Suzanne Shaw

In this episode of RunPod, host Jenny Faulkner reconnects with Suzanne Shaw, who is preparing to tackle an ambitious challenge: running four ultra marathons in four days. This endeavor, aimed at raising awareness and funds for mental health charity Mind, resonates deeply with Suzanne, given her personal history of starting to run during lockdown as part of a lifestyle transformation that included quitting drinking.

Suzanne shares her initial struggles with running, the physical sensations of discomfort that all beginners face, and how she learned to embrace the energy and mental clarity that running can provide. Through discussion, she highlights the importance of pacing, breathing technique, and the therapeutic benefits of running outdoors.

As she prepares for the ultra challenge, where the distance could vary between 30 to 50 miles daily based on the roll of a dice, they explore the logistics of such a feat, including nutrition, footwear, and overcoming physical barriers such as runner’s stomach, which she addresses using a unique fueling strategy of maple syrup.

Alongside her training for this challenge, Suzanne reflects on the interconnectedness of running, mental health, and community, as she invites others to join her during the runs and share their own stories. The episode captures the essence of running as both a personal journey and a collective experience as they discuss the shared struggles of long-distance runners.

The conversation concludes with insights on running-related injuries, the realities of balancing training with daily life, and the joy of discovering new trails. It's a motivating episode that encourages listeners to appreciate their personal running journeys, irrespective of distance or pace.