#118 - What It Really Takes to Run a Trail Race | Inside Ultra Trail Morzine-Avoriaz W/ James Tilley!

🎙️ Gone Running Podcast | Episode #118In this special episode, we sit down with RunThrough Trails' very own James Tilley for an honest, insightful, and inspiring conversation in collaboration with the RunThrough Trails podcast.Together with host Ben Sheppard, James reflects on his time in Canada, the roots of his passion for the mountains, and the challenges of turning trail dreams into reality on race day. The duo dive deep into what went into organising one of the most emotional and ambitious events on the RunThrough calendar: Morzine.Also hear,🏞️ How James designed and raced his own trail course💥 The behind-the-scenes chaos of delivering an event📈 RunThrough’s vision for European expansion🤯 Navigating setbacks, mental fatigue & last-minute changes🤝 The power of community, connection, and the RunThrough team spiritThis episode pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to run a successful trail event — not just physically, but mentally and emotionally. From planning courses to managing crises, it’s a candid conversation about passion, purpose, and the people who make the sport so special.💬 Whether you're a runner, a race director, or someone who loves a good story about grit and growth, this one’s for you.👇 Hit play, subscribe, and drop us a comment about your own favourite trail experience!Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/James Tilley - https://www.instagram.com/jtrunsuk/?hl=en

#117 - 🎙️ Gone Running Podcast | Episode #117 In this powerful episode, Ben Sheppard is joined by Ella Jalley, who shares her journey from beginner runner to London Marathon finisher — and everything in between, including chatting about the barrage of hate she received.... for wearing a RUNNING VEST!  Originally a makeup artist, Ella opens up about the unexpected challenges of becoming a running content creator, including facing online criticism and breaking down stereotypes in the running world. She’s now using her platform to promote positivity, inclusivity, and the idea that running is for everyone.  ✨ The emotional highs of completing the London Marathon 🏃‍♀️ Why normalising runs under 5K is so important! 💬 How to stay confident when facing online hate 👟 The power of creating a supportive virtual run club 💖 Why you are already a runner — no matter the distance  Whether you run 26.2 miles or just around the block, Ella’s story is a reminder that running belongs to all of us. There’s no such thing as “not a real runner” — and every step counts.  👇 Like, comment, and subscribe to hear more inspiring conversations from the Gone Running Podcast!Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/ Ella Jalley - https://www.instagram.com/byellajalley/

🎙️ Gone Running Podcast | Episode #116In this episode of RunThrough presents Gone Running, Ben Sheppard is joined by Carleth Keys — former news anchor turned running content creator — for an honest and inspiring conversation about identity, transition, and resilience.Carleth opens up about her move from the newsroom to social media, how motherhood reshaped her sense of self, and how running helped her rediscover strength and purpose. From navigating injuries to staying authentic online, she shares what it really means to grow through every mile.🔑 In this episode:🎤 Transitioning from journalism to content creation👟 How running supported her through personal change💬 The power of vulnerability and authenticity online🧠 Why comparison holds runners back🤱 Balancing motherhood, identity, and ambition🩹 Lessons learned from injuries and setbacksIf you’ve ever felt like you’re starting over or redefining your path, Carleth’s story is one you’ll want to hear.👇 Tune in now — and don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more powerful stories from the Gone Running Podcast!Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/Carleth Keys - https://www.instagram.com/carlethkeys/

🎙️ Gone Running Podcast | Episode #115In this episode of RunThrough presents Gone Running, Ben Sheppard is joined by Jordan Simons, a seasoned digital nomad and travel content creator, as he takes us through his incredible journey over the past decade. From navigating life in countless countries to growing a YouTube channel on the move, Jordan shares the highs, the challenges, and how running has recently become a key part of his lifestyle.We dive into:✨ Life as a digital nomad📸 The evolution of travel content🌐 Cultural takeaways from global adventures🏃‍♂️ His experience running a marathon on THE GREAT WALL!🚀 Travel tips and future aspirationsJordan opens up about the balance between work and passion, and why now is the best time to say yes to adventure.🔔 Be sure to like, comment, and subscribe to catch future episodes of the Gone Running Podcast!Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/Jordan Simons - https://www.instagram.com/thelifeofjord/

🎙️ Gone Running Podcast | Episode #114In this episode of the Gone Running Podcast, Ben Sheppard sits down with Amanda Brooks, founder of 'Run to the Finish', to explore her incredible evolution from beginner runner to a respected running coach, author, and community builder.Amanda shares the pivotal moments in her journey, from overcoming injuries and self-doubt to building an inclusive online space that encourages runners of all levels. She reflects on how the running world has evolved since she began, from a performance driven, elite-focused athlete to one that now prioritises wellness and the joy of movement.🎙️ In this episode, we cover:✨ Amanda’s transformation and growth as a runner🌍 The shift in the running community toward inclusivity and mental wellness📉 Navigating injuries, hormonal changes and avoiding burnout🗺️ How travel and changing environments shaped her running perspective💡 Encouragement for new runners to define success on their own termsAmanda’s story is a reminder that there’s no “right” way to be a runner. Her insights are both inspiring and practical—perfect for anyone looking to fall (or stay) in love with the run.🔔 Be sure to like, comment, and subscribe to catch future episodes of the Gone Running Podcast!Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/Amanda Brooks - https://www.instagram.com/runtothefinish/

🎙️ Gone Running Podcast | Episode #113 In this uplifting episode, host Ben Sheppard chats with Karina Patel, a passionate runner who lives with rheumatoid arthritis 🏃‍♀️💥Karina opens up about:* Her lifelong love of running—and how diagnosis shook everything up* The power of movement for body and mind, even on tough days* Building a community and safe spaces for those with autoimmune conditions* Launching her Autoimmune foundation to share stories, spark connections, and inspire resilience* Tips for finding joy in every step, no matter the challengeWhether you’re living with a chronic condition, supporting someone who is, or simply love a story of grit and hope, this episode will leave you motivated to embrace your journey—and lace up for the next chapter.Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/Karina Patel - https://www.instagram.com/karina.patel__/

🎙️ Gone Running | Episode #112 At just 12 years old, Tom Starck was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma — a moment that would change his life forever. In this powerful and uplifting conversation, Tom opens up to Gone Running host Ben Sheppard about his fight against cancer, the support that carried him through, and how a life-changing wish from Make-A-Wish helped him find purpose beyond survival.Now a competitive marathon runner, Tom shares how running became his way of giving back, staying strong, and inspiring others. From gruelling treatments to crossing the finish line at the London Marathon in 2.46, his story is a testament to resilience and the belief that your past doesn’t define your future.💬 Tune in to hear Tom’s reflections on:* Beating cancer and reclaiming his health* The life-changing impact of Make-A-Wish* Why running is more than just a sport* The power of coaching, mindset, and purposeIf you’re facing a challenge — or need a spark of motivation — Tom’s journey will remind you: **you’re stronger than you think.**Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/Tom Starck - https://www.instagram.com/tomstarck_/

🎙️ Gone Running | Episode #111In this inspiring episode, Ben Sheppard sits down with Aminah Sattar, a former food content creator turned fitness enthusiast and the powerhouse behind Girls Who Run, a community that uplifts women through running.Aminah opens up about the leap from food to fitness content and how embracing authenticity reshaped not only her content but also her confidence. From marathon milestones to her dreams of completing a triathlon, Aminah’s story is about fear, growth, community, and finding purpose through movement.💬 In this episode:* The shift from foodie to fitness creator* Leading a women's running group with purpose* Training for the London Marathon* Navigating fear, doubt, and social pressure* Family support & female empowerment in sport* Why her next goal is the triathlon finish line 🏊‍♀️🚴‍♀️🏃‍♀️Aminah’s journey is proof that it’s never too late to redefine your path—and inspire others along the way.Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/Aminah Sattar - https://www.instagram.com/eatpastarunfasta__/

🎙️ Gone Running | Episode #110In this episode of Gone Running, Ben Sheppard sits down with Mark Branniff—a CrossFit coach turned ultra-endurance runner—who’s set himself the monumental goal of running 100km (in one go) every week throughout 2025.Mark opens up about the gruelling mental battles, the transformational power of running, and the shift in identity that came with leaving behind his life as a coach to chase something even bigger.🌟 What You’ll Hear in This Episode:* Mark’s bold challenge: AT LEAST 100 km in one go, every week of the year —and why he's doing it* The transition from lifting heavy to running long* How he rebuilt his identity through endurance* The role of community, discipline, and routine* Navigating injuries, setbacks, and self-doubt* Why mindset trumps motivation—and how to train it* His vision for future ultra events and bigger personal testsMark’s story is about more than running—it's about reinvention, resilience, and relentless pursuit. Whether you're a weekend jogger, seasoned ultra runner, or someone searching for your next big challenge, this episode will hit home.🔔 Subscribe for more raw and inspiring conversations every week on Gone Running.📲 Follow us on Instagram.Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/Mark Branniff - https://www.instagram.com/the_branniff/

🎙️ Gone Running | Episode #109In this candid and thought-provoking episode, we chat with Nathalie Lennon—personal trainer, fitness coach and mental health advocate—as she shares her powerful journey through body image challenges, disordered eating, acne struggles, and the often toxic pressures of the fitness industry.Nathalie reflects on her shift from chasing aesthetic ideals to focusing on genuine health and well-being. From marathon training to health setbacks, she reminds us that recovery isn’t always straightforward—and that self-compassion and empathy are key.💬 We cover:* Body image & eating disorders* The pressure of appearance in the fitness world* Acne, confidence & self-image* Mental health, empathy & personal growth* Training, setbacks & resilienceThis episode is a timely reminder that fitness isn’t just about looks—it’s about how we feel, treat ourselves, and grow.🎧 Tune in for an honest, inspiring conversation about real life behind the screen!Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/Nathalie Lennon - https://www.instagram.com/nathalielennon_/