Episodes

  • Jen Scotney - Running Through the Dark: The rise and fall of an ultrarunner. A story about resilience, about never giving up, and about battling through the night and always believing that there will be a new dawn.

    Jen Scotney - Running Through the Dark: The rise and fall of an ultrarunner. A story about resilience, about never giving up, and about battling through the night and always believing that there will be a new dawn.
    Nov 5 2024
    Jen Scotney boasts an impressive record as an ultrarunner with podium finishes in the 108-mile Montane Winter Spine Challenger South and the 190-mile Northern Traverse. She is host of the Resilience Rising Podcast, a running coach, writer, Mountain Leader and yoga teacher, which have followed her career as a human rights lawyer. Jen has appeared in magazine features for Runner’s World, Trail Running and Women’s Running. She has been a guest host on the Wild Ginger Running YouTube channel, and a previous guest on the Tough Girl Podcast. Jen crewed for John Kelly’s successful Pennine Way fastest known time as well as for his Wainwrights Round in the Lake District. She grew up in the Peak District and now lives in the Scottish mountains with her husband Marcus and Sherlock the beagle. Running Through the Dark is her first book. *** Don't miss out on the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, released every Tuesday at 7am UK time! Be sure to hit the subscribe button to stay updated on the incredible journeys and stories of strong women. By supporting the Tough Girl Podcast on Patreon, you can make a difference in increasing the representation of female role models in the media, particularly in the world of adventure and physical challenges. Your contribution helps empower and inspire others. Visit www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast to be a part of this important movement. Thank you for your invaluable support! *** Show notes Who is Jen Scotney Intro from 2018 TGP episode So much has changed in 6 yearsA new introduction for nowBeing based in the Scottish HighlandsNot running anymore and what happenedChatting with Mimi Anderson No longer clinging onto the identity of being a runnerSelf worth in relation to challenges and big runsUsing writing as a tool to help processHer dream of wanting to run the Pennine WayGetting a book deal and starting to write stories of runnersGoing through a period of chronic illnessWanting to share her story and get it out of her head500 words a dayRelief and fear of finishing the bookGrief and lossHanding over control Recovering from chronic illnessResilience Starting the Resilience Rising PodcastsWhy messiness is part of resilience. Taking the time to process and accept what’s happenedNot signing up for the suffering Having a good time while runningWhy low points in a race are not comparable to real life challengesExternal validationWhat bring joy and happiness todayTeaching yoga and growing fruit and vegMaking changes in her life and doing a pivotGetting ok with uncertainty and changeChoosing the uncertainty and being open to what comes upAdvice for letting go of control Joining the local mountain rescue team in Scotland Working through a skill list and having monthly training Managing negative thoughts Dealing with 2 knee replacementsLooking for her limit and finding out what she can doStart where you arePlans for 2025 - goal setting or going with the flowPracticing yoga for 15+ yearsBeing a qualified Yin Yoga teacherYoga Nidra and permission to restPushing back again busyness and perfection Relax and do more yoga Stop trying to be productiveWhat needs to be let go offBeing in the momentKeep connected to Jen Final words of advice Social Media Website: www.jenscotney.com Instagram: @jenscotney X/Twitter: @jenscotney Vertebrate Publishing Books to inspire your next adventure. Based in Sheffield, the Outdoor City. Instagram @vertebrate_publishing X/Twitter: @VertebratePub Book: Running Through the Dark: The rise and fall of an ultrarunner. Ultrarunner Jen Scotney has achieved podium finishes in some of the UK’s toughest races and now has her sights firmly set on the Pennine Way. In Running Through the Dark, Jen talks about her ambitions, not just to run the 268-mile Pennine Way but to take the record as the fastest woman to do so. But that didn’t happen. Nothing went according to plan. The Jen the world knew was a successful lawyer and running coach – all photoshoots and finish-line smiles – but the truth was much darker. The real Jen Scotney, the one she hid from everybody, suffered with chronic fatigue, debilitating injuries, tragedy, grief and at times had a will so beaten down by setbacks that there just didn’t seem any point in going on. But she did go on. Running Through the Dark is Jen’s account of her ultra-journey. Playing out on the moors of the Pennines, the fells of the Lake District and the mountains of Wales and Scotland, this is much more than a running book, it is a story about resilience, about never giving up, and about battling through the night and always believing that there will be a new dawn.
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    1 hr and 5 mins
  • Risa August - Removing limiting beliefs, shifting her perspective, and embracing an expansive life…. Author of 'The Road Unpaved: Border to Border with a Brain Tumor and a Bike’.

    Risa August - Removing limiting beliefs, shifting her perspective, and embracing an expansive life…. Author of 'The Road Unpaved: Border to Border with a Brain Tumor and a Bike’.
    Oct 29 2024
    In this episode, we delve into the extraordinary life and inspiring journey of Risa August, a multifaceted individual based in Colorado, USA. Risa wears many hats - she's a Gestalt practitioner, a captivating speaker, an author, and a passionate patient advocate. Her story is one of resilience, marked by her decade-long battle with a pituitary tumour and a rare disease, Acromegaly. Risa shares candidly about her experiences, offering profound insights into overcoming adversity and embracing life with unparalleled vigour. Risa's journey into the realm of personal transformation began with her participation in Ironman races, a testament to her fierce determination and love for physical challenges. However, her path took an unexpected turn when she started noticing troubling symptoms, eventually leading to a diagnosis that altered her life trajectory. Despite facing daunting health challenges, Risa's spirit remained unyielding as she navigated through surgeries, treatments, and the complexities of managing a chronic condition. In her book, The Road Unpaved: Border to Border with a Brain Tumor and a Bike, Risa eloquently chronicles her courageous cross-country bicycle journey, symbolising her refusal to let adversity define her. Throughout our conversation, Risa reflects on how her perspective on life and adventure has evolved, emphasising the importance of embracing new experiences and pushing beyond perceived limits. Her insights into removing limiting beliefs and fostering a positive mindset resonate deeply, offering profound lessons for anyone navigating their own challenges. Join us as Risa shares her story of resilience, adventure, and the transformative power of embracing life fully, no matter the obstacles. Get ready to be inspired by her unwavering spirit and her profound wisdom gained through living a life unleashed. *** Don't miss out on the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, released every Tuesday at 7am UK time! Be sure to hit the subscribe button to stay updated on the incredible journeys and stories of strong women. By supporting the Tough Girl Podcast on Patreon, you can make a difference in increasing the representation of female role models in the media, particularly in the world of adventure and physical challenges. Your contribution helps empower and inspire others. Visit www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast to be a part of this important movement. Thank you for your invaluable support! *** Show notes Who is RisaBased in Colorado, USAWorking as a gestalt practitioner, speaker, author and patient advocateHer passion for learning‘CANI’ - Constant And Never-ending Improvement The connection with Tony Robbins Growing up in Cleveland Ohio and her early yearsTaking herself on adventures Being inspired by her dad and a buffalo head nickelHow the meaning of adventure has changed over the yearsWhy adventure means - learning and experiencing something new Setting out a timeline2011 - completing her first Ironman race Starting to notice changes in her body Fast forward 7 years and training for another Ironman.Not being able to recover and not being able to keep the weigh offPlus dealing with severe headaches and lack of sleepPushing for an MRI of her brainBeing diagnosed with an enlarged pituitary and a brain tumour Looking at brain surgery and being diagnosed with a rare disease - Acromegaly.Processing and working through the diagnosis Having a mindset of getting it done and moving on with her lifeWaiting 3 months for surgery Acromegaly is a rare condition where the body produces too much growth hormone, causing body tissues and bones to grow more quickly. Being very conscious of what goes into her bodyRadiation or medication?Feeling very lonely even while being supportedBattling orthorexia in her 20sNot being able to exercise and spend time in the outdoorsDeciding to ride her bicycle down the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH)Looking back on her adventurous life and remembering what it felt likeStarting to paint and how it became an outlet Instead of focusing on what she couldn’t do - focusing on what she could doWhat can I do now?Small steps, one thing at a time.Stopping judging herself and blocking out the noise from other peopleGetting back to the CrossFit gymAcceptance around her identity and how it’s changedSigning up for a semi supported tour on the PCHSAG - Support And GearBook: The Road Unpaved: Border to Border with a Brain Tumor and a Bike Reflecting back on the ride and some of the magical moments Trying to control situation and outcomes and how the universe has a completely different plan for youBeing open to what’s possibleTo be open to letting go of limiting beliefs Why it was a massive learning experience Being present and spending time in the momentNaming her brain tumour and the reason behind itBeing kind to her bodyLouise Hay Book: Heal Your Body: The Mental Causes for Physical Illness and the Metaphysical Way to Overcome Them. Adding humour to ...
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    51 mins
  • Bailey Seamer: Hiking Australia's East Coast (14 Months, 5,000km) for Mental Health Advocacy.

    Bailey Seamer: Hiking Australia's East Coast (14 Months, 5,000km) for Mental Health Advocacy.
    Oct 22 2024
    In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Bailey Seamer, an extraordinary individual who undertook a 14-month, 5,000km hike along Australia's East Coast, from Wilsons Promontory to Cape York, all in the name of mental health advocacy. Bailey's story is one of resilience, determination, and hope, as she uses her journey to raise awareness and support for mental health issues. Diagnosed with a major depressive disorder at just 14, Bailey has faced significant challenges, including managing an all-consuming mental illness and dealing with the impact of bi-polar disorder. Despite these obstacles, she found solace and strength in walking, which became a crucial part of her healing journey. Her decision to embark on this monumental hike was driven by a desire to advocate for mental health, share her story, and demonstrate that even in the face of adversity, one can achieve incredible feats. Throughout her journey, Bailey encountered numerous challenges, from managing her mental health on the trail to dealing with the physical demands of such an extensive hike. She shares insights into her experiences, the support she received from family and strangers alike, and the lessons she learned along the way. Bailey's journey is a powerful reminder that no matter how difficult the path may seem, there is always hope, support, and the possibility of overcoming life's greatest challenges. Tune in to hear Bailey's incredible story, learn about her mental health advocacy efforts, and be inspired by her unwavering determination to make a difference. *** Don't miss out on the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, released every Tuesday at 7am UK time! Be sure to hit the subscribe button to stay updated on the incredible journeys and stories of strong women. By supporting the Tough Girl Podcast on Patreon, you can make a difference in increasing the representation of female role models in the media, particularly in the world of adventure and physical challenges. Your contribution helps empower and inspire others. Visit www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast to be a part of this important movement. Thank you for your invaluable support! *** Show notes Who is Bailey Hiking the East Coast of Australia Her mental health journey Being diagnosed at 14 with a major depressive disorder Being supported by her familyManaging an all consuming mental illness Having to leave university and move back homeBi-polar disorder? Making the decision to go into a mental health hospital Being in a really bad place Walking home 30k from the hospital Feeling proud of herself Why walking became a really important part of her healing journey ECT - Electric Convulsive Therapy Having the idea to walk the East CoastFeeling a sadness and frustration and not knowing if she would be okThe Black Dog Institute Sharing her ideas with people Finding people’s criticism, very helpful in her planning process.Not being taken seriously at first and doing something about itWhy it was such an important leaning stageBeing taken seriously and starting to take herself seriously as wellManaging her bi-polar disorder while on the walkWhy medication is an important part of her health care routineHaving a bad day and what that can look likeWanting to be able to pinpoint the problem Dealing with a spectrum of emotions Understanding the difference between, ‘I can’t’ and ‘I don’t want to’Tantrum Time Out for 7 minsPutting small rocks in her shoes…. A physical way of reframing the situationCreating a pocket of pleasure in her dayBeing alone while on the walkMaking a decision by yourself Reflecting back on previous situationsPaying for the challengeThe kindness of strangersReflecting back on the journey and some of the main memories from the experience Waking up with a fox in her tent!Adventure blues Planning a trip to Rio to go to Carnival Not walking a huge amount What she wanted people to take away from her walkWhy you are not alone if you are suffering from mental healthLetting people know that there is support available and that there is no shame in asking for helpBreaking things down and taking it one step at a timeHow to connect with Bailey online and find out more about her journey Final words of adviceWhy everything will passNothing in this life is permanent Social Media Website: wandering-minds.org Instagram: @wandering_minds_walk Facebook: @wanderingmindswalk
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    1 hr
  • Shafeeqah Gordon - Trail Runner from Cape Town, South Africa: Pushing Limits on the Trails and the Importance of Community

    Shafeeqah Gordon - Trail Runner from Cape Town, South Africa: Pushing Limits on the Trails and the Importance of Community
    Oct 15 2024
    In this episode of the Tough Girl Podcast, we sit down with Shafeeqah Gordon, a passionate trail runner from Cape Town, South Africa. Shafeeqah shares her journey, from playing netball as a child to discovering the freedom and challenge of running through her university cross-country club. Over the years, running has become an integral part of her life, and she hasn’t looked back since. As a leader for Tuesday Trails, a group dedicated to the joy of trail running, Shafeeqah is all about building community and encouraging people to get outside. Her work as a mountain guide and sports scientist has equipped her with invaluable skills for tackling challenging terrains and pushing the limits in her races. From competing in prestigious races like the Ultra Trail Drakensberg 65km and the Ultra Trail Cape Town 55km, to conquering technical trails with a focus on strength and conditioning, Shafeeqah gives us insight into her training, race strategies, and the mindset needed to overcome physical and mental battles during ultra races. In this episode, Shafeeqah opens up about inclusion in the trail running community, the power of running to clear the mind, and her personal battles with self-doubt during tough moments in races. She also talks about her involvement in outdoor education through her Outdoor Education Hub, which will be relaunched in 2025 after a brief hiatus. Tune in to hear Shafeeqah’s thoughts on trail running, the lessons she’s learned along the way, and her final advice for anyone looking to take on their own running challenges! *** Don't miss out on the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, released every Tuesday at 7am UK time! Be sure to hit the subscribe button to stay updated on the incredible journeys and stories of strong women. By supporting the Tough Girl Podcast on Patreon, you can make a difference in increasing the representation of female role models in the media, particularly in the world of adventure and physical challenges. Your contribution helps empower and inspire others. Visit www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast to be a part of this important movement. Thank you for your invaluable support! Show notes Who is Shafeeqah GordonGroup Leader for Tuesday Trails IG @tuesdaytrails Being sports and playing netball from a young ageGetting into running via the cross-country club at university How running became apart of her lifeNever regretting a runThe difference between cross-country and trail runningMountain guide, outdoor educator and sports scientistStudying sports science at university. Specialising in strength and conditioning for running and netball playersThe outdoor education hubWorking a full time job in retailGetting qualified as a mountain guideWhy the marathon distance is the sweet spot. 42kmThe Cape Town Skyrace - The Sky Running Series Training for technical trailsBullet proof anklesWorking with a strength and conditioning coach and a run coachRunning mojoCalling a friend to schedule a run togetherRunning the Ultra Trail Drakensberg (UTD) 65kmUltra Trail Cape Town 55k (UTCT) The challenges of running further Figuring out nutrition and fuelling for the longer runsFitting in training around life Recovery?Trying not to take running too seriously Race strategy and wanting to get a better time than last yearFuture dreams and racesBatrun RaceRunning thoughts - thinking about everything and nothingBeing at war with herself during a tough race Inclusion in trail runningOutdoor Education Hub (on hiatus for the rest of 2024) but coming back in 2025How you can connect with ShafFinal words of advice Don’t listen to the demonsWhy it’s just important to get out there Social Media Personal Instagram: @shafgordon Outdoor Education Hub - We're an initiative focused on equipping people with knowledge & educational tools for the outdoors - making it a fun & safe space for all to enjoy Instagram: @outdooreducation_hub
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    40 mins
  • Amanda Harris: Overcoming Adversity with Adapted Cycling, Fundraising, and Inspiring Resilience After a Life-Changing Spinal Cord Injury.

    Amanda Harris: Overcoming Adversity with Adapted Cycling, Fundraising, and Inspiring Resilience After a Life-Changing Spinal Cord Injury.
    Oct 8 2024
    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 AmandaLiving in South Wales with her husband and two teenage childrenOriginally growing up in DevonStudying Law at Cardiff University Living in Wales for over 30 yearsMeeting 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 competitiveMaking walking plans for retirementGetting 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 happenedSpending 9 months in hospital Having to learn everything againHow it changed her life What’s happened sinceDeciding to complete the Wales Coast Path (WCP) by trike, wheelchair and occasionally a few steps Being able to walk a few steps with crutchesWhy can’t I do this nowAccepting 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 PathResearch 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 peopleCompleting approx 500 miles needing to do the North Wales SectionsRaising funds for charity Getting back into cycling and being gifted a recumbent bike Being involved in different cycling challengesWinning a competition with - Spinal Injuries Association Heading out to Portugal in May 2024 to ride 200 miles over 3 days!Having moments of doubtNot going into the dark placeFocusing 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 husbandHow to connect with Amanda on line Final words of advice for women who are going through a challenging timeNot wanting to preach to people Try and stay positive Setting tiny, tiny goals in a notebook and how this helped during rehabFind out what works for you and focus on that Social Media Instagram: @amandah_trike Instagram: @amandascoastalchallenge
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    40 mins
  • Dena Lewis: Running for Resilience and Safety - Advocating for Women's Safety and Launching the Running Mate App.

    Dena Lewis: Running for Resilience and Safety - Advocating for Women's Safety and Launching the Running Mate App.
    Oct 1 2024
    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 yearsMarried 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 runningHow her fitness journey has progressed over the yearsRunning for health, fitness and wellbeing Learning what works for her with regards to runningNot being able to fit in run clubs Running all distances from 5k to ultra marathonsRunning between 10 to 12 miles per day, 6 days per weekHer favourite distance being a half marathonWear and tear, trainers, recovery, fuelling… Why 10/12 miles per day!Living with a certain level of pain at all timesBeing a consistent runnerNot liking to run on a treadmill and preferring to run outsideThe morning routineBeing a fasted runner and drinking coffeeLeaving at 5am and being gone for approx 2 hoursPlanning her day around her run Getting her blood checked on a regular basisEnding up in the ER with chest painsSeeing a heart doctor once a year to have a check upRunning in the early morning and experiences fearAm I safe - what’s around meBeing harassed while running on a regular basis and being assaulted twiceCreating Running Mate —an on demand running app (think of Uber for runners) How running mate worksHaving no experience in tech, finding a developer and starting to work on the project in April 2021Launching in April 2024 in 3 very specific cities in the USBeta testing since January 2024Running with other peopleFemale runner safety summit The running mates get paid Bringing awareness to the violence against womenWanting to make it a safer world for her daughterBrining companies together which has a mission to improve women’s safetyWanting to expand the app world wide within a yearFollowing and support running mate onlineFinal words of advice for other women who want to get out there and get runningTalk to someone and get help if you need supportOnly talking about the first assault recentlyChoosing not to report it Having the perpetrator show up on her door stepStopping runningLiving in fear and how it impacted her day to day life with her familyMoving away from the area and starting to feel safe againSharing her story to let other women know that they are not aloneBeing in denial for a whileWorking through PTSD, the trauma, the event and start seeing the other side Not becoming an advocate straight awayTaking time to focus on herself and her family Connecting with other women who had been through a similar thingGetting back to running again and feeling a sense of empowermentGetting angry when it happened a second time Why we need advocacy and change Social Media Website: www.getrunningmate.com Instagram: @getrunningmate ...
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    53 mins
  • Beth Rodden: Legendary Rock Climber and Trailblazer in the Outdoor Community. Sharing insights from her book: "A Light through the Cracks: A Climber's Story.

    Beth Rodden: Legendary Rock Climber and Trailblazer in the Outdoor Community. Sharing insights from her book: "A Light through the Cracks: A Climber's Story.
    Sep 24 2024

    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.

    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 Beth Rodden
    • Being a professional climber
    • Starting climbing at 14 which was part of the first generation of kid climbers
    • Getting into climbing after being taken with her dad to the climbing gym
    • How her climbing career progressed
    • Having professional climbers to look up to
    • Being inspired by female professional climbers
    • Making the transition from indoor climbing to outdoor climbing
    • 1999 heading off on an all female climbing expedition in Madagascar to establish new climbing routes and why it was a pivot point in her life
    • Being inspired by climber - Lynn Hill
    • Deciding to pursue professional climbing full time at 19
    • Being supported by her parents to follow her dreams
    • Free climbing the nose on El Cap in Yosemite National Park
    • Training and planning for a climb
    • Breaking it down into smaller sections
    • The difference between free climbing and free solo
    • Book: A Light through the Cracks: A Climber's Story.
    • Wanting to share her climbing story
    • Writing about the darker sides of climbing and the untold stories
    • 2000 - climbing in Kyrgyzstan's Kara Su Valley.
    • Being kidnapped and held hostage for 6 days by rebels
    • Managing to escape
    • Getting through the dark times and the trauma
    • Experiencing this at 20 years old
    • Processing the trauma and what support was available
    • Self talk while climbing
    • How climbing has changed over the past 20 years
    • Getting the balance right between climbing and having a family
    • The struggle of a working parent
    • How having children changed her views on risk and the type of climbs she wanted to do
    • Future climbs and climbs that inspire her
    • Having a love/hate relationship with social media
    • How you can connect with Beth
    • Advice for women who want to get into climbing
    • Advice for women who want to take their climbing to the next level

    Social Media

    Website: www.bethrodden.com

    Instagram: @bethrodden

    Facebook: @bethroddenclimb

    Book: A Light through the Cracks: A Climber's Story.

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    43 mins
  • Gina Atkinson: From Royal Signals Engineer to Inspirational Fundraiser and Adventurer

    Gina Atkinson: From Royal Signals Engineer to Inspirational Fundraiser and Adventurer
    Sep 17 2024
    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 GinaBeing based on the Wirral, UKBeing a fundraiser for Veterans Charities Combining her fundraising with crazy adventures Growing up on the Wirral and why it’s an amazing locationHer early years spending time hillwalking in WalesJoining the army cadets at 13Deciding 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 missionsVolunteering at the orphanage in Bosnia Making the decision to leave the armyWanting to make a second career and experience something different Starting fundraising for veterans charities almost straight awayRiding across Death Valley in America Getting involved in ultra races and going to see places at the same timeThe Wall Ultra Race across Hadrian’s Wall Dealing with covid and losing her brother at age 52 to stage 4 bowl cancerComing 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 distractionCoping with stress and trauma by fitness and adventure in natureNot knowing the next stepsGetting post adventures blues at the end of the challenge/adventureBackdoor adventuresRaising funds for ssafa the Armed Forces charity Meeting veterans and sharing stories and memoriesBeing an advocate for mental health Raising over £250K for veterans charities and winning multiple awards300 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 WilliamGetting injured and needing to return in 2024 Not taking a dip in lock nessThe planning behind the challenge ideasTaking 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 goodKeeping positive while on adventures Motivation and discipline why you need bothQuote 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 WHYMotivation from the GI Jane movie and Legally BlondeBeing 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 eventsTry 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 @...
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    48 mins