Share

cover art for Couch to coached- Running Podcast

Couch to Coached- Running podcast

Couch to coached- Running Podcast

Season 4, Ep. 21

Season 4, Episode 21 – Running Together: The Potters Arf Marathon


This week on the Couch to Coached Running Podcast, Rob, Ben, and Emma are joined by two special guests: Graham, organiser of the Potters Arf Marathon, and George from MARA Run Club, the event’s main sponsor. Together, they dive into everything you need to know about one of the most iconic races in the local calendar.

From behind-the-scenes organisation to record-breaking entry numbers, the team explore what makes the Potters Arf so special. They discuss this year’s course changes, the new medal design marking the race’s 20th anniversary, and the buzz around those all-important event t-shirts. The conversation also highlights the importance of mindfulness in running, the power of community spirit, and the inclusivity that makes this event such a cornerstone for local runners.

And of course, no celebration would be complete without looking ahead to the after-party at Slamwich Club, where runners and supporters alike will come together to mark another unforgettable year.


🎧 Highlights include:

  • Graham on the challenges & joys of organising the Potters Arf
  • George on MRA Run Club’s sponsorship & community role
  • Behind-the-scenes insights into event planning
  • Medal & t-shirt talk: celebrating 20 years of the Potters Arf
  • Record entries and why the event continues to grow
  • Mindfulness in running: techniques to take onto the course
  • Inclusivity and community support at the heart of the event
  • The social side: celebrating together post-race

An inspiring, community-driven episode that captures the excitement, preparation, and spirit of the Potters Arf — perfect for runners taking part, local supporters, or anyone who loves seeing how running brings people together.

📺 Watch us live on YouTube every Monday at 20:30

📩 Email: couchtocoached@outlook.com

📲 Instagram / TikTok: @couchtocoached

🐦 Twitter/X: @couchtocoached

📘 Facebook: Couch to coached – A running podcast

🏃‍♂️ Join our Strava league!

More episodes

View all episodes

  • 35. Special Guest Episode- From 5K to Ultra to Instagram Sensation: Andrew Farrall’s Journey

    45:47||Season 4, Ep. 35
    What does it take to go from hating running to tackling some of the most challenging ultra events out there? This week, we sit down with Andrew Farrall—ultra runner, Instagram creator, and the energy behind the viral “Crackhead Energy” videos—to explore his unexpected rise in the running world.Andrew opens up about how a simple challenge pulled him into the world of ultra running, what makes the ultra community so unique, and how humour, honesty, and chaos have shaped his growing online presence. From giveaways to merch with purpose, his journey blends passion with purpose as he raises awareness for mental health through his platform.He also shares his biggest goals on the horizon—including the intimidating Lakeland 100—and how community support and coaching are playing a key role in his evolution as a runner and creator.Whether you’re here for inspiration, a laugh, or to learn more about the ultra world, this episode has a bit of everything.HighlightsHow a challenge led Andrew from 5K to ultra runningThe camaraderie and chaos of the ultra running communityGoing viral on Instagram and creating content inspired by followersThe story behind the viral “Crackhead Energy” videoMental health awareness as a core messageGiveaways, merchandise, and community engagementCoaching ambitions and future running challengesTackling the fear of the Lakeland 100Remember to follow us on Instagram, subscribe to Youtube and watch us LIVE every Monday.Couch to Coached also has a Strava run club - just search for Couch to Coached in Strava.
  • 34. 5 With the listeners- Hilary Hallen

    45:21||Season 4, Ep. 34
    Couch to coached - AWARD WINNING running podcast.5 with the Listener - Hilary HallenLast week Maureen from Alsager runners nominated her running friend and this week we’re joined by the Amazing Hilary Hallen Rob ,Ben and Emma chat with Hilary about all things running – what inspired her to start running. what's her goals for 2025,what is the best piece of advice she has been given.Rob and Emma also look at the st'ryvar' leaderboard. who is top and who gets the all important SHOUTOUT OF THE WEEEEEEEEK.Want to sponsor Rob and Ben - do it here- Couch To Coached is fundraising for North Staffordshire Combined Healthcare NHS Trust UKRemember to follow us on Instagram, subscribe to Youtube and watch us LIVE every Monday.Couch to Coached also has a Strava run club - just search for Couch to Coached in Strava.
  • 33. Three Years of Couch to Coached: A Celebration

    23:24||Season 4, Ep. 33
    It’s a milestone moment! In this special anniversary episode of Couch to Coached, the hosts look back on three incredible years behind the mic. From humble beginnings and nervous first recordings to building a thriving community and welcoming a brand-new co-host, this episode celebrates how far the show has come — and where it’s headed next.Join the team as they open up about the evolution of the podcast, the lessons learned along the way, and their personal experiences with anxiety, growth, and connection. They share standout memories, major milestones (including awards!), and the tremendous impact their listeners have had on their journey.Whether you’ve been here since day one or just discovered the show, this heartfelt episode is a reminder that every step counts — on the run and in life.🎙️ HighlightsThe evolution from small beginnings to 220+ episodesWelcoming a new co-host and fresh perspectivesNavigating nerves, anxiety, and personal growthCelebrating wins, milestones, and recognitionsThe power of community in fueling their journeyGratitude for every listener who’s supported the showRemember to follow us on Instagram, subscribe to YouTube, and watch us LIVE every Monday.Couch to Coached also has a Strava run club — just search for Couch to Coached on Strava.
  • 32. How NSRRA Builds Community: Racing, Ambassadors & Athlete Development

    47:25||Season 4, Ep. 32
    Get ready for another community-fuelled episode as the Couch to Coached LIVE crew celebrates all things North Staffordshire Road Runners Association (NSRRA)!This Week Rob and Emma (no Ben unfortunately) are joined by Mr NSRRA himself, Ken Rushton.The team dive into an incredible season packed with standout race performances, growing participation, and the tight-knit camaraderie that makes NSRRA so special. From upcoming fixtures to the excitement building around the end-of-season awards night, this episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about local running culture.They also explore the importance of injury management, how ambassadors shape the NSRRA experience, and why so many runners are now setting their sights on triathlon challenges. With great stories, friendly banter, and an inside look at what’s coming next, this conversation shines a light on a club where everyone is welcome — and the support is unmatched.Whether you’re a seasoned racer chasing rankings or curious about joining your first running club (for just a tenner!), this episode will leave you inspired to lace up and get involved.Episode Highlights🏆 A brilliant NSRRA season — with two races still to go 🤕 Injury management tips for staying strong all year 🎉 End-of-season awards + records to celebrate 👟 Friendly races + thriving community support 🎽 How ambassadors uplift the NSRRA experience 🚴 Growing triathlon ambitions among members 💷 Joining NSRRA is only £10!For more details and to join NSRRA - click -North Staffordshire Road Runners AssociationRemember to follow us on Instagram, subscribe to YouTube, and watch us LIVE every Monday.Couch to Coached also has a Strava run club — just search for Couch to Coached on Strava.
  • 31. 5 With the listeners- Maureen Guest

    52:41||Season 4, Ep. 31
    Couch to coached - AWARD WINNING running podcast.5 with the Listener - Maureen Guest Its a first for the 5 with the listeners, its a runner from Alsager Runners and this week we’re joined by the Amazing Maureen GuestRob and Emma (No Ben this week) chat with Maureen about all things running – what inspired her to start running. what's her goals for 2025,what is the best piece of advice she has been given. Rob and Emma also look at the st'ryvar' leaderboard. who is top and who gets the all important SHOUTOUT OF THE WEEEEEEEEK.Want to sponsor Rob and Ben - do it here- Couch To Coached is fundraising for North Staffordshire Combined Healthcare NHS Trust UKRemember to follow us on Instagram, subscribe to Youtube and watch us LIVE every Monday.Couch to Coached also has a Strava run club - just search for Couch to Coached in Strava.
  • 30. New Mics, Marathon Madness and Running Revelations

    01:08:14||Season 4, Ep. 30
    Get ready for an energy-packed episode as the Couch to Coached LIVE crew dives headfirst into marathon madness! 🏃‍♀️💨Emma takes center stage, sharing her incredible story of completing two marathons in just two weeks — smashing personal bests and uncovering valuable lessons about training, recovery, and mindset. The team also breaks down the essential role of strength training in preventing injuries, the science (and art) of hydration strategies, and the often-overlooked mental side of long-distance running.With plenty of laughs, motivation, and real talk, they explore upcoming races, training tips, and the thrill of running after dark with the inspiring “Lift the Curfew” initiative for safer night running.Whether you’re chasing your next PR or lacing up for your first 5K, this episode will leave you motivated, informed, and ready to hit the road.Episode Highlights:🏅 Emma’s double-marathon success story💪 How strength training keeps runners injury-free💧 Hydration and recovery strategies that work🌙 “Lift the Curfew” – running safely after dark🗓️ What’s next on the race calendarRemember to follow us on Instagram, subscribe to Youtube and watch us LIVE every Monday.Couch to Coached also has a Strava run club - just search for Couch to Coached in Strava.
  • 29. Special Guest Episode- From Runner to Founder: Owen’s Journey with HLTHY

    34:42||Season 4, Ep. 29
    This week on the Couch to Coached Running Podcast, Rob, Ben, and Emma are joined by Owen, the founder of HLTHY, a homegrown running brand redefining what a hydration vest can be. Owen shares his journey from casual runner to entrepreneur, driven by a desire to create high-quality, versatile gear designed by runners, for runners.The team dive into the story behind HLTHY — from early design sketches to product testing on the trails — uncovering the challenges of launching a running brand and the innovation that sets HLTHY apart. Owen talks openly about the realities of product development, the importance of versatility and comfort in running vests, and how feedback from real runners helped shape the final design.And for listeners keen to test the gear themselves, there’s a special discount code waiting in this episode!🎧 Highlights include:Owen’s personal running story and motivation to start HLTHYThe journey from idea to fully fledged running brandChallenges and lessons in product design and testingThe importance of versatility in hydration vestsInnovation and functionality in modern running gearHow community feedback shaped HLTHY’s design processExclusive discount code for Couch to Coached listenersWhat’s next for HLTHY and Owen’s running journeyAn inspiring, behind-the-scenes look at how passion, problem-solving, and perseverance can turn a runner’s idea into a reality — perfect for anyone who loves gear talk, running innovation, and entrepreneurial grit.Remember to follow us on Instagram, subscribe to Youtube and watch us LIVE every Monday.Couch to Coached also has a Strava run club - just search for Couch to Coached in Strava.
  • 28. 5 With the listeners- David Kivlin

    32:08||Season 4, Ep. 28
    Couch to coached - AWARD WINNING running podcast.5 with the Listener - David KivlinIt’s the long awaited return of 5 with the Listeners, and this week we’re joined by the Awesome David KivlinRob,Ben and Emma chat with David about all things running – what inspired him to start running. what's his goals for 2025,what is the best piece of advice he has been given. We also find out that Emma has been seeing another coach, much to Bens disgust. Rob, Ben and Emma also look at the st'ryvar' leaderboard. who is top and who gets the all important SHOUTOUT OF THE WEEEEEEEEK.Want to sponsor Rob and Ben - do it here- Couch To Coached is fundraising for North Staffordshire Combined Healthcare NHS Trust UKRemember to follow us on Instagram, subscribe to Youtube and watch us LIVE every Monday.Couch to Coached also has a Strava run club - just search for Couch to Coached in Strava.
  • 27. Running in the dark, Yorkshire Marathon and Base Building

    01:12:45||Season 4, Ep. 27
    In this lively episode of 'Couch to Coached Live,' hosts Emma, Rob, and Ben dive into a variety of topics, from marathon training and running tips to humorous anecdotes about their personal lives. The conversation covers Emma's preparation for the Yorkshire Marathon, Rob's adventures in Cape Verde, and Ben's insights on running gear and safety. The hosts also engage with their audience, encouraging participation and sharing listener stories. With a mix of humor, practical advice, and community spirit, this episode is both entertaining and informative for running enthusiasts.Keywordsrunning, marathon training, Yorkshire Marathon, Cape Verde, running gear, safety tips, community, humor, listener engagementTakeawaysEmma Brydges shares her marathon training strategy for the Yorkshire Marathon.Rob discusses his experiences and challenges while in Cape Verde.Ben Russell offers tips on running gear and safety, especially for running in the dark.The hosts engage with listeners, encouraging them to share their running experiences.Emma talks about the importance of community and support in running clubs.Rob humorously recounts his karaoke adventures and weight gain during his trip.Ben emphasizes the significance of varying running routes for safety.The episode highlights the power of running clubs in motivating new runners.Listeners are invited to predict Emma's marathon time and participate in future events.The hosts discuss the benefits of proper hydration and fueling during long runs.Remember to follow us on Instagram, subscribe to Youtube and watch us LIVE every Monday. Couch to Coached also has a Strava run club - just search for Couch to Coached in Strava.