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RunPod

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Welcome to RunPod, the weekly run club you can join simply by listening. In this series Jenni Falconer welcomes special guests who share that passion for running. Together they’ll discuss the challenge, reward and sometimes obsession of pounding the pavement whilst asking what drives us to run, why some catch the bug more than others, and how it can transform the lives of those who do it. Along the way, you'll hear top training tips, monumental mistakes and some inspirational stories. So, whether you’re a seasoned marathoner, treadmill trainer, fitness guru or simply putting off that Sunday jog, RunPod is here for you.

  • 636 episodes
  • Updated Yesterday

Episodes636

  • Jul 24, 2025 · 45 min

    Amy McCulloch

    Bestselling author, adventurer, mountaineer, and ultra-runner Amy McCulloch joins Jenni Falconer in the RunPod studio to share her extraordinary journey from high-altitude climbs to high-stakes thrillers. Get ready to lace up your metaphorical hiking boots and dive into Amy’s wild world, where extreme real-life adventures fuel her gripping fiction. Amy’s latest novel, Runner 13, is out now-a pulse-pounding thriller set in the brutal heat of the Sahara Desert. The story follows Adri, an ultra-runner staging a comeback in a punishing 250-mile race, carrying everything she needs on her back. She’s determined to prove herself-until a fellow runner is badly injured and things start to unravel. In conditions this harsh, even a dead body can be explained away… but there’s a killer on the loose. And the problem with being the fastest is that you're too far ahead for anyone to save you. From jumping out of planes to surviving desert ultramarathons, Amy opens up about the physical and mental endurance that drives both her adventures and her storytelling. Tune in to this episode of RunPod and push the boundaries of what's possible- natural or narrative. Amy McCulloch shows us that when you step into the extreme, the real story begins.

  • Jul 22, 2025 · 5 min

    The Power Playlist! Joe Wicks

    Join fitness legend Joe Wicks as he shares what he listens to while on the run. From the calming piano of Ludovico Einaudi to the high-energy beats of Eminem - plus inspiring podcasts and audiobooks - this eclectic mix is perfect for every pace. Whether you're sprinting or strolling, Joe's picks will keep you moving. Listen to Joe Wick's Main Episode of RunPod available now!

  • Jul 20, 2025 · 2 min

    The Extra Mile! Is Power Walking As Effective As Running?

    Is Power Walking as Effective as Running? In this RunPod Extra Mile episode, Jenni breaks down the brilliant benefits of power walking and why the most important thing we can do, is simply to keep moving. Whether you're a runner or prefer a brisk walk, this one's for you. Don't forget to catch up on Main RunPod episodes with inspiring guests - new episodes are released every Friday!

  • Jul 17, 2025 · 41 min

    Joe Wicks

    This week on RunPod, Jenni is joined by none other than Joe Wicks, aka The Body Coach - arguably the UK’s most beloved fitness influencer! From handing out flyers at train stations to transforming hundreds of thousands of lives with his workouts, Joe shares the passion that fuels his mission to get the nation moving. He opens up about his sugar addiction, why food and fitness go hand in hand, and, of course, his love for running - plus, he spills the beans on one of his favourite running methods: “Jeffing”! Joe’s dream? To help millions feel fit, healthy, and happy - no matter where they’re starting from. Get ready for an inspiring, honest, and energetic conversation that will definitely make you want to lace up and get out for a run!

  • Jul 15, 2025 · 6 min

    The Power Playlist! Aldo Kane

    Jenni gets ready to go full throttle with Aldo Kane - survival expert, elite climber, skydiver, diver, bodyguard, combat medic, and record-breaking adventurer. You’ve probably seen him dodging danger on your TV screen or flexing on the cover of Men’s Health, but now he’s here to share what music really gets his blood pumping when he runs. Main Episodes of RunPod with guests are available every Friday. You can catch up on Aldo Kane's Episode now

  • Jul 13, 2025 · 2 min

    The Extra Mile! Summer Running - The Joys!

    In this episode of RunPod: The Extra Mile, Jenni dives into the bright side of summer running. From sunlit trails to breezy evening jogs, discover how to embrace the season, enjoy the warmth, and make every summer run one to remember. Lace up and let the sunshine lead the way! Main Episodes of RunPod with guests are available every Friday You can follow Jenni on Instagram @jennifalconer

  • Jul 10, 2025 · 50 min

    Aldo Kane

    This week on RunPod, Jenni is joined by a real-life action man - Aldo Kane. Aldo joined the Royal Marine Commandos at just 16 and quickly rose through the ranks to become one of the youngest elite commando snipers in UK Armed Forces history. But Aldo didn’t stop there - he’s a survival expert, pro climber, skydiver, diver, bodyguard, medic, and record-breaking adventurer and explorer, who you may recognise from your TV screen or his recent 'ripped' cover feature in Men’s Health magazine. Aldo’s a man who thrives in the wild and pushes his limits daily - and yes, he runs to keep both his body and mind razor-sharp. As he says, running keeps him ready for anything… including, perhaps, the role of the next James Bond? Jenni talks fitness, mindset, danger, discipline, and his thrilling new Apple TV show ‘The Wild Ones’, premiering July 11th, 2025. This is one not to miss.

  • Jul 6, 2025 · 2 min

    The Extra Mile! The Best Types of Fitness Workouts to Complement Your Running

    Want to feel stronger, run faster, and recover better? In this bonus episode of RunPod: The Extra Mile, Jenni explore the best types of fitness workouts to complement your running routine. Whether you're training for a race or simply chasing that runner’s high, smart off-road training might just be your secret weapon. From strength training to mobility work, Jenni breaks down how these workouts can boost your performance and keep you injury-free. Don’t just run-train smarter! Main Episodes of RunPod featuring guests are released every Friday

  • Jul 3, 2025 · 33 min

    Fern Britton

    This week on RunPod, Jenni Falconer is joined by the brilliant Fern Britton - broadcaster, author, and proud runner. Fern shares her uplifting journey with running, proving that you can always start now, at any age. She opens up about how running has transformed her life, making her feel stronger in both mind and spirit than she has in years. From the joy of a sweaty run to the emotional clarity it brings, Fern talks honestly about how running helps her through life’s tougher moments - reminding us all that difficult things will pass. She might not always have the words to explain just how much it gives her, but one thing’s clear: running has become an essential part of who she is. Plus, Fern chats about her brand-new book, A Cornish Legacy - available now.

  • Jul 1, 2025 · 9 min

    The Power Playlist! James Cooper

    A health and wellness performance coach, meditation teacher, mental health first aider, and endurance fundraising athlete, James Cooper is the embodiment of mind, body, and spirit. In 2024, he ran 366 marathons in 366 days for the Samaritans - but what does he listen to to power every stride? Tune in to the RunPod Power Playlist to find out. And don’t forget to catch up on the main episode of RunPod with James, a.k.a. the Smilinggg Man - out now!

  • Jun 29, 2025 · 2 min

    The Extra Mile! I Want To Run A Race, How Long Should I Allow To Train?

    So, you’ve signed up for a race - amazing! But how long do you really need to train? The truth is, it depends. Whether you're a complete beginner or getting back into the groove, everyone is on their own timeline. In this Extra Mile episode, Jenni explores why giving yourself enough time - and a bit of wiggle room - can make all the difference. Life happens, and building flexibility into your plan keeps the pressure off! Discover how to build a training plan that works for you, so you can enjoy the process and reach the start line feeling prepared.

  • Jun 26, 2025 · 55 min

    James Cooper - Smilinggg Man

    Join Jenni on RunPod for an extraordinary conversation with the incredible James Cooper-better known in the running world as “Smilinggg Man.” In 2024, James humbled us all by running 366 marathons in 366 days to raise funds and awareness for the Samaritans, driven by the heartbreak of losing his uncle to suicide. A health and wellness performance coach, meditation teacher, mental health first aider, and endurance fundraising athlete, James is the living embodiment of mind, body, and spirit. He lives by a simple creed: “Sometimes I need to put myself in the fire and see who I can become in the process.” Discover how he turned personal tragedy into a global mission, developing the Smilinggg Daily Practice around the three G’s- Gratitude, Generosity, and Growth- to help others build healthier, happier lives. Since launching Smilinggg on May 17, 2015, James has inspired thousands to take one step-and share one smile-at a time. Listen to this uplifting episode packed with grit, grace, and game-changing insights on resilience, community, and the power of a single smile. You won’t want to miss it! This episode contains discussions about suicide. Listener discretion is advised. If you have been affected by any of the themes in this episode, please consider contacting the following resources: The Samaritans helpline: 116 123 Confidential Emotional Support Line: 01708 765200 Sane mental health line: 0300 304 7000

  • Jun 24, 2025 · 53 min

    The Power Playlist! Luke Willett

    This episode of the RunPod Power Playlist features Luke Willett, World Cup-winning Speed Golfer and self-proclaimed ‘Rock Ness Monster’. His go-to tracks? High-octane drum and bass and anything that amps up the energy. Built for speed, focus, and fuelling his fire - Luke's playlist is perfect for powering through a run, or getting around the golf course! Make sure to listen to Luke's Main Episode of RunPod - it's available now!

  • Jun 22, 2025 · 2 min

    The Extra Mile! How Much Is Too Much When It Comes To Running?

    Is there such a thing as too much running? In this episode of RunPod: The Extra Mile, Jenni explores the hidden costs of overtraining and the myth that more miles always mean better results. From persistent pain to chronic fatigue, Jenni dives into why pushing harder isn't always smarter - and how listening to your body can lead to better performance and longevity in your running journey. Because running should challenge you, not break you. Main Episodes of RunPod featuring guests are released every Friday!

  • Jun 19, 2025 · 53 min

    Luke Willett

    In this special episode of RunPod, Jenni combines her two great loves - running and golf - for an inspiring and adrenaline-fueled chat with none other than the star of the speed golf world, Luke Willett. Luke isn't just a professional golfer - he's a world record holder, having completed 18 holes faster than anyone else on the planet. Oh, and did we mention he runs a 5K in just 16 and a half minutes? Yep, seriously fast. From the mental challenge of combining endurance with precision to the joy of pushing physical limits, this episode is a unique celebration of sport, speed, and passion. Whether you're a runner, a golfer, or just love hearing about extraordinary achievements, this one’s for you. For RunPod updates you can follow Jenni on Instagram @jennifalconer

  • Jun 17, 2025 · 5 min

    The Power Playlist! with Mark Pougatch

    Want to know what’s been powering Mark Pougatch’s runs for over a decade? This week on the RunPod Power Playlist, Jenni finds out what’s on Mark’s running soundtrack - a playlist he proudly hasn’t updated in 11 years! Expect classic energy from legends like A-ha, Eurythmics, and Blondie as Mark shares the timeless tunes that keep his feet moving. Mark's brand new Global Original podcast, How It All Played Out — available now on Global Player. If Smooth Radio’s playlist sounds like your kind of thing, you can listen to Jenni on Smooth Breakfast every morning, Monday to Saturday, from 6 to 10am. Press play and get inspired to run with rhythm!

  • Jun 15, 2025 · 2 min

    The Extra Mile! The Importance Of Discipline In Running

    In this episode of RunPod: The Extra Mile, Jenni explores the power of discipline in running. It’s not always exciting or glamorous-but consistency is what delivers real results. Learn how to make your runs a non-negotiable, start removing your mental barriers, and understand why discipline might just be the most important tool in your kit. New Episodes of RunPod with guests are released every Friday!

  • Jun 12, 2025 · 44 min

    Mark Pougatch

    This week on RunPod, Jenni is joined by none other than Mark Pougatch - Chief Sports Presenter for ITV Sport and co-host of the brand-new Global Original Podcast 'How It All Played Out'. Mark shares how running sets the tone for his day: if he’s ticked off his morning run, everything else feels like a bonus! Whether it’s hitting the trails with his wife and one of their three dogs or soaking in the Cotswolds countryside, running has become an essential part of his routine. Mark talks about his goal to get fitter, the importance of mobility, and his incredible career in sport. He also gives us a sneak peek into How It All Played Out, where he and Paul Hayward dive deep into the victories, controversies, and unforgettable moments that shaped the sporting world. Tune in for a chat full of inspiration, passion for sport, and the undeniable joy of putting one foot in front of the other. How It All Played Out is out now on Global Player

  • Jun 10, 2025 · 6 min

    The Power Playlist! with Chris Jackson

    Want to know what Jenni's guests are listening to? She's got you covered on The RunPod Power Playlist. Today's amazing guest is the Royal Photographer for Getty Images - Chris Jackson! For Chris, “Variety is the spice of life!” - and when he nicks his wife's headphones and goes out for a run, he's listening to everything from music, podcasts and audiobooks. Expect choices that are as dynamic as his lens on the Prince and Princess of Wales. Chris Jackson's Main Episode of RunPod is available now!

  • Jun 8, 2025 · 2 min

    The Extra Mile! - Trainer Chat! How Often You Should Change Your Running Shoes And Why

    In this episode of RunPod: The Extra Mile, Jenni dives into a question every runner has asked: when is it time to replace your running shoes? From your running style and terrain to cushioning and shoe rotation, she covers all the key factors to help you stay injury-free and running strong. New Episodes of RunPod featuring guests are released every Friday