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In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Wayne Hunter to explore his life, career, and remarkable transformation during the COVID-19 pandemic. With a background in engineering, Wayne came to Japan at the age of 23 and has since spent most of his 37 years in the country working in private membership club management. He is married with two daughters and has had the unique experience of living in a four-generation household with his in-laws in Chiba. Wayne’s running journey began as a direct result of the COVID-19 pandemic. At his heaviest, Wayne weighed 185kg, and after witnessing deaths within his work circle, he made the decision to change his life. Over an 18-month period starting in the summer of 2020, Wayne lost an extraordinary 54% of his body weight — around 100 kilograms. He initially took up rowing, training for hours a day in his home which he credits as the foundation of his weight loss. He later transitioned into running, taking part in road races but finding his true passion on the trails. In this episode, Wayne shares his journey into running, his training, and his experience tackling the Nagawa Trail. Whether you're looking for motivation, perspective, or simply a powerful human story, this episode delivers on all fronts. Links: Centennial — by James A. Michener Nagawa Trail COVID-19 Breaking Bad Tokyo American Club Japan Shōgun- by James Clavell The Godfather Support the show Thanks so much for tuning in! If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to follow us on Instagram @therunningvoyager we’d love to share your story next. You can DM us or send an email to [email protected] to get in touch. Your support keeps this show going! If you’d like to help us grow, you can become a supporter on Patreon - every contribution goes directly towards hosting and production costs on Buzzsprout. Thanks again for listening, and see you in the next episode!

In this episode, Kiyoshi a Tokyo-based running community organizer and avid runner, discusses his journey with running, the famous Hakone Ekiden relay race, and his involvement in the Doyou (土曜） Club, an open learning and running community. Kiyoshi shares insights into the cultural significance of the Ekiden race in Japan, its impact on university students, and how it fosters community spirit. He also touches on his own experiences, struggles, and the importance of running in his life. This episode is a deep dive into how running and learning intertwine to build connections and personal growth. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Casual Conversation 01:19 Meet Kiyoshi: The Learning Enthusiast 02:52 Kiyoshi's Running Journey 03:24 The Birth of a Video Producer 04:33 Language Exchange and Friendship 06:11 Exploring the Japanese Ekiden 07:59 Hakone Ekiden: The Ultimate Relay Race 14:14 The Significance of Hakone Ekiden 16:06 Comparing Global Running Events 18:01 Cheering and Strategy in Hakone Ekiden 23:56 Advertising and Marketing in Ekiden 24:27 Nike Vaporfly and Shoe Technology 26:31 Comparing Marathon Runners 29:35 University Teams and Qualifications 32:43 Ekiden in Japanese Schools 38:14 Book Recommendations 39:53 Movie and TV Series Recommendations 44:23 Closing Remarks and Appreciation Support the show Thanks so much for tuning in! If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to follow us on Instagram @therunningvoyager we’d love to share your story next. You can DM us or send an email to [email protected] to get in touch. Your support keeps this show going! If you’d like to help us grow, you can become a supporter on Patreon - every contribution goes directly towards hosting and production costs on Buzzsprout. Thanks again for listening, and see you in the next episode!

In this episode, I chat with Terence Vrugtman — ultrarunner, photographer, and Race Director of the Karkloof Trail Series. We dig into what makes Karkloof such a standout event in South Africa’s trail running calendar, and Terence gives us a first look at the 2026 course: the terrain, the challenges, and how the route continues to evolve. We also talk about the realities of race directing, what it takes to build a welcoming and sustainable trail community. Whether you're planning to run Karkloof, curious about race organisation, or just love trail stories, you’ll enjoy this one. Guest Links  Karkloof Trail Run: https://www.karklooftrailrun.co.za Terence on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/terencevrugtman Support the show Thanks so much for tuning in! If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to follow us on Instagram @therunningvoyager we’d love to share your story next. You can DM us or send an email to [email protected] to get in touch. Your support keeps this show going! If you’d like to help us grow, you can become a supporter on Patreon - every contribution goes directly towards hosting and production costs on Buzzsprout. Thanks again for listening, and see you in the next episode!

In this episode, I speak with South African ultra-runner Kennedy Sekhuthe, who recently won the 2025 Salt Pans Ultra 100kmin Botswana with an impressive time of 12:26:50. We talk about his journey in ultra running, the dedication and discipline behind his rise, and the mindset that carried him through one of Africa’s toughest endurance races.  Key Topics Covered Kennedy’s 2025 Salt Pans Ultra victoryHow he trained and prepared for a 100km raceHis long journey in the sport and what has shaped him as an athleteWhat this win means for his future in ultra runningKennedy’s story is a reminder that consistency over years, not shortcuts, builds endurance and success. His journey shows that with discipline, grit, and patience, long-term goals become reachable. Notable Results: 1st place at Salt Pans Ultra 100km 1st place at Ultra Trail Drakensberg 100 Miler 25:08:26Support the show Thanks so much for tuning in! If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to follow us on Instagram @therunningvoyager we’d love to share your story next. You can DM us or send an email to [email protected] to get in touch. Your support keeps this show going! If you’d like to help us grow, you can become a supporter on Patreon - every contribution goes directly towards hosting and production costs on Buzzsprout. Thanks again for listening, and see you in the next episode!

In today’s episode, I read a personal story that celebrates one full year of running — starting at age 44, with no athletic background, four kids, a full-time job, and zero intention of ever becoming “a runner”. What began as a curious experiment with a Garmin watch slowly turned into a life-changing habit. In this reflective episode, I share the highs, lows, lessons, and honest realities of beginning running later in life, in cold Canadian winters, and with absolutely no clue what “zone 2” even meant. If you’ve ever thought “running isn’t for me”, this one is for you. How he went from no running experience to completing consistent run/walk sessionsWhy running initially made no sense to himHow a fitness tracker motivated him to startTraining through a Canadian winter, illness and family demandsHis first goal: preparing for a 5K at workThe moments that changed how he viewed runningSupport the show Thanks so much for tuning in! If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to follow us on Instagram @therunningvoyager we’d love to share your story next. You can DM us or send an email to [email protected] to get in touch. Your support keeps this show going! If you’d like to help us grow, you can become a supporter on Patreon - every contribution goes directly towards hosting and production costs on Buzzsprout. Thanks again for listening, and see you in the next episode!

Warren King’s journey from attorney to private banker to trail running entrepreneur is a story of reinvention and passion. After a 15-year career at Investec Bank in Johannesburg, Warren stepped away from finance to create some of South Africa’s most recognisable trail running events. His transition not only drew on his business expertise but also deepened his understanding of the rapidly expanding adventure tourism sector. A seasoned traveller and runner, Warren has raced across more than 35 countries: from the Himalayas and Southeast Asian jungles to the Andes. These global adventures have given him a rare insight into emerging trail destinations like Georgia, Mongolia, and Slovenia, and the trends shaping the future of adventure travel. Now based in Cape Town, Warren is combining his love of running, exploration, and entrepreneurship through his latest venture, Cape Trail Tours—a business offering curated trail running experiences and on-the-ground support for international runners keen to explore South Africa’s remarkable trails.  Links: https://capetrailtours.co.za/ https://instagram.com/capetrailtours https://facebook.com/capetrailtours What I talk about when I talk about running by Haruki Murakami The Lord of the Rings by JRR Tolkien Frasier Friends The Himalayas - Nepal Support the show Thanks so much for tuning in! If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to follow us on Instagram @therunningvoyager we’d love to share your story next. You can DM us or send an email to [email protected] to get in touch. Your support keeps this show going! If you’d like to help us grow, you can become a supporter on Patreon - every contribution goes directly towards hosting and production costs on Buzzsprout. Thanks again for listening, and see you in the next episode!

We explore South Africa’s running surge with Stuart Mann—from sold-out ballots and the Cape Town Marathon cancellation to how Comrades has shifted from controversy toward accountability. With 178 unique marathons completed, Stuart shares what resilient races get right and how the sport has evolved since COVID. We discuss participation trends, the impact of social media, and how ballot systems affect major events like Two Oceans and Comrades. Stuart reflects on lessons from the Otter Trail, and the realities of technical terrain. We also unpack the Comrades 2024–2025 improvements, and what the Cape Town Marathon’s cancellation reveals about race governance and planning in South Africa. To support the show, follow @TheRunningVoyager on Instagram, or leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. It doesn’t take much, but it means a lot. Here’s to another week full of great adventures. Cheers. Support the show Thanks so much for tuning in! If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to follow us on Instagram @therunningvoyager we’d love to share your story next. You can DM us or send an email to [email protected] to get in touch. Your support keeps this show going! If you’d like to help us grow, you can become a supporter on Patreon - every contribution goes directly towards hosting and production costs on Buzzsprout. Thanks again for listening, and see you in the next episode!

I recently had the opportunity to be on media duty at the Lake Biwa 100 and this is my impression and race report. Text below from race website: " The Lake Biwa 100 course takes you on a journey through various ecosystems and historical sites in the Kansai region of Japan, skirting Lake Biwa the biggest lake in Japan for most of the course. With only 330 participants and a generous 52-hour cut off, the race keeps its authenticity, with friendly smiles at the hospitable aid stations. But don’t let that fool you: despite the highest peaks being only around 1200m (4000ft), the technical 169km course boasts over 10,500m (34,400ft) of elevation gain. From 2024, it is Japan’s only Hard Rock 100 Qualifier, and for good reasons." Links Lake Biwa100 Miler Yunoyama Onsen Lake Biwa Kansai Region Japan Hira Lake Guest House Kaori Niwa Lake Biwa 100 RD Instagram Support the show Thanks so much for tuning in! If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to follow us on Instagram @therunningvoyager we’d love to share your story next. You can DM us or send an email to [email protected] to get in touch. Your support keeps this show going! If you’d like to help us grow, you can become a supporter on Patreon - every contribution goes directly towards hosting and production costs on Buzzsprout. Thanks again for listening, and see you in the next episode!

Cameron, a Virginia native, ran an astonishing 220 miles as a beginner, driven by an inner voice to transcend mental and physical limits through relentless effort. Cameron embraced running as a crucible to forge his purpose. Each grueling mile reflects his belief that life demands giving your all to bear meaningful fruit. “I’m just like you,” he says, urging others to fearlessly join life’s journey of growth. When not pounding the pavement, Cameron chases other passions—flying planes, writing movies, mastering piano, or opening a restaurant—knowing time waits for no one. His story inspires us to embrace struggle, push beyond limitations, and find peace through suffering, proving we’re all connected in our pursuit of growth. Links David Goggins Chatanooga The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid Can't Hurt Me by David Goggins Best Ever Food Reviews - Youtube Channel The Magazine Dreams with Jonathan Majors Funny Farm Support the show Thanks so much for tuning in! If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to follow us on Instagram @therunningvoyager we’d love to share your story next. You can DM us or send an email to [email protected] to get in touch. Your support keeps this show going! If you’d like to help us grow, you can become a supporter on Patreon - every contribution goes directly towards hosting and production costs on Buzzsprout. Thanks again for listening, and see you in the next episode!

Nkosi Nsumbu is a South African model, filmmaker, and passionate runner whose energy extends far beyond the track. Known for his work with Outlaws Model Management and his creative projects in film and storytelling, Nkosi also channels his influence into social activism and community upliftment. In this episode, Nkosi opens up about his training and mental preparation for the Cape Town Marathon, sharing how running has become both a personal journey and a platform for change. We talk about chasing goals, facing setbacks, and finding strength through discipline and consistency. From his first steps as a casual runner to his evolution into a purpose-driven athlete and advocate, Nkosi reminds us that every challenge is part of the race toward becoming our best selves. Links Nkosi's Instagram CapeTown Marathon Manage your Money like a F*cking Grown up: the best money advice you never got by Sam Beckbessinger Support the show Thanks so much for tuning in! If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to follow us on Instagram @therunningvoyager we’d love to share your story next. You can DM us or send an email to [email protected] to get in touch. Your support keeps this show going! If you’d like to help us grow, you can become a supporter on Patreon - every contribution goes directly towards hosting and production costs on Buzzsprout. Thanks again for listening, and see you in the next episode!

Ingrid wishes she were a polymath like Leonardo da Vinci, but alas. She is however a German born, South African raised furbaby mom, trail runner, parkrun Regional Ambassador (for Northern Gauteng, South Africa), a bookworm with a newly launched bookstore, a Payroll expert for over 20 countries, multilingual and as of last year a cancer survivor. Does that make her a polymath? Not quite. But it does make for a diverse life view which has been shaped with some of the hardest things life can throw at a person. She is also grateful for a life that is being lived well and in service of people who she hopes her legacy is building the communities they deserve to have and thrive in. All whilst loving her friends, husband and dogs as hard as she can." In this episode we talk about Parkrun and how it is a starting point for a lot of runners, we also talk about cancer in particular skin cancer - the signs and symptoms, how to try live a full life, books, mental health and so much more.  Links Parkrun South Africa Brene Brown  Thursday Murder Club Deon Meyer Deep Blue Tony Park  San Andreas Twister La Palma The Aeoronauts Ingrid's Instagram The Bookbar Support the show Thanks so much for tuning in! If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to follow us on Instagram @therunningvoyager we’d love to share your story next. You can DM us or send an email to [email protected] to get in touch. Your support keeps this show going! If you’d like to help us grow, you can become a supporter on Patreon - every contribution goes directly towards hosting and production costs on Buzzsprout. Thanks again for listening, and see you in the next episode!

German born, British bred, Eritrean blooded and Spanish based, Alan unwittingly stumbled into thru-hiking after sitting on a plane on his way back from visiting his brother in Japan.  A Maths teacher by profession, he now exclusively tutors privately online, which affords him the time between hikes to work on converting his camper-van and produce videos of his walks for YouTube. Links Let's try something new - Alan's YouTube channel Coasting: Running around the coast of Britain- Life, Love and (very) loose plans by Elise Downing Walking the Camino Six Ways to Santiago Support the show Thanks so much for tuning in! If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to follow us on Instagram @therunningvoyager we’d love to share your story next. You can DM us or send an email to [email protected] to get in touch. Your support keeps this show going! If you’d like to help us grow, you can become a supporter on Patreon - every contribution goes directly towards hosting and production costs on Buzzsprout. Thanks again for listening, and see you in the next episode!

In this episode, I sit down with Pris the award-winning blogger behind PrisChew Dot Com. Pris is well known in Singapore’s blogging community, having won Best Health & Wellness Blog at the Singapore Blog Awards. Through her writing and content, she shares authentic stories and practical insights on lifestyle, wellness, and travel. We dive into her passion for running in Singapore — from her favorite routes and hidden gems for runners, to the best races in the city and what makes them special. She also shares her personal recommendations for anyone looking to explore Singapore through running, whether you’re a seasoned marathoner or just getting started. If you’re curious about Singapore’s running scene, or simply want insider tips from someone who knows it well, this episode is for you. Links Prischew.com Prischew dot com Instagram Prischew dot com Youtube Prischew dot com Facebook Support the show Thanks so much for tuning in! If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to follow us on Instagram @therunningvoyager we’d love to share your story next. You can DM us or send an email to [email protected] to get in touch. Your support keeps this show going! If you’d like to help us grow, you can become a supporter on Patreon - every contribution goes directly towards hosting and production costs on Buzzsprout. Thanks again for listening, and see you in the next episode!

The guest in this episode is Ashwini Ganapathi. Ashwini is an ultramarathon runner and endurance coach from Bengaluru, India. After leaving a nine-year IT career, she progressed from her first 10K in 2014 to tackling some of the world’s toughest events, including the Everest Base Camp Ultra, the Asia–Oceania 24-Hour Championship, and Japan’s gruelling 173 km Deep Japan Ultra Trail. In 2025 she set out to race the Lake Sonoma 100-miler; her effort ended when the event was called off. Known for her resilience and community focus, Ashwini advocates for more women in India to explore trail and ultra running. In this episode, we talk about her run at Deep Japan Ultra, the training, nutrition and the actual race itself. Ashwini talks about how this Ultramarathon has been a culmination of 6 years of work and training. Links: Lake Senoma 100miler Deep Japan Ultra City of Leh Endure: Mind, Body and the Curiously Elastic Limits of Human Performance by Alex Hutchinson Harry Potter - JK Rowling Sherlock Holmes Friends Formula 1: The Drive to Survive Ashwini's Instagram Support the show Thanks so much for tuning in! If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to follow us on Instagram @therunningvoyager we’d love to share your story next. You can DM us or send an email to [email protected] to get in touch. Your support keeps this show going! If you’d like to help us grow, you can become a supporter on Patreon - every contribution goes directly towards hosting and production costs on Buzzsprout. Thanks again for listening, and see you in the next episode!

In this episode, I sit down with ultra runner and coach Debbie to dive into a topic that’s often left out of the conversation: aging and menopause in women who run long distances. Debbie shares her personal journey as a mature athlete and why she’s passionate about helping women understand what’s really happening in their bodies. We explore the symptoms of perimenopause and menopause, the importance of training smarter—not harder—as we age, and the emotional and physical challenges women face during this phase. Debbie also introduces her upcoming podcast, which will be dedicated to this very conversation. Whether you’re an ultra runner, a weekend trail enthusiast, or just curious about what lies ahead, this episode brings insight, awareness, and a dose of encouragement for every woman on the run. Topics We Cover: What aging feels like as a female ultra runnerKey signs and symptoms of perimenopause and menopauseHow to adapt your training as you get olderMental shifts and body awarenessEncouraging community and open conversation around “the change”Debbie’s new podcast and why she’s creating this space for womenGuest Bio: Debbie is an ultra runner and coach who specializes in working with women. With decades of experience on the trails and a passion for lifting up others, Debbie is now shifting her focus to creating more awareness and dialogue around aging and menopause in endurance sports. Debbie's Instagram Debbie's Podcast Mel Robbins Podcast Just Mercy: A Story of Justice and Redemption by Bryan Stevenson Ted Lasso Support the show Thanks so much for tuning in! If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to follow us on Instagram @therunningvoyager we’d love to share your story next. You can DM us or send an email to [email protected] to get in touch. Your support keeps this show going! If you’d like to help us grow, you can become a supporter on Patreon - every contribution goes directly towards hosting and production costs on Buzzsprout. Thanks again for listening, and see you in the next episode!