Tough Girl Podcast

Tori is one half of West Country Adventures. She is a qualified teacher, and kayak coach turned climbing coach, aiming to inspire and support women in their ambition to become independent rock climbers. During our conversation, Tori candidly shares the challenges of working in the outdoors, particularly the wage disparities and financial challenges faced by women. She offers advice on how to gain experience, emphasising the importance of volunteering, shadowing, and observing others at work. Tori's own journey involved studying outdoor education, travelling, managing a climbing retreat in Spain, and joining a team of polar explorers going up to the North Pole. Through these experiences, she has gained a wealth of knowledge and skills, and now offers valuable insight into the opportunities available for those interested in pursuing a career in the outdoors. Tori is passionate about the outdoors and the benefits it offers, particularly for mental health. She also highlights the changing landscape of the industry, with governing bodies working to encourage women to work in the outdoors and provide support for them. *** Get ready for an exciting month of July on the Tough Girl Podcast, as we shine a spotlight on women working in the outdoors. Sponsored by Land & Wave - join us as we delve into their stories, gain insights, and discover valuable tips from their incredible experiences. Don't miss out on these empowering episodes released every Tuesday and Thursday at 7am UK time - hit the subscribe button and be part of the adventure! Show notes Who is Tori Working with female clients Being athletic and loving team sports Studying at Exeter College Being a member of the Scouts Embarking on a career in the outdoors Teaching in a formal classroom setting The wage disparity between the outdoors and other industries Studying outdoor education and what it was like Starting out with very little knowledge Developing personal skills Needing to be to 18 to work in the outdoors Doing her Bachelor's degree (Geography and Outdoor Education) at Manchester Metropolitan University Is university worth it? How to connect with and contact employers Advice for getting experience Why a wide range of experience is essential Looking for volunteer opportunities Shadowing and observing others at work Don't go too niche too soon Going travelling to Europe after university Managing a climbing retreat in Spain Taking on a full time apprentice role in Yorkshire Joining a team of polar explorers going up to the North Pole Teaching polar explorers how to canoe on their sledges Loving paddlesports and climbing The opportunities available Leading overseas expeditions (After qualifying as a Mountain Leader (ML) and First Aider) Teaching on youth development programs Making the time for experiences outside and why it's important Benefits for your mental health The challenges of working in the outdoors Wages and money Costs of equipment and clothing Dealing with the miserable days The financial challenges of women working in the outdoors Women dropping off in the qualifications/award system in their late 20s Flexibility and wages and why it's even harder when you have children How the Industry has changed over the past 16/17 years The support from governing bodies to encourage women to work in the outdoors Dealing with knocks to her confidence Mountain Training and their 5 year plan (2021 - 2025) Gear for women that fits Running women only courses Concerns about dealings with periods How to connect with Tori Final words of advice Social Media Website: www.westcountryadventures.co.uk Instagram: @itsadogslife_climbing @westcountry_adventures

Jennie has found her calling in the breathtaking landscapes of Dorset. As an outdoor instructor working for Land & Wave, she brings her passion for adventure to life, inspiring others to embrace the wild side of nature. Growing up on a farm in Cheshire, Jennie discovered her love for water and sailing at an early age. Spending time in North Wales and later working on sailing yachts in the Mediterranean and the Caribbean, she developed a deep connection with the outdoors and a thirst for exploration. However, as life progressed and her children embarked on their own journeys, Jennie realised it was time to pursue her own dreams. Seeking fulfilment beyond her role at a local primary school, she found herself at a crossroads. After the loss of a close family member, she embarked on a soul-searching journey, determined to follow her passion for the outdoors. The decision to join the Outdoor Instructor Training at Land & Wave was a turning point. Despite initial doubts and concerns, Jennie realised that age should never hold someone back from pursuing their dreams. With unwavering support from her children, parents, and partner, she made the bold move to Dorset, renting out the family home and immersing herself in the 15-week training program. Jennie's dedication and love for water activities shine through as she shares her experiences from the first season of work. From challenging weather conditions to connecting with clients, she has embraced every aspect of her new career. Drawing inspiration from role models and mentors within the industry, Jennie continues to learn and grow, setting her sights on future qualifications such as Paddle Sport Leader (PSL) and Mountain Leader. Balancing the demands of work and personal time in the outdoors is a constant endeavour, but Jennie remains determined to avoid burnout. Coping with the physicality of the job and managing logistics is a part of her daily routine, and she has valuable advice for women aspiring to make a career in the outdoors. Get ready for an exciting month of July on the Tough Girl Podcast, as we shine a spotlight on women working in the outdoors. Sponsored by Land & Wave - join us as we delve into their stories, gain insights, and discover valuable tips from their incredible experiences. Tune in every Tuesday and Thursday at 7 am UK time to be inspired by empowering stories of women working in the great outdoors. Don't miss out on this adventure - hit the subscribe button and be a part of the wild ride! Show notes Who is Jennie Growing up on a farm in Cheshire Being the youngest of 3 Her love for water and sailing Spending time in North Wales Working on sailing yachts in the Mediterranean and the Caribbean Meeting her husband and having children Starting to work in her local primary school Not feeling fulfilled Losing a close family member Thinking about what she wanted to do next Deciding to follow her passion for the outdoors What it was like when her children left home Figuring out the next stage in her life Being scared of making a change Learning to see change as an opportunity The starting point and putting a plan in place Going around in circles to start Becoming qualified as a dog groomer and starting her own business from home Doing research into outdoor providers Thinking about the costs, the location and the timings Attending an open day at Land & Wave How everything felt right Fear and concerns before committing to start the Outdoor Instructor Training Was she too old at 48? Why fear should not hold you back Making it work financially and logistically Having support from her children, her parents and partner Moving down to Dorset in May and starting to rent out the family home The Outdoor Instructor Training Course - 15 weeks, 15 qualifications. Paying for a kit package Attending an open weekend and meeting other people on the course Her love for the water activities Getting a job at the end of the course What the first season of work has been like; from the clients, to the work, and the weather Role models and mentors Learning from other instructors Future career steps and making plans for the winter Wanting to do her, Paddle Sport Leader (PSL) Qualification through Land and Wave Looking at doing her Mountain Leader Qualification Getting the balance right between work and spending time in the outdoors Burnout? Coping with the physicality of the work The logistics of moving kit around Advice for other women who want to make a career in the outdoors Social Media Website: www.landandwave.co.uk Instagram: @landandwave Facebook: @landandwave Youtube: www.youtube.com/@landwave9920

Join us as we dive into the captivating story of Rachael Crewesmith, an extraordinary mountaineer, rock climber, hill walker, and mountain bike guide. Discover how Rachael fearlessly defies boundaries in a male-dominated industry, taking on epic challenges and inspiring others along the way. Rachael in her own words: "I'm a mountaineer, rock climber, hill walker, mountain biker and occasional paddler. I divide my time between the sprawling Scottish Highlands and the compact but wild mountains of Snowdonia where I work as a mountaineering instructor and mountain bike guide. I have ridden my bike across Nepal, round and round the Strathpuffer 24 hr endurance course and down the twisty, rooty trails of the forests of the Highlands. I have climbed up 100 Munroes (and counting), El Capitan in Yosemite, to 6000m in the Himalaya and up the north face of Ben Nevis. My favourite day out ever was climbing The Original Route on The Old Man of Hoy, on Orkney. I've also spent time just travelling for travelling sake, especially in Asia. I visited Burma (Myanmar) at the same time as President Obama and witnessed the carnival of the first US state visit ever. I have walked across the living root bridges of Cherrapungee in north-eastern India and ridden the Darjeeling steam train. I have had dinner with the Nepali Army in Bhojpur and breakfast with the monks of north-eastern Thailand. I love coming home to the UK and realising just how amazing our diverse country is. From laverbread in South Wales to fresh mussels cooked in a jetboil on a Hebridean island, I love our country and all it has to offer." Get ready for an exciting month of July on the Tough Girl Podcast, as we shine a spotlight on women working in the outdoors. Sponsored by Land & Wave - join us as we delve into their stories, gain insights, and discover valuable tips from their incredible experiences. Don't miss out on these empowering episodes released every Tuesday and Thursday at 7am UK time - hit the subscribe button and be part of the adventure! Show notes Who is Rachael Working as an outdoor professional Living in Llanberis in North Wales Where her love of the mountains comes from Being obsessed with hockey from a young age Being inspired by her mum - who has previously swum the English Channel! Having a year out between school and university Spending time in Nepal and going to Everest Base Camp at 18 Meeting a boy who was into climbing Joining the mountaineering club at Nottingham University Why climbing didn't come naturally to her Studying archeology at university Working as a hockey coach Leaving university and getting a job at a climbing wall Not having a plan in her career Not knowing what she wanted to do Becoming a Rock Climbing Instructor (RCI) Following up and doing her Mountaineering Climbing Instructor (MCI) Becoming a Mountain Leader (ML) and doing 40 qualifying days Loving the variety of what she can do with her qualifications The challenges of working in the outdoor industry Making the transition to becoming a freelancer Why it's important to build connections and networks Getting work The advantages of being a women in the outdoors Elitism in the industry Observing other women working in the industry Working with certain choice companies and what she's looking for Pay in the industry as a mountaineering instructor and mountain leader Asking for more money and being paid what your worth Favourite type of work to get Remaining positive when dealing with miserable weather while out working Professional enthusiasm! Winter Mountain Leader Qualification 10% of Winter ML holders are female Association of Mountaineering Instructors (AMI) Women in Mountain Training Conference 2022 The importance of networking Proximal Role Models - Rebecca Williams Women's Trad Festival Irish Women's Rock Festival Advice for women who want to gain more qualifications Dr. Will Hardy - completion rates of Mountain Leader Qualification Bangor University and Mountain Training PhD - Developing excellence in outdoor provision: enhancing training pathways for outdoor qualifications. Why you should practice with a variety of people Tips for finding people to train with Women in Mountain Training Facebook Page Climbing the 'Old Man of Hoy' part of the Orkney archipelago off the north coast of Scotland. What VS means in climbing - Very Severe An explanation of traditional climbing grades Balancing the job/work with your love/passion for the outdoors Being able to pick and choose her work Being a Trustee of Cam&Bear Fund for Adventure How to connect with Rachael Wanting to run the Welsh 3000ers in under 12 hrs "Think big, start small, but do start" Social Media Website: rachcrewe.com Instagram: @rachcrewe Twitter: @rachcrewe Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/rachael-crewesmith-75211530/

Sophie Tanner is an Outdoor Adventure Activity Instructor and the Director of Land & Wave, a thriving outdoor company based in Dorset, UK. With a passion for inspiring more females to join the outdoor industry, Sophie is dedicated to providing training, employment, and incredible experiences to encourage women to embrace the great outdoors. As one of the four Directors of Land & Wave, Sophie plays a vital role in shaping the company's direction and success. She has a deep understanding of what Land & Wave does and the positive impact it has on people's lives. Born and raised in Dorset, Sophie's love for the outdoors began at an early age, she spent countless hours at the beach and by the water, fostering a connection with nature that would shape her future. Encouraged by her family to engage in sports and spend time outdoors, Sophie developed a strong affinity for exploring and trying new things. At the age of 16, Sophie contemplated her life's path. She desired to attend university but still yearned for opportunities to spend time outside. Taking a gap year at 18, she embarked on an adventure to Australia and New Zealand, immersing herself in the wonders of the natural world. This experience solidified her passion for outdoor adventure and led her to pursue a degree in Outdoor Adventure Recreation at university. During her summer holidays, Sophie made the most of her time by working at kids' holiday clubs and providing sports coaching in schools. She eagerly prepared for life after graduation, taking a nine-month journey to Thailand, Australia, New Zealand, Mexico, Colombia, and Canada. These travels enriched her perspective and further fuelled her desire to make a difference in the outdoor industry. Upon joining Land & Wave, Sophie dedicated herself to acquiring additional qualifications necessary for her outdoor pursuits. She obtained her First Aid qualification and completed her Mountain Leader training in Wales, paving the way for her to work full-time in the outdoors. Sophie thrived on the physical challenges of her job while also emphasising the importance of rest and recovery. Recognising the barriers that women face in the outdoor industry, Sophie offers valuable advice for other women who aspire to work in this field. She shares her insights on dealing with challenging situations, encourages more women to sign up, and organises Open Days with Land & Wave to provide opportunities for women to explore outdoor career options. Throughout her career, Sophie has witnessed significant changes in the outdoor industry over the past 15 years. She discusses these transformations and offers advice to women and girls seeking to gain experience in this dynamic field. Sophie highlights the Outdoor Instructor Fast Track Route and the thrilling activity of Coasteering as pathways for women to connect with Land & Wave. To connect with Land & Wave and learn more about their initiatives, Sophie encourages listeners to explore the company's website and social media channels. In her final words of advice, Sophie leaves a lasting message for aspiring outdoor enthusiasts and industry professionals alike. Get ready for an exciting month of July on the Tough Girl Podcast, as we shine a spotlight on women working in the outdoors. Join us as we delve into their stories, gain insights, and discover valuable tips from their incredible experiences. Don't miss out on these empowering episodes sponsored by Land & Wave. New episodes released every Tuesday and Thursday throughout July at 7am UK time - hit the subscribe button and be part of the adventure! Show notes Being 1 of 4 Directors of Land & Wave What Land & Wave does Living in Swanage Growing up in Dorset and her early years Spending time at the beach and by the water Being encouraged by her family to get into sports and spending time outdoors Working with her older sister Rosie Her love for exploring and trying new things Thinking about what she wanted to do with her life at 16 Wanting to go to University but still wanting to spend time outside Taking a gap year at 18 to go to Australia and New Zealand Studying an Outdoor Adventure Recreation Course at University Making use of her summer holidays Working at kids holiday clubs and doing sports coaching in schools Making plans for after graduation Going travelling for 9 months visiting; Thailand, Australia, New Zealand, Mexico, Columbia & Canada. Starting at Land & Wave Getting additional qualifications needed for the outdoors Doing her First Aid qualification and doing her Mountain Leader training in Wales Wanting to work full time in the outdoors The challenges of working in the outdoor industry Dealing with the physicality of the job Rest & recovery Advice for other women who want to work in the outdoor industry Barriers for women working in the outdoor industry Dealing with challenging situations while at work Encouraging more women to sign up Open Days with Land & Wave What has changed in the industry over the past 15 years Advice for women and girls who want to gain experience in the outdoor industry Outdoor Instructor Fast Track Route Coasteering How to connect with Land & Wave Final words of advice Social Media Website: www.landandwave.co.uk Instagram: @landandwave Facebook: @landandwave Youtube: @landwave9920

Mardi Fuller advocates for racial equity through writing, speaking and community building. A lifelong backcountry adventurer, in January 2021 she became the first known Black person to hike all 48 of New Hampshire's high peaks in winter. She lives in Boston where she works as a nonprofit communications director and volunteers with the local Outdoor Afro network. She writes for Outside magazine, SKI magazine, Melanin Basecamp and more. Mardi is committed to personal and corporate Black liberation and thereby, liberation for all humanity. She believes deeply in nature's healing power. Mardi was involved in the short film, "Mardi & the whites" Film Abstract "Mardi Fuller has a rich relationship with nature that has evolved and deepened throughout her life. In the last 20 years she's dedicated much of her time to exploring the landscape in the White Mountains (unfortunately coined "The Whites" by New Englanders) on Abenaki land. In that time Mardi summited all forty-eight 4,000 footers several times in all four seasons, often as the only Black person on the mountain. She has experienced great joy from communing with this landscape, but the overwhelmingly white hiking community that is so seeped in white supremacy and colonialism complicates her experiences. Recently, she has focused on creating more opportunities for Black folks to join her in appreciating this magnificent wilderness. Enjoying this land with her community has been a liberating balm that has strengthened her sense of identity as an outdoorswoman. "Mardi & the whites" is a peek into Mardi's relationship with the White Mountains, the great outdoors, and the community that surrounds them; Above all, it's a celebration of Black liberation in the wild." Mardi's Quote about the film "The film is about my 20-year journey as an outdoorswoman in the super white White mountains of New Hampshire. It's about the pain and loss I experienced amidst a hiking community wed to the invisibility of whiteness. At the same time, I benefited from the grounding force that is Nature. Over the years and through much identity formation and development, I found a path of Black liberation." New episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast go live every Tuesday at 7am UK time - Subscribe so you don't miss out. You can support the Tough Girl mission to increase the amount of female role models in the media - especially in relation to adventure and physical challenge by signing up as a patron. www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast. Thank you. Show Notes Who is Mardi Living in Boston, Massachusetts, USA Her passion for the outdoors and spending time outdoors Growing up in the suburbs close to NYC Discovering backpacking while at college Starting to explore the White Mountains Studying Spanish and French at College and spending time studying abroad Spending time in Europe The joy of travelling and experiencing other cultures Making the decision to move to Boston and her reasons for staying Her love of the mountains Hiking in the summer or winter? The importance of being prepared for winter hiking Up skilling and gaining new knowledge Why Mt Washington is one of the most deadly mountains in America Appalachian Mountain Club - is dedicated to the protection, enjoyment & understanding of the outdoors across the Northeast & Mid-Atlantic regions. Figuring out your own layering system to keep warm while walking in Winter Learning how to set your own personal expectations Wanting to hike all 48 mountains in New Hampshire over 4,000 feet (1219 meters) Her motivation for finishing off the remaining mountains to complete the 48 mountains in New Hampshire The film - Mardi and the Whites Paula Champagne - Visual Storyteller Talking about her personal experiences in the mountains Learning about the history of racial exclusion for people of colour Having to suppress her identity while out in the mountains and why it's an ongoing journey How have things changed over the past 20 years with regards to race and racism Speaking out against white supremacy and white dominance Shilletha "Dragonsky" Curtis - Hiking the Appalachian Trail in 2021 "Redlining" all the trails in a state and the racial undertones from the name The importance of acknowledging tribal land - as a way of honouring the Indigenous people who have been living and working on the land. Hiking Mt. Katahdin in Winter and her goals for winter 2023 and wanting to finish the New England 67 mountains Hiking all 67 New England 4,000 Footers How to connect with Mardi Final words of advice for women who want to spend more time in the outdoors. Social Media Instagram @wherelocsflyfree Watch the Film - Mardi & The Whites Linktree - https://zez.am/wherelocsflyfree

Steph is a Mum to a her nearly 6 year old son, a soldiers wife, and Operations manager for Forces Wives Challenge (FWC). In July 2019 Steph and her families' world was turned upside down when she became suddenly very unwell, and was subsequently diagnosed with a neurological disorder. Going from an active, full time working Mum and a keen horse rider, to fully dependant on a wheelchair, with complex health issues and requiring 24/7 care to support with everyday tasks, was life changing. With sheer determination, an incredible support network and a passion for adventure, less than two years later Steph was back in the saddle and aiming for the next challenge in life. Steph found her new 'place' within the FWC community and her role quickly developed from there, with her now being FWC's operation manager. This year Steph will take on a huge challenge alongside a team of Forces Wives when she takes on the 'Ride to Freedom' (R2F). Created by Steph, R2F will see the team tackle the challenging terrain surrounding the WW2 freedom across the Pyrenees mountains. The team will spend 5 days on horseback covering 130km of technically difficult mountain tracks, with the only the team supporting Steph in every aspect of the expedition. Join us as we follow Stephanie Quintrell's incredible journey of resilience, determination, and empowerment as she takes on the challenging Ride to Freedom and inspires others to never give up on their dreams. *** New episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast go live every Tuesday at 7am UK time - Subscribe so you don't miss out. You can support the mission to increase the amount of female role models in the media. Visit www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast Thank you. Show notes Who is Steph Being based in the East Midlands Working as the Operations Mangers for Forces Wives Challenge (FWC) The founder of FWC - Heather Sharp Wanting to be involved with FWC but not being able to participate in the hikes and the mountaineering expeditions How her role has developed over the years Her early years growing up and her love for horses Having her own horse from when she was 12 Being a member of The Pony Club Working in the care sector Getting ill at 28 and having to use a wheelchair Struggling with chronic pain and exhaustion when she was younger Being diagnosed with Multiple sclerosis (MS) in her early 20s but still having an active lifestyle How her whole world changed within 48hrs The challenges of treating her condition Adapting to a new way of living Not being able to look after herself or her son Getting back to horse riding after 2 years The feeling of freedom The Ride to Freedom - what it is and what' s involved Wanting to get involved in a new challenge and making the challenge accessible WW2 Freedom Trail (chemin de la Liberté) escape route to Spain Being supported by an amazing team of women The power of adventure and how it can bring people together Wanting adventure to be inclusive and accessible Doing practice expeditions/training weekends in the UK Working through her fears and concerns before the start of the challenge Wanting to create a short film about the journey How people can connect with Steph and FWC Final words of advice and wisdom for other women who would like to take on new challenges and adventures Social Media Website - www.forceswiveschallenge.org/ride-to-freedom Instagram: @forces_wives_challenge @steph_backinthesaddle Facebook : @forceswiveschallenge Twitter: @ForcesWivesChal

An ex city-lawyer whose first qualification was as a tennis coach, and whose first love has always been sport, Catherine has spent the second half of her career combining her twin passions of sport and leadership through her business, Sport and Beyond Ltd. Catherine brings a unique perspective to the mindset and approaches that deliver exceptional and sustained performance. She has had the privilege of working with many of our elite athletes and coaches, as well as a large number of the leading CEOs in the sports sector and elsewhere. She maintains strong links to the legal sector both through coaching senior lawyers, and through her role as Chair of O Shaped, an organisation aimed at making the legal profession better. Catherine is also a Trustee on the Board of the Dame Kelly Holmes Trust. About The Book: Staying the Distance showcases the much-needed leadership lessons that sport can teach us: how to improve, perform and achieve, in ways that are effective and sustainable. Leadership can be hard. It can certainly be relentless. The pandemic has wreaked havoc on the well-being, health and sustained performance of many senior leaders, and yet strong leadership remains central to the performance of every single organization. Business leaders are very familiar with drawing lessons from elite sport, particularly around teams, leadership and high performance. But we have all been missing a trick. Day in, day out, sport has been showing us not only how to improve, perform and achieve, but how to do so on a sustained basis, consistently delivering results when it matters. This book shines a light on these unseen lessons, and provides a clear and practical roadmap for how to deploy them in the reader's own leadership practices. With Catherine Baker's unique view into world-class sport and top-level business, and with insights from top performers in both worlds, this book provides a fresh and dynamic take on how - consistently and over the long term - to bring out the best in yourself, and in those you lead. New episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast go live every Tuesday at 7am UK time - Subscribe so you don't miss out. You can support the Tough Girl mission to increase the amount of female role models in the media - especially in relation to adventure and physical challenge by signing up as a patron. www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast. Thank you. Show Notes Who is Catherine? Having a varied work life from tennis coach to corporate lawyer Working as a leadership and mindset coach Mother of 3 sons Being sporty from a young age and being labelled as a tomboy Being a twin and the twin relationship Being 1 of 2 girls in an all boys school Going to boarding school at 8 Playing both tennis and hockey Going down the route of becoming a lawyer Trying to balance work and hockey training How team sports took a back seat to work Being on secondment in Singapore for 5 months Having a set of core principles and how they developed Wanting to make most of the opportunities Recognising her privilege Practical tips for taking advantage of those opportunities The importance of having really clear goals Getting the idea for her new book - Staying the Distance: The lessons from sport that business leaders have been missing Working out her own personal mission Balancing career, family and sports Wanting to do everything to the best of her ability You can do anything, but you can't do everything Who is the book for? The Huddle - a free resource to help you strategise, motivate and perform. Thoughts on decision making - going with your gut, your emotions, or values…. Confirmation bias Why it's sensible to give yourself time to make decisions Deciding to do the The Great North Swim Dealing with setbacks and failure Chapter 2 - How to leave behind fear How to connect with Catherine Final words of advice - "Success really is a team sport, so think carefully about who you have around you." Social Media Website: sportandbeyond.co.uk Twitter: @sportandbeyond1 Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/catherinehbaker/ Book: Staying the Distance: The lessons from sport that business leaders have been missing

Genny is aiming to be the first Aruban to ski to the North and South Poles to raise awareness on the devastating effects of Lyme Disease. Genny was diagnosed with Lyme Disease in the summer of 2016 after suffering from its debilitating effects and misdiagnosis for three harrowing years. She went from being a fit and active person to being so fatigued that she was bed bound for months. A few years on from diagnosis, Genny has recovered and become passionate about making diagnosis affordable, available and prompt in the UK, where she now lives. She is determined that no one else should suffer as she did. Genny is excited and a little bit nervous about the challenge of skiing to the South Pole. She hopes to inspire others to aim high, dream big, work hard, and never settle for someone else's interpretation of what they can achieve. As the first Aruban woman to attempt such a feat, Genny sees it as an honour to represent her home country and inspire others to pursue their dreams. We first spoke with Genny on - 26th January 2021. You can listen here: https://www.toughgirlchallenges.com/single-post/genny-brown New episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast go live every Tuesday at 7am UK time - Subscribe so you don't miss out. You can support the mission to increase the amount of female role models in the media. Visit www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast Thank you. Show notes Who is Genny Moving to the UK, 15 years ago Her training to ski solo and unsupported to the South Pole in late 2024/25 Speaking to Genny on the TGP in January 26th 2021 What's been going on since we last spoke Coming to realise how much there is still to learn The beginning of 2021 Starting to make plans for 2022 with regards to training Needing to get more on ice experience Heading to Norway for training Working with Helen Turton from Newland Expeditions Getting physical fit by pulling tyres in the UK Knowing her tent mate - Ellen aka @randogirl42 Wanting to dedicate her life to polar pursuits Needing to get her act together and getting more sponsors Developing uterine fibroids and how they impacted on her quality of life Needing to have surgery to remove the uterine fibroids. The recovery period after her surgery Putting a plan in place with help from Helen Needing to do more bespoke training and doing a mini solo expedition on her own Needing to test new equipment out in the cold Cold weather management Getting back into the gym and building back her strength again Underestimating how long it took to recover Building back up her confidence The start of 2023 Doing her basic polar training course in Norway Having to face her fears and overcome them Needing to work on her mindset Continuing to show up for herself and doing all the right things Making the best of the situation and focusing on her camp craft Putting a lot of pressure on herself to be perfect Woking with a therapist to identify the reasons why her fear had occurred Hillenberg Tent The challenges of solo expeditions Dealing with the negative thoughts and learning to enjoy the journey Taking the time to unplug Being by yourself and spending time with your own thoughts Plans for the rest of 2023 Focusing on sponsorship Making progress over the past few years Wanting to learn to be comfortable in uncomfortable situations Wanting to develop her mountaineering skills Planning for 2024 and what needs to be done to achieve her polar goal How to connect with Genny Final words of advice for other women who want to pursue their big dream Stop holding yourself back Needing to factor in rest and recovery Social Media Website: www.antarcticaruban.com Instagram: @antarcticaruban Facebook: @antarcticaruban Go Fund Me: https://www.gofundme.com/f/expedition-kit-for-genny-brown-antarctic-aruban

Tegan in her own words: "Once upon a time… I was studying to be a lawyer. Then I drew some comics in a competition to win a bicycle, which I rode across Spain, telling the story of my adventure through a comic blog. This kind of adventure storytelling was too fun to not wildly pursue, so I spent the next few years finding ways to go on more adventures (which included an 11,000km bike trip through Africa with my family, and a 10 Iron Man triathlon around New Zealand), while figuring out how to turn it into a real job. Today, I work full-time as a cartoonist, speaker and endurance cyclist. I am currently working on a book, setting up a comic merchandise shop in South Africa and training to try again to set a women's record of the fastest cycle from Cairo to Cape Town in Oct 2022 February 2024." The challenge: Cycling Africa: Cairo to Cape Town. 1 continent, 8 countries, 10,800 kilometres, and 58,000 elevation, setting a women's world record that needs to exist. New episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast go live every Tuesday at 7am UK time - Subscribe so you don't miss out. You can support the mission to increase the amount of female role models in the media. Visit www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast Thank you. Show notes Who is Tegan Her love of going on big adventures on her bike Growing up in South Africa Spending a lot of time outside Living in Cape Town Going on a family cycle adventure Cycle touring Being inspired by Tom Allen Her first solo trip in Spain Getting lost, falling off the bike and figuring it out Feeling completely free Transitioning into the adventure life Her love of adventure Professional Adventurer? Problem solving while on the road Cartooning and why it's more like writing Making decisions after university Trying to figure out what to do next Feeling a lot of pressure Reflecting back on her earlier work Being encouraged to follow her passions Heading off to New Zealand to do 10 Iron Man Trying to figure out how to make money Adventure Grants Altum Consulting Training plans and joining a triathlon club The planning and preparation First blind woman attempting to climb Mt. Everest - Shawn Cheshire What does success look like on an adventure? Anticipating unexpected challenges Where the idea came from to cycle from Cairo to Cape Town Finding out that there was no women's record for the Cairo to Cape Town cycle 2019 - applying for the Guinness World Record to find out what the rules were Planning and researching for the challenge Wanting to start in October 2022 Needing to go through the civil war in Ethiopia Working with a cycling coach for the past few years Figuring out the funding and the support team Being delayed in Egypt and needing to wait 6 weeks Feeling ill and needing medical help Having a seizure and ending up in hospital Processing everything that's happened Trying to figure out what was wrong Having her dream fall apart in front of her eyes Getting back to cycling and training Hormonal problems? Looking after herself and prioritising her mental health The therapy of talking Plans for 2023 Heading to France do to an Alt Tour of the Women's Tour de France Staying with Katherine Bertine The Women's Tour - UK Tour de France Femmes Funding for adventures and making a living Working with Komoot Turning 30 and how her mindset is changing Having less fear and coming-out the other side How to connect with Tegan Final words of advice Social Media Website: teganphillips.com Instagram: @teganphillipscomics

Seanna in her own words: "I am Seanna (pronounced like Shauna) and I am deep into my healing journey. I am a survivor of multiple severe traumas and some debilitating psychosis. I have been to some of the darkest places and led a very limited life for some time. As well as medication and therapy, I have found that carving out an intentional life and staying true to my values has helped me to not only survive, but truly thrive. After spending two months as an inpatient in a trauma clinic, I discovered embodied healing practices, and later qualified as a breathwork facilitator. I aim to live a life that is aligned with who I am, focusing on physical, mental, emotional and spiritual wellbeing as well as a life full of adventure. In 2022, I thru hiked the Israel National Trail over two months on my own, which is over 1,000 km. The inner journey was even more powerful than the tangible one, and now I give talks on overcoming adversity and being guided by intuition to live your best, most intentional life." Content Warning - During this episode; mental health, trauma, self harm, dark thoughts and psychosis is discussed. New episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast go live every Tuesday at 7am UK time - Subscribe so you don't miss out. You can support the Tough Girl mission to increase the amount of female role models in the media - especially in relation to adventure and physical challenge by signing up as a patron. www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast. Thank you. Show Notes Who is Seanna? Being on an 8 month sabbatical Recording this from Vietnam Having an adventurous spirit but not fitting into games Not liking any type of game (sports, board games etc) Joining the Army Cadets Taking 2 gap years to travel Being concerned about what other people thought of her Being a competitive cheerleader and competing in the world championships in Florida Booking a flight to Arctic Sweden to walk a small section of the Kungsleden Trail (The Kings Trail) The joys of spending time in nature and how it makes her feel Her running journey and signing up for her first marathon at 19 on the South Downs Being ill aged 21/22 Giving up smoking in 2012 and starting to run again Doing her first Ultra Marathon - 50km on the Thames Path Challenge Biting off more than she can chew, not feeling ready - and why it's ok to try your best and just muddle through. Running for Joy Feeling her feelings Training for the Thames Path Challenge with running coach Toby - IG Queer Running Club Struggling with consistency Running with her mum and step dad Magical moments while running Deciding to take a sabbatical and the planning for her time off Spending 2 months in a trauma clinic in 2018 Being inspired to hike the Israel National Trail Making the decision and how it felt right Feeling difficult emotions but knowing how to feel them and cope with them in a sensible way Not feeling ready to leave the trauma clinic Planning during the covid lockdowns The Israel National Trail Getting water on the trail and arranging water drops Dealing with flash flood warnings and the dangers of hiking during those times The Red Guide Book - The full guide to the Israel National Trail - Fourth Edition, 2020 Not feeling safe putting her tent up and not listening to her gut Magical moments with trail angels Money/costs and going over budget (£1,500 for 2 months) How to connect with Seanna Plans for the next few months Leaving London and moving to Devon Final words of wisdom for women who want to make some changes in their life Social Media Website: www.seannasworld.org Instagram: @seannasworld Ko-fi: ko-fi.com/seannasworld Youtube: https://youtube.com/@seannasworld6502