Episodes

  • Miriam Lancewood: A Life Beyond Civilisation – Wilderness Living, Global Adventures, and Lessons from the Wild

    Miriam Lancewood: A Life Beyond Civilisation – Wilderness Living, Global Adventures, and Lessons from the Wild
    Feb 4 2025
    Miriam Lancewood is an adventurer, author, and modern-day nomad who chose an extraordinary path far removed from the comforts of modern life. In 2010, Miriam and her husband Peter left civilisation behind, venturing into the high mountains of New Zealand with nothing but a backpack, a bow and arrow, and a tent. For seven years, they lived as nomads, hunting wild animals, foraging for plants, and embracing a primal existence in the wilderness. Since then, Miriam’s journey has continued to evolve. Together with Peter, she has roamed the wilderness of Europe, braved personal challenges like Peter's battle with kidney failure, and settled into an off-grid cottage in Bulgaria. While Peter tends the land, Miriam embarks on solo expeditions, most recently exploring the remote regions of the Himalayas, Tajikistan, and Kyrgyzstan. Miriam is also a celebrated author, with her international bestseller Woman in the Wilderness captivating readers across the globe. Her sequel, Wild at Heart, and her most recent release, Wilder Journeys, showcase her incredible adventures and reflections on nature connection in the modern world. Join us as Miriam shares her remarkable story of survival, resilience, and what it means to live in harmony with nature, far from the conveniences of contemporary life. First TGP episode with Miriam - 14th April 2020 - Miriam Lancewood: Woman in the Wilderness: A Story of Survival, Love and Self-Discovery in NZ. Catch the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, dropping every Tuesday at 7 am UK time! Don’t forget to subscribe so you won’t miss the inspiring journeys and incredible stories of tough women. Want to play a part in uplifting female representation in the media? Support the Tough Girl Podcast on Patreon! Your generosity helps shine a spotlight on female role models in the world of adventure and physical challenges. Join us in making a positive impact by visiting www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast. Thank you for your amazing support! *** Show notes 1st speaking to Miriam on the Tough Girl Podcast in April 14th 2020Miriam introducing herself In 2010 decided to leave civilisation and live in the wilderness in New ZealandWhat happens with body and mind when you are so far from other peopleDeciding to leave New Zealand in 2017 and head to EuropeWalking the E4 Moving to Bulgaria where houses are very cheapBuying a little cottageMeeting Peter at 22, when Peter was 52Turning 41How life has changed now Peter is in his 70sWhy the travelling had to stopSpeaking with the Doctors and needing to go on dialysis every second day for 8 hrsHow Peter somewhat recovered How life has changed since that day in Australia Not wanting to lose her freedom Travelling back to Bulgaria during covid Becoming more independent and doing things on her ownHeading to the Tajikistan, and Kyrgyzstan to climb with friendsWanting to organise an expedition Making a training plan to ensure people are fit and readyBeing an expedition leaderBeing fascinated by mountains and wanting to explore the less travelled countries The experience of awe while being in the mountains Day to day on expeditions and what that looks likeMaking a fire with yak dungNoticing how strong the sun was at altitude and in the clean air Making butter like the local people Coming home after travelsBeing sad after adventures Realising that travelling is not sustainable and needing to rest Doing a winter adventure in Bulgaria Learning new skills such as using an ice-axe and cramponsBook: Woman in the Wilderness: My Story of Love, Survival and Self-Discovery Book: Wild at Heart: The Dangers and Delights of a Nomadic Life Thinking about writing a 3rd book Book: Wilder Journeys: True Stories of Nature, Adventure and Connection Being inspired by Angela Maxwell who is walking around the world How the dynamics of her relationship has changed Thinking about a plan B and what happens after Peter dies Not putting her life on holdNot regretting having childrenThe danger of nomadic lifePension ? And living a simple life in old ageThe delights of nomadic living Reflecting back on the covid years in New Zealand and BulgariaGetting sick in cities Wanting to spend more time in India and NepalBeing on YouTube and making a movie about her travelsGetting a sponsor and becoming an ambassador!How many summers have you got left? Social Media Website www.miriamlancewood.com Youtube: miriamlancewoodinthewild
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    49 mins
  • Claire McCall: Hiking the Hexa – A Memoir of Adventure, Fear, and Finding Joy in Midlife

    Claire McCall: Hiking the Hexa – A Memoir of Adventure, Fear, and Finding Joy in Midlife
    Jan 28 2025

    Claire McCall is a Kiwi journalist, author, and self-described "not-so-tough" adventurer who took on a life-changing challenge in her 50s. Born in South Africa and now based in New Zealand, Claire didn’t grow up sporty, but in her 40s, she discovered a love for hiking and new physical challenges, including climbing Kilimanjaro with her son.

    In 2022, Claire and her partner James set out to hike selected stages of the Hexa Trek, a newly established long-distance trail through France.

    Covering just a portion of the trail, the journey became the inspiration for her book, Hiking the Hexa—a candid, warts-and-all memoir that captures the highs, lows, and reality of long-distance hiking.

    In this episode, Claire shares her experience on the trail, from fears of failure and embracing the unknown to the joys of connecting with people along the way and the challenges of hiking as a couple. She reflects on her midlife decision to tackle big dreams, the logistics of planning such an adventure, and the lessons she learned along the way.

    Claire’s story is one of stepping outside comfort zones, overcoming fear, and finding purpose through nature and adventure—reminding us all to ask the ultimate question: “If not now, then when?”

    ***

    Catch the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, dropping every Tuesday at 7 am UK time! Don’t forget to subscribe so you won’t miss the inspiring journeys and incredible stories of tough women.

    Want to play a part in uplifting female representation in the media? Support the Tough Girl Podcast on Patreon! Your generosity helps shine a spotlight on female role models in the world of adventure and physical challenges. Join us in making a positive impact by visiting www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast.

    Thank you for your amazing support!

    ***

    Show notes

    • Based in New Zealand, originally from South Africa.
    • Journalist specialising in architecture and design.
    • Began hiking in her 40s, climbing Kilimanjaro with her son as one of her first major adventures.
    • A self-employed creative balancing life as a mum and adventurer.
    • 2022: Set out on her first long-distance hike with her partner, James.
    • Discovered the Hexa Trek, a new long-distance route through France.
    • Decided to hike selected stages.
    • Initially wanting to start in the Pyrenees Mountains.
    • Studying French as part of her preparation.
    • Early fears of failure and overthinking the trip.
    • Facing logistical challenges: savings, renting out her house in Auckland, and planning the hike.
    • Experiencing the reality of long-distance hiking: physical struggles, weather, and the emotional ups and downs.
    • The unique rules of the trail and unexpected encounters—let’s talk about cows!
    • Slowing down the pace and adapting to the demands of the journey.
    • The dynamics of hiking as a couple—how they navigated challenges and strengthened their connection.
    • The importance of stepping outside comfort zones.
    • Finding joy in connection: the people they met along the way.
    • How the experience has changed her perspective on life.
    • Why Claire chose to write a memoir (not a guidebook!).
    • The creative process of blogging throughout the journey and turning it into a book.
    • Considering another long-distance hike.
    • Reflecting on the adventure and how it shaped her life.
    • Final Words of Advice - “If not now, then when?”
    • Don’t let fear or overthinking hold you back from adventure.
    • Learn more about Claire’s journey on her socials or grab a copy of Hiking the Hexa.

    Social Media

    Website www.clairemccall.net

    Instagram @hikingthehexa

    Book: Hiking the Hexa: Up, down and (almost) over the hill on France’s newest long-distance walk

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    50 mins
  • Dr. Susannah O’Sullivan: Teacher, Writer, Activist & Adventurer – From Solo Cycling Across Continents to Empowering Women in Palestine and Beyond

    Dr. Susannah O’Sullivan: Teacher, Writer, Activist & Adventurer – From Solo Cycling Across Continents to Empowering Women in Palestine and Beyond
    Jan 21 2025
    Teacher, writer, activist and adventurer. Susannah quit her job as a university lecturer in 2017 to cycle solo and unsupported from the UK to the Middle East. She camped all along the way, in olive groves, in peoples’ garages, next to motorways, by rivers and lakes, and in caves. She faced many of her own fears on this trip and wants to share her experiences to encourage other women to wild camp safely. In the Middle East she spent 6 months in the West Bank, Palestine, teaching yoga to women in a refugee camp, working as a climbing guide and becoming a solidarity activist with victims of violence. For the next two years she kept returning to Palestine to continue this work. She has just completed writing a book about what she experienced there, including her own battle with depression and PTSD. Her most recent adventures include thru-hiking a section of the Lebanon Mountain Trail, hitchhiking around the South Island of New Zealand, and driving a scooter 5,000km around the Lesser Sunda Islands of Indonesia. *** Catch the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, every Tuesday at 7 am UK time! Don’t forget to subscribe so you won’t miss the inspiring journeys and incredible stories of tough women. Want to play a part in uplifting female representation in the media? Support the Tough Girl Podcast on Patreon! Your generosity helps shine a spotlight on female role models in the world of adventure and physical challenges. Join us in making a positive impact by visiting www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast. Thank you for your amazing support! *** Show notes Who is SusannahBeing based in Bali Going on multiple adventures over the years2017 cycling from Bristol to the Middle East2022 hiking a section of the Lebanon Mountain Trail 2023 Riding a scouter around the islands of Indonesia Growing up in Bristol and her early years spent cycling outdoors Finding calm in natureGetting into politics as a teenager and studying politics and history Getting a scholarship to do a Masters & PHDFinishing her PHD in 2014 and working as a university lecturerThe decline in her mental health and developing anxiety around her job and workloadTaking a break in 2016 and moving back home Spending time in Nepal in the Katmandu Valley Cycling and wild camping solo in the South of France Wanting to see more of the worldReading Dervla Murphy - Full Tilt: Ireland to India with a Bicycle Planning a bigger cycle trip Leaving in September 2017 and cycling to Istanbul Spending the winter in the West Bank, Palestine Taking the first step and what the planning and logistics looked like Dealing with fears and concernsBreaking down the fears in a rational manor Listening to other women who had done similar trips (from podcasts and live talks)If they can do it, why can’t I do it. Digging into the fear to understand where it is coming from Distinguishing what is a real risk and what is a story we are being told about women’s vulnerability Getting into her rhythm and starting to relax into the journey Meeting local peopleNot wild camping as much at the start, while travelling through EuropeWild camping and getting into the mental zone to do itVolunteering with an NGO in Palestine and how it changed herHaving a PHD in International relationsHer work in Palestine Writing a book about her cycle trip to Palestine and her experiences in the country The magical moments from the cycle rideThe countries she would like to go back and visit and spend more timeMeeting other cyclists Heading over to New Zealand to hitch hike around the South IslandHitchhiking….Funding and paying for adventures and living a life of travelThe Queen Charlotte Track, New Zealand Hiking in Lebanon on the mountain trail Foreign Travel Advice - UK Government Learning how to ride a scooter in Indonesia Slower travel and wanting more flexibility and freedomManaging mental health while travelling Feeling traveled out and changing the way she travelsFeeling setting in Indonesia Digital nomad tourist visaPlans for 2025 and wanting to ride a motorbike around Papa New GuineaHow to connect with SusannahFinal words of advice to encourage you to follow your passionsPursuing your passions and ignoring what the negative people have to say about it Social Media Website www.susannahosullivan.org
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    50 mins
  • Naomi Rumble: Leading by Example – Overcoming Barriers and Redefining What an Athlete Looks Like

    Naomi Rumble: Leading by Example – Overcoming Barriers and Redefining What an Athlete Looks Like
    Jan 14 2025
    In this inspiring episode of the Tough Girl Podcast, we meet Naomi Rumble, a passionate triathlete, dedicated swimming coach, and advocate for breaking down barriers in sport. By day, Naomi works as a senior market researcher in London, but outside of her 9-to-5, she’s fully immersed in the world of swimming, cycling, and running. While sport has always been a part of Naomi’s life—from childhood swimming lessons and taekwondo to dabbling in netball, boxing, and archery—her relationship with consistent training truly solidified during the COVID-19 pandemic. What started as a challenge to cycle from London to Brighton evolved into a love for endurance sports and, eventually, the bold decision to pursue triathlons. Naomi shares her journey of overcoming self-doubt, learning to embrace running despite initial resistance, and finding strength through community and connection. As the first sponsored triathlete for Fund Her Tri UK, she’s not only pushing her own boundaries but also paving the way for others to step into the world of triathlons with confidence. From cold-water swims and marathon struggles to managing self-talk and celebrating small wins, Naomi’s story is a testament to perseverance, courage, and the power of showing up for yourself. Tune in as Naomi opens up about her experiences, shares invaluable lessons learned along the way, and offers advice to anyone looking to start their own sporting journey. This episode is packed with inspiration, honesty, and actionable takeaways—you won’t want to miss it! *** Catch the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, dropping every Tuesday at 7 am UK time! Don’t forget to subscribe so you won’t miss the inspiring journeys and incredible stories of tough women. Want to play a part in uplifting female representation in the media? Support the Tough Girl Podcast on Patreon! Your generosity helps shine a spotlight on female role models in the world of adventure and physical challenges. Join us in making a positive impact by visiting www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast. Thank you for your amazing support! *** Show notes Who is NaomiWorking in market research as a 9-5 jobSupporting running and cycling clubsTeaching swimming twice a weekGrowing up in London as a city girlBeing in sports from a young ageStarting swimming at age 4 Doing taekwondo until 10 years oldTrying to figure out what she likes; netball, basketball, shot-put, discus, boxing, archery, scouts.Never being fully consistent with sports all the way through Being willing to try new things and wanting to have new challengesRole models and the women who have inspired herLeaving university and starting work and how sport drifted offNot liking runningHow things changed during covidCycling from London to BrightonGetting involved in sport in a more regular way How her view expanded on what’s possibleHaving the confidence and self belief to sign up to new challengesBeing inspired to sing up for a Triathlon Women of Colour Cycling CollectiveMeeting Bianca Fernandez-Clark @biancatriathlonFund Her Tri UK Becoming the first sponsored triathlete for Fund Her Trip UKWorking towards a full distance triathlon How training took a toll on her body Needing to rest more and eat more protein The discipline needed to do the training The importance of discipline and dedication Cold water swimming/open water swimmingNot liking the coldWhat happens when things fall apart and everything goes wrongNeeding to stop in the water and just breatheConcerns and fears before taking up triathlon Not being a runner and not liking running Not calling herself a runner and finding running difficultNot being a fast runnerStruggling with the breathing and overheatingJeffing (run/walk/run)Running the London marathon and what the experience was likeHow new opportunities can change your thinking Wanting to do an ironman Persevering though the tough moments Changing her tacticsWhat her self talk looks likeManaging negative thoughtsThe power of reflecting backBeing her own worst criticLearning to celebrate the small wins Goals for 2025Team Outlaw Fitting in exercise and training Turning training into social eventsHow to connect with Naomi Final words of adviceFind your group and your community Don’t be afraid to ask for helpFigure out what works best for you. Social Media Instagram @nay.aminah
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    1 hr and 5 mins
  • Caroline Soubayroux - 2024 Guinness world record holder for fastest couple circumnavigation by bike. Wife and mother working full-time and striving to inspire the next generation.

    Caroline Soubayroux - 2024 Guinness world record holder for fastest couple circumnavigation by bike. Wife and mother working full-time and striving to inspire the next generation.
    Jan 7 2025

    In this episode of the Tough Girl Podcast, we sit down with the incredible Caroline Soubayroux—Guinness World Record holder, full-time project manager, wife and mother.

    Caroline takes us on a journey through her life, from her early days learning to ride a bike in France, to cycling 18,000 miles around the world alongside her husband, and finally navigating the challenges of balancing fitness, family life, and a demanding career.

    You’ll hear about the highs and lows of life on the road, the realities of cycling over 100 miles a day, and how Caroline transitioned into running after becoming a mother. Her story is raw, honest, and deeply inspiring—perfect for anyone striving to balance big dreams with everyday responsibilities.

    ***

    Catch the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, every Tuesday at 7 am UK time! Don’t forget to subscribe so you won’t miss the inspiring journeys and incredible stories of tough women.

    Want to play a part in uplifting female representation in the media? Support the Tough Girl Podcast on Patreon! Your generosity helps shine a spotlight on female role models in the world of adventure and physical challenges. Join us in making a positive impact by visiting www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast.

    Thank you for your amazing support!

    ***

    Show notes

    • Who is Caroline
    • Being from France originally but now living in London
    • Working as a project manager for an investment bank
    • Cycling around the world with her husband
    • Her early years and learning how to ride a bike
    • Getting into cycling after meeting her husband
    • Getting into running later on it life
    • Doing a run commute to work
    • Learning to be independent on the bike
    • Her first race - Race Across France
    • How her confidence increased and why it was so transformative
    • Seeing an opportunity in 2019 to start planning a big cycle around the world
    • Turning the dream into a reality
    • Wanting to follow/respect the Guinness world record rules
    • Wanting to cycle 18,0000 miles
    • Trying to decide how long to take?
    • Having to make compromises
    • Becoming very focused on the record
    • Changing the start route and adapting to new rules and regulations regarding travel during covid
    • Leaving from London and cycling west to east and flying on to Canada
    • Deciding to cycle through Africa
    • The realities and what is going on behind the scenes
    • Stress
    • Life on the road and cycling 100+ miles per day
    • Cycling around the world and how it impacted on their relationship
    • Highlights and magical moments from the trip
    • Dealing with injury and illness
    • Money and paying for the challenge
    • The end of the trip and having mixed feelings
    • Why it’s hard getting back into reality because no one cares!
    • Wanting to have a family
    • Cycling and pregnancy
    • Deciding to stop cycling and take up running
    • What it was like after birth and dealing with high emotions
    • Focusing on the baby and being off social media
    • Using a running pram
    • Wanting to go on bike packing trips with the family
    • Fitting fitness and exercise into her life and what that looks like
    • How to connect with Caroline
    • Advice for working mums who want to take on new challenges

    Social Media

    Instagram: @caro_sbx

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    47 mins
  • Sarah Williams: Reflections on the South West Coast Path, Health, Money & Future Plans for 2025

    Sarah Williams: Reflections on the South West Coast Path, Health, Money & Future Plans for 2025
    Jan 2 2025
    At the end of 2024, I wanted to take a moment to pause, reflect, and share some personal insights from the past six months. In this special solo episode, I open up about my experiences hiking the South West Coast Path, the lessons I’ve learned about health and fitness, and how I’m approaching financial planning and future adventures. From the challenges of dealing with health setbacks to the triumphs of completing tough hikes, this episode is an honest and raw look at my journey. I also delve into thoughts on ageing, longevity, and the exciting plans I have for 2025, including more adventures, personal growth, and professional goals. If you’re curious about what goes on behind the scenes of Tough Girl Challenges or simply want some motivation to tackle your own goals, this episode is for you. Join me for an honest conversation about health, money, and embracing the adventures ahead! *** Catch the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, dropping every Tuesday at 7 am UK time! Don’t forget to subscribe so you won’t miss the inspiring journeys and incredible stories of tough women. Want to play a part in uplifting female representation in the media? Support the Tough Girl Podcast on Patreon! Your generosity helps shine a spotlight on female role models in the world of adventure and physical challenges. Join us in making a positive impact by visiting www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast. Thank you for your amazing support! *** Show notes Welcome to the reflections episode Recording in the dead time between Christmas and New YearWho am I?The mission of Tough Girl ChallengesMaking assumptions - that you know a lot about me!Setting the sceneFocusing on the previous 6 months (August 2024 - December 2024)Home on the WirralThe restful, calm bedroom where I work from Giant map of the World Snake plant Peace Lilly Plant Living at home since 2014Keeping structured and focused during the interviewMy early 30s, banking, stress, travelling for 2 yearsSpending time in South America and designing life I wanted to lead How podcasting has changed my lifeStarting podcasting in 4th August 2015 Goodpods list Previous adventures and challenges Running challenges - Marathon des Sables Cycling challenges - Cycling from Vancouver to Cabo san Lucas 2018Hiking and thru-hiking Question from Adele Vickers How my adventures and challenges have evolved over time Feeling like a failure on the Appalachian Trail The importance of showing up even when you don’t feel like itNot enjoying the North Island of New Zealand (roads etc)Reflection on the Te Araroa Trail podcast episode Enjoying spending time in the wilderness, soloPursuing similar challenges in the future Adventuring over the past 18 months none stopAchieving everyday and feeling like I’m making progressWorking on balance Documenting the journey so farFocusing on the South West Coast Path, health, fitness, financial goals, new job and future goals Armchair Adventure Festival 2024 South West Coast Path (SWCP) Zoe Langley-Wathen Training and preparation for the SWCP Dealing with severe anaemia and not going into the hike fully fitDocumenting the trail daily and sharing on social media Sponsored by ZOLEO #ChallengeWithZOLEO Wearing INOV8 #gifted. Use TOUGHGIRL10 for a 10% discount Tooth pain, teeth issues, visiting the dentist, needing a filling and root canal…Accommodation, distances, costs, walking with friends on the SWCP (James, Zoe, Gigi)Level of enjoyment (71%) fatigue (44%), ease of terrain (48%)Ankle issues, and focusing on bullet proofing my ankles going forwardOverall throughs on the SWCP and why I highly recommend it as a hike The reality of what people think thru-hiking is versus what it is actually like out on the trailThe Salt Path - book & new film in 2025 Being home in September and focusing on health Scientific research into ageing at 44 and me turning 44 in 2025 Caroline Paul: How Outdoor Adventures Improve Life as We Age - Lessons from 'Tough Broad’. Discover how embracing bravery and the outdoors can lead to a fulfilling and adventurous life at any age.Ageing and adventuring - 16 adventures over the next 16 years 6 years until I’m 50 (WTF)Health, wellness & longevity Needing to put money into my SIPP (Private Pension - Self Invested Personal Pension)Needing to make more money, without losing my freedom Patrons & Patreon Getting back into strength training, working with Franco - https://www.humalforces.com/ Dr. Stacy Sims - Leading Global Expert on Female Physiology and Endurance Training. Author of ROAR. Lifting heavy weights, getting my protein in (with Protein Rebel)AIM Health where cutting-edge medical science meets holistic well-being Seeing Dr Cathy Treatment - Cryotherapy, Red Light Bed, Rebalance Bed, Hyperbaric Oxygen and Hydrogen Therapy & Compression Therapy Feeling Amazing!!What 2025 is hopefully going to look like…. Work at AIM until end of April 25 (also doing strength training, ...
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    1 hr and 7 mins
  • Prue Young: Triathlete and Critical Care Flight Paramedic Sharing Her Journey as an MS Warrior and Competing in the Ironman World Championships in Kona

    Prue Young: Triathlete and Critical Care Flight Paramedic Sharing Her Journey as an MS Warrior and Competing in the Ironman World Championships in Kona
    Dec 31 2024
    In this episode, we’re excited to welcome Prue Young, a remarkable triathlete and critical care flight paramedic who exemplifies resilience and determination. As a proud warrior living with multiple sclerosis (MS), Prue has not only faced personal challenges but has also triumphed in the world of endurance sports. From her journey as an athlete to competing in the prestigious Ironman World Championships in Kona, Prue shares her inspiring story of perseverance. As a New Zealand representative, she has pushed through the barriers of her diagnosis to achieve incredible feats, including completing Ironman events and other endurance challenges. Join us as Prue discusses her experiences in triathlon, the intersection of her career and athletic pursuits, and how she continues to inspire others in the face of adversity. This episode is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the power of chasing your dreams against all odds! Catch the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, dropping every Tuesday at 7 am UK time! Don’t forget to subscribe so you won’t miss the inspiring journeys and incredible stories of tough women. Want to play a part in uplifting female representation in the media? Support the Tough Girl Podcast on Patreon! Your generosity helps shine a spotlight on female role models in the world of adventure and physical challenges. Join us in making a positive impact by visiting www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast. Thank you for your amazing support! Show notes Who is PrueInsights into her childhood in rural Dunedin, New ZealandGrowing up with outdoor adventures like climbing trees, kayaking, skiing, and campingThe influence of her parents in fostering her love for the outdoorsHer involvement in sports during her school years, including water polo, hockey, and swimmingParticipation in the Duke of Edinburgh programme and how it introduced her to tramping and mountain bikingHer early aspiration to become a doctor, inspired by a childhood incidentWhy she shifted her career focus from medicine to paramedicineHow a suggestion to volunteer with St John Ambulance started her paramedic journeyPrue’s path from volunteering to becoming a fully qualified paramedicThe challenges of balancing work, study, and personal fitness while pursuing her paramedic degreeHow exercise became her outlet during busy and stressful periodsHer initial exposure to triathlons during high schoolThe role of a colleague in encouraging her to participate in a women’s triathlonOvercoming fears of road cycling and embracing triathlon trainingCompleting her paramedics internship and rediscovering her love for sportsWriting a bucket list and setting ambitious fitness goalsCompeting in New Zealand’s Coast to Coast multi-sport competitionThe components of the Coast to Coast eventHow Les Mills RPM classes rekindled her interest in bikingHer journey from gym fitness to full Ironman triathlonsFinding fulfilment in the outdoors through triathlons and endurance challengesHow triathlons helped her manage stress and stay physically activeThe importance of community and support in her sporting and professional lifeThe mental and physical challenges of transitioning to a high-intensity paramedic careerInsights into balancing career demands with maintaining personal fitnessHer reflections on resilience and adaptability through life’s challengesHow her love for the outdoors continues to shape her lifestyle and careerHow she discovered her love for triathlons and embraced the joy of physical challengesHer first Ironman experience in March 2018The balance between overcoming challenges and enjoying the process of competingThe influence of her postgraduate studies to her training routineReflections on her second Ironman and how pressure impacted her enjoyment and performanceBalancing work, study, and training while managing life changesHow she shifted her focus from Ironman to the Coast to Coast multi-sport eventThe new challenges she faced learning to kayakThe unique blend of skills and fitness required for both triathlons and multi-sport eventsHow Prue attempted to take on both the Coast to Coast and Ironman in 2021The impact of COVID-19 restrictions on events and how they reshaped her plansHow Prue’s journey took a major turn with the onset of symptoms leading to her MS (Multiple Sclerosis) diagnosisThe early signs of MS that she experienced, including changes in sensation and strengthPrue’s journey to understanding and managing her MS diagnosisThe importance of finding joy in the process, even amid setbacks and challengesHow Prue continues to approach life and sports with a positive and determined mindsetPrue’s journey to the Ironman World Championships and overcoming challenges like injury and fatigueWhat it was like competing in Kona during COVID-19Highlights of being part of an inspiring athlete ambassador panelThe joy and energy of the Ironman check-in process and race day atmosphereHer experiences with ...
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    1 hr and 7 mins
  • Linda Blakely - The Inspiring Journey of an Ironman Athlete Who Summited Everest and Lhotse and Rowed the Atlantic Ocean Solo!

    Linda Blakely - The Inspiring Journey of an Ironman Athlete Who Summited Everest and Lhotse and Rowed the Atlantic Ocean Solo!
    Dec 26 2024
    Linda Blakely is a remarkable athlete and adventurer, known for her extraordinary accomplishments in the world of endurance sports. As an Ironman competitor, she has completed 25 full Ironman races, including three World Championships, achieving an impressive ranking of 19th in her age group worldwide. Linda proudly represented Great Britain as an age group athlete at long-distance triathlon events, earning a silver medal at the European Championships in 2015. In 2018, Linda achieved an incredible feat by summiting both Everest and Lhotse, the fourth highest mountain in the world, within 24 hours of each other. This made her only the fourth female to accomplish this remarkable challenge and the first British woman to do so. But her adventures don’t stop there; Linda also became the first woman to row the Atlantic Ocean solo and unassisted, completing a gruelling 3,000-mile journey from Gran Canaria to Barbados. Currently, Linda is preparing for her next formidable challenge: the Marathon des Sables, a 250km race across the Sahara Desert, where she will carry all her supplies on her back over seven days. Join us as we delve into Linda's awe-inspiring journey of perseverance, resilience, and her relentless pursuit of adventure! This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking motivation to pursue their dreams and conquer their own challenges. *** 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 LindaRunning three children's care homes in London and EssexCare homes focused on children with trauma and learning disabilitiesLinda’s journey into care homes began with a chance meeting in ThailandBeing active in many sports as a child, including gymnastics and swimmingHer love for mountains grew from completing the Duke of EdinburghMoving to London in her 20s and working various jobsRediscovering sport in her 30s after a 10-year break.Doing first Ironman at age 34, starting with a super sprint eventQuickly getting hooked on Ironman and aiming for the toughest racesCompleting 25 full Ironmans and three Kona World ChampionshipsShe used to race 3 Ironmans per year but now focuses on qualifying for KonaProtein shakes and recovery boots being used for trainingNot believing in full rest days but take easy days for recoveryRanking swimming as her least favorite discipline but works hard at itImproving her bike leg with strength trainingBeing strong in all three disciplines: swimming, cycling, and running.Her overall approach to racing is consistency across all three sportsLinda’s next challenge, including mountain adventures and solo expeditionsLinda's summit experience on Mount EverestThe hardship of living conditions on EverestThe striking sight of red head torches climbing EverestHer feelings on the summit ridgeHow she approached the challenge of summiting EverestHer decision to attempt both Everest and LhotseLinda's reflections on the summit ridge of EverestHer emotional reaction to encountering a deceased climber on LhotseThe somber realities of high-altitude climbingThe importance of respect for fallen climbersLinda’s successful summit of Everest in 2018The use of supplemental oxygen during the climbBecoming the first British female to traverse Everest and Lhotse.The desolation of Camp Four on EverestThe logistical challenges after summiting EverestWalking down from base camp instead of taking a helicopterDealing with adventure blues after completing major challengesLinda’s love for planning future adventuresThe reality and beauty of climbing Everest versus rowing the AtlanticExperiencing menopause at 47Feeling stressed, tired, and angry without knowing whySeeking treatment after the GP suggested antidepressants.Starting HRT, feeling more like herself againStruggling with exhaustion during training before HRTTurning 50 while rowing solo across the AtlanticRowing alone for 54 days on the Atlantic OceanRowing for 16 hours a day, taking short breaks for foodPlanning meals daily to save time and energy.Managing sleep by setting an alarm every 45 minutesListening to music and audiobooks for mental stimulationStarting a dress rental business after the rowDealing with painful skin sores from sitting too longExperimenting with different seats to ease discomfortRowing in minimal clothing to avoid saltwater irritationNever considering quitting during the challengeSharing her birthday experience while rowing the AtlanticDescribing the emotional ...
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    1 hr and 4 mins