Advertise on podcast: How to Be Superhuman

From reality TV to the punishing sands of the Jordanian desert – this is the extraordinary endurance story of Spencer Matthews. Known to many as a TV personality, Spencer has since carved out a new identity as an ultra-endurance athlete, entrepreneur, and podcaster, recently taking on the brutal challenge of running 30 marathons in 30 days across the desert. This was more than a physical challenge – it was a test of mental strength, routine, and redemption. In this episode, recorded live at the Red Bull UK headquarters, I talk to Spencer about his inspiring journey. He opens up about his transformation, sharing how adventure, family, endurance, resilience and survival became central to his personal growth. Spencer speaks candidly about the demons that drove him, the discipline that saved him, and how pushing his body to the brink helped him find clarity, purpose, and peace. Follow Spencer on Instagram and listen to his podcast Untapped. If you want to tell us about your own superhuman adventures, message us at [email protected]. Head to instagram.com/redbulladventure for more superhuman adventure content.

Kayaking prodigy Nouria Newman has faced the extremes of both competitive pressure and raw, untamed adventure – but it was in the wild rivers of the Himalayas that she rediscovered what truly mattered. In a journey defined by resilience, survival and a deep thirst for exploration, Nouria traded podiums for mountains and learned to trust herself in some of the world’s most remote waters. In this episode, I talk to Nouria about her evolution as an athlete, her solo expeditions through life-threatening rapids, and the powerful moment in the Himalayas that shifted everything. We explore how fear can be transformed, why passion sometimes means letting go of the podium, and what it really means to follow the river where it leads. From mastering slalom courses as a kid to breaking the women’s waterfall record, Nouria’s story is one of fear faced head-on, limits tested, and joy reclaimed. Follow Nouria on Instagram.  Can’t get enough of Nouria? Check out the documentary Wild Waters on Red Bull TV and watch more of her crazy adventures here. If you want to tell us about your own superhuman adventures, message us at [email protected].  Head to instagram.com/redbulladventure for more superhuman adventure content.

Climbing phenomenon Brette Harrington has spent her life chasing adventure on bold lines in remote places – but few climbs demanded more courage, resilience and emotional strength than her historic free solo of Chiaro di Luna in Patagonia. What began as a shared dream with her partner Marc-André Leclerc would ultimately become a powerful tribute to him, after his tragic passing. In this episode, I talk with Brette about the mental preparation it took to free solo one of the most difficult routes of her life – and what it meant to return to Patagonia and finish a line she and Marc-André had planned together. We explore the physical challenges she’s overcome, including a serious neck injury and concussion, and the emotional journey of keeping a promise to someone who’s no longer here. From childhood obsessions with rock walls to pioneering new routes in the harshest alpine terrain, Brette’s story is one of passion, pain and climbing as a way through grief. Follow Brette on Instagram.  If you want to tell us about your own superhuman adventures, message us at [email protected].  Head to instagram.com/redbulladventure for more superhuman adventure content.

At 52 years old, endurance swimming legend Martin Strel set out on one of the greatest adventure feats in human history – to swim the entire length of the Amazon River. Battling exhaustion, treacherous currents, parasites, piranhas and mental collapse, Martin’s 66-day journey pushed the limits of physical and psychological resilience. But this was never just about a personal challenge – it was a mission to raise awareness about the destruction of one of Earth’s most vital ecosystems, all while sporting a yellow pillowcase on his head. In this episode, I speak with Martin about what drove him to attempt this near-impossible swim, how he has stayed alive in some of the world’s most dangerous waters, and why he believes endurance swimming can be a force for change. From his unconventional beginnings in Slovenia to the heart of the Amazon rainforest, Martin’s story is one of grit, survival and deep connection with nature – proving that sometimes, the most powerful strokes are taken for something far greater than yourself. Follow Martin on Instagram. If you want to tell us about your own superhuman adventures, message us at [email protected].  Head to instagram.com/redbulladventure for more superhuman adventure content.

Ultrarunning athlete Ryan Sandes has pushed the limits of endurance, survival and adventure in some of the most extreme environments on the planet – from brutal mountain crossings and moments of fear on the Great Himalaya Trail to relentless storms and a terrifying night deep in the mountains of Lesotho. Ryan’s relationship with running wasn’t always easy, and his story is one of mental resilience, raw determination and an unshakable will to keep going – no matter what – all while finding the joy in what you do. In this episode, I talk to Ryan about how he transformed from a young South African kid with rugby ambitions to one of the world’s most respected ultra-endurance runners – a journey that kicked off from a friendly dare with his mates. He opens up about the physical and mental challenges he’s faced along the way, and how rediscovering his passion for trail running led him into the heart of the Himalayas and out to explore African mountain kingdoms. We talk about fear, isolation, the importance of partnership in extreme conditions, and why sometimes survival means trusting your instincts and just putting one foot in front of the other. Follow Ryan on Instagram. Want more from Ryan’s adventures? Check out Lessons from the Edge on Red Bull TV and Navigate Lesotho on RedBull.com.  If you want to tell us about your own superhuman adventures, message us at [email protected].  Head to instagram.com/redbulladventure for more superhuman adventure content.

Ultracycling phenomenon Lael Wilcox seems to have no limits when it comes to adventures on two wheels. Her record-breaking ride around the world in 108 days is a true testament to endurance, resilience, the power of community and a positive mindset. Faced with unexpected challenges – from food poisoning and poison ivy to navigating remote roads in gruelling conditions – Lael pushed through both physical and mental barriers, setting a new benchmark for the fastest woman to cycle around the planet. Along the way, she found strength in human connection, drawing inspiration and support that kept her pedalling through even the toughest moments. In this episode, I talk to Lael about the highs and lows of her world record attempt, the lessons she learned from adversity, and how community plays a vital role in testing the limits of human endurance. With her contagious energy and unshakable optimism, we explore what it takes to keep going day after day, and how cycling became more than a sport – it became a life-changing adventure. Follow Lael on Instagram.  Can’t get enough of Lael? Check out her previous episode on Season 2 of How to Be Superhuman. If you want to tell us about your own superhuman adventures, message us at [email protected].  Head to instagram.com/redbulladventure for more superhuman adventure content.

In this special episode, we're sharing a feed drop from Just Ride, a podcast that explores the world of cycling and life on two wheels. Recorded one year ago, this conversation features Lael Wilcox, one of the most inspiring figures in ultra-endurance cycling, as she prepares to attempt a record-breaking around-the-world bike ride. Lael talks about her training, mindset, and the mental and physical demands of long-distance cycling at the highest level. If you're into cycling, endurance sports, or adventure podcasts, this one’s for you. Don’t miss next week’s episode, when Lael returns to How to Be Superhuman to reflect on the ride – sharing how it really went, what she learned, and what it took to go the distance. If you enjoy this episode, check out Just Ride for more cycling stories. If you want to tell us about your own superhuman adventures, message us at [email protected].  Head to instagram.com/redbulladventure for more superhuman adventure content.

Paragliding pilot Tom de Dorlodot has spent his life chasing the wildest skies on Earth – but few adventures demand more endurance, survival instincts and sheer nerve than flying among the world’s highest peaks. Alongside his friend Horacio Llorens, Tom set out with an ambitious goal: to take human flight to places it had never been before. When shifting wind conditions forced a change of plan, they seized a new opportunity – to fly to K2 and soar among the towering giants of the Karakoram mountain range, navigating lines no paraglider had ever flown, even hitching a ride with an eagle. In this episode, I talk to Tom about what it takes to paraglide at extreme altitude, the survival mindset required when the wind turns, and why the spirit of adventure keeps drawing him back to some of the planet’s most remote and unforgiving landscapes. We dive into his love for the unknown, the lessons learned from risk, and the optimism that allows him to keep going – even when nature doesn’t play along. From humble beginnings in Belgian fields to navigating the untouched landscapes of the world’s biggest mountain ranges, Tom’s story is one of grit, curiosity and a profound connection to the mountains. Follow Tom on Instagram and check out Flying Between Giants on Red Bull TV to watch Tom and Horacio’s adventure unfold.  If you want to tell us about your own superhuman adventures, message us at [email protected].  Head to instagram.com/redbulladventure for more superhuman adventure content.

Today, we’re doing something a little different. I am joined by Aaron Millar from the Armchair Explorer podcast for a quick chat—and then we’re handing things over to let you experience an incredible episode from their show. Armchair Explorer is all about the world’s most inspiring adventure stories, and today’s episode is no exception. Get ready to journey into the untamed wilderness of Iceland through the eyes of world-renowned photographer and filmmaker Chris Burkard. From surfing beneath the Northern Lights to battling brutal conditions along Iceland’s remote "Forgotten Coast," Chris shares the moments that changed his life—and the lessons he learned along the way. If you enjoy this episode, check out Armchair Explorer for more epic journeys just like this.

In 2022, Preet Chandi MBE became the first woman of colour to complete a solo, unsupported expedition to the South Pole, covering 700 miles in just 40 days. And that wasn’t the only world record she would go on to break. But these achievements are more than just personal milestones – they’re a powerful challenge to long-held ideas about who belongs in the world of extreme exploration. In this episode, I speak with the British physiotherapist and Army officer about what it took to prepare for one of the harshest environments on Earth – from dragging a tractor tyre through the streets of her hometown in Derby, England, to enduring whiteouts, isolation and temperatures below -50°C in Antarctica. But the toughest battles weren’t only physical. ‘Polar Preet’ opens up about navigating cultural expectations, pushing through moments of fear and failure, and finding strength in the belief that her journey could inspire others to dream bigger. Follow Preet on Instagram. If you want to tell us about your own superhuman adventures, message us at [email protected].  Head to instagram.com/redbulladventure for more superhuman content.

Jesse Dufton's ascent of Devil's Tower redefined what’s possible in the world of free climbing. Not because nobody had climbed it before him, but because he did it without seeing the rock in front of his eyes. Jesse was born with a genetic condition that left him blind, and his climbing journey from his local crags in the UK to some of the world’s most challenging walls is a testament to innovation, trust and sheer determination, proving that vision isn’t just about what you see – it’s about how you move forward – even when you’re dangling hundreds of metres up in the air.  In this episode, I talk to Jesse about the challenges of climbing without sight, the unique communication system he and his climbing partner and wife, Molly, have developed together allowing him to navigate rock faces without sight, and the mental resilience required to push past fear and uncertainty. He shares the heartbreak of failure, the euphoria of summiting, and why climbing is more than just a sport – it’s his ultimate source of freedom and joy.  Follow Jesse on Instagram. If you want to tell us about your own superhuman adventures, message us at [email protected].  Head to instagram.com/redbulladventure for more superhuman content.

Cathy O’Dowd made history as the first woman to summit both the North and South sides of Everest, but her journey to the top was anything but smooth. Facing life-or-death decisions, brutal storms, and the weight of expectation, she learned that success in the mountains isn’t just about strength – it’s about resilience, strategy and knowing when to push forward. In this episode, I talk to the South African adventurer about the highs and lows of her record-breaking ascents, navigating one of the deadliest disasters in mountaineering history, the pressure of media attention, and the moment a call from Nelson Mandela inspired her to keep going. From near defeat to ultimate triumph, Cathy shares what it truly takes to stand on top of the world. Follow Cathy on Instagram. If you want to tell us about your own superhuman adventures, message us at [email protected]. Head to instagram.com/redbulladventure for more superhuman content.

Andrew Cotton has made a career out of chasing some of the biggest waves on the planet. But when a brutal wipeout at Nazaré left him with a broken back, his future as a pro surfer was suddenly uncertain. The road to recovery wasn’t just physical – it was a battle of fear, doubt and sheer determination to return to the giant waves that nearly ended it all. In this episode, I talk to Andrew Cotton about his journey from a plumber in North Devon, UK, to a professional big wave surfer, the mental resilience it took to get back on the board after his accident, and how pushing limits – both in and out of the water – became his way of life. He also shares why he's passionate about the Wings for Life World Run, a cause close to his heart. Follow Andrew on Instagram. If you want to tell us about your own superhuman adventures, message us at [email protected]. Head to instagram.com/redbulladventure for more superhuman content.

Tara Dower’s record-breaking run on the Appalachian Trail pushed the limits of endurance and mental strength. Covering 3,524 km in just 40 days, 18 hours and 5 minutes, she battled extreme fatigue, brutal terrain, and her own mind – where even a "dirt nap" could mean the difference between failure and success. In this episode, I talk to the ultra-runner and trailblazer, whose first attempt at the trail ended in a panic attack. She shares how overcoming anxiety, training with legends and leaning on her crew helped her break barriers – not just for a record, but for herself. Follow Tara on Instagram. If you want to tell us about your own superhuman adventures, message us at [email protected]. Head to instagram.com/redbulladventure for more superhuman content.

Abdullah Zeinab’s epic Rhino Run adventure crossing South Africa and Namibia redefines what’s possible in endurance cycling. Unsupported and unforgiving, this gruelling 2,750km ultra cycling race put his mental strength, grit and resilience to the ultimate test through breathtaking but brutal landscapes – where a tiny detail, like a tiny screw, made a world of difference.   In this episode, I talk to the Australian endurance cyclist and winner of the 2019 Trans America Bike Race, whose journey began with an unconventional bike ride to visit his mother. He shares how sleep deprivation, raw determination and facing his deepest fears pushed him beyond his limits – leading him on a journey of self-discovery and transforming his perspective on life.   Follow Abdullah on Instagram If you want to tell us about your own superhuman adventures, message us at [email protected] Head to instagram.com/redbulladventure for more superhuman content