The Allycast

Steve O'Connor

This is your call to action. This show is for anyone stuck in the grind, feeling the itch to break free — and for those already chasing discomfort through rucking, running, endurance challenges, and outdoor living. We talk mindset, training, health, and how to live a life that’s less ordinary. If you’ve ever thought, “There’s more in me than this,” — you’re in the right place. Hosted by Steve O’Connor, military veteran, coach, and all-round resilience junkie — this podcast will push you to get off the sofa, out the door, and back in charge of your life. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  1. Ultra X Nevada: Alone in the Desert, Rebuilding at 50

    2D AGO

    Ultra X Nevada: Alone in the Desert, Rebuilding at 50

    This episode isn’t just about a race. It’s about what happens when the structure disappears. Ultra X Nevada was five days, 220km, brutal heat, isolation, sand, and self-doubt. But the real test didn’t start in the desert — it started long before, navigating unemployment, identity loss, and that uncomfortable question many men face in their 50s: “Who am I now?” In this episode, I talk honestly about: What Ultra X Nevada was really like — physically and mentallyBeing alone in the desert with nowhere to hideLosing work, routine, and professional identityThe mental drift that comes when you no longer know where you fitWhy endurance events become anchors during periods of changeWhat rebuilding looks like when you strip life back to basicsWhy comfort is often the enemy of growthThis isn’t a highlight reel. It’s a debrief — on endurance, transition, and learning how to go again when life doesn’t look like the plan. If you’re navigating change, burnout, unemployment, or that mid-life “what now?” moment — this one’s for you. 🔗 The Comeback AppIf this episode resonates and you want structure, discipline, and momentum again, check out The Comeback App — built for men rebuilding physical and mental resilience during periods of change. 👉 https://the-comeback-app.lovable.app 🎧 Subscribe, share, and send this to someone who needs to hear it. Sometimes knowing you’re not alone is the first step back. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1h 27m
  2. Finding Career Clarity in the Outdoors with Sarah Lister

    07/08/2025

    Finding Career Clarity in the Outdoors with Sarah Lister

    Episode Summary: In this inspiring episode, Claire and Steve sit down with Sarah Lister — a career coach who helps people reconnect with purpose and possibility through coaching and time in nature. As a qualified Hill and Moorland Leader (HML) and host of the Wild About Kinder podcast, Sarah brings a unique blend of coaching wisdom, grounded outdoor experience, and deep reflection on the paths we choose in life. We talk career changes, finding stillness in nature, the power of slow progress, and how the hills can mirror our personal growth. Whether you're stuck at a career crossroads or simply craving deeper connection with your own direction, this one’s for you. In This Episode: Sarah’s journey from office life to outdoor leadershipWhat she’s learned from guiding in the hillsThe origins and vision behind Wild About KinderUsing nature as a mirror for personal developmentHow coaching clients find clarity through slowness and spaceLessons from her own career transitionsThe value of not always having the answersWhy more people should trust their gut — and go for a walkAbout Sarah Lister: Sarah is a qualified career coach, certified Hill and Moorland Leader, and the voice behind Wild About Kinder — a podcast exploring the magic of walking, wildness, and wonder. Her coaching practice blends the structure of personal development with the freedom and challenge of the outdoors. Connect with Sarah: Website:https://www.abouttheadventure.com/Instagram: about.the.adventurePodcast: Wild About Kinder (available on Spotify/Apple)Follow The Long Haul Podcast: Instagram:'@thelonghaulpdcstYouTube: [@tlhpdcstSubscribe and review on Spotify & Apple Podcasts👣 Get outside. Get clear. And keep going — even when the climb gets steep. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1h 2m
  3. Career Reinvention at 58: From Retirement to Podiatry Student – Andy Steel’s Comeback Story

    06/20/2025

    Career Reinvention at 58: From Retirement to Podiatry Student – Andy Steel’s Comeback Story

    In this inspiring episode of The Long Haul Podcast, We sit down with Andy Steel – a man who flipped the script at 58. After retiring from a successful career, Andy didn’t slow down. He went back to university to become a podiatrist. Yep, you read that right. We talk about what drives someone to pursue a new purpose later in life, the challenges of being a mature student surrounded by Gen Z, and why following curiosity might be the ultimate act of self-leadership. If you’re in your 40s, 50s or beyond and wondering if it’s too late to change direction – this episode is your wake-up call. It’s never too late to reinvent yourself. 🔑 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why Andy decided to go back to university at 58 The mindset needed to start again after retirement How he chose podiatry – and why it’s more interesting than you think The emotional and practical challenges of retraining later in life Advice for anyone thinking about a midlife career change The Long Haul Podcast is supported by Pilgrim Journey: Pilgrim has an outstanding range of Performance backpacks, and clothing they stand for those who push beyond comfort, who embrace risk with open arms and who seek out the paths less travelled. We empower you to conquer the journeys that matter most – because in the end, it’s not where you’re going, but how you get there that defines you. TLH podcast also supports the Pilgrim bandits charity and the Army Cadet Charitable Trust Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    59 min
5
out of 5
9 Ratings

About

This is your call to action. This show is for anyone stuck in the grind, feeling the itch to break free — and for those already chasing discomfort through rucking, running, endurance challenges, and outdoor living. We talk mindset, training, health, and how to live a life that’s less ordinary. If you’ve ever thought, “There’s more in me than this,” — you’re in the right place. Hosted by Steve O’Connor, military veteran, coach, and all-round resilience junkie — this podcast will push you to get off the sofa, out the door, and back in charge of your life. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.