Tough Girl Podcast

The Tough Girl Podcast is all about inspiring and motivating YOU! I will be interviewing inspirational women from around the world, who’ve faced and overcome difficult challenges and situations, they will share their story, their knowledge and provide advice and essential tips for you to overcome your own personal challenges. Please check out the Tough Girl Challenges website - www.toughgirlchallenges.com and follow on twitter @_TOUGH_GIRL

Fatima Haidari: Shattering Stereotypes, Embracing Opportunities, and Pursuing Dreams as Afghanistan's First Female Tour Guide. 05/07/2024

Fatima Haidari: Shattering Stereotypes, Embracing Opportunities, and Pursuing Dreams as Afghanistan's First Female Tour Guide. In this episode of Tough Girl Podcast, we explore the incredible journey of Fatima, from her early years in Afghanistan to her pursuit of education, independence, and empowerment in Italy. Fatima's childhood was marked by challenges, but her curiosity and determination to learn led her to secretly educate herself. As Afghanistan's first female tour guide, she defied expectations and empowered herself economically. Threatened by the Taliban, Fatima made the courageous decision to flee to Italy, where she faced new obstacles but persisted in pursuing higher education. Now, as a refugee with a passion for sharing her experiences, she continues to inspire others as a unique tour guide. Fatima's story is a testament to the power of resilience and the unwavering spirit of women. Tune in to Tough Girl Podcast to hear her journey firsthand. *** 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 to be a part of this important movement. Thank you for your invaluable support! *** Show notes Who is Fatima Studying in Italy and working as a tour guide Her early years in Afghanistan Having 4 older brothers and 2 older sisters Working with the sheep as a shepherdess at age 7 Not having school and not being able to study Being inspired by hearing people on the radio How her curiosity grew and her desire to learn more Starting to learn secretly Practicing her reading and writing in the sand Being able to go to school and study Thinking about her own future Witnessing the suffering of women in Afghanistan Wanting to live for herself Wanting to be independent and the person of her choice Becoming Afghanistan’s first female tour guide Graduating high school and wanting to go to University to become a journalist Convincing her mother first Researching the history of Afghanistan Making a Facebook account and connecting with people who travel and how that connection led to her tourist work - an adventure travel company providing unparalleled access to some of the world’s most interesting and inaccessible places. Being able to earn more than her brothers and help to support her family Wanting to encourage more women to enter the tourist industry in Afghanistan Sharing her story on CNN Her journey to Italy Receiving warning that she was a target of the Taliban Not being able to say a proper goodbye to her family The challenges of getting into the airport to get on the plane Moving to Italy and building a new life Feeling mentally and physically lost and struggling to sleep Dealing with the aftermath and reliving the trauma Deciding to make changes in her life; getting a job, sorting out a university place, reading books and focusing on improving herself Her passion for continuing her education and getting accepted with a fully funded scholarship to study at University in Milan (BA in International Politics and Government) Being a refugee and having travel documents which allows her travel in Europe Visiting Iran and meeting up with her family Continuing to be a tour guide in a unique way How to connect with Fatima Her reason for wanting to travel to every country in the world. Final words of advice “You are powerful as a woman, don’t underestimate your power.” Social Media Instagram: Youtube: /episode/index/show/toughgirlchallenges/id/30576733

Dr. Kaz Williams - Performance Psychologist, Certified Running Coach and Ultra Runner. Striving to help people discover their mettle. 04/30/2024

Dr. Kaz Williams - Performance Psychologist, Certified Running Coach and Ultra Runner. Striving to help people discover their mettle. Listen to Kaz on the Tough Girl Podcast as she shares her passion for running and helping individuals discover their inner strength. Kaz founded Mettle—a platform dedicated to empowering runners to conquer personal challenges, chase personal records, and train for specific distances. Mettle isn't just about running; it's about equipping runners with coaching plans, mental strategies, and unwavering support to thrive both on the track and in life. Drawing from her extensive academic background—holding a PhD in human behaviour and an MSc in Sport and Exercise Psychology—Kaz delves into the intricacies of human performance, particularly in the face of adversity. Driven by a profound belief in the power of self-belief and self-discipline, Kaz shuns shortcuts in favour of cultivating a mindset geared towards achieving one's goals. Her relentless pursuit of excellence extends beyond coaching; it's woven into the fabric of her own running endeavours. Kaz's trail running journey is nothing short of awe-inspiring. From the rugged trails of Chamonix, France, where she tackled the Mont Blanc Marathon and UTMB races, to epic adventures like the Tahoe 200 (3rd F), Moab 240 (2nd F), and Ouray 100 (1st F), she continually pushes her limits. Notably, Kaz completed 1 crazy loop at the legendary Barkley Marathon, and recently completed the daunting Last Annual Vol State, a 500K self-supported race across Tennessee. Through it all, Kaz's message remains clear: When we harness our best selves and embrace the challenges that come our way, extraordinary achievements become possible. Listen to Kaz share her 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 to be a part of this important movement. Thank you for your invaluable support! *** Show notes Who is Kaz Living in Chamonix, France in 2010 Studying architecture at University Joining the TA - Territorial Army and becoming a Personal Training Instructor (PTI) Doing a MSc in Sport and Exercise Psychology Working full time while studying and running Her trail running journey Learning about trail races Wanting to run the Running the Struggling with the UTMB in 2014 Realising her mental game had let her down Wanting to learn/understand more about the mental side of physical challenges Losing focus and not being present while training and what you can do about it Ending up in a dark place and questioning what you are doing Why you need a strong WHY Signing up to do The sacrifices and hard work which goes into training Suffering with audio and visual hallucinations Bears and Pizza! Running throughout the year Recovery after big races Being a plant based athlete Food and nutrition Using Where the name Mettle came from Coaching athletes and runners “We are stronger, braver and more capable than we realise” Being a fan of Learning how to endure How to connect with Kaz Tips for self belief Our lives are the sum of our choices. The future depends on what we do in the present. Think about what you want to be doing and what you can do now to achieve that. Social Media Website Instagram Personal Instagram Facebook /episode/index/show/toughgirlchallenges/id/30574128

Emma Hull - Unleashing Confidence, Embracing Change, and Fearlessly Pursuing Adventure and Dreams with Life Untethered 04/23/2024

Emma Hull - Unleashing Confidence, Embracing Change, and Fearlessly Pursuing Adventure and Dreams with Life Untethered In this episode, we delve into the inspiring journey of Emma Hull, a confidence coach who discovered her true potential in her 40s and embarked on a transformative path towards self-empowerment. From grappling with anxiety and self-doubt to embracing a life of purpose and fulfilment, Emma's story is one of resilience, courage, and unwavering determination. Emma's journey to confidence began with a desire for change, fuelled by a reluctance to rely on medication for anxiety and depression indefinitely. With a commitment to self-improvement, she gradually introduced yoga into her routine, finding solace in the safety of a supportive environment that allowed her to embrace vulnerability and authenticity. Seeking guidance from a life coach, Emma embarked on a healing journey, realising that the power to effect change lay within her own hands. Amidst the tumult of the pandemic, she made the life-altering decision to leave her marriage and relocate to Canada, where she discovered a newfound sense of freedom and independence. Embracing her newfound autonomy, Emma prioritised self-care and personal growth, establishing a morning routine centred around gratitude and mindfulness. With the support of tools like the Beach Body App and the companionship of her beloved dog, Jonny Cash, she embarked on a transformative road trip through the North of Canada, embracing the thrill of adventure and the freedom of the open road. As she looks ahead to future adventures, including plans to purchase an RV and explore new horizons, Emma offers invaluable advice for women seeking to define and achieve their goals. From setting clear objectives to taking decisive action and embracing challenges as opportunities for growth, Emma's journey exemplifies the transformative power of courage, resilience, and self-belief. *** 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 to be a part of this important movement. Thank you for your invaluable support! *** Show notes Emma Hull the confidence coach Gaining her confidence in her 40s Having a tough time accepting who she was Wanting to make a change in her life Not liking the feeling associated with being anxious Not wanting to take anxiety and depression medication for the rest of her life Her journey of making changes in her life Why the changes happened gradually over time Starting her transformation with yoga The power of being in a safe environment Being allowed to be herself and to be vulnerable Starting her healing journey Working with a life coach Why it’s within your power to make changes Being on the treadmill of life The HOW of making a change in your life Making the decision to leave her marriage during the pandemic Ending up in Canada Living in British Columbia Starting to dream through journalling Re-training as a life coach and setting up her own business Creating a life where she puts herself first Why living on her own really suits her Developing her morning routine and starting her day right Doing a morning gratitude practice Her dog Jonny Cash Being inspired to take a road trip Driving up to the North of Canada - Tuktoyaktuk Taking a month to travel and working while on the road. Advice for working while travelling Planning to buy an RV for an adventure in October 2025 The importance of setting a date Advice for planning Advice for women who need help figuring out what their goals are Having a 3 goals per year - a big one, a medium one and a small one How can I make this happen? Seeing problems as opportunities To do lists Taking action and how it can lead to confidence Reward charts Knowing that the right decision had been made Connect with Emma Why planning is so important Taking the time to think about things which can go wrong Social Media Website: Instagram: Facebook: /episode/index/show/toughgirlchallenges/id/30544143

Dr. Meera Velankar - Scientist turned tandem cyclist. Exploring India since 2015. First woman to complete India’s Golden Quadrilateral, which connects Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai and Kolkata, on a tandem bike (6,000km in 41 days). Dr. Meera Velankar, a mother of two with a doctorate in life sciences, embarked on a transformative journey over a decade ago. Feeling unfit and discontent, she turned to cycling, becoming a seasoned endurance athlete since. Her achievements include completing numerous running and cycling events, earning the title of an Ironman 70.3 finisher, and conquering the Super Randonneur norm three times, with a podium finish at the Tour of Nilgiris. In 2022, Meera made history by setting a Guinness World Record for a self-supported cycling journey from Agra to Umlingla, covering a distance of 1,835 km in 19 days, 7 hours, and 18 minutes. This remarkable feat, accomplished with Utkarsh Verma, traversed five passes with an elevation of 19,000 meters, equivalent to climbing Mount Everest twice. During this podcast, Meera shares insights into her journey, emphasising the importance of setting goals and pushing boundaries. Drawing inspiration from fellow cyclists, she advocates for spending more time outdoors and pursuing dreams. Learn more about Meera's adventures and her passion for motivating other mothers by listening to her 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 to be a part of this important movement. Thank you for your invaluable support! *** Show notes Who is Meera Getting her doctorate in life sciences at 26 Having 2 daughters Realising that she was obese Starting to walk and to get into running Setting her first cycling challenge Cycling 800km in 8 days with a lot of off roading and climbing in 2011 Receiving support from the male participants Wanting to take her cycling further The importance of working towards goals Taking part in stage events 2012 getting involved in Super Randonneur Getting use to cycling on her own Taking on new challenges every year Wanting to move away from organised events and create her own challenges Deciding on challenges/events and the planning and preparation involved. Using her research skills from her PhD to plan her routes Being inspired by Cat Dixon and Raz Marsden. The women’s tandem around the GWR holders. () Meeting Laura from - Around the word - mixed pair GWR holder. You can listen to Laura Massey-Pugh on the TGP - Book: Taking on 3 different routes/challenges with different partners, self supported. Riding Kanyakumari to Kashmir Route (K2K) 3,800km in 18 days, self supported. Riding (network of national highways connecting Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata, Mumbai in four directions) 6,000+ km in 41 days Riding East to West - known as the "the other k2k" in cycling circuits. Having a supportive husband Social issues of riding a tandem bike with a male partner who is not her husband. The challenges of tandem cycling Riding Umling La Pass on a tandem bicycle, which is the highest motorable pass (19,024ft) in the world. The many names of the tandem bike Having support from the Indian Army and Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) Communication and needing to rely on local people and their local knowledge Fitting in cycling around her life and family Focusing on high altitude cycling and the lessons she’s learned How to connect with Meera Final words of advice to encourage you to spend more time in the outdoors and to follow your dreams Take the first steps to pursue your dreams Social Media Website: Instagram: /episode/index/show/toughgirlchallenges/id/30543598

Arlette Laan aka “Apple Pie”. First woman to hike all 11 National Scenic Trails in USA. 35,000+ miles hiked! 04/09/2024

Arlette Laan aka “Apple Pie”. First woman to hike all 11 National Scenic Trails in USA. 35,000+ miles hiked! Join us for an exhilarating journey into the world of long-distance hiking with Arlette Laan, affectionately known as "Apple Pie." In this episode, Arlette shares her awe-inspiring tale of becoming the first woman to hike all 11 National Scenic Trails in the USA, covering over 35,000 miles on foot. From her childhood adventures in Holland to navigating the rugged terrains of America's most iconic trails, Arlette's story is one of perseverance, passion, and the sheer joy of exploration. Tune in as she delves into the essence of long-distance hiking, the challenges she faced along the way, and the profound lessons she learned from her epic adventures. Whether you're an avid hiker or simply someone who loves a good adventure story, this episode is sure to leave you inspired and itching to hit the trails! *** 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 to be a part of this important movement. Thank you for your invaluable support! *** Show notes Who is Arlette? Being born in Holland Living in Boston, USA Getting the trail name ‘Apple Pie’ Growing up in Holland and having a typical childhood Moving over to California after college Visiting Switzerland and getting into backpacking The hiking culture in the Netherlands Starting with the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) in America in 2003 Learning more about the long distance trails What she loves about long distance hiking Being empowered after reaching her goals How hiking has changed over the years The social aspect of hiking Not being an ultra light fast packer What a typical day hiking looks like Having dinner at 5pm and then carrying on hiking Finishing up the Not giving her body the rest she needed Pushing harder while hiking Dealing with the heat and humidity and struggling to hit the 25 miles per day needed Advice for recovery and why taking time off is a good thing Eating well while hiking Cooking v cold soaking Food chat! Wearing dresses while hiking Hiking through all seasons Tips for winter hiking Feet and shoes for hiking Road walking with a pack Hiking with poles Fitting hiking into her life and working as a hiking guide Hiking all of the Putting a plan in place in 2018 Speaking with ‘’ (Brian Tanzman) Planning and preparation for the final few hikes Dealing with aggressive barking dogs North Country Trail (4,600 miles) Advice for when it gets tough on a hike Making her goals smaller Keeping track of expenses while on trail Paying for breakfast as it’s a better deal than dinner Advice for hiking the Skipping the road walks in New Zealand Hiking in Nepal Hiking in Europe Preferring to hike in the wilderness Going back to hike the Wanting to thru-hikes the trails that she section hiked Wanting to How to connect with Arlette on social media #ApplePieHikes Selling sock dolls (only sold/shipped to the US) Final words of advice Social Media Website: Instagram: /episode/index/show/toughgirlchallenges/id/30352868

Lauren Beihoffer: Biochemist, Ultra-runner, Coach, and Mom of Three. Passionate About Helping Women Over 40 Feel and Perform Their Best. 04/02/2024

Lauren Beihoffer: Biochemist, Ultra-runner, Coach, and Mom of Three. Passionate About Helping Women Over 40 Feel and Perform Their Best. In this episode, we embark on a journey with Lauren Beihoffer, a trail and ultra-running enthusiast residing in Tennessee, USA. As she prepares for a 100-mile race in the rugged mountains of Virginia, Lauren shares insights into the physical and mental challenges she faces and offers valuable advice for fellow runners, particularly women over the age of 40. Lauren's love for running runs deep, having discovered it in her 30s and gradually progressing into the world of trail running. Through trial and error, she has gained valuable knowledge, emphasising the importance of self-compassion and honesty in balancing training with life's demands. With a passion for helping others, Lauren specialises in working with women over 40, offering guidance on improving sleep quality, nutrition, and managing conditions like Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). She highlights the significance of metabolic efficiency training and advocates for a balanced approach to nutrition, emphasising the importance of real food over supplements. As Lauren shares her wisdom, she addresses the common feeling of imposter syndrome when pushing beyond one's comfort zone. Her final words of advice resonate deeply, reminding us that growth often occurs outside our comfort zones, and it's okay to embrace the uncertainty that comes with it. Listen to Lauren on the Tough Girl Podcast as we navigate the trails of life with her, finding inspiration and guidance for our own journeys along the way *** 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 to be a part of this important movement. Thank you for your invaluable support! *** Show notes Who is Lauren Living in Tennessee in the USA Her love for trail and ultra running Tapering for her 100 miles race in the mountains of Virginia The uncertainty feeling before a race Managing the various mental and physical challenges as they arise Dealing with the uncertainty Advice and tips for tapering before a race Reducing your alcohol consumption A glass of wine before bed…. What the sleep studies show Working with women over the age of 40 Advice and tips for improving sleep quality Her love and passion for running Coming to running in her 30s How her running journey progressed Getting into trail running Gaining new knowledge in running via trial and error Getting serious with running 3/4 years ago Fitting ultra training in with your life Having self compassion and taking an honest look at your life Nutrition and why it’s so important Dealing with PolyCystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) - a concept developed by Bob Seebohar in 2003 Good nutrition occurs on a spectrum Practical nutrition for before, during and after the 100 mile race Eating real food and taking sports supplements Connect with Lauren on the socials Final words of advice Why it’s normal to feel like an imposter when you are pushing outside your comfort zone Social Media Website: Instagram: Facebook: /episode/index/show/toughgirlchallenges/id/30336833

Shirin Gerami - Trailblazing Triathlete & Advocate for Change who made history as Iran's first female triathlete to compete in a world championship. 03/26/2024

Shirin Gerami - Trailblazing Triathlete & Advocate for Change who made history as Iran's first female triathlete to compete in a world championship. Shirin made history as Iran's first female triathlete to compete in a world championship. On 15 September 2013, Shirin represented Iran at the triathlon championship in London, wearing full Islamic dress. Growing up, Shirin discovered her love for movement through activities like yoga, swimming, and running. Her passion for sports blossomed further during her university years when she decided to pursue triathlon. Despite initial fears, she pushed through, embracing the challenge with determination. After graduating from Durham University, where she studied Philosophy, Politics, and Economics, Shirin embarked on an internship with the United Nations. Throughout her academic and professional journey, she explored the complex interplay between human nature, societal expectations, and the realities of life. Shirin's participation in the 2013 Triathlon World Championship in London garnered attention worldwide. Donning full Islamic dress, she defied stereotypes and inspired women everywhere to pursue their athletic dreams, regardless of cultural or societal barriers. Beyond her athletic achievements, Shirin remains passionate about advocating for inclusivity and challenging societal norms. She actively engages in discussions about privilege, gender equality, and the importance of representation in sports. Join us as we delve into Shirin's remarkable journey, exploring the intersections of athleticism, philosophy, and social change. Her story serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of sport in transcending boundaries and fostering empowerment. Don't miss out on the opportunity to hear Shirin's final words of advice, as she shares her insights on resilience, determination, and the pursuit of one's passions. *** New 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 to be a part of this important movement. Thank you for your invaluable support! *** Show notes Who is Shiz Being based in London Not considering herself a tough girl Being born in Iran and moving around a lot in her early years Being introduced to yoga and the mountains Getting into running and swimming at school Getting into triathlon at university The pros and cons of moving so much when she was younger Being in the right environment to do sports The power of movement and nature How she defines being competitive Being involved with many societies at university Studying PPE (Philosophy, Politics and Economics) at Durham University Rowing at college College chat! Deciding it was now or never and getting into triathlon Feeling scared and pushing on through Graduating from Durham and doing an internship with the United Nations (UN) Wanting to ride a rickshaw in London Exploring what is human nature in her dissertation Being told it wasn’t a safe environment for girls How theory is different from reality The connection between your body and mind Don’t take your privilege for granted Flying to Iran to speak with the Iranian Needing to dress modestly What should women wear? Being patronised while racing Paris Olympics and the restriction on French women wearing a hijab Being passionate about moving Stepping back from social media Final words of advice Social Media Instagram: /episode/index/show/toughgirlchallenges/id/30336553

Beth Whitman - completed the Grand Slam Plus with Racing the Planet. This included running 5 separate events, each 250K, across Georgia (the country), the Namib Desert in Namibia, the Atacama in Chile, the Gobi in Mongolia and Antarctica. Beth is a traveler first and foremost. With 35 years of travel experience, each year she spends three to four months abroad, combining her love of adventure with vacation and business. For 15 years she has been running WanderTours, focusing on women-only tours, where she encourages and inspires women to dive deep into cultures and to challenge themselves by getting out of their comfort zone. She recently discovered running and, at age 50, ran her first marathon. She then discovered ultra-running and has been using these as an excuse to explore remote destinations around the globe that few people ever see. Most recently she completed the Grand Slam Plus with Racing the Planet. This consisted of running five 250K stage races across four deserts: the Gobi in Mongolia, the Atacama in Chile, the Namib in Namibia, Antarctica and, the one non-desert race, a run across the country of Georgia. While many people have completed these races, she is part of a small group of competitors (only seven women!) who have completed them in a year's time (OK, slightly longer due to Covid). *** We first spoke with Beth - Feb 11th 2020 - *** 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 to be a part of this important movement. Thank you for your invaluable support! *** Show notes Who is Beth Whitman and what she does Speaking with Beth at the end of 2019 where she shared more about . Going back to the start of 2020 4 desert races - with Wanting to run these 4races in 1 year (Namib Race (Namibia), Gobi March (Mongolia), Atacama Crossing (Chile) and The Last Desert (Antarctica)) Continuing to run and train, even when races and borders were getting closed Not knowing what was going on, and continuing to hope that the race would go on. Running every street in your city/neighbourhood Having a purpose to get up every day and go running The rules of the ‘running every street’ The mental side of always being ‘on’ while running The challenges of running a tour company during covid Dealing with uncertainty Her first race - running Georgia (country) in 2021 Dealing with stress Using mediation and becoming more aware of her thoughts Needing to know what was happening and starting to doom scroll Becoming more aware of her habits Cutting back on caffeine and sugar Moving on quickly from each trip/race Needing to spend more time in reflection and appreciation for what’s been achieved Revenge travel Having 7 weeks between the Georgia race and the next ultra in Namibia Fuelling ultra marathons being a mostly vegan Magical moments and highlights from running Running in Antarctica and the challenges with the terrain and weather The mental struggle and thinking that she wasn’t going to be able to carry on while running in the desert What kept her going during the tough times How to find out more about Beth and her tours Being most active on Facebook Final words of advice Having something to look forward to The power of making a plan Why you are capable of so much more than you think Social Media Website: Instagram: Facebook: /episode/index/show/toughgirlchallenges/id/30332358

Sarah Williams - Reflections and Learnings from the 3,000km Te Araroa Trail, New Zealand. 03/14/2024

Sarah Williams - Reflections and Learnings from the 3,000km Te Araroa Trail, New Zealand. Hey Hey, it's Sarah Williams from the Tough Girl Podcast, and I'm thrilled to share with you my latest solo episode reflecting on my unforgettable journey hiking the 3,000km Te Araroa Trail in New Zealand. Sponsored by Zoleo #ChallengeWithZOLEO, this episode dives deep into the highs, lows, and everything in between of my epic adventure. Join me as I address questions from listeners about a wide range of topics, including solo hiking as a woman, hitchhiking, hygiene, nutrition, and more. I share it all. I'll take you on a journey through the stunning landscapes of both the North and South Islands, highlighting memorable moments like canoeing adventures and breathtaking views on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or dreaming of your first big adventure, this episode offers inspiration, practical advice, and a glimpse into the transformative power of outdoor exploration. Listen now and be inspired to take on your next personal challenge or adventure. *** Show notes Intro Sponsored by Who am I? The challenge - to hike 3,000km on the Te Araroa Trail Planning & Preparation episode 2nd November 2023 Why it’s not your typical wilderness thru hike Questions from listeners, tribe members etc Safety for a solo women - men on the trail, wild camping, hitching Hitching Purist and EFK (Every F***king Km) Inov8 trainers - Trail Angels V Trail Entrepreneurs Koha V Donations Enjoyment of the North Island Canoeing Highlights - Timber Trail, Tongariro Alpine Crossing, Colonial Knob Walkway Costs from the North Island Reaching Wellington and having a Christmas break South Island 1st January 2024 - 6th March 2024 Planning…. Verses being spontaneous Breaking down the challenging days Rivers in New Zealand Hiking in Wales, Tryfan and Welsh 3000s TA - Navigation and GPS Whittakers Creamy Caramel Chocolate Food, resupply, bounce boxes, being gluten free Wildlife encounters, sandflies Hygiene - Pee, Poo Periods Equipment - loves and hates pass Highlights from the trail Advice for hiking the trail on the Tough Girl Website Regrets Learnings What’s next Social Media Instagram: Facebook: Youtube: /episode/index/show/toughgirlchallenges/id/30366073

Sophie Power - Great Britain 24 hour Ultra-runner and mum of 3. Founder of SheRACES - a campaign to make races better for women. 03/12/2024

Sophie Power - Great Britain 24 hour Ultra-runner and mum of 3. Founder of SheRACES - a campaign to make races better for women. In this episode, we explore Sophie Power's incredible journey from self-professed anti-runner to ultra-runner and advocate for women in racing. Despite her initial reluctance towards running, Sophie discovered a passion for it at 26, leading her to tackle challenges like the Marathon des Sables (MDS) with only nine months of training. Her journey wasn't without hurdles, especially as a mother of three. Yet, Sophie's dedication to running while pregnant sparked global attention, inspiring women everywhere. Fuelled by her experiences, she founded SheRACES, aiming to make racing more accessible for women, advocating for pregnancy deferrals, and breaking barriers. Sophie's resilience shines through, overcoming setbacks like a coma and memory loss. Her story embodies the power of belief and perseverance. Listen to Sophie now to learn more about her remarkable journey. *** 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 to be a part of this important movement. Thank you for your invaluable support! *** Show notes Who is Sophie Being an anti-runner Not being sporty Discovering running at 26 Being a good hiker and doing kick-boxing Ready to take on a new challenge Having 9 months to train Going from zero to ultra The planning and preparation for in 2010 Doing her own research and putting previous experience in planning and logistics to use. Enjoying running and why she does ultras Looking to find herself again Starting to travel and do adventures at the same time Working long hours and running 20 miles max per week Running while pregnant and why it was different every time The photo that went viral Not wanting to let her 3 year old down Not wanting other women to be in her position How came about Why races should have pregnancy deferrals Wanting to reduce the barriers for women to encourage more women to race Surveying over 2,000 women about their barriers and wanting to understand what events can change Coming up with guidelines for races Not having any free time How people can support the work that She Races is doing Also focusing on cycling and triathlon Why women and girls deserve better Running for Team GB and her ultra runner journey Finding herself on the start line of the European championships in 24hr running Taking running more seriously after turning 40 and having 3 kids Training for a 24hr race The mental side of the challenge Recovery after races Nutrition and fuelling herself during races and recovery Being in a coma for 36 hrs Dealing with short term memory loss Going back to work too soon Running with a prolapse Mummy MOT - “why did no one tell me” How to connect with Sophie Final words of advice “Believe that you deserve it” Social Media Website: Instagram: /episode/index/show/toughgirlchallenges/id/30331223

Jessica Hepburn - Unlikely Everest Summiteer. Inspiring people to #livebigandbrave when life doesn’t go to plan. Author of Save me from the Waves. 03/07/2024

Jessica Hepburn - Unlikely Everest Summiteer. Inspiring people to #livebigandbrave when life doesn’t go to plan. Author of Save me from the Waves. AN ADVENTURE STORY – WITH A DIFFERENCE Jessica Hepburn is an unlikely athlete. She hates exercise and believes the only reason to do it is for food, booze and box-sets on the sofa. However, in her forties, following a succession of hard life experiences, she started to try and exercise her way out of heartbreak. She has now become one of the world’s most extraordinary endurance athletes. The first and only woman on the planet to have completed the “Sea, Street, Summit Challenge” – which is to swim the English Channel, run the London Marathon and climb Mount Everest. And possibly the only woman to have listened to eighty years and over 3,000 episodes of her favourite radio programme – Desert Island Discs. Jessica joins us for the 3rd time on the Tough Girl Podcast, to share more about her new book. “Save me from the Waves”. Which shares more about her inspirational story of physical and mental endurance which starts on the streets of London and culminates in a life-threatening event on top of the world. During the podcast, Jessica share more about the challenges on the mountain, the lesson learns and provides advice and tips to encourage you to live big and bravely especially when life doesn’t go to plan. Previous TGP episodes with Jessica. 2nd October 2018 - 8th February 2022 - *** 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 to be a part of this important movement. Thank you for your invaluable support! Show notes Who is Jessica Being an author Working in the arts Going through multiple rounds of IVF Experiencing multiple miscarriages Describing herself as an adventure activist Swimming the Her journey climbing Completing final training for Mount Everest Climbing immediately after the channel swim Realising the importance of mental and physical strength Realising she's not fit and fast enough Climbing massive mountains in her 50s is a significant challenge Discussing pushback when climbing Everest and feeling defensive Recounting a conversation with a stranger Limited window for climbing Mount Everest due to weather conditions Climbing to the top of the world while listening to her favorite radio program The reason why she writes her books Why she wouldn't change anything even after everything that has happened to her Feeling stronger and more confident on her second attempt to climb Everest Finding the challenging Finding the summiting experience to be terrifying Not feeling the expected emotions on the summit Feeling exhausted and sick during the summit Having endurance and mental strength on the mountain Getting hit by a free-falling oxygen bottle, breaking her leg Sharing the details of what happened to her in her book Sharing her experiences with IVF and climbing Everest, hoping to provide solidarity and a survival guide for others What helped her process her thoughts and emotions during her fertility journey Creating playlists for various occasions and people in her life Composing a playlist for the child she never had Final words of advice Social Media Website: Instagram: Twitter: Facebook: /episode/index/show/toughgirlchallenges/id/30215488

Celeste Thompson - Fat girl who loves hiking. Inspiring people of all sizes to adventure outside. On an adventure to hike in every state in the USA. 03/05/2024

Celeste Thompson - Fat girl who loves hiking. Inspiring people of all sizes to adventure outside. On an adventure to hike in every state in the USA. Celeste's love for hiking began in Maui, Hawaii, following a difficult breakup. The Lahaina Trail hike was transformative and made her feel empowered. She quickly progressed in her hiking journey and decided to share her experiences on social media. To her surprise, she inspired other plus-sized individuals to explore the outdoors. In 2022, Celeste embarked on a mission to hike in every US state. Her dedication to this goal, despite being a non-planner, is truly inspiring. She encourages others to find gear that fits their body types and shares her inspiration from Fat Girls Hiking. Celeste's story is a celebration of confidence and happiness found in nature. Listen in to learn about her magical moments while hiking and her valuable advice for women seeking joy in the outdoors. Please be aware: In this episode, there is a single use of strong language at the end. *** 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 to be a part of this important movement. Thank you for your invaluable support! *** Show notes Who is Celeste Moving to Las Vegas in 2021 from California Why did she move to Vegas! Being born in El Salvador, Central America Her love for travel and living in different places Her early years When her hiking journey started as an adult Working at the airport in Maui, Hawaii Coming out of a long relationship and feeling lonely and heart broken in 2013 Wanting to give hiking ago and deciding to hike the Lahaina Trail Never seeing other plus sized people out hiking or represented in the media Not having the right gear and running out of water The challenges of descending in the dark Why that hike changed her life Feeling empowered Progressing in her hiking journey Being connected in nature and feeling happy Hiking for fun Wanting to move to the US mainland to pursue her passion for hiking Wanting to share more of her journey on social media (2017) to document her journey for her Realising that by shaken her story on social media it was encouraging more plus sized people who looked like her to get outside and give hiking ago Wanting to hike in every state in the USA and starting in 2022 Having a new mindset and making her hiking goal a priority Not being the best planner and wanting to change that Finding gear to fit her body type Being inspired by Summer from Her first time going camping as an adult Why you deserve to be there (in the outdoors) How you can connect with and follow along with Celeste Magical moments from hiking and spending time in the outdoors Connecting with herself while hiking Final words of advice for other women who want to experience joy in the outdoors Find out what makes you confident Why you deserve to be happy Social Media Instagram: /episode/index/show/toughgirlchallenges/id/28538831

Jacky Hunt-Broersma - UltraRunner. Amputee. Cancer Survivor. Guinness World Record - Running 104 Marathons in a 104 Days! #icandohardthings 02/27/2024

Jacky Hunt-Broersma - UltraRunner. Amputee. Cancer Survivor. Guinness World Record - Running 104 Marathons in a 104 Days! #icandohardthings Meet Jacky Hunt-Broersma, a remarkable individual who's shattered expectations as an amputee ultramarathoner, endurance coach, dedicated mom, and cancer survivor. Recognised as the RRCA Road Runner of the Year, WRAL Athlete of the Year, and featured in Strong Fitness Magazine's Women to Watch in 2021, her journey is nothing short of inspirational. In 2016, Jacky embarked on her extraordinary running odyssey. Her path to greatness was marked by a profound personal challenge—losing her leg to Ewing Sarcoma. However, she didn't let this setback define her. Instead, she set out to build an impressive portfolio of "firsts" for female amputees in trail and ultra running, even securing several world records. She's on a mission to prove the naysayers wrong and carve a path for other adaptive athletes, especially women, in the world of trail running and ultramarathons. Among her numerous achievements, Jacky's incredible feat of running 104 marathons in 104 days stands out, raising an astounding $194,000 for Amputee Blade Runners. She's also set a new world record as the first amputee to complete a 100-mile run on a treadmill, doing so in under 24 hours (23 hours and 38 minutes). Jacky Hunt-Broersma's remarkable journey is a testament to resilience, determination, and the power of the human spirit to overcome obstacles and achieve the extraordinary. She's not only a trailblazer but a beacon of hope and inspiration for adaptive athletes worldwide. *** 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 to be a part of this important movement. Thank you for your invaluable support! *** Show notes Who is Jacky Living in sunny Arizona, USA for the past two years Growing up in South Africa Moving to the Netherlands in her early 20s Being very sports orientated and spending a lot of time outdoors How things have changed in South Africa Leaving South Africa with two suitcases and living in a new country Struggling to learn dutch when in the Netherlands Being diagnosed with cancer when living in Holland From diagnosis to the amputation of her leg Hearing the news Figuring out the next steps and finding out what was going to happen Saying goodbye to her leg Getting to a place of acceptance Wishing she had taken up running sooner How running helped her to accept her body how it was Going through denial Having a pity party and feeling that life was unfair Wanting to be normal and not wanting any pity Dealing with anger Why it’s a process Becoming more open about her journey and her struggles Taking up running and why it changed her life Wanting to encourage more amputees to run The expensive cost of a running blade ($10,000) Fighting the system to get funding for running blades Wanting to make a difference and encourage more amputees to get out and active Being surprised at how far she could push her body Wanting to push boundaries and distances in running Running 104 marathons in 104 days in April 2022 Being inspired by running 95 marathons in 95 days (2021) Wanting to see if she could do it and not knowing how her prosthetic would hold up The metal side of the challenges Dealing with chin splits at the start of the journey Getting through the tough days and taking the time to celebrate the milestones and live in the moment Having 3 different routes to choose from The paperwork needed for the Guinness World Record Being strict about recovery and following a routine Running 104 marathons and raising funds for Running How to follow along with Jacky on social media Future running plans for 2024 Running a half marathon a day for Cancer Research (for 250 days) Planning to run in South Africa Final words of advice to inspire to you in your next challenge Social Media Website: Instagram: Twitter: /episode/index/show/toughgirlchallenges/id/28538357

Melissa Harlow - Embracing Life's Adventures at 62: From Sailing the Pacific Ocean to Hiking the John Muir Trail 02/20/2024

Melissa Harlow - Embracing Life's Adventures at 62: From Sailing the Pacific Ocean to Hiking the John Muir Trail Melissa in her own words: “After connecting with my now husband on 20 years ago, we realized we had one key difference: he wanted a partner to ‘Sail around the world’. I, on the other hand, wasn't an adventurer. I was a professional woman with a degree in Psychology, dedicated to non-profit work and healthcare. But my husband ignited a desire in me to embrace life's adventures while we were still healthy. The turning point came when he asked, ‘When are you going to quit your job and sail around the world with me?’ Despite my initial fears and attachments, I couldn't ignore the call to live life to the fullest. We set sail across the Pacific Ocean, and it changed me profoundly. We continued our adventures by buying an RV and exploring the US, Canada, and Alaska, much to the surprise of our family. These experiences made me resilient and fearless. Returning from a sailing journey and hiking the John Muir Trail at age 62, I realized that the world was full of opportunities. I see people looking at me differently now, sensing my quiet confidence. My adventure started late, but it's proof that life-changing decisions can happen at any age. The question remains: “Do it now or not?”” *Content Warning: This episode contains an instance of strong/abusive language that some listeners may find offensive. *** 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 to be a part of this important movement. Thank you for your invaluable support! *** Show notes Who is Melissa Living is San Diego, California Not being born into an adventurous family Her early years and feeling connected to her dad (who died when she was 4) Meeting her husband on about 18 years ago Blending 2 families together After 10 years of marriage starting to discuss the sailing adventure Being a career girl and not focused on adventure Not having passion in her life Doing little adventures but not committing to the big adventure of sailing around the world Waiting for the kids to go to college Making the commitment and putting a plan in place Getting the boat and needing to learn new skills Having a 5 year plan and changing everything about their life Not spending more that $25 unless speaking to another person Working as a team in a partnership Having garage sales, saving money and making it happen Starting to change and starting to get excited about the future adventure Being called ‘Captain B*tch Slap’ Being a forgiving person Proving people wrong Noticing her confidence changing Dealing with tangled anchors while a storm is rolling in Stats from the trip - the boat (Island Packet 37) Starting in San Diego and sailing down to Mexico Stopping to take a 1,000 mile car tour throughout Mexico from America’s to French Polynesia Feeling done with sailing after 11 months and wanting to go home The challenges of getting the boat back from Hawaii to San Diego The dream vs reality Magical moments while out sailing and the challenges while being out on the water Spending time on remote beautiful islands - the instagram moments When the autopilot stopped working and having to steer the boat in 2 hour shifts for 24/7. Deciding what to do next and wanting to sell the boat, take the money and buy an RV and travel around the US, up through Canada and head up to the wilds of Alaska The challenges of RV Life and wanting to do ‘Boondocking’ Feeling numb after traveling and feeling lost Having therapy and starting to feel again Learning to appreciate the little moments and the free moments Being done with the corporate world and being a different person Choosing to live a simple life and having more money than before, even though they’re earning less Renting out the RV Deciding to hike the John Muir Trail (211 miles) Planning and testing out all the gear Why it was one of the toughest things she’s ever done Climbing Mt Whitney and the challenges with the elevation gain and loss Trying to get equipment and gear to fit her height at 4′ 11″ / 150 cm Ending up with an Osprey EJA 58 Trying to find trainers and shoes to fit Watch the videos from the Pacific Ocean on Final words of advice Why you need to take an honest look at yourself and where you are in your life Why you need to make a plan and get into the details Give yourself little mini milestones to work towards Start by putting your plan down on paper Social Media Websites: Instagram: Youtube: /episode/index/show/toughgirlchallenges/id/28526372

Dr. Katie Myint - Running for Enjoyment and Mental Well-Being 02/13/2024

Dr. Katie Myint - Running for Enjoyment and Mental Well-Being Join us today as we have a conversation with Dr. Katie Myint, an eye surgeon at Moorfields Eye Hospital in London. Her journey takes us from her Midlands upbringing to becoming a doctor and the role running and exercise played in promoting mental well-being. Katie candidly shares her battle with depression during her second year as a doctor, shedding light on how exercise and medication became transformative tools for enhancing her mental health. As we explore her running journey and marathon experiences, one theme remains constant: the pure joy of movement. Throughout the episode, Katie discusses her marathon adventures, from running alongside her husband to using races as a gateway to explore the world. She passionately underscores the importance of running as a cherished hobby, never allowing it to encroach upon her daily life. Katie offers advice on motivation and self-compassion and encourages women to embrace exercise with the conviction that it can be an enjoyable endeavour. *** 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 to be a part of this important movement. Thank you for your invaluable support! *** Show notes Working as an eye surgeon at Moorfields Eye Hospital, in London Her early years growing up in the Midlands Being focused on academics Learning how to swim with her dad Enjoying school and wanting to do well Finding her way into sports and exercise as an adult Not enjoying sports at school Dealing with depression in her 2nd year of being a doctor Feeling alone Using exercise to improve mental well-being Taking the first step to going out and doing exercise Not recognising in herself that she had depression Going to see her GP and being recommended exercise and medication Going on her first run in winter in the rain and the dark Her running journey and what that looked like Being a solo runner for a long time Running to help process her thoughts Not having any running goals and using running to improve her mental well-being Working her way up to a half-marathon and marathon Why it wasn’t about times or PBs but rather the joy of moving Running with her husband and using a marathon race as an excuse to go on holiday abroad Fitting in running around her job and life Not following a structured running program Wanting to keep running as a hobby Doing 2 or 3 shorter runs throughout the week with one long run at the weekend Not letting running get in the way of life Magical moments while running Running the Managing the tough times in a race and how to mange that The race is just the final victory lap and the journey is in all the runs you’ve done before it. Why it can be tricky between mile 16 and 18 Loving and starting Saturdays with a run followed by brunch Getting involved in triathlon Getting her first bike Training solo or with her husband Doing her first triathlon and why it was a total wash out Taking the race at your own pace and not comparing yourself to others Being an Ambassador for Advice for when you don’t want to go out running Remembering why you are doing it, but also being kind to yourself Stretching…. Race plans for 2024 Where Katie is most active on social media Final words of advice to encourage more women to get exercise in their life Encouraging you to run for the love of it and that exercise can be fun! Social Media Instagram: /episode/index/show/toughgirlchallenges/id/28526210

Nicky Chisholm - 52, a self-confessed adventurer, loves a challenge, delights in cold shenanigans and is ready to embrace the next stage of her adventure life! 02/06/2024

Nicky Chisholm - 52, a self-confessed adventurer, loves a challenge, delights in cold shenanigans and is ready to embrace the next stage of her adventure life! Nicky is a self-confessed adventurer, loves a challenge, delights in cold shenanigans and is ready to embrace the next stage of her adventure life. Her super powers are making things happen and connecting people and she is the Queen of pushing herself out of her comfort zone. Nicky lives in Brighton with her husband, 2 teenage boys and Daisy the camper van. At 52 her adventure journey has changed many times over the years, from a 20-year-old canoeing and sailing instructor, to a Mum with young children teaching them to embrace the outdoors through camping, building dens and cooking on open fires. Her boys are now in their late teens now and are slowly flying the nest, it is here she finds herself, ready to embrace the next stage of her adventure journey. Her adventures have included; fire walks, abseiling down castles, coast steering, a cross country ski marathon in the Arctic Circle, a wing walk and running a half marathon in Greenland which included training in an Environmental Cold Chamber at the University of Sussex at minus 20! *** 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 to be a part of this important movement. Thank you for your invaluable support! *** Show notes Her love of adventure How her adventure journey has changed as she’s gotten older Where her adventurous spirit came from Being inspired by her dad Why you can have adventures on your doorstep What does adventure mean to Nicky Why adventure is so many things Why you can fit adventure around your life Why adventure is there for the taking, but you may have to be creative. Her first job working in a water sports centre Working for Having children and going camping with 2 young children Making adventure part of family life Having to put solo adventures on hold with having a young family Parrot hunting on the Amazon (finding and taking photos) Going to the Artic Circle to do a cross -country ski marathon Doing a big challenge every year from 40 - 50 to raise money for charity Being drawn to the cold Needing to do the training to enjoy the experience Planning future challenges Running her own business for 18 years Deciding to go wing walking! Doing a fire walk Feeling empowered after doing challenges and stepping outside her comfort zone Doing a half marathon in Greenland at 50 (a big, bold, cold, challenge) Deciding to step down from her business Liking a spreadsheet and being organised with her training Working with a specialist performance coach Working with the at Sussex University Getting to experience minus 20 and the impact on her body Being set up for success and learning how to manage herself in extreme conditions Going to Greenland and why it was outside her comfort zone Learning how to deal with panic on the start line Turning panic into power Wanting to run a happy race and take it all in Dealing with the adventure blues Completing a 5k sea swim Working with and helping her with her social media Looking at the Svalbard? Daisy #pinknicky How to connect with Nicky on the socials Working with Doing an Wanting to elevate women Final words of advice for other women Make an Adventure Action List Find people who inspire you Take mini steps Social Media Instagram: Facebook: Nicky runs an annual event in Brighton to celebrate International Women's Day (8th March), she organises a mega sea swim for over 500 "mermaids" supporting surfers against sewage. Land and Wave are an Official Event Partner. Join her /episode/index/show/toughgirlchallenges/id/28525856

Christine Yu - Journalist and Author of “UP TO SPEED: The Groundbreaking Science of Women Athletes”. 01/30/2024

Christine Yu - Journalist and Author of “UP TO SPEED: The Groundbreaking Science of Women Athletes”. Christine Yu is an award-winning journalist whose work focuses on the intersection of sports science and women athletes. Her writing has appeared in Outside, The Washington Post, Time, Runner’s World, and other publications. She’s a lifelong athlete and yoga teacher who loves running, surfing, and skiing. She lives in Brooklyn, New York. About the book: “In the past half-century, women have achieved remarkable progress in the realm of athletics. More women are participating in sports and maintaining an active lifestyle throughout their lives. Whether they're elite athletes striving for excellence or passionate amateurs enjoying their athletic pursuits, women deserve a sports culture that empowers them. This culture should offer training programs and equipment specifically designed to support their unique physiologies, along with nutrition and injury prevention guidelines grounded in scientific research and tailored to their individual experiences. Unfortunately, women have often received guidance based on research that fails to consider their distinct experiences and physical characteristics. Much of what we've accepted as the standard in exercise and sports science is rooted solely in studies conducted on men. But the landscape is changing for the better. Researchers are now conducting more inclusive studies to close the gender data gap. They're investigating how women can enhance their athletic performance, reduce the risk of injury, and maintain good health. In 'Up to Speed,' sports and health journalist Christine Yu unravels myths and dissects gender bias in light of real science. She advocates for new approaches that empower female athletes to excel at every life stage, from adolescence through adulthood, encompassing pregnancy, menopause, and beyond. Christine delves into the latest research findings and shines a light on the researchers, athletes, and advocates challenging the status quo. They are pioneering innovative solutions to enhance the active and athletic lives of women and girls, ushering in a new era of gender equality in sports science and performance.” *** The Tough Girl Podcast is being sponsored throughout January by ZOLEO. #ChallengeWithZOLEO ZOLEO connects with your phone to provide seamless global messaging that follows you in and out of mobile network coverage — plus added safety features you can count on worldwide including industry-leading SOS alerting features. 24/7 monitoring and 24/7 access to non-emergency medical advice, check-in and weather forecasts. ZOLEO offers unmatched peace of mind for you and for everyone waiting at home. Stay connected and safe while doing what you love. Hit the subscribe button to stay updated on the incredible journeys and stories of tough women. New episodes LIVE every Tuesday and Thursday at 7am UK time. *** Show notes Who is Christine Being based in New York Growing up in Connecticut before moving to San Francisco Being sporty from a young age and always being active Getting into running, strength training and yoga Working in the non profit sector for 10/15 years before making the switch to journalism Wanting to write and tell more stories Taking time off after having her first child Combing her love for writing with her love for sports, science and health Wanting to focus on issues relating to women, women’s health and women’s sports Being curious and wanting to know more The lack of easily accessible information available for women Wanting to learn how to make her body more resilient Wanting to improve her health and wanting to move her body in a way that makes her feel good Wanting to be strong and healthy over the long term The starting point with research Knowledge from print magazines….. which wasn’t women specific Looking at more specific sports science research Dr Stacy Sims: The lack of knowledge for women who want to do strength training More women getting into strength training New Book: Where the idea came from and how easy it was to get it published Only 6% of sports science (2014-2020) studies focus on issues related to women Why do we know so much less about women’s physiology? What are the implication due to the gender data gap? What you can expect from the book - information on the menstrual cycle, breast health, sporting gear, injury rates and chapters devoted to the life stages of a women’s life ‘ How to study women with the challenges of women’s menstrual cycle The blindspots in science Leaving women out of the narrative Hormones related to the menstrual cycle and how they can impact performance Noticing the trends when tracking your period Don’t blame yourself - blame your hormones Peri-menopause and menopause where is the science? Food and nutrition Weight and performance Relative energy deficiency in sport (RED-S) How to connect with Christine Final words of advice for women who want to learn more about the science Pay attention to your own body, track your cycle and see how your body responds throughout the month Be a critical consumer of the media you are consuming Social Media Instagram: Substack: Book: /episode/index/show/toughgirlchallenges/id/28405727

Nikki Love - 56, Running across Australia from Perth to Sydney 4,044kms in 76 days! Setting the women’s record! #RunAustralia 01/23/2024

Nikki Love - 56, Running across Australia from Perth to Sydney 4,044kms in 76 days! Setting the women’s record! #RunAustralia Nikki Love is an adventure runner, a sports psychology under-grad, and a motivator of dreaming big, taking action and achieving extraordinary goals. Nikki turned 50 in 2017 and decided it was time to take her love for travel, marathon running, and cross-country running to a new level. She is now on a mission to run across, around, or through as many countries that her feet can take her, bringing as many people as she can along for the run. Her big adventures include running 63 marathons in 63 days through the UK to celebrate her 50th birthday, a craic of a 750 mile run around Ireland, a runcation through Malta and around Gozo, a jolly jaunt across the Netherlands, an extremely muddy and cow-pat laden run from top to bottom of Wales, a 40 day x 1,000 miles treadmill run, and on July 16, 2023 at the age of 56 Nikki set the women’s record for running across Australia from Perth to Sydney 4,044kms in 76 days, 3 hours and 43 minutes. Driven by her curiosity to answer the question “I wonder if I can do that…” Nikki shares her adventures – the highs, lows, fun, tears and her experience of overcoming fears, doubts and obstacles as she navigates perimenopause – through her writing, speaking and film-making. Her goal is to help women know and own their place and space in the world and to keep believing and backing themselves. Listen to the previous TGP episode with Nikki. 30th July 2020 - *** The Tough Girl Podcast is being sponsored throughout January by ZOLEO. #ChallengeWithZOLEO ZOLEO connects with your phone to provide seamless global messaging that follows you in and out of mobile network coverage — plus added safety features you can count on worldwide including industry-leading SOS alerting features. 24/7 monitoring and 24/7 access to non-emergency medical advice, check-in and weather forecasts. ZOLEO offers unmatched peace of mind for you and for everyone waiting at home. Stay connected and safe while doing what you love. Hit the subscribe button to stay updated on the incredible journeys and stories of tough women. New episodes LIVE every Tuesday and Thursday at 7am UK time. *** Show notes Who is Nikki Being an adventure runner 56 years young Speaking with Nikki in 2020 on the TGP A quick recap of Nikki’s previous challenges Reflecting back on 2020 and 2021 Coming up with idea to do a ‘training run’ on a treadmill Running 1000 miles and tearing tendons in her toes which ended her adventure Learning that she could do hard things Setting herself up to run across Australia for real Dealing with multiple peri-menopausal symptoms 2021- deciding to run 100 marathons in 100 days Getting a stress fracture in her pelvis Starting a process to understand what was going on in her body Getting advice to downgrade her ambitions and dreams Being stubborn and wanting to figure out a way to achieve her goal at 56 of running across Australia Figuring out what was going on and getting advice from doctors Starting on different versions on HRT Being encouraged to stop doing her exercise Having bloods taken and doing MRI scans - privately Speaking to as many people as possible to come up with solutions Figuring out that her body wasn’t absorbing the hormone therapy Going back to basics - getting back to a good diet and doing strength training Taking 2 years to recover from her pelvis stress fracture Feeling sad and frustrated Not being willing to give up on her goal Starting to wonder if it would be possible for her to run across Australia Starting to do more planning and putting dates in place Dealing with setbacks along the way and why it wasn’t easy Setting the start date for 1st May 2023 Being supported by her partner Hiring a camper van and driving from Jhalong to Perth and getting to see the route in reverse. Going after a Guinness World Record to be the fastest women to run from Perth to Sydney 76 days 3hrs and 43 mins * (waiting to see if it will be accepted by Guinness) Having to increase her running distances pretty quickly and averaging about 53km per day Getting into a flow with the running after 2 weeks Dealing with the traffic which was much more intense than she was expecting What a typical day looked like How her experiences helped her to keep on going when times got tough Having a mantra in the morning Start off slow and I’ll get into a flow Challenges with animals! Physically not feeling too bad, but mentally feeling very drained and tired Listening to binaural music to calm her body down and the importance of sleep to help with recovery Dealing with the adventure blues after the challenge Making the decision to go to university to study sports psychology Applying to Becoming more aware of her time line and getting older How you can connect with Nikki and follow along with her journeys Nikki is also blogging about her run on her Wanting to keep her adventure passion alive Feeling that you can - requires that you back yourself Keeping telling yourself that you can. Social Media Website: Instagram: /episode/index/show/toughgirlchallenges/id/28403963

Sue Stockdale - First UK woman to reach the magnetic North Pole. Author of “EXPLORE: A Life of Adventure”. 01/16/2024

Sue Stockdale - First UK woman to reach the magnetic North Pole. Author of “EXPLORE: A Life of Adventure”. In 1996, Sue Stockdale achieved a remarkable feat: she became the first British woman to set foot on the Magnetic North Pole, a journey she never thought possible. What followed was a realisation that her success held a profound purpose—to inspire others to venture beyond their comfort zones and unearth their untapped potential. Sue's captivating memoir, "EXPLORE: A Life of Adventure," chronicles her life's journey, commencing from challenging beginnings and extending into a lifetime of intrepid exploration in some of the world's harshest environments, including the North Pole, Antarctica, and Greenland. Within these epic adventures lie invaluable life lessons that Sue readily shares, illustrating how the mindset, discipline, and commitment honed in the crucible of extreme exploration are equally applicable in the professional sphere. "EXPLORE" serves as a wellspring of inspiration, urging all of us to embark on our personal odysseys of self-discovery. Sue firmly believes that no endeavour is too daunting when undertaken with determination, a well-conceived plan, and a readiness to embrace discomfort. *** The Tough Girl Podcast is being sponsored throughout January by ZOLEO. #ChallengeWithZOLEO ZOLEO connects with your phone to provide seamless global messaging that follows you in and out of mobile network coverage — plus added safety features you can count on worldwide including industry-leading SOS alerting features. 24/7 monitoring and 24/7 access to non-emergency medical advice, check-in and weather forecasts. ZOLEO offers unmatched peace of mind for you and for everyone waiting at home. Stay connected and safe while doing what you love. Hit the subscribe button to stay updated on the incredible journeys and stories of tough women. New episodes LIVE every Tuesday and Thursday at 7am UK time. Show notes: Who is Sue Describing herself as an adventurer Not going on to guides Growing up and not doing adventurous things Going on a cycling trip at 15 Not having any role models Being inspired by books like Enid Blyton's and The unexpected death of her mom when she was 14 Wanting to make the most of her life Challenging herself to see what she's capable of Sue's memoir, Adventure mindset, inner voice, and risk-taking Why did she write the book Becoming the first UK woman to ski to the Magnetic North Pole Deciding to apply despite feeling unqualified Being determined and believing in herself Overcoming fears and fundraising for an Arctic expedition Being part of a team of 10 people Her initial lack of experience in cross-country skiing Being very optimistic and having an adventurous mindset at heart Expedition leader Engaging in an exercise as a team called "what if list" to share their fears and concerns Advocates for facing fears by writing them down and talking about them Successfully securing sponsorship for her expedition Mental and physical challenges during her North Pole expedition in 1996 Talking about period while she's out on the ice Bonding between her and Susanna, the first Swedish woman to reach the extreme Learning to tolerate each other's differences and frustrations during the expedition How her experience at the North Pole changed her perspective on life Deciding to set up a business as a motivational speaker Joining on an expedition down to Antarctica The process of evolution and building up her business Entrepreneurship and finding her unique calling Pushing herself too hard and judging herself too negatively Talking about her podcast Final words of advice Social Media Website: Podcast: Twitter: Youtube: /episode/index/show/toughgirlchallenges/id/29456843

Kimberly Wheatley - Solo kayaker, SUP’er, and camper. Diversifying the outdoors one lake at a time, hoping to inspire some outdoor joy. 01/09/2024

Kimberly Wheatley - Solo kayaker, SUP’er, and camper. Diversifying the outdoors one lake at a time, hoping to inspire some outdoor joy. A self-proclaimed late outdoor bloomer, Kimberly began exploring life outdoors after purchasing a folding kayak, which she credits with changing her life. What started as an impulse purchase put her on a path of adventure, and she now travels around the world with her dog (Bentley), camping, kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding. Learning as she goes along, she documents her travels on her instagram page, in hopes of inspiring and empowering other women to have solo adventures. *** The Tough Girl Podcast is being sponsored throughout January by ZOLEO. #ChallengeWithZOLEO ZOLEO connects with your phone to provide seamless global messaging that follows you in and out of mobile network coverage — plus added safety features you can count on worldwide including industry-leading SOS alerting features. 24/7 monitoring and 24/7 access to non-emergency medical advice, check-in and weather forecasts. ZOLEO offers unmatched peace of mind for you and for everyone waiting at home. Stay connected and safe while doing what you love. Hit the subscribe button to stay updated on the incredible journeys and stories of tough women. New episodes LIVE every Tuesday and Thursday at 7am UK time. *** Show notes Who is Kimberly and what does she do Kimberly's happy place Always being drawn to water, even as a child Learning to swim at a young age Discovery of her passion for kayaking Going on a 6-day kayaking trip in Canada Not having her own kayak Obtaining a folding kayak and practising in her living room Overcoming barriers, pursuing her goal of spending time on the water Solo kayaking safely Being a very introverted person Kayaking as therapy Mountain lakes kayaking Disconnecting from the world while connecting with nature Giving peace of mind to friends and family Bently, her little adventure buddy Describing Bentley and matching hats with him Not going into the same place twice Using Google Maps to see where she can go Paddling for hours without feeling hungry Usually kayaking with canned wine Naming her kayaks and their stories Feeling judged for paddling alone Having fears and concerns all the time The struggle of being a woman of colour Safety measures while camping Solo kayaking experience in Norway Insights on solo outdoor adventures, gear choices, and safety planning Finding like-minded people for outdoor adventures Final words of advice Social Media Instagram: /episode/index/show/toughgirlchallenges/id/29365713

Meaghan Hackinen - Bikepacker and writer sharing more about her new book - Shifting Gears: Coast to Coast on the Trans Am Bike Race 01/04/2024

Meaghan Hackinen - Bikepacker and writer sharing more about her new book - Shifting Gears: Coast to Coast on the Trans Am Bike Race Meaghan Hackinen is a Kelowna-based bikepacker and writer whose two-wheeled adventures have taken her from Haida Gwaii to Mexico’s high plateaus, across Canada and the United States, and from North Cape to Tarifa along some of Europe’s highest paved roads. She is a 4X Everester as well as a Transcontinental Race, Trans Am Bike Race, and Paris-Brest-Paris brevet finisher. Meaghan holds the women’s course record for the World 24-Hour Time Trial Championships, among others. In 2023, Meaghan took the overall solo win in all but one of the endurance races she competed in, including the Buckshot and Lost Elephant in British Columbia, Silver State 508 in Nevada, and an Individual Time Trial of the Log Driver’s Waltz in Canada’s Capitol region. Her debut travel memoir, "South Away: The Pacific Coast on Two Wheels" (NeWest Press, 2019) was shortlisted for two Canadian book awards and her follow up, "Shifting Gears: Coast to Coast on the Trans Am Bike Race" was just released to critical acclaim. *** The Tough Girl Podcast is being sponsored throughout January by ZOLEO. #ChallengeWithZOLEO ZOLEO connects with your phone to provide seamless global messaging that follows you in and out of mobile network coverage — plus added safety features you can count on worldwide including industry-leading SOS alerting features. 24/7 monitoring and 24/7 access to non-emergency medical advice, check-in and weather forecasts. ZOLEO offers unmatched peace of mind for you and for everyone waiting at home. Stay connected and safe while doing what you love. Hit the subscribe button to stay updated on the incredible journeys and stories of tough women. New episodes LIVE every Tuesday and Thursday at 7am UK time. Show notes Who is Meaghan Her 2023 cycling plans and how she structures her training in the winter Letting things fall into place and being opportunistic Having a dislocated finger and getting COVID Working with a coach in the past Using as her cycle training platform Using the app for strength, stretching and mobility work Writing the races down on her calendar Preparing herself and her bikes Choosing races with the goal of competing at her best level Setting a new women's FKT the importance of nutrition and recovery Prioritising route prep using a combination of , ride with , and Creating a cue sheet with resupply points, elevation high points, and challenging features Having a to-do list and a checklist Journaling and giving yourself space Meditating and feeling much better afterwards Practicing visualization Transitioning from road cycling to off-road gravel adventures Enjoying the challenge and discovering unexpected places Carrying a bike through obstacles like water crossings and steep hills Not training very much on the TT bike this year Having a friendly and supportive cycling community Finding rivalries motivating Finishing the race alongside her partner Describing the Dark Divide and what it's like Writing and releasing her new book, Having a transformative experience in 2017 that made her write a book Lessons and realizations that made her grow Reflecting on solo mountain biking experience Her plans for 2024 Quick-fire questions Final words of advice Social Media Website: Instagram Facebook Book: /episode/index/show/toughgirlchallenges/id/29002733

Sarah Thomas - Ultra Marathon Swimmer - Breast cancer Survivor and the first person to complete a four-way crossing of the English Channel in 54 hours and 10 minutes. 01/02/2024

Sarah Thomas - Ultra Marathon Swimmer - Breast cancer Survivor and the first person to complete a four-way crossing of the English Channel in 54 hours and 10 minutes. Sarah Thomas, aged 41, is an ultra-marathon swimmer who achieved the current world record for the longest continuous swim in current-neutral conditions, performed without assistance or a wetsuit. This record-breaking feat spanned 104.6 miles over the course of 67 hours and took place in Lake Champlain, USA, in August 2017. Shortly after this remarkable swim, Sarah faced an aggressive form of breast cancer diagnosis at the young age of 35. During her cancer treatment, which included chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation therapy, Sarah remained unwavering in her pursuit of an extraordinary swim that many considered impossible. One year post-cancer treatment, Sarah made history by becoming the first person to complete a four-way crossing of the English Channel, accomplishing this incredible feat in a remarkable 54 hours and 10 minutes. More recently, Sarah achieved another groundbreaking milestone, becoming the first individual in history to conquer a two-way crossing of the North Channel, enduring 21 hours and 46 minutes in frigid waters inhabited by enormous jellyfish. *** The Tough Girl Podcast is being sponsored throughout January by ZOLEO. #ChallengeWithZOLEO ZOLEO connects with your phone to provide seamless global messaging that follows you in and out of mobile network coverage — plus added safety features you can count on worldwide including industry-leading SOS alerting features. 24/7 monitoring and 24/7 access to non-emergency medical advice, check-in and weather forecasts. ZOLEO offers unmatched peace of mind for you and for everyone waiting at home. Stay connected and safe while doing what you love. Hit the subscribe button to stay updated on the incredible journeys and stories of tough women. New episodes LIVE every Tuesday and Thursday at 7am UK time. Show notes: Who is Sarah Her story of becoming a long-distance open-water swimmer Early memories of comfort and joy in the water Begging her dad to sign her up for the swim team Getting introduced to open-water swimming by a friend and found her passion in it Swimming through high school and in college for the Trying out other sports after college Growing up in Texas where swimming is super competitive How she transitioned to open-water swimming after college How she returned to swimming after a 2-year hiatus Discovering her passion for open-water swimming in 2007 Signing up for in 2010 Training for the English Channel by swimming around Manhattan in 2011 and booking a slot for 2012 Struggles with cold water and building up tolerance Refusing to take cold showers, and values warm showers as a luxury Poor weather and not wanting to swim the Returning to England with a reformed crew enjoying a beautiful, sunny swim across the channel Falling out of love with swimming Setting her sights on longer swims, including a 42-mile swim across Swimming for 24 hours and the challenge of mentally preparing for such a long distance Having her husband next to her helps her prepare for each swimming session Sarah's experience of swimming 104.6 miles in Reflecting on her childhood and meeting her potential Feeling on top of the world after completing an incredible swim Having digestive issues during long swims and eating liquid-based nutrition Swimming and craving for giant cheeseburgers Finding a lump in her breast and being diagnosed with breast cancer Her treatment and how it would impact her ability to swim Finding solace in swimming during chemotherapy Sarah and her doctor working together to find solutions What makes her uncomfortable after a mastectomy Being glad for keeping her left side intact Swimming the English Channel in 2019 after completing an 80-mile swim in Lake Powell in 2016 The difficulty of her swims, particularly in the English Channel Struggles with nausea and vomiting, seasickness and mental exhaustion during her swims Battling a strong current caused hours of delay in the swim, causing mental and physical exhaustion Her desire to complete the Having two remaining swims in the Oceans Seven Challenge Swimming the and the Why the swimming organization in Japan stopped accepting swimmers Final words of advice Social Media Website: Instagram: Twitter: Facebook: /episode/index/show/toughgirlchallenges/id/28998668

Rebecca Muwanga - Active member of Black Trail Runners (BTR) and recently was part of the all female BTR team at Adidas TERREX Infinite trails race in Austria. 12/28/2023

Rebecca Muwanga - Active member of Black Trail Runners (BTR) and recently was part of the all female BTR team at Adidas TERREX Infinite trails race in Austria. Rebecca's story starts in the North East of England, where she grew up on a smallholding in an area with little ethnic diversity. Influenced by her mom's passion for animals, she pursued a dream of becoming a vet and moved to Liverpool for University. As a young mom, she discovered tennis and joined a fitness group before her journey led her to running. Residing at the foot of the Pennines in West Yorkshire with her husband and two children. Rebecca turned to running in 2021 as a way to escape life's demands of a busy family life and the stress of running a veterinary practice during Covid. In 2022, she set her first trail race goal, a 16k trail race in the Lakes. Rebecca's story also includes her involvement with Black Trail Runners, where she found community and purpose. She shares her experiences, from Endure 24 to the 3 Dales Marathon in North Yorkshire. Rebecca shares more about why she wants to participate in challenging races, how she build inner strength, and expands her comfort zone. She candidly discusses her experiences, of training for and running in the mountainous Adidas TERREX Infinite trails race in Austria. Plus how she completed her longest run to date, 77k on the Peak Divide running from Sheffield to Manchester through the Peak District. *** 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 to be a part of this important movement. Thank you for your invaluable support! *** Show notes Who is Rebecca Her early years in the North East of England Growing up on a small holding Living in the least ethnically diverse place in the whole of the UK Being influenced by her dad who was super sporty Her mum’s passion for animals and how it influenced Rebecca into wanting to become a vet Having one cat Studying to become a vet at Liverpool University Being use to working hard and dealing with pressure and stress Gaining work experience at every opportunity Not being able to do sport while at university Moving to a more diverse city Growing up in white spaces Not being a runner Having her first child in 2014 and feeling a bit lost Getting into tennis and starting to play on a regular basis Having her 2nd child in 2018 and joining a mums fitness group The impact of covid while working as a vet Getting into running in 2021 Living in West Yorkshire at the foot of the Pennines Running to have time to herself and to get away from everything Deciding to set a running goal in 2022 and entering her first trail race (16k trail race in the lakes) Her journey with Black Trails Runners, where it all started Watching Martin 'MJ' Johnson in the film - ‘’ made with Patagonia Feeling uncomfortable, weird and isolated The sense of satisfaction after completing her first race Finding her community and what she wanted to do Getting more involved in BTR and what that looked like Connecting with an online community via social media with BTR Signing up for the Not eating or drinking enough and how it impacted her race Building inner strength and dealing with the hard moments while out on the race Entering the growth zone and expanding your comfort zone Signing up for 2 more races Running Running the Singing up to do Fitting in training around her life and what it looks like Liking routine and liking to be busy Why it’s about the journey Deciding to apply to run in her first mountain race and becoming part of the first all female, all black running team Needing to be prepared Working with a running coach - Having the opportunity to train in Chamonix and Snowdonia and spending time as a team Running the “Short Leg” as part of the relay - 21k, 1900m of climbing! Running the 10k technical descent and the concentration needed to get to the finish Recovery after the race and struggling to walk afterwards Having a 77k ultra marathon (Peak Divide) the week after! Dealing with pain and nausea and not being in a good place Not knowing how she would be able to run the final 40k Trying to turn it around mentally Needing to stop thinking about the end and focusing on the next step Taking things step by step and slowly starting to feel better Finishing the race after a difficult and challenging internal battle! Filming a short film for Being on the cover of German Trail Magazine Sharing her journey on Instagram Final words of advice to encourage and motivate you This about the journey and don’t always think about the end goal “You can achieve, you just have to take the first steps" Social Media Instagram: Black Trail Runners - A community and campaigning charity seeking to increase inclusion, participation and representation of Black people in trail running Website: Instagram: Facebook: /episode/index/show/toughgirlchallenges/id/28403069

Bethan Taylor-Swaine - PhD candidate and feminist sociologist of sport studying the representations and identities of women in ultra marathon with a passion for diversity and inclusion in running. Bethan is committed to challenging the way we talk about running to encourage as many people as possible to find joy in the experience. She’s an advocate for pace inclusion, spending time outdoors and living well in the world. Bethan in her own words: “I live in South London with my husband Mike, our daughter Evie and Loki the Brussels Griffon in a flat that has views over the whole city. A few years ago I quit the city and went back to university to work on my PhD and I spend my days researching the representations and identities of women in ultra running in the Sport Business Research Centre at Birkbeck, University of London. I’ve struggled with my wellbeing and mental health for most of my life. Over the years I’ve found things that have helped make things more manageable and I’m passionate about sharing what I’ve learnt to help other people ‘Live Well 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 to be a part of this important movement. Thank you for your invaluable support! *** Show notes Who is Bethan? Being a feminist sociologist of sport Her academic approach to her insights Having a post modernist feminist perspective Being an activist with an agenda Asking questions and wanting to learn and develop her thoughts Sharing about her life on social media Her manifesto and how it came about Managing her mental health Wanting to live well in the world Managing the physical and mental stress, rest and energy Wanting to be content and to enjoy herself Mindset, gratitude and connection The benefits of movement and why it always has a place in her life Feeling better in nature and spending time outside Starting her running journey 10 years ago Being in her late 20s, in a difficult relationship and a stressful job Running in the dark in her old school t-shirt Knowing that running would change her life Feeling good and capable Entering her first race and starting to run with other people Running her first half marathon and being inspired to run a marathon Doing her masters part time while working and how running had to take a backseat Running her first post baby marathon in April Finishing up her PhD and running 30mins here and there to keep things ticking over Spending time around the running community Having an emergency c-section and returning to physical activity at 6 weeks Working with a postnatal specialist Doing couch to Starting running too soon and getting injured and needing to postpone the October London Marathon Finding joy in running (Tina Muir) and why London was her ultimate Joy PB Using a run walk strategy and having a detailed plan in advance Doing her long runs during the week as that’s when she’s got childcare available Doing her PhD studying the representations and identities of women in ultra marathon Quitting her job and becoming a full time academic Wanting more women to take part in sport and physical activity Why sports are not just a boy thing Post feminist narratives around participation in sports Will women outrun men? The million dollar question!! (When will the PhD be finished?) What’s changed over the years and starting to understand post feminism more The costs of running and why it’s not free Reductionist ideas and why we need to be mindful of what’s said and seen Why you can’t “just do it” The pressure for women to do a lot and to excel at what they do You can have it all…. Working with her partner to balance the challenges of life Why your priorities can’t be everything How to connect with Bethan on the socials Final words of advice Examine what your privileges are when it comes to sport and physical activity Avoid platitudes and how you can understand your journey better Social Media Website: Instagram: /episode/index/show/toughgirlchallenges/id/28402421

Sara Crosland - Author, Adventure Lover, Endurance Athlete (Running from Land’s End to John O’Groats) and Founder of The Beyond Recovery Project. 12/19/2023

Sara Crosland - Author, Adventure Lover, Endurance Athlete (Running from Land’s End to John O’Groats) and Founder of The Beyond Recovery Project. “On 5th September 2022, full of excitement for what lay ahead, I began my run from Land’s End to John O’Groats to show others that despite life throwing curveballs our way we can still achieve. I intended to cover a distance of 40-50 miles a day for 20 days, a total of approximately 855 miles, aiming to become the world’s fastest female, with single-sided deafness, to complete this journey by foot. However, after 4 days of running in continual torrential rain, things went very wrong on day 5." During this episode Sara shares more about her run from Lands End to John O’Groats, the challenges, the setbacks and how she moved forward after failure. We discuss in detail her recovery, the changes she made and how she moved forward and tried again. This is an episode about endurance running, passion for making a difference and never giving up. Sara is a brain tumour survivor who is giving back. “Brain tumours kill more adults and children under the age of 40 than any other cancer, yet historically just 1% of the national spend on cancer research has been allocated to this disease.” Sara is fundraising for and . Sara is also the founder of: The Beyond Recovery Project. “It's all about bringing together others on the same or similar journey, creating a ‘safe’ space and sense of community, where brain tumour survivors can share experiences and discover how to push beyond the physical and psychological barriers they face together. It's very much nature based, so walks, hikes, challenges. Lots of talking therapy - because you can't beat sharing what you're going through with someone else who has been in that place. It also aims to bridge the gap in some services post treatment, when you're considered ‘fixed’.” Upcoming events in 2024 May - Toubkal with a group of brain tumour survivors June - Hiking the Langtang valley, Nepal. September - The Wadi Rum Ultra (now known as Ultra X Jordan). 220km over 5 days in the Wadi Rum desert. We first spoke with Sara: 15th March 2022 - *** 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 to be a part of this important movement. Thank you for your invaluable support! Show notes Who is Sara Planning a 20-day route from Accepting a Guinness World Record for single-sided hearing loss due to category limitations Training and preparation for a 1,000-mile run Working with an endurance coach and focusing on physical and psychological preparation Sacrificing much of their life to train and prepare for the event Balancing family, work, training, and self-care Feeling ready and focused on the starting line Sharing their experience of the first day of the run Experiencing a torrential downpour and strong winds during a marathon Having discomfort and difficulty with balance and hearing Challenges of running in adverse weather conditions Having single-sided deafness due to a brain tumour Struggling with balance issues, tinnitus, and fatigue during their training Mindfulness training and how it helped in coping with the challenges A challenging endurance run with physical setbacks Experiencing extreme fatigue and the need to take naps to cope Having a traumatic toenail incident Struggling with hip flexor pain and later developing a painful left shin injury Continuing to push through and finish their planned distance Struggles with disappointment after injury and ends up running career goals Missing an opportunity and struggling with the mindset shift towards rehab The importance of treating rehab as training Accountability and consistency in the recovery process Resuming running after an injury and nutrition strategies Running again in mid-November 2022 after a break Being diagnosed with an iron deficiency in January 2023 Running a half-marathon despite injury and iron deficiency Second attempt at charity bike ride after setbacks Feeling physically and mentally drained during the second attempt Focusing on the present moment and what is directly in front of them Paul Betteridge and Aimee Tippins running 50 miles in horrendous weather Being joined by her friend Andrew Reed, she connected via the Experiencing persistent pain in her Achilles tendon during her running journey Using a bike as a backup plan to get to John O'Groats to manage the pain Reflects on post-marathon life, feeling lost and struggling to readjust Working on a project called "" Overcoming self-doubt and fear after a brain tumour diagnosis through adventure Lack of support for brain tumour survivors during their recovery process Setting up The Beyond Recovery Project Her journey of creating a Community Interest Company (CIC) to address gaps in brain tumour recovery services Final words of advice from Sara Social Media Website: Instagram: @saracrosland Facebook: @saracrosland The Beyond Recovery Project CIC is a non profit community interest organisation improving lives of brain tumour survivors. Website: Facebook: Instagram: /episode/index/show/toughgirlchallenges/id/28998553

Louise Minchin - former BBC Breakfast presenter, endurance athlete and author of two books, Fearless Adventures with Extraordinary Women and Dare to Tri. 12/12/2023

Louise Minchin - former BBC Breakfast presenter, endurance athlete and author of two books, Fearless Adventures with Extraordinary Women and Dare to Tri. Louise is a journalist, broadcaster, podcaster and writer. She presented BBC Breakfast for 20 years and before that was a news anchor on the BBC News Channel and the BBC’s One O’clock News. She has also presented The One Show, Five Live Drive, Real Rescues and Missing Live and has been a contestant on I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here, Time Crashers and Celebrity MasterChef. Her first book, Dare to Tri, charted her journey from the Breakfast sofa to representing the Great Britain Triathlon team in her age-group at World and European Championships. Her second book Fearless, Adventures with Extraordinary Women was published by Bloomsbury on 25th May 2023. It reflect her passion for celebrating women’s success. In each chapter Louise takes on a different challenge with a courageous woman, to get to know them and tell their incredible stories. About the book: Fearless, Adventures with Extraordinary Women JOIN LOUISE MINCHIN ON 17 EXHILARATING ADVENTURES WITH TRAILBLAZING WOMEN WHO ARE BREAKING DOWN BARRIERS, SMASHING RECORDS AND CHALLENGING STEREOTYPES. 'To get to the heart of who these women are… I decided to do it the way that I know best, by taking part, spending time right beside them to experience the things they love.' Driven to bring more attention to female stories of courage and endeavour, Louise Minchin pushes herself to the extreme and embarks on thrilling endurance adventures with trailblazing women. She freedives under the ice in the dark in Finland with Cath, the first woman to swim a mile in the Antarctic Circle; she cycles across Argentina with Mimi, one of the world's most famous female endurance runners; and she swims from Alcatraz with Anaya and Mitali, two young sisters who have braved the shark-infested waters over 70 times. With her natural empathy and sense of humour, Louise forms close bonds with 18 incredible women. She explores what drives them and how they find the resilience and determination to go on despite life's setbacks. Lizzie overcame a life-threatening illness and now paddleboards whilst cleaning up the planet with her community; Rhian set up a charity in the face of grief and fundraises through hikes; and Zee took up rugby alongside her busy nursing career and motherhood. Louise reminds us of the bravery inside us all, and how essential it is to celebrate women's achievements. Prepare to be touched and inspired by these fearless women. *** 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 to be a part of this important movement. Thank you for your invaluable support! *** Show notes Who is Louise? Why you might know who Louise is (if you live in the UK) Taking up sport at 45 Calling herself an endurance athlete Her early years and passion for sports Being a water baby and why swimming was her thing Stopping swimming at 15 Doing a Christmas Challenge in the velodrome for BBC Breakfast in 2012 Having 1 hour of training before race night Buying herself a road bike with drop handle bars All the gear…. Making mistakes on the bike Being encouraged by a friend to try a triathlon Being a goal driven person and why having a goal helps with training Advice for taking your first step Telling other people and feeling a sense of accountability/responsibility to achieve goals Being willing to say yes to new challenges Being pushed out of her comfort zones at work Fears and concerns before her first triathlon Her attitude of - lets give it a go Not worrying about negative outcomes or failure Having a life changing moment when her daughter was born Thinking she might die and how the experience changed her Having a more positive attitude to life Feeling so lucky to do what she does Her love for cycling and spending time on the bike (both indoors and outdoors) Becoming a Team Great Britain (GB) Triathlete Representing her country at triathlon at the World and European Championships at Olympic distance. Feeling extra pressure when competing in the UK Training for a triathlon and fitting it around her work and job Waking up at 3.40am every day to host the breakfast show Book: Chapter 14 - Kit list - What to take and why to take it. Book: Loving stories about adventure Why do we never hear about women doing these adventures and challenges? Making changes at the BBC around equal pay and being allowed to say hello first Wanting to drive change, by going and doing it Doing 17 different adventures with fearless women Needing to amplify women’s voices Needing different heroes Trying to get Fearless on the TV Noticing change Do you know who is? Do you know who is? Free diving under the ice in Finland with Cath How hard could that be? Why being fearful and having fear is a good thing Deciding to cycle across Argentina with Mimi Anderson Feeling the fear and wanting to stop Listening to her gut Doing running with Being part of a wonderful sisterhood of amazing women Running the London Marathon with her daughter Fitting in training while travelling for the book tour How menopause has impacted on exercise and taking HRT How to connect with Louise on the socials Final words of advice for women who want to be fearless and embrace new adventures Words from Social Media Instagram: Twitter: Books: /episode/index/show/toughgirlchallenges/id/28393085

Raquel Vélez - a plus sized Latina who discovered her love of the outdoors later in life. Founder and CEO of Alpine Parrot, an outdoor apparel company that caters specifically to people of size and people of color. Raquel Vélez is the Founder and CEO of , an outdoor apparel company that caters specifically to people of size and people of color. She brings with her almost two decades of engineering experience, having received her degree in mechanical engineering from Caltech, worked and studied as a robotics engineer, and eventually shifting over to software engineering and engineering management. Now, as an apparel engineer, she's creatively tackling one of the oldest (and most polluting) industries by creating sustainable, inclusive clothing for a market of people who have so often been neglected in the outdoor space. As a plus sized Latina who discovered her love of the outdoors later in life, Raquel has put an incredible amount of careful consideration into the design of each product, focusing on great fit and quality construction. She was named one of Outside Magazine's Outsiders of the Year 2021 and one of Well+Good Magazine's Changemakers 2023. Raquel has lived in 4 countries, speaks 5 languages, and currently lives in California. *** 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 to be a part of this important movement. Thank you for your invaluable support! *** Show notes Who is Raquel? Living in California, USA Her early years Loving to read and explore through books Getting into the outdoors in her 20s Learning how to ski and falling in love with it Her gateway to the outdoors Climbing, camping, surfing and backpacking The lack of Latina role models Growing up being surrounded by whiteness Making friends in the outdoors Learning how to sew and make patterns Having a degree in mechanical engineering How hard could it be?! Designing an 8 piece plus size women’s ski/snow line Being miserable but earning good money and doing interesting work Starting to think about quitting her job How Alpine Parrot came about The reason behind the company name Putting a plan in place to quit her job The transition from full time employment to being an entrepreneur Figuring out personal finances and if there was a market for a plus sized focused clothing company Making plans and metrics for success Engaging with her audience, designing hiking pants and getting feedback Launching a kickstarter in 2021 Starting to sell clothing in August 2022 Needing to understand what the problem was with plus sized hiking clothes How clothing is made The fit model Making clothes that fit people in bigger bodies Making the outdoors more inclusive Happy tears Making people feel they belong Why there is nothing wrong with your body 2 different fits for pants - 2 different fits for tops - Using the outdoors to help manage stress Having to make hard decision and needing to let people go The power of being in nature Expanding internationally Buy Alpine Parrot in Australia/New Zealand - Buy Alpine Parrot in the UK - How to connect with Raquel and Alpine Parrot Final words of advice - on how to get into the outdoors The power of taking one step Walking with purpose Social Media Alpine Parrot - Outdoor apparel for sizes 14-30 and 1X-5X! Latina owned and operated Website: Instagram: /episode/index/show/toughgirlchallenges/id/28392869

Maite Rojo - From 24-Hour Endurance Races to the Spartathlon Race in Athens: Inspiring Others to Reach for Their Own Dreams in the World of Endurance Racing 12/05/2023

Maite Rojo - From 24-Hour Endurance Races to the Spartathlon Race in Athens: Inspiring Others to Reach for Their Own Dreams in the World of Endurance Racing In this episode of the Tough Girl Podcast, we delve into the inspiring journey of Maite Rojo, a passionate ultra runner who has taken on some of the toughest challenges in the world of endurance racing. Born in a small fishing village in Northern Spain, Maite's love for sports and running ignited at a young age. Encouraged by her family, she discovered the simplicity and joy of running, eventually becoming an integral part of a supportive running community. Over the years, she embarked on marathons, ultra marathons, and eventually 24-hour races, pushing her body to its limits. Maite's perseverance and dedication paid off when she won two 24-hour challenges, with her second victory securing her a direct entrance to the prestigious Spartathlon Race in Athens. In the gruelling Spartathlon, Maite ran an astonishing 247 km and placed 9th female, proving her indomitable spirit. Not one to rest on her laurels, Maite recently tackled the Ultr'Ardèche ultra race in France, covering a distance of 222 km and finishing in an impressive 4th place. Her relentless pursuit of new challenges and her ability to adapt to the demands of each race showcase her extraordinary strength and tenacity. Beyond her own personal achievements, Maite also dedicates her races to her father, who battles a degenerative illness that affects his mobility. Her running journey serves as a testament to the power of resilience and the ability to find strength even in the face of adversity. Join us as Maite Rojo shares her insights on training for 24-hour races, the importance of rest and recovery, nutrition for endurance athletes, and the mental preparation required to conquer monumental challenges. Her story is one of passion, perseverance, and the unwavering belief in following one's heart. *** 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 to be a part of this important movement. Thank you for your invaluable support! Show notes Who is Maite Born in Northern Spain in a small fishing village Currently living in her brothers house, close to Santiago, Spain 50 years old Spending time around boats from a young age Learning dingy sailing with her brother at 18 years old Having a love for sports from a young age Starting running at 13 years old Her running journey and how it progresses Being very shy as a child and being encouraged by her family to do sports Loving the simplicity of running Finding fellow runners and being part of a community Competing for 6 years in running before stopping due to other commitments Sailing full time and trying to train for her first half marathon Running 1 or 2 marathons a year Training for 24hr races Supported her brother running the Spartathlon 2018 (he was the only Spanish finisher) Being inspired and wanting to race the Entering the Spartathlon lottery for 3 years before going for a direct entrance Doing her first 24hr race In New Zealand (23rd Self-Transcendence 24 Hour Track Race) and running 206km and placing 1st female. Running a 24hr track race in Barcelona (24 hores d'ultrafons en pista de Barcelona (ESP)) and qualifying for the Spartathlon by running 216.9km Quitting her sailing job to focus on running and training for 4 months before the Spartathlon Race Wanting to be super prepared Working as a running coach Wanting to challenge herself with training and to see how much her body could adapt to the challenges of the race What training looked like Looking at her strengths and weaknesses Being able to do hard sessions and being able to recovery quickly Focusing on strength training while working on a boat when not able to run How sailing helped prepare her for sleep deprivation while running through the night Starting to increase her millage on a gradual basis and doing back to back training sessions at the weekend Tips for rest and recovery and why its good to have a regular massage The benefits of stretching Working on her weaknesses and focusing on building strength in her legs through weights Ensuring enough food is consumed to support her body and training needs Nutrition for fuelling her body as a vegetarian, wanting to eat as natural as possible (avoiding gels) The mental preparation for the Spartathlon Race Race strategy for running including dealing with cut off points and the challenge of the mountain in the middle How meditation helped during the race - focusing on the beauty of the running environment from the stars to the moon. Reducing her caffeine consumption before the race and then having caffeine again before the mountain Being supported by her crew and seeing her brother at aid stations along the way Running and getting 4th place How to connect with Maite Why it’s important to have passion for what you do and why you should follow your heart. Social Media Instagram: Facebook: /episode/index/show/toughgirlchallenges/id/28128863

Ellen “Magellan” Falterman - full-time professional voyager, currently on her biggest expedition to date: around the world by rowboat. No sail, no motor. 11/30/2023

Ellen “Magellan” Falterman - full-time professional voyager, currently on her biggest expedition to date: around the world by rowboat. No sail, no motor. Ellen is a 27-year-old pilot, flight instructor, and adventure traveler, with a background in writing, acting, and modeling. She grew up on a farm in rural Texas. In her short adult life, she’s been on five expeditions by bicycle, paddle, and oars, both domestic and international. Those journeys add up to a total of 18 months and roughly 10,000 miles - nearly all of which were human-powered and half of which were solo. In 2017, Ellen, then 22, completed a solo descent of the Missouri from Three Forks to St. Louis. Ellen had previously paddled a tributary of the Amazon and cycled from England to Greece. Ellen is the youngest person to solo paddle the Missouri River from Three Forks, Montana to St. Louis. In September 2022, Ellen Falterman paddled her 18-foot Grumman canoe to her family's Trinity River home in East Texas, completing a full descent of the Mississippi River and then some. Her motivation and mentor for these trips have always been her brother Patrick, who died suddenly in 2016. She dedicates all of her expeditions to him, and even when she’s traveling by herself, she never feels as if she’s traveling alone. ***This episode was recorded at the end of 2021 to be released in early 2022. Ellen lost her fiancé in 2022 so we decided to delay the release of the episode until now. Our hearts and hugs go out to Ellen.*** New episodes go live every Tuesday at 7am UK time - Subscribe so you don’t miss out. Support the mission to increase the amount of female role models in the media especially in relation to adventure and physical challenges. Visit . Thank you. Show notes Who is Ellen Her trail name Being based out of East Texas The big challenge - gong around the world by rowboat Being inspired by her brother Her family Wanting to make her own way in life Thinking of becoming an actor Losing her brother suddenly in September 2016 Starting to live life like there is no tomorrow Dealing with the dark and tragic situations that happens in life Going to Brazil with her brother in 2014 Talking about her grief Hitching around Brazil and making money while on the road Learning from her brother while travelling together Doing a river trip after he died Her first solo expedition on the Missouri River, the longest river in North America Planning verses going with the flow Daily life while on travelling on rivers River time and working with tides and rowing in open water Figuring out resupply and knowing what rations you have The lessons from her first solo expedition Why everyone should do a solo challenge at some point Dealing with loneliness Funding and paying for challenges Working as a flight instructor to self fund challenges Learning to fly and getting her pilot license at 17 Deciding to row the length of The Mississippi River How her expeditions have tied together Naming her boat after her grandma Gaining ocean rowing experience Doing a sea school course in the UK and gaining qualifications Handling concerns before the journey Creating a non-profit and how it works Documenting and sharing the challenge Working with UK non-profit Keeping stuff in storage Creating a cozy cabin Wanting to be in Panama in 12 months Launching on September 4th 2022 Falling in love and the challenge of leaving Wanting to be the captain of her ship and being alone for the first year How you can support Ellen How to connect with Ellen on the socials Final words advice - The 3Ds - Desire, Decision, Details Social Media Website Instagram Facebook /episode/index/show/toughgirlchallenges/id/28128374

Josephine Collingwood - Middle-Aged Mother of Three. Former Mountain Rescuer, Wilderness Addict, Lover of Nature. Embracing Adventure, Inspiring Others, and Capturing Life's Beauty Through Photography. Josephine in her own words: “I’m a middle aged mother of three. Also, adventurer, rock climber, former Mountain Rescuer, wilderness addict, lover of Nature, doer. Oh, and professional author and award-winning photographer. Many hats, but a common thread of being outdoors, helping people and sharing a love of wild places. Having moved on from the confines of Mountain Rescue, I am on a journey with Mountain Training Association to get qualified so that I can introduce people, and especially women, to the indescribable benefits of outdoor adventure. Too many women feel that it is beyond them. I want to show that it is not. I love polar adventure and have been to Norway many times and skied across Svalbard on a 9 day expedition. Mountains, moors, wilderness, old mines and rock faces all vie for my time so that it feels there is never enough! My mantra is: “Do it now. Life is too short.” I am not one for “ests” the longest/fastest/highest etc. To me, it is all about being there, in that moment. My work as an author and publisher includes the Dartmoor Tors Compendium, the Official Visitor Guide to Dartmoor National Park and the Geology of Dartmoor. I also design unique infographics and poster art about Dartmoor in particular. My photography, when not illustrating books, is photographing architectural properties and interiors. Mainly though, photography is about showing how beautiful and amazing our world is.” *** Don't miss out on the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, airing every Tuesday at 7am UK time. Hit the subscribe button to stay updated and connected. Join us in our mission to increase the amount of female role models in the media especially in relation to adventure and physical challenges. Show your support by visiting . Thank you for helping to make change happen. Show notes Who is Josephine Wearing lots of hats Her love for going out and exploring and spending time in wilderness Studying geo-physics at university down in London Making the move to Devon Deciding to re-train in photography How her career focuses on photography, design and being outdoors Having 3 grown children Her love and passion for the outdoors Growing up in Acton, London Spending more and more time in Dartmoor Age 14, having the opportunity to do an outward bound course (3 week residential) Discovering different possibilities and wanting to live a life outdoors Meeting her husband at the Making the decision to move to Devon to raise her family Asking herself the question - what does she really want to do Buying an old barn to renovate, while raising 3 children and going back to college for 3 years to study photography and media production Why we have to take a risk and make things happen Not doing any adventures for 20 years while raising the kids Starting to do more solo activities at 52 Booking to do a polar training course with Spending time walking on Dartmoor Losing her mum to Ovarian Cancer Skiing across Svalbard on a 9 day expedition (being the only woman and one of the oldest there) Camp life, dealing with Polar bears and why it’s so challenging Imposter Syndrome? Feeling like an explorer and an adventurer Cycling the Hebridean Way, Scotland 2022 Being inspired by watching the Reality TV Show Castaway (2000) Dealing with the tough days while on challenges Suffering from covid Challenges with mental health and seeking therapy Dealing with setbacks and failure Spending time in the Cairngorms, Scotland and going exploring Doing her Hill & Moorland Assessment Wanting to train for her Her healing process and wanting to learn new skills Trying to identify what you want to be Doing what’s achievable first Signing up for the in 2022 Wanting to share her love for the outdoors and encourage more people to spend time outside Mountain Rescue and the training program Hitting a glass wall and dealing with bad people management Deciding to resign from Advice and tips for other women who are in a similar situation Not wanting to rock the boat and what she would do differently now Why the old school way of thinking has to change Why we don’t have to put up with bad behaviour How the ML training is going How you can connect with Josephine The meaning behind the name ‘Tavicinity’ Using Instagram in the old fashioned way - black and white photos The importance of learning how to navigate Why you shouldn’t compare yourself to other people Why you should try something new “Make it happen and do it for you”. Social Media Website: Instagram: /episode/index/show/toughgirlchallenges/id/28123187

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