Podcast Guests
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Nick Weston
This guy’s run over 30 marathons because, apparently, sanity is optional. He’s knocked out 3 London Marathons at some fancy “good for age” level, like that’s normal.
Six 100-mile races under his belt too, because 26.2 miles? Child’s play. He’s even podiumed at Centurion 100s, probably because everyone else got lost. Oh, and four Ironman finishes, because he’s allergic to free time.
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Joe Kennedy
Joe Kennedy, founder of Modern Day Warrior, is all about toughening up men because apparently, we’ve forgotten how.
No shortcuts here, just hard work to transform bodies and minds.
Joe used to think he didn’t need a coach, spent thousands on useless supplements, and finally figured out the right way.
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Ben 'Bungle' Taylor
Ben ‘Bungle’ Taylor is an ultra runner from Wales who’s tackled multiple Tough Mudders and the Epona 100—because, you know, why not?!
Ben has converted pig sty to a gym (as you do) and even built his own red light sauna. Oh, and he completely shattered his knee but still manages to clock up the miles and smash ultra events like it’s nothing. If that’s not dedication!
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Dean Karnazes
Dean Karnazes is basically a running superhero. This guy doesn’t just run marathons, he cranks out ultra marathons like it’s a casual stroll. He once ran 50 marathons in 50 states in 50 days! Oh, and he has run 350 miles without stopping.
Get this: he orders pizza midrun, folds it up like a burrito, and keeps going. Karnazes is an absolute legend. We’re all in awe, laughing, and wondering how anyone can run that far and still look like he’s having fun!
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Matt Knaggs
Matt Knaggs is the guy who got diagnosed with MS and thought, “You know what? Let’s make this harder!” Instead of kicking back, he decided to run marathons and ultras, because why not? Then he took it up a notch by signing up for MS Run the US and raised over $20,000 while doing it.
While most of us struggle to run for a bus, he’s crushing miles and making a difference. Absolute legend. He’s an inspiration, but also making the rest of us look seriously lazy!
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Colin Bodels
Seasoned marathoner, living in Philadelphia, who’s tackled all the Abbott World Marathon Majors—Boston, New York, London, Tokyo, Berlin, and Chicago. With his fast times and heaps of experience, he’s got marathons down to a fine art.
But it’s not just about the miles; Colin’s also the expert on the quirky details, like which marathon has the best vibe and, of course, which one smells the nicest! He has the inside scoop on the world’s biggest races.
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Gary Connolly
The genius behind We Run Wild NI—and his partner-in-crime Gillian have pretty much run the planet. They’ve tackled events all over the world, including the infamous Marathon des Sables, because, clearly, they enjoy suffering.
Gary’s mission is simple: to drag you into their off-road madness with epic races from 5ks to 100-milers. If you’re looking for inspiring routes, a killer atmosphere, and a race-day experience you won’t forget (mostly because it’ll haunt you), Gary’s your man.
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Declan Leung
Declan Leung is a smiling, super optimistic runner, with an addictive personality. By day, he’s with Athletics NI, and when he’s not busy there, he’s creating endless virtual runs through Virtualrunni.
But he’s not just about running. As a jack of all sports, whether it’s javelin, shot put, track work, long jump, or anything that involves getting out there and smashing it.
No pretending here—he’s the real deal!
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Andy David
Andy David, the man who somehow finds time to do it all. When he is not smashing the Yeti 100, he’s busy teaching or rescuing cats like some sort of superhero.
Oh, and did we mention he’s thriving with MS? Yeah, because why not add a bit more inspiration to the mix?
Andy’s the guy who makes you question life. Ultra runner, teacher, cat rescuer, and all-around legend.
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Nick Weston
This guy’s run over 30 marathons because, apparently, sanity is optional. He’s knocked out 3 London Marathons at some fancy “good for age” level, like that’s normal.
Six 100-mile races under his belt too, because 26.2 miles? Child’s play. He’s even podiumed at Centurion 100s, probably because everyone else got lost. Oh, and four Ironman finishes, because he’s allergic to free time.
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Jo Manta
Jo Manta is the ultimate inspiration for runners everywhere! Balancing her dream of competing at the highest levels with a passion for inspiring young women, Jo takes on the toughest ultra events with grit and determination.
From finishing 4th in the Spartathlon to dreaming of a podium finish that will motivate the next generation of female runners, Jo proves that anything is possible with heart, perseverance, and a love for the sport.
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John Calabrese
John’s the ultimate dad on the run—literally! Balancing big races, a full-time job, and the all-important title of “Dad,” he takes on the toughest ultra events and still makes it home in time for dinner (and maybe a slice of pizza).
With a passion for Barkley Marathons, a love for epic endurance challenges, and a need for speed to return to his little girl, John’s proof you can push limits and keep family first.
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Kay Ross
Kay Ross is a powerhouse triathlete who dominates in swimming and cycling but approaches running with pure determination (and maybe a little reluctance). With a no-nonsense attitude and an unstoppable drive, Kay has tackled countless triathlons, proving that grit and resilience can conquer even the toughest courses.
Balancing intense training with a sharp sense of humour, Kay isn’t afraid to call it like it is—especially when it comes to running. Her insights on endurance, rest days, and the realities of pushing through make her a relatable inspiration for athletes of all levels.
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Burger Guy
Ryan Schwartz, aka The Burger Guy, is the ultimate ultra-running crew member with a heart as big as his burger stash. While crewing for his runner, Ryan didn’t just show up—he brought extra burgers to share with other runners and crews, proving that kindness fuels endurance just as much as calories.
With his passion for helping others and a knack for making everyone feel supported (and well-fed), Ryan has become a legend among the ultra-running community. Whether it’s flipping patties or cheering from the sidelines, Ryan reminds us all that sometimes, a good burger and a big heart can go the distance.
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We Run Wild Ni
We Run Wild NI is all about pushing limits and embracing the untamed beauty of running off the beaten path. Founded by Gary and Gillian, two ultra-running legends with over 400 marathons and countless ultras between them, they’ve created a community for runners who crave adventure.
From back-to-back marathons to conquering events like the Marathon des Sables, they know what it means to dig deep and keep going. Their passion for wild trails, epic challenges, and creating unforgettable race day experiences has inspired runners across Northern Ireland and beyond.