Her Pace

Sarah Goddard

Welcome to Her Pace - a show about female runners for female runners. Her Pace goes beyond, paces, race splits, and podium finishes. Instead, we pull back the curtain to get to know the women behind the incredible achievements. Through deep, inspiring conversations with amateur and elite runners alike, Her Pace explores how running builds resilience, sparks empowerment, and transforms the way women and girls experience their bodies. This isn't a tips-and-tricks running show. It’s a community and a space dedicated to helping women get inspired, find their strength, and dream big.

Episodes

  1. 21h ago

    "42 years old and still improving" - Balancing elite ultra running and motherhood | Nicole Paton #7

    In this episode, I’m joined by Nicole Paton—arguably Australia’s leading female ultra mountain runner, a self-coached athlete, and mum of two. We talk about the journey thats taken her from an Everest Base Camp trek to elite trail racing, and what it really looks like to pursue big goals alongside parenting, work, recovery, and the everyday realities of family life.Nicole shares openly about running through pregnancy after miscarriage loss, returning to racing after having children, and taking on CCC at UTMB just seven months postpartum while still breastfeeding her daughter. We also get into the less-discussed side of serious training for mums: the exhaustion, the mum guilt, and the trade-offs that come with trying to give your all to both sport and family.If you’re a runner, a mum, or someone figuring out how to make space for the things that matter to you, I think you’ll take a lot from this conversation. TIMESTAMPS 01:25 — Meet Nicole Paton and her standout racing season. 03:53 — Why Nicole races often and uses events as training. 07:50 — The Everest Base Camp trip that led her to trail running. 13:05 — Why Nicole self-coaches and keeps her training flexible. 16:00 — Running through pregnancy and navigating miscarriage loss anxiety. 20:06 — Returning to racing after becoming a mum. 22:47 — Preparing for a 100km race while breastfeeding. 25:07 — The logistics of feeding her daughter during the race. 30:25 — Going all-in after making the World Champs team. 34:00 — Balancing training, freelance work, and family life. 37:22 — Making running a non-negotiable priority. 39:40 — Raising kids who see their mum chase big goals. 41:49 — The fatigue and mum guilt that come with hard training blocks. 44:32 — Recovery, sleep, and looking after yourself. 46:49 — Racing in your forties and making the most of the opportunity. 48:29 — Mental strategies for getting through the toughest race moments. 52:20 — Listening to your body and avoiding overtraining. 53:58 — Nicole’s advice for mums who want to make time for running or something for themselves. Thanks so much for checking out this episode of Her Pace. Whether you're balancing motherhood or chasing your own running dreams, Nicole’s story offers valuable lessons on perseverance, passion, and self-belief that I think are relevant for all women. Connect with Nicole: Instagram Connect with the show: Her Pace Instagram Sarah's Instagram

  2. Jul 16

    "When I enjoy my training the most, I run the best" - Embracing Authenticity and Mental Resilience in Running | Charlotte #6

    In this episode, Charlotte shares her inspiring journey from team sports to marathon running, highlighting the importance of mental strength, community, and staying true to oneself. We explore her insights on the evolving running culture, managing setbacks, and maintaining health beyond performance. Key Topics: Charlotte's move to Australia and her experience of cultural adjustment and community integration.The transition from competitive team sports to solo endurance running and the role of community.How community groups and running with faster-paced athletes boosts confidence, enjoyment & performance. The mental strategies Charlotte uses to push through tough race moments, including positive self-talk.Reflections on her first marathon time of 2:46 and lessons learned from challenging races.The impact of social media, including Strava, on runners' mental health and authenticity.Supporting friends in ultra races through highs and lows. The importance of listening to your body's health signals, especially regarding iron and hormonal health.Advice for newcomers: avoid overtraining, stay authentic, and prioritise health over aesthetics.The cultural shifts in running's popularity and maintaining a grounded perspective. Timestamps: 00:00 - Charlotte's journey from Germany to Australia and her love for Sydney. 02:46 - How community running groups have changed her perspective and performance. 04:07 - The shift from team sports to solo endurance running and the role of community. 09:40 - Breaking 1:30 in the half marathon and consistent improvements. 10:58 - Preparing for her first marathon and lessons on pacing and enjoying the race. 12:54 - The magic of pacers and the Berlin marathon experience. 15:13 - Finding joy in race day and managing expectations after setbacks. 16:39 - Relationship with running before and after her first marathon. 18:30 - Building community and camaraderie in running. 20:03 - The humbling experience of her second marathon in Copenhagen. 22:13 - The mental resilience required during tough race moments. Self-talk tips on race day. 26:42 - Overcoming negative spirals and maintaining motivation. 28:53 - The influence of social media, comparison, and authenticity in running culture. 30:07 - The pitfalls of pressured training and the importance of listening to your body. 39:31 - Lessons from the Ballarat race and handling disappointment healthfully. 44:11 - Supporting friends in ultra events and lessons from extreme endurance. 50:32 - Charlotte’s current race plans, goals, and embracing the joy of running. 52:54 - The cultural evolution of running and advice for new runners. 60:34 - The critical importance of women's health, iron levels, and hormonal awareness. Connect with Charlotte: Instagram Connect with the show: Her PaceSarahs profile Note: This episode delves into mental resilience, cultural shifts in the running space, and health essentials for female runners. It's perfect for those looking for authenticity, practical insights, and motivation on their own running journeys.

  3. Jul 2

    "Why not go and see whats out there and see what the next challenge is?" - Ultra running, motherhood & resilience | Amanda Payne #5

    Welcome to episode 5, an inspiring chat with Amanda Payne on her incredible journey through ultra running, overcoming personal tragedies and injuries in her pursuit of her passion for endurance. Discover practical tips to inspire you to move, insights into Amanda's training and racing, and the mental resilience needed to push beyond limits — both on and off the trail. In this episode: Amanda's background in triathlon and transition to trail and ultra running.How her journey with twin boys and NICU experience shaped her resilience.The story behind her recent 100 km ultra [UTA Miler] and lessons learned from setbacks and race day challenges.The importance of mental strength, patience, and joy in endurance sports. Navigating injuries and knowing when to push and when to rest. Amanda's aspirations for future races like Cocodona 250 and UTMB.Advice for women, especially mothers, wanting to start or push further in ultrarunning.Content warning: This episode contains discussions about premature birth, birth trauma and child loss. I have includedcontent warning in the time stamps below. Please take care if this is not the right time for you to be listening to this content. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction: Amanda's trail running journey. 02:15 - Amanda's background in triathlon and transition to trail running.4:09 - Overcoming challenges as a twin mother and. NICU experiences. 08:51 – CONTENT WARNING Amanda's birth story.08:56 - Waters breaking at 24 weeks and the twins arriving 09:18 - Amanda shares Riley's health challenges and his passing09:43 - Lucas's long NICU stay and the challenges of caring for him during COVID 12:22 - Handling setbacks and injuries during races and training16:52 - Training on technical terrain and long-distance race prep23:03 - Race day stories: from hallucinations to emotional finishes.37:25 - Mental strategies for difficult moments on the trail.45:46 -The power of community, support, and perseverance.55:15 - Reflecting on race success versus the journey and experience.58:22 -Lessons learned about resilience and long-term health61:01 -Amanda’s future race plans and long-term goals65:35 - Advice for women and moms interested in ultra running67:00 -The never-ending adventure of ultra running and curiosity. Extra notes:Amanda emphasises listening to your body, the importance of community support, and finding joy in the process. Her story showcases resilience, the mindset for overcoming adversity, and the endless possibilities within ultra endurance sports. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced runner, I hope her story will inspire you to reach outside of your comfort zone and challenge yourself thoughtfully and meaningfully. Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/mountaineer/anti-cafe

  4. Jun 18

    Embracing vulnerability and learning to work with your mind | Simone Brick - #4

    In this episode, I was lucky enough to sit down with 4-time Australian trail running champion, Simone Brick. Simone shares her journey of mental health, physical challenges, and the power of vulnerability. Her incredible insights on sustainable training, learning to listen to your body, and the long-term mindset in running will inspire and motivate you to look to the future withconfidence. Key Topics: The response to Simone's recent deep dive into her mental health journey.An update of Simone's physical health journey: from battling the flu and gastritis to a diagnosis of POTS, Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, and other autoimmune conditions. How Simone navigates her unique physical limitations, emphasising strength training and adaptability in training. The importance of capacity building over goal-based obsession in running to sustain long-term performance. Rethinking the glorification of suffering and promoting sustainable, enjoyable training practices.The role of trust - listening to your body and trusting your intuition during racing and training.The significance of patience, consistency, and the long game in athletic development.Practical approaches for beginners to build a healthy, sustainable running routine. Timestamps: (0:00) - Opening and episode overview (1:30) - Vulnerability and mental health (6:16) - Therapy and ongoing mental health performance (10:54) - Physical health challenges and management (20:02) - Capacity building and training strategies (28:31) - Sustainable training practices (35:20) - Trusting your body and intuition (45:21) - Long term vision in training (57:21) - Final thoughts and how to get in contact with Simone Connect with Simone: Instagram Coaching with Simone Connect with the Show: Instagram Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/mountaineer/anti-cafe

  5. Jun 4

    "It's about community" - Marathoner, mum and mental strength | Rachel Williams - #1

    Sometimes, we chase speed and medals in running, but what if the real reward isn’t in your times at all? What if it’s the simple joy of lacing up and getting out there every day that truly creates a lasting impact? When injury or setbacks strike, many realise that running’s deeper value isn’t about the finish line, but about the day to day experience itself. In this first episodeof Her Pace, I was lucky enough to chat with 8x Marathoner and Mum, Rachel Williams and to hear her take on why loving the everyday run matters most. Rachel shares how her background in sport laid the foundation for her incredible performances today (3:05 pb) and how stepping away due to injury actually cemented the reason she loves running: the connection with nature, the camaraderie with friends, and the pure joy of those easy, mindful strides. It’s a reminder that sometimes, slowing down can lead to the greatest fulfilment, shifting our focus from goals to the journey. Key topics: The importance of non-time-based goals in running, running as a connection with nature and community, how to persevere through injury and setbacks, finding peace in the daily running routine. Time stamps: (00:41) Intro and Rachel’s early sportsbackground (01:01) Childhood athletic pursuits and netball (02:02) Transition to running at age 39 (03:14) Starting cross country and pole vaulting (05:53) Competitive spirit and early dedicationto sport (08:36) How community and encouragement shaped her journey (10:07) Running in her 30s and balancing family life (11:28) The moment she decided to start running during COVID (12:12) The impact of Strava on motivation (14:11) Managing race day nerves and mental strategies (15:01) Building up her running volume and progress (17:26) Joining coaching sessions and improving pace (18:46) Her first half marathon and progressing to marathon training (23:22) Transitioning from half to full marathon (25:07) Overcoming injury setbacks and physio support (27:00) The experience of her first marathon and physical challenges (28:46) Race day mentality: pacing and adapting (32:37) Handling unexpected race day events like menstrual issues (41:23) Insights into her recent Ballarat marathon experience (45:02) How mental toughness helps push through tough race moments (51:05) What fuels her passion for running (52:29) The story behind Run DCT and community building (54:40) Perspectives on women in sport and gender equity (56:51) Celebrating women’s achievements likeRachel Entricken’s record (57:54) Advice to her younger self: never quit on passion (58:25) Reflections on patience and body awareness in running (59:16) Upcoming goals: Gold Coast Half, SydneyMarathon, World Championships (60:40) Follow Rachel’s journey on Instagram@Run_with_Rach_ Keep up with Rachel: http://www.instagram.com/run_with_rach_ Keep up with the show: http://www.instagram.com/herpacepodcast Your running journey is uniquely yours—patience, consistency, and community are your best allies. Never underestimate the power of mental resilience and listening to your body for long-term success. Thanks for listening! Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/mountaineer/anti-cafe

  6. Jun 4

    Endurance running, fuelling and how letting go of time based goals might help you find more joy | Nicole Miller - #3

    The inspiring woman in episode 3 is Ultra runner and sports dietician, Nicole Miller. Sitting down with Nicole was incredibly fun and her sunny approach to training for ultras is something I think we could all use more of. Nicole discusses her accidental start to ultras (signing up to her first 100km before having run even a half marathon!), the joy she found in her first 100km ultra at Blackall100 and takes us through her podium finish at Buffalo Stampede Grand Slam. This episode isn’t just about race tactics—Nicole’s journey is a masterclass in building confidence through pushing yourself outside of your comfort zone. She explains why loving your training and celebrating every PB—big or small—creates the sustainable, joyful runner mindset we should all aspire to. You’ll discover: How to embrace fun and ease into ultra distances without burnout or injury.The importance of respecting the distance and avoiding overtraining pitfalls.Simple yet powerful fuelling strategies in and around the race.The mental tricks to break down epic multi-day races into manageable chunks and stay motivated.Why performance and health are often misaligned—and how to prioritise longevity and mental wellbeing in running. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction: Nicole’s journey from casual park walks to ultra distances. 02:00 - COVID's role in sparking a trail running obsession 06:00 - The chaos and adrenaline of Nicole’s first 100K at Blackall. 12:00 - Hitting the reset button: the importance of humility and respect for the distance. 15:00 - Balancing enjoyment and ambition: why loving the process is key. 18:00 - Post-race blues and the importance of recovery and routine. 22:00 - Fueling changes: from coconut water to regimented carb loading. 27:00 - Female health considerations: cycle changes, red flags, and long-term health. 32:00 - Mental health impact of performance and the importance of purpose. 37:00 - Race day planning: adapting fueling, hydration, and pacing strategies. 42:00 - The incredible experience of Buffalo Grand Slam and multi-day ultramarathon. 52:00 - Handling post-race mental lows and understanding hormonal and nervous system shifts. 58:00 - Motivation: confidence, growth, and pushing beyond comfort zones. 62:00 - The power of finish line moments to boost self-belief and future aspirations. 63:00 - Final thoughts: embracing the learning curve and the importance of being your own guinea pig. Connect with Nicole: Instagram Total Balance Nutrition Connect with the show: Instagram Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/mountaineer/anti-cafe

  7. Jun 4

    Breaking Barriers and Building Strength | Miah Noble - #2

    I feel so privileged to have had this incredibly honest and vulnerable chat with Miah Noble. As an elite runner and advocate of mental resilience who has had a far from straightforward journey, she shares how her passion for running started, overcoming injuries, and managing her battle with an eating disorder. Miah offers insight on how patience, a positive mindset, and self-trust can transform setbacks into opportunities for personal growth. Expect to learn: How Miah started running, influenced by the pandemic lockdowns and the immediate connection she felt with movement.The importance of mindset - focussing on doing her best every day and embracing the journey, not just the outcomes.The mental strategies Miah uses to push through pain, exhaustion, and moments of self doubt during races and training.The role of the mind in managing disordered eating, recovery, and how to distinguish between the negative and true inner voice. The significance of a strong foundation, patience in training and respecting the physical demands of running to prevent injuries.Miah's current focus on rebuilding her body post-injury, balancing training with self-care, and her optimistic outlook for the future. Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction to Mia’s running story. 02:12 - Starting running during COVID and overcoming initial challenges. 03:51 - The significance of loving what you do and persistence in running. 04:19 - Embracing the mental side of pushing through tough runs. 07:57 - Women in sports and the importance of empowering girls and young women. 10:09 - Mia’s transition into trail running and her mindset shift.13:26 - Managing race day setbacks and accepting circumstances. 15:54 - Handling uncontrollable situations and staying present during races. 23:19 - Opening up about Mia’s experience with anorexia and its connection to her running. 26:04 - The ongoing battle with disordered eating and strategies for recovery. 37:27 - Injuries and the importance of proper training and injury prevention. 42:31 - The significance of nutrition and strength training for runners. 45:03 - How realistic training and gradual progress prevent injuries. 48:40 - Building a solid foundation—slow and steady wins the race. 52:36 - Mia’s current training focus, injury recovery, and future races. 58:17 - Mental health, confidence, and feeling strong again after setbacks. 60:21 - Advice for runners: patience, trusting the process, and working with professionals. Connect with Miah Instagram Holistic Hybrid Training Support links: Butterfly Foundation Connect with the show: Instagram This episode offers practical advice on training smart, listening to your body, and prioritising mental health alongside physical fitness. Mia’s openness about her challenges and victories makes this a must-listen for athletes and aspiring runners alike aiming to build resilience and longevity in their sporting journey.

About

Welcome to Her Pace - a show about female runners for female runners. Her Pace goes beyond, paces, race splits, and podium finishes. Instead, we pull back the curtain to get to know the women behind the incredible achievements. Through deep, inspiring conversations with amateur and elite runners alike, Her Pace explores how running builds resilience, sparks empowerment, and transforms the way women and girls experience their bodies. This isn't a tips-and-tricks running show. It’s a community and a space dedicated to helping women get inspired, find their strength, and dream big.