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All things mental and physical health! You’ll find in-depth interviews with runners as we delve into why they run and what keeps them running. And interviews with specialists on the brain and the effects of exercise on it – chemically and physically. Plus tips to keep you moving with a positive mindset.. So much goodness
Episodes
Tuesday Oct 14, 2025
Tuesday Oct 14, 2025
Get Ready For:
A grounded, refreshingly real chat with 2024 Delirious W.E.S.T finisher Ben Pyman—who’s coming back in 2026 not to redeem a result, but to experience the race better. From lessons learned to training tweaks, Ben shares how he’s balancing life, recovery, and the decision to do it all again.
Why You’ll Love This Episode:
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🏁 A finisher’s perspective: Ben opens up about his 2024 race—what worked, what didn’t, and why he wants to return stronger, mentally and physically.
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🧠 The shift from finish to flow: 2026 isn’t about proving anything—it’s about being more present, more prepared, and more in control.
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👟 Training, simplified: How Ben fits in running with work and family life—focusing on what matters most (and letting go of the fluff).
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🥾 Post-race recovery truths: Hear how his body handled the 200-miler, what surprised him about recovery, and how it’s shaped his approach.
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💡 Wisdom for everyday runners: Ben’s not chasing podiums—he’s chasing peace, progress, and a smoother race next time.
Follow Ben’s Journey:
Each month, we’ll check in with Ben as he trains, reflects, and quietly prepares for round two on WA’s wild coast—and this time, he’s hoping to enjoy more of the ride.
Delirious WEST event Website – https://deliriouswest200miler.com.au/
Event Facebook Page – https://www.facebook.com/groups/1428304207182387
A couple of BIG favours:
1) please like and review this podcast so more people will discover it :)
2) come on the podcast and talk about your running journey and/or refer someone you’d love me to interview (whether you know them or not :) ) Lets not keep the power of running a secret any more! Hit me up on Facebook/Instagram (ZenRUN.club) or send me an email - Hello @ zenrun.club
Don't miss an episode of the ZenRUN Podcast. Sign up to our email list and get notified when new episodes are released.
💛 Looking for more running motivation?
Check out ZenRUN Club (https://zenrun.club/) —a low-pressure space for runners of all levels. With simple training plans, guided runs, and monthly challenges, it’s all about stress-free progress and community support. Come join us when you’re ready!
Thursday Oct 09, 2025
Thursday Oct 09, 2025
This week’s mindful moment turns an everyday action into a chance to reset: open a door slowly. Something you likely do without thinking becomes a full-body moment of presence. As your hand reaches for the handle, notice the texture, the temperature, and the way your fingers wrap around it. Breathe as you turn, push, or pull—and let that act of opening be your entire practice.
Each doorway becomes more than a passage—it becomes a pause. A chance to leave behind what came before and step into the next moment with intention. Whether it’s your front door, a meeting room, or even the fridge—use it as your mindfulness gateway.
Spend just five minutes with this practice, and see how it can bring calm and clarity to your day.
For more mindfulness ideas, head over to our ebook with 24 Simple Mindfulness strategies: https://fitmindfitbody.co/books/
Help us spread the mindfulness:
1️⃣ If you're enjoying our podcast, please leave a like and review. Your support helps others discover the joy of mindful running.
2️⃣ Have a story or know a runner who'd be perfect for our podcast? Reach out to us on Facebook/Instagram or email (Michelle @ FitMINDFitBODY .co ).
💛 Looking for more running motivation?
Check out ZenRUN Club (https://zenrun.club/) —a low-pressure space for runners of all levels. With simple training plans, guided runs, and monthly challenges, it’s all about stress-free progress and community support. Come join us when you’re ready!
Wednesday Oct 08, 2025
Wednesday Oct 08, 2025
Guest:
Gabe Alves – multi-time Delirious contender, systems thinker, video chronicler, and reluctant toe breaker.
Get Ready For:
A refreshingly honest, entertaining, and grounded convo with returning Delirious athlete Gabe Alves—who’s back for another swing at the 200-miler that’s become more than just a race… it’s now a yearly ritual.
Why You’ll Love This Episode:
•The Most Relatable DNF Mindset Ever: “I think I’ll just keep doing Delirious until I finish it… or not. I do Delirious now.”
•The Lessons Behind the Line: From torn calves and compartment syndrome to sleep-deprived mistakes—Gabe breaks down what didn’t work and what he’s fixing for 2026.
•Strength, Shoes & Shenanigans: Gabe’s training has shifted—hill reps, tib raises, padded shoes, barefoot experiments, and even gym work (yes, really!).
•Community First: Why Delirious is more than a race—it’s a shared expedition with a start line full of stories and a finish line full of mates.
•Letting Go of the Pressure: “This isn’t a redemption run. It’s just… Delirious again. And that’s okay.”
Why You’ll Keep Following This Journey:
Gabe’s story reminds us that growth doesn’t always come from the finish line—it comes from how we show up, year after year, injury after injury, and find meaning in the attempt.
Gabe's Links
Gabe’s previous intro episode - https://fitmindfitbody.co/episode-380-delirious-athlete-intro-gabe-alves-running-200-miles-against-the-odds/
Gabe’s wrap episode from the 2025 Delirious - https://fitmindfitbody.co/episode-478-gabe-alves-grit-gratitude-the-unexpected-ending-of-delirious-west/
Gabe’s Running Youtube Channel (great videos!) - https://www.youtube.com/@gabezultrarunning
⸻
Follow Gabe’s Journey:
Tune in each month as we check in with Gabe on his path to the Delirious W.E.S.T 200 start line—every step, stumble, and story along the way.
Delirious WEST event Website – https://deliriouswest200miler.com.au/
Event Facebook Page – https://www.facebook.com/groups/1428304207182387
A couple of BIG favours:
1) please like and review this podcast so more people will discover it :)
2) come on the podcast and talk about your running journey and/or refer someone you’d love me to interview (whether you know them or not :) ) Lets not keep the power of running a secret any more! Hit me up on Facebook/Instagram (ZenRUN.club) or send me an email - Hello @ zenrun.club
Don't miss an episode of the ZenRUN Podcast. Sign up to our email list and get notified when new episodes are released.
💛 Looking for more running motivation?
Check out ZenRUN Club (https://zenrun.club/) —a low-pressure space for runners of all levels. With simple training plans, guided runs, and monthly challenges, it’s all about stress-free progress and community support. Come join us when you’re ready!
Tuesday Oct 07, 2025
Tuesday Oct 07, 2025
Guest:
Sym Mercer – Adventure racer, solo runner, systems expert, and snake-dodger extraordinaire.
Get Ready For:A story as wide and wild as the Queensland paddocks Sym grew up on. In this intro episode, Sym shares her roots, her road to ultrarunning, and why she’s lining up for one of the gnarliest ultras in Australia—Delirious W.E.S.T 200.
Why You’ll Love This Episode:
•Outback beginnings: Sym’s early days included School of the Air, dodging cattle, and not doing homework on an 85,000-acre property.
•From rock bottom to 200 miles: A raw and real reflection on turning life around—from the brink of burnout to being all in on big adventures.
•Training with heart (and humour): Sym’s approach to training is equal parts flexible and fierce. You’ll love her wisdom on rest, missed runs, and what really matters.
•Snake bites, aid stations & unfinished business: Stories from Tarawera, Race Across Scotland, and the time she might’ve been tagged by a sunset-loving snake.
•Running as therapy, growth & coffee filter: “Running keeps me out of jail. And I always have coffee on my podcast.”
Tips from the Trail with Sym:
•Missed a session? Don’t make it up. Let it go.
•You don’t need to justify your “why”—running just because you can is enough.
•Never underestimate the mental reset of trails where no one expects anything but for you to show up.
Next Big Adventure:
Sym is chasing a strong, joyful finish at Delirious W.E.S.T 2026. With her signature humour and a no-BS mindset, she’s ready to take on whatever the trail throws her way.
Follow Sym’s Journey:
Tune in each month as we check in with Sym on her path to the Delirious W.E.S.T 200 start line—every step, stumble, and story along the way.
A couple of BIG favours:
1) please like and review this podcast so more people will discover it :)
2) come on the podcast and talk about your running journey and/or refer someone you’d love me to interview (whether you know them or not :) ) Lets not keep the power of running a secret any more! Hit me up on Facebook/Instagram (ZenRUN.club) or send me an email - Hello @ zenrun.club
Don't miss an episode of the ZenRUN Podcast. Sign up to our email list and get notified when new episodes are released.
💛 Looking for more running motivation?
Check out ZenRUN Club (https://zenrun.club/) —a low-pressure space for runners of all levels. With simple training plans, guided runs, and monthly challenges, it’s all about stress-free progress and community support. Come join us when you’re ready!
Thursday Oct 02, 2025
Thursday Oct 02, 2025
This week’s mindful moment is beautifully simple and instantly energising: reach your arms to the sky. Whether you’re sitting, standing, or even lying in bed, pause and stretch your arms overhead. Open your palms, lengthen through your sides, and feel your fingers reaching tall. Inhale deeply as you stretch, and exhale as you slowly release. This gentle movement not only opens your body but also invites a sense of expansion and presence. It’s a reminder that you’re here, awake, and grounded—claiming space in your day, one breath at a time.
Spend just five minutes with this practice, and see how it can bring calm and clarity to your day.
For more mindfulness ideas, head over to our ebook with 24 Simple Mindfulness strategies: https://fitmindfitbody.co/books/
Help us spread the mindfulness:
1️⃣ If you're enjoying our podcast, please leave a like and review. Your support helps others discover the joy of mindful running.
2️⃣ Have a story or know a runner who'd be perfect for our podcast? Reach out to us on Facebook/Instagram or email (Michelle @ FitMINDFitBODY .co ).
💛 Looking for more running motivation?
Check out ZenRUN Club (https://zenrun.club/) —a low-pressure space for runners of all levels. With simple training plans, guided runs, and monthly challenges, it’s all about stress-free progress and community support. Come join us when you’re ready!
Tuesday Sep 30, 2025
Tuesday Sep 30, 2025
Guest: Duc Do – AI expert, entrepreneur, author, and ultra-runner with a penchant for the “boring” and a training schedule that defies all conventional wisdom.
Get Ready For: A wildly inspiring, deeply honest, and surprisingly hilarious conversation that proves there’s no single “right” way to be a runner. Duc’s story is a masterclass in resilience, creativity, and finding your own path.
Why You’ll Love This Episode:
- The Ultimate Underdog Story: Duc grew up in Vietnam and India, plagued by chronic illness from overuse of antibiotics. He was the kid who finished dead last in school runs, huffing and puffing while the girls passed him. Fast forward to today, and he’s tackling 200-mile races like Delirious West. How? You’ll have to listen!
- The “Cunning Plan” (a.k.a. The Anti-Training Plan): Forget 6am track sessions and weekly mileage logs. Duc’s secret weapon? Running just once a week. That’s right. He’s a self-proclaimed “specialist at tapering” and has built an incredible ultra-running career on a single, long Sunday run. His philosophy: make it work for your crazy life, not the other way around.
- Embrace the Boring (Seriously): Duc didn’t choose running because he loved it; he chose it because he feared and found it utterly boring. His logic? If something is that unappealing, it must be exactly what he needed to break his cycle of illness. Spoiler alert: it worked.
- Running as Radical Honesty & Meditation: For Duc, ultra-running isn’t about medals or bragging rights. It’s a “privileged playground” to practice mindfulness and be brutally honest with yourself. When you’re 100 miles in, there’s no facade left—just you, your breath, and your footsteps. He shares how this practice bleeds into everyday life.
- The Power of the DNF: In a world obsessed with finishing, Duc offers a refreshing perspective. He finds deep satisfaction in his Did Not Finishes (DNFs) because the races that cause them are often the most fascinating and transformative. It’s not about the result; it’s about the raw, unfiltered experience.
- Tips from the Maverick:
- For Motivation: Sign up for races! Duc calls them “valid excuses” to get out the door and commit. The financial investment and the start line are powerful motivators.
- For Mental Toughness: When your mind starts to wander (especially when you’re tired or in pain), gently bring it back to the basics: your breath, your footsteps, or the simple rhythm of your movement. Counting or focusing on colours can help.
- For Race Strategy (His Way): Don’t fight your need for sleep in ultras. Duc, a self-described “big sleeper,” prioritises 1.5-2 hour chunks of quality sleep over micro-naps during 200-milers. Find what works for your body.
- For Injury Prevention (Maybe): Being a slow runner might be his secret. Duc credits his lack of serious injuries to not pushing for speed, which puts less strain on the body. He’s also transitioning more to trails for their softer impact and muscle variety.
- The Golden Rule: “There’s a million ways [to run ultras], and there are a lot of ways that I have not even thought of just yet.” Your path is yours alone. Experiment and find what feels right.
Duc’s Next Big Adventures: He’s eyeing the gruelling Volstead 500K in the US (because it sounds “boring as hell”) and is determined to conquer the Tour de Trails after two DNFs. His cunning plans for these are already in the works!
Connect with Duc:
- Duc’s LinkTree (all his links) - https://linktr.ee/ducdo
💥 WIN a $150 Tarkine Shoe Voucher - 3rd chance to win!
This episode of the ZenRUN Podcast is proudly sponsored by Tarkine — an Australian running brand inspired by Tasmania’s Tarkine wilderness. Their road shoes (like the AutoPilot Burst I’m currently loving!) are light, springy, and seriously comfy.
And… one lucky ZenRUN Podcast listener will win a $150 voucher to spend on their own pair of Tarkine shoes!
🎧 How to enter:
1️⃣ Follow @tarkineathletics and @zenrun.club on Instagram
2️⃣ DM the secret code word “Pilot” to @zenrun.club
3️⃣ Comment “Done” on the giveaway post for this episode on Instagram
🗓 Entries close Monday at 11:59pm AEST. Open to Australian residents aged 18+.
📌 This giveaway is not sponsored, endorsed, or administered by Instagram. By entering, you release Instagram from all responsibility. We’ll only use your info to contact the winner.
A couple of BIG favours:
1) please like and review this podcast so more people will discover it :)
2) come on the podcast and talk about your running journey and/or refer someone you’d love me to interview (whether you know them or not :) ) Lets not keep the power of running a secret any more! Hit me up on Facebook/Instagram (ZenRUN.club) or send me an email - Hello @ zenrun.club
Don't miss an episode of the ZenRUN Podcast. Sign up to our email list and get notified when new episodes are released.
💛 Looking for more running motivation?
Check out ZenRUN Club (https://zenrun.club/) —a low-pressure space for runners of all levels. With simple training plans, guided runs, and monthly challenges, it’s all about stress-free progress and community support. Come join us when you’re ready!
Thursday Sep 25, 2025
Thursday Sep 25, 2025
This week’s mindful moment is a small shift with a big impact: press pause before you reply. In the middle of a busy day filled with conversations, it’s easy to react automatically. But what if you paused—just for one breath—before responding? That brief space allows your nervous system to soften, your breath to steady, and your awareness to return.
Whether you’re talking with a loved one, a coworker, or a stranger, this mindful pause invites presence, reduces reactivity, and makes space for more thoughtful, grounded communication. It’s not about silence—it’s about intention. A simple breath before you speak can transform your entire day.
Spend just five minutes with this practice, and see how it can bring calm and clarity to your day.
For more mindfulness ideas, head over to our ebook with 24 Simple Mindfulness strategies: https://fitmindfitbody.co/books/
Help us spread the mindfulness:
1️⃣ If you're enjoying our podcast, please leave a like and review. Your support helps others discover the joy of mindful running.
2️⃣ Have a story or know a runner who'd be perfect for our podcast? Reach out to us on Facebook/Instagram or email (Michelle @ FitMINDFitBODY .co ).
💛 Looking for more running motivation?
Check out ZenRUN Club (https://zenrun.club/) —a low-pressure space for runners of all levels. With simple training plans, guided runs, and monthly challenges, it’s all about stress-free progress and community support. Come join us when you’re ready!
Tuesday Sep 23, 2025
Tuesday Sep 23, 2025
In this powerhouse episode, we meet Gayle Cowling, who didn’t run a step until her mid-30s—and now? She’s completed multiple 100Ks, a 100-miler, and even a 500K multi-day stage race through remote South Australia (and danced into the finish line to Nutbush City Limits 🎶).
Gayle’s story is full of grit, laughter, and pure love for adventure. From zero sport at school to racing Puffing Billy, conquering Two Bays 12 times, and claiming the elusive Triple Crown of Aussie 200-milers—Gayle proves it’s never too late to start (and go BIG).
💡 Highlights & Tips:
•You don’t need a running background to start—just a walk-run loop and a few good mates.
•Recovery gets tougher, but if you love it, you find a way.
•Community makes the journey—strangers at the start line become lifelines by kilometre 100.
•Singing out loud on trails is 100% encouraged.
•If you want to do something, just start. You don’t need to believe you’re a “real runner”—you just need to want it.
🎙️ Gayle also shares:
•The heartbreak and humour of 500K (including a magical moment with a cane toad)
•Her DIY, no-coach approach to ultra training
•How running became her therapy and outlet for life’s biggest challenges
•Why her support crew (husband Nick) probably works harder than she does!
This episode is for every runner who’s ever doubted themselves—and anyone who needs a reminder that your next big adventure might be just one step outside your comfort zone.
💥 WIN a $150 Tarkine Shoe Voucher!
This episode of the ZenRUN Podcast is proudly sponsored by Tarkine — an Australian running brand inspired by Tasmania’s Tarkine wilderness. Their road shoes (like the AutoPilot Burst I’m currently loving!) are light, springy, and seriously comfy.
And… one lucky ZenRUN Podcast listener will win a $150 voucher to spend on their own pair of Tarkine shoes!
🎧 How to enter:
1️⃣ Follow @tarkineathletics and @zenrun.club on Instagram
2️⃣ DM the secret code word “Pilot” to @zenrun.club
3️⃣ Comment “Done” on the giveaway post for this episode on Instagram
🗓 Entries close Monday at 11:59pm AEST. Open to Australian residents aged 18+.
📌 This giveaway is not sponsored, endorsed, or administered by Instagram. By entering, you release Instagram from all responsibility. We’ll only use your info to contact the winner.
A couple of BIG favours:
1) please like and review this podcast so more people will discover it :)
2) come on the podcast and talk about your running journey and/or refer someone you’d love me to interview (whether you know them or not :) ) Lets not keep the power of running a secret any more! Hit me up on Facebook/Instagram (ZenRUN.club) or send me an email - Hello @ zenrun.club
Don't miss an episode of the ZenRUN Podcast. Sign up to our email list and get notified when new episodes are released.
💛 Looking for more running motivation?
Check out ZenRUN Club (https://zenrun.club/) —a low-pressure space for runners of all levels. With simple training plans, guided runs, and monthly challenges, it’s all about stress-free progress and community support. Come join us when you’re ready!
Thursday Sep 18, 2025
Thursday Sep 18, 2025
This week’s mindful moment brings your awareness to the smallest of movements: trace the shape of something with your finger. Choose a nearby object—your coffee mug, a pen, or even the corner of your notebook—and begin to slowly trace its outline with your finger. As you move, pay attention to the texture, temperature, and contours. Is it smooth or bumpy? Cool or warm?
This gentle tactile practice wakes up your senses, helps slow your breath, and invites stillness into your day. It’s a beautiful reminder that mindfulness doesn’t require a big pause—just a tiny moment of presence at your fingertips.
Spend just five minutes with this practice, and see how it can bring calm and clarity to your day.
For more mindfulness ideas, head over to our ebook with 24 Simple Mindfulness strategies: https://fitmindfitbody.co/books/
Help us spread the mindfulness:
1️⃣ If you're enjoying our podcast, please leave a like and review. Your support helps others discover the joy of mindful running.
2️⃣ Have a story or know a runner who'd be perfect for our podcast? Reach out to us on Facebook/Instagram or email (Michelle @ FitMINDFitBODY .co ).
💛 Looking for more running motivation?
Check out ZenRUN Club (https://zenrun.club/) —a low-pressure space for runners of all levels. With simple training plans, guided runs, and monthly challenges, it’s all about stress-free progress and community support. Come join us when you’re ready!
Tuesday Sep 16, 2025
Tuesday Sep 16, 2025
Strap in—this is Part Two of our epic conversation with Aussie ultra-legend Kelvin Marshall, and trust us, you’re in for a ride.
In this follow-up to Part One, we pick up mid-run—literally—on Kelvin’s 18-day running adventure across France. With just a backpack and a rough route, Kelvin recounts the highs, lows, chateaux visits, and sneaky hotel showers that made this DIY ultra unforgettable.
But France is only the beginning.
In Part Two, we dive into:
•🏃♂️ Running 18 days across France—with hotel hacks, friendly locals, and a few wrong turns
•🏔️ Kelvin’s Western States 100 journey—spoiler: it didn’t go to plan
•🥵 Badwater 135—racing through Death Valley (and finishing strong after a tough start)
•🎒 How he packed way too much and learned what not to bring on a long run
•🥳 Stories from across the USA, Hungary, and beyond—including a 6-day race and more!
Kelvin’s tips (and life advice):
✔️ Make the adventure part of the plan
✔️ It’s okay to DNF—just come back stronger
✔️ Be friendly, say yes, and the running world will open up
✔️ Don’t overpack. Really.
✔️ Every runner has a wild story—yours is worth telling too
This is one of the most jam-packed episodes we’ve ever released, and Kelvin delivers the goods with humour, humility, and a tonne of heart.
💬 Missed Part One? Go back and listen—because together, these two episodes are a masterclass in how to run (and live) with guts and joy.
🎧 Subscribe and listen now—then go chase your own adventure.
A couple of BIG favours:
1) please like and review this podcast so more people will discover it :)
2) come on the podcast and talk about your running journey and/or refer someone you’d love me to interview (whether you know them or not :) ) Lets not keep the power of running a secret any more! Hit me up on Facebook/Instagram (ZenRUN.club) or send me an email - Hello @ zenrun.club
Don't miss an episode of the ZenRUN Podcast. Sign up to our email list and get notified when new episodes are released.
💛 Looking for more running motivation?
Check out ZenRUN Club (https://zenrun.club/) —a low-pressure space for runners of all levels. With simple training plans, guided runs, and monthly challenges, it’s all about stress-free progress and community support. Come join us when you’re ready!