Pippa Murray

In this episode of RunPod, Jenny Falconer interviews Pippa Murray, the founder of Pippa Nut, a leading nut butter brand in the UK. Pippa shares her journey that began during her marathon training in 2013 when she struggled with fueling properly and felt underfueled. Instead of pushing through, she became curious about the ingredients in her food and the potential for creating a healthier alternative.

Pippa recalls noticing unnecessary ingredients in existing products, which sparked her idea for a natural nut butter. Although she had a background in theater production and no experience in food business, she pursued her passion for a product she believed in. The process from ideation to launching the brand took about two years, involving market stalls and navigating the complexities of food manufacturing. Despite the challenges, she emphasizes that passion is crucial for anyone starting a business.

The discussion also delves into the psychology of running long distances, emphasizing the importance of nutrition and mental preparedness before races. Pippa shares her pre-run meal tips, which include carbohydrates and protein that won't upset your stomach, such as bagels with nut butter. The conversation highlights the communal and mental health benefits of running, reflecting on how it can provide clarity and calm amidst life's stresses.

Pippa shares her views on the joy of completing races and how she balances running, her business, and family life. As they explore pre- and post-run nutrition, both host and guest express their love for food as an integral part of their running lives and how it fuels them both physically and emotionally. Pippa concludes with advice for runners, including visualization techniques for overcoming challenging runs and the importance of balance in life and running.