Any Given Runday

In this episode, Sam O'Hara (@samohfitness on Instagram shares his journey from online content creation and physique development to marathon running, breaking the sub-40-minute 10k barrier and pushing further into running goals in such a short space of time. Sam highlights the importance of consistency, mental health, and proper fuelling with gym training and increased running. 

15:00 We welcome Sam O'Hara
18:05 From Soccer to Running: The Transition
21:01 The Impact of Coaching and Physicality in Sports
23:44 The Shift from Football to Fitness Coaching
26:50 The Challenge of Photo Shoot Prep and Its Lessons
29:48 Preparing f...

This week on the Any Given Runday podcast, we welcome Matthew McConnell (@mrmattmcc on Instagram). Matthew is 2 time and current Irish mountain running champion, with countless podium finishes in trail and IMRA races around the country over the years, as well as representing Ireland on the World stage and recently represented Ireland in European 50k Trail Championship. He discusses training strategies, overcoming injuries, the role of community, and insights into performance optimisation for trail and road racing as well as his goals for the 2026 Dublin Marathon

12:10 Introduction to Mountain Running and Matthew McConnell
14:51 The Journey into...

This week on the Any Given Runday podcast, we welcome Kayti Simonson (@kaytisimonson on Instagram). Kayti shares her incredible athletic journey from track and field to semi-pro soccer to Hyrox World Championships, representing Team Canada twice in the relay, all while balancing a law career and much more.  We explore her experiences balancing sport, career, and personal growth, along with insights on training, mental health, and chasing dreams.

00:00 From Track to Trials: Katie's Athletic Journey
04:01 Balancing Law and Athletics: A Dual Pursuit
08:52 Identity and Athletics: Beyond the Finish Line
12:05 Transitioning Sports: From Track to S...

Seán shares his detailed experience of participating in his first Spartan race, the 21k Beast Challenge in Edinburgh, Scotland, over the weekend. Covering obstacles, training insights (and mistakes!), as well as the terrain, Sean talks to Eric about how he got on throughout the course and the lessons he learned

Is he more or less looking forward to the 5k version in Limerick in August, and what does this mean for his Dublin marathon training this year?

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@anygivenrundaypodcast

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This week on the Any Given Runday podcast, we welcome back original Fantastic 4 member, Conor Sweeney, to talk about his upcoming 330km relay from Achill to Baltray, how his fitness has improved since we last talked to him after the Dublin Marathon, the Dublin City Half Marathon, Hot Yoga and much more

11:00 We welcome back Conor Sweeney 
13:53 Training and Preparation for the Relay Challenge
16:50 The Role of Coaching and Injury Management since Dublin Marathon
19:44 The Benefits of Hot Yoga for Runners
22:49 Planning the Relay: Origins and Team Dynamics
25:58 Logistics and Game Plan f...

In this episode of the Any Given Runday podcast, we welcome skyrunner David Kelleher (@o_ceileachair12 on Instagram). David shares his journey from rugby to ultra running, discussing the challenges and rewards of transitioning from team sports to solo endurance events. He reflects on his first marathon experience, the differences between road and trail running, and the meditative aspects of running in nature. 

David also delves into the intensity of ultra running, the importance of pushing personal limits, and his competitive journey that led him to wear the green bib at the World Masters Sky Running Championship. W...

On this week's episode of the Any Given Runday Podcast, we welcome Chris O'Connor (@christopher.oconn on Instagram), an 18-year-old ultra marathon runner who shares his journey from his Dad getting him into running to completing a 100K race in memory of his father and how running has helped him with his grief. 

18:00 The Beginning of a Running Journey
25:08 The Impact of Loss on Running
32:29 From Marathon to Ultra: A New Challenge
40:13 Training for the 100K: A Personal Mission
41:30 Building Mental Toughness Through Running
47:08 The Role of Family Support in Endurance Sports

This week on the Any Given Runday podcast, we welcome Megan Hamill (@soulfullyginger on Instagram), who shares her incredible journey from childhood runs to the Ironman World Championship in Kona, ultra marathons through the Alps, and secretive races like The Speed Project going through LA to Vegas and much more. Discover her insights on mental strength, body positivity, and pushing limits in sport.

13:00 Introduction to Megan Hamill
00:25 Megan's Early Running Journey
03:13 Transitioning to Competitive Running
07:20 Learning to Swim for Ironman
11:20 Facing Challenges in Ironman Training
15:21 Empowering Women in Sports
19:18 Navigating Body...

This week on the Any Given Runday Podcast, we welcome Gary Connolly from We Run Wild NI (@werunwildni), who shares his journey from running his first marathon at the turn of the millennium to completing over 300 marathons and ultra-distance races, as well as organising ultra running events. Discover insights into training, organising ultra events, and the mental and physical challenges of long-distance running.

08:30 Introduction to Gary Connolly and His Journey
11:49 The First Marathon Experience and Its Impact
14:37 Unique Wedding Day: Running a Marathon
17:32 The Evolution of a Marathon Runner
20:36 Memorable Marathons and Unique...

This week on the Any Given Runday Podcast, we welcome Emily Bond (@operationironwoman), an endurance athlete, aerospace engineer, PhD researcher, and public speaker with a TEDx talk to her name.

Emily shares her journey from engineering and overcoming compartment syndrome on both her legs to completing her first Ironman and setting her sights on completing all UK Ironman races in one year.

23:00 Introduction to Emily Bond
25:47 Journey into Engineering and Sports
28:42 Overcoming Physical Challenges
31:45 The Path to Self-Belief
34:22 The First 5K Experience
37:36 Building Up to Triathlons
40:34 The Ironman Ambition<...

This week on the Any Given Runday Podcast, we welcome Dara O'Connor (@oconnordara) and Robert Merrigan (@robert_merrigan) from Positive Pacers (@positive_pacers on Instagram)

The guys talk about their running background, how they got into running and building Positive Pacers Running Community

16:00 Introduction to Positive Pacers
18:52 Dara's Journey into Running
21:53 Transitioning from Team Sports to Running
24:56 The Role of Coaching in Running
27:53 Rob's Background and Military Influence
30:50 Building Community through Running
33:51 The Growth of Positive Pacers
36:36 The Impact of Running on Mental Health
43:37 The Importance...

This week, we welcome Conor O'Keeffe (@cokeeffe on Instagram), who shares his journey from fighting to ultra-running, overcoming mental health struggles, and launching a successful sports nutrition business, Altar. We get into his first marathon, chasing identity and external validation, overcoming injuries and surgeries, 100 Mile Runs, plus much more

15:00 From Fighter to Endurance Athlete
19:40 The Struggles of Identity and Mental Health
27:44 Finding Solace in Running
33:47 The Journey of Transformation
39:08 Lessons from the 100-Mile Challenge
45:15 Redefining Success and Health in Running
48:26 The Journey to Relevance Post-Surgery
53:06 Realisations and External Pressures
55:45...

In this episode, we welcome marathon runner and coach John McDonnell (@jmruncoach on Instagram), who shares his incredible journey from getting into running, his journey to the Boston marathon, health struggles to sub-3 hour marathon runner, overcoming a life-threatening stroke and heart surgery along the way.

14:00 We welcome John McDonnell
18:30 The Transformation: From Overweight to Marathon Runner
23:36 The Emotional Impact of Running: Family and Tragedy
28:33 Chasing the Boston Marathon: The Quest for Qualification
33:39 The Mental Game: Overcoming Challenges in Marathon Training
38:27 Breaking Barriers: The Sub-3 Hour Marathon Goal
43:17 Life After...

We welcome Andrew Walsh to the Any Given Runday podcast this week. Andrew Walsh (@the_irish_adventurer on Instagram) shares his journey from a non-sporty background to joining the army, conquering a half Ironman, embarking on mountain adventures, and facing the challenges of documenting his progress on YouTube. We discuss entering the triathlon world, the common mistakes you make, training for a half Ironman, documenting it all online, and much more.

32:00 Introduction to Andrew Walsh's Journey
32:53 From Outsider to Athlete: Andrew's Early Struggles
35:57 Finding Identity in the Outdoors
40:04 The Transition to Mountaineering and Climbing<...

This week, we welcome North Clondalkin Running Club member Mick Hallows, who shares his journey from Gaelic football to sub-3 hour Dublin Marathon finisher, his transition into running, and insights into North Clondalkin Running Club, his upcoming 6 Hour Race in Leixlip, training strategies, working with Kevin English and more. 

13:00 From GAA to Distance Running: Mick Hallows
15:43 The Transition: Leaving Team Sports Behind
18:50 Finding a New Passion: The Marathon Experience
21:52 Coaching and Accountability in Running with Kevin English
24:47 The Joy of Running: Finding Personal Satisfaction
28:07 Future Aspirations: Exploring New Distances
30:52 Encouraging t...

In this episode, David O'Connor (@performance_doc on Instagram), a fitness and performance coach, shares his journey from childhood bullying to becoming a marathon runner and mental health advocate. He discusses the physical and mental benefits of running, training tips, and his unique experiences with ultra-distance challenges, including cycling across Ireland on a BMX and 10 marathons in 10 days, emphasising the importance of simplicity, consistency, and purpose in fitness.

11:00 Introduction to David O'Connor
11:53 David's Early Life and Introduction to Sports
13:53 The Impact of Bullying and Trauma
16:58 Discovering Running as a Coping Mechanism
20:47 Running for...

Fresh, or not so fresh off the Barcelona Marathon, Eric and Seán review the marathon weekend, and they're contrasting experiences of race day. Munro, a previous guest and great friend of the podcast, also joins in later to provide his perspective on the race, which greatly contrasts with Seán's!

01:03 Experiences at the Expo
03:32 The ShakeOut Run and Pre-Race Preparations
11:32 Race Day: Atmosphere and Nerves
15:10 The Start of the Barcelona Marathon
22:29 Mid-Race Reflections and Challenges
27:08 The Turning Point and Injury Concerns
32:32 The Marathon Experience: Reflections and Realisations
38:57 The Me...

This week, we welcome back Rachel Farrell (@rachel_farrell20 on Instagram) to the podcast after being a previous guest all the way back on episode 26, where she talked to Eric about appearances at the Ironman World Championships. Since then, she has transitioned to the world of Hyrox. Rachel discusses her role as co-founder of Hybrid Series Ireland, its accessibility, and her impressive accomplishments in the sport.

14:00 Welcoming Rachel Farrell to the Podcast
16:57 Hyrox vs. CrossFit
19:45 The Pain Cave: Embracing the Challenge
22:51 Training Adaptations: From Triathlon to Hyrox
25:50 Mental Toughness in Hybrid Racing<...

This week on the Any Given Runday podcast, we have two great guests from Ballymun AC (@ballymunac on Instagram) in Dean Hayden (@hayda0000 on Instagram) and Ger Prendergast (@ger_prendergast on Instagram) From establishing how Ballymun AC came about, helping to remove financial barriers for youths in Ballymun, community, world major marathons, to marathons on 7 continents and 60 marathons in 60 days, there's a lot to explore in this episode!

15:00 Introduction to Dean & Ger
25:10: Establishing Ballymun AC
28:38 The Philosophy of 'Human Before Athlete'
30:38 Removing Financial Barriers in Youth Sports
34:08 Keeping Youth Engaged in Running
38:55...

In this episode of the Any Given Runday podcast, ultra runner Eoin Keith (@eoinkeithultra on Instagram) shares his remarkable journey from a non-sporty childhood to becoming one of the most accomplished ultra runners in Ireland. He discusses his transition from marathon running to ultra distances, the challenges he faces during races, and the importance of enjoying the process. Eoin also delves into the unique experiences of the Barkley Marathons, the significance of navigation in ultra running, and how he balances different types of races, including running 900m loops for 6 days, the sleep deprivation, setting records for running the length...

On this week's episode of the Any Given Runday podcast, Eric is back in the country just in time for the Donadea 50k National Championships over the weekend as Sean attempted the "10 laps and fook off"

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In this episode, Lawrence Mooney shares his incredible journey from being an active triathlete and marathon runner to facing significant health challenges, including hip replacements and getting a second chance at life. 

He discusses his transition into triathlon, the barriers he overcame in swimming, marathons, and running marathons despite having a double hip replacement. We also discuss the events that led to him being able to join the podcast, surviving against the odds and share his story. 

13:00 Introduction to Lawrence's Journey
15:03 The Transition from Sports to Triathlon
18:07 Overcoming Swimming Barriers
21:02 The Challenge of...

On a special Thursday episode of the Any Given Runday podcast, we have the founder of Elite Event Management, Oliver Kirwan, on the podcast to discuss what goes on behind the scenes to create some of the top events in the country, including Quest and the Wicklow 200, as well as upcoming events such as Project 8 and Run The Night

Run The Night 5 Mile event will be in Cork on February 11th and Dublin on February 18th, with tickets for the Charity Night Run available on:

runthenight.ie

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In this episode of the Any Given Runday podcast, performance & Wicklow GAA nutritionist Leah Headon (@haeloo_nutrition on Instagram) shares her journey into the field of nutrition, discussing her personal experiences with diabetes and an eating disorder that shaped her understanding of food and health. The conversation delves into topics such as gut health, the balance between weight loss and performance, the impact of hydration, and the importance of nutrition habits. Leah also addresses common myths in the nutrition space and provides practical tips for marathon training, emphasising the need for a balanced approach to fuelling and recovery.

In this episode of the Any Given Runday podcast, Ray Shah (@rayshah on Instagram) shares his journey from being unfit and overweight during Covid to becoming a competitive athlete in Hyrox with multiple podium wins and World Championship appearances. 

He discusses his weight loss transformation, the importance of diet and training, and the role of community in fitness. Ray emphasises the significance of pacing and strategy in races, the value of coaching with Jake Dearden and Sean Noble, and the lessons learned from early competitions. He talks about Tryka, a new fitness event that aims to be m...

In this episode of the Any Given Runday podcast, after DNF'ing Art O'Neill in 2023, Seán talks about his second attempt at it over the weekend... and why he didn't tell Eric about it beforehand

If you're looking for the top tips and inside scoops on how to complete AON, Seán is probably not the best example of that, as he talks about his experiences running through the night and the following morning in all sorts of conditions, terrain and challenges he faced

It's a fantastic, well organised event full of challenges and definitely an...

In this episode of the Any Given Run Day podcast, mountain and trail runner Zak Hanna (@zakhanna on Instagram) shares his journey from cycling to becoming a competitive mountain runner at the highest level. He discusses his experiences in various international competitions, the challenges of downhill running, and the importance of mindset and training in harsh conditions. 

Zak reflects on his achievements, including his fifth-place finish in the World Mountain Running Championships, and emphasises the significance of enjoying the journey as an athlete. He also shares insights on training strategies, injury prevention, and his future goals.

In this episode of the Any Given Runday podcast, Paul Pollock (@ppmarathon on Instagram) shares his journey from a junior runner to becoming an Olympian and elite marathoner. He discusses the challenges of injuries, the transition from shorter distances to marathons, winning the National Championships in 2012 and the impact of training with elite athletes. Paul also delves into his unique approach to training, including the role of cycling in his preparation, and reflects on his experiences at the World Championships, the Rio and Tokyo Olympics and training in the NN Running Team alongside some of the top runners in...

The second half of 2025 brought a different kind of energy to Any Given Runday from race-day nerves and strategies, post marathon blues and pitfalls, big challenges, and honest conversations about what really goes into endurance sport.

From first time marathoners to elite athletes, to caffeine, strength work, climbing the tallest peaks in the world, and ballsy strategies to endurance challenges, this episode captures some the lessons and the craic on the podcast from July through December.

Whether you’re deep in winter training, recovering from a big year, or already eyeing your next start line, th...

The first half of 2025 gave us some of the most honest, inspiring and downright interesting conversations we’ve had on Any Given Runday.

From survival stories on the far side of the world, to elite endurance insights, to everyday decisions that shape how we train, fuel and think — this episode pulls together some of the standout moments from the first six months of the year.

Whether you’re switching off over the holidays, sneaking in an easy run, or already plotting what 2026 might look like, this is a chance to rewind, reflect, and catch anything you mi...

After a Christmas run in Howth, Eric sat down with Ger Copeland (@gercopeland on Instagram) and Anto Lee (@rockyseven7 on Instagram) to record the Christmas Special of the Any Given Runday Podcast for 2025!

They talk about Ger's recent marathon in Antarctica as well as Ger & Anto running the Cape Town marathon, how the running year was in Ireland, as well as the countdown to the Donadea 50k on Valentine's Day 2026

00:00 Year in Review
02:33 Antarctica Marathon
05:43 The Growth of Running Events
08:50 Social Aspects of Running
11:24 Looking Ahead: Goals and New Year Resolutions<...

Over the weekend, Seán and Eric took part Hybrid Series Ireland (@hybridseriesireland on Instagram) in Athlone, Eric's first ever Hyrox event. 

Has Eric converted into a Hybrid Rockstar enthusiast? 

00:00 Merry Christmas, Eric
03:02 The Hybrid Series Ireland Experience
05:52 The Challenge of Endurance Events
08:49 Team Dynamics in Competition
14:25 The Joy of Shared Experiences
18:39 The Appeal of Hybrid Events
21:58 Fitness and Competition: A Personal Journey
24:46 Training Strategies for the New Year
28:33 Local vs. Major Races: A Personal Perspective
31:19 Dublin Half Marathon Ballot

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In this episode of the Any Given Runday podcast, Andy Nolan (@andy_everest2026)shares his incredible journey of climbing the Six of the Seven Summits, including his experiences with fear, training, and the challenges faced during his climbs. From starting as a sedentary individual to summiting some of the world's highest peaks, Andy discusses the mental and physical preparation required for such feats. He also highlights the importance of teamwork, the risks of mountaineering, and his commitment to raising money for charity through his climbs. As he prepares for his final summit, Everest, Andy reflects on the lessons learned...

In this episode of the Any Given Runday Podcast, we welcome Irish international runner Matthew Collins (@mattamoo on Instagram). We discuss Matt's journey from team sports to becoming a competitive runner, his marathon experiences, and his Guinness World Record for running in a postbox costume in London. Matt shares insights on training, coaching, and the importance of community in running. He also reflects on his recent achievements, including guiding Ger Copeland during the Dublin Marathon, and his aspirations in ultra running.

13:45 Introduction to Matt Collins
15:36 Matt's Running Journey Begins
20:00 Transitioning to Competitive Running
24:30 The...

In this episode of the Any Given Runday podcast, we interview Pat Cassidy, co-author of 'The Story of the Donore Harriers', who shares his extensive experience in running and the evolution of the Donore Harriers club. The conversation covers Pat's personal journey into running, the transition of running clubs from elite to community-focused, the importance of facilities in athletics, the recent boom in marathon participation, and the significance of the handicap system in club races. Pat also discusses the future of the Donore Harriers and their launch night for the book on Thursday, December 4th 

00:00 Pat C...

In this episode of the Any Given Runday podcast, we are delighted to welcome professional triathlete and Olympian, Russell White @russellwhite6 on Instagram)  

Russell shares his journey from a young swimmer to a professional triathlete, discussing the challenges and triumphs he faced along the way. He reflects on his early experiences in triathlon, the pressure of competing at the Olympic level, and the impact of injuries on his career. Russell also talks about his transition into coaching and his aspirations for the future, emphasizing the importance of supporting young athletes in Ireland.

17:30 Introduction t...

In this episode of the Any Given Runday podcast, Marcus Cowzer (@marco161 on Instagram) shares his journey from a football player to a psychotherapist and building Shelters Running Community (@sheltersrunningcommunity_ on Instagram)

He discusses the importance of community in running, the impact of therapy on mental health, and building towards his marathon goals. Marcus emphasises the significance of small wins, the challenges of seeking help, and the power of connection in overcoming mental health struggles. He also highlights the benefits of cold water therapy and the joy of running as a community activity.

16:00 Introduction...

In this episode of the Any Given Runday podcast, Dr. John Rusin (@drjohnrusin on Instagram), a renowned physical therapist and strength coach, shares his insights on injury prevention, strength training, and the importance of recovery for athletes. 

He discusses his personal journey from being a competitive athlete to becoming a coach, emphasising the mental challenges faced during injuries. John emphasises the importance of proper warm-ups, the benefits of strength training for runners, and the necessity of adequate sleep and recovery for enhancing athletic performance. 

He also provides practical advice on how to navigate his comprehensive bo...

In this episode of the Any Given Runday podcast, we chat with Rebecca Jones (@beccaloujones), the founder of the Morning Milers Run Club (@morningmilersrungroup) in Kuwait. They discuss Rebecca's journey into running, the establishment and growth of the run club, and the importance of community in fitness. The conversation touches on the unique lifestyle in Kuwait, the challenges of training for a marathon, and the social aspects of running. Rebecca shares insights on hydration, nutrition, and the joy of seeing others achieve their running goals.

07:00 Introduction to Rebecca Jones and the Run Club
09:47 Rebecca's Journey...

In this week's episode, we chat to three out of six lads who took part in the unsanctioned relay race, known as The Speed Project, in the South of France earlier this year.

David (@d.gah_an), Ben and Frank (@frankrafferty) from Team And Again (@teamandagain) discuss all aspects of the relay race, one of the hardest and most secretive relay races in the world, from what brought them together, the challenges they faced, their insane race strategy and much more. They also discuss why they chose Movember to raise money for

09:30 Introduction to the...