#131 - Zara Holland on How Running Changed Her Life: Finding Confidence, Balance and Self-Care | Gone Running Podcast

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/

In this episode of RunThrough presents Gone Running, Natasha Mane joins Ben Sheppard. Natasha discusses the importance of passion and desire in achieving fitness goals, while also acknowledging the reality of burnout and emphasising the importance of prioritising self-care to stay focused. She emphasises that investing in yourself physically and mentally is the foundation for long-term success, introducing her concept of a “health bank” to highlight how consistency pays off over time.Running, she explains, has been a humbling experience that has shaped her growth, teaching lessons in resilience and perseverance. Natasha also reflects on the role of social media in shaping fitness identity and stresses the importance of remaining authentic in a world full of comparisons. For her, embracing challenges has not only fueled personal growth but also strengthened her as a coach.The conversation concludes with a powerful reminder: consistency leads to measurable progress, authenticity builds confidence, and resilience combined with hard work is the real key to achieving lasting success.Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/Natasha Mané - https://www.instagram.com/tashamfit/

In this episode of Gone Running, Ben Sheppard sits down with adventurer Johnny Ward to uncover his remarkable journey from a tough childhood in Ireland to becoming the first person to complete the Explorers Grand Slam. Johnny opens up about his drive for freedom, the lessons he has learned from travel and endurance challenges, and why he believes running has a uniquely transformative power.Johnny shares how he became the first Irish person to visit every country in the world and why financial and time freedom have been the foundations of his fulfilling life. He reflects on how his childhood struggles pushed him toward adventure and independence, and how he discovered that the beauty of life lies not just in reaching a goal but in the struggle it takes to get there. After completing his travels, Johnny faced depression, which led him to ultra endurance events, experiences he now sees as uniquely powerful in transforming both body and mind.Through running, Johnny has learned that pain is temporary, but the self love gained through challenges lasts forever. He also speaks about the deep, unbreakable bonds created when people share endurance events, and how these connections can inspire us all to go further than we ever thought possible.Follow Us.Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/Johnny Ward - https://www.instagram.com/onestep4ward/

In this episode of Gone Running, host Ben Sheppard is joined by Emily Barker, who shares her inspiring journey from life at university during the COVID-19 pandemic to becoming a fitness coach and advocate for body positivity. What began as a simple fitness accountability page on Instagram grew into a platform that not only supported her own growth but also connected her with a wider community.Emily talks candidly about self love, the realities of self doubt, how positivity can be a powerful tool for change and how running has become central to Emily’s life and identity. From the grit of preparing for the New York City Marathon to the emotional rollercoaster of the London Marathon, she opens up about the highs, lows, and everything in between.Throughout the conversation, Emily emphasises the importance of focusing on health and performance over appearance, dismantling negative body image, and embracing authenticity. Her story is a reminder that confidence is built step by step, and that the journey towards body positivity is one many of us share.Follow Us.Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/Emily Barker - https://www.instagram.com/emxbarker/

In this episode of RunThrough Presents Gone Running, host Ben Sheppard sits down with Rachel Woolford, owner of North Studio, a boutique fitness studio, to hear how she transformed her love for movement into a thriving business. What started as a way to lose weight soon became a powerful tool for mental clarity, shaping her approach to both fitness and entrepreneurship.Rachel shares why she believes fitness should be enjoyable rather than a chore, and how North Studio was built around creating a community focused, social experience. She opens up about societal pressures around body image, the evolution of fitness culture, and the importance of connection both in exercise and in business.We also dive into her experience as the winner of The Apprentice, sharing behind the scenes stories and lessons learned from the show.  And for anyone wanting to start their own business or side hustle, Rachel offers practical advice, from learning about the power of delegation to taking risks that lead to meaningful rewards.💡 What you’ll learn in this episode:- How running can evolve from weight loss to a source of clarity and focus- Why enjoying fitness leads to lasting motivation- The role of community and connection in building a business- Insights from Rachel’s experience winning The Apprentice- Why risk-taking and delegation are essential for growthWhether you’re passionate about fitness, curious about entrepreneurship, or need a dose of motivation, Rachel’s story is filled with insights and inspiration.👉 If you enjoy this conversation, don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring stories from entrepreneurs and change makers!Follow Us.Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/Rachel Woolford - https://www.instagram.com/rachelwoolford/

This week on RunThrough presents Gone Running, Ben Sheppard is joined by Singer, songwriter and now runner, Ivy. Ivy has been performing since childhood, starting with family shows before discovering that music was her therapy. From writing her first song at eight years old to building a career on YouTube, her songwriting process has evolved over the years, shaped by life experiences, mental health challenges, and a drive to create music that resonates with others.In this conversation, Ivy opens up about balancing creativity with real life, reflecting on her past struggles with anxiety and depression, and finding joy in how her music impacts people. She shares how running became a new passion after being inspired by the London Marathon, helping her mentally and physically, and even sparking ideas for songs connected to her running journey.Looking ahead, Ivy gives us a glimpse into her future music projects, including plans for a headline show in London, while also encouraging others to see running as a form of therapy.Follow Us.Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/IVY - https://www.instagram.com/ivy/

In this episode of RunThrough presents Gone Running, host Ben Sheppard sits down with Emma Kirk-Odunubi to explore her multifaceted journey in the running world, from childhood competition to navigating grief and rediscovering running as a powerful coping mechanism.Emma shares how running became her survival kit, helping her heal, build resilience, and reconnect with her identity. She reflects on the therapeutic power of running, the importance of community, and the evolving landscape of the sport, from the influence of social media to the advancements in footwear technology.Alongside her personal story, Emma opens up about her coaching philosophy, which focuses on empowering runners by providing them with knowledge, understanding individual needs, and making informed decisions about training, recovery, and footwear.✨ Key takeaways from this episode:🏃 Running as a tool for healing and resilience💭 Navigating grief and life’s toughest challenges🤝 The power of community and connection📲 Social media’s role in shaping running culture👟 The evolution of running shoes and the importance of gait analysis💡 Coaching as empowerment through knowledgeThis is an inspiring and deeply personal conversation that goes beyond the miles, offering lessons for runners and non-runners alike.Follow Us.Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/Emma Kirk-Odunubi - https://www.instagram.com/emmakirkyo/

In this inspiring episode of RunThrough Presents Gone Running, host Ben Sheppard sits down with Austyn Farrell, a professional dancer who has taken the online world by storm and discovered a new purpose through running. What started as a passion for movement evolved into a deeper mission of spreading positivity, raising mental health awareness, and pushing physical and emotional limits. From the stage to the streets, Austyn shares how embracing vulnerability, showing up authentically, and chasing big goals have completely transformed his outlook on life.💬 Together, they explore what it means to grow, give back, and stay grounded in the present moment even when the road gets tough.✨ Key Highlights from the Conversation:* 🏃‍♂️ The powerful connection between running and mental well-being* 🎭 How Austyn transitioned from professional dance to marathon training* 💬 Why self-reflection and staying present have become his biggest tools* 💖 The joy of giving back and using your platform for goodWhether you're into running, personal growth, or love a good transformation story, this episode will leave you feeling inspired and energised.👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring conversations on Gone Running!Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/Austyn Farrell - https://www.instagram.com/austyn_farrell/?hl=en

In this inspiring episode of RunThrough presents Gone Running, host Ben Sheppard is joined by Therese O’Callaghan, a health and fitness coach who shares her journey from poor health and low self-worth to helping others transform their lives.Therese opens up about how the cycle of self-sabotage once felt like an addiction and how acceptance and accountability helped her turn things around. Her story proves that real change is possible with the right mindset and support.She delves into the power of consistency, demonstrating how it can either keep us stuck or help us grow, depending on the habits we cultivate. She also explains why it’s so important to focus on how you feel, rather than just chasing numbers or external goals.💡 Key Takeaways:🔄 Self-sabotage can feel like an addiction—but it can be broken.🧠 Consistency is powerful, but only when built on healthy habits.💬 Real coaching impact comes from lived experience.❤️ Start with self-acceptance and take accountability for change.📊 Don’t obsess over numbers—focus on how you feel.🤝 Community support makes a huge difference.🧩 Everyone’s journey is unique—find what works for you.🔁 Persistence beats perfection. Keep going.🎧 Listen now for honest, uplifting insight and motivation to take that next step in your journey.Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/Therese O'Callaghan - https://www.instagram.com/thereseocallaghan/