Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast The Running Voyager
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Running and Rowing Towards Health: Wayne Hunter's Inspirational Journey | 19 Jan 2026 | 00:45:42 | |
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 Thanks so much for tuning in! 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! | |||
| Running Through Culture: An Inside Look at Japan's Hakone Ekiden with Kiyoshi Maeda | 01 Jan 2026 | 00:49:46 | |
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. Thanks so much for tuning in! 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! | |||
| Running Through Life: Ingrid Hauger’s Journey of Resilience, Community and Courage | 05 Oct 2025 | 01:10:53 | |
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 Thanks so much for tuning in! 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! | |||
| Bonus Episode Coach's Corner with Linda Doke - Advice for New Runners | 23 Mar 2023 | 00:47:49 | |
Linda has three decades of ultra-distance running experience, she has raced trail, through canyons, on beaches, deserts, islands, glaciers, salt flats, over mountains, escarpments and peaks. Linda is a very experienced Ultra Runner, but in addition to that she is also a coach. This episode is for any new runners we talk about Thanks so much for tuning in! 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! | |||
| Daluhlanga Majeke on Running 100 Milers and Achieving Big Goals | 08 Mar 2023 | 01:29:53 | |
Daluhlanga Majeke is a father, husband, ultra runner and the head of the Eastern Cape Provincial Treasury. Set Your OWN GOAL To Achieve Your Dreams: The Leadership Journey Imagined Leadership on the Line: Staying Alive through the Dangers of Leading - by Ronald A. Heifetz and Marty Linsky
Thanks so much for tuning in! 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! | |||
| Bonus Episode Coach's Corner - Prodigal Khumalo | 23 Feb 2023 | 00:09:32 | |
This is a series of bonus episodes where I interview 3 coaches. Episode 1 is with Prodigal Khumalo. The advice is for help in setting running goals and acheiving them. We talk about:
Prodigal is an Ultra distance runner both on road and trail. He is a Comrades gold medalist and hast won the UTCT 100k twice. He founded ORCAS running academy in Durban, where he coaches and mentors young runners Thanks so much for tuning in! 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! | |||
| Alan Mesfin - Let's Try Something New - Walking 3000km Across Japan | 31 Jan 2023 | 01:35:32 | |
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. Walking the Camino - Six Ways to Santiago Thanks so much for tuning in! 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! | |||
| Naomi Brand: Adventuring, Being Hopeful and Ultrarunning | 22 Jan 2023 | 01:02:57 | |
Naomi, is an adventurer, through and through. She is a Vet, extremely accomplished ultra runner, conservationist and an artist. Naomi has created her name in trail running with epic results at Ultra Drakensberg, Ultra Trail Cape Town, Ultra Trail Australia, San Pans Ultra, Tarewera, UTMB - to name a few. Naomi lives in New Zealand with her partner Xavier Thanks so much for tuning in! 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! | |||
| Drew Damron on traversing the Okumusashi 105k | 24 Dec 2022 | 01:06:28 | |
Drew Damron grew up in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and he has been living in Japan for six years. He spends his time running a library and running trails, climbing walls and waterfalls, and writing occasional articles for the Japan Times. Thanks so much for tuning in! 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! | |||
| Keletso Nyathi - running AMUK and unexpected adventures! | 11 Dec 2022 | 01:35:43 | |
Keletso, is one of the guys to complete AMUK in 2022. Keletso grew up in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe and is now based in Namibia where he runs a practice, is a dad and also somehow manages to squeeze in ultra running. Thanks so much for tuning in! 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! | |||
| Cody Reed on Running in South Africa | 28 Nov 2022 | 01:10:07 | |
Cody Reed is an elite ultra runner from Flagstaff Arizona, but he is currently in South Africa. Cody runs for Under Armour. Cody's running Cv is extremely extensive, with numerous wins, all around the world with a recent 100 mile first place finish at the One Hundred Gran Sasso as well as the 65k (2021) and 100k (2019) in South Africa at Ultra Trail Cape Town as well as the 100km Ultra Trail Drakensberg (2022). Thanks so much for tuning in! 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! | |||
| Nori Ko - Sunshine Juice and Sustainable Living | 17 Nov 2022 | 00:44:23 | |
Nori is the Founder of Sunshine Juice He comes from a diverse background having lived in Japan, the US, and Taiwan, he opened Japan's first cold-pressed juice store “Sunshine Juice” Juicing, endurance sports and meditation are essential to his daily life and practice. Nori just completed his first 100miler trail run in 35hours with only juice and raw food for his nutrition. Thanks so much for tuning in! 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! | |||
| Ryan Moss -Trail Running in Zimbabwe & The Old Legs Cycle Tour | 03 Nov 2022 | 00:40:24 | |
Ryan is an adventurer, photographer and videographer and a creator for change. He specialises in outdoor adventure and expedition media. In this episode we get to know Ryan and he tells us a bit about the Trail running landscape in Zimbabwe, as well as the epic 100 miler that's on the books. Thanks so much for tuning in! 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! | |||
| Let's Try Something New Walking 3000km Across Japan with Alan Mesfin | 19 Sep 2025 | 01:36:12 | |
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. Coasting: Running around the coast of Britain- Life, Love and (very) loose plans by Elise Downing Walking the Camino Six Ways to Santiago Thanks so much for tuning in! 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! | |||
| Linda Kapembeza - Meet the Podcast Host | 10 Oct 2022 | 01:35:35 | |
In this episode, Mike Sewell interviews me, Linda the host of The Running Voyager Podcast.This is an opportunity for the guests to get to know a little bit about, my own running story as well as the story behind why I started the podcast. Thanks so much for tuning in! 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! | |||
| Robert Self - Tokyo Trail Running | 25 Sep 2022 | 00:48:04 | |
Thanks so much for tuning in! 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! | |||
| Dmitri Lechtchinski - Running the Rivers Tokyo | 18 Jul 2022 | 01:05:06 | |
In this episode I chat with Dmitri about a challenge that he undertook in 2020 to run along all the rivers in Tokyo. - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/everysingleriver/ - Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkxt9QpoOenEKTb0wicoDQg
Charity link: - Team Taira: https://rundipg.raisely.com/tnagase - RunDIPG: https://rundipg.org/ Thanks so much for tuning in! 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! | |||
| Dean Wight - Beloved Long Runs | 09 May 2022 | 00:49:49 | |
For the past four years, local KZN runner, Dean Wight has held the coveted title of Comrades’ “Top Charity Fundraiser”. In his capacity as Charity Ambassador for the Hillcrest AIDS Centre Trust (HACT), Dean has successfully leveraged his extensive network to raise over R1.6 million for the official Comrades charity which is situated directly along the infamous race route in central Hillcrest and every year supports and uplifts thousands of families impacted by HIV/AIDS in the Valley of 1000 Hills. For the past four years, Dean has continued to surpass all expectations with his personal fundraising efforts on behalf of HACT raising R327 000 in 2018, R352 060 in 2019, R402 260 in 2020 and a whopping R538 853 in this past year’s Comrades Centenary Hope Challenge. A passionate runner, who has completed 28 Comrades Marathons and over 200 marathons, Dean is the founder of the online running community, Beloved Long Runs (BLR) KZN and it is through the generous support of this network of runners, as well as his close friends and family, that Dean has been able to raise such an impressive amount of funding for HACT’s work over the past four years. Links:
Thanks so much for tuning in! 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! | |||
| Marius Van Rensburg - Running AMUK | 16 Mar 2022 | 00:45:21 | |
Marius is one of the 5 AMUK finishers in 2021. In this episode, we talk about each of the 4 100 milers and how he managed to get it done, despite a health scare between the last 2 100 milers. Thanks so much for tuning in! 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! | |||
| Andrew King - Adventure Redefined | 10 Mar 2022 | 01:24:09 | |
Andrew is a multi-sportsman and filmmaker. In a nutshell, Andrew is all about exploring mountains and making films. This episode was inspired by a challenge between Andrew and his friends to traverse the Drakensberg on what seemed like a whim, followed by an impromptu tennis match. In this episode, we talk about taking on challenges in novel ways, adventure racing, filmmaking and storytelling. Thanks so much for tuning in! 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! | |||
| Admire Muzopambwa | 13 Feb 2022 | 00:46:09 | |
Admire is a professional runner, private chef and father. Admire has numerous achievements including a third-place finish at the Karkloof Trail Series 2021 100 milers, a 4th place finish at the Ultra-Trail Drakkensburg 2021 100km race. Admire also participated in the Nedbank Reunified 50km world record attempt. Admire is also an Asics Front Runner Thanks so much for tuning in! 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! | |||
| Martin Malherbe | 20 Jan 2022 | 00:39:41 | |
Martin is a husband, father, ultra runner and cancer survivor. He has 10 Comrades under his belt. In addition to other ultras, he has completed 9 x 100 milers. Martin's accomplishments also include a second-place finish for the ADDO 100 miler in 2021 and 2020. Martin also came fifth in the 2021 Karkloof Trail Series 100 Miler. Thanks so much for tuning in! 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! | |||
| Riana Henning | 29 Dec 2021 | 00:58:33 | |
Riana Henning is a seasoned Ultra runner, she is the second lady to complete the AMUK challenge, The AMUK challenge consists of running 4 x 100 Milers in one year (Addo, UTD, Mac Mac and Karkloof). Thanks so much for tuning in! 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! | |||
| Justin Oelofsen | 13 Dec 2021 | 00:38:07 | |
Justin is an Ultrarunner, husband, and running coach. Justin is one of the finishers of AMUK, with only about 4 years of running under his belt. In this episode, we get to know Justin, what motivates him and how he managed to run 4 100 milers in one year. We also talk about how his wife Laurika is a big support in his running career. Thanks so much for tuning in! 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! | |||
| Exploring Singapore Through Running with Pris Chew of Prischew.com | 09 Sep 2025 | 00:41:13 | |
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 Thanks so much for tuning in! 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! | |||
| Themba Mathebula | 15 Nov 2021 | 00:40:34 | |
Themba is a social runner who is making a difference in his community. Themba undertook a 450km run in 2020 to raise funds for underprivileged school children, he managed to raise over R150 000. This year Themba plans to run another 450km from Gauteng to Nelspruit to support underprivileged children from his hometown Bushbuckridge. In this episode, we get to know Themba and how we can support his charitable cause. Thanks so much for tuning in! 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! | |||
| Jo Keppler | 26 Oct 2021 | 01:03:22 | |
Jo Keppler is a wife, mom, ultramarathoner and in her own words a recovering alcoholic. Jo recently placed first at the Karkloof Trail Series 100miler and a few months before that she placed 2nd at Ultra-Trail Drakensberg. Jo is very passionate about advocating for drug and alcohol rehabilitation as well as mental health awareness. Thanks so much for tuning in! 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! | |||
| Ann Ashworth | 05 Oct 2021 | 00:54:50 | |
Ann is an Advocate, ultra-distance athlete and coach. Links: Thanks so much for tuning in! 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! | |||
| Bonus Episode: Breakdown of the 2021 Karkloof Trail Weekend with Jack Davis | 24 Sep 2021 | 00:20:34 | |
This is a Facebook Live chat I had with one of the race directors of the Karkloof Trail series, we talk about the runners to watch out for this weekend for the 100 and 50 milers as well as what to expect. Thanks so much for tuning in! 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! | |||
| Tobie Reyneke | 15 Sep 2021 | 01:22:42 | |
Tobie is an accomplished ultra runner currently on a quest to get to 100 x 100-milers, of which he is at his 91st. Tobie has run over 45000kms in races, 1400 races, 197 ultra marathons and 173 marathons. Thanks so much for tuning in! 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! | |||
| Linda Doke | 22 Aug 2021 | 01:10:13 | |
Linda Doke has been running for 27 years, 26 of which she's been an ultra runner. Linda was sought out by Salomon SA in 2008 and has been one of their athletes ever since – for many years as a Salomon athlete, and now as an ambassador. Linda has an astounding number of achievements with over 30 podium finishes as well as several records on various courses. Thanks so much for tuning in! 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! | |||
| Jack Davis | 28 Jul 2021 | 00:59:40 | |
Jack is one of the race directors of the Karkloof Trail Series. Jack is also an experienced runner on both road and trail, both locally as well as internationally. In this episode, we get to know Jack, our discussion spans from how he met his wife to what is entailed in being a race director of one of South Africa's iconic ultramarathons. Our discussion touches on Jack's first-place finish at the MacMac 100 miler as well as his podium finish alongside Martin Malherbe at the ADDO 100 Miler. Thanks so much for tuning in! 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! | |||
| Wandisile Nongodlwana | 28 Jun 2021 | 01:16:24 | |
Wandi is an accomplished road and trail runner with 12 Comrades finishes 7 of which are silver medals. Wandi's best time at Comrades is 6:39 on the down run in 2018. Wandi has also run the Washie 100 Miler, 2 times with 2nd place finishes both times.Wandisile has run Marathons all over the world including Chicago, Toronto and Paris. Apart from road, Wandi is also a serious trail runner with several podium finishes and he is currently leading the Backyard Ultra series of races with 2 wins.In this interview, we discuss how Wandi started running, skills for conquering the Backyard Ultra format of races, his life philosophy, what running means to him, as well as his goals for the future. Thanks so much for tuning in! 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! | |||
| Brett Florens - Switching Addictions from Alcohol and Drugs to Running | 06 Jun 2021 | 01:17:52 | |
Brett Florens is a well-renowned photographer as well as an accomplished runner. Brett started running when he was in the Police during a 6-week training camp which kickstarted his fitness and weight loss. Brett enjoyed being fit so much that he used the momentum from that camp to stay fit. His running journey progressed from running 5k's 3 times a week to a half marathon and then a full marathon. Fast forward 28 years later and Brett has completed 25 Comrades, 10 Two Oceans Ultra Marathons and over 120 marathons all over the world. Brett is also the Chairman of a local running phenomenon in Durban called Regents. Thanks so much for tuning in! 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! | |||
| Anele Bans | 24 May 2021 | 01:00:53 | |
Anele Bans is an Elite Ultra Distance Runner sponsored by Hoka One One (through Inkhambi Distribution). Anele has numerous running achievements. In this episode, we discuss Anele's race at his first 100 miler, the Addo Elephant Trail Run, where he placed 5th. We also talk about The 13 Peaks Challenge as well as his plans for the future. Links - https://www.ikhambi.co.za/hoka-one-one/ - https://addo.run/ - https://13peaks.co.za/ -https://www.facebook.com/anelebansOCR Thanks so much for tuning in! 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! | |||
| Deep Japan Ultra with Ashwini Ganapathi | 19 Aug 2025 | 01:09:56 | |
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. Links: Endure: Mind, Body and the Curiously Elastic Limits of Human Performance by Alex Hutchinson Formula 1: The Drive to Survive Thanks so much for tuning in! 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! | |||
| Liesl Koch - The Importance of a Running Community | 08 May 2021 | 00:32:45 | |
Liesl Koch is an experienced Ultra trail and roadrunner. Liesl is part of the Randburg Harriers Committee and is involved in organising the Randburg Harriers Valentine’s Day Race and the Vitality Race Series. We talk about the importance of having a running community as well as how Covid-19 has affected our running culture. To follow Liesl's story visit her blog at www.road-to-ultra.com Thanks so much for tuning in! 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! | |||
| René Vollgraaff | 25 Apr 2021 | 00:43:09 | |
René Vollgraaff is an extremely accomplished Ultra Trail Runner with several wins as well as numerous podium finishes. René is also the only person to have completed the Run AMUK Challenge in 2019 (Addo, Mac Mac, Ultra-Trail Drakensberg and Karkloof 100 Milers). René tells us about how she started running at a little race in Uppington to Mega ultras like the Munga 400km trail run. To read more about René: https://trailmag.co.za/rene-vollgraaff-2020-interview/René's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rene.vollgraaff.9René’s Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/renevollgraaff/?hl=en Thanks so much for tuning in! 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! | |||
| Fred Richardson | 10 Apr 2021 | 00:35:44 | |
Fred Richardson is the founder and head coach at Mindful Runner. Fred is a certified running coach personal trainer and adventure guide. Fred lives in Johannesburg South Africa with his partner and their two dogs. This episode focuses on the importance of having a coach and the need to take time to choose a coach that suits your personality and running goals. + www.mindfulrunner.co.za + Instagram @mindfulrunner + Facebook @MindfulRunnerJHB Thanks so much for tuning in! 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! | |||
| Nontuthuko Mgabhi | 02 Apr 2021 | 00:37:49 | |
Nontuthuko Mgabhi is an absolute Powerhouse! Her running journey started when a friend invited her for a 10km walk and she has never looked back. Nontu is the first African woman to run 7 Marathons on 7 continents in 7 days (The World Marathon Challenge). She is currently training for the Marathon des Sables. Nontu has also managed to raise R1.7 million Rands for Khiphinkunzi Primary School at Dukuduku area in Mtubatuba (KwaZulu Natal, South Africa) through her running endeavours. Links: Nontu's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nontuthuko.mgabhi To donate: https://www.backabuddy.co.za/champion/project/khiphinkunzi-primary The Alchemist (Book) https://www.amazon.com/Alchemist-Paulo-Coelho/dp/0061122416 Marathon De Sables: https://www.marathondessables.com/en World Marathon Challenge: https://www.runfuntravel.com/event.php?e=68 A New Earth (Book): https://www.amazon.com/New-Earth-Awakening-Purpose-Selection/dp/0452289963 Everest (Movie): Available on www.netflix.com Thanks so much for tuning in! 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! | |||
| Dave Funnell (Part 2 of 2) | 21 Mar 2021 | 00:48:05 | |
Dave describes himself as a middle-aged runner who started running by chance because a friend dragged him along to a Parkrun at the age of 48. Since then Dave has had running adventures spanning from local Parkruns to far off places such as Chamonix. In this interview, we get to know a bit more about Dave and he gives us detailed outlines of his most memorable racing adventures, including Skyrun, 9 Freedom day Parkruns, Comrades, Two Oceans Ultra, Ultra-Trail Cape Town, Mac Mac 100 miler, Death Valley Marathon, Grand Canyon R2R, CCC at UTMB and TDS at UTMB. Thanks so much for tuning in! 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! | |||
| Dave Funnell (Part 1 of 2) | 20 Mar 2021 | 00:41:22 | |
Dave describes himself as a middle-aged runner who started running by chance because a friend dragged him along to a Parkrun at the age of 48. Since then Dave has had running adventures spanning from local Parkruns to far off places such as Chamonix. In this interview, we get to know a bit more about Dave and he gives us detailed outlines of his most memorable racing adventures, including Skyrun, 9 Freedom day Parkruns, Comrades, Two Oceans Ultra, Ultra-Trail Cape Town, Mac Mac 100 miler, Death Valley Marathon, Grand Canyon R2R2R, CCC at UTMB and TDS at UTMB. Thanks so much for tuning in! 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! | |||
| Mike Sewell | 13 Mar 2021 | 00:41:43 | |
In this episode, I chat with Mike Sewell. Mike is an avid runner on both trail and road. He has run in far-flung places like Patagonia and the Sahara. Mike is also the owner of The Running Company. Mike talks about his experiences running the London Marathon, The Lake Tahoe 50miler, running 1200 across Patagonia and taking the challenge of the Long Road to Comrades with a 1,000km in 19 days then Comrades. Thanks so much for tuning in! 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 Running Voyager (Trailer) | 23 Jan 2021 | 00:00:34 | |
Thanks so much for tuning in! 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 Long Run: Navigating Menopause and Aging as a Female Ultra Runner - with Debbie van der Linde | 20 Jul 2025 | 00:43:04 | |
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:
Guest Bio: Just Mercy: A Story of Justice and Redemption by Bryan Stevenson Thanks so much for tuning in! 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! | |||
| Dead Cow Gully Ultra with "Bagman" Mitchitaro Mizuno | 14 Jul 2025 | 00:18:39 | |
In this episode, the guest is Michitaro Mizuno. Michitaro is a young Japanese ultra trail runner, podcast host, race director, and community builder in his own right. We talk about his 94 loops at Dead Cow Gully Backyard Ultra — that’s 94 hours of running, or 3 days and 22 hours, covering a total distance of 630.364 km. Michitaro earned the nickname "Bagman" because he ran with a shopping bag for the entire race. And yes — in this episode, we answer the question: what was in the bag? Michitaro is part of a thriving trail running community in Tanzawa, Kanagawa, Japan. If you’re new to it, a Backyard Ultra — also called Last One Standing — is a type of ultramarathon where runners must complete a 6.706 km (4.167 mi) loop every hour. They have to start a new lap on the hour, every hour, and the race continues until only one person finishes a loop. (Wikipedia) Links As Far As Possible Ultrarunning Beyond the Despair - A Backyard Ultra Documentary Thanks so much for tuning in! 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! | |||
| Japanese Laz aka Tomokazu Ihara on Barkley Marathons, Grand Slam & Oshigaichi FKT | 11 Jul 2025 | 00:45:42 | |
In this episode the featured guest is Tomokazu Ihara, Tomo is affectionately known as "Japanese Laz" the world over. Tomo is an accomplished ultrarunner who started running from a 5km challenge at work. Tomo is currently in a quest to complete 100 100-milers and he is at number 78 at the moment. He also completed the Grand Slam. In trail running, the term “Grand Slam” typically refers to the Grand Slam of Ultrarunning™, a U.S.-based challenge that involves finishing four of five of the most prestigious 100-mile races in a single calendar year. These races are:
In 2023 the Vermont 100 was cancelled and Tomo Ran the Devil’s Gulch 100 which was an acceptable replacement race. Tomo went above and beyond by completing five in 2023: Old Dominion 100, Western States 100, Devil’s Gulch 100 (in place of the Vermont 100), Leadville 100, and Wasatch Front 100. In this episode, we talk about the Barkley Marathons 2025 — which is Tomo's 6th attempt. This year, only four people were able to complete two loops, including Tomo. ( with one 3 loop finisher - John Kelly) We also talk about Tomo’s recent attempt at the grueling Oshigaichi FKT, a roughly 450 km (280 miles) run with over 30,000 meters of elevation gain around the mountainous border of Shiga Prefecture, Japan. We also discuss the docuseries tracking Tomo's series Main Quest and Japanese trail running culture. 🔗 Links & Mentions:
Thanks so much for tuning in! 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! | |||
| Carlos Rabsiun Aramburu on Strategy, Grit, and the Okumusashi 105 Long Trail | 18 Jun 2025 | 00:47:00 | |
This episode features Carlos Rabsiun Aramburu, who recently placed third in the grueling Okumusashi 105 Long Trail ultramarathon. We dive into his race experience, covering everything from his pacing strategy and nutrition plan to the mental and physical demands of ultra-distance trail running. Into Their Labours by John Berger Thanks so much for tuning in! 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! | |||
| Breaking Records & Building Healthy Communities with Kwame Terra | 14 Jun 2025 | 01:25:55 | |
In this inspiring episode, I chat with Kwame Terra, CEO of bEHR Health Systems. We explore Kwame’s running journey, how a childhood sports injury sparked his passion for public health, and how that led to a lifetime of advocacy and leadership. App name: dacadoo Access code for the app: RUNNINGVOYAGER 🔔 Don’t forget to **follow or subscribe** on your favorite podcast platform, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs a little motivation to start moving! Thanks so much for tuning in! 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! | |||
| Skipping to Save Lives – The Rope Runner’s Mission with Marissa Groenewald | 28 May 2025 | 00:38:05 | |
In this episode, we’re joined by Marissa Groenewald, better known as The Rope Runner—an unstoppable force blending endurance sport with powerful advocacy. Marissa recently made history by becoming the first person to complete a marathon while skipping, and she didn’t stop there. She’s already conquered the Two Oceans Ultra Marathon (56km)—also on a skipping rope—and is now preparing for her biggest challenge yet: the legendary Comrades Marathon (89km). Her mission? To raise R500,000 for Love Justice International, an organization that fights human trafficking by intercepting victims before they’re lost across borders. Every skip she takes is a step toward saving lives. Marissa’s passion is personal. Inspired by her mother’s work helping trafficking survivors in Asia, she’s using her platform, strength, and story to protect those who need it most. 💛 Join us as Marissa shares how she’s turning an unconventional sport into a movement for justice—and why she believes every jump can change a life. Links: 👉 Support her campaign: BackaBuddy – The Rope Runner’s Race for Humanity Ryan Sandes: Run. Risk. Reward.: My Epic Trail-Running Adventures Thanks so much for tuning in! 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! | |||