From the jungles of India to the global stage of wildlife conservation, Dr Latika Nath has spent her life studying and protecting big cats, becoming the first woman in the world to study tigers in the wild. Known as Nat Geo's "Tiger Princess," she shares stories from deep in the forests where she observed tigers using tools, hunting porcupines, and navigating complex human-wildlife conflicts.

In this episode, Latika takes us on her journey from a childhood spent exploring the outdoors to pursuing her dream in a male-dominated field, studying elephants and tigers in the wild. She shares the challenges of working in remote areas, the lessons learned from female tigers, and her tireless efforts to combat poaching.

We also dive into her work as a conservation photographer, using images to tell stories that inspire action, and her advice for women and girls aiming to make their mark in conservation. Latika's story is one of courage, dedication, and the belief that one person's passion can make a world of difference.

This episode is for you if:

• You love wildlife and big cats
• You're curious about conservation and sustainability
• You want inspiration from a trailblazing woman in a male-dominated field
• You're motivated by stories of courage, resilience, and following your passions

***

New episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast drop every Tuesday at 7 AM (UK time)! Make sure to subscribe so you never miss the inspiring journeys and incredible stories of tough women pushing boundaries.

Do you want to support the Tough Girl Mission to increase the amount of female role models in the media in the world of adventure and physical challenges? Support via Patreon! Join me in making a difference by signing up here: www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast.

Your support makes a difference. Thank you x

***

Show notes

• Who is Dr Latika
• Working as a Conservation Ecologist and conservation photographer
• Being based out of Indian
• Studying big cats all over the world
• Using her photography to share stories about conservation
• Working as an expert on Tourism and sustainability
• Working with the Indian Planning Commission as an in-house advisor
• Being an only child and spending most of her time outdoors
• Living close to a National Park
• Deciding at 6 years old that she wanted to be an ecologist
• Being encouraged to pursue her dreams
• People in the 1970s not knowing what an ecologist was
• Not being able to study the subjects she wanted to
• Being a girl in a male dominated field
• Being the first woman in the world to study tigers
• Moving over to the UK to continue her education at Bangor University, Wales
• Doing her masters thesis on elephant and human conflict in Indian
• How elephants follow the old memories
• Her passion and interest in tigers
• Wanting to study snow leopards initially
• Terrorism in Kashmir and how it changed the direction of her life
• Being inspired by Dr HS Pabla
• The tiger population in India currently
• Project tiger - being responsible for the conservation of the tiger in the wild
• Being the only person in the park and being truly on her own in the wild with the animals
• What it was like studying the tigers and the relationships that developed
• Discovering new knowledge about tigers
• Seeing tigers using tools
• How tigers eat porcupines
• The expedition logistics
• Lessons learned from female tigers
• The biggest danger to tigers going forward
• How to combat poaching
• Getting the nickname - The Tiger Princess
• Being filmed by National Geographic for a 1hr documentary
• Advice and tips for women and girls who want to enter the space of conservation
• Advice for women around self belief and self confidence and why there work is important
• What's next for Dr Lakita
• Writing her next book
• Having a photography expedition in London in June 2026
• How to connect with Dr Lakita
• Final words of advice around following your passions and interests
• Having good days and bad days - go one day, one step at a time and why it can make a big difference
• Hang in there and take that one step everyday

Social Media

Website: www.latikanath.com

Instagram: @latikanath

Facebook: @nathlatika

What does it take to return to the top of the ultra running world after major life changes and a "career-ending" surgery? Kaytlyn Gerbin knows.

In this episode, Kaytlyn shares her journey from a scientist with a love for the outdoors to a world-class trail and ultra runner. Growing up active but without formal running experience, she discovered her talent in her mid-twenties and quickly fell in love with the 100-mile distance. Since then, she's set course records, tackled some of the most technical alpine trails in the Pacific Northwest, and stood on podiums at legendary races like UTMB, Western States 100, and Transgrancanaria.

But Kaytlyn's story isn't just about running. It's about resilience, reinvention, and balance. After the birth of her daughter Era in 2024 and undergoing surgery to correct hip dysplasia—a procedure many thought would end her running career—Kaytlyn came back stronger than ever, winning the Cascade Crest 100 and taking on the epic 330km Tor des Geants race in Italy.

In this episode, you'll hear about:

• How she discovered her running talent and found her passion for ultra distances
• Overcoming setbacks, starting over, and learning to meet herself where she is
• The mental strategies that help her tackle 100-mile races and multi-day alpine challenges
• Balancing motherhood with elite-level running
• Her plans and goals for 2026, including Hardrock 100 and UTMB

Whether you're an aspiring ultra runner, a parent chasing big goals, or someone who loves stories of grit, perseverance, and adventure, Kaytlyn's story will inspire you to push your limits—on the trails and in life.

Tune in to hear how Kaytlyn combines mountains, motherhood, and science-backed training to redefine what's possible, one long run at a time.

***

New episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast drop every Tuesday at 7 AM (UK time)! Make sure to subscribe so you never miss the inspiring journeys and incredible stories of tough women pushing boundaries.

Do you want to support the Tough Girl Mission to increase the amount of female role models in the media in the world of adventure and physical challenges? Support via Patreon! Join me in making a difference by signing up here: www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast.

Your support makes a difference. Thank you x

***

Show notes

• Who is Kaytln
• Ultra runner and trail runner for the North Face
• Living in the foothills outside of Seattle, US
• Having a degree in Bioengineering and previously working as a scientist
• Having her first daughter, 14 months ago
• Reflecting back on her childhood and early years
• Growing up in rural US
• Being the oldest of four and being very active as a kid
• How her running journey progressed
• Playing soccer in high school
• Being good at running on the field, but not enjoying the running for training
• Making friends with other students at college who ran
• Discovering her running talent in her mid-twenties
• Entering her first small, local race and finishing 2nd female
• Having fun and feeling strong while running
• Finding her distance
• Loving the 100 mile distance
• Figuring out training for races
• The longer she ran, the stronger she felt
• Feeling overwhelmed by the running distances
• Having to start over with her running
• Remembering how hard it is to start running again after set backs
• Having a hard time with running
• Never having a running coach and getting to make all the rules
• Tracking her training
• Meeting yourself where your at ie being ok with walking
• Bringing in science to her running?
• Lessons on failure and how it applies to running
• Staying humble with her running
• Why the hardest part of the race, is just before it starts
• The anxiety before a race, struggling to sleep and eat before
• Staying relaxed while running and settling into the run after 50k
• Running through the night
• Taking some time before doing the hard thing, and thinking about the mental challenges which may come up and how to handle it
• Running a 220 mile race over 4 days
• Dealing with the guilt of being away from her baby while running
• Anticipate what some of the mental challenges might be during a race and how best to approach it
• Taking a step back from the running during pregnancy
• Not feeling the pressure to go back to running
• Her 'A' race in 2025
• Tor des Geants 330km race in Italy
• Winning the Cascade Crest 100 mile race
• Seeing the 2nd placed woman - starting to race
• Wanting to run hand and push herself
• Plans for 2026
• Applying for Hardrock 100 mile race
• Wanting to go back and race at UTMB
• Having a pregnancy deferral for UTMB
• How to connect with Kaytlyn
• Advice for women wanting to take on a 100 mile race

Social Media

Instagram @kaytlyn_g

Sheryl Ramstad's story is nothing short of extraordinary. After surviving a catastrophic plane crash with less than a 1% chance of survival, Sheryl's life was forever changed. What began as her first solo flight at age 29 became a harrowing journey through life-threatening burns, multiple surgeries, overwhelming grief, and two years of excruciating rehabilitation.

But this isn't just a survival story—it's a testament to the power of resilience, faith, and the unbreakable human spirit.

In this powerful conversation, Sheryl shares how she transformed unimaginable trauma into a life of purpose, service, and adventure. From shifting her mindset from "Why me?" to "What's next?" to supporting burn survivors in Peru, going back to school at 62, raising three children, becoming a grandmother, and even climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro—Sheryl embodies what it means to live fully, bravely, and without regrets.

With her first book "Living Life Full Throttle: Surviving, Serving, and Summiting" published in January 2025, Sheryl reflects on a decades-long journey of healing, reinvention, and choosing courage over fear. Her story will inspire you to embrace challenges, pursue new beginnings at any age, and live life full throttle.

If you're looking for a reminder of what's possible—even in your darkest moments—this episode will stay with you long after you've listened.

***

New episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast drop every Tuesday at 7 AM (UK time)! Make sure to subscribe so you never miss the inspiring journeys and incredible stories of tough women pushing boundaries.

Do you want to support the Tough Girl Mission to increase the amount of female role models in the media in the world of adventure and physical challenges? Support via Patreon! Join me in making a difference by signing up here: www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast.

Your support makes a difference. Thank you x

***

Show notes

• Who is Sheryl
• Being based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, US
• Being retired and writing her first book
• Surviving her first solo plane flight at 29 years old
• How this impacted how she lived the rest of her life
• Leaving work and no longer having an excuse not to write her story
• Having 3 adult children and 6 grandchildren
• Having the book published in late January of 2025
• The key moment when life changed
• Changed her focus from survival to service
• Being grateful for everyday and wanting to make her life meaningful for herself and for others
• Supporting burn survivors in Lima, Peru
• Being given a 1% chance of survival
• The importance of her faith, friends and family
• Applying for nursing school at 62
• Learning new skills
• Instead of asking why me - I ask - what's next
• Looking towards the future
• Having a strong family support system
• Having her faith to fall back on
• Reflecting back on writing her book
• Why it's been a life long process
• Serving
• Books for Africa
• Deciding to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro in Africa
• Deciding what to do with life
• Following a few simple principles
• Living life with no regrets
• Better to have tried and failed than never to have tried at all
• Do nothing in moderation - give your whole heart to everything that you want to try
• Going back to school at 62 and being a student again
• Don't be afraid to ask others for help
• Getting back on a plane
• Mental health and support for people going through traumatic experiences
• Raising her children
• What's next
• Being a life long learner
• Maybe writing another book
• Wanting to encourage people to live their life full throttle
• Why it's a matter of perspective
• How to connect with Sheryl
• How to buy her book
• Being happy to connect with people
• Final words of advice for women listening
• Don't be guided by your fear, be guided by the facts and the evidence - do what you feel led to do, so you don't go to your grave with any regrets.

Social Media

Website: www.sherylramstadauthor.com

Book: Living Life Full Throttle: Surviving, Serving and Summiting A Memoir

Hillary Allen, famously known as the "Hillygoat," is a world-class ultrarunner celebrated for her fearless climbs on steep, technical terrain. But in 2017, at the peak of her career as the #1 ultrarunner in the world, Hillary faced a life-changing setback: during a race in Norway, she fell 150 feet off a ridge, breaking 14 bones. Doctors told her she'd never run again.

Yet Hillary didn't just defy the odds—she redefined them. Today, she's back competing at the elite level and inspiring others to rewrite their own stories of resilience.

With a background in neuroscience and a master's in physiology and structural biology, Hillary combines science, grit, and empathy in her work as an author, coach, and speaker.

Her book, Out and Back: A Runner's Story of Survival Against All Odds, chronicles her incredible comeback.

In this episode, Hillary shares:

• How her lifelong love of running and science shaped her journey
• The mental and physical challenges of recovering from a life-threatening fall
• Practical tips on mindset, self-belief, and self-compassion
• Why she believes your best athletic days can be ahead of you

Whether you're an athlete, adventurer, or someone looking to overcome setbacks in life, Hillary's story is a powerful reminder that resilience, courage, and persistence can take you farther than you ever imagined.

***

New episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast drop every Tuesday at 7 AM (UK time)! Make sure to subscribe so you never miss the inspiring journeys and incredible stories of tough women pushing boundaries.

Do you want to support the Tough Girl Mission to increase the amount of female role models in the media in the world of adventure and physical challenges? Support via Patreon! Join me in making a difference by signing up here: www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast.

Your support makes a difference. Thank you x

Show notes

• Who is Hillary
• Growing up in Boulder Colorado, USA
• Being an athlete all her life
• Coming from an outdoorsy, academic family
• Describing herself as a science nerd
• Currently in a Masters Program for Applied Sports Psychology
• Having an older sister
• Growing up camping with her family
• Her parents both being professors
• Studying chemistry and neuroscience
• Not finishing her Phd
• Getting her first running sponsorship
• Her running journey to get to being a sponsored athlete
• Starting running in graduate school
• Needing an outlet to reset
• Starting to run with a running group
• Discovering the trail running scene
• When things clicked after running a road marathon
• Wondering if she could do it…
• Being drawn to running and feeling satisfaction in the challenge
• Working hard on her weaknesses
• Working on her ability to run on technical trails and push herself when feeling tired
• Getting into skyruning
• Being named the Hilly Goat!
• Why its a skill you need to practice
• The challenges of 2017
• Heading over to Europe to race
• Tromsø Skyrace
• Thinking she was dying
• Falling 150ft, breaking 14 bones, damaging ligaments and being lucky to be alive
• Book: Out and Back: A Runner's Story of Survival Against All Odds
• Being depressed
• Starting to think about running again
• Believe that your best athletic days are ahead of you
• Helping her mindset and the mental side of the challenge
• Working with a counsellor
• Working past fear
• Breaking her ankle and dealing with another injury
• Going back to do the race again
• Getting her nervous energy out
• Closing the chapter off
• Practical tips around mindset
• The power of self compassion and self belief
• The next plan/goals
• Signing up for a road marathon in January
• Working on building up some speed
• Podcast - Trail Society
• How to connect with Hillary
• Final words of advice for other women
• The importance of daily practices
• Journalling
• Mantra - believe your best athletic days are ahead of you
• Affirmations - I am statements "I am a runner"
• Start small, and start with self belief

Social Media

Website www.hillaryallen.com

Instagram @hillygoat_climbs

Facebook @hillaryallenrunner

Podcast - Trail Society

Lani Woods is a passionate cyclist, adventurer, and creative force behind a vibrant community of outdoor enthusiasts. Known for blending her love of cycling with a flair for design, Lani leads initiatives like Triple Crown Adventures to inspire others to explore the world on two wheels. Whether organizing group adventures in Hawaii or crafting unique cycling gear, she's dedicated to building an inclusive, adventure-loving community.

* Marked as explicit — just one F bomb!

***

New episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast drop every Tuesday at 7 AM (UK time)! Make sure to subscribe so you never miss the inspiring journeys and incredible stories of tough women pushing boundaries.

Do you want to support the Tough Girl Mission to increase the amount of female role models in the media in the world of adventure and physical challenges? Support via Patreon! Join me in making a difference by signing up here: www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast.

Your support makes a difference. Thank you x

***

Show notes

• Who is Lani
• Being based in Hawaii
• Being a full time adventurer
• Loving to travel and explore
• Being a curious soul
• Growing up in Southern California
• Not being athletic when she was younger
• Getting into athletics in her 30s
• What happened in her 30s
• Having kids at a young age and being in a long term relationship
• Deciding to leave an abusive relationship
• Wanting to feel stronger and release the relationship stress
• Getting back into running and how it made her feel better
• Getting back into the gym and how it helped her mental health
• Deciding to try an obstacle course race
• Dealing with injury and needing to rehab after 3 surgeries
• Getting into bike riding
• Deciding to ride 20 miles to the beach and back
• Feeling the rewards after doing something hard
• Deciding to ride a 100 miles
• Being inspired by the Race Across America
• The self confidence piece
• Being attracted to challenge
• Gaining new knowledge about cycling
• Hosting 2 podcasts :-
• Podcast - Unrelenting Humans
• Podcast - Black with Endurance
• Joining Major Taylor Cycling Club, Los Angles
• Riding from San Francisco to Los Angles
• Wanting to do more business with women
• Tripe Crown Adventures - where the name came from (the California triple crown, riding 3 double centuries in a year)
• Adventure Femmes
• Hosting her first event in Hawaii
• Honolulu Century Ride
• Lanikai Pillbox Hike
• New event happening in 2026
• Training….
• Working with different mentors
• How many bikes…
• Making the decision to move to Hawaii
• Dealing with the heat in Hawaii
• Bucket list races
• Being in a place where she knows what she's capable of and want she can accomplish
• Wanting to create her own challenges
• Wanting to create more than be apart of other people races and challenges
• Her love for road cycling
• Travelling in Europe
• Bike packing adventures?
• Lael Wilcox
• Jenny Graham
• Lael Rallies
• How to connect with Lani
• Final words of advice for women who want to get into cycling and go on more adventures
• Stay curious, fail big and don't wait for anyone else
• Don't be afraid to make your own way—do what you feel is right for you.

Social Media

Instagram

@lanitheadventurer @triplecrownadventures @adventurefemmes

From a council estate on the Isle of Wight to conquering some of Europe's toughest mountain ultras, Charlotte Fisher's journey is nothing short of extraordinary. Less than three years ago, she had never run competitively. Today, she's a full-time ultra runner chasing elite races like UTMB and Western States 100, proving that it's never too late to find your path.

In this episode, Charlotte shares how a charity ultra challenge sparked her running journey, the lessons learned from 50km races to brutal 100-mile mountain ultras, and how running transformed her mindset, confidence, and life. She opens up about the highs, the lows, and the mental toughness required to push through physical limits — from hospitalised near-sepsis to standing on podiums in Europe's toughest races.

Whether you're a seasoned runner, an aspiring adventurer, or someone searching for purpose, Charlotte's story is a powerful reminder that mountains, miles, and mindset can transform your life.

What you'll hear in this episode:

• How Charlotte went from zero running experience to winning her first ultra
• Lessons learned from extreme races and mountain ultras
• Mental toughness, mindset shifts, and life transformation through running
• Training, fueling, and recovery strategies for endurance athletes
• Why adventure, self-discovery, and community make ultra running so addictive

New episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast drop every Tuesday at 7 AM (UK time)! Make sure to subscribe so you never miss the inspiring journeys and incredible stories of tough women pushing boundaries.

Do you want to support the Tough Girl Mission to increase the amount of female role models in the media in the world of adventure and physical challenges? Support via Patreon! Join me in making a difference by signing up here: www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast.

Your support makes a difference. Thank you x

Show notes

Who is Charlotte?

• From the Isle of Wight, UK – where she now lives, works, and trains
• Runs her own dog-walking business
• On a mission to become a full-time professional ultra runner
• Began running less than 3 years ago, starting with a charity ultra with no running experience

Growing Up on the Isle of Wight

• Childhood on a council estate in a rural village
• Outdoor play, but no sporting background
• No sailing or traditional Isle of Wight coastal sports experience
• School pushed her toward law due to academic ability, despite being naturally creative
• Initially chased a law career for financial security, not passion

Leaving Home & Early Adulthood

• Moved to London at 19 for university
• Pivoted from law to Geography degree after a crisis of direction
• Took a gap year to travel and try to "find her path"
• Felt lost through early 20s — unsure of what she should be doing with her life

How Running Entered Her Life

• Started running in Feb 2022, almost accidentally
• Signed up for a 106km Isle of Wight Ultra Challenge with zero running background
• Motivation: Raise money for the hospice that cared for her Aunt Jane, and raise awareness for bowel cancer
• First ever long run attempt: a 35km treadmill run to "qualify" for a guided 50km group run

From First 50km to Winning 106km – All Within 12 Weeks

• Completed first 50km guided run with a coach – extremely tough but gave her belief
• Didn't run again for 6 months afterwards!
• Hired a coach and trained for 12 weeks for the Isle of Wight 106km race
• Won the race on her ultra debut — a shock to herself and everyone else
• Immediately hooked on ultras — discovered a talent for running "abnormally far"

Rapid Rise to 100 Miles & First Big Reality Check

• Next challenge: 100-mile North Downs Way (Centurion) just 6 months into running
• Won the race — but it was a harsh lesson in mental toughness and fuelling
• Ran through Storm Anthony — torrential rain, strong winds and brutal conditions
• Severe stomach issues, under-fuelled, no proper nutrition strategy
• Learned the importance of fuelling, hydration, and race strategy

Becoming a Mountain Ultra Runner

• Stepped up to technical mountain ultras with Ultra Trail Snowdonia (UTS)
• Originally entered the 100-mile UTS (one of Europe's toughest races) with no mountain experience
• Only 50% finish rate – often as few as 8 female finishers
• Multiple recce weekends in Snowdonia to train – huge learning curve
• 10 days before UTS she became seriously ill & hospitalised with suspected sepsis
• Still ran the race, finished near the back — emotionally tough but transformative
• Returned the following year 13 hours faster, finishing 3rd and becoming the only woman to finish the UTS 100 twice

Mindset & Transformation Through Running

• Running gave her purpose, discipline, and identity
• Sober for almost 2 years — running helped her leave behind her old lifestyle
• Mental health, confidence, and self-belief have skyrocketed
• Found something where hard work = reward — a completely new feeling after years of feeling lost

Training, Fueling & Recovery – What's Changed?

Then vs now:

Early Ultras

Now as an Elite Athlete

No fuelling strategy

Structured carb-based fuelling plan

No gels, random aid-station food

Precise nutrition to avoid GI issues

Minimal recovery

Dedicated recovery shakes & sports therapy

Little mountain experience

Regular training trips to European mountains

• Works with a sports therapist weekly during heavy blocks
• Body now adapts well to 100-mile training & recovery
• Enjoys the solitude, adventure, and freedom of trail running

Favourite Races & Future Goals

Dream Races:

• UTMB – Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc (secured elite entry for 2026)
• Western States 100 (USA)

Confirmed Upcoming Races:

• UTMB Mallorca
• Arc of Attrition (January)
• Ultra Trail Snowdonia (May)
• UTMB Chamonix (August)

What Charlotte Loves About Ultra Running

• Adventure, exploration, and seeing the world on foot
• The community, the challenge, the self-discovery
• Prefers mountain ultras over flat/road or backyard ultras
• Loves the beauty, technicality, and grit of long-distance trail running

Where to Find Charlotte

Instagram: @charlottefisher (shares training, races, and inspiration)

Key Takeaways from Charlotte's Story

• You don't need a background in sport to become an athlete
• It's never too late to discover what you're meant to do
• You can start from zero — and still reach elite level with dedication
• Mountains, miles, and mindset can transform your life

Social Media

Instagram @charlottefisher

What happens when a dream is so big, so audacious, that you commit to it long before you have the skills, money, or confidence to make it happen?

For Paula Ralph, that dream was to cycle from Cape Town, South Africa to Nordkapp, Norway— a 12,290 km journey across 17 countries. What began as a Guinness World Record attempt soon transformed into something far more powerful: a test of courage, resilience, and self-belief.

Paula set off with one goal — to become the fastest woman to complete the route. But along the way, reality hit hard. Injuries, financial setbacks, fear, loneliness, and a traumatic collision with a truck in Zambia forced her to confront a heartbreaking truth: the record might no longer be possible. At this crossroads, Paula had a choice — stop, or redefine what success looked like.

She chose to keep going.

In this episode, Paula shares the raw truth behind the miles: the moments of doubt, the joy of human connection, the quiet sunrises that kept her pedalling, and the inner strength she discovered when everything else was stripped away. Her story is not just about endurance on a bike — it's about holding on to your "why" when the original plan falls apart.

If you've ever had a dream that felt too big, or found yourself at the edge of giving up, Paula's journey will remind you that progress isn't always measured in records — sometimes it's measured in courage, growth, and the refusal to quit.

This episode is for you if:

• You're chasing a big goal or adventure
• You've experienced setbacks or self-doubt
• You want inspiration to keep going when life gets tough
• You love stories of resilience, solo travel, and human grit

Ready to be inspired by what's possible when you simply refuse to stop? Hit play and let Paula take you on the road with her.

New episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast drop every Tuesday at 7 AM (UK time)! Make sure to subscribe so you never miss the inspiring journeys and incredible stories of tough women pushing boundaries.

Do you want to support the Tough Girl Mission to increase the amount of female role models in the media in the world of adventure and physical challenges? Support via Patreon! Join me in making a difference by signing up here: www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast.

Your support makes a difference. Thank you x

***

Show notes

• Who is Paula
• Doing the Long Ride - Cape Town to Nordkapp, Norway
• Being based in the UK
• Growing up in South Africa in the middle of nowhere
• Not being very adventurous
• Getting sporty in her adult years
• Getting married and putting on weight
• Deciding to join a gym to lose weight in
• Paying a Personal Trainer
• How her outlook on fitness changed
• Wanting to encourage other people to live a healthy life
• Getting into Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
• Becoming a sports therapist in 2009
• Going into retail after college
• Getting her personal training qualifications
• Advice and tips for women who aren't feeling comfortable in their body
• Encouraging women to find something they'd enjoy
• Getting the idea for the ride in 2020
• Being inspired by the longest walkable road in the world - from cape town to a tiny town in Russia
• Sharing her dream on Facebook
• Giving herself 4 years to plan and train
• Deciding to do a cycling camp in Italy
• Meeting her coach - Ian
• Deciding it was now or never and starting the ride
• The challenges of getting to the start line
• Getting divorced in 2012 and not having children
• The challenges of being self employed
• Struggling financially
• Creating a go fund me, to fund the challenge
• Wanting to start a foundation to help children in disadvantaged communities
• Needing to take a little diversion to get back on track
• The start line of the long ride
• Being driven to the start line at 5am
• Dealing with the nerves at the start
• Wanting to beat the record and complete the challenge in 72 days
• Not having a support crew anymore due to the sponsorship falling through
• Having an 8kg pack on her back while cycling
• Crossing the border into Botswana
• Her cycle route through Africa
• The anxiety heading up to the Ethiopia border
• Border crossing
• Heading through the Middle East and making it to Europe
• Mental resilience during the ride
• Reflecting on each day, how the day went and how she was feeling
• Why the only way is forward
• Smiling through the pain
• Being on the bike and where her focus was
• Getting hit by a truck in Zambia
• Needing to set the world record aside
• Feeling overwhelmed and not wanting to continue the ride - being completely done
• The end of the journey and knowing the end was insight
• Feeling proud of herself
• Going live on Instagram to thank everyone
• Adjusting back to life after the trip
• Leaving everything in the UAE
• Heading back to the UK after the ride
• Finding a contract job
• Trying to enjoy the downtime after the ride and struggling with not moving forward
• How to connect with Paula on social media
• Having her first account hacked on Instagram
• Fail to plan - plan to fail
• Why its all in the planning
• Be prepared to be adaptable
• Forge forward

Social Media

Instagram: @thelongridec2c.2

This week on the Tough Girl Podcast, I'm joined by Sharon Jessop — an ultra-endurance athlete, conservationist, keynote speaker, and serial entrepreneur whose running adventures are driven by a mission to protect rhinos in Africa.

From growing up barefoot in the South African bush to covering over 3,500 miles across some of Africa's wildest landscapes, Sharon has used her extraordinary endurance to raise awareness and funds for rhino conservation. Her journey is as inspiring as it is challenging, blending adventure with purpose.

In this episode, Sharon shares how she turned her love of running into a powerful tool for wildlife conservation, the highs and lows of multi-day expeditions, and the unforgettable encounters she's had along the way — from navigating tough terrain to seeing Africa's incredible wildlife up close.

We also explore her personal story, the losses that have shaped her, and how she finds motivation and meaning in every mile.

Whether you're drawn to ultra-running, conservation, or simply pursuing your passions with purpose, this episode is packed with inspiration and insight.

New episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast drop every Tuesday at 7 AM (UK time)! Make sure to subscribe so you never miss the inspiring journeys and incredible stories of tough women pushing boundaries.

Do you want to support the Tough Girl Mission to increase the amount of female role models in the media in the world of adventure and physical challenges? Support via Patreon! Join me in making a difference by signing up here: www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast.

Your support makes a difference. Thank you x

Show notes

• Who is Sharon
• Living in Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth), Eastern Cape of South Africa
• Her passion and obsession with rhinos
• Running for Rhinos
• Growing up barefoot in the brush
• Being 16 and her first experience seeing a rhino
• Deciding to study law….
• Hosting a television show
• Going back to conservation
• Making changes to her life at 48
• Always being a runner
• Discovering her ability to run long distances day after day
• Losing her dad and good friend to cancer in 2017
• Running from Cape Town to Port Elizabeth
• How one running expedition led to the next
• The mental side of running and why its super important
• Doing the running expedient in her mind, before she even starts
• Her motto - Failure is not an option
• Running multiple half marathons (2020) for rhino conservation
• What have I committed to?
• Having a really big WHY
• And why it makes it easier
• Not wanting to let the rhinos down
• Planning and logistics for the expeditions
• Having the accommodation and food sponsored
• Travelling with a small team
• 2022 adventure
• Recovery each day
• Not being a big supplement taker
• Believing in real food
• Trying to stay away from processed food
• Taking electrolytes
• The importance of hydration and fuelling your body
• The importance of sleep and its impact on recovery
• The magical moments while out running
• Being scared of ostriches and baboons
• The 5 animals - Lions, Elephants, Rhino, Buffalo and Leopard
• The adjustment back to 'normal' life
• Starting training for Comrades Marathon in 2026
• Row for rhinos
• Ted X talk in San Diego - The Race for Green Spaces and Wild Places
• Where do the funds raised go
• Self funding her running expeditions
• Future projects for the Rhinos
• The Great World Race - 7 Marathons on 7 Continents in 7 Days
• How to connect with Sharon and her projects
• Final words of advice
• Using affirmations and why we need more women doing these adventures
• Be Brave, Be Fearless, Be Bold.

Social Media

Website: www.sharonjessop.com

Instagram: @runwildwithsharon

Facebook: @sharon.jessop1

YouTube: @sharonjessop1

Meet Regine Goh, a national triathlete and endurance athlete from Singapore who has spent her life mastering the art of consistency, resilience, and performance.

From starting competitive swimming at just four years old to transitioning into triathlon, Regine has learned firsthand the power of showing up, pushing through plateaus, and enjoying the process every step of the way.

In this episode of the Tough Girl Podcast, Regine shares her journey of balancing elite-level training with a professional career, the mental and physical lessons she's learned along the way, and how the principles of endurance sports can help anyone sustain productivity, build confidence, and achieve ambitious goals.

Whether you're an aspiring athlete, a professional, or someone striving to be more consistent in your life, Regine's insights are a masterclass in resilience, focus, and long-term growth.

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New episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast drop every Tuesday at 7 AM (UK time)! Make sure to subscribe so you never miss the inspiring journeys and incredible stories of tough women pushing boundaries.

Do you want to support the Tough Girl Mission to increase the amount of female role models in the media in the world of adventure and physical challenges? Support via Patreon! Join me in making a difference by signing up here: www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast.

Your support makes a difference. Thank you x

Show notes

• Who is Regine
• Living in Singapore
• National athlete specialising in the sport of triathlon
• Starting off in the sport of swimming at 4 years old
• Really enjoying spending time in the water
• Knowing all the strokes at 8 years old and starting to do competitive swimming
• Being spotted by a swim coach
• Enjoying the grind of swimming and making new friends
• Doing a decade of hardcore competitive swimming
• Joining the Singapore Sports School (boarding school)
• Starting to plateau in swimming and making the transition to triathlon at 16
• Trying open water swimming
• Dealing with the plateau of not improving in her sport
• Having understanding coaches
• Starting to ask herself, why she was doing the sport
• Figuring out what her motivations where
• Figuring out her goals did not align with her core values
• Reflecting back on why she got into sport in the first place
• Deciding to take running a bit more seriously
• Why her cycling journey was a bit scary
• Getting into road cycling at 19
• Why it was a steep learning curve
• Wanting to prove everyone wrong and make it to the national team
• Making the national team for triathlon
• Getting burnt out in swimming chasing the goal of reaching the national team
• The importance of showing up every day and trying your best
• The mindset change when moving over to triathlon
• Getting some good mentors
• Enjoying the process at every step
• Gen Z perspective on mental health
• Zone 2 training, Periodisation, Progressive overload
• The importance of focusing on recovery
• Fuelling and eating the right foods
• Being here for the long game
• Sleep as a performance enhancing drug!
• Being a working professional and managing her training
• Doing morning and evening training sessions
• The importance of planning ahead to get your training sessions in
• Managing stress
• Control what you can control
• Working with a coach
• Empowering aspiring professionals to boost consistency and sustain productivity using the principles of endurance sports
• Consistency and it's importance
• The compounding effect of training
• Communication expectations
• Favourite moments from swimming and triathlon
• Her short term and long term goals
• Thinking about doing an ironman and returning to open water swimming
• Wanting to complete the English Channel Crossing
• The Oceans Seven in swimming
• The importance of having big, ambitious goals
• How to connect with Regine
• Final words of advice for women and girls to follow their passion in endurance sports
• Have fun and enjoy the process

Social Media

Instagram: @weezuine.tries

Facebook: Regine Goh (吴宣萱)

LinkedIn: Regine Goh

Anna Humphries is an adventurer, expedition leader, and founder of The Mountain Girl, whose life is dedicated to getting people outdoors and showing them what's possible when you push past your comfort zone.

A trained Mountain Leader, Scout Leader, and key member of the Bear Grylls Survival Academy team, Anna has designed and led survival programmes across the UK and around the world. Her work spans everything from logistics and programme development to standing on the frontlines with groups of young people, teaching them resilience and grit in the wild.

Adventure runs through her veins. She has hiked to Everest Base Camp, raced through the National Three Peaks Challenge multiple times — her fastest in under 20 hours — and was part of the first female team to Stand Up Paddle Board across the English Channel. Whether it's trail running, paddle boarding, or exploring high peaks, Anna thrives on testing her own limits while inspiring others to do the same.

Through The Mountain Girl, Anna champions accessibility in the outdoors, especially for women and young people. She believes in the power of nature to build confidence, connection, and courage.

Her mission is simple: to encourage more people to experience the wild, to discover their inner strength, and to prove to themselves that they are tougher than they think.

New episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast drop every Tuesday at 7 AM (UK time)! Make sure to subscribe so you never miss the inspiring journeys and incredible stories of tough women pushing boundaries.

Do you want to support the Tough Girl Mission to increase the amount of female role models in the media in the world of adventure and physical challenges? Support via Patreon! Join me in making a difference by signing up here: www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast.

Your support makes a difference. Thank you x

Show notes

• Who is Anna
• Founder of Mountain Girl
• Growing up close to the Malven Hills
• Being the role model that she needed when she was growing up
• Her early years
• Having an older sister and a twin sister
• Why the Malvens were an adventure playground for her
• Why her teenage years were tough
• Not being in love with herself
• Never feeling as though she fitted in
• Losing her way
• Role models
• Trying 27 jobs….
• Dealing with the doubt in her brain
• The stories she was telling herself
• Describing yourself in different adjectives
• Wanting to be strong and adventurous
• Starting to follow people who inspired her on instagram
• Needing to lose weight and feeling unhealthy
• Tapping into her inner child
• Taking 2 years to lose weight, and getting rid of the hate in her head
• Adventure - Love - Happiness
• I am - I am - I am
• Developing Mountain Girl
• Duke of Edinburgh Award
• Receiving her gold award
• Volunteering in Scouts
• Badge motivation!
• Starting to head off on her own adventures
• Getting her qualifications and upping her skills
• Becoming a Mountain Leader and how it opened up future opportunities
• Future events happening in 2026
• Visiting Mt. Everest Base Camp
• Setting herself big challenges
• Wanting to share her adventures
• Being adventure driven and not ego driven
• Paddle Boarding across the English Channel
• Becoming a SUP coach
• Overcoming her fear of heights
• Taking on the National Three Peaks Challenge
• The importance of rewards
• How you can connect with Anna
• Final words of advice
• Be the person you needed when you were growing up
• Start to explore social media see what it going on
• Find the inspiration and follow it
• BE IT!!!

Social Media

Website www.themountaingirl.co.uk

Instagram @themountaingirluk

Facebook: @themountaingirluk

X: Mountaingirl_UK

Bear Grylls Survival Academy - beargryllssurvivalacademy.com/team/anna-humphries

This week on the Tough Girl Podcast, I'm joined by Margie Goldsmith — an award-winning writer, journalist, and adventurer who proves that it's never too late to reinvent yourself or chase new challenges.

At 81 years old, Margie is still boxing, biking, climbing mountains, and living life with unstoppable energy. Her new book, Becoming a Badass: From Fearful to Fierce, shares her remarkable journey from a fearful young woman growing up in a dysfunctional family to a confident, adventurous storyteller who's visited 150 countries and built a life full of courage and curiosity.

In this episode, we talk about how Margie learned to turn fear into fuel, why Paris was the turning point in her life, how she's stayed strong and active through the decades, and why movement, recovery, and mindset are key to living fully at any age.

Tune in for a funny, fearless, and deeply inspiring conversation that celebrates the power of saying yes to life — no matter how old you are.

New episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast drop every Tuesday at 7 AM (UK time)! Make sure to subscribe so you never miss the inspiring journeys and incredible stories of tough women pushing boundaries.

Do you want to support the Tough Girl Mission to increase the amount of female role models in the media in the world of adventure and physical challenges? Support via Patreon! Join me in making a difference by signing up here: www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast.

Your support makes a difference. Thank you x

Show notes

• Who is Margie
• Living in New York City
• Writer, journalist, novelist, essayist
• Her new book: Becoming a Badass: From Fearful to Fierce
• Visiting 150 countries
• Her early years
• Coming from a dysfunctional family
• Being told she was not good enough
• Escaping by going into the woods
• Moving all the time and having to make new friends
• Getting into sports to make friends
• Proving that she was good enough, and not less than
• Being on her own from a young age
• Graduating from college and seeing a flyer to go to Europe for the summer
• Wanting to escape her mother
• Heading to Paris for the summer in 1965
• Deciding to stay in Paris and beginning her grown up life
• Her transition to Margie the Adventurer
• 81 years old - boxing, riding her bike, moving,
• Climbing Mt Etna at 80
• Moving from feeling fearful to fierce
• Why Paris was the turning point
• Not wanting children
• Meeting an older man, (27 years older…)
• Smoking back in the day
• Travelling in the 1960s
• Deciding where to go and what to do
• Starting her first novel (Screw Up)
• Working as an extra in films
• Meeting husband number 1!
• Pressure from family/society to get married?
• Learning to hold her own
• Meeting husband number 2!
• Living the high life and getting bored
• How going rafting on the Colorado river changed things
• Trying things that scared her
• Gaining new confidence
• Going to advance base camp at Mt. Everest
• Getting into marathon running!
• Trying a triathlon in Cuba
• Being diagnosed with a tumour in her pancreas
• Becoming a type 1 diabetic
• Getting through the operations
• Still feeling the feelings of fear
• Writing her book and why she loved it
• Deciding to give her body to science
• Being in her 80s and moving towards the end stages
• Doing everything she wants to do
• Living life day by day
• Keep doing the little adventures
• Talk yourself into things, not out of things
• Why you don't need to travel to find the fun and the adventure
• Keeping her goals inside her
• Doing everything she can to stay healthy and why it means physical movement
• The trends of fitness and how they have changed
• Move it or lose it
• Getting weekly massages
• Aim Health - Treatments
• The importance of recovery
• How to connect with Margie
• Going on to TikTok!
• Advice for people who do feel/have felt less than
• Find a mentor who you trust
• Listen to yourself and your gut
• Go find something to make you feel good

Social Media

Website: margiegoldsmith.com

Facebook: Masters Of The Harmonica

Book: Becoming a Badass: From Fearful to Fierce