Running to Rome: Leadership, Family, Faith and the Marathon Journey

Episode 4: The Discipline to Slow Down

This week, a long training run becomes a lesson in leadership, faith and life. As I prepare for the Rome Marathon, I reflect on the challenge of running slowly—something that proved far harder mentally than physically.

In a world that rewards speed, quick decisions and instant results, this episode explores why some of the most important growth happens when we deliberately slow down. From leadership in schools to the rhythms of prayer, family life and marathon training, I share how patience, reflection and discipline are shaping this journey.

Sometimes the most disciplined thing we can do isn't push harder—it's slow down long enough to listen, learn and trust the process.

Plus, a new segment at the end of the episode as one of my children joins me to ask a few questions about the journey so far.

Ever had one of those weeks where the little things start piling up? In this episode, I reflect on leadership, mental load, long drives home, coffee stains, ripped shirts, marathon training and the challenge of staying steady when life feels stretched.

A honest conversation about showing up, slowing down and finding perspective through running, family life and faith — even when things feel like they’re falling apart.

Week Three. One step closer to Rome

This week, the journey to Rome starts to feel real.

After watching a fly-through of the Rome Marathon course for the first time, I reflect on the strange tension that comes when a dream shifts from being an idea to something tangible. But this episode becomes about more than marathon training.

An early morning airport drop-off for my daughter Ava sparks an unexpected moment of hesitation, trust, and reflection on what leadership, fatherhood, and faith can look like during the season of Lent.

From the quiet halls of an empty school before sunrise to a 15km run along the Adelaide coastline, this episode explores the space between holding on and letting go, certainty and trust, preparation and surrender.

Because sometimes growth doesn’t begin when everything is planned.

Sometimes it begins when we take the first step anyway.

Week Two. One step closer to Rome

I introduce Running to Rome: A Family Pilgrimage and share the “why” behind the journey. From the Rome Marathon goal to life as a husband, father, and school leader, this episode sets the tone for honest reflection, faith, and growth—one step at a time.