In this incredibly open and honest episode, we sit down with guest Caroline McKay for a chat that spans her roots on the Isle of Mull, and the profound emotional journey that led her to ultra running. Caroline shares her recent success at the California Fall Classic and the powerful motivation she carries with her on the trails.

Caroline reveals she "hated running" early in life and discusses her upbringing on the Isle of Mull, living an outdoors lifestyle with her marine biologist parents and working on their shellfish farm. Caroline recounts moving to Manchester at 17 to work in a nightclub and also work in fashion, and how she went down a "disruptive path" involving heavy smoking, drinking, and substance use.

Caroline talks about moving back to Edinburgh, being a major milestone for her health. A friend planting the seed about the 53-mile Highland Fling race introduced her to ultra running.

Caroline speaks about getting into ultra running podcasts like Trail Runner Nation, Ultra Runner podcast, and Talk Ultra. She mentions being inspired by Ellie Greenwood and the empowering feeling of seeing women like her succeed. There is a brief mention of Caroline's own podcast, Of Mountains and Minds, and her experience interviewing the incredible Jasmin Paris.

An impulsive, wild story about a trip to the US to support a record-breaking trans-American run attempt which ended in a mess, a pulled sponsorship, and an NDA.

We discuss running the West Highland Way and getting into the Western States 100 lottery for 2013. She talks about her training and preparation, including running the Great Wilderness Challenge (23 miles).

We have a deep dive into Carolines fuelling strategy, including using Huma Chia gels, salted potatoes, and salt tabs.

Caroline shares her motivation, including the goal of not having another DNF (mentioning the Georgia Death Race and UTMB) and drawing strength from her kids.

Caroline shares her pride in her recent California Fall Classic race, hitting her goal of going sub-16 hours with a time of 15:48

We've reached the halfway point of Season 14, and this week, we're joined by ultra-runner Dave Moulding! Dave's running journey proves you don't need to be fit—just well-costumed. Dave takes us from his "unhealthiest, least fit period" , which involved running a 10K dressed as The Stig (complete with a paper mâché helmet) , and then wearing it for 8 hours in the pub afterwards.This paved the way for taking on the brutal, 215-mile Race Across Scotland. Dave also spills the beans on his terrifyingly-efficient support crew, with none other than our own Yorkshire Correspondent, Mel Sykes. Find out how Mel & Jo enforced a strict 90-minute sleep rule , why Dave felt like a child begging for "five more minutes on my phone" , and the crew's no-nonsense mantra for foot care: "Socks off, let's get stuck in!".Plus, Dave shares his strategy for telling the unkind voice in his head "Not today, thank you" , and the shockingly painful moment an electric fence touched his ring.Our chat includes• From being "spectacularly average" at all sports to going "all in" on Ironman training.• Why running a 10K in a paper mâché helmet was the perfect "get out" for not being fit —and the 8 hours he spent wearing it in the pub.• Why ultra-runners are just like toddlers asking for five more minutes on their phones.• The crew mantra for blister management: "Socks off, let's get stuck in!".• Dave's biggest strength is his head. How to tell the unkind voice in your brain, "Not today, thank you".• The electrifying moment a charged fence and a wedding ring got a little too close.

Welcome back for the episode you've all been waiting for!

This week, the hosts dive into a tale of extreme physical endurance, mental warfare, and sacrificed beards. John gives us the full, chaotic debrief from his 100-mile attempt on the Mark Cockbain 400 metre track event, while Steven wonders if shaving your face is a viable streamlining tactic for ultraunning.

We dive head-first to "The Chilli Trail" for an update on the 100% sold-out UK premier 10K trail event. Steven gives a spicy route report, confirming the ground is soft and predicting a glorious, spectacular mud-fest. This also leads to a discussion on the immediate need for Hoka wellies and you find out how to get your hands on a limited-edition sticker and a spot in the 2026 event.

Then, the main topic: John’s Track 100 Debrief. John recounts his experience from The Track, he explains the crucial lessons learned from last year: how running in the outside lane added miles to his watch—and why sticking to the white line is essential for any aspiring 403-lap lunatic. John reveals his last-minute race mantra ("slow and smooth" ), his absolute lowest point of the run, which he combated by playing games with other runners and also receiving an surprise 15-second video message from the legendary Jasmin Paris.

It’s a tale of physical endurance, mental warfare, and not wanting to disappoint your coach (shout out to the phenomenal Fiona Watt!)

In this milestone episode, John Robb returns for his third appearance on the show to share how he conquered Scotland’s legendary Triple Crown—three ultra races in one year: the Highland Fling, the West Highland Way Race, and Devil o’ the Highlands.

From frog-dodging night runs to training peaks pranks, John’s story is packed with grit, laughs, and heart. Your hosts dive into his transformation from first-time runner in 2017 to Triple Crown finisher in 2025, with coaching, community, and sheer determination leading the way.

Highlights include:

- Training tales from Auchterarder to Cloan Glen

- Coaching breakthroughs and April Fool’s curveballs

- Fav and least favourite sections on the WHW

- Race-day drama, PBs, and magic finish line moments.

A celebration of running, resilience, and the magic of doing something phenomenal that makes everyone proud as punch.

"Each day, regardless of what happened, each day was a new day and it was just reset and start again." Gilly Marshall - October 2025

Have you ever faced a challenge so tough it left you wondering if you had what it takes? Do you walk away, or do you go back for more?

In this incredibly inspiring episode, we sit down with the phenomenal Gilly Marshall, a cornerstone of the Scottish ultra-running community. Gilly shares her amazing journey from a self-professed non-runner, using the "run a lamppost, walk a lamppost" method, to taking on one of the world's toughest mountain races, the Dragon's Back.

This isn't just a race report; it's a powerful story about resilience, community, and the mental fortitude required to face down your dragons. Gilly talks candidly about her first attempt at the Dragon's Back in 2023, which ended in disappointment amid a brutal heatwave , and her courageous return this year to face the beast again in wildly different conditions.

If you need a dose of inspiration and a reminder that your mindset is your greatest asset, this is the episode for you.

Dragons Back Race

Join us as we dive into the wild world of ultra running with Jack Chamberlain—Austrian Alps trailblazer, former live music bar owner and Mozart 100 champion.

From his first epic run with “Crazy Dave” (we all know a Crazy Dave, right?) to racing the legendary UTMB, Jack shares raw stories of triumph, setbacks, and survival in the mountains.

Discover the secrets behind his training and nutrition, and find out about his 'friend of the show ' coach. Listen in to hear about the friendships, mishaps, and music that fuel his journey.

It's a classic YHRF episode with Jack freely giving us insight into life at the front of the pack. An episode packed with hunners of inspiration, a dousing of honesty, and, of course, a few laughs you won’t want to miss!

Four Scots. Seven days. One unforgettable adventure.

Join Bobby, James, Allan, and Scott as they take on the Pyrenees Stage Run — 220km of mountains, mishaps, and memories.

This episode dives into the heart of camaraderie: from missed registrations and travel chaos to bunk bed banter, altitude struggles, and the power of a good laugh.

Hear how teamwork, inside jokes, and unwavering support carried them through epic climbs, wild descents, and every challenge the Pyrenees could throw at them.

If you love stories of friendship, resilience, and the magic that happens when you stick together, this is the episode for you.

Bonus material, find out who really won by 11 seconds!!

Link to Pyrenees Stage Run Website - www.psr.run

In this episode, we chat with Scottish ultra-running legend Izzy Cairns (née Knox).

After a two-year wait, Izzy finally joins the podcast to share her incredible journey. She talks about her childhood love for running, from being timed by her auntie to joining her first club in Peebles.

Izzy opens up about a life-altering accident at 21 that doctors said would end her competitive career, and her powerful determination to run again.

We discuss Izzy's progression from 10Ks to marathons and the Dean Karnazes book that sparked her passion for ultra-marathons.

Izzy shares memorable stories from her five Berlin 100-milers, the pride of becoming a Scottish 100K champion, and her plans for a road marathon in Malaga and another 100-miler in Chester.

As mentioned in the episode Izzys Jedburgh Ultra race report

Join Steven, John, and guest Kyle Wilson for an inspiring episode of the Young Hearts Run Free podcast!

Kyle shares his journey from football and boxing to becoming a top Scottish ultrarunner, revealing how he tackled his first marathon with just three weeks’ notice, learned the ropes of ultra-distance racing, and battled through setbacks to podium at the West Highland Way Race.

Expect stories of wild sprint finishes, training tips, fuelling mishaps, and the camaraderie of the Greenock Glenpark Harriers.

Plus, hear about Kyle’s future ambitions, race-day rituals, and the power of a good support crew. This episode is packed with motivation, practical advice, and plenty of laughs for runners of all levels.

Lace up for a wild ride as John and Steven welcome ultra-runner Iain Bethune, who went from chasing his runaway dog to conquering 200-mile races and setting Scottish backyard ultra records.

Iain shares how he balances family life with four kids, a full-time job, and a running obsession that’s taken him from lunchtime jogs to winning the 2025 edition of the renowned Race Across Scotland.

Expect hilarious tales of sleep deprivation, competitive couple dynamics, and fueling up on Kendall Mint Cake and crunchy peanut butter. Plus, find out why “auto-magical” is now in the dialect dictionary and why Chesney Hawkes is the ultimate running anthem.

This episode is packed with laughs, inspiration, and enough trail wisdom to get you razzing around the block—or maybe signing up for your own ultra!