Couch to Coached- Running podcast

This week’s episode begins with honesty, heart, and community at its core.Rob and Emma open the conversation reflecting on the recent passing of Ben’s mum, sharing gratitude for the support shown by the running community and highlighting just how powerful connection can be during difficult times.From there, the episode shifts into running updates, race reflections, and a major announcement — the launch of the Run Up to Christmas challenge in support of mental health. The pair discuss why the cause means so much to them, how charity running brings purpose to training, and how listeners can get involved.Along the way, they dig into personal bests, recent races, and practical training insights — including how to tackle downhill running with confidence. With motivation, reflection, and community spirit woven throughout, they also share thoughts on upcoming goals and the excitement of their recent award nomination.Whether you’re chasing a PB, running for your mental health, or leaning on community through tough times, this episode is a powerful reminder of why we run.HighlightsHonouring community support through personal lossLaunching Run Up to Christmas for mental healthRace reflections and course personal bestsTraining consistency and staying motivatedDownhill running tips for better race performanceRunning with emotion and the power of musicSetting future goals and race plansCelebrating achievements and award recognitionRemember to follow us on Instagram, subscribe on YouTube, and watch us LIVE every Monday. And don’t forget — join the Couch to Coached Strava run club by searching Couch to Coached on Strava.

Couch to Coached – AWARD-WINNING Running Podcast5 With The Listeners – Our 5 With The Listeners series has been refreshed and rebooted — new questions, new logo, new vibes.Rob, Ben, and Emma sit down with our latest featured listener to explore their running story in a whole new way. We dig into:What their running shoes would say about themWhat’s in their desert-island running survival kitWhat running has taught themAnd joining us for this exciting relaunch as nominated last week by Will is Kate Olding Rob, Ben, and Emma also check in on this week’s Strava leaderboard — who’s on top, who’s rising fast, and of course…who gets the all-important SHOUTOUT OF THE WEEEEEEEEK!Want to support Rob & Ben?They’re fundraising for North Staffordshire Combined Healthcare NHS Trust UK — follow the link to donate.Don’t forget:✅ Follow us on Instagram✅ Subscribe on YouTube✅ Watch LIVE every MondayAnd while you’re at it, join the Couch to Coached Run Club on Strava — just search for “Couch to Coached”.

Welcome to the next instalment of Couch to Coached Gold — where we dive back into our most memorable moments from the early days of the podcast.This week, we revisit an our first every mystery Guest and what a Guest it was- George Scholey. Not heard it before, i wont spoil it for you!!A golden throwback with an absolutely amazing guest. Enjoy!

What happens when marathon training meets Christmas chaos?This week, Rob, Ben and Emma dive into all things running, recovery, and festive madness as they reflect on recent races, training wins, and the realities of staying consistent through the busiest time of the year.From post-race recovery and the impact of new gear (including a head torch that might be better suited to Doctor Who) to pacing duties, track sessions, and triathlon plans that are definitely happening after payday, the trio share honest reflections on the ups and downs of training. They also explore how family life, cross country races, and unpredictable schedules can test even the most motivated runners.The conversation dives deeper into the importance of structured marathon training, listening to your body, building long-term consistency, and learning to cherish those rare “perfect” runs when everything just clicks. Along the way, there’s plenty of festive fun, personal stories, and community updates—including the latest on the Run Up to Christmas challenge and Couch to Coached initiatives supporting local runners.Whether you’re deep in a training block, struggling to balance life and running, or just looking for a relatable, festive running chat—this episode has you covered.HighlightsThe importance of recovery after big racesHow new gear can affect performance and comfortBalancing marathon training with family lifeTrack sessions, pacing duties, and triathlon plansCross country chaos and consistency in trainingFinding flow state and learning to cherish good runsCommunity motivation through Parkrun and festive challengesUpdates on Run Up to Christmas and Couch to Coached initiativesRemember to follow us on Instagram, subscribe on YouTube, and watch us LIVE every Monday.And don’t forget — join the Couch to Coached Strava run club by searching Couch to Coached on Strava.

Couch to Coached – AWARD-WINNING Running Podcast5 With The Listeners – A Brand-New Era!Our 5 With The Listeners series has been refreshed and rebooted — new questions, new logo, new vibes, and this week… a very special guest.Rob, Ben, and Emma sit down with our latest featured listener to explore their running story in a whole new way. We dig into:What their running shoes would say about themWhat’s in their desert-island running survival kitWhat running has taught themAnd joining us for this exciting relaunch is William Ewens— William is a Scottish runner who runs for Ayr Seaforth and the army. He is a runner who has recently achieved notable success in the track and field events. He earned his first Scotland Vest at the English Masters Inter Area Track and field championships, where he finished first out of 16 in the 1500m race, securing valuable points for his team. Rob, Ben, and Emma also check in on this week’s Strava leaderboard — who’s on top, who’s rising fast, and of course…who gets the all-important SHOUTOUT OF THE WEEEEEEEEK!Want to support Rob & Ben?They’re fundraising for North Staffordshire Combined Healthcare NHS Trust UK — follow the link to donate.Don’t forget:✅ Follow us on Instagram✅ Subscribe on YouTube✅ Watch LIVE every MondayAnd while you’re at it, join the Couch to Coached Run Club on Strava — just search for “Couch to Coached”.

What happens when a simple idea to beat winter loneliness turns into one of the biggest virtual running events of the year?This week, Rob, Ben and Emma are joined by Kev and Claire—the team behind Run Up to Christmas—to explore how a small community initiative grew into a nationwide movement supporting mental health.Kev and Claire share the heartfelt origin story of Runthings and how their mission to keep people active and connected during the holidays has raised incredible funds for mental health charities. From the power of community to the accessibility of virtual running, they dive into why this event has resonated with thousands and continues to grow year after year.The conversation also covers personal stories of resilience, the importance of staying active during the winter months, and how merchandise, branding and team participation help build a sense of belonging for runners of all levels. Whether you’re looking to get involved, stay motivated, or simply hear an uplifting conversation about fitness and well-being, this episode delivers inspiration wrapped in community spirit.HighlightsThe origin story of Runthings and the Run Up to ChristmasHow running helps combat loneliness and supports mental healthPersonal stories of struggle, motivation, and connectionHow the event has raised significant funds for mental health charitiesThe growth of a small virtual event into a nationwide movementCommunity engagement, teamwork, and accessibilityMerchandise, branding, and the excitement behind the eventFuture plans and a post-event follow-upRemember to follow us on Instagram, subscribe on YouTube, and watch us LIVE every Monday.And don’t forget — join the Couch to Coached Strava run club by searching Couch to Coached on Strava.

Welcome to the second instalment of Couch to Coached Gold — where we dive back into our most memorable moments from the early days of the podcast.This week, we revisit an absolute classic: Rob and Ben’s conversation with Olympian Jeff Galloway .Jeff brings his positive and enthusiastic vibe to the podcast and spills the beans on developing a new running movement 'Jeffing'Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just lacing up for the first time, Thommo’s insights will leave you inspired, laughing, and maybe even ready to push a little harder on your next run.A golden throwback with a true legend of the sport. Enjoy!

Couch to Coached – AWARD-WINNING Running PodcastThis week’s episode is a perfect blend of humour, hard-earned lessons, and muddy mile-after-mile storytelling. Rob, Ben and Emma kick things off with a playful debate about pop culture legends—yes, including the “Walrus of Love” Barry White—before diving headfirst into an unexpectedly heated conversation about mince pies. With a brand-new competition tied to their recent podcast awards announcement, the episode quickly picks up energy and momentum.From there, the conversation spans the trio’s latest endurance adventures: triathlon prep, the realities of swimming lessons as an adult, and the ever-evolving goals that shape their training. As they reflect on personal progress, they also explore the challenges of balancing ambition with practicality—especially when it comes to investing in gear, managing FOMO, and staying smart about race choices.The episode then shifts to the mud-soaked chaos of a recent cross-country event and the unforgettable Escape from Meriden challenge. With wild weather, slippery trails, ditches, questionable food choices (Greggs, anyone?), and moments of pure exhaustion, Emma and Ben give a raw and entertaining account of what it takes to keep moving when conditions go sideways. Through laughter, setbacks, and even a “nappuccino,” they show how camaraderie and community make the toughest days memorable.As things wind down, the hosts discuss the importance of recovery, sports massage, mental resilience, and setting meaningful, realistic goals. From marathon and ultra plans to process-driven SMART goals, they dig into how to build a training journey that’s sustainable, motivating, and tailored to real life. With plenty of friendly accountability and encouragement, the episode offers guidance for anyone looking to challenge themselves—without getting swept up in FOMO-fuelled decision-making.Whether you’re here for running chat, triathlon talk, or simply the joy of hearing people fall into ditches and call it “good content,” this episode brings inspiration, entertainment, and a genuine sense of community.HighlightsBarry White confusion and mince pie debatesExciting award updates and podcast competitionTriathlon ambitions, swimming lessons, and building confidenceCross-country chaos and unpredictable weatherMuddy racing stories and real-time resilienceThe Escape from Meriden: support, setbacks, and surprising challengesThe impact of food choices (hello, Greggs) on performanceHitting milestones, celebrating wins, and dealing with shocksPost-race recovery, sports massage, and long-term healthSMART goals, race planning, and avoiding FOMOCommunity support and accountability in trainingRemember to follow us on Instagram, subscribe on YouTube, and watch us LIVE every Monday.Couch to Coached also has a Strava run club — just search for Couch to Coached on Strava.

Couch to Coached – AWARD-WINNING Running Podcast5 With The Listeners – A Brand-New Era!Our 5 With The Listeners series has been refreshed and rebooted — new questions, new logo, new vibes, and this week… a very special guest.Rob, Ben, and Emma sit down with our latest featured listener to explore their running story in a whole new way. We dig into:What their running shoes would say about themWhat’s in their desert-island running survival kitWhat running has taught themAnd joining us for this exciting relaunch is Verity Ockenden — a British middle- and long-distance runner who has competed internationally and shared openly about her journey through the sport. Verity brings thoughtful insight, down-to-earth honesty, and a fresh perspective on training, resilience, and the everyday runner’s experience.Rob, Ben, and Emma also check in on this week’s Strava leaderboard — who’s on top, who’s rising fast, and of course…who gets the all-important SHOUTOUT OF THE WEEEEEEEEK!Want to support Rob & Ben?They’re fundraising for North Staffordshire Combined Healthcare NHS Trust UK — follow the link to donate.Don’t forget:✅ Follow us on Instagram✅ Subscribe on YouTube✅ Watch LIVE every MondayAnd while you’re at it, join the Couch to Coached Run Club on Strava — just search for “Couch to Coached”.