Inspiring Adventure by Vertebrate Publishing

'I will definitely be drawing on this book to keep myself running with joy for years to come.' – Jasmin Paris, 42, record-breaking ultrarunner

‘We don’t stop running because we get old. We get old because we stop running.’

The perfect audiobook to accompany you on your next long run, listen to the full audiobook here: https://amzn.to/4tRp7qh

Is it inevitable that our running performance slides as we get into our forties and beyond? Or are there things we can do to slow or even pause the decline, master our midlife and use experience as a superpower and become an ageless ace?

In Run Forever, record-breaking GB ultrarunner Damian Hall, fifty, examines the reasons why our strength and speed might deteriorate, yet how it isn’t certain if we choose to do something about it. In running, like other sports, there have been phenomenal performances from masters athletes, and while ageing is unavoidable, how we age isn’t. Becoming an ageless ace has potentially extraordinary healthspan and longevity benefits away from running.

Featuring chapters on speed, strength, mindset, sleep and nutrition, Hall draws on the knowledge of experts and shares the stories of other runners – including five-time Olympian and European 10,000 metres champion Jo Pavey, and record-breaking ultrarunner Nicky Spinks – to provide advice for how we can keep running strong and enjoying it for as long as possible. World-renowned sports dietitian, author and ultrarunner Renee McGregor explains how ageing affects female runners, especially around perimenopause and menopause, and leading strength and conditioning coach Pete Stables provides knowledge and exercises for the masters athlete.

Ageing is inevitable. Slowing down is optional. Run Forever gives you the tools to keep moving – stronger, smarter, longer.

In this episode of the Inspiring Adventure Podcast by Vertebrate Publishing, we are joined by Sabrina Verjee, ultrarunner, adventurer, and author of Where There's a Hill. Best known for her record-breaking completion of the Wainwrights round, Sabrina discusses her journey from adventure racing to ultrarunning, the planning and execution of her challenges, and the importance of confidence and resilience in the face of failure. She shares insights on the camaraderie within the running community, the role of Peak Bagging, and her life in the Lake District. Sabrina also hints at upcoming projects, including a new book focusing on philosophical questions related to running and personal growth.

Sabrina Verjee lives in the Lake District, where she spends a lot of time running in the fells she loves. She has a background in adventure racing and modern pentathlon but is best known as an ultrarunner. She set a female record for the Pennine Way in 2020, was the overall winner of the 2019 Summer Spine Race, and has finished the ultra-endurance Dragon’s Back Race three times. Fuelled by a love of cake and supported by her husband Ben and a team of fell-running friends, Sabrina made four attempts on the 214-peak Wainwrights Round, and in June 2021 became the first person to complete it in less than six days. She runs her own independent, small-animal veterinary practice in Lancashire, which provides twenty-four-hour care to emergency patients. Where There’s a Hill is her first book.

00:00 Introduction to Sabrina Verjee

00:30 Discovering the Wainwrights

03:46 Planning the Wainwrights Round

05:43 Navigating and Team Coordination

07:13 The Joy of Running and Socialising

11:37 Learning Navigation Skills

18:18 Embracing Failure and Independence

24:27 Favorite Running Spots

26:32 Reflecting on the Wainwrights Round

27:23 Support System and Spontaneity

29:06 Helping Others and Community

30:08 Balancing Work and Play

32:22 Achieving the Wainwrights Record

33:28 Life in the Lake District

38:09 Writing 'Where There's a Hill'

45:23 Philosophical Musings and New Book

50:58 Future Running Goals

52:40 Closing Thoughts and Where to Follow

Links

Where There’s a Hill book by Sabrina Verjee

Peak Bagging Wainwrights book by Karen and Dan Parker

Follow Sabrina on Strava

Follow Sabrina on Instagram

References

Alfred Wainright

There is No Map in Hell book by Steve Birkinshaw

Joss Naylor

Alan Heaton

Ed Douglas

Fastest Known Time (FKT)

Host & Recording

This episode was hosted by Sarah Lister, author of Mountain Walks Kinder Scout. It was recorded online on 2nd October 2025. 

Social media

Follow Vertebrate Publishing on Instagram, Facebook and Bluesky. 

Music

Music by Mikhail Smusev from Pixabayhttps://pixabay.com/music/future-bass-no-copyright-music-394971/

In this episode of the Inspiring Adventure Podcast by Vertebrate Publishing we are joined by Anna Paxton, author of Peak Bagging: Peak District. Anna discusses her guidebook and shares personal insights on some of the Peak District's most rewarding routes. From her favorite trails to the influence of local landscapes on her writing, Anna provides both practical advice and heartfelt stories. Perfect for aspiring authors and enthusiastic peak baggers.

Anna Paxton is a hillwalker and ultrarunner who has completed ultramarathons in the Alps and the USA as well as closer to home. She works as a freelance writer and film producer on a variety of outdoor-related projects. Born in Sheffield and now living just a short walk or run from the gritstone edges of Froggatt and Stanage, she is especially knowledgeable about the Peak District. Her first guidebook, Day Walks in East Anglia, was published in 2021; this was followed by Day Walks in Lincolnshire and Peak Bagging: Peak District in 2025.

00:00 Introduction to Anna Paxton and Peak Bagging

00:32 Exploring the Peak District: Must-Visit Spots

01:01 Personal Connection to the Peak District

01:58 Writing and Adventure: A Natural Blend

03:17 Journey into Writing and Outdoor Industry

09:31 Creating the Peak Bagging Guidebook

12:47 Comparing Landscapes: Dark Peak vs. White Peak

14:29 Adventures in the Howden Area

16:16 Anna’s other guidebooks

20:49 Appreciation for home in the Peak District

22:00 Challenges of Writing a Guidebook for Lincolnshire

23:52 Connecting with the Peak District Through Writing

26:57 The Joy of Peak Bagging

29:42 The Ethels 

31:49 Encouraging Responsible Outdoor Exploration

35:00 Practical Tips for Using the Guidebook

41:31 Where to Find More from Anna Paxton

Links

Peak Bagging: Peak District book by Anna Paxton

Day Walks in Lincolnshire book by Anna Paxton

Day Walks in East Anglia book by Anna Paxton

Ethel biography by Helen Mort

Anna’s newsletter: Outdoorista 

Follow Anna on Instagram

Vertebate Publishing website 

References

Helen Mort

Ruth Allen

Host & Recording

This episode was hosted by Sarah Lister, author of Mountain Walks Kinder Scout. It was recorded outside at Cressbrook Dale (Route 22 from Anna’s book) on 28th September 2025. 

Social media

Follow Vertebrate Publishing on Instagram, Facebook and Bluesky. 

Music

Music by Mikhail Smusev from Pixabay

https://pixabay.com/music/future-bass-no-copyright-music-394971/

In this episode of the Inspiring Adventure Podcast by Vertebrate Publishing, we get to know author Hannah Collingridge. Focusing on the charm of the Yorkshire Three Peaks, Hannah shares her personal stories and passion for geology. 

From discussing the intricacies of writing guidebooks to recounting her own adventures and mishaps on the trails, the episode provides a blend of practical advice, fascinating trivia, and heartfelt experiences. 

Perfect for aspiring walkers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone intrigued by the geography of the Yorkshire Dales.

00:00 Introduction to the Inspiring Adventure Podcast

00:40 Celebrating Book Milestones

01:17 Get to know Hannah and Personal Introduction

07:02 Writing the Yorkshire Three Peaks Guidebook

10:14 Geology and Iconic Peaks

18:08 Personality in Guidebooks

22:48 Encouraging New Mountain Walkers

24:29 Balancing Safety and Enjoyment on the Three Peaks

26:09 Discovering the Hoffman Kiln

29:24 Reflections on Aging and Walking

31:33 Writing the Book: Process and Challenges

39:41 Choosing the Best Routes

42:50 Future Adventures and Close

Links

Mountain Walks Yorkshire Three Peaks book by Hannah Collingridge 

Pennine Bridleway book by Hannah Collingridge

The Dirt Directory book by Hannah Collingridge

Follow Hannah on Instagram

Vertebate Publishing website 

Host & Recording

This episode was hosted by Sarah Lister, author of Mountain Walks Kinder Scout. It was recorded online 1st May 2025.

Social media

Follow Vertebrate Publishing on Instagram, Facebook and Bluesky. 

Music

Music by DmitryTaras via Pixabay
Licensor's Username:
https://pixabay.com/users/soundgallerybydmitrytaras-11640913/

In this special episode of the Inspiring Adventure Podcast by Vertebrate Publishing, we delve into the creation process of mountain guidebooks with Jon Barton, the founder and Managing Director of Vertebrate Publishing. Jon outlines the inspiration behind the Mountain Walks book series, which emerged during the COVID-19 pandemic to meet the increasing interest in outdoor activities.

He discusses the selection of iconic peaks like Snowdon, Ben Nevis, and Helvellyn, and the unique features of these guidebooks, such as alternative routes, wildlife encounters, and well-researched instructions. Jon also shares insights into the evolution of guidebook usage, the selection of experienced authors, and the ongoing focus of Vertebrate Publishing on producing inspiring, high-quality outdoor adventure books. 

This episode is a must-listen for aspiring authors, people who want to walk in the mountains, and those interested in the publishing world of outdoor adventure.

00:00 Introduction to the Inspiring Adventure Podcast

00:40 Meet Jon Barton: Founder of Vertebrate Publishing

01:21 The Birth of the Mountain Walks Series

03:54 Expanding the Guidebook Series

04:45 Top Benefits of Mountain Walks Books

09:07 Challenges and Market Realities

11:34 The Allure of Snowdon

13:47 Selecting Mountains for the Series

18:31 The Decline of Physical Guidebooks

20:29 Future of the Mountain Walks Series

24:48 Inspiring Adventure: The Brand's Mission

30:30 Looking Ahead: Upcoming Books

33:37 Conclusion and Where to Buy

Links

Vertebate Publishing website 

Follow Jon on Instagram

Host & Recording

This episode was hosted by Sarah Lister, author of Mountain Walks Kinder Scout. It was recorded in June 2025.

Social media

Follow Vertebrate Publishing on Instagram, Facebook and Bluesky. 

Music

Music by DmitryTaras via Pixabay
Licensor's Username:
https://pixabay.com/users/soundgallerybydmitrytaras-11640913/

In this episode of the Inspiring Adventure Podcast by Vertebrate Publishing, we explore the fascinating process behind creating a mountain guidebook. The discussion features author Tina Codling, who shares the journey from aspiring writer to published author of Mountain Walks Helvellyn. 

Tina shares personal stories of discovering a passion for mountain walking, overcoming challenges, and eventually becoming a Mountain Leader. She talks about the importance of guidebooks in providing detailed and reliable information for outdoor enthusiasts. The episode emphasises the value of connecting with nature and the joy of guiding others to experience the beauty of the mountains.

This interview is perfect for aspiring writers, mountain enthusiasts, and those curious about the intricacies of adventure book publishing.

00:00 Introduction to the Inspiring Adventure Podcast

01:36 From Aspiring Writer to Published Author

07:29 Developing and Proposing Walking Routes

10:50 Capturing the Essence of the Mountains

13:06 Where Tina’s Mountain Journey Began

20:33 The Impact of COVID on Outdoor Activities

23:28 Embracing a New Outdoor Lifestyle

25:14 Vertebrate Books Inspiring Adventure

26:41 The Value of Guidebooks

30:01 The Spirit of Helvellyn

37:10 Writing the Guidebook

40:37 Encouraging New Hikers

45:00 Warm Down Questions

47:02 Final Thoughts 

Links

Mountain Walks Helvellyn book by Tina Codling

Follow Tina on Instagram

Vertebate Publishing website 

Host & Recording

This episode was hosted by Sarah Lister, author of Mountain Walks Kinder Scout. It was recorded online 2nd May 2025.

Social media

Follow Vertebrate Publishing on Instagram, Facebook and Bluesky. 

Music

Music by DmitryTaras via Pixabay
Licensor's Username:
https://pixabay.com/users/soundgallerybydmitrytaras-11640913/

In this episode of the Inspiring Adventure Podcast by Vertebrate Publishing, commissioning editor Kirsty Reade interviews Sarah, author of Mountain Walks Kinder Scout. They discuss the motivations behind the Mountain Walks series, aimed at making UK mountains more accessible and varied for all abilities. 

Sarah shares her journey from a novice in mountain navigation to becoming a Hill and Moorland Leader and guidebook author. The conversation covers the unique aspects of Kinder Scout, transitioning from city life, and facing the fear of writing a book. 

This episode is a must-listen for aspiring authors, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone interested in mountain adventures.

00:00 Introduction to the Inspiring Adventure Podcast

00:49 The Genesis of the Mountain Walks Series

01:52 Introducing Sarah

03:14 Sarah's Coaching and Guiding Work

05:34 The Therapeutic Power of Nature

08:36 Sarah's Transition from City Life

11:14 Discovering Kinder Scout

18:09 From Enthusiast to Author

22:58 Facing the Fear of Writing

24:47 Overcoming Initial Challenges

26:19 Finding Inspiration Outdoors

27:14 Crafting Routes for the Book

30:20 Balancing Popular and Hidden Routes

34:03 The Joy of Seeing Your Work in Use

35:48 Future Writing Plans

42:06 The Magic of Kinder Scout

44:02 Conclusion and Book Availability

Links

Mountain Walks Kinder Scout book by Sarah Lister

Vertebate Publishing website

Wild About Kinder website

Host & Recording

This episode was hosted by Sarah Lister, author of Mountain Walks Kinder Scout. It was recorded online 8th July 2025.

Social media

Follow Vertebrate Publishing on Instagram, Facebook and Bluesky. 

Music

Music by DmitryTaras via Pixabay
Licensor's Username:
https://pixabay.com/users/soundgallerybydmitrytaras-11640913/

In episode 2 of the Mountain Walks series by Vertebrate Publishing, an experienced mountain guide and author, Graham Uney, delves into his love for the mountains dating back to his childhood, his journey in scouting, and becoming a professional mountaineering and climbing instructor. 

Graham discusses his dual career as a mountaineer and writer, recounts some of his most memorable mountain experiences, and shares the inspiration behind his guidebooks.

This episode is an insightful listen for outdoor enthusiasts, aspiring authors, and anyone interested in mountain adventures.

00:00 Introduction to the Inspiring Adventure Podcast

00:39 Early Memories of the Mountains

01:44 Teenage Years and Scouting Adventures

02:31 Musical Journey and Social Media

04:21 Warmup Questions: Songs, Biscuits, and Gear

08:22 Challenging Weather and Memorable Experiences

11:14 Professional Life and Writing

12:20 Living in the Lake District

13:04 Exploring Scafell and Scafell Pike

20:21 Climbing Piers Gill and Safety Tips

22:35 Writing the Mountain Walks Book

28:20 Encouraging Safe Mountain Adventures

30:32 Approach to Writing and Publishing

35:34 The Appeal of Wainwright Walks

40:21 Role of a Fell Top Assessor

45:10 Future Plans and Career Reflections

Links

Mountain Walks Scafell Pike book by Graham Uney

Vertebate Publishing website

Graham Uney Mountaineering website

Host & Recording

This episode was hosted by Sarah Lister, author of Mountain Walks Kinder Scout. It was recorded online 10th June 2025.

Social media

Follow Vertebrate Publishing on Instagram, Facebook and Bluesky. 

Music

Music by DmitryTaras via Pixabay
Licensor's Username:
https://pixabay.com/users/soundgallerybydmitrytaras-11640913/

Welcome back to the Inspiring Adventure podcast by Vertebrate Publishing! We kick off our 6-part Mountain Walks series with Girls on Hills Co-Founder Keri Wallace.

Keri discusses her personal journey from encountering a medical emergency on Ben Nevis to becoming a mountain guide and co-founding 'Girls on Hills' in 2018. She shares stories from her mountain experiences, the motivations behind her Running Challenges and Mountain Walks book, and the importance of encouraging more women to participate in trail and mountain running. 

Listeners will find inspiration in Keri's candid recounting of overcoming challenges, her passion for climbing and running, and valuable tips for exploring Ben Nevis. This episode offers insightful content for outdoor enthusiasts, aspiring authors, and anyone interested in personal growth and adventure.

00:00 Introduction to the Inspiring Adventure Podcast

00:40 Warmup Questions: Getting to Know Our Guest

06:28 The Journey of Girls on Hills

08:39 A Harrowing Experience on Ben Nevis

16:28 From Climbing Novice to working in the mountains

22:23 Navigating the Mountains Safely

24:14 Navigating Ben Nevis: Tips and Insights

26:03 Writing the Mountain Walks Book

28:10 Running Challenges: From Concept to Reality

43:14 Girls on Hills: Empowering Women in Trail Running

49:00 Reflections and Future Adventures

Links

Mountain Walks Ben Nevis book by Keri Wallace

Running Challenges book by Keri Wallace

Vertebate Publishing website 

Girls on Hills website

UK Hillwalking article - My First Mountain

Host & Recording

This episode was hosted by Sarah Lister, author of Mountain Walks Kinder Scout. It was recorded online 19th June 2025.

Social media

Follow Vertebrate Publishing on Instagram, Facebook and Bluesky. 

Music

Music by DmitryTaras via Pixabay
Licensor's Username:
https://pixabay.com/users/soundgallerybydmitrytaras-11640913/

In the summer of 2012, a team of six climbers set out to attempt the first ascent of one of the great unclimbed lines of the Himalaya – the giant Mazeno Ridge on Nanga Parbat, the world’s ninth highest mountain. At ten kilometres in length, the Mazeno is the longest route to the summit of an 8,000-metre peak. Ten expeditions had tried and failed to climb this enormous ridge. Eleven days later two of the team, Sandy Allan and Rick Allen, both in their late fifties, reached the summit. They had run out of food and water and began hallucinating wildly from the effects of altitude and exhaustion. Heavy snow conditions meant they would need another three days to descend the far side of the ‘killer mountain’.

‘I began to wonder whether what we were doing was humanly possible. We had climbed the Mazeno and reached the summit, but we both knew we had wasted too much energy. In among the conflicting emotions, the exhaustion and the elation, we knew our bodies could not sustain this amount of time at altitude indefinitely, especially now we had no water. The slow trickle of attrition had turned into a flood; it was simply a matter of time before our bodies stopped functioning. Which one of us would succumb first?’

In Some Lost Place is Sandy Allan’s epic account of an incredible feat of endurance and commitment at the very limits of survival – and the first ascent of one of the last challenges in the Himalaya.

AUDIOBOOK AVAILABLE HERE and also available as an ebook: 

• Kindle UK 
• Kindle US
• Kobo 
• iTunes 
• Google Play