Any Given Runday

In this episode of the Any Given Run Day podcast, mountain and trail runner Zak Hanna (@zakhanna on Instagram) shares his journey from cycling to becoming a competitive mountain runner at the highest level. He discusses his experiences in various international competitions, the challenges of downhill running, and the importance of mindset and training in harsh conditions. 

Zak reflects on his achievements, including his fifth-place finish in the World Mountain Running Championships, and emphasises the significance of enjoying the journey as an athlete. He also shares insights on training strategies, injury prevention, and his future goals.

07:00 Introduction to Zak Hanna & The Journey to Trail Running
11:34 Transition from Cycling to Running
16:07 First Experiences in Competitive Running
19:03 The Challenge of Downhill Running
25:07 Mindset in Extreme Sports
26:11 Training Consistency in Winter
28:11 Running with a Canine Companion
31:59 The Joy of Running with Dogs
32:34 Training Locations: From Kenya to Italy
35:16 Becoming 5th in the World in Thailand
41:59 Celebrating Achievements and Future Goals
46:19 Training Strategies and Injury Prevention
51:20 Upcoming Races and more

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, Paul Pollock (@ppmarathon on Instagram) shares his journey from a junior runner to becoming an Olympian and elite marathoner. He discusses the challenges of injuries, the transition from shorter distances to marathons, winning the National Championships in 2012 and the impact of training with elite athletes. Paul also delves into his unique approach to training, including the role of cycling in his preparation, and reflects on his experiences at the World Championships, the Rio and Tokyo Olympics and training in the NN Running Team alongside some of the top runners in the world. As a coach, he emphasises the importance of individualised training and building a strong foundation for marathon success.

18:00 We welcome Paul Pollock to the AGR podcast
22:03 Injuries and Comebacks: The Road to the Marathon
24:25 Transitioning from 5k to the Marathon Distance and winning the national Championships
36:14 World Championships and Olympic Dreams
42:38 Training with the Elite: Insights from the NN Running Team
44:27 The Impact of Cycling on Marathon Training
54:14 Navigating Injuries: The Achilles Experience
57:29 Tokyo 2020: A Unique Olympic Experience
63:12 Coaching Philosophy: Individualised Training for Success

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

The second half of 2025 brought a different kind of energy to Any Given Runday from race-day nerves and strategies, post marathon blues and pitfalls, big challenges, and honest conversations about what really goes into endurance sport.

From first time marathoners to elite athletes, to caffeine, strength work, climbing the tallest peaks in the world, and ballsy strategies to endurance challenges, this episode captures some the lessons and the craic on the podcast from July through December.

Whether you’re deep in winter training, recovering from a big year, or already eyeing your next start line, this Best Of is a reminder that progress doesn’t come from one perfect session, it comes from showing up, learning, and staying curious.

Thanks again for making 2025 our biggest year yet. This one’s for the runners, the thinkers, and the ones still figuring it out.

2:01 Anne & Jamie on what to expect on Dublin Marathon morning

5:49 The Fantastic 4, with Cliodhna on signing up for her first ever marathon

10:46 Rob Dwyer, who does lane swimming on a Monday

11:15 Niamh Culhane on caffeine and performance: benefits, timing, and pitfalls

18:50 Learning about The Speed Project and the lads’ ballsy approach to it

25:55 Sarah Kelly on why women’s training is different and how research lagged behind on purpose

34:10 Mick Fox’s Dublin Marathon approach from our first-ever YouTube Live episode

38:55 Kevin English with post marathon advice most runners ignore

45:51 Will Boyle on the turning point that started his running journey

55:37 Enda Kilgallon breaks down the strength exercises runners should actually be doing

63:24 Andy Nolan on why Denali was the hardest peak he’s climbed so far

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

The first half of 2025 gave us some of the most honest, inspiring and downright interesting conversations we’ve had on Any Given Runday.

From survival stories on the far side of the world, to elite endurance insights, to everyday decisions that shape how we train, fuel and think — this episode pulls together some of the standout moments from the first six months of the year.

Whether you’re switching off over the holidays, sneaking in an easy run, or already plotting what 2026 might look like, this is a chance to rewind, reflect, and catch anything you might have missed.

Thank you for making 2025 our biggest year yet. We really appreciate every listen, share and message, and we hope you enjoy this Best Of Any Given Runday.

1:27 Fergal Guihen on being drugged in Iran — and the strangers who helped him continue a 23,000km cycle to Australia

11:29 Becky Woods on sibling rivalry, identity, and finding her place in Ironman

24:04 Ger Copeland on training principles behind 300+ marathons, many under 3 hours

32:05 Niamh Fitzpatrick on why sea swimming is non-negotiable for ultra runners

35:43 Cian Charlton on breaking the sub-20 minute 5K and beyond

42:22 Gary Reinhardt on why he stopped running with AirPods

46:24 Dr Aisling Farrell on social media, fad diets, and avoiding common traps

56:34 John O’Regan on the rise of endurance racing in Ireland

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

After a Christmas run in Howth, Eric sat down with Ger Copeland (@gercopeland on Instagram) and Anto Lee (@rockyseven7 on Instagram) to record the Christmas Special of the Any Given Runday Podcast for 2025!

They talk about Ger's recent marathon in Antarctica as well as Ger & Anto running the Cape Town marathon, how the running year was in Ireland, as well as the countdown to the Donadea 50k on Valentine's Day 2026

00:00 Year in Review
02:33 Antarctica Marathon
05:43 The Growth of Running Events
08:50 Social Aspects of Running
11:24 Looking Ahead: Goals and New Year Resolutions
14:38 Reflections and Gratitude for the Year
17:15 And with that being said...

You can follow us on Instagram:

@anygivenrundaypodcast

Over the weekend, Seán and Eric took part Hybrid Series Ireland (@hybridseriesireland on Instagram) in Athlone, Eric's first ever Hyrox event. 

Has Eric converted into a Hybrid Rockstar enthusiast? 

00:00 Merry Christmas, Eric
03:02 The Hybrid Series Ireland Experience
05:52 The Challenge of Endurance Events
08:49 Team Dynamics in Competition
14:25 The Joy of Shared Experiences
18:39 The Appeal of Hybrid Events
21:58 Fitness and Competition: A Personal Journey
24:46 Training Strategies for the New Year
28:33 Local vs. Major Races: A Personal Perspective
31:19 Dublin Half Marathon Ballot

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.

In this episode of the Any Given Runday podcast, Andy Nolan (@andy_everest2026)shares his incredible journey of climbing the Six of the Seven Summits, including his experiences with fear, training, and the challenges faced during his climbs. From starting as a sedentary individual to summiting some of the world's highest peaks, Andy discusses the mental and physical preparation required for such feats. He also highlights the importance of teamwork, the risks of mountaineering, and his commitment to raising money for charity through his climbs. As he prepares for his final summit, Everest, Andy reflects on the lessons learned and the adventures that lie ahead.

09:00 Meet Andy Nolan
11:56 From Sedentary to Summit: The Climb to Kilimanjaro
14:57 The Thrill of the Summit: Euphoria and Relief
17:47 Training for the Seven Summits: A New Challenge
20:26 Planning the Ascent: Timing and Logistics
23:26 Facing Nature: The Reality of High Altitude
26:12 The Art of Climbing: Experiences and Insights
30:08 The Challenges of High Altitude Climbing
33:04 Denali: The Toughest Climb
36:06 Team Dynamics and Mental Resilience
38:07 Accidents and Setbacks
41:00 Recovery and Reflection
47:43 Momentum and Future Goals
49:57 Experiencing Antarctica
55:45 Preparing for Everest
61:28 Charity and Community Engagement
65:57 Training and Mindset for Everest

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 Irish international runner Matthew Collins (@mattamoo on Instagram). We discuss Matt's journey from team sports to becoming a competitive runner, his marathon experiences, and his Guinness World Record for running in a postbox costume in London. Matt shares insights on training, coaching, and the importance of community in running. He also reflects on his recent achievements, including guiding Ger Copeland during the Dublin Marathon, and his aspirations in ultra running.

13:45 Introduction to Matt Collins
15:36 Matt's Running Journey Begins
20:00 Transitioning to Competitive Running
24:30 The Evolution of Running Knowledge
28:38 First Marathon Experience
30:58 Coaching with Gary O'Hanlon
34:11 Why not a Postmas
40:01 Becoming a Guinness World Record Holder
42:20 Pushing the Limits: Marathon Progression
46:04 The Emotional Highs of Home Marathons
49:04 The Journey to Valencia: Setting A Marathon PB
53:12 Transitioning to Speed: The 5K Challenge
56:45 The Anglo Celtic Plate & Team Dynamics in Ultra Running
66:05 Running Dublin with Ger Copeland

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 interview Pat Cassidy, co-author of 'The Story of the Donore Harriers', who shares his extensive experience in running and the evolution of the Donore Harriers club. The conversation covers Pat's personal journey into running, the transition of running clubs from elite to community-focused, the importance of facilities in athletics, the recent boom in marathon participation, and the significance of the handicap system in club races. Pat also discusses the future of the Donore Harriers and their launch night for the book on Thursday, December 4th 

00:00 Pat Cassidy & Donore Harriers
06:32 Evolution of Running Clubs
12:21 Community Engagement in Athletics
16:33 The Importance of Facilities
19:32 The Boom in Running Participation
22:45 The Changing Landscape of Running Training
25:51 The Historical Roots of Athletics
29:16 The Handicap System in Racing
33:57 The Community Spirit in Athletics
38:51 The All-Ireland Senior Cross Country Championship
41:08 Future Aspirations for the Club

Click the link below to learn more about the book:

https://www.donoreharriers.com/our-book

You can follow us on Instagram:

@anygivenrundaypodcast

In this episode of the Any Given Runday podcast, we are delighted to welcome professional triathlete and Olympian, Russell White @russellwhite6 on Instagram)  

Russell shares his journey from a young swimmer to a professional triathlete, discussing the challenges and triumphs he faced along the way. He reflects on his early experiences in triathlon, the pressure of competing at the Olympic level, and the impact of injuries on his career. Russell also talks about his transition into coaching and his aspirations for the future, emphasizing the importance of supporting young athletes in Ireland.

17:30 Introduction to Russell White
19:44 Transition from Swimming to Triathlon
23:46 The Dream of the Olympics
27:41 Training and Injury Challenges
29:26 First National Championship Victory
31:26 The Competitive Nature of Triathlon
33:19 Training Regimen and Discipline
37:25 Balancing University Life and Training
40:21 Pressure and Mental Challenges
44:24 Path to Olympic Qualification
47:13 Reflections on Achievements and Goals
52:02 Navigating Health Challenges in Elite Sports
56:31 The Olympic Experience: Triumphs and Trials
63:23 Post-Olympics: Finding Direction in Triathlon
67:16 Transitioning to Coaching: A New Chapter
73:38 The Future of Triathlon in Ireland

You can find out more about getting coaching from Russell:

russellwhitetri.com

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