Tough Girl Podcast Sarah Williams

After many years of adventure Carly found work as a Tour Leader in the Middle East for a couple of years and Syria became her home, immersing herself in to the community and culture she lived in Aleppo, Syria until March 2012.
Adventure, solitude, nature, and love for the deserts draw her back to the Middle East again and again. Gaining further knowledge and experience she worked as a freelance guide and led horse riding tours in Jordan and Georgia, and hiking and adventure tours in Sudan, Pakistan, Algeria, Oman, aswell as guiding in the ‘No go’ areas of Southern Iraq and finally back into Syria.
Over 10 years experience as a Tour Leader in the Middle East she is Qualified HEFAT (Hostile Environment Awareness Training) and Wilderness First Aid trained, an experienced horse rider and Paraglide licence holder.
***
Don't miss out on the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, released every Tuesday at 7am UK time! Be sure to hit the subscribe button to stay updated on the incredible journeys and stories of strong women.
 By supporting the Tough Girl Podcast on Patreon, you can make a difference in increasing the representation of female role models in the media, particularly in the world of adventure and physical challenges. Your contribution helps empower and inspire others. Visit www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast to be a part of this important movement. 
Thank you for your invaluable support!
***
Show notes
Who is Carly Living a unique lifestyle Working as a freelance guide in the Middle East and Central Asia Wanting to simplify her life so that she can live it Her love for adventure and travel Moving every 2 years due to her dad being in the Army Turning 18  Deciding not to go down the university route and wanting to travel instead Feeling liberating  Being a scared child Deciding to face her fears  Going on lots of solo adventures and being inspired to do even more Figuring it out as she went travelling around the world Facing the fear by doing it Changing in a shared dorm 42 years young! Wanting to explore the world and keep on travelling Henry David Thoreau quote Age 27 and having another pivotal trip in Namibia  Being inspired by other people living as guides Working as a tour leader in the middle east Living on the brink of the unknown Wanting to experience and feel communities  Going with her feelings Falling in love with the middle east Knowing there was more than her 9 to 5 life Living in Syria before the conflict (2010)  Why it’s all about the people  Making friends and building a community  Working as a tour leader Living in different communities in Canada, Switzerland and Florida  Why time is more important than money  Her love for running in the mountains, sleeping in a bivvy bag Wanting to live a life, where she is able to do all the things that are really important to her Learning how to paraglide Saying yes to lots of things Living a frugal life Riding horses and taking a horse riding tour to Mongolia  Women and safety while travelling in the middle east The importance of having respect Setting up downtoearthtravel.co.uk with Kara Cheshire Can you travel too much? Feeling travel burnout  When travel lost its purpose  Advice for women who want to make a change Letting go of attachments Starting to doubt her life choices during covid Training to run around Mount Blanc The covid years  Having a routine and taking a big rest from the world Feeling scared and anxious before travelling again  Getting older and dealing with the future Building a tiny home in an orchard Doing mini adventures and finding the sweet spot Guiding in Mongolia  Getting serious with her running and building up time on feet Ultimate Direction - Fast Packing Pack  Advice for women who want to be more adventurous and travel more How plans can change and evolve and why you don’t need to have it all figured out before you start.  
Social Media
Website: www.downtoearthtravel.co.uk 
Instagram: @

Carol Devine embodies a diverse array of roles, seamlessly intertwining her work as a researcher, writer, artist, climate activist, humanitarian professional, and explorer. Her pursuits range from spearheading groundbreaking ecological expeditions to championing causes such as combating plastic pollution and empowering women in adventure sports.
She spearheaded the first civilian volunteer ecological expedition in Antarctica, collaborating with the Russian Antarctic Expedition. Additionally, Carol has actively participated in and documented environmental initiatives, such as Clean Up Svalbard, near the North Pole.
Despite limited sailing experience, Carol eagerly embraced the opportunity to learn alongside seasoned sailors and fellow advocates combating plastic pollution. She recently embarked on an all-female expedition with eXXpedition, circumnavigating Scotland to conduct research and raise awareness about the global plastic crisis while championing women's presence in adventure sports.
Carol's dedication to environmental and social causes is further evidenced by her membership in prestigious organizations such as The Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research Humanities and Social Sciences Expert Group and The Explorer's Club.
***
 Don't miss out on the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, released every Tuesday at 7am UK time! Be sure to hit the subscribe button to stay updated on the incredible journeys and stories of strong women.
 By supporting the Tough Girl Podcast on Patreon, you can make a difference in increasing the representation of female role models in the media, particularly in the world of adventure and physical challenges. Your contribution helps empower and inspire others. Visit www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast to be a part of this important movement. 
Thank you for your invaluable support!
***
Show notes
Who is Carol  Her early years Growing up in Canada  Going to university to study English Literature  Wanting to visit Antarctica, but going with a purpose Being inspired by people around her  Taking the opportunity when it came available Wanting to help clean up Antarctica  The Antarctic Treaty Collaboration and working with others Working with Wendy Trusler https://www.wendytrusler.ca/ Book: Ode To Antarctica - Antarctic cultural history book based on a civilian ecological cleanup expedition 42 recipes, pix, journals. HarperDesign.  Crossing the Drake Passage How the experience changed her  Applying to Doctors Without Borders/ Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF)  How art fits into the work  Telling the story of their Antarctica expedition through food and imagery while discussing serious issues Heading to Svalbard, to do a clean up operation  Using art to talk about serious stories  Getting involved with eXXpedition (a non-profit organisation that runs pioneering all-female sailing research expeditions at sea and virtual voyages on land to investigate the causes of and solutions to ocean plastic pollution)  Emily Penn - Tough Girl Podcast (Jul 12, 2016)  Emily Penn - Tough Girl Podcast EXTRA (Jan 9, 2020)  Wanting to learn how to sail  The challenges of sailing and dealing with sea sickness The lessons learned and the takeaways from the experience  Having an international scope but working locally  Presenting their finding to the Scottish Parliament  TEDxMontrealWomen: Ocean Love: Cleaning Up Our Plastic Mess  Advice for people regarding plastic pollution  #OceanOptimism The little things/small actions you can do to make a difference Project: Hello/Goodbye Glaciers  Learning about glaciers in Iceland, Canada, Switzerland, Alaska and Argentina Code Red for Humanity  The impacts of the glaciers receding  Future projects See Change Initiative  How to connect with Carol Final words of advice for other women and girls  Taking the opportunities when they come Making a commitment and seeing it through  Risk, discomfort and challenge  LEAP!!!   
Social Media

Gráinne Moss is arguably Irelands most accomplished female open water swimmer. 
At 16 she was the first female to represent Ireland in open water swimming at the World Championships. 
At 17 she became the first Irish woman to swim the English Channel. She has continued to achieve many firsts including the first Irish woman to swim Cook Strait (2001) Foveaux (2022), Lake Taupō (2021) and the Channel of Bones in Hawaii (2023). 
Gráinne holds three Triple Crowns of Open Water Swimming (awarded when a swimmer has completed three of the toughest swims in any nation) - including appropriately the Irish and New Zealand Triple Crowns given she was born in Ireland and moved to New Zealand in 1998.
Since 2022 Gráinne has teamed up with Kenzie's Gift to use her swims as an opportunity to raise vital funds for this important charity which cares for children and young people who have experienced serious loss and grief. 
Her next adventure is in May this year when she will swim the famous straits of Gibraltar crossing from Africa to Spain.
***
 Don't miss out on the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, released every Tuesday at 7am UK time! Be sure to hit the subscribe button to stay updated on the incredible journeys and stories of strong women.
 By supporting the Tough Girl Podcast on Patreon, you can make a difference in increasing the representation of female role models in the media, particularly in the world of adventure and physical challenges. Your contribution helps empower and inspire others. Visit www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast to be a part of this important movement. 
Thank you for your invaluable support!
***
Show notes
Who is Gráinne Being born in Ireland Emigrating to New Zealand at the end of the 90s Living in Wellington, New Zealand Representing Ireland and the first Open Water Swimming Championships (1986) Her early years and memories of water  Being spotted as talented at swimming at 6 years old Wanting to better herself and try new things Swimming for Bangor Swim Club  Making the transition to open water swimming Meeting people from around the world who loved open water swimming The pressure of swimming competitively and wanting to swim well Getting married and having 4 children  Swimming through out the years Getting back into big swims in 2021 Lessons learning from the big swims Making an emotional commitment to the swim Keeping motivated while waiting to compete the big swims Having her family involved in the big swims What the journey of a swim looks like  Swimming the Channel of Bones in Hawaii (43km) Having anxiety and neves before the swim and feeling full of doubt  Taking medication for sea sickness Swimming for charity - Kenzie’s Gift  Training and maintaining swim fitness Working with a swim coach (Phillip Rush) and the importance of stretching The importance of recovery  Handing changes in her body over the years Being aware of her body Not using a watch or GPS Learning how to train smart  Nutrition while swimming and getting the fuel needed to complete the big swims Homemade leek and potato swims for the cold swims PURE Sports Nutrition  The importance of feeding fast  Digging deep and getting through the dark/tough moments Taking it one stroke at a time The next swim challenge in May Swimming from Spain to Morocco - The Straits of Gibraltar  How to connect with Gráinne  Final words of advice for new swimmers and swimmers who want to take it to the next level The power of finding your community  
Social Media
Website: grainnemoss.com 
Instagram: @swimirishkiwi 
Charity: Kenzie’s Gift supports the mental health of tamariki (children) and mātātahi (young people) affected by serious illness or grief.
Link to Fundraising: winter-swim-challenge-2024.raiselysite.com/grainne-moss
 

In this episode of Tough Girl Podcast, we explore the incredible journey of Fatima, from her early years in Afghanistan to her pursuit of education, independence, and empowerment in Italy.
Fatima's childhood was marked by challenges, but her curiosity and determination to learn led her to secretly educate herself. As Afghanistan's first female tour guide, she defied expectations and empowered herself economically.
Threatened by the Taliban, Fatima made the courageous decision to flee to Italy, where she faced new obstacles but persisted in pursuing higher education. Now, as a refugee with a passion for sharing her experiences, she continues to inspire others as a unique tour guide.
Fatima's story is a testament to the power of resilience and the unwavering spirit of women. Tune in to Tough Girl Podcast to hear her journey firsthand.
***
Don't miss out on the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, released every Tuesday at 7am UK time! Be sure to hit the subscribe button to stay updated on the incredible journeys and stories of strong women.
 By supporting the Tough Girl Podcast on Patreon, you can make a difference in increasing the representation of female role models in the media, particularly in the world of adventure and physical challenges. Your contribution helps empower and inspire others. Visit www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast to be a part of this important movement. 
Thank you for your invaluable support!
***
Show notes
Who is Fatima Studying in Italy and working as a tour guide Her early years in Afghanistan Having 4 older brothers and 2 older sisters Working with the sheep as a shepherdess at age 7  Not having school and not being able to study  Being inspired by hearing people on the radio  How her curiosity grew and her desire to learn more  Starting to learn secretly  Practicing her reading and writing in the sand Being able to go to school and study Thinking about her own future  Witnessing the suffering of women in Afghanistan Wanting to live for herself Wanting to be independent and the person of her choice Becoming Afghanistan’s first female tour guide Graduating high school and wanting to go to University to become a journalist  Convincing her mother first Researching the history of Afghanistan Making a Facebook account and connecting with people who travel and how that connection led to her tourist work Untamed Borders - an adventure travel company providing unparalleled access to some of the world’s most interesting and inaccessible places.  Being able to earn more than her brothers and help to support her family Wanting to encourage more women to enter the tourist industry in Afghanistan  Sharing her story on CNN  Her journey to Italy  Receiving warning that she was a target of the Taliban  Not being able to say a proper goodbye to her family  The challenges of getting into the airport to get on the plane Moving to Italy and building a new life  Feeling mentally and physically lost and struggling to sleep Dealing with the aftermath and reliving the trauma Deciding to make changes in her life; getting a job, sorting out a university place, reading books and focusing on improving herself  Her passion for continuing her education and getting accepted with a fully funded scholarship to study at University in Milan (BA in International Politics and Government) Being a refugee and having travel documents which allows her travel in Europe Visiting Iran and meeting up with her family Continuing to be a tour guide in a unique way How to connect with Fatima Her reason for wanting to travel to every country in the world.  Final words of advice  “You are powerful as a woman, don’t underestimate your power.”    
Social Media
Instagram: @fatima.haidari786 
Youtube: youtube.com/@fatimahaidari?si=6Tep5bklgaTWCUr4 

 
 

Listen to Kaz on the Tough Girl Podcast as she shares her passion for running and helping individuals discover their inner strength. Kaz founded Mettle—a platform dedicated to empowering runners to conquer personal challenges, chase personal records, and train for specific distances. Mettle isn't just about running; it's about equipping runners with coaching plans, mental strategies, and unwavering support to thrive both on the track and in life. Drawing from her extensive academic background—holding a PhD in human behaviour and an MSc in Sport and Exercise Psychology—Kaz delves into the intricacies of human performance, particularly in the face of adversity.
Driven by a profound belief in the power of self-belief and self-discipline, Kaz shuns shortcuts in favour of cultivating a mindset geared towards achieving one's goals. Her relentless pursuit of excellence extends beyond coaching; it's woven into the fabric of her own running endeavours.
Kaz's trail running journey is nothing short of awe-inspiring. From the rugged trails of Chamonix, France, where she tackled the Mont Blanc Marathon and UTMB races, to epic adventures like the Tahoe 200 (3rd F), Moab 240 (2nd F), and Ouray 100 (1st F), she continually pushes her limits. 
Notably, Kaz completed 1 crazy loop at the legendary Barkley Marathon, and recently completed the daunting Last Annual Vol State, a 500K self-supported race across Tennessee.
Through it all, Kaz's message remains clear: When we harness our best selves and embrace the challenges that come our way, extraordinary achievements become possible.
Listen to Kaz share her story on the Tough Girl Podcast. 
***
Don't miss out on the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, released every Tuesday at 7am UK time! Be sure to hit the subscribe button to stay updated on the incredible journeys and stories of strong women.
 By supporting the Tough Girl Podcast on Patreon, you can make a difference in increasing the representation of female role models in the media, particularly in the world of adventure and physical challenges. Your contribution helps empower and inspire others. Visit www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast to be a part of this important movement. 
Thank you for your invaluable support!
***
Show notes
Who is Kaz Living in Chamonix, France in 2010 Studying architecture at University  Joining  the TA - Territorial Army and becoming a Personal Training Instructor (PTI)  Doing a MSc in  Sport and Exercise Psychology Working full time while studying and running  Her trail running journey Learning about trail races  Wanting to run the UTMB  Running the Marathon de Mont Blanc  Struggling with the UTMB in 2014 Realising her mental game had let her down  Wanting to learn/understand more about the mental side of physical challenges Losing focus and not being present while training and what you can do about it Ending up in a dark place and questioning what you are doing Why you need a strong WHY Signing up to do Tahoe 200  The sacrifices and hard work which goes into training Suffering with audio and visual hallucinations Bears and Pizza! Running throughout the year Recovery after big races Being a plant based athlete  Food and nutrition Using Training Peaks  Where the name Mettle came from Coaching athletes and runners  “We are stronger, braver and more capable than we realise” Being a fan of David Goggins  Learning how to endure  How to connect with Kaz Tips for self belief  Our lives are the sum of our choices. The future depends on what we do in the present.  Think about what you want to be doing and what you can do now to achieve that.   
Social Media
Website www.mettlerunning.com
Instagram @mettlerunning
Personal Instagram @mountainkaz
Facebook www.facebook.com/mettlerunning

 

In this episode, we delve into the inspiring journey of Emma Hull, a confidence coach who discovered her true potential in her 40s and embarked on a transformative path towards self-empowerment. From grappling with anxiety and self-doubt to embracing a life of purpose and fulfilment, Emma's story is one of resilience, courage, and unwavering determination.
Emma's journey to confidence began with a desire for change, fuelled by a reluctance to rely on medication for anxiety and depression indefinitely. With a commitment to self-improvement, she gradually introduced yoga into her routine, finding solace in the safety of a supportive environment that allowed her to embrace vulnerability and authenticity.
Seeking guidance from a life coach, Emma embarked on a healing journey, realising that the power to effect change lay within her own hands. Amidst the tumult of the pandemic, she made the life-altering decision to leave her marriage and relocate to Canada, where she discovered a newfound sense of freedom and independence.
Embracing her newfound autonomy, Emma prioritised self-care and personal growth, establishing a morning routine centred around gratitude and mindfulness. With the support of tools like the Beach Body App and the companionship of her beloved dog, Jonny Cash, she embarked on a transformative road trip through the North of Canada, embracing the thrill of adventure and the freedom of the open road.
As she looks ahead to future adventures, including plans to purchase an RV and explore new horizons, Emma offers invaluable advice for women seeking to define and achieve their goals. From setting clear objectives to taking decisive action and embracing challenges as opportunities for growth, Emma's journey exemplifies the transformative power of courage, resilience, and self-belief.
***
Don't miss out on the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, released every Tuesday at 7am UK time! Be sure to hit the subscribe button to stay updated on the incredible journeys and stories of strong women.
 By supporting the Tough Girl Podcast on Patreon, you can make a difference in increasing the representation of female role models in the media, particularly in the world of adventure and physical challenges. Your contribution helps empower and inspire others. Visit www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast to be a part of this important movement. 
Thank you for your invaluable support!
***
Show notes
Emma Hull the confidence coach Gaining her confidence in her 40s Having a tough time accepting who she was Wanting to make a change in her life Not liking the feeling associated with being anxious  Not wanting to take anxiety and depression medication for the rest of her life Her journey of making changes in her life Why the changes happened gradually over time Starting her transformation with yoga  The power of being in a safe environment  Being allowed to be herself and to be vulnerable  Starting her healing journey  Working with a life coach Why it’s within your power to make changes  Being on the treadmill of life  The HOW of making a change in your life Making the decision to leave her marriage during the pandemic Ending up in Canada  Living in British Columbia  Starting to dream through journalling  Re-training as a life coach and setting up her own business Creating a life where she puts herself first  Why living on her own really suits her Developing her morning routine and starting her day right Doing a morning gratitude practice Beach Body App Her dog Jonny Cash Being inspired to take a road trip  Driving up to the North of Canada - Tuktoyaktuk Taking a month to travel and working while on the road. Advice for working while travelling  Planning to buy an RV for an adventure in October 2025 The importance of setting a date Advice for planning  Advice for women who need help figuring out what their goals are Having a 3 goals per year - a big one, a medium one and a small one How can I make this happ