Shows / The ZenRUN Podcast

The ZenRUN Podcast
All things mental and physical health! You’ll find in-depth interviews with runners as we delve into why they run and what keeps them running. And interviews with specialists on the brain and the effects of exercise on it – chemically and physically. Plus tips to keep you moving with a positive mindset.. So much goodness
Episodes
The ZenRUN PodcastEpisode 473 - James Sawyer: Four Days, 79 Hours & a Mask Dropped on the Trail
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…
The ZenRUN PodcastEpisode 472 - Glen Smetherham: Jokes, Jet Fuel & the Most Satisfying Delirious Yet
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…
The ZenRUN PodcastEpisode 471 - MM 167: Planting Mindfulness
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…
The ZenRUN PodcastEpisode 470 - Mel Gregory: Mental Grit, Family Power & Finding Joy at the Finish Line
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…
The ZenRUN PodcastEpisode 469 - MM 166: Mindful Arm Swinging
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…
The ZenRUN PodcastEpisode 468 - Michelle Frost: Running 350km (ish) & Finding Joy in the Delirious Unknown
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…
The ZenRUN PodcastEpisode 467 - MM 165: Mindful Water Drinking
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…
The ZenRUN PodcastEpisode 466 - Andy & Del Thompson: Campers, Coffee & Calm—Ready for Delirious West
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…
The ZenRUN PodcastEpisode 465 - Kevin Matthews: Cold, Cramps & Course Changes—Delirious West, the Hilly Year
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…
The ZenRUN PodcastEpisode 464 - Stuart Rainbow: Foxes, Footwear & Facing the Final Delirious Curveball
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…
The ZenRUN PodcastEpisode 463 - MM 164: Mindful Stretch at Your Desk
This week’s mindful moment is perfect for anyone who spends long hours at a desk: a mindful stretch session. Start by rolling your shoulders forward and…
The ZenRUN PodcastEpisode 462 - James Sawyer: Minimalist Mindset, Family Motivation & The Final Days Before Delirious West
In his final pre-race check-in, James Sawyer brings his signature low-fuss, high-heart approach to the mic as he prepares to line up for the Delirious West…
The ZenRUN PodcastEpisode 461 - Gabe Alves: Broken Toe, Big Perspective & Final Calm Before Delirious West
In his seventh and final check-in before Delirious West, Gabe Alves shares how he’s navigating a pre-race curveball—a fractured little toe just four weeks out…
The ZenRUN PodcastEpisode 460 - Darlene Dale: Mindset, Ice, and the Final Countdown to Delirious West
In her final check-in before the big event, Darlene Dale shares her honest, grounded perspective on what it takes to show up for a 200-miler when things aren’t…
The ZenRUN PodcastEpisode 459 - Matt Dingjan – Running 24 Hours for Healing, Hope & Cancer Support
This week’s guest is the energetic, big-hearted Matt Dingjan—a husband, dad of four, small business owner, and now… 24-hour runner! 🏃♂️ But Matt’s story goes…
The ZenRUN PodcastEpisode 458 - MM 163: Mindful Shadow Play
This week’s mindful moment is all about mindful shadow play, a fun and creative way to bring awareness into the present moment. Find a light source, like the…
The ZenRUN PodcastEpisode 457 - Glen Smetherham: Pain Management, Pastry Myths & Strategic Planning for Delirious West
In his final check-in before Delirious West, Glen Smetherham brings a powerful mix of honesty, humour, and hard-earned strategy to the mic. Despite an ongoing…
The ZenRUN PodcastEpisode 456 - Melissa Gregory: The Final Countdown to Delirious West – Calm, Confident, and Ready
In her final check-in before toeing the start line at Delirious West, Melissa Gregory reflects on a training block that’s left her feeling strong, organised…
The ZenRUN PodcastEpisode 455 - MM 162: The Five-Finger Trace
This week’s mindful moment introduces the five-finger trace, a simple yet powerful way to calm your mind and refocus. Hold out one hand, palm facing you, and…
The ZenRUN PodcastEpisode 454 - Gabe Alves: Lessons from a 90K Training Simulation & Final Race Prep for Delirious West
In this sixth check-in, Gabe Alves takes us through his biggest training test yet—a 90K race simulation that included heat training, night running, and an…
The ZenRUN PodcastEpisode 453 - Andy and Del Thompson: Racing, Recovery, and Final Preparations for Delirious West
In this sixth check-in, Andy and Del Thompson reflect on their biggest training test yet—the Tarawera Ultra 100K in New Zealand! From navigating a packed race…
The ZenRUN PodcastEpisode 452 - MM Tip 161 - Mindful Stairs Climbing
This week’s mindful moment is mindful stair climbing, a simple way to bring awareness to an everyday movement. As you walk up or down stairs, focus on each…
The ZenRUN PodcastEpisode 451 - Delirious Crew Chat - Shannon Dale: The Art of Crewing—Supporting an Ultra Runner at Delirious West
In this special episode, we shift the focus from the athletes to the unsung heroes behind the scenes—the crew! Shannon Dale, crew chief for his wife…
The ZenRUN PodcastEpisode 450 - Delirious Athlete Check In 6 - Stuart Rainbow: Final Prep, Blister Battles, and Big Miles Before Delirious West (the shopping episode :p )
In this sixth check-in, Stuart Rainbow gives us an inside look at his final training block leading up to the Delirious West 200-miler. With a 12-hour run on…
The ZenRUN PodcastEpisode 449 - Delirious Athlete Check In 5 - James Sawyer: Reset, Race Prep, and the Mental Game of Delirious West
In this fifth check-in, James Sawyer shares his final training push as Delirious West 200-miler draws near. While he’s been balancing a mix of rest, recovery…
The ZenRUN PodcastEpisode 448 - MM Tip 160: Hand Movement Meditation
This week’s mindful moment introduces a simple yet effective practice: hand movement meditation. Sit comfortably with your hands resting on your lap, palms…
The ZenRUN PodcastEpisode 447 - Todd Crush – Running Through Darkness and Into Freedom
This week, we welcome Todd Crush, an ultra-runner, author, and mental health advocate whose journey is nothing short of extraordinary. Todd’s story isn’t just…
The ZenRUN PodcastEpisode 446 - Delirious Athlete Check In 5 - Glen Smetherham: Adapting, Cycling, and the Final Stretch to Delirious West
In this fifth check-in, Glen Smetherham shares how he’s tackling his biggest challenge yet—preparing for the Delirious West 200-miler without running! After a…
The ZenRUN PodcastEpisode 445 - Delirious Athlete Check In 5 - Darlene Dale: Overcoming Setbacks, Staying Smart, and the Final Push to Delirious West
In this fifth check-in, Darlene Dale shares the highs and lows of her training journey leading up to the Delirious West 200-miler. From managing plantar…
The ZenRUN PodcastEpisode 444 - MM Tip 159: Balance Practice
This week’s mindful moment focuses on balance practice, a simple yet powerful way to cultivate mindfulness. Begin by standing on one foot, using a wall or…
The ZenRUN PodcastEpisode 443 - Kevin Walker – From Team Sports to Ultra Running Adventures
This week, we sit down with Kevin Walker, a former team sports athlete turned endurance runner, whose journey into the world of ultramarathons is nothing short…
The ZenRUN PodcastEpisode 442 - Delirious Athlete Check In 5 - Melissa Gregory: Juggling Life, Breathwork, and Big Miles Before Delirious West
With just weeks to go before Delirious West 100, Melissa Gregory is in full-on juggling mode—balancing school runs, family commitments, and a packed training…
The ZenRUN PodcastEpisode 441 - Delirious Athlete Check In 3 - Kevin Matthews: Strength, Strategy, and Smarter Training for Delirious West
In this third check-in, Kevin Matthews shares his unique approach to training for the Delirious West 200-miler—one that prioritises strength, experience, and…
The ZenRUN PodcastEpisode 440 - MM Tip 158: Gentle Chair Yoga
This week’s mindful moment is perfect for anyone who spends a lot of time sitting: gentle chair yoga. Start by sitting at the edge of your chair with your feet…
The ZenRUN PodcastEpisode 439 - Delirious Athlete Check In 5 - Gabe Alves: Heat Training, Gear Tweaks, and the Countdown to Delirious West
In this fifth check-in, we catch up with Gabe Alves as he navigates the final stages of his preparation for the Delirious West 200-miler. From embracing…
The ZenRUN PodcastEpisode 438 - Delirious Athlete Check In 4 - James Sawyer: Staying Resilient, Focused, and Ready for Delirious West
In this episode, James Sawyer updates us on his progress as he prepares for the Delirious West 200-miler. Balancing work, family, and training during the…
The ZenRUN PodcastEpisode 437 - MM Tip 157 - Mirror Breathing
This week’s mindful moment is all about mirror breathing, a practice that helps you tune into your breath and deepen your connection with yourself. Find a…
The ZenRUN PodcastEpisode 436 - Delirious Athlete Check In 4 - Andy and Del Thompson: Adventures, Insights, and Prepping for Delirious West
This week, we check in with Andy and Del Thompson, who are deep into their preparations for the Delirious West 200-miler. From training in scorching summer…
The ZenRUN PodcastEpisode 435 - Delirious Athlete Check In 4 - Melissa Gregory: Balancing Family, Farm Life, and Delirious Prep
In this week’s check-in, Melissa Gregory shares how she’s juggling holiday travels, family adventures, and training for the Delirious West 200-miler. Despite a…
The ZenRUN PodcastEpisode 434 - Delirious EVENT Check in - Delirious West 2025: Behind the Scenes with Race Director Sean Kaesler
In this special event check-in, we sit down with Delirious West 200 race director Sean Kaesler to get the inside scoop on how preparations are coming together…
The ZenRUN PodcastEpisode 433 - MM Tip 156 - Mindful Walking with a Purpose
This week’s mindful moment is about mindful walking with a purpose. Choose a destination—whether it’s your mailbox, a nearby park, or a simple loop around your…
The ZenRUN PodcastEpisode 432 - Delirious Athlete Check In 4 - Darlene Dale: Problem Solving, Planning, and Powering Through Delirious Prep
In this episode, Darlene Dale reflects on the ups and downs of preparing for the Delirious West 200-miler. Despite facing plantar fasciitis and post-Christmas…
The ZenRUN PodcastEpisode 431 - Delirious Athlete Check In 4 - Stuart Rainbow: Adventures, Adjustments, and Pushing Forward to Delirious West
This week, we reconnect with Stuart Rainbow, who shares his approach to balancing ultramarathon training with life’s unexpected twists. From navigating knee…
The ZenRUN PodcastEpisode 430 - MM Tip 155 - Create a Mindfulness Bell
This week’s mindful moment is about creating a mindfulness bell to bring awareness into your day. Set a gentle reminder on your phone or computer to chime at…
The ZenRUN PodcastEpisode 429 - Delirious Athlete Check In 4 - Glen Smetherham: Rolling with the Challenges and Preparing for Delirious West
In this episode, we reconnect with Glen Smetherham, who reflects on a busy holiday season filled with ups and downs as he continues his training for the…
The ZenRUN PodcastEpisode 428 - Delirious Athlete Check In 4 - Gabe Alves: Tactical Training, Trail Insights, and Keto Comebacks
In this episode, Gabe Alves reflects on his progress as he tackles the final stretch of preparation for the Delirious West 200-miler. Fresh off a 10-day…
The ZenRUN PodcastEpisode 427 - MM Tip 154 - Mindful Technology Use
This week’s mindful moment focuses on mindful technology use. Take intentional breaks from your devices and become more aware of how you interact with…
The ZenRUN PodcastEpisode 426 - Delirious Athlete Check In 2 - Kevin Matthews: From Pilates to Parkruns, Prepping for Delirious West
In this engaging episode, we reconnect with Kevin Matthews, who’s incorporating some exciting changes into his training regime as he prepares for the Delirious…
The ZenRUN PodcastEpisode 425 - Delirious Athlete Check In 3 - Stuart Rainbow: Hiking, Holidays, and Gearing Up for Delirious
In this episode, we check in with Stuart Rainbow as he balances holiday fun and family time with his training for the Delirious West 200-miler. Speaking from…
The ZenRUN PodcastEpisode 424 - MM Tip 153 - Observe Animals Mindfully
This week’s mindful moment invites you to observe animals mindfully. Whether it’s watching your pet, birds in the park, or even the quiet movements of insects…
The ZenRUN PodcastEpisode 423 — From Tehran to Treadmills to Trails – Sara Safari’s Running Journey
In this week’s episode, we talk with Sara Safari, a runner, doctor, and mother who embodies resilience and passion for staying active. Sara’s inspiring story…
The ZenRUN PodcastEpisode 422 - Delirious Athlete Check In 3 - Darlene Dale: Bouncing Back Stronger and Ready for Delirious
This week, we catch up with Darlene Dale, who’s been navigating the highs and lows of ultrarunning preparation with grace and resilience. After battling…
The ZenRUN PodcastEpisode 421 - Delirious Athlete Check In 3 - James Sawyer: Sand, Stamina, and a Marathon of Adventures
In this episode, we catch up with James Sawyer, who shares his creative and ambitious approach to training for the Delirious West 200-miler. From holiday plans…
The ZenRUN PodcastEpisode 420 - MM Tip 152 - Practice Mindful Apologies
This week’s mindful moment is all about practicing mindful apologies. When you find yourself needing to apologize, approach it with your full attention and…
The ZenRUN PodcastEpisode 419 - Delirious Athlete Check In 3 - Glen Smetherham: Training with Purpose, Humour, and Heart
In this episode, we check in with Glen Smetherham as he shares updates on his training journey for the Delirious West 200-miler. Glen’s balance of practical…
The ZenRUN PodcastEpisode 418 - Delirious Athlete Check In 3 - Mel Gregory: Slowing Down, Listening Up, and Finding Joy in the Journey
In this heartfelt episode, we check in with Mel Gregory as she navigates the busy holiday season while preparing for the Delirious West 200-miler. Mel shares…
The ZenRUN PodcastEpisode 417 - MM Tip 151 - Explore a New Path Mindfully
This week, we invite you to explore a new path mindfully. Take a walk in a place you’ve never been before, whether it’s a nearby park, a quiet street, or a…
The ZenRUN PodcastEpisode 416 - Marty Kallane’s Ultra Running Adventure and Resilience
In this week’s episode, we chat with Marty Kallane, a remarkable ultra runner with a story of determination, community, and finding peace through running. From…
The ZenRUN PodcastEpisode 415 - Delirious Athlete Check In 3 - Andy and Del Thompson: Resilience, Adventure, and the Road to Delirious West
In this inspiring episode, we check in with Andy and Del Thompson, a powerhouse couple in the ultrarunning community. Despite their busy lives, they’re…
The ZenRUN PodcastEpisode 414 - Delirious Athlete Check In 3 - Gabe Alves: Planning, Preparing, and Running Delirious
In this episode, we catch up with Gabe Alves as he reflects on his training journey leading up to the Delirious West 200-miler. Gabe candidly shares the…