The RunThrough Podcast

This week on RunThrough presents Gone Running, Ben Sheppard is joined by Singer, songwriter and now runner, Ivy. Ivy has been performing since childhood, starting with family shows before discovering that music was her therapy. From writing her first song at eight years old to building a career on YouTube, her songwriting process has evolved over the years, shaped by life experiences, mental health challenges, and a drive to create music that resonates with others.

In this conversation, Ivy opens up about balancing creativity with real life, reflecting on her past struggles with anxiety and depression, and finding joy in how her music impacts people. She shares how running became a new passion after being inspired by the London Marathon, helping her mentally and physically, and even sparking ideas for songs connected to her running journey.

Looking ahead, Ivy gives us a glimpse into her future music projects, including plans for a headline show in London, while also encouraging others to see running as a form of therapy.

Follow Us.

Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/
IVY - https://www.instagram.com/ivy/

In this episode of RunThrough presents Gone Running, host Ben Sheppard sits down with Emma Kirk-Odunubi to explore her multifaceted journey in the running world, from childhood competition to navigating grief and rediscovering running as a powerful coping mechanism.

Emma shares how running became her survival kit, helping her heal, build resilience, and reconnect with her identity. She reflects on the therapeutic power of running, the importance of community, and the evolving landscape of the sport, from the influence of social media to the advancements in footwear technology.

Alongside her personal story, Emma opens up about her coaching philosophy, which focuses on empowering runners by providing them with knowledge, understanding individual needs, and making informed decisions about training, recovery, and footwear.

✨ Key takeaways from this episode:

🏃 Running as a tool for healing and resilience
💭 Navigating grief and life’s toughest challenges
🤝 The power of community and connection
📲 Social media’s role in shaping running culture
👟 The evolution of running shoes and the importance of gait analysis
💡 Coaching as empowerment through knowledge

This is an inspiring and deeply personal conversation that goes beyond the miles, offering lessons for runners and non-runners alike.

Follow Us.

Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/
Emma Kirk-Odunubi - https://www.instagram.com/emmakirkyo/

In this inspiring episode of RunThrough Presents Gone Running, host Ben Sheppard sits down with Austyn Farrell, a professional dancer who has taken the online world by storm and discovered a new purpose through running. 

What started as a passion for movement evolved into a deeper mission of spreading positivity, raising mental health awareness, and pushing physical and emotional limits. From the stage to the streets, Austyn shares how embracing vulnerability, showing up authentically, and chasing big goals have completely transformed his outlook on life.

💬 Together, they explore what it means to grow, give back, and stay grounded in the present moment even when the road gets tough.

✨ Key Highlights from the Conversation:

* 🏃‍♂️ The powerful connection between running and mental well-being
* 🎭 How Austyn transitioned from professional dance to marathon training
* 💬 Why self-reflection and staying present have become his biggest tools
* 💖 The joy of giving back and using your platform for good

Whether you're into running, personal growth, or love a good transformation story, this episode will leave you feeling inspired and energised.

👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring conversations on Gone Running!

Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/
Austyn Farrell - https://www.instagram.com/austyn_farrell/?hl=en

In this inspiring episode of RunThrough presents Gone Running, host Ben Sheppard is joined by Therese O’Callaghan, a health and fitness coach who shares her journey from poor health and low self-worth to helping others transform their lives.

Therese opens up about how the cycle of self-sabotage once felt like an addiction and how acceptance and accountability helped her turn things around. Her story proves that real change is possible with the right mindset and support.

She delves into the power of consistency, demonstrating how it can either keep us stuck or help us grow, depending on the habits we cultivate. She also explains why it’s so important to focus on how you feel, rather than just chasing numbers or external goals.

💡 Key Takeaways:

🔄 Self-sabotage can feel like an addiction—but it can be broken.
🧠 Consistency is powerful, but only when built on healthy habits.
💬 Real coaching impact comes from lived experience.
❤️ Start with self-acceptance and take accountability for change.
📊 Don’t obsess over numbers—focus on how you feel.
🤝 Community support makes a huge difference.
🧩 Everyone’s journey is unique—find what works for you.
🔁 Persistence beats perfection. Keep going.

🎧 Listen now for honest, uplifting insight and motivation to take that next step in your journey.

Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/
Therese O'Callaghan - https://www.instagram.com/thereseocallaghan/

🎙️ Gone Running Podcast | Episode #121

In this episode of RunThrough presents Gone Running, host Ben Sheppard is joined by Jacob Ward, creator of the ‘Better’ brand—a platform dedicated to mental health, personal growth, and building real community through fitness.

Jacob reflects on how the isolation of the COVID-19 pandemic reshaped his sense of connection and identity. He shares how therapy has helped him navigate social anxiety, stay grounded amid the noise of online life, and stay true to himself. From supporting Sophie through her first 5K to chasing his own goal of running the London Marathon, Jacob speaks openly about the emotional rewards of showing up for others.

This episode explores how movement can be a gateway to connection, how growth happens in the messy middle, not just at the finish line and why vulnerability and authenticity matter more than ever.

Hear how,

💬 Therapy gave Jacob the tools to separate self from personal
🏃‍♀️ Supporting others brought unexpected meaning to his journey
🌍 COVID-19 magnified loneliness despite constant digital connection
🌱 Progress comes from embracing the process
🤝 Real growth happens through community and showing up

Hit play to dive into an honest, relatable chat that will leave you thinking about how you connect with yourself and the people around you.

Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/
Jacob Ward - https://www.instagram.com/jacobwardd/

🎙️ Gone Running Podcast | Episode #120

In this powerful and thought-provoking episode of The Gone Running Podcast, host Ben Sheppard sits down with Benji Haldon — a personal trainer and passionate advocate for men’s mental health — for an open and honest conversation about identity, vulnerability, and the power of showing up for yourself and others.

Benji shares his personal journey navigating the complexities of modern masculinity, how social media shaped his early identity, and the emotional strength it takes to speak openly about mental health. From the transformative World Record Farmer’s Carry to the importance of environment, routine, and visualisation, Benji offers insight into how he continues to grow — and help others do the same.

🎙️ Episode highlights:

🧠 Why empathy is a game changer for men's mental health
💬 The value of open, honest communication
📱 How social media can distort identity
🔄 Reclaiming your sense of self through adversity
🌱 The role of change and growth in mental resilience
🏞️ Why your environment matters more than you think
💞 Building meaningful relationships that support you
🛠️ Looking after yourself so you can support others
🧘 Visualisation as a tool for focus and success

Whether you’re deep in your own mental health journey or supporting someone else on theirs, this episode will leave you feeling seen, heard, and inspired.

👇 Hit play, subscribe, and drop a comment with your biggest takeaway.

Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/
Benji Handon - https://www.instagram.com/mycoachbenji/

🎙️ Gone Running Podcast | Episode #119

In this powerful and personal episode, we’re joined by Annie Openshaw, who shares her transformative journey through gut health challenges, injury recovery, and her return to competitive squash!

Annie opens up about years of digestive issues, the impact it had on her identity and well-being, and how she rebuilt her health by reducing ultra-processed foods, embracing plant diversity, and committing to consistent, sustainable changes.

She also discusses the mental aspect of recovery, the connection between gut health and emotional well-being, and how she found her way back to the squash court — rediscovering joy and performance in a sport she loves.

🎙️ Episode highlights:

 🥦 The role of plant diversity in gut health
 ❌ Cutting down ultra-processed foods
 📉 Why quick fixes don’t last — and what really works
 🧠 How gut health links to mental resilience
 💪 Strength training for injury recovery
 🌀 Rebuilding identity after setbacks
 🏆 Annie’s return to competitive squash
🤝 Balancing social life with wellness goals

This episode is for anyone on a journey to better health — physically, mentally, or emotionally. Annie’s story reminds us that healing isn’t linear, but with patience and purpose, it’s possible.

Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/
Annie Openshaw - https://www.instagram.com/annieopenshaw/?hl=en

🎙️ Gone Running Podcast | Episode #118

In this special episode, we sit down with RunThrough Trails' very own James Tilley for an honest, insightful, and inspiring conversation in collaboration with the RunThrough Trails podcast.

Together with host Ben Sheppard, James reflects on his time in Canada, the roots of his passion for the mountains, and the challenges of turning trail dreams into reality on race day. The duo dive deep into what went into organising one of the most emotional and ambitious events on the RunThrough calendar: Morzine.

Also hear,

🏞️ How James designed and raced his own trail course
💥 The behind-the-scenes chaos of delivering an event
📈 RunThrough’s vision for European expansion
🤯 Navigating setbacks, mental fatigue & last-minute changes
🤝 The power of community, connection, and the RunThrough team spirit

This episode pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to run a successful trail event — not just physically, but mentally and emotionally. From planning courses to managing crises, it’s a candid conversation about passion, purpose, and the people who make the sport so special.

💬 Whether you're a runner, a race director, or someone who loves a good story about grit and growth, this one’s for you.

👇 Hit play, subscribe, and drop us a comment about your own favourite trail experience!

Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/
James Tilley - https://www.instagram.com/jtrunsuk/?hl=en

#117 - 🎙️ Gone Running Podcast | Episode #117
 
In this powerful episode, Ben Sheppard is joined by Ella Jalley, who shares her journey from beginner runner to London Marathon finisher — and everything in between, including chatting about the barrage of hate she received.... for wearing a RUNNING VEST!
 
 Originally a makeup artist, Ella opens up about the unexpected challenges of becoming a running content creator, including facing online criticism and breaking down stereotypes in the running world. She’s now using her platform to promote positivity, inclusivity, and the idea that running is for everyone.
 
 ✨ The emotional highs of completing the London Marathon
 🏃‍♀️ Why normalising runs under 5K is so important!
 💬 How to stay confident when facing online hate
 👟 The power of creating a supportive virtual run club
 💖 Why you are already a runner — no matter the distance
 
 Whether you run 26.2 miles or just around the block, Ella’s story is a reminder that running belongs to all of us. There’s no such thing as “not a real runner” — and every step counts.
 
 👇 Like, comment, and subscribe to hear more inspiring conversations from the Gone Running Podcast!

Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/
Ella Jalley - https://www.instagram.com/byellajalley/

🎙️ Gone Running Podcast | Episode #116

In this episode of RunThrough presents Gone Running, Ben Sheppard is joined by Carleth Keys — former news anchor turned running content creator — for an honest and inspiring conversation about identity, transition, and resilience.

Carleth opens up about her move from the newsroom to social media, how motherhood reshaped her sense of self, and how running helped her rediscover strength and purpose. From navigating injuries to staying authentic online, she shares what it really means to grow through every mile.

🔑 In this episode:

🎤 Transitioning from journalism to content creation
👟 How running supported her through personal change
💬 The power of vulnerability and authenticity online
🧠 Why comparison holds runners back
🤱 Balancing motherhood, identity, and ambition
🩹 Lessons learned from injuries and setbacks

If you’ve ever felt like you’re starting over or redefining your path, Carleth’s story is one you’ll want to hear.

👇 Tune in now — and don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more powerful stories from the Gone Running Podcast!

Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/
Carleth Keys - https://www.instagram.com/carlethkeys/