The ZenRUN Podcast

Michelle Frost
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  • Mental Health
  • Updated weekly

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

  1. 1 day ago

    Episode 656 - ZenRUN Moment 6: notice when your body settles

    Have you ever noticed that many runs start out feeling a bit… awkward? Your legs feel heavy. Your breathing feels off. Your body isn’t quite sure what’s happening. And sometimes your brain is already suggesting that maybe today isn’t the day for a run at all. This week’s ZenRUN Moment is about noticing something that happens on almost every run: the moment your body settles. That point where your stride starts to feel smoother, your breathing finds a rhythm, and running begins to feel more natural. It’s often subtle, but once you start looking for it, you’ll realise it’s there more often than you think. The interesting thing is that many runners make decisions about a run before they’ve even given themselves time to arrive. We judge the first few minutes and assume the whole run will feel the same. But running doesn’t always work that way. Sometimes the body simply needs a little time to warm up, loosen up, and find its groove. On your next run, see if you can notice that transition. Don’t force it and don’t chase it. Just pay attention. You might discover that an uncomfortable beginning is simply part of the journey, not a sign that the run is going badly. Small moments of awareness like this can completely change the way running feels. 💛 Want your running (and your headspace) to feel a little lighter? If you enjoyed this ZenRUN Moment, you might love The Running Reset - a simple bundle of guided runs and tools designed to help you clear your mind, reset your rhythm, and fall back in love with running. 👉 https://www.zenrun.app/courses/the-running-reset A couple of small favours 1️⃣ If you’re enjoying the podcast, a quick follow, like, or review helps more runners discover it. 2️⃣ Got a running story - or know someone we should chat with? I’d love to hear from you. Find me on Facebook or Instagram @ZenRUN.club or email hello@zenrun.club

    3 min

  2. 2 days ago

    Episode 655 - MFYU Mini Series - Paul Pratt’s Melbourne Frontyard Ultra Journey - 34 Yards, Charlie’s Big Moment and the Bigger Story

    Welcome to the next episode in the 2026 Melbourne Frontyard Ultra Mini-Series on the ZenRUN Podcast. This series follows a handful of athletes through their actual Melbourne Frontyard Ultra journey - not just the neat result at the end, but the little check-ins along the way. The early excitement. The crew moments. The emotional wobbles. The rain, the snacks, the tired conversations, and the honest wrap-up when their race is done. In this episode, we’re following the wonderful Paul Pratt. And this one is a little different. Paul came into Melbourne Frontyard Ultra with a huge love for the backyard format, a previous best of 40 yards, a big running community around him, and his son Charlie lining up to run some yards too. Paul grew up in West Gippsland in a sporting family, playing footy, cricket and tennis. Sport was just what you did. Running, at that stage, was simply part of playing games and chasing people around. Life then took Paul through accounting, business ownership, family, community work, local council, and eventually into running during Covid, when he found it became a really useful outlet during a challenging time. And, as these things often go, one marathon became more marathons. Then 50Ks. Then 100Ks. Then the question became: what’s next? Enter the wonderfully ridiculous world of Backyard and Frontyard Ultras. Paul loves this format because of the people. The chatting. The shared experience. The way age, speed, ability and goals don’t matter in quite the same way. Everyone starts each yard together, and everyone gets to chase their own version of a big day. He was also the local person behind bringing Wild Dog Backyard Ultra to life, so this format clearly means a lot to him. At Melbourne Frontyard Ultra, Paul started the event after a pretty full-on 24 hours. There was life stuff, a car-versus-mailbox moment, and that feeling of having “just a day” before even getting to the start line. But once he settled in, the event started to work its magic. He ran early yards with his son Charlie, chatted with people, enjoyed the beautiful course, and was part of the big early-event buzz where it all feels a bit like a party. Or as Paul put it - a rave party for the first day, before it becomes a battle of attrition. And that’s pretty accurate, really. Paul made it through 34 yards and started yard 35, but by then he already knew he was done. Physically, he felt like there may have been more there. Mentally and emotionally, he was spent. And that’s what makes this episode so good. Because in the wrap-up, recorded a couple of weeks later, Paul speaks really honestly about what happened when life, family, business, responsibility, boredom, mental fatigue, and the event itself all started pulling at him at once. He talks about the difference between being physically capable and being mentally ready. He talks about struggling to stay present. He talks about the guilt that can come with taking time away from family for big events. He talks about high achievers trying to be everything, everywhere, all at once. And he talks about how, sometimes, an event gives you something completely different from what you thought you came for. Because while Paul’s personal race didn’t unfold exactly the way he hoped, one of the most beautiful parts of the weekend was watching his 12-year-old son Charlie run 9 yards - around 60 kilometres. Charlie ran through to 1am, set a huge personal milestone, inspired a lot of people, and gave Paul a completely different reason to look back on the event with pride. And honestly, that’s pretty special. This episode is about running, yes. But it’s also about family, perspective, expectations, community, disappointment, pride, and remembering that sometimes the biggest story at an event is not the number beside your own name. Sometimes it’s the person beside you. Why You’ll Love This Episode Paul shares openly about sport, business, family, community and running You’ll hear how running became an outlet during Covid Paul talks about his love of Backyard and Frontyard Ultras We talk about Wild Dog Backyard Ultra and Paul’s role in helping bring it to life There’s a very honest look at the mental side of ultra-running Paul reflects on why he stopped, even though he felt physically okay His son Charlie’s 9-yard, 60K effort becomes one of the most beautiful parts of the story It’s a great reminder that an event can still be meaningful, even when it doesn’t go to plan A Few Favourite Themes It’s not just physical Paul talks openly about the fact that Backyard and Frontyard Ultras are so much more than having legs that can keep moving. The mental side is huge. Sometimes life comes with you Even when you’re in a race, real life doesn’t always politely stay at home. Paul’s wrap-up is such a good reflection on trying to stay present when other responsibilities are still tugging at you. Family can be your greatest motivator - and your greatest handbrake This idea comes through beautifully. Paul loves the events, but he also feels the pull of home, family, and the wider calendar. The event can give you a different gift Paul may have wanted more from his own race, but watching Charlie run 9 yards became something much bigger than expected. Community is the magic From Wild Dog crew to other runners, mates, family, Rachael and Nagiska pushing to 30 yards, and Charlie inspiring people back home - this episode is full of community. Go deep, not wide Paul’s reflection on trying to do too many things at a high level is something many busy runners will relate to. Listen In For Paul growing up in West Gippsland Footy, cricket, tennis and sport being “what you did” Moving to Melbourne and studying accounting Starting and later selling his accounting business His education-focused mortgage broking business Becoming involved in local council Finding running during Covid Making up his own marathon challenge when travel was off the table How marathons turned into ultras Why Paul loves the Backyard/Frontyard format Bringing Wild Dog Backyard Ultra to life Yard 5 and the mailbox incident Running early yards with Charlie The “rave party then battle of attrition” description Yard 23, rain, puddles, wet feet and still-good spirits Why Paul started yard 35 but knew he was done The mental pull of family, work, responsibility and boredom Charlie running 9 yards and around 60 kilometres Paul’s pride in Charlie Rachael and Nagiska doubling their PBs The post-event “never again” to “maybe another one” rollercoaster Why Paul wants running to stay fun, not become a chore Mentioned In This Episode Melbourne Frontyard Ultra Ultra Series Australia Shaun Kaesler Wild Dog Backyard Ultra MVP Reds No Time To Die Charlie Pratt Rachael Johnstone Nagiska Mayes Jack Stumpy Danny Tim from Better By Next Week Jason Rantall Joel Sexton Backyard Ultra / Frontyard Ultra format Melbourne Frontyard Ultra Melbourne Frontyard Ultra Event Website - https://www.melbournefyu.com.au/ Interested in the 2027 Melbourne Frontyard Ultra? Entries are open now for Saturday 1 May 2027 - and if 2026 is anything to go by, it’s going to be bigger, better, and likely to sell out. Enter here: https://www.melbournefyu.com.au/ 💛 Want your running to feel lighter again? If this conversation resonated, you might enjoy The Running Reset - a simple bundle of guided runs and practical tools to help you reset your rhythm, clear your head, and reconnect with why you run. 👉 https://www.zenrun.app/courses/the-running-reset 🙏 A couple of big favours 1️⃣ If you enjoyed this episode, please follow, rate, and review the podcast - it helps more runners discover these conversations. 2️⃣ I’m always looking for runners to interview. If you or someone you know has a running story to share, I’d love to hear from you. Find me on Facebook or Instagram @ZenRUN.club or email hello@zenrun.club 🎧 Don’t miss an episode Subscribe to the ZenRUN Podcast in your favourite podcast app so new conversations land straight in your ears.

    52 min

  3. 3 days ago

    Episode 654 - Jason Rantall - Running, Recovery, Backyard Ultras and Finding Better Mental Health

    In this episode of the ZenRUN Podcast, I chat with the wonderful Jason Rantall - runner, dad, mental health advocate, Better Mental founder, and a very familiar face in the Melbourne Frontyard Ultra world. And honestly, this one is powerful. Jason’s story starts in Gisborne, growing up in a small country town where football was everything, everyone knew everyone, and sport was a big part of life. As a kid, Jason loved running without even really realising it. He was fast, he loved footy, and movement gave him a kind of freedom. But behind the outside version of Jason, there was a lot going on. Jason speaks very openly about growing up with mental health struggles, being diagnosed with bipolar, OCD, psychotic episodes, anxiety and depression in his 20s, and then living for many years with alcohol addiction. This is not one of those neat little “I changed my life and everything was instantly wonderful” stories. Jason is very clear about that. Change was hard. Recovery was hard. Rebuilding his marriage, his health, his family life and his sense of self was hard. But running became the catalyst. On 31 January 2017, Jason quit smoking. On 1 February 2017, he started running. And that first run? A hilly 2.3km loop in 40-degree heat, while overweight, unwell, and wearing work shorts and Dunlops. As you do. Jason came home looking so wrecked his wife Kerry nearly called an ambulance - but something had shifted. He kept going. Since then, running has helped Jason rebuild his life from the inside out. He has now been smoke-free for more than nine years and alcohol-free for eight years. We talk about how running started as something that wasn’t necessarily healthy - almost another addiction - and how over time it became something much deeper. A way to be with himself. A way to practise presence. A way to build awareness. A way to stop running away from pain and start moving through life differently. Jason also shares the work he and Kerry now do through Better Mental, their registered charity focused on mental health, addiction, connection and community. What began as a small monthly catch-up has grown into a real community hub, with connection groups, barbecues, education, lived experience conversations and support. And of course, we talk about running. A lot. Jason has created some pretty huge challenges of his own, including running from where he was born to where he lives now, covering 422km over 10 days, and running 801km around a track to raise awareness for lives lost to suicide in Victoria. Then Paul Pratt finally convinced him to try a Backyard Ultra. And that changed things again. Jason talks about why he fell in love with the format - not just because of the running, but because of the community, the connection, the crew, the tents, the hourly reset, and the way people help each other keep going. Which is exactly why the Melbourne Frontyard Ultra world suits him so beautifully. In this episode, we chat about: Growing up in Gisborne and being raised by a young single mum Football, small town sport, and finding freedom through movement Living with mental health challenges from a young age Alcohol addiction, shame, guilt and the difficulty of change The moment Jason decided to quit smoking and start running Why running saved his life - but not in a neat or simple way Learning to turn running from avoidance into awareness Better Mental and the community work Jason and Kerry now do Why connection, movement and community matter so much Jason’s own huge running challenges and charity runs Being pulled into Backyard Ultra by Paul Pratt Why the Backyard and Frontyard Ultra format feels so special Kids watching what we do, not what we say Why Jason doesn’t fully identify as “a runner” Running for joy, not pressure Training with Crazy Running Man and discovering speed again The importance of presence, process and taking the next step Jason’s tips and takeaways Jason shares so many simple but powerful ideas in this episode, including: Start small. Don’t overwhelm yourself by trying to change everything at once. Just put your runners on. Walk out the door. Start there. Consistency beats intensity. Jason talks about how big bursts of motivation usually disappear after a few weeks, but small consistent actions can grow into real habits. Don’t wait for rock bottom. Change can start before everything falls apart. You don’t have to wait until life forces you into a corner. Be careful who you spend time with. Jason believes the people around you matter. If you spend time with people moving in a healthy direction, it becomes easier to move that way too. Stay in the process. Instead of getting overwhelmed by the finish line, the distance, or the big goal, come back to the next step. Then the next one. Then the next one. Be yourself. Jason’s message is simple and beautiful: be you, do your best, and don’t try to be a poor imitation of someone else. Pass the Baton This episode includes our new Pass the Baton segment, where each guest answers a question from the previous guest - and then leaves a question for the next one. This time, Jason answered Paul Pratt’s question: If money and time were not a barrier, what’s one event you would love to enter? Jason’s answer is very Jason - big, meaningful, and tied to something much bigger than just running. He also left a question for my next guest... ...but you’ll need to listen to the episode to hear what it was. Links Better Mental website: www.bettermental.com.au Facebook: Better Mental Australia Incorporated Better Mental Together Instagram: bettermental__australia__inc Jason’s running Instagram: Jason__Storwart__Rantall 💛 Want your running to feel lighter again? If this conversation resonated, you might enjoy The Running Reset - a simple bundle of guided runs and practical tools to help you reset your rhythm, clear your head, and reconnect with why you run. 👉 Explore The Running Reset 🙏 A couple of big favours If you enjoyed this episode, please follow, rate, and review the podcast - it helps more runners discover these conversations. I’m always looking for runners to interview. If you, or someone you know, has a running story to share, I’d love to hear from you. Find me on Facebook or Instagram @ZenRUN.club or email hello@zenrun.club 🎧 Don’t miss an episode Subscribe to the ZenRUN Podcast in your favourite podcast app so new conversations land straight in your ears.

    1hr 44min

  4. 1 Jul

    Episode 653 - ZenRUN Moment 5: Match your breath to your stride

    Have you ever noticed how your breathing and your running seem to have a conversation with each other? This week’s ZenRUN Moment is all about bringing awareness to the relationship between your breath and your stride. It’s a simple practice that can help you feel more connected, relaxed, and present during your run. As you head out, try matching your breathing to your footsteps for a few minutes. You might breathe in for three steps and out for three, or perhaps two steps in and two steps out feels more comfortable. There’s no perfect pattern and no right answer. The goal isn’t to control your breathing - it’s to become curious about it. Many runners find that when their breath and movement begin working together, the run feels smoother and more enjoyable. It creates a natural rhythm that gives your mind something gentle to focus on. Instead of worrying about pace, distance, or how much further you have to go, you can settle into the simple experience of breathing and moving. On your next run, spend a few minutes experimenting with different rhythms and notice what feels good. You might discover that the run feels calmer, more relaxed, and more enjoyable than expected. Small moments of awareness like this can completely change the way running feels. 💛 Want your running (and your headspace) to feel a little lighter? If you enjoyed this ZenRUN Moment, you might love The Running Reset - a simple bundle of guided runs and tools designed to help you clear your mind, reset your rhythm, and fall back in love with running. 👉 https://www.zenrun.app/courses/the-running-reset A couple of small favours 1️⃣ If you’re enjoying the podcast, a quick follow, like, or review helps more runners discover it. 2️⃣ Got a running story - or know someone we should chat with? I’d love to hear from you. Find me on Facebook or Instagram @ZenRUN.club or email hello@zenrun.club

    3 min

  5. 30 Jun

    Episode 652 - MFYU Mini Series - Rachael Johnstone’s Melbourne Frontyard Ultra Journey - 30 Yards, 200K and the Floor Was 24

    Welcome to the next episode in the 2026 Melbourne Frontyard Ultra Mini-Series on the ZenRUN Podcast. This series follows a handful of athletes through their actual Melbourne Frontyard Ultra journey - not just the polished finish-line version, but the little check-ins along the way. The early excitement. The tired bits. The crew moments. The food updates. The emotional wobbles. The “why are my toes doing this?” moments. And eventually, the wrap-up chat when their race is done. In this episode, we’re following the wonderful Rachael Johnstone. And this one is full of heart. Rachael came into Melbourne Frontyard Ultra with her sister-in-law and running buddy Nagiska, and the two of them had such a beautiful team energy from the very beginning. Rachael’s running story is still relatively new, but it already has a lot packed into it. She grew up sporty, then stepped away from sport during those teenage years when suddenly it seemed much cooler not to join in. She left school young, became a hairdresser, built a life and a family, and later found movement again after having her first son, when postnatal depression made walking, gym and movement feel like something that was just for her. Running became part of her life again during years of IVF. At first, it was 1K or 3K before work. Then, after watching Nagiska and her brother Jack take on bigger and bigger challenges, Rachael wanted a piece of it too. And from there, things escalated. As they do. Her first half-marathon was with a pram. Her first marathon, first 50K and first 100K were all done on her own, outside of events, because the idea of failing in front of people felt too big. Which is one of the things I loved about this conversation. Rachael talks honestly about social anxiety, pressure, fear of failure, and the shift that happens when you realise the running community is not waiting to judge you. They’re waiting to cheer you on. At Melbourne Frontyard Ultra, Rachael came in with one clear minimum goal. Twenty-four hours. Or, as she put it, 24 was the floor. Not the ceiling. The floor. She wanted that 100-mile milestone, but she also wanted to leave everything out there and be able to say she was proud of herself at the end. And she did exactly that. Rachael went on to reach 30 yards - 200 kilometres - through sore feet, emotional moments, changing rhythms with Nagiska, running with Paul Pratt, following Margie Hadley’s feet through the night, smiling through the village, and leaning heavily on an amazing crew led by her husband Pete. Her feet were the big battle. In her words, it felt like every toenail was going to explode. Which is a delightful image, obviously. But she kept going. She got to 24. Then she got to 30. And then she slept in the car, woke up at 4:30am, and somehow still sat down with me for a wrap-up chat. This episode is about running, yes. But it’s also about motherhood, mental health, confidence, courage, friendship, support, and what happens when you stop hiding your goals just in case you fail. It’s raw, funny, honest, emotional, and full of the kind of everyday-runner courage that makes these stories so special. Why You’ll Love This Episode Rachael shares honestly about motherhood, IVF, postnatal depression and finding movement again We talk about social anxiety, fear of failure, and learning to go all in You’ll hear how she went from short runs before work to huge ultra goals Her first half-marathon was with a pram, which deserves its own round of applause Rachael’s connection with Nagiska is such a lovely part of the story She reaches 24 yards, her “floor”, then keeps going to 30 yards and 200K There is foot pain, fake smiling, white noise, dreams, hot chips and a whole lot of heart It’s a beautiful reminder that you don’t have to feel fearless to do something big A Few Favourite Themes Twenty-four was the floor Rachael came in wanting 24 hours as her minimum. Reaching that 100-mile mark was huge, but she still had more in her. Running can be something just for you For Rachael, movement came back into her life during really challenging seasons - first after postnatal depression, and later through IVF. You don’t have to hide your goals Rachael talks about doing big distances on her own because she didn’t want the pressure of failing publicly. This event showed the other side - that people are there to support you, not judge you. Community changes everything The clapping through the village, the conversations out on course, the crew, the other runners - all of it mattered. Sometimes the body is fine… except for the feet Rachael’s breathing was good, her legs were tired but okay, but her feet were absolutely not enjoying themselves. Exploding toenails, anyone? Crews are absolute gold Pete, Rachael’s dad, and the whole crew were such a huge part of the story. Clothes, food, leg massages, problem-solving, emotional support - all of it. Listen In For Rachael growing up in Coorow Leaving school young and becoming a hairdresser Finding movement again after postnatal depression Running through years of IVF Her first half-marathon with a pram Doing her first marathon, 50K and 100K outside of events Running with Nagiska and Jack Why the Backyard/Frontyard format feels so special The idea of every yard being a big red reset button Rachael’s goal of 24 hours as the floor Smiling through the village even when it’s partly fake Yard 24 and reaching the 100-mile milestone Yard 26 and the emotional wobble Trying to stay in the lap she was in Following Margie Hadley’s feet through the night Running with Paul Pratt late in the event Foot pain, toenail drama and why running slow hurt more Reaching 30 yards and 200 kilometres Sleeping in the car after finishing Hot chips and a proper meal after days of ultra snacks Why Rachael might just be back again Mentioned In This Episode Melbourne Frontyard Ultra Ultra Series Australia Shaun Kaesler Nagiska Mayes Jack Pete Margie Hadley Paul Pratt Wild Dog Backyard Ultra Leongatha Marathon Tarra-Bulga Speak Share Fun Run Phil Ball Clinic Better By Next Week Podcast Backyard Ultra / Frontyard Ultra format Melbourne Frontyard Ultra Melbourne Frontyard Ultra Event Website - https://www.melbournefyu.com.au/ Interested in the 2027 Melbourne Frontyard Ultra? Entries are open now for Saturday 1 May 2027 - and if 2026 is anything to go by, it’s going to be bigger, better, and likely to sell out. Enter here: https://www.melbournefyu.com.au/ 💛 Want your running to feel lighter again? If this conversation resonated, you might enjoy The Running Reset - a simple bundle of guided runs and practical tools to help you reset your rhythm, clear your head, and reconnect with why you run. 👉 https://www.zenrun.app/courses/the-running-reset 🙏 A couple of big favours 1️⃣ If you enjoyed this episode, please follow, rate, and review the podcast - it helps more runners discover these conversations. 2️⃣ I’m always looking for runners to interview. If you or someone you know has a running story to share, I’d love to hear from you. Find me on Facebook or Instagram @ZenRUN.club or email hello@zenrun.club 🎧 Don’t miss an episode Subscribe to the ZenRUN Podcast in your favourite podcast app so new conversations land straight in your ears.

    43 min

  6. 29 Jun

    Episode 651 - Paul Pratt - Running, Community, Family and Finding Your Own Way

    In this episode of the ZenRUN Podcast, I chat with the wonderful Paul Pratt. You might already recognise Paul from the Melbourne Frontyard Ultra mini-series, but this time we get to sit down properly and find out a little more about how Paul ticks. And honestly? There is a lot going on in the world of Paul Pratt. Paul grew up in Gippsland, in the tiny town of Buln Buln near Warragul, where everyone knew everyone, sport was part of life, and running laps around the school oval for a fundraiser was probably the closest thing to “training”. From footy, cricket, uni in Melbourne, accounting, starting his own business, raising three kids, becoming a local councillor, building community events, and somehow still finding time to run ridiculous distances - Paul’s story is full of energy, humour, honesty, and heart. We talk about how running really became a bigger part of his life after footy, especially during COVID, when his plan to run 10 marathons in 10 locations turned into something very different - but still deeply meaningful. Paul shares how running has helped him become a better parent, a better person, and a more present human. He talks about the power of movement, the magic of the ultra-running community, why Backyard Ultras are so special, and how running gives him space to think, reset, connect, and simply feel better. We also chat about: Growing up in a small country town Paul’s parents becoming known as Lolli Nan and Lollipop Footy, cricket and country sport culture Meeting his wife Cheryl Lee Building businesses and following curiosity Why financial literacy matters so much to him Becoming a local councillor Why community sport and open spaces matter COVID running adventures Running 100km around an athletics track for mental health His love of Backyard Ultras Creating the Wild Dog Backyard Ultra Family, parenting and setting an example Running without headphones Fitting running into a busy life Why discipline matters more than motivation Why you don’t need to feel like “a runner” before you start Paul’s running tips and little bits of wisdom Paul shares some really simple but powerful reminders in this episode: Start with movement. If running feels too much, just move. Go for a walk. Do something. Even 30 minutes can change your day. Don’t wait to feel motivated. Paul is big on discipline over motivation. He knows from experience that if he moves in the morning, he has a better day. Set yourself up the night before. Put your gear out. Put your phone or alarm near your running shoes. Make it easier to start. Give your run a time and place. Don’t just say, “I’ll run tomorrow.” Say, “I’m running at 4:30am for 30 minutes.” That small shift makes it much more likely to happen. Don’t miss twice. Life happens. You can miss one run. You can be flexible. But try not to let one missed session become a whole lost week. Ask what you can do. If you’re injured and can’t run, don’t just stop completely. Ask your physio or doctor, “What can I do?” There is usually something. Run your own race. Paul reminds us that you don’t need to compare yourself to anyone else. You don’t need to be a runner to start running. Pass the Baton This episode also introduces a brand new little segment on the ZenRUN Podcast called Pass the Baton. The idea is simple. Each podcast guest leaves a running-related question for the next guest - without knowing who that next guest will be. It’s a fun way to connect the conversations, pass a little curiosity forward, and see where each runner takes it. Paul’s question came from Simon Poli, who asked: “What’s the one food you wouldn’t share with someone, even if they were really struggling in an ultra?” You’ll need to listen to the episode to hear Paul’s answer - and to find out what question Paul passes on to the next guest. Why you’ll love this episode This is one of those conversations that feels like a walk-and-talk with a mate. Paul is funny, thoughtful, driven, community-minded, and refreshingly honest about what running gives him. It’s not just about races or times or big goals. It’s about being a better human. It’s about showing up. It’s about finding joy in hard things. And it’s about remembering that running can be something that helps us live better - not just run further. 💛 Want your running to feel lighter again? If this conversation resonated, you might enjoy The Running Reset - a simple bundle of guided runs and practical tools to help you reset your rhythm, clear your head, and reconnect with why you run. 👉 Find out more about The Running Reset 🙏 A couple of big favours If you enjoyed this episode, please follow, rate, and review the podcast - it helps more runners discover these conversations. I’m always looking for runners to interview. If you, or someone you know, has a running story to share, I’d love to hear from you. Find me on Facebook or Instagram at @ZenRUN.club or email hello@zenrun.club 🎧 Don’t miss an episode Subscribe to the ZenRUN Podcast in your favourite podcast app so new conversations land straight in your ears.

    1hr 32min

  7. 24 Jun

    Episode 650 - ZenRUN Moment 4: Look further ahead

    Where do you look when you run? If you’re like many runners, the answer is probably down. Down at the trail. Down at your feet. Down at your watch. And while there’s nothing wrong with that occasionally, it can sometimes make running feel smaller, tighter, and more effort-focused than it needs to be. This week’s ZenRUN Moment is a simple invitation to look further ahead. As you run, gently lift your gaze and take in more of the world around you. Notice the horizon, the trees, the next bend in the trail, or the sky stretching out above you. You don’t need to stare into the distance the entire run - just allow your visual field to open up from time to time. Many runners find that when they do this, their posture improves naturally. Their shoulders relax. Their breathing feels easier. Mentally, things can soften too. Instead of being trapped inside the effort of the run, you become part of the environment you’re moving through. On your next run, try lifting your gaze every few minutes and see what happens. You might discover that the run feels a little lighter, a little calmer, and a lot more enjoyable. Small moments of awareness like this can completely change the way running feels. 💛 Want your running (and your headspace) to feel a little lighter? If you enjoyed this ZenRUN Moment, you might love The Running Reset - a simple bundle of guided runs and tools designed to help you clear your mind, reset your rhythm, and fall back in love with running. 👉 https://www.zenrun.app/courses/the-running-reset A couple of small favours 1️⃣ If you’re enjoying the podcast, a quick follow, like, or review helps more runners discover it. 2️⃣ Got a running story - or know someone we should chat with? I’d love to hear from you. Find me on Facebook or Instagram @ZenRUN.club or email hello@zenrun.club

    3 min

  8. 23 Jun

    Episode 649 - MFYU Mini Series - Luke Slater’s Melbourne Frontyard Ultra Journey - 37 Yards, Team Della and the Second-Night Question

    Welcome to the next episode in the 2026 Melbourne Frontyard Ultra Mini-Series on the ZenRUN Podcast. This series follows a handful of athletes through their actual Melbourne Frontyard Ultra journey - not just the neat little result at the end, but the real story along the way. The pre-race nerves. The crew tent chaos. The tired check-ins. The food, the feet, the weather, the tiny naps, and eventually the wrap-up chat when their race is done. In this episode, we’re following the wonderful Luke Slater. Luke came into Melbourne Frontyard Ultra with a lot of Backyard Ultra experience, a big goal, and a very special crew - including his daughter Della, who was there from start to finish, sorting feet, managing gear, saving minutes, and somehow still packing down the marquee while we were doing the final interview. Honestly, Della deserves her own medal. Luke was born in Norwich in England, came to Australia originally to play soccer, studied law, became a criminal lawyer, and now lives in Shepparton with his four children. His running story is fairly recent, but very Luke. After years of soccer and boxing, he started running properly after seeing people doing the Shepparton GV Backyard Ultra and wondering why on earth they looked like they were on the edge of death. And instead of thinking, “That looks terrible, I’ll stay away from that,” he thought, “I’d like to have a go at that.” As you do. Since then, Backyard Ultras have become his main running love. Before Melbourne Frontyard Ultra, his best result was 52 yards, which had him sitting high on the Great Britain list and chasing a potential spot at the Backyard Ultra World Championships. So Luke came into this event hoping to go further, cement that position, and see what he could do. But, as always with this format, you can have the experience, the goal, the crew, the plan, the foot prep, the ginger, the no-milk strategy, and still eventually find yourself deep in the second night asking one of the great ultra-running questions: Why am I doing this? In this episode, you’ll hear Luke before the race, relaxed and getting his feet sorted while his family were gathered around the tent. You’ll hear him early on around yard 5 after a fast lap, a tumble, a wash, noodles, and some excellent work from Team Della. You’ll hear him around yard 20, sleepy but steady, adjusting to the new norm after around 130 kilometres and looking ahead to the challenge of the second night. And then you’ll hear him around yard 33, where the dizziness, tiredness, loneliness and second-night grind were starting to make things much harder - but he was still moving, still clear, and still surrounded by a great team. Luke eventually made it to 37 yards - nearly 250 kilometres - before the lack of sleep, dizziness, and the slow creep of “what on earth am I doing?” brought his race to an end. And in the wrap-up, he reflects beautifully on the whole experience: the suffering, the life lessons, the memories, the pressure of needing help from other people, the value of family, and what it meant to have Della crewing him so calmly and capably through it all. This episode is thoughtful, funny, honest, and full of that strange Backyard Ultra mix of practicality and philosophy. Because yes, it’s just running 6.7K loops around a park. But also, somehow, it’s never just that. Why You’ll Love This Episode You’ll hear Luke’s journey from soccer and boxing into Backyard Ultras Luke talks about chasing a place on the Great Britain Backyard Ultra team There’s a lovely father-daughter thread with Della crewing him through the event We talk blisters, feet, sleep, stomach issues, ginger, and avoiding milk You’ll hear how quickly the event changes once the second night arrives Luke shares honestly about dizziness, fatigue, loneliness, and questioning why we do these things It captures the strange beauty of suffering with purpose And yes - there is a lot of appreciation for Team Della A Few Favourite Themes The crew story matters Luke’s daughter Della was a huge part of this episode. Calm, capable, organised, and fully committed to helping him get back out one more time. Experience helps, but it doesn’t make it easy Luke had plenty of Backyard Ultra experience, but the format still found a way to test him. The second night is a different beast Around yard 33, things started getting much harder. Less sleep, more dizziness, more mental fog, and that feeling of being deep in the event with no easy way through except forward. Sometimes you question everything At one point Luke talks about seeing casual runners in the park looking like they’re having a great time while he’s wondering why he’s doing this to himself. Which feels very relatable, frankly. There is meaning in the suffering Luke reflects on how these events can teach us something about life - managing discomfort, dealing with hard moments, and keeping going when things are no longer fun or easy. Listen In For Luke being very politely corrected on the pronunciation of his own surname His four children helping in the tent before the event Della stepping into chief crew mode Growing up in Norwich and coming to Australia to play soccer Life as a criminal lawyer in Shepparton How watching a Backyard Ultra sparked his running obsession His 52-yard PB and Great Britain team goal Blister prevention and foot prep before the race Avoiding milk after previous stomach issues Yard 5: fast lap, dusty feet, noodles, a tumble, and feeling fresh again Yard 20: settling into the “new norm” after around 130K Yard 33: dizziness, fatigue, and the second-night grind Why Della brought the chair to the corral to save every possible minute Finishing 37 yards and nearly 250K The strange mental space of needing help from others Steak, Guinness, and not running for a week Whether Luke and Della might swap roles in the future Mentioned In This Episode Melbourne Frontyard Ultra Ultra Series Australia Shaun Kaesler Shepparton GV Backyard Ultra MVP Backyard Ultra World Championships Great Britain Backyard Ultra team Dead Cow Gully Mount Buffalo Melbourne Knights Shepparton Marathon Della, Scarlett, Sunny and Zendaya Troy Tim Kęprazak / Better By Next Week Melbourne Frontyard Ultra Melbourne Frontyard Ultra Event Website - https://www.melbournefyu.com.au/ Interested in the 2027 Melbourne Frontyard Ultra? Entries are open now for Saturday 1 May 2027 - and if 2026 is anything to go by, it’s going to be bigger, better, and likely to sell out. Enter here: https://www.melbournefyu.com.au/ 💛 Want your running to feel lighter again? If this conversation resonated, you might enjoy The Running Reset - a simple bundle of guided runs and practical tools to help you reset your rhythm, clear your head, and reconnect with why you run. 👉 https://www.zenrun.app/courses/the-running-reset 🙏 A couple of big favours 1️⃣ If you enjoyed this episode, please follow, rate, and review the podcast - it helps more runners discover these conversations. 2️⃣ I’m always looking for runners to interview. If you or someone you know has a running story to share, I’d love to hear from you. Find me on Facebook or Instagram @ZenRUN.club or email hello@zenrun.club 🎧 Don’t miss an episode Subscribe to the ZenRUN Podcast in your favourite podcast app so new conversations land straight in your ears.

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About

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

Information

  • Creator
    Michelle Frost
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    665
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2021 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    The ZenRUN Podcast

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