The Runna Podcast
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.
Episodes
"I'd Written Myself Off" - Fergus Crawley on 10 Ironmans in 10 Days for Men's Mental Health
Please note: this episode contains references to suicide and mental health. If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out to a healthcare professional for support.Fergus Crawley attempted to take his own life ten years ago. This year, on the anniversary of that day, he set a Guinness World Record for 10 Ironman-distance triathlons in 10 days, across 10 UK cities, raising money for CAL
Why Am I Not Getting Faster? 4 Fixes For Your Running Plateau | with Coach Steph
Doing everything right but not seeing the results? You're not alone, and it's rarely about trying harder.This week, Coach Steph and Anya unpack the four most common reasons a runner's training plateaus: unclear goals, the "grey zone" trap, under-recovering, and skipping strength work, plus practical fixes for each one.What You'll Learn: 🎯 Why you need a real goal, not just a vague one ⚖️ Why your
"I've Never Looked Like Another Girl" | Hybrid Athlete Lucy Davis on Strength, Body Image & Refusing to Be Boxed In
Lucy Davis has been called masculine her whole life. And she wants other women to stop treating strength and femininity as a contradiction.This week, Anya sits down with Lucy, the true embodiment of the hybrid athlete to talk about leaving competitive swimming at 18, breaking the HYROX Women's Open World Record on her first ever solo race, and going on to run multiple sub-3-hour marathons and ultr
3 Coaching Tips to Reboot Your Running Motivation (Without Burning Out)
Feeling that September pull to reset your running routine or set some new goals? You're not imagining it.This week, Coach Steph and Anya break down the psychology of the "fresh start effect" and why this time of year makes us all feel more motivated. Steph shares three practical coaching tips you can use to turn that motivation into a routine that actually survives winter: from setting realistic g
The Broadway Star Who Ran A Marathon, Then Performed Two Shows That Night! | Jordan Litz
Jordan Litz went from the US Olympic Trials in swimming to becoming the longest-running Fiyero in Wicked's history, first on Broadway and now in the West End's 20th anniversary production.Anya sits down with Jordan to talk about the wildest crossover of endurance and performance: running the New York City Marathon last year and then walking straight onto the Wicked stage for two full shows, forty
Joe Wicks: "You Never Regret a Workout" | How to Start Running, Marathon Training & Getting the Nation Moving
Joe Wicks, aka The Body Coach, joins Ben and Anya on The Runna Podcast to discuss his journey with running, how movement serves as medicine for mental health, and why he’s on a mission to get 50,000 people moving in 2026.From launching the viral "PE with Joe" sessions to mastering the "Jeffing" run/walk method and smashing a sub-20 minute 5K with Mo Farah, Joe shares honest, actionable advice for
Anna Archer on Marathon Training, Body Image & Self-Belief | "Beating Yourself Up Brings Nothing Good to You"
Four years ago, Anna Archer ran her first marathon with Runna. She finished in 5:27, cried at 30K, and swore she'd never do it again. She's now done five. Her most recent was 3:59.Anya and Ben sit down with runner and content creator Anna Archer for one of the most honest conversations we've had about marathon running, body image and how life-changing running can be.Anna talks about flipping her p
Running in Hot Weather: How to Adapt & Still Hit Your PBs
Does heat training actually make you faster? Running in hot weather isn't about pushing harder - it's about adjusting smarter. This week, Ben and Anya break down the science behind heat acclimatisation: what's happening to your body when temperatures rise, why adaptation kicks in faster than most runners expect, and the five practical adjustments that actually make the difference - when and where
Josh Kerr on Breaking the World Record & the Incredible Mindset Behind It
"I knew exactly what was wrapped under the tree. I just had to go downstairs and open it." 🏆This week on The Runna Podcast, Izzy speaks to Olympic and World medallist Josh Kerr just days after he broke the men's world record for the mile.Josh's run made history: the first British-held mile world record since Roger Bannister's era, run in front of a home crowd of 60,000 people. But this conversatio
Tilly Ramsay on Cooking, Running & Doing Hard Things | "Good Food Doesn't Have to Be Fancy"
Tilly Ramsay is one of the most joyful people you'll meet. She's also quietly one of the most competitive.You probably know her from her cookery shows and as Gordon Ramsay's daughter. What you might not know is that she beat both her parents in a triathlon, set her 10K PB during her first marathon, and is already hunting for the next scary thing to sign up to.This week, Anya sits down with TV pres
"I Started Running Because of You" | Mary McCarthy on Marathon Training, Self-Belief & Running Motivation
Most people found her two years ago. She's been running for 19.This week on The Runna Podcast, Ben and Anya sat down with running content creator Mary McCarthy to go behind the times, the content, and the self-belief of one of the UK's most exciting marathon runners right now.From competitive swimmer to cross-country champion to 2:50 marathoner. From zero followers to hundreds of thousands of wome
From Rock Bottom to Sub-3 Marathons: How Running Rebuilt Austyn Farrell's Life
"Last year, I was learning about myself. Now, I am myself." This week on The Runna Podcast, Ben and Anya speak to dancer, content creator, and marathoner Austyn Farrell.Austyn Farrell's online feed is full of joy, from hilarious skits to viral dance videos. But this conversation goes deeper.Austyn shares his history of mental health struggles, substance misuse and a loneliness that performing coul
"You’ve Got to Learn to Love the Journey" | Coach Ben’s Final Farewell, Best Bits & Top Coaching Tips
"My passion has always been in helping people achieve their active goals - which is how this all started."After 5 years building Runna from an idea to the world's top-rated running coaching app, Coach Ben has made the decision to move on and take a well-earned break. In this special farewell episode, Ben and Anya look back at over 100 weekly episodes together: the most inspiring conversations
How to Train for Ultra Marathons with a Full-Time Job | Mike Wardian
Mike Wardian's ultra marathon training schedule is unlike anything you've heard.Full-time job. Two kids. 4:45am starts. And at 52 years old, he recently won the World Marathon Challenge for the third time - breaking the world record for seven 50Ks on seven continents in seven days by almost four hours!This week Kayla sits down with Mike to find out exactly how he does it. From early morning alarms
Reggie Yates, BBC Filmmaker | "If You Can Lace Up Your Trainers, You're a Runner"
Reggie Yates thought a 5k would finish him. Then he trained for a marathon - and fell completely in love with running.In this episode of The Runna Podcast, British broadcaster and filmmaker Reggie Yates joins Anya Culling for an honest conversation about his first marathon training journey. The early treadmill sessions that nearly broke him with boredom. The outdoor runs that set him free. Th
Olly Murs: 400km Challenge After 5 Knee Surgeries | "I Enjoyed How Horrible It Was"
Whether you're chasing a marathon PB or simply wondering what you're actually capable of - Olly Murs just raised the bar for everyone.The X Factor star ran, rowed, and cycled 400km across England in 5 days, raising over £1 million for Soccer Aid for UNICEF! No marathon experience. No route until each morning. A knee that's had five operations. And he loved every horrible second of it.Anya Culling
"I Was a Runner the Moment I Started Running" | Why Running Is for Everybody With Tatiana Forbes
Tatiana Forbes started running postpartum in 2023, unable to run for more than 30 seconds. She joined us on The Runna Podcast after crossing the finish line of the United Airlines NYC Half Marathon.Anya Culling and Kayla Jeter sit down with runner, content creator, and founder of the Best for Last Run Club. The self-proclaimed 'slow runner' shares the struggle of being left behind at a run club, a
"I Was More Dangerous to Race” | Keira D'Amato on Breaking the American Marathon Record
Keira D’Amato broke the American marathon record at 37.She did it after a decade away from the sport - while raising two kids, building a real estate career, and rediscovering what running meant to her.In this episode, Keira sits down with Anya and Kayla to unpack one of the most remarkable stories in modern running. From the injury that forced her out of the sport, to the identity crisis that fol
"I Never Expected to Be Back on the Start Line" | Ben Shephard on Running Marathons at 50
From a devastating back injury to a 3:29 marathon at 50 - Ben Shephard just ran his first marathon in 16 years.Whether you're returning from injury, chasing a marathon comeback, or trying to stay fit as you get older - this conversation will make you rethink what's possible.Just days after crossing the finish line in London, the beloved British TV presenter sits down with Ben and Anya to talk hone
"I Can Feel Him Kicking Before the Run" | Podiums & Parenthood with with Calli & Nick Hauger
Calli Hauger-Thackery won a marathon at 8 weeks pregnant. The world had no idea.She joined us before lining up in Boston at 22 weeks - with her husband, coach, and training partner Nick Hauger racing alongside her.This episode goes behind the scenes of one of the most unusual high-performance partnerships in elite running: how they train together, compete individually, and what it really means to
"The Award Is You Didn't Die" | Russ Cook ‘Hardest Geezer’ on Running Africa and Marathon Training
Russ Cook, ‘Hardest Geezer’, joins Coach Ben and Anya Culling for a special live recording in London, chasing a blistering 2:35 marathon goal. Despite running across a continent, he shares how marathon training is pushing him in new ways.From raw, often hilarious stories from Africa to his broader journey from rock bottom, Russ reflects on completing one of the toughest endurance feats in hi
“The Most Painful Race of My Life” | Boston Finish Line EXCLUSIVE with Sara Hall
"Everyone told me I'd peaked. Then I ran my fastest marathon at 40."Whether you're questioning your running longevity, chasing a marathon PB after a setback, or wondering if the best is really behind you - this conversation with Sara Hall will make you think differently about what's possible.Sara raced in Boston this week and called it the most painful race of her life. Hours later, she sat down w
“There’s no such thing as a good or bad food” | The Nutrition Advice All Runners Need to Hear
If you’re underfuelled, you will underperform. Most runners are unintentionally holding back their PBs because of "carb fear"-this week, we’re fixing that.In this episode of The Runna Podcast, sports nutritionist Sian Seccombe explains why underfuelling is one of the most common mistakes runners make. From ‘hitting the wall’ to the serious risks of RED-S, Sian breaks down sports nutrition for
Your Ultimate Marathon Race Day Guide | A Complete Run-Through with Runna Coaches
What should you actually do before a marathon?And how do you stay calm, confident, and in control on race day?In this episode of The Runna Podcast, Coach Ben and Anya guide you through your entire marathon race day - from the night before to the start line, through the race itself, and into post-race recovery.Whether you're running London, Boston, your first marathon or your fiftieth, this episode
From Wall Street Millionaire to Rock Bottom - Then a 2:29 Marathon | Ken Rideout
**Please note, this episode contains discussion of drug addiction, substance misuse, and suicide, which some listeners may find upsetting. If you or someone you know is struggling, please seek professional support.**"Discipline is the only thing that will set you free"He beat opioid addiction. Then ran a 2:29 marathon at 50.Ken Rideout is the fastest masters marathon runner in the world - and this
Grant Fisher: Behind The Scenes of an Olympian's Half Marathon Debut
"It's a home Olympics. The goal is to WIN."So why did a 2x Olympic medalist choose a race where success wasn't guaranteed?Grant Fisher joins us the day after his half marathon debut at the United Airlines NYC Half - where he ran 1:00:53, one of the fastest American-born debuts ever. But this wasn't a perfect race. He went out hard, took risks, and learned more because of it.This is a real-time loo
Will Zouhair Talbi Win Boston? | The Quiet Rise of America's Third-Fastest Marathoner
Zouhair Talbi just ran 59:41, placing 1st American at the United Airlines NYC Half - and we got the inside scoop. Fresh off a 2nd place finish last weekend, elite runner and Olympian Zouhair Talbi joins us to break down the mindset, decisions, and race instincts behind elite performance - and what it means heading into Boston in five weeks.Zouhair takes us inside the race - sharing how he rea
Can Everybody Be a Runner? | Scottee on Beginner Running and Belonging
Who is running really for? Can everyone be “a runner”?This week, beginner runner and performance artist Scottee joins us on The Runna Podcast the day after his first half marathon to talk running confidence, mental health, and why he almost never started.This is a raw, funny and honest conversation about starting running when the sport hasn’t always felt welcoming. Highlights include: 🏃
The Runner’s Guide to Pregnancy & Postpartum with Twice The Health
Can you run while pregnant? And how do you safely return to running after having a baby? In this International Women’s Day special of The Runna Podcast, we’re joined by two incredible women redefining what strength looks like in women’s running. Anya speaks to Hannah and Em from Twice The Health about running during pregnancy, postpartum recovery, and balancing motherhood with performance.Han
How to Run a 2:17 Marathon Without Being Miserable | Hugo Fry
“If you put more work in, you will see the results.” But how much is enough?In this inspiring episode of The Runna Podcast, Coach Anya sits down with 2:17 marathoner and content creator Hugo Fry - serious about speed, but not about himself. From lockdown 5Ks to becoming one of the UK’s fastest sub-elite marathoners, Hugo reveals his training secrets around sleep, fuelling, and the ‘delusional
Your Marathon Training Check-In: Everything You Need To Know
Is marathon training meant to feel this hard?🏃♂️ If you’re halfway through your training block and suddenly your legs feel heavier, marathon pace feels daunting, and your confidence has dipped - you’re not alone.In this episode, Ben and Anya bring you a mid-marathon training check-in for anyone building towards a spring race like London or Boston (or any marathon, really). We break down why
How to Start Running as a Cyclist (Mistakes to Avoid) | Manon Lloyd
Can a pro cyclist simply swap the bike for running shoes? 🚴♀️🏃♀️In this episode of The Runna Podcast, hosts Ben and Anya sit down with Manon Lloyd, former Team GB pro cyclist and GCN presenter, as she swaps the velodrome for the road and trains for her first half marathon with Runna.Manon shares the brutal reality of being a beginner again after years at the top of elite sport. She opens up abou
Are Elite Runners Born - or Built? | Jake Wightman, World Champion
Are elite runners born, or built?This week on The Runna Podcast, 1500m World Champion Jake Wightman reveals the training secrets and mindset shifts that helped him beat Jakob Ingebrigtsen and conquer the world stage.Jake shares the reality of middle-distance running at the highest level with Coaches Ben and Anya. From the "Nature vs. Nurture" debate and the unique pressure of being coached by his
Allie Ostrander on RED-S and Recovery | The Mental Battle Behind Elite Running
This episode contains discussion of eating disorders, which some listeners may find upsetting. If you or someone you know needs support, help is available. In the UK, Beat Eating Disorders offers confidential support at beateatingdisorders.org.uk. In the US, you can contact the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) at nationaleatingdisorders.org. “It’s about what your body can do
Bryony Gordon: “I Didn’t Think Running Was for Someone Like Me” | From Alcoholism to Marathons
"I didn’t think running was for someone like me" This week on The Runna Podcast, Ben and Anya speak to journalist, bestselling author, and mental health advocate, Bryony Gordon.Bryony didn’t grow up sporty - in fact, exercise often felt like punishment. But during some of the hardest moments of her life, while battling mental illness and alcoholism, she turned to running out of desperation -
Roman Kemp | Getting Back Into Running (and How It Helps My Mental Health)
“The number one thing that helps me mentally is physical movement”.This week on The Runna Podcast, hosts Ben and Anya sit down with broadcaster and presenter Roman Kemp as he begins his Return to Running journey with Runna.Listen as Roman shares why he’s picking up running again, and how movement truly improves his mental health - providing structure, perspective, and anxiety relief. Roman sh
Anna Sitar: Start Running Before You Feel Ready! | Build Running Confidence
How do you actually build running confidence?This week on The Runna Podcast, Coach Ben sat down with content creator and runner Anna Sitar to unpack her journey from beginner runner to training for the marathon in New York back in November.What started as a simple goal to finish her first marathon turned into a deeper commitment to structured marathon training, performance, and proving she was cap
How to Become a Better Runner in 2026: 10 Coaching Tips
Starting running is easy. Sticking with it is the hard part.In this New Year episode, Ben and Anya break down exactly how to build running consistency and avoid another stop-start cycle that fades by February. Whether you’re looking for beginner running advice, returning after time off, or setting your goals for 2026, this episode is designed to help you build consistency without burnout, avoid th
The Runna Podcast Wrapped: Biggest Lessons, Funniest Moments & 2026 Goals
Ready for your ultimate 2025 Running Wrapped? 🎄 Join us as Ben & Anya share their biggest lessons, set ambitious 2026 running goals and give you the ultimate running motivation ahead of the New Year.In this episode, we cover:🎧The Runna Podcast Wrapped: Your favourite moments from 2025🏆 Best of 2025: Top running gear, races, and PBs⭐ Guest Highlights📊 Strava Year In Sport Showdown: Ben vs
Max Whitlock OBE: The Secret Formula to His Olympic Success
Want to know an Olympic Champion’s formula for success? This week on The Runna Podcast, Ben and Anya sat down with Max Whitlock OBE - one of the most successful gymnasts in Olympic history. After walking away from the sport, Max explained why he’s back from retirement with unfinished business, and setting his sights on the 2028 LA Olympics. Alongside his gymnastics comeback, Max has take
The Mindset That Made an Undefeated Ironman World Champion: Chrissie Wellington OBE
What if the secret to becoming a world champion wasn’t talent, data, or pressure… but joy, curiosity, and the freedom to fail?This week on The Runna Podcast, Ben and Anya sit down with Chrissie Wellington OBE - four-time Ironman World Champion, undefeated in 13 Ironman races, and one of the most iconic endurance athletes in history with a largely untold story.Chrissie didn’t touch triathlon until
Meet Runna’s Newest Coach: Kayla Jeter
In this episode of The Runna Podcast, we sit down with Kayla Jeter - NEW Runna Coach, sports psychologist, ultramarathoner, and the powerhouse behind 100 Miles of Summer, the global running movement followed by hundreds of thousands.A former Division I volleyball standout, her path shifted after a career-changing ACL injury, the loss of both parents, and the heavy reality of stepping away from the
Zac Clark: From 250lbs in Addiction Recovery to 11 NYC Marathons
From 250 lbs in rehab to 11 consecutive Marathons in NYC: Zac Clark's addiction recovery story that raised $750,000 for mental health treatment.At 27, Zac entered addiction recovery weighing 250 lbs, broken and searching for purpose. One morning, he walked up a small hill outside the treatment centre. Two weeks later, he ran it. That single hill became the catalyst for 14 years of sobriety and a m
The 3 Most Common Running Injuries: How to Prevent & Treat Them with Physio Adrian D’Costa
Shin splints, runner's knee, and IT band syndrome explained by expert running physio Adrian D'Costa - discover how to prevent and fix the most common running injuries with proven strength training and recovery strategies.In this episode of The Runna Podcast, hosts Anya Culling and Ben Parker sit down with Adrian D'Costa, Head Physio at Runna and one of London's leading running injury specialists.
"Running Sucks... Until It Doesn't" - Uly Morazan On Training for His First Marathon
When Uly Morazan signed up for his first half marathon, he didn’t even own running shoes. Four months later, he crossed the finish line of the New York City Marathon, joining the 1% of people who can call themselves marathon runners.In this episode of The Runna Podcast, Coach Ben Parker sits down with Uly - actor, comedian, and LGBTQ+ creator - to unpack his chaotic, hilarious, and unexpectedly he
Molly Seidel on Pulling Out of New York & the Mindset That Changed Her Career
Olympic bronze medalist Molly Seidel sits down with Coach Ben to share her journey from high-school prodigy to making marathon history in Tokyo.Molly opens up about her courageous decision to withdraw from the NYC Marathon, what it truly takes to compete at the highest level, and the lessons that have shaped her career - including the hardest one: knowing when to stop.In this raw and honest conver
Running in Winter: 6 Essential Tips to Stay Motivated and Train Smart
Winter running doesn't have to be a struggle. Ben and Anya share 6 essential coaching tips for running through winter - helping you stay motivated, healthy, and consistent when it’s dark, cold, and easy to skip your runs.Whether you’re training for a spring marathon or just keeping your running routine on track, this episode covers everything from cold-weather gear and nutrition to goal-setti
Schooner Scorer: How to Run Sub-3 Marathons Without Making HUGE Sacrifices
In this episode of The Runna Podcast, we sit down with Schooner Scorer, the sub-3 marathoner with 500K+ followers who turned a pub joke into an internet sensation. From rating beers to running a 2:51 in Chicago, Alex proves you can chase PBs and pints without losing your love for the sport. Fresh off his marathon PB, he shares how Schooner Scorer went from a uni in-joke to a 500K+ community.&
The Secret to Marathon Longevity: A Decade of Consistency Explained (with Rory Linkletter)
Olympian Rory Linkletter breaks down his 2025 Chicago Marathon race - chasing the Canadian record (2:06:49), hitting the pain cave at mile 13, and still running a PB. Learn what it really takes to train 4,000 miles a year and compete at the elite level.Fresh off the finish line, Rory shares the mindset, consistency, and decade-long journey behind world-class marathon running. From training with Co
"How Running Changed My Life": Jesseca Furness on 42 Marathons & Running For Your Mental Health
Jess Furness has done it all — from winning a 250 km ultra marathon in the Sri Lankan heat, to breaking sub-3 in Berlin. But her biggest challenge yet? Running 42 marathons in a single year to honour her brother Eddie, who would have turned 42 this year.In this special World Mental Health Day episode of The Runna Podcast, we sit down with Jess Furness - runner & presenter at The Running Channe
Novice to Gold in 4 Years & Redefining Motherhood in Elite Sport: 4x Olympian Helen Glover
This week on The Runna Podcast, we sat down with Helen Glover - two-time Olympic champion, triple world champion, and the first British mother to return to elite rowing and stand back on the Olympic podium.Incredibly, Helen didn’t pick up a rowing oar until age 21. Within just 4 years, she won Olympic gold - going on to hold every major title in her event and lead an unbeaten global streak between
“Everyone Told Us to Quit”: The Brutal Truth Behind Running Across Australia & the UK
They ran across Australia. Then the UK. Over 4,000 miles, 120+ marathons, and more than $350,000 raised for cancer research.Meet The Lambros - Stefan and Lachlan Lamble, the first brothers to run across Australia AND the UK. In this raw and inspiring episode, we unpack what drives two Melbourne brothers to attempt the world’s toughest endurance challenges.From conquering the Nullarbor Desert to be
Olympic Champion Alex Yee: Training Secrets, Marathon Debut, and Giving Back
Two-time Olympic gold medallist. World Champion. Marathon debutant. And now - breaking exclusive racing news, live from Runna HQ!In this special episode of The Runna Podcast, Olympic legend Alex Yee joins us in front of a live audience to share his journey from Lewisham to the world stage. From breaking records in Paris 2024 to finishing 14th in his marathon debut (2:11:08), Alex reveals the
Why Strava Bought Runna: The Startup Story Behind Runna (with the CEOs of Strava & Runna)
What happens when the world’s biggest fitness platform buys one of the fastest-growing running apps?In this exclusive episode of The Runna Podcast, we sit down with Strava CEO Mike Martin and Runna CEO Dom Maskell to uncover the full story behind the Strava x Runna acquisition - from lockdown side hustle to global fitness tech takeover.Whether you’re a runner, startup founder, or tech lover, this
Paula Radcliffe LIVE: Proven Half Marathon Tips from a World Record Holder
This week on The Runna Podcast, we’re live from the AJ Bell Great North Run with Paula Radcliffe MBE - world record-breaker, Olympic icon, and one of the greatest distance runners of all time.From setting the untouchable 2:15:25 marathon world record that stood for 16 years, to winning the AJ Bell Great North Run with a course record, Paula has seen it all. Whether you're training for your fi
Your 4 Biggest Running Questions Answered with Olympian Coach Colleen Quigley
This week on The Runna Podcast, we’re joined by Olympian and Runna Coach Colleen Quigley for a practical coaching episode answering the most common questions runners ask - split across 4 core topics: training hacks, finding balance, recovering after injury, and mindset.We cover:🏃♀️ Training Hacks - How to structure your week, train smart when time is short, and make sense of heart rate zones⚖️ Ba
The Fight for Representation in Pro Cycling with Ayesha McGowan
This week on The Runna Podcast, we’re joined by Ayesha McGowan - a history-maker, activist, and rider who didn’t even discover racing until her 20s. From learning to ride fixed gear bikes on city streets to signing with Liv Racing and competing in Europe, Ayesha’s journey is a masterclass in perseverance, purpose, and passion.In this incredible conversation, we cover:🚴 Starting from scratch: how A
How Sports Psychology Saved My Olympic Career: Laura Weightman’s Story
This week on The Runna Podcast, we’re joined by Laura Weightman - two-time Olympian, Commonwealth and European medallist, and one of the UK’s all-time fastest women.From toeing the line at London 2012 as a 21-year-old with everything to prove, to battling brutal injuries that forced her into early retirement, Laura opens up about the highs, the heartbreak and what comes next when your Olympic drea
Running to Cure Dementia: Jordan Adams on Living with Purpose After a Terminal Diagnosis
What would you do if you were told, at just 23, that you would almost certainly develop dementia and lose your life within 10 –15 years?This week on The Runna Podcast, we’re joined by Jordan Adams, co-founder of The FTD Brothers, who opens up about his extraordinary journey from teenage caregiver to record-breaking fundraiser and endurance runner.After his mum was diagnosed with frontotemporal dem
The Runna Podcast Trailer
Welcome to The Runna Podcast - your home for the most inspiring stories, expert coaching tips, and behind‑the‑scenes insights from the world’s best runners.Hosted weekly by Ben Parker and Anya Culling, The Runna Podcast dives into the journeys of Olympians, world champions, record‑breakers, and everyday runners chasing extraordinary goals. From mental resilience and training secrets to race‑day st
“Anything Is Possible”: Double Paralympic Champion Richard Whitehead MBE on 92 Marathons & World Records
On this week’s episode of The Runna Podcast, we sit down with Richard Whitehead MBE - double Paralympic gold medalist, four-time world champion, and world-record marathoner - to hear how he turned barriers into breakthroughs.We cover:👦 Growing up with a disability & discovering sport through swimming and gymnastics🏃♂️ Running his first marathon at 28 - with brand new prosthetics🌙 Secret train
From Not Being Able to Leave His Room to Running 837 Miles: Marcus Skeet on Mental Health, Purpose & Raising £160K for Mind
At just 17 years old, Marcus Skeet, known online as The Hull Boy, became the youngest person ever to run the full length of the UK (LEJOG): 837 miles from Land’s End to John o’ Groats.But the real story isn’t about the miles - it’s about why he ran them.After his dad was diagnosed with early-onset dementia, Marcus spiralled into severe OCD, intrusive thoughts, and depression. He couldn’t leave his
The 12 Most Common Running Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)
This week on The Runna Podcast, Ben and Anya break down the 12 most common mistakes runners make, from training to racing, recovery to mindset, and how to avoid them.Whether you’re new to running or chasing a new PB, this episode is packed with professional coaching tips to help you train smarter, race better, and recover stronger.We cover: ❌ The training mistake nearly every runner makes in Janua
“It Saved My Running Career”: The Power of Mindset with Olympian Elise Cranny
This week on The Runna Podcast, we’re joined by two-time Olympian Elise Cranny and American record holder in the indoor 5000m.From her breakthrough moment as a college athlete at Stanford to representing Team USA in both Tokyo and Paris, Elise opens up about the mental shifts that transformed her career and the mindset it took to not just reach the top, but stay there.Mindset has the power to make
“To Progress In Anything, You Have To Love It”: Aimee Fuller
In this week’s episode of The Runna Podcast, we’re joined by Aimee Fuller, two-time Winter Olympian, X Games trailblazer, and now one of the most recognizable voices in sports broadcasting.We cover everything from:🎿 The “love and passion” that gave Aimee the ability to chase her Snowboarding Olympic dreams and land the first ever women’s double backflip🎤 Finding purpose in broadcasting and the sto
Running to Prove Your Worth: Alex Bell
In this episode of The Runna Podcast, we’re joined by Alexandra Bell, Olympic 800m finalist and one of British athletics’ most resilient middle-distance runners.We unpack: 📞 What it felt like getting the call up to compete in Tokyo just one week before the Olympics 🚧 Stepping away from the track and proving herself in longer distances 🌱 Exploring her identity beyond running and finding o
“Surround Yourself With People Who’ve Done What You Dream Of”: Dominque Scott
In this episode of The Runna Podcast, we’re joined by Dominique Scott, a two-time Olympian, five-time NCAA champion, and one of South Africa’s fastest-ever distance runners.From her early running days in South Africa to competing on the world stage, Dominique shares insights into her journey through collegiate dominance, professional racing, and Olympic competition.We unpack: 🏃♀️ Growing up in So
Dame Flora Duffy: What It Feels Like to Win Your Country’s First Ever Olympic Gold
In this episode of The Runna Podcast, we’re joined by Dame Flora Duffy. Flora is an Olympic gold medallist, 5x Olympian, and the most decorated athlete in Bermuda’s history.From her childhood on a 21-square-mile island to making history in Tokyo, Flora reflects on a career defined by relentless resilience, off-road domination, and representing her country.We unpack:🏊♀️ How discovering triathlon a
Wyatt Moss: The Man Who Ran a Marathon Every Week for a Year In All 50 States
What does it take to run 50 marathons in 50 states all in one year and then follow it with 7 marathons on 7 continents in 7 days? On this episode of The Runna Podcast, we’re joined by Wyatt Moss, whose pursuit to “live the greatest day ever, every day” took him across the globe. From missing flights and running out of money, to pushing his grandma across the finish line in a wheelchair,
Lucy Charles-Barclay on Becoming Ironman World Champion and Setting a Course Record with a Torn Calf
What does it take to go from Olympic rejection to becoming the fastest woman to ever win Ironman Kona?This week on The Runna Podcast, we’re joined by Lucy Charles-Barclay, the 2023 Ironman World Champion and Kona course record holder.From missing out on the 2012 Olympics as a competitive swimmer and being rejected for a British pro triathlon licence, to finishing 2nd at Ironman Kona four times bef
I Consistently Showed for Myself and It Changed Everything: Randi Zuckerberg, CEO, Mum, and Ultrarunner
In this episode of The Runna Podcast, we’re joined by entrepreneur, ultramarathoner, and media powerhouse Randi Zuckerberg, fresh off completing her sixth World Marathon Major in Tokyo.As CEO of Zuckerberg Media, mother of three, and now a Cocodona 250 trainee, Randi opens up about what running has taught her—not just about physical endurance, but about presence, perseverance, and the joy of showi
"I Thought It Was Never Going to End": Romesh Ranganathan's Unfiltered London Marathon Experience
In this episode of The Runna Podcast, we sit down with Romesh Ranganathan, fresh off the finish line of his second London Marathon.World-renowned comedian Romesh takes us behind the scenes of his marathon journey—from training to race day antics. He shares how his relationship with running has evolved, from hating school cross-country to completing his second marathon. Along the way, he set person
From 135kg to 2:52 Marathon: How El Burrito Proved Everyone Wrong
What happens when you don’t just challenge expectations—but set out to break the rules entirely?In this episode of The Runna Podcast, we sit down with Oli Paterson (aka El Burrito) just days after running a 2:52 marathon. Having turned his life around from addiction and weighing 135kg, Oli is now on a mission to defy the limits that coaches, data, and even physics claim a 100kg+ runner can achieve
How It Feels to Make History: Cal Calamia, First Non-Binary Athlete to Podium at All 6 World Majors
This week on The Runna Podcast, we’re joined by Cal Calamia—a California-based marathoner, educator, activist, and now the first non-binary athlete in history to podium at all six World Marathon Majors.After stepping away from collegiate running, Cal returned not just to compete, but to transform the sport. With their podium finish in London on April 27th 2025, they’ve now made history —all while
How Anya Culling Ran Her Best Marathon at London 2025: Live from The Runna Race Hub
Recorded live from the Runna Race Hub, this special episode of The Runna Podcast dives into the LDN Marathon with Anya Culling–elite runner, Runna coach and lululemon ambassador.We unpack every part of race day—from Anya’s championship start to crowd highlights, emotional moments, and how she executed her race plan to perfection on what turned out to be a hot and testing day for all runners. She s
Helen Skelton: Why We Should All Do Hard Things
How do you build a mindset so powerful that nothing life throws at you can hold you back?This week on The Runna Podcast, we’re joined by the unstoppable Helen Skelton—broadcaster, adventurer, mum of three, and true superwoman. Known for saying yes to the wildest challenges—from kayaking 2,010 miles solo down the Amazon to cycling to the South Pole—Helen has become an inspiration for what’s possibl
What Should You Do in the Final 48 Hours Before Your Marathon? 8 Essential Tips From Anya Culling & Coach Ben
The countdown is on! With just 48 hours to go until the London Marathon, what really matters most?In this short episode of The Runna Podcast, pro marathoner Anya Culling and coach Ben Parker cover everything you could want to know in the final two days before race day—delivered in just 8 essential tips. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned marathoner, this is your go-to checklist for feeling
Paul Sinton-Hewitt: The parkrun Founder Who Transformed Running Forever
From one event with 13 runners to a global movement that’s transformed lives—this is the story of how parkrun came to be.This week on The Runna Podcast, we’re joined by Paul Sinton-Hewitt, the founder of parkrun, to hear the inspiring story behind one of the world’s most powerful community movements.What started as a small time trial during a difficult period in Paul’s life became a lifeline—not j
The Ultimate Pre-Marathon Race Guide With Anya Culling and Coach Ben
Answering every question you could possibly have ahead of your next marathon!This week on The Runna Podcast, we bring you the ultimate pre-marathon race guide, packed with tangible, actionable advice from pro marathon runner Anya Culling and Head Coach Ben Parker.We’re joined by Izzy, who’s gearing up for her upcoming 26.2 miles. She shares how she’s feeling, what she’s nervous about, and asks the
Ben Felton: From Chef to Sub-2:25 Marathoner Filming Every Step of the Way
This week on The Runna Podcast, we’re joined by Ben Felton, the chef-turned-runner who’s bridging the gap between elite athlete and content creator. With a 66-minute half marathon PB and a 2:24 marathon, Ben doesn’t just run fast—he captures it all on film, offering rare first-person insights into the world of high-performance racing.🔥 A behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to train and race li
