The Runna Podcast

40 Episodes
Subscribe

By: Runna

Welcome to the Runna Podcast!  Each week we deep dive into the world of running with some truly inspiring individuals. Join our hosts, Coach Ben (Head Coach and Co-Founder of Runna) and Coach Anya Culling (professional marathon runner), as they sit down with passionate individuals from all walks of life who share a common love for running.Expect a blend of captivating interviews exploring inspirational journeys, hilarious tales of running mishaps, and invaluable coaching tips from Olympian and Coach, Steph Davis. Each episode is packed with wisdom, encouragement, and plenty of motivation to fuel your next run.From seasoned athletes t...

Dame Flora Duffy: What It Feels Like to Win Your Country’s First Ever Olympic Gold
#63
Last Friday at 4:00 AM

In this episode of The Runna Podcast, we’re joined by Dame Flora Duffy. Flora is an Olympic gold medallist, 5x Olympian, and the most decorated athlete in Bermuda’s history.


From her childhood on a 21-square-mile island to making history in Tokyo, Flora reflects on a career defined by relentless resilience, off-road domination, and representing her country.


We unpack:

🏊‍♀️ How discovering triathlon at 7 in Bermuda changed her life

 🏆 Winning WTS, XTERRA & Cross Triathlon World Titles in the same year

🥇 The story behind Bermuda’s first Olympic gold, and the day her...


Wyatt Moss: The Man Who Ran a Marathon Every Week for a Year In All 50 States
#62
06/06/2025

What does it take to run 50 marathons in 50 states all in one year and then follow it with 7 marathons on 7 continents in 7 days? 


On this episode of The Runna Podcast, we’re joined by Wyatt Moss, whose pursuit to “live the greatest day ever, every day” took him across the globe. 

From missing flights and running out of money, to pushing his grandma across the finish line in a wheelchair, Wyatt’s story is one of grit, hustle and unstoppable passion. 


We unpack:

🏃 50 Marathons in 50 States: How Wyatt ran one marathon e...


Lucy Charles-Barclay on Becoming Ironman World Champion and Setting a Course Record with a Torn Calf
#61
05/30/2025

What does it take to go from Olympic rejection to becoming the fastest woman to ever win Ironman Kona?


This week on The Runna Podcast, we’re joined by Lucy Charles-Barclay, the 2023 Ironman World Champion and Kona course record holder.


From missing out on the 2012 Olympics as a competitive swimmer and being rejected for a British pro triathlon licence, to finishing 2nd at Ironman Kona four times before finally claiming the crown—Lucy’s story is the definition of mental resilience.

We unpack:

 🥇 Winning Kona in the fastest time ever and i...


I Consistently Showed for Myself and It Changed Everything: Randi Zuckerberg, CEO, Mum, and Ultrarunner
#60
05/23/2025

In this episode of The Runna Podcast, we’re joined by entrepreneur, ultramarathoner, and media powerhouse Randi Zuckerberg, fresh off completing her sixth World Marathon Major in Tokyo.

As CEO of Zuckerberg Media, mother of three, and now a Cocodona 250 trainee, Randi opens up about what running has taught her—not just about physical endurance, but about presence, perseverance, and the joy of showing up even when motivation runs dry.


We unpack:

Her path to becoming a 6-Star Finisher, including 16 marathons and 11 ultras 🏃‍♀️ The leap from entrepreneur to ultrarunner: how running helped her navigate...


"I Thought It Was Never Going to End": Romesh Ranganathan's Unfiltered London Marathon Experience
#59
05/16/2025

In this episode of The Runna Podcast, we sit down with Romesh Ranganathan, fresh off the finish line of his second London Marathon.

World-renowned comedian Romesh takes us behind the scenes of his marathon journey—from training to race day antics. He shares how his relationship with running has evolved, from hating school cross-country to completing his second marathon. Along the way, he set personal targets—and had some hilariously unhinged conversations you won’t want to miss.


We unpack:

🏁 “It was better than any other career highlight” – Romesh reflects on the full marathon e...


From 135kg to 2:52 Marathon: How El Burrito Proved Everyone Wrong
#58
05/09/2025

What happens when you don’t just challenge expectations—but set out to break the rules entirely?


In this episode of The Runna Podcast, we sit down with Oli Paterson (aka El Burrito) just days after running a 2:52 marathon. Having turned his life around from addiction and weighing 135kg, Oli is now on a mission to defy the limits that coaches, data, and even physics claim a 100kg+ runner can achieve. He proves that not being built like a typical runner doesn’t define your speed, strength, or potential. With an outlandish, daring, and fiercely competitive mindse...


How It Feels to Make History: Cal Calamia, First Non-Binary Athlete to Podium at All 6 World Majors
#57
05/02/2025

This week on The Runna Podcast, we’re joined by Cal Calamia—a California-based marathoner, educator, activist, and now the first non-binary athlete in history to podium at all six World Marathon Majors.


After stepping away from collegiate running, Cal returned not just to compete, but to transform the sport. With their podium finish in London on April 27th 2025, they’ve now made history —all while advocating for inclusive race categories they helped build.


In this episode, we explore Cal’s incredible journey including:

🏅 Historic Podiums – Podium finishes at NYC, London, Tokyo, Boston...


How Anya Culling Ran Her Best Marathon at London 2025: Live from The Runna Race Hub
#56
04/30/2025

Recorded live from the Runna Race Hub, this special episode of The Runna Podcast dives into the LDN Marathon with Anya Culling–elite runner, Runna coach and lululemon ambassador.


We unpack every part of race day—from Anya’s championship start to crowd highlights, emotional moments, and how she executed her race plan to perfection on what turned out to be a hot and testing day for all runners. She shares how training went, her favourite on-course moments, top recovery tips, and what might be next on her racing calendar.


Whether you ran, specta...


Helen Skelton: Why We Should All Do Hard Things
#55
04/26/2025

How do you build a mindset so powerful that nothing life throws at you can hold you back?


This week on The Runna Podcast, we’re joined by the unstoppable Helen Skelton—broadcaster, adventurer, mum of three, and true superwoman. Known for saying yes to the wildest challenges—from kayaking 2,010 miles solo down the Amazon to cycling to the South Pole—Helen has become an inspiration for what’s possible when you refuse to let fear or difficulty stand in your way.


Think of the craziest challenge? Helen’s probably done it. As she gets rea...


What Should You Do in the Final 48 Hours Before Your Marathon? 8 Essential Tips From Anya Culling & Coach Ben
#54
04/25/2025

The countdown is on! With just 48 hours to go until the London Marathon, what really matters most?


In this short episode of The Runna Podcast, pro marathoner Anya Culling and coach Ben Parker cover everything you could want to know in the final two days before race day—delivered in just 8 essential tips. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned marathoner, this is your go-to checklist for feeling prepared, confident, and ready to enjoy every mile.


We break down food, kit, mindset, logistics, and give you the final advice you need to enjo...


Paul Sinton-Hewitt: The parkrun Founder Who Transformed Running Forever
#53
04/20/2025

From one event with 13 runners to a global movement that’s transformed lives—this is the story of how parkrun came to be.


This week on The Runna Podcast, we’re joined by Paul Sinton-Hewitt, the founder of parkrun, to hear the inspiring story behind one of the world’s most powerful community movements.


What started as a small time trial during a difficult period in Paul’s life became a lifeline—not just for him, but for millions around the world.

🏃‍♂️ The Birth of parkrun – How injury and isolation led to an idea that would r...


The Ultimate Pre-Marathon Race Guide With Anya Culling and Coach Ben
#52
04/11/2025

Answering every question you could possibly have ahead of your next marathon!


This week on The Runna Podcast, we bring you the ultimate pre-marathon race guide, packed with tangible, actionable advice from pro marathon runner Anya Culling and Head Coach Ben Parker.


We’re joined by Izzy, who’s gearing up for her upcoming 26.2 miles. She shares how she’s feeling, what she’s nervous about, and asks the exact questions so many runners—whether it’s your first marathon or your 100th—are thinking.


We break down:

🥞 How to fuel prope...


Ben Felton: From Chef to Sub-2:25 Marathoner Filming Every Step of the Way
#51
04/04/2025

This week on The Runna Podcast, we’re joined by Ben Felton, the chef-turned-runner who’s bridging the gap between elite athlete and content creator. With a 66-minute half marathon PB and a 2:24 marathon, Ben doesn’t just run fast—he captures it all on film, offering rare first-person insights into the world of high-performance racing.


🔥 A behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to train and race like an elite athlete—while filming every step of the way (running 3:08/km splits)

👟 Unfiltered, honest gear reviews from someone who’s tested nearly every carbon-plated shoe out there

🎥...


Ben Felton: From Chef to Sub-2:25 Marathoner Filming Every Step of the Way
#51
04/04/2025

This week on The Runna Podcast, we’re joined by Ben Felton, the chef-turned-runner who’s bridging the gap between elite athlete and content creator. With a 66-minute half marathon PB and a 2:24 marathon, Ben doesn’t just run fast—he captures it all on film, offering rare first-person insights into the world of high-performance racing.


🔥 A behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to train and race like an elite athlete—while filming every step of the way (running 3:08/km splits)

👟 Unfiltered, honest gear reviews from someone who’s tested nearly every carbon-plated shoe out there

🎥...


Latoya Shauntay Snell: She Was Told She’d Never Run—Then She Ran 30 Marathons and a 100K
#50
03/28/2025

What happens when doctors say you'll never run again—and you go on to complete 30 marathons, 7 ultramarathons, and a 100K race?

This week on The Runna Podcast, we’re joined by Latoya Shauntay Snell. From working as a chef in New York City to facing chronic illness and being forced to stop, Latoya’s story is one of resilience and redefining what’s possible.


💥 Defying the Odds – From a life-changing diagnosis to completing 30 marathons, 7 ultramarathons, and a 100K race.

 🔥 Her Fighting Spirit – Using every finish line to prove the doubters wrong and show what true stre...


Joel Dommett: From Stand-Up Comedy to Running London Marathon as a Piranha
#49
03/21/2025

In this week’s episode of The Runna Podcast, we sit down with the hilarious Joel Dommett—comedian, TV presenter, and marathon runner! Best known as the host of The Masked Singer, Joel has a knack for making us laugh and captivating us on screen. But did you know that he also took on the challenge of running the London Marathon in a full piranha costume? Yep, you heard that right!


From his comedic roots to becoming a household name, Joel’s journey has been anything but conventional. We dive into his experience running for charity, his me...


Billy Monger: F3 Racing Driver, Double Amputee and Ironman World Record Holder
#48
03/14/2025

What does it take to turn tragedy into triumph?


This week on The Runna Podcast, we sit down with Billy Monger—a racing prodigy turned endurance athlete whose resilience has shattered expectations. At just 10 years old, Billy was a rising star in motorsport, winning the British Championship and competing in British F4. But in 2017, at just 17 years old, his life changed in an instant after a high-speed crash at Donington Park left him in a coma for three days and resulted in the amputation of both legs.


Rather than letting his st...


Lola Anderson: From Childhood Dream to The Final Stroke That Made Olympic History
#47
03/07/2025

This week on The Runna Podcast, in honour of International Women’s Day, we’re joined by Lola Anderson—Olympic gold medalist, World Champion, and a powerhouse in women’s sport. From 13-year-old Lola watching London 2012, dreaming of Olympic glory, to the final winning stroke in Paris, we unravel the journey of turning a childhood dream into reality—and everything that came with it.


🚣 A race for the ages – Lola takes us inside the intense battle for Olympic gold, the nail-biting final moments, and the unbelievable finish that left the world in awe.

🏆 Overcoming setbacks – Lola op...


Tim Don: The Ironman World Record Holder Whose Life Changed in an Instant
#46
02/28/2025

How do you come back from a career-threatening injury when giving up isn’t an option? This week on The Runna Podcast, we’re joined by Tim Don—a two-time Olympian, four-time World Champion, and the man who set the Ironman World Record in 2017 before a devastating accident changed his life.

Days before the 2017 Ironman World Championships in Kona, Tim was hit by a truck while cycling, breaking his neck. Instead of surgery, he chose an extreme recovery method—the halo brace, a metal frame drilled into his skull—giving himself the best chance of returning to elite comp...


Jonny Davies: Running The London Tube Map & The Capitals — In Just 11 Days Each!
#45
02/21/2025

What does it take to run 572km across all 11 London Underground lines in just 11 days? Or cover 960km across the UK and Ireland’s capitals in the same amount of time? This week on the Runna Podcast, we sit down with Jonny Davies, a true ultra-running champion whose dedication to both endurance sports and mental health advocacy has left an indelible mark on the running world.


Jonny’s incredible feats of endurance have included: 


🏃‍♂️ Completing the London Underground challenge: 572km in 11 days with over 8,500 meters of elevation gain. 

🏙️ Running 960km across the capitals of the...


Clare Elms: The Mum of Triplets Who Became a World Record-Breaking Runner at 45
#44
02/14/2025

What if your greatest athletic achievements came after having triplets? This week on the Runna Podcast, we’re joined by Clare Elms, a multi-time world record holder and one of the most dominant Masters runners of all time.


Despite discovering her talent later in life, Clare has gone on to:

🏆 Win five European indoor gold medals and multiple world records.

⏱️ Break the W60 Mile World Record with an incredible 5:26.13.

🇬🇧 Set 14 UK age-group records

🏃‍♀️ Dominate ParkRun—she’s been the fastest female finisher in all 158 ParkRuns she’s done!


In this episode, we t...


Steph Elswood: Running for Mental Clarity and Choosing an Alcohol-Free Life
#43
02/07/2025

This week on the Runna Podcast, we’re joined by Steph Elswood—former professional dancer and soon-to-be mom. During a challenging period navigating an eating disorder, Steph turned to social media as an outlet for accountability and healing. What started as a personal journey has grown into a vibrant, safe space for healthy living, positivity, and joy. Steph now uses her platform to inspire others, sharing her experiences of living alcohol-free, embracing running for pure joy, and cultivating balance in life.


We talked about:

💃 Life in the Spotlight: From starting as a professional dancer at 14 t...


Georgia Bell: From Quitting to Olympic Glory – The Ultimate Comeback Story
#42
01/31/2025

What does it take to go from thinking you’ve run your last race to standing on the Olympic podium? Today on the Runna Podcast, we’re joined by Georgia Hunter Bell, Olympic bronze medalist and National record holder. Georgia’s journey is anything but ordinary and we unpacked it all…


What we spoke about:


🌟 The Lowest Point: How Georgia’s dream seemed over after stress fractures, injuries, and an identity crisis during her U.S. scholarship experience, leading her to leave running behind for the corporate world.

🔥 Her Astonishing Comeback: From quitting th...


13,245KM, 518 Days, 1 Arrest: The Man Who Ran From Cape Town to London
#41
01/24/2025

Today on the Runna Podcast, we’re joined by Deo Kato, a Ugandan-born trail runner, coach, and campaigner, who has completed an incredible journey running over 12,000km from Cape Town to London. Deo’s monumental journey was driven by a purpose: to retrace the history of human migration from Africa to the rest of the world. By doing this, Deo campaigned to end racism and show the world that all humans migrated from Africa.


We talked about:

🌍 Tracing Human History: How Deo’s journey brought to life the story of human migration from Africa to the re...


Alex Yee: The Mindset Behind an Incredible Olympic Comeback
#40
01/17/2025

Today on the Runna Podcast, we’re joined by Alex Yee, Olympic champion, British triathlete, and a true embodiment of resilience and love for sport. Alex’s journey is nothing short of awe-inspiring—marked by humility, grit, and an unyielding passion for triathlon.


We talked about:

🌟 The Humble Champion: How Alex’s love for triathlon fuels his journey and keeps him grounded, even at the pinnacle of success

🥇 Inside His Olympic Victory: The mental battles during his iconic gold-medal fight against Hayden Wilde—moments of depletion, disbelief, and the ultimate decision to seize his chance...


Colleen Quigley: Olympian Mindset & The Comeback After Injury
#39
01/10/2025

Today on the Runna Podcast, we’re joined by Colleen Quigley, an Olympic steeplechaser, model, and our very own Runna coach who embodies resilience and balance in both sport and life. Known for her iconic “Fast Braid Fridays,” Colleen shares her journey of grit and growth—on and off the track.


We talked about:

Nature vs. Nurture: How growing up with supportive parents shaped her running journey.Making Sacrifices as an Athlete: and the choices she’s made along the way.Balancing Modelling and Running: The challenges and joys of straddling two demanding careers while staying tr...


Phily Bowden: How the UK’s 10th Fastest Marathoner Balances Olympic Dreams with Life Beyond Running
#38
01/03/2025

Today on the Runna Podcast, we’re joined by Phily Bowden, an incredible marathon runner with one of the top 10 fastest times ever by a British woman—despite having only run four marathons!


We talked about:

How a dislike of maths led Phily to running, eventually earning her a sports scholarship in the USThe mental health challenges she faced during her time in the US and the pressure of figuring out life after universityRunning her first marathon in an astonishing 2:34 and how she improved to 2:29 in just her second race, earning a podium finish for Engl...


James Warnock: Running for Your Mental Health, Building Meaningful Adult Friendships and Finding Balance
#37
12/27/2024

Today on the Runna Podcast, we’re joined by James Warnock, who opens up about how running became a transformative part of his life after the passing of his dad. 


We talked about:

How James found running as a way to process grief and improve his mental health after his dad passed away.His balanced approach to training and the importance of enjoying the process and being ready for anything.The role shared values have played in his relationship with his girlfriend Alex.Tips for making friends and building meaningful connections as an adult. How to s...


The Christmas Special: Anya Gets Her Dream Present & Our Top Sporting Moments of 2024
#36
12/20/2024

Today on the Runna Podcast, it’s our festive Christmas Special! Our very own coaches & podcast hosts - Ben and Anya - are unwrapping gifts, reflecting on an unforgettable year in sports, and setting their sights on 2025.

What you can expect:

🎁 Gift-giving —what did Anya surprise Ben with, and did Anya finally get her dream present?

🏆 Their sporting moments of 2024—from record-breaking runs to iconic comebacks, we share the highlights that had us on the edge of our seats.

⭐ Their standout sports stars of 2024 – the ones who truly dominated and left their mark.

<...


Laviai Nielsen: The Road to the Olympics with Your Twin by Your Side
#35
12/13/2024

Today on the Runna Podcast, we’re joined by Laviai Nielsen, a two-time Olympian and superwoman. 


We talked about:

Her journey to competing in the Olympics not just once, but twice.What it’s like training with her twin sister, Lina, throughout her entire career.The inside scoop on Olympic Village life—yes, including the food and the epic after-parties! Her refreshing take on diet culture as an athlete: "The only diet is one where you don’t eat enough."


This episode is packed with insights, humor, and inspiration from one of the mos...


Laces and Races: Kofuzi’s Guide to Marathons and the Shoes You Really Need
#34
12/06/2024

Today on the Runna Podcast, we’re joined by none other than Kofuzi! 🎙️ We chatted to him about his incredible running journey including:

How he started running and went from complete beginner to achieving the marathon times he runs today. His decision to leave his career as a lawyer to pursue his passion for running and content creation full-time.His hot takes on running shoes—what’s overrated, what’s underrated, and what might just blow our minds next.How many running shoes do we really need?


Whether you're a beginner or an experienced runner, this e...


BONUS EPISODE: Coach Anya Culling's Valencia Marathon Race Prep & Advice
11/30/2024

Today on the Runna Podcast, we’re joined by Coach Anya Culling ahead of her marathon in Valencia on Sunday. 


We dive into how to make the most of your taper, key focus areas for the final week, and how to approach race morning with calm and excitement. Whether you're chasing a PB in Valencia or just soaking in the marathon experience, Anya’s approach to training is so refreshing and we can’t wait for you to hear her insights.


We’d love to hear your thoughts and race stories—send them to PODCAST...


Rob Dalto: Marathons, Homemade Gels, and Giving Back to the Running Community
#33
11/29/2024

Today on the Runna Podcast, we’re joined by Rob Dalto—passionate marathoner and a driving force in the New York running community.


Rob shares how running has transformed his life, why he’s hooked on marathons, and the secrets behind his DIY approach to fueling—yes, he makes his own gels! We also dive into his incredible efforts to give back to the sport, including sponsoring younger athletes and helping others chase their running dreams.


From marathon reflections to creative fueling tips, Rob’s passion for running and supporting others shines through in this ep...


Harry Judd: On McFly, Marathons, and His Hilarious First Triathlon
#32
11/22/2024

Today on the Runna Podcast, we’re joined by Harry Judd—McFly drummer and passionate runner.


Harry shares how running has become his go-to for staying focused, setting goals, and chasing the ultimate endorphin highs. We dive into some hilarious and memorable moments, like the time he discovered his triathlon bike didn’t have pedals mid-race, and how he once ended up running home from a night out with his McFly bandmates.


He also talks about keeping running fun and rewarding—even while navigating the challenges of a disc hernia. From running mishaps to inspi...


Adele Roberts: Conquering the World’s Marathons, Raising Awareness and Redefining What’s Possible After Cancer
#31
11/15/2024

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Adele Roberts, an incredible woman who defies limits on and off the marathon course. Just two years after overcoming bowel cancer, Adele set a Guinness World Record for the fastest woman to complete the London Marathon with an ileostomy. Now, she's on a mission to conquer all six World Major Marathons, aiming to set the record for the fastest combined time for anyone with a stoma. Fresh from her back-to-back marathons in Berlin and Chicago, Adele joins us to talk about resilience, breaking stigmas, and her journey to raise awareness for...


Nev Schulman: Running with Renewed Passion, Resilience, and Purpose After His Accident
#30
11/08/2024

Today on the Runna Podcast, we’re joined by Nev Schulman—host of Catfish and a passionate runner. Nev shares his journey of discovering his love for running, pushing his limits in marathons, and finding new purpose by guiding blind athletes. He has embraced this role even more since a severe neck injury in August 2024 that left him unsure if he’d ever run again. Through resilience and support, Nev has made his comeback, returning to running with a renewed joy and determination.


As always, send your thoughts and stories to PODCAST@RUNNA.COM or connect with us on...


Adrienne Adhami: Balancing Motherhood, Marathon Running and Entrepreneurship
#29
11/01/2024

In this episode of The Runna Podcast, hosts Ben and Anya are joined by the inspiring Adrienne Adhami, a dynamic wellbeing coach, bestselling author, and host of the popular Power Hour Podcast. Adrienne’s journey from performing under bright lights on the West End to overcoming life-altering challenges as a young mother will captivate and motivate you. Now, as one of the “Top 25 Black Entrepreneurs to Watch,” Adrienne shares her powerful story of resilience, reinvention, and the unstoppable drive to help others unlock their potential.


Highlights include:

Life’s Unpredictable Turns: Adrienne shares her journey of movin...


Andy Baddeley: From ParkRun World Record Holder and Olympian to The Running Channel CEO
#28
10/25/2024

In this episode of The Runna Podcast, hosts Ben and Anya are joined by Andy Baddeley, CEO and Co-founder of The Running Channel. Andy, a former professional 1500m runner and two-time Olympian, shares his incredible journey from competing at the Beijing and London Olympics to breaking the ParkRun world record with a time of 13:48. 


Highlights include:

Building The Running Channel: How Andy grew The Running Channel into the thriving community it is today.ParkRun World Record: The story behind his 2012 ParkRun record, which he held for 11 years.Ranked No. 1 in the World: His experience being r...


Dr. Becca Salmon: From the Covid Frontlines to Ultra Marathon Wins – How Running Fuelled Her Resilience
#27
10/18/2024

In this episode of The Runna Podcast, hosts Ben and Anya are joined by Dr. Becca Salmon, a former doctor who stepped back from medicine due to burnout and has since found new strength in her fitness journey. From the pressure of working on COVID wards to winning her first 100km ultra marathon, Becca’s story is one of resilience and rediscovery.


Highlights include:


Pandemic Burnout: Becca opens up about the hardships of being a newly trained doctor thrown onto the COVID frontlines and the lack of support for junior doctors.From 2km...


Lucy Georgia: Unlocking Your Full Potential Through The Power of Running
#26
10/11/2024

In this episode of The Runna Podcast, hosts Ben and Anya sit down with the incredible Lucy Georgia, who is using her platform to create a safe space that inspires and empowers women to give it a go, no matter their starting point. Lucy's journey began during lockdown as a way to support her mental health, and what started as a simple run to get a sandwich turned into a way to prove to herself that she is capable of more than she ever thought. Her contagious outlook on life makes this episode a must-listen for anyone needing that...