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 

Emma Kingston is an outdoor adventurer, author, teacher, and self-confessed map geek who resides in Bristol, the UK’s first designated Cycling City. With over 20 years of experience riding, walking, swimming, and camping in the South West, Emma's intimate knowledge of the area is enviable. Specialising in mountain biking, she has traveled extensively across the UK and Europe in search of the perfect single track.

Emma’s passion for bike-packing emerged from her love for extended bike rides and exploring off-route locations. This enthusiasm culminated in the release of her first book, Bikepacking England, in the summer of 2021. The book features 20 multi-day off-road cycling adventures, demonstrating that memorable adventures are often closer to home than we think.

Following the success of her first book, Emma has recently published Bikepacking Wales: 18 Multi-Day Off-Road Cycling Adventures, further showcasing her expertise and passion for exploring new trails.

Balancing her career as a full-time primary school teacher, Emma meticulously plans and prepares each route she includes in her books. Her dedication ensures readers and cyclists experience the best possible adventures.

Despite facing challenges such as recovering from a bike accident, Emma remains committed to her adventures, often connecting and riding with others to rebuild her confidence. She enjoys riding her full suspension Santa Cruz Juliana Mountain Bike and dreams of adding a gravel bike to her collection.

Listen to this episode on the Tough Girl Podcast for an engaging and inspiring conversation with Emma Kingston, where we'll uncover the secrets of bikepacking, the joy of discovering adventure in unexpected places, and the transformative power of embracing the outdoors.

Listen to Emma Kingston's inspiring journey 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 Emma
• Being based in Bristol, South West England
• Working as a full time primary school teacher
• The first time we spoke to Emma - Sep 9, 2021 Emma Kingston - Teacher, Outdoor Adventurer and Author of Bikepacking England
• Reflecting back on the end of 2021and the launch of her first book
• Book: Bikepacking England 20 multi-day off-road cycling adventures 
• Starting to think about the second book - Bikepacking Wales 
• The planning and preparation in relation to the creation of the book
• Picking the rides and doing the research 
• Nick Cotton Guide Books to cycling 
• Book: In pursuit of Spring - By Edward Thomas 
• Exciting new books from Wild Things Publishing and Vertebrae Publishing
• Finding the time to do the research while working a full time job
• Wanting to put together the best routes possible for the readers and cyclists
• The planning and preparation before even riding a route 
• Using geograph.com 
• Dealing with an injury after a bike accident 
• Building back up her confidence to start riding again
• Connecting and going out riding with other people
• Riding a full suspension Santa Cruz Juliana Mountain Bike
• What did I call my bike?
• How many bikes….
• Why the perfect bike number is N+1
• Wanting to get a gravel bike
• Exploring Wales and learning about the culture, the people and the language
• Why backpacking doesn’t always have to be type 2 fun
• The drovers of Wales 
• Her love for Wales
• Book: Bikepacking Scotland, 20 multi-day cycling adventures off the beaten track. By Markus Stitz 
• Thinking about writing a book about biking in Ireland 
• Taking a breather and riding without an agenda
• How you can connect with Emma
• Final words of advice and why you should start off small and take small steps to build your confidence.
• Barebones Bikepacking Events 
• Sisters in the Wild - Supported bike backing trips 
• Guidebook: Wild Swimming Walks Eryri Wales: 28 river, lake & waterfall days out in North Wales.  By Emma Marshall.  
• Guidebook: Stand-up Paddle Boarding in the Lake District - Beautiful places to paddleboard in Cumbria. By Jo Moseley 
• Guidebook: Gravel Rides South West By Catherine Moore (Commissioned)
• Book: Ethel - The biography of countryside pioneer Ethel Haythornthwaite By Helen Mort. 

Social Media

Website: www.emmaoutdoors.com 

Instagram: @emma.outdoors 

Twitter/X: @emma_outdoors

Welcome to this episode of the Tough Girl Podcast! Today, we are speaking with Alex Larson, a registered dietitian from Duluth, Minnesota, whose passion for nutrition was ignited when she crossed the finish line of Ironman Wisconsin. 

Alex is dedicated to helping endurance athletes achieve peak performance through optimal nutrition.

Alex balances her thriving career with family life, being married with three young children aged between 7 years and 8 months. With over 20 triathlons, including multiple Ironmans, and numerous 10Ks and half marathons under her belt, she brings a wealth of personal experience to her practice.

In this episode, Alex shares her journey from a competitive teenager with a passion for horseback riding to a seasoned triathlete and dedicated dietitian. After an injury in college, she discovered swimming and eventually fell in love with triathlons. This passion led her to a career in dietetics, where she found her niche in sports nutrition.

Alex offers personalised nutrition strategies that help athletes fall back in love with their sport and life. She discusses her flexible eating approach, practical nutrition tips, and the importance of individualised plans. From dealing with pre-race nerves to managing gut issues, Alex provides valuable insights for athletes at all levels.

Tune in for an inspiring episode packed with motivation, practical tips, and the story of a woman dedicated to helping others reach their full potential.

***

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 Alex
• Working as a Registered Dietitian 
• Being based in Duluth, Minnesota, USA
• Married with 3 young children, aged between 7 and 8 months
• Supporting endurance athletes to fuel and nourish their bodies for their performance 
• Being a very ambitious teenager and having a competitive spirit  
• Her passions for horses and horse back riding
• Breaking her foot in college and getting into swimming
• Being a goal orientated person and signing up for her first triathlon
• Falling in love with triathlon 
• Starting her career as a Dietitian 
• Crossing the finish line of the 2014 - Ironman Wisconsin 
• Figuring out her niche as a Dietitian 
• Her journey to becoming a Dietitian 
• Working with athletes and helping them achieve their goals 
• Food, fuel and nutrition
• Food philosophy and why its a very individual thing
• Getting women specific with nutrition
• Diet culture
• Hiking stove less and being lazy with cooking
• Getting the balance right between eating healthy food while training and having a life
• Practical hacks to help you make the right food choices
• Microwave scrambled eggs
• Eating before, during and after an endurance race
• Pre-race nerves and how that affects food choices
• Wanting high carb, lower fat, lower fibre. 
• Having a fuelling plan for a race/challenge/run over 75 mins 
• Training your gut 
• Eat before your hungry, drink before your thirsty
• Dealing with gut issues while racing and practical tips to help
• Being a food detective not the food police
• Dealing with leg cramps
• Feeling overwhelmed with life 
• Not having the mental and physical energy to take on a new challenge
• Being intentional with her choices
• The importance of knowing that nutrition information is an evolution 
• Look at where you are getting your nutrition information from
• If you are feeling overwhelmed with nutrition information. It’s time to simplify.
• How to connect with Alex
• Female Athlete Nutrition Resources 
• How you can work with Alex 
• Final words of advice 

Social Media

Website: alexlarsonnutrition.com

Instagram: @alexlarsonnutrition 

In this episode of the Tough Girl Podcast, we sit down with Sophie Pierce, a writer, broadcaster, and passionate wild swimmer from Dartmoor in Devon, UK. Sophie shares her profound journey through grief, particularly the loss of her son Felix in 2017, and how the healing power of nature has been an anchor in her life.

Sophie talks about her memoir, "The Green Hill," which explores themes of love, loss, and the transformative effects of wild places. She also discusses her work as a journalist with the BBC, her love for exploring new places, and the growing popularity of outdoor swimming. We delve into her co-authored wild swimming guides, including her most recent book, "Wild Swimming Walks Exmoor and North Devon.”

This episode highlights the mental health benefits of outdoor swimming, the importance of community, and how nature can help reset and heal us. Sophie offers insights on navigating grief, the support she received from friends and family, and how she continues to find solace in nature.

Join us for an inspiring and heartfelt conversation with Sophie Pierce as we explore the intersection of nature, grief, and resilience.

***

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 Sophie
• Being based in Dartmoor in South west England
• Living close to the sea and a wild moorland media
• Working as a journalist for many years
• Her love of exploring 
• The loss of her son in 2017
• Where her love of exploring and swimming came from 
• Her childhood and growing up with 3 brothers
• Being quite ferrel when younger
• Getting back into outdoor swimming 
• Connecting with friends and exploring new places
• Outdoor swimming and it’s increase in popularity
• How outdoor swimming have changed over the past 25 years
• Why its about your mindset and having a desire to be out in nature and explore
• Why all you need is a map, a swimming costume and a pair of walking boots
• The benefits of communities 
• Looking out for one another while in the water
• The importance of having fun at any age
• Going wild swimming in the River Dart ever day during the summer 
• The impact cold water can have on your mental health and how it can help reset you
• Dealing with the loss of her son, Felix
• SUDEP ‘the Sudden, Unexpected Death of someone with EPilepsy’
• How her life changed afterwards
• Learning to incorporate her grief into her life 
• Finding spending time in nature to be helpful
• Charity SUDEP Action
• Dealing with grief 
• Book: The Green Hill: Letters to a Son 
• Writing a series of letters to Felix – composed during walks and swims taken close to his burial place by the river Dart
• Still feeling connected to Felix 
• Why it was hard to go back to the places where her and Felix had spent time
• Wanting to explore new places and create new memories
• Remembering Felix as a child
• Processing her grief 
• Having some counselling but not finding it helpful 
• Book: Weathering By Ruth Allen
• The narrative imposed about grief by society 
• Not feeling the urge to process grief
• Making something beautiful out of something terrible 
• Feeling a loss when the the book was published and not having anything to focus on 
• The support from friends and family and what helped 
• Living in a small town and having to face people
• What happens when a year or two passes
• Getting use to living with the loss 
• Why the second year can be tougher than the first
• Published Wild Swimming Walks guide books
• Wild Things Publishing
• Artist - James Lewis
• Push back from locals who don’t want to share their beauty sports 
• The impact sewage is having on beautiful wild places
• Surfers Against Sewage App
• Doing a risk assessment before getting into the river/water
• Writing to your MP and complaining about the sewage situation
• How to connect with Sophie on social media
• Advice for women dealing with grief and the loss of a child

Social Media

Website: www.sophiepierce.co.uk   

Instagram: @mssophiepierce 

Twitter/X: @sophiepierce 

In this episode, join us as we delve into the captivating journey of Susan Smillie, former Guardian editor turned intrepid sailor and author. Susan shares her remarkable story of leaving behind the comforts of her career to embark on an extraordinary sailing adventure from Great Britain to the picturesque shores of Greece. Through Susan's candid reflections, guests can expect to gain invaluable insights into the transformative power of following one's passions, overcoming obstacles, and embracing the unknown with courage and determination. From the highs of discovering newfound confidence in sailing to the lows of navigating personal challenges and unexpected detours, Susan's narrative serves as a beacon of inspiration for anyone seeking to break free from the confines of convention and chart their own course towards fulfilment and adventure.

Throughout the episode, listeners will be treated to Susan's candid anecdotes and profound reflections on life at sea, shedding light on the realities of living life on the water and the profound sense of purpose and productivity that comes with pursuing one's dreams. From the exhilarating moments of getting caught up in the adventure to the sobering realities of navigating unforeseen challenges, Susan's story offers a rich tapestry of lessons and experiences for guests to glean from. Whether you're an aspiring sailor, a fellow adventurer, or simply someone in search of inspiration to follow your heart's desires, Susan's episode promises to leave you with a renewed sense of possibility and a reminder that, as she eloquently puts it, "you can do so much more than you think you can."

***

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 Susan
• Working as a features editor at the Guardian 
• Her plan to sail around Great Britain and ending up in Greece
• Her early years 
• Not getting into sailing until her 30s
• Her first boat - a trailor sailor 
• Deciding to live on a boat instead of a house
• Moving from Brighton to London and living on a boat on the Thames River
• Wanting to learn more sailing skills and leaning new technical skills
• Dealing with the end of a relationship, and a new job 
• Becoming less happy with her life in London
• Gaining her confidence in sailing
• Deciding to take redundancy in 2016
• Remembering the moment when the decision was made
• Being inspired by other women following their passions
• The real realities of making this decision
• The costs of working 
• The start of the journey….
• Ending up at Land’s End
• Coming up with a new plan and deciding to sail across the English Channel
• Getting caught up in the adventure 
• Having a sense of purpose and feeling productive 
• The differences of sailing around the UK and sailing to the Mediterranean 
• The realities of living life on the water
• Ending the trip in Greece due to the pandemic 
• Looking after her dad after a heart attach
• Sailing away from the media and journalism 
• Wanting to leave the writing behind her
• Sharing her journey on social media and keeping a record that way
• Being contacted by an agent about writing a book
• Getting into cold water swimming
• Half boat, half woman
• How to connect and buy the book 
• Final words of advice 
• Don’t think too far into the future
• “You can do so much more than you think you can”

Social Media

Instagram: @smillieonsea 

Book: The Half Bird: One woman’s voyage of self-discovery from Land’s End to the shores of Greece

Kristin is a thru-hiker, climber, and human rights activist from Norway currently living in London. Despite her outdoorsy upbringing in snowy Norway, it was only in her 20s that she discovered her own adventure journey. 

After going through a very tough time at university, Kristin decided to hike the Te Araroa across New Zealand’s South Island as an existential journey to shed her depression when she was 22. 

Her thru-hiking journey has taken her across the world on trails such as the John Muir Trail, the GR11 Spain, the GR20 Corsica, and The Haute Route in Switzerland. 

She founded her blog, Let’s Trek It, to share her adventures, tips, and inspire others to undertake their own wilderness journeys. 

***

 Don't miss the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, released every Tuesday and Thursday at 7 AM UK time!  

Be sure to hit the subscribe button to stay updated on the incredible journeys and stories of strong women. 

This episode of the Tough Girl Podcast is proudly sponsored by INOV8, pioneers in cutting-edge sportswear. 

Use code TOUGHGIRL15 to get your 15% discount.  Click Here 

***

Show notes

• Who is Kristin
• Originally from Norway but living in London now
• Being a thru-hiker for the past 9 years
• Growing up in Norway and spending a lot of time outdoors in the mountains
• Discovering thru hiking
• The struggles during her undergrad years
• Dealing with bullying and feeling of being loneliness
• Struggling with depression 
• Searching for purpose
• Being inspired by the book: Wild - By Cheryl Strayed
• Cheryl Strayed - Tough Girl Podcast May 2, 2017
• Knowing that the Te Araroa Trail was the key to making her life better
• Deciding to start with a smaller trail - The West Highland Way - for her first thru0hike
• The kindness of strangers on the trails 
• Being 22 and ready to go
• The reasons for deciding to hike in New Zealand
• Concerns before thru-hiking
• Expecting thru-hiking to make everything better 
• Walking into her life
• Why it’s the journey and not the destination
• Favourite sections on the South Island, New Zealand
• The Nelson Lakes and the Two Thumb Range
• Feeling so happy while being on the trail 
• The challenging days on a thru-hike
• Struggling with a lack of sleep 
• Thunderstorms on the GR20 (Corsica)
• Dealing with challenging situation on a thru-hike
• Balancing her love of hiking with her London lifestyle
• Post trail/adventure blues and dealing with them
• Filling your life with fun things
• Hiking the GR11(walking across the Pyrenees, on the Spanish side) 
• Future walks/thruhikes 
• Heading to America to section hike part of the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT)
• Trail name - “white blaze”
• How to connect with Kristin 
• Believing in the power of inspiration 
• Final words of advice and wisdom for you - “ Dare to act on an idea because there is no reason why it can’t be you”

Social Media

Website: www.letstrekit.com

Instagram: @lets.trek.it 

Facebook: @letstrekit

Sunny is a professional adventure athlete, guide service owner and story teller based in Kanab, Utah.  

After obtaining an MBA from Harvard Business School and pursuing a career as a management consultant in her twenties, Sunny decided to leave behind the business world in order to focus full-time on mountains, climbing and VLDs (very long distances). 

Today, she is a professional athlete and owner of two guiding businesses - AWExpeditions and Dreamland Safari Tours. 

She is also the founder of the AWE Summit Scholarship Foundation that breaks down barriers for women+ to access mountaineering and the backcountry -- in the form of tens of thousands of dollars in expedition scholarships. 

Sunny first came on the Tough Girl Podcast on Jun 23, 2020. Sharing her story about being the first woman to circumnavigate and summit Aconcagua in a single push. 

You can listen to that episode Here

***

 Don't miss the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, released every Tuesday and Thursday at 7 AM UK time!  

Be sure to hit the subscribe button to stay updated on the incredible journeys and stories of strong women. 

This episode of the Tough Girl Podcast is proudly sponsored by INOV8, pioneers in cutting-edge sportswear. 

Use code TOUGHGIRL15 to get your 15% discount.  Click Here 

***

Show notes

• Who is Sunny 
• Working as a professional adventure athlete and running her own travel companies 
• Sunny first came on the Tough Girl Podcast on Jun 23, 2020. First woman to circumnavigate and summit Aconcagua in a single push.
• What happened in 2020 
• Deciding to buy a tour company/guide service business
• Using her MBA from Harvard
• Thriving with the challenge and the uncertainty 
• Pursuing her own adventures and being her own boss
• Getting involved in running Fastest Known Times (FKTs)
• Starting to focus on adventuring in Alaska
• 350 mile race on cross country skis - Iditarod Trail Invitational (ITI), held in Alaska during Winter (2021)
• Planning to head to the South Pole in the future 
• More info about the ITI and how its structured, and what you can expect. 
• The short version - 350 miles. The long version 1000 miles. You need to do the short version of the race before you can attempt to race the longer version.
• The different modes of travel: Fat bike, dogs, skies, walking
• The lessons learned from the recce before the bigger race
• No mandatory gear list
• Being able to connect with folks who had done the race before to get advice and tips
• Leaving her comfort zone behind and moving into the stretch zone
• Dealing with uncomfortable feelings
• Reflection back on her first ITI in 2021 
• Dealing with overflow
• Not having a background in cross country skiing
• Knowing that she able to keep herself safe in these extreme conditions
• Dealing with broken bindings and having to hike the final 150 miles
• Having a 10 day deadline to cover the 350 miles
• Being pushed to her limits both physically and emotionally 
• Going back in 2022 to ski the 350 mile distance again - gaining more experience and knowledge
• Fat biking the race in 2023 with her husband
• Feeling ready to commit to the 1000 miles race in 2024
• Race strategy and plan (both adhoc and thought through)
• Needing to complete the 1000 miles (approx 930 - 960 miles) in 30 days
• Dealing with a stress fracture on her shin in the December and only having 5 weeks to train
• Using both a backpack and a pulk/sled to transport gear. 
• Dealing with the cold and trying to avoid getting wet in -30/-40 degrees
• Aiming to travel slowly, keeping her heart rate low in an aim to keep from sweating
• Dealing with wet and damp gloves and getting a little bit of frost bite on her fingers. 
• Dealing with numb heels and maybe a little bit of nerve damage after the race
• Highlights and magical moment from life on the trail
• Being in her own thoughts for 14hrs or more a day
• Food and nutrition on the trail
• Feeling the pressure to reach the finish line before the cut off point
• Making it across the sea ice before it flooded or melted
• Being 200 miles from the finish on the North Shore
• Becoming the first women to ski the ITI 1000
• Recovery after the race (doughnuts & wine!)
• How to connect with Sunny and to follow along with her adventures
• Final words of advice and and wisdom to inspire and motivate women and girls 
• Why you need to continually be pushing your comfort zone 

Social Media

Websites: 

www.sunnystroeer.com 

www.awexpeditions.org 

www.dreamlandtours.net 

www.summitscholarship.org

Instagram:

@sstroeer 

@awexpeditions 

@dreamlandsafari 

Sarah Perry is an ultra-runner, dedicated educator, and INOV8 ambassador with a passion for the outdoors and pushing her limits. On this episode of the Tough Girl Podcast, Sarah shares her journey from her Yorkshire roots to breaking records on the South West Coast Path (SWCP).

Living in Cumbria and working in adult education, Sarah balances her career with her love for long-distance running. Growing up with family holidays in the Lakes, Wales, and Scotland, she developed a love for the hills. After lockdown, Sarah sought a healthier balance, moving to a greener environment and embracing running for the joy it brings.

In March 2024, Sarah set a new British backyard running record, showcasing her mental resilience and strategic approach to ultra-running. Her most notable achievement came with her record-breaking, self-supported run of the SWCP, covering 630 miles in 13 days, 11 hours, and 31 minutes. Despite a failed attempt in 2023 due to injury, her meticulous planning and determination led to success.

As an INOV8 ambassador, Sarah discusses her favourite gear and the support she receives from the brand. She also talks about the importance of community and staying motivated, even when balancing a full-time job with intense training.

Looking ahead, Sarah is preparing for future challenges, including the 13 Valleys Ultra in September and the Winter Spine in January 2025. Her story highlights the power of dreaming big, learning from failures, and the importance of detailed planning.

Tune in to hear Sarah Perry's story, her adventures on the SWCP, and her advice for women looking to elevate their running: "Dream big and don’t forget the spreadsheet!" Connect with Sarah on social media to follow her journey and upcoming challenges.

***

 Don't miss the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, released every Tuesday and Thursday at 7 AM UK time!  

Be sure to hit the subscribe button to stay updated on the incredible journeys and stories of strong women. 

This episode of the Tough Girl Podcast is proudly sponsored by INOV8, pioneers in cutting-edge sportswear. 

Use code TOUGHGIRL15 to get your 15% discount.  Click Here. 

***

Show notes

• Who is Sarah - Teacher, dog mum & ultra-runner.  
• Living in Cumbria and working in adult education 
• Doing a little bit of longer distance running!
• Running the South West Coast Path (SWCP) 
• Breaking the record (self supported) 630 miles in 13 days, 11 hours and 31 mins
• Growing up in Yorkshire
• Making a change after lockdown and deciding to move somewhere greener
• Having an older brother and being quite competitive 
• Having family holiday in the Lakes, Wales and Scotland and doing lots of walking in the hills
• Not having the healthiest balance with running when she first started in her early 20s
• Trying to gain control in her life
• Why your 20s can be so stressful 
• Using running as an escape and a tool for finding herself 
• Running for the love of it and not doing super structured training programs
• Setting a new British backyard running record in March 2024
• What is a backyard ultra?
• 4.2 miles per lap, going out on the hour, every hour until 1 person is left. 
• The mental side of a back yard ultra - and the tactics involved?
• Getting her head down and doing her own thing.
• 52 mins for each lap - approx 8/10 mins to recover
• What goes on during the rest break
• Not wanting to run until she dropped
• The reality of running while having a job and living
• Staying in the zone and thinking of the small things 
• Becoming an INOV8 ambassador 
• Favourite INOV8 Trainers - Trailfly 
• Fell shoe - INOV8 Mudtalon Speed 
• Attempting to run the SWCP last year in 2023 and needing to stop on day 3 due to an injury 
• The reason for going self supported
• Planning for the SWCP
• Trying to figure out how far to run each day….
• Working out ferry crossings, food and water stops
• Living out the adventure via the spreadsheet, before even stepping on the path
• Needing to fail the first time, in order to understand what it would take to go again
• Training and getting mentally ready
• Hill sessions, back to back running and a few structured sessions
• Being worried about safety
• Needing to embrace all the things that you can’t control 
• Being able to zone out while on the trail and visualising the end goal
• Facing challenges everyday while out on the SWCP
• The weather and the mud…
• Highlights from the run
• Why there were more positive moments, than negative 
• The final 20 miles…
• Having to dig so deep
• How to connect with Sarah on social media
• Future challenges and goals 
• 13 Valleys Ultra in September 
• The Winter Spine - January 2025 
• Final words of advice for women who want to take their running to the next level
• Why you should dream big
• Don’t forget the spreadsheet!

Social Media

Instagram: @sarahperry19917 

Erin Leider-Pariser is a trailblazer in the realm of wellness and adventure travel. Beginning her career as a fitness instructor in Los Angeles and later becoming a trainer to the stars in New York City, Erin's journey has been defined by a passion for adventure and a commitment to empowering women.

After earning a master’s degree in exercise physiology at Columbia University, Erin founded Sports Travel Adventure Therapy (STAT), leading women on transformative journeys around the world for over 30 years. In 2023, she authored "Get Lost," a memoir and manifesto articulating her Seven Principles for Trekking Life with Grace.

Growing up in Miami as the "tomboy" of the family, Erin's adventurous spirit led her to explore the world, spending time abroad in London and hitchhiking 45 years ago. Her experiences have shaped her belief in the transformative power of nature and the importance of embracing life's journey.

Join us as we delve into Erin's remarkable story, reflect on her insights shared in "Get Lost," and discover why it's not where you are, but where you've been that truly matters.

***

 Don't miss the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, released every Tuesday and Thursday at 7 AM UK time!  

Be sure to hit the subscribe button to stay updated on the incredible journeys and stories of strong women.

This episode of the Tough Girl Podcast is proudly sponsored by INOV8, pioneers in cutting-edge sportswear. 

Use code TOUGHGIRL15 to get your 15% discount.  Click here 

***

Show notes

• Who is Erin
• Being based in NYC and Aspen, Colorado
• Writing her book: Get Lost: Seven Principles for Trekking Life with Grace and Other Life Lessons from Kick-Ass Women’s Adventure Travel. 
• Travelling and adventuring for over 30 years
• Growing up in Miami and being very active
• Being the 3rd girl in the family and growing up as the ‘tomboy’
• Playing all the sports 
• Spending time in London and doing a semester abroad
• Hitching 45 years ago
• STATs - Sports Travel Adventure Therapy 
• Making her way to NYC and working as a personal trainer
• Teaching fitness - the Jane Fonda Method
• Going back to get her Masters
• Getting married and having kids
• Being forced to reevaluate her career and needing to make some changes
• Looking for purpose in her own life
• Why it’s about the journey and not the destination
• The talking stick ceremony 
• The transformation power of nature
• The power of vulnerability 
• Dealing with a challenging moment and group dynamics
• Honouring and obeying your intuition 
• Getting lost and feeling lost in her own life
• Walking with integrity 
• No judgement 
• Asking for grace
• Starting her morning with a mantra
• Love, honour and obey your intuition 
• How the book came about
• Breaking her leg January 2020
• The power of embracing your community
• Getting travelling again after covid
• Planning a hiking trip/trek to Nepal
• Travel burnout ?
• Getting the balance right with travelling 
• Travelling in Colombia and dealing with a flash flood while on the Lost City Trail
• Planning a future trip to Azores in November (the Hawaii of Europe)
• The Overland Track in Tasmania
• Dual Pilgrim Status. Hiking in Japan and Spain
• How to connect with Erin
• Advice from Erin for women who want to do more adventure travel
• Why it’s not where you are, buy where you’ve been 

Social Media

Website: stattrip.com 

Book: Get Lost: Seven Principles for Trekking Life with Grace and Other Life Lessons from Kick-Ass Women’s Adventure Travel