Ep.31 “ Lee Renner” founder & owner of outdoor endurance brand Pilgrim

Ep.31 “ Lee Renner” founder & owner of outdoor endurance brand Pilgrim

Lee Renner is the founder of Pilgrim, but his journey started long before launching his own brand. A footwear designer by trade, Lee built his early career working with iconic names like Umbro and retailers such as JJB, gaining invaluable experience and insight into the industry that would later help shape his own business journey. In this episode, Lee takes us back to those early days, sharing the lessons, challenges, and opportunities that influenced his path from designer to founder. We dive into the highs and lows of building a brand, the reality of taking risks, and what it takes to keep moving forward when things don't go to plan. Lee also opens up about one of the toughest challenges of his life—his cancer diagnosis—and the resilience, mindset, and determination that helped him through it. Away from business, he's a passionate runner and a strong advocate for the growing weighted running community, and we discuss how movement, discipline, and community have played an important role in both his personal and professional life.

Ep.30 “Jon Tye” Vulcan bomber pilot on the Cold War & life in the RAF

Jon Tye is a former Royal Air Force Vulcan bomber pilot whose career placed him at the sharp end of the Cold War. Flying the iconic Avro Vulcan as part of Britain's V-Force nuclear deterrent, Jon operated during one of the most tense and strategically significant periods in modern history, when crews stood on constant readiness for a conflict that, thankfully, never came. Beyond the aircraft and operations, Jon reflects on how society has changed since his RAF service, offering thoughtful observations on leadership, values, resilience, and the modern world. He also recounts encounters with some of the remarkable, eccentric, and unforgettable characters he met throughout his military career—individuals whose stories help bring the RAF of that era vividly to life, plus close calls in his own career including mid air collisions and ejecting from his own aircraft. Adding another intriguing dimension, Jon discusses a mysterious close encounter involving what appeared to be advanced and potentially classified aerospace technology, an experience that continues to raise questions decades later.

Ep.29 “Phil Horrocks” Uk windsurf legend

From the rugged coastline of North Wales to some of the world’s most demanding wave breaks, Phil Horrocks has built a reputation as one of Britain’s most respected windsurers. A multiple-time UK wave sailing champion and longtime competitor on the international PWA circuit, Phil is known for explosive jumping, powerful wave riding, and a relentless passion for life on the water. Originally from Manchester and now based around Rhosneigr, Anglesey, Phil’s career has taken him from teaching watersports in Wales to competing against the world’s elite in places like Cape Town, Gran Canaria, and Maui. Along the way, he’s become a leading figure in British windsurf culture, inspiring the next generation through his dedication, authenticity, and love of the sport. In this episode, Phil shares stories from decades chasing wind and waves, the mindset required to compete at the top level, and why the ocean still keeps him hooked after all these years.

Ep.28 “ Luke Fidler” gym owner & OG CrossFit coach

This episode, we’re joined by friend of the pod and gym owner Luke Fidler for a deep dive into 9 years of running a successful fitness facility. We chat about the OG CrossFit era, building a loyal community, his infamous Tuesday night Instagram story antics — and to finish, we hit him with a stack of embarrassing questions submitted by his own members 😂

Ep.27 “Whysup” Mark Murray tells his journey from addiction & recovery to helping others.

This week we sat down with Mark Murray, founder of mental health service provider Whysup. Mark opened up about how Whysup grew from an idea written on a Post-it note into an organisation now working with companies, schools, and businesses across the UK, delivering training and support around mental health and addiction. Mark also shared his own personal experience with addiction, the impact it had on him, his mental health, and his family, as well as his journey through recovery. Today, he gives back by helping others as the face of Whysup.