Tough Girl Podcast

Join us on this episode of the Tough Girl Podcast as we delve into the extraordinary life of Gina Atkinson, a former Royal Signals engineer with a remarkable story of service and resilience. Gina's military career took her to 30 Signal Regiment, where she visited  35 countries during her first five years of service. Following a deeply personal loss in 2019, Gina embarked on a mission to honour her brother's memory by running/cycling 100 miles a week for a year, raising £10,000 for a local cancer charity and establishing an Art Foundation in his name. Her dedication did not stop there; Gina continued to raise over £250,000 for veterans' charities through a series of inspiring challenges and initiatives, including ultra races and solo adventures across Scotland. In this episode, Gina shares her journey of coping with grief through fitness and adventure, her experiences in the military, and her passion for supporting veterans and cancer patients alike. From riding across Death Valley to planning her next challenge of running from London to France in 2024, Gina's story is one of resilience, determination, and the power of adventure to heal and inspire. Learn how Gina's adventures and fundraising efforts have made a significant impact, and gain insights into her motivations, challenges, and the importance of mental health advocacy in her journey.  Join us as we explore Gina Atkinson's inspiring story on the Tough Girl Podcast. *** Don't miss out on the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, released every Tuesday at 7am UK time! Be sure to hit the subscribe button to stay updated on the incredible journeys and stories of strong women.  By supporting the Tough Girl Podcast on Patreon, you can make a difference in increasing the representation of female role models in the media, particularly in the world of adventure and physical challenges. Your contribution helps empower and inspire others. Visit www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast to be a part of this important movement.  Thank you for your invaluable support! *** Show notes Who is Gina Being based on the Wirral, UK Being a fundraiser for Veterans Charities  Combining her fundraising with crazy adventures  Growing up on the Wirral and why it’s an amazing location Her early years spending time hillwalking in Wales Joining the army cadets at 13 Deciding to join the army as an electronica engineer in the Royal Signals  Being posted to 30 Signal Regiment nicknamed the ‘globe trotters’  Visiting 35 countries in the first 5 years  Military memories from peace keeping missions Volunteering at the orphanage in Bosnia  Making the decision to leave the army Wanting to make a second career and experience something different  Starting fundraising for veterans charities almost straight away Riding across Death Valley in America  Getting involved in ultra races and going to see places at the same time The Wall Ultra Race across Hadrian’s Wall  Dealing with covid and losing her brother at age 52 to stage 4 bowl cancer Coming up with the idea of doing 100 miles a week for 52 weeks - 5,200 miles in memory of her brother.  Dealing with grief and needing a distraction Coping with stress and trauma by fitness and adventure in nature Not knowing the next steps Getting post adventures blues at the end of the challenge/adventure Backdoor adventures Raising funds for ssafa the Armed Forces charity   Meeting veterans and sharing stories and memories Being an advocate for mental health  Raising over £250K for veterans charities and winning multiple awards 300 mile solo adventure across Scotland (3 bucket list challenges in one) walking the West highland Way, paddling the Great Glen, and then walking back on the Great Glen Way to Fort William Getting injured and needing to return in 2024  Not taking a dip in lock ness The planning behind the challenge ideas Taking it from the idea to getting to the start line  Sticking to the plan  Using YouTube as a resource  Testing your kit and making sure your food is nutritious and tastes good Keeping positive while on adventures  Motivation and discipline why you need both Quote by D.H. Lawrence, “I never saw a wild thing sorry for itself. A small bird will drop frozen dead from a bough without ever having felt sorry for itself.”  Going back to your WHY Motivation from the GI Jane movie and Legally Blonde Being inspired by the Queen  The next challenge in 2024 - running to France from London! Maintaining fitness levels while not on adventures  How to connect with Gina on social media  Final words of advice for other women who want to do more adventures  Starting on your own fitness journey  Why consistency is the key for training for endurance events Try and enjoy it and remember why you are doing it   Social Media Instagram: @goliveit.onelife Facebook: @GinaGinelli Military Memories is an anthology of poems from the force’s community.Profits go to Military Charities SSAFA & Sporting Force. Instagram @Militarymemories2021 Twitter @militarymemos Book: Military Memories: Military Memories is a anthology of poems written by the forces community. The poems illustrate the journey taken by those who join ... families’ lives and also the trauma we face.  

Join us on the Tough Girl Podcast as we dive into the inspiring journey of Josie Fouts, an athlete, mentor, advocate, and filmmaker who is leading the charge to make mountain biking a Paralympic sport. Based in San Diego, California, Josie's story is one of resilience, determination, and a relentless pursuit of her passions. Born in Seoul, Korea, and adopted at six months old, Josie grew up in Ohio, USA, before finding her true calling in cycling upon moving to San Diego. Known as "Ms. Stubbornness," Josie embraced cycling not just as a sport but as a means of redefining her capabilities, riding one-handed without adaptations and challenging herself to excel. Josie's journey took a pivotal turn when she decided to leave her job in 2018 to pursue full-time training for the Tokyo Olympics. Despite not making it to Tokyo, Josie found solace and newfound passion in mountain biking, discovering freedom and exhilaration on the trails. In our conversation, Josie shares her insights on adaptive cycling, the challenges she faced in rethinking her approach, and her advocacy to include mountain biking in the Paralympics. She discusses her role as an upper limb mentoring coach, her nutrition strategies for endurance challenges, and mental tips to overcome obstacles. Don't miss Josie's story of resilience, her groundbreaking work with Tread Setters to promote inclusivity in cycling through filmmaking, and her empowering advice for women looking to make a difference in the world. *** Don't miss out on the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, released every Tuesday at 7am UK time! Be sure to hit the subscribe button to stay updated on the incredible journeys and stories of strong women.  By supporting the Tough Girl Podcast on Patreon, you can make a difference in increasing the representation of female role models in the media, particularly in the world of adventure and physical challenges. Your contribution helps empower and inspire others. Visit www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast to be a part of this important movement.  Thank you for your invaluable support! *** Show notes Who is Josie? Asian, American, Adoptee and Amputee Based in San Diego, California  Trailblazing for or mountain biking to be a Paralympic sport!  Bio on Instagram - “Mad scientist on a mission to single-handedly save the world with cycling!” Why she’s known as Ms Stubbornness Reinventing herself during the pandemic Born in Seoul Korea, before being adopted at 6 months old and growing up in Ohio, USA Getting into cycling when moving to San Diego and using it to commute to work  Riding one handed and not using any adaptations  Changing her mindset  Deciding to quit her job in 2018 and training full time for the Tokyo Olympics  Looking into prosthetics and what would work with her and the bike Making the decision to quit her job Having an adapted mindset  Wanting to get in the best shape of her life  Feeling over worked and underpaid and taking a step back The 3 red flags with her work and knowing she needed to make a change Being an athlete full time and why it was awesome Getting multiple degrees in nutrition and putting her knowledge into action  Working towards and end goals  Funding and paying for a coach and training while not working  Not making it to the Tokyo Olympics and why she’s grateful  Having the pressure taken off and figuring out what she wanted to do Finding herself mountain biking and loving the freedom  Starting to rethink her stubborn mindset Limiting herself by not using a prosthetic  Spending time on mountain biking trails in nature  Why don’t the Paralympics offer mountain biking? Deciding to focus her time and energy on what she can control and change Being an upper limb mentoring coach Making it up as she goes The White Rim Trail Challenge  Filming the adventure - Tread Setters - A group of para-cyclists attempt to ride the White Rim Trail through the heart of Canyonlands in one day with the hope of creating awareness around people with disabilities and growing a more inclusive cycling community. Tread Setters Film  Nutrition and fuelling for challenges and why read food is so important  Eating locally sourced and regenerative products  Mental tips and tricks to push on through the hard times and why thinking about physics helps Why you create your outcome Thinking about what’s going to get her through the difficult section How to connect with Josie online Advice for women who want to change the world    Social Media Instagram: @ms.stubbornness Facebook: @ms.stubbornness Movie: Tread Setters

Jen Benson is a runner, writer, running coach and mum of two.  Along with her husband, Sim, she has co-authored 10 books including Smart Running, The Camping Bible, Wild Running and The Adventurer's Guide to Britain.  She has an MSc in sport & exercise medicine and is currently a PhD researcher exploring the phenomenology of running.  Jen has run more than 50 marathons and ultras, including the 100-mile Arc of Attrition in 2024.  Her new book on women in ultrarunning, The Path We Run, is out in September. *** Don't miss out on the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, released every Tuesday at 7am UK time! Be sure to hit the subscribe button to stay updated on the incredible journeys and stories of strong women.  By supporting the Tough Girl Podcast on Patreon, you can make a difference in increasing the representation of female role models in the media, particularly in the world of adventure and physical challenges. Your contribution helps empower and inspire others. Visit www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast to be a part of this important movement.  Thank you for your invaluable support!   Show notes Who is Jen  Intro to her life and work Publishing 3 books in 2024 Book: Smart Running: The ultimate guide to becoming a fitter, stronger, more confident runner  Book: The Camping Bible: The Complete Guide to Life Under Canvas  Book: Great British Walkies: 100 brilliant dog walks through beautiful countryside (National Trust)  First speaking to Jen - 23rd July 2019 - Adventuring with her partner and two young children, living in a tent for 18 months!  What’s been going on since 2019  The wild year - spending 18 months in a tent Having freedom from the monthly treadmill of paying rent and bills Writing their first book (Wild Running) and wanting to make writing a full time career Writing their second book - Amazing Family Adventures: Fun days out and action-packed weekends. Being back in a proper house since 2016 Son aged 10, daughter aged 13  Researching an alpine adventure book in the Alps Getting back into running and starting to train for a 100 miler Documenting her training for and attempting to finish her first 100 mile race Always being a runner and doing a MSc in Sports and Exercise Medicine specialising in distance running. How pregnancy impacted on her life and withdrawing from her PHD Deciding to go back and do a PHD at Liverpool John Moors University - wanting to look at the meaning of running for couch to 5k runners and ultra distance runners.  The battle with negative troughs and how a lack of confidence impacted on her running. Signing up to do a mindfulness course and how it changed her life for the better Deciding to train as a mindfulness teacher Identifying the triggers for what causes the negative spirals  The impact of tiredness and sleep deprivation  Running through the dark and running through the night  The dream of wanting to run 100 miles Book: The Path We Run: A personal history of women's ultrarunning  Learning about the history of women in ultra running TGP Episode Ann Trason (July 19th 2016) - American ultra runner who has broken 20 world records & won Western States a record breaking 14 times  Barriers for women in ultra running  Why running can be an expensive sport Working with her partner to fit in training  Being anaemic and how 50% of women/runners can have low ferritin levels Book: Smart Running: The ultimate guide to becoming a fitter, stronger, more confident runner  Why it was a dream book to write  Book: The Camping Bible: The Complete Guide to Life Under Canvas Top tips for camping Some of the challenges from the past 5 years Planning for work and family life Getting older How to connect with Jen online Final words of advice  “Just because something feels scary, that’s not a reason not to do it.”  Taking the plunge and doing the scary thing   Social Media Website: jenandsimbenson.co.uk Instagram: @jenandsim  Facebook: @jenandsimbenson X: @jenandsim 

Jo Moseley, a 59-year-old single mum of two grown-up sons, resides on the edge of the picturesque Yorkshire Dales. In 2019, she achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first woman to paddle-board 162 miles coast to coast from Liverpool to Goole, all while actively contributing to litter cleanup efforts and fundraising for causes close to her heart. Her remarkable journey inspired the creation of the film "Brave Enough - A Journey Home to Joy," masterfully crafted by award-winning filmmaker Frit Tam. This captivating documentary has garnered acclaim at prestigious adventure film festivals and consistently sells out online screenings. In 2022, Jo's debut book, 'Stand Up Paddle-boarding in Great Britain,' captivated readers with its stunning portrayal of scenic paddle-boarding spots across England, Scotland, and Wales, quickly ascending to bestseller status.  Following this success, her second book, focusing on paddle-boarding in the Lake District, was published in May of this year. To further promote her latest literary endeavour, Jo eagerly anticipates embarking on summer adventures, including hiking, paddle-boarding, and indulging in the serene beauty of the Lakes #LakeDistrictBookRound initiative. Beyond her literary and paddle-boarding pursuits, Jo shares her passion for stand-up paddle-boarding (SUP) as the host of The Joy of SUP Podcast. Additionally, she embraces new challenges, such as learning to skateboard, and is poised to relaunch her newsletter, Fresh Starts & Sunrises, in the near future *** Don't miss out on the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, released every Tuesday at 7am UK time! Be sure to hit the subscribe button to stay updated on the incredible journeys and stories of strong women.  By supporting the Tough Girl Podcast on Patreon, you can make a difference in increasing the representation of female role models in the media, particularly in the world of adventure and physical challenges. Your contribution helps empower and inspire others. Visit www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast to be a part of this important movement.  Thank you for your invaluable support!   Show notes Who is Jo  Being a single mum of two grown-up sons Based in Yorkshire  Releasing her 2nd book on paddle boarding The first time we spoke to Jo on the Tough Girl Podcast - May 19th  Finishing 2019 on a high Reflecting back to 2020 and what Jo’s been up to  Officially being menopausal  Sumer 2020 starting to think about writing a book about paddle boarding and the reason why Sept/Oct 2020 - pitching her first book about paddle boarding Would she want to write a travel paddleboading book? Deciding to grab the opportunity and saying yes to writing a travel guide Deciding to start a podcast - The Joy of SUP Podcast Connecting with fellow paddle boarders May 2021 and starting the research to write the book  Visiting over 30 places around the UK Being on a massive learning curve Putting the book together with Vertebrae Publishing  Favourite places to visit in the UK to go paddle boarding Sharing the joy of aging well Turning 60 at the end of December  Mentally preparing to turn 60 and wanting to embrace it Doing a headstand a day until turning 60 Wanting it to be a positive new chapter New Book:  'Stand-Up Paddleboarding in the Lake District: Beautiful Places to Paddleboard in Cumbria How paddle boarding transforming changed her life Why you can only paddle board on only 10 lakes in the Lake District Sewage in the water and what to do  How to be environmentally conscious and what to look out for Check - Clean - Dry How to go to the toilet, when there aren’t toilets around Cold water and peeing Poo…. Pooing… If you show people a beautiful place, they will love it and look after it Knowing the wind speed that is safe for you to paddle in Being made an Ordansury Survey Champion  Fitting fitness and exercise into her life Keeping the kettle bell in the kitchen Snacking on exercise Taking up skateboarding When was the last time you did something new for the first time How to connect with Jo online The next adventure/challenge  Walking from lake to lake and bookshop to bookshop in the Lake District Campsites with Camp Wild Final words of advice for other women “Start exactly as you are, start today and start small” Build a community online  Do it for you and do what’s important to you   Social Media Website: www.jomoseley.com Instagram: @jomoseley Facebook: @joanna.moseley.77   

In this episode, we have the privilege of chatting with Theresa Frost, a remarkable 68-year-old athlete who shatters stereotypes and redefines what it means to stay active and competitive at any age.  Theresa's list of accomplishments is as impressive as it is diverse, including: European Aquabike Champion 2023  Team GB Athlete  Barcelona Ironman Finisher 2022  70.3 World Championships Competitor 2016  Theresa's journey is a testament to her incredible resilience and determination. A retired teacher and smallholder living in Cornwall, UK, she balances her athletic pursuits with her family life, being a wife of over 40 years, a mother of two, and a grandmother of three. In this episode, Theresa shares her fascinating life story, from her active childhood on a farm in Gloucester to her impressive achievements in the world of endurance sports. She talks about her initial foray into running after the birth of her daughter, Harriet, and how this led to her participation in multiple London Marathons and ultimately, Ironman competitions. Listeners will hear about Theresa's triumphs and challenges, including overcoming double hip replacements, her rigorous training schedule, and her philosophy on staying active and healthy.  Whether you're looking for inspiration to take on a new challenge or tips on staying fit and motivated at any age, Theresa Frost's story is sure to captivate and inspire.  Tune in to learn how Theresa continues to defy expectations and live life to the fullest, proving that age and obstacles are no barriers to achieving greatness. *** Don't miss out on the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, released every Tuesday at 7am UK time! Be sure to hit the subscribe button to stay updated on the incredible journeys and stories of strong women.  By supporting the Tough Girl Podcast on Patreon, you can make a difference in increasing the representation of female role models in the media, particularly in the world of adventure and physical challenges. Your contribution helps empower and inspire others. Visit www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast to be a part of this important movement.  Thank you for your invaluable support!   Show notes Who is Theresa Retired teacher and small holder  Being a GB athlete and competing in standard, middle and long distance Aquabike (Swim and bike of a triathlon) Being European Distance Champion for the 65- 69 age group Based in Cornwall, UK 68 years young Reflecting back on her childhood and growing up on a farm in Gloucester with her 3 siblings  Doing all of the team sports at school, from hockey, netball, rounders, tennis and gymnastics.  Outside of school, doing Judo, fencing and sub-aqua Spending time outdoors exploring, and playing in the woods Being inspired by her sports teacher at school in both sports and education Becoming a PE teacher and meeting her husband at work Being married to Peter for 41 years, having 2 children and 3 grandchildren Not being active during her pregnancy's  Getting into running after her daughter, Harriet was born What her running journey looked like Starting with 10ks and half marathons and entering the London Marathon in 1990 Running London Marathon 5 times  Deciding to take on a Ironman and not knowing if she had the potential to achieve it Doing an Ironman with Harriet Having 2 hip replacements 14 years ago - August 2010 Doing the London Triathlon in 2013 at 57 Getting more confident and training better 2015 doing an half ironman  Finishing first in her age group to go to the World Championships in Australia  Being retired and working on her smallholding Speaking with and working with a coach in 2021 Deciding to commit and do a full Ironman in October 2022 What a typical training week looks like Training 13 out of 14 days (not always taking a day off) Strength and conditioning class with Ruth  Not being a fan of stretching Being a member of a running club GLL Better Leisure Centres, Cornwall SNUGGs Wetsuits Liking the thought of running   Feeling pain while running Running on her terms  What is Aquabike? https://www.aquabike.world/  The European Aquabike Championships in Portugal The mental side of races Being inspired by the Eileen’s in her life The distances involved and fuelling during the race Maurten  Food and meat from the small holding  Needing to eat more protein Being a baker but not a cooker Food before a race and after Recovery and not being a fan of stretching Dog walking and active recovery Not being good at sitting down and doing nothing Turning 70 and looking forward to it How to connect with Theresa on Instagram Final words of advice for other women who are in their 60s and want to try new things Starting with one thing and why moving is so important Take opportunities and try new things   Social Media Instagram: @theresa.frost 

Kasia wears many hats: a Mountain Leader, Rock-Climbing Instructor, and an aspiring alpinist. But above all, she's a lover of adventure. Her story began in 2008 when she left Poland in search of a better life. Little did she know, this journey would lead her to incredible heights—both literally and metaphorically. Life in a new country wasn't easy. Kasia had to work hard, raise a child alone, and worry about making ends meet. But through it all, her passion for the mountains burned bright. Despite the demands of her daily life, Kasia couldn't ignore the call of the wild. So, she took a leap of faith. She left behind the security of her job to pursue her love for climbing full-time. Her greatest adventures awaited in the Himalayas, where she tackled peaks that few had ever dared to climb. But for Kasia, the thrill of exploration doesn't end there. Her dream is to keep discovering new corners of the world, to seek out untouched landscapes and experience the beauty of the unknown. *** Don't miss out on the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, released every Tuesday at 7am UK time! Be sure to hit the subscribe button to stay updated on the incredible journeys and stories of strong women.  By supporting the Tough Girl Podcast on Patreon, you can make a difference in increasing the representation of female role models in the media, particularly in the world of adventure and physical challenges. Your contribution helps empower and inspire others. Visit www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast to be a part of this important movement.  Thank you for your invaluable support!   Show notes Who is Kasia Moving to the UK in 2008 at 20 years old Not being outdoorsy while growing up in Poland The challenges of first moving to the UK Learning the language and the culture  The challenge of finding her first job  Getting a job in a chicken factory for 2 years Not having the energy to spend time outdoors  Work - home - work - home Becoming a mother in September 2009  Wanting to do more with her life Applying for new jobs every 2 years Doing qualifications  Going through a divorce and why it was so chaotic for a few years Getting her driving licence at 26 years old Starting to explore the surrounding mountains in Herefordshire  Being invited to a local climbing centre Starting with bouldering  Spending time outdoors with her young daughter Getting new gear and finding an outdoor instructor to learn more skills in the outdoors Sharing her dreams of becoming a member of mountain rescue  Speaking with a mountaineering instructor and receiving advice about how to start How to get registered with Mountain Training  Providing evidence of her experience in the mountains and building her portfolio  QMDs - Quality Mountain Days  Doing her ML Training in 2020 Passing her Rock Climbing Instructor in 2021  Giving herself between a year and 18 months Getting qualified and the next steps Being supported by her partner  Wanting to gain experience with Raleigh International in a volunteer position  Having no job and no experience as a mountain leader Going through a very stressful time, not knowing what was next  Using FB groups to get work  Working with the British Army Gaining confidence and new skills working as an outdoor instructor  Managing stress and uncertainty Going with the flow and why the journey is so important Not wanting to feed the negative thoughts, or overthink things Wanting to share her passion for the outdoors Inspiring other to follow their outdoor dreams Dealing with Imposter syndrome while working in the outdoors Working towards her Mountaineering and Climbing Instructor  Having her assessment booked for May 2025 The preparation for her assessment and getting in enough rock climbing experience  The sacrifices that need to be made The struggle of finding people to climb with Enjoying the process and meeting so many like minded people who have similar interests and passions How her love for the mountains has grown Starting to climb in the Alps Spending time in the Himalayas in India  Joining the Alpine Club  Learning new skills  Wanting to climb higher and go on expeditions  Womens Trad Festival  Reflecting back on the progress she’s made over the past 3 years How to connect with Kasia on Instagram Future goals Final words of advice for other women who want to make a career change Ignore the negative opinions of the people around you  Keep working hard if you want to achieve your goals.    Social Media Instagram: @mtns_and_me   

Meet Tsetsgee Damdin, a passionate oriental medical doctor, yoga instructor, and the visionary behind Big Blue Flower, a unique travel company dedicated to authentic Mongolian experiences. Raised in Mongolia's nomadic traditions, Tsetsgee draws inspiration from her parents and childhood spent in the countryside. Her journey includes education in Oriental Medicine and acupuncture in Beijing, enriching her deep connection to Mongolian spirituality and nature. Driven to share her culture, Tsetsgee founded Big Blue Flower Adventures, offering transformative journeys like camel trips in winter and reindeer herding expeditions. She embodies Mongolian values, honouring the eternal blue sky and the spiritual connection to nature. Tsetsgee's work reflects her commitment to empowering women and promoting cultural understanding. Join us as we explore Tsetsgee Damdin's inspiring journey, her profound insights into Mongolian spirituality, and her mission to spread happiness through cultural immersion in Mongolia. *** Don't miss out on the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, released every Tuesday at 7am UK time! Be sure to hit the subscribe button to stay updated on the incredible journeys and stories of strong women.  By supporting the Tough Girl Podcast on Patreon, you can make a difference in increasing the representation of female role models in the media, particularly in the world of adventure and physical challenges. Your contribution helps empower and inspire others. Visit www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast to be a part of this important movement.  Thank you for your invaluable support!   Show notes Tsetsgee = Flower  The meaning of her name in Mongolian  Her family and family life Being inspired by her father and mother Being inspired to follow her passion  Coming from a nomadic background Spending time in the countryside on the East side of Mongolia from June to September Being taught to appreciate the Mongolian culture Going to Chicago, America when she was a teenagers to learn English and gain more education  Studying 6 years in Oriental Medication  Spending 2 years in Beijing learning about acupuncture Learning the Chinese language  Deciding to start her own business  Working with Chloe Phillips-Harris since 2018 Wanting to share her culture with foreign people  Creating the Big Blue Flower Adventures Making it the most authentic experience possible  Wearing tradition Mongolian clothes and living like locals  Running Camel Trips in January (which is the coldest time of the year, -40) The Reindeer trip and having to travel for 2 weeks on horse up to the North of Mongolia. Meeting up with the reindeer herders and then end up migrating with them. Wanting to combine all the trips and experiences together. Why Mongolian people are very spiritual people  Leaning to tolerate and accept nature The meaning of external blue sky The amazing power we have in our chest and how we can connect to our ancestors  The importance of being true and trustworthy Asking for blessings from the external blue sky The masters of the river  Fire energy and energy from the fire Taking with the fire, the moon, the sun, and the mountains  The energy from nature and treating them as family members The challenges of technology and being exposed to social media and computers Leaving her family behind to go to America in 2000  Wanting to return to Mongolia  Being treated as family  The importance of girls and women in Mongolian culture  First connecting with Chloe Phillips-Harris  Working on the Mongal Derby  When tourists don’t understand that Mongolian horses are half wild and not pets Staring horse riding at 5 years old and why children are taught to ride so early  How to connect with Tsetsgee Final words of advice for women who want to go travelling to Mongolia  Why your soul gets happy when you visit Mongolia    Social Media Website: www.greatnomadexpeditions.com  Instagram: @Tsetsgeedamdin.bbf Facebook: @TsetsgeeDamdin Facebook: @BigBlueFlowerAdventures  Facebook: @GreatNomadExpedition 

Join us on this episode of the Tough Girl Podcast as we welcome Caroline Paul, an inspiring author and adventurer.  Caroline's new book, TOUGH BROAD: From Boogie Boarding to Wing Walking―How Outdoor Adventure Improves Our Lives as We Age, explores the transformative power of outdoor adventures for aging gracefully. She is also the author of the New York Times bestseller The Gutsy Girl: Escapades for Your Life of Epic Adventure and Lost Cat: A True Story of Love, Desperation, and GPS Technology, which has been translated into fifteen languages. Caroline's TED Talk, “To Raise Brave Girls, Encourage Adventure,” has captivated over 2 million viewers. With a rich history of adventure and storytelling, Caroline is a longtime member of the Writers Grotto in San Francisco, where she has lived for over 40 years. In this episode, Caroline shares her journey from growing up with an identical twin and a younger brother in the 60s and 70s to becoming a firefighter at the age of 26, one of the first women to do so. Her passion for bravery and adventure is evident as she discusses the importance of encouraging young girls to embrace adventure, leading with bravery, and pushing boundaries. Caroline also dives into the unique challenges and joys of aging, discussing her research into fulfilling aging, the importance of community, purpose, and a positive mindset. She shares stories of inspiring older women, like her mother who went skydiving at 62, and her own experiences of surfing, bird watching, and scuba diving with an 80-year-old. Tune in to hear Caroline's insights on aging, bravery, and the transformative power of the outdoors. Discover why she believes the biggest adventure of all is aging and how we can all continue to expand our comfort zones and embrace new experiences at any age. *** Don't miss out on the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, released every Tuesday at 7am UK time! Be sure to hit the subscribe button to stay updated on the incredible journeys and stories of strong women.  By supporting the Tough Girl Podcast on Patreon, you can make a difference in increasing the representation of female role models in the media, particularly in the world of adventure and physical challenges. Your contribution helps empower and inspire others. Visit www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast to be a part of this important movement.  Thank you for your invaluable support! *** Show notes Who is Caroline Paul? Publishing her 7th Book New Book:  TOUGH BROAD: From Boogie Boarding to Wing Walking―How Outdoor Adventure Improves Our Lives as We Age Living in San Fransisco, California for over 40 years Growing up in the 60s/70s with an identical twin and a younger brother Valuing adventure from a young age Being encouraged to become a well-rounded individual by her parents Being inspired by the National Geographic Magazine  Not seeing many women doing adventures  Deciding to become a journalist Going to Stanford University to study Communication, with the idea of becoming a documentary filmmaker  Becoming a fire fighter at age 26 in 1989 (the 15th woman out of 1,500 men) and being paid to have adventures Starting to become interested in bravery  Ted Talk: To Raise Brave Girls and to Encourage Adventure    Advice for parents  Women are coming from a place of fear where as men come from a place of bravery Leading with bravery and how it can open up your life Why do women lead with fear? Wanting to protect girls and to do that fear is instilled in girls from a young age The importance of risk assessment, hazard assessment, pushing boundaries, learning about your own decision making process  Why teaching girls to be afraid can be harmful.  Raising boys and girls differently - the subtle differences  Book: The Gutsy Girl  55 years young and surfing in a winter swell and starting to wonder where all the women are What is the messaging that older women are getting that is stopping them from going outside Feeling invisible and culturally irrelevant and how it can cause women to narrow their lives and to not embrace things Doing research into fulfilling aging  “The way we look at our own aging predicts how well we age” Having her mum as a positive role model while she was going through her aging journey  Being interested in who she would be when she got older Her mum deciding to go skydiving at 62 and how it changed her life  I might not be a brave person, but I’ve done a brave things. Turning 60 and loving it  People told by multiple women that their 60s was their favourite decade Menopause and how it can change women especially with regard to care giving hormones  Connecting with women in the outdoors to interview them for the book Going bird watching and why it was an adventure  The benefits of spending time in the outdoors Birdability  Going scuba diving with an 80 year old Learning how to BMX race with a 74 year old What makes fulfilling aging; Community, purpose, novelty, health and a positive mindset about your own aging. Becoming more selfish and becoming set in my ways Advice to keep expanding your comfort zone Why novelty is important to help keep your brain firing  Why invisibility can become a superpower  It’s not too late to learn - it’s a perfect time, until it’s not Don’t stop yourself too early The importance of having a sense of belonging Why the outdoors is the best medicine  How her view of adventure has changed since writing the book The feeling of ‘awe’ and why it’s so good for you Tapping into the deeper emotions People who feel awe tend to feel more gratitude  Being able to access awe on your backdoor  Seeing the Northern Lights and looking up at the sky Future plans for her 60th decade  How to connect with Caroline online The power of taking tiny steps to get outside  If you are spending time outside - keep spending time outside The need to protect nature  Best of luck with ageing….!!! The biggest adventure of all….. ageing!!!     Social Media Website: www.carolinepaul.com  Instagram: @carolinembpaul  Book: TOUGH BROAD: From Boogie Boarding to Wing Walking―How Outdoor Adventure Improves Our Lives as We Age   

In 2023, Geraldine at the age of 54, embarked on an awe-inspiring journey of a lifetime: a 2,000-mile solo walk from her home in Glasgow to the historic city of Rome! Raising funds for Dementia UK and Mary’s Meals in memory of her Mum & Dad. This remarkable adventure wasn't just about covering the distance; it was a test of resilience, determination, and the kindness of strangers. Along the way, Geraldine pulled a trailer, camped under the stars, and experienced countless acts of kindness from the people she met, affectionately referring to it as being 'kindnapped' – kidnapped with kindness. One of her biggest challenges was the daunting prospect of crossing the formidable Alps. Despite her initial trepidation, Geraldine pushed forward, only to realise that the alternative route offered even more daunting mountainous terrain. Undeterred, she pressed on, conquering each obstacle with unwavering determination and a steadfast spirit. As her incredible journey drew to a close in the historic streets of Rome, Geraldine experienced a truly unforgettable moment – a surprise meeting that added an extra layer of magic to her already extraordinary adventure. Now, Geraldine joins us to recount the highs, the lows, and the life-changing moments of her epic pilgrimage.  Listen to Geraldine as she shares her inspiring story of courage, resilience, and the transformative power of human connection. *** Don't miss out on the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, released every Tuesday at 7am UK time! Be sure to hit the subscribe button to stay updated on the incredible journeys and stories of strong women.  By supporting the Tough Girl Podcast on Patreon, you can make a difference in increasing the representation of female role models in the media, particularly in the world of adventure and physical challenges. Your contribution helps empower and inspire others. Visit www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast to be a part of this important movement.  Thank you for your invaluable support! *** Show notes Who is Geraldine  Working as a freelance risk consultant  Her early years and growing up Doing a few walks unto 300 miles, walking from Cardiff to London, walking between the 7 cities of Scotland.  Not being a super fit person and why walking works for her Going at slow pace and getting out and about Deciding to walk from Glasgow (home) to Rome in 2016 Why Rome Taking 2 years to tell people  Being encouraged by friends  2016 - her mum being diagnosed with Vascular Dementia  Losing her mum in April 2022 Making a commitment to herself The planning and preparation and why it wasn’t a big factor Deciding on a start day in May Having 2 rules for the walk, not carrying a rucksack and not walking over the alps Deciding to get a buggy and getting a Black Friday deal  Doing what is right for her body  The gear Not letting herself think long enough to have any concerns or fears  Joining a few walking groups The issue with wild dogs  Buying a GPS tracker  The practicalities of the trip in terms of taking time off work and paying for the trip The start - May 6th 2023  What was running through her head at the start Walking past the cemetery to visit her parents before starting Having company at the start Getting into a daily routing over the first 500 miles The uncertainty while walking daily Kidnapped with kindness ‘Kindnapping’ Magical moments while walking The plan for getting over the Alps….. The mental side of the challenge  Picking up a camino from Canterbury to Rome the Via Francigena. The practical aspects of getting herself and her trailer over the alps The pressure of walking with other people and choosing to walk at her own pace  Getting to Rome and feeling excited about arrived Being met by her friends at the finish Remembering the moment when she completed the walk and how all emotions overwhelmed her Have an incredible Italian tour guide and getting to see all the sites The final surprise  Being presented to Pope Francis  The adjustment of going back to work after the end of the adventure Missing the daily routine while walking Raising money for charities  Mary’s Meals Dementia UK How to connect on social media Final words of advice - “do it at your pace - your pace is the right pace for you” Why you are much more capable than we think we are.    Social Media Instagram: @ged_home2rome  Facebook: @HometoRome  Just Giving Fundraising Pages: Mary’s Meals: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/geraldine-mcfaul1 Dementia UK: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/geraldine-mcfaul 

Steph is a Mum to a her nearly 7 year old son, a soldiers wife, and Operations manager for Forces Wives Challenge (FWC). In July 2019 Steph and her families' world was turned upside down when she became suddenly very unwell, and was subsequently diagnosed with a neurological disorder.  Going from an active, full time working Mum and a keen horse rider, to fully dependant on a wheelchair, with complex health issues and requiring 24/7 care to support with everyday tasks, was life changing. With sheer determination, an incredible support network and a passion for adventure, less than two years later Steph was back in the saddle and aiming for the next challenge in life.  Steph found her new 'place' within the FWC community amongst other women seeming adventure.   In June 2023 Steph tackled FWC’s ‘Ride to Freedom’ expedition and became the world’s first wheelchair dependant person to ride by horse back across the Pyrenees from France to Spain. Steph and her team battled extreme heat, a dangerous thunder and lightening storm, treacherous ground and long days in the saddle to complete the 130km route using the WW2 freedom trails.  Steph has now also founded her own CIC (non-profit) called Equine Para-adventures, which will seek to offer disabled horse riders their own equine adventures out of the usual riding school set up. In February 2026 Equine Para-adventures will start its flagship adventure called ‘Ride to Independence’ when a team of 6 ladies, including Steph, will ride a historic route across the Andes from Argentina to Chile and Steph will aim to complete it and gain another ‘worlds first’.  *** Don't miss out on the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, released every Tuesday at 7am UK time! Be sure to hit the subscribe button to stay updated on the incredible journeys and stories of strong women.  By supporting the Tough Girl Podcast on Patreon, you can make a difference in increasing the representation of female role models in the media, particularly in the world of adventure and physical challenges. Your contribution helps empower and inspire others. Visit www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast to be a part of this important movement.  Thank you for your invaluable support! *** Show notes Who is Stephanie  Living on an army base in the West Midlands Working for Forces Wives Challenges  20th June 2023 - first speaking with Stephanie on the TGP - Stephanie Quintrell - Forces Wives Challenge - Ride to Freedom across the Pyrenees mountains.  The Ride To Freedom Challenge Planning the adventure in late 2021 Focusing on the fitness for the challenge and not the mental/emotional side  The challenges of getting on the plane and flying with a wheelchair  Working with a provider in France  The stress in the run up to the start and why it was a relief to start Riding the horse in exactly the same was as anybody else does Having exceptional core strength and balance  The incredible horses and the amazing job they did  Crossing a challenging bridge and why it was scary for multiple reasons Managing emotions during stressful moments Why adventure is calculated risk Not feeling disabled while horseback riding The lessons learned from the challenges Gaining more independence back and feeling more confident Being able to ask for and accept help Deciding to set up Equine Para-adventures CIC The plans for Feb 2026 in Argentina  Needing to find financial support How to connect with Steph online Final words of advice to encourage more women to step outside their comfort zone Life’s too short - do something a scary to push yourself and see what you can achieve   Social Media Equine Para-adventures CIC is a non-profit organisation dedicated to empowering the disabled community through a range of equestrian activities aimed at fostering inclusivity and enriching lives. Website: www.equine-para-adventures.org  Instagram: @equine_para_adventures  Facebook: Equine Para-Adventures CIC    Personal Instagram: @steph_backinthesaddle Facebook: Stephanie Quintrell- disabled adventurer/para-equestrian    Forces Wives Challenge Instagram: @forces_wives_challenge  Facebook: @forces_wives_challenge