#135 - Wheelchair Athlete Poppy May: ‘It Can Be Your Anchor or Your Wings’ | The RunThrough Podcast

In this episode of The RunThrough Podcast, Jack Faint joins us to share the incredible story of running the entire length of India after a life changing brain tumour diagnosis. What started with a seizure and a moment that changed everything became a journey of travel, self discovery and learning to live fully in the present.Jack shares how endurance running evolved from a way to rebuild his health into a pursuit of ever-greater performance challenges — from taking on the Goggins Challenge for charity, to a 250km desert race in Jordan, and a 650km run along the South African coast. These milestones ultimately led him to run 3,770km across India in just 74 days, averaging 51km a day, becoming the first person in history to do so. He opens up about the realities behind the scenes, from complex logistics and mental battles to the huge role that teamwork and the people around him played in making it possible.Ben Sheppard hosts this relaxed and honest conversation, digging into resilience, mindset and why enjoying the journey really matters more than the finish line. An inspiring chat about perspective, purpose and what can happen when you take that leap into the unknown.Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/Jack Faint - https://www.instagram.com/jackefaint/

Ultra runner and women’s wellness coach Frankie Smyth set out to run 50km in all 15 UK National Parks in 15 days. In this episode of The RunThrough Podcast, hosted by Ben Sheppard, Frankie shares the full journey — from the spark of inspiration to the moment she crossed the final finish line.She talks about why she took on such a huge challenge, what she learned about resilience, and how the experience pushed her physically and mentally. Although she ultimately completed the challenge, Frankie opens up about the tough decision to adjust her distances on a few days due to injury, fatigue and safety — and why adapting the plan was essential to reaching the end.We dive into the logistics behind a multi-day endurance challenge, the highs and lows of life on the road, the support she received from friends, family and strangers, and the emotional finale surrounded by the Alfie Nick Foundation, the charity she ran for in memory of her cousin’s son.If you need a reminder of what you’re capable of, this episode is it.Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/ Frankie Smyth - https://www.instagram.com/runningwithfrankie_/

In this episode of the RunThrough Podcast, writer and storyteller Emily Crane joins host Ben Sheppard for her first ever podcast conversation.Emily has built a refreshingly honest corner of the internet with writing-first videos, thoughtful narrations laid over completely ordinary moments. Instead of oversharing her own life, she writes for “everyone”, tapping into that comforting truth that none of us really know what we’re doing in our twenties (or beyond).Ben and Emily dive into why social media clings to extremes while most of life happens quietly in the middle; how mundane moments with people matter more than we realise; and how long-distance running can completely shift what feels stressful. Emily talks about running 12 marathons in her 22nd year, the boredom and structure of training, saving “special” songs for the darkest kilometres, and using race trips to explore places she’d never otherwise visit.They also discuss why it’s so hard to say how we really feel, the relief of getting a thought out of your head and into the world, and Emily’s new book club, built around reading things that actually challenge you rather than choosing the easy option.If you’ve ever felt a bit lost, a bit overwhelmed, or unsure what you’re meant to be doing, this conversation will sit with you.Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/Emily Crane - https://www.instagram.com/emilyrosecharlotte/

In this episode of The RunThrough Podcast, fitness creator and marathon runner Aaliyah Unia sits down with host Ben Sheppard to share the story behind her journey. From growing up without access to fitness, navigating cultural expectations, and recovering from a traumatic head injury, to unintentionally becoming a source of inspiration for others, Aaliyah speaks openly about the challenges that shaped her.She reflects on hiding her early gym sessions from family, dealing with community stigma, facing online criticism, and the moment she nearly walked away from content entirely. Aaliyah also talks about influencing major brands, the growth of representation in the fitness world, and what running the London Marathon taught her about resilience and identity.This conversation is honest, grounding and full of moments that anyone on a personal journey will connect with. A reminder that intention, community and self-belief can change everything.Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/Aaliyah Unia - https://www.instagram.com/aaliyah.unia/

Join host Ben Sheppard on this moving episode of the RunThrough Podcast as he talks with Poppy May, aka Poppy May Fitness, about her extraordinary journey. As a teenager, Poppy faced a life-changing situation that left her in a wheelchair, but she refused to let it define her.She opens up about her struggles with mental health, accepting her new reality, and finding purpose through fitness and community. From racing in the London Marathon to inspiring thousands on Instagram, Poppy’s story is a powerful testament to resilience, hope, and determination.Discover how she turned what could in her words have been her 'anchor' into her 'wings' and learn how to find strength and beauty in life’s toughest moments.Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/Poppy May - https://www.instagram.com/poppymayfitness/The Samaritans - https://www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan/talk-us-phone/

In this heartfelt episode of The RunThrough Podcast, host Ben Sheppard sits down with Amy Lane and Tom Mannion, who recently ran at the RunThrough Swindon Half, to explore the power of community, connection, and healing through running. The conversation dives into the story of Dave’s Run Club (DRC), founded in memory of a beloved family member, friend, and runner, and uncovers how this grassroots movement has united people to support one another both on and off the road.Running is more than just physical exercise; it’s a way to release stress, reflect, and grow. Through shared experiences, running creates a sense of belonging and strengthens mental well-being. This episode highlights how grassroots movements can inspire real change, how personal stories motivate others, and why fostering mental health awareness is vital in building strong, connected communities. Ultimately, it’s a reminder that running is about more than miles; it’s about connection, discovery, and honoring the people who inspire us to keep going.Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/Amy Lane - https://www.instagram.com/wellness_ed/The Samaritans - https://www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan/talk-us-phone/

In this inspiring episode of the RunThrough Podcast, Johnny Morillo, better known as Johnny Meatless, joins host Ben Sheppard for a conversation full of energy and insight. 🌱Johnny is a vibrant food content creator, passionate runner, and advocate for a plant-based lifestyle. He opens up about his journey to veganism, his lifelong love for cooking, and how he turned his passion for food into a platform for creativity, health, and community. From growing up around his dad’s food market to discovering the power of plant-based nutrition, Johnny shares how small, gradual changes can lead to a more sustainable and fulfilling lifestyle.He and Ben chat about how running and fitness complement a vegan diet, the joy of sharing food with others, and the truth behind vegan alternatives and common misconceptions. Johnny offers practical tips for anyone curious about transitioning to a plant-based diet and talks about his unexpected journey into modelling, embracing every new challenge with enthusiasm.Whether you’re a runner, foodie, or just curious about vegan living, this episode is full of inspiration and motivation to live healthier and happier.Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/Johnny Morillo - https://www.instagram.com/johnnymeatless/

In this episode of The RunThrough Podcast, Emily Jane Fairs joins host Ben Sheppard to share her inspiring journey into ultra running. Known for her positivity and authenticity, Emily talks about how a spontaneous decision to start running led her to take on ultra marathons and discover a deeper sense of purpose through the sport.She opens up about leaving university to pursue social media full-time and how she overcame an eating disorder in her teenage years, an experience that taught her to fuel her body for both performance and enjoyment. Emily reflects on the highs and lows of her first 100K race, a mix of excitement, pain, and fulfilment. She explains why community, connection, and mental strength are essential parts of the ultra-running experience.From finding confidence through running to setting her sights on future endurance challenges, including a potential 240-mile race, Emily’s story is an empowering reminder that running is as much about personal growth and resilience as it is about the miles themselves.🎧 Subscribe to The RunThrough Podcast for weekly conversations with inspiring runners, athletes, and creators.Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/Emily Jane Fairs - https://www.instagram.com/emilyjanefairs/

In this episode of RunThrough Presents Gone Running, Zara Holland joins Ben Sheppard to share her journey into running, exploring how she stays motivated, builds confidence, and prioritises self-care - learning to say no. Zara discusses the importance of balance, finding time for yourself, and learning to appreciate the process of improvement. She reflects on turning 30 as a moment to reset and focus on what truly matters, embracing running as both a physical and mental outlet.The conversation also touches on her experience at the Great North Run, the importance of family support, how her time on Love Island feels like a different life, and the role the community plays in helping her stay consistent.This episode is all about mindset, motivation, and discovering joy in the journey. Whether you are new to running or chasing your next goal, Zara’s story is a reminder that progress starts with just one step.Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/Zara Holland - https://www.instagram.com/zaraholland/

In this episode of RunThrough Presents Gone Running, Lewis Robling shares his remarkable journey from professional rugby to the world of ultra-running.Lewis opens up about the challenges of transitioning out of sport, the mental health struggles he faced, and how running became a tool for both personal exploration and connection. His story also reveals how the idea for Why We Run was born, a charitable ultra-marathon event built on community, resilience, and giving back.From raising significant funds for charity to finding strength in asking for help, Lewis highlights the life lessons that endurance sports can teach us and the power of being authentic, vulnerable, and true to yourself.Hosted by Ben Sheppard, this is a powerful conversation about sport, community, and self-discovery that will inspire runners and non-runners alike.Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/Lewis Robling - https://www.instagram.com/lewis_robling/