Couch to Coached – AWARD-WINNING Running Podcast

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 them
• What’s in their desert-island running survival kit
• what Running has taught him?

And to celebrate this momentous relaunch, we’re joined by a returning favourite: Chris “Thommo” Thompson.

A former British international who won the silver medal in the 10,000 m at the 2010 European Championships and competed at the 2012 London Olympics, Thommo brings elite-level insight into training, mindset, and the everyday runner’s journey.

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 Monday

And while you’re at it, join the Couch to Coached Run Club on Strava — just search for “Couch to Coached”.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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.

• How a challenge led Andrew from 5K to ultra running
• The camaraderie and chaos of the ultra running community
• Going viral on Instagram and creating content inspired by followers
• The story behind the viral “Crackhead Energy” video
• Mental health awareness as a core message
• Giveaways, merchandise, and community engagement
• Coaching ambitions and future running challenges
• Tackling the fear of the Lakeland 100

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.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Couch to coached - AWARD WINNING running podcast.

5 with the Listener - Hilary Hallen

Last 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 UK

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.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.