Épisodes

  • Christine Reed – Long-Distance Backpacker & Author of Blood Sweat Tears | Stories of Healing, Womanhood & the Trail

    Christine Reed – Long-Distance Backpacker & Author of Blood Sweat Tears | Stories of Healing, Womanhood & the Trail
    Jul 22 2025
    In this episode of the Tough Girl Podcast, we’re joined by Christine Reed—an American long-distance backpacker and award-winning author—whose life changed when she took her first steps on the Appalachian Trail in 2015. With no prior backpacking experience, Christine dove headfirst into the unknown, seeking healing, purpose, and a sense of identity. Since then, Christine has hiked thousands of miles, lived out of a van, and carved a creative path through storytelling. Her debut memoir, Alone in Wonderland, captured her raw and powerful journey of self-discovery, while her latest anthology Blood Sweat Tears amplifies the voices of women+ on trail—sharing unfiltered stories about periods, pain, perseverance, and everything in between. We talk about grief, growth, writing through discomfort, and the courage it takes to follow your passions even when they feel far outside your comfort zone. Christine’s story reminds us that you don’t have to be outdoorsy, athletic, or fearless to start—you just have to begin. *** New episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast drop every Tuesday at 7 AM (UK time)! Make sure to subscribe so you never miss the inspiring journeys and incredible stories of tough women pushing boundaries. Do you want to support the Tough Girl Mission to increase the amount of female role models in the media in the world of adventure and physical challenges? Support via Patreon! Join me in making a difference by signing up here: www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast. Your support makes a difference. Thank you x Show notes Who is ChristineThru-hike and trail runnersBeing based in New Mexico, AmericaHer early years and not growing up outdoorsy Reading blogs about the Appalachian Trail in the fall of 2013Graduating from college and working in health insurance Being pretty unhappy and not knowing what to do with her lifeWhy the Appalachian Trail (AT) was so appealing Taking the first step and commitment to the hikeEveryone on the trail being in a phase of transition Being possible for her to leave her lifeTaking a year to plan and research the trail Planning to hike the AT in 2015 The importance of finding something that you are excited about Never backpacking before and just going on a few day hikesNot being a fit or athletic personDoing her research - whiteblaze.net - an old school pin board forum Doing zero physical preparation The feelings at the start of the Appalachian TrailRiding greyhound buses to the start (16+ hours)The steps up to Amicalola FallsFirst night camping at a shelterPersonal goals - find herself?24 and turning 25 on the trailDoing hard thingsHIking pre social mediaLessons and learning from thru-hikingLosing her mum just after starting the trail Spending time at home and deciding to get back on the trailGrieving while on the trailFeeling her feeling and talking about themHaving wonderful encounters with other hikers and being able to share 650 miles feeling ready to leave the trailHaving a closer relationship with her dadMoving to Denver, ColoradoStruggling to reengage with the capitalist systemLiving in a van, travelling around and living a more adventurous lifestyleThru-hikers making great van lifers Feeling lonely while on the roadThe community aspect of the trail experience Finding her wayBeing in a new phase of transitionMoving into a little house in New MexicoBeing an author from 2018 - mostly as a full time worker1st book came out in 2021 - Alone in Wonderland Trying to write a 2nd memoir, but struggling to write and feeling frustratedWanting to write a collection of stories about womenPutting out a call for pitches/submissions - women’s relationships to our bodies, using the trail as a linkWanting to put out 15 storiesReceiving over 200 submissionsBook: Blood, Sweat TearsThe importance of sharing women’s stories that haven’t been sharedNarrowing down the selection of stories The editing process Can I work with this writer to get this story where it needs to be?Talking about blood, periods and menstruation Being in women only spaces Speaking about periods Jolly Gear Hiking DressAnna McNuffHygiene and menstral cups Tampons and pads - everything has it’s plus and minus Everybody is different Taking the pill?Wanting to celebrate our bodies and not be manipulating itAllowing our bodies to go through natural cycles What’s next for Christine Publishing a memoir with Bethany Adams FKT Gardening, art and being more creative How to connect with Christine online Final words of advice Advice for following your creative passions which are outside your comfort zone Don’t get stuck in the ideas of who we are and what we are suppose to be doing Social Media Instagram: @ruggedoutdoorswoman Book: Blood Sweat Tears Blood Sweat Tears is a short story collection from 26 women+ hikers and runners about the experience of being in a female body on trail. This group of intrepid and vulnerable athletes/writers talk periods, boob ...
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    54 min
  • Beth Aldridge – 22-Year-Old Vet Student & GB Dragon Boater | From Lockdown Workouts to the World Championships

    Beth Aldridge – 22-Year-Old Vet Student & GB Dragon Boater | From Lockdown Workouts to the World Championships
    Jul 15 2025
    In this episode of the Tough Girl Podcast, I’m joined by Beth, a 22-year-old veterinary student and elite dragon boat paddler based in Nottingham. Beth shares how a simple home workout routine during the COVID lockdown sparked a journey into endurance sport—from running the Robin Hood Half Marathon to discovering dragon boating at university. Since then, Beth has gone from novice paddler to competing on the world stage, representing Great Britain at the 2023 Dragon Boat World Championships in Thailand. Now a coach, helm, and passionate advocate for women in sport, she talks about training, teamwork, and the power of inclusive communities. Beth’s story is one of grit, growth, and finding joy in pushing physical and mental limits. New episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast drop every Tuesday at 7 AM (UK time)! Make sure to subscribe so you never miss the inspiring journeys and incredible stories of tough women pushing boundaries. Do you want to support the Tough Girl Mission to increase the amount of female role models in the media in the world of adventure and physical challenges? Support via Patreon! Join me in making a difference by signing up here: www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast. Your support makes a difference. Thank you x Show notes Who is Beth22 year old Vet Student Final year of vet school, working on a placement yearWorking with small animals and horsesHaving a passion and love for animals Deciding to be a vetStudying; Biology, chemistry and maths at A’LevelHating sports at school Starting university in 2021Soaring Dragons, based in Loughborough Starting to train with the teamWhat Dragon Boat racing isThe set up of the boatGetting started in Dragon Boat Racing The impact of covid on the Dragon Boat ClubLearning the skills needed Being put into the boat straight awayTraining as much as she canThe challenges of training while being on work placements and rotations Why its a good sport for involving everyone The stroke pair - being in charge of setting the rateGetting qualified as a helm Getting into race helming Competing at NationalsGreat Britain Premier Squad The different categoriesBNTS Sessions - taster sessions where anyone from any club can try out the trainers and see what improvements can be made to their paddling Being a new paddler in 2021Going away and doing her own training in 2022 Wanting to take it more seriously and getting into the squad in 2023Committing to training weekend across the country Doing paddling and strength training Being part of the what’s app group and sharing training plans and sessions Team Dynamics of the crewBeing very competitive with herself Wanting to be the best she could be Heading to the World Championships in Thailand in 2023Racing in the 2k eventRace strategy and how the race unfolded Taking a peek at the other boat!Dealing with an injury and not being able to paddleDrumming for another team - Three River SerpentsRacing plans for 2025Transporting the boat to different competitionsEnjoying the 500m distance How to connect on social mediaContact your local club and give it a go Racing as part of the women’s crew Commit to it - what you want Social Media Notts Anaconda - www.nottsanaconda.co.uk Instagram - @nottsanaconda THE BDA - the national governing body for Dragon Boat Racing throughout Great Britain. www.dragonboat.org.uk Facebook - www.facebook.com/britishdragonboatracing @gbpremierdragonboatteam
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    33 min
  • Wander Women: Kristy & Annette — From Retirement to the Triple Crown of Hiking & a Life of Bold Adventure

    Wander Women: Kristy & Annette — From Retirement to the Triple Crown of Hiking & a Life of Bold Adventure
    Jul 8 2025
    In this episode of the Tough Girl Podcast, we meet Kristy and Annette—two inspiring women who completely transformed their lives after retirement. In 2015, they sold everything they owned, bought an RV, and set out to live life on their own terms. What began as a “retirement gift” hike on the Colorado Trail quickly evolved into a bold new chapter of full-time adventure. Since then, Kristy and Annette have completed the Triple Crown of Hiking—the Appalachian Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, and Continental Divide Trail—and spend each year splitting their time between life on the road and life on foot. Together, they share their journey of choosing freedom, rejecting fear, and expanding the limits of what life after 50 can look like. This episode is a powerful reminder that it's never too late to chase your dreams, explore the unknown, and live life unapologetically. If you’ve ever felt the urge to change direction, embrace the outdoors, or reclaim your time and energy for what truly lights you up—this conversation is for you. New episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast drop every Tuesday at 7 AM (UK time)! Make sure to subscribe so you never miss the inspiring journeys and incredible stories of tough women pushing boundaries. Do you want to support the Tough Girl Mission to increase the amount of female role models in the media in the world of adventure and physical challenges? Support via Patreon! Join me in making a difference by signing up here: www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast. Your support makes a difference. Thank you x Show notes Annette - working as a teacher and school Librarian Deciding to retire in 2015 Doing a lot of backpacking trips before retirement Giving themselves the trip to do the Colorado Trail as a retirement presentGetting hooked on long hikesTravelling and hiking full time since themGrowing up in California and being outdoorsy, but not getting into travelling and hiking until moving to Colorado as a senior in high school Loving the South West of AmericaHiking the Appalachian Trail and having a blast!Meeting Kristy, born in Washington, USA before moving to Colorado at 8 years oldGrowing up adventuring and spending time in the mountains and woodsGoing to college on a basketball scholarshipAlways being active Really enjoying the backpacking and spending long periods of time in nature as she’s gotten olderWorking as a mental health therapist and working with children who had early traumaMaking a change in 2015 and deciding to end that chapter Thinking that life is a gift and it goes by really fast and wanting to live it up while they canWanting to do all of the hard thingsWanting to write a new chapter and try new thingsSelling everything they owned and buying an RVDeciding to walk more long distance trailsWanting to hike the triple crown How Kristy and Annette met at a sweat lodge (sauna) in 2003Meeting for a coffee and saying ‘wanting to walk the earth’Starting to go on weekend trips Wanting to stay out in nature for longerSeeing a financial planner Starting to think differently Figuring out how to live the cheapest way and to do the things they loveStarting adventuring 10 years ago full time at 51 and 57Having a 5 year planCompleting the plan in 4 yearsNot caring about stuff and not being materialistic Loving this lifestyle Hiking the Appalachian Trail in 2019How demanding it was (aged 62)Starting slow and building and seeing how their bodies held up for the long haulHaving to change plans due to covidStarting the continental divide trail The amazing people met along the wayThe simplicity of life on the trailSharing their dreams with family and friendsOther people’s fearsThe dream verses the reality of this lifeWanting to create her life how she wants itPlanning for the year aheadWanting to expand the confines of their life until they die Claiming space in the world and making it exactly how you want itHandling disagreements How plans evolve overtimeHaving low expectations and why it can be a key for happinessPlanning a trip to South America Booking the hiking part of the trip and keeping the rest freeWorking within a framework Annettee doing the researching Creating the grand plans!Training and doing a marathon while selling the house!Getting into pack rafts Leaving the RV while hiking Making this life workThe triple hike and the differences between the big three hikesWater carries, desert, hiking at elevation, sun levels, resupplyWhy the Appalachian Trail is a good beginner trail for newbies Watch the videos on YouTube Wanting to inspire people to get outside especially older peopleWords of advice for women listening Starting small and find what you loveBuilding success into it Figure out what works for youSetting yourself up for big success Why life is a huge giftDon’t let it (life) go to wasteBe in your power Social Media Instagram @wanderwomen_kristy_annette Facebook https://www.facebook.com/RVsters/ Youtube: @...
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    54 min
  • Rebecca Devereux – Mum, Vet, Trail Runner, and 3rd Place Finisher at the Montane Winter Spine Sprint

    Rebecca Devereux – Mum, Vet, Trail Runner, and 3rd Place Finisher at the Montane Winter Spine Sprint
    Jul 1 2025
    In this episode of the Tough Girl Podcast, we’re joined by the incredible Rebecca Devereux — a dedicated mum, a vet, and a passionate trail and ultra runner. Rebecca shares her journey into endurance running, her training highs and lows, and what it took to place third in one of Britain’s most brutal races — the Montane Winter Spine Sprint, a 46-mile challenge across the rugged Pennine Way in the depths of winter. We dive into Rebecca’s approach to training and mindset, how she balances family life with her love for the trails, and her growing involvement with Black Trail Runners, a community breaking down barriers in the outdoors. From road marathons to alpine trails, Rebecca’s story is one of resilience, preparation, and quiet determination — whether she’s running through snowstorms in spikes, racing in the Swiss Alps, or supporting others in their running journeys. If you’re looking for inspiration to start your own trail running adventure — or just want to hear how someone juggles it all and still finds joy in the challenge — this episode is for you. Tune in now and get ready to be inspired by Rebecca’s grit, humour, and heart. We first spoke with Rebecca December 28th 2023 - Listen to this episode here - Rebecca Devereux - Active member of Black Trail Runners (BTR) New episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast drop every Tuesday at 7 AM (UK time)! Make sure to subscribe so you never miss the inspiring journeys and incredible stories of tough women pushing boundaries. Do you want to support the Tough Girl Mission to increase the amount of female role models in the media in the world of adventure and physical challenges? Support via Patreon! Join me in making a difference by signing up here: www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast. Your support makes a difference. Thank you x Show notes Who is RebeccaMum, vet, and an ultra runner3rd place in the Montane Spine Race (Winter Race) Speaking with Rebecca on the TGP - December 28th 2023 The beginning of 2024Training for the London Marathon Her first road raceUTMB Eiger The difference between training for a road race compared to a trail raceBlack Trail Runners (BTR) What race day likeRunning to Heart RateCraving salt 30k inWearing a running vest?Magical moments and the stand out bitsRecovery after the marathon Racing in Switzerland and wanting to be back in the mountains againRace strategy for UTMB Eiger and dealing with the killer climbsTaking a nasty fall and hurting her ankle Losing her confidence on the downhill sectionsHeart rate and effortWanting to involve her family in the racingBeing a beacon runnerBTR and having a 35% increase in membersHosting taste days and working with different partners The Spine Race….Could I do this?Getting on the waiting list…Being encouraged by Sabrina Pace-Humpreys Winter Spine Sprint - 46 miles along the Pennine WayPeak Divide ONEr - 75 miles - during the day, a social run. Running in the bad weatherRunning better in the wet and cold compared to running in the heatPlanning race strategy and training with her coach - Sam Village Living on the course and being able to do recce runsPlanning and preparing for all eventualities Being a prepper to help deal with anxiousness Hill sprints and hill repeats Snow….Haworth Hobble Race Anything else that could have been done to prepare for the raceShorts in winter….Needing to believe in herself and her choices Silence the noise - silence anything that is going to affect you in a negative way Wearing spikes for running in the snowYaktrax Kahtoola Spikes Having a goal of finishing the raceHaving the right mindset for when the racing is going slow due to the slowHaving the aim of keeping moving forward and not getting frustrated with the speed of the raceBeing confidence on navigation Catching up with the main groupGetting into flow and everything feeling rightAmbassador for TORQ Fitness UK Having a caffeine hour How the conditions helped herMaking the right decisions and grinding it outThe full Montane Spine Race (268 miles) Challenger South - 110 Miles… Having a massive respect for the race and not feeling ready to take on the full spine racePlans for racing in 2025UTMB - OCCRunning with 7 women from Black Trail Runners How to connect with Rebecca and Black Trail RunnersFinal words of advice for other women who are on their trail running journey “Turn up, do the sessions, and if you are consistent you will make progress”The importance of preparation. Social Media Instagram: @rebecca_runs_wild Black Trail Runners - Campaigning charity promoting inclusion, participation & representation of people of Black heritage and people of colour in trail running Facebook: www.facebook.com/groups/273210547440261 Instagram: @blacktrailrunners
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    1 h et 2 min
  • Helen Ryvar – Running Through Grief, Finding Strength & Breaking Records | 1,000 Consecutive Half Marathons (May 2022 – Jan 2025) 🙌 Inspiring Others to Be Their Best ❤️

    Helen Ryvar – Running Through Grief, Finding Strength & Breaking Records | 1,000 Consecutive Half Marathons (May 2022 – Jan 2025) 🙌 Inspiring Others to Be Their Best ❤️
    Jun 24 2025
    What began as a way to cope with grief became a world record-breaking journey that’s taken Helen Ryvar across the globe — from sunrise runs in North Wales to volcanic trails in Fuerteventura and the ancient deserts of Petra. A single mum of three and a self-described non-athlete in her youth, Helen’s transformation into a Guinness World Record holder for running consecutive half marathons is nothing short of awe-inspiring. In this deeply personal episode, Helen opens up about the heartbreak that sparked her first streak, how running became her therapy, and the mental and physical resilience required to complete 1,000 consecutive half marathons — often starting at 4am. With races lined up from the Chester Ultra to international marathons in Malta and Brighton. If you’ve ever questioned what you’re capable of, or needed a reminder of the strength that comes from simply showing up — this is the episode for you. Tune in to hear Helen’s story of grit, growth, and running with purpose. New episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast drop every Tuesday at 7 AM (UK time)! Make sure to subscribe so you never miss the inspiring journeys and incredible stories of tough women pushing boundaries. Do you want to support the Tough Girl Mission to increase the amount of female role models in the media in the world of adventure and physical challenges? Support via Patreon! Join me in making a difference by signing up here: www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast. Your support makes a difference. Thank you x Show notes Who is Helen44 years oldSingle mum to 3 children Living in Wrexham in North WalesGetting into fitness before covidStarting running and running 111 consecutive half marathons and becoming the GWR holder for the achievementRunning 1000 half marathons on her 2nd run streakHer early years and not being particularly sports and a little overweightBeing more into languages and artBeing punished and made to runJoining the cross country running teamReceiving bad newsFinding out her ex-husband had diedTelling her children that they would no longer be able to see their daddyBeing able to exercise and starting to runFinding her peace at 2 hrs - 2.15 mins running How the connection with nature saved herFinding a new rhythm and a way to clear her headBreaking the previous record of 75 half marathonsSharon Jesspo - South Africa (101 - half marathons) Submitting data to Guinness World Record for the 1000 half marathonsStaring her 2nd running streak on the 1st May 2022Being challenged to do a 2nd run streak by Mika Shevit Running for MIND Charity and raising £8,000 Running routes Running from 4am - 6am most morningsBelieving in green running and not leaving a carbon footprintGetting everything ready the night beforeOn and out in 15 minsThe 4am run clubHow her body has adapted to the daily millage over 3 yearsKnee issues Enjoying the routines and being grateful for getting up every morningLosing her dad and father in law50 mile Chester Ultra 50km London Ultra Running with Sean Conway Breaking down the running goals into mini milestonesRunning with other peopleMental tips and tricks for runningSleep, nutrition and routineWhat a typical day looks like Going to bed at 9pmThe importance of quality sleepWhat happens when the data gets corruptedGarmin watch GWR not accepting StravaFinishing the running streak on the 24th January 2024Missing the running and the adjustment period555 Challenge - Free challenge via FacebookCome down from big eventsThe adventure bluesDealing with the grief through running and feeling much stronger as a personNot being treated well by her ex-husbandBeing in an anxious, depressive stateHaving conflicted thoughts and feelings Being left in financial debt Identifying as a mother and not a runnerWeighting 17 stones and having low self esteemRunning all over the world and the logistic challenges involvedRunning in the heat and the darkRunning with @marathonwoman366 How to connect with Helen onlineFinal words of advice Social Media Instagram @helenryvar Facebook www.facebook.com/hmryvar53 Just Giving www.justgiving.com/page/streakwithhelen
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    38 min
  • Caroline Livesey – Extreme Triathlete and Elite Gravel Cyclist: Winning Races, Breaking Limits, and Giving Back

    Caroline Livesey – Extreme Triathlete and Elite Gravel Cyclist: Winning Races, Breaking Limits, and Giving Back
    Jun 19 2025
    Caroline Livesey is an adventurer, extreme triathlete, ultracyclist, elite gravel cyclist and triathlon and life coach. Caroline started her journey into triathlon while serving with the Royal Engineers in the British Army. After 10 years service she left as a Major in 2013 and pursued a career as a professional triathlete (while working full time as a geotechnical design consultant), originally in Ironman events. In 2019 circumstances conspired to throw her into her first extreme triathlon, Canadaman XTRI. Winning this event was the catalyst for her to work on her mindset and physical adaptations to take on the gruelling climate conditions which are typical for the Extreme Triathlons such as Norseman and Celtman. She has since won numerous extreme events, and has just returned from winning Patagonman in Chile for the second time. Caroline is also an elite gravel cyclist, competing for Team GB at the last two World Championships (where she thinks she was the oldest on the start line by some 20 years). She loves single day UCI gravel races but also ultra distance, and has competed at Badlands (3rd), finished Transcordilleras (Colombia), and completed coast-to-coast across Costa Rica in less than two days. She completed the 1000km Transcordilleras, an 8-day stage race, in February this year. Caroline's husband Mark is a documentary / film maker and they make films about their adventures (YouTube, Amazon Prime - The Brick Session). Their purpose is to provide information and inspiration to others so that they might break down their own false beliefs to take on their own challenges. Caroline and Mark have founded Peak Education Nepal - a charity bringing education to the children of poor families in Nepal who cannot afford to go to school. They became involved in this while in Nepal for an event in 2022, and plan to go back this year to develop the charity and do another mountain trail running adventure. New episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast drop every Tuesday at 7 AM (UK time)! Make sure to subscribe so you never miss the inspiring journeys and incredible stories of tough women pushing boundaries. Do you want to support the Tough Girl Mission to increase the amount of female role models in the media in the world of adventure and physical challenges? Support via Patreon! Join me in making a difference by signing up here: www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast. Your support makes a difference. Thank you x Show notes Who is Caroline Scottish but now currently living in Majorca Having a background in endurance sportsProfessional Ironman athlete and now doing extreme triathlons Gravel cycling and endurance cycling Growing up in a sporty family and spending time outside Starting triathlon in her late 20sBeing a fit person overall Climbing (indoor and outdoor)Doing crazy things outdoors Going to Sandhurst and doing her army training Getting into triathlons Meeting her husband while in the armyThe changes in professional triathletesDoing her first pro year in 2015How the industry has change in the past 10 years Having a full time job and fitting in the training Not being able to make a living from it inCanadaman /woman Norseman Patagonman 2017 - having her breakthrough race in Texas Getting attacked while on her bike Breaking her pelvis and dealing with multiple stress fracturesNot being able to get back to the same level of performance Having her professional career cut shortHaving an opportunity to try other things Having a bad experience with the cold during a race Back to fitness in 2015 and looking at doing Ironman Ireland Deciding to go to Canada and do a warmer race in JulyWinning Canadaman Race and automatically qualifying for NorsemanCold weather and cold experiences Just because you are cold adapted doesn’t mean you don’t feel the coldLearning different ways to manage the coldThere has to be a way for me to physically adapt to the cold and getting onboard mentallyStarting to have cold showers Learning to breathe out as the cold hits youThinking about physically relaxing Learning that it’s ok to be cold Feeling invigorating after cold water swimming Experiencing Norseman (2022) and what it was likeFilm - Norseman - A day of extremes - available on Youtube The logistical challenges of the Norseman RaceBritta Sorensen (PHD) - research on pain and suffering in female endurance athletes. Race strategy and being self coached Being coached by her husband at the very startNot being very coachable Listening to her body and making decisions based on how she feels Taking it to the next level during a race and needing to push harderRacing against herself Extreme triathlon - being out front on the swim and the bikeWinning Canadaman by 12 secondsLyne Bessette Getting to the finish line and knowing she gave it everything she hadThe mental side of racing and why you need to practice itThe benefits of experience and being able to draw knowledge from itHow you can ...
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    57 min
  • Dr. Sheridan Lathe - Sailing the World to Deliver Veterinary Care to Remote Communities

    Dr. Sheridan Lathe - Sailing the World to Deliver Veterinary Care to Remote Communities
    Jun 17 2025
    In this inspiring episode of the Tough Girl Podcast, we set sail with Dr. Sheridan Lathe, aka Dr. Sheddy — a wildlife veterinarian, sailor, YouTuber, and passionate advocate for both animal and human wellness. After years of working with domestic and exotic animals in Australia and rescuing bears in China, Dr. Sheddy took her expertise to the seas. Now based on her 37ft sailboat Chuffed, she delivers free veterinary care to animals in remote coastal communities across Central America and Mexico — reaching places where traditional care simply doesn’t exist. She funds her work independently through Patreon and YouTube while living full-time on the water with her partner Jim. In 2024 alone, Vet Tails helped over 450 animals across 13 communities, offering everything from vaccinations to life-saving surgeries. From sailing storms to working on polar bear rescues, dealing with typhoid, and building a life outside of convention — Dr. Sheddy is redefining what it means to live a life of purpose and impact. If you’ve ever dreamed of combining adventure, service, and personal freedom — this episode is for you. Tune in to hear her story, the lessons she’s learned, and how you can support her mission — or maybe even start your own. New episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast drop every Tuesday at 7 AM (UK time)! Make sure to subscribe so you never miss the inspiring journeys and incredible stories of tough women pushing boundaries. Do you want to support the Tough Girl Mission to increase the amount of female role models in the media in the world of adventure and physical challenges? Support via Patreon! Join me in making a difference by signing up here: www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast. Your support makes a difference. Thank you x Show notes Dr SheddyVeterinarian and living on her sailboat in MexicoDelivery veterinary care to remote communities Growing up in a small beach town in rural Australia Having an affinity for animalsWanting to be a vet from a young age Vet school in Australia Graduating high school at 17Becoming a vet at 23Being interested in birdsWanting to specialist in the animals that no one else is seeingWanting to focus on exotic animalsGetting into sailing later on ‘Chuffed’ the boat37ft mono hull, only 8 boats, made in 1990Paying for everythingPatreon and YouTube Funding via social media Animals on the boatWorking with local veterinariansSailing over the past few yearsSailing for 8 months of the yearDoing a major refit of the boat which took 2 yearsBuying the boat in Panama Meeting her partner - JimThe covid yearsWorking on a Polar Bear! (Mixed with a bit of grizzly - a golden bear!)Living and working in China at a bear rescue centreWhere to next?Working with local communities and setting up a longer term solutionWork life balance Working at a rural town in Australia Starting off as a new vet and the hours worked….Superhero cultureMoral injuryGiving the best care available Eating animalsGetting typhoid fever in MexicoNot being able to gain the weight backHeading to small remote islandsWifi and keeping connected VHF Radio for emergencyStarlink on boats and in remote communities How to support the work Dr Sheddy is doingFinal words of advice for other women who want to follow their passions and interestsWanting to live life on your termsUsing a Purpose Venn diagramThe plan for the next few yearsDreaming bigWanting to expand Social Media Website www.vettails.com Instagram @dr.sheddy_the.sailing.vet Patreon - www.patreon.com/ChuffedAdventures
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    44 min
  • Tinuke Oyediran: Adventure Presenter, Survivor UK Star. Committed to showing diverse audiences that anyone, regardless of background, can experience life to the fullest.

    Tinuke Oyediran: Adventure Presenter, Survivor UK Star. Committed to showing diverse audiences that anyone, regardless of background, can experience life to the fullest.
    Jun 10 2025
    In this episode, we sit down with Tinuke Oyediran, an extraordinary adventure presenter and thrill-seeking daredevil who’s breaking barriers in the world of extreme adventure. You may recognise Tinuke from her recent stint on Survivor UK on BBC1, but her journey goes far beyond reality TV. Tinuke is on a mission to show that anyone, regardless of background, can embrace life’s greatest adventures and that the most rewarding experiences often come from stepping out of your comfort zone. From sleeping on the side of a mountain and walking the wing of an aeroplane to climbing glaciers, surviving alone in the wilderness, and achieving three Guinness World Records as a professional roller skater, Tinuke's fearlessness knows no bounds. She’s dedicated to representing diverse audiences in extreme adventure TV, proving that anyone can push boundaries and live life to its fullest. In this inspiring conversation, Tinuke shares her journey, her passion for adventure, and her dedication to showing the world that exploration is for everyone. Tune in to hear how she’s challenging perceptions and proving that adventure truly has no limits. New episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast drop every Tuesday at 7 AM (UK time)! Make sure to subscribe so you never miss the inspiring journeys and incredible stories of tough women pushing boundaries. Do you want to support the Tough Girl Mission to increase the amount of female role models in the media in the world of adventure and physical challenges? Support via Patreon! Join me in making a difference by signing up here: www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast. Your support makes a difference. Thank you x Show notes Who is TinukeProfessional Adventurer Being based in London, but spending time trying to get away from London Born and bread London Girl No 1 daredevil Lover of outdoor sports Adrenaline junkie by nature Getting out of her comfort zone is her favourite place to beHer early years growing upBeing encouraged to spend time outdoors Remembering a trip she did with her mum when she was 8 years oldBeing an adventure presenter and filming adventure vlogsWorking as a professional roller skaterGetting a couple of Guinness world records Dealing with a lot of personal tragedy Going into a dark hole for a couple of yearsStarting adventuring and getting outdoorsAdventure healing Getting through traumaApplying for Survivor (TV show UK 2023)What Survivor was like and why it was one of the most brutal things she’s doneTraining for Survivor?The 6 month audition processPsychological training - reading books on body language, interrogation techniques Competitive?!Loving healthy competition Being a very adaptable person Coming out a tougher personWhy the show is the showPlanning and preparing for the futureManifesting Having clear goals of what she wants to achieve in a short space of timeWorking on short term goals, so they happen within 6 monthsHaving tunnel vision focusTaking time out to vision board and really focus on what the next 6 months will look likeNeeding reward Why short term goals work for herWanting to climb Kilimanjaro Working with Intrepid Travel Spending time in Belize Working with the Noma CollectiveWriting a series of children’s adventure books The Grand Canyon Dealing with the cold - mind over matterIceland Adventure in 2025The Golden Circle in Iceland Advice for people to step outside their comfort zone Why the comfort zone is not your friendWhy you do just need to startYou have to do it!Dealing with failure and setbacksNot allowing herself to dwell to wallow Being inspired by Ness Knight DM Tinuke Adventure! How to connect with TinukeThe meaning behind her nameSpending time in Nigeria Words of adviceStart smallLife is too short not to take the scenic route. Life is for living The only thing you are going to regret is not giving things ago Social Media Instagram @tinuke_oyediran
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    36 min