Any Given Runday

This week on the Any Given Runday Podcast, we welcome ultra runner and adventure racer, Lonan O' Farrell (@lonanruncoach on Instagram). Whether it’s recently coming second in Hellevation BYU, winning the Beara 100 mile in 2025, running 335km km around the Italian Alps, being a two-time UTMB finisher, or running into a Minotaur, we discuss all things ultra running, adventure racing and much more

17:00 Introduction to Lonan O'Farrell and his achievements
17:25 Lonan's background in football and adventure racing
18:19 Transition from team sports to ultra running
20:31 First ultra race and learning to dig deep
21:25 The team element in adventure racing
24:36 Details of the Donegal 24-hour adventure race
27:15 The Beast 220km multi-sport race
29:59 Navigating and strategy in adventure racing
31:48 Dealing with fatigue, hunger, and sleep deprivation
34:48 Mountain biking and technical trail skills
36:21 Fuel, nutrition, and managing race pace
39:03 The mental challenge and hallucinations during ultra races
43:35 Training, preparation, and progression to ultra distances
49:59 UTMB and the allure of iconic races
67:53 Lifestyle, training, and balancing family and sport
73:39 Lonan's coaching and social media presence
75:16 Closing remarks and future ambitions

You can follow us on Instagram:
@anygivenrundaypodcast

The Ultrapure 5K Running Bundle is a must have for your running routine. Shop HERE

Get the AGR Ultrapure Sprint Bundle HERE with the exclusive AGR Bobble Hat!!

If you've never had your VO₂ max or metabolism measured, there's a good chance you're training at the wrong intensity, missing valuable adaptations, or getting your race nutrition wrong.

Health Matters replaces guesswork with data. With over 15 years of experience, they're one of Europe's most experienced performance testing providers.

Find out more or book your test at myhealthmatters.ie.

ALTAR Speed Dust is engineered to keep fuel in your tank so you can go faster, farther and longer than ever before. Use the code AGR15 to get 15% off at checkout (excludes bundles).

altarfuel.com

This week on the Any Given Runday podcast, we welcome back Will Boyle (@wboyledub on Instagram). The last time we had Will on the podcast, he was building towards the Dublin Marathon. We talk about how he got on, plus race experiences in Valencia,  Bohermeen Half, injury setbacks on the road to the London Marathon, marathon training strategies and the mental resilience required to come back stronger. 


00:00 Welcome Back Will Boyle
00:51 Dublin marathon experience and race day reflections
03:02 Race strategy and pacing in marathons
07:03 Training with faster athletes and mental conditioning
11:46 Balancing marathon training with shorter races
16:03 The impact of fatigue and injury on training
19:53 Race day challenges and mental toughness
24:52 Recovery from double marathon and future plans
30:01 Injury diagnosis: stress fracture and setbacks
40:06 The emotional and physical toll of injury
49:57 Rehabilitation, patience, and rebuilding fitness
01:00:06 Next steps and long-term goals in running

You can follow us on Instagram:
@anygivenrundaypodcast

The Ultrapure 5K Running Bundle is a must have for your running routine. Shop HERE

Get the AGR Ultrapure Sprint Bundle HERE with the exclusive AGR Bobble Hat!!

If you've never had your VO₂ max or metabolism measured, there's a good chance you're training at the wrong intensity, missing valuable adaptations, or getting your race nutrition wrong.

Health Matters replaces guesswork with data. With over 15 years of experience, they're one of Europe's most experienced performance testing providers.

Find out more or book your test at myhealthmatters.ie.

ALTAR Speed Dust is engineered to keep fuel in your tank so you can go faster, farther and longer than ever before. Use the code AGR15 to get 15% off at checkout (excludes bundles).

altarfuel.com

This week, we meet The Incredibles, our season 2 guests who are here to document their journey to the Dublin Marathon 2026. Danny (@dannycollins888), Chloe (@chloe.devereux19), Dee (@deekelly2018) and Francis (@conroyf) come from different running backgrounds and experiences and will take different roles towards one goal: getting to the start line of the Dublin Marathon

00:00 Meet the Incredibles
01:27 Danny shares his journey from weight loss to ultra marathons
04:04 The importance of nutrition and fueling in training
06:29 VO2 max testing and training insights
08:47: Chloe's First Marathon and Overcoming Injury
12:08 Dee's Training and Goals for Dublin
22:12 Francis discusses his injury history and motivation
34:02 Training approaches: Norwegian Singles Method and more
44:31 Race day preparation and mental strategies
50:46 Tips for motivation, consistency, and community support
55:49 Closing remarks and upcoming episodes

You can follow us on Instagram
@anygivenrundaypodcast

The Ultrapure 5K Running Bundle is a must have for your running routine. Shop HERE

Get the AGR Ultrapure Sprint Bundle HERE with the exclusive AGR Bobble Hat!!

If you've never had your VO₂ max or metabolism measured, there's a good chance you're training at the wrong intensity, missing valuable adaptations, or getting your race nutrition wrong.

Health Matters replaces guesswork with data. With over 15 years of experience, they're one of Europe's most experienced performance testing providers.

Find out more or book your test at myhealthmatters.ie.

ALTAR Speed Dust is engineered to keep fuel in your tank so you can go faster, farther and longer than ever before. Use the code AGR15 to get 15% off at checkout (excludes bundles).

altarfuel.com

This week on the Any Given Runday podcast, we welcome Brian Swaby (@swabysessionscoaching on Instagram), a Level 2 Athletics Ireland coach with over 22 years of experience in coaching, as well as the Health Matters 20 Weeks to a Better Marathon Coach.

For anyone starting their running journey towards the Dublin Marathon this year, this is a must listen. As well as his own background, Brian talks about how to structure your training weeks, the biggest mistakes he sees in people's training,  managing intensity, why VO2 max testing is great but not for the VO2 number specifically, how people's zone 2 can look drastically different on a heart rate monitor, balancing life with marathon training and much more

16:00 We welcome Brian Swaby 
18:42 The Transition from Steeplechase to Road Racing
21:54 The Evolution of Marathon Running
24:41 The Importance of 5K and 10K Races
27:40 Coaching Philosophy and Adaptation
30:29 Training for the Marathon: Key Strategies
33:27 Navigating Marathon Training and Coaching
36:23 Understanding VO2 Max and Thresholds
39:18 The Role of Anaerobic Threshold in Training
47:22 Understanding Heart Rate and Training Zones
48:50 Maximising Marathon Performance through Testing
52:35 Balancing Life and Marathon Training
54:52 Building a Sustainable Training Plan
58:05 Navigating Club Training and Coaching
62:23 Establishing Training Habits for Beginners
67:41 Navigating Technical Challenges in Remote Recording
68:11 Coaching Strategies for Mixed Abilities
71:46 Building Confidence Through Small Victories
73:44 Common Misconceptions in Marathon Training
74:52 Connecting with a Coach for Marathon Success

You can follow us on Instagram:
@anygivenrundaypodcast

And be sure to check out previous "16 weeks to Dublin Marathon" epsiodes as well the return of our Road To Dublin season 2 which will premier next Monday

and apply professional running coach advice to your own routine

joins the Any Given Runday podcast to break down the marathon training plan.

The Ultrapure 5K Running Bundle is a must have for your running routine. Shop HERE

Get the AGR Ultrapure Sprint Bundle HERE with the exclusive AGR Bobble Hat!!

If you've never had your VO₂ max or metabolism measured, there's a good chance you're training at the wrong intensity, missing valuable adaptations, or getting your race nutrition wrong.

Health Matters replaces guesswork with data. With over 15 years of experience, they're one of Europe's most experienced performance testing providers.

Find out more or book your test at myhealthmatters.ie.

ALTAR Speed Dust is engineered to keep fuel in your tank so you can go faster, farther and longer than ever before. Use the code AGR15 to get 15% off at checkout (excludes bundles).

altarfuel.com

In this episode, Sam O'Hara (@samohfitness on Instagram shares his journey from online content creation and physique development to marathon running, breaking the sub-40-minute 10k barrier and pushing further into running goals in such a short space of time. Sam highlights the importance of consistency, mental health, and proper fuelling with gym training and increased running. 

15:00 We welcome Sam O'Hara
18:05 From Soccer to Running: The Transition
21:01 The Impact of Coaching and Physicality in Sports
23:44 The Shift from Football to Fitness Coaching
26:50 The Challenge of Photo Shoot Prep and Its Lessons
29:48 Preparing for the Double Marathon: A New Goal
32:49 Nutrition and Performance: Balancing Body Composition
35:51 The Role of a Coach in Running
38:49 Mental Health Awareness and Fundraising for Pieta House
44:22 Navigating Judgment in Content Creation
45:23 The Evolution of Vlogging Acceptance
46:52 Balancing Personal Life and Online Presence
48:29 The Art of Documenting vs. Creating Content
51:29 Experiencing the Marathon Journey
54:12 Consistency and Progress in Running
56:25 Finding Love in Running
59:33 Knicks in Five
63:06 Preparing for the Next Marathon Challenge

You can follow us on Instagram:
@anygivenrundaypodcast

The Ultrapure 5K Running Bundle is a must have for your running routine. Shop HERE

Get the AGR Ultrapure Sprint Bundle HERE with the exclusive AGR Bobble Hat!!

If you've never had your VO₂ max or metabolism measured, there's a good chance you're training at the wrong intensity, missing valuable adaptations, or getting your race nutrition wrong.

Health Matters replaces guesswork with data. With over 15 years of experience, they're one of Europe's most experienced performance testing providers.

Find out more or book your test at myhealthmatters.ie.

ALTAR Speed Dust is engineered to keep fuel in your tank so you can go faster, farther and longer than ever before. Use the code AGR15 to get 15% off at checkout (excludes bundles).

altarfuel.com

This week on the Any Given Runday podcast, we welcome Matthew McConnell (@mrmattmcc on Instagram). Matthew is 2 time and current Irish mountain running champion, with countless podium finishes in trail and IMRA races around the country over the years, as well as representing Ireland on the World stage and recently represented Ireland in European 50k Trail Championship. He discusses training strategies, overcoming injuries, the role of community, and insights into performance optimisation for trail and road racing as well as his goals for the 2026 Dublin Marathon

12:10 Introduction to Mountain Running and Matthew McConnell
14:51 The Journey into Mountain Running
17:48 Progression and Competition in Trail Running
20:51 Healthy Competition and Training Partners
23:55 Getting Started in Mountain Running
26:58 Consistency and Coaching in Training
29:48 Experiences at the European Championships
32:52 The Role of Videography in Running
35:59 Transitioning to Road Running
38:56 Trials and Tribulations in Training
44:27 Recovery and Cross-Training Strategies
52:27 The Role of Cycling in Running Performance
57:34 Sauna Benefits and Heat Training
64:44 Experiencing High-Level Competition
70:47 Balancing Training with Life and Business

You can follow us on Instagram
@anygivenrundaypodcast

The Ultrapure 5K Running Bundle is a must have for your running routine. Shop HERE

Get the AGR Ultrapure Sprint Bundle HERE with the exclusive AGR Bobble Hat!!

If you've never had your VO₂ max or metabolism measured, there's a good chance you're training at the wrong intensity, missing valuable adaptations, or getting your race nutrition wrong.

Health Matters replaces guesswork with data. With over 15 years of experience, they're one of Europe's most experienced performance testing providers.

Find out more or book your test at myhealthmatters.ie.

ALTAR Speed Dust is engineered to keep fuel in your tank so you can go faster, farther and longer than ever before. Use the code AGR15 to get 15% off at checkout (excludes bundles).

altarfuel.com

This week on the Any Given Runday podcast, we welcome Kayti Simonson (@kaytisimonson on Instagram). Kayti shares her incredible athletic journey from track and field to semi-pro soccer to Hyrox World Championships, representing Team Canada twice in the relay, all while balancing a law career and much more.  We explore her experiences balancing sport, career, and personal growth, along with insights on training, mental health, and chasing dreams.

00:00 From Track to Trials: Katie's Athletic Journey
04:01 Balancing Law and Athletics: A Dual Pursuit
08:52 Identity and Athletics: Beyond the Finish Line
12:05 Transitioning Sports: From Track to Soccer
14:14 The Sacrifices of an Athlete: A Life of Dedication
15:27 Finding Balance: Navigating Life as an Athlete
19:54 Discovering Hyrox: A New Challenge
24:35 The Community of Hyrox: What Keeps Athletes Coming Back
28:40 Preparing for World Championships: The Next Steps
30:52 Balancing Running and Strength Training
32:42 Recognising Overtraining and Its Effects
35:34 The Shift from Individual to Team Competitions
38:57 Navigating Identity and Social Media in Sports
42:48 The Emotional Weight of Competitive Sports
47:03 Embracing a Holistic Approach to Athleticism
48:46 Exploring New Athletic Avenues: Flag Football
56:09 Pursuing Passion Over Prestige

You can follow us on Instagram
@anygivenrundaypodcast

The Ultrapure 5K Running Bundle is a must have for your running routine. Shop HERE

Get the AGR Ultrapure Sprint Bundle HERE with the exclusive AGR Bobble Hat!!

If you've never had your VO₂ max or metabolism measured, there's a good chance you're training at the wrong intensity, missing valuable adaptations, or getting your race nutrition wrong.

Health Matters replaces guesswork with data. With over 15 years of experience, they're one of Europe's most experienced performance testing providers.

Find out more or book your test at myhealthmatters.ie.

ALTAR Speed Dust is engineered to keep fuel in your tank so you can go faster, farther and longer than ever before. Use the code AGR15 to get 15% off at checkout (excludes bundles).

altarfuel.com

Seán shares his detailed experience of participating in his first Spartan race, the 21k Beast Challenge in Edinburgh, Scotland, over the weekend. Covering obstacles, training insights (and mistakes!), as well as the terrain, Sean talks to Eric about how he got on throughout the course and the lessons he learned

Is he more or less looking forward to the 5k version in Limerick in August, and what does this mean for his Dublin marathon training this year?

You can follow us on Instagram:
@anygivenrundaypodcast

The Ultrapure 5K Running Bundle is a must have for your running routine. Shop HERE

Get the AGR Ultrapure Sprint Bundle HERE with the exclusive AGR Bobble Hat!!

If you've never had your VO₂ max or metabolism measured, there's a good chance you're training at the wrong intensity, missing valuable adaptations, or getting your race nutrition wrong.

Health Matters replaces guesswork with data. With over 15 years of experience, they're one of Europe's most experienced performance testing providers.

Find out more or book your test at myhealthmatters.ie.

This week on the Any Given Runday podcast, we welcome back original Fantastic 4 member, Conor Sweeney, to talk about his upcoming 330km relay from Achill to Baltray, how his fitness has improved since we last talked to him after the Dublin Marathon, the Dublin City Half Marathon, Hot Yoga and much more

11:00 We welcome back Conor Sweeney 
13:53 Training and Preparation for the Relay Challenge
16:50 The Role of Coaching and Injury Management since Dublin Marathon
19:44 The Benefits of Hot Yoga for Runners
22:49 Planning the Relay: Origins and Team Dynamics
25:58 Logistics and Game Plan for the Relay Challenge
29:30 Training for the Challenge
36:01 Charity and Purpose
39:04 Logistics and Support Crew
41:31 Nerves and Excitement
44:11 Nutrition and Strategy
49:40 Future Goals and Aspirations

You can donate at the link:
https://www.idonate.ie/fundraiser/AchillToBaltray

If you would like to come on to the podcast and talk about your Dublin Marathon journey is 2026:
https://forms.gle/KghbvxtATqzGsRbV6

Or you are an experienced running coach with value to give to our listeners:
https://forms.gle/Ct6dVFoHdJgJZbUcA

You can follow us on Instagram:
@anygivenrundaypodcast

The Ultrapure 5K Running Bundle is a must have for your running routine. Shop HERE

Get the AGR Ultrapure Sprint Bundle HERE with the exclusive AGR Bobble Hat!!

If you've never had your VO₂ max or metabolism measured, there's a good chance you're training at the wrong intensity, missing valuable adaptations, or getting your race nutrition wrong.

Health Matters replaces guesswork with data. With over 15 years of experience, they're one of Europe's most experienced performance testing providers.

Find out more or book your test at myhealthmatters.ie.

ALTAR Speed Dust is engineered to keep fuel in your tank so you can go faster, farther and longer than ever before. Use the code AGR15 to get 15% off at checkout (excludes bundles).

altarfuel.com

In this episode of the Any Given Runday podcast, we welcome skyrunner David Kelleher (@o_ceileachair12 on Instagram). David shares his journey from rugby to ultra running, discussing the challenges and rewards of transitioning from team sports to solo endurance events. He reflects on his first marathon experience, the differences between road and trail running, and the meditative aspects of running in nature. 

David also delves into the intensity of ultra running, the importance of pushing personal limits, and his competitive journey that led him to wear the green bib at the World Masters Sky Running Championship. We discuss the challenges and brutal nature of mountain running, the importance of time management and personal philosophy in balancing training with life, and future aspirations in the sport. 

15:00 We welcome David Kelleher: From Rugby to Ultra Running
20:10 The Transition: Finding Intensity in Solo Sports
24:58 First Marathon Experience: The Waterford Challenge
29:58 Trail Running vs. Road Running: A Personal Preference
34:55 The Meditative Nature of Trail Running
39:47 Pushing Limits: The Intensity of Ultra Running
44:59 The Green Bib: Competing at a Higher Level
47:12 The Journey to Competitive Running
54:04 Experiences at the World Sky Running Championships
58:31 Understanding Sky Running
64:54 Time Management and Personal Philosophy
67:36 Future Goals and Aspirations

The Ultrapure 5K Running Bundle is a must have for your running routine. Shop HERE

Get the AGR Ultrapure Sprint Bundle HERE with the exclusive AGR Bobble Hat!!

If you've never had your VO₂ max or metabolism measured, there's a good chance you're training at the wrong intensity, missing valuable adaptations, or getting your race nutrition wrong.

Health Matters replaces guesswork with data. With over 15 years of experience, they're one of Europe's most experienced performance testing providers.

Find out more or book your test at myhealthmatters.ie.

ALTAR Speed Dust is engineered to keep fuel in your tank so you can go faster, farther and longer than ever before. Use the code AGR15 to get 15% off at checkout (excludes bundles).

altarfuel.com