The Purpose Project

A year ago, Louis and I sat down to record a podcast before taking on one of the biggest challenges we’d ever faced… a 100km ultra marathon.

At that point, we spoke about why we were doing it, what motivated us, and the journey that had led us there.

Fast forward a year, and a lot has changed.

We’ve completed the ultra, faced injuries and setbacks, made big decisions in business, grown in ways we never expected, and learned a huge amount about ourselves along the way.

In this episode, we reflect on everything that’s happened since. We talk about Louis’ journey with Elevate, why he decided to leave UR Performance as a coach, how UR Performance and UR Wellbeing have evolved, and why I stepped back from the podcast for a while to focus on building the businesses.

We also dive into my journey with Type 1 diabetes, some of the biggest breakthroughs I’ve had over the last year, and how they’ve completely changed the way I approach my health, training, and performance.

To top it all off, we’re recording this halfway through our trip around Japan. From Tokyo to Mount Fuji, Kawaguchiko, and Okinawa, travelling has given us both the opportunity to slow down, reflect, and think about where we’re heading next.

This isn’t just a catch-up.

It’s a conversation about growth, adversity, perspective, and what happens after you achieve a goal you once thought was impossible.

As always, thank you for listening and supporting The Purpose Project. I hope you enjoy this one.

For more info contact:

• Rik - [email protected]

In this episode of The Purpose Project, I do something a little different.

Instead of an interview, I teach one of the core lessons from a mentorship programme I used to run — a lesson designed to help people gain clarity, direction, and focus in both life and business.

This episode is all about vision, mission, dreams, and goals — what they actually mean, how they differ, and why so many people feel stuck or misaligned without them. Responsibility without direction leads to effort with no real outcome, and this lesson is about fixing that.

I break down:

• The difference between a vision (where you’re going) and a mission (how you live right now)
• Why both are essential if you want a fulfilled, intentional life
• A powerful reflection exercise to help you define what truly matters to you
• How to turn abstract dreams into practical, controllable goals
• Why clarity comes before motivation, not the other way around

This episode is practical, reflective, and designed to give you a framework you can actually apply — not just something to think about and forget.

Think of this as a pilot for future teaching-style episodes. I’ve kept it focused and accessible, knowing this work goes deep, and I’d genuinely love feedback on how this lands for you.

If you’ve been feeling slightly off-course, busy but unclear, or unsure what you’re really aiming for — this episode will help you start creating direction again.

(Follow along with the lesson on YouTube or contact me directly for the lesson)

For more info contact:

• Rik - [email protected]

After a few months away from the microphone, I’m back with a solo episode of The Purpose Project.

Following the completion of the 100km ultra marathon for Diabetes UK, I made the decision to take a step back from recording. I knew I had a lot coming up with Urban Reform and didn’t want to rush interviews or release episodes that didn’t hold meaning or purpose. Instead, I wanted to take the time to reflect, reset, and make sure that when I did return, I was doing so with clarity and intention.

In this episode, I talk through the reasons behind that break. I also share some of the challenges I’ve faced trying to line up interviews, dates, and locations for future guests, and why sometimes stepping back is exactly what’s needed to move forward.

I also discuss:

• The experience from the 100km ultra challenge with Louis, Dan, and Adam
• The importance of revisiting your vision and mission, and how I’ve been redefining both in my own life
• How you can start to create your own vision and mission to bring more clarity and direction into your life
• Updates on Urban Reform, including progress within the team, the upcoming UR Games, and the UR Fitness Retreat
• The growth we’ve experienced recently, both personally and professionally

I recorded this episode with a cold, and I originally wanted to do it in Spain with a beautiful backdrop feeling fresh and full of energy. But I didn’t feel up to it at the time. Instead, I decided to record it here in Manchester, in a far less glamorous setting, because now felt like the right time to sit down and talk.

This episode is about slowing down, refocusing, and reconnecting with what truly matters. If you’ve ever felt the need to pause, realign, or rediscover your purpose, this one’s for you.

Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube.

For more info contact:

• Rik - [email protected]

In this episode of The Purpose Project, I’m joined by my friend Louis Ambert to share the story behind our upcoming 100km ultra challenge, taking place on July 19th, 2025, in South Wales (Gower). Together, we are raising funds for Diabetes UK, a cause close to my heart as someone living with type 1 diabetes.

Our conversation covers why we are taking on this challenge, how Louis first got into endurance training, and my own journey with diabetes and how it has shaped me. We also discuss what donations to Diabetes UK will support, the day-to-day realities of living with diabetes, and our recent training updates as we prepare for this event.

We talk about the mindset needed to push through barriers, what keeps us motivated, and how we hope to show others — especially those living with diabetes — that you don’t have to compromise on your dreams. You can do big, bold, challenging things, no matter your circumstances.

There’s plenty of light-hearted chat and laughs in this episode as well, and if you listen through to the end, you’ll hear what we plan to do during the 100km itself.

Thank you for your continued support for The Purpose Project and for every donation to Diabetes UK — it means the world.

Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube.

For more info contact:

• Rik - [email protected]

In this episode of The Purpose Project, I sit down with my good friend Rich Tyrrell, Managing Director of some of Manchester’s most impactful community-based businesses, including Manchester Young Professionals (MYP), Manchester Run Club, and The Social Collective.

We walk through the full timeline of Rich and his business partner Andrew’s journey—starting with the creation of MYP over 13 years ago, born from a desire to make networking in Manchester more engaging, social, and meaningful. Today, MYP has grown into a thriving community of tens of thousands of people, and it’s still expanding fast.

Rich shares how the challenges of COVID gave rise to Manchester Run Club, now a powerhouse in its own right, bringing 1000s of people together through community-led running events. We also dive into the creation of The Social Collective, a more curated networking experience for those who’ve outgrown the young professionals scene and are now seeking deeper, more strategic connections.

At the heart of everything Rich and Andrew have built is one key value: relationships. Whether it's through running, networking, or business, they’re passionate about creating spaces where real, lasting connections can thrive.

🎧 This is an inspiring episode for anyone interested in community building, entrepreneurship, or the power of collaboration.

Now live on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube 

For more info contact:

• Rik - [email protected]

In this episode of The Purpose Project, I sit down with Ben, the manager of RF Coaching and a former client, to share the incredible journey of how RikFit evolved into what is now RF Coaching.

Starting 12 years ago in my parents' garage with minimal equipment, I built a personal training business from the ground up, achieving fantastic results and gaining a reputation in the fitness community. As demand grew — with nearly 80 people on a waitlist — I faced the difficult decision of expanding or turning people away. With the support of my family, I expanded at home and navigated the challenges of managing staff and clients.

Ben’s story is just as inspiring. From an online client determined to transform his health to stepping into a coaching role, he’s played a pivotal part in RF Coaching’s growth. Today, we have a passionate team of 4 coaches, all of whom started as clients, and our vision continues to grow.

We talk about the obstacles we overcame, from relocating facilities to facing personal challenges like my Type 1 Diabetes diagnosis. But through it all, the support of our community made all the difference. Now, with a clear vision and mission, RF Coaching is dedicated to empowering others to "Break the Cycle" and take control of their health.

Whether you’re a business owner, a fitness enthusiast, or someone seeking inspiration, this episode is packed with insights on resilience, growth, and purpose.

For more info contact:

• Rik - [email protected]

🎙️ From Carpenter to Marine to Athlete: The Journey of Mike Logue

In this episode, I sit down with Mike Logue, the powerhouse behind Athlete gym in Dubai. Mike’s story is anything but ordinary—he’s a former carpenter, turned marine, turned elite athlete, and now a successful gym owner and coach.

I dive into Mike's incredible journey, uncovering the pivotal moments that shaped his path. From the spark that ignited his passion for fitness to the driving force behind his relentless pursuit of excellence, Mike opens up about the lessons he’s learned along the way.

Get inspired as Mike shares the "how’s" behind his achievements, the mindset that keeps him moving forward, and why he’s so passionate about helping others reach their full potential.

Whether you’re an aspiring athlete, a fitness enthusiast, or just someone who loves a great story, this episode is packed with motivation and actionable insights you won’t want to miss.

🎧 Tune in now and get ready to be inspired by Mike Logue’s story of resilience, grit, and purpose!

For more info contact:

• Rik - [email protected]

In this episode of The Purpose Project, I sit down with my business partner, Dean Ashton, to talk all things Urban Reform. We dive into our backgrounds, how we met, and why we decided to join forces.

We share the story of Urban Reform—why it started, what it stands for, and how our mission is all about empowering people to take ownership. Along the way, we open up about the challenges we’ve faced (including a few that almost stopped us in our tracks) and reflect on the fond memories of our early days building this together.

It’s a candid and inspiring conversation about passion, purpose, and perseverance. Don’t miss it!

For more info contact:

• Rik - [email protected]

In this very first episode, I’m giving you the lowdown on what The Purpose Project is all about! It’s just me, sharing the vision behind this podcast—why I started it, what you can expect, and why the ‘why’ is so important. I’ll also let you in on some quick stories about my own journey: where I’ve been, what I’m up to now, and what I’m planning on next.

I’ll drop some hints about the amazing people I’ll be chatting with—purpose-driven folks from all walks of life—and how their stories will inspire us to keep asking the big questions. Plus, I’ll give you a sneak peek into the podcasting space I’ve created to bring these conversations to life.

It’s the start of something special, and I’m so glad you’re here for it. Let’s dive in!

For more info contact:

• Rik - [email protected]