Episodios

  • Rahema Mamodo: Mum of 3, Finding Running Later in Life – From Couch to Ultra, Inspiring Women to Break Barriers.

    Rahema Mamodo: Mum of 3, Finding Running Later in Life – From Couch to Ultra, Inspiring Women to Break Barriers.
    Apr 29 2025
    Rahema Mamodo is a mum of three, a passionate runner, and a trailblazer for women in sport. Growing up in Portugal and now based in Birmingham, Rahema discovered running later in life, starting with a simple couch-to-5k program. What began as a personal challenge has blossomed into a mission to inspire women—especially those who look like her—to break barriers, embrace fitness, and find joy in movement. Since her first hesitant steps on a treadmill, Rahema has run over 180 Park Runs in more than 50 locations, completed marathons, and even tackled ultramarathons like Race to the Stones. Along the way, she’s used her platform to share her journey, celebrate diversity in sport, and encourage others to believe in themselves. In this episode, Rahema shares how running transformed her life, the lessons she’s learned from pushing her limits, and her passion for inspiring her daughters and other women to chase their goals. From practical tips for getting started to her unforgettable experiences at marathons and ultras, Rahema’s story is a testament to the power of resilience and self-belief. *** Catch the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, dropping every Tuesday at 7 am UK time! Don’t forget to subscribe so you won’t miss the inspiring journeys and incredible stories of tough women. Want to play a part in uplifting female representation in the media? Support the Tough Girl Podcast on Patreon! Your generosity helps shine a spotlight on female role models in the world of adventure and physical challenges. Join us in making a positive impact by visiting www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast. Thank you for your amazing support! *** Show notes Who is RahemaGrowing up in Portugal and now living in Birmingham Speaking 3 languages (Portuguese, English and Gujarati)What her early years were like Not being into sports or any physical activities Being a teenage girl Being inspired to do a couch to 5kUsing a treadmill at home and not wanting to run outdoors at firstThe benefits of joining a running groupHer first Park Run and why she loves it Wearing a hijab How her running journey progressed10k to Half Marathon Being supported by her family Wanting to inspire her girls to be activeIncreasing her distance every week Using online programs and doing her best to get beyond the 5k distanceBeing a Park Run Tourist 180+ park runs in over 50 different locationsDoing the A to Z of Park Runs Finding a Z Park RunHighlights from running and running on sandPractical tips to encourage women to get involved in Park RunThe benefits of finding like minded people to runTracking her running with Garmin Deciding to run Manchester Marathon as her first marathon Hating the experience Getting the chance to run the London Marathon Learning a lot from the marathon experiences Running for other people Muslim Runners Running 3/4 times a week5 weeks to prepare for the marathonRace strategy and goals Visiting the London Marathon EXPO Connecting with people from social mediaDeciding to run an ultra - Race to the Stones - 50k She Ultra Sophie Power on the Tough Girl Podcast Training for an ultra No pressure, no cut off times and just smiles!Racing with her daughter in 2025How to connect with Rahema onlineBeing a cover girl! On the cover of Women’s Running Wanting to inspire other women to go out and runThe power of believing in yourself Social Media Website www.rahema.co.uk/blog Instagram @Rahema_m Facebook @rahemasw
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    50 m
  • Dee Anna: From Survivor to Disabled Adventuress – Finding Strength in Nature.

    Dee Anna: From Survivor to Disabled Adventuress – Finding Strength in Nature.
    Apr 24 2025
    Dee Anna's story is one of resilience, adventure, and refusing to let society define her limits. Born with a genetic mutation that affected her mobility, she faced a lifetime of challenges—from intensive physiotherapy as a child to being diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in 2022. Along the way, she also navigated severe autism, trauma, and life-altering setbacks that could have stopped her in her tracks. But instead, she turned to the outdoors. In this episode, Dee shares how thru-hiking the South West Coast Path became the turning point that changed everything. With no home, no job, and facing immense personal struggles, she took a leap of faith and embarked on a 71-day journey that helped her reclaim her life. We talk about the power of movement, nature’s role in healing, and why adventure should be accessible to everyone. Now, as a scientist, outdoor journalist, and founder of The Introvert Magazine, Dee is on a mission to inspire others to embrace nature, break barriers, and live life on their own terms. This is a powerful and deeply moving conversation about survival, self-discovery, and the courage to forge your own path. Don’t miss it! *Please be aware that this episode contains discussions of suicidal thoughts, severe trauma, and sexual assault. *** Catch the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, dropping every Tuesday at 7 am UK time! Don’t forget to subscribe so you won’t miss the inspiring journeys and incredible stories of tough women. Want to play a part in uplifting female representation in the media? Support the Tough Girl Podcast on Patreon! Your generosity helps shine a spotlight on female role models in the world of adventure and physical challenges. Join us in making a positive impact by visiting www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast. Thank you for your amazing support! *** Show notes Who is DeeDisabled Adventuress, scientist, outdoor journalist, writer, naturalist and photographer Living in South Wales, surrounded by wonderful natureBeing born in Poland and growing up in SussexHer early year and growing up with severe autism and being muteNot socialising with other people but spending time in the outdoors Being interested in the natural world from a young ageFeeling safe in nature Studying biology and chemistry at a high level Being born with a genetic mutation Being severely disabled and going through intensive physical therapy to be able to walk Building internal resilience and mental strengthHer first big solo adventure in 2023Walking the South West Coast Path Dealing with severe trauma and complicated medical conditionsLosing her job, her house and partner and having no where to goWanting to end her life, after being sexually assaulted while at workFighting to get her case heardWanting to be aliveTrying to fit in and realising that life hasn’t being build for her and deciding to live the life she wants to liveDeciding to go for it and making a decision overnight Focusing on a goal Dragging herself to the train station to get to the start of the SWCPHow her body started to become stronger while walking Spending 71 days on the trail and why it was the greatest adventure of her lifeWhy it was a healing experience Movement, nature, animals and being exposure to natureMeeting good people on the trail Walking every day and noticing the positive changes in her body The theory that people who have ADHD are people who come from hunter gatherers How the trail will provideStarting The Introvert Magazine The impact of stress on her bodyWorking on an Adventure Guide Wanting the book to be as inclusive as possibleWanting to bring as many people as possible to experience natureInterviewing people and taking over 200 photos for the bookGoing snorkelling with the Scottish Wildlife Trust Looking at it as a life projectHaving a shorter life span compared to othersWanting to work on projects that are a passionEmbracing her life as a gift and a blessing Wanting to be grateful for every momentWanting to giveback to society Building her instagram community What can people expect from her social mediaSharing her life as it isDiversity, Equity and Inclusion You have to be tolerant with others but strict with yourself - Marcus Aurelius Feeling isolated and aloneAdvice for women with autism and ADHDStruggling to get outside and advice and tips to do soMeet ups?Women’s Safety Planning or not planning for adventures Being pulled in 2 different directionsAllowing flexibility on the adventure Finding out what works for youWomen’s safety while on the trail Her 10 year career in the police Words of advice Why its about believing in yourself Don’t compare yourself to othersStart small Social Media Website www.deecrute.com Instagram @deedee.reporter Facebook @dee.crute YouTube @dee.crute
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    45 m
  • Sherry Cardona: Ultra Endurance Cyclist and Content Creator – Tackling the Toughest Bikepacking Races

    Sherry Cardona: Ultra Endurance Cyclist and Content Creator – Tackling the Toughest Bikepacking Races
    Apr 22 2025
    Sherry Cardona is an ultra-endurance cyclist, content creator, and adventure seeker who thrives on pushing her limits. Born in Colombia and raised in Spain, Sherry’s journey has been one of exploration, self-discovery, and resilience. From long-distance running to cycling, she’s always been drawn to endurance challenges—finding freedom and peace in the process. In this episode, Sherry shares how she transitioned into ultra-cycling, taking on some of the toughest races in the world, including Race Around the Netherlands, the Transcontinental Race, and the Transibérica. We dive into the mental and physical challenges of these events, the strange things that happen to your body during extreme endurance efforts (think hallucinations and swollen hands), and how she’s learned to adapt and grow with each race. We also talk about her life beyond cycling—moving to Amsterdam, growing her confidence through YouTube, and her passion for connecting with like-minded adventurers. Whether you’re an aspiring ultra-endurance athlete or simply love a good adventure story, this conversation is packed with inspiration, lessons, and valuable insights. Don’t miss it! *** Catch the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, dropping every Tuesday at 7 am UK time! Don’t forget to subscribe so you won’t miss the inspiring journeys and incredible stories of tough women. Want to play a part in uplifting female representation in the media? Support the Tough Girl Podcast on Patreon! Your generosity helps shine a spotlight on female role models in the world of adventure and physical challenges. Join us in making a positive impact by visiting www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast. Thank you for your amazing support! *** Show notes Who is Sherry - Adventure cyclist and content creatorBeing based in Amsterdam in the Netherlands Being born in Colombia and growing up in SpainWanting to explore and see new placesNot having as many opportunities in Colombia Feeling lucky to be able to explore amazing placesUsing Youtube to connect with like minded people Feeling misunderstood at school Being able to express herself through YouTube How her confidence grew Moving to Spain at 9 years oldBeing into sports and long distance running Meeting her husband in London and being introduced to cycling Having her own coffee company and working as a freelancer in marketing Running away from her problems Having a sense of peace and feelings of freedom while runningHow her cycling journey evolved Moving to Amsterdam during the pandemic Race around the Netherlands (2,000km) Training and preparation Taking it on as a personal challenge and wanting to see what she could achieve Being the first woman across the line Strange things that happen to your body when you take on long endurance based challenges Dealing with a lack of sleep and hallucinations Dealing with swollen hands and face due to electrolyte in-balances Sherman’s NeckLesson and learning for future events The Transcontinental Race (TCR) - single stage race across Europe where cyclists cover around 4000 km The importance of planning and preparations for ultra races and what it looks like How your body starts to adapt during the race Reaching the start of the race trained and ready but not overtrained Using bike packing trips for training Transibérica Race The sleeping ruleBike set up for races and how it changes depending on the raceHow many bikes….Racing in the Atlas.Mountains in Morocco and feeling nervous..Managing in the heatBadlands Race Recovery after a race and why it can take months Buzzalong Cycling PodcastSharing her stories on YouTube Plans and races for 2025Race Across Belgium Wanting to do more Bikepacking instead of racing How to connect with Sherry Final words of adviceKnowledge is power Social Media Instagram: @sherry.cycling Youtube: @Buzzalong.cycling
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    46 m
  • Zoe Langley-Wathen: 630 Miles Braver: Mid-lifing on the South West Coast Path. The reality of imposter syndrome, facing solo adventures and the warmth of personal connections.

    Zoe Langley-Wathen: 630 Miles Braver: Mid-lifing on the South West Coast Path. The reality of imposter syndrome, facing solo adventures and the warmth of personal connections.
    Apr 15 2025
    Zoe Langley-Wathen is a writer, speaker, and adventure seeker who has spent over a decade inspiring others to embrace the outdoors. From solo-walking the South West Coast Path in 2011 to becoming the first woman to walk the Wales Coast Path in 2012, Zoe has continually pushed her boundaries—while navigating the realities of midlife, imposter syndrome, and solo adventures. In this episode of the Tough Girl Podcast, Zoe shares the journey behind her latest book, 630 Miles Braver: Mid-lifing on the South West Coast Path, which chronicles her transformative experience walking the iconic trail. She opens up about the challenges of writing, the joy of creative expression, and why she’s passionate about encouraging midlife women to step outside their comfort zones. We also dive into her upcoming coastline walk of mainland Great Britain, the logistics of planning such a mammoth adventure, and her mission to prove that adventure has no age limit. Tune in to hear Zoe’s incredible story, her insights on bravery, and her advice on making adventure a lifelong pursuit. *** Listen to Zoe on previous episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast Nov 7, 2017 - Zoe Langley-Wathen - Walking Adventures include the South West Coastal Path, Wales Coast Path Aug 29, 2019 - Zoe Langley-Wathen - Her love for long distance walking, #100mappydays & Head Right Out *** Catch the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, dropping every Tuesday at 7 am UK time! Don’t forget to subscribe so you won’t miss the inspiring journeys and incredible stories of tough women. Want to play a part in uplifting female representation in the media? Support the Tough Girl Podcast on Patreon! Your generosity helps shine a spotlight on female role models in the world of adventure and physical challenges. Join us in making a positive impact by visiting www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast. Thank you for your amazing support! *** Show notes Writer, speaker and adventure seekerWalking the SWCP solo in 2011Becoming the first woman to walk the Wales Coast Path in 2012Peri-menopause!From living in a house in Dorset to living on a narrow boatLiving in Somerset and loving life and adventuresKnowing Zoe since 2015 Women’s Adventure Expo in Bristol Speaking to Zoe in 2017 on the Tough Girl Podcast Starting her own podcast in 2021- HeadrighoutSpeaking to midlife women who are pushing their comfort zone in the outdoorsWanting to promote adventure for midlife women What happened in 2020 and 2021The covid years….Glamping in an empty house for 4 monthsThe Yes Tribe Saying yes to the book!Being inspired by The Salt Path 5,000 word chapter..Seeing her words and drawings in print Being a creative person and loving the creative processThe biggest book of YES! Her writing journey and putting her story down on paperBook: 630 Miles Braver - midlifing on the South West Coast PathWriting every morning Connecting with the London writers salon Discussing the book with Mike and reliving the memories Book get published on the 15th April 25th April 2025 - The Salt Path movie goes live in the UK Walking from her home in Somerset to CornwallSaltlines Performance Going walking solo again in 2024 (after 10 years)Re routing over Dartmoor, crossing flooded rivers and challenging walking!Making new friends and being invited to a wedding! The next adventure…..Wanting to walk the coast of mainland Great Britain1st October 2025…..The route and the plan Walking anticlockwise from Poole Harbour to Brighton to LondonThe rules…Daily distances… going for lower millage daysCosts and estimated budget needed for the 2 of them over the 2 years 4 monthsRenting the house out and paying for the challengeThe challenge of Scotland King Charles 3rd Coastal Path Snow or midgets - what’s the best time of year to be in Scotland The right to roam in Scotland John O’Groats Trail The inlets in Western Scotland…Figuring it out when you get there Don’t let the fear of the unknown stop you from enjoying the adventure Raising funds for Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance Raising awareness about the positive benefits of adventure for any ageWorking as an Ambassador for Adventure Mind Registering for a Guinness World RecordHow to connect with Zoe & Mike while they are on their adventures Final words of wisdom and advice Bravery and taking on new challengesThe power of discovering that adventure has no age limit Finding ways to step outside your comfort zone Reading and listening to other people doing similar things The power of writing things down What do you want to do and how do you feel about itKeep a diary and a record of what you’ve done Reflect back on the journey, what would you do again, what would you do differently? Social Media Website www.headrightout.com Instagram @headrightout Facebook @headrightout Head Right Out Podcast Book: 630 Miles Braver: Midlifing on the South West Coast Path Book: Biggest Book of Yes: 49 Short ...
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    1 h y 5 m
  • Shannon Hogan: Ultra Endurance Athlete & Author of The Unforgiving Hours: The Grit, Resilience, and Perseverance at the Heart of Endurance Sports

    Shannon Hogan: Ultra Endurance Athlete & Author of The Unforgiving Hours: The Grit, Resilience, and Perseverance at the Heart of Endurance Sports
    Apr 8 2025
    Shannon Hogan is no stranger to pushing physical and mental limits. A seasoned ultra runner, mountain biker, and open-water swimmer, she has conquered some of the toughest endurance events on the planet. From setting records at the Pigtails Challenge 100K to tackling the gruelling Leadville Trail 100 and the Javelina Jundred, Shannon thrives in the world of extreme endurance sports. She’s even braved the icy waters of the Escape from Alcatraz swim and finished ten consecutive Boston Marathons—proving time and again that she’s built for the long haul. In this episode, we dive into Shannon’s journey—from her early days in San Diego to competing in elite endurance events around the world. She shares her insights on grit, resilience, and the mental strategies that help athletes endure the toughest races. We also talk about her new book, The Unforgiving Hours: The Grit, Resilience, and Perseverance at the Heart of Endurance Sports, which explores the deep mental and emotional strength required to push through extreme challenges. Shannon’s passion for endurance sports goes beyond personal achievement. She’s spent years supporting fellow athletes—whether it’s crewing ultra races, kayaking alongside swimmers in open water crossings, or inspiring the next generation of female endurance athletes. She believes in the power of women designing blueprints for each other in sport and life, breaking down barriers, and finding strength in shared experiences. This is an episode packed with wisdom, motivation, and a firsthand look at what it takes to embrace the toughest challenges. Whether you’re an endurance athlete or just looking for inspiration to tackle your own goals, you won’t want to miss this conversation! Tune in now and get ready to be inspired. *** Catch the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, dropping every Tuesday at 7 am UK time! Don’t forget to subscribe so you won’t miss the inspiring journeys and incredible stories of tough women. Want to play a part in uplifting female representation in the media? Support the Tough Girl Podcast on Patreon! Your generosity helps shine a spotlight on female role models in the world of adventure and physical challenges. Join us in making a positive impact by visiting www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast. Thank you for your amazing support! *** Show notes Who is ShannonBeing a long time athlete of many different sports (trail running, mountain biking, cold water swimmingLiving in the Pacific North West of AmericaGrowing up in San Diego Starting to race mountain bikes in New EnglandGetting into running in Northern CaliforniaConnecting with other runners The trail running community Being surrounded by role models The women who have inspired Shannon in her lifeBeing excited to talk about women designing blueprints for other womenHaving the opportunity to participate in a meaningful way in the outdoorsBicycles becoming popular and the impact on women’s livesThe barriers to women to play sports and get involved in the outdoorsBigfoot 200 Race The Arizona Monster - 300 mile race 170hr cut off The growth of long distance running over the past few decadesMOAB 240 Courtney Daulwalter - winning the MOAB 240 outright! Speaking to women to learn their stories Grit, resilience, perseverance in ultra endurance sportsExceptional athletes and how they adapt as they goBeing exceptional at remaining calm Being able to suppress the flight or fight instinct (the para-sympathic nervous system)Being calm and able to perform at a higher levelKeeping your head in the game.Falling into flowRemaining calm when things get difficult Going on course while running and the mental impact on your raceLeadville 100Racing at elevation and the impact on your bodyWestern States Endurance Run (100 miler) Race to Alaska Not letting setbacks impact you too much Every event is a stepping stone to the next bigger thing because you learn so muchNever worry alone and why it applies to long distance challengesShare the burden with your crew, a pacer or even a strangerConnections made during racesFind a battle buddy, find your partner for the dayWhat happens when things go wrongBeing sidelined by injury Being a volunteer and the benefits it can bringBook: The Unforgiving Hours: The Grit, Resilience, and Perseverance at the Heart of Endurance Sports The time commitment while training for big eventsThe pressure on womenBeing careful with their free timeHow to connect with ShannonFinal words of advice for women who want to take their adventures and challenges to the next levelTaking a long time to be an overnight successBe patient with yourself and not compare yourself with anyone Social Media Instagram @the_unforgiving_hours Bluesky - @unforgivinghours.bsky.social Book: The Unforgiving Hours: The Grit, Resilience, and Perseverance at the Heart of Endurance Sports
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    43 m
  • Dr. Caitlin Massone: Overcoming Eating Disorders Through Endurance Sports, Neuroscience & Nature – Author of Running from Perfection

    Dr. Caitlin Massone: Overcoming Eating Disorders Through Endurance Sports, Neuroscience & Nature – Author of Running from Perfection
    Apr 1 2025
    Dr. Caitlin Massone, ultra-runner, mountaineer, neurologist, and first-time author, sharing the story of her 14-year battle with eating disorders, and how she recovered in an unconventional way through finding endurance sports and nature. Her book, "Running from Perfection," comes out this spring (April 26th 2025). Part memoir, part neuroscience, her story delves into the neurobiology of eating disorders, how our brains form habits and addictions, and how nature and exercise can help us heal from mental health disorders such as eating disorders, anxiety, and depression. Since regaining her health, Caitlin has run numerous marathons and ultramarathons, including a 50 mile race on the Mountains-to-Sea trail, and recently completed the Wonderland Trail around Mount Rainier (93 miles in three days). She has also embraced mountaineering, summiting Mount Rainier and Mount Baker, and is planning to climb Denali in 2026. Her story is about perseverance, overcoming mental health obstacles, and finding passion in sports that have transformed her from a 100-pound girl with anorexia to a strong, 150-pound athlete who is ready to take on new challenges! Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions about eating disorders, mental health challenges, and recovery. Please listen with care, and reach out for support if needed. *** Catch the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, dropping every Tuesday at 7 am UK time! Don’t forget to subscribe so you won’t miss the inspiring journeys and incredible stories of tough women. Want to play a part in uplifting female representation in the media? Support the Tough Girl Podcast on Patreon! Your generosity helps shine a spotlight on female role models in the world of adventure and physical challenges. Join us in making a positive impact by visiting www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast. Thank you for your amazing support! *** Show notes Who is Caitlin Being based in New JerseyWorking as a practicing neurologistWorking 7 days on and 7 days offDeveloping new interests, in running, hiking, backpacking and mountaineering Writing about her long term eating disorder and how she found ultra endurance sportsWhat a neurologist does How her working schedule came aboutHer path from medical school, to residency, and completing her fellowshipHer early years growing up in New JerseyLoving soccer (football) from 5 years old and playing varsity Losing her love of sports and nature at 16Nature and nurture in the formation of eating disorders Being abandoned by her fatherLittle Miss Perfect….Dealing with pressureType A personality and how they turned against herWhat people don’t know about eating disordersStarting to binge eat Balancing it out with exercise Taking a job in Colorado Being exposure to nature at it’s bestQuitting cold turkeyDoing short hikes and runs outdoorsGetting to the top of her first 14,000 ftSeeking professional help and working with a therapistKeeping her eating behaviours very privateGood or bad habits…Habit formation in the brain and the role that exercise plays Exercise junkie Not being preoccupied with food Having a better outlook on it The battle going on inside your brainPrimitive urges and self talkMantras - Powerful and perseverance Running her first half marathon while in medical schoolHer running journey being slow and gradualStarting running ultra marathons in 2020Race strategy and getting use to time on feet and breaking it down into small chunks of timeSpacing out nutrition throughout the raceFuelling and attitude to food during racesWorking with a running coach for the past 2 yearsTrying to keep things easy Getting into mountaineeringInternational Mountain Guides Planning to climb Mt DenaliThe use of oral contraceptive pills past the age of 35Building the mental resilience Eating Disorder Survivor Symbol Getting her tattoo done Social media…. Not being hugely active Women in Mountaineering Sunny StroeerNew book goes live April 26th 2025Final words of advice Finding someone to listenThe power of talking and opening up to people Social Media Book: Running from Perfection: My Journey from Eating Disorders to Endurance Sports--And the Neuroscience Behind It
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    43 m
  • Sophie Etheridge: Breaking Barriers in Open Water – World Record English Channel Swim, Ultra Challenges & Disability Advocacy

    Sophie Etheridge: Breaking Barriers in Open Water – World Record English Channel Swim, Ultra Challenges & Disability Advocacy
    Mar 27 2025
    Sophie Etheridge is redefining open water swimming. A marathon swimmer, coach, and disability advocate, she made history in 2023 by becoming the first person with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome to swim the English Channel solo—setting a World Record for the longest English Channel Swim at an astonishing 29 hours and 4 minutes. In this episode of the Tough Girl Podcast, Sophie takes us behind the scenes of her record-breaking swim, sharing the physical and mental challenges she faced during nearly 30 hours in the water. From training and preparation to the unexpected obstacles that tested her resilience, Sophie’s story is a testament to determination, adaptability, and the power of a strong support team. She also speaks about her work in making swimming more accessible, advocating for better opportunities for disabled swimmers, and why she believes everyone should have the chance to experience the freedom of open water. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about overcoming adversity, pushing boundaries, and the true meaning of endurance. *** Catch the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, dropping every Tuesday at 7 am UK time! Don’t forget to subscribe so you won’t miss the inspiring journeys and incredible stories of tough women. Want to play a part in uplifting female representation in the media? Support the Tough Girl Podcast on Patreon! Your generosity helps shine a spotlight on female role models in the world of adventure and physical challenges. Join us in making a positive impact by visiting www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast. Thank you for your amazing support! *** Show notes Who is Sophie Ultra marathon swimmer and adaptive athlete.Previously peaking to Sophie on the Tough Girl Podcast (TGP) in August 23rd 2022 Being the founder of ADOWS - Adaptive and Disabled Open Water Swimmers What we talked about the first time we spoke on the TGPWhat was happening in 2022The English Channel Relay Swim Marathon Swimming Federation Thinking about doing a solo English Channel swim Swimming Teachers Association (STA) Conference Wanting to complete the original swimming triple crown as a disabled personGetting sponsored to swim the English Channel What changed going forward Needing to have a medical and do a qualification swim Wanting to learn as much as she could about swimming the English Channel soloGoing on a swim camp in Wales by herself and travelling solo Why 2023 was a very quick year, but took a long timeSharing her goal of a solo swim Having 8 months to train Starlight - shining a light on disability swimming Up-skilling swimming teachers and training them how to teach disabled people how to swim Having no doubts and the power of words and language Not being able to tread water and how that changed the feeding processThe multiple challenges that Sophie would have to face during the swim Having a great crew and team around her Going on a spring tide and getting the last slot available to swim the channel The fear of getting out of the water at the end of the swim and not being able to use her legs…Expecting to do the swim in 18/19 hoursThe strategy and the plan for the swimNight swimming Swimming sideways for 7 hours and not being able to make any progress forward29hrs 4 mins…. Swimming! Why it became more of a mental challenge Aiming to swim for 24hrs!Setting 3 world records and not knowing until back on the boatReaching France Getting back on the boat and heading back to EnglandNot celebrating straight away Getting a huge amount of pressRaising over £6,000 for STA Fundraising for Level Water How to connect with Sophie and follow along with her challengesFinal words of adviceFind out the starting point Give yourself permission to let go and to try new thingsWhy you never know where the journey is going to take you Social Media Website/Blog: sophie-adaptive-athlete.com Instagram: @sophie_adaptive_athlete Facebook: @sophie_adaptive_athlete
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    51 m
  • Dr. Elisabeth Ogbonmwan: Championing Female Athlete Health – A Doctor, Triathlete & New Mum Balancing It All

    Dr. Elisabeth Ogbonmwan: Championing Female Athlete Health – A Doctor, Triathlete & New Mum Balancing It All
    Mar 25 2025
    Dr. Elisabeth Ogbonmwan is a powerhouse—sports and exercise medicine doctor, triathlete, and new mum. Just nine weeks postpartum, she joins me on the Tough Girl Podcast to talk about the realities of balancing training with a busy career and family life. Lis shares her journey into sports, from loving swimming as a child to discovering running in her late 20s and ultimately embracing triathlon. She opens up about training while pregnant, navigating body image changes, and how she’s approaching her return to sport after giving birth. We also dive into her passion for female athlete health—why it’s so important for women to fuel properly, listen to their bodies, and have access to the right medical support. Plus, she shares practical advice for new mums who want to get back into movement without guilt. This is an insightful and inspiring episode for anyone juggling sport, work, and family—don’t miss it! *** Catch the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, dropping every Tuesday at 7 am UK time! Don’t forget to subscribe so you won’t miss the inspiring journeys and incredible stories of tough women. Want to play a part in uplifting female representation in the media? Support the Tough Girl Podcast on Patreon! Your generosity helps shine a spotlight on female role models in the world of adventure and physical challenges. Join us in making a positive impact by visiting www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast. Thank you for your amazing support! *** Show notes Who is LisHaving her daughter 9 weeks ago Being a busy mum, triathlete, doctorHaving a sporty childhoodLoving swimming from a young ageBalancing sport and studyingTravelling an hour to and from her 6th form Not doing as much sport at university as she wanted Getting into triathlons in 2020/2021Finding running in her mid to late 20sStarting to swim while rehabbing injuries Swimmers who transition into running The impact of running on ankle joints for swimmersVolume of training to keep injuries at a minimum Getting into strength and conditioning later on Working as a General Practitioner (GP) and Sports Medicine Doctor Going back into training again Working with a variety of different peopleWanting to set up a paediatric sports medicine clinic in Manchester Wanting to work with women who take part in exercise at any level Wanting to encourage women to participate in sport Training and doing sports medicine part time while working as a GPTraining and balancing it with work and children Finding a coach that she trustedFitting in training and making it work for her life Being use to having full and busy days Planning in time for recovery and what that looked like Not training to her menstrual cycle The importance of fuelling and what worked well for herMeal prepping and needing to up her protein Having a recovery shake after every session Using gels from Protein Rebel Competition day and what race strategy looks likeBeing on the start line of a race and what’s going through her headDoing races for funHaving a “process goal” - especially for triathlon racesTraining throughout pregnancy and what that looked like Feeling very tired during the first trimester and needing to reduce training volume downNeeding to let training take a back seat while studying and taking a consultancy exam Loving her training while pregnant Having a baby girl and wanting to show her what women are capable of Pregnancy and body image Being body conscious and having your body on show when you are an athlete Feeling proud of her body and having a deep appreciation for what her body is capable of Being a new mum on maternity leaveGetting back into training and racing but not knowing what that would look like at the startFeeling guilt for leaving her baby Knowing how important it was for her mental health to get that time for herself Being a better mum and feeling more confident Using her support network Stomach and pelvic floor recovery Moving Medicine - Post Natal GuideWanting to encourage people to be more active and how women can get back to running and impact activity after having a baby Barriers for entry for women to get back in exercise, sports and movement and how those barriers can increase after having a babyHow to connect with Lis online Final words of advice and wisdom for other new mums Don’t feel guilty Social Media Instagram @the_running_medic Moving Medicine - Post Natal Guide
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    41 m
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