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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 Hannah 46 years old Living in Pembrokeshire in Wales Moving after covid Being given a life changing diagnosis of Multiple sclerosis (MS) Growing up in Cheltenham Moving 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 40 Running loads of marathons and half marathons  Running a half marathon and having her legs feel like jelly Knowing 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 MS 6 years later and still not accepting that she'll never run again Discovering CrossFit and all the adaptions that can be made Moving to Pembrokeshire during covid Struggling 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 are Getting to the Adaptive CrossFit Games in Las Vegas  Coming 4th Globally! Having 2 dogs Getting sad something and accepting that that will happen Dealing with a lot of fatigue  Under going a stem cell transplant to reset her immune system 4 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 lesions Having 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 worse Recovery 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 mind Sharing 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, listening to your body and managing energy levels Being very stubborn  Trying to be less harsh on herself and show appreciation to her body  How the messages get confused in the body and why everybody who has MS has it differently  Trying her best  Writing her story and having to learn a new style of writing Hoping to get the book done by Christmas, if not sooner Needed to get on with it! CrossFit goals in 2026 and 2027 How to connect with Hannah online Wanting to connect to people  Why it might be the best thing that ever happened You're not alone—reach out and talk to people you trust.  Avoid immediately Googling symptoms or diagnoses, as it often leads to worst-case scenarios and unnecessary anxiety. Connect with others who have been through a similar experience for support and reassurance. Remember that whatever you're facing, it's not the end of the world. There are incredible treatments, resources, and people ready to help. Lean on the people who love and support you—you don't have to go through it alone. Life is short, so focus on finding moments of happiness where you can. It's okay to acknowledge that life can be difficult at times. Give yourself permission to feel sad, frustrated, or to have a moan when you need to. Hold onto hope—better days can still lie ahead. Believe that happiness is possible, even after going through tough times.   Social Media Instagram @hannahjweb  TikTok @hansquesttofukMS YouTube - @HannahJWeb SubStuck - @hannahwebster3

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, California Hitting a breaking point 3 years ago with her job Realising she was burn out Getting out of a long term relationship and quitting her job  Making the decision to book a one way flight out of the USA Travelling 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 path Why her dream job tuned out to be a nightmare  How covid changed things for the legal profession Being able to work remotely from Columbia  Needing to make money  Sharing her travels with her friends and family on instagram Having a reel go super viral on instagram Going from 1,200 to over 20,000 people following her! Starting to connect with brands and being able to monetise her travel blog Deciding to start her own tour company about 2 years ago Finding the hidden gem destinations Trying to keep an open mind and not have strict travel plans Being invited to explore ancient ruins in Iraq Hiking in the Balkans Feeling free in nature  Waymarking on the trails  Using Komoot  Keeping herself fit and healthy while travelling full time Being sick while travelling  Getting the balance right between travel and adventure and not getting burnt out The benefits of travelling slower and staying in places for longer Saying no a lot more now Doing what you actually what to do  What the rest of the year looks like Planning to be in Iraq and Syria at the end of the year - but it does depend on what's happening in the gulf Spending 2 months in London  Being open to what options become available  Thinking about walking in New Zealand Going to Skyscanner to find cheap flights  Deciding to overland the length of Chile The benefits of finding a remote job and how it can open doors for you How to connect with Nora on Instagram Advice for other women who want to live an unconventional life Why the worst thing in life is not being alone Why the majority of solo travellers are women A radical act of self-love    Social Media Website: via-adventure.com  Instagram:  @noratheexplorahh  @via.adventure

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 London Self employed as a drone pilot and freelancing for Komoot  Her love for cycling and using if for her main mode of transport Getting 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 Trip Doing it with paper maps pre smart phones Making a lifestyle decision to become self employed  Enjoying the freedom it gave her Cycling 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 vello Loving the colour yellow  Starting to work with Komoot Having to postpone the cycle trip around GB for 2 years  Wanting to see more of her home country Being guided by a silly set of rules  Stick as closely to the coastline as possible  Not cycling islands unless there was a bridge Wanting the GPS to look as close as possible to the outline of GB Going clockwise  Why Devon and Cornwall were the hardest parts  Planning for the trip Wanting to compete the trip in 80 days - with no days off Having 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 ride Taking photos and filming the trip Post admin that still needs to be done! Did the dream match the reality Why it was the best thing she's ever done Not having any really low days Being 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 pushing Having the confidence to wild camp Getting back home after the finish The 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 it Loving van life Looking to find a base at some point  Future adventures and plans  Wanting to see more of the UK Maybe Ireland? Doing a perfect circle around London or maybe a flower shape? How to connect with Alice on social media  yello.ve Start with something small, don't worry too much about things The 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 way Everything 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 you go on.    Social Media Website: www.yellovelo.co.uk  Instagram: @yello.velo

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 Anna 36 years old  Based in Inverness in Scotland  Currently on maternity leave Her 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 click Her 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 hard Take a year and don't force yourself to make any decisions Starting to consider a career in the outdoors Wanting to live a life that makes you happy Thinking more about confidence  Working as a mountaineering instructor for a number of years Wanting to do the IFMGA but deciding against it Wanting to climb the Munro's in Scotland  Moving to Edinburgh and working in a bank as a data analyst A Winter Munro Round…. Inspired by Martin Moran  who was the first to do this over 1984/85 Starting to think about getting 3 months of unpaid leave Deciding in the October and starting in December  Figuring out the first 100 munro's Doing 65k and 4,400 m of ascent and being out for 19 hours Doing an average 4.4 munro's per day Putting out a message on social media looking for help with accommodation The kindness of strangers Having a lot of self confidence with navigation, make sensible decisions and look after herself Wondering if she would keep wanting it Injury, weather and not wanting it anymore  Feeling low on motivation during her menstrual cycle Dr Stacy Simms on the Tough Girl Podcast  Dealing with the low moments and keeping on walking  When your mood is low - walk with friends Finding it logistically a lot easer to be on her own  Having a few foot issues The magical moments from the experience  Writing her book - Breaking the Snowline Nutrition 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 Alpkit Wearing trainers and waterproof socks and why it worked for her Motherhood, mountains and adventuring with a new baby (Fergus)  Having different parameters for what a day in the mountains looks like Getting back to skiing and the mountains quickly How to connect with Anna online Final words of advice for other women who want to spend more time in the outdoors Start thinking outside the box    Social Media Website: rocksandtrails.com  Instagram: @rocksandtrails To buy my book: shop.rocksandtrails.com

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 Natasha 46 year old adventurer and Mum of three Passionate year round wild swimmer, outdoor adventurer, and freelance travel writer with a deep love of all things water Living in Suffolk  Swimming in the sea from a young age Moving out to a small village into the countryside, which was 5 mins from the seaside Not being involved in sports or the outdoors in her 20s and 30s What changed in her 40s? Making new friends when your older Being 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 tribe Getting into paddle boarding during lockdown Being introduced into wild swimming but not really enjoying it at first Setting 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 Grant Wanting to paddle board in Finland and experience the endless summer Not 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 SUP Planning to visit 4/5 islands and how plans changed over time Being 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 Society The do's and don'ts of getting into water  Why you always swim with a buddy Entering into different events Winter Swimming World Championships  What it feels like to swim in cold water  Deciding what challenge to do next Following 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 Yorkshire Being supported by RED Equipment  Meeting up with Jo Moseley Fundraising for the Canal and River Trust  How to connect with Natasha and follow along with her adventures  Advice for other women who want to take their next step into adventure  Just try it, and if you're unsure, ask for help Follow people and get inspired    Social Media Website: www.natashasoneseditorial.com  Instagram: @natashastarseeker  Book: Swimming Wild in South East England. Over 100 of the best outdoor swimming spots in London, the Home Counties and the Isle of Wight

Sylvia Malan-Gonzalez is a Fat Positive Hiker from Portland, Oregon, on a mission to show that hiking really is for every body. Although she enjoys being active, Sylvia didn't fall in love with hiking straight away. Getting started wasn't easy. Finding affordable gear that fit, overcoming self-doubt, and navigating the outdoors in a body that isn't often represented in the hiking world all presented their own challenges. Instead of giving up, Sylvia set herself a simple goal: hike twice a month. One trail at a time, she built confidence, found supportive communities, discovered the gear that worked for her, and eventually climbed Mt. St. Helens—proving to herself that she was capable of far more than she ever imagined. In this episode, Sylvia shares what it means to be a Fat Positive Hiker, why she embraces body neutrality over chasing weight loss, and how learning to trust herself has transformed both her relationship with the outdoors and with her own body. We also talk about overcoming fear, dealing with judgement, finding hiking partners, using hiking poles, building strength in the gym, and why losing your hiking mojo doesn't mean your adventure is over. Whether you're completely new to hiking, returning after time away, or simply looking for encouragement to take that first step, Sylvia's story is a reminder that the outdoors belongs to everyone. ***  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 Growing up and living in Portland, Oregon, USA 39 years old English teacher Married for 29 years Half white and half Latina  Growing up in a very creative environment  Her parents running - Miracle Theatre Group!  Getting to go to Outdoor School and spending time in nature during Middle School and High School  Working as a Youth Counsellor  Not liking hiking at first  Liking being active and going for walks  Trying to get into hiking and struggling at first Not being able to get the gear Setting a personal goal other hike twice a month Figuring out what gear worked for her and her both Using athletic gear that she used for the gym Starting to read more about what clothes she would wear The basic essentials you need to take with you First aid, electrolytes  The lack of brands for plus size people  How the market for making clothes for bigger people is no longer there anymore Thicket  Wonder Outdoors  Being a Fat Positive Hiker and what that means  How the body positivity message has changed via influences over the years Centering herself in body neutrality  Not wanting to focus on weight loss Loving yourself and losing weight are two separate entities  Loving yourself no matter what stage you're at Seeing health at every stage Setting a personal hiking challenge 52 Hike Challenge  Founded by Karla Amador Using hiking poles and how they helped her Finding other people to go hiking with  Using All Trails  Oregon Hikers  Sharing and tracking your hikes Building a hiking community  Making friends through the hiking community  Being held back by fears Overcoming fears and the lessons learned along the way Climbing Mt. St Helens Being a fat person and being afraid of getting hurt Judgement from other people Being encouraged by her friend to climb Mt. St Helens What is the real fear Why it is more of a mental thing Losing hiking mojo and how to handle that Setting hiking goals for 2026 Leading group hikes Getting into strength goals Going backpacking and camping! Sharing on Instagram  How to connect with Sylvia  Final words of advice "You can do hard things and still have fun while you're doing it. Who cares what people think of you? This is your life. Don't be afraid."   Social Media Instagram: @SilverMTNGoat

Helen Watson is a traveller, writer, and conservationist based in the Scottish Highlands. Born in Scotland and raised in Switzerland, she has always been drawn to adventures that are both physically and culturally challenging. In 2009, shortly after completing her PhD, Helen and her husband Ed set off on an extraordinary bicycle journey from Scotland to China. Over the course of a year, they cycled 15,000 kilometres across Europe, the Middle East, Central Asia, and China, following sections of the ancient Silk Road and relying on paper maps, curiosity, and the kindness of strangers. The journey took them through countries including Syria, Iran, and the Central Asian 'Stans', where they experienced incredible hospitality and forged meaningful connections with people from vastly different cultures and backgrounds. The trip would later inspire Helen's first book, Tea and Grit: A Bicycle Journey along the Silk Road, published in January 2026. In this episode, Helen shares the spark behind the adventure, the logistics of planning a long-distance cycle journey, and the realities of life on the road. We discuss what it means to become comfortable with discomfort, the privileges and challenges of travelling as a woman, and how her experiences in Syria took on a new significance in the years that followed during the refugee crisis. Helen also reflects on the importance of storytelling, why she felt compelled to write her book, and the lessons she has learned from a life shaped by travel, endurance, and human connection. Listen to this episode to hear about cycling 15,000km along the Silk Road, the generosity of people across cultures, and why stepping just outside your comfort zone can lead to the most transformative adventures. ***  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 the Scotland Highlands 2009/2010 - cycling from Scotland to China Being born in Scotland and moving to Switzerland at 5 years old Going to St. Andrews for University  Speaking; English, Swiss-German and German  Growing up in Switzerland and spending time in the outdoors Growing up with a lot of cultures  Wanting to take on this adventure and where the spark came from Being interested in long distance journeys Being inspired by Ffyona Campbell  Walking some long trails in New Zealand  Meeting her husband Ed at University  Wanting to do a longer trip after marriage  Heading off after she fished her PhD Studying genetics of the red deer in Scotland  Applying the lessons learned from studying for her PhD to planning the cycle ride Learning endurance from her PhD The logistics of getting visa's Not wanting to set a specific route in advance  Using paper maps and making route decisions as they went  Making some radical route decisions and deciding to go to Syria  Why it was one of the best decisions she's made (apart from marrying Ed!) The route - Scotland - Newcastle - Holland - Germany - France - Switzerland, Austria, Hungry, Serbia, Croatia, Albania, Greece, Syria, Turkey, Iran, the Stans…to China  Spending 2 months cycling around China The reality of what it was like being on the road Loving the experience most of the time! Meeting different people and experiencing hospitality in different countries Getting to the deeper levels of connection with people  Becoming comfortable with being uncomfortable in awkward social situations  The privilege of being a woman while travelling with her male partner  Getting to experience the best of both worlds What being a feminist means  The amazing women who are fighting against oppression around the world  Gender roles while travelling as a couple Having a love for writing  Keeping a journal to document the journey  Feeling depressed with what happened in Syria Doing volunteer work related to refugees  Wanting to tell the story of the people she met The Arab Spring and the refugee crises  Community Refugee Sponsorship The book being released in January 2026 - Tea and Grit: A Bicycle Journey along the Silk Road The point she wanted to make with the book Wanting to go on the same trip again  How to connect with Helen  Final words of advice and wisdom for other women who want to take on an adventure or challenge  Start with something that is a little bit outside your comfort zone and build up  Break it down     Social Media Website: www.helenwatsonwriting.com  Instagram: @helenwatsonwriter  The Book: Tea and Grit: A Bicycle Journey along the Silk Road

Gaby Dijkstra is an outdoor enthusiast, solo traveller, and researcher with a passion for remote mountain environments. Whether climbing, skiing, or paragliding, she feels most at home in the mountains and has travelled to all seven continents, breaking barriers as a solo female adventurer. After years of working in education and girl empowerment projects, Gaby became increasingly curious about the construct of gender and how societal expectations shape our behaviours, opportunities, and experiences. This curiosity ultimately led her to pursue a PhD at Rotterdam School of Management, designing her own research project to investigate the role of gender in extreme environments. In 2024, Gaby spent 191 days in the Himalayas, including 132 days living on the mountains, conducting fieldwork during a full climbing season in Nepal. Her research explored the role of gender in the extreme mountaineering industry, particularly among the people who work and operate in these challenging environments. Along the way, she joined a commercial expedition to climb Ama Dablam, visited the Khumbu Icefall and the Manaslu region, and was invited to take part in an exclusive winter expedition to Annapurna I. Through interviews, observations, and lived experience, Gaby gathered what she describes as "a mountain of data" on how gender norms continue to shape the culture of mountaineering. In this episode, Gaby shares what she learned from her time in the Himalayas, why the traditional heroic narrative of mountaineering can be harmful to both men and women, and how understanding gender as a social construct can help us rethink leadership, decision-making, and belonging in extreme environments. Listen to this episode to learn about conducting a PhD in one of the world's most challenging landscapes, the hidden gender dynamics within the mountaineering industry, and why talking to other women and pursuing your curiosities can open doors to entirely new adventures. ***  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 in Amsterdam, Netherlands 37, freelancer and researcher  Having a background in sports management  Using sports to help society tackle challenges PhD at Rotterdam School of Management  Designing her own study project - the role of gender in extreme environments  Gender as a social construct  How social constructs can limit us in who we are and how we behave What is appropriate behaviour for societies gender expectations  Study something that is interesting for you Looking at gender and not understanding the construct  Loving all types of outdoor sports.  Being most happy when in the mountains  Where are all the women - always being surrounded by men Starting to work in leadership project. Girl empowerment projects. Introducing girls to sports  Getting frustrated and wanting to learn more about the construct of gender  Wanting to know how this plays out in extreme environments  If there are no obstacles - where would you like to go for your PhD? Wanting to go back to the Himalayas  191 days in the field, spending 132 days on a mountain Conducting fieldwork in the mountains of Nepal for a full climbing season  Looking at the role of gender in the climbing industry - especially for people working in the mountains Studying only from the Nepal side Taking part in a commercial climbing expedition - climbing Ama Dablam (6,812 metres (22,349 ft)) Doing a participant observation study - What it means to be a client in the industry  Being invited to join an exclusive winter expedition - visiting Annapurna I Visiting the Manaslu Region Vistiting Mt. Everest and the Khumbu icefalls  Speaking with women climbing and working  The lessons and learning from the research - having "a mountain of data!" Her PnD based on three articles  The first article based on doing a discourse analysis based on 100 years of expedition reports - looking at gender norms and how they can be identified  The 2nd and 3rd articles based on her experience  Looking at the theory of sense making, decision making  Not looking at the different between men and women The heroic sense of mountaineering  - the summit above all else…. The traditional norms and how it can harm both men and women Women being extra tough on other women How to connect with Gaby to find out more about her work  Wanting to be outside rather than on social media Words of advice for other women who want to purse their interests  Talk to other women    Social Media Website: www.sportsleadership.nl  Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/gabydijkstra

Holly Budge is a global keynote speaker on risk, innovation, and human potential, operating at the intersection of conservation, science, and bold ideas. As an Everest summiteer and the first woman to skydive Everest, she now focuses less on surviving extremes and more on solving the complex conservation challenges shaping our future.  As founder of international NGO How Many Elephants and World Female Ranger Week, Holly explores how nature, technology, and innovation can work together to design smarter systems, from using bees as bio-engineers to reduce human-elephant conflict in Africa, to empowering women as front-line wildlife rangers. Her work has reached over 500 million people globally, been featured in Forbes, and praised by Sir David Attenborough. In this episode, Holly shares powerful insights from her journey between extreme adventure and global conservation work, including how her definition of risk and purpose has evolved over time. We dive into the real-world impact of wildlife conservation projects, from elephant corridors and bee-based deterrents to the rise of female ranger teams protecting some of the world's most vulnerable ecosystems. Listen to this episode to hear how adventure can become a force for global change, why women are reshaping the future of conservation, and what it takes to turn bold ideas into real-world impact at scale. ***  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 Holly Being an adventurer and passionate conservationist  Founder of How Many Elephants, Wildlife Positive Travel and World Female Ranger Week First speaking to Holly March 26th 2019 on the Tough Girl Podcast   Recap on what was discussed on that episode  Deciding to move to New Zealand in 2019 Training for the Coast to Coast Race  Learning how to kayak especially for this race  Getting over her fear of fast moving water Doing a training course and getting to a Grade 2 whitewater certification Doing the challenge solo and being supported by her mum at the checkpoints Working on her charity - How Many Elephants  How have things changed for the elephants over the years  How poaching numbers have come down  Human elephant conflict and how it has increased over the years Partnering with an NGO in Tanzania  Elephants being scared off bees and creating elephant corridors  Dr Lucy King  Why it works differently in Asia  How her definition of adventure has changed over the years Heading out with armed rangers Creating world female ranger week in 2021 and how it's gotten bigger and bigger every year Reaching over 500 million people!! The importance of women in these roles Why it matters that women are involved  The Black Mambas - the all female anti -poaching team  Women are proving to be way less corruptible than men June 23rd - 30th - world female ranger week - same week - every year How it has evolved to - Women in conservative  Amanda Dungeon - Ambassador - world female ranger week Listen to Amanda on the Tough Girl Podcast The goal of getting the untold stories out there Connecting donors and their money to the right projects  Conservation without funding is just conversation  Needing to be able to track and measure the money and the impact Making her money via speaking events at corporates and conferences  Looking at sustainable tourism - with Wildlife Positive Travel  Why every year is different Moving into a camper van and planning to drive to New Zealand How does it work with her husband? Training for the Montane Arctic Spine Race (290 miles)  Cold weather experience and training  Training with Chat GBP How to connect with Holly on social media Putting herself into more uncomfortable situations Final words of advice and wisdom for other women who want to get outside their comfort zone Think Tall - Start Small Get prepared  Win or Learn Smile through the pain A positive mindset is a resilient mindset   Social Media Holly Budge Website: www.hollybudge.com Instagram: @hollybudge LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/hollybudge Wildlife Positive Travel Website: www.wildlifepositivetravel.com Instagram: @wildlifepositivetravel How Many Elephants Website: howmanyelephants.org Instagram: @howmanyelephants World Female Ranger Week Website: www.worldfemalerangerweek.org Instagram: @worldfemalerangerweek

Devin Brown is a Minneapolis-based paddler and founder of Sovereign Waters, an emerging organisation focused on connection, access, and purpose through time spent on the water. In 2024, Devin set out on an ambitious source-to-sea journey along the Mississippi River, paddling 1,025 miles before high water forced an early end to the expedition. What remained was not failure, but a powerful experience of resilience, learning, and deep connection to the river and herself. Her journey into paddling began long before that expedition, rooted in childhood summer camps, early experiences on the water, and a growing understanding of how time in nature supports her mental health. Over the years, she developed her skills step by step, eventually building the confidence to attempt one of North America's great river journeys. In this episode, Devin shares the realities of endurance paddling, from long days in the rain and logistical challenges on the Mississippi to moments of fear, uncertainty, and unexpected support from "river angels" along the way. She also opens up about feeling like one of the only women on the water, and why creating more inclusive access to paddling has become central to her mission. We explore the founding of Sovereign Waters, her vision for helping more people connect with rivers in ways that feel safe and empowering, and why building community around water is essential for both wellbeing and environmental connection. Listen to this episode to hear what it really takes to learn endurance one stroke at a time, why connection to rivers can be life-changing, and how one woman is working to bring more people—especially women—into the world of paddling and wild water. ***  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 Devin Living in Minneapolis in Minnesota  Being a passionate paddler and loving spending time on the water Spending her early years going to summer camps  Learning that kayaking was essential for her mental health  Moving to the twin cities  Sending out on her long term goal of paddling the Mississippi River The freedom on being on the river and the river angels  Learning to paddle at a young age  Frost Valley YMCA Her love for nature and developing independence  Being a counsellor in training and becoming a trip leader  Making connections with local organisations Wanting to connect people to the Mississippi River Founding Sovereign Waters to get more people on the water in ways that feel comfortable for them  The war on water in Minnesota Needing people to fall in love with the natural world The story of getting to the start line of paddling the Mississippi River Thinking more and more about the Mississippi River Source to Sea and why it was going to be her one day Making a career change to a massage therapist Being supported by her community Not being able to afford to go paddling Getting back to the river during covid Mississippi River Paddle Share  Feeling like the only women paddler Building up her endurance with paddling  Working with a personal trainer The logistics of paddling the river Having 55 days for the paddle Feeling unsafe while on the river River angels Being on the water day after day and why it was incredible, but also frightening and traumatising  Planning to paddle again in 2028 - depending on the political climate The film - Mother River  Introducing paddling to her son The journey down the Mississippi River Spending the first 3 weeks paddling in the rain Knowing it was time to stop paddling  Following her gut instinct Not having classic adventure blues Plan for time after adventure to reflect How people can connect online  Final words of advice (apart from just do it!) Connect with other women who want to get dirty, grungy and empowered to do things outside  Building sisterhoods around nature  Get out there - make a plan and ask people to go with you Make your spirit happy    Social Media Website: sovereignwaters.org  Instagram: @afrodiskayak

Gina Johansen is a Swedish-born endurance athlete, adventurer, and a track work rider based in Sydney and Norway. She is currently preparing for a world record attempt to become the fastest woman to ski solo and unsupported to the South Pole in 2026.  She grew up on a horse farm in Sweden, where her love for horses and the outdoors began early. Gina spent eight years riding trackwork for leading Thoroughbred racing stables in Australia and is now back riding racehorses in Sydney alongside her polar training.  Her previous expeditions include becoming the first woman to cross Lake Baikal in Siberia solo by foot, skiing solo from North Cape to Jäckvik, crossing Svalbard on skis, cycling 2700km from Sydney to Cairns, and hiking the full length of Norway with her partner and their dog. She also spent eight years living near North Cape, the northernmost point of Europe, training in extreme Arctic conditions.  Through her journey, Gina hopes to inspire others—especially women—to push beyond their limits, take on big challenges, and discover what they're truly capable of. ***  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 From Sweden originally  Being based in Northern Norway (North Cape) for the past 8 years before moving to Sydney in December 2025 Riding racehorse in the early morning and training for her South Pole Expedition in the afternoon  Her goal - to ski solo and unsupported to the South Pole, attempting to break the women's speed record Gina shared her story on the Tough Girl Podcast - April 28th 2020 - Walking 3,000km the length of Norway, plus a solo crossing of Lake Baikal in Siberia You can listen to that episode HERE  What's been going on in the past 6 years  Living in remote mountain areas doing a lot of skiing, hiking, hunting and dealing with a lot of injuries  Trying to work on the financials to pay for the expedition  Doing training expeditions and building up her skills  After the Lake Baikal expedition in 2019 - starting to think about the next big challenge  Always wanting to go to Antarctica and the challenges of doing a solo expedition  Wanting a real test - both physically and mentally  The last 4 years being focused on the expedition  Dealing with injuries and set backs along the way Struggling to get the financial support to make it possible US$95,000 plus costs for equipment and flights  Needing to be ready fitness wise and mentally  What the planning looks like to plan an expedition of this size Trying not to get overwhelmed with the size of the challenge Taking some time out - to reset  Dealing with two stress fractures  Wanting to understand why she was getting stress fractures  Doing the rehab and keeping fit  Having smaller projects to focus on and having things to look forward to Working with a coach Starting at 5am and riding horse for 4.5 hrs Trying to eat a lot and not being afraid of eating fast carbs Handling set backs  Working with a physio  Focusing on staying positive Doing a crossing of Svalbard from East to West with a team of women Being in an environment with polar bears - needing to take on night watch shifts to keep the camp safe from polar bears  Mentally preparation before the challenge  Knowing it will hard and lonely  Also understanding it will be very tough  Focusing on the goal and being so motivated to reach it Discipline  The pain of disciple is lighter than the pain of regret The importance of socialising with friends - but organising this around training  If you want to achieve anything, you've got to put in the work Showing up even when you don't feel like it Needing to make the final payment by August, and send the equipment over in September  Trying to get sponsorship from corporate and individuals  Meeting the right people  How to connect with Gina Final words of advice for women who want to step outside their comfort zone When things go wrong, that is when the best stories are created!    Social Media Website: www.ginajohansen.com Instagram: @Ginajohansen91  Facebook: www.facebook.com/ginajohansen91

Denise is part of a team of women who have just successfully rowed 3000 miles, unsupported, across the Atlantic Ocean as part of the 'World's Toughest Row'. Rowing 12 hours a day for over 50 days, Denise drew on decades of experience from white water and sea kayaking, alongside years spent as an outdoor instructor.  Driven by a deep belief that adventure belongs to everyone, Denise champions the visibility of women in outdoor spaces. She's passionate about showing that ordinary women can achieve extraordinary things, and that authentic role models have the power to inspire the next generation of adventure-loving women. In this episode, Denise shares what it really takes to row across an ocean, from raising the funds and building the right team to coping with exhaustion, fear and the mental challenges of spending 50 days at sea. She opens up about the power of mindset, learning to be kinder to herself, and why focusing on what you can control can make all the difference in the toughest moments. Listen to this episode to discover how adventure can transform your perspective, why saying yes to opportunities can lead to extraordinary experiences, and why Denise believes that adventure truly is for everyone. ***  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 Denise Working as a Lecturer at the University of Wales, Trinity St Davids  Being based in Pembrokeshire in West Wales Growing up in the South of England in Wiltshire Her early years and not coming from an outdoorsy family Getting into slalom kayaking Her journey to becoming a lecturer Studying sports science at university  Moving from kayaking into rowing  After graduation and not knowing what she wanted to do  Working at the National Water Sports Centre Finding her community of people  Deciding to go traveling for the next few years Having an innate desire for freedom Being quite risk adverse  Struggling with predictability  Needing moments of real significant change in order to feel alive Saying yes to opportunities  Putting one foot in front of the other and seeing the positive in things Rowing across the Atlantic Ocean and where the idea came from Being inspired by Jasmine Harrison  Taking it from a dream/opportunity to making it happen Spending a year trying to get a crew together  Not being able to get people to commit Starting to ask people again in January 2022 Getting the crew together  Raising the funds to pay for the row  Why it was a 3.5 year process Working as a team and all bringing their best to the table Keeping motivated through the tough challenging moments Being able to rely on the team for support The start line and feeling a sense of relief When the nerves started to kick in a few days before setting off Journalling As the skipper feeling responsible for keeping the girls safe Starting the process of writing a book Not sleeping for 2 nights before the row Heading out in big conditions  The simplicity of surviving When the nerves disappeared  Why the row was the best form of CBD - Cognitive behavioural therapy  Being forced to confront her thought processes  Feeling so tired and physically exhausted  Not having the space for anything that drains energy Seeing the positives in the situation and asking for help  Learning acceptance while on the row  The challenges from week 6 Focusing on what you can control during the row  What is my attitude, how am I talking to myself Being kinder to myself  The team dynamics and how the tough situations were handled  Working with an emotional performance coach  Stop talking to my friend/yourself like that The power of self talk  Seeing land for the first time and getting to the end of the challenge  The final push at the end  Picturing the finish line in her mind  Being the first all welsh, women team to complete the row  Singing the national anthem on land after 50 days on sea  Adapting back to reality and getting back to 'normal' life  Wanting to leave a legacy How to connect  Merchedymor - Women/girls/sisters of the sea Final words of advice for other women who want to step outside their comfort zone Why it's about mindset   Social Media Website: www.merchedymor.wales  Instagram: @Merchedymor2025  Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/denise-leonard-21b35638

Clare Dyson is a Mountain Leader, outdoor facilitator, and founder of the Women's Adventure Academy, based in the Lake District where she has spent over 20 years guiding people through the mountains and valleys she calls home. With a deep passion for slow adventure, Clare is dedicated to helping people reconnect with nature, move at their own pace, and build confidence in wild spaces. Her work blends outdoor leadership, education, and storytelling, creating opportunities for others—especially women—to step outside, explore remote places, and feel at home in the outdoors. In this episode, Clare shares her journey from growing up with a love of sport and horses to becoming a Mountain Leader, working across the Lake District, and shaping a life rooted in nature, freedom, and connection. She opens up about the challenges and opportunities of working in the outdoors, and why slowing down can often lead to the most meaningful adventures. We also explore the creation of the Women's Adventure Academy, how it came to life, and why building confidence, community, and skills in the outdoors is so important for the next generation of women adventurers. Listen to this episode to hear how Clare has built a life around slow adventure, why nature can be a powerful space for healing and growth, and how you can start creating your own outdoor adventures—no matter your pace or experience. ***  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 in Kendal in the Lake District for the past 22 years  Living with her dog and partner  Working in the outdoors as a Mountain Leader and Gardener Enjoying life in her mid-forties  Being a freelancer for Fjall Raven  The Fjall Raven Classic, UK  Doing a Masters in outdoors experiential learning   The Big Hoof Charity  Setting up the Women's Adventure Academy with Anna Blackwell  Being sporty and outdoorsy from a young age Starting horse riding in her teenage years Having her family home burn down during her teenage years and how the outdoors helped Her journey into the outdoors and how it evolved  Going to university and getting into rock climbing  Heading over to New Zealand  Moving up to the Lake District after graduation  Gaining experience in the outdoors and being surrounded by brilliant people sharing their knowledge Becoming a Mountain Leader Not knowing where to start What adventure looks like now Slow adventure and being in tune with the natural world Working with young people  Being asked - what do you really want to do? Wanting to ride a horse around the Lake District Heading off in May Meeting incredible people on the way Pushing the boundaries in a slow and different way Why it's ok to go slow in the outdoors  The Women's Adventure Academy and how it came together Making a film called 'Thriving' with Fjall Raven Building confidence and skills Deciding to run the Women's Adventure Academy on her own  Why setting a date is so helpful  The BBC making a 1 minute film and it going viral! The Lake District is like an ecological desert  Starting to celebrate the farmers who are doing a lot  Deciding to do a second journey and visit the regenerative farmers Having the film premiere at Kendal Mountain Film Festival  The next slow adventure  Doing an 8 day adventure across the Lake District with the Big Hoof Charity Figuring out her masters dissertation topic How to connect with Clare on social media Final words of advice  Set a date Find your tribe   Social Media Website:  www.womensadventureacademy.com  Instagram: @_claredyson

Catherine Breed is an endurance athlete, ocean explorer, and visionary storyteller redefining what modern adventure can look like — where human performance, environmental connection, and community impact meet. Drawn to the water from an early age, Catherine's journey began in elite competitive swimming, representing UC Berkeley and the U.S. National Team. Years of disciplined training shaped her understanding of resilience and focus, but her true evolution began when she stepped beyond the structure of the pool and into the vast unpredictability of open water. In 2016, Catherine found her home within San Francisco's historic open-water swimming community at the Dolphin Club, where cold water, powerful tides, and a culture of bold exploration challenged her to redefine limits. Surrounded by legendary swimmers and lifelong adventurers, she began pursuing ambitious endurance swims that transformed swimming from competition into exploration — and ultimately into a platform for storytelling and impact. From this transition emerged a guiding philosophy: Beyond the Blackline — a mindset rooted in stepping beyond certainty, embracing discomfort, and forging new paths without predefined boundaries. What began as a personal journey evolved into a broader vision: using human-powered adventure as a catalyst for connection — between people, between communities, and between humanity and the ocean. Today, Catherine's work extends far beyond individual achievement. She is the founder of purpose-driven initiatives that combine endurance sport, storytelling, and ocean advocacy to inspire meaningful engagement with the natural world. Her projects invite audiences to rethink what is possible — not only physically, but emotionally and collectively — demonstrating how bold goals can spark curiosity, resilience, and environmental stewardship. At the heart of her mission is a belief that access to the ocean should be inclusive and transformative. Catherine advocates for greater equity and representation in ocean spaces, particularly for women and underrepresented communities, while championing the protection of marine ecosystems through experiential storytelling and community engagement. As a speaker, expedition leader, and storyteller, Catherine brings audiences into the raw realities of exploration — the uncertainty, the risk, and the profound clarity found when we step beyond familiar boundaries. Her work challenges conventional ideas of endurance, shifting the focus from records alone toward purpose-driven adventure that leaves lasting impact. Going beyond the black line was never just about swimming. It was about choosing a life guided by curiosity, courage, and connection — and creating pathways for others to do the same. ***  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 Catherine 'Cat' 33 years old living in California, just north of the Golden Gate Bridge Identifying as ultra endurance athlete  Loving to push herself, especially doing big marathon swims Her early years growing up in the middle of nowhere, but next to a lake Starting to get into age group swimming at 4 years old Sailing and spending time in and around the Pacific Ocean  Her love for the water The discipline and commitment to swimming and why it is such a gruelling sport The sacrifice and not seeing it as a sacrifice at that age Being surrounded by like minded people  Body issues and dealing with periods  Building self confidence  Breaking records in the marathon swimming space and how that builds confidence in her ability Transitioning into longer swims The Dolphin Club, San Francisco  Swimming the length of Lake Tahoe (21 miles) Moving from speed to endurance  Having a great mentor Training from a place of failure  Being dedicated to the process  Fitting training into her schedule and work life Recovery - sleep and massage  Advice for good sleep  Night time and morning routine  Nutrition and supplements for training and during races Oatmeal, eggs and olive oil! Having a strong stomach Feeling like death after 12 hour swims What Swim California is Story telling though sport Founding a non profit to get more girls and women into the ocean  The logistics behind the challenge attempt and why it's a team effort The physical training and focusing on putting on muscle mass Wearing a wetsuit for the swim Having a director of logistics  Getting the community involved  Working with 10/13 non profit organisations  The dangers of the swim Media Partner ALLEZ Sports  How people can support  Final words of wisdom to motivate and inspire women and girls to take on their own adventures and challenges Don't be afraid to start - Don't be afraid to be a beginner You are braver than you think - you are tougher than you think Surround yourself with people who will build you up  Go after the scary thing! You can do it!    Social Media Website: www.Catherinebreed.com  Instagram: @catherine.breed  Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/catherine-breed-966bb36b

Two years ago, Ria was burnt out from her tech career in Silicon Valley, coming out of a difficult relationship, and struggling with mental health issues. Running became her way out. Within a year, she went from struggling to finish a half marathon to setting ultramarathon records on world-renowned routes. The Via Francigena: 1,014 km in 21 days The Camino de Santiago: 780 km in 12 days And now she has just started her journey to become the first human to run across Eurasia on the silk road, or what she calls: the 20000km Experiment. In this episode, Ria shares how running helped her rebuild her life, the mindset shifts that enabled her to go from beginner to record-breaking ultrarunner, and the enormous logistical challenge of planning a 20,000km expedition through 17 countries. Listen to this episode to learn about resilience, finding purpose after burnout, taking bold leaps into the unknown, and why sometimes the most "delusional" dreams are the ones worth pursuing. ***  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 Ria? Trying to run across the Asia and Europe on the Silk Road  Currently being in her support vehicle in the northeast of China, approx. 17 days into her journey  Calling in from the road after running 50km Growing up in China as a child figure skater Trying to make the Olympics Living on the edge of Beijing  Moving to the USA at 14 for school  Suffering from some knee injuries and not being into running  Her final year of high school and trying out running in nature  Going through a significant breakup  Starting to run everyday for 30 days Struggling with depression and reaching the point where nothing made sense  Having no control over the situation of her life Not knowing what to do with herself  Being in Chamonix and being inspired by the humans running the UTMB Going to Egypt to become a free diving instructor  The Sinai Trail in Egypt  Going from a half marathon to running 539km  Deciding to run across the length of the silk road Continuing to challenge herself in daily distances  Running the Sinai Trail and what the experience was like  The logistics and planning behind the trail  Running in Egypt The logistics of the Silk Road Journey and pulling it all together Planning for over a year and a half Visa's and being able to run through 17 countries Being supported by her crew and how it works day to day Paying for the running, the crew and the gear Being supported by internet strangers and creating a GoFundMe  "It's only delusional until it's not." The Planetary Run Club  Running day after day  The power of sleep and feeling more refreshed mentally  Finding motivation in many different ways Rest days Dealing with a car accident and food poisoning  Connecting with Ria Daily updates…. Planned!  Planning on starting a Patreon, YouTube channel and podcast! Words of advice for women    Social Media Website: 20000km.com  Instagram: @whereisriax  Youtube: @whereisriax  GoFundMe: gofund.me/8d624216f