Couch to Coached – AWARD-WINNING Running Podcast

This week’s episode is a perfect blend of humour, hard-earned lessons, and muddy mile-after-mile storytelling. Rob, Ben and Emma kick things off with a playful debate about pop culture legends—yes, including the “Walrus of Love” Barry White—before diving headfirst into an unexpectedly heated conversation about mince pies. With a brand-new competition tied to their recent podcast awards announcement, the episode quickly picks up energy and momentum.

From there, the conversation spans the trio’s latest endurance adventures: triathlon prep, the realities of swimming lessons as an adult, and the ever-evolving goals that shape their training. As they reflect on personal progress, they also explore the challenges of balancing ambition with practicality—especially when it comes to investing in gear, managing FOMO, and staying smart about race choices.

The episode then shifts to the mud-soaked chaos of a recent cross-country event and the unforgettable Escape from Meriden challenge. With wild weather, slippery trails, ditches, questionable food choices (Greggs, anyone?), and moments of pure exhaustion, Emma and Ben give a raw and entertaining account of what it takes to keep moving when conditions go sideways. Through laughter, setbacks, and even a “nappuccino,” they show how camaraderie and community make the toughest days memorable.

As things wind down, the hosts discuss the importance of recovery, sports massage, mental resilience, and setting meaningful, realistic goals. From marathon and ultra plans to process-driven SMART goals, they dig into how to build a training journey that’s sustainable, motivating, and tailored to real life. With plenty of friendly accountability and encouragement, the episode offers guidance for anyone looking to challenge themselves—without getting swept up in FOMO-fuelled decision-making.

Whether you’re here for running chat, triathlon talk, or simply the joy of hearing people fall into ditches and call it “good content,” this episode brings inspiration, entertainment, and a genuine sense of community.

Highlights

• Barry White confusion and mince pie debates
• Exciting award updates and podcast competition
• Triathlon ambitions, swimming lessons, and building confidence
• Cross-country chaos and unpredictable weather
• Muddy racing stories and real-time resilience
• The Escape from Meriden: support, setbacks, and surprising challenges
• The impact of food choices (hello, Greggs) on performance
• Hitting milestones, celebrating wins, and dealing with shocks
• Post-race recovery, sports massage, and long-term health
• SMART goals, race planning, and avoiding FOMO
• Community support and accountability in training

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Couch to Coached also has a Strava run club — just search for Couch to Coached on Strava.

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