After 20 years in a relationship that limited and stifled her, former advertising professional, turned fitness pioneer and award-winning entrepreneur, Vicki Anstey became (age 41) one of the first ever women to participate in Channel 4’s ‘SAS Who Dares Wins’, reaching the final stages after 11 days in extreme conditions at an altitude of 3,000ft in Chile.

In 2021, she and 2 other women, the Girls Who Dare, set a new World Record for rowing unaided across the Pacific Ocean, confronting her fear of deep, open water to do so. It took 60 days, 17 hours and 6 minutes.

Her latest endeavour (a second Guinness World Record) was to cycle 3,000 miles in the ‘World’s Toughest Bike Race’ as a team of four women from West to East coast America in just 6 days 19 hours and 38 minutes.

Vicki has also completed ultra distance runs (covering 250kms and carrying everything she needed to survive) in some of the World’s most extreme environments – crossing the Arctic in temperatures of -35 degrees and the Savannnahs of Kenya in blistering 50 degree heat.

***

Don't miss out on the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, released every Tuesday at 7am UK time! Be sure to hit the subscribe button to stay updated on the incredible journeys and stories of strong women.

 By supporting the Tough Girl Podcast on Patreon, you can make a difference in increasing the representation of female role models in the media, particularly in the world of adventure and physical challenges. Your contribution helps empower and inspire others. Visit www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast to be a part of this important movement. 

Thank you for your invaluable support!

Show Notes:

• Who is Vicki
• Vicki’s diverse career journey
• Emphasising her unique life experiences
• Overcoming a coercive relationship
• Leaving her long-term marriage
• Encouraged by friends, she applied for SAS: Who Dares Wins
• The beginning of her journey into adventure and self-discovery
• Reflecting on the rigorous training during SAS: Who Dares Wins
• Building self-belief and resilience
• The experiences that revealed her capabilities
• The importance of mental strength in overcoming obstacles
• Rowing across the Pacific
• Facing her fear of deep, open water by undertaking a rowing challenge
• Her preparation for the task to confront her anxieties
• Finding strength in vulnerability
• Embracing fears and seeing the opportunities that lie beyond them
• Developing resilience, managing self-doubt, and embracing challenges
• Emphasising reflection and learning from past experiences
• Transition from solo to team challenges
• How her experiences with solo challenges influenced her approach to teamwork
• The importance of clear communication and setting boundaries
• Being initially intimidated by her rowing teammates
• Learning to embrace tough conversations
• Unravelling tensions in team dynamics
• Vicki’s concept of “free speed”
• Understanding each team member's emotional responses under stress
• Advocating empathy and support in navigating team dynamics
• Training for Race Across America
• Her transition into cycling
• A rigorous training regime of up to 25 hours per week
• Having a supportive coaching network to enhance her skills
• Vicki’s memorable moments from RAAM
• The importance of supporting one another during challenging phases
• Production of a documentary covering her rowing and RAAM experiences

Social Media

Website: vickianstey.co.uk 

Instagram: @vickianstey 

Charlotte Bowens: Founder of Conscious Gear and trailblazing innovator behind VestaPak, the world's first plus-size hydration vest. From university administrator to entrepreneur, she fearlessly reshapes the outdoor industry. 

Motivated by a personal health scare, she champions inclusivity and empowers the plus-size community to embrace an active lifestyle.

Founding Story: A Transformation and a Vision 

It all started with a health scare that jolted Charlotte's life. An unexpected visit to the emergency room revealed high blood pressure, high cholesterol, severe depression, borderline diabetes, and a stark classification of "morbidly obese." 

The avalanche of this diagnosis could have overwhelmed anyone, but not Charlotte.

Charlotte made a decision that changed her life's trajectory. Fueled by fear and a fierce determination to regain control, she took her first steps towards transformation at the gym. The journey was slow and arduous. On that initial day, she could walk for only 2 minutes at a modest 2 mph on the treadmill. But that wasn't the end; it was the beginning.

Every day, Charlotte persevered, placing one foot in front of the other, pushing through every personal limit, and defying her own expectations. Sixteen months later, she crossed the finish line of her first 50-mile ultramarathon—an extraordinary feat of physical and mental strength. However, this triumph was also bittersweet.

Charlotte felt proud of her incredible achievement and continued her ultramarathoning journey but as she looked for outdoor gear and apparel to accommodate her taller, curvier, and bigger body, she encountered a glaring problem. The market offered limited options that catered to her specific needs if any at all. Existing outdoor gear companies had overlooked a significant portion of the population, neglecting to provide functional and fashionable products for those with bigger bodies.

It was during the challenging times of the pandemic that Charlotte made a solemn vow: if no one else was going to do it, she would. Conscious Gear was born, emerging as a symbol of resilience and innovation. VestaPak was nominated in October 2023 by USA Today as one of the top ten products for outdoor adventurers and is currently sold at REI.

***

Don't miss out on the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, released every Tuesday at 7am UK time! Be sure to hit the subscribe button to stay updated on the incredible journeys and stories of strong women.

 By supporting the Tough Girl Podcast on Patreon, you can make a difference in increasing the representation of female role models in the media, particularly in the world of adventure and physical challenges. Your contribution helps empower and inspire others. Visit www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast to be a part of this important movement. 

Thank you for your invaluable support!

***

Show notes:

• Who is Charlotte
• Her outdoor adventure journey which started with Girl Scouts
• Selling Girl Scout cookies to fund camping trips
• Discusses her academic background in maths and science and her career in research administration
• Her experiences as a teenage single mother of three, which led to a sedentary lifestyle
• Moving to Arizona and falling in love with trail running and ultra marathons
• Reassessing her lifestyle due to high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and clinical depression
• Prioritising health and fitness, despite feeling overwhelmed as a single mother
• First experiences at the gym
• Being scared and unsure but determined to make a change
• Beginning to see improvements in her stamina and speed, which bolstered her confidence
• Completing her first 50-mile ultra marathon
• Improving her physical health and also restoring her desire to live
• Her transformative journey from depression to feeling alive
• Initially being sceptical about ultramarathons
• Completing a self-supported hundred-miler
• Looking forward to participating in longer races, including a 250-mile event in Phoenix and a 500-mile race in Tennessee
• The addictive nature of long-distance running
• Challenges in finding gear
• Going to thrift stores and DIY solutions using a library sewing machine
• Limited options for bigger bodies in the athletic clothing market
• The birth of the business, Conscious Gear
• Facing disruptions in ultrarunning due to the pandemic
• Creating hydration vests motivated by a lack of representation and options
• Being nominated as one of the top 10 outdoor products in 2023
• Increasing engagement from women, particularly Black women
• Addressing inclusivity in athletic wear
• Running community and personal preferences
• Running philosophy and training
• The importance of starting with what you can manage
• Helping the body adapt and grow stronger over time
• Respect the body's limits and trust the process of improvement
• A powerful moment while trail running in Michigan
• Her deep spiritual connection to running in nature
• The spiritual aspect of running and its connection to her identity
• Societal expectations that often lead to feelings of needing to do everything alone
• Her 50-mile race experience
• Physical exhaustion but remains motivated by her progress
• Experiencing an emotional breakthrough at the 48-mile mark
• Expressing gratitude for being alive and capable of such an achievement
• How her experience of running 50 miles instills a sense of resilience and determination
• Focusing on one mile at a time instead of the overall distance
• The challenges of balancing running with personal and professional commitments
• Acknowledging the necessity of hiring help for her business to prioritise her running
• Following a "me first" schedule, focusing on her well-being
• The peace and joy running brings her
• Letting go of less important commitments
• The importance of self-prioritisation especially for women
• Final words of wisdom

Social Media

About Conscious Gear - “It's simple we believe that bigger bodies deserve to be the center of design and not an afterthought. We consciously design outdoor gear and apparel for bigger-bodied endurance athletes and outdoor enthusiasts so they can live a healthier lifestyle and achieve maximum athletic performance.”

Website: conscious-gear.com 

Instagram: @ConsciousGear1

Tiktok: @consciousgear 

Facebook: @ConsciousGearStore 

X/Twitter: @ConsciousGear 

In this episode, we sit down with Tiffany at the Armchair Adventure Festival in Mount Edgcumbe. Join us as we explore the world through the eyes of Tiffany Coates, recognised as the world’s foremost female motorcycle adventurer. Tiffany has spent over twenty years exploring six continents on two wheels. With hundreds of thousands of miles under her belt, she continues her adventures both solo and as a sought-after motorcycle tour guide, captivating audiences at adventure travel events worldwide. Her journey began with a memorable trip alongside her best friend, Becky. With just two months of riding experience, they embarked on a quarter-tonne BMW named ‘Thelma,’ wobbling their way from the UK across Europe to India. What was initially planned as a nine-month journey transformed into two and a half years, crossing four continents and solidifying Tiffany's passion for motorcycle travel. Over the years, Tiffany has travelled through Asia, Australia, Africa, the Americas, and more, with notable rides to Timbuktu, Outer Mongolia, Madagascar, Borneo, and even Everest Base Camp in Tibet. Her website features the stories behind these incredible travels. As a freelance guide, Tiffany leads various adventurous motorcycling expeditions, providing safe and experienced guidance for those eager to explore new countries on two wheels.

We first spoke with Tiffany on March 17th 2020 - The World's Foremost Female Motorcycle Adventurer! 

*** This episode was recorded live at the Armchair Adventure Festival 25th - 28th July 2024. Buy tickets now for #AAF25 - THE UK'S MOST ADVENTUROUS FESTIVAL. Mt Edgcumbe, Cornwall, 24-27th July 2025, Use TG10 to get a 10% discount on tickets. www.armchairadventurefestival.com. *** 

***

Don't miss out on the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, released every Tuesday at 7am UK time! Be sure to hit the subscribe button to stay updated on the incredible journeys and stories of strong women.

 By supporting the Tough Girl Podcast on Patreon, you can make a difference in increasing the representation of female role models in the media, particularly in the world of adventure and physical challenges. Your contribution helps empower and inspire others. Visit www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast to be a part of this important movement. 

Thank you for your invaluable support!

Show notes:

• Who is Tiffany
• Background as a motorbike traveller
• Experience riding around the world
• Joy of solitude in desert travel
• Dangerous motorbike experiences in Vietnam
• Mental health benefits of motorbiking
• Sense of freedom and independence in motorbike travel
• Tiffany's journey to becoming a motorbike rider
• Having no initial experience with motorbikes
• Challenges of maintaining the bike and learning basic maintenance
• Mechanical failures upon entering Asia
• Time spent in a workshop learning about oil, filters, and maintenance tasks
• Reliance on strangers for assistance and fixing the bike
• Importance of feeling confident and self-reliant
• Self-defence knowledge and preparedness
• Carrying safety tools while camping
• Riding through the Gobi Desert in Mongolia
• Adjusting travel plans based on weather conditions
• Hectic journey through Siberia to reach the Pacific Ocean
• Enjoying the journey and making the most of each day
• Singing to herself and listening to music or podcasts
• Living frugally to fund her travels
• Not owning a car, saving money for travel
• Guiding groups through exotic countries, ensuring their safety and happiness
• Upcoming trip to Guyana, Suriname, and French Guiana
• Importance of exploring lesser-known places
• Camping experience at the Bonneville Salt Flats
• Challenges faced and the beauty of solitude in nature
• Experiences with altitude sickness and acclimatisation
• Natural sadness post-adventure
• Travel fatigue during long journeys
• Keeping journals and writing for publications
• Potential future projects, including writing a book
• Leading an all-female motorbike tour in Nepal
• Breaking stereotypes in motorcycling
• Sense of sisterhood among female motorcyclists
• Unique experiences of hospitality while travelling solo
• Shipping bikes by sea versus flying
• International Vehicle Shipping, Moto Freight
• The process of obtaining an international driving permit (IDP) and its importance
• Maps and compasses over GPS
• GPS inaccuracies in desert navigation
• Limitations of relying solely on technology
• Thoughts on the common advice to “just do it”
• Final words of advice

Social Media Website: tiffanystravels.co.uk Facebook: @tiffany.coates.12 Twitter/X: @tiffanystravels

Candida Louis, a 28-year-old adventurer from Hubli, South India, embodies the spirit of wanderlust and the pursuit of freedom through motorcycle riding. From a young age, she shared unforgettable rides with her father, sparking a passion that led her to become a motorcyclist herself. Over the past 12 years, she has transitioned from a pillion rider to the one in the front seat, fully embracing the thrill of the open road. A birthday gift of her first motorcycle marked the beginning of an incredible journey that fuelled her dreams of riding around the world.

After spending five years working at Oracle and Infosys, she found herself disillusioned with the daily commute and long hours. Looking out of her office window, she envisioned a life on the open road, fuelling her determination to break free. In 2015, she took a three-month sabbatical to ride through North and South India, and the experience solidified her desire to pursue a life of adventure. Following her journey, she resigned from her desk job and spent four months travelling, embracing the confidence and freedom that riding provided.

In this conversation, Candida emphasised the importance of following one’s passions, stating, “If you love something, if you’re very passionate about it, at least try to take that first step... Just take that risk, and it will prove to be the right thing.” This philosophy drives her as she continues to chase her dreams, having recently crossed multiple countries on her motorcycle in a remarkable eight-month journey from India to Australia. With each adventure, she inspires others to embrace their dreams, take risks, and discover the incredible experiences that life has to offer.

Candida’s journey is not just about riding motorcycles; it’s about finding one’s true self and the freedom that comes with stepping outside one’s comfort zone. As she explores the world on her bike, she encourages others to do the same, reminding them that the journey begins with that first courageous step.

*** This episode was recorded live at the Armchair Adventure Festival 25th - 28th July 2024. Buy tickets now for #AAF25 - THE UK'S MOST ADVENTUROUS FESTIVAL. Mt Edgcumbe, Cornwall, 24-27th July 2025, Use TG10 to get a 10% discount on tickets. www.armchairadventurefestival.com. ***

Don't miss out on the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, released every Tuesday at 7am UK time! Be sure to hit the subscribe button to stay updated on the incredible journeys and stories of strong women.

 By supporting the Tough Girl Podcast on Patreon, you can make a difference in increasing the representation of female role models in the media, particularly in the world of adventure and physical challenges. Your contribution helps empower and inspire others. Visit www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast to be a part of this important movement. 

Thank you for your invaluable support!

Shownotes: 

• Who is Candida
• Started riding motorcycles 16 years ago
• Initial career in finance before transitioning to travel and motorcycle riding
• First motorcycle ride with her dad
• Family support in pursuing her passion
• Societal judgments and lack of support from some community members
• Initial desire to travel but disbelief in achieving financial stability through it
• Shift in perspective from chasing money to following passion
• Experience working at a strict IT company and the impact on her mental health
• Receiving a call from a TV show inviting her to ride around India
• Overcoming obstacles with her manager to pursue the opportunity
• Unexpected cancellation of the show and decision to continue the journey solo
• Reflection on the adventure and challenges faced during the trip
• Creation of a Facebook page to update family and friends during travels
• Growth of the page to 10,000 followers during the seven-month trip
• Transition to Instagram and the rise to 246,000 followers over ten years
• Opportunities from brand collaborations that provide financial support
• Investment in real estate (building an Airbnb) to generate consistent income
• Leading motorcycle tours and the establishment of a tour business
• The emotional struggle of leaving a stable job for an uncertain path
• Experience of living with very little money initially
• Importance of perseverance and believing in oneself despite challenges
• Societal perceptions of women travelling alone in India
• Media interviews focused on negative aspects rather than positive experiences
• Gaining confidence through positive encounters and supportive individuals
• Delivering laptops and teaching children in Cambodia
• Desire to combine travel with making a positive impact on communities
• Upcoming plans for the next six months
• Increase in female motorcycle riders over the past decade
• Candida’s initiative to train 100 women monthly to ride motorcycles
• Riding through 42 countries on a motorcycle
• Personal challenges and medical issues (e.g., dislocated knee)
• Information on Candida’s motorcycles
• Naming her motorcycles: "Sky" (Bajaj) and "Scarlet" (Triumph)
• Spending eight months on an incredible journey, crossing multiple countries from India to Australia
• Candida's desired future destinations
• Camping vs. hotels
• Safety considerations for camping in India
• Preference for hostels and Airbnbs in rainy conditions
• Experience with motorcycle breakdowns and learning repairs through necessity
• Cleaning motorcycle for Australian quarantine regulations
• Carrying essential tools and supplies
• Experiences that challenged her confidence
• Safety measures with modern motorcycle gear
• Overcoming fear and getting back on the bike
• Social Media Presence
• Final words of wisdom
• Encouragement to pursue passions despite challenges
• Importance of taking the first step

Social Media

Website: candidalouis.com Instagram: @candidalouis Facebook: www.facebook.com/candida.louis1

Jen Scotney boasts an impressive record as an ultrarunner with podium finishes in the 108-mile Montane Winter Spine Challenger South and the 190-mile Northern Traverse. She is host of the Resilience Rising Podcast, a running coach, writer, Mountain Leader and yoga teacher, which have followed her career as a human rights lawyer. 

Jen has appeared in magazine features for Runner’s World, Trail Running and Women’s Running. She has been a guest host on the Wild Ginger Running YouTube channel, and a previous guest on the Tough Girl Podcast.

Jen crewed for John Kelly’s successful Pennine Way fastest known time as well as for his Wainwrights Round in the Lake District. She grew up in the Peak District and now lives in the Scottish mountains with her husband Marcus and Sherlock the beagle. Running Through the Dark is her first book.

***

Don't miss out on the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, released every Tuesday at 7am UK time! Be sure to hit the subscribe button to stay updated on the incredible journeys and stories of strong women.

 By supporting the Tough Girl Podcast on Patreon, you can make a difference in increasing the representation of female role models in the media, particularly in the world of adventure and physical challenges. Your contribution helps empower and inspire others. Visit www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast to be a part of this important movement. 

Thank you for your invaluable support!

***

Show notes

• Who is Jen Scotney 
• Intro from 2018 TGP episode 
• So much has changed in 6 years
• A new introduction for now
• Being based in the Scottish Highlands
• Not running anymore and what happened
• Chatting with Mimi Anderson 
• No longer clinging onto the identity of being a runner
• Self worth in relation to challenges and big runs
• Using writing as a tool to help process
• Her dream of wanting to run the Pennine Way
• Getting a book deal and starting to write stories of runners
• Going through a period of chronic illness
• Wanting to share her story and get it out of her head
• 500 words a day
• Relief and fear of finishing the book
• Grief and loss
• Handing over control 
• Recovering from chronic illness
• Resilience 
• Starting the Resilience Rising Podcasts
• Why messiness is part of resilience. 
• Taking the time to process and accept what’s happened
• Not signing up for the suffering 
• Having a good time while running
• Why low points in a race are not comparable to real life challenges
• External validation
• What bring joy and happiness today
• Teaching yoga and growing fruit and veg
• Making changes in her life and doing a pivot
• Getting ok with uncertainty and change
• Choosing the uncertainty and being open to what comes up
• Advice for letting go of control 
• Joining the local mountain rescue team in Scotland 
• Working through a skill list and having monthly training 
• Managing negative thoughts 
• Dealing with 2 knee replacements
• Looking for her limit and finding out what she can do
• Start where you are
• Plans for 2025 - goal setting or going with the flow
• Practicing yoga for 15+ years
• Being a qualified Yin Yoga teacher
• Yoga Nidra and permission to rest
• Pushing back again busyness and perfection 
• Relax and do more yoga 
• Stop trying to be productive
• What needs to be let go off
• Being in the moment
• Keep connected to Jen 
• Final words of advice 

Social Media

Website: www.jenscotney.com 

Instagram: @jenscotney 

X/Twitter: @jenscotney

Vertebrate Publishing  Books to inspire your next adventure.  Based in Sheffield, the Outdoor City. 

Instagram @vertebrate_publishing

X/Twitter: @VertebratePub 

Book: Running Through the Dark: The rise and fall of an ultrarunner. 

Ultrarunner Jen Scotney has achieved podium finishes in some of the UK’s toughest races and now has her sights firmly set on the Pennine Way. In Running Through the Dark, Jen talks about her ambitions, not just to run the 268-mile Pennine Way but to take the record as the fastest woman to do so. But that didn’t happen. Nothing went according to plan. 

 The Jen the world knew was a successful lawyer and running coach – all photoshoots and finish-line smiles – but the truth was much darker. The real Jen Scotney, the one she hid from everybody, suffered with chronic fatigue, debilitating injuries, tragedy, grief and at times had a will so beaten down by setbacks that there just didn’t seem any point in going on.

But she did go on. Running Through the Dark is Jen’s account of her ultra-journey. Playing out on the moors of the Pennines, the fells of the Lake District and the mountains of Wales and Scotland, this is much more than a running book, it is a story about resilience, about never giving up, and about battling through the night and always believing that there will be a new dawn.

In this episode, we delve into the extraordinary life and inspiring journey of Risa August, a multifaceted individual based in Colorado, USA. Risa wears many hats - she's a Gestalt practitioner, a captivating speaker, an author, and a passionate patient advocate. Her story is one of resilience, marked by her decade-long battle with a pituitary tumour and a rare disease, Acromegaly.

Risa shares candidly about her experiences, offering profound insights into overcoming adversity and embracing life with unparalleled vigour.

Risa's journey into the realm of personal transformation began with her participation in Ironman races, a testament to her fierce determination and love for physical challenges. However, her path took an unexpected turn when she started noticing troubling symptoms, eventually leading to a diagnosis that altered her life trajectory. Despite facing daunting health challenges, Risa's spirit remained unyielding as she navigated through surgeries, treatments, and the complexities of managing a chronic condition.

In her book, The Road Unpaved: Border to Border with a Brain Tumor and a Bike, Risa eloquently chronicles her courageous cross-country bicycle journey, symbolising her refusal to let adversity define her. 

Throughout our conversation, Risa reflects on how her perspective on life and adventure has evolved, emphasising the importance of embracing new experiences and pushing beyond perceived limits. Her insights into removing limiting beliefs and fostering a positive mindset resonate deeply, offering profound lessons for anyone navigating their own challenges.

Join us as Risa shares her story of resilience, adventure, and the transformative power of embracing life fully, no matter the obstacles. Get ready to be inspired by her unwavering spirit and her profound wisdom gained through living a life unleashed.

***

Don't miss out on the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, released every Tuesday at 7am UK time! Be sure to hit the subscribe button to stay updated on the incredible journeys and stories of strong women.

 By supporting the Tough Girl Podcast on Patreon, you can make a difference in increasing the representation of female role models in the media, particularly in the world of adventure and physical challenges. Your contribution helps empower and inspire others. Visit www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast to be a part of this important movement. 

Thank you for your invaluable support!

***

Show notes

• Who is Risa
• Based in Colorado, USA
• Working as a gestalt practitioner, speaker, author and patient advocate
• Her passion for learning
• ‘CANI’ - Constant And Never-ending Improvement 
• The connection with Tony Robbins 
• Growing up in Cleveland Ohio and her early years
• Taking herself on adventures 
• Being inspired by her dad and a buffalo head nickel
• How the meaning of adventure has changed over the years
• Why adventure means - learning and experiencing something new 
• Setting out a timeline
• 2011 - completing her first Ironman race 
• Starting to notice changes in her body 
• Fast forward 7 years and training for another Ironman.
• Not being able to recover and not being able to keep the weigh off
• Plus dealing with severe headaches and lack of sleep
• Pushing for an MRI of her brain
• Being diagnosed with an enlarged pituitary and a brain tumour 
• Looking at brain surgery and being diagnosed with a rare disease - Acromegaly.
• Processing and working through the diagnosis 
• Having a mindset of getting it done and moving on with her life
• Waiting 3 months for surgery 
• Acromegaly is a rare condition where the body produces too much growth hormone, causing body tissues and bones to grow more quickly. 
• Being very conscious of what goes into her body
• Radiation or medication?
• Feeling very lonely even while being supported
• Battling orthorexia in her 20s
• Not being able to exercise and spend time in the outdoors
• Deciding to ride her bicycle down the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH)
• Looking back on her adventurous life and remembering what it felt like
• Starting to paint and how it became an outlet 
• Instead of focusing on what she couldn’t do - focusing on what she could do
• What can I do now?
• Small steps, one thing at a time.
• Stopping judging herself and blocking out the noise from other people
• Getting back to the CrossFit gym
• Acceptance around her identity and how it’s changed
• Signing up for a semi supported tour on the PCH
• SAG - Support And Gear
• Book: The Road Unpaved: Border to Border with a Brain Tumor and a Bike 
• Reflecting back on the ride and some of the magical moments 
• Trying to control situation and outcomes and how the universe has a completely different plan for you
• Being open to what’s possible
• To be open to letting go of limiting beliefs 
• Why it was a massive learning experience 
• Being present and spending time in the moment
• Naming her brain tumour and the reason behind it
• Being kind to her body
• Louise Hay Book: Heal Your Body: The Mental Causes for Physical Illness and the Metaphysical Way to Overcome Them. 
• Adding humour to her situation and how it can change perspective - especially during dark moments
• Her prognosis and being on medication to control the tumour 
• Dealing with the uncertainty of her future 
• Making big changes in her life
• Divorcing after an 18 year marriage
• Letting go of people and things in her life, that no longer felt in alignment
• Creating a list of all the things she wanted to do, or try
• Stepping more into who she wants to be
• Being unpolished, unapologetic and unleashed 
• Getting up, getting back in the saddle and doing it. 
• Taking it each day at a time
• Choosing to cycle the Camino de Santiago in Spain
• The realities of the camino and why it wasn’t like she imagined
• Why it was a spiritual journey 
• Challenges on the journey and wanting to quit
• What do I need to do, to make this work
• Finding moment of joy even through she physically struggled 
• Wanting to be alive 
• Being realistic about adventures and challenges
• Handing the frustrations and challenges 
• The next adventure…. And having multiple options
• Recovery after the camino
• How to connect with Risa
• Final words of advice and wisdom for other women who are going through a tough time
• Ask yourself ‘what CAN (Capable - Able - Now) I do’

Social Media

Website: www.risaaugust.com

Instagram: @risaunleashed

Facebook: @risaunleashed

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/risaaugust

Substack: @risaunleashed

Book: The Road Unpaved: Border to Border with a Brain Tumor and a Bike.

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Bailey Seamer, an extraordinary individual who undertook a 14-month, 5,000km hike along Australia's East Coast, from Wilsons Promontory to Cape York, all in the name of mental health advocacy. Bailey's story is one of resilience, determination, and hope, as she uses her journey to raise awareness and support for mental health issues.

Diagnosed with a major depressive disorder at just 14, Bailey has faced significant challenges, including managing an all-consuming mental illness and dealing with the impact of bi-polar disorder. Despite these obstacles, she found solace and strength in walking, which became a crucial part of her healing journey. Her decision to embark on this monumental hike was driven by a desire to advocate for mental health, share her story, and demonstrate that even in the face of adversity, one can achieve incredible feats.

Throughout her journey, Bailey encountered numerous challenges, from managing her mental health on the trail to dealing with the physical demands of such an extensive hike. She shares insights into her experiences, the support she received from family and strangers alike, and the lessons she learned along the way. Bailey's journey is a powerful reminder that no matter how difficult the path may seem, there is always hope, support, and the possibility of overcoming life's greatest challenges.

Tune in to hear Bailey's incredible story, learn about her mental health advocacy efforts, and be inspired by her unwavering determination to make a difference.

***

Don't miss out on the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, released every Tuesday at 7am UK time! Be sure to hit the subscribe button to stay updated on the incredible journeys and stories of strong women.

 By supporting the Tough Girl Podcast on Patreon, you can make a difference in increasing the representation of female role models in the media, particularly in the world of adventure and physical challenges. Your contribution helps empower and inspire others. Visit www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast to be a part of this important movement. 

Thank you for your invaluable support!

***

Show notes

• Who is Bailey 
• Hiking the East Coast of Australia 
• Her mental health journey 
• Being diagnosed at 14 with a major depressive disorder 
• Being supported by her family
• Managing an all consuming mental illness 
• Having to leave university and move back home
• Bi-polar disorder? 
• Making the decision to go into a mental health hospital 
• Being in a really bad place 
• Walking home 30k from the hospital 
• Feeling proud of herself 
• Why walking became a really important part of her healing journey 
• ECT - Electric Convulsive Therapy 
• Having the idea to walk the East Coast
• Feeling a sadness and frustration and not knowing if she would be ok
• The Black Dog Institute 
• Sharing her ideas with people 
• Finding people’s criticism, very helpful in her planning process.
• Not being taken seriously at first and doing something about it
• Why it was such an important leaning stage
• Being taken seriously and starting to take herself seriously as well
• Managing her bi-polar disorder while on the walk
• Why medication is an important part of her health care routine
• Having a bad day and what that can look like
• Wanting to be able to pinpoint the problem 
• Dealing with a spectrum of emotions 
• Understanding the difference between, ‘I can’t’ and ‘I don’t want to’
• Tantrum Time Out for 7 mins
• Putting small rocks in her shoes…. A physical way of reframing the situation
• Creating a pocket of pleasure in her day
• Being alone while on the walk
• Making a decision by yourself 
• Reflecting back on previous situations
• Paying for the challenge
• The kindness of strangers
• Reflecting back on the journey and some of the main memories from the experience 
• Waking up with a fox in her tent!
• Adventure blues 
• Planning a trip to Rio to go to Carnival 
• Not walking a huge amount 
• What she wanted people to take away from her walk
• Why you are not alone if you are suffering from mental health
• Letting people know that there is support available and that there is no shame in asking for help
• Breaking things down and taking it one step at a time
• How to connect with Bailey online and find out more about her journey 
• Final words of advice
• Why everything will pass
• Nothing in this life is permanent 

Social Media

Website: wandering-minds.org 

Instagram: @wandering_minds_walk 

Facebook: @wanderingmindswalk 

In this episode of the Tough Girl Podcast, we sit down with Shafeeqah Gordon, a passionate trail runner from Cape Town, South Africa. Shafeeqah shares her journey, from playing netball as a child to discovering the freedom and challenge of running through her university cross-country club. Over the years, running has become an integral part of her life, and she hasn’t looked back since.

As a leader for Tuesday Trails, a group dedicated to the joy of trail running, Shafeeqah is all about building community and encouraging people to get outside. Her work as a mountain guide and sports scientist has equipped her with invaluable skills for tackling challenging terrains and pushing the limits in her races. From competing in prestigious races like the Ultra Trail Drakensberg 65km and the Ultra Trail Cape Town 55km, to conquering technical trails with a focus on strength and conditioning, Shafeeqah gives us insight into her training, race strategies, and the mindset needed to overcome physical and mental battles during ultra races.

In this episode, Shafeeqah opens up about inclusion in the trail running community, the power of running to clear the mind, and her personal battles with self-doubt during tough moments in races. She also talks about her involvement in outdoor education through her Outdoor Education Hub, which will be relaunched in 2025 after a brief hiatus.

Tune in to hear Shafeeqah’s thoughts on trail running, the lessons she’s learned along the way, and her final advice for anyone looking to take on their own running challenges!

***

Don't miss out on the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, released every Tuesday at 7am UK time! Be sure to hit the subscribe button to stay updated on the incredible journeys and stories of strong women.

 By supporting the Tough Girl Podcast on Patreon, you can make a difference in increasing the representation of female role models in the media, particularly in the world of adventure and physical challenges. Your contribution helps empower and inspire others. Visit www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast to be a part of this important movement. 

Thank you for your invaluable support!

Show notes

• Who is Shafeeqah Gordon
• Group Leader for  Tuesday Trails IG @tuesdaytrails 
• Being sports and playing netball from a young age
• Getting into running via the cross-country club at university 
• How running became apart of her life
• Never regretting a run
• The difference between cross-country and trail running
• Mountain guide, outdoor educator and sports scientist
• Studying sports science at university. 
• Specialising in strength and conditioning for running and netball players
• The outdoor education hub
• Working a full time job in retail
• Getting qualified as a mountain guide
• Why the marathon distance is the sweet spot. 42km
• The Cape Town Skyrace - The Sky Running Series 
• Training for technical trails
• Bullet proof ankles
• Working with a strength and conditioning coach and a run coach
• Running mojo
• Calling a friend to schedule a run together
• Running the Ultra Trail Drakensberg (UTD) 65km
• Ultra Trail Cape Town 55k (UTCT) 
• The challenges of running further 
• Figuring out nutrition and fuelling for the longer runs
• Fitting in training around life 
• Recovery?
• Trying not to take running too seriously 
• Race strategy and wanting to get a better time than last year
• Future dreams and races
• Batrun Race
• Running thoughts - thinking about everything and nothing
• Being at war with herself during a tough race 
• Inclusion in trail running
• Outdoor Education Hub (on hiatus for the rest of 2024) but coming back in 2025
• How you can connect with Shaf
• Final words of advice 
• Don’t listen to the demons
• Why it’s just important to get out there

Social Media

Personal Instagram: @shafgordon

Outdoor Education Hub - We're an initiative focused on equipping people with knowledge & educational tools for the outdoors - making it a fun & safe space for all to enjoy 

Instagram: @outdooreducation_hub

Join us on this episode of the Tough Girl Podcast as we explore the remarkable journey of Amanda Harris, an adapted cyclist and dedicated fundraiser who has embraced life's challenges following a spinal cord injury. Living in South Wales with her husband and two teenage children, Amanda's story is one of resilience, determination, and breaking down barriers.

Originally from Devon and a law graduate from Cardiff University, Amanda has spent over 30 years in Wales. Her life took a dramatic turn after a serious bike accident that resulted in a spinal cord injury. Despite the life-altering event, Amanda's spirit remained unbroken. She spent nine months in the hospital, relearning basic skills and adapting to her new reality.

Amanda's love for cycling was rekindled when she was gifted a recumbent bike, allowing her to take on new challenges and raise funds for charity. Her journey includes the ambitious goal of completing the Wales Coast Path (WCP) using a trike, wheelchair, and occasionally walking with crutches. Amanda's determination and adaptability shine as she navigates accessibility issues and relies on friends and family to assist with sections that are not accessible.

In this episode, Amanda shares her experiences, from her early years in Devon to her life in Wales, her passion for cycling, and the various challenges she has undertaken. We delve into her methods for staying positive, setting tiny goals, and focusing on what she can achieve. Amanda's story is a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of embracing life's challenges with a positive attitude.

Tune in to hear Amanda's inspiring journey and her advice for women facing their own challenges. Discover how she continues to push boundaries and inspire others with her remarkable story of overcoming adversity and loving life.

***

Don't miss out on the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, released every Tuesday at 7am UK time! Be sure to hit the subscribe button to stay updated on the incredible journeys and stories of strong women.

 By supporting the Tough Girl Podcast on Patreon, you can make a difference in increasing the representation of female role models in the media, particularly in the world of adventure and physical challenges. Your contribution helps empower and inspire others. Visit www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast to be a part of this important movement. 

Thank you for your invaluable support!

***

Show notes

• Who is Amanda
• Living in South Wales with her husband and two teenage children
• Originally growing up in Devon
• Studying Law at Cardiff University 
• Living in Wales for over 30 years
• Meeting her husband at University 
• Bringing her children up in Wales 
• Still learning the Welsh Language 
• Her early years and spending lots of time outside 
• Not being particularly sporty or competitive
• Making walking plans for retirement
• Getting into cycling before her 40th birthday 
• Signing up for a charity cycle ride 
• Being in a bike accident which caused a spinal cord injury and multiple other injuries 
• Not being able to feel her legs and knowing something serious had happened
• Spending 9 months in hospital 
• Having to learn everything again
• How it changed her life 
• What’s happened since
• Deciding to complete the Wales Coast Path (WCP) by trike, wheelchair and occasionally a few steps 
• Being able to walk a few steps with crutches
• Why can’t I do this now
• Accepting that there are some parts which are’t accessible 
• Asking friends and family to walk that sections that aren’t accessible 
• Accessibility on the Wales Coast Path
• Research before taking on new sections 
• Why everyone has different needs when it comes to access and accessibility 
• The need for planning 
• Needing to walk the path around work and needing support from other people
• Completing approx 500 miles needing to do the North Wales Sections
• Raising funds for charity 
• Getting back into cycling and being gifted a recumbent bike 
• Being involved in different cycling challenges
• Winning a competition with - Spinal Injuries Association 
• Heading out to Portugal in May 2024 to ride 200 miles over 3 days!
• Having moments of doubt
• Not going into the dark place
• Focusing on the positives and what she can do 
• Giving things ago and saying yes to more things (such as doing this interview!)
• Wanting to take the tandem bike over to America to do a big ride with her husband
• How to connect with Amanda on line 
• Final words of advice for women who are going through a challenging time
• Not wanting to preach to people 
• Try and stay positive 
• Setting tiny, tiny goals in a notebook and how this helped during rehab
• Find out what works for you and focus on that 

Social Media

Instagram: @amandah_trike 

Instagram: @amandascoastalchallenge 

In this episode of the Tough Girl Podcast, we speak with Dena Lewis, a dedicated runner and advocate for women's safety based in Florida, USA. Dena shares her 20-year journey in running, which began as a way to manage stress after college and evolved into a lifelong passion. 

Dena's dedication to running is evident in her meticulous planning and commitment, including her morning routine of fasted runs, coffee, and early starts. Where she runs between 10 and 12 miles per day, 6 days a week.

Safety has been a significant concern for Dena, who often runs in the early hours of the morning. She has faced harassment and assault while running, leading her to create Running Mate—an innovative app designed to pair runners with companions for safer runs. Launching in April 2024, Running Mate aims to make running safer for women across the U.S., with plans to expand globally.

Dena’s experience with violence has driven her to become an advocate for women's safety, culminating in the creation of the Female Runner Safety Summit. Through her advocacy, Dena hopes to bring awareness to the dangers women face and foster a safer environment for her daughters and all women.

Join us as Dena shares her story of resilience, empowerment, and her mission to make the world a safer place for female runners. Learn about her journey, the creation of Running Mate, and her advice for women looking to start their running journey.

• This episode has been marked as explicit. Please be aware that the topic of assault comes up during this conversation; while we don't discuss it in detail, some listeners may find it triggering.

***

Don't miss out on the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, released every Tuesday at 7am UK time! Be sure to hit the subscribe button to stay updated on the incredible journeys and stories of strong women.

 By supporting the Tough Girl Podcast on Patreon, you can make a difference in increasing the representation of female role models in the media, particularly in the world of adventure and physical challenges. Your contribution helps empower and inspire others. Visit www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast to be a part of this important movement. 

Thank you for your invaluable support!

***

Show notes

• Being based in Florida, USA 
• Being a runner for over 20 years
• Married to her best friend and having 2 older daughter 
• Looking for ways to deal with her stress and picking up running after college 
• Getting into cycling after running
• How her fitness journey has progressed over the years
• Running for health, fitness and wellbeing 
• Learning what works for her with regards to running
• Not being able to fit in run clubs 
• Running all distances from 5k to ultra marathons
• Running between 10 to 12 miles per day, 6 days per week
• Her favourite distance being a half marathon
• Wear and tear, trainers, recovery, fuelling… 
• Why 10/12 miles per day!
• Living with a certain level of pain at all times
• Being a consistent runner
• Not liking to run on a treadmill and preferring to run outside
• The morning routine
• Being a fasted runner and drinking coffee
• Leaving at 5am and being gone for approx 2 hours
• Planning her day around her run 
• Getting her blood checked on a regular basis
• Ending up in the ER with chest pains
• Seeing a heart doctor once a year to have a check up
• Running in the early morning and experiences fear
• Am I safe - what’s around me
• Being harassed while running on a regular basis and being assaulted twice
• Creating Running Mate —an on demand running app (think of Uber for runners) 
• How running mate works
• Having no experience in tech, finding a developer and starting to work on the project in April 2021
• Launching in April 2024 in 3 very specific cities in the US
• Beta testing since January 2024
• Running with other people
• Female runner safety summit 
• The running mates get paid 
• Bringing awareness to the violence against women
• Wanting to make it a safer world for her daughter
• Brining companies together which has a mission to improve women’s safety
• Wanting to expand the app world wide within a year
• Following and support running mate online
• Final words of advice for other women who want to get out there and get running
• Talk to someone and get help if you need support
• Only talking about the first assault recently
• Choosing not to report it 
• Having the perpetrator show up on her door step
• Stopping running
• Living in fear and how it impacted her day to day life with her family
• Moving away from the area and starting to feel safe again
• Sharing her story to let other women know that they are not alone
• Being in denial for a while
• Working through PTSD, the trauma, the event and start seeing the other side 
• Not becoming an advocate straight away
• Taking time to focus on herself and her family 
• Connecting with other women who had been through a similar thing
• Getting back to running again and feeling a sense of empowerment
• Getting angry when it happened a second time 
• Why we need advocacy and change

Social Media

Website: www.getrunningmate.com  

Instagram: @getrunningmate 

Facebook: @getrunningmate