• Charlotte Bowens: From a Health Crisis to 50-Mile Ultramarathon Finisher—Creating VestaPak for the Plus-Size Community in Outdoor Sports
    Nov 12 2024
    Charlotte Bowens: Founder of Conscious Gear and trailblazing innovator behind VestaPak, the world's first plus-size hydration vest. From university administrator to entrepreneur, she fearlessly reshapes the outdoor industry. Motivated by a personal health scare, she champions inclusivity and empowers the plus-size community to embrace an active lifestyle. Founding Story: A Transformation and a Vision It all started with a health scare that jolted Charlotte's life. An unexpected visit to the emergency room revealed high blood pressure, high cholesterol, severe depression, borderline diabetes, and a stark classification of "morbidly obese." The avalanche of this diagnosis could have overwhelmed anyone, but not Charlotte. Charlotte made a decision that changed her life's trajectory. Fueled by fear and a fierce determination to regain control, she took her first steps towards transformation at the gym. The journey was slow and arduous. On that initial day, she could walk for only 2 minutes at a modest 2 mph on the treadmill. But that wasn't the end; it was the beginning. Every day, Charlotte persevered, placing one foot in front of the other, pushing through every personal limit, and defying her own expectations. Sixteen months later, she crossed the finish line of her first 50-mile ultramarathon—an extraordinary feat of physical and mental strength. However, this triumph was also bittersweet. Charlotte felt proud of her incredible achievement and continued her ultramarathoning journey but as she looked for outdoor gear and apparel to accommodate her taller, curvier, and bigger body, she encountered a glaring problem. The market offered limited options that catered to her specific needs if any at all. Existing outdoor gear companies had overlooked a significant portion of the population, neglecting to provide functional and fashionable products for those with bigger bodies. It was during the challenging times of the pandemic that Charlotte made a solemn vow: if no one else was going to do it, she would. Conscious Gear was born, emerging as a symbol of resilience and innovation. VestaPak was nominated in October 2023 by USA Today as one of the top ten products for outdoor adventurers and is currently sold at REI. *** Don't miss out on the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, released every Tuesday at 7am UK time! Be sure to hit the subscribe button to stay updated on the incredible journeys and stories of strong women. By supporting the Tough Girl Podcast on Patreon, you can make a difference in increasing the representation of female role models in the media, particularly in the world of adventure and physical challenges. Your contribution helps empower and inspire others. Visit www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast to be a part of this important movement. Thank you for your invaluable support! *** Show notes: Who is CharlotteHer outdoor adventure journey which started with Girl ScoutsSelling Girl Scout cookies to fund camping tripsDiscusses her academic background in maths and science and her career in research administrationHer experiences as a teenage single mother of three, which led to a sedentary lifestyleMoving to Arizona and falling in love with trail running and ultra marathonsReassessing her lifestyle due to high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and clinical depressionPrioritising health and fitness, despite feeling overwhelmed as a single motherFirst experiences at the gymBeing scared and unsure but determined to make a changeBeginning to see improvements in her stamina and speed, which bolstered her confidenceCompleting her first 50-mile ultra marathonImproving her physical health and also restoring her desire to liveHer transformative journey from depression to feeling aliveInitially being sceptical about ultramarathonsCompleting a self-supported hundred-milerLooking forward to participating in longer races, including a 250-mile event in Phoenix and a 500-mile race in TennesseeThe addictive nature of long-distance runningChallenges in finding gearGoing to thrift stores and DIY solutions using a library sewing machineLimited options for bigger bodies in the athletic clothing marketThe birth of the business, Conscious GearFacing disruptions in ultrarunning due to the pandemicCreating hydration vests motivated by a lack of representation and optionsBeing nominated as one of the top 10 outdoor products in 2023Increasing engagement from women, particularly Black womenAddressing inclusivity in athletic wearRunning community and personal preferencesRunning philosophy and trainingThe importance of starting with what you can manageHelping the body adapt and grow stronger over timeRespect the body's limits and trust the process of improvementA powerful moment while trail running in MichiganHer deep spiritual connection to running in natureThe spiritual aspect of running and its connection to her identitySocietal expectations that often lead to feelings of needing to do everything ...
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    55 mins
  • Tiffany Coates - Live from the Armchair Adventure Festival. Sharing more about her motorcycle adventures around the world.
    Nov 7 2024
    In this episode, we sit down with Tiffany at the Armchair Adventure Festival in Mount Edgcumbe. Join us as we explore the world through the eyes of Tiffany Coates, recognised as the world’s foremost female motorcycle adventurer. Tiffany has spent over twenty years exploring six continents on two wheels. With hundreds of thousands of miles under her belt, she continues her adventures both solo and as a sought-after motorcycle tour guide, captivating audiences at adventure travel events worldwide. Her journey began with a memorable trip alongside her best friend, Becky. With just two months of riding experience, they embarked on a quarter-tonne BMW named ‘Thelma,’ wobbling their way from the UK across Europe to India. What was initially planned as a nine-month journey transformed into two and a half years, crossing four continents and solidifying Tiffany's passion for motorcycle travel. Over the years, Tiffany has travelled through Asia, Australia, Africa, the Americas, and more, with notable rides to Timbuktu, Outer Mongolia, Madagascar, Borneo, and even Everest Base Camp in Tibet. Her website features the stories behind these incredible travels. As a freelance guide, Tiffany leads various adventurous motorcycling expeditions, providing safe and experienced guidance for those eager to explore new countries on two wheels. We first spoke with Tiffany on March 17th 2020 - The World's Foremost Female Motorcycle Adventurer! *** This episode was recorded live at the Armchair Adventure Festival 25th - 28th July 2024. Buy tickets now for #AAF25 - THE UK'S MOST ADVENTUROUS FESTIVAL. Mt Edgcumbe, Cornwall, 24-27th July 2025, Use TG10 to get a 10% discount on tickets. www.armchairadventurefestival.com. *** *** Don't miss out on the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, released every Tuesday at 7am UK time! Be sure to hit the subscribe button to stay updated on the incredible journeys and stories of strong women. By supporting the Tough Girl Podcast on Patreon, you can make a difference in increasing the representation of female role models in the media, particularly in the world of adventure and physical challenges. Your contribution helps empower and inspire others. Visit www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast to be a part of this important movement. Thank you for your invaluable support! Show notes: Who is TiffanyBackground as a motorbike travellerExperience riding around the worldJoy of solitude in desert travelDangerous motorbike experiences in VietnamMental health benefits of motorbikingSense of freedom and independence in motorbike travelTiffany's journey to becoming a motorbike riderHaving no initial experience with motorbikesChallenges of maintaining the bike and learning basic maintenanceMechanical failures upon entering AsiaTime spent in a workshop learning about oil, filters, and maintenance tasksReliance on strangers for assistance and fixing the bikeImportance of feeling confident and self-reliantSelf-defence knowledge and preparednessCarrying safety tools while campingRiding through the Gobi Desert in MongoliaAdjusting travel plans based on weather conditionsHectic journey through Siberia to reach the Pacific OceanEnjoying the journey and making the most of each daySinging to herself and listening to music or podcastsLiving frugally to fund her travelsNot owning a car, saving money for travelGuiding groups through exotic countries, ensuring their safety and happinessUpcoming trip to Guyana, Suriname, and French GuianaImportance of exploring lesser-known placesCamping experience at the Bonneville Salt FlatsChallenges faced and the beauty of solitude in natureExperiences with altitude sickness and acclimatisationNatural sadness post-adventureTravel fatigue during long journeysKeeping journals and writing for publicationsPotential future projects, including writing a bookLeading an all-female motorbike tour in NepalBreaking stereotypes in motorcyclingSense of sisterhood among female motorcyclistsUnique experiences of hospitality while travelling soloShipping bikes by sea versus flyingInternational Vehicle Shipping, Moto FreightThe process of obtaining an international driving permit (IDP) and its importanceMaps and compasses over GPSGPS inaccuracies in desert navigationLimitations of relying solely on technologyThoughts on the common advice to “just do it”Final words of advice Social Media Website: tiffanystravels.co.uk Facebook: @tiffany.coates.12 Twitter/X: @tiffanystravels
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    58 mins
  • Candida Louis - An Indian girl riding around the World. 10 Years of full-time Travel. Sharing her story live at the Armchair Adventure Festival.
    Nov 7 2024
    Candida Louis, a 28-year-old adventurer from Hubli, South India, embodies the spirit of wanderlust and the pursuit of freedom through motorcycle riding. From a young age, she shared unforgettable rides with her father, sparking a passion that led her to become a motorcyclist herself. Over the past 12 years, she has transitioned from a pillion rider to the one in the front seat, fully embracing the thrill of the open road. A birthday gift of her first motorcycle marked the beginning of an incredible journey that fuelled her dreams of riding around the world. After spending five years working at Oracle and Infosys, she found herself disillusioned with the daily commute and long hours. Looking out of her office window, she envisioned a life on the open road, fuelling her determination to break free. In 2015, she took a three-month sabbatical to ride through North and South India, and the experience solidified her desire to pursue a life of adventure. Following her journey, she resigned from her desk job and spent four months travelling, embracing the confidence and freedom that riding provided. In this conversation, Candida emphasised the importance of following one’s passions, stating, “If you love something, if you’re very passionate about it, at least try to take that first step... Just take that risk, and it will prove to be the right thing.” This philosophy drives her as she continues to chase her dreams, having recently crossed multiple countries on her motorcycle in a remarkable eight-month journey from India to Australia. With each adventure, she inspires others to embrace their dreams, take risks, and discover the incredible experiences that life has to offer. Candida’s journey is not just about riding motorcycles; it’s about finding one’s true self and the freedom that comes with stepping outside one’s comfort zone. As she explores the world on her bike, she encourages others to do the same, reminding them that the journey begins with that first courageous step. *** This episode was recorded live at the Armchair Adventure Festival 25th - 28th July 2024. Buy tickets now for #AAF25 - THE UK'S MOST ADVENTUROUS FESTIVAL. Mt Edgcumbe, Cornwall, 24-27th July 2025, Use TG10 to get a 10% discount on tickets. www.armchairadventurefestival.com. *** Don't miss out on the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, released every Tuesday at 7am UK time! Be sure to hit the subscribe button to stay updated on the incredible journeys and stories of strong women. By supporting the Tough Girl Podcast on Patreon, you can make a difference in increasing the representation of female role models in the media, particularly in the world of adventure and physical challenges. Your contribution helps empower and inspire others. Visit www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast to be a part of this important movement. Thank you for your invaluable support! Shownotes: Who is CandidaStarted riding motorcycles 16 years agoInitial career in finance before transitioning to travel and motorcycle ridingFirst motorcycle ride with her dadFamily support in pursuing her passionSocietal judgments and lack of support from some community membersInitial desire to travel but disbelief in achieving financial stability through itShift in perspective from chasing money to following passionExperience working at a strict IT company and the impact on her mental healthReceiving a call from a TV show inviting her to ride around IndiaOvercoming obstacles with her manager to pursue the opportunityUnexpected cancellation of the show and decision to continue the journey soloReflection on the adventure and challenges faced during the tripCreation of a Facebook page to update family and friends during travelsGrowth of the page to 10,000 followers during the seven-month tripTransition to Instagram and the rise to 246,000 followers over ten yearsOpportunities from brand collaborations that provide financial supportInvestment in real estate (building an Airbnb) to generate consistent incomeLeading motorcycle tours and the establishment of a tour businessThe emotional struggle of leaving a stable job for an uncertain pathExperience of living with very little money initiallyImportance of perseverance and believing in oneself despite challengesSocietal perceptions of women travelling alone in IndiaMedia interviews focused on negative aspects rather than positive experiencesGaining confidence through positive encounters and supportive individualsDelivering laptops and teaching children in CambodiaDesire to combine travel with making a positive impact on communitiesUpcoming plans for the next six monthsIncrease in female motorcycle riders over the past decadeCandida’s initiative to train 100 women monthly to ride motorcyclesRiding through 42 countries on a motorcyclePersonal challenges and medical issues (e.g., dislocated knee)Information on Candida’s motorcyclesNaming her motorcycles: "Sky" (Bajaj) and "Scarlet" (Triumph)Spending eight ...
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    46 mins
  • Jen Scotney - Running Through the Dark: The rise and fall of an ultrarunner. A story about resilience, about never giving up, and about battling through the night and always believing that there will be a new dawn.
    Nov 5 2024
    Jen Scotney boasts an impressive record as an ultrarunner with podium finishes in the 108-mile Montane Winter Spine Challenger South and the 190-mile Northern Traverse. She is host of the Resilience Rising Podcast, a running coach, writer, Mountain Leader and yoga teacher, which have followed her career as a human rights lawyer. Jen has appeared in magazine features for Runner’s World, Trail Running and Women’s Running. She has been a guest host on the Wild Ginger Running YouTube channel, and a previous guest on the Tough Girl Podcast. Jen crewed for John Kelly’s successful Pennine Way fastest known time as well as for his Wainwrights Round in the Lake District. She grew up in the Peak District and now lives in the Scottish mountains with her husband Marcus and Sherlock the beagle. Running Through the Dark is her first book. *** Don't miss out on the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, released every Tuesday at 7am UK time! Be sure to hit the subscribe button to stay updated on the incredible journeys and stories of strong women. By supporting the Tough Girl Podcast on Patreon, you can make a difference in increasing the representation of female role models in the media, particularly in the world of adventure and physical challenges. Your contribution helps empower and inspire others. Visit www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast to be a part of this important movement. Thank you for your invaluable support! *** Show notes Who is Jen Scotney Intro from 2018 TGP episode So much has changed in 6 yearsA new introduction for nowBeing based in the Scottish HighlandsNot running anymore and what happenedChatting with Mimi Anderson No longer clinging onto the identity of being a runnerSelf worth in relation to challenges and big runsUsing writing as a tool to help processHer dream of wanting to run the Pennine WayGetting a book deal and starting to write stories of runnersGoing through a period of chronic illnessWanting to share her story and get it out of her head500 words a dayRelief and fear of finishing the bookGrief and lossHanding over control Recovering from chronic illnessResilience Starting the Resilience Rising PodcastsWhy messiness is part of resilience. Taking the time to process and accept what’s happenedNot signing up for the suffering Having a good time while runningWhy low points in a race are not comparable to real life challengesExternal validationWhat bring joy and happiness todayTeaching yoga and growing fruit and vegMaking changes in her life and doing a pivotGetting ok with uncertainty and changeChoosing the uncertainty and being open to what comes upAdvice for letting go of control Joining the local mountain rescue team in Scotland Working through a skill list and having monthly training Managing negative thoughts Dealing with 2 knee replacementsLooking for her limit and finding out what she can doStart where you arePlans for 2025 - goal setting or going with the flowPracticing yoga for 15+ yearsBeing a qualified Yin Yoga teacherYoga Nidra and permission to restPushing back again busyness and perfection Relax and do more yoga Stop trying to be productiveWhat needs to be let go offBeing in the momentKeep connected to Jen Final words of advice Social Media Website: www.jenscotney.com Instagram: @jenscotney X/Twitter: @jenscotney Vertebrate Publishing Books to inspire your next adventure. Based in Sheffield, the Outdoor City. Instagram @vertebrate_publishing X/Twitter: @VertebratePub Book: Running Through the Dark: The rise and fall of an ultrarunner. Ultrarunner Jen Scotney has achieved podium finishes in some of the UK’s toughest races and now has her sights firmly set on the Pennine Way. In Running Through the Dark, Jen talks about her ambitions, not just to run the 268-mile Pennine Way but to take the record as the fastest woman to do so. But that didn’t happen. Nothing went according to plan. The Jen the world knew was a successful lawyer and running coach – all photoshoots and finish-line smiles – but the truth was much darker. The real Jen Scotney, the one she hid from everybody, suffered with chronic fatigue, debilitating injuries, tragedy, grief and at times had a will so beaten down by setbacks that there just didn’t seem any point in going on. But she did go on. Running Through the Dark is Jen’s account of her ultra-journey. Playing out on the moors of the Pennines, the fells of the Lake District and the mountains of Wales and Scotland, this is much more than a running book, it is a story about resilience, about never giving up, and about battling through the night and always believing that there will be a new dawn.
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    1 hr and 5 mins
  • Risa August - Removing limiting beliefs, shifting her perspective, and embracing an expansive life…. Author of 'The Road Unpaved: Border to Border with a Brain Tumor and a Bike’.
    Oct 29 2024
    In this episode, we delve into the extraordinary life and inspiring journey of Risa August, a multifaceted individual based in Colorado, USA. Risa wears many hats - she's a Gestalt practitioner, a captivating speaker, an author, and a passionate patient advocate. Her story is one of resilience, marked by her decade-long battle with a pituitary tumour and a rare disease, Acromegaly. Risa shares candidly about her experiences, offering profound insights into overcoming adversity and embracing life with unparalleled vigour. Risa's journey into the realm of personal transformation began with her participation in Ironman races, a testament to her fierce determination and love for physical challenges. However, her path took an unexpected turn when she started noticing troubling symptoms, eventually leading to a diagnosis that altered her life trajectory. Despite facing daunting health challenges, Risa's spirit remained unyielding as she navigated through surgeries, treatments, and the complexities of managing a chronic condition. In her book, The Road Unpaved: Border to Border with a Brain Tumor and a Bike, Risa eloquently chronicles her courageous cross-country bicycle journey, symbolising her refusal to let adversity define her. Throughout our conversation, Risa reflects on how her perspective on life and adventure has evolved, emphasising the importance of embracing new experiences and pushing beyond perceived limits. Her insights into removing limiting beliefs and fostering a positive mindset resonate deeply, offering profound lessons for anyone navigating their own challenges. Join us as Risa shares her story of resilience, adventure, and the transformative power of embracing life fully, no matter the obstacles. Get ready to be inspired by her unwavering spirit and her profound wisdom gained through living a life unleashed. *** Don't miss out on the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, released every Tuesday at 7am UK time! Be sure to hit the subscribe button to stay updated on the incredible journeys and stories of strong women. By supporting the Tough Girl Podcast on Patreon, you can make a difference in increasing the representation of female role models in the media, particularly in the world of adventure and physical challenges. Your contribution helps empower and inspire others. Visit www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast to be a part of this important movement. Thank you for your invaluable support! *** Show notes Who is RisaBased in Colorado, USAWorking as a gestalt practitioner, speaker, author and patient advocateHer passion for learning‘CANI’ - Constant And Never-ending Improvement The connection with Tony Robbins Growing up in Cleveland Ohio and her early yearsTaking herself on adventures Being inspired by her dad and a buffalo head nickelHow the meaning of adventure has changed over the yearsWhy adventure means - learning and experiencing something new Setting out a timeline2011 - completing her first Ironman race Starting to notice changes in her body Fast forward 7 years and training for another Ironman.Not being able to recover and not being able to keep the weigh offPlus dealing with severe headaches and lack of sleepPushing for an MRI of her brainBeing diagnosed with an enlarged pituitary and a brain tumour Looking at brain surgery and being diagnosed with a rare disease - Acromegaly.Processing and working through the diagnosis Having a mindset of getting it done and moving on with her lifeWaiting 3 months for surgery Acromegaly is a rare condition where the body produces too much growth hormone, causing body tissues and bones to grow more quickly. Being very conscious of what goes into her bodyRadiation or medication?Feeling very lonely even while being supportedBattling orthorexia in her 20sNot being able to exercise and spend time in the outdoorsDeciding to ride her bicycle down the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH)Looking back on her adventurous life and remembering what it felt likeStarting to paint and how it became an outlet Instead of focusing on what she couldn’t do - focusing on what she could doWhat can I do now?Small steps, one thing at a time.Stopping judging herself and blocking out the noise from other peopleGetting back to the CrossFit gymAcceptance around her identity and how it’s changedSigning up for a semi supported tour on the PCHSAG - Support And GearBook: The Road Unpaved: Border to Border with a Brain Tumor and a Bike Reflecting back on the ride and some of the magical moments Trying to control situation and outcomes and how the universe has a completely different plan for youBeing open to what’s possibleTo be open to letting go of limiting beliefs Why it was a massive learning experience Being present and spending time in the momentNaming her brain tumour and the reason behind itBeing kind to her bodyLouise Hay Book: Heal Your Body: The Mental Causes for Physical Illness and the Metaphysical Way to Overcome Them. Adding humour to ...
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    51 mins
  • Bailey Seamer: Hiking Australia's East Coast (14 Months, 5,000km) for Mental Health Advocacy.
    Oct 22 2024
    In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Bailey Seamer, an extraordinary individual who undertook a 14-month, 5,000km hike along Australia's East Coast, from Wilsons Promontory to Cape York, all in the name of mental health advocacy. Bailey's story is one of resilience, determination, and hope, as she uses her journey to raise awareness and support for mental health issues. Diagnosed with a major depressive disorder at just 14, Bailey has faced significant challenges, including managing an all-consuming mental illness and dealing with the impact of bi-polar disorder. Despite these obstacles, she found solace and strength in walking, which became a crucial part of her healing journey. Her decision to embark on this monumental hike was driven by a desire to advocate for mental health, share her story, and demonstrate that even in the face of adversity, one can achieve incredible feats. Throughout her journey, Bailey encountered numerous challenges, from managing her mental health on the trail to dealing with the physical demands of such an extensive hike. She shares insights into her experiences, the support she received from family and strangers alike, and the lessons she learned along the way. Bailey's journey is a powerful reminder that no matter how difficult the path may seem, there is always hope, support, and the possibility of overcoming life's greatest challenges. Tune in to hear Bailey's incredible story, learn about her mental health advocacy efforts, and be inspired by her unwavering determination to make a difference. *** Don't miss out on the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, released every Tuesday at 7am UK time! Be sure to hit the subscribe button to stay updated on the incredible journeys and stories of strong women. By supporting the Tough Girl Podcast on Patreon, you can make a difference in increasing the representation of female role models in the media, particularly in the world of adventure and physical challenges. Your contribution helps empower and inspire others. Visit www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast to be a part of this important movement. Thank you for your invaluable support! *** Show notes Who is Bailey Hiking the East Coast of Australia Her mental health journey Being diagnosed at 14 with a major depressive disorder Being supported by her familyManaging an all consuming mental illness Having to leave university and move back homeBi-polar disorder? Making the decision to go into a mental health hospital Being in a really bad place Walking home 30k from the hospital Feeling proud of herself Why walking became a really important part of her healing journey ECT - Electric Convulsive Therapy Having the idea to walk the East CoastFeeling a sadness and frustration and not knowing if she would be okThe Black Dog Institute Sharing her ideas with people Finding people’s criticism, very helpful in her planning process.Not being taken seriously at first and doing something about itWhy it was such an important leaning stageBeing taken seriously and starting to take herself seriously as wellManaging her bi-polar disorder while on the walkWhy medication is an important part of her health care routineHaving a bad day and what that can look likeWanting to be able to pinpoint the problem Dealing with a spectrum of emotions Understanding the difference between, ‘I can’t’ and ‘I don’t want to’Tantrum Time Out for 7 minsPutting small rocks in her shoes…. A physical way of reframing the situationCreating a pocket of pleasure in her dayBeing alone while on the walkMaking a decision by yourself Reflecting back on previous situationsPaying for the challengeThe kindness of strangersReflecting back on the journey and some of the main memories from the experience Waking up with a fox in her tent!Adventure blues Planning a trip to Rio to go to Carnival Not walking a huge amount What she wanted people to take away from her walkWhy you are not alone if you are suffering from mental healthLetting people know that there is support available and that there is no shame in asking for helpBreaking things down and taking it one step at a timeHow to connect with Bailey online and find out more about her journey Final words of adviceWhy everything will passNothing in this life is permanent Social Media Website: wandering-minds.org Instagram: @wandering_minds_walk Facebook: @wanderingmindswalk
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    1 hr
  • Shafeeqah Gordon - Trail Runner from Cape Town, South Africa: Pushing Limits on the Trails and the Importance of Community
    Oct 15 2024
    In this episode of the Tough Girl Podcast, we sit down with Shafeeqah Gordon, a passionate trail runner from Cape Town, South Africa. Shafeeqah shares her journey, from playing netball as a child to discovering the freedom and challenge of running through her university cross-country club. Over the years, running has become an integral part of her life, and she hasn’t looked back since. As a leader for Tuesday Trails, a group dedicated to the joy of trail running, Shafeeqah is all about building community and encouraging people to get outside. Her work as a mountain guide and sports scientist has equipped her with invaluable skills for tackling challenging terrains and pushing the limits in her races. From competing in prestigious races like the Ultra Trail Drakensberg 65km and the Ultra Trail Cape Town 55km, to conquering technical trails with a focus on strength and conditioning, Shafeeqah gives us insight into her training, race strategies, and the mindset needed to overcome physical and mental battles during ultra races. In this episode, Shafeeqah opens up about inclusion in the trail running community, the power of running to clear the mind, and her personal battles with self-doubt during tough moments in races. She also talks about her involvement in outdoor education through her Outdoor Education Hub, which will be relaunched in 2025 after a brief hiatus. Tune in to hear Shafeeqah’s thoughts on trail running, the lessons she’s learned along the way, and her final advice for anyone looking to take on their own running challenges! *** Don't miss out on the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, released every Tuesday at 7am UK time! Be sure to hit the subscribe button to stay updated on the incredible journeys and stories of strong women. By supporting the Tough Girl Podcast on Patreon, you can make a difference in increasing the representation of female role models in the media, particularly in the world of adventure and physical challenges. Your contribution helps empower and inspire others. Visit www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast to be a part of this important movement. Thank you for your invaluable support! Show notes Who is Shafeeqah GordonGroup Leader for Tuesday Trails IG @tuesdaytrails Being sports and playing netball from a young ageGetting into running via the cross-country club at university How running became apart of her lifeNever regretting a runThe difference between cross-country and trail runningMountain guide, outdoor educator and sports scientistStudying sports science at university. Specialising in strength and conditioning for running and netball playersThe outdoor education hubWorking a full time job in retailGetting qualified as a mountain guideWhy the marathon distance is the sweet spot. 42kmThe Cape Town Skyrace - The Sky Running Series Training for technical trailsBullet proof anklesWorking with a strength and conditioning coach and a run coachRunning mojoCalling a friend to schedule a run togetherRunning the Ultra Trail Drakensberg (UTD) 65kmUltra Trail Cape Town 55k (UTCT) The challenges of running further Figuring out nutrition and fuelling for the longer runsFitting in training around life Recovery?Trying not to take running too seriously Race strategy and wanting to get a better time than last yearFuture dreams and racesBatrun RaceRunning thoughts - thinking about everything and nothingBeing at war with herself during a tough race Inclusion in trail runningOutdoor Education Hub (on hiatus for the rest of 2024) but coming back in 2025How you can connect with ShafFinal words of advice Don’t listen to the demonsWhy it’s just important to get out there Social Media Personal Instagram: @shafgordon Outdoor Education Hub - We're an initiative focused on equipping people with knowledge & educational tools for the outdoors - making it a fun & safe space for all to enjoy Instagram: @outdooreducation_hub
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    40 mins
  • Amanda Harris: Overcoming Adversity with Adapted Cycling, Fundraising, and Inspiring Resilience After a Life-Changing Spinal Cord Injury.
    Oct 8 2024
    Join us on this episode of the Tough Girl Podcast as we explore the remarkable journey of Amanda Harris, an adapted cyclist and dedicated fundraiser who has embraced life's challenges following a spinal cord injury. Living in South Wales with her husband and two teenage children, Amanda's story is one of resilience, determination, and breaking down barriers. Originally from Devon and a law graduate from Cardiff University, Amanda has spent over 30 years in Wales. Her life took a dramatic turn after a serious bike accident that resulted in a spinal cord injury. Despite the life-altering event, Amanda's spirit remained unbroken. She spent nine months in the hospital, relearning basic skills and adapting to her new reality. Amanda's love for cycling was rekindled when she was gifted a recumbent bike, allowing her to take on new challenges and raise funds for charity. Her journey includes the ambitious goal of completing the Wales Coast Path (WCP) using a trike, wheelchair, and occasionally walking with crutches. Amanda's determination and adaptability shine as she navigates accessibility issues and relies on friends and family to assist with sections that are not accessible. In this episode, Amanda shares her experiences, from her early years in Devon to her life in Wales, her passion for cycling, and the various challenges she has undertaken. We delve into her methods for staying positive, setting tiny goals, and focusing on what she can achieve. Amanda's story is a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of embracing life's challenges with a positive attitude. Tune in to hear Amanda's inspiring journey and her advice for women facing their own challenges. Discover how she continues to push boundaries and inspire others with her remarkable story of overcoming adversity and loving life. *** Don't miss out on the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, released every Tuesday at 7am UK time! Be sure to hit the subscribe button to stay updated on the incredible journeys and stories of strong women. By supporting the Tough Girl Podcast on Patreon, you can make a difference in increasing the representation of female role models in the media, particularly in the world of adventure and physical challenges. Your contribution helps empower and inspire others. Visit www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast to be a part of this important movement. Thank you for your invaluable support! *** Show notes Who is AmandaLiving in South Wales with her husband and two teenage childrenOriginally growing up in DevonStudying Law at Cardiff University Living in Wales for over 30 yearsMeeting her husband at University Bringing her children up in Wales Still learning the Welsh Language Her early years and spending lots of time outside Not being particularly sporty or competitiveMaking walking plans for retirementGetting into cycling before her 40th birthday Signing up for a charity cycle ride Being in a bike accident which caused a spinal cord injury and multiple other injuries Not being able to feel her legs and knowing something serious had happenedSpending 9 months in hospital Having to learn everything againHow it changed her life What’s happened sinceDeciding to complete the Wales Coast Path (WCP) by trike, wheelchair and occasionally a few steps Being able to walk a few steps with crutchesWhy can’t I do this nowAccepting that there are some parts which are’t accessible Asking friends and family to walk that sections that aren’t accessible Accessibility on the Wales Coast PathResearch before taking on new sections Why everyone has different needs when it comes to access and accessibility The need for planning Needing to walk the path around work and needing support from other peopleCompleting approx 500 miles needing to do the North Wales SectionsRaising funds for charity Getting back into cycling and being gifted a recumbent bike Being involved in different cycling challengesWinning a competition with - Spinal Injuries Association Heading out to Portugal in May 2024 to ride 200 miles over 3 days!Having moments of doubtNot going into the dark placeFocusing on the positives and what she can do Giving things ago and saying yes to more things (such as doing this interview!)Wanting to take the tandem bike over to America to do a big ride with her husbandHow to connect with Amanda on line Final words of advice for women who are going through a challenging timeNot wanting to preach to people Try and stay positive Setting tiny, tiny goals in a notebook and how this helped during rehabFind out what works for you and focus on that Social Media Instagram: @amandah_trike Instagram: @amandascoastalchallenge
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    40 mins