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This week, we welcome Conor O'Keeffe (@cokeeffe on Instagram), who shares his journey from fighting to ultra-running, overcoming mental health struggles, and launching a successful sports nutrition business, Altar. We get into his first marathon, chasing identity and external validation, overcoming injuries and surgeries, 100 Mile Runs, plus much more 15:00 From Fighter to Endurance Athlete 19:40 The Struggles of Identity and Mental Health 27:44 Finding Solace in Running 33:47 The Journey of Transformation 39:08 Lessons from the 100-Mile Challenge 45:15 Redefining Success and Health in Running 48:26 The Journey to Relevance Post-Surgery 53:06 Realisations and External Pressures 55:45 Finding Freedom in Family 59:47 Transitioning to Alter Nutrition 64:08 Defining Success in Business 74:24 The Growth of Speed Dust 83:24 Final Thoughts and Future Aspirations You can follow us on Instagram: @anygivenrundaypodcast Shop ultrapurelabs.ie to shop the muscle recovery range and get 10% off by buying the Muscle Recovery Kit https://ultrapurelabs.ie/collections/muscle-recovery/products/wintergreen-heat-rub-cream You can now get 20% off all Perform Nutrition products, including their new Electrolytes+, using the code 'AGR' at checkout PerformNutrition.com

In this episode, we welcome marathon runner and coach John McDonnell (@jmruncoach on Instagram), who shares his incredible journey from getting into running, his journey to the Boston marathon, health struggles to sub-3 hour marathon runner, overcoming a life-threatening stroke and heart surgery along the way. 14:00 We welcome John McDonnell 18:30 The Transformation: From Overweight to Marathon Runner 23:36 The Emotional Impact of Running: Family and Tragedy 28:33 Chasing the Boston Marathon: The Quest for Qualification 33:39 The Mental Game: Overcoming Challenges in Marathon Training 38:27 Breaking Barriers: The Sub-3 Hour Marathon Goal 43:17 Life After Boston: New Goals and Aspirations 48:20 The Unexpected Fall: A Personal Journey Begins 52:14 The Stroke: A Life-Altering Experience 56:13 Recovery and Realizations: The Aftermath of a Stroke 60:29 Back to Running: Overcoming Physical and Mental Barriers 68:17 Training Smarter: Lessons Learned in Running and Life You can learn more about John and his coaching at: https://jmruncoach.com/ https://achieverunningclub.com/ As well as purchasing his book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.ie/Heart-Running-How-Saved-Life You can follow us on Instagram: @anygivenrudaypodcast ___________________________________________________________________ In the intro of this podcast, we also talk about Forever 19. Learn more by following their Instagram Page @aidansforever19 and https://www.idonate.ie/fundraiser/tomowens1 Shop ultrapurelabs.ie to shop the muscle recovery range and get 10% off by buying the Muscle Recovery Kit https://ultrapurelabs.ie/collections/muscle-recovery/products/wintergreen-heat-rub-cream You can now get 20% off all Perform Nutrition products, including their new Electrolytes+, using the code 'AGR' at checkout PerformNutrition.com

We welcome Andrew Walsh to the Any Given Runday podcast this week. Andrew Walsh (@the_irish_adventurer on Instagram) shares his journey from a non-sporty background to joining the army, conquering a half Ironman, embarking on mountain adventures, and facing the challenges of documenting his progress on YouTube. We discuss entering the triathlon world, the common mistakes you make, training for a half Ironman, documenting it all online, and much more. 32:00 Introduction to Andrew Walsh's Journey 32:53 From Outsider to Athlete: Andrew's Early Struggles 35:57 Finding Identity in the Outdoors 40:04 The Transition to Mountaineering and Climbing 46:27 The Meditative Nature of Climbing 47:06 Embracing the Challenge of Triathlons 48:56 Documenting the Journey: YouTube and Social Media 52:04 The Reality of Content Creation 57:04 Motivation Behind Documenting Challenges 59:18 Building Towards the Half Ironman 59:35 The Journey Begins: From Zero to Triathlon 62:37 Training Trials: Overcoming Challenges in Preparation 65:44 The Emotional Rollercoaster of Race Day 71:02 The Swim Dilemma: Adapting to Changes 75:08 Crossing the Finish Line: The Sweet Taste of Achievement 77:36 Looking Ahead: Future Goals and Aspirations Follow Andrew on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@The_Irish_Adventurer Shop ultrapurelabs.ie to shop the muscle recovery range and get 10% off by buying the Muscle Recovery Kit https://ultrapurelabs.ie/collections/muscle-recovery/products/wintergreen-heat-rub-cream You can now get 20% off all Perform Nutrition products, including their new Electrolytes+, using the code 'AGR' at checkout PerformNutrition.com

This week, we welcome North Clondalkin Running Club member Mick Hallows, who shares his journey from Gaelic football to sub-3 hour Dublin Marathon finisher, his transition into running, and insights into North Clondalkin Running Club, his upcoming 6 Hour Race in Leixlip, training strategies, working with Kevin English and more.  13:00 From GAA to Distance Running: Mick Hallows 15:43 The Transition: Leaving Team Sports Behind 18:50 Finding a New Passion: The Marathon Experience 21:52 Coaching and Accountability in Running with Kevin English 24:47 The Joy of Running: Finding Personal Satisfaction 28:07 Future Aspirations: Exploring New Distances 30:52 Encouraging the Next Generation in Sports 33:50 Navigating the Path of Youth Sports 36:17 Community and Club Spirit in Athletics 38:40 The Importance of Group Dynamics in Running 42:55 Building a Supportive Running Community 46:39 NCRC 5 Mile Race in June 52:22 Encouraging Youth Participation in Sports 55:57 Getting Involved in Local Running Clubs Check out North Clondalkin Running Club to learn more about the 5 Mile Race on June 14th Shop ultrapurelabs.ie to shop the muscle recovery range and get 10% off by buying the Muscle Recovery Kit https://ultrapurelabs.ie/collections/muscle-recovery/products/wintergreen-heat-rub-cream You can now get 20% off all Perform Nutrition products, including their new Electrolytes+, using the code 'AGR' at checkout PerformNutrition.com

In this episode, David O'Connor (@performance_doc on Instagram), a fitness and performance coach, shares his journey from childhood bullying to becoming a marathon runner and mental health advocate. He discusses the physical and mental benefits of running, training tips, and his unique experiences with ultra-distance challenges, including cycling across Ireland on a BMX and 10 marathons in 10 days, emphasising the importance of simplicity, consistency, and purpose in fitness. 11:00 Introduction to David O'Connor 11:53 David's Early Life and Introduction to Sports 13:53 The Impact of Bullying and Trauma 16:58 Discovering Running as a Coping Mechanism 20:47 Running for Mental Health Awareness 25:46 The 10 Marathons in 10 Days Challenge 30:28 Community Support and Emotional Connections 33:34 Reflections on Future Challenges 38:45 Training High-Level Athletes 41:06 The Pressure on Young Athletes 43:01 Deceleration Training: A Game Changer 45:38 Injury Prevention Through Proper Mechanics 49:52 Integrating Gym Work into Running Training 55:52 It's Never Too Late to Start Strength Training 62:55 Personalised Training Approaches for Athletes You can follow us on Instagram: @anygivenrundaypodcast Shop ultrapurelabs.ie to shop the muscle recovery range and get 10% off by buying the Muscle Recovery Kit https://ultrapurelabs.ie/collections/muscle-recovery/products/wintergreen-heat-rub-cream You can now get 20% off all Perform Nutrition products, including their new Electrolytes+, using the code 'AGR' at checkout PerformNutrition.com

Fresh, or not so fresh off the Barcelona Marathon, Eric and Seán review the marathon weekend, and they're contrasting experiences of race day. Munro, a previous guest and great friend of the podcast, also joins in later to provide his perspective on the race, which greatly contrasts with Seán's! 01:03 Experiences at the Expo 03:32 The ShakeOut Run and Pre-Race Preparations 11:32 Race Day: Atmosphere and Nerves 15:10 The Start of the Barcelona Marathon 22:29 Mid-Race Reflections and Challenges 27:08 The Turning Point and Injury Concerns 32:32 The Marathon Experience: Reflections and Realisations 38:57 The Mental Game: Overcoming Challenges in Racing 48:37 Community and Connection: The Essence of Running 01:00:04 Looking Ahead: Future Races and Goals Shop ultrapurelabs.ie to shop the muscle recovery range and get 10% off by buying the Muscle Recovery Kit https://ultrapurelabs.ie/collections/muscle-recovery/products/wintergreen-heat-rub-cream You can now get 20% off all Perform Nutrition products, including their new Electrolytes+, using the code 'AGR' at checkout PerformNutrition.com

This week, we welcome back Rachel Farrell (@rachel_farrell20 on Instagram) to the podcast after being a previous guest all the way back on episode 26, where she talked to Eric about appearances at the Ironman World Championships. Since then, she has transitioned to the world of Hyrox. Rachel discusses her role as co-founder of Hybrid Series Ireland, its accessibility, and her impressive accomplishments in the sport. 14:00 Welcoming Rachel Farrell to the Podcast 16:57 Hyrox vs. CrossFit 19:45 The Pain Cave: Embracing the Challenge 22:51 Training Adaptations: From Triathlon to Hyrox 25:50 Mental Toughness in Hybrid Racing 28:58 World Championships in Nice in TWO different sports 31:49 Organising Events: Building the Community 34:35 Making Hybrid Training Accessible for Everyone 40:07 Creating an Inclusive Fitness Community 42:00 Overcoming Daunting First Steps 43:55 Innovative Event Formats and Equipment Rental 46:32 Engaging Local Communities and Fundraising 48:21 Passion and Growth in Event Management 49:00 Competing at the World Championship Level 51:43 Balancing Training and Event Organisation 53:28 Recognising Potential in New Participants 55:18 Upcoming Events and how you can race alongside Eric at the next HSI event You can follow us on Instagram: @anygivenrundaypodcast Shop ultrapurelabs.ie to shop the muscle recovery range and get 10% off by buying the Muscle Recovery Kit https://ultrapurelabs.ie/collections/muscle-recovery/products/wintergreen-heat-rub-cream You can now get 20% off all Perform Nutrition products, including their new Electrolytes+, using the code 'AGR' at checkout PerformNutrition.com

This week on the Any Given Runday podcast, we have two great guests from Ballymun AC (@ballymunac on Instagram) in Dean Hayden (@hayda0000 on Instagram) and Ger Prendergast (@ger_prendergast on Instagram) From establishing how Ballymun AC came about, helping to remove financial barriers for youths in Ballymun, community, world major marathons, to marathons on 7 continents and 60 marathons in 60 days, there's a lot to explore in this episode! 15:00 Introduction to Dean & Ger 25:10: Establishing Ballymun AC 28:38 The Philosophy of 'Human Before Athlete' 30:38 Removing Financial Barriers in Youth Sports 34:08 Keeping Youth Engaged in Running 38:55 Ger's Experience with the Seven Continents Marathon 50:30 Dean's Sub 3 Hour Chicago Marathon 59:27 World Record: 60 Marathons in 60 Days 66:31 Ger's book: Gotta Keep It Movin': Amazon Link You can follow us on Instagram: @anygivenrundaypodcast Shop ultrapurelabs.ie to shop the muscle recovery range and get 10% off by buying the Muscle Recovery Kit https://ultrapurelabs.ie/collections/muscle-recovery/products/wintergreen-heat-rub-cream You can now get 20% off all Perform Nutrition products, including their new Electrolytes+, using the code 'AGR' at checkout PerformNutrition.com

In this episode of the Any Given Runday podcast, ultra runner Eoin Keith (@eoinkeithultra on Instagram) shares his remarkable journey from a non-sporty childhood to becoming one of the most accomplished ultra runners in Ireland. He discusses his transition from marathon running to ultra distances, the challenges he faces during races, and the importance of enjoying the process. Eoin also delves into the unique experiences of the Barkley Marathons, the significance of navigation in ultra running, and how he balances different types of races, including running 900m loops for 6 days, the sleep deprivation, setting records for running the length of the country and his approach to training 22:00 Introduction to Eoin Keith's Journey 24:45 From Pitch and Putt to Ultra Running 27:42 Discovering the Love for Long Distances 30:39 Transitioning from Mountaineering to Running 33:35 The Marathon Experience and Beyond 36:43 The Ultra Running Revelation 39:40 Facing Challenges in Ultra Running 42:38 The Balance of Flat and Trail Ultra Running 45:44 Preparing for Six-Day Races 48:42 The Mental Game in Ultra Running 52:47 Navigating Sleep Deprivation in Ultra Running 55:50 Training for the Unknown: The Challenge of Sleep Deprivation 58:28 Questioning Conventional Running Theories 59:59 The Barkley Marathons: The Ultimate Test of Endurance 64:41 The Rarity of Finishing the Barclay Marathons 67:03 The Key to Completing Ultra Races 69:10 Shifting Focus: Enjoying the Journey Over Competition 72:51 Exploring Multi-Day Races: The Grand Canaria Experience 75:44 The Art O'Neill Challenge: A Test of Navigation and Endurance Be sure to check out Eoin's blog on: https://eoinkeith.wordpress.com/ And follow us on Instagram: @anygivenrundaypodcast Shop ultrapurelabs.ie to shop the muscle recovery range and get 10% off by buying the Muscle Recovery Kit https://ultrapurelabs.ie/collections/muscle-recovery/products/wintergreen-heat-rub-cream You can now get 20% off all Perform Nutrition products, including their new Electrolytes+, using the code 'AGR' at checkout PerformNutrition.com

On this week's episode of the Any Given Runday podcast, Eric is back in the country just in time for the Donadea 50k National Championships over the weekend as Sean attempted the "10 laps and fook off" Shop ultrapurelabs.ie to shop the muscle recovery range and get 10% off by buying the Muscle Recovery Kit https://ultrapurelabs.ie/collections/muscle-recovery/products/wintergreen-heat-rub-cream You can now get 20% off all Perform Nutrition products, including their new Electrolytes+, using the code 'AGR' at checkout PerformNutrition.com

In this episode, Lawrence Mooney shares his incredible journey from being an active triathlete and marathon runner to facing significant health challenges, including hip replacements and getting a second chance at life.  He discusses his transition into triathlon, the barriers he overcame in swimming, marathons, and running marathons despite having a double hip replacement. We also discuss the events that led to him being able to join the podcast, surviving against the odds and share his story.  13:00 Introduction to Lawrence's Journey 15:03 The Transition from Sports to Triathlon 18:07 Overcoming Swimming Barriers 21:02 The Challenge of Long-Distance Events 23:58 Incorporating Reformer Pilates into Training 27:08 Marathon Experiences and Training Strategies 29:56 The Benefits of Multi-Sport Training 33:02 Navigating Hip Replacements and Recovery 35:49 Mental Resilience in Endurance Sports 41:16 Marathon Reflections and Personal Challenges 45:30 Getting a Second Chance 52:33 Surviving Against the Odds 58:34 Awareness and Prevention 63:50 Life After a Near-Death Experience You can listen to this week's episode of the Any Given Runday podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and wherever you get your podcasts from Shop ultrapurelabs.ie to shop the muscle recovery range and get 10% off by buying the Muscle Recovery Kit https://ultrapurelabs.ie/collections/muscle-recovery/products/wintergreen-heat-rub-cream You can now get 20% off all Perform Nutrition products, including their new Electrolytes+, using the code 'AGR' at checkout PerformNutrition.com

On a special Thursday episode of the Any Given Runday podcast, we have the founder of Elite Event Management, Oliver Kirwan, on the podcast to discuss what goes on behind the scenes to create some of the top events in the country, including Quest and the Wicklow 200, as well as upcoming events such as Project 8 and Run The Night Run The Night 5 Mile event will be in Cork on February 11th and Dublin on February 18th, with tickets for the Charity Night Run available on: runthenight.ie You can follow us on Instagram, where we are running a competition for a pair of tickets for both events: @anygivenrunday.com Shop ultrapurelabs.ie to shop the muscle recovery range and get 10% off by buying the Muscle Recovery Kit https://ultrapurelabs.ie/collections/muscle-recovery/products/wintergreen-heat-rub-cream

In this episode of the Any Given Runday podcast, performance & Wicklow GAA nutritionist Leah Headon (@haeloo_nutrition on Instagram) shares her journey into the field of nutrition, discussing her personal experiences with diabetes and an eating disorder that shaped her understanding of food and health. The conversation delves into topics such as gut health, the balance between weight loss and performance, the impact of hydration, and the importance of nutrition habits. Leah also addresses common myths in the nutrition space and provides practical tips for marathon training, emphasising the need for a balanced approach to fuelling and recovery. 17:00 Welcome to the podcast, Leah Headon 19:48 Leah's Journey to Nutrition 22:52 Understanding Gut Health 25:25 Nutrition for Athletes 28:21 The Impact of Ultra-Processed Foods 31:19 Balancing Nutrition and Weight Loss 34:13 Intermittent Fasting and Its Effects 43:49 Fuelling Performance: The Role of Diet 45:15 Psychology of Cravings and Eating Habits 46:19 Hydration and Its Impact on Performance 49:38 The Importance of Mental Habits in Nutrition 51:34 Nutrition Strategies for Marathon Training 54:29 Caffeine and Fuelling During Races 59:35 Debunking Nutrition Myths and Misconceptions 63:14 Final Thoughts on Nutrition and Performance You can follow us on Instagram: @anygivenrundaypodcast Shop ultrapurelabs.ie to shop the muscle recovery range and get 10% off by buying the Muscle Recovery Kit https://ultrapurelabs.ie/collections/muscle-recovery/products/wintergreen-heat-rub-cream You can now get 20% off all Perform Nutrition products, including their new Electrolytes+, using the code 'AGR' at checkout PerformNutrition.com

In this episode of the Any Given Runday podcast, Ray Shah (@rayshah on Instagram) shares his journey from being unfit and overweight during Covid to becoming a competitive athlete in Hyrox with multiple podium wins and World Championship appearances.  He discusses his weight loss transformation, the importance of diet and training, and the role of community in fitness. Ray emphasises the significance of pacing and strategy in races, the value of coaching with Jake Dearden and Sean Noble, and the lessons learned from early competitions. He talks about Tryka, a new fitness event that aims to be more inclusive than Hyrox, with their second event happening this weekend in the RDS, where he competes and was the MC of the first event back in October. Ray shares his top tips for success in Hyrox races and the importance Ray highlights the importance of enjoying the journey and the experiences that come with it. 06:00 Welcome to the Podcast, Ray Shah 07:36 Ray's Journey into Fitness 10:03 The Impact of COVID on Health and Being Unfit 13:09 The Importance of Diet and Losing 25kg 15:14 Training Regimen and Challenges 18:02 Discovering Hyrox 24:54 First Race Experience in Madrid 28:39 Success at Hyrox Dublin and first podium finish 32:54 The Competitive Edge in Racing 36:53 Training Smarter, Not Harder 42:38 The Rise of Tryka: A New Fitness Community and Inclusive Hybrid Race Series in Ireland 51:14 Enjoying the Journey in Fitness You can follow us on Instagram: @anygivenrundaypodcast Shop ultrapurelabs.ie to shop the muscle recovery range and get 10% off by buying the Muscle Recovery Kit https://ultrapurelabs.ie/collections/muscle-recovery/products/wintergreen-heat-rub-cream You can now get 20% off all Perform Nutrition products, including their new Electrolytes+, using the code 'AGR' at checkout PerformNutrition.com

In this episode of the Any Given Runday podcast, after DNF'ing Art O'Neill in 2023, Seán talks about his second attempt at it over the weekend... and why he didn't tell Eric about it beforehand If you're looking for the top tips and inside scoops on how to complete AON, Seán is probably not the best example of that, as he talks about his experiences running through the night and the following morning in all sorts of conditions, terrain and challenges he faced It's a fantastic, well organised event full of challenges and definitely an adventure element to it. In the second half of the podcast, the lads both open up with their struggles in their journey right now, setbacks, challenges, routine and more.  00:53 Seán's Decision to take on Art 04:02 The Start of the Race and Historical Context to Art O'Neill 09:43 Early Challenges and Steep Climbs 14:49 Checkpoint Reflections and Weather Woes 19:55 The Struggles of Navigation, Terrain & Climbing 24:48 Final Stretch and Silly Mistakes 29:51 Reflections on the Experience and Future Plans 30:19 Facing Injuries and Embarrassment 31:44 The Mental Battle of Training 34:16 Finding Community in Running 37:15 The Importance of Goals and Accountability 40:31 Embracing the Journey of Running 49:05 The Reality of Training and Motivation 54:56 Looking Ahead: Future Races and Goals You can follow us on Instagram @anygivenrundaypodcast Shop ultrapurelabs.ie to shop the muscle recovery range and get 10% off by buying the Muscle Recovery Kit https://ultrapurelabs.ie/collections/muscle-recovery/products/wintergreen-heat-rub-cream You can now get 20% off all Perform Nutrition products, including their new Electrolytes+, using the code 'AGR' at checkout PerformNutrition.com