The Unfunded Podcast
Where triathlon meets real talk. Hosted by two seasoned triathletes and one Sarah, this podcast takes a deep dive into the controversies, challenges, and triumphs of the triathlete world.
Setbacks & Showdowns: Aussie Injuries, Wilde's Statement, Ironman Worlds & WTCS | Unfunded Ep 25
In Episode 25 of The Unfunded Podcast, Lockie and Lleyton unpack a massive week in triathlon. From Aussie juniors battling injuries to Hayden Wilde’s public apology, they break down the setbacks and controversies shaping the sport. The Norwegians’ 1–2–3 domination at the Ironman World Championships takes centre stage, while WTCS Karlovy Vary brings breakout wins, drama, and surprises. As always, the boys deliver banter, bold opinions, and their pick for Athlete of the Week.
Show Notes:
Intro & catch-up – setting up a busy weekend of racingAussie injuries – setbacks for juniors and elites ahead of World ChampsHayden Wilde’s apology – unpa...Ironman World Champs Preview | Unfunded Ep24
In Episode 24 of The Unfunded Podcast, Lockie and Lleyton dive into the most exciting weekend of the triathlon season – the World Triathlon Championship Series Grand Final. They break down the title race between Hayden Wilde and Alex Yee, what it means for the sport, and who they’re backing. The boys also discuss the latest on Super League Triathlon, Aussie team updates, and how Paris 2024 prep is shaping up. With hot takes on mixed relay selections, the growing divide between T100 and WTCS, and predictions for the future of the sport, this episode is packed with insights and banter for...
Aaron Royle on Life After Olympics & The Future of Triathlon | Unfunded Ep23
In Episode 23 of The Unfunded Podcast, Lockie and Lleyton are joined by one of Australia’s most respected triathletes, Aaron Royle. From his journey to the Olympic stage to navigating the highs and lows of elite competition, Aaron shares stories, lessons, and honest reflections on life in the sport. The boys dive into his career highlights, what keeps him motivated, and his perspective on the ever-changing landscape of triathlon.
Show Notes
Intro & welcome – catching up and introducing Aaron RoyleAaron’s journey – from junior days to the Olympic stageCareer highs & challenges – navigating the demands of elite triathlonLife beyond resu...Paris Prep, Aussie Selections & Triathlon World Title Predictions | Unfunded Ep22
Lockie and Lleyton return for another episode of The Unfunded Podcast, unpacking the latest stories shaping the triathlon world. From Australia’s team selections and the rise of young athletes, to predictions for Matt Hauser, Hayden Wilde, and the upcoming World Championships, the boys dive deep into the sport’s most exciting narratives. They revisit the ongoing debate between Super League Triathlon and the T100 tour, explore the confusion of “too many world titles,” and debate youth versus experience in mixed relay selections.
Show Notes
Intro & catch-up – back in the studio and setting up this week’s yarnAustra...Back in the Studio: Triathlon Shake-Ups, Super League Drama & Matt Hauser’s Rise | Unfunded Ep 21
The boys are back! In Episode 21 of The Unfunded Podcast, Lockie and Leighton return to the studio to talk all things triathlon – from World Triathlon Series drama to Super League shake-ups and T100’s growing influence.
We break down:
- Matt Hauser’s dominance in the World Series and whether Del Miguel Hidalgo can still take the title.
- Coaching changes & off-season resets – why so many athletes are mixing it up.
- Lockie’s DQ story – the accidental course cut that got him disqualified.
- Hamburg Mixed Relay win – Australia’s big result and the youth vs exp...
Unfunded: 20 Episodes In - Can We Keep Going?
In this milestone 20th episode of The Unfunded Podcast, Lockie, Lleyton, and Sarah get real about the future of the show. After countless laughs, honest chats, and hard-earned lessons, Unfunded has hit a financial crossroads. The team opens up about the cost of keeping the podcast going and why they need your help to survive.
They also dive into race predictions, recent setbacks (including Lockie’s unlucky flat tire), and what’s next for Australian triathlon. But at its heart, this episode is a call to the community: If you’ve enjoyed the ride so far, now’s the ti...
Breaking Point: Coaching Breakups & Unspoken 5Ks
Lockie makes a big call — he’s officially cut ties with his coach. The crew dives into what led to the decision, what athletes need more (and less) of from their coaches, and how to trust your gut when things don’t feel right.
In true Unfunded fashion, the boys also reveal they may have kept a 5K run option from Sarah… just to nudge her into doing the 10K instead. Classic stitch-up.
They also unpack what it really takes to back yourself, why the “no plan B” mentality can be risky, and the not-so-glamorous reality of b...
Life After Lycra: What Comes After the Finish Line?
The crew dives deep into what it really means to be an athlete — and what happens when the medals stop coming. From hilarious tales of crayfish-fuelled diplomacy in China to raw reflections on sobriety, sponsorships, and the realities of triathlon life, no topic is off-limits.
They explore the mental and emotional challenges athletes face when transitioning out of elite competition, the critical role of community, and how social media is shaping the future of the sport. Plus, thoughts on coaching, burnout, and why it’s time young athletes start planning for more than just the podium.
It...
From Age Grouper to Pro: Ollie Turner on Going All In
We’re joined by two-time Commonwealth Games triathlete Ollie Turner, who takes us behind the curtain of going from a keen age-grouper to racing on the world stage. We talk about everything from university distractions and COVID curveballs to the real grind of chasing pro status.
The crew also shares training updates, race prep highs and lows, and the pressure that comes with wanting to level up in the sport. Ollie gets candid about the Super League spotlight, handling setbacks, and the health hurdles that nearly derailed it all.
It’s a raw, honest look at w...
Guts, Glory & the Enhanced Games: Tri Life Unfiltered
The team gets real (and slightly ridiculous) about the ups and downs of tri life. From foam-rolling fails and warm-up woes to brutal race recaps and bizarre injury tales, it’s all on the table. Lockie and Lleyton open up about what it really takes to chase peak performance while juggling normal life—and producer Sare tries to keep up.
The crew also dives into the controversial Enhanced Games—an all-drugs-welcome sporting event that has everyone talking—and unpack what it means for the future of elite sport. Toss in some State of Origin chat and a few deep...
Vapes, Vertebrae & Victory: Surviving the Triathlon Grind
The boys (and Sarah) get fired up and brutally honest about the highs and hells of triathlon life.
Producer Sarah drops the vape and hits the pavement—literally—while the boys share wild stories from the track and the treatment table.
No one's safe as they call out the pressures chewing up young talent, the shady side of early elite competition, and the grind behind the glam.
There's race talk, bold predictions, and some hot takes that'll either inspire you… or piss someone off. Either way, you’ll be entertained.
First Stop, Glitch City: Lockie Goes Global
It’s our very first Unfunded episode with Lockie dialing in from overseas — and naturally, the tech gods gave us grief. But despite the glitches, the banter doesn’t miss a beat.
We’re diving into the latest from the world of triathlon, with coaching updates, travel mishaps, and the spicy return of Russian athletes to the start line. Plus, Hayden Wilde’s injury, some surprise race results, and what it all means for the future of the sport in Australia.
Also, big news: Sarah is officially quitting vaping! She’s got some tips, tricks, and podcast...
Emma Jeffcoat: Beyond the Finish Line – Body, Brand & Breaking the Silence
Olympian and elite triathlete Emma Jeffcoat joins The Unfunded Podcast for a raw, honest, and powerful conversation about what it really takes to compete at the top. From her roots in surf lifesaving to the pressure-cooker world of triathlon, Emma opens up about the unspoken struggles female athletes face — from body image battles and funding cuts to fertility concerns and media expectations.
She shares insights on navigating the emotional aftermath of the Olympics, building a personal brand in an underfunded sport, and why athlete well-being needs a serious overhaul.
This episode pulls no punches — it’s a mus...
Philanthropy, Pickleball & Port Macquarie Predictions: A Triathlete’s Grab Bag
The boys (and Sarah) are back behind the mic with updates on their podcasting journey, training life, and a few spicy takes on the state of triathlon. From debating the social media backlash after the Ironman Geelong live stream debacle to breaking down the upcoming IRONMAN 70.3 Port Macquarie qualifiers, nothing’s off limits.
Expect commentary on athletes making the leap from short to long course racing, reflections on past races, and predictions for who’s going to crush it next. There’s also chat about sponsorship dollars (or lack thereof), some pickleball banter (because of course), and a reco...
Machines, Mishaps & Mental Games: Racing, Recovery & Real Talk
The crew covers it all—tech fails (yes, we forgot to hit record the first time 🙃), training wins, celeb encounters, and the madness of upcoming travel plans.
They unpack what it’s really like racing in Asia vs. Europe, and reflect on how to juggle training, competition, and the rest of life without losing your mind. The boys dive into their own training philosophies, what they personally use, and what they’ve found actually works best when chasing performance and staying consistent.
Also in this ep:
🚭 Kicking bad habits like vaping (or at least trying)
🧠...
Who TF Is Sarah?: From Beach Flags to Big Chats 10 Episodes Deep
In this milestone 10th episode of The Unfunded, the crew reflects on just how wild it is that they’ve made it this far—especially considering most podcasts don’t make it past episode 3. They dive into the behind-the-scenes journey of starting a pod, the wins, the hurdles, and everything in between.
Producer Sarah steps out from behind the mic to share her entry into the world of triathlon and podcasting, while the crew gives updates on their fitness journeys, coaching, and running escapades. Expect some playful rivalry, plenty of laughs, and deep chats about the state of tri...
Get to Know Lleyton: DNFs, Dodgy Eggs & Triathlon Realities
In this jam-packed episode, the hosts tackle everything from triathlon struggles to unexpected life curveballs. 🏊♂️🚴♂️🏃♂️ Layton’s got a new ride (but is it faster than his run splits?), a prank pregnancy test sparks momentary chaos, and someone’s paying the price for slacking—with a raw egg punishment. 🥚🤢
Speaking of eggs, Sarah shares a very questionable travel story involving a trip to Thailand and an egg experience she will never forget. Let’s just say... some things once seen, can’t be unseen. 👀🐣
This episode is all about getting to know Lleyton—his triathlon journey, his motivations, and how he balances train...
Lockie Jones: From Surf Lifesaving to Triathlon (and Making Terrible Bets)
We’re doing a "Get to Know Lockie" special—because, honestly, who even is this guy? While Sare battles through a questionable hangover, Lockie takes center stage to share his journey from surf lifesaving to triathlon, reflecting on his early days in the sport, the challenges he’s faced, and what keeps him coming back for more.
Along the way, we dive into the latest AFL and NRL updates, debate the rise of German triathletes, and discuss why short course athletes are suddenly dominating long course events. Lockie also revisits some of his most questionable race-day fashion choice...
Floods, Fast Laps & Nearly Getting Flattened – The Triathlon Struggle is Real
This week on The Unfunded Podcast, the crew takes on floods, fierce racing, and the fine art of not getting hit by cars. 🌊🏆 From the Devonport Oceania Championships to training disasters that would make even the toughest triathletes cry into their protein shakes, it’s been a week.
We chat race performances, the emotional rollercoaster of competing, and why triathlon still pays less than your average lemonade stand. (Seriously, why are we doing this again? 🤔) Plus, we spotlight an emerging female athlete who’s shaking up the scene and debate whether triathlon needs more indoor events or just better s...
From Tributes to Treadmills: A Spicy Doping Scandal, Hyrox & Sarah’s Running Regrets
We kick things off with a tribute to triathlon legend Jenny Alcorn, who recently passed away. A massive influence on the sport (and on Lockie’s career), her impact won’t be forgotten.
Then, in true Unfunded fashion, we go from heartfelt to hardcore, covering our training updates, upcoming Aussie Champs, and Sarah’s Couch to 10K challenge—which she signed up for willingly but now deeply regrets.
We also take a deep dive into Hyrox, the latest fitness craze that’s basically CrossFit’s chaotic cousin—a grueling mix of running and strength exercises that sounds li...
Underdogs, Drug Tests & A Very Tight Tri-Suit – Featuring Brayden Mercer
We’re making history, folks—Unfunded has its first-ever guest! And not just any guest—Brayden Mercer, fresh off a shocking and well-earned 2nd place finish at the World Cup in Napier!
As a bit of an underdog, Brayden takes us inside his Napier race madness—what got him through, what fuels his fire, and how it feels to almost win but definitely flex on the rest of the field.
Meanwhile, footy is back (and you know we have thoughts), Lleyton got drug tested in Malaysia, and for some very suspicious reason, both boys have now been...
Lycra Bets, Triathlon Drama & The Rise of Influencer Athletes
We cover everything from a Lycra-fueled bet to Valentine's Day antics, all while diving deep into the world of endurance sports. We break down upcoming races, the impact of Nedd Brockman’s documentary, and the growing influence of social media personalities in triathlon. The conversation explores the rise of quick-fix training programs, the challenges pro athletes face in an influencer-driven era, and the evolving landscape of sports coaching. Plus, we analyze recent triathlon races, critique commentary styles, spotlight emerging talents, and share predictions for the season ahead.
Racing Returns, Super Bowl Cameos & the Biggest Debates in Triathlon
Racing is back, and so is the drama! The boys break down the excitement of the season opener, their (questionable) Valentine’s Day plans, and what it’s like being a triathlete featured in a Super Bowl commercial. They dive into hot topics within the sport, including the ongoing debate around transgender athletes in triathlon, the balance between community and professionalism, and how the sport continues to evolve. Plus, they analyse the upcoming Abu Dhabi race, make bold predictions for the men’s and women’s fields, and debate whether running is changing the game in triathlon.
Bold Predictions For 2025
We're pull back the curtain on life as unfunded triathletes—the struggles, the hustle, and bold predictions for the 2025 season. We break down how off-season training in triathlon compares to other sports, share some wild stories about party culture among athletes, and call out the sport’s need for better visibility (because let’s be honest, the commentary could use some serious energy). They also dive into the current state of triathlon broadcasting, explore whether betting markets could make the sport more exciting, and debate how drama and storytelling could bring in more fans. Plus, we lay out our person...
2024 - A Year In Review
Another two athletes with a podcast? Yep. Plus one Sarah. But unlike the swim leg, we promise not to lose you in the first five minutes.
In our debut episode of The Unfunded, we break down the chaos, controversy, and clutch moments of 2024. From doping dramas to Olympic selection scandals to finish-line beefs that made Twitter implode—nothing is off-limits.
We’ll also celebrate the best of the best: our standout performances and the athletes who kept us on the edge of our carbon-plated shoes.
Strap in, aero tuck, and get ready for unfi...