In this episode, I sit down with Callum Laird @callumlaird_ to walk through his journey from growing up in Ayrshire to standing on the start line at Transgrancanaria — with all the breakthroughs, setbacks, and perspective shifts in between.

We talk about how he fell into endurance, the confidence that came from races like the Skye Trail Ultra, and why variety — from ultras to HYROX — keeps him curious.

The turning point is the Goat Fell accident just weeks before Transgrancanaria. Callum opens up about what happened, how serious it became, and how it changed his relationship with risk, resilience, and gratitude.

We finish with what the race meant to him, what he’s learned about himself, and how he balances ambition with self‑preservation.

A powerful conversation about rebuilding, identity, and why we keep showing up.

If you are looking for coaching then get in touch, ether through instagram @davidultrarunner or search for me on Team RunRun

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In this episode, I share an update on my achilles rehab, talk about hitting my first 30‑mile week again, and (drum roll please) announce that I’m officially signed up for the River Ayr Way Ultra — my long‑standing nemesis.

I also break down the biggest lessons from completing my UESCA Ultra-Endurance Sports Nutrition Certification, including:

• How our energy systems actually work during ultra training

• Why gut training matters and how to reduce GI distress

• What nutrition periodization looks like in real life

• Simple ways to keep daily nutrition balanced and blood sugar stable

If you’re training for an ultra or just want to fuel your running better, there’s plenty in here you can take straight into your own training and if you are looking for coaching then get in touch on either instagram @davidultrarunner or on Team RunRun where you can also sign up for coaching and get started straight away

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In this episode of the West Coast Ultra Podcast, I’m picking up right where I left off after my conversation with Llinos — diving deeper into resilience, rebuilding, and what it really means to trust the process when training isn’t linear.

I share an honest update on where I’m at with my own training. On the bike, my FTP has gone up again, which is always a nice confidence boost. I explain what FTP actually is, why it matters, and why it shouldn’t become the thing that defines you. It’s a tool for progress, not a judgement of your worth as an athlete.

Running is also heading in the right direction. My mileage is increasing, the pain is minimal, and I’m starting to feel like a runner again. And yes — the temptation to sign up for a race is getting dangerously high.

I spend time talking about mental resilience: how to stay steady when things aren’t going your way, or when your next big event feels miles away. I explore the balance between discipline and flexibility, and why trusting the process is often harder than any workout.

There’s also a look at what’s happening in the wider world of trail and ultrarunning — from hybrid training trends to the rise of backyard ultras, new tech, and the shift toward more sustainable racing.

I bring in some ideas inspired by the Excellence Actually podcast, especially around consistency, identity, and the psychology of progress. These concepts have been hugely helpful for me and for the athletes I coach.

If you’re enjoying the podcast, please share it, leave a review, or send it to someone who might need a bit of encouragement in their training. And if you’re looking for coaching support — whether you’re coming back from injury, building toward an ultra, or wanting more structure — you can find me on Team RunRun. I’d love to help you build something sustainable and meaningful.

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