Studmarks

Studmarks welcomes David Taylor, the Fell Running Guide, for a chat on smart training, essential nav skills, and taking on the big rounds. David also explains how he supports runners through his coaching and guiding work. A great listen for anyone wanting to level up their fell running.fellrunningguide.co.ukThank you for listening. Find us on Facebook and InstagramArchive audio- The Peak District (1954)

This episode of Studmarks features the legendary Darren Fishwick, whose obsession with fell racing is matched only by his unmistakable humour. Darren shares what keeps him hooked on the fells, the characters he’s met along the way, and how his race reports for The Fellrunner magazine accidentally became a beloved tradition.Thank you for listening. Find us on Facebook and InstagramArchive audio- World Record Marathon (1952)

In this episode of Studmarks, we sit down with David Lund—fell runner, artist, and creator of the much-loved fell runner caricatures. We dive into what first pulled him toward the fells and explore the story behind Art of Fell Running, his fantastic book of caricatures that celebrates the people who make the fell running world what it is.You can pick up Art of Fell Running at Pete Bland Sports and Kong Running.Thank you for listening. Find us on Facebook and InstagramArchive audio- L S LOWRY on his PAINTING TECHNIQUE (1957)

In this episode, we chat with Stuart Smith, International Mountain Leader, who shares stories from a life spent in the world’s wildest places. From breathtaking expeditions to unexpected challenges on the fells, Stuart offers a window into the highs, lows, and humour of life in the mountains. We also dive into the gear that’s accompanied him on countless adventures, touching on iconic brands like Walsh, Reebok, and Karrimor, and discussing how equipment shapes the mountain experience.soft Mick(slang, British, idiomatic) An extravagant person.Thank you for listening. Find us on Facebook and Instagram

In this episode, we’re joined by Hayden Thorpe — singer, songcrafter — for a rich conversation about his evocative album Ness. Inspired by Robert Macfarlane’s haunting epic poem of the same name and visually brought to life by illustrator Stanley Donwood, Ness is a bold fusion of music, literature, and landscape. Hayden shares how he approached adapting the poem into song, the creative process behind the album, and why the mysterious setting of Orford Ness became such a powerful source of inspiration.We also explore Hayden’s upbringing in the Lake District, discussing how place and nature continue to shape his creative work. Plus, he shares his love of running and some memorable tales from the fells.haydenthorpe.comThank you for listening. Find us on Facebook and Instagram

In this episode, we're joined by the authors of Mountain Style: British Outdoor Clothing 1953-2000 to dig into the fascinating journey behind their book. We explore how the project came together, the role of class in shaping outdoor fashion, and how technical mountain wear made the unlikely leap from rugged trails to football terraces. It's a deep dive into subcultures, style, and the surprising intersections of fashion, function, and identity.isolapress.com/shop/mountain-styleThank you for listening. Find us on Facebook and InstagramArchive audio- The Matterhorn (1965)

This week, we’re joined by Chris Farrimond, a fell runner from Wigan. Chris talks about finding his way into the sport just before the world shut down in 2020, the people that keep him inspired and, of course, those iconic handmade shoes from Bolton.Thank you for listening. Find us on Facebook and InstagramArchive audio- Is Wigan becoming too modern? 1970

In this episode of Studmarks, we sit down with John Mason and Ellis Bland, the founder and co-founder of Våga—a bold running brand born in the Lake District during the pandemic. They share the inspiring journey from humble beginnings to becoming a globally recognised name in the running world. We also dive into their personal running stories and hear Ellis reflect on the iconic Walsh PB fell shoe and what it means to him. Thank you for listening. Find us on Facebook and Instagram

In this episode, we sit down with Tony Leonard, General Manager of VJ UK, to dive into the rich heritage of the brand and explore how the iconic iRock became a go-to choice for fell runners. We also touch on Tony’s own running journey, along with that of his wife Sharon and their son Rory Leonard — who currently holds the record for the fastest British 10K. It’s a mix of running passion, family dedication, and insight into one of the sport’s most respected footwear brands.Thank you for listening. Find us on Facebook and InstagramArchive Audio- Smart Trainers 1987