LUCY BARTHOLOMEW: Finding Her Identity Through Running

On this final episode of the series, Luke chats with Australian Backyard Ultra Champion Chris Murphy.  Chris' story into running isn't one you usually hear, and it's inspirational for anyone who is looking to become fitter, healthier, and even run longer... What excites 'Murphs' these days in the running world, is the relatively new format of the Backyard Ultra's. These brutal events are described throughout the episode, including Chris's shock win, competing at the World Championships for Australia, and how these days, Backyard Ultra's are more like team events with competitors working together, instead of against one another. If you want your mind to be opened up to a new level in the world of running (and even life in general) then tune in, and get ready for the wise words of Chris Murphy.   Connect with Chris over on Instagram @cmurphyrun

Ellie Greenwood is someone you would cheer for, no matter who you were at a race to support. She runs because she simply likes to run, and was won Marathons & some of the world's biggest and most prestigious ultra-marathons, not by trying to beat her competitors, but 'simply' because Ellie likes to run - fast! A back to back Western States champion (and still course record holder), 2 x 100km World Champion, and first British woman to win the Comrades Marathon in South Africa, Ellie's running career wasn't all smooth sailing though. Missing nearly an entire year due to injury at the peak of her career, we dive into how she remained relaxed during this time, and her ability to enjoy situations in races (and in life) where others may see them as overwhelming. This conversation is packed full of take home advice, and one you will no doubt listen to more than once. CONNECT WITH ELLIE INSTAGRAM: @elliejgreenwood TWITTER: @eLLiejG ELLIE'S COACHING SERVICE: www.sharmanultra.com/elliegreenwood

It's not about the setback, it's about the comeback! Dr Rob Bell knows a thing or two about bouncing back from setbacks. The in demand Mental Toughness Coach to many professional athletes, sporting teams, and countless 'Corporate Athletes,' has literally wrote seven books on how too build your mental toughness. However, in this episode we don't dive into the science of mental toughness, but explore the mental journey of Dr Rob's recent (and first) 100 mile ultra-marathon. The highs, lows, and tools he used to continually move forward and complete his longest ever run, is an episode you don't want to miss. CONNECT WITH DR ROB BELL WEBSITE: www.drrobbell.com BOOKS: Read Here TWITTER: @drrobbell INSTAGRAM: @drrobbell

Claire Smith doesn't like to take the easy way in life; she prefers the long, hard, and educating way. The list of Claire's achievements may sound made up to the uninitiated of extreme endurance events; continuous Double Deca Triathlon, Unsupported JOGLE, Triple/Quin/Deca Triathlons to name just a few. It's not the pain that Claire enjoys during these challenges, (which can last weeks) but the learning experiences she has during these days of swimming, cycling, and running. Claire's journey in life has been anything but smooth, however her resilience in the face of adversity is aspirational, and she shares how she continually picks herself up throughout this episode. READ CLAIRE'S STORY: Autobiography Becoming Brutal WEBSITE: www.brutalclaire.co.uk INSTAGRAM: @brutalclaire

This conversation is thought provoking, inspirational, and a lot of fun.  Mickey Graglia's life looked 'perfect' from the outside, international male model (yes you read that correctly) working for the biggest brands, fast cars, penthouse apartments, and all the luxuries one could ever want - although this isn't the life that Mickey needed. A 'Hinge Moment' in his life instigated a turn of events that transformed this underwear model, into one of the toughest and most successful ultra-runners in recent years. From winning Badwater 135, Moab 240, and setting Guinness World Records for the Fastest Known Times crossing entire deserts; Mickey's running career centres around the relationship he has with himself, nature, and truly enjoying each day of his life. TO LEARN MORE ABOUT MICKEY WEBSITE: www.michelegraglia.com AUTOBIOGRAPHY: Ultra INSTAGRAM: @mickeygraglia

Life is one big adventure for Alyssa Amos Clarke. The self-confessed 'Endurance Adventurer', travel junkie, and outdoor lover who definitely has an ultra-running problem, isn't one to shy away from a challenge. This conversation tip toes along Alyssa's 335 mile (539km) Women’s Overall FKT (Fastest Known Time) across the Pinhoti Trail in Alabama and Georgia in the U.S.A. This 5 day 14 hour, and 43 minute "incredible journey" taught Alyssa several things about herself, as well as many others about life, purpose, and the importance of gratitude. Get in Touch with Alyssa WEBSITE: www.alyssaclarkruns.com INSTAGRAM: @theory_in_motion

** Please be advised there is some swearing throughout episode. ** Brian Keane is insightful, curious, loves helping others, and 100% Irish! (This will make sense when you listen...) On this episode of the Luke's Lowdown Podcast, Brian shares not only what he has achieved in his life, but how he has created a mindset that has enabled him to overcome obstacles, adapt to setbacks, and create opportunities in his life.  A Dad, best-selling Author, ultra-marathon runner, and health & fitness educator; this episode is jammed packed full of actionable takeaways. Brians chart topic Podcast 'The Brian Keane Fitness Podcast' is full of inspirational stories from a variety of guests. LISTEN NOW to Luke being interviewed on Brian Keane's Fitness Podcast WEBSITE: www.briankeanefitness.com INSTAGRAM: @brian_keane_fitness

Becoming a Professional Triathlete & Ironman Champion was never the plan for Laura Siddall. After building a career as an Engineer, she found the sport of triathlon, and her new life's Motto - 'Don't Die Wondering.' Laura's curiosity shines through as she shares the ups and downs of her globe trotting lifestyle, with several candid stories that will make you stop what you're doing, and ask yourself "is this the path I should be taking?" A thoroughly enjoyable chat with 'Sid' and one that should get you excited for living life after listening. Go Say Hi to Laura at: WEBSITE: www.laurasiddall.com  INSTAGRAM: @Imsid TWITTER: @Imsiddall 

This episode is a lesson on mental toughness, not only for your chosen sport, but for life! Luke chats with James Lawrence, A.K.A The Iron Cowboy. James has completed 50 Iron distance triathlons in 50 USA states, in 50 consecutive states, as well as 101 Iron distance triathlons in 101 consecutive days. It's fair to say that James knows how to strengthen his mind to accomplish his goals, and he's here to share just how he does this with us all. Website: www.ironcowboy.com Instagram: @ironcowboyjames The Iron Cowboy Fitness App: www.ironcowboyapp.com

Luke chats with Professional Ultra-Runner (and Aussie) Lucy Bartholomew. This open, honest, and insightful discussion dives not only into how ultra-running fits into Lucy's life, but also the personal struggles she has faced to grow into the individual she is today. Website: www.lucybartholomew.com Instagram: @lucy_bartholomew Running Out Movie: www.runningoutmovie.com