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In this episode of the UKRunChat Podcast, Michelle is joined by James Hunter, who is nearing the finish line of his incredible “Mission 40” challenge. To mark turning 40, James set out to complete 40 endurance events in 12 months, including marathons, half marathons, trail races, cycling and hiking, all while raising money for RUHX, the official NHS charity of Bath’s Royal United Hospital. With 34 events already completed, James shares what the journey has really looked like so far. From the moment the idea first took shape, to the reality of balancing training, life and recovery, this conversation explores the highs, the tough days, and the lessons learned along the way. We dive into James’ personal connection to RUHX and why this challenge means so much to him, before reflecting on some of his standout moments, from favourite events to the experiences that have stayed with him most. James also opens up about the harder side of the challenge, including the moments that tested him and what helped him keep going when things felt tough. Looking ahead, we talk about the final stretch of Mission 40, including a busy run of events and a big finish with back-to-back marathons in Brighton and Manchester. This is a powerful and honest conversation about consistency, resilience, and the impact that running can have, not just physically, but personally too. We cover: The story behind Mission 40 James’ connection to RUHX and why he chose to support the charity Favourite events and standout moments from the challenge The toughest days and how he got through them What goes on behind the scenes of a year-long endurance challenge Lessons learned and how the journey has changed him The final events and what’s planned for the finish lineYou can follow James on Instagram @james_t_hunter and support his Mission 40 fundraiser here: https://www.justgiving.com/page/james-mission40 

In this episode of the UKRunChat Podcast, Michelle speaks to Aaron Sharples about his ambitious project, El Camino Español, a 1,600km run along the entire east coast of Spain. Starting in Portbou near the French border and finishing in La Línea at the gateway to Gibraltar, Aaron plans to complete the route in just 28 days, averaging around 80km a day. The challenge could set a Fastest Known Time and potentially be a world first. But this isn’t just about distance or speed. Aaron shares how his running journey began during the COVID-19 pandemic, how movement helped him through a difficult period of grief, and how his mindset has evolved from running through trauma to running with purpose. We explore the logistics of the challenge, the importance of mindset and recovery, and how Aaron plans to connect with communities along the route, using movement as a tool for empowerment and connection. In this episode, we cover: How Aaron went from non-runner to endurance athlete in 5 years The story behind El Camino Español What running 80km a day will involve Mindset, resilience, and learning from failure The role of journaling, meditation, and recovery Building community through movement Supporting charities including Healthier HeroesFollow Aaron: Instagram: @MakeBoldChoices & @aaron__sharples__ Website: https://givestar.io/gs/el-camino-espanyol

In this episode of the UKRunChat podcast, Michelle speaks with Lia Fyles, the driving force behind the London Landmarks Half Marathon.What started as a fundraising challenge for Tommy's has grown into a 20,000-runner event that celebrates London’s history, community, and charitable spirit while raising millions for good causes. Lia shares how the event came to life, the challenges of closing central London, and why the race has become such a sought-after experience for runners. We chat about: How the idea for the London Landmarks Half Marathon was born Turning a fundraising goal into a major national event The challenges of organising a race through central London What makes the route unique, from iconic landmarks to hidden gems The role of charity in shaping the event’s identity Behind-the-scenes insights from race day Challenges facing race organisers today Why the event resonates so strongly with runners What the future holds for the race Reversing the race route due to a military ceremonyLinks & Info Pre-register for next year’s ballot via the official LLHM website: https://llhm.co.uk/

In this episode of the UKRunChat Podcast, we’re joined by returning guest Dr Juliet McGrattan to talk about her new book, The Runner’s Guide to Menopause. Menopause is something every woman will experience, yet many runners feel unprepared for how it can affect their training, performance, and motivation. Juliet shares expert insight — alongside her own lived experience — to help runners better understand what’s happening in their bodies and how to adapt. We discuss: What menopause, perimenopause, and post-menopause actually mean Common symptoms that affect runners (and why they’re often misunderstood) Why running can suddenly feel harder — and what’s happening physiologically The impact of menopause on sleep, recovery, and energy levels How running can actually help manage symptoms Training adjustments, including the importance of strength work and speed sessions Bone health, injury risk, and long-term wellbeing The role of HRT and when to speak to a GP Why this stage of life might be the most important time to keep runningThis episode is for anyone navigating menopause, approaching it, or supporting others, including coaches who want to better understand how to support female runners. Follow Juliet

What happens when someone who only started running a year ago decides to run 100 marathons in 100 days? In this episode of the UKRunChat Podcast, Michelle speaks with Hannah Cox, the founder of the Better Business Network and the woman behind Project Salt Run — a world-first endurance challenge running the length of India’s historic Inland Customs Line. Over 100 days Hannah covered 4,224 kilometres, completing 75 marathons and 23 ultramarathons across 11 Indian states. But this story isn’t about elite performance. It’s about perseverance, purpose, and people power. Running through extreme heat, pollution, illness and injury, Hannah and her small support team followed a forgotten colonial boundary once used to enforce the salt tax — transforming it into a route of connection, community and climate action. Along the way they were welcomed into homes, fed by strangers, and supported by a growing global community of people who believed in the mission. Project Salt Run has already raised £90,000 for charities working for people and the planet, with a long-term goal of raising £1 million. In this episode we talk about: How Hannah went from beginner runner to 100 marathons The story behind the historic Inland Customs Line The toughest physical and mental moments on the road The power of community and kindness Why ordinary people still have the power to create changeDonate to the campaignhttps://givestar.io/gs/project-salt-run Websitewww.projectsaltrun.com Follow the journeyInstagram / TikTok / Facebook: @projectsaltrun

Breathing is something every runner does thousands of times on every run — yet it’s something most of us never think about. In this episode of the UKRunChat Podcast, Michelle speaks with breathing coach and former professional rugby player David 'Jacko' Jackson about how improving the way we breathe can impact running efficiency, mobility, and performance. After a serious brain injury ended his rugby career, Jacko began exploring breathing as a tool for improving brain health and regulating the nervous system. That journey eventually led him to become a Master Oxygen Advantage coach and write his new book, Breathe Smarter Run Stronger. In this conversation, we explore how breathing mechanics affect everything from running economy and perceived effort to hip mobility and race-day nerves. What We Cover Why breathing is often overlooked in running training The difference between how elite runners breathe vs amateur runners When nose breathing can improve running efficiency Why mouth breathing isn’t always the enemy The surprising connection between breathing mechanics and hip tightness Why tongue posture affects breathing and airway function How breathing rate affects perceived effort during a run Building carbon dioxide tolerance to improve endurance Using breathing strategies to stay relaxed during races Jacko’s ambitious Mission IN-possible challenge to run 200 marathons in 100 daysJacko’s book Breathe Smarter Run Stronger is available now.  Published March 12th 2026. Follow @bloomsburyoutdoors Follow Jacko on @thebreathrunningcoach

At 48, Neil Mills is taking on one of the biggest challenges of his life: running and walking 950 miles in just 21 days. But this isn’t just about covering 45 miles a day. Neil is visiting every Young Lives vs Cancer Home from Home across the UK, raising funds for families facing childhood cancer. Behind the distance lies a deeply personal story of addiction, late-diagnosed ADHD, rebuilding identity, and discovering that endurance running offers him stability. In this episode of the UKRunChat Podcast, Neil shares how discipline became a lifeline, how long miles quiet a noisy mind, and why giving back is now central to who he is. This is an honest, powerful conversation about running as structure, recovery and purpose. Neil is raising money for Young Lives vs Cancer to support families staying close to their children during cancer treatment: https://www.justgiving.com/page/neil-mills-1729538959475Text NEIL to 70490 to donate £2. Texts cost the donation amount plus one standard network rate message. Neil's Facebook page 

In this episode of the UKRunChat Podcast, Michelle is joined by Catherine and Pippa, co-founders of Trail & Bloom, a trail running retreat designed to support women navigating midlife. Both share deeply personal journeys of how their relationships with movement evolved. From early experiences of feeling “not good enough” in sport, to running as punishment for eating, to rediscovering joy and confidence on the trails, this is an honest conversation about identity, body image, performance and self-worth. Catherine talks about how perimenopause, injury and life pressures left her questioning her place in running, and how trail running helped her reconnect with movement in a way that felt freeing rather than pressured. Pippa shares her path from disordered eating and overwhelm to becoming a GB age-group triathlete, and explains why midlife women need to understand their physiology — particularly the importance of maintaining muscle mass for long-term health, strength and confidence. Together, they discuss: Why so many women carry “baggage” into midlife running How trails can remove pressure and reintroduce joy The myths around weight loss, BMI and body composition Why strength training is essential (and how to approach it safely) How to rebuild confidence when performance plateaus What women really need in midlife: community, compassion and evidence-based guidanceThis episode is a powerful reminder that midlife can be a breakthrough, not a breaking point, and that running can still be joyful, empowering and deeply restorative at any age. You can find more about Trail & Bloom and their upcoming retreats at https://trailandbloom.co.uk/

This week on the podcast, Fiona Horsfield takes us inside the Montane Winter Spine Race, Britain’s Most Brutal endurance event along the Pennine Way. We talk about: 🥣 Eating when you don’t want to😴 Sleeping when you can🎒 Getting kit decisions right🧠 Staying mentally steady when fatigue hits If you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to move for days through winter conditions, this episode is an honest look at the physical and psychological reality of ultra-endurance racing. “You can’t think about 268 miles. You just focus on the next section.” Listen now 🎧 Follow Fiona #UKRunChat  Photo Credit: @clorroe_cam

In this episode of the UKRunChat podcast, we’re joined by Meryl Cooper, who has represented Britain on the international ultra stage. Hailing from Aberdeenshire, Meryl shares her journey from a background in football to discovering trail and ultra running in 2017, and how quickly the sport became a defining part of her life. We explore her progression from early races to earning selection for Great Britain & Northern Ireland, and what it’s really like stepping onto the international stage in mountain and trail running. Meryl reflects on racing at home and abroad, adapting to different terrains and conditions, and the lessons she’s learned through both strong performances and tougher race days. She talks openly about the mental and physical demands of ultra running, how her approach to racing has evolved over time, and what keeps her motivated to take on long, mountainous challenges. In this episode, we discuss: Growing up in Aberdeenshire and early involvement in sport Moving from football into trail and ultra running Discovering ultras in 2017 and progressing through the sport Being selected to represent Great Britain internationally Racing abroad and adapting to different courses and conditions The physical and mental challenges of long-distance trail racing Learning from both successful races and difficult days How her mindset and racing approach have evolved What continues to motivate her in trail and ultra runningAbout Meryl Cooper British Ultra-Trail Champion (2021) Represented Great Britain & Northern Ireland at the World Trail Running Championships (2019) Represented GB at the World Mountain & Trail Running Championships (2022, 2023) Competed at the European Off-Road Running Championships (2024) Winner of the Swiss Alps 100k (2025)If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the UKRunChat podcast and share it with a fellow runner. Follow Meryl  Website Photo credit: Stuart Ross Media

In this episode of UKRunChat, we’re joined by endurance runner James Lewis, whose challenges sit far outside the usual rulebook of endurance sport. With a willingness to learn the hard way, James has taken on a series of unconventional endurance projects that test resilience, adaptability, and mental toughness more than finish times. From running 92 miles in his first-ever 24-hour event on a 400m track, to repeatedly attempting a Guinness World Record blindfolded run, James shares what happens when ambition outruns preparation, and why failure has become a defining part of his journey. We also dive deep into one of his most demanding challenges to date: running from Paris back home to Rugeley over thirteen consecutive days, sleeping rough in France and pushing through injury. We also look ahead to his boldest project yet, dribbling a football from Morocco to Birmingham during the World Cup. Follow James on Instagram Please note: This episode includes discussion of extreme endurance challenges, physical suffering, injury, and past training mistakes. These experiences are shared as personal reflections and should not be taken as advice.

In this episode of the UKRunChat Podcast, we catch up with adventurer and world-record holder Mitch Hutchcraft following the completion of his extraordinary Great British Dog Walk Challenge. Just weeks after we last spoke, Mitch ran 16 back-to-back ultra marathons, covering 720 kilometres from the UK’s lowest point at Holme Fen to the summit of Ben Nevis, battling freezing rain, snow and exhaustion across 16 consecutive days. In doing so, he set a new world record, all while raising awareness for overcrowded dog rescue centres and the illegal puppy trade in the UK. Inspired by his rescue dog Teddy, who spent the first four years of his life confined to a concrete cage on a puppy farm, Mitch used the challenge to highlight the realities facing rescue charities, the growing number of dogs entering shelters, and the importance of choosing to adopt, not shop. We talk about the physical and mental toll of the challenge, the unexpected power of community support, the dogs and rescue centres he met along the way, and why this mission was always about far more than breaking records.   Follow Mitch on Instagram  Photo Credit: Oliver Frampton 

In this episode of the UKRunChat podcast, Mike Seaman, the driving force behind The National Running Show joins us to chat about the show's roots and also his own endurance running, having recently completed the Winter Downs 200, Javelina Jundred (100 miles), a 50k ultra, and summited Mount Kilimanjaro to raise funds for Birmingham Children’s Hospital. We talk about Mike’s journey into running, his experience of running 200 miles, what goes on behind the scenes of major running events, and what he’s seeing across the running and outdoor industry right now. Follow Mike Follow the National Running Show The 2026 National Running Show takes place on Saturday 31st January and Sunday 1st February at the NEC Birmingham. 

In this episode of the UKRunChat Podcast, we’re joined by ultrarunner, campaigner and community builder Sabrina Pace-Humphreys. Sabrina came to running in her 40s while navigating postnatal depression, looking for something that might help her survive a difficult period in her life. What started as a lifeline became a path to purpose, and eventually led her to some of the toughest endurance events in the world, including the Marathon des Sables, UTMB and the Spine Race. Sabrina is also the co-founder of Black Trail Runners, a community working to increase representation, access and belonging in the outdoors. In this conversation, she shares why visibility matters, what it really means to feel safe and welcome on the trails, and how community can change lives. We also talk about Sabrina’s new book, written specifically for women who are starting running, or thinking about it. The book tackles everything from confidence, kit and nutrition to menopause, motherhood, and running later in life, offering reassurance, honesty and permission to begin. In this episode we cover: Starting running in your 40s Running and postnatal depression Finding identity and belonging through sport The reality of ultra running Why representation in the outdoors matters Co-founding Black Trail Runners Writing a beginner’s guide for women Menopause, motherhood and running without comparison Letting go of performance and finding purposeSabrina’s book Start Where You Are is published on 15 January Follow Sabrina on Instagram

This week, Michelle chats with Lisa Jackson, Runner’s World columnist, 100 Marathon Club member, and author of Running Made Easy, Your Pace or Mine?, and her brand new memoir Still Running After All These Tears: A Runner’s Journey Through Grief. Lisa shares how running helped her rebuild her life after loss, what finishing last in 25 marathons has taught her about success, and how we can all rediscover our running mojo when motivation fades. With warmth and humour, she reminds us that running is about finishing lines, not finishing times. We talk about: Finding joy again through running after losing your mojo How to cope when injury, illness or life pauses your running journey What coming last in marathons has taught her about mindset The role of community and connection in healing How running and mental strategies from hypnotherapy can support grief recovery The importance of friendship, laughter and showing up, one mile at a timeIf you need support: If you’re struggling with grief, loss, or feeling low, please reach out. Samaritans – Call 116 123 (UK, free and 24/7) Cruse Bereavement Support – Support for anyone grieving Mind – Mental health support and informationStill Running After All These Tears: A Runner’s Journey Through Grief is available from 8 January 2026