Explore every episode of the podcast Middle of the Pack Podcast

A solo episode about handling taper week four days before the Dublin Marathon: what to expect physically and mentally, why rest and sleep matter, and how to avoid trying anything new.

Practical race-day advice on pacing, fueling, logistics and mindset—bank sleep, trust your training, break the marathon into chunks, pack warm clothes, and enjoy the crowds.

Episode 63 features David Gillick — elite athlete, RTE commentator and author of The Race — sharing practical advice for middle-of-the-pack runners. He discusses his shift to longer distances, race-day tactics from the Manchester Half, pacing his wife at the Dublin Marathon, shoe choices, fueling with gels, and how to trust your training during the taper.

Simple, human conversation about preparation, mindset, and racing smart for anyone building toward a half or full marathon.

Eoghan O'Brien of Dublin Frontrunners shares his running journey from struggling 5Ks to training for the Dublin Marathon while fundraising for the Irish Cancer Society in memory of loved ones. The episode highlights the club's welcoming community, practical advice on shoes, orthotics and fueling (including caffeine gels), and the motivation that keeps all middle of the pack runners going.Eoghan Fundrasining Page https://eventmaster.ie/fundraising/pages/EO99188211

Merch Link: https://unbound.ie/search?q=Motp

 

Episode 61 features Catherine Harris (Insta RunCoachCath) sharing her running journey from casual 10Ks during COVID to marathons and ultras, and how she became a coach focused on educating everyday runners.

She covers practical race-day advice — pacing strategies, pacer selection, fueling and gel timing, shoe choices — and offers specific tips for Dublin marathoners and prep for Chicago.

The episode highlights coaching philosophy: simple, achievable plans that teach runners to become confident and independent over time.

Episode 60 of The Middle of the Pack podcast features Brian Kelly from Dublin Frontrunners as he prepares for the Amsterdam Marathon, sharing his late-start running story and how club life transformed his social life and training.

Brian covers marathon training routines, long runs and tapering, fueling strategy and gels, race-day expectations, and the social support that helps make marathon prep manageable and enjoyable.

 

https://unbound.ie/search?q=Motp

Adrian Hanley shares his running journey from easy beginnings to marathon racing, detailing ups and downs, injuries, family life and club training with Skerrie’s AC.

He discusses race experiences in Connemara, Dublin and London, training strategies (easy runs, hard sessions, mobility and strength work), and his love for running shoes—especially carbon-plated racers.

This episode covers how consistency, realistic goals and enjoying the race day play into long-term progress and performance.

MOTP Merch -

https://unbound.ie/search?q=Motp

Episode 58 sets the scene 46 days before the Dublin Marathon and encourages middle-of-the-pack runners to trust their training, build confidence, and stay consistent without comparing themselves to others.

The host covers long-run strategy, practicing marathon pace and fueling, handling missed runs, and the mental game — and invites runners (especially women) to share their stories at motpire@gmail.com.

In this episode of the Middle of the Pack Podcast, Padraig sits down with Simon Kelly of Plant Based AC for a wide-ranging conversation about running, health, nutrition and preparing for the Dublin Marathon.

Simon shares his journey back to running after his rugby days, what drew him towards a plant-based lifestyle and how going vegan became an important part of his approach to health and performance.

We also get into the practical side of marathon preparation — how Simon is structuring his training, building towards Dublin, managing the demands of running alongside everyday life, and how he plans to fuel his body for the big day.

There’s plenty of honest conversation about what it really takes to prepare for a marathon as an everyday runner, the lessons learned along the way, and why nutrition and recovery can be just as important as the miles themselves.

A great chat about running, lifestyle, consistency and the journey towards the Dublin Marathon — with plenty for any middle-of-the-pack runner to take away.

MOTP Merch -

https://unbound.ie/search?q=Motp

Every pace has a place.

Episode 56 of The Middle of the Pack features Mossy O'Mahony discussing his running journey—from parkruns to his first Dublin Marathon—his training routine, coaching support, gear choices, fueling strategy, and plans for this year’s race.

As Dublin approaches, Mossy shares setbacks (including a blister that forced a DNF), race-day lessons, shoe and nutrition preferences, and how he balances shift work and coaching youth teams with marathon preparation.

Episode 55 features Charlie "Chaz" Lillis discussing his switch from GAA to running after knee surgery, his rapid progress from 5K to marathon, and his goals for the Dublin Marathon. He also talks about the Malin-to-Mizen fundraising walk for CUH for family friend "Tubbs", training and fueling strategies, shoe choices, and sharing the journey on social media. A real inspiring guy with a passion for sport, health & fitness and having a good time. "Don't forget to listen...Good luck"

Episode 54 of the Middle of the Pack podcast features Maeve O’Hagan describing how she started running during COVID, joined a club, and progressed from parkruns to completing multiple marathons including Cork, Belfast and Edinburgh.

Maeve shares training and fueling tips (including gels, hydration and pacing), the mental-health benefits of running, and how club support and community helped her improve and enjoy racing. Stay tuned for podcast merch and gear updates from The Middle of the Pack podcast.

Episode 53 features 23-year-old Paddy McClintock, who ran the length of Ireland over 14 days to raise funds and awareness for his charity Check In On A Mate. He shares his journey from rugby and Ironmans to planning and completing Project Ireland, the logistical challenges, injuries, and the mindset behind ultra-endurance efforts.

Paddy explains how the charity grew from run clubs and school talks into a program teaching mental health awareness and peer support. The episode highlights the power of movement to open conversations, how to check in on friends, and where listeners can learn more or get involved.

https://checkinonamate.com/

INSTA Check in on a mate. (@checkinonamate) Patrick Mcclintock (@paddy.mcclintock)https://www.instagram.com/paddy.mcclintock/?hl=en  

 

 

 

Episode 52 is a 13-week, no-nonsense guide for middle of the pack runners preparing for the Dublin Marathon. It covers setting A/B/C goals, building a realistic weekly plan around four key sessions, long-run strategies, strength work, recovery, nutrition, and race-day mindset.

The episode focuses on consistency over perfection, practical tips for balancing training with life, and encouragement to trust the process—plus an invitation to share your marathon journey on the podcast.

Email me MOTPIRE@gmail.com

 

Episode 51 captures a day at the London Diamond League where Josh Kerr’s Project 222 mile world record stole the show. The host and members of Eagle AC share voice notes and reactions, reliving the electric atmosphere at the Olympic Stadium.

The episode also celebrates standout performances from Irish athletes like Mark English and Sarah Healy, and highlights the camaraderie of clubmates traveling together to witness elite athletics up close.

In episode 50 the host chats with Niamh Walsh about her running journey—from starting in Australia to earning a big half-marathon PB in Cork. They discuss training structure, switching to a coach, injury prevention, strength work, race fueling (Altar Nutrition speed dust and gels), and shoe choices.

Niamh also talks about the social benefits of club running, balancing life and training, and shares her Instagram handle (niamhstrainingdiaries) for listeners to follow or ask questions.

Episode 49 of the Middle of the Pack podcast — a mailbag special answering listener questions about why the show exists, marathon training tips (with a focus on gut and nutrition), race-day mistakes, and favorite gear.

Padraig shares practical advice on fuelling long runs, evening-race strategies, the challenges of producing a weekly podcast, and encouragement for runners of all levels to keep showing up.

EMAIL MOTPIRE@GMAIL.COM

In episode 48 of The Middle of the Pack, Karen Twomey talks running shorts, pacing the Cork City Marathon 10K, and her personal race superstitions. She shares favorite shorts (Lululemon Wonder Trains, Nike Swift), advice on sizing to avoid ride-up, storage options like pockets and belts, and quick fixes for chafing and phone carry.

This episode mixes practical gear tips with Karen’s pacing highlights and personal stories, giving listeners useful recommendations for training and race day comfort.

 

KIPRUN HYDRATION FLASK-CARRYING RUNNING BELT - BLACK

Tight shorts - Lululemon Wunder-Train with pockets

  Baggy shorts with tight under layer - Nike Swift Dri-Fit   Baggy Shorts with no tight under layer - Lululemon Shake It Out High Rise Short, Lululemon Hotty-Hot Shorts or Nike Running Tempo Dri-Fit   USA Pro Seamless Longline Cycling Shorts Womens superstition race shorts   Advice - I always size up and get the longer length options!

Episode 47 of The Middle of the Pack features Ian O'Brien recounting his Paris Marathon experience, how he manages his running shoes (including buying and selling on Vinted), and answering listener questions about must-have shoes, carbon plates, toe problems, and versatile trainers.

Ian shares his top shoe picks, race stories, and practical tips for fitting, sizing, and choosing the right running footwear.

 

Email MOTPIRE@gmail.com

Episode 46 of The Middle of the Pack features Mary Sweeney reflecting on a lifetime of running — from childhood sprints to dozens of marathons, parkrun camaraderie, and running through illness and loss. Mary shares personal stories about training, fueling, shoes, and the deep sense of community that keeps her coming back to the road.

This short, honest chat highlights running as both sport and therapy, celebrating resilience, kindness, and the simple joys of post-run coffee, cakes and shared memories.

Episode 45 of the Middle of the Pack podcast features Laura Garrigan sharing her running journey — from starting at parkrun in 2023 to completing 10Ks, a sub-4hr Dublin Marathon, the Trasna relay and a 24-hour fundraiser where she runs 5K every hour for the Samaritans.

Laura discusses training, fueling, shoe rotation and community support, and listeners can follow her progress and donate via her Instagram @laws_fitness.

Email motpire@gmail.com

This episode captures the emotion and community of Cork City Marathon weekend — from the yellow tributes to Ellen Cassidy, to pacers, volunteers and runners sharing finish-line stories across the 10K, half and full. It’s a celebration of why people run: connection, support and the moments that matter more than times.

#WWECD

Email MOTPIRE@gmail.com

Episode 43 of the Middle of the Pack podcast explores the panic, superstition and strange rituals that hit runners during taper week before a race.

Padraig offers practical reassurance—trust your training, avoid over-checking injuries, stick to simple carb and hydration habits—and celebrates the courage of everyday runners. A light-hearted guide to staying calm and enjoying race day.

Email MOTPIRE@gmail.com

Episode 42 features Sean Lucey, Eagle AC's men's captain, who explains why consistent mileage and easy runs matter more than flashy track sessions. He talks through his injury recovery, marathon and half‑marathon breakthroughs, fueling and shoe choices, and how patience and strength work rebuilt his performance.

Sean also shares practical club advice for newcomers — the value of asking questions, making friends, and trusting gradual training to improve times.

Email MOTPIRE@gmail.com with any questions....

Episode 41 follows Linda McKeown’s running journey from her first parkrun to completing the Cork half marathon, guided by her coach Kieran. We discuss training structure, mileage, fueling strategies, race-day pacing, and the importance of community support.

The episode also highlights the IGBF charity fun runs in Dublin (June 6) and Cork/Mallow (June 20), with details on goody bags, medals, and two free entries for each race, to enter email with your name and mobile number motpire@gmail.com. Closing date : 3/6/26

Episode 40 features Victor Danylyuk sharing his journey from swimming to running and his build-up to the Cork City Marathon. He discusses training changes, working with a coach, and how running improved his fitness after sports-induced asthma.

The episode’s key lesson: don’t change fuel on race day. Victor explains his gel experiment (High5 vs SIS), the importance of testing fueling in training, and how to manage heavy sweating with electrolytes and hydration—practical advice for middle-of-the-pack runners.

https://www.precisionhydration.com/eu/en/ for a consultation....

Episode 39 of The Middle of the Pack podcast is a London Marathon special featuring the historic sub‑2‑hour finish, The sub 2 hour landmark performances, and Irish standout Peter Lynch’s national record. We also hear an update from Laura 'Muddy Soles' on running in wellies, the FTD brothers’ fundraising mission, and spend most of the episode with Gerry Lynch from Cork discussing his race prep, experience, and fundraising for CUH.

This episode blends elite performances, personal stories, and practical race insights for Middle of the Pack runners.

 

Lauras Link for Unique

https://2026tcslondonmarathon.enthuse.com/pf/laura-stenton-slater

Jerry Lynch's Link for CUH is in his Bio on Insta 

 

Episode 38 features Owen Wright sharing his running journey—from early runs and joining Watergrass Hill to stepping back into training after family life.

He discusses coaching, a hamstring setback and physio, marathon fueling and shoe choices, and his plans for the Cork Marathon.

Owen and his wife Fay are fundraising for the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust, explaining why the charity matters and how listeners can support them.

https://gofund.me/5a039e67b

Episode 37 features Dennis Cronin describing how joining Watergrasshill AC after a Couch-to-5K changed his life. He talks about the social side of running, the supportive running community, and how group runs improved his mental health and friendships.

Dennis shares training habits, race experiences including his Malaga marathon, lessons learned about fueling, and why he loves distances like the 10K. The episode celebrates everyday runners and the communal joy of running. Email motpire@gmail.com with any questions or suggestions, or if you would like to come on and share your story.

 

In Episode 36, Robert McNamee describes his running journey — from youth sports and Gaelic football to taking up distance running in his 30s, training for multiple Dublin Marathons and aiming for a sub‑4 finish while balancing strength work, recovery and group training.

He also explains how BuffBarrier was born to solve chafing and blisters with Irish‑made, natural formulas (beeswax, shea butter, coconut oil, zinc oxide, arnica, peppermint/eucalyptus), and how expos, online sales and customer feedback are shaping the brand's growth. Email motpire@gmail.com with any questions or suggestions, or if you would like to come on and share your story. 

Episode 35 of The Middle of the Pack Podcast breaks down simple, practical fueling and hydration advice for recreational marathoners. Padraig covers hydration strategies, when and how to use electrolytes, and how caffeine gels can boost performance — plus references to experts and resources like "More Fuel You" and past episodes.

Key takeaways: drink to thirst, practice your gels and drinks on long runs, reserve electrolytes for long or hot races, and time caffeine gels to get the benefit in your race's later stages. Any Questions email me at motpire@gmail.com

Episode 34 features Karen Twomey’s return from injury, detailing her diagnosis, rehabilitation, strength work, and gradual run-walk comeback. She shares practical coaching, pacing and training insights while juggling work, sleep and race life.

Highlights include her first parkrun after injury, pacing plans for the Cork 10K, goals for a Lisbon half-marathon birthday race, and a positive message for everyday runners about racing without pressure and enjoying the start line. Email motpire@gmail.com with any questions or suggestions, or if you would like to come on and share your story.

Episode 33 of Middle of the Pack features Tomás Moore, founder of Step One Socks, sharing his running journey from a tentative 5K to regular half marathons, 10-milers and plans for a marathon.

He discusses why he prioritizes enjoyment over PBs, the supportive running community, and how his brand grew — overcoming manufacturing issues, expanding colors and singlets, and collaborating with run clubs.

Frank, honest and upbeat, the episode mixes personal racing stories, practical gear talk, and the positive mental-health message behind Step One Socks.

https://steponerunco.com/ 

Episode 32 of The Middle of the Pack dives into Ian O’Brien’s running journey — from starting after a medical scare and taekwondo roots, to coaching, club runs, and an expanding collection of running shoes. The conversation centers on choosing the right shoe for easy runs, sessions, long runs and race day, and looks at brands like Saucony, ASICS and Adidas.

Ian shares practical tips on shoe rotation, fitting, trying shoes in specialist shops, breaking in race shoes before race day, and how comfort and purpose should guide your choices — whether you’re a middle-of-the-pack runner or chasing PBs.

Episode 31 of the Middle of the Pack podcast features George Sherwood from Precision Fuel & Hydration. He explains sweat testing, electrolyte preloading, and practical fueling strategies for runners—how many gels to take, how much carbohydrate per hour, and when to use caffeine for best effect.

George emphasizes practicing fueling in training, tailoring sodium replacement to your sweat rate, and taking caffeine about halfway through a race so it peaks when you need it most.

Episode 30 features Tara Wilson from Women Who Run Ireland sharing her Donadea 50K story: the short training block, the race-day fueling plan of real food (bananas, Jaffa Cakes, dates) and electrolytes, and how dehydration and salt loss led to late-race cramping.

Tara explains her ‘‘real food running’’ approach, how she pre-fuels and grazes during runs, her recovery routine, and encourages more women to try longer events. 

Episode 29 features Conor O'Keeffe, founder of Altar Nutrition, sharing his running journey from boxing to ultra-distance challenges — including running 32 marathons in 32 days — and how persistent gut issues inspired him to create a better endurance fuel.

Conor explains how he developed "speed dust," how to build carbohydrate tolerance, practical pre-fuel and race-day strategies, and uses cases like carb loading and on-course fueling for marathons, ultras, and field sports.

Listeners will get actionable tips on pacing nutrition, increasing carbohydrate intake safely, and where to find Altar Nutrition for more guidance.

In episode 28 of the Middle of the Pack podcast, guest Enda Kiernan shares his running journey from school athletics and Mullingar Harriers to helping launch the first Parkrun outside Dublin in Macroom. He discusses the people who influenced him, his commitment to volunteering, and how running shaped his coaching and role with Cork under‑20s and club football.

Enda also talks practical topics like warm‑ups, speed work, nutrition (including Speed Dust/Alter Nutrition), and the strong crossover between athletics and Gaelic football. The episode highlights the value of community, mentorship and giving back to sport.

Episode 27 of The Middle of the Pack features Cian Charlton — entrepreneur, runner, and founder of 35 Vintage, on Fade St Dublin — as he shares his running journey and the launch of his Irish running brand, NegativeSplit.ie

They discuss Negativesplit gear, early product launches (the skull cap), design and manufacturing plans, balancing business with training, shoe habits, and Cian’s upcoming trail ultra in Spain( which he nearly forgot).

In this episode episode 26 of The Middle of the Pack Podcast, Laura Stenton Slater—known as Laura Muddy Soles—shares her running comeback, her decision to run the London Marathon in wellington boots for the charity Unique, and the personal story behind her motivation: her son's rare chromosome disorder.

Laura talks about rediscovering running after years away, how TikTok and a supportive community helped her reshape her relationship with the sport, the physical and practical challenges of training in wellies, and her fundraising and Guinness World Record goals. Link to Donate

2026tcslondonmarathon.enthuse.com/pf/laura-stenton-slater

In episode 25 of the Middle of the Pack podcast, Ann O'Neill recounts how she started running, her journey to 79 marathons, and the viral TikTok clip from the New York Marathon that sparked worldwide attention. Ann discusses training while working as a nurse, overcoming injury and cancer, running low-key marathons across Ireland and abroad, and her plans and dreams toward reaching 100 marathons. A real down to earth conversation between two people enjoying their running journey.

Episode 24 features Conor Friel sharing his return to running, training with Carragline AC, race-day stories from 10Ks to full marathons, and the gear and fueling that keep him going.

Conor also discusses living with dyspraxia, fundraising nearly €2,000 for Dyspraxia Ireland, and his plans for upcoming races and travel. A really great episode where we, yet again, celebrate an everyday runner facing everyday challenges.

Episode 23 of The Middle of the Pack Podcast with Kieran McKeown explores his journey from junior track talent to full-time coach and why smart coaching beats endless training. Kieran shares practical tips on warming up and cooling down, avoiding injury, race fitness, sensible marathon planning, and the value of community support.

He explains how individualized coaching, week-to-week plans, and knowing when to rest help runners improve and stay running for decades, with real examples of runners who cut minutes off their 5K–half marathon times.

Episode 22 reviews the highs and lows of 2025 and looks ahead to 2026, celebrating everyday runners, recovery, and steady progress over flashy results.

Padraig shares stories of injury, resilience, personal bests, and the simple joy of running, inviting listeners to set realistic goals and run with presence and curiosity in the new year. As a podcast celebrating everyday runners we look forward to 2026 a new year, new goals and new Kms...

On this Christmas Eve special of The Middle of the Pack Podcast, returning guests share their running wishlists — from race entries and carbon‑plated shoes to watches, earphones and recovery gear.

The episode mixes practical gift ideas (race vouchers, shoes, socks, gels, reflective gear, recovery sliders) with heartfelt wishes for an injury‑free 2026, family time and the joy of running together.

Happy Christmas and a heartfelt thank you to all who supported me on this Journey. Ding Dong Merrily.....

Episode 20 of The Middle of the Pack features Ruairi O'Hagan reflecting on his Dublin Marathon experience, the post-race struggle with motivation and injury, and the training and support that got him through. Ruairi also discusses his role as chair of Watergrasshill running club and the importance of community in his running journey.

Listen for candid stories about race day drama, recovery, accountability from coaches and teammates, and Ruairi's goals for future races and club growth.

In this episode Cliodhna Ruane shares her moving journey balancing marathon training with devastating family challenges — the loss of her husband to cancer and her daughter’s leukemia diagnosis — and how running has kept her resilient.

She talks candidly about recovery after Dublin Marathon, adapting training while caring for her children, plans for future races, and how running provides mental release and strength through hardship. There's lots of silly small talk too in what was a very easy episode to record..

John Calabrese joins the podcast to talk turkey trots, pushing wheelchair racers, and his journey from road races to brutal ultras.

He shares fueling tricks, shoe testing, race stories and how running helps him balance family life, caregiving and the highs and lows of the sport.

So Buckle up and enjoy the Middle of the Pack podcast Ep18.

Episode 17 features Caroline Coffey as she discusses her transition from corporate life to personal training, coaching busy women, and balancing marathon training with family life.

Caroline shares honest stories about race-day emotions, training strategies, fueling, accountability, and how to enjoy food and fitness without extremes.

Episode 16 features Eamon Kearney, who shares his journey from heavy drinking and a near-fatal moment to sobriety and running marathons. After a mild heart attack and confronting severe mental-health struggles, running helped him rebuild his life, reconnect with family, and find purpose.

He talks about training, major races like Chicago and Boston, the emotional power of running with his half brother, and how his TikTok account has inspired others to change their lives. Episode 16 is about resilience, recovery, and community.

Episode 15 of the Middle of the Pack features Tara Wilson of Women Who Run Ireland discussing her 15-year running journey, how running helped her heal and keeps on healing, and her work at the Run Hub helping all types of runners through Women who run Ireland.

She shares tips on mental training for marathons, the Super Half series and solo race travel, running community stories, winter gear recommendations, and why celebrating everyday runners matters.