

The Runna Podcast
Runna
Join Coach Ben Parker and Coach Anya Culling every Friday as they deep-dive into running with Olympians, world-class coaches, and inspiring runners - from Romesh Ranganathan to Alex Yee and Lucy Charles-Barclay. Expect captivating stories, hilarious mishaps, and actionable coaching tips (incl. weekly tips from Olympian Steph Davis) on training, injury prevention, mindset, recovery, and performance. Whether it’s your first 5K or a marathon PB, we’ll fuel your next run. New episodes every Friday. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Oct 3, 2025 • 57min
Novice to Gold in 4 Years & Redefining Motherhood in Elite Sport: 4x Olympian Helen Glover
In this engaging discussion, two-time Olympic champion Helen Glover shares her incredible journey from novice rower at 21 to Olympic gold medalist in just four years. She reflects on the mental resilience needed for success and opens up about her transformative return to elite rowing after starting a family. With a silver at Paris 2024, Helen breaks barriers for mothers in sports and reveals her excitement for new challenges, including training for the Oxford Half. Her story shines a light on redefining motherhood and the joy of competing.

Sep 26, 2025 • 45min
“Everyone Told Us to Quit”: The Brutal Truth Behind Running Across Australia & the UK
Stefan Lamble, an endurance runner and one half of the Lambros brothers, shares the incredible story of running over 4,000 miles across Australia and the UK to raise funds for cancer research. He discusses the harsh realities of ultrarunning, including injuries like blood infections and fractured femurs. The power of brotherhood kept them going through mental struggles and physical pain. Motivated by purpose, they highlight the importance of resilience and community support, inspiring others to push their limits even in the darkest times.

15 snips
Sep 19, 2025 • 38min
Olympic Champion Alex Yee: Training Secrets, Marathon Debut, and Giving Back
Join two-time Olympic gold medallist Alex Yee, a world champion triathlete and recent marathon debutant, as he shares his journey from Lewisham to the global stage. He unveils his mindset for Olympic victories, the intense training leading to his 2:11 marathon finish, and plans for future races. Alex discusses the challenges of performing under pressure and the importance of giving back to his community. Expect insights into his training metrics and a fun rapid-fire round revealing his dream race, complete with dim sum and Fanta!

37 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.

16 snips
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.

11 snips
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.


