Get ready for an episode that dives into the thrilling world of obstacle course racing with Dr. Becky Neal! 

Becky is an elite British obstacle course racer, a dedicated sports science lecturer, and the Head of OCR at British Obstacle Sports. She’s a Guinness World Record holder for completing the world’s highest OCR event on Mount Everest, and she’s competed in over 150 races across 10 countries since she first discovered the sport during her PhD in environmental physiology.

With a background in running and gymnastics, OCR was a natural fit for Becky, but it’s been her grit and resilience that have propelled her to captain the British national team and become a leader in this sport. 

In this episode, she shares her journey—from her early experiences and initial challenges to racing in extreme environments like the deserts of Saudi Arabia and the high altitudes of Nepal. She also offers invaluable tips on tackling difficult obstacles and staying motivated, no matter your skill level.

We’ll explore Becky’s groundbreaking research into wearable technology to monitor athlete health in extreme conditions, and discuss the future of OCR as it takes a spot in the 2028 Olympics as part of the modern pentathlon. 

This is an episode that celebrates the power of perseverance, and you won’t want to miss it. Tune in for some serious inspiration!

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 Becky
• Becky's active childhood involved gymnastics, athletics, cross-country, and camping
• Continuing her passion for sports through university
• Doing cheerleading before discovering obstacle course racing
• The history of Obstacle Course Racing (OCR)
• The Tough Guy races in the UK
• How races like Tough Mudder, and Spartan Race brought mainstream popularity to OCR
• Becky's first OCR experience
• Finding OCR to be both challenging and enjoyable
• Becky's competitive nature and desire to prove herself physically
• Enjoying the camaraderie of OCR teams
• Training centres and British Obstacle Sports
• Fostering a supportive community for women in OCR
• Struggling with strength for heavy carries
• How her background in gymnastics gave her a head start on techniques
• The growth of OCR, especially among women
• The excitement of seeing more teenage girls getting involved in OCR
• Her journey of self-improvement within OCR
• Being motivated by the sport’s evolving challenges and the supportive community
• Physical and psychological types of obstacles
• High obstacles like the cargo net
• Slides and confined spaces that can cause psychological challenges
• Personal anecdotes of fear and mental hurdles among friends
• Overcoming fears and mental blocks
• Participating with someone to ease the process
• Training at centres to practise certain obstacles
• Exposure to obstacles through videos and guides for familiarity
• Balancing physical condition with mental readiness
• Running 4-5 times a week to build endurance for the races
• Bouldering for grip strength, not necessarily for climbing technique
• Use of specialised obstacle centres and coaches, where available
• Becky's home training setup, including a bike ergo, monkey bars, campus board, and kettlebells
• Mount Everest Guinness World Record
• Becky’s long-standing interest in mountains and altitude
• Event titled “World’s Highest OCR,” set in Nepal (November 2022)
• Partnership with wearable device company OxyWear to monitor oxygen levels
• Study on cognitive function, oxygen saturation, and altitude sickness
• Three stages of the event, including the trek to Everest Base Camp
• Challenges like acclimatisation, extreme cold, and high altitude during the race
• Altitude, oxygen scarcity, and impact on the body
• Importance of respecting one's limits and listening to the body
• Observations of other trekkers struggling and determination to continue despite health risks
• Reflections on motivations and risks in high-stakes, challenging environments
• Personal experience of altitude sickness and emotional response
• Understanding individual responses to high-altitude training and sickness
• Current research - using short hypoxia exposures to predict altitude sickness risk
• Approaches in nutrition, training, and adaptation for individual physiology
• Use of wearable technology to monitor vital signs
• Desert Ultra OCR in Saudi Arabia
• Personal approach to training and racing
• Innovation in wearable tech testing
• Future plans and research direction
• Final words of advice

Social Media

Website: British Obstacle Course Racing 

Instagram: @therunnerbeanuk 

Joy Haizelden is an inspiring British wheelchair basketball player who has made significant strides in the world of adaptive sports. Born on December 1, 1998, in China, Joy was abandoned outside an orphanage and later adopted by a loving British couple, Jim and Margaret Haizelden, in 2005. Growing up in Southampton, Hampshire, Joy discovered her love for wheelchair basketball when her father sought ways to keep her active and engaged in sports.

At just 15 years old, Joy made history as the youngest player to represent Great Britain at the 2014 Women’s World Wheelchair Basketball Championship, where the team achieved its best-ever finish. Her dedication and talent quickly set her apart, earning her accolades like the Peter Jackson Young Female Player of the Year and helping Team GB secure numerous medals, including gold at the Women’s U25 Wheelchair Basketball World Championship.

As a classified 2.5 point player, Joy has continued to excel on the international stage, recently competing in the 2024 Paralympics in Paris, all while pursuing her PhD. Her journey is one of resilience, determination, and empowerment, serving as a source of inspiration for aspiring athletes everywhere.

In this episode of the Tough Girl Podcast, listeners will gain insight into Joy’s remarkable journey, discovering how she overcame adversity and used her experiences to fuel her passion for sport and academic excellence. Joy's story is not only about athletic achievement; it’s a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of following one’s dreams. 

Tune in to be inspired by her message of empowerment and to learn how she continues to break barriers in wheelchair basketball and beyond!

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

• Being born in China and growing up in an orphanage
• Being adopted by a British family
• Moving to the UK at age 6
• Learning English within 6 months
• Transitioning to a new language and culture
• Facing challenges in physical education at her school
• Discovering wheelchair basketball with encouragement from her father
• Finding a supportive community
• Her first experience in specialised wheelchair basketball
• Enjoying the physical and social aspects of the sport
• Explaining the rules of wheelchair basketball
• The classifications for disability levels
• The importance of team strategy with point-based player selection
• Starting wheelchair basketball at age 12-13
• Being invited to a senior national team camp at 15
• Youngest player for GB at the 2014 Women's World Wheelchair Basketball Championships in Toronto
• Reflecting on the honour and excitement of representing her country at such a young age
• Beginning to see the possibility of playing at a higher level, aiming for the Rio Paralympics
• Moving to Worcester for a centralised programme with the GB team
• Receiving sponsorship from the National Lottery
• The hectic schedule of training five days a week and managing school
• Joy's experience of the Rio Paralympics
• Recalling her parents attending the games, which was a significant moment for her
• The multi-sport event experience and the impact of being part of such a large event
• Impact of COVID-19 on Tokyo Paralympics
• The increased focus on mental well-being and support from sports psychologists
• Her personal experiences and strategies for managing stress and resilience
• Pursuing a PhD in health, education, and promotion at The University of Alabama
• Balancing her PhD studies with playing basketball
• The challenges of managing both academic and athletic responsibilities
• Team dynamics and roles
• The Tokyo Paralympics atmosphere
• Deciding to move to Alabama for PhD and basketball
• Collegiate wheelchair basketball in the US
• Cultural adjustments and international friendships
• How their PhD programme allows them to balance their academic and athletic pursuits
• The challenges of managing her PhD and being part of the GB team
• The need for careful time management due to frequent GB team events
• The difficulties she faced travelling as a disabled person
• Managing to balance her commitments and participate in international tournaments despite challenges
• Reflecting on their experience at the Paris Games, where they finished 4th
• Feeling disappointed at not winning a medal
• The team's performance as the second-best in women's wheelchair basketball history
• Undecided on the 2028 LA Games, but evaluating performance and team dynamics
• Dealing with disappointment and moving forward
• Final words of advice

Social Media

Instagram: @haizsee 

Frankie is a Women's Endurance Coach and Nutritionist, helping busy women achieve their endurance goals in the most holistic way possible.

From severe mental health struggles in her early twenties, to being hit by a car in 2020, Frankie is now a Norseman Xtreme Triathlon finisher and 4 x Marathon runner.

Founded in 2016, Pretty Strong Coaching was created to support and coach women struggling with their mental wellbeing. Having faced depression, chronic pain, and panic attacks, Frankie understands the struggles of mental health firsthand. After trying therapy, sleeping pills, and anti-depressants, she found healing through movement, nature, and nutrition.

Frankie provides a space where women can reconnect with their bodies, achieve their running and triathlon goals, and embrace a balanced, healthy lifestyle within a supportive community.

Through her coaching, Frankie empowers women to overcome mental barriers, conquer self-doubt, and tackle burnout, helping them become their strongest, healthiest selves.

This episode is a must-listen for those seeking motivation, practical insights into holistic health, and a reminder that with the right support and determination, it's possible to transform adversity into triumph. Tune in and be inspired to embrace your own journey toward strength and wellness!

***

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 Frankie
• Growing up with an active childhood in London
• Doing dance lessons and tennis with her sister
• Going into university in Leeds to study graphic design
• Stopping fitness, focusing on a busy social life
• Experiencing poor mental health at 24
• Signing off work due to stress
• Exploring ways to improve her wellbeing
• Studying happiness and health
• Recovering through moving the body and nourishing it
• Signing up for the London Marathon despite not being a runner
• Taking on the London Marathon after being told she couldn't do it
• Following a book to guide her training
• Meeting friends, seeing family, and enjoying the event
• How running has helped with her mental health
• Believing small victories help manage mental wellbeing
• The importance of consistency, endorphins, and alone time during runs for mental clarity and self-discovery
• Moving to Singapore for work
• Obtaining personal training qualification
• Growth of Frankie's coaching career
• Helping others achieve fitness goals and mental resilience
• Enjoying living in Singapore, having access to pools and sunshine
• Facing the challenge of extreme heat
• Having an air-conditioned indoor gym setup to handle the heat
• Participating in the annual event, The Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon
• Coaching 30 clients through the 2018 Singapore Marathon
• Designing the "Mind Over Marathon" programme to help women with mental health struggles prepare for the race
• Offering a safe space for women dealing with various issues
• Her challenging recovery process after being hit by a car in Singapore
• How cycling and swimming aid her healing
• Regaining her physical strength over a four-year period
• Applying for The Norseman Xtreme Triathlon
• Weighing the challenge of competing in the extreme triathlon in Norway while living in Singapore
• Partnering with Performance Bike Fitter for altitude training equipment
• Working with Trapeze Recovery Centre, providing ice baths, to acclimate to cold temperatures
• Travelling to Australia to train on actual hills
• Training on the Sunshine Coast with her support team and triathlete friends
• Growing anxiety and self-doubt as race day approaches
• The importance of her support crew to her success
• Finding peace and determination, pushing forward despite fears
• Driving the Norseman route backwards to familiarise themselves with the course
• Observing other experienced athletes, feeling a mix of intimidation and inspiration
• What was her race day morning like
• Swimming conservatively, following the coastline
• Swelling and loss of dexterity due to cold
• Transition from swim to bike (T1)
• Frankie's climbing challenges
• Facing a gruelling 35-kilometre climb with steep gradients
• Mental and physical strain on the bike
• Alone, battling wind, hail, and fatigue
• Pushing through some of the darkest moments of her race
• Transition from bike to run (T2)
• From flat to "Zombie Hill"
• Being joined by her support crew on the hill for safety
• Continuing to walk despite torrential thunderstorms
• Nutrition and hydration on the run
• Final words of advice

Social Media

Website: www.prettystrongcoaching.com 

Instagram: @prettystrongcoaching 

Facebook: @prettystrongcoaching 

Jane Kanizay is an adventurer, educator, activist, speaker, artist and mother of four who on 14 May 2022 successfully climbed Mt. Everest with her 19-year-old daughter. Jane enjoys sharing the highs and lows of her Everest experience and the journey of resilience required to take on such an immense challenge as a survivor.

Jane climbed with the message of @teachusconsent to campaign for holistic consent education in school education curriculum and to advocate for the prevention of violence against women.

To have a message to take to the summit provided additional strength on the days Jane had reached her physical or emotional limits.

High altitude mountaineering is one of the deadliest sports in the world. Jane successfully summited mountains above 6000m plus an 8000m summit of Cho Oyu, Tibet, to prepare her for the extreme environment of Everest, considered to be in the ‘death zone’ above 8000m where oxygen content is only 34% compared with sea level.

Listening to Jane on the Tough Girl Podcast offers a rare insight into the mental and physical fortitude it takes to summit Everest, but also the deeper purpose behind her journey. 

Through her incredible story, Jane not only inspires adventurers but also advocates for change, sharing how carrying a message of consent and empowerment gave her the strength to push through her limits. 

Her story will resonate with anyone looking to overcome challenges, build resilience, and find purpose in their own lives.

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 Jane
• Mother of four, living with one child
• Mountain climbing with her eldest daughter, Gabby
• Being motivated by Gabby's dream to climb
• Completing several trips to the Himalayas
• Reaching Everest's summit together on 14 May 2022
• Becoming the second mother-daughter pair to summit Everest
• Growing up in an athletic family
• Having siblings achieving high levels in sports
• Discussing her childhood experiences with athletics
• Her belief in ordinary people achieving extraordinary things
• The importance of family support in sports and life
• Starting running marathons at 33 after having four children
• Transitioning from marathon running to trekking and climbing in her late 40s
• Remembering her 40s as an empowering period, winning races in her age group
• When Gabby's interest in climbing started
• The mother-daughter duo's plans evolved into larger climbing goals over time
• Gabby reflecting on her experience, appreciating the timing of climbing at age 19
• Climbing experience which fostered a unique friendship
• They relate differently outside of typical family roles
• Maintaining their bond while balancing parenting responsibilities
• Initially planned to finance their climbs through a mortgage and potential scholarships
• Selling their house and funding the majority of the trip
• Adapting to unexpected financial changes
• Gabby's focus on balancing her love for climbing while pursuing an income in the industry
• Jane's reflections on the dynamics among her children regarding climbing adventures
• How she has navigated potential feelings of jealousy among her children
• Sharing her experience of climbing Everest with Gabby
• The dynamic of being both mother and climbing partner
• How they communicated effectively at base camp
• Gabby often acted as a mentor, helping Jane to regain confidence during tough moments
• A pivotal moment at Camp Four where she doubted her strength to continue
• Getting encouraged by Gabby to persevere
• Reflecting on precious time spent with her children
• Prioritising family over personal ambitions
• Societal concerns about young climbers tackling high peaks
• Jane's internal struggles regarding the ethics of taking Gabby on such a dangerous expedition
• Engaging with other young adventurers and parents
• The meticulous preparation and strategy leading up to their summit attempt
• The challenging conditions they encountered
• The summit push filled with historical significance and personal reflections
• Jane leading the ascent, following in the footsteps of climbing legends
• A heartwarming moment for Jane spotting Gabby approaching the summit
• The "Teach Us Consent" campaign
• Jane's desire for her sons to be good allies and her daughters to be safe
• The pyramid of abuse
• Advocating for calling out disrespectful behaviour
• Creating a safer environment for women
• Experiencing vision problems while descending
• Hallucinating due to altitude sickness
• Dealing with laryngitis and media attention after her climb
• Building a supportive network among women
• Final words of wisdom

Social Media

Website: janekanizay.com 

Instagram: @jane_kaniz 

After 20 years in a relationship that limited and stifled her, former advertising professional, turned fitness pioneer and award-winning entrepreneur, Vicki Anstey became (age 41) one of the first ever women to participate in Channel 4’s ‘SAS Who Dares Wins’, reaching the final stages after 11 days in extreme conditions at an altitude of 3,000ft in Chile.

In 2021, she and 2 other women, the Girls Who Dare, set a new World Record for rowing unaided across the Pacific Ocean, confronting her fear of deep, open water to do so. It took 60 days, 17 hours and 6 minutes.

Her latest endeavour (a second Guinness World Record) was to cycle 3,000 miles in the ‘World’s Toughest Bike Race’ as a team of four women from West to East coast America in just 6 days 19 hours and 38 minutes.

Vicki has also completed ultra distance runs (covering 250kms and carrying everything she needed to survive) in some of the World’s most extreme environments – crossing the Arctic in temperatures of -35 degrees and the Savannnahs of Kenya in blistering 50 degree heat.

***

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 Vicki
• Vicki’s diverse career journey
• Emphasising her unique life experiences
• Overcoming a coercive relationship
• Leaving her long-term marriage
• Encouraged by friends, she applied for SAS: Who Dares Wins
• The beginning of her journey into adventure and self-discovery
• Reflecting on the rigorous training during SAS: Who Dares Wins
• Building self-belief and resilience
• The experiences that revealed her capabilities
• The importance of mental strength in overcoming obstacles
• Rowing across the Pacific
• Facing her fear of deep, open water by undertaking a rowing challenge
• Her preparation for the task to confront her anxieties
• Finding strength in vulnerability
• Embracing fears and seeing the opportunities that lie beyond them
• Developing resilience, managing self-doubt, and embracing challenges
• Emphasising reflection and learning from past experiences
• Transition from solo to team challenges
• How her experiences with solo challenges influenced her approach to teamwork
• The importance of clear communication and setting boundaries
• Being initially intimidated by her rowing teammates
• Learning to embrace tough conversations
• Unravelling tensions in team dynamics
• Vicki’s concept of “free speed”
• Understanding each team member's emotional responses under stress
• Advocating empathy and support in navigating team dynamics
• Training for Race Across America
• Her transition into cycling
• A rigorous training regime of up to 25 hours per week
• Having a supportive coaching network to enhance her skills
• Vicki’s memorable moments from RAAM
• The importance of supporting one another during challenging phases
• Production of a documentary covering her rowing and RAAM experiences

Social Media

Website: vickianstey.co.uk 

Instagram: @vickianstey 

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 Charlotte
• Her outdoor adventure journey which started with Girl Scouts
• Selling Girl Scout cookies to fund camping trips
• Discusses her academic background in maths and science and her career in research administration
• Her experiences as a teenage single mother of three, which led to a sedentary lifestyle
• Moving to Arizona and falling in love with trail running and ultra marathons
• Reassessing her lifestyle due to high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and clinical depression
• Prioritising health and fitness, despite feeling overwhelmed as a single mother
• First experiences at the gym
• Being scared and unsure but determined to make a change
• Beginning to see improvements in her stamina and speed, which bolstered her confidence
• Completing her first 50-mile ultra marathon
• Improving her physical health and also restoring her desire to live
• Her transformative journey from depression to feeling alive
• Initially being sceptical about ultramarathons
• Completing a self-supported hundred-miler
• Looking forward to participating in longer races, including a 250-mile event in Phoenix and a 500-mile race in Tennessee
• The addictive nature of long-distance running
• Challenges in finding gear
• Going to thrift stores and DIY solutions using a library sewing machine
• Limited options for bigger bodies in the athletic clothing market
• The birth of the business, Conscious Gear
• Facing disruptions in ultrarunning due to the pandemic
• Creating hydration vests motivated by a lack of representation and options
• Being nominated as one of the top 10 outdoor products in 2023
• Increasing engagement from women, particularly Black women
• Addressing inclusivity in athletic wear
• Running community and personal preferences
• Running philosophy and training
• The importance of starting with what you can manage
• Helping the body adapt and grow stronger over time
• Respect the body's limits and trust the process of improvement
• A powerful moment while trail running in Michigan
• Her deep spiritual connection to running in nature
• The spiritual aspect of running and its connection to her identity
• Societal expectations that often lead to feelings of needing to do everything alone
• Her 50-mile race experience
• Physical exhaustion but remains motivated by her progress
• Experiencing an emotional breakthrough at the 48-mile mark
• Expressing gratitude for being alive and capable of such an achievement
• How her experience of running 50 miles instills a sense of resilience and determination
• Focusing on one mile at a time instead of the overall distance
• The challenges of balancing running with personal and professional commitments
• Acknowledging the necessity of hiring help for her business to prioritise her running
• Following a "me first" schedule, focusing on her well-being
• The peace and joy running brings her
• Letting go of less important commitments
• The importance of self-prioritisation especially for women
• Final words of wisdom

Social Media

About Conscious Gear - “It's simple we believe that bigger bodies deserve to be the center of design and not an afterthought. We consciously design outdoor gear and apparel for bigger-bodied endurance athletes and outdoor enthusiasts so they can live a healthier lifestyle and achieve maximum athletic performance.”

Website: conscious-gear.com 

Instagram: @ConsciousGear1

Tiktok: @consciousgear 

Facebook: @ConsciousGearStore 

X/Twitter: @ConsciousGear 

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 Tiffany
• Background as a motorbike traveller
• Experience riding around the world
• Joy of solitude in desert travel
• Dangerous motorbike experiences in Vietnam
• Mental health benefits of motorbiking
• Sense of freedom and independence in motorbike travel
• Tiffany's journey to becoming a motorbike rider
• Having no initial experience with motorbikes
• Challenges of maintaining the bike and learning basic maintenance
• Mechanical failures upon entering Asia
• Time spent in a workshop learning about oil, filters, and maintenance tasks
• Reliance on strangers for assistance and fixing the bike
• Importance of feeling confident and self-reliant
• Self-defence knowledge and preparedness
• Carrying safety tools while camping
• Riding through the Gobi Desert in Mongolia
• Adjusting travel plans based on weather conditions
• Hectic journey through Siberia to reach the Pacific Ocean
• Enjoying the journey and making the most of each day
• Singing to herself and listening to music or podcasts
• Living frugally to fund her travels
• Not owning a car, saving money for travel
• Guiding groups through exotic countries, ensuring their safety and happiness
• Upcoming trip to Guyana, Suriname, and French Guiana
• Importance of exploring lesser-known places
• Camping experience at the Bonneville Salt Flats
• Challenges faced and the beauty of solitude in nature
• Experiences with altitude sickness and acclimatisation
• Natural sadness post-adventure
• Travel fatigue during long journeys
• Keeping journals and writing for publications
• Potential future projects, including writing a book
• Leading an all-female motorbike tour in Nepal
• Breaking stereotypes in motorcycling
• Sense of sisterhood among female motorcyclists
• Unique experiences of hospitality while travelling solo
• Shipping bikes by sea versus flying
• International Vehicle Shipping, Moto Freight
• The process of obtaining an international driving permit (IDP) and its importance
• Maps and compasses over GPS
• GPS inaccuracies in desert navigation
• Limitations of relying solely on technology
• Thoughts 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

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 Candida
• Started riding motorcycles 16 years ago
• Initial career in finance before transitioning to travel and motorcycle riding
• First motorcycle ride with her dad
• Family support in pursuing her passion
• Societal judgments and lack of support from some community members
• Initial desire to travel but disbelief in achieving financial stability through it
• Shift in perspective from chasing money to following passion
• Experience working at a strict IT company and the impact on her mental health
• Receiving a call from a TV show inviting her to ride around India
• Overcoming obstacles with her manager to pursue the opportunity
• Unexpected cancellation of the show and decision to continue the journey solo
• Reflection on the adventure and challenges faced during the trip
• Creation of a Facebook page to update family and friends during travels
• Growth of the page to 10,000 followers during the seven-month trip
• Transition to Instagram and the rise to 246,000 followers over ten years
• Opportunities from brand collaborations that provide financial support
• Investment in real estate (building an Airbnb) to generate consistent income
• Leading motorcycle tours and the establishment of a tour business
• The emotional struggle of leaving a stable job for an uncertain path
• Experience of living with very little money initially
• Importance of perseverance and believing in oneself despite challenges
• Societal perceptions of women travelling alone in India
• Media interviews focused on negative aspects rather than positive experiences
• Gaining confidence through positive encounters and supportive individuals
• Delivering laptops and teaching children in Cambodia
• Desire to combine travel with making a positive impact on communities
• Upcoming plans for the next six months
• Increase in female motorcycle riders over the past decade
• Candida’s initiative to train 100 women monthly to ride motorcycles
• Riding through 42 countries on a motorcycle
• Personal challenges and medical issues (e.g., dislocated knee)
• Information on Candida’s motorcycles
• Naming her motorcycles: "Sky" (Bajaj) and "Scarlet" (Triumph)
• Spending eight months on an incredible journey, crossing multiple countries from India to Australia
• Candida's desired future destinations
• Camping vs. hotels
• Safety considerations for camping in India
• Preference for hostels and Airbnbs in rainy conditions
• Experience with motorcycle breakdowns and learning repairs through necessity
• Cleaning motorcycle for Australian quarantine regulations
• Carrying essential tools and supplies
• Experiences that challenged her confidence
• Safety measures with modern motorcycle gear
• Overcoming fear and getting back on the bike
• Social Media Presence
• Final words of wisdom
• Encouragement to pursue passions despite challenges
• Importance of taking the first step

Social Media

Website: candidalouis.com
Instagram: @candidalouis
Facebook: www.facebook.com/candida.louis1

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 years
• A new introduction for now
• Being based in the Scottish Highlands
• Not running anymore and what happened
• Chatting with Mimi Anderson 
• No longer clinging onto the identity of being a runner
• Self worth in relation to challenges and big runs
• Using writing as a tool to help process
• Her dream of wanting to run the Pennine Way
• Getting a book deal and starting to write stories of runners
• Going through a period of chronic illness
• Wanting to share her story and get it out of her head
• 500 words a day
• Relief and fear of finishing the book
• Grief and loss
• Handing over control 
• Recovering from chronic illness
• Resilience 
• Starting the Resilience Rising Podcasts
• Why messiness is part of resilience. 
• Taking the time to process and accept what’s happened
• Not signing up for the suffering 
• Having a good time while running
• Why low points in a race are not comparable to real life challenges
• External validation
• What bring joy and happiness today
• Teaching yoga and growing fruit and veg
• Making changes in her life and doing a pivot
• Getting ok with uncertainty and change
• Choosing the uncertainty and being open to what comes up
• Advice 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 replacements
• Looking for her limit and finding out what she can do
• Start where you are
• Plans for 2025 - goal setting or going with the flow
• Practicing yoga for 15+ years
• Being a qualified Yin Yoga teacher
• Yoga Nidra and permission to rest
• Pushing back again busyness and perfection 
• Relax and do more yoga 
• Stop trying to be productive
• What needs to be let go off
• Being in the moment
• Keep 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.

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 Risa
• Based in Colorado, USA
• Working as a gestalt practitioner, speaker, author and patient advocate
• Her passion for learning
• ‘CANI’ - Constant And Never-ending Improvement 
• The connection with Tony Robbins 
• Growing up in Cleveland Ohio and her early years
• Taking herself on adventures 
• Being inspired by her dad and a buffalo head nickel
• How the meaning of adventure has changed over the years
• Why adventure means - learning and experiencing something new 
• Setting out a timeline
• 2011 - 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 off
• Plus dealing with severe headaches and lack of sleep
• Pushing for an MRI of her brain
• Being 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 life
• Waiting 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 body
• Radiation or medication?
• Feeling very lonely even while being supported
• Battling orthorexia in her 20s
• Not being able to exercise and spend time in the outdoors
• Deciding to ride her bicycle down the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH)
• Looking back on her adventurous life and remembering what it felt like
• Starting to paint and how it became an outlet 
• Instead of focusing on what she couldn’t do - focusing on what she could do
• What can I do now?
• Small steps, one thing at a time.
• Stopping judging herself and blocking out the noise from other people
• Getting back to the CrossFit gym
• Acceptance around her identity and how it’s changed
• Signing up for a semi supported tour on the PCH
• SAG - Support And Gear
• Book: 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 you
• Being open to what’s possible
• To be open to letting go of limiting beliefs 
• Why it was a massive learning experience 
• Being present and spending time in the moment
• Naming her brain tumour and the reason behind it
• Being kind to her body
• Louise Hay Book: Heal Your Body: The Mental Causes for Physical Illness and the Metaphysical Way to Overcome Them. 
• Adding humour to her situation and how it can change perspective - especially during dark moments
• Her prognosis and being on medication to control the tumour 
• Dealing with the uncertainty of her future 
• Making big changes in her life
• Divorcing after an 18 year marriage
• Letting go of people and things in her life, that no longer felt in alignment
• Creating a list of all the things she wanted to do, or try
• Stepping more into who she wants to be
• Being unpolished, unapologetic and unleashed 
• Getting up, getting back in the saddle and doing it. 
• Taking it each day at a time
• Choosing to cycle the Camino de Santiago in Spain
• The realities of the camino and why it wasn’t like she imagined
• Why it was a spiritual journey 
• Challenges on the journey and wanting to quit
• What do I need to do, to make this work
• Finding moment of joy even through she physically struggled 
• Wanting to be alive 
• Being realistic about adventures and challenges
• Handing the frustrations and challenges 
• The next adventure…. And having multiple options
• Recovery after the camino
• How to connect with Risa
• Final words of advice and wisdom for other women who are going through a tough time
• Ask yourself ‘what CAN (Capable - Able - Now) I do’

Social Media

Website: www.risaaugust.com

Instagram: @risaunleashed

Facebook: @risaunleashed

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/risaaugust

Substack: @risaunleashed

Book: The Road Unpaved: Border to Border with a Brain Tumor and a Bike.

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 family
• Managing an all consuming mental illness 
• Having to leave university and move back home
• Bi-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 Coast
• Feeling a sadness and frustration and not knowing if she would be ok
• The 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 it
• Why it was such an important leaning stage
• Being taken seriously and starting to take herself seriously as well
• Managing her bi-polar disorder while on the walk
• Why medication is an important part of her health care routine
• Having a bad day and what that can look like
• Wanting 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 mins
• Putting small rocks in her shoes…. A physical way of reframing the situation
• Creating a pocket of pleasure in her day
• Being alone while on the walk
• Making a decision by yourself 
• Reflecting back on previous situations
• Paying for the challenge
• The kindness of strangers
• Reflecting 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 walk
• Why you are not alone if you are suffering from mental health
• Letting people know that there is support available and that there is no shame in asking for help
• Breaking things down and taking it one step at a time
• How to connect with Bailey online and find out more about her journey 
• Final words of advice
• Why everything will pass
• Nothing in this life is permanent 

Social Media

Website: wandering-minds.org 

Instagram: @wandering_minds_walk 

Facebook: @wanderingmindswalk 

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 Gordon
• Group Leader for  Tuesday Trails IG @tuesdaytrails 
• Being sports and playing netball from a young age
• Getting into running via the cross-country club at university 
• How running became apart of her life
• Never regretting a run
• The difference between cross-country and trail running
• Mountain guide, outdoor educator and sports scientist
• Studying sports science at university. 
• Specialising in strength and conditioning for running and netball players
• The outdoor education hub
• Working a full time job in retail
• Getting qualified as a mountain guide
• Why the marathon distance is the sweet spot. 42km
• The Cape Town Skyrace - The Sky Running Series 
• Training for technical trails
• Bullet proof ankles
• Working with a strength and conditioning coach and a run coach
• Running mojo
• Calling a friend to schedule a run together
• Running the Ultra Trail Drakensberg (UTD) 65km
• Ultra Trail Cape Town 55k (UTCT) 
• The challenges of running further 
• Figuring out nutrition and fuelling for the longer runs
• Fitting in training around life 
• Recovery?
• Trying not to take running too seriously 
• Race strategy and wanting to get a better time than last year
• Future dreams and races
• Batrun Race
• Running thoughts - thinking about everything and nothing
• Being at war with herself during a tough race 
• Inclusion in trail running
• Outdoor Education Hub (on hiatus for the rest of 2024) but coming back in 2025
• How you can connect with Shaf
• Final words of advice 
• Don’t listen to the demons
• Why 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

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 Amanda
• Living in South Wales with her husband and two teenage children
• Originally growing up in Devon
• Studying Law at Cardiff University 
• Living in Wales for over 30 years
• Meeting 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 competitive
• Making walking plans for retirement
• Getting 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 happened
• Spending 9 months in hospital 
• Having to learn everything again
• How it changed her life 
• What’s happened since
• Deciding to complete the Wales Coast Path (WCP) by trike, wheelchair and occasionally a few steps 
• Being able to walk a few steps with crutches
• Why can’t I do this now
• Accepting 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 Path
• Research 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 people
• Completing approx 500 miles needing to do the North Wales Sections
• Raising funds for charity 
• Getting back into cycling and being gifted a recumbent bike 
• Being involved in different cycling challenges
• Winning a competition with - Spinal Injuries Association 
• Heading out to Portugal in May 2024 to ride 200 miles over 3 days!
• Having moments of doubt
• Not going into the dark place
• Focusing 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 husband
• How to connect with Amanda on line 
• Final words of advice for women who are going through a challenging time
• Not wanting to preach to people 
• Try and stay positive 
• Setting tiny, tiny goals in a notebook and how this helped during rehab
• Find out what works for you and focus on that 

Social Media

Instagram: @amandah_trike 

Instagram: @amandascoastalchallenge 

In this episode of the Tough Girl Podcast, we speak with Dena Lewis, a dedicated runner and advocate for women's safety based in Florida, USA. Dena shares her 20-year journey in running, which began as a way to manage stress after college and evolved into a lifelong passion. 

Dena's dedication to running is evident in her meticulous planning and commitment, including her morning routine of fasted runs, coffee, and early starts. Where she runs between 10 and 12 miles per day, 6 days a week.

Safety has been a significant concern for Dena, who often runs in the early hours of the morning. She has faced harassment and assault while running, leading her to create Running Mate—an innovative app designed to pair runners with companions for safer runs. Launching in April 2024, Running Mate aims to make running safer for women across the U.S., with plans to expand globally.

Dena’s experience with violence has driven her to become an advocate for women's safety, culminating in the creation of the Female Runner Safety Summit. Through her advocacy, Dena hopes to bring awareness to the dangers women face and foster a safer environment for her daughters and all women.

Join us as Dena shares her story of resilience, empowerment, and her mission to make the world a safer place for female runners. Learn about her journey, the creation of Running Mate, and her advice for women looking to start their running journey.

• This episode has been marked as explicit. Please be aware that the topic of assault comes up during this conversation; while we don't discuss it in detail, some listeners may find it triggering.

***

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

• Being based in Florida, USA 
• Being a runner for over 20 years
• Married to her best friend and having 2 older daughter 
• Looking for ways to deal with her stress and picking up running after college 
• Getting into cycling after running
• How her fitness journey has progressed over the years
• Running for health, fitness and wellbeing 
• Learning what works for her with regards to running
• Not being able to fit in run clubs 
• Running all distances from 5k to ultra marathons
• Running between 10 to 12 miles per day, 6 days per week
• Her favourite distance being a half marathon
• Wear and tear, trainers, recovery, fuelling… 
• Why 10/12 miles per day!
• Living with a certain level of pain at all times
• Being a consistent runner
• Not liking to run on a treadmill and preferring to run outside
• The morning routine
• Being a fasted runner and drinking coffee
• Leaving at 5am and being gone for approx 2 hours
• Planning her day around her run 
• Getting her blood checked on a regular basis
• Ending up in the ER with chest pains
• Seeing a heart doctor once a year to have a check up
• Running in the early morning and experiences fear
• Am I safe - what’s around me
• Being harassed while running on a regular basis and being assaulted twice
• Creating Running Mate —an on demand running app (think of Uber for runners) 
• How running mate works
• Having no experience in tech, finding a developer and starting to work on the project in April 2021
• Launching in April 2024 in 3 very specific cities in the US
• Beta testing since January 2024
• Running with other people
• Female runner safety summit 
• The running mates get paid 
• Bringing awareness to the violence against women
• Wanting to make it a safer world for her daughter
• Brining companies together which has a mission to improve women’s safety
• Wanting to expand the app world wide within a year
• Following and support running mate online
• Final words of advice for other women who want to get out there and get running
• Talk to someone and get help if you need support
• Only talking about the first assault recently
• Choosing not to report it 
• Having the perpetrator show up on her door step
• Stopping running
• Living in fear and how it impacted her day to day life with her family
• Moving away from the area and starting to feel safe again
• Sharing her story to let other women know that they are not alone
• Being in denial for a while
• Working through PTSD, the trauma, the event and start seeing the other side 
• Not becoming an advocate straight away
• Taking time to focus on herself and her family 
• Connecting with other women who had been through a similar thing
• Getting back to running again and feeling a sense of empowerment
• Getting angry when it happened a second time 
• Why we need advocacy and change

Social Media

Website: www.getrunningmate.com  

Instagram: @getrunningmate 

Facebook: @getrunningmate 

Join Beth Rodden, one of the most best female rock climbers of all  time and a prominent figure in the outdoor community, as she delves into her remarkable journey on the Tough Girl Podcast. 

Having started climbing at the age of 14, Beth quickly rose through the ranks, propelled by her passion and determination. From her awe-inspiring free climbs on El Capitan to her harrowing experience in Kyrgyzstan's Kara Su Valley, Beth shares the highs and lows of her climbing career with candid honesty. 

Tune in as she discusses her book, "A Light through the Cracks: A Climber's Story," and offers invaluable insights and advice for aspiring climbers. 

Discover the resilience, courage, and unwavering spirit that have defined Beth's climbing legacy and continue to inspire climbers worldwide.

Join us on this episode of the Tough Girl Podcast as we delve into the extraordinary life of Gina Atkinson, a former Royal Signals engineer with a remarkable story of service and resilience. Gina's military career took her to 30 Signal Regiment, where she visited  35 countries during her first five years of service.

Following a deeply personal loss in 2019, Gina embarked on a mission to honour her brother's memory by running/cycling 100 miles a week for a year, raising £10,000 for a local cancer charity and establishing an Art Foundation in his name. Her dedication did not stop there; Gina continued to raise over £250,000 for veterans' charities through a series of inspiring challenges and initiatives, including ultra races and solo adventures across Scotland.

In this episode, Gina shares her journey of coping with grief through fitness and adventure, her experiences in the military, and her passion for supporting veterans and cancer patients alike. From riding across Death Valley to planning her next challenge of running from London to France in 2024, Gina's story is one of resilience, determination, and the power of adventure to heal and inspire.

Learn how Gina's adventures and fundraising efforts have made a significant impact, and gain insights into her motivations, challenges, and the importance of mental health advocacy in her journey. 

Join us as we explore Gina Atkinson's inspiring story on the Tough Girl Podcast.

***

Don't miss out on the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, released every Tuesday at 7am UK time! Be sure to hit the subscribe button to stay updated on the incredible journeys and stories of strong women.

 By supporting the Tough Girl Podcast on Patreon, you can make a difference in increasing the representation of female role models in the media, particularly in the world of adventure and physical challenges. Your contribution helps empower and inspire others. Visit www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast to be a part of this important movement. 

Thank you for your invaluable support!

***

Show notes

• Who is Gina
• Being based on the Wirral, UK
• Being a fundraiser for Veterans Charities 
• Combining her fundraising with crazy adventures 
• Growing up on the Wirral and why it’s an amazing location
• Her early years spending time hillwalking in Wales
• Joining the army cadets at 13
• Deciding to join the army as an electronica engineer in the Royal Signals 
• Being posted to 30 Signal Regiment nicknamed the ‘globe trotters’ 
• Visiting 35 countries in the first 5 years 
• Military memories from peace keeping missions
• Volunteering at the orphanage in Bosnia 
• Making the decision to leave the army
• Wanting to make a second career and experience something different 
• Starting fundraising for veterans charities almost straight away
• Riding across Death Valley in America 
• Getting involved in ultra races and going to see places at the same time
• The Wall Ultra Race across Hadrian’s Wall 
• Dealing with covid and losing her brother at age 52 to stage 4 bowl cancer
• Coming up with the idea of doing 100 miles a week for 52 weeks - 5,200 miles in memory of her brother. 
• Dealing with grief and needing a distraction
• Coping with stress and trauma by fitness and adventure in nature
• Not knowing the next steps
• Getting post adventures blues at the end of the challenge/adventure
• Backdoor adventures
• Raising funds for ssafa the Armed Forces charity  
• Meeting veterans and sharing stories and memories
• Being an advocate for mental health 
• Raising over £250K for veterans charities and winning multiple awards
• 300 mile solo adventure across Scotland (3 bucket list challenges in one) walking the West highland Way, paddling the Great Glen, and then walking back on the Great Glen Way to Fort William
• Getting injured and needing to return in 2024 
• Not taking a dip in lock ness
• The planning behind the challenge ideas
• Taking it from the idea to getting to the start line 
• Sticking to the plan 
• Using YouTube as a resource 
• Testing your kit and making sure your food is nutritious and tastes good
• Keeping positive while on adventures 
• Motivation and discipline why you need both
• Quote by D.H. Lawrence, “I never saw a wild thing sorry for itself. A small bird will drop frozen dead from a bough without ever having felt sorry for itself.” 
• Going back to your WHY
• Motivation from the GI Jane movie and Legally Blonde
• Being inspired by the Queen 
• The next challenge in 2024 - running to France from London!
• Maintaining fitness levels while not on adventures 
• How to connect with Gina on social media 
• Final words of advice for other women who want to do more adventures 
• Starting on your own fitness journey 
• Why consistency is the key for training for endurance events
• Try and enjoy it and remember why you are doing it

Social Media

Instagram: @goliveit.onelife

Facebook: @GinaGinelli

Military Memories is an anthology of poems from the force’s community.Profits go to Military Charities SSAFA & Sporting Force.

Instagram @Militarymemories2021

Twitter @militarymemos

Book: Military Memories: Military Memories is a anthology of poems written by the forces community. The poems illustrate the journey taken by those who join ... families’ lives and also the trauma we face.

Kasia wears many hats: a Mountain Leader, Rock-Climbing Instructor, and an aspiring alpinist. But above all, she's a lover of adventure. Her story began in 2008 when she left Poland in search of a better life. Little did she know, this journey would lead her to incredible heights—both literally and metaphorically.

Life in a new country wasn't easy. Kasia had to work hard, raise a child alone, and worry about making ends meet. But through it all, her passion for the mountains burned bright.

Despite the demands of her daily life, Kasia couldn't ignore the call of the wild. So, she took a leap of faith. She left behind the security of her job to pursue her love for climbing full-time.

Her greatest adventures awaited in the Himalayas, where she tackled peaks that few had ever dared to climb. But for Kasia, the thrill of exploration doesn't end there. Her dream is to keep discovering new corners of the world, to seek out untouched landscapes and experience the beauty of the unknown.

***

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 Kasia
• Moving to the UK in 2008 at 20 years old
• Not being outdoorsy while growing up in Poland
• The challenges of first moving to the UK
• Learning the language and the culture 
• The challenge of finding her first job 
• Getting a job in a chicken factory for 2 years
• Not having the energy to spend time outdoors 
• Work - home - work - home
• Becoming a mother in September 2009 
• Wanting to do more with her life
• Applying for new jobs every 2 years
• Doing qualifications 
• Going through a divorce and why it was so chaotic for a few years
• Getting her driving licence at 26 years old
• Starting to explore the surrounding mountains in Herefordshire 
• Being invited to a local climbing centre
• Starting with bouldering 
• Spending time outdoors with her young daughter
• Getting new gear and finding an outdoor instructor to learn more skills in the outdoors
• Sharing her dreams of becoming a member of mountain rescue 
• Speaking with a mountaineering instructor and receiving advice about how to start
• How to get registered with Mountain Training 
• Providing evidence of her experience in the mountains and building her portfolio 
• QMDs - Quality Mountain Days 
• Doing her ML Training in 2020
• Passing her Rock Climbing Instructor in 2021 
• Giving herself between a year and 18 months
• Getting qualified and the next steps
• Being supported by her partner 
• Wanting to gain experience with Raleigh International in a volunteer position 
• Having no job and no experience as a mountain leader
• Going through a very stressful time, not knowing what was next 
• Using FB groups to get work 
• Working with the British Army
• Gaining confidence and new skills working as an outdoor instructor 
• Managing stress and uncertainty
• Going with the flow and why the journey is so important
• Not wanting to feed the negative thoughts, or overthink things
• Wanting to share her passion for the outdoors
• Inspiring other to follow their outdoor dreams
• Dealing with Imposter syndrome while working in the outdoors
• Working towards her Mountaineering and Climbing Instructor 
• Having her assessment booked for May 2025
• The preparation for her assessment and getting in enough rock climbing experience 
• The sacrifices that need to be made
• The struggle of finding people to climb with
• Enjoying the process and meeting so many like minded people who have similar interests and passions
• How her love for the mountains has grown
• Starting to climb in the Alps
• Spending time in the Himalayas in India 
• Joining the Alpine Club 
• Learning new skills 
• Wanting to climb higher and go on expeditions 
• Womens Trad Festival 
• Reflecting back on the progress she’s made over the past 3 years
• How to connect with Kasia on Instagram
• Future goals
• Final words of advice for other women who want to make a career change
• Ignore the negative opinions of the people around you 
• Keep working hard if you want to achieve your goals. 

Social Media

Instagram: @mtns_and_me 

Join us on this episode of the Tough Girl Podcast as we welcome Caroline Paul, an inspiring author and adventurer. 

Caroline's new book, TOUGH BROAD: From Boogie Boarding to Wing Walking―How Outdoor Adventure Improves Our Lives as We Age, explores the transformative power of outdoor adventures for aging gracefully. She is also the author of the New York Times bestseller The Gutsy Girl: Escapades for Your Life of Epic Adventure and Lost Cat: A True Story of Love, Desperation, and GPS Technology, which has been translated into fifteen languages.

Caroline's TED Talk, “To Raise Brave Girls, Encourage Adventure,” has captivated over 2 million viewers. With a rich history of adventure and storytelling, Caroline is a longtime member of the Writers Grotto in San Francisco, where she has lived for over 40 years.

In this episode, Caroline shares her journey from growing up with an identical twin and a younger brother in the 60s and 70s to becoming a firefighter at the age of 26, one of the first women to do so. Her passion for bravery and adventure is evident as she discusses the importance of encouraging young girls to embrace adventure, leading with bravery, and pushing boundaries.

Caroline also dives into the unique challenges and joys of aging, discussing her research into fulfilling aging, the importance of community, purpose, and a positive mindset. She shares stories of inspiring older women, like her mother who went skydiving at 62, and her own experiences of surfing, bird watching, and scuba diving with an 80-year-old.

Tune in to hear Caroline's insights on aging, bravery, and the transformative power of the outdoors. Discover why she believes the biggest adventure of all is aging and how we can all continue to expand our comfort zones and embrace new experiences at any age.

***

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 Caroline Paul?
• Publishing her 7th Book
• New Book:  TOUGH BROAD: From Boogie Boarding to Wing Walking―How Outdoor Adventure Improves Our Lives as We Age
• Living in San Fransisco, California for over 40 years
• Growing up in the 60s/70s with an identical twin and a younger brother
• Valuing adventure from a young age
• Being encouraged to become a well-rounded individual by her parents
• Being inspired by the National Geographic Magazine 
• Not seeing many women doing adventures 
• Deciding to become a journalist
• Going to Stanford University to study Communication, with the idea of becoming a documentary filmmaker 
• Becoming a fire fighter at age 26 in 1989 (the 15th woman out of 1,500 men) and being paid to have adventures
• Starting to become interested in bravery 
• Ted Talk: To Raise Brave Girls and to Encourage Adventure   
• Advice for parents 
• Women are coming from a place of fear where as men come from a place of bravery
• Leading with bravery and how it can open up your life
• Why do women lead with fear?
• Wanting to protect girls and to do that fear is instilled in girls from a young age
• The importance of risk assessment, hazard assessment, pushing boundaries, learning about your own decision making process 
• Why teaching girls to be afraid can be harmful. 
• Raising boys and girls differently - the subtle differences 
• Book: The Gutsy Girl 
• 55 years young and surfing in a winter swell and starting to wonder where all the women are
• What is the messaging that older women are getting that is stopping them from going outside
• Feeling invisible and culturally irrelevant and how it can cause women to narrow their lives and to not embrace things
• Doing research into fulfilling aging 
• “The way we look at our own aging predicts how well we age”
• Having her mum as a positive role model while she was going through her aging journey 
• Being interested in who she would be when she got older
• Her mum deciding to go skydiving at 62 and how it changed her life 
• I might not be a brave person, but I’ve done a brave things.
• Turning 60 and loving it 
• People told by multiple women that their 60s was their favourite decade
• Menopause and how it can change women especially with regard to care giving hormones 
• Connecting with women in the outdoors to interview them for the book
• Going bird watching and why it was an adventure 
• The benefits of spending time in the outdoors
• Birdability 
• Going scuba diving with an 80 year old
• Learning how to BMX race with a 74 year old
• What makes fulfilling aging; Community, purpose, novelty, health and a positive mindset about your own aging.
• Becoming more selfish and becoming set in my ways
• Advice to keep expanding your comfort zone
• Why novelty is important to help keep your brain firing 
• Why invisibility can become a superpower 
• It’s not too late to learn - it’s a perfect time, until it’s not
• Don’t stop yourself too early
• The importance of having a sense of belonging
• Why the outdoors is the best medicine 
• How her view of adventure has changed since writing the book
• The feeling of ‘awe’ and why it’s so good for you
• Tapping into the deeper emotions
• People who feel awe tend to feel more gratitude 
• Being able to access awe on your backdoor 
• Seeing the Northern Lights and looking up at the sky
• Future plans for her 60th decade 
• How to connect with Caroline online
• The power of taking tiny steps to get outside 
• If you are spending time outside - keep spending time outside
• The need to protect nature 
• Best of luck with ageing….!!!
• The biggest adventure of all….. ageing!!!  

Social Media

Website: www.carolinepaul.com 

Instagram: @carolinembpaul 

Book: TOUGH BROAD: From Boogie Boarding to Wing Walking―How Outdoor Adventure Improves Our Lives as We Age 

Steph is a Mum to a her nearly 7 year old son, a soldiers wife, and Operations manager for Forces Wives Challenge (FWC). In July 2019 Steph and her families' world was turned upside down when she became suddenly very unwell, and was subsequently diagnosed with a neurological disorder. 

Going from an active, full time working Mum and a keen horse rider, to fully dependant on a wheelchair, with complex health issues and requiring 24/7 care to support with everyday tasks, was life changing. With sheer determination, an incredible support network and a passion for adventure, less than two years later Steph was back in the saddle and aiming for the next challenge in life. 

Steph found her new 'place' within the FWC community amongst other women seeming adventure.  

In June 2023 Steph tackled FWC’s ‘Ride to Freedom’ expedition and became the world’s first wheelchair dependant person to ride by horse back across the Pyrenees from France to Spain. Steph and her team battled extreme heat, a dangerous thunder and lightening storm, treacherous ground and long days in the saddle to complete the 130km route using the WW2 freedom trails. 

Steph has now also founded her own CIC (non-profit) called Equine Para-adventures, which will seek to offer disabled horse riders their own equine adventures out of the usual riding school set up. In February 2026 Equine Para-adventures will start its flagship adventure called ‘Ride to Independence’ when a team of 6 ladies, including Steph, will ride a historic route across the Andes from Argentina to Chile and Steph will aim to complete it and gain another ‘worlds first’. 

***

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 Stephanie 
• Living on an army base in the West Midlands
• Working for Forces Wives Challenges 
• 20th June 2023 - first speaking with Stephanie on the TGP - Stephanie Quintrell - Forces Wives Challenge - Ride to Freedom across the Pyrenees mountains. 
• The Ride To Freedom Challenge
• Planning the adventure in late 2021
• Focusing on the fitness for the challenge and not the mental/emotional side 
• The challenges of getting on the plane and flying with a wheelchair 
• Working with a provider in France 
• The stress in the run up to the start and why it was a relief to start
• Riding the horse in exactly the same was as anybody else does
• Having exceptional core strength and balance 
• The incredible horses and the amazing job they did 
• Crossing a challenging bridge and why it was scary for multiple reasons
• Managing emotions during stressful moments
• Why adventure is calculated risk
• Not feeling disabled while horseback riding
• The lessons learned from the challenges
• Gaining more independence back and feeling more confident
• Being able to ask for and accept help
• Deciding to set up Equine Para-adventures CIC
• The plans for Feb 2026 in Argentina 
• Needing to find financial support
• How to connect with Steph online
• Final words of advice to encourage more women to step outside their comfort zone
• Life’s too short - do something a scary to push yourself and see what you can achieve

Social Media

Equine Para-adventures CIC is a non-profit organisation dedicated to empowering the disabled community through a range of equestrian activities aimed at fostering inclusivity and enriching lives.

Website: www.equine-para-adventures.org 

Instagram: @equine_para_adventures 

Facebook: Equine Para-Adventures CIC 

Personal

Instagram: @steph_backinthesaddle

Facebook: Stephanie Quintrell- disabled adventurer/para-equestrian 

Forces Wives Challenge

Instagram: @forces_wives_challenge 

Facebook: @forces_wives_challenge