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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174 episodes
Updated Yesterday

Episodes174

Newest first

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_/
March 10 · 1 hr 7 min
#152 - She Was Told Her Dream Was Impossible… Now Chloe McNiven Is A Guinness World Record Ultra Runner 💙
Welcome back to The RunThrough Podcast. Today we’re joined by the incredible Chloe McNiven, a former professional dancer turned Guinness World Record holder and ultra marathon runner, as well as a mum of two. Chloe faced huge adversity growing up and was often told her dream of becoming a professional dancer wasn’t realistic. She left school at 15, worked as a cleaner on a building site, saved everything she could, and eventually moved to London where she put herself through dance school while juggling three jobs. That determination paid off and she went on to spend more than a decade performing alongside global stars including Elton John, Little Mix, Liam Payne, Robbie Williams and Zara Larsson. She later discovered running and it changed everything, ultimately leading her to set a Guinness World Record with RunThrough at Goodwood Motor Circuit, where she pushed a pram around 50K. She has since taken on huge endurance challenges, including running 50K in Wales while five months pregnant. In this episode, Ben Sheppard sits down with Chloe to talk about resilience, mental strength, motherhood and pushing far beyond what you think is possible. Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/ Chloe McNiven - https://www.instagram.com/chloejmcniven/
March 3 · 56 min
#151 - 80 Ultras In 80 Days: How Sam King Went From #1 on Call of Duty to Breaking Ultra Running Records
Ultra runner Sam King joins the RunThrough Podcast fresh off completing an extraordinary 80 ultramarathons in 80 consecutive days. Once the world’s No.1 ranked player on Call of Duty, Sam weighed 19 stone and lived behind a screen before completely transforming his health and mindset through running. What began as a personal journey soon became something far bigger after his mum suffered a near-fatal brain bleed. Originally planning 74 ultras in 74 days, one for each year of her life, Sam kept going, running 50km every single day for 80 straight days and finishing outside her church with his mum there to see it. In conversation with host Ben Sheppard, he opens up about how purpose fuels performance, how he handled injury and setbacks, and why focusing on just one day at a time was the key to achieving something extraordinary. Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/ Sam King - https://www.instagram.com/fatboysking/
February 24 · 57 min
#150 - From Army Physio to IRONMAN Pro Series Champion! Kat Matthews On Mindset, Comebacks & Staying Hungry
Kat Matthews joins Ben Sheppard on the RunThrough Podcast to share her remarkable journey from serving as a physiotherapist in the British Army to becoming one of the world’s top Ironman triathletes. Kat is the IRONMAN Pro Series Champion for 2024 and 2025, a three-time Ironman World Championship runner-up, and has twice finished second at the 70.3 World Championships. With a personal best of 8 hours and 5 minutes 🏊‍♀️🚲🏃‍♀️, she continues to compete at the very highest level of endurance sport. In this episode, Ben and Kat discuss her transition from the army to professional triathlon, the discipline and consistency required to succeed at Ironman distance, and the unique coaching relationship she has with her husband. Kat also reflects on the serious accident she experienced in 2022, opening up about the rehabilitation process, the role of nutrition, and how redefining her goals strengthened her mindset. Kat and her family also recently joined RunThrough at Warwick Half, and let's just say this, we probably should have got Guinness World Records involved… Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/ Kat Matthews - https://www.instagram.com/katr_matthews/
February 17 · 1 hr 1 min
#149 - You Can’t Be What You Can’t See: Angel Arutura on Music, Cultural Identity & Creative Growth
In this episode of the RunThrough Podcast, Angel Arutura shares the story behind her rise from a challenging childhood in Belfast to building a name for herself as a DJ and content creator. Growing up, music wasn’t just background noise; it was an escape, a source of strength and eventually the foundation for her career. Influenced early on by her father, a hip-hop instructor, Angel found connection and confidence through sound at a time when she needed it most. She opens up about navigating identity, representation and belonging and how her cultural roots have shaped both her perspective and her creative voice. Angel speaks honestly about self-doubt, the pressure to fit in and the resilience it took to back herself in an industry that isn’t always welcoming. Host Ben Sheppard guides a thoughtful and open conversation, digging into how Angel reframed fear as excitement, why moving to London unlocked new opportunities and how prioritising wellness became essential to sustaining her growth. From building community to embracing uncertainty, this episode is a powerful reminder that your past doesn’t limit your future and that staying true to who you are is often the boldest move you can make. Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/ Angel Arutura - https://www.instagram.com/angelarutura/
February 10 · 47 min
#148 - From England to Everest: Mitch Hutchcraft’s 13,157 km Human-Powered Journey to the Top of the World
In this episode of the RunThrough Podcast, we sit down with adventurer Mitch Hutchcraft, whose journey started with a bold promise at just six years old, to climb Mount Everest. That childhood dream eventually turned into something truly extraordinary: the longest climb in history. Mitch travelled an incredible 13,157 km under his own power, swimming, cycling, hiking and mountaineering all the way from England to the summit of Everest. The journey wasn’t easy. Along the way, Mitch battled injuries, exhaustion, and huge mental and physical challenges, but stayed driven by resilience, positivity and a strong sense of purpose. Host Ben Sheppard digs into how Mitch kept himself motivated through months of relentless effort, and what runners and endurance athletes can take from an expedition that pushed the limits of what’s possible. Mitch has since been nominated as one of just three people worldwide for the 21st Century Adventurer Awards 2026 — and he’s the only British nominee. Voting closes in one month, and if Mitch wins, £5,000 will be donated to the charity SAVSIM. To support Mitch, please share this episode and cast your vote via the official link: https://fr.eoft.eu/en/win/adventurer-award/voting#voting Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/ Mitch Hutchcraft - https://www.instagram.com/_mitchhutch/?hl=en
February 3 · 53 min
#147 - Protecting Those Who Protect Us: Why Ange Everington Founded The Blue Light Health Club
On this episode of The RunThrough Podcast, Ange Everington, a full-time firefighter and content creator, shares her journey from dreaming of joining the fire service to actually living it. After facing plenty of rejections, Ange finally made it and started sharing her story online to inspire and educate others. The conversation with host Ben Sheppard dives into the importance of mental health for first responders and her initiative, the Blue Light Health Club, which focuses on supporting their wellbeing. Ange also opens up about handling social media, dealing with trolls, and why being vulnerable and building community matters so much in her work. Alongside all of this, she’s training for a marathon. If you’ve ever doubted yourself, listening to Ange will make you believe in your own potential more than you ever thought possible. Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/ Ange Everington - https://www.instagram.com/angeeverington/
January 27 · 56 min
#146 - Could You Run 2,266 KM in 66 Days? The Kilometre a Day Challenge (+Arc 100 Miler) | George Rickwood
In this episode of the RunThrough Podcast, we are joined by George Rickwood, an ultra runner whose journey started just six years ago with training for a half marathon and has since taken him all the way to winning his first Backyard Ultra with 31 laps. George talks about how running has become a huge part of his life, why the mental side of ultra running is often tougher than the physical, and how ultra training is more about time on feet than speed. He shares some of his standout challenges, including one he's in RIGHT NOW, starting the year by running an extra kilometre every day for 66 days, racking up a massive 2,266 km, with the ARC 100 miler thrown into the mix. Hosted by Ben Sheppard, we also discuss the importance of the running community, the vulnerability of sharing the journey on social media, and why George believes most people are capable of pushing far beyond what they think is possible. Looking ahead, his focus is on continuing to improve while still enjoying the challenge that ultra running brings. Perfect listening if you are ultra-curious, into endurance mindset, or just love hearing how everyday runners end up doing big things. Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/ George Rickwood - https://www.instagram.com/georgerickwood_/
January 20 · 47 min
#145 - Why Women-Only Running Spaces Matter | Lauren Knott on The RunThrough Podcast
Lauren Knott is a coach, community builder, and the founder of Let’s Run Manchester, a thriving ladies-only run club built to create inclusive, supportive spaces for women in running. After leaving the corporate world, Lauren followed her passion into the fitness industry, helping women of all abilities feel confident, welcomed, and empowered through movement. In this episode of The RunThrough Podcast, Lauren joins host Ben Sheppard for an honest and inspiring conversation about career change, community, and purpose. She opens up about the realities of stepping away from a traditional career, balancing passion with practicality, and learning how to set boundaries when working for yourself. Together, Ben and Lauren explore why female-only spaces in running matter, the role community plays in personal growth, and the importance of reflecting on progress rather than pace. Lauren also shares her vision for the future of Let’s Run Manchester, including plans for structured training blocks, and offers advice for anyone considering a big life change: lead with your heart and trust where it takes you. Join Lets Run Manchester - https://www.instagram.com/letsrunmanchester/ Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/ Lauren Knott - https://www.instagram.com/laurenknott_fit/
January 13 · 53 min
#144 - Why Does Bryony Gordon Runs Races In Her Underwear? I The RunThrough Podcast
Journalist, author, and mental health campaigner Bryony Gordon joins Ben Sheppard on the RunThrough Podcast for an open and honest conversation about mental health, loneliness, and the power of human connection. Bryony shares how her personal struggles led to the creation of her charity Mental Health Mates and why loneliness can be a significant trigger for mental health challenges, something many people felt more acutely during the COVID-19 pandemic. She also recounts her recent Goodwood Challenge, where she ran as many laps as possible in the worst possible weather, in her underwear, to hit her fundraising target. Why? Well, you’ll have to listen to find out! Together, Bryony and Ben explore the importance of connection, breaking overwhelming tasks into smaller steps, and trusting yourself through both personal and creative journeys. They discuss the cathartic yet challenging process of writing, the impact of social media on wellbeing, and Bryony’s latest novel, People Pleaser which is available for pre-order now. Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/ Bryony Gordon - https://www.instagram.com/bryonygordon/ Watch Bryony's Goodwood Challenge Here
January 6 · 1 hr 2 min
#143 - The Power of Running Communities: Lessons from 30 Marathons with Amritpal Ghatora
Runner and community figurehead Amritpal Ghatora joins The RunThrough Podcast to share his journey from being inspired by Paula Radcliffe and Dame Kelly Holmes to completing 30 marathons and preparing for the Tokyo Marathon, where he aims to complete the World Marathon Majors for the second time. In conversation with host Ben Sheppard, Amritpal discusses how technology has transformed running, the importance of listening to your body during setbacks, and the mental balance between confidence and self-doubt. He reflects on why marathon experiences matter more than medals, how a first marathon can be truly life-changing, and the power of community in supporting runners at every stage. As Amritpal puts it, “it’s changed my life”, and this episode explores why running could change yours too. They also touch on social media’s influence, the joy and freedom running brings, and how one of the world’s most accessible sports can lead to unexpected opportunities. Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/ Amritpal Ghatora - https://www.instagram.com/amritpalghatora/
Dec 30, 2025 · 54 min
#142 - Georgia May Foote: Fame, Vitiligo, and Running from 5K to a Metric Marathon, A Story of Resilience and Reinvention
On this episode of the RunThrough Podcast, actress Georgia May Foote joins host Ben Sheppard for a powerful and honest conversation about resilience, reinvention, and finding strength through running. Georgia shares her journey from starting out as a young actress to navigating the pressures of fame, personal identity, and the highly competitive entertainment industry. She speaks openly about living with vitiligo, an autoimmune condition that has had a profound impact on both her life and career, and how stepping away from acting allowed her the space to reconnect with herself and focus on personal growth. The conversation also explores how running became a transformative passion for Georgia, helping her regain a sense of control, build resilience, and find community during challenging times. She reflects on career highlights, the importance of genuine friendships, and overcoming significant adversity, including the devastating fire that destroyed her nail salon. An inspiring episode that highlights the power of movement, mindset, and perseverance, and a reminder that joy can be found both on the run and in everyday life. Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/ Georgia May Foote - https://www.instagram.com/georgiamay112/
Dec 23, 2025 · 50 min
#141 - Zachariah Noble: From Pro Basketball to Love Island & Finding Change Through Running
Zachariah Noble joins the RunThrough Podcast to chat about his journey from professional basketball to Love Island, and how running has since become a huge part of his life. He opens up about the ups and downs of changing paths, the mental and physical challenges that came with it, and why staying active has been so important for his mindset. Host Ben Sheppard and Zachariah get into how sport shaped his discipline and consistency, what he’s learned about embracing change instead of fighting it, and why having the right people around you really matters. They also talk honestly about the pressures of social media, navigating public perception as a male reality TV star, and staying grounded through it all. Along the way, Zachariah reflects on the influence of his mum, the importance of setting goals, and learning to enjoy the process rather than rushing the outcome. It’s a relaxed, open conversation about growth, movement, and sticking with it when life takes an unexpected turn. Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/ Zachariah Noble - https://www.instagram.com/zachariah_noble97/
Dec 16, 2025 · 50 min
#140 - How Emma Bord Ran All 6 World Marathon Majors in One Year | Balancing Motherhood & Marathon Running
This episode of the RunThrough Podcast welcomes inspiring guest Emma Bord, a mother of three, personal trainer and marathon runner who opens up about balancing family life with her love for running. She speaks honestly about how motherhood has shaped her identity as an athlete, the discipline it takes to fit training around a busy schedule, and why staying active as a family is so important to her. Emma also shares how she encourages her children to enjoy movement and build healthy habits from a young age. The conversation dives into the emotional side of running, particularly Emma’s incredible achievement of completing all six World Marathon Majors in a single year. She reflects on the highs, the injuries and setbacks along the way, and reveals how she overcame a fear of flying — making travel to places like Tokyo truly life-changing, not just because of the marathon itself but because of what it represented personally. Documenting each race helped Emma hold on to the meaning of every experience along the way. Hosted by Ben Sheppard, this relaxed and inspiring chat is a reminder that big goals can fit alongside real life, and that with self-belief, consistency and support, it’s always worth chasing what you love. Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/ Emma Bord - https://www.instagram.com/emmabordpt/
Dec 9, 2025 · 1 hr
#139 - Jack Faint Became the First Person to Run the Length of India & He Did It Living with a Brain Tumor
In this episode of The RunThrough Podcast, Jack Faint joins us to share the incredible story of running the entire length of India after a life changing brain tumour diagnosis. What started with a seizure and a moment that changed everything became a journey of travel, self discovery and learning to live fully in the present. Jack shares how endurance running evolved from a way to rebuild his health into a pursuit of ever-greater performance challenges — from taking on the Goggins Challenge for charity, to a 250km desert race in Jordan, and a 650km run along the South African coast. These milestones ultimately led him to run 3,770km across India in just 74 days, averaging 51km a day, becoming the first person in history to do so. He opens up about the realities behind the scenes, from complex logistics and mental battles to the huge role that teamwork and the people around him played in making it possible. Ben Sheppard hosts this relaxed and honest conversation, digging into resilience, mindset and why enjoying the journey really matters more than the finish line. An inspiring chat about perspective, purpose and what can happen when you take that leap into the unknown. Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/ Jack Faint - https://www.instagram.com/jackefaint/
Dec 2, 2025 · 56 min
#138 - The Ultra Challenge Frankie Smyth Refused to Quit: Adapting, Overcoming & Finishing Strong
Ultra runner and women’s wellness coach Frankie Smyth set out to run 50km in all 15 UK National Parks in 15 days. In this episode of The RunThrough Podcast, hosted by Ben Sheppard, Frankie shares the full journey — from the spark of inspiration to the moment she crossed the final finish line. She talks about why she took on such a huge challenge, what she learned about resilience, and how the experience pushed her physically and mentally. Although she ultimately completed the challenge, Frankie opens up about the tough decision to adjust her distances on a few days due to injury, fatigue and safety — and why adapting the plan was essential to reaching the end. We dive into the logistics behind a multi-day endurance challenge, the highs and lows of life on the road, the support she received from friends, family and strangers, and the emotional finale surrounded by the Alfie Nick Foundation, the charity she ran for in memory of her cousin’s son. If you need a reminder of what you’re capable of, this episode is it. Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/ Frankie Smyth - https://www.instagram.com/runningwithfrankie_/
Nov 25, 2025 · 53 min
#137 - The Power of Honest Storytelling & How Emily Crane Ran 12 Marathons at 22 | The RunThrough Podcast
In this episode of the RunThrough Podcast, writer and storyteller Emily Crane joins host Ben Sheppard for her first ever podcast conversation. Emily has built a refreshingly honest corner of the internet with writing-first videos, thoughtful narrations laid over completely ordinary moments. Instead of oversharing her own life, she writes for “everyone”, tapping into that comforting truth that none of us really know what we’re doing in our twenties (or beyond). Ben and Emily dive into why social media clings to extremes while most of life happens quietly in the middle; how mundane moments with people matter more than we realise; and how long-distance running can completely shift what feels stressful. Emily talks about running 12 marathons in her 22nd year, the boredom and structure of training, saving “special” songs for the darkest kilometres, and using race trips to explore places she’d never otherwise visit. They also discuss why it’s so hard to say how we really feel, the relief of getting a thought out of your head and into the world, and Emily’s new book club, built around reading things that actually challenge you rather than choosing the easy option. If you’ve ever felt a bit lost, a bit overwhelmed, or unsure what you’re meant to be doing, this conversation will sit with you. Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/ Emily Crane - https://www.instagram.com/emilyrosecharlotte/
Nov 18, 2025 · 58 min
#136 - How Aaliyah Unia Became a Leader for Muslim Women in Fitness | The RunThrough Podcast
In this episode of The RunThrough Podcast, fitness creator and marathon runner Aaliyah Unia sits down with host Ben Sheppard to share the story behind her journey. From growing up without access to fitness, navigating cultural expectations, and recovering from a traumatic head injury, to unintentionally becoming a source of inspiration for others, Aaliyah speaks openly about the challenges that shaped her. She reflects on hiding her early gym sessions from family, dealing with community stigma, facing online criticism, and the moment she nearly walked away from content entirely. Aaliyah also talks about influencing major brands, the growth of representation in the fitness world, and what running the London Marathon taught her about resilience and identity. This conversation is honest, grounding and full of moments that anyone on a personal journey will connect with. A reminder that intention, community and self-belief can change everything. Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/ Aaliyah Unia - https://www.instagram.com/aaliyah.unia/
Nov 11, 2025 · 44 min
#135 - Wheelchair Athlete Poppy May: ‘It Can Be Your Anchor or Your Wings’ | The RunThrough Podcast
Join host Ben Sheppard on this moving episode of the RunThrough Podcast as he talks with Poppy May, aka Poppy May Fitness, about her extraordinary journey. As a teenager, Poppy faced a life-changing situation that left her in a wheelchair, but she refused to let it define her. She opens up about her struggles with mental health, accepting her new reality, and finding purpose through fitness and community. From racing in the London Marathon to inspiring thousands on Instagram, Poppy’s story is a powerful testament to resilience, hope, and determination. Discover how she turned what could in her words have been her 'anchor' into her 'wings' and learn how to find strength and beauty in life’s toughest moments. Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/ Poppy May - https://www.instagram.com/poppymayfitness/ The Samaritans - https://www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan/talk-us-phone/
Nov 4, 2025 · 49 min
#134 - Amy Lane & Tom Mannion Share the Story of Dave’s Run Club | Running, Community & Connection #RTPod
In this heartfelt episode of The RunThrough Podcast, host Ben Sheppard sits down with Amy Lane and Tom Mannion, who recently ran at the RunThrough Swindon Half, to explore the power of community, connection, and healing through running. The conversation dives into the story of Dave’s Run Club (DRC), founded in memory of a beloved family member, friend, and runner, and uncovers how this grassroots movement has united people to support one another both on and off the road. Running is more than just physical exercise; it’s a way to release stress, reflect, and grow. Through shared experiences, running creates a sense of belonging and strengthens mental well-being. This episode highlights how grassroots movements can inspire real change, how personal stories motivate others, and why fostering mental health awareness is vital in building strong, connected communities. Ultimately, it’s a reminder that running is about more than miles; it’s about connection, discovery, and honoring the people who inspire us to keep going. Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/ Amy Lane - https://www.instagram.com/wellness_ed/ The Samaritans - https://www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan/talk-us-phone/