The ZenRUN Podcast

In this latest Delirious WEST 2026 athlete check-in, I’m catching up with Bianca O’Neill — and wow… a LOT has happened since we last spoke.

In this honest and very relatable catch-up, Bianca shares what it was really like racing Feral (yes… that heat, those flies, those cut-offs 😅)

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This week’s mindful moment marks a beautiful milestone—tip 200—and brings us back to the centre of it all: place your hand on your heart. Right now, just pause. Gently rest your hand on your chest and feel the warmth, the rhythm of your breath, and maybe even your heartbeat beneath your palm.

It’s a quiet moment of connection—simple, still, and grounding. You don’t need to say anything, but if a word like calm, gratitude, or presence comes to mind, let it land gently in your awareness. This practice is perfect for starting or ending th...

This month’s chat with Eve honestly felt like a big exhale. December energy is real, and Eve is right in the middle of it—balancing kids, work deadlines, Christmas chaos, end-of-year functions, tired mornings, and still somehow squeezing in her runs… or gentle walks… or naps… or the occasional lunchtime wine 😉

Here’s what we dive into:

⭐ Life is a workout too

Eve shares how mental fatigue has been hitting hard, and how she’s learning (slowly!) to treat her brain and body as one energy system—not two separate boxes. Her honesty about feeling...

In this episode, I catch up with my daughter and fellow Delirious W.E.S.T. 2026 runner, Nikki Frost, who’s had a very… colourful four to six weeks of training. And by colourful, I mean she left half her stomach contents scattered across the Dandenongs. 🤢😂

But as always, she’s honest, funny, and refreshingly optimistic about the whole adventure.

Get ready for:

•The disastrous Roller Coaster Ultra where Nikki started vomiting at 10km… and didn’t stop until the finish line

•Why sticking with “the gels that once worked” backfired in spectacular fashion<...

This week, I’m so excited to introduce you to my friend and fellow UESCA-qualified ultra coach… Valerie Wong!

Val’s story is a brilliant mix of determination, adventure, and laugh-out-loud honesty — from growing up in Hong Kong, boarding school in the UK, studying atmospheric science (yes, weather patterns! ☁️), running her first Boston loops, to discovering ultras during the pandemic.

She’s now an ultra-runner, triathlete, mountain lover, channel swimmer (!!), mum of two, and one of the funniest people I’ve met in our coaching cohort.

This episode is full of real talk, wisdom, and some...

Spend just five minutes with this practice, and see how it can bring calm and clarity to your day.

For more mindfulness ideas, head over to our ebook with 24 Simple Mindfulness strategies: https://fitmindfitbody.co/books/

Help us spread the mindfulness:
1️⃣ If you're enjoying our podcast, please leave a like and review. Your support helps others discover the joy of mindful running.
2️⃣ Have a story or know a runner who'd be perfect for our podcast? Reach out to us on Facebook/Instagram  or email (hello@zenrun.club ).

💛 Want running to feel lighter agai...

In this Delirious W.E.S.T. 2026 check-in, I sit down with the wonderful Gabe Alves, who has had—hands down—one of the most honest and powerful training months of the entire series.

Gabe walks us through his experience at Feral, a race that started brilliantly for him… until it didn’t. Physically, he was flying. The climbing strength, the pacing, the hills, the timing — everything was lining up for his best Feral yet. But then the mental load of a tough year caught up with him, and the second half of the race became a battle wit...

In this month’s Delirious W.E.S.T. 2026 athlete check-in, we head all the way to London to catch up with our one and only non-Aussie runner, Matthew Farrand — who’s juggling dark winter mornings, school drop-offs, and some seriously solid training momentum.

Matthew shares how his fitness is quietly (and satisfyingly!) building — those long runs now feel easier and the patella niggle that haunted him in August has settled right down. He talks about the mental side of ultra prep too…the boredom voice, the planning, the “where should I run this weekend?” puzzle, and why...

This week’s mindful moment invites you to bring presence into one of the tiniest, most ordinary actions: take a breath before you pick something up. Whether it’s your phone, a bag, or a kid’s toy, pause for just a moment before lifting. Place your hand on the object, feel its shape, and take one slow breath. Notice your intention—are you rushing, reacting, or moving on autopilot?

Then pick it up slowly, feeling your body engage and your breath stay steady. This simple pause turns an everyday movement into a grounding check-in, reminding...

In this check-in, Sym Mercer is back — fluoro shirt, big smile, and casually juggling triathlon training while preparing for a 200-mile ultra. Yep… just your average Delirious athlete. 😉

Since our last chat, Sym has thrown herself into Harvey Bay 50 — a swim-ride-run triathlon she signed up for after a classic dose of peer pressure and a well-timed “early bird ends tonight!” email. We talk through her ocean swim comeback (first 1km since 2008!), road-bike PTSD from the 350km Raid 100 adventure, and why the 9km run leg will feel like a holiday compared to everything else.

Sym also...

In this first Delirious W.E.S.T. 2026 check-in, I catch up with the always-positive Kylie Bell — and wow, she’s had a month! From tackling a tough gravel marathon in the Stirling Ranges (complete with nearly 900m of vert and a sneaky brush with dehydration) to bouncing back from pneumonia, Kylie has had her share of plot twists. 

We chat about the mental side of training when things don’t go to plan, her stair-repeat session at Shazza’s (462 steps… she’s counted!), why time-on-feet matters more than chasing monster weekly kilometres, and the pure grit that keeps ul...

This week’s mindful moment brings a little fun and nostalgia into your day: do a movement you loved as a child. Think back to how you used to move—skipping, spinning, rolling down a hill, or running just because it felt good. Choose one of those simple, playful movements and bring it back for a few minutes today.

It’s not about exercise or performance—it’s about joy, freedom, and reconnecting with the pure, instinctive way your body loves to move. Let yourself laugh if it feels silly—that’s part of the magic. This kind of mindfu...

In this first Delirious 2026 check-in, I catch up with the ever-entertaining Bianca O’Neill — ultra runner, full-time legend, and queen of keeping it real. After juggling her aged care prac, study dramas, and 3am runs (yes, really), Bianca admits it’s been a tough month — but she’s still smiling, learning, and laughing her way through it all.

We chat about the juggle of life, the guilt of not training enough, and the reality that sometimes, “tapering” just means shifting where your energy goes. Bianca also shares her secrets for blister-free feet (involving Squirrel Nut Butter and Creepers), her...

In this first Delirious W.E.S.T. 2026 check-in, I catch up with the ever-authentic Eve Knudson, who’s been navigating a wild few weeks of recovery, work chaos, house renovations, and life as a mum — all while keeping her running spirit alive.

Eve opens up about bouncing back from illness, rediscovering how good running feels after a break, and the tricky balance between being kind to yourself and knowing when to push through. We chat about early alarms, laying out your running clothes to remove resistance, and the power of “permission runs” — heading out for 200 metres and turnin...

This week’s mindful moment invites you to shift your perspective—literally: look up when you walk. Whether you’re heading down the street, walking through your home, or out for a stroll in nature, try lifting your gaze. We spend so much time looking down—at our phones, our feet, or lost in thought—but above us, the world is alive with movement and light.

Notice the tops of trees, drifting clouds, birds in flight, or the way sunlight filters through rooftops. This small change in direction can open your posture, lift your mood, and help yo...

In this episode, we catch up with the ever-cheerful Karin Ridley — freshly minted grandmother (aka “Gigi” 😍) and one of our Delirious W.E.S.T. 2026 athletes.

Karin’s been balancing a demanding work roster, new grandbaby cuddles, and a whole lot of hill training — all while preparing to jet off to Spain for the Marató dels Dements, a brutal SkyMasters event boasting over 2,200 m of elevation in just 22 km!

We chat about:
•How she’s juggling training with life (and a newborn in the family!)
•The reality of chasing cut-offs and learning to rest without guilt Duration: 00:36:29

In this first check-in for Delirious W.E.S.T. 2026, I catch up with Craig Jeffrey — who’s clocking a casual 160 km a week as he gears up for the Kosciuszko 100 Miler 😅. We chat about what it really takes to bounce back from a 200-miler, why “average” is just a setting on your watch, and how being mindful mid-race might actually save your stomach (and your sanity).

Craig opens up about lessons from Delirious, how long recovery really takes, and his plan to finally not throw up at the same spot in Kosciuszko this time 🤞. We also dive into race...

This week’s mindful moment is a quiet invitation to rest: lean against something. It might be a wall, a tree, a fence—whatever’s nearby. Gently press your back or shoulder into it and allow yourself to feel fully supported. Close your eyes if that feels good, and take a few slow, grounding breaths.

This practice is about more than physical rest—it’s a reminder that you don’t have to hold everything yourself. Leaning, even for a moment, creates a pause where the body and nervous system can soften. It’s a simple act of surrender...

In this first check-in with Delirious WEST 2026 athlete Gabe Alves, we dive into a wild few weeks that included a bee sting in the middle of the WA outback, lessons in resilience, and a surprising breakthrough in running technique.

From dodging anaphylaxis on a remote motorbike adventure to rediscovering efficient foot strike after 7,500 metres of vert in October, Gabe’s story reminds us that endurance is as much about awareness as it is about toughness.

We chat about:
•🐝 What it’s like to get stung by a bee when you’re allergic (100 km from help!)
...

In this first Delirious W.E.S.T. 2026 check-in, we catch up with South Australian ultra-runner Ben Pyman — fresh off the Yurrebilla Ultramarathon and right in the rhythm of training for the big 100-miler.

Ben shares what it was like revisiting Yurrebilla eight years after his last go, how smarter pacing and hill training turned pain into power, and what he learned from his first proper carb-loading experiment (spoiler: 1,200 grams of carbs in two days feels just as heavy as it sounds 😅).

We chat about how strength work pays dividends when the course gets tough, the u...

In this warm, honest, and slightly chaotic first check-in, we sit down with Delirious WEST 2026 athlete Nikki Frost (yes, Michelle’s daughter!) to hear how her prep is tracking for her first 200-miler.

Nikki might live in the city, train mostly on concrete (and treadmills), and have a full-time travel-heavy job—but that’s not stopping her from diving headfirst into ultra training.

In this episode, you’ll hear:
•🏃‍♀️ How Nikki’s non-planning approach helps her avoid overthinking big events
•🧗‍♀️ Her spontaneous sign-up for the 46km Rollercoaster Ultra… with only 5 weeks prep (and 1 week sick!)
•🌇 Balancing early...

This week’s mindful moment is small but mighty: check in with your jaw. We carry so much tension in this one small part of the body—often without even realising it. So today, pause and notice: is your jaw clenched? Is your tongue pressed to the roof of your mouth? Take a deep breath and let it all soften. Release your jaw, drop your tongue, maybe even yawn dramatically.

This gentle reset not only relaxes your face but signals your entire nervous system to let go. One small action can ripple through your whole body—bringing ease...

In this first monthly check-in for the Delirious WEST 2026 podcast series, we catch up with Sym Mercer—a calm, honest, and practical runner who’s embracing the unpredictability of training while working remotely in Western Queensland.

From running in 42°C heat to dodging kangaroos and spotting deer on the trail (yep, really!), Sym shares how he’s building towards the 200-miler one grounded step at a time. His approach is all about listening to his body, staying injury-free, and doing what he can, when he can—even if that means split runs, strength training in hotel rooms, or making...

Meet Matthew Farrand: From reluctant school fun-runs to chasing 200 miles through WA bushland

In this episode, we welcome UK-based runner (with deep Aussie roots!) Matthew Farrand to the Delirious WEST 2026 athlete series. Born in Margate, raised in Rockingham, and now based in South London, Matthew’s running story is anything but predictable.

Once a kid who did everything possible to avoid running at school, Matthew has gradually transformed into someone who relishes multi-hour long runs through parks, tunnels, and trails across London. What started with a half marathon for charity has grown into a love fo...

From muddy mountain bike rides to midnight treadmill runs after night shift — Kylie Bell brings grit, humour, and heart to every mile she runs.

In this Delirious West 2026 intro episode, we meet Kylie: an Albany-based police officer, remedial massage therapist, and adventure-seeking endurance runner who’s taking on the 100-mile event in 2026.

From her early years in Armadale to paddling adventures with her dad, Kylie’s been wired for movement and challenge since day one. Her racing resume includes epic stage races across Morocco, Hawaii, and the Grand Canyon, plus a DIY “Everest” effort up Bluff Knol...

This week’s mindful moment invites you into gentle, expressive movement with let your hands speak. Instead of using your hands for a task, take a quiet moment to move them freely—like they’re telling a story. Stretch your fingers wide, make soft fists, draw shapes in the air, or roll your wrists in slow spirals. Let your breath guide you.

There’s no right way to move—just a chance to feel what’s present and express it without words. It’s a simple yet powerful way to reconnect with your body, release tension, and invite a bit o...

This episode introduces the unstoppable Karin Ridley—a mining logistics pro by day, trail adventurer by weekend, and proud member of the Delirious W.E.S.T. 2026 crew. Karin shares how her journey began with gastric sleeve surgery and a nudge from her mum to try Parkrun, which eventually catapulted her into the world of trail ultras.

Her story is raw, hilarious, and deeply inspiring. From strength training with Susan Grover to finishing the 200-mile Delirious West solo in brutal WA heat (with no crew!), Karin walks us through the ups, downs, dirt naps, and shower stops th...

From dodging school carnivals to smashing 400-mile races and getting married in cowboy boots – meet the unstoppable Bianca O’Neill.

In this fun and heartfelt intro episode, we kick off our monthly check-ins with Bianca as she prepares for the 2026 Delirious WEST 100-miler. But don’t be fooled – this isn’t her first rodeo (or ultra). She’s completed the 200-miler three times, earned both the 100 and 200-mile Triple Crowns, and even took on Laz Lake’s Heart of the South 400-mile journey run in the U.S. – a fully self-supported, make-it-up-as-you-go mission through six states.

Why does she...

In this deeply relatable and refreshingly funny episode, we meet Eve Knudson, a Perth-based mum of two, construction estimator, and two-time Delirious W.E.S.T. 200-mile finisher who still doesn’t quite think of herself as a “real runner.”

From making fake sick notes to skip athletics at school… to tackling 200 miles of rugged WA coastline—Eve’s story is full of unexpected turns, quiet grit, and big heart. She opens up about her mental health journey, how one awkward moment in a dress shop led her to triathlon (and eventually ultra trail), and why long runs are now...

Guest:

Jiri Halek – Czech orthodontist turned ultra-runner who once pretended to be sick to skip running… and now wakes up at 4am to run twice a day (on purpose!).

Get Ready For:

A hilarious, inspiring, and refreshingly honest conversation with a man who went from 130kg and dodging stairs to finishing some of the world’s gnarliest ultras—all while keeping his sense of humour, humility, and love for beer.

⸻

🎧 Why You’ll Love This Episode:
•The Most Relatable Start to Running Ever: Jiri’s first run was 500m. He hated it. Now...

This week’s mindful moment invites you to pause and observe something you interact with every day: follow the path of water. Whether you’re washing your hands, making tea, rinsing fruit, or running a bath—slow down and watch the water. Notice how it flows from the tap, slips through your fingers, or swirls into a cup. Feel its temperature, hear its rhythm, and take in the graceful way it moves.

Water becomes your mindfulness guide, reminding you to soften, to flow, and to let go. It’s a calming, sensory way to re-ground yourself—in just a few...

Guest:

Natalie Beasley – trail runner, accidental ultrarunner, and all-round legend of the long game.

Get Ready For:
A raw, hilarious, and deeply moving journey through the highs and lows (and the DNFs and comebacks) of a runner who proves it’s never too late—and never too messy—to chase the joy of finishing what you started.

Why You’ll Love This Episode:
•The Power of Saying Yes: From hiding under her desk to avoid lunchtime runs to crossing the Delirious West 200-mile finish line, Nat’s journey is proof that saying yes (ev...

Guest: Craig Jeffrey – Academic, anthropologist, ultra-runner, and 2025 Delirious W.E.S.T podium finisher (yes, he came third—solo and uncrewed - i.e. Screwed!).

Get Ready For: A refreshingly honest, intelligent, and quietly inspiring intro chat with Craig Jeffrey—who’s balancing ultra-training with academic leadership, fatherhood, and the occasional run-to-a-business-meeting-with-a-suit-in-his-backpack situation.

Why You’ll Love This Episode:
•🧠 How an anthropologist views ultra running (hint: it’s more than just km’s)
•🥉 Why Craig is back for another 200-miler after placing third in 2025
•🕒 The “sleep strategy” lessons he learned the hard way
•💼 How he fits 120K train...

Guest:

Nicola “Nikki” Frost – new ultra-runner, city-based trail dreamer, and daughter of podcast host Michelle Frost. (Yes, you read that right.)

Get Ready For:
What happens when your mum finishes a 200-miler and then invites you to do it with her? In this intro episode, we meet Nicola Frost, a relative newcomer to ultras who’s stepping (literally) into the wild unknown of Delirious West 2026—with her mum by her side.

Why You’ll Love This Episode:
•🏃‍♀️ From 15-year running break to 200-mile dreams: How Nikki went from zero to Surf Coast 100K in under 2 y...

Get Ready For:

A grounded, refreshingly real chat with 2024 Delirious W.E.S.T finisher Ben Pyman—who’s coming back in 2026 not to redeem a result, but to experience the race better. From lessons learned to training tweaks, Ben shares how he’s balancing life, recovery, and the decision to do it all again.

Why You’ll Love This Episode:

🏁 A finisher’s perspective: Ben opens up about his 2024 race—what worked, what didn’t, and why he wants to return stronger, mentally and physically.

🧠 The shift from finish to flow: 2026 isn’t abo...

This week’s mindful moment turns an everyday action into a chance to reset: open a door slowly. Something you likely do without thinking becomes a full-body moment of presence. As your hand reaches for the handle, notice the texture, the temperature, and the way your fingers wrap around it. Breathe as you turn, push, or pull—and let that act of opening be your entire practice.

Each doorway becomes more than a passage—it becomes a pause. A chance to leave behind what came before and step into the next moment with intention. Whether it’s yo...

Guest:
Gabe Alves – multi-time Delirious contender, systems thinker, video chronicler, and reluctant toe breaker.

Get Ready For:
A refreshingly honest, entertaining, and grounded convo with returning Delirious athlete Gabe Alves—who’s back for another swing at the 200-miler that’s become more than just a race… it’s now a yearly ritual.

Why You’ll Love This Episode:
•The Most Relatable DNF Mindset Ever: “I think I’ll just keep doing Delirious until I finish it… or not. I do Delirious now.”
•The Lessons Behind the Line: From torn calves and compartment syndrome t...

Guest:

Sym Mercer – Adventure racer, solo runner, systems expert, and snake-dodger extraordinaire.

Get Ready For:A story as wide and wild as the Queensland paddocks Sym grew up on. In this intro episode, Sym shares her roots, her road to ultrarunning, and why she’s lining up for one of the gnarliest ultras in Australia—Delirious W.E.S.T 200.

Why You’ll Love This Episode:
•Outback beginnings: Sym’s early days included School of the Air, dodging cattle, and not doing homework on an 85,000-acre property.
•From rock bottom to 200 miles: A raw a...

This week’s mindful moment is beautifully simple and instantly energising: reach your arms to the sky. Whether you’re sitting, standing, or even lying in bed, pause and stretch your arms overhead. Open your palms, lengthen through your sides, and feel your fingers reaching tall. Inhale deeply as you stretch, and exhale as you slowly release. This gentle movement not only opens your body but also invites a sense of expansion and presence. It’s a reminder that you’re here, awake, and grounded—claiming space in your day, one breath at a time.

Spend just five minut...

Guest: Duc Do – AI expert, entrepreneur, author, and ultra-runner with a penchant for the “boring” and a training schedule that defies all conventional wisdom.

Get Ready For: A wildly inspiring, deeply honest, and surprisingly hilarious conversation that proves there’s no single “right” way to be a runner. Duc’s story is a masterclass in resilience, creativity, and finding your own path.

Why You’ll Love This Episode:

This week’s mindful moment is a small shift with a big impact: press pause before you reply. In the middle of a busy day filled with conversations, it’s easy to react automatically. But what if you paused—just for one breath—before responding? That brief space allows your nervous system to soften, your breath to steady, and your awareness to return.

Whether you’re talking with a loved one, a coworker, or a stranger, this mindful pause invites presence, reduces reactivity, and makes space for more thoughtful, grounded communication. It’s not about silence—it’s about intentio...

In this powerhouse episode, we meet Gayle Cowling, who didn’t run a step until her mid-30s—and now? She’s completed multiple 100Ks, a 100-miler, and even a 500K multi-day stage race through remote South Australia (and danced into the finish line to Nutbush City Limits 🎶).

Gayle’s story is full of grit, laughter, and pure love for adventure. From zero sport at school to racing Puffing Billy, conquering Two Bays 12 times, and claiming the elusive Triple Crown of Aussie 200-milers—Gayle proves it’s never too late to start (and go BIG).

💡 Highlights & Tips...

This week’s mindful moment brings your awareness to the smallest of movements: trace the shape of something with your finger. Choose a nearby object—your coffee mug, a pen, or even the corner of your notebook—and begin to slowly trace its outline with your finger. As you move, pay attention to the texture, temperature, and contours. Is it smooth or bumpy? Cool or warm?

This gentle tactile practice wakes up your senses, helps slow your breath, and invites stillness into your day. It’s a beautiful reminder that mindfulness doesn’t require a big pause—just a tiny...

Strap in—this is Part Two of our epic conversation with Aussie ultra-legend Kelvin Marshall, and trust us, you’re in for a ride.

In this follow-up to Part One, we pick up mid-run—literally—on Kelvin’s 18-day running adventure across France. With just a backpack and a rough route, Kelvin recounts the highs, lows, chateaux visits, and sneaky hotel showers that made this DIY ultra unforgettable.

But France is only the beginning.

In Part Two, we dive into:
•🏃‍♂️ Running 18 days across France—with hotel hacks, friendly locals, and a few wrong turns
•🏔️ Kel...

What do a 14-year-old laptop, a sub-3-hour marathon, and a vet-turned-race-doctor with a roll of Glad Wrap have in common?

They’re all part of Kelvin Marshall’s wildly entertaining running life—and we’ve only just scratched the surface in Part One of this two-part ZenRUN Podcast episode!

In this first instalment, Kelvin shares how a childhood spent walking Melbourne’s streets led to a lifetime on the run (literally). From spotting the Melbourne Marathon outside his front door and saying, “I could do that,” to running 250 marathons (and counting), Kelvin’s story is full of unexp...

This week’s mindful moment invites you to transform the way you end your day: climb into bed with intention. Instead of collapsing into bed and reaching for your phone, take a moment to slow down and truly arrive. Feel the support of the mattress beneath you, the weight of the blanket as you pull it up, and the gentle shift in your breath as you settle in.

This small act of presence signals safety and calm to your nervous system, creating a soothing bedtime ritual. It’s not just about sleep—it’s about honouring the transiti...

What do you get when you mix fierce determination, Aussie grit, and a heart the size of a marathon course? You get Lee Troop—Olympian, race director, coach, father, and all-round legend.

In this powerful, funny, and deeply human conversation, Lee takes us through his entire running journey—from chasing his dad around the streets of Geelong as a 10-year-old, to toeing the line at three Olympic Games, to rebuilding his running from scratch (and with heart) after hitting rock bottom.

We cover:
•Why fun runs and Life. Be In It. commercials kickstarted his love o...

This week’s mindful moment invites you to shift your awareness in a powerful and unexpected way: do one small task with your eyes closed. We rely heavily on vision to move through our day, but when you take it away—even briefly—your other senses step forward. Choose a safe, familiar task like brushing your hair, folding a towel, or sipping water, and try it with your eyes gently closed. You’ll likely slow down, tune into textures, sounds, and movements you’d normally miss, and drop into a deeper sense of presence.

It may feel awkward at...

Get ready to meet Phil Essam—a Tassie-born runner, race director, military man, walking enthusiast, historian of ultra running, and all-round top human.

Phil’s journey started with laps around the block to beat bronchitis and somehow evolved into 24-hour track races, ultra marathons, and helping coordinate Jesper Olsen’s global runs. Yes, you read that right—he helped multiple runners run around the world. 🌏

In this chat, Phil shares stories from:
•His very first marathon (because he failed a 2.4km Air Force fitness test 😆)
•Pacing runners in the legendary Westfield Sydney to Melbourne Ultra Duration: 01:19:52

This week’s mindful moment invites you to reconnect with the world around you: step outside and notice the air. Whether you’re at home, at work, or on the go, take just 60 seconds to pause outside. Feel the temperature on your skin—is it warm, cool, breezy?  Breathe it in slowly and see if you notice any scents—the earthy smell of rain, fresh grass, or simply the scent of the day. Let your feet ground you, look up at the sky, and observe the light.

This isn’t about analysing—it’s about feeling. A quick reset tha...

In this episode, we’re joined by Tasmanian adventurer-turned-runner Tom Lewis. From a childhood spent sailing and fishing on the northwest coast of Tasmania to hiking under glaciers in Canada, Tom has always loved moving through the world. But it wasn’t until later in life—after stepping back from full-time work—that he truly embraced trail running.

Tom shares how the Gone Nuts trail event rekindled his connection with places from his youth and how training for it (with the help of Hanny Allston’s plans and some local coffee chats) gave him a new lease on life. H...

This week’s mindful moment is beautifully simple: put something down slowly. Throughout the day, we’re constantly picking things up and putting them down—coffee cups, keys, phones—usually without a second thought. Today, choose just one of those moments and slow it down. Feel the weight of the object in your hand, notice the way your fingers shift as you release it, and listen for the sound it makes as it touches the surface.

This tiny pause pulls you out of autopilot and into presence. It’s a gentle reminder that mindfulness doesn’t require extra time o...

From near death to ultra distances, Kelly Thrush’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary. In this powerful episode of the ZenRUN Podcast, we sit down with Kelly—a recovering alcoholic and liver transplant recipient—who now runs ultras and has founded a non-profit to support transplant recipients and people struggling with addiction.

Kelly opens up about hitting rock bottom, the turning point that led him to sobriety, and how running became the path that helped him find purpose, strength, and connection again. His honesty is raw, his humour is sharp, and his story is full of wisdom...

This week’s mindful moment is all about bringing a little joy and rhythm into your day: move in time with music. Pick a song—any song—and let it guide your movement. You don’t have to dance (unless you want to). Whether you’re walking, doing chores, or just swaying while you wait for the kettle to boil, let the beat set your pace. Feel your breath sync with the rhythm, notice the way your body responds, and allow yourself to enjoy the moment fully.

Music is a powerful mindfulness tool—it lifts your mood, grounds you...

What do you get when three generations of women lace up and hit the trails together? A whole lot of heart, laughter—and maybe the occasional friendly nudge to run a little further than planned.

In this feel-good episode of the ZenRUN Podcast, we meet Sally Bower—the third (but not least!) runner in a family of past podcast guests. You’ve already heard from her daughter Harmony and granddaughter Juliet… now it’s time for the matriarch to take the mic.

Sally didn’t grow up sporty—in fact, she was the kid picked last for schoo...

This week’s mindful moment invites you to transform a chore into a meditation: clean one thing mindfully. Choose a single object—your kitchen bench, a mirror, your running shoes, even your keyboard—and give it your full attention. Slow down and notice the movement of your hands, the sound of the cloth, and the scent of the cleaner. Wipe, breathe, and observe.

This simple act of presence turns a routine task into a moment of care—not just for your space, but for yourself. You’re not cleaning to tick something off a list; you’re reconnecting...

What do you get when a Navy Sea Cadet-turned-hairstylist-turned-multimillion-dollar entrepreneur laces up her shoes and hits the pavement? A wildly relatable, honest, and joy-filled conversation with none other than Rachel Pedersen!

This episode is as real as it gets—literally recorded in two parts because a tornado took out Rachel’s power mid-interview! But just like Rachel’s story, this chat is all about riding the storms and running anyway.

We cover:
•Why team sports weren’t her thing—but running solo was
•The life-changing gift of a personal fitness ribbon and an 8-minute mile Duration: 01:37:17

This week’s mindful moment is a fun and instinctive one: stretch like a cat. Think of how a cat moves after a nap—slow, deliberate, and fully present. That’s your invitation today. No yoga mat or formal routine needed—just find a space where you can move with awareness. Reach your arms overhead, roll through your spine, stretch your neck and hips, and let your body guide you. Yawn if it feels natural. The key is to move how your body wants to move, not how it’s supposed to.

This simple, intuitive practice is...

From avoiding cross country in school to founding a thriving trail running community, Shiree Yap’s story is full of twists, turns, and incredible personal growth. In this episode, Shiree shares how she went from “I could never run” to clocking up 100km events and leading dozens of runners through mountains near and far—from Canberra to the Japanese Alps.

Shiree opens up about her journey as a physio, a mum of four, and a running coach who didn’t even start running until her youngest was nearly in high school. We talk about the moment a gym friend...

This week’s mindful moment is all about bringing awareness to something we often overlook: transitions. From standing up to walking into the next room, or moving from one task to another, our days are filled with in-between moments that usually go unnoticed. But what if you paused—just for a breath—during those shifts? Noticing how your body feels, checking in with your breath, and consciously landing in the next moment can make your entire day feel more grounded and intentional.

These small pauses become powerful anchors, helping you move through life with more ease and presen...

What do you get when you combine a lifelong mover, a mum of five, a GP, and an ultra-runner with a big heart and a quiet determination?

You get Libby Oakley.

In this episode, Libby shares her journey from being a “strong” gymnast (bars and vault were her jam!) to discovering running later in life—and then falling all the way down the ultra rabbit hole.

From her first reluctant 10K to toeing the line at Delirious West, Unreasonable East, and soon Tor des Géants in the Italian Alps, Libby has taken on chal...

This week’s mindful moment is a wonderfully simple one: feel your feet when you wait. Whether you’re standing at the kettle, in line at the café, or waiting at the checkout, use those micro-moments to drop into your body instead of reaching for your phone. Bring your awareness to your feet—feel the soles inside your shoes, the subtle shift in weight, and the steady support of the ground beneath you.

This tiny act grounds you in the present and transforms everyday waiting into a calming mindfulness anchor. No fancy gear or quiet room needed—just your...

From phosphate dust in Nauru to the trails of Western Australia—and even a 200-miler past Stonehenge—Alexis Oosterhoff has taken the scenic (and slightly insane) route into ultra running.

In this episode, Alexis shares:
•How a casual desire to run a marathon at 40 was nearly derailed by a cancer diagnosis
•Why he traded in a private plane for a pair of trail shoes
•His love of raw, unmarked ultra races (hello, GPX-only navigation and fields full of barking farm dogs)
•What drives him to run events like an 18-day stage race in Spain and th...

This week’s mindful moment adds a playful twist: do a task with your non-dominant hand. Whether it’s stirring your tea, brushing your teeth, or opening a jar, switching hands interrupts your routine and demands your full attention. It feels awkward—maybe even a little clumsy—and that’s the point.

You have to slow down, concentrate, and notice every small movement. This simple shift wakes up your brain, grounds you in the present, and turns an ordinary task into a real-time mindfulness practice. Embrace the messiness and see what you learn—not just physically, but mentally too...

This week’s guest is 15-year-old Juliet King, and trust me—this is one episode that’ll leave you speechless, smiling, and maybe a little bit teary.

Juliet started running at the age of four alongside her mum and hasn’t looked back. Despite a hip condition that kept her out of team sports, Juliet found freedom and purpose on the trails. She ran her first ultra at 10 years old, finished the grueling Margaret River 80k at 11, and hasn’t stopped chasing finish lines since.

In this episode, you’ll hear:
👟 How Juliet went from running wi...

This week’s mindful moment flips the script with a surprising approach: use your phone as a mindfulness anchor. Instead of trying to avoid your device, turn it into a tool for presence. Each time you reach for your phone today, pause for just one breath. Feel its weight, notice your grip, check your posture—then breathe in slowly.

That tiny moment of awareness can interrupt auto-pilot habits and bring mindfulness into the most ordinary part of your day. It’s not about ditching your phone—it’s about using it differently, as a cue to check in with yo...

This week, we’re joined by the amazing Harmony Waite—a Perth-based ultra runner, mum of two, and someone who’s taken the scenic (and sometimes rocky!) route into the world of long-distance running.

From delivering car parts and driving haul trucks in WA’s mining industry to rediscovering herself through running after becoming a mum, Harmony’s story is full of heart, humour, and honesty. Told she’d never run again due to thoracic arthritis, she refused to let that be the end of her running story. Spoiler alert: it was only just the beginning.

In this e...

This week’s mindful moment is a powerful yet simple one: slow down one everyday movement. Instead of rushing through your daily routine, pick one ordinary action—like putting on your shoes, brushing your hair, or opening the fridge—and do it just a little slower. Pay attention to the sensation, the rhythm, the sound, and your breath. Notice what muscles are involved and how it truly feels to move.

This practice isn’t about adding anything new; it’s about waking up to what you’re already doing and finding presence in the simplest of moments.

Spend...

This week, I’m joined by Mark Backhouse—a fellow Delirious WEST athlete, a trail runner from Perth’s hillside trails, and a man who balances 4 kids, a full-time job, and midnight trail runs with a grin.

Mark’s running journey has been anything but ordinary. From his first marathon on the cobbled streets of Rome to 3am trail runs before school lunches and work meetings, he’s all about chasing the mental and physical freedom that running brings. His story is grounded, relatable, and full of quiet motivation.

In this episode, we chat about:
🌄 Grow...

This week’s mindful moment is mindful rocking, a gentle and soothing practice to help you unwind. Whether you’re in a rocking chair or simply swaying in place, focus on the rhythm of the movement. Pay attention to the back-and-forth motion, the way your body feels, and the calming effect it creates.

Rocking mindfully is a beautiful way to relax, reset, and bring your attention back to the present—especially after a busy day.

Spend just five minutes with this practice, and see how it can bring calm and clarity to your day.

For...

In this episode, I chat with the vibrant and inspiring Jess Peil — and trust me, you’re going to fall in love with her story. From childhood runs in the Saudi Arabian desert, to chasing Puffing Billy in Melbourne, and now taking on seven marathons in seven states for Bravehearts, Jess brings passion, purpose, and a whole lot of heart to her running.

We cover:
🏃‍♀️ How a mile-long kids race in the desert sparked her early love of running
🚂 The amazing family story behind Melbourne’s Great Train Race (her dad helped start it!)
🎗 How fundraising becam...

This week’s mindful moment invites you to enjoy a mindful bicycle ride, transforming your travel time into a peaceful practice. As you pedal, tune into the steady rhythm of your legs and the breeze brushing against your skin. Notice the sounds around you—the turning wheels, birds, or passing trees—and take in the changing scenery with fresh eyes.

Riding with awareness connects you to the present moment, turning even a short trip into a grounding and joyful experience.

Spend just five minutes with this practice, and see how it can bring calm and clarit...

In Part Two of this two-part series, we pick up where we left off with the remarkable John Herzfeld—and dive into the wild ride that was his Delirious WEST 200-miler.

From pacing his mate Gabe through heatwaves, hallucinations, and chest pains, to crossing his own Delirious finish line with 96.5 hours on the clock and a heart full of emotion—this episode captures everything we love about ultra running: the community, the chaos, and the deeply personal stories behind every step.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

🔥 How John trained (and sometimes didn’t train) fo...

In this first episode of a special two-part conversation, we meet the ever-curious and wonderfully humble John Herzfeld—fellow Delirious WEST runner, mechanical engineer, storyteller, and lifelong volunteer.

Before John took on a 200-mile ultra, he was building go-karts in the hills of Darlington, designing signs with technical flair, and volunteering in remote Papua New Guinea. This episode dives into John’s early life, family legacy, deep ties to community, and the unique experiences that shaped his passion for adventure and giving back.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

🏃 John’s childhood adventures...

This week’s mindful moment is mindful ladder stepping, a focused practice that brings awareness to movement and balance. Using a sturdy ladder or step stool, climb slowly and deliberately, paying close attention to how your legs engage and how your hands grip for support. Notice the sensation of each step—the shift in weight, the texture beneath your feet, and the rhythm of your breath.

This simple activity encourages full-body awareness and turns a practical task into a moment of grounding and mindfulness.

Spend just five minutes with this practice, and see how it can...

This week’s guest is an absolute powerhouse—Laura Firth, ultra runner, Bravehearts champion, and Guinness World Record holder for being the first woman to run an ultra event with a stoma bag.

Originally from the UK, Laura’s story is one of grit, humour, and serious determination. After serving in the army, living through life-changing health challenges, and moving across the world with her young family, she found running—sort of by accident. Now, she’s doing what many never would have thought possible… and loving every second of it.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

This week’s mindful moment is mindful handwriting with a quote, a creative and calming way to bring presence into your day. Pick a favourite quote or affirmation and write it out slowly, paying attention to each stroke of your pen and the shapes of the letters.

Let the meaning of the words sink in as you write, turning this simple act into a thoughtful, meditative experience. It’s a beautiful blend of mindfulness and inspiration that leaves you with something meaningful to reflect on.

Spend just five minutes with this practice, and see how it c...

This week, we’re chatting with Craig Jefferys—quiet achiever, determined runner, and proud Delirious WEST finisher. I first met Craig the day before the race, and it’s safe to say we were both a little nervous about the epic adventure ahead.

Craig’s ultra story is one of heart, humility, and deep mental strength. He’s not out there for headlines or glory—he’s in it for the personal challenge and the peace that running brings. But that doesn’t mean it’s been easy. During the final 30 to 40 kilometres of Delirious, Craig battled brutal sleep depri...

This week’s mindful moment is an eye movement exercise, a gentle way to care for your vision and bring mindfulness into your day. Sit comfortably and slowly move your eyes left, right, up, and down. Then, trace a figure-eight shape with your gaze, paying attention to how your eyes feel as they move.

This simple practice helps relieve eye strain and invites presence by focusing on the often-overlooked sense of sight. It’s a calming way to reset—especially if you’ve been staring at a screen!

Spend just five minutes with this prac...

This week’s guest is Travis Ireland—ultra-runner, backyard ultra fan, and the brains behind the wildly popular app Run the World. But before he created a global running movement, Travis was just a kid running cross-country with his mates in country New South Wales… and later, a guy trying to rebuild his life after hitting rock bottom.

In this episode, we dive into the honest, hilarious, and powerful story behind the app that’s helped thousands of runners stay motivated for life.

What you’ll hear in this episode:

🌍 How a virtual run around Au...

This week’s mindful moment is a playful and engaging practice: walking backward mindfully! Find a safe, open space and take slow, deliberate steps backward. Focus on your balance, the feeling of your feet connecting with the ground, and how your muscles engage differently.

Because it requires more focus than walking forward, this simple exercise brings your full attention into the moment and adds a fun twist to your mindful movement practice.

Spend just five minutes with this practice, and see how it can bring calm and clarity to your day.

For more mi...

This week on the podcast, we welcome the one and only Scott Bunny—fellow Delirious WEST runner, race director, and the man who probably spends as much time gazing at the stars mid-race as he does watching where his feet are going.

Scott’s journey to ultra running is anything but traditional. He grew up in WA, served 18 years in the Navy (including in submarines!), and only took up running in his 40s… by accident. Since then, he’s become a barefoot runner, race builder, and community pillar for long-distance crazies.

In this episode, we chat abo...

This week’s mindful moment is mindful stretch-and-twist, a simple practice to energize and ground yourself. Stand tall, lift your arms overhead, and gently twist your torso from side to side.

Feel your core engage, your spine lengthen, and let your breath guide the movement—inhale as you lift, exhale as you twist. This easy stretch helps reset your body and mind, bringing a refreshing boost of focus and calm to your day.

Spend just five minutes with this practice, and see how it can bring calm and clarity to your day.

For more...

After months of following their journeys, the full crew of Delirious podcast athletes is back for one last episode—together, unfiltered, and full of post-race stories. In this special wrap-up after-party, we reflect on the wild highs, brutal lows, and hilarious moments that defined the 2025 Delirious West 200-miler.

With surprise guest Sean Kaesler (yes, the race director himself!), we dive into:

•Favourite trail moments 🌅

•Gear disasters and recovery wins 🥾

•Crew MVP shout-outs and coffee emergencies ☕

•Hallucination highlights (mandatory pumpkins, cars in trees, and elves?!) 😵‍💫

•What they’ll never forget—and why...

In this heartfelt and uplifting wrap-up episode, Darlene Dale opens up about her 2025 Delirious West experience—an ultra that started with doubts and dizzy spells but transformed into one of her strongest performances yet.

Darlene gets honest about early race struggles with plantar fasciitis, nausea, and energy dips, and how one small anti-nausea tablet (thank you, trail angels!) turned her race around. From there, it was all about staying smart, keeping the feet happy, and finding her rhythm again—one aid station, one bowl of soup, and one sleep at a time.

She shares how runn...

In this wrap-up episode, we sit down with Gabe Alves to hear the full, raw, and real account of his 2025 Delirious West experience. From a pre-race family emergency and late arrival to the start line, to trail highs, epic views, and unexpected pain—Gabe’s journey is a rollercoaster of resilience and heart.

He shares the joy of finally getting his gear dialled in, the beauty of Conspicuous Cliffs at sunrise, and the powerful companionship found both in solitude and in shared steps with friends. But it’s also a story about how even with the bes...

In this warm and wonderfully candid wrap-up episode, Andy and Del Thompson take us inside their 2025 Delirious West adventure—a journey packed with unexpected twists, heartfelt moments, and lessons in patience, teamwork, and trust.

From managing race-day fatigue with dirt naps to handling a major campervan breakdown mid-race (seriously… it broke at Broke Inlet!), Andy and Del show what true partnership looks like on and off the trail. They share how they navigated everything from dehydration scares and blister dramas to unexpected moments of pure trail magic—all while sticking together from start to finish.

...

This week’s mindful moment is mindful cleaning, a beautiful way to turn everyday chores into moments of presence and gratitude. Pick a simple task, like washing dishes or sweeping the floor, and give it your full attention.

Notice the feel of the soap and water, the sound of the broom moving, or the patterns that form as you clean. By focusing on the sensations and movements, you transform routine cleaning into a calming, mindful practice that honours and cares for your space.

Spend just five minutes with this practice, and see how it can br...

In this wrap-up episode, Kevin “Big Kev” Matthews takes us deep into the heart of his fifth Delirious West finish—sharing all the highs, lows, and hilarious moments that made 2025’s edition “The Hilly Year” one to remember.

From Mandalay-to-Mount Clare misery (times two) to epic pasta dishes and the infamous “magic hill” at Shelley Beach, Kev recounts a race that was tough on the legs but full of soul. He talks about how he managed his energy, stayed social on the trail, and learned the value of proper food over sugar-packed snacks.

This episode is packed with K...

In this wrap-up episode, Stuart Rainbow takes us through his unforgettable Delirious West 2025 experience—a journey filled with epic scenery, wild mishaps, emotional highs, and some truly hilarious trail moments.

After a DNF the previous year, Stuart returned stronger and more determined than ever, and his storytelling doesn’t disappoint. From an early fall and a missed turn just 2.7km into the race, to a broken watch at the 175km mark and a surreal encounter with a jet-ski delivery and Wonder Woman (a.k.a. Darlene Dale) powering past, Stuart’s recap is full of grit, gratitude, and a...

In this deeply personal and powerful wrap-up episode, James Sawyer shares how his Delirious West 2025 unfolded across four days, 79 hours, and hundreds of emotional highs and lows. From the outside, James’ run was smooth—no gear drama, no major disasters—but what made it remarkable was the mental depth, emotional vulnerability, and sheer human connection along the way.

Running shoulder-to-shoulder with his mate Ben, James talks about their pacing, their sleep deprivation strategy (or lack thereof!), and how a bacon and egg sandwich diet powered him through more than 300km. He opens up about an emotional breakdown around...

In this laugh-out-loud and surprisingly heartfelt episode, Glen Smetherham unpacks his seventh (!!) Delirious West 200-miler—and it just might be his most satisfying yet.

Despite going in with a painful heel niggle and a patched-up knee, Glen navigated the course with a unique combination of trail smarts, dry humour, and sheer stubbornness. Alongside his race buddy Felix, Glen ran the full 200 miles with plenty of silliness at aid stations, a couple of shared hallucinations (mandatory pumpkin, anyone?), and even a pastry and coffee delivery mid-race.

He opens up about pacing, pain management, the art of be...

This week’s mindful moment is planting mindfulness, a grounding practice that connects you with nature. Whether you have a garden or just a small potted plant, take time to care for it with full awareness. Feel the soil in your hands, notice the textures of the leaves, and breathe in the earthy scent.

Engaging with plants through movement and touch is a simple yet powerful way to slow down, be present, and nurture both your surroundings and yourself.

Spend just five minutes with this practice, and see how it can bring calm and clarity to...

In this powerful wrap-up episode, Mel Gregory shares the full, unfiltered story of her Delirious West journey—from last-minute logistics chaos to emotional lows, stunning trail highs, and a finish line moment that brought everything full circle.

Mel opens up about the unexpected challenges before the start line, including car breakdowns, solo travel, and forgotten snacks. But her ability to adapt and stay mentally strong set the tone for an event that tested her physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

From trailside meltdowns to epic sunrises, and the love of her crew and kids keeping her going, Me...

This week’s mindful moment is mindful arm swinging, a simple yet effective way to release tension and connect with your body. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and let your arms hang loosely at your sides. Gently swing them forward and backward, noticing the natural momentum and the way your shoulders relax. As you continue, sync the movement with your breath, allowing each swing to feel more intentional.

This easy practice brings awareness to your body, promotes relaxation, and offers a refreshing reset during your day.

Spend just five minutes with...

In a delightful flip of roles, this episode brings you something special—Michelle Frost is in the hot seat, interviewed by none other than her daughter, Nikki, just days after finishing the epic Delirious West 200-miler. What unfolds is a beautiful, funny, and deeply honest conversation about what it’s really like to spend four days and nights on the trails, chasing dots, dodging frogs, navigating fatigue, and finding strength in unexpected places.

From music that sparked trail dancing to micro-naps while running, Michelle shares the mental highs, the physical challenges (blisters, hello), and the emoti...

This week’s mindful moment is mindful water drinking, a simple yet powerful way to bring awareness to an everyday action. Hold a glass of water in your hands and notice its weight, temperature, and even the condensation on the surface. As you take a slow sip, feel the water move across your tongue and down your throat, imagining it nourishing your body with every swallow.

By fully focusing on this small moment, you transform a routine habit into a grounding and refreshing mindfulness practice.

Spend just five minutes with this prac...

In their final check-in before Delirious West, ultra couple Andy and Del Thompson are keeping it real, calm, and kind of hilarious. With their house in full packing chaos, kids to prep for while they’re away, and lists galore, Andy shares their thoughtful, practical, and sometimes cheeky approach to pre-race prep.

This episode covers everything from 5K-a-day fundraising for brain cancer, to managing early signs of plantar fasciitis with tape, to building a camper-van aid station that’s part spreadsheet, part snack shop. They also unpack the new course direction, discuss pacing tips for the notoriously toug...

In this fourth check-in, Big Kev (Kevin Matthews) brings his trademark honesty, humour, and ultra wisdom to the mic as he faces down his sixth Delirious West—aka what he’s dubbed “The Hilly Year.”

Despite battling a cold and a calf injury, Kev is all systems go. From talking about his almost-gold-buckle chase, hilarious misadventures with March flies, and why this reversed course is both brutal and brilliant, this episode is packed with perspective, laughter, and valuable ultra-running advice.

Kev shares how he’s managing final prep with lower weekly mileage, mor...

In this final check-in, Stuart Rainbow is all-in for Delirious West—even if it means being stalked by a fox mid-run, gluing his shoes to keep the sand out, and completely reworking his race strategy after a last-minute course change.

He shares the highs of a smooth 75K night training run (with donut aid stations, naturally) and the lows of a brief knee scare that had him resting just weeks before the race. Stuart talks logistics, from jetboils and battery backups to his meticulously reinforced shoes, stitched and Velcroed to fight back against the WA san...