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  • Lindsay Phenix - Ultra Running, 100-Mile Races & The Power of Mental Strength

    Lindsay Phenix - Ultra Running, 100-Mile Races & The Power of Mental Strength
    2026/11/03
    Lindsay Phenix is an ultra runner and run coach based in Los Angeles, California, who has completed more than 140 marathons and ultramarathons combined. In this episode, Lindsay shares her journey from running with her family as a child to taking on some of the toughest endurance events in the world, including the legendary Badwater 135 in Death Valley. She explains how she progressed from running one marathon a year to discovering her love for 100-mile races, and why endurance, patience and mental strength are key to success. We dive into the mental side of ultrarunning, exploring how to stay present over 100 miles, maintain focus, adapt when things go wrong and manage the physical and psychological challenges of running through the night. Lindsay also shares practical advice on pacing, nutrition, fuelling, sleep, strength training, recovery and running during your menstrual cycle. We discuss some of her toughest racing experiences, including the Hurt 100 in Hawaii, breaking her tailbone, and her dreams of taking on iconic events such as Western States 100, Hardrock 100, UTMB and the Tor des Géants. As a coach, Lindsay explains why the best training plan is the one you can consistently follow, why running needs to be a progression, and how she helps others work towards their own goals. This episode is packed with practical advice and inspiration for runners of all abilities. Lindsay also shares her thoughts on making running more inclusive and offers encouragement for women and girls who are ready to take a leap of faith and discover what they're capable of. Listen in to learn more about: Building up to ultramarathons and 100-mile racesDeveloping the mental strength to keep goingPacing, fuelling and managing the unknowns of endurance racingBalancing training, strength work, sleep and recoveryLearning from tough races and setbacksFinding the right training approach for youTaking a leap of faith and believing in yourself *** New episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast drop every Tuesday at 7 AM (UK time)! Make sure to subscribe so you never miss the inspiring journeys and incredible stories of tough women pushing boundaries. Do you want to support the Tough Girl Mission to increase the amount of female role models in the media in the world of adventure and physical challenges? Support via Patreon! Join me in making a difference by signing up here: www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast. Your support makes a difference. Thank you x *** Show notes Who is LindsayBeing based in Los Angles, CaliforniaOriginally from TexasBeing a runner her whole lifeRunning with her Dad, brother and cousins on a regular basisWhy running was a blessing Running for her dad's love?Why running and sports was a joyNever suffering from burnout from runningBeing gracious with herself Taking time of from running after racesNot seeing running as a full career Being inspired at 14 by Dean Karnazes Wanting to run DeathValley - Badwater 135 Deciding to run the Houston Marathon Running a marathon each year Moving to California and how her running starting to snowballWhy running has to be a progressionNeeding to complete the minimal qualificationsHer path to running Badwater Discovering her sweet spot of running 100 milersRunning her first 50 miler at the beginning of 2018By the end of 2019 she'd run her first 100 milerNot being scared of the distance Never being the fastest, but knowing she had enduranceDelving into the mental side of running 100 miles The mental focus to hold a race pace over the full distance Running a PR 16hrs 23mins (100 miler) running a 9.52 pace and breaking a course recordTraining for mental focusNeeding to be present in the exact mile you are running4 min run, 1 min walk after 20 miles Not wasting time at aid stations or stopping to eat food The biggest challenge of doing a 100 miler Dealing with the unknowns Running the Angeles Crest 100 Needing to be adaptable in this sportRunning in the night How your mind can start to play tricks on youNutrition and fuelling Handling periods while running and racing Prioritising sleep Running and strength and conditioning Ultra the documentary on Apple TVHeading back to badwater 2 years laterThe lessons and learning from running ultra marathons The toughest race she's run - Hurt 100 in Hawaii Breaking her tail boneStructuring her races each yearWhy all her races are A racesThe dream raceWestern States 100 Hardrock 100UTMB TOR DES GÉANTS Her coaching philosophy - Coach LindsayWhy it's so personal Why the best training is the training that you will doHow to connect with LindsayFinal words of advice to motivate and inspire women and girlsWhy running is inclusiveTake the leap of faith Social Media Instagram: @lindsayphenix Substack: lindsayphenix.substack.com
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    46 分
  • Juls Stodel -The Big Bothy Adventure & Finding History in the Landscape

    Juls Stodel -The Big Bothy Adventure & Finding History in the Landscape
    2026/10/27
    Juls Stodel is a writer, long-distance hiker, TGO (The Great Outdoors) magazine columnist, and trustee of the Mountain Bothy Association. Based in Edinburgh, Scotland, Juls has a deep love of history, wild places, and slow adventure. In this episode, Juls shares the story behind her ambitious Big Bothy Adventure – a journey to visit and spend a night in all 104 Mountain Bothy Association bothies across Scotland. Rather than racing from one destination to the next, Juls embraces a slower, more meaningful approach to adventure, giving herself permission to follow side quests, connect with people she meets along the way, and explore the rich human history woven into the landscape. We also dive into her experience walking the Wales Coast Path during the storm-filled winter of 2021/22, navigating broken tents, loneliness, river crossings gone wrong, and the importance of asking for help when you need it. Juls speaks openly about working with a therapist while on trail, why there is no one-size-fits-all approach to wellbeing, and how walking has become an important part of her life despite growing up with dyspraxia and never considering herself sporty. This conversation is full of stories about bothies, kindness, resilience, history, and the joy of exploring at your own pace. Juls also shares practical advice for anyone dreaming of their first adventure, reminding us that the biggest obstacle is often not the world around us, but doubting our own ability to cope when things don't go to plan. If you've ever been curious about bothies, long-distance walking, or finding confidence through adventure, this episode is for you. EXPLICIT: One F-bomb dropped! Listener discretion advised. *** New episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast drop every Tuesday at 7 AM (UK time)! Make sure to subscribe so you never miss the inspiring journeys and incredible stories of tough women pushing boundaries. Do you want to support the Tough Girl Mission to increase the amount of female role models in the media in the world of adventure and physical challenges? Support via Patreon! Join me in making a difference by signing up here: www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast. Your support makes a difference. Thank you x *** Show notes Who is JulsLiving in Edinburgh, ScotlandWorking as a columnist for the TGO Magazine (The Great Outdoors) Going on a Big Bothy Adventure - visiting all 104 MBA Bothies and staying the night at each oneTrustee of the Mountain Bothy Association Not being a sporty kid and having dyspraxia (which affects your balance and co-ordination)Going on long walks and being introduced to the outdoors with her DadDiscovering bothy's in her mid-twenties by accident Visiting her first bothy close to Hadrian's Wall Her love of history and nature Why it wasn't going to be a traditional thru-hikeGiving herself permission to go off on side quests and to join other people on their journey'sNot wanting to get lonely Not wanting her challenge to become a chore or a checklistWalking the Wales Coast Path (WCP) over the winter of 2021/22 Dealing with multiple storms, broken tents, and other challengesGetting her equipment and gear from Wild BoundsThe long boring bits and feeling very isolated Doing a lot of hiking previously, especially the UK National Trails Long Distance Walkers Why she loves hiking Dealing with low points on the trailWorking with a therapist and speaking to them every week while on the WCP How a sense of movement can helpWhy there isn't a one size fits all approachWhy we need to be careful about the conversation around health and healing in nature What hiking looks like for JulsStarting walking at 9 am Why it's not about keeping to the exact route Using the route as a guide and being less strict with herself now Doing it for the plot! The standout moments from the WCPWhy the Pembrokeshire Coast path was a real highlight Meeting people on the trail The kindest of strangers Walking St Wilfrid's Way (Hexham to Edinburgh) Having the opportunity to go and visit all the bothiesWhat is a bothy?Bothy rules to be aware of The Bothy Code - based on respect Guirdil Bothy - Isle of Rum The people she's met while on the Bothy Adventure Leaving postcards at every BothyDoing the Skye Trail the September before When things go wrong…Snow, sausages and a sled! Having an advice column - for TGO MagazineThe lessons learned from the Big Bothy Walk Why the most experience you have, you can find new things to be sacred offCows on the WCP and going on big detours to avoid them nowBeing taken away by the water during a river crossing and having to call Scottish Mountain Rescue to get help Needing to do a reset and get new gear Heading back when the rains had clearedWhy you should call Mountain Rescue when you need to The power of nature Her love of history and where it comes from Moving from the Netherlands to the UK Joining a young archeologist club and how it inspired her The importance of learning/...
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    49 分
  • Sarah Williams: Hiking the GR5 – 2,200km from Holland to Nice in 70 Days

    Sarah Williams: Hiking the GR5 – 2,200km from Holland to Nice in 70 Days
    2026/10/20
    On 20 July 2026, I set off from Hoek van Holland in the Netherlands, with the goal of hiking approximately 2,200km all the way to Nice on the Mediterranean coast. 70 days later, I reached the finish line after an incredible journey through the Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, Switzerland and France, tackling the French Alps and pushing myself both physically and mentally along the way. In this episode, I'm sharing the numbers, the stats, the preparation and the reality of taking on a challenge of this scale. From training and planning to wild camping, navigation, food, kit, motivation and the highs and lows of hiking solo, I'm answering your questions and sharing what I learnt along the way. I also reflect on why I chose the GR5, how I make time for these adventures, how it compares to my previous long-distance hikes, and what happens when you finally reach the finish line and have to adjust to normal life again. Whether you're planning your own long-distance hike, dreaming about a future adventure, or simply curious about what it takes to walk 2,200km in 70 days, this episode is for you! So grab a cuppa, get comfortable and join me for a deep dive into my GR5 adventure. *** New episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast drop every Tuesday at 7 AM (UK time)! Make sure to subscribe so you never miss the inspiring journeys and incredible stories of tough women pushing boundaries. Do you want to support the Tough Girl Mission to increase the amount of female role models in the media in the world of adventure and physical challenges? Support via Patreon! Join me in making a difference by signing up here: www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast. Your support makes a difference. Thank you x *** Show notes Welcome to the episode Who am I and the Tough Girl MissionFocusing on the GR5, the numbers, the stats and answering your questionsHow do I make time in my life for doing these walksA brief overview of my backstoryYou can listen to other solo reflections episodes (see below)How tough girl challenges came aboutStarting the tough girl podcast in 2015Taking on my own personal challenges since 2016Watch the short film - "TEN"Why the GR5 Doing a trail knowing how much road walking there would beRoad walking through Holland and BelgiumWanting to do the full distanceGetting the guidebooks from Cicerone Checking out the FKT website "women have always been 50% of the population, but only occupy around 0.5% of recorded history"How long is it, how do I get to the start, how do I get back from the finishTraining for the GR5Putting a plan together with the help of Chat GPTHaving a base level of fitnessIncline treadmill walkBack to back training daysTraining on concreteDoing the Two Saints Way as a Training hikeThe plan to arrive healthy at the start lineTracking my training and making tweaks when neededDaily stats posts while being on adventures Measuring my fatigue levelsTalking through the numbers Total Stats blog post Welcome To My Garden Hiiker App Vitality bits FoodMy scheduleDecompressing on the trailInsights from the trailTracking my weight via HUME Wild camping and navigationCharging electronicsMotivation tips and tricksGR20 vlogsHygiene and washing clothes on the trailBattery packs and a fast charge plugEssentials for your backpackBenefits of a ground sheetMy 2 fearsTrainersCooking and being stove lessWomen backpacking resourcesThe French AlpsAdjusting back to normal lifeGear I would add to my packDo you need to carry a tent4G in the mountains Meeting other hikersHow the hike compares to the Camino hikes and the Appalachian TrailTrail Angels… DonationsDirection of travelCooking on trailFeeling lonely on the trailAdventure bluesThe next adventure The best and the worst partWould I change anything?Vlogs coming soonApplying for the FKTGR5 info on the TG Website Previous Reflections/Solo Episodes Jan 2nd 2025 - Sarah Williams: Reflections on the South West Coast Path, Health, Money & Future Plans for 2025 Aug 1, 2024 - Sarah Williams: Reflecting on the Past 6 Months and Future Plans for 2024 – Insights, Challenges, and Adventures. Mar 14, 2024 - Sarah Williams - Reflections & Learnings from the 3,000km Te Araroa Trail, New Zealand. Nov 2, 2023 - Sarah Williams - Planning and Preparation for thru hiking the 3,000 km Te Araroa Trail, New Zealand. #ChallengeWithZOLEO Sep 10, 2023 - Sarah Williams - Solo Reflections: A Look Back at the End of 2022, Adventures and Challenges in 2023 Aug 4th 2022 - Sarah Williams - Reflects on the end of 2021 and the start of 2022. Aug 4th 2021 - Sarah Williams - Reflects on the end of 2020 and the start of 2021. Aug 7th 2020 - Sarah Williams - Reflections on 2019 & and the start of 2020. Aug 4th, 2019 - Sarah Williams - Reflections on 2018 and the start of 2019. Plus plans for Tough Girl Challenges. Dec 25, 2018 - Sarah Williams - Cycling the Pacific Coast Highway & Baja Divide Sep 4, 2018 - Sarah Williams - Planning and Preparation for the Pacific Coast ...
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    1 時間 50 分
  • Hannah Webster - From Marathon Runner to Adaptive CrossFit Athlete: Living with Multiple Sclerosis

    Hannah Webster - From Marathon Runner to Adaptive CrossFit Athlete: Living with Multiple Sclerosis
    2026/10/13
    Hannah Webster is an adaptive CrossFit athlete, writer, and former PR executive who swapped corporate life for chaos somewhere along the Pembrokeshire coast. Diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis at 40, she underwent a stem cell transplant to reset her immune system — and has been navigating the unpredictable aftermath ever since. She now competes internationally in adaptive CrossFit, despite significant mobility challenges, including foot drop and what she describes as "one good leg on a good day." A former marathon runner — with nine London Marathons, two Paris Marathons, and the Médoc Marathon under her belt — Hannah continues to wrestle with the loss of running and the reality of limited mobility, finding new ways to push herself through CrossFit. Hannah is currently studying for a Master's in Creative Writing and working on her memoir, Still Standing, which blends dark humour with the reality of living in the uncomfortable middle ground between "fine" and "not fine at all." Whether she's training for competition, building a coffee van business, or questioning her life choices mid-workout, she brings honesty, grit, and a healthy dose of sarcasm to everything she does. Hannah and her husband Neil have recently launched Great Escape Coffee Co. — a refurbished 20-year-old Land Rover Defender serving proper coffee to the Pembrokeshire community, sea swimmers, dog walkers, and anyone in need of a decent start to the day. *** New episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast drop every Tuesday at 7 AM (UK time)! Make sure to subscribe so you never miss the inspiring journeys and incredible stories of tough women pushing boundaries. Do you want to support the Tough Girl Mission to increase the amount of female role models in the media in the world of adventure and physical challenges? Support via Patreon! Join me in making a difference by signing up here: www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast. Your support makes a difference. Thank you x *** Show notes Who is Hannah46 years oldLiving in Pembrokeshire in WalesMoving after covidBeing given a life changing diagnosis of Multiple sclerosis (MS)Growing up in CheltenhamMoving back to Wales for University Spending 2.5 years travelling around the world Moving to Spain to work on an newspaper Always wanting to be a journalist Ending up working in corporate PR and getting to travel the world Getting diagnosed just before turning 40Running loads of marathons and half marathons Running a half marathon and having her legs feel like jellyKnowing that something wasn't quite right Going to see the Doctor a few times and having it put down to stress, travel etc Getting referred to see a neurologist and having an MRI scan (December)Being called for a 2nd MRI (January)Not being able to remember much about the conversation The shock and not knowing anyone else who has MS6 years later and still not accepting that she'll never run againDiscovering CrossFit and all the adaptions that can be madeMoving to Pembrokeshire during covidStruggling to walk - and walking with walking sticks Making the best of what you've got and not wanting to be miserable Discovering a whole new world of adaptive athletes Finding inspiration in everybody else Starting to write more, starting to blog more and share her stories Starting to connect with others who had MS Wanting to make happy memories Live is for living and not being totally depressed all the time The community of CrossFit and how accepting they areGetting to the Adaptive CrossFit Games in Las Vegas Coming 4th Globally!Having 2 dogsGetting sad something and accepting that that will happenDealing with a lot of fatigue Under going a stem cell transplant to reset her immune system4 years old! Why it's not promoted as a treatment for MS by the NHS How it's meant to work Having regular MRI scans and hoping that their are no new lesionsHaving a fight on her hands to get BUPA to pay for it Having the treatment done in 2022 It's an extreme treatment with 3 lots of chemotherapy and spending 3 weeks in hospital and having a compromised immune system for about a year So far, it hasn't got any worseRecovery as an athlete and recovery from intense treatments Why there is a mental aspect to recovery Learning to rest, doing more yoga and pilates Being told at the start that having MS is like having a battery - you only have so much energy and try to spread it out throughout the day.Making herself lie down Doing a Masters in creative writing Writing her memoir as part of her dissertation Training her mindSharing on Substack and trying to connect with 'my people'Feeling better that she's not alone Having her rubbish days Going to Wodapalooza in Miami Working with an adaptive coach Why it's better to have done it rather than not done it Starting CrossFit 3 years before diagnosis Dealing with foot drop and poor balance Trying not to compare herself to who she use to be previously Getting the balance right with training, ...
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    38 分
  • Nora Williams - From Burnout in Law to 3+ Years of Solo Travel and Living a Life of Freedom

    Nora Williams - From Burnout in Law to 3+ Years of Solo Travel and Living a Life of Freedom
    2026/10/06
    Nora used to be a San Francisco lawyer representing workers facing discrimination by their employers -- her dream job! But a few years into her career, Nora found herself experiencing severe burnout while working 60 to 80-hour weeks. Her dream job had become a real life nightmare impacting her physical and mental health and her relationships. One day, she reached her breaking point and decided she needed a big change. Nora ended a 5-year relationship, quit her job, and left the country on a one way ticket. What started as a career break turned into 3+ years of solo traveling around the world focusing on "hidden gem" and less-traveled destinations. Her favourites so far have been hiking in the Balkans, exploring archaeological sites in Iraq, and eating her way around Georgia. Nora even started her own tour company hosting adventurous group trips to bring others along with her. Her life at 30 is unconventional and certainly nowhere near where she imagined she would be, but somehow so much more fulfilling. In this episode, Nora shares the reality behind leaving a high-pressure legal career, the emotional toll of burnout, and what it really takes to rebuild your life from scratch. We talk about the unexpected freedom—and challenges—of long-term solo travel, how she navigates uncertainty while constantly on the move, and what it means to create a life outside of traditional expectations. Listen to this episode to hear how one bold decision changed everything, why solo travel can be both confronting and empowering, and how stepping into the unknown can lead to a life that feels more honest, expansive, and free. *** New episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast drop every Tuesday at 7 AM (UK time)! Make sure to subscribe so you never miss the inspiring journeys and incredible stories of tough women pushing boundaries. Do you want to support the Tough Girl Mission to increase the amount of female role models in the media in the world of adventure and physical challenges? Support via Patreon! Join me in making a difference by signing up here: www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast. Your support makes a difference. Thank you x *** Show notes Living a bit of an unconventional life at the moment Previously working as as workers rights lawyer, based out of San Francisco, CaliforniaHitting a breaking point 3 years ago with her jobRealising she was burn outGetting out of a long term relationship and quitting her job Making the decision to book a one way flight out of the USATravelling to the less travelled places Heading off the beaten track - with a focus on outdoor adventures Why it was an out of character decision Having a 'sliding door' moment Deciding to follow a different pathWhy her dream job tuned out to be a nightmare How covid changed things for the legal professionBeing able to work remotely from Columbia Needing to make money Sharing her travels with her friends and family on instagramHaving a reel go super viral on instagramGoing from 1,200 to over 20,000 people following her!Starting to connect with brands and being able to monetise her travel blogDeciding to start her own tour company about 2 years agoFinding the hidden gem destinationsTrying to keep an open mind and not have strict travel plansBeing invited to explore ancient ruins in IraqHiking in the BalkansFeeling free in nature Waymarking on the trails Using Komoot Keeping herself fit and healthy while travelling full timeBeing sick while travelling Getting the balance right between travel and adventure and not getting burnt outThe benefits of travelling slower and staying in places for longerSaying no a lot more nowDoing what you actually what to do What the rest of the year looks likePlanning to be in Iraq and Syria at the end of the year - but it does depend on what's happening in the gulfSpending 2 months in London Being open to what options become available Thinking about walking in New ZealandGoing to Skyscanner to find cheap flights Deciding to overland the length of ChileThe benefits of finding a remote job and how it can open doors for youHow to connect with Nora on InstagramAdvice for other women who want to live an unconventional lifeWhy the worst thing in life is not being aloneWhy the majority of solo travellers are womenA radical act of self-love Social Media Website: via-adventure.com Instagram: @noratheexplorahh @via.adventure
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    50 分
  • Alice Baddeley – Bike Touring Britain: Coastlines, Straight Lines and 1,000+ Mile Challenges

    Alice Baddeley – Bike Touring Britain: Coastlines, Straight Lines and 1,000+ Mile Challenges
    2026/09/29
    Alice is a long-distance bike tourer, drone pilot, and freelance creative who designs her adventures around self-imposed rules and unconventional challenges. Based in a van and working with Komoot, she uses cycling as both a mode of transport and a way to deeply explore the landscapes of Britain. Her journeys are anything but ordinary. In 2021, Alice cycled through every town and village in Sussex, covering over 1,000 miles without leaving the county. The following year, she completed a full cycle of the British coastline. In 2023, she attempted an even more ambitious challenge—travelling from Shoreham to Oldshoremore in as straight a line across Britain as possible. In this episode, Alice shares how she first discovered bike touring, what inspired her to take on increasingly creative endurance challenges, and why she is drawn to journeys that combine geography, problem-solving, and adventure. She talks about life on the road in a van, the logistics behind her rides, and the realities of planning multi-week cycling expeditions using everything from paper maps to GPS apps. We explore the highs and lows of long-distance cycling, from wild camping and weather challenges to moments of complete freedom on remote coastal routes. Alice also reflects on what she has learned from designing her own rules for adventure, and why letting go of perfection has opened the door to more meaningful experiences. Listen to this episode to hear how cycling can become a creative practice, why the UK is full of endless adventure opportunities, and how setting your own rules might just be the best way to explore the world. *** New episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast drop every Tuesday at 7 AM (UK time)! Make sure to subscribe so you never miss the inspiring journeys and incredible stories of tough women pushing boundaries. Do you want to support the Tough Girl Mission to increase the amount of female role models in the media in the world of adventure and physical challenges? Support via Patreon! Join me in making a difference by signing up here: www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast. Your support makes a difference. Thank you x *** Show notes Being based in a van Originally from South West LondonSelf employed as a drone pilot and freelancing for Komoot Her love for cycling and using if for her main mode of transportGetting interested in bike touring Finding out about cycling from Lands End to John O' Groats (LEJOG)Finding out you don't need to be an athlete to cycle these massive distances Magical moments from her LEJOG TripDoing it with paper maps pre smart phonesMaking a lifestyle decision to become self employed Enjoying the freedom it gave herCycling during covid - staying local in Sussex The Sussex 1000 challenge Wanting to cycle the coast line of Great Britain The reason for the name yellow velloLoving the colour yellow Starting to work with KomootHaving to postpone the cycle trip around GB for 2 years Wanting to see more of her home countryBeing guided by a silly set of rules Stick as closely to the coastline as possible Not cycling islands unless there was a bridgeWanting the GPS to look as close as possible to the outline of GBGoing clockwise Why Devon and Cornwall were the hardest parts Planning for the tripWanting to compete the trip in 80 days - with no days offHaving a bivvy bag but planning to stay in accommodation When things go wrong and you end up sleeping on the beach Spending just under £4k on accommodation What it was like day to day Being able to enjoy it and relax into the rideTaking photos and filming the tripPost admin that still needs to be done!Did the dream match the realityWhy it was the best thing she's ever doneNot having any really low daysBeing very lucky with the weather How the weather can impact your trip Why the North West Coast of Scotland was incredible 340 degrees North The Bryson Line Book: The Road to Little Dribbling: More Notes from a Small Island: 1 By Bill Bryson The challenges of cycling on some of the bridle ways and why there was a lot of pushingHaving the confidence to wild campGetting back home after the finishThe lesson learned from these trips and adventures Not worrying as much Using cheap bikes, buying food from supermarkets If you've got an idea that is stuck in your head - that's your gut instinct saying you should do itLoving van lifeLooking to find a base at some point Future adventures and plans Wanting to see more of the UKMaybe Ireland?Doing a perfect circle around London or maybe a flower shape?How to connect with Alice on social media yello.veStart with something small, don't worry too much about thingsThe things you worry about don't tend to happen, so don't waste your time worrying Don't worry too much about how other people do things - there is no wrong or right wayEverything is really personal Be confident and go for it!Why it's always great to go outside your comfort zone. The more you do that - the more adventures ...
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    41 分
  • Anna Wells – Medicine, Mountains and the First Woman to Complete a Winter Munro Round in Scotland.

    Anna Wells – Medicine, Mountains and the First Woman to Complete a Winter Munro Round in Scotland.
    2026/09/22
    Anna Wells is a mountaineer, former doctor, and outdoor instructor based in Inverness, Scotland. Her life has been shaped by a deep love of the mountains, beginning with indoor rock climbing at the age of 12 and growing through years of study, sport, and exploration. Although she followed a traditional academic path—studying maths and medicine and later working as a doctor—Anna eventually realised that her true passion lay in the outdoors. After time spent living in Chamonix and working as a mountaineering instructor, she made the decision to leave medicine behind and pursue a life more aligned with her values and love of adventure. In this episode, Anna shares her journey from medicine to the mountains, including her time competing in ice climbing, navigating injury, and rethinking what a fulfilling life looks like. We dive into her incredible Winter Munro Round in Scotland, inspired by Martin Moran, where she took on the challenge of climbing all 100+ Munros in winter conditions over just a few months. She talks about the realities of spending long days in the mountains, averaging multiple Munros per day, dealing with weather, injury, nutrition, motivation, and the mental challenges that come with endurance adventure. Anna also reflects on the kindness of strangers who supported her along the way, and the importance of flexibility, self-belief, and listening to your body. More recently, Anna has stepped into a new chapter of life as a mother, exploring how adventure, skiing, and time in the mountains can evolve alongside motherhood. Listen to this episode to hear what it takes to leave medicine for the mountains, how a Winter Munro Round pushes both body and mind, and why thinking outside the box can lead to a life that feels truly your own. *** New episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast drop every Tuesday at 7 AM (UK time)! Make sure to subscribe so you never miss the inspiring journeys and incredible stories of tough women pushing boundaries. Do you want to support the Tough Girl Mission to increase the amount of female role models in the media in the world of adventure and physical challenges? Support via Patreon! Join me in making a difference by signing up here: www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast. Your support makes a difference. Thank you x *** Show notes Who is Anna36 years old Based in Inverness in Scotland Currently on maternity leaveHer love for adventure and being outside Growing up in Inverness and not coming from a particularly outdoorsy family Starting indoor rock climbing at 12 years old and falling in love with the sport The Girl Guides and the Duke of Edinburgh Scheme Being addicted to rock climbing and feeling everything clickHer progress in the sport Meeting more like minded people at university in Aberdeen Being a student for 9 years - studying Maths for 4 years and doing a medical degree for 5 years Deciding to leave medicine after 2 years of working as a doctor and moving in a different direction Spending 2 years living in Chamonix Deciding to give up her license to practice medicine Wanting to focus on ice climbing competitions Dealing with a shoulder injury and not being able to climb that hardTake a year and don't force yourself to make any decisionsStarting to consider a career in the outdoorsWanting to live a life that makes you happyThinking more about confidence Working as a mountaineering instructor for a number of yearsWanting to do the IFMGA but deciding against itWanting to climb the Munro's in Scotland Moving to Edinburgh and working in a bank as a data analystA Winter Munro Round….Inspired by Martin Moran who was the first to do this over 1984/85Starting to think about getting 3 months of unpaid leaveDeciding in the October and starting in December Figuring out the first 100 munro'sDoing 65k and 4,400 m of ascent and being out for 19 hoursDoing an average 4.4 munro's per dayPutting out a message on social media looking for help with accommodationThe kindness of strangersHaving a lot of self confidence with navigation, make sensible decisions and look after herselfWondering if she would keep wanting itInjury, weather and not wanting it anymore Feeling low on motivation during her menstrual cycleDr Stacy Simms on the Tough Girl Podcast Dealing with the low moments and keeping on walking When your mood is low - walk with friendsFinding it logistically a lot easer to be on her own Having a few foot issuesThe magical moments from the experience Writing her book - Breaking the SnowlineNutrition and eating on the mountains Getting addicted to Lucazade Gear and making risk based decisions Having an emergency bag - that went with her everyday Working with AlpkitWearing trainers and waterproof socks and why it worked for herMotherhood, mountains and adventuring with a new baby (Fergus) Having different parameters for what a day in the mountains looks likeGetting back to skiing and the mountains quicklyHow to connect with Anna ...
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    44 分
  • Natasha Sones – Wild Swimming, SUP Adventures and Writing Swimming Wild in London and South East England

    Natasha Sones – Wild Swimming, SUP Adventures and Writing Swimming Wild in London and South East England
    2026/09/15
    Natasha is a year-round wild swimmer, qualified Stand-Up Paddleboarding instructor, freelance travel writer, and outdoor adventurer with a deep love of water in all its forms. Based in Suffolk, she is also a volunteer for the Bluetits Chill Swimmers and an Ordnance Survey Champion. Natasha's journey into the outdoors began early, swimming in the sea as a child, but like many people, her connection to sport and adventure faded during her 20s and 30s. It wasn't until her 40s that she rediscovered the water, found her community, and stepped into a completely new chapter of adventure. In this episode, Natasha shares how she went from feeling like she wasn't "outdoorsy" to becoming immersed in wild swimming and paddle boarding, including getting involved with inclusive swimming communities, discovering cold water swimming, and building confidence in outdoor spaces. She opens up about being diagnosed as autistic in her 40s, and how understanding herself better helped her find her tribe and her confidence. We also talk about her progression into Stand-Up Paddleboarding, from early lockdown experiments to completing endurance challenges such as the Race to the Castle, and preparing for a 162-mile coast-to-coast SUP journey across England. Natasha shares what it's really like training around work and family life, the realities of cold water swimming, and why time on the water has become so important for her wellbeing. Alongside her adventures, Natasha is also the author of the upcoming guidebook Swimming Wild in London and South East England, featuring 100 incredible swimming spots across beaches, rivers, lakes, lidos, and hidden wild locations. Listen to this episode to hear how Natasha found confidence through cold water and community, why it's never too late to become an adventurer, and how simple steps—like saying yes and asking for help—can open the door to a whole new way of living. *** New episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast drop every Tuesday at 7 AM (UK time)! Make sure to subscribe so you never miss the inspiring journeys and incredible stories of tough women pushing boundaries. Do you want to support the Tough Girl Mission to increase the amount of female role models in the media in the world of adventure and physical challenges? Support via Patreon! Join me in making a difference by signing up here: www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast. Your support makes a difference. Thank you x *** Show notes Who is Natasha46 year old adventurer and Mum of threePassionate year round wild swimmer, outdoor adventurer, and freelance travel writer with a deep love of all things waterLiving in Suffolk Swimming in the sea from a young ageMoving out to a small village into the countryside, which was 5 mins from the seasideNot being involved in sports or the outdoors in her 20s and 30sWhat changed in her 40s?Making new friends when your olderBeing shy when she was younger Discovering she was autistic about 5 years ago Finding the swimming and outdoorsy community Feeling like she has found her tribeGetting into paddle boarding during lockdownBeing introduced into wild swimming but not really enjoying it at firstSetting up a local group for The Bluetits Joining the Adventure Queens and attending a camp out Saying her adventure idea out loud for the first time Applying for the Adventure Queens GrantWanting to paddle board in Finland and experience the endless summerNot having any idea on how to plan her adventure Working with Gee Jackson as her mentor Feeling overwhelmed by all the advice out there in relation to multi-way adventures Struggling to find advice about doing a multi-day adventure on SUPPlanning to visit 4/5 islands and how plans changed over timeBeing worried about feeling lonely Not thinking she was an outdoorsy person The barriers for women to get into water sports Becoming an ambassador for This Girl Can, Suffolk Writing her first guide book about Wild Swimming - with Vertebrate Publishing Common misconceptions about swimming in London Why swimming in Canary Wharf is one of her favourite swim locations How it works with access rights for swimming in England The Outdoor Swimming SocietyThe do's and don'ts of getting into water Why you always swim with a buddyEntering into different eventsWinter Swimming World Championships What it feels like to swim in cold water Deciding what challenge to do nextFollowing adventurers and outdoorsy people on social media Doing the Race to the Castle - 25 mile paddleboarding race on the River Trent with a cut off time of 9 hours Winter training and fitting training into her life Working with an elite paddle board racer—Emily King Why it was about time on the water Using an ironing board instead of a standing desk The next adventure and paddle boarding coast to coast across England (162 miles over 9/10 days). Going from Liverpool to YorkshireBeing supported by RED Equipment Meeting up with Jo MoseleyFundraising for the Canal and ...
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