I Did A Runner Podcast – Details, episodes & analysis

Joining me on the podcast today is extreme adventurer, motivational speaker and world record holder Ash Dykes. I had the privilege to sit down with Ash just a couple of weeks before he embarks on his next world record first in the Amazon, arguably his most dangerous challenge yet, exploring a territory no human is believed to have been before. This really is a challenge where every decision could be the difference between life and death.

Ash’s story is one of hardships, determination, and resilience. There have been moments when it seemed like the world was against him, but his unwavering belief in his work drives him forward until he achieves his dreams.

One of the most important lessons we can take from this episode is realising how crucial the decisions we make during our most vulnerable moments are, and how those choices can shape both who we are and the final outcome.

This episode is a special one for me, as I am joined by my business partners, Ben Parker and Dom Maskell, both forbes 30 under 30, and founders of one of the fastest growing businesses in the UK - Runna.

I was introduced to them both as I started training with Ben as my running coach. It is crazy how an unexpected journey into running would introduce to someone and it change our lives forever.

What does it take to build a multi million pound company in only three years? Today you will find out. I have seen both of them grow in their retrospective roles within the company leading the way, and as people. Too often in business, we see and hear about the successes and the financials, but never really hear the true story of what it takes to get there, but this episode provides just that. For any aspiring business men or women out there, this episode will give a deeper insight into the process of starting a business, and how to grow it successfully.

Runna has quickly become one of the most recognised products worldwide, selling running plans in over 180 countries. Today, we explore the reasons behind the company's success, what helps you push through the tougher times, and what the future holds for both the company and its users. This episode underscores the unpredictability of life and serves as a testament that if you stay persistent, opportunities - both big and small - will come your way. The key is to seize them when they arise and make the most of them.

Joining me on the podcast today is one of my closest friends Ben Tensely, who has been one of the biggest influences in my life, and the inspiration behind some of my biggest challenges. The first time he met my daughter India, would become a day we would never forget. On his way home he was involved in an accident that would paralyse him from the chest down, and would change his life forever, and steer mine in a completely new direction. His resilience, ambition, and positivity is what empowers you to believe anything is possible. Having been told he would never walk again, his journey to taking that first step is what has driven me to test my limits, understanding the value of life and seeing first hand how quickly it can change in an instant, he’s my reminder to make it count. In order to succeed, you must be brave, for some of the goals we set ourselves may seem impossible.

This episode is a special one, with my book coming out this Thursday, I wanted to Ben to see it for the first time together in this conversation, so he can too realise the impact he has had on my life, and how far we have come together.

Joining me on today’s podcast is comedian, actor, presenter and BAFTA winner - Joel Dommett. This episode was so insightful, hearing from someone at the top of their game be so honest about their rise in success and what it takes to get there. Success comes with a price, hearing how Joel copes with that will benefit so many people. 

Since becoming a parent, it’s had a profound impact on his career and passions in life, his burning desire to be a role model to his child and now understanding more than ever the importance of connection and families has steered him in new directions. The fitness community has become an integral part of Joel‘s journey, and in this episode we delve deep into the benefits it’s had on his mental health. Inspiration can make you do wonderful things, most recently he completed his first official marathon dressed as a piranha. This is only just the beginning for Joel, but with his all in attitude, what does the future look like?

This week's podcast features Milly Pickles, who, despite having only been a brief presence in my life, has left a profound impact. Her attitude to life and what comes with it is what makes her so remarkable. After almost loosing her life to a horrific accident and becoming an amputee, her story could have finished there, but her determination has shown it’s far from over. 

In this episode, we discuss how she defines herself by her approach to life rather than her injuries, the value of her environment and what impact it has on her, and what the future looks like with the many ambitions she has set herself to achieve. Milly’s message is creating a formidable ripple effect across the globe, she gives people hope no matter the circumstances. Where some see limitations, she sees a new opportunities.

Joining me on this week's podcast is a man who knocked my tooth out and made me drink it as his own wedding, he’s my mucka, my hombre, and a good friend James Dunmore. He was made to look a mute on our screens, but the man is far from that. This will be the first time to hear and see him say more than 6 words. Very few know the real Dunmore, he’s as beautiful inside, as he is out. He’s used his platform to help raise money and awareness to improve the lives of so many living with cystic fibrosis. Having lost both of his sisters to the disease, it comes from an incredible passionate place. What I’ve lost in teeth knowing this man, i’ve gained in memories. We’ve come along way since the day we met, he’s now a husband, recently become a father for the first time, and now devoted to his newest passion of running, we hear how he’s balancing it all.

Joining me on this week’s podcast is TV personality, campaigner, and ultra athlete, Ashley Cain, who is at the beginning of his next challenge facing John o’Groats to Lands End, not once, but three times over, running, cycling, and kayaking the distance to continue campaigning for key change in childhood cancer. After the tragic loss of his daughter Azaylia to cancer, Ashley has committed his life to helping others, his work has created a ripple effect across the nation giving so many people hope.

Strength must be found if we are to face the inevitable challenges life throws at us, Ashleys resilience is testament to what can be achieved when faced with such a tragedy. His daughter's legacy lives on through his work. This episode is incredible powerful, and is a reminder to never give up.

Joining me on this week’s podcast are two instrumental parts of my team and the reason behind the success of my most reason challenge R41M. 

Charlie my physio and Nick my strength and conditioning coach have elevated my performance and enabled me a far more sustainable approach to my training with the intention of producing longevity with what i set out to achieve.

This episode was hugely insightful and will help so many with their approach to both performance and the recovery side of things. With a wealth of knowledge and experience behind them, this will help all runners, and anyone testing themselves physically.  Comparison is the thief of joy, so many can relate to this, we discuss how this view can be improved to ensure the most fulfilling outcome for you personally. With whatever you have set yourself, this episode could change your present and the future outcome of it.

Joining me on this week’s podcast episode is the hybrid athlete and fitness influencer and arguably one of the most impressive people I follow - Lucy Davis.

In this episode we chat about her journey in the last 2 years, going from completing her first half marathon, to recently finishing the 350 mile Speed Project race in the US. Before her love of running, Lucy started in the gym helping her become stronger physically and mentally after overcoming an eating disorder. Since then she has established herself as a hybrid athlete and has grown hugely successful online. We go into the deeper meaning of why she is not afraid to be vulnerable, sharing her highs and lows that come with everyday life. Her success online comes with the price of being criticised and trolled about her body and her performance, something that so many can relate to. We delve into what impact that has on her and how she motivates herself to keep going on.

Joining me on the this week’s podcast is the well known TV personality, physician, and the UK’s youth mental health ambassador - Dr Alex George. Alex’s work is having a huge impact around the UK making it a healthier and happier place. After the tragic loss of his brother, Alex has gone on to use his platform to improve the system and ensure more will be done to support people around the UK struggling with their mental health. His message is a powerful one and comes from the heart. Alex’s journey has not been an easy one, but it has shaped the person he is today. Sobriety has changed his life and taken him down a new path, with a refreshed mindset he’s directed his attention to new things and running is something very new to him, I’m excited to hear what his new passion looks like for him, and what impact this has had on both him personally and the invested audience he has.