This is a podcast about running and storytelling. Each episode we’ll talk to a runner and hear their story. Running is never just about running there’s always so much more to it!

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/7/19/21/11aedb7b-f3ad-43cb-9832-ea729a472961_noleen_with_conclusion_2.mp3

What happens when you decide that your age, your circumstances, or other people’s expectations do not get to define what you are capable of?In this inspiring episode, I sit down with Noleen Dube, a powerhouse in the corporate sector, a wife and mother of two adult children. In this episode, we talk all about how Noleen summited Mount Kilimanjaro at the age of 55.Noleen’s story is about so much more than climbing a mountain. It is about the power of positive thinking, the importance of believing in yourself, and the courage to attempt something big, even when the goal feels daunting.We talk about what it means to challenge your own limitations, the mindset required to keep going when things get difficult, and how the lessons we learn in one area of life can transform every other part of it.As a Black African woman, a mother, and a leader in the corporate world, Noleen brings a unique perspective to the question: What might be possible if we stopped telling ourselves that we are too old, too busy, too inexperienced, or simply not capable?Her journey to the summit of Kilimanjaro is a powerful reminder that sometimes the biggest obstacle is not the mountain in front of us, but the limits we have placed on ourselves.This is a conversation about courage, resilience, positive thinking, ambition, and the power of believing that you can achieve big things.In this episode, we discuss:<ul><li>Noleen’s journey to summiting Mount Kilimanjaro at 55</li><li>The mindset required to take on a major challenge</li><li>The power of positive thinking</li><li>Why believing in yourself matters</li><li>Challenging the limitations we place on ourselves</li><li>Balancing a demanding corporate career with motherhood</li><li>What it means to pursue big goals at any stage of life</li><li>The lessons the mountain taught her about resilience and perseverance</li><li>Why it is never too late to attempt something extraordinary</li></ul>If you have ever had a dream but wondered whether you were too old, too busy, or not capable enough to pursue it, this episode is for you.Noleen’s story is a reminder: the mountain may be difficult, but the first step is believing that you can climb it.

The Power of Believing in What’s Possible: Noleen Dube’s Kilimanjaro Story

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In this episode, we sit down with ultra-runner Donovan Shirley of Pirates Running Club in Johannesburg to discuss an extraordinary challenge that goes far beyond the finish line.Donovan is no stranger to pushing the limits of human endurance. Having competed in the legendary Backyard Ultra format, he has built a reputation for resilience, grit, and perseverance. But his latest challenge is about something much bigger than running.Ahead of the Comrades Marathon, Donovan will run from Pietermaritzburg to Durban before joining thousands of runners on the start line of Comrades to run the official race back to Pietermaritzburg. The challenge intentionally mirrors the journey many people face with their mental health: running &#34;Down&#34; to Durban before turning around and finding the strength to &#34;Get Back Up.&#34;This powerful campaign aims to raise awareness and funds for mental health organisations Matthew&amp;ME and the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG), while encouraging open and honest conversations about depression, anxiety, and the importance of seeking support.Matthew&amp;ME was founded in memory of 16-year-old Matthew, who tragically lost his battle with depression. The organisation works to raise awareness around teen suicide, create safe spaces for conversations about mental health, and support families navigating depression and loss. Their message is simple but vital: it&#39;s okay not to be okay, and it&#39;s okay to ask for help.Throughout our conversation, Donovan shares:<ul><li>His background in ultra-running and Backyard Ultras</li><li>Why did he choose mental health as the focus of this challenge</li><li>The symbolism behind running to Durban and then back again</li><li>The physical and mental demands of a back-to-back Comrades effort</li><li>The importance of community support and connection</li><li>His hopes for the impact this campaign can have across South Africa</li></ul>This challenge is about more than miles. It&#39;s about resilience, hope, and reminding people that no matter how difficult the journey may seem, there is always a way forward.Because sometimes the bravest thing we can do is keep moving.We can do hard things.To learn more about the campaign, support the fundraising effort, or find help for yourself or someone you know, please visit Matthew&amp;ME and SADAG.#MentalHealth #ComradesMarathon #UltraRunning #DonovanShirley #PiratesRunningClub #SADAG #MatthewAndME #BackyardUltra #MentalHealthAwareness #WeCanDoHardThings Links<a href="https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/get-back-up~2?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQPOTM2NjE5NzQzMzkyNDU5AAGnCrfYFwSXYBEXdsFPs2Fxsd3EkeTGoCl60EeJSo5zO5XdOVKEzNYcvbmTRCM_aem_EHBefoB4PxRU0C7C0ICj6Q&utm_content=link_in_bio&utm_medium=social&utm_source=ig" rel="nofollow">Backabuddy Campaign</a>Merch order form<a href="https://www.instagram.com/getbackupchallenge/?hl=en" rel="nofollow">Instagram</a>Alexander Sorrington

In this episode, we sit down with ultra-runner Donovan Shirley of Pirates Running Club in Johannesburg to discuss an extraordinary challenge that goes far beyond the finish line.

Donovan is no stranger to pushing the limits of human endurance. Having competed in the legendary Backyard Ultra format, he has built a reputation for resilience, grit, and perseverance. But his latest challenge is about something much bigger than running.

Ahead of the Comrades Marathon, Donovan will run from Pietermaritzburg to Durban before joining thousands of runners on the start line of Comrades to run the official race back to Pietermaritzburg. The challenge intentionally mirrors the journey many people face with their mental health: running &#34;Down&#34; to Durban before turning around and finding the strength to &#34;Get Back Up.&#34;

This powerful campaign aims to raise awareness and funds for mental health organisations Matthew&amp;ME and the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG), while encouraging open and honest conversations about depression, anxiety, and the importance of seeking support.

Matthew&amp;ME was founded in memory of 16-year-old Matthew, who tragically lost his battle with depression. The organisation works to raise awareness around teen suicide, create safe spaces for conversations about mental health, and support families navigating depression and loss. Their message is simple but vital: it&#39;s okay not to be okay, and it&#39;s okay to ask for help.

Throughout our conversation, Donovan shares:
His background in ultra-running and Backyard Ultras
Why did he choose mental health as the focus of this challenge
The symbolism behind running to Durban and then back again
The physical and mental demands of a back-to-back Comrades effort
The importance of community support and connection
His hopes for the impact this campaign can have across South Africa
This challenge is about more than miles. It&#39;s about resilience, hope, and reminding people that no matter how difficult the journey may seem, there is always a way forward.

Because sometimes the bravest thing we can do is keep moving.

We can do hard things.

To learn more about the campaign, support the fundraising effort, or find help for yourself or someone you know, please visit Matthew&amp;ME and SADAG.

#MentalHealth #ComradesMarathon #UltraRunning #DonovanShirley #PiratesRunningClub #SADAG #MatthewAndME #BackyardUltra #MentalHealthAwareness #WeCanDoHardThings



Running Down to Get Back Up: Donovan Shirley's Mental Health Mission

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/5/19/19/26ba63d4-5749-47f9-b790-a1e32f9f46b9_urvival-and-100-mile-races-with-junko-kazukawa.mp3

<a href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/1823207/fan_mail/new" rel="nofollow">Send us Fan Mail</a>Today’s guest is Junko Kazukawa, an ultra and trail runner based in Denver, Colorado, originally from Japan. She has over 30 years of experience in the health, fitness, and training fields, and currently works as a UESCA-certified running coach, personal trainer, group fitness instructor, and Run Club coordinator at Colorado Athletic Club Tabor.Junko is passionate about helping people achieve their athletic goals through individualized training and strength programs, with a focus on improving weaknesses and preventing injury. She enjoys working with runners of all levels, especially beginners and older athletes.She is also a two-time breast cancer survivor, an experience that continues to shape her approach to training and life.As an athlete, Junko has completed 19 100-mile ultramarathons, including races such as Leadville 100, UTMB, UTMF, and Ultra Fiord in Patagonia. In 2015, she completed both the Grand Slam of ultrarunning and the Leadwoman series in the same season.She is an Altra Red Team athlete, a Nuun ambassador, and part of the Berkeley Park Running Company team. Outside of running, she enjoys exploring the outdoors and has summited multiple Colorado 14ers, as well as Mount Rainier, Kilimanjaro, and Mont Blanc.Links<a href="https://www.leadvilleraceseries.com/mtb/leadvilletrail100mtb/" rel="nofollow">Leadvile 100</a><a href="https://www.leadvilleraceseries.com/mtb/leadvilletrail100mtb/" rel="nofollow">Lead challenge</a><a href="https://grandslamofultrarunning.net/" rel="nofollow">Grandslam</a><a href="https://montblanc.utmb.world" rel="nofollow">Ultra Trail Mont Blanc</a><a href="https://en.mtfuji100.com/" rel="nofollow">Ultra Trail Mount Fuji</a><a href="https://hardrock100.com/" rel="nofollow">Hardrock 100</a><a href="https://www.14ers.com" rel="nofollow">14ers</a><a href="https://www.highlonesome100.com" rel="nofollow">high lonesome 100</a><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/7986569-born-to-run" rel="nofollow">Born to Run: A Hidden Tribe, Superathletes and the Gretaest Race the World has Never Seen by Christopher McDougall</a><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Training-Uphill-Athlete-Mountain-Mountaineers/dp/1938340841" rel="nofollow">Training for the Uphill Athlete: a Manual for Mountain runners and Ski Mountaineers by Steve House, Scott Johnston and Killian Jornett</a><a href="https://www.patreon.com/therunningvoyager" rel="nofollow">Support the show</a>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 linda@therunningvoyager.com 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!

Send us Fan Mail Today’s guest is Junko Kazukawa, an ultra and trail runner based in Denver, Colorado, originally from Japan. She has over 30 years of experience in the health, fitness, and training fields, and currently works as a UESCA-certified running coach, personal trainer, group fitness instructor, and Run Club coordinator at Colorado Athletic Club Tabor. Junko is passionate about helping people achieve their athletic goals through individualized training and strength programs, with a ...

Running After Cancer: Strength, Survival, and 100-Mile Races with Junko Kazukawa

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<a href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/1823207/fan_mail/new" rel="nofollow">Send us Fan Mail</a>With the Addo Elephant Trail Run happening this weekend, I’m republishing my conversation with race directors Sheena and Sian to help new runners feel prepared and confident. Addo is no ordinary race—it takes you through rugged trails, remote landscapes, and breathtaking scenery in the heart of Addo Elephant National Park.In this episode, we talk about the race itself, what first-time runners should know, and what makes Addo such a unique challenge. If you&#39;re feeling a bit nervous ahead of race day, this episode is for you!Topics Covered in This Episode:<ul><li>The history of the Addo Elephant Trail Run and how Sheena &amp; Shaun became race directors</li><li>What makes this event so unique compared to other ultras</li><li>A breakdown of the course and what runners can expect on race day</li><li>Key challenges, terrain, and weather conditions to be prepared for</li><li>Tips for first-time participants to stay strong physically and mentally</li></ul>Why You Should Listen:If you’re running Addo for the first time, this episode will give you valuable insights to help you feel more prepared. Even experienced runners will enjoy hearing about the behind-the-scenes of organizing such a remote and challenging race.Resources &amp; Links:<ul><li><a href="https://addo.run/" rel="nofollow">Addo Elephant Trail Run Official Website</a></li><li><a href="https://www.instagram.com/africas_wildest_ultra/?hl=en" rel="nofollow">Follow the Race on Social Media</a></li></ul> <a href="https://www.patreon.com/therunningvoyager" rel="nofollow">Support the show</a>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 linda@therunningvoyager.com 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!

Send us Fan Mail With the Addo Elephant Trail Run happening this weekend, I’m republishing my conversation with race directors Sheena and Sian to help new runners feel prepared and confident. Addo is no ordinary race—it takes you through rugged trails, remote landscapes, and breathtaking scenery in the heart of Addo Elephant National Park. In this episode, we talk about the race itself, what first-time runners should know, and what makes Addo such a unique challenge. If you&#39;re feeling a bit n...

Race Week Prep: Inside the Addo Elephant Trail Run with Sheena & Sian

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/5/19/19/d9437f84-8321-45f1-88ed-ce7c19d91241_in-zimbabwe-a-conversation-with-stuart-gemmill.mp3

<a href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/1823207/fan_mail/new" rel="nofollow">Send us Fan Mail</a> The guest in this episode is Stuart Gemmill. Stuart is a run coach based in Harare, Zimbabwe. He’s an ultra-runner himself, having completed 28 Comrades marathons, and he’s gearing up for his 29th this year. Last October, he won the Runyanga 100-mile ultra. In this episode, we dive into Stuart’s incredible running journey, spanning decades. We talk about the running culture in Zimbabwe, the exponential growth of the sport, and the measures race organizers can take to improve efficiency, professionalism, and runner safety. We also explore trail running in Zimbabwe, and Stuart shares his insights as a coach—giving advice for those just starting out in running. Links<ul><li>Comrades Marathon – <a href="https://www.comrades.com/" rel="nofollow">https://www.comrades.com</a></li><li>Richmond Marathon (Durban) – https://richmondmarathon.co.za</li><li>Skyrun (Zimbabwe) – <a href="https://skyrunzim.com/" rel="nofollow">https://skyrunzim.com</a></li><li>The Lion King – https://www.disneyplus.com/movies/the-lion-king-1994/</li><li>Atomic Habits by James Clear – <a href="https://jamesclear.com/atomic-habits" rel="nofollow">https://jamesclear.com/atomic-habits</a></li><li>Training Essentials for Ultrarunning by Jason Koop – https://trainright.com/book/</li><li>The Happy Runner by David Roche &amp; Megan Roche – https://www.happy-runner.com</li><li><a href="https://www.instagram.com/running_with_stu/" rel="nofollow">Stuart&#39;s Instagram</a></li><li><a href="https://www.instagram.com/trailblazerszim/" rel="nofollow">Trailblazerszim Instagram</a></li></ul><a href="https://www.patreon.com/therunningvoyager" rel="nofollow">Support the show</a>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 linda@therunningvoyager.com 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!

Send us Fan Mail  The guest in this episode is Stuart Gemmill. Stuart is a run coach based in Harare, Zimbabwe. He’s an ultra-runner himself, having completed 28 Comrades marathons, and he’s gearing up for his 29th this year. Last October, he won the Runyanga 100-mile ultra.  In this episode, we dive into Stuart’s incredible running journey, spanning decades. We talk about the running culture in Zimbabwe, the exponential growth of the sport, and the measures race organizers can take to improv...

Longevity in Ultra Running and the Growth of Running in Zimbabwe: A Conversation with Stuart Gemmill

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/5/19/19/c1377fa8-63c9-4f91-83cc-df3d3a945282_ds-health-wayne-hunter-s-inspirational-journey.mp3

<a href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/1823207/fan_mail/new" rel="nofollow">Send us Fan Mail</a>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&#39;re looking for motivation, perspective, or simply a powerful human story, this episode delivers on all fronts.Links:<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Centennial_(novel)" rel="nofollow">Centennial — by James A. Michener</a><a href="https://www.instagram.com/nagawa_mountain_trail/?hl=en" rel="nofollow">Nagawa Trail</a><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/COVID-19" rel="nofollow">COVID-19</a><a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0903747/" rel="nofollow">Breaking Bad</a><a href="https://www.google.com/search?client=safari&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8&q=american+club+japan&rls=en" rel="nofollow">Tokyo American Club Japan</a><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sh%C5%8Dgun_%28novel%29" rel="nofollow">Shōgun- by James Clavell</a><a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0068646/" rel="nofollow">The Godfather</a> <a href="https://www.patreon.com/therunningvoyager" rel="nofollow">Support the show</a>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 linda@therunningvoyager.com 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!

Send us Fan Mail 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 b...

Running and Rowing Towards Health: Wayne Hunter's Inspirational Journey

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/5/19/19/c99c385b-827d-469d-a29b-898e94d63e53_ok-at-japan-s-hakone-ekiden-with-kiyoshi-maeda.mp3

<a href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/1823207/fan_mail/new" rel="nofollow">Send us Fan Mail</a>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&#39;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<a href="https://www.patreon.com/therunningvoyager" rel="nofollow">Support the show</a>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 linda@therunningvoyager.com 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!

Send us Fan Mail 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...

Running Through Culture: An Inside Look at Japan's Hakone Ekiden with Kiyoshi Maeda

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<a href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/1823207/fan_mail/new" rel="nofollow">Send us Fan Mail</a>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&#39;re planning to run Karkloof, curious about race organisation, or just love trail stories, you’ll enjoy this one.Guest Links Karkloof Trail Run: <a href="https://www.karklooftrailrun.co.za/" rel="nofollow">https://www.karklooftrailrun.co.za</a> Terence on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/terencevrugtman" rel="nofollow">https://www.instagram.com/terencevrugtman</a> <a href="https://www.patreon.com/therunningvoyager" rel="nofollow">Support the show</a>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 linda@therunningvoyager.com 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!

Send us Fan Mail 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&#39;re plan...

Inside Karkloof: Race Directing, New 2026 Course Insights & Trail Community with Terence Vrugtman

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/5/19/19/d3f876bd-5f71-48cd-a7f5-b35e9472d1fc_-sekhuthe-on-winning-the-salt-pans-ultra-100km.mp3

<a href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/1823207/fan_mail/new" rel="nofollow">Send us Fan Mail</a>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<ul><li>Kennedy’s 2025 Salt Pans Ultra victory</li><li>How he trained and prepared for a 100km race</li><li>His long journey in the sport and what has shaped him as an athlete</li><li>What this win means for his future in ultra running</li></ul>Kennedy’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:<ul><li>1st place at Salt Pans Ultra 100km </li><li>1st place at Ultra Trail Drakensberg 100 Miler 25:08:26</li></ul><a href="https://www.patreon.com/therunningvoyager" rel="nofollow">Support the show</a>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 linda@therunningvoyager.com 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!

Send us Fan Mail 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 spor...

Kennedy Sekhuthe on winning The Salt Pans Ultra 100km

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<a href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/1823207/fan_mail/new" rel="nofollow">Send us Fan Mail</a>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.<ul><li>How he went from no running experience to completing consistent run/walk sessions</li><li>Why running initially made no sense to him</li><li>How a fitness tracker motivated him to start</li><li>Training through a Canadian winter, illness and family demands</li><li>His first goal: preparing for a 5K at work</li><li>The moments that changed how he viewed running</li></ul><a href="https://www.patreon.com/therunningvoyager" rel="nofollow">Support the show</a>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 linda@therunningvoyager.com 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!

Send us Fan Mail 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 clu...

Reddit Tales: I started running at 44. Here’s what I’ve learned after a year.

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/5/19/19/e9868544-cbdd-4a6d-83b6-eb6406b68806_-exploring-cape-town-s-trails-with-warren-king.mp3

<a href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/1823207/fan_mail/new" rel="nofollow">Send us Fan Mail</a>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:<a href="https://emea01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?data=05%7C02%7C%7C10f39bf119d94046525e08de146c9b82%7C84df9e7fe9f640afb435aaaaaaaaaaaa%7C1%7C0%7C638970653953335571%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&reserved=0&sdata=mgFmsud70%2F8ZnZvk3dlwruqIr0ZUpAd%2BePBfPei0unA%3D&url=https%3A%2F%2Fcapetrailtours.co.za%2F" rel="nofollow">https://capetrailtours.co.za/</a><a href="https://emea01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?data=05%7C02%7C%7C10f39bf119d94046525e08de146c9b82%7C84df9e7fe9f640afb435aaaaaaaaaaaa%7C1%7C0%7C638970653953367580%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&reserved=0&sdata=ivx1boZBjQ9oztULNb91ApoyhWlocncRdzckNODzi18%3D&url=https%3A%2F%2Finstagram.com%2Fcapetrailtours" rel="nofollow">https://instagram.com/capetrailtours</a><a href="https://emea01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?data=05%7C02%7C%7C10f39bf119d94046525e08de146c9b82%7C84df9e7fe9f640afb435aaaaaaaaaaaa%7C1%7C0%7C638970653953384388%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&reserved=0&sdata=%2BmQxoJG%2FXT922SQZTMyixWfJ3Q62Qo3k6KIA5lSX3HY%3D&url=https%3A%2F%2Ffacebook.com%2Fcapetrailtours" rel="nofollow">https://facebook.com/capetrailtours</a><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2195464.What_I_Talk_About_When_I_Talk_About_Running" rel="nofollow">What I talk about when I talk about running by Haruki Murakami</a><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Lord_of_the_Rings" rel="nofollow">The Lord of the Rings by JRR Tolkien</a><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Frasier" rel="nofollow">Frasier</a><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Friends" rel="nofollow">Friends</a><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Himalayas" rel="nofollow">The Himalayas - Nepal</a><a href="https://www.patreon.com/therunningvoyager" rel="nofollow">Support the show</a>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 linda@therunningvoyager.com 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!

Send us Fan Mail 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 ac...

Race Directing and Exploring Cape Town’s Trails with Warren King

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/5/19/19/50a97c19-5ffd-4cb2-b278-ab8956035fc0_es-fixes-and-cape-town-marathon-s-cancellation.mp3

<a href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/1823207/fan_mail/new" rel="nofollow">Send us Fan Mail</a>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. <a href="https://www.patreon.com/therunningvoyager" rel="nofollow">Support the show</a>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 linda@therunningvoyager.com 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!

Send us Fan Mail 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 th...

Inside South Africa’s Running Boom, Comrades Fixes, and Cape Town Marathon's Cancellation

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/5/19/19/30422c82-1f98-4c02-91ad-7df1c2a7d7cc_ke-biwa-100-miler-japan-media-post-race-report.mp3

<a href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/1823207/fan_mail/new" rel="nofollow">Send us Fan Mail</a>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:&#34; 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.&#34;Links<a href="https://lakebiwa100.com" rel="nofollow">Lake Biwa100 Miler</a><a href="https://www.yunoyama-onsen.com/english/" rel="nofollow">Yunoyama Onsen</a><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lake_Biwa" rel="nofollow">Lake Biwa</a><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kansai_region" rel="nofollow">Kansai Region Japan</a><a href="https://hiralakehouse.com" rel="nofollow">Hira Lake Guest House</a><a href="https://www.instagram.com/demochan0809/" rel="nofollow">Kaori Niwa Lake Biwa 100 RD Instagram</a> <a href="https://www.patreon.com/therunningvoyager" rel="nofollow">Support the show</a>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 linda@therunningvoyager.com 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!

Send us Fan Mail 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: &#34; 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 st...

Lake Biwa 100 Miler (Japan) - Media Post Race Report

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/5/19/19/d2835975-f8c3-4673-a3e4-d7439fb1da6c_220-mile-run-from-tennessee-to-atlanta-georgia.mp3

<a href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/1823207/fan_mail/new" rel="nofollow">Send us Fan Mail</a>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<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/David_Goggins" rel="nofollow">David Goggins</a><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chattanooga,_Tennessee" rel="nofollow">Chatanooga</a><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Seven_Husbands_of_Evelyn_Hugo" rel="nofollow">The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid</a><a href="https://www.amazon.co.jp/Cant-Hurt-Me-Master-Your/dp/1544512279" rel="nofollow">Can&#39;t Hurt Me by David Goggins</a><a href="https://www.youtube.com/@BestEverFoodReviewShow" rel="nofollow">Best Ever Food Reviews - Youtube Channel</a><a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt13652142/" rel="nofollow">The Magazine Dreams with Jonathan Majors</a><a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0095188/" rel="nofollow">Funny Farm</a> <a href="https://www.patreon.com/therunningvoyager" rel="nofollow">Support the show</a>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 linda@therunningvoyager.com 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!

Send us Fan Mail 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—flyin...

Across State Lines: Cameron’s 220-Mile Run from Tennessee to Atlanta, Georgia

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/5/19/19/f6250b23-21f5-4c12-9edb-e5563f0d18aa_t-generation-through-running-with-nkosi-nsumbu.mp3

<a href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/1823207/fan_mail/new" rel="nofollow">Send us Fan Mail</a>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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/nkosinsumbu_/" rel="nofollow">Nkosi&#39;s Instagram</a><a href="https://capetownmarathon.com" rel="nofollow">CapeTown Marathon</a><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Manage-Your-Money-cking-Grown/dp/1472143442" rel="nofollow">Manage your Money like a F*cking Grown up: the best money advice you never got by Sam Beckbessinger</a><a href="https://www.patreon.com/therunningvoyager" rel="nofollow">Support the show</a>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 linda@therunningvoyager.com 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!

Send us Fan Mail 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....

Creating Change and Inspiring the Next Generation Through Running with Nkosi Nsumbu

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/5/19/19/64de7578-e47d-445a-8b49-59aa0c35fca5_-s-journey-of-resilience-community-and-courage.mp3

<a href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/1823207/fan_mail/new" rel="nofollow">Send us Fan Mail</a>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.&#34;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<a href="https://www.parkrun.co.za" rel="nofollow">Parkrun South Africa</a><a href="https://brenebrown.com" rel="nofollow">Brene Brown </a><a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt12001534/" rel="nofollow">Thursday Murder Club</a><a href="https://www.deonmeyer.com" rel="nofollow">Deon Meyer</a><a href="https://www.instagram.com/zandithemermaid/?hl=en" rel="nofollow">Deep Blue</a><a href="https://www.tonypark.net" rel="nofollow">Tony Park </a><a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt2126355/" rel="nofollow">San Andreas</a><a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0117998/" rel="nofollow">Twister</a><a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt30317229/" rel="nofollow">La Palma</a><a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt6141246/" rel="nofollow">The Aeoronauts</a><a href="https://www.instagram.com/ingridandthetrailspringers/?hl=en" rel="nofollow">Ingrid&#39;s Instagram</a><a href="https://thebookbar.co.za" rel="nofollow">The Bookbar</a> <a href="https://www.patreon.com/therunningvoyager" rel="nofollow">Support the show</a>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 linda@therunningvoyager.com 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!

Send us Fan Mail 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 th...

Running Through Life: Ingrid Hauger’s Journey of Resilience, Community and Courage

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/5/19/19/7dd34e30-6959-45a6-a6ff-7709eb5f91f1_w-walking-3000km-across-japan-with-alan-mesfin.mp3

<a href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/1823207/fan_mail/new" rel="nofollow">Send us Fan Mail</a>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 <a href="https://www.youtube.com/c/LetsTrySomethingNew" rel="nofollow">Let&#39;s try something new - Alan&#39;s YouTube channel</a><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Coasting-Running-Around-Coast-Britain/dp/1787839818" rel="nofollow">Coasting: Running around the coast of Britain- Life, Love and (very) loose plans by Elise Downing</a><a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt2406422/" rel="nofollow">Walking the Camino Six Ways to Santiago</a> <a href="https://www.patreon.com/therunningvoyager" rel="nofollow">Support the show</a>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 linda@therunningvoyager.com 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!

Send us Fan Mail 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&#39;s try something new - Alan&#39;s YouTube channel Coasting: Running around the coast of ...

Let's Try Something New Walking 3000km Across Japan with Alan Mesfin

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/5/19/19/cd169c3d-b61b-41b7-9df0-cb8a54563ee4_through-running-with-pris-chew-of-prischew-com.mp3

<a href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/1823207/fan_mail/new" rel="nofollow">Send us Fan Mail</a>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 &amp; 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<a href="https://www.prischew.com" rel="nofollow">Prischew.com</a><a href="https://www.instagram.com/prischewdotcom/?hl=en" rel="nofollow">Prischew dot com Instagram</a><a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/prischewdotcom" rel="nofollow">Prischew dot com Youtube</a><a href="https://www.facebook.com/prischewdotcom" rel="nofollow">Prischew dot com Facebook</a> <a href="https://www.patreon.com/therunningvoyager" rel="nofollow">Support the show</a>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 linda@therunningvoyager.com 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!

Send us Fan Mail 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 &amp; 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 wha...

Exploring Singapore Through Running with Pris Chew of Prischew.com

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/5/19/19/a3487171-5ba6-4a3e-9819-7731d00d5273_687257-deep-japan-ultra-with-ashwini-ganapathi.mp3

<a href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/1823207/fan_mail/new" rel="nofollow">Send us Fan Mail</a>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:<a href="https://ls100miler.com" rel="nofollow">Lake Senoma 100miler</a><a href="https://www.deepjapanultra.com" rel="nofollow">Deep Japan Ultra</a><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leh" rel="nofollow">City of Leh</a><a href="https://www.amazon.co.jp/Endure-Curiously-Elastic-Limits-Performance/dp/0062499866" rel="nofollow">Endure: Mind, Body and the Curiously Elastic Limits of Human Performance by Alex Hutchinson</a><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harry_Potter_(film_series)" rel="nofollow">Harry Potter - JK Rowling</a><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sherlock_Holmes" rel="nofollow">Sherlock Holmes</a><a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0108778/" rel="nofollow">Friends</a><a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt8289930/" rel="nofollow">Formula 1: The Drive to Survive</a><a href="https://www.instagram.com/make_life_happen_now/" rel="nofollow">Ashwini&#39;s Instagram</a> <a href="https://www.patreon.com/therunningvoyager" rel="nofollow">Support the show</a>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 linda@therunningvoyager.com 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!

Send us Fan Mail 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 call...

Deep Japan Ultra with Ashwini Ganapathi

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/5/19/19/2a6af223-50bb-4a92-b5a6-feec16514722_-female-ultra-runner-with-debbie-van-der-linde.mp3

<a href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/1823207/fan_mail/new" rel="nofollow">Send us Fan Mail</a>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:<ul><li>What aging feels like as a female ultra runner</li><li>Key signs and symptoms of perimenopause and menopause</li><li>How to adapt your training as you get older</li><li>Mental shifts and body awareness</li><li>Encouraging community and open conversation around “the change”</li><li>Debbie’s new podcast and why she’s creating this space for women</li></ul>Guest 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.<a href="https://www.instagram.com/debbie.vdl/reels/" rel="nofollow">Debbie&#39;s Instagram</a><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/hu/podcast/second-gear-with-debbie/id1820202486" rel="nofollow">Debbie&#39;s Podcast</a><a href="https://www.google.com/search?client=safari&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8&q=mel+robbins+podcast&rls=en" rel="nofollow">Mel Robbins Podcast</a><a href="https://www.amazon.co.jp/-/en/Bryan-Stevenson/dp/1925228312" rel="nofollow">Just Mercy: A Story of Justice and Redemption by Bryan Stevenson</a><a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt10986410/" rel="nofollow">Ted Lasso</a><a href="https://www.patreon.com/therunningvoyager" rel="nofollow">Support the show</a>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 linda@therunningvoyager.com 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!

Send us Fan Mail 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 chal...

The Long Run: Navigating Menopause and Aging as a Female Ultra Runner - with Debbie van der Linde

This is a podcast about running and storytelling. Each episode we’ll talk to a runner and hear their story. Running is never just about running there’s always so much more to it!