The Running Channel Podcast
The Running Channel
The Running Channel Podcast tackles one big topic each episode, amongst helpful tips and light-hearted chat on the latest news in the running world and answers to your burning running questions. Hosted by Sarah Hartley (amateur runner) and Andy Baddeley (former pro runner) alongside Rick Kelsey (recovering runner), the TRC Podcast is friendly, jargon-free, and the perfect accompaniment to your runs.
For all enquiries contact [email protected].
For all enquiries contact [email protected].
Episodes
Mentioned books
Nov 2, 2026 • 16min
Remembering Ciara Mageean (1992-2026)
Ciara Mageean, the beloved Irish 1500m runner and 2024 European champion, is remembered through a warm conversation after her world-championship fourth place. She reflects on signing her first professional contract, the glamorous myths and awkward realities of athletics, Budapest’s record-breaking final, championship tactics, and learning to embrace the pain and pressure of racing.
11 snips
Oct 31, 2026 • 41min
194: Why Are Running Events So Expensive?
Why are race entries getting so expensive? This lively discussion explores the hidden costs of staging events, from security and insurance to road closures, medical cover and chip timing. It also weighs big branded races against smaller local competitions, questions whether modern race-day extras are worth the price, and offers a look at affordable ways to find running magic.
11 snips
Oct 24, 2026 • 39min
193: Is Running a Marathon Actually an Achievement Anymore?
Is the marathon becoming just another box to tick? The team debate whether rising participation and the boom in ultras have changed how we view the distance. They also discuss a four-day run across Wales in memory of a father, the reality of tough training, fueling long runs, a carbon-plate riddle, and a listener question.
9 snips
Oct 17, 2026 • 48min
192: Strides: The Key to Speed and Running Economy
Discover how strides can sharpen speed, improve running economy, and reinforce efficient form without a full interval session. The discussion covers fitting them into training, choosing a route, pacing, recovery, and footwear. Also hear about a sub-75-minute half-marathon build, a chaotic parkrun breakfast, Eliud Kipchoge’s greatness, a remarkable run across Wales, and a tricky running riddle.
Oct 10, 2026 • 41min
191: Why Are People Cheating In Marathons?
Marathon cheating takes center stage, from bib swapping and course cutting to bikes, buses, doping and suspiciously polished social media performances. The discussion explores where honest mistakes end and deliberate cheating begins, plus the fallout for safety, fairness and reputation. Also featuring a tricky negative-split riddle, training updates and a debate about runners who are always one step ahead.
Oct 3, 2026 • 39min
190: What is Running Culture Really Like Across The World?
From a wholesome hen do to the high-stakes Berlin Marathon, this conversation explores the many faces of running. Hear about Los Angeles racing, international relay formats, club rivalries, the world’s best running cities, pollution’s impact on performance, and the resilience behind running through life’s biggest changes.
Oct 2, 2026 • 28min
“I was truly humbled..." Andy’s First Trail Race Debrief (BONUS FREE EPISODE)
Andy tackles his first trail race in the Lake District, facing 22km of mud, rain, punishing climbs and technical descents. He shares the highs and mishaps of chasing a podium against elite trail runners, navigating with Garmin, and discovering just how different trail racing is from the road. Expect an honest, entertaining race debrief and a humbling fifth-place finish.
13 snips
Sep 26, 2026 • 44min
189: How to Run Faster With Less Effort
How can runners go faster without working harder? Sarah and Rick unpack their Zone 4 races, while the team explores running economy, form, strength, shoes, fueling, and smarter training. There’s also a spirited debate over logging warm-ups, lessons from singing and swimming for better breathing, and inspiration from a remarkable 100K record.
10 snips
Sep 21, 2026 • 34min
188/3: Sarah Runs 1:41:53 at the Copenhagen Half Marathon... Full Debrief!
Sarah unpacks her Copenhagen Half Marathon personal best, from crowded corrals and pacing with Olympian Andy Baddeley to conquering the infamous Dragon Hill. The team discusses fueling, race-day nerves, sideline support, and the atmosphere of the World Championships. They also explore reverse-taper recovery, unusual training, historic performances, and Andy’s next racing challenge.
6 snips
Sep 20, 2026 • 44min
188/2: How to Plan and Execute the Ultimate Race Strategy
Rick tackles the brutal intensity of an all-out mile in Copenhagen, while Sarah and Andy map out a half marathon strategy built around pacing, fuelling and confidence. They explore negative splits, adapting to hills and wind, handling race-day setbacks, and setting flexible goals. Plus, elite racing tactics and the surprising mental benefits of running.
