🎙️ RunThrough Trails Podcast | Episode 30

In this episode of the RunThrough Trails podcast, host James Tilley speaks with adventurer, ultra-endurance athlete, and mental health advocate Alex Staniforth. From a childhood shaped by epilepsy and bullying, Alex opens up about how the outdoors became a source of confidence, belonging, and healing.

He shares the story behind his monumental challenge of climbing all 446 mountains in England and Wales, a journey that not only pushed his physical limits but raised vital funds for mental health initiatives. Through the conversation, Alex reflects on how setting personal goals helped him regain a sense of control, and how running and adventure became powerful tools for managing mental health.

They explore the founding of Mind Over Mountains, Alex’s charity dedicated to helping others find healing through nature, and discuss why community, recovery, and self-care are essential after big challenges. He also shares thoughts on the ongoing journey of self-discovery through endurance, emphasising that in running, as in life, the journey is just as meaningful as the destination.

This episode is a powerful reminder of the intersection between physical activity and mental resilience, and how nature can be a path to both purpose and peace.

👉 Like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations at the heart of endurance, mental health, and adventure.

James Tilley - https://www.instagram.com/jtrunstrails/
RunThrough Trails - https://www.instagram.com/runthroughtrails/
Alex Staniforth - https://www.instagram.com/alexstaniforth_/

🎙️ RunThrough Trails Podcast | Episode 29

In this episode of the Run Through Trails podcast, host James Tilley welcomes Edward Gwynne-Harris, trail running enthusiast and creator of the Gwynne-Harris Round in the Brecon Beacons. Edward shares his transformation from a casual runner to an ultra runner, and how his deepening appreciation for his local landscape led to the creation of a new, challenging, and inspiring route through one of Wales' most beautiful national parks.

They discuss:

Growing up in the Brecon Beacons and learning to love the outdoors later in life

Starting with triathlons and shifting focus to trail and ultra running

The motivation behind creating the Gwynne-Harris Round to spotlight the Beacons

The accessibility and scenic value of the Brecon Beacons compared to areas like Snowdonia and the Lake District

Fueling challenges and lessons learned during his ultra-distance efforts

The role of culture, community, and storytelling in trail running

Why it’s important to explore and promote lesser-known trails to ease pressure on overused routes

This episode is a deep dive into what makes the Brecon Beacons special, why community matters in trail running, and how one runner’s vision turned into a new challenge for others to explore.

📽️ Don’t miss the discussion about the Gwynne-Harris Round documentary—it beautifully captures the essence of the route and watch it here - https://youtu.be/aazZLqPX_0s?feature=shared

In this special episode, we sit down with RunThrough Trails' very own James Tilley for an honest, insightful, and inspiring conversation.

Together with guest host Ben Sheppard from RunThroughs Gone Running Podcast, James reflects on his time in Canada, the roots of his passion for the mountains, and the challenges of turning trail dreams into reality on race day. The duo dive deep into what went into organising one of the most emotional and ambitious events on the RunThrough calendar: Ultra Trail Morzine-Avoriaz.

Also hear,

🏞️ How James designed and raced his own trail course
💥 The behind-the-scenes chaos of delivering an event
📈 RunThrough’s vision for European expansion
🤯 Navigating setbacks, mental fatigue & last-minute changes
🤝 The power of community, connection, and the RunThrough team spirit

This episode pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to run a successful trail event — not just physically, but mentally and emotionally. From planning courses to managing crises, it’s a candid conversation about passion, purpose, and the people who make the sport so special.

💬 Whether you're a runner, a race director, or someone who loves a good story about grit and growth, this one’s for you.

👇 Hit play, subscribe, and drop us a comment about your own favourite trail experience!