The Runna Podcast
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 to beginners taking their first strides, Runna is here to support you every step of the way. Whether you’re aiming to conquer a faster 5k or cross the finish line of your first ultra-marathon, our tailored Runna plans and weekly podcast episodes are designed to keep you motivated. Use code ‘RUNNAPODCAST’ if you’re feeling inspired to give it a go for a 2-week free trial.Join us on the Runna Podcast as we celebrate the joys, challenges, and triumphs of running, and help you achieve your Runna goals one stride at a time. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books
36 snips
Sep 12, 2025 • 53min
Why Strava Bought Runna: The Startup Story Behind Runna (with the CEOs of Strava & Runna)
Dom Maskell, CEO and co-founder of Runna, and Mike Martin, CEO of Strava, share the thrilling journey behind Runna's acquisition by Strava. They delve into the evolution of Runna from a pandemic project to a global app, which now supports runners in seven languages. The duo recount the challenges of securing funding, having faced over 100 rejections, and discuss the innovative features that merge both platforms, promising an enhanced running experience. Join them for insightful anecdotes and their vision for the future of fitness technology.
Sep 6, 2025 • 45min
Paula Radcliffe LIVE: Proven Half Marathon Tips from a World Record Holder
Paula Radcliffe, a world record-holder and Olympic icon, shares her legendary running journey. She reflects on her 16-year marathon record and what it taught her about perseverance. Valuable half marathon tips come to light, including pacing, refueling, and race-day preparation. Paula discusses her champion mindset, proud moments, and the importance of resilience. She also highlights the emotional significance of the Great North Run and provides practical advice for runners eager to enjoy their runs while navigating challenges.
Aug 29, 2025 • 1h 7min
Your 4 Biggest Running Questions Answered with Olympian Coach Colleen Quigley
Olympian Colleen Quigley shares her journey from modeling to professional running, emphasizing the importance of balancing life with athletics. She offers practical training hacks, highlighting how to structure workouts and understand heart rate zones. Colleen candidly discusses navigating recovery after injury, focusing on rebuilding confidence and maintaining positivity. She advocates for a fun mindset in training, asserting that enjoyment is key to becoming a better runner. This conversation is a treasure trove for runners looking to improve their craft!
Aug 22, 2025 • 40min
The Fight for Representation in Pro Cycling with Ayesha McGowan
Ayesha McGowan, the first African-American female professional cyclist, shares her remarkable journey from a music teacher to international racing with Liv Racing. She reflects on her breakthrough moment at the Tour Cycliste Féminin International de l'Ardèche and the challenges of representation in cycling. Ayesha discusses founding initiatives like A Quick Brown Fox and The Abundance Project to empower women of color. Her story not only inspires with tales of resilience but also calls for meaningful change in the sport and beyond.
11 snips
Aug 15, 2025 • 45min
How Sports Psychology Saved My Olympic Career: Laura Weightman’s Story
Laura Weightman, a two-time Olympian and one of the UK's fastest women, shares her journey from athletic glory to coaching and mentorship after injury forced her retirement. She discusses the intense pressure athletes face, the transformative power of mental health support, and what she wishes young female athletes knew. Laura candidly reflects on her evolution from competitor to mentor, emphasizing the importance of self-belief and the freedom she found in coaching. Her insights are a powerful reminder of resilience in redefining one’s identity post-dream.
16 snips
Aug 8, 2025 • 41min
Running to Cure Dementia: Jordan Adams on Living with Purpose After a Terminal Diagnosis
Jordan Adams, co-founder of The FTD Brothers and a passionate fundraiser for Alzheimer’s Research UK, shares his inspiring journey living with frontotemporal dementia at 23. He discusses his transformation from teenage caregiver to record-breaking runner, revealing how running became his 'license to live.' Jordan details his incredible challenges, including running marathons and traversing the UK with his brother, while emphasizing the emotional toll of grief and the importance of finding purpose. His story is a powerful testament to resilience and family legacy.
Aug 3, 2025 • 54sec
The Runna Podcast Trailer
Discover inspiring journeys from Olympic champions and world record holders in the running community. Get expert coaching tips to train smarter and recover stronger. Enjoy candid discussions about overcoming setbacks and finding purpose. Tune in for humorous 'would you rather' questions that add a lighthearted touch. This podcast promises uplifting stories and insights that motivate both elite athletes and everyday runners. Each week brings new fascinating content to keep you engaged and energized.
Aug 1, 2025 • 57min
“Anything Is Possible”: Double Paralympic Champion Richard Whitehead MBE on 92 Marathons & World Records
Richard Whitehead MBE, a double Paralympic gold medalist and four-time world champion, shares his inspiring journey from overcoming childhood challenges to achieving athletic success. He discusses his late start in marathon running at 28 with specialized prosthetics and the importance of inclusivity in sports for the 16 million individuals in the UK with disabilities. Richard also shares his humorous take on marathon fuel mishaps and dreams of an ideal race experience that’s flat, inclusive, and fueled by pizza. His story is a powerful reminder of resilience and belief.
Jul 25, 2025 • 51min
From Not Being Able to Leave His Room to Running 837 Miles: Marcus Skeet on Mental Health, Purpose & Raising £160K for Mind
Marcus Skeet, known as The Hull Boy, made headlines as the youngest person to run the full UK length at just 17. He shares his inspiring journey from battling severe OCD and depression after his father's dementia diagnosis to completing an 837-mile marathon. Marcus discusses how a single walk ignited his passion for running and the profound mental health benefits he experienced. His mission raised £160,000 for the charity Mind, emphasizing that his journey is about finding purpose in pain, not just physical achievement.
18 snips
Jul 18, 2025 • 1h 3min
The 12 Most Common Running Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)
Explore the common pitfalls runners face, from training errors to race-day blunders. Discover the importance of gradually increasing mileage and incorporating rest for optimal recovery. Learn how to set realistic goals that prioritize enjoyment over strict time constraints. The hosts also tackle the critical role of carbs in fueling your runs. Plus, enjoy a light-hearted debate about balancing pizza with marathon training. This lively mix of coaching tips and humorous insights will enhance your running experience.
