

The Runna Podcast
Runna
Join Coach Ben Parker and Anya Culling every Friday as they deep-dive into running with Olympians, world-class coaches, and inspiring runners - from Romesh Ranganathan to Alex Yee and Lucy Charles-Barclay. Expect captivating stories, hilarious mishaps, and actionable coaching tips (incl. weekly tips from Olympian Steph Davis) on training, injury prevention, mindset, recovery, and performance. Whether it’s your first 5K or a marathon PB, we’ll fuel your next run. New episodes every Friday. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 9, 2024 • 41min
Yahya Pandor: From Losing His Sight to Breaking Marathon World Records
In this week's podcast episode, Ben and Anya sit down with Yahya Pandor (@yahyapandor94), a remarkable blind marathon runner who made history as the first person to complete a marathon unaided. Despite losing his sight nearly three years ago due to macular degeneration, Yahya continues to live life to the fullest with the most positive mindset and outlook on life, fuelling his extraordinary achievements.Highlights include:Beginnings in Running: How Yahya discovered his love for running after losing his sight and the experiences that fueled his dedication.Overcoming Adversity: Yahya shares his journey to becoming the first blind person to run a marathon unaided, detailing the challenges and triumphs along the way.Raising Awareness: Yahya discussing the importance of raising awareness about blind running and guides and details the amazing impact him and his brother have made via their tik tok accountPositive Attitude: The motivational philosophy that drives Yahya’s life and achievements, proving that a positive attitude and determination can overcome any obstacle.They discuss useful running tips and debunk common running myths about runners knee, running shoes and marathon running Join us for an episode filled with inspiration, perseverance, and the incredible story of Yahya Pandor’s can-do attitude and commitment to raising awareness about visual impairments.Don’t forget to hit the like button and subscribe to be notified of all future episodes.As always, don’t forget to send in your embarrassing running stories to PODCAST@RUNNA.COM or send us a voice-note on Instagram.Use the code ‘RUNNAPODCAST’ for 2 weeks free!See you next week! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 2, 2024 • 48min
Sophie Grace Holmes: Defying cystic fibrosis, 36 Marathons in 36 Days, and Her Ultra Ironman
In this episode of The Runna Podcast, hosts Ben and Anya sit down with a woman of steel, Sophie Grace Holmes (@sophiegraceholmes). She is a remarkable athlete who has defied all odds. Diagnosed with cystic fibrosis, a life threatening lung disease, and not expected to live past 16, Sophie took up running to prove her doctors wrong and extend her lifespan. Now over 30, she has surpassed all expectations and achieved extraordinary feats, demonstrating that anything is possible with determination and a positive mindset.Highlights include:Incredible Achievements: Completing 36 marathons in 36 days and an ultra Ironman in Lake Como, including a 5km swim in pitch black and a 50km ultra marathon.Defying Expectations: How Sophie used running to challenge her diagnosis and extend her lifespan beyond what was thought possible.Breaking Barriers: Her role in inspiring and breaking barriers for those with cystic fibrosis, showing that a life-threatening disease doesn't define one's capabilities.Mental Fortitude: Insights into her incredible mindset and mental strength in the face of her challenging condition.Lighter Moments: Humorous and uplifting stories from Sophie’s incredible journey that will inspire and entertain.Running tips and tricks and debunking common mythsDon’t forget to hit the like button and subscribe to be notified of all future episodes.As always, don’t forget to send in your embarrassing running stories to PODCAST@RUNNA.COM or send us a voice-note on Instagram.Use the code ‘RUNNAPODCAST’ for 2 weeks free!See you next week! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jul 26, 2024 • 41min
Andre Coggins: Running Through Life’s Challenges - Mafia Moves and Inspiring the Next Generation
In this inspiring episode of The Runna Podcast, hosts Ben and Anya sit down with Andre Coggins (@andrecoggins), a passionate advocate for inspiring the younger generation and the founder of Mafia Moves. As a Lululemon-sponsored ambassador and community leader, Andre's dedication to fostering physical fitness, confidence, and community shines through. Highlights include:Inspiring the Next Generation: How Andre channels his background as a sports teacher to motivate and empower young people through fun and engaging physical activities.Mafia Moves and Community Impact: The creation and growth of his running club, which unites diverse communities, fosters friendships, builds confidence, and encourages hundreds to embark on their running journeys.Personal Struggles: Andre’s candid sharing of his own health challenges and the personal difficulties he has overcome to get where he is today.Lighter Moments: Humorous and embarrassing stories from Andre’s running adventures that will bring a smile to your face.Runnings tips on how to get faster!Don’t forget to hit the like button and subscribe to be notified of all future episodes.As always, don’t forget to send in your embarrassing running stories to PODCAST@RUNNA.COM or send us a voice-note on Instagram.Use the code ‘RUNNAPODCAST’ for 2 weeks free!See you next week! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jul 19, 2024 • 47min
Savannah Sachdev: Her 1000 day running streak and balancing life as Step Mum, Runner and Social Influencer
Join Ben and Anya in this episode of The Runna Podcast as they sit down with the amazing Savannah Sachdev (@savannahsachdev). Savannah shares how running has transformed her life in many ways, from her headspace and mood to her social presence and relationships.Savannah’s down to earth and realistic approach to running is inspiring, highlighting the huge benefit of getting your body moving - even just for 10 minutes a day. Highlights include:How Savannah's approach to running focuses on mental well-being and personal fulfilment.Life Transformations: The profound changes running has brought to her outlook on life and daily routines.Running streak:Would you run on a plane and on the day you give birth?!Ultra-Marathon Adventures: Insights from her incredible journey through the Dolomites and The Speed ProjectBalancing Roles: How she manages her running passion alongside her role as a stepmom and her social presence.Join us for an episode filled with Savannah's contagious laugh and inspirational outlook on life. Don’t forget to hit the like button and subscribe to be notified of all future episodes.As always, don’t forget to send in your embarrassing running stories to PODCAST@RUNNA.COM or send us a voice-note on Instagram.Use the code ‘RUNNAPODCAST’ for 2 weeks free!See you next week! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jul 12, 2024 • 51min
Lydia Oldham: From Hallucinations to a Vegas Wedding: The 500km Race of a Lifetime
Join Ben and Anya in this incredible episode of The Runna Podcast as they sit down with Lydia Oldham (@comerunwith.me), an ultra runner with an extraordinary journey. From her days as a competitive swimmer to a university party phase to becoming a professional ultra marathoner, Lydia’s story is one of incredible determination and mental strength.Episode Highlights:Running Journey: From competitive swimming to ultra running.Failures to Triumph: Overcoming the failure of her first 100km race and secretly completing the Race to the Stones 100km.The Speed Project: Running 500km solo through the desert, facing hallucinations, moonlit runs, and a Vegas wedding on a mobility scooter.Mindset: Insight into Lydia’s mental fortitudeFuture Plans: Lydia's exciting upcoming challenges and plansRunning Tips: Practical advice for runners, peppered with humor and personal anecdotes.Tune in for an inspiring and entertaining conversation that offers a glimpse into what it takes to push boundaries in the world of ultra running.Don’t forget to hit the like button and subscribe to be notified of all future episodes. As always, don’t forget to send in your embarrassing running stories to PODCAST@RUNNA.COM or send us a voice-note on Instagram. Use the code ‘RUNNAPODCAST’ for 2 weeks free!See you next week! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jul 5, 2024 • 50min
Lewis Robling: From Professional Rugby Player to Ultra Marathon Runner and Founder of 'Why We Run'
In this week's exciting episode of The Runna Podcast, Ben and Anya sit down with the inspiring Lewis Robling (@lewis_robling), a former professional rugby player turned ultra runner and founder of "Why We Run”. Lewis shares his remarkable journey, detailing how his own mental health struggles led him to discover a passion for running. This passion not only transformed his own life but also empowered him to help others facing similar challenges. By collaborating with mental health charities, Lewis has made a significant impact on many lives while navigating his own transition from rugby to ultra running. His story is a testament to resilience, determination, and the transformative power of community.Highlights include:Discovering a Passion: How Lewis found his love for running after a career in professional rugby.Overcoming Setbacks: He uncovers the difficulties elite sport retirement brings - a significant challenge that tested his perseverance and the strategies he used to come back stronger.Practical Advice: Valuable tips for aspiring runners on training, staying motivated, and avoiding common pitfalls.Community Power: The emotional and social benefits of being part of a supportive running community.Myth Busting: we discuss common running myths and debunk them Don’t forget to hit the like button and subscribe to be notified of all future episodes. As always, don’t forget to send in your embarrassing running stories to PODCAST@RUNNA.COM or send us a voice-note on Instagram.For a 2-week free trial of Runna use the code 'RUNNAPODCAST' See you next week! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 28, 2024 • 34min
Hazel Wallace: Nutrition, Listening to your Body and Managing your Cycle as a Runner
On today’s episode of The Runna Podcast, we welcome Dr. Hazel Wallace, a doctor, nutritionist, author, and founder of The Food Medic platform (@thefoodmedic). Hazel shares her inspiring story of how losing her father at age 14 sparked her interest in health and nutrition, eventually leading her to start The Food Medic blog while still a medical student.She discusses the challenges of juggling her work as a doctor during the Covid-19 pandemic with running her rapidly growing social media platform. Hazel opens up about her newfound love of running, which began with struggling through her first 5K during lockdown. She shares how she's progressed to running marathons like New York, despite having asthma as a child. Hazel touches on the importance of listening to your body and taking your cycle into consideration when training and fuelling as a runner Don’t forget to hit the like button and subscribe to be notified of all future episodes. As always, don’t forget to send in your embarrassing running stories to PODCAST@RUNNA.COM or send us a voice-note on Instagram. For a 2-week free trial at Runna use the code 'RUNNAPODCAST' See you next week! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 21, 2024 • 42min
Adrian D’Costa: Debunking Common Running Injury Myths & Essential Physio Advice All Runners Need to Hear
On today’s episode of The Runna Podcast, we delve deep into the world of running and physiotherapy with Adrian D'Costa, a renowned physiotherapist and founder of The Running Room (@itsmyphysioadrian). Adrian shares his extensive knowledge on common running injuries including Runners Knee and IT Band Syndrome, their prevention, and treatments, making this a must-listen for anyone looking to enhance their running performance while avoiding injury. Adrian discusses his personal connections to running and the enjoyment he gets from working with runners to solve their injuries and getting them back on trackThe episode is packed with actionable advice on improving running techniques, incorporating strength and conditioning, and understanding the role of proper footwear. Don’t forget to hit the like button and subscribe to be notified of all future episodes. As always, don’t forget to send in your embarrassing running stories to PODCAST@RUNNA.COM or send us a voice-note on Instagram. For a 2-week free trial at Runna use the code 'RUNNAPODCAST' See you next week! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 14, 2024 • 42min
Josh Patterson: Unveiling The Mental and Physical Determination Behind His Endurance World Records
Joshua Patterson, an ultra athlete famous for extraordinary endurance feats, shares his incredible journey from rugby player to marathon runner. He reveals how running 76 marathons in 76 days transformed his life and the supportive community behind it. Listen as he describes a poignant moment pushing a friend in a wheelchair during the Berlin Marathon. With humor, he recounts embarrassing running mishaps, the quirks of athlete hygiene, and the mental resilience developed through running. His stories inspire while highlighting the joy within endurance challenges.

Jun 7, 2024 • 38min
Theo Baker: Navigating Football, Youtube and New Endurance Challenges
On today’s episode of The Runna Podcast, we welcome former footballer turned runner and YouTube star Theo Baker (@theobaker_)● Theo shares how he unexpectedly fell into running during the lockdown, transitioning from team sports to individual challenges.● Discusses how the lockdown changed his focus from football to running and triathlons, sparking a new passion for distance running.● He opens up about how injuries redirected his sports career towards running and creating content related to his fitness journey.Don’t forget to hit the like button and subscribe to be notified of all future episodes. As always, don’t forget to send in your embarrassing running stories to PODCAST@RUNNA.COM or send us a voice-note on Instagram.For a 2-week free trial at Runna use the code 'RUNNAPODCAST'See you next week! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.


