works when other diets and quick fixes have failed The bonuses (recipes, workouts, playlists, and Bible reading plan, and more) that make faith and fitness simple and fun ✨ Sister, this is it. With just one day left, you don't have to keep circling the same mountain of diets, willpower, and starting over. The Fit God's Way 30-Day Transformation is a step-by-step, Christ-centered plan to finally experience lasting consistency and breakthrough in your health. Don't wait — enrollment closes tomorrow. Click Here to Join ➡ and let's walk this out together with Jesus at the center. Remember You are Strong. Confident. His. Get Fit in His Strength and for His Glory! Kim Dolan Leto
This episode is different than any episode I have ever done, as I filmed it while lifting. I wanted to talk about fitness and not being lazy, so I figured what better way to do than while simultaneously doing a lift. Besides seeing how I'm lifting and being able to copy my routine, I talk about the bigger challenge for most people - the mental hurdles. I crush excuses, go over reasons people are stuck, and how to overcome them. Visit our sponsors: DavidMMA.com - David Avellan's new website, where he is posting new articles daily, new courses being posted frequently, covering techniques, news, fitness, breakdowns, and much more. You can join as a guest for free to see what the site has to offer. Follow me on Facebook: https://Facebook.com/DavidAvellan Follow me on Instagram: https://Instagram.com/DavidAvellan Follow me on X: https://X.com/DavidAvellan Tag us on Social Media with #BreakingTheGuard
The truth hurts: America will never get fit — not unless we change the culture. With excuses, comfort, and fast food everywhere you turn, the deck is stacked against discipline. In this rant, I break down why America is losing the battle for fitness and what it would take to actually turn it around.
In this deeply moving and inspiring episode of the Tough Girl Podcast, we're joined by Sophie Pierce, a 32-year-old social worker from Pembrokeshire, West Wales, who made history in March 2025 as the first person with Cystic Fibrosis to row an ocean. Diagnosed at just 3 months old, Sophie has lived with the challenges of a genetic condition that affects her lungs and digestive system and once carried a life expectancy of under 30 years. But Sophie's story is not defined by limitation—it's a bold testament to resilience, courage, and the power of hope. From working in fostering services to hiking the Welsh coast with her dogs, swimming in cold water, and sleeping in her campervan—Sophie has never shied away from living life on her terms. In this episode, she opens up about the life-changing impact of the Kaftrio drug trial, how she overcame mental health struggles, and what it truly meant to embrace life beyond the horizon by rowing across the Atlantic. She shares the highs and lows of the row: the months of preparation, team dynamics, magical moments at sea, and how it feels to return to "normal life" after an extraordinary adventure. Sophie's message is powerful and universal—you are capable of so much more than you think. If you're looking for inspiration, perspective, and an honest exploration of living—and thriving—with a life-limiting condition, this episode is not to be missed. New episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast drop every Tuesday at 7 AM (UK time)! Make sure to subscribe so you never miss the inspiring journeys and incredible stories of tough women pushing boundaries. Do you want to support the Tough Girl Mission to increase the amount of female role models in the media in the world of adventure and physical challenges? Support via Patreon! Join me in making a difference by signing up here: www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast. Your support makes a difference. Thank you x Show notes Who is Sophie 32 years old Living in Pembrokeshire, West Wales Working as a social worker in fostering service Living with a genetic health condition - Cystic Fibrosis (CF) March 2025 - becoming the first person with CF to row an ocean What is CF Being born with it and getting diagnosed at 3 months old Having a shorter lifespan How CF affects her lungs and digestive system Living with reduced lung function Her younger years and how she was treated Why exercise and being out in the fresh air is actively encouraged Not liking exercise as a child Growing up knowing she had CF and why it was normal Being empowered with CF and how her parents encouraged her Her mum reminding her to stay as well as she could for as long as she could, so she could benefit from treatments in the future. Learning about her shorter life expectancy and managing those feelings Adopting a positive attitude - being determined to live her life and not letting CF hold her back Wanting to make the most of her time Understanding that time is precious Not needing a pension, savings or need to put down roots The help and support available to help manage the mental and emotional challenges Experiencing panic attacks while her health was declining Working with a psychologist Using tools from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) Feeling frightened of letting the big feelings of sadness in Feeling so sad about living with CF The drug trial - 5 years ago Taking the Kaftrio drug The challenges of winter for CF patients ‘The Purge' - coughing for 24 hrs How her life and lungs has changed Trustee for CF Trust Being asked to row an ocean Forming a crew of 4 Stumbling blocks and being told no - by the World's Toughest Row Atlantic Dash Securing the finances and managing the stress of getting to the start line Her biggest fear and worrying about staying well enough to do the row Getting out on to the ocean. Having electrical issues with the boat Name of the boat - The Spirit of Bluestone Magical moments on the Atlantic Ocean Day 46 coming to the end of the row Rowing schedule and needing to get extra sleep during the night The challenges of team dynamics Finding their roles within the group Being the social secretary and bringing fun to the boat The biggest lesson from rowing the ocean You can do so much more than you think you can Being supported by the right people around you Dealing with the adventure blues How life in weird after rowing an ocean Being in a really exciting place Future challenges?! Words of advice from the CF perspective Learning to life with CF How to connect with Sophie You are capable of so much more than you think you are Learn to reframe the negative voices in your head Social Media Instagram @sophiefpierce @cruisingfree2025
What does it really take to get fit—and stay that way—for 20+ years? Want to get fit and actually stay that way—especially if you want to be fit over 40?In this video, I'm sharing the 21 most important fitness lessons I've learned from 20 years as an online fitness and nutrition coach, IFBB Fitness Pro competitor, and women's fitness expert. These are the exact strategies that have helped me stay lean, strong, and energized through my 30s, 40s, and now into my 50s—and they can work for you, too.Whether you're dealing with menopause belly fat, struggling to build muscle, or just feel like your old routine isn't working anymore, this is your roadmap. No gimmicks, no extremes—just real-world, science-backed lessons that thousands of women I've coached have used to transform their bodies.If you're a woman over 40 who wants to know how to get fit and stay that way long-term, this video breaks down exactly what matters (and what doesn't). From training smarter, eating for your metabolism, building muscle, and finding consistency, these are the keys to real results that last.FOLLOW ME
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This week on the Tough Girl Podcast, we welcome Emma Wilkinson—a freelance health journalist, ultra runner, mother of three, and co-author of the empowering book Ultra Women: The Trailblazers Defying Sexism in Sport. Emma's journey into ultra running didn't begin until her 40s, but once she discovered the joy of going long and slow, there was no turning back. In this honest and motivating conversation, Emma shares how she went from half marathons and road running to self-created 100K adventures in the mountains of Snowdonia. Alongside fellow runner and friend Lily Canter, she set out to research and write Ultra Women, a book that celebrates female endurance athletes and dives into the science, stories, and social constructs around women in ultra sport. Emma talks openly about what inspired the book, how she balanced full-time work, parenting, and running while writing it, and what she learned about the unique strengths women bring to endurance challenges—especially around fatigue resistance, pain management, and mental toughness. If you've ever doubted your capabilities, struggled with self-identifying as a “runner,” or wondered if your body was made for ultras—this episode is for you. Emma's message is simple and powerful: don't put limits on yourself—just give it a go. New episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast drop every Tuesday at 7 AM (UK time)! Make sure to subscribe so you never miss the inspiring journeys and incredible stories of tough women pushing boundaries. Do you want to support the Tough Girl Mission to increase the amount of female role models in the media in the world of adventure and physical challenges? Support via Patreon! Join me in making a difference by signing up here: www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast. Your support makes a difference. Thank you x Show notes Who is Emma Journalist and runner Co-Author of a new book - Ultra Women Book: Ultra Women: The Trailblazers Defying Sexism in Sport What Emma was like as little girl Growing up in Bradford and not being massively sporty when she was younger Getting into running in her later teens Being far more active now than she was as a child In her early 20s watching the London Marathon and wanting to give it ago Getting into half marathons Running the Sheffield Half Marathon and being sick at the end Starting to run faster and joining a running club to make new friends Doing her first marathon just before she had children, just before turning 30 Why she enjoyed running 2019 - meeting Lilly (co-author on the Ultra women book) Singing up for a 100k - 2 day event Falling in love with ultra running - the slower, longer, adventure Her friendship with Lilly, doing their journalism MA together, 20 years ago Teaching Journalism at Sheffield University How the book came about Walking the hills What do you need to do, to get to the end. Needing to be able to tune into your body Creating their own 100K 2 days event - on the Snowdonia Slate Trail Surprising herself with what she was capable of Writing the book at the same time of doing full time work as a journalist while also looking after children and running Why are women so good at ultra endurance distances Coming from a science background and why the research was so interesting How women have more fatigue resistant muscles Not feeling in competition with other women Book: Invisible Women: Exposing Data Bias in a World Designed for Men The lack of research into sports science for women Hopefully the research is starting to turn a corner Why ultra running training plans are based on men Women have been deemed as to complicated to include in studies Fatigue resistant muscles research Wanting to learn more about recovery and how that applies to women specifically Training for ultras Women having to use a process of trial and error to figure out what works best for them Periods and cycle tracking and feeling different at different times of the month and why the data can be confusing Learning more about oestrogen and how it affects endurance How the book came about Getting the book published Are women faster the longer they go? Freelancing for Journalists Lael Wilcox going after the mens's around the world bike record in 2026 The motherhood perspective on running Sophie Power She Races Not running in pregnancy and chaining to walking Dealing with separated stomach muscles Needing to get back to running and needing time for herself Having a chapter on pregnancy in the book and why it's not the same for everyone Pain and women, and pain management Sexism Creating a manifesto and calling for action Do you call yourself a runner? Confidence - women - running Say yes for signing up for that ultra How to connect with Emma Final words of advice Don't put limits on yourself, if you want to do something, have ago. Women who just wanted to see if they could and they did Why not give it ago! Social Media Website: emmawilkinson.net Instagram: @emmawjourno/ BlueSky: @emmajourno.bsky.social Book: Ultra Women: The Trailblazers Defying Sexism in Sport
This week on the Tough Girl Podcast, we're joined by Lily Canter—an ultra runner, women's running coach, journalist, and passionate advocate for gender equality in sport. As co-author of the groundbreaking book Ultra Women, Lily is helping to challenge outdated narratives and spotlight the women redefining endurance running. Lily didn't grow up considering herself sporty, but after joining a triathlon club in her 30s, she discovered a love for running that quickly evolved into a passion for ultras. What began as a spontaneous 30-mile run turned into a deeper journey into the ultra world—culminating in a 250km multi-day race across Tanzania and a growing commitment to empowering more women through education, coaching, and research. In this episode, Lily opens up about the gaps she saw in female-specific training information, how she and co-author Emma Wilkinson tackled the research for their book, and why visibility, representation, and equity matter—on the trails and in the media. From coaching to kit, sports bras to science, Lily shares what still needs to change and how she's pushing those boundaries herself. Whether you're curious about tackling your first ultra or passionate about equity in endurance sports, this episode offers practical insight and powerful inspiration. New episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast drop every Tuesday at 7 AM (UK time)! Make sure to subscribe so you never miss the inspiring journeys and incredible stories of tough women pushing boundaries. Do you want to support the Tough Girl Mission to increase the amount of female role models in the media in the world of adventure and physical challenges? Support via Patreon! Join me in making a difference by signing up here: www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast. Your support makes a difference. Thank you x Show notes Who is Lilly Journalist who specialises in running and fitness A female running coach Ultra runner Lecturer at university Running an organisation with Emma called; Freelancing for Journalists Her early years… Not coming from a sporty family Growing up in Guilford, Surrey Playing netball consistently for most of her life Moving to Liverpool as a teenager Getting into running in her 30s Joining a triathlon club in her mid to late 30s Being inspired by an amazing running coach Running consistently for the past 7/8 years Being busy… and how her career has changed a lot Getting bored very easily Going freelance 8 years ago and it giving her the freedom to do more things and pursue her different passions Getting better at running and starting to enjoy it more Varying the types of runs and where she ran Building her running confidence Trying different races Starting to really enjoy running Her first ultra which was an accident! Running 30 miles on a looped course The relaxed, chilled, approach to ultra running Speaking with Emma about doing an ultra together The lack of information and resources especially women centric information Signing up to a multi-stage 100k race in Romania Having to figure out her training plan for herself Thinking about writing a book about running How the book came about and getting the book published Being inspired by the women winning races outright Wanting to understand why so few women were participating in ultra races Dividing up the research and why it was quite straightforward Being surprised by the records held by women in the swimming world. The mental side and the lessons that could be applied to her running What does the scientific evidence say with regards to men and women The social construct of difference between men and women The importance of being prepared and having confidence in what you know works for you Running 250km across Tanzania 2023 Why it was her favourite race Being more aware of the setup of races and how female friendly they are Images of women in marketing material, website etc The manifesto - call to action - wanting to drive change Focused on 6 key areas The importance of female specific sports research What are women capable of? The importance of female specific training guides Kit which has been designed for women Sports bra testing Media coverage and commentary of women Equal prize money and sponsorship Why races should use the - She Races Guidelines Training for 2025/2026 Wanting to test their limits Signing up for Equinox 24 - wanting to run further than they have run before (goals 65 miles +) She Trails race in the Peak District - August 2025 Heading oversees to race a 5 day race in the heat… depending on recovery Training programs and making running work for you Having a coach for the past 18 months and the difference it has made Being more competitive in races How to connect with Lily on social media Final words of advice for other women who want to be a trail blazer Why you need to believe in yourself Push your boundaries and try hard things Don't be scared of challenging yourself Social Media Website www.lilycanter.co.uk Instagram: @lilycanter Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/lilycanter X: x.com/lilycanter Book: Ultra Women: The Trailblazers Defying Sexism in Sport
How To Get Fit as a busy executive isn't about chasing fad workouts or obsessing over the scale. In this episode, Julian Hayes II reveals two high-leverage fitness metrics that not only predict how long you'll lead but also how well you'll perform in business and life. You'll learn why visceral fat and VO₂ Max are far more than health stats, how they directly influence your decision-making, stress resilience, and leadership presence, and the practical strategies to improve them even with a demanding schedule.If you want a competitive edge that compounds for decades, this is your playbook.What You'll Learn in This Episode:→ Why most executives measure the wrong health metrics and what to focus on instead→ How visceral fat acts as a silent threat to leadership performance and longevity→ The muscle–leadership connection: why lean mass is your biological insurance policy→ Why VO₂ Max is your “health equity score” and a strong predictor of lifespan and stress resilience→ Actionable strategies for improving both metrics with limited time— Episode Chapter Big Ideas (timing may not be exact) —0:00 – Introduction & why health is a leader's ultimate competitive advantage2:18 – The deeper reasons executives stay fit beyond aesthetics6:45 – Visceral fat explained: the hidden health liability13:22 – How visceral fat impacts decision-making, hormones, and stress resilience18:40 – Using DEXA scans to get your “full body balance sheet”24:55 – Lean mass as a biological currency for longevity and leadership presence31:30 – Practical strategies to build and preserve muscle with limited time35:42 – VO₂ Max: the overlooked metric that predicts leadership stamina38:22 – Training strategies for VO₂ Max (Zone 2, intervals, strength)40:20 – Recap & closing thoughts for high-performing leaders— Key Quotes — “You can't out-hustle broken biology. You can only go as far as your health allows.”“Lean mass is your biological insurance policy; VO₂ Max is your health equity score.”“The better your biological bandwidth, the more you can handle in business without breaking down.”— Connect with Julian and Executive Health —LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/julianhayesii/Ready to take your health, leadership, and performance to the next level? Book a complimentary private executive health diagnostic call with Julian Hayes II. Link below.https://calendly.com/julian-exechealth/chemistryWebsite — https://www.executivehealth.io/***DISCLAIMER: The information shared is not meant to treat or diagnose any condition. This is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes. The content here is not intended to replace your relationship with your doctor and/or medical practitioner.
This week on the Tough Girl Podcast, we're joined by Tania Carmona—a trailblazing ultrarunner, endurance coach, entrepreneur, and the first Mexican athlete to complete the 5 Deserts Grand Slam. From swimming as a national-level athlete in Mexico to conquering some of the toughest environments on Earth, Tania's story is one of resilience, reinvention, and relentless curiosity. Based in Dubai and previously living in Scotland and the U.S., Tania shares her path into ultrarunning—from a reluctant marathon finisher to tackling self-supported races across the Gobi, Atacama, Namib, and Antarctica. We dive into her experience navigating extreme heat, physical stress, and the emotional highs and lows of ultra-endurance. Tania also opens up about the physiological toll of training, dealing with cortisol imbalances, the decision to undergo back surgery, and why she and her husband launched the Ultra Happy Podcast to bring more real, relatable stories to the running world. Whether you're chasing your own desert dreams or looking for inspiration to keep putting one foot in front of the other, this episode is packed with heart, humour, and hard-earned wisdom. New episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast drop every Tuesday at 7 AM (UK time)! Make sure to subscribe so you never miss the inspiring journeys and incredible stories of tough women pushing boundaries. Do you want to support the Tough Girl Mission to increase the amount of female role models in the media in the world of adventure and physical challenges? Support via Patreon! Join me in making a difference by signing up here: www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast. Your support makes a difference. Thank you x Show notes Who is Tania Ultrarunner, coach and podcast host Being based in Dubai, born in Mexico and previously living in Glasgow, Scotland Growing up in Mexico City in a small family Being into swimming when she was little Being a national swimmer Deciding to stop swimming at 15 Moving to Chicago to do her Masters Getting into running in Chicago after being inspired by the Chicago Marathon Starting running with a free group 3x a week Finishing her first marathon and deciding to never run again at 20 Needing to make new friends after moving back to Mexico Deciding to give running another go A spartan race…. 2016 Finding trail running! Hiring a coach Signing up for a 50k Meeting her Scottish husband, Andy Moving from Mexico City to Scotland! Deciding to sign up for longer, harder races and how her lifestyle started to change The 5 Desert Grand Slam Wanting to do Cocodona 250km race The 5 different, self supported races Dealing with the heat Gobi Desert in Mongolia - more trails and more hard packed terrain - very similar to Scotland Running with really old shoes Running in Antartica over 5 days - living on an expedition boat Atacama Desert in Chile and why it was one of her most favourite races Reducing those feelings of overwhelm Focusing on the first step first Taking a year off to focus on running Working with a running coach Recovery runs and resting Dealing with gut issues and periods problems The impact on her body with spikes of cortisol Developing a cortisol hump on her back Not sleeping well The evening routines and life admin after a race Having surgery on her cortisol hump (7 cm by 1.5 cm deep) on her back Dealing with more stress, by moving to Dubai Ultra Happy Podcast Co-hosting with her husband Andy Documenting the journey How to connect with Tania Mini films from each dessert available to watch on YouTube Final words of advice Live your life with curiosity Don't do it for the likes Think about what else you could do Social Media Website: taniacarmona.komi.io Instagram: @taniaruns_theworld TikTok: @taniaruns_theworld Youtube: @Tania_Carmona
It's been well documented that healthy relationships play a powerful role in influencing human health. On today's show, you're going to learn about how combining a strong community with healthy movement can transform lives. Claudine Cooper has been working in the fitness industry for over 30 years, sharing her passion of creating spaces for accessible and inclusive workouts. Her free community exercise classes attract people from all over the Los Angeles area who want to improve their physical and mental health. Today, Claudine joins us on The Model Health Show to share her experiences and wisdom. You're going to hear how she got started working in health and fitness, the critical role of community for overall health, and her secrets to longevity. You'll learn about the most accessible way to get started improving your fitness, the best tips to get in shape, and so much more. This interview is full of amazing insights on consistency, human connection, and real health. Enjoy! In this episode you'll discover: What the key to longevity is. (7:26) How Claudine approaches nutrition. (8:01) The best ways to build more activity into your existing routines. (10:29) Why aesthetics is a byproduct of healing movement. (14:13) The role community can play in promoting consistency. (18:46) How Claudine's group exercise classes eliminate excuses. (19:11) The power of accountability. (22:19) How our relationships impact our overall health. (23:50) Why Claudine's workouts became popular during the pandemic. (37:07) The #1 way to start moving your body. (41:06) How isolation can damage our health. (44:58) Why having a beginner's mind can improve your life. (47:47) Three tips to get in the best shape of your life. (49:50) Items mentioned in this episode include: DrinkLMNT.com/model - Get a FREE sample pack of electrolytes with any order! Paleovalley.com/model - Use code MODEL for 15% off! Connect with Claudine Cooper Website / Facebook / Instagram / TikTok Be sure you are subscribed to this podcast to automatically receive your episodes: Apple Podcasts Spotify Soundcloud Pandora YouTube This episode of The Model Health Show is brought to you by LMNT and Paleovalley. Head to DrinkLMNT.com/model to claim a FREE sample pack of electrolytes with any purchase. Use my code MODEL at Paleovalley.com/model to save 15% sitewide on nutrient dense snacks, superfood supplements, and more.
No time? No problem. In this episode, we're breaking down why you don't need long, drawn-out gym sessions to get results. With the right structure and intensity, 15 minutes can be all you need to build strength, burn fat, and boost energy.We'll cover:Why short, intense workouts work for busy schedulesHow the afterburn effect keeps you burning calories long after you finishSimple formats like AMRAPs, EMOMs, and circuits to maximize results in minimal timeHow to choose the right exercises for a full-body workout in under 20 minutesIf you've been skipping workouts because you “don't have time,” this episode will help you see that progress is possible—even with the smallest window in your day.Challenge: Commit to three 15-minute workouts this week and track how you feel.
In this episode of the Tough Girl Podcast, we're joined by Dr. Sarah Ruggins—a high-achieving investment professional, academic powerhouse, and now a record-breaking ultra-endurance cyclist. From her early days as a national-level track athlete in Canada to surviving complex PTSD and rebuilding her life, Sarah's journey is one of transformation, resilience, and radical self-belief. In 2023, Sarah competed in the Transcontinental Bike Race, and in 2025, she took on her most audacious challenge yet: cycling from John O'Groats to Land's End and back again—2,715 km in just 5 days, 11 hours, and 14 minutes, setting a new outright record. This conversation dives deep into the planning, training, and mindset behind the ride—from strength work and 3:30 AM mornings to battling hallucinations, sleep deprivation, and pain barriers. Sarah shares her three-part mantra—Focus, Discipline, Gratitude—and unpacks how elite performance is built in the margins: with structure, strategy, and sacrifice. Whether you're chasing a personal goal or looking for motivation to push your own limits, this is an episode that will fuel your fire. New episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast drop every Tuesday at 7 AM (UK time)! Make sure to subscribe so you never miss the inspiring journeys and incredible stories of tough women pushing boundaries. Do you want to support the Tough Girl Mission to increase the amount of female role models in the media in the world of adventure and physical challenges? Support via Patreon! Join me in making a difference by signing up here: www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast. Your support makes a difference. Thank you x Show notes Who is Dr Sarah Ruggins Working as an investment professional for the past 10 years Growing up in Canada Being part of a very active family Doing a lot of running and focusing on track and field Working with the best coaches Holding national records in middle distances Preparing for junior olympics at 14/15 Wanting to represent her country at the highest level Her teenage years Needing a routine surgery on her feet Developing a disease of her nervous system The impact on her life Developing complex PTSD Getting back to a ‘normal life' Starting to focus more on academics Getting 4 degrees in 4 different subjects Competing in the trans continental bike race in 2023 Wanting to understand what her limits were John O'Groats to Lands End and back again Being supported by a crew Working with Rob Lee from RLP Coaching What training looked like from Sept/October 2024 to May 2025 What a typical week looked like Working with a strength coach to compliment what she was doing on the bike Increasing the volume of training on both the bike and in the gym Squats increasing from 45kg to - 4 sets of 5 reps at 110kg While working a full time job in finance Having her whole life scheduled from 3.30am - 10pm Figuring out life admin Setting big goals in your life - you need to be prepared to make sacrifices in pursuit of those goals Planning, schedules and logistics Coming back to the WHY was integral Building the team and pulling everyone together Reaching out to sponsors Wanting to make a history making ride Probability, chance and luck Going to maximise our probabilities of success Being on the start line being 100% confident Being forced to be brave and tough - but coming from a place of power Wanting to demonstrate to herself her own resilience and wanting to inspire others Starting the challenge and wanting to ride to her capabilities Working in blocks of 4 hours and focusing on the power. Managing her process and focusing on what's on the road ahead Riding 4 hours and then off the bike for 10 mins - the ‘Pitt stops' What goes on in those 10 mins Eating and nutrition and eating constantly while on the bike How her body responded to the challenge 3 phases while doing endurance work: phase 1, the first 36 hours - feeling great, phase 2 hitting a pain wall which you need to push through, phase 3 - where you feel like you can go forever, your body has accepted this is just what you do now Going though the pain wall and pain gate The mind body connection and what was happening mentally Developing a 3 part mantra: focus, discipline and gratitude The biggest challenge while on the bike Not being able to tolerate solid foods on day 3 Moving to liquid food - Supported by Huel Dealing with the sleep deprivation - confusion and falling asleep while on her bike Crashing into a nettle bush and going into hyperglycemic shock Using blue light to wake her up Being ahead of the record by about 7 hours and 175km - stick to the process Reaching the end The feelings of relief Keeping your emotions locked in for 5 days Being able to relax! 2715 km in 5 days 11 hours 14 minutes. NEW OUTRIGHT RECORD HOLDER Her limits…. Taking the learning and applying it to new projects Recovery after the challenge Getting back on the bike and back in the gym Raising funds for 2 charities The Bike Project Bikes for Refugees How you can connect with Sarah Working on a feature documentary about the challenge - due in early 2026 Final words of advice from Sarah Understand what is most important to you, and curate an objective around that Demonstrate aggressive patience in pursuit of your goals Focus on the small wins everyday. Social Media Instagram @sarah_ruggins
In this episode of the Tough Girl Podcast, we're joined by Sharon Evans, also known as the Free Wheeling Kiwi—a 58-year-old adventurer, storyteller, and passionate advocate for women embracing the outdoors, especially later in life. Sharon shares the incredible story of walking the full Te Araroa Trail, a 3,000km thru-hike stretching the length of New Zealand. Alongside her partner, she tackled harsh weather, blisters, foot pain, and relentless terrain—proving that age is no barrier to adventure. Five years ago, Sharon made the bold decision to walk away from her rural real estate career and pursue a life filled with purpose, exploration, and connection to nature. In this conversation, we explore her motivations, the magical (and muddy) moments on the trail, and her mission to empower women over 50 to step into the wild with confidence. Sharon also shares practical tips for low-cost adventuring, content creation on the go, and how she's continuing her journey by heading to Australia's rugged Larapinta Trail next. If you're looking for inspiration to follow your passion—no matter your age—this episode is for you. *** New episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast drop every Tuesday at 7 AM (UK time)! Make sure to subscribe so you never miss the inspiring journeys and incredible stories of tough women pushing boundaries. Do you want to support the Tough Girl Mission to increase the amount of female role models in the media in the world of adventure and physical challenges? Support via Patreon! Join me in making a difference by signing up here: www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast. Your support makes a difference. Thank you x *** Show notes Who is Sharon Evans aka Free Wheeling Kiwi Based in New Zealand Going on adventures and telling stories Spending time in the outdoors - often being uncomfortable and wet Spending time at the beach Gen X, 58 years old Having a huge amount of freedom and spending time outdoors Her passion for travel Living in the jungle in Borneo, Malaysia Growing up without social media How technology has advanced Her first camera (film camera) at 15 years old Deciding what to do with her life Being shy and introverted Where did the name/brand freewheeling kiwi come from Working as a rural estate agent Riding bikes Deciding to make a change 5 years ago Planning to go to Everest Base Camp How plans got derailed because of Covid Making the transition and changing your career to follow your passions Planning….. Lowering her cost of living, being a careful spender Wanting to encourage more women to spend more time in the outdoors in nature Especially women over the age of 50 Focusing on her why Te Araroa Trail, 3,000 km, the long walk in New Zealand Being concerned about the cold Starting on the 2nd October Walking with Andrew - as a couple Having their 1st anniversary on the trail in the Richmond Rangers Keeping the pack weight down The highlights, challenges and magical moments from the trail Not wanting to quit Advice for new hikers Keeping costs down and sending resupply boxes Big food carries The extreme conditions and the impact on gear River crossings and being cautious Gusting winds and being blown off her feet Wet feet…. Sand walking, mud walking, road walking Blisters…. Losing toe nails Getting off her feet and dealing with unbearable foot pain Palette fatigue with food Coming to the end of the journey and what it was like Creating content and stories during the journey Creating a 1 min reel/tiktok every day How to connect with Sharon Final words of advice Believing in yourself and your abilities The next challenge and heading to Australia to walk the Larapinta Trail (230km trail through the outback) Social Media Website www.freewheelingkiwi.com Instagram @freewheelingkiwi/ Facebook: www.facebook.com/freewheelingkiwi Threads: @freewheelingkiwi TikTok: @freewheelingkiwi YouTube: @FreewheelingKiwi
I can't quite believe it, but here we are — the 800th episode of the Tough Girl Podcast! In this special solo episode, I'm taking you behind the scenes for a personal catch-up and reflection on everything that's happened so far in 2025 — from January through to August. I talk about what life has looked like lately (yes, still living at home with my parents!), working part-time at AIM Health, the adventures I've been on, the challenges I've faced, and the exciting things coming up next. This episode is a bit of everything: gear chat (flat-lay photos and a new Atom Pack!), health updates (peri-menopause, gut health, strength training, and more), financial planning (Patreon, pensions, broken laptops!), plus reflections on my time walking the English Camino, Snowdonia Slate Trail, and tackling the GR20 in Corsica — which was honestly tougher than the Marathon des Sables. I'm also talking about my motivations for taking on the GR10, what I've learned in 10 years of podcasting, and why the mission — to increase the amount of female role models in the media especially in relation to adventure and physical challenges— is stronger than ever. Thank you for being here with me on this journey. Whether you've listened from the start or are just finding the show now, I'm so incredibly grateful. This is a celebration of us — of consistency, resilience, growth, and dreaming big.
In this episode of the Tough Girl Podcast, meet Ioana Barbu—an unstoppable ultra runner with big goals, bold energy, and a fierce belief in betting on herself. After winning the Ice Ultra (230km at the Arctic Circle) and the Highland Ultra (125km in the Scottish Highlands) in 2025—each by hours and against stacked fields—Ioana is now going all-in to complete the entire Beyond the Ultimate series in one calendar year. That means racing across jungles, deserts, mountains, and ice—self-funded, self-motivated, and 100% committed. We dive into her mindset, training strategy, and what it takes to juggle full-time work while prepping for some of the toughest foot races on Earth. From selling her flat to afford the journey, to building her endurance and community from scratch, Ioana's story is raw, real, and massively inspiring. Explicit language: This episode contains one F-bomb. If you're chasing big goals or need a fire lit under you—this is the one to listen to. New episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast drop every Tuesday at 7 AM (UK time)! Make sure to subscribe so you never miss the inspiring journeys and incredible stories of tough women pushing boundaries. Do you want to support the Tough Girl Mission to increase the amount of female role models in the media in the world of adventure and physical challenges? Support via Patreon! Join me in making a difference by signing up here: www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast. Your support makes a difference. Thank you x Show notes Who is Ioana Based in London Working in post production of video production Being an ultra runner Growing up in Europe Moving to the UK at 18 Living in New Zealand and Canada Being into Snowboarding Getting into running Her younger years Growing up with her grandparents in the countryside Getting into swimming, ballet Starting snowboarding in her early 20s and how it changed her life Wanting to get good at the sport Book: Power Speed Endurance : A Skill-Based Approach to Endurance Training. By Brian Mackenzie Breathe work, breathing, posture Running on a treadmill for training Training with Altitude Centre in London, in an altitude chamber Living in Wellington, New Zealand Working with a snowboarding coach Don't think about it too much or you will catch fear Always end on a high Moving back to the UK and fast forward a few years Getting back into running during lockdown in 2020 Starting to sign up for races Royal Parks Half Marathon How her running journey progressed Running the London Marathon for charity Make Some Noise Giving a voice to small charities Working with Spencer Matthews on his Big Fish Podcast Deciding to sign up for the - Beyond the Ultimate Jungle ultra - 230km Being surrounded by people who encourage you and support you Being told she couldn't do a 30 miler I'll prove you wrong Julian Morgan-Ayres The Early Birds Is it a race or is it an event? Emma Kirk-Odunubi - Running Coach To The Finish Line Having a lovely time running the marathon Adam Kimble - Running Coach Kris King Never quit at the end of the day Doing the right volume of training (6 days a week) but doing the wrong type of training Averaging about 30k - 50k a week max - which wasn't enough Running 70k - 100k weeks More running and less hyrox/strength training Beyond The Ultimate - Jungle Ultra Palate fatigue Needing to be her own hero Winning Races Arctic Race - 230km race Going out to race and win Getting her period in the jungle and ending up doing the short course Wanting to make ultra running a full time job Global Expedition Medics Going into the ice-ultra with such a strong mindset Knowing what to expect with snow and ice 2025 - Racing the full series in one year (calendar year) Self funding the challenge Harry Edmonds - youngest racer to compete the extreme sport series How much will it cost?! Selling her flat and using the money to pay for the race series Needing to buy specialist kit Approx £30k so far… Wanting to quit her job and do this full time Dr Freya Bayne - London Southbank Uni Sports Department Heat acclimatisation in a heat chamber and why it was one of the best things to do before the desert race All female researchers How can people connect and follow along Final words of advice Find people who are like minded, don't be afraid to join a community Inspiring other women to start running Social Media Website makesomenoise.enthuse.com/pf/ioana-barbu Instagram @ioanabarboux
In this powerful episode of the Tough Girl Podcast, we meet Tia Banks—a former professional basketball player turned mountaineer and certified resilience expert. Based in Texas, Tia is on a bold mission to climb all seven volcanic summits, one on each continent, using her journey as a platform to inspire strength, courage, and mental resilience. Her love for adventure began with Mount Kilimanjaro in 2021, where she faced illness, doubt, and the ultimate test of her mindset on summit night. But for Tia, mountaineering is more than reaching the top—it's about how we speak to ourselves in tough moments, how we dig deep when we want to give up, and how we “climb our own mountains” in life. In this episode, Tia opens up about her early years in sport, the “suck it up” mentality, the importance of positive self-talk, and her commitment to empowering young people through adventure therapy and her non-profit initiative, Summit Saturday. If you're looking for a dose of motivation to keep pushing through your own challenges—or to finally try something you've never dared before—Tia's story will light the fire. New episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast drop every Tuesday at 7 AM (UK time)! Make sure to subscribe so you never miss the inspiring journeys and incredible stories of tough women pushing boundaries. Do you want to support the Tough Girl Mission to increase the amount of female role models in the media in the world of adventure and physical challenges? Support via Patreon! Join me in making a difference by signing up here: www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast. Your support makes a difference. Thank you x Show notes Who is Tia Banks Former professional basketball player Certified in resilience Based in Texas Her early years and having a sporty childhood The suck it up muscle SUCK IT UP at 6 years old…. Becoming more aware of mental health on her personal journey Getting into mountaineering Climbing Kilimanjaro in 2021 Go big or go home Writing her goal in her journal Starting to prepare and research Working with a breathing coach Committing to the training Focusing on endurance Preparing her body and her mind Positive self talk Optimism Book: Mind Over Mountains: Life Changing Strategies to Overcome Adversity Digging into the mindset while on the mountain Being sick when she first got to Africa Being challenged to do hard things, even when you don't feel like it Needing to dig deep and why it wasn't just a one time thing Holding on to hope Summit night on Kilimanjaro Stella Point Managing self talk and comparisons to other people Pole Pole - Pronounced “po-lay po-lay,” it's Swahili for “slowly, slowly.” The technique of reframing Going into schools and talking about mental health with children and young adults Saray Khumalo - first black African woman to reach the summit of Mt Everest Needing to ask for help Why motivation style changes and different motivation is needed at different times Working towards a biggest challenge Wanting to summit all 7 volcanic summits on each continent Mount Giluwe in Papua New Guinea Adventure Therapy Non Profit - ‘Summit Saturday' - taking at risk youth out into nature Managing herself to ensure not to burnout Wanting to build a better self care regiment Self Care Sunday and doing a series on tick Tok Holding herself accountable Talking about resilience and motivation with younger children How to connect with Tia on social media Final words of advice for people who are climbing their own mountain What's going to help you have the mindset to overcome your challenge Try something new, try something you've never tried before Social Media Website: www.tiabanks.com Instagram: @thetiabanks Facebook: www.facebook.com/people/Thetiabanks/100064323240028/ YouTube: @thetiabanks1 TikTok: @thetiabanks1
In this Tough Girl Podcast EXTRA episode we catch up with adventurer and outdoor writer Nicola Hardy—also known for becoming Munroist #6,765 after summiting all 282 of Scotland's Munros. Nicola left behind a decade-long career in IT to pursue a life filled with mountains, maps, and meaningful adventure. Since our first conversation in March 2022, Nicola has continued to embrace the outdoor life with passion—working part-time to support her adventures and dedicating the rest of her week to exploring the hills and trails she loves. In this episode, Nicola shares what she's been up to over the last few years, including writing her first guidebook: Peak Bagging Munros: Volume 1. We talk about the process of creating the book, linking routes efficiently across the Highlands, and her experiences hiking internationally—from Switzerland's Alpine Passes Trail to her first solo trip abroad on the Coronallacs route in Andorra. Nicola is honest about the practicalities of outdoor life—from parking anxiety and budget travel to the importance of finding community in the outdoors. With future dreams like hiking New Zealand's Te Araroa Trail, her journey is far from over. If you're passionate about mountains, guidebooks, or building a life around what you love—this episode is for you. TGP March 31st 2022 - Nicola Hardy - Adventurer and outdoor writer -Climbing all 282 of Scotland's Munros New episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast drop every Tuesday at 7 AM (UK time)! Make sure to subscribe so you never miss the inspiring journeys and incredible stories of tough women pushing boundaries. Do you want to support the Tough Girl Mission to increase the amount of female role models in the media in the world of adventure and physical challenges? Support via Patreon! Join me in making a difference by signing up here: www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast. Your support makes a difference. Thank you x Show notes Who is Nicola Living in Cockermouth, Cumbria Being a peak bagger and long distance walker Preferring land over the water Writing a peak bagging guidebook Previously speaking with Nicola in March 31st 2022 What we chatting about on the first Tough Girl Podcast episode Catching up with what's been happening since 2022 Ending up here after doing the things that filled her life with joy Trying to fill her time with as much adventure as possible Finding the balance of adventuring while also bringing in money as well Working 2 days a week part time (flipping the standard working week, upside down) and having 5 days off Getting to the start of challenges using public transport Parking anxiety and how it can introduce negative thinking before an adventure Peak Bagging Munro's - the book and how it came about Sir Hugh Munro Munro Bagging and what it is 64 routes which are designed to link up these iconic mountains Adventure Books by Vertebrate Publishing What makes this guide book different Including good maps, and efficient routes linking Munros together Separating into 10 highland hubs A walker, a trekker, a fast packer and a runner Rest day suggestions The gathering of the information Building spreadsheets Following your passion and working on the guidebook Volume 1 of 2 Who the book is for Heading to Switzerland and hiking the Alpine Passes Trail Camping 20 nights out of 31 Being mountain fit Park runs Doing her first solo trip abroad Hiking The Coronallacs Being able to switch off and spend time in nature Wanting to go on more solo walks The South West Coast Path Future plans and dreams to hike the Te Araroa Trail, New Zealand Zoleo How to connect with Nic Trying to keep the website updated Final words of advice Getting out there and finding your community Try lots of things in the outdoor space Find what you love and dive in headfirst, you never know where it might lead Social Media Link for listeners to purchase the book - https://bit.ly/3REAjVU Website - adventurernic.com Facebook - @adventurer.nic.official Instagram - @adventurer.nic
In this episode of the Tough Girl Podcast, we meet Ebaide Joy Udoh, a bold Nigerian adventurer and storyteller on a mission to make history. Ebaide is currently undertaking a solo motorcycle journey across Africa, aiming to break the Guinness World Record for the Longest Journey by Motorcycle in Africa (Female). The current record to beat is 30,000 kilometers (19,000 miles)—and by the time she completes the final leg of her trip, Ebaide expects to reach an incredible 35,000 km (22,000 miles). But Ebaide's story isn't just about distance—it's about determination, vision, and fearlessly carving a new path. From learning how to ride a motorcycle from scratch, to building a DIY camper van, to navigating complex visa issues with a Nigerian passport, her journey is anything but ordinary. In this episode, Ebaide shares the realities of solo travel across Africa—the beauty, the bureaucracy, the culture, and the challenges—and what fuels her unstoppable spirit. We dive into her creative approach to funding her travels, her charity work empowering girls in Nigeria, and her passion for storytelling through content creation. Get ready to be inspired by this fiercely independent woman who reminds us all: “You own your life. Don't let fear cripple you—go for it.” New episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast drop every Tuesday at 7 AM (UK time)! Make sure to subscribe so you never miss the inspiring journeys and incredible stories of tough women pushing boundaries. Do you want to support the Tough Girl Mission to increase the amount of female role models in the media in the world of adventure and physical challenges? Support via Patreon! Join me in making a difference by signing up here: www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast. Your support makes a difference. Thank you x *** Show notes Who is Ebaide Joy Adventure cyclist who has been riding around Africa Being in Lagos, Nigeria Currently in-between trips Not growing up around motorcycles Having a desire to travel Building a camper van in 2022/2023 to go travelling Moving to a tuk - tuk Building a camper van from scratch in 3 months Travelling for 7 years - initially via backpacking Heading back to East Africa after the pandemic Funding her travelling adventures Having 2,000 followers on IG last year Working at midnight for a company in the Netherlands Being able to make funds from content creation, brand deals and gifted goods. Learning how to ride a bike Going to bike school to learn how to ride Building up her skills and becoming a fantastic rider What her adventure travels look like Moving from hotel to hotel Living a nocturnal lifestyle Travelling with a Nigerian passport and how it works with visas's Languages and being able to communicate on her travels Speaking/getting by in Swahili, French and English Applying for a Guinness World Record and what happened initially Longest Solo Motorcycle Ride Across Africa by a Woman. Needing to break 30,000 km and go through 7 countries at least Planning or going with the flow Connecting with the locals Sharing the journey, the road, the food, the people, the police, the issues and the highlights Exploring as a road bike traveller The issues with visa's, borders and money Not playing the game Fighting and having nothing to lose Magical countries Never going back to Cameroon Solo traveller Having a full life Being busy at all the time Introverted but present as an extrovert Not having the time Being bored by people easily Raising money for charity - Ebaide Foundation Giving the girls training in tailoring, hair making, and catering 3-month residential program focused on training, support, and purpose Planning the next adventure Naming her bike Aurora - light in darkness How to connect with Ebaide online Follow your dreams, life is short, life does't wait for you, time doesn't wait for you. You own your life, you should control it, you should define it, you should make the most of it. Don't let fear cripple you. You should go for it. Social Media Instagram: @go_ebaide Youtube: www.youtube.com/c/GoEbaide TikTok: @go__ebaide Twitter: twitter.com/official_ebaide Buy Me a Coffee: buymeacoffee.com/goebaide
In this episode of the Tough Girl Podcast, we're joined by Christine Reed—an American long-distance backpacker and award-winning author—whose life changed when she took her first steps on the Appalachian Trail in 2015. With no prior backpacking experience, Christine dove headfirst into the unknown, seeking healing, purpose, and a sense of identity. Since then, Christine has hiked thousands of miles, lived out of a van, and carved a creative path through storytelling. Her debut memoir, Alone in Wonderland, captured her raw and powerful journey of self-discovery, while her latest anthology Blood Sweat Tears amplifies the voices of women+ on trail—sharing unfiltered stories about periods, pain, perseverance, and everything in between. We talk about grief, growth, writing through discomfort, and the courage it takes to follow your passions even when they feel far outside your comfort zone. Christine's story reminds us that you don't have to be outdoorsy, athletic, or fearless to start—you just have to begin. *** New episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast drop every Tuesday at 7 AM (UK time)! Make sure to subscribe so you never miss the inspiring journeys and incredible stories of tough women pushing boundaries. Do you want to support the Tough Girl Mission to increase the amount of female role models in the media in the world of adventure and physical challenges? Support via Patreon! Join me in making a difference by signing up here: www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast. Your support makes a difference. Thank you x Show notes Who is Christine Thru-hike and trail runners Being based in New Mexico, America Her early years and not growing up outdoorsy Reading blogs about the Appalachian Trail in the fall of 2013 Graduating from college and working in health insurance Being pretty unhappy and not knowing what to do with her life Why the Appalachian Trail (AT) was so appealing Taking the first step and commitment to the hike Everyone on the trail being in a phase of transition Being possible for her to leave her life Taking a year to plan and research the trail Planning to hike the AT in 2015 The importance of finding something that you are excited about Never backpacking before and just going on a few day hikes Not being a fit or athletic person Doing her research - whiteblaze.net - an old school pin board forum Doing zero physical preparation The feelings at the start of the Appalachian Trail Riding greyhound buses to the start (16+ hours) The steps up to Amicalola Falls First night camping at a shelter Personal goals - find herself? 24 and turning 25 on the trail Doing hard things HIking pre social media Lessons and learning from thru-hiking Losing her mum just after starting the trail Spending time at home and deciding to get back on the trail Grieving while on the trail Feeling her feeling and talking about them Having wonderful encounters with other hikers and being able to share 650 miles feeling ready to leave the trail Having a closer relationship with her dad Moving to Denver, Colorado Struggling to reengage with the capitalist system Living in a van, travelling around and living a more adventurous lifestyle Thru-hikers making great van lifers Feeling lonely while on the road The community aspect of the trail experience Finding her way Being in a new phase of transition Moving into a little house in New Mexico Being an author from 2018 - mostly as a full time worker 1st book came out in 2021 - Alone in Wonderland Trying to write a 2nd memoir, but struggling to write and feeling frustrated Wanting to write a collection of stories about women Putting out a call for pitches/submissions - women's relationships to our bodies, using the trail as a link Wanting to put out 15 stories Receiving over 200 submissions Book: Blood, Sweat Tears The importance of sharing women's stories that haven't been shared Narrowing down the selection of stories The editing process Can I work with this writer to get this story where it needs to be? Talking about blood, periods and menstruation Being in women only spaces Speaking about periods Jolly Gear Hiking Dress Anna McNuff Hygiene and menstral cups Tampons and pads - everything has it's plus and minus Everybody is different Taking the pill? Wanting to celebrate our bodies and not be manipulating it Allowing our bodies to go through natural cycles What's next for Christine Publishing a memoir with Bethany Adams FKT Gardening, art and being more creative How to connect with Christine online Final words of advice Advice for following your creative passions which are outside your comfort zone Don't get stuck in the ideas of who we are and what we are suppose to be doing Social Media Instagram: @ruggedoutdoorswoman Book: Blood Sweat Tears Blood Sweat Tears is a short story collection from 26 women+ hikers and runners about the experience of being in a female body on trail. This group of intrepid and vulnerable athletes/writers talk periods, boob sweat, and ugly crying. The trail is a place for healing, and can show us what we are made of---but it's always us doing the hard work. Book: Alone in Wonderland
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We asked listeners to tell us about some of their favorite episodes from our Get Fit Sanely series, and we'll be bringing you some excerpts of those episodes on Fridays this month. Today, we're hearing from listener Shannon who made a change in her eating routine after hearing our episode with Br. Chan Pháp Lưu from Plum Village. Related Episodes: Rewire Your Relationship To Food | Brother Pháp Lưu How to Take Care of Your Body Without Losing Your Mind Join Dan's online community here Follow Dan on social: Instagram, TikTok Subscribe to our YouTube Channel To advertise on the show, contact sales@advertisecast.com or visit https://advertising.libsyn.com/10HappierwithDanHarris.
We asked listeners to tell us about some of their favorite episodes from our Get Fit Sanely series, and we'll be bringing you some excerpts of those episodes on Fridays this month. Today, we're hearing from listener Abby, who experienced a game-changing moment in our episode on mobility with Kelly and Juliet Starrett. Paid subscribers of DanHarris.com will have exclusive access to a set of all-new guided meditations, led by friend of the show Cara Lai, customized to accompany each episode of the Get Fit Sanely series. We're super excited to offer a way to help you put the ideas from the episodes into practice. Learn all about it here. Related Episodes: An Owner's Manual for Your Body | Juliet and Kelly Starrett How To Take Care of Your Body Without Losing Your Mind Get Fit Sanely: the podcast playlist Join Dan's online community here Follow Dan on social: Instagram, TikTok Subscribe to our YouTube Channel To advertise on the show, contact sales@advertisecast.com or visit https://advertising.libsyn.com/10HappierwithDanHarris
We asked listeners to tell us about some of their favorite episodes from our Get Fit Sanely series, and we'll be bringing you some excerpts of those episodes on Fridays this month. Today, we're hearing from listener Traci who was introduced to the transformative concept of intuitive eating through our episode with dietician Christy Harrison. Paid subscribers of DanHarris.com will have exclusive access to a set of all-new guided meditations, led by friend of the show Cara Lai, customized to accompany each episode of the Get Fit Sanely series. We're super excited to offer a way to help you put the ideas from the episodes into practice. Learn all about it here. Related Episodes: How To Embrace the Anti-Diet | Christy Harrison The Anti-Diet | Evelyn Tribole How To Take Care of Your Body Without Losing Your Mind Get Fit Sanely: the podcast playlist Join Dan's online community here Follow Dan on social: Instagram, TikTok Subscribe to our YouTube Channel To advertise on the show, contact sales@advertisecast.com or visit https://advertising.libsyn.com/10HappierwithDanHarris
We asked listeners to tell us about some of their favorite episodes from our Get Fit Sanely series, and we'll be bringing you some excerpts of those episodes on Fridays this month. Today, we're hearing from listener Cynthia who had a vivid takeaway from our episode on exercise and the brain with neuroscientist Wendy Suzuki. Paid subscribers of DanHarris.com will have exclusive access to a set of all-new guided meditations, led by friend of the show Cara Lai, customized to accompany each episode of the Get Fit Sanely series. We're super excited to offer a way to help you put the ideas from the episodes into practice. Learn all about it here. Related Episodes: The Neuroscience of Exercise | Wendy Suzuki How To Take Care of Your Body Without Losing Your Mind Get Fit Sanely: the podcast playlist Join Dan's online community here Follow Dan on social: Instagram, TikTok Subscribe to our YouTube Channel To advertise on the show, contact sales@advertisecast.com or visit https://advertising.libsyn.com/10HappierwithDanHarris
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