Episodes

  • Joy Haizelden: GB Wheelchair Basketball, Three-Time Paralympian & PhD Student

    Joy Haizelden: GB Wheelchair Basketball, Three-Time Paralympian & PhD Student
    Nov 26 2024
    Joy Haizelden is an inspiring British wheelchair basketball player who has made significant strides in the world of adaptive sports. Born on December 1, 1998, in China, Joy was abandoned outside an orphanage and later adopted by a loving British couple, Jim and Margaret Haizelden, in 2005. Growing up in Southampton, Hampshire, Joy discovered her love for wheelchair basketball when her father sought ways to keep her active and engaged in sports. At just 15 years old, Joy made history as the youngest player to represent Great Britain at the 2014 Women’s World Wheelchair Basketball Championship, where the team achieved its best-ever finish. Her dedication and talent quickly set her apart, earning her accolades like the Peter Jackson Young Female Player of the Year and helping Team GB secure numerous medals, including gold at the Women’s U25 Wheelchair Basketball World Championship. As a classified 2.5 point player, Joy has continued to excel on the international stage, recently competing in the 2024 Paralympics in Paris, all while pursuing her PhD. Her journey is one of resilience, determination, and empowerment, serving as a source of inspiration for aspiring athletes everywhere. In this episode of the Tough Girl Podcast, listeners will gain insight into Joy’s remarkable journey, discovering how she overcame adversity and used her experiences to fuel her passion for sport and academic excellence. Joy's story is not only about athletic achievement; it’s a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of following one’s dreams. Tune in to be inspired by her message of empowerment and to learn how she continues to break barriers in wheelchair basketball and beyond! Don't miss out on the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, released every Tuesday at 7am UK time! Be sure to hit the subscribe button to stay updated on the incredible journeys and stories of strong women. By supporting the Tough Girl Podcast on Patreon, you can make a difference in increasing the representation of female role models in the media, particularly in the world of adventure and physical challenges. Your contribution helps empower and inspire others. Visit www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast to be a part of this important movement. Thank you for your invaluable support! Show notes Being born in China and growing up in an orphanageBeing adopted by a British familyMoving to the UK at age 6Learning English within 6 monthsTransitioning to a new language and cultureFacing challenges in physical education at her schoolDiscovering wheelchair basketball with encouragement from her fatherFinding a supportive communityHer first experience in specialised wheelchair basketballEnjoying the physical and social aspects of the sportExplaining the rules of wheelchair basketballThe classifications for disability levelsThe importance of team strategy with point-based player selectionStarting wheelchair basketball at age 12-13Being invited to a senior national team camp at 15Youngest player for GB at the 2014 Women's World Wheelchair Basketball Championships in TorontoReflecting on the honour and excitement of representing her country at such a young ageBeginning to see the possibility of playing at a higher level, aiming for the Rio ParalympicsMoving to Worcester for a centralised programme with the GB teamReceiving sponsorship from the National LotteryThe hectic schedule of training five days a week and managing schoolJoy's experience of the Rio ParalympicsRecalling her parents attending the games, which was a significant moment for herThe multi-sport event experience and the impact of being part of such a large eventImpact of COVID-19 on Tokyo ParalympicsThe increased focus on mental well-being and support from sports psychologistsHer personal experiences and strategies for managing stress and resiliencePursuing a PhD in health, education, and promotion at The University of AlabamaBalancing her PhD studies with playing basketballThe challenges of managing both academic and athletic responsibilitiesTeam dynamics and rolesThe Tokyo Paralympics atmosphereDeciding to move to Alabama for PhD and basketballCollegiate wheelchair basketball in the USCultural adjustments and international friendshipsHow their PhD programme allows them to balance their academic and athletic pursuitsThe challenges of managing her PhD and being part of the GB teamThe need for careful time management due to frequent GB team eventsThe difficulties she faced travelling as a disabled personManaging to balance her commitments and participate in international tournaments despite challengesReflecting on their experience at the Paris Games, where they finished 4thFeeling disappointed at not winning a medalThe team's performance as the second-best in women's wheelchair basketball historyUndecided on the 2028 LA Games, but evaluating performance and team dynamicsDealing with disappointment and moving forwardFinal words of advice Social Media Instagram: @...
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    40 mins
  • Frankie Forzoni: From Mental Health Struggles to Norseman Xtreme Triathlon Finisher.

    Frankie Forzoni: From Mental Health Struggles to Norseman Xtreme Triathlon Finisher.
    Nov 21 2024
    Frankie is a Women's Endurance Coach and Nutritionist, helping busy women achieve their endurance goals in the most holistic way possible. From severe mental health struggles in her early twenties, to being hit by a car in 2020, Frankie is now a Norseman Xtreme Triathlon finisher and 4 x Marathon runner. Founded in 2016, Pretty Strong Coaching was created to support and coach women struggling with their mental wellbeing. Having faced depression, chronic pain, and panic attacks, Frankie understands the struggles of mental health firsthand. After trying therapy, sleeping pills, and anti-depressants, she found healing through movement, nature, and nutrition. Frankie provides a space where women can reconnect with their bodies, achieve their running and triathlon goals, and embrace a balanced, healthy lifestyle within a supportive community. Through her coaching, Frankie empowers women to overcome mental barriers, conquer self-doubt, and tackle burnout, helping them become their strongest, healthiest selves. This episode is a must-listen for those seeking motivation, practical insights into holistic health, and a reminder that with the right support and determination, it's possible to transform adversity into triumph. Tune in and be inspired to embrace your own journey toward strength and wellness! *** Don't miss out on the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, released every Tuesday at 7am UK time! Be sure to hit the subscribe button to stay updated on the incredible journeys and stories of strong women. By supporting the Tough Girl Podcast on Patreon, you can make a difference in increasing the representation of female role models in the media, particularly in the world of adventure and physical challenges. Your contribution helps empower and inspire others. Visit www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast to be a part of this important movement. Thank you for your invaluable support! *** Show notes Who is FrankieGrowing up with an active childhood in LondonDoing dance lessons and tennis with her sisterGoing into university in Leeds to study graphic designStopping fitness, focusing on a busy social lifeExperiencing poor mental health at 24Signing off work due to stressExploring ways to improve her wellbeingStudying happiness and healthRecovering through moving the body and nourishing itSigning up for the London Marathon despite not being a runnerTaking on the London Marathon after being told she couldn't do itFollowing a book to guide her trainingMeeting friends, seeing family, and enjoying the eventHow running has helped with her mental healthBelieving small victories help manage mental wellbeingThe importance of consistency, endorphins, and alone time during runs for mental clarity and self-discoveryMoving to Singapore for workObtaining personal training qualificationGrowth of Frankie's coaching careerHelping others achieve fitness goals and mental resilienceEnjoying living in Singapore, having access to pools and sunshineFacing the challenge of extreme heatHaving an air-conditioned indoor gym setup to handle the heatParticipating in the annual event, The Standard Chartered Singapore MarathonCoaching 30 clients through the 2018 Singapore MarathonDesigning the "Mind Over Marathon" programme to help women with mental health struggles prepare for the raceOffering a safe space for women dealing with various issuesHer challenging recovery process after being hit by a car in SingaporeHow cycling and swimming aid her healingRegaining her physical strength over a four-year periodApplying for The Norseman Xtreme TriathlonWeighing the challenge of competing in the extreme triathlon in Norway while living in SingaporePartnering with Performance Bike Fitter for altitude training equipmentWorking with Trapeze Recovery Centre, providing ice baths, to acclimate to cold temperaturesTravelling to Australia to train on actual hillsTraining on the Sunshine Coast with her support team and triathlete friendsGrowing anxiety and self-doubt as race day approachesThe importance of her support crew to her successFinding peace and determination, pushing forward despite fearsDriving the Norseman route backwards to familiarise themselves with the courseObserving other experienced athletes, feeling a mix of intimidation and inspirationWhat was her race day morning likeSwimming conservatively, following the coastlineSwelling and loss of dexterity due to coldTransition from swim to bike (T1)Frankie's climbing challengesFacing a gruelling 35-kilometre climb with steep gradientsMental and physical strain on the bikeAlone, battling wind, hail, and fatiguePushing through some of the darkest moments of her raceTransition from bike to run (T2)From flat to "Zombie Hill"Being joined by her support crew on the hill for safetyContinuing to walk despite torrential thunderstormsNutrition and hydration on the runFinal words of advice Social Media Website: www.prettystrongcoaching.com Instagram: @prettystrongcoaching Facebook: @...
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    53 mins
  • Jane Kanizay: Climbing Mt. Everest, Advocating for Consent, and Building Resilience in the Death Zone—A Mother’s Journey of Strength, Survival, and Purpose.

    Jane Kanizay: Climbing Mt. Everest, Advocating for Consent, and Building Resilience in the Death Zone—A Mother’s Journey of Strength, Survival, and Purpose.
    Nov 19 2024
    Jane Kanizay is an adventurer, educator, activist, speaker, artist and mother of four who on 14 May 2022 successfully climbed Mt. Everest with her 19-year-old daughter. Jane enjoys sharing the highs and lows of her Everest experience and the journey of resilience required to take on such an immense challenge as a survivor. Jane climbed with the message of @teachusconsent to campaign for holistic consent education in school education curriculum and to advocate for the prevention of violence against women. To have a message to take to the summit provided additional strength on the days Jane had reached her physical or emotional limits. High altitude mountaineering is one of the deadliest sports in the world. Jane successfully summited mountains above 6000m plus an 8000m summit of Cho Oyu, Tibet, to prepare her for the extreme environment of Everest, considered to be in the ‘death zone’ above 8000m where oxygen content is only 34% compared with sea level. Listening to Jane on the Tough Girl Podcast offers a rare insight into the mental and physical fortitude it takes to summit Everest, but also the deeper purpose behind her journey. Through her incredible story, Jane not only inspires adventurers but also advocates for change, sharing how carrying a message of consent and empowerment gave her the strength to push through her limits. Her story will resonate with anyone looking to overcome challenges, build resilience, and find purpose in their own lives. Don't miss out on the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, released every Tuesday at 7am UK time! Be sure to hit the subscribe button to stay updated on the incredible journeys and stories of strong women. By supporting the Tough Girl Podcast on Patreon, you can make a difference in increasing the representation of female role models in the media, particularly in the world of adventure and physical challenges. Your contribution helps empower and inspire others. Visit www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast to be a part of this important movement. Thank you for your invaluable support! Show notes Who is JaneMother of four, living with one childMountain climbing with her eldest daughter, GabbyBeing motivated by Gabby's dream to climbCompleting several trips to the HimalayasReaching Everest's summit together on 14 May 2022Becoming the second mother-daughter pair to summit EverestGrowing up in an athletic familyHaving siblings achieving high levels in sportsDiscussing her childhood experiences with athleticsHer belief in ordinary people achieving extraordinary thingsThe importance of family support in sports and lifeStarting running marathons at 33 after having four childrenTransitioning from marathon running to trekking and climbing in her late 40sRemembering her 40s as an empowering period, winning races in her age groupWhen Gabby's interest in climbing startedThe mother-daughter duo's plans evolved into larger climbing goals over timeGabby reflecting on her experience, appreciating the timing of climbing at age 19Climbing experience which fostered a unique friendshipThey relate differently outside of typical family rolesMaintaining their bond while balancing parenting responsibilitiesInitially planned to finance their climbs through a mortgage and potential scholarshipsSelling their house and funding the majority of the tripAdapting to unexpected financial changesGabby's focus on balancing her love for climbing while pursuing an income in the industryJane's reflections on the dynamics among her children regarding climbing adventuresHow she has navigated potential feelings of jealousy among her childrenSharing her experience of climbing Everest with GabbyThe dynamic of being both mother and climbing partnerHow they communicated effectively at base campGabby often acted as a mentor, helping Jane to regain confidence during tough momentsA pivotal moment at Camp Four where she doubted her strength to continueGetting encouraged by Gabby to persevereReflecting on precious time spent with her childrenPrioritising family over personal ambitionsSocietal concerns about young climbers tackling high peaksJane's internal struggles regarding the ethics of taking Gabby on such a dangerous expeditionEngaging with other young adventurers and parentsThe meticulous preparation and strategy leading up to their summit attemptThe challenging conditions they encounteredThe summit push filled with historical significance and personal reflectionsJane leading the ascent, following in the footsteps of climbing legendsA heartwarming moment for Jane spotting Gabby approaching the summitThe "Teach Us Consent" campaignJane's desire for her sons to be good allies and her daughters to be safeThe pyramid of abuseAdvocating for calling out disrespectful behaviourCreating a safer environment for womenExperiencing vision problems while descendingHallucinating due to altitude sicknessDealing with laryngitis and media attention after her climbBuilding a supportive network ...
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    54 mins
  • Vicki Anstey: Overcoming Limitations, Conquering Fears, and Breaking Records—From SAS Challenges to Rowing the Pacific and Cycling 3,000 Miles Across America.

    Vicki Anstey: Overcoming Limitations, Conquering Fears, and Breaking Records—From SAS Challenges to Rowing the Pacific and Cycling 3,000 Miles Across America.
    Nov 14 2024

    After 20 years in a relationship that limited and stifled her, former advertising professional, turned fitness pioneer and award-winning entrepreneur, Vicki Anstey became (age 41) one of the first ever women to participate in Channel 4’s ‘SAS Who Dares Wins’, reaching the final stages after 11 days in extreme conditions at an altitude of 3,000ft in Chile.

    In 2021, she and 2 other women, the Girls Who Dare, set a new World Record for rowing unaided across the Pacific Ocean, confronting her fear of deep, open water to do so. It took 60 days, 17 hours and 6 minutes.

    Her latest endeavour (a second Guinness World Record) was to cycle 3,000 miles in the ‘World’s Toughest Bike Race’ as a team of four women from West to East coast America in just 6 days 19 hours and 38 minutes.

    Vicki has also completed ultra distance runs (covering 250kms and carrying everything she needed to survive) in some of the World’s most extreme environments – crossing the Arctic in temperatures of -35 degrees and the Savannnahs of Kenya in blistering 50 degree heat.

    ***

    Don't miss out on the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, released every Tuesday at 7am UK time! Be sure to hit the subscribe button to stay updated on the incredible journeys and stories of strong women.

    By supporting the Tough Girl Podcast on Patreon, you can make a difference in increasing the representation of female role models in the media, particularly in the world of adventure and physical challenges. Your contribution helps empower and inspire others. Visit www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast to be a part of this important movement.

    Thank you for your invaluable support!

    Show Notes:

    • Who is Vicki
    • Vicki’s diverse career journey
    • Emphasising her unique life experiences
    • Overcoming a coercive relationship
    • Leaving her long-term marriage
    • Encouraged by friends, she applied for SAS: Who Dares Wins
    • The beginning of her journey into adventure and self-discovery
    • Reflecting on the rigorous training during SAS: Who Dares Wins
    • Building self-belief and resilience
    • The experiences that revealed her capabilities
    • The importance of mental strength in overcoming obstacles
    • Rowing across the Pacific
    • Facing her fear of deep, open water by undertaking a rowing challenge
    • Her preparation for the task to confront her anxieties
    • Finding strength in vulnerability
    • Embracing fears and seeing the opportunities that lie beyond them
    • Developing resilience, managing self-doubt, and embracing challenges
    • Emphasising reflection and learning from past experiences
    • Transition from solo to team challenges
    • How her experiences with solo challenges influenced her approach to teamwork
    • The importance of clear communication and setting boundaries
    • Being initially intimidated by her rowing teammates
    • Learning to embrace tough conversations
    • Unravelling tensions in team dynamics
    • Vicki’s concept of “free speed”
    • Understanding each team member's emotional responses under stress
    • Advocating empathy and support in navigating team dynamics
    • Training for Race Across America
    • Her transition into cycling
    • A rigorous training regime of up to 25 hours per week
    • Having a supportive coaching network to enhance her skills
    • Vicki’s memorable moments from RAAM
    • The importance of supporting one another during challenging phases
    • Production of a documentary covering her rowing and RAAM experiences

    Social Media

    Website: vickianstey.co.uk

    Instagram: @vickianstey

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    46 mins
  • Charlotte Bowens: From a Health Crisis to 50-Mile Ultramarathon Finisher—Creating VestaPak for the Plus-Size Community in Outdoor Sports

    Charlotte Bowens: From a Health Crisis to 50-Mile Ultramarathon Finisher—Creating VestaPak for the Plus-Size Community in Outdoor Sports
    Nov 12 2024
    Charlotte Bowens: Founder of Conscious Gear and trailblazing innovator behind VestaPak, the world's first plus-size hydration vest. From university administrator to entrepreneur, she fearlessly reshapes the outdoor industry. Motivated by a personal health scare, she champions inclusivity and empowers the plus-size community to embrace an active lifestyle. Founding Story: A Transformation and a Vision It all started with a health scare that jolted Charlotte's life. An unexpected visit to the emergency room revealed high blood pressure, high cholesterol, severe depression, borderline diabetes, and a stark classification of "morbidly obese." The avalanche of this diagnosis could have overwhelmed anyone, but not Charlotte. Charlotte made a decision that changed her life's trajectory. Fueled by fear and a fierce determination to regain control, she took her first steps towards transformation at the gym. The journey was slow and arduous. On that initial day, she could walk for only 2 minutes at a modest 2 mph on the treadmill. But that wasn't the end; it was the beginning. Every day, Charlotte persevered, placing one foot in front of the other, pushing through every personal limit, and defying her own expectations. Sixteen months later, she crossed the finish line of her first 50-mile ultramarathon—an extraordinary feat of physical and mental strength. However, this triumph was also bittersweet. Charlotte felt proud of her incredible achievement and continued her ultramarathoning journey but as she looked for outdoor gear and apparel to accommodate her taller, curvier, and bigger body, she encountered a glaring problem. The market offered limited options that catered to her specific needs if any at all. Existing outdoor gear companies had overlooked a significant portion of the population, neglecting to provide functional and fashionable products for those with bigger bodies. It was during the challenging times of the pandemic that Charlotte made a solemn vow: if no one else was going to do it, she would. Conscious Gear was born, emerging as a symbol of resilience and innovation. VestaPak was nominated in October 2023 by USA Today as one of the top ten products for outdoor adventurers and is currently sold at REI. *** Don't miss out on the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, released every Tuesday at 7am UK time! Be sure to hit the subscribe button to stay updated on the incredible journeys and stories of strong women. By supporting the Tough Girl Podcast on Patreon, you can make a difference in increasing the representation of female role models in the media, particularly in the world of adventure and physical challenges. Your contribution helps empower and inspire others. Visit www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast to be a part of this important movement. Thank you for your invaluable support! *** Show notes: Who is CharlotteHer outdoor adventure journey which started with Girl ScoutsSelling Girl Scout cookies to fund camping tripsDiscusses her academic background in maths and science and her career in research administrationHer experiences as a teenage single mother of three, which led to a sedentary lifestyleMoving to Arizona and falling in love with trail running and ultra marathonsReassessing her lifestyle due to high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and clinical depressionPrioritising health and fitness, despite feeling overwhelmed as a single motherFirst experiences at the gymBeing scared and unsure but determined to make a changeBeginning to see improvements in her stamina and speed, which bolstered her confidenceCompleting her first 50-mile ultra marathonImproving her physical health and also restoring her desire to liveHer transformative journey from depression to feeling aliveInitially being sceptical about ultramarathonsCompleting a self-supported hundred-milerLooking forward to participating in longer races, including a 250-mile event in Phoenix and a 500-mile race in TennesseeThe addictive nature of long-distance runningChallenges in finding gearGoing to thrift stores and DIY solutions using a library sewing machineLimited options for bigger bodies in the athletic clothing marketThe birth of the business, Conscious GearFacing disruptions in ultrarunning due to the pandemicCreating hydration vests motivated by a lack of representation and optionsBeing nominated as one of the top 10 outdoor products in 2023Increasing engagement from women, particularly Black womenAddressing inclusivity in athletic wearRunning community and personal preferencesRunning philosophy and trainingThe importance of starting with what you can manageHelping the body adapt and grow stronger over timeRespect the body's limits and trust the process of improvementA powerful moment while trail running in MichiganHer deep spiritual connection to running in natureThe spiritual aspect of running and its connection to her identitySocietal expectations that often lead to feelings of needing to do everything ...
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    55 mins
  • Tiffany Coates - Live from the Armchair Adventure Festival. Sharing more about her motorcycle adventures around the world.

    Tiffany Coates - Live from the Armchair Adventure Festival. Sharing more about her motorcycle adventures around the world.
    Nov 7 2024
    In this episode, we sit down with Tiffany at the Armchair Adventure Festival in Mount Edgcumbe. Join us as we explore the world through the eyes of Tiffany Coates, recognised as the world’s foremost female motorcycle adventurer. Tiffany has spent over twenty years exploring six continents on two wheels. With hundreds of thousands of miles under her belt, she continues her adventures both solo and as a sought-after motorcycle tour guide, captivating audiences at adventure travel events worldwide. Her journey began with a memorable trip alongside her best friend, Becky. With just two months of riding experience, they embarked on a quarter-tonne BMW named ‘Thelma,’ wobbling their way from the UK across Europe to India. What was initially planned as a nine-month journey transformed into two and a half years, crossing four continents and solidifying Tiffany's passion for motorcycle travel. Over the years, Tiffany has travelled through Asia, Australia, Africa, the Americas, and more, with notable rides to Timbuktu, Outer Mongolia, Madagascar, Borneo, and even Everest Base Camp in Tibet. Her website features the stories behind these incredible travels. As a freelance guide, Tiffany leads various adventurous motorcycling expeditions, providing safe and experienced guidance for those eager to explore new countries on two wheels. We first spoke with Tiffany on March 17th 2020 - The World's Foremost Female Motorcycle Adventurer! *** This episode was recorded live at the Armchair Adventure Festival 25th - 28th July 2024. Buy tickets now for #AAF25 - THE UK'S MOST ADVENTUROUS FESTIVAL. Mt Edgcumbe, Cornwall, 24-27th July 2025, Use TG10 to get a 10% discount on tickets. www.armchairadventurefestival.com. *** *** Don't miss out on the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, released every Tuesday at 7am UK time! Be sure to hit the subscribe button to stay updated on the incredible journeys and stories of strong women. By supporting the Tough Girl Podcast on Patreon, you can make a difference in increasing the representation of female role models in the media, particularly in the world of adventure and physical challenges. Your contribution helps empower and inspire others. Visit www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast to be a part of this important movement. Thank you for your invaluable support! Show notes: Who is TiffanyBackground as a motorbike travellerExperience riding around the worldJoy of solitude in desert travelDangerous motorbike experiences in VietnamMental health benefits of motorbikingSense of freedom and independence in motorbike travelTiffany's journey to becoming a motorbike riderHaving no initial experience with motorbikesChallenges of maintaining the bike and learning basic maintenanceMechanical failures upon entering AsiaTime spent in a workshop learning about oil, filters, and maintenance tasksReliance on strangers for assistance and fixing the bikeImportance of feeling confident and self-reliantSelf-defence knowledge and preparednessCarrying safety tools while campingRiding through the Gobi Desert in MongoliaAdjusting travel plans based on weather conditionsHectic journey through Siberia to reach the Pacific OceanEnjoying the journey and making the most of each daySinging to herself and listening to music or podcastsLiving frugally to fund her travelsNot owning a car, saving money for travelGuiding groups through exotic countries, ensuring their safety and happinessUpcoming trip to Guyana, Suriname, and French GuianaImportance of exploring lesser-known placesCamping experience at the Bonneville Salt FlatsChallenges faced and the beauty of solitude in natureExperiences with altitude sickness and acclimatisationNatural sadness post-adventureTravel fatigue during long journeysKeeping journals and writing for publicationsPotential future projects, including writing a bookLeading an all-female motorbike tour in NepalBreaking stereotypes in motorcyclingSense of sisterhood among female motorcyclistsUnique experiences of hospitality while travelling soloShipping bikes by sea versus flyingInternational Vehicle Shipping, Moto FreightThe process of obtaining an international driving permit (IDP) and its importanceMaps and compasses over GPSGPS inaccuracies in desert navigationLimitations of relying solely on technologyThoughts on the common advice to “just do it”Final words of advice Social Media Website: tiffanystravels.co.uk Facebook: @tiffany.coates.12 Twitter/X: @tiffanystravels
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    58 mins
  • Candida Louis - An Indian girl riding around the World. 10 Years of full-time Travel. Sharing her story live at the Armchair Adventure Festival.

    Candida Louis - An Indian girl riding around the World. 10 Years of full-time Travel. Sharing her story live at the Armchair Adventure Festival.
    Nov 7 2024
    Candida Louis, a 28-year-old adventurer from Hubli, South India, embodies the spirit of wanderlust and the pursuit of freedom through motorcycle riding. From a young age, she shared unforgettable rides with her father, sparking a passion that led her to become a motorcyclist herself. Over the past 12 years, she has transitioned from a pillion rider to the one in the front seat, fully embracing the thrill of the open road. A birthday gift of her first motorcycle marked the beginning of an incredible journey that fuelled her dreams of riding around the world. After spending five years working at Oracle and Infosys, she found herself disillusioned with the daily commute and long hours. Looking out of her office window, she envisioned a life on the open road, fuelling her determination to break free. In 2015, she took a three-month sabbatical to ride through North and South India, and the experience solidified her desire to pursue a life of adventure. Following her journey, she resigned from her desk job and spent four months travelling, embracing the confidence and freedom that riding provided. In this conversation, Candida emphasised the importance of following one’s passions, stating, “If you love something, if you’re very passionate about it, at least try to take that first step... Just take that risk, and it will prove to be the right thing.” This philosophy drives her as she continues to chase her dreams, having recently crossed multiple countries on her motorcycle in a remarkable eight-month journey from India to Australia. With each adventure, she inspires others to embrace their dreams, take risks, and discover the incredible experiences that life has to offer. Candida’s journey is not just about riding motorcycles; it’s about finding one’s true self and the freedom that comes with stepping outside one’s comfort zone. As she explores the world on her bike, she encourages others to do the same, reminding them that the journey begins with that first courageous step. *** This episode was recorded live at the Armchair Adventure Festival 25th - 28th July 2024. Buy tickets now for #AAF25 - THE UK'S MOST ADVENTUROUS FESTIVAL. Mt Edgcumbe, Cornwall, 24-27th July 2025, Use TG10 to get a 10% discount on tickets. www.armchairadventurefestival.com. *** Don't miss out on the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, released every Tuesday at 7am UK time! Be sure to hit the subscribe button to stay updated on the incredible journeys and stories of strong women. By supporting the Tough Girl Podcast on Patreon, you can make a difference in increasing the representation of female role models in the media, particularly in the world of adventure and physical challenges. Your contribution helps empower and inspire others. Visit www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast to be a part of this important movement. Thank you for your invaluable support! Shownotes: Who is CandidaStarted riding motorcycles 16 years agoInitial career in finance before transitioning to travel and motorcycle ridingFirst motorcycle ride with her dadFamily support in pursuing her passionSocietal judgments and lack of support from some community membersInitial desire to travel but disbelief in achieving financial stability through itShift in perspective from chasing money to following passionExperience working at a strict IT company and the impact on her mental healthReceiving a call from a TV show inviting her to ride around IndiaOvercoming obstacles with her manager to pursue the opportunityUnexpected cancellation of the show and decision to continue the journey soloReflection on the adventure and challenges faced during the tripCreation of a Facebook page to update family and friends during travelsGrowth of the page to 10,000 followers during the seven-month tripTransition to Instagram and the rise to 246,000 followers over ten yearsOpportunities from brand collaborations that provide financial supportInvestment in real estate (building an Airbnb) to generate consistent incomeLeading motorcycle tours and the establishment of a tour businessThe emotional struggle of leaving a stable job for an uncertain pathExperience of living with very little money initiallyImportance of perseverance and believing in oneself despite challengesSocietal perceptions of women travelling alone in IndiaMedia interviews focused on negative aspects rather than positive experiencesGaining confidence through positive encounters and supportive individualsDelivering laptops and teaching children in CambodiaDesire to combine travel with making a positive impact on communitiesUpcoming plans for the next six monthsIncrease in female motorcycle riders over the past decadeCandida’s initiative to train 100 women monthly to ride motorcyclesRiding through 42 countries on a motorcyclePersonal challenges and medical issues (e.g., dislocated knee)Information on Candida’s motorcyclesNaming her motorcycles: "Sky" (Bajaj) and "Scarlet" (Triumph)Spending eight ...
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    46 mins
  • Jen Scotney - Running Through the Dark: The rise and fall of an ultrarunner. A story about resilience, about never giving up, and about battling through the night and always believing that there will be a new dawn.

    Jen Scotney - Running Through the Dark: The rise and fall of an ultrarunner. A story about resilience, about never giving up, and about battling through the night and always believing that there will be a new dawn.
    Nov 5 2024
    Jen Scotney boasts an impressive record as an ultrarunner with podium finishes in the 108-mile Montane Winter Spine Challenger South and the 190-mile Northern Traverse. She is host of the Resilience Rising Podcast, a running coach, writer, Mountain Leader and yoga teacher, which have followed her career as a human rights lawyer. Jen has appeared in magazine features for Runner’s World, Trail Running and Women’s Running. She has been a guest host on the Wild Ginger Running YouTube channel, and a previous guest on the Tough Girl Podcast. Jen crewed for John Kelly’s successful Pennine Way fastest known time as well as for his Wainwrights Round in the Lake District. She grew up in the Peak District and now lives in the Scottish mountains with her husband Marcus and Sherlock the beagle. Running Through the Dark is her first book. *** Don't miss out on the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, released every Tuesday at 7am UK time! Be sure to hit the subscribe button to stay updated on the incredible journeys and stories of strong women. By supporting the Tough Girl Podcast on Patreon, you can make a difference in increasing the representation of female role models in the media, particularly in the world of adventure and physical challenges. Your contribution helps empower and inspire others. Visit www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast to be a part of this important movement. Thank you for your invaluable support! *** Show notes Who is Jen Scotney Intro from 2018 TGP episode So much has changed in 6 yearsA new introduction for nowBeing based in the Scottish HighlandsNot running anymore and what happenedChatting with Mimi Anderson No longer clinging onto the identity of being a runnerSelf worth in relation to challenges and big runsUsing writing as a tool to help processHer dream of wanting to run the Pennine WayGetting a book deal and starting to write stories of runnersGoing through a period of chronic illnessWanting to share her story and get it out of her head500 words a dayRelief and fear of finishing the bookGrief and lossHanding over control Recovering from chronic illnessResilience Starting the Resilience Rising PodcastsWhy messiness is part of resilience. Taking the time to process and accept what’s happenedNot signing up for the suffering Having a good time while runningWhy low points in a race are not comparable to real life challengesExternal validationWhat bring joy and happiness todayTeaching yoga and growing fruit and vegMaking changes in her life and doing a pivotGetting ok with uncertainty and changeChoosing the uncertainty and being open to what comes upAdvice for letting go of control Joining the local mountain rescue team in Scotland Working through a skill list and having monthly training Managing negative thoughts Dealing with 2 knee replacementsLooking for her limit and finding out what she can doStart where you arePlans for 2025 - goal setting or going with the flowPracticing yoga for 15+ yearsBeing a qualified Yin Yoga teacherYoga Nidra and permission to restPushing back again busyness and perfection Relax and do more yoga Stop trying to be productiveWhat needs to be let go offBeing in the momentKeep connected to Jen Final words of advice Social Media Website: www.jenscotney.com Instagram: @jenscotney X/Twitter: @jenscotney Vertebrate Publishing Books to inspire your next adventure. Based in Sheffield, the Outdoor City. Instagram @vertebrate_publishing X/Twitter: @VertebratePub Book: Running Through the Dark: The rise and fall of an ultrarunner. Ultrarunner Jen Scotney has achieved podium finishes in some of the UK’s toughest races and now has her sights firmly set on the Pennine Way. In Running Through the Dark, Jen talks about her ambitions, not just to run the 268-mile Pennine Way but to take the record as the fastest woman to do so. But that didn’t happen. Nothing went according to plan. The Jen the world knew was a successful lawyer and running coach – all photoshoots and finish-line smiles – but the truth was much darker. The real Jen Scotney, the one she hid from everybody, suffered with chronic fatigue, debilitating injuries, tragedy, grief and at times had a will so beaten down by setbacks that there just didn’t seem any point in going on. But she did go on. Running Through the Dark is Jen’s account of her ultra-journey. Playing out on the moors of the Pennines, the fells of the Lake District and the mountains of Wales and Scotland, this is much more than a running book, it is a story about resilience, about never giving up, and about battling through the night and always believing that there will be a new dawn.
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    1 hr and 5 mins