The RunThrough Podcast

RunThrough

Join Ben Sheppard as he chats with some of the most inspiring voices in the running world — from elite athletes and your favourite running influencers to everyday runners with incredible stories to tell.

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20 episodes
Updated Tuesday

Episodes20

Newest first

Tuesday · 50 min
#172 - How Running Helped Me Rebuild My Confidence After A Stroke At 17 | Leah Ball
Content creator and runner Leah Ball joins Ben Sheppard on this week's episode of The RunThrough Podcast to share the incredible story of how a life-changing stroke at just 17 years old completely changed the direction of her life. Leah reflects on recovering from a stroke as a teenager, rebuilding her confidence after discovering two holes in her heart, and how those experiences ultimately led her to rediscover sport, fall in love with running and build a career as one of the UK's most relatable fitness creators. Ben and Leah also discuss the power of optimism, learning to embrace different seasons of life, navigating social media as a full-time creator and why running has become so much more than chasing PBs. From marathon breakthroughs to hosting run clubs and building genuine community, this is a conversation about resilience, perspective and finding joy in the everyday. If you've ever questioned your confidence, faced an unexpected setback or needed a reminder that life can still surprise you in the best possible way, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Leah Ball - https://www.instagram.com/leahballlifts/ Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/
July 21 · 47 min
#171 - Sometimes Your Greatest Setback Is Your Greatest Opportunity I James Lattanzio
Running creator James Lattanzio joins Ben Sheppard on this week's episode of The RunThrough Podcast for an honest conversation about resilience, identity and how running became the thing that helped him rebuild his life. After a serious hip injury brought his rugby career to an abrupt end, James opens up about navigating major surgery at just 18 years old, losing the sport that had defined him and finding a new purpose through running. What started as a way to clear his head has since evolved into a passion that's led to impressive performances on the track and a thriving career as one of the UK's most recognisable running content creators. Ben and James also discuss the art of storytelling, building an authentic community online and why creating meaningful content is about far more than chasing views. They reflect on injury setbacks, the importance of movement for mental wellbeing and how learning to embrace change has shaped both James' career and outlook on life. James Lattanzio - https://www.instagram.com/jlatt.fit/?hl=en Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/
July 14 · 53 min
#170 - Can Hybrid Training Make You Fitter Than Ever? I Josh Harrison On The RunThrough Podcast
Josh Harrison joins Ben Sheppard on the RunThrough Podcast to share his journey from rugby player to one of the UK's fastest-growing HYROX athletes and fitness creators. After injuries brought his rugby career to an early end, Josh made a decision that would change his life. Picking up a camera and documenting his training eventually led to a thriving coaching business, a successful clothing brand and an audience of hundreds of thousands following his hybrid fitness journey. Josh opens up about building a career on social media, the reality behind creating content full-time, balancing multiple businesses and why authenticity has always come before chasing views. He also explains what hybrid training really means, how combining strength and endurance has transformed his performance and why consistency beats perfection every time. The conversation also dives into HYROX racing, goals to qualify for the World Championships, race strategy, marathon ambitions, coaching athletes to podium finishes and why sometimes the biggest step forward comes from focusing on one goal at a time. Josh Harrison - https://www.instagram.com/joshharrisonfit/ Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/
July 7 · 55 min
#169 - Why Fitness Has Always Been My Anchor | Naomi Heffernan
Nike Trainer, coach, presenter and HYROX athlete Naomi Heffernan joins Ben Sheppard on this week's episode of The RunThrough Podcast for a brilliant conversation about building a career you're passionate about, embracing change and finding confidence in yourself. Growing up with elite athlete parents, fitness has always been part of Naomi's life, but her journey into the industry wasn't a straightforward one. From pursuing a career in acting to becoming one of Nike's leading trainers, she shares how following what brought her joy completely changed the direction of her life. Ben and Naomi also chat about the incredible rise of HYROX, why community has become such a huge part of the fitness world, competing at the HYROX World Championships and why she's now swapping sled pushes for swim sessions as she prepares for her next challenge, an Ironman 70.3. The conversation also goes far beyond training, touching on self-worth, knowing when it's time to move on, making difficult decisions and why trusting your instincts can often lead to the biggest opportunities. Naomi Heffernan - https://www.instagram.com/naomi_heff/ Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/
June 30 · 46 min
#168 - She Never Felt Like She Fit In… Until She Found Running | Beth Dennis, The NEW Host Of The RunThrough Trails Podcast
What does it look like when running completely changes the direction of your life? Beth Dennis is a trail runner, intensive care nurse and the new host of The RunThrough Trails Podcast. In this episode of The RunThrough Podcast, she joins Ben Sheppard to share her journey from struggling to speak up in school and never feeling at home in traditional sport, to discovering parkrun, falling in love with movement and eventually finding trail running through the Alpine Run Project. Together, they talk about confidence, community, breaking down barriers in sport and how running can become so much more than training or racing. Beth opens up about finding her voice, why trail running gave her a sense of belonging, and the moments that completely changed the way she saw herself and the world around her. They also dive into the magic of Chamonix, dream races, UTMB, racing Mont Blanc Marathon, creating more inclusive start lines and why opening doors into the outdoors can genuinely change lives. Beth Dennis - https://www.instagram.com/_bethdennis/ Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/
June 23 · 44 min
#167 - How Full Time Teacher Charlie Sandison Became A 2:15 Marathon Runner
Charlie Sandison joins Ben Sheppard on The RunThrough Podcast to share how he's balanced life as a full time teacher with becoming a 2:15 marathon runner. Juggling early mornings, long days in the classroom and a demanding training schedule, Charlie has built an incredible running career alongside his profession. He talks about finding consistency, making sacrifices and why being kind to yourself is just as important as chasing ambitious goals. The pair dive into Charlie's journey from competitive swimming to marathon running, and how a love of the sport has taken him further than he ever imagined. Charlie reflects on his London Marathon experience, where things got tough midway through the race. Instead of focusing solely on times and splits, he chose to embrace the atmosphere, soak up the support and enjoy one of the biggest days of his life. Now, with performances that once felt impossible already achieved, Charlie explains why his relationship with running is evolving. He still wants to run faster, but creating memories, enjoying the process and making the most of every opportunity are becoming just as important. This is a conversation about balancing ambition with a busy career, finding joy in the pursuit of big goals and proving that extraordinary performances can come from ordinary people who are willing to put in the work. Charlie Sandison - https://www.instagram.com/charlie_sandison/?hl=en Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/
June 16 · 1 hr
#166 - The Unknown Feels Less Scary Now: Abi Jones On 6 Months That Changed Everything
Abi Jones joins Ben Sheppard on The RunThrough Podcast to share her journey from the UK to Sydney and the life lessons she learned along the way. What began as a move in search of independence quickly became a crash course in resilience. Abi opens up about arriving in Australia and unexpectedly finding herself homeless on day one, navigating long distance relationships, dealing with loneliness and learning to build a life completely from scratch. Alongside her work as a physiotherapist, Abi talks about growing a social media following by sharing the realities of her life, from moving abroad and adult acne to fitness, rehab and running. She reflects on how running became a huge part of her identity and why stepping outside her comfort zone has changed her outlook on life. Now preparing to move back to the UK, Abi looks back on six transformative months in Australia, the friendships she's made, the challenges she's overcome and why sometimes the bravest thing you can do is take the leap, even when you don't know where you'll land! Run With Us In Australia - https://runthroughaustralia.com/ Abi Jones - https://www.instagram.com/absjfit/ Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/
June 9 · 51 min
#165 - Hannah Moore Said "Why Not?" and Took on Extreme Endurance Challenges, She's Proof YOU Can Too!
From her first EVER race at Colchester Zoo, to a BRAND NEW race in Melbourne with RunThrough, Hannah Moore joins Ben Sheppard on The RunThrough Podcast to share her journey from competitive swimmer as a child to taking on some of the toughest endurance challenges in the world. After stepping away from swimming, Hannah rediscovered her love for the water, which eventually led to open water events, marathon swims, and now training towards her first Ironman in December. In this episode, Hannah reflects on growing up in competitive swimming, moving to Australia, finding confidence through sport and how even though swimming could be perceived as a solo sport, for her it was the people that made it. She also shares the story of preparing for a 20km swim, only for the event to be cancelled at the last minute, and how she dealt with the disappointment after months of training and sacrifice. They also explore Hannah’s "why not?" mindset has helped her take on challenges she once thought were out of reach. Hannah Moore - https://www.instagram.com/hannahmoore.fitness/ Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/
June 2 · 47 min
#164 - This Is What Happens When You Keep Showing Up For Yourself I Leon Scott 💥
Leon Scott is an entrepreneur, boxer, model, former footballer and co-owner of eyewear brand Circular. From humble beginnings, Leon went on to play football at a high level, become the face of global brands, build a successful business, step into the boxing ring at almost 40, and complete his first marathon. In this episode of The RunThrough Podcast, Leon joins Ben Sheppard to talk resilience, fatherhood, self-belief, entrepreneurship, boxing, mental strength and why keeping promises to yourself can change your life. From modeling campaigns and business success to having a war in his first boxing fight and coming back stronger, Leon’s story is proof that growth happens when you lean into discomfort. 🎧 Subscribe for more episodes of The RunThrough Podcast. Leon Scott - https://www.instagram.com/leon3scott/ Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/
May 26 · 49 min
#163 - The Truth About Marathon Training, Grief & Identity | James Warnock
James Warnock joins Ben Sheppard on The RunThrough Podcast for a candid conversation about marathon running, grief, identity and building a life around purpose. Fresh off an 8 minute PB at the London Marathon, James reflects on finally enjoying the marathon after years of difficult experiences with the distance. From cramping issues and failed race goals to learning how to fuel properly and trust the process, this episode dives deep into the reality of endurance sport beyond the highlight reel. James also opens up about the loss of his father and how that moment completely changed the direction of his life. From leaving the corporate world to building a career through running and social media, this is a conversation about taking risks, identity and finding meaning through movement all while building his business. 🎧 Subscribe for more episodes of The RunThrough Podcast. James Warnock - https://www.instagram.com/jwarnockk/?hl=en Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/
May 19 · 55 min
#162 - From Life Changing Gym Accident Accident To A Marathon, Sophie Butler On Always Moving Forward!
In this episode of The RunThrough Podcast, Sophie Butler joins host Ben Sheppard to share her powerful journey from becoming paralysed at 21 to completing the London Marathon. Sophie opens up about the gym accident that changed her life, the long road through hospital and rehab, and how she rebuilt her confidence, strength and independence. She talks about returning to the gym after trauma, finding purpose through content creation, and why sharing her story has helped others feel seen. The conversation also dives into her London Marathon experience, the emotion, the crowd support and what it meant to cross that finish line. Sophie reflects on resilience, accessibility, identity and the importance of moving forward, even when the next step feels impossible. Sophie Butler - https://www.instagram.com/sophjbutler/ Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/
May 12 · 49 min
#161 - No One Turned Up To Her First Run Club, And Then This Happened .... Lola Clinton-Hayward
In this episode of The RunThrough Podcast, Lola Clinton-Hayward joins Ben Sheppard to share how running, wellness and community have completely changed her life. Lola opens up about discovering self development during lockdown, studying psychology, and how one small step into running eventually led to marathons, major races and the creation of Stride and Thrive Club, an all girls running and wellness community in London. She talks honestly about confidence, mental health, building “brain evidence”, the fear of being seen trying, and why starting small can change everything. From nobody turning up to her first run club to building a thriving community, Lola’s story is a brilliant reminder that one run, one decision or one moment of courage can shift your whole direction. Lola Clinton-Hayward - https://www.instagram.com/_lolach/ Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/
May 5 · 52 min
#160 - Run Forever: Damien Hall on Endurance, Aging & What It's Really Like To Run The Barkley Marathons
In this episode of The RunThrough Podcast, Damien Hall joins host Ben Sheppard for a brilliant and honest conversation about ultra running, ageing well, adventure and what it really means to keep going. Damien reflects on his ongoing career in the sport, from lining up at his first half marathon to representing GB, finishing fifth at UTMB and taking on some of the toughest races in the world, including the Barkley Marathons. He shares how curiosity around distance turned into a deep passion, and why chasing adventure has always been just as important as chasing results. They dive into the realities of DNFs, the lessons that come from failure and how those moments have shaped him as both an athlete and a coach. Damien also opens up about getting older in the sport, the small changes he has noticed in performance, and why experience, patience and perspective can actually become powerful advantages over time. The conversation also explores his record attempts and FKTs, the mental challenge of racing versus solo adventure, and why breaking things down into smaller moments is key when facing huge distances. They also chat about his new book Run Forever, what the title really means, and how runners can stay consistent, healthy and motivated for years to come. A thoughtful and inspiring episode packed with insight, honesty and a real love for the process of running. Get A Copy of Damien's New Book 'Run Forever' here. Damien Hall - https://www.instagram.com/ultra_damo/ Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/
April 28 · 47 min
#159 - Why We’re All Feeling Overwhelmed Right Now | Lily Silverton Author Of 'Prioritise This'.
What happens when life feels too overwhelming to keep up with? Mindset and behavioural change speaker and author Lily Silverton joins Ben Sheppard on the RunThrough Podcast for a powerful conversation about stress, burnout, priorities, movement, and navigating modern life. Lily shares her journey from the fashion and magazine industry into coaching and wellbeing, opening up about mental health, identity shifts, and the experiences that shaped her work. Together, Ben and Lily explore why so many of us feel constantly overwhelmed, how social media and modern working life affect our attention and wellbeing, and why prioritising the things that truly matter has never been more important. They also discuss the connection between movement and mindset, the role running and yoga can play in mental health, and why the habits we often drop first are usually the ones that help keep us grounded. The conversation also dives into Lily’s new book, 'Prioritise This', a practical guide for thriving in a world that won’t slow down. Lily Silverton - https://www.instagram.com/lily_silverton/ Website & Link To Purchase 'Prioritise This' - https://www.lilysilverton.com/ Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/
April 21 · 59 min
#158 - Using Terminal Brain Cancer Against Itself To Break A Charity World Record I The King Of Chemo 💙
On this episode of The RunThrough Podcast, Iain Ward, better known as The King of Chemo, joins host Ben Sheppard for a proper, open conversation that goes way beyond running. At 31, Iain was diagnosed with terminal brain cancer, but instead of letting that define him, he flipped it on its head. He is now on a mission to break a charity world record by building a huge social media following and turning that into sponsorship money for good causes, rather than asking the public to donate. Ben and Iain chat through everything from marathons in carrying 20KG of weight in wild costumes, to the reality of hearing that diagnosis and how it changes your outlook. They get into mindset, pressure, relationships, social media, and what it actually takes to keep going when things feel overwhelming. There are serious moments, plenty of honest reflections, and also a lot of humour along the way. Iain’s perspective on life, and the way he approaches it, makes this one really stand out. A genuinely powerful watch, you will be thinking about long after it ends. The King of Chemo - https://www.instagram.com/thekingofchemo/ Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/
April 14 · 44 min
#157 - From IVF to Motherhood, Sian Westley on Body Image, Confidence and Change | The RunThrough Podcast
Sian Westley is a content creator, social media strategist, and new mum whose journey spans body confidence struggles, IVF, pregnancy, and navigating identity through motherhood, all while building a thriving digital career rooted in authenticity and real life experience. In this heartfelt and honest episode of the RunThrough Podcast, Sian joins host Ben Sheppard for a powerful conversation about the realities behind confidence, change, and resilience. From starting out making early YouTube content and curated outfit folders, to finding her voice in body positivity online, Sian opens up about the evolution of her career and self image. She also shares her deeply personal fertility journey, including IVF, the emotional toll of uncertainty, and the life changing moment she became a mother. Together, Sian and Ben explore what it really means to go through “journeys within journeys”, from body image and career pivots to parenthood and rediscovering priorities. This is an uplifting, relatable, and honest conversation about learning to be kinder to yourself, embracing change, and finding purpose in every stage of life. Sian Westley - https://www.instagram.com/imsianwestley/ Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/
April 7 · 51 min
#156 - How Hattie Pearson Went From Beginner to Ironman Athlete & Why Adventure Is Her Number One Priority!
On this episode of the RunThrough Podcast, Hattie Pearson shares her inspiring journey from complete beginner to Ironman triathlete, in conversation with host Ben Sheppard. 🏊‍♀️🚴‍♀️🏃‍♀️ Hattie opens up about how embracing adventure and challenge transformed her approach to fitness and life. From taking on multi-day endurance events to pushing herself beyond her comfort zone, she explains how stepping into the unknown became the key to building confidence, resilience, and long-term motivation. She also discusses the barriers women face in triathlon, and why community, support, and mentorship play such a crucial role in helping more people get involved in endurance sport. Along the way, Hattie shares honest insights from her journey, including lessons learned the hard way, moments of doubt, and the mindset needed to keep going. From swimming in freezing conditions (“Swimming Loch Ness was Baltic” 🥶) to learning to embracing the new, whether you’re training for your first triathlon, chasing an Ironman goal, or simply looking for motivation to start your fitness journey, this episode will leave you inspired to take on your next challenge. Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/ Hattie Pearson - https://www.instagram.com/hattiepearson/
March 31 · 45 min
#155 - Motivation Won’t Save You | Tayo Fam on Discipline, Consistency & Building Runnpac
In this episode of the RunThrough Podcast, we’re joined by Tayo Fam, co-founder of Runnpac, one of the most diverse and community-driven run clubs in London. Tayo chats through how Runnpac started and what’s gone into building a community that brings so many different people together through running. Sitting down with host Ben Sheppard, the conversation touches on discipline, staying consistent, and why motivation doesn’t always carry you through. They also get into the importance of diversity in the running space, taking risks, and how being part of a strong community can really shape your mindset and growth. It’s an easy, honest conversation with plenty to take away, whether you’re into running or just looking for a bit of perspective. If you would like to join Tayo and Runnpac, they will be joining RunThrough on 22 April at Battersea Park. For an exclusive discount code, head to their Instagram now. Listen now and don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes of the RunThrough Podcast. Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/ Tayo Fam - https://www.instagram.com/tayofampt/ Runnpac - https://www.instagram.com/runnpac/
March 24 · 50 min
#154 - From 5K Runs to 650KM FKT | Lydia Oldham’s Ultra Running Journey
In this episode of the RunThrough Podcast, we’re joined by ultra runner and adventurer Lydia Oldham, who discovered running during lockdown, going from running 5Ks as hard as she could every time, to marathons and eventually into the world of ultras. She chats about that progression, her experience at the Speed Project, and how travel has shaped her creativity and approach to running. Lydia also highlights the importance of having a solid crew around you and what goes into pulling off ambitious endurance projects. A big part of the conversation focuses on her 650km FKT on the Camino, where she shares the highs, the tough moments, and how breaking it down day by day helped her get through. She also opens up about the emotional comedown after big efforts, the need for proper rest and recovery, and the pressure to always chase the next challenge. Hosted by Ben Sheppard, this is a relaxed and honest chat about resilience, trying new things, and doing it all for the right reasons. Perfect if you're looking for a bit of inspiration to start your own adventure. Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/ Lydia Oldham - https://www.instagram.com/comerunwith.me/
March 17 · 46 min
#153 - Love Island Winner Kai Fagan Shares Rugby, Resilience & Life Lessons Ahead Of Manchester Marathon
On this episode of the RunThrough Podcast, Kai Fagan joins host Ben Sheppard to share his inspiring journey from rugby player and teacher to Love Island winner. Kai reflects on how his early life in rugby shaped his mindset, taught him resilience, and led him to play Rugby League for English universities. He also talks about his transition from teaching to reality TV, and how embracing opportunities and staying chill along the way has guided his personal growth and future ambitions. During the podcast, Kai receives a very unexpected text, adding a surprise twist to the conversation. He shares key life lessons about handling setbacks, seizing opportunities, and the role rugby played in his mental and emotional development. He also looks forward to the Manchester Marathon and shares his previous racing experiences. Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/ Kai Fagan - https://www.instagram.com/kaifagan_/