In this episode of the RunThrough Podcast, we are joined by George Rickwood, an ultra runner whose journey started just six years ago with training for a half marathon and has since taken him all the way to winning his first Backyard Ultra with 31 laps.

George talks about how running has become a huge part of his life, why the mental side of ultra running is often tougher than the physical, and how ultra training is more about time on feet than speed. He shares some of his standout challenges, including one he's in RIGHT NOW, starting the year by running an extra kilometre every day for 66 days, racking up a massive 2,266 km, with the ARC 100 miler thrown into the mix.

Hosted by Ben Sheppard, we also discuss the importance of the running community, the vulnerability of sharing the journey on social media, and why George believes most people are capable of pushing far beyond what they think is possible. Looking ahead, his focus is on continuing to improve while still enjoying the challenge that ultra running brings.

Perfect listening if you are ultra-curious, into endurance mindset, or just love hearing how everyday runners end up doing big things.

Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/

George Rickwood - https://www.instagram.com/georgerickwood_/

Lauren Knott is a coach, community builder, and the founder of Let’s Run Manchester, a thriving ladies-only run club built to create inclusive, supportive spaces for women in running. After leaving the corporate world, Lauren followed her passion into the fitness industry, helping women of all abilities feel confident, welcomed, and empowered through movement.

In this episode of The RunThrough Podcast, Lauren joins host Ben Sheppard for an honest and inspiring conversation about career change, community, and purpose. She opens up about the realities of stepping away from a traditional career, balancing passion with practicality, and learning how to set boundaries when working for yourself.

Together, Ben and Lauren explore why female-only spaces in running matter, the role community plays in personal growth, and the importance of reflecting on progress rather than pace. Lauren also shares her vision for the future of Let’s Run Manchester, including plans for structured training blocks, and offers advice for anyone considering a big life change: lead with your heart and trust where it takes you.

Join Lets Run Manchester - https://www.instagram.com/letsrunmanchester/

Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/

Lauren Knott - https://www.instagram.com/laurenknott_fit/

Journalist, author, and mental health campaigner Bryony Gordon joins Ben Sheppard on the RunThrough Podcast for an open and honest conversation about mental health, loneliness, and the power of human connection.

Bryony shares how her personal struggles led to the creation of her charity Mental Health Mates and why loneliness can be a significant trigger for mental health challenges, something many people felt more acutely during the COVID-19 pandemic. She also recounts her recent Goodwood Challenge, where she ran as many laps as possible in the worst possible weather, in her underwear, to hit her fundraising target. Why? Well, you’ll have to listen to find out!

Together, Bryony and Ben explore the importance of connection, breaking overwhelming tasks into smaller steps, and trusting yourself through both personal and creative journeys. They discuss the cathartic yet challenging process of writing, the impact of social media on wellbeing, and Bryony’s latest novel, People Pleaser which is available for pre-order now.

Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/
Bryony Gordon - https://www.instagram.com/bryonygordon/

Watch Bryony's Goodwood Challenge Here