Why Most Runners Ignore What Actually Matters with Alison McPherson | Ep. 52

A Quick Solo Update From Me

Just a quick solo update on the podcast and what the next little while may look like. Thanks again to everyone who's been listening and supporting the show. ---------------------------------------- Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy [https://acast.com/privacy] for more information.

Why Most Runners Ignore What Actually Matters with Alison McPherson | Ep. 52

Why do so many runners chase harder training while overlooking the basics that actually move the needle? In this episode, I sit down with Alison McPherson, running coach and founder of a new endurance fuel designed to reduce single use plastic in sport. We explore what it really takes to improve performance, build consistency, and stay healthy in a world obsessed with shortcuts. Alison shares the story behind launching her new fuel product, the gap she saw in the market, and why sustainability matters in endurance sport. We also dive deep into coaching principles, breaking through plateaus, balancing training intensity with recovery, and the mindset traps that stop runners progressing. We discuss visualization, motivation, the dangers of obsession, the role of talent versus environment, and how social media is shaping modern running culture. This is a practical and honest conversation about performance, discipline, and building a healthier relationship with running. Follow Alison & Dig Deep Endurance Fuel: Instagram: @ali.mcpher Instagram: @digdeepef Website: www.digdeepef.com - Contact Me: www.plantoendure.com Instagram: @plan.to.endure ---------------------------------------- Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy [https://acast.com/privacy] for more information.

Who Builds the Climbs You Love with Matthew Laird | Ep. 51

Every climbing route you’ve ever enjoyed didn’t just appear. Someone built it. In this episode, I sit down with Matthew Laird to explore the often overlooked world of route development and the work that goes into creating the climbs so many people take for granted. We break down the full process of route development, from finding lines and assessing rock quality to managing risk, safety, and environmental impact. Matthew shares the technical and creative challenges behind building routes, as well as the responsibility that comes with putting something permanent into the landscape. This conversation also dives into the ethics of route setting, the subjectivity of grading, and the legal realities of developing climbs in protected areas. We explore how community, trust, and education play a role in shaping climbing culture, and why recognition for route developers often goes unnoticed. If you’ve ever clipped bolts without thinking about how they got there, this episode will change how you see climbing. Follow Matthew & TABVAR: Instagram - @matt_laird_ Instagram - @tabvar_climb Facebook - www.facebook.com/groups/tabvar/ Website - www.tabvar.org - Contact Me: www.plantoendure.com Instagram: @plan.to.endure ---------------------------------------- Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy [https://acast.com/privacy] for more information.

Why Slowing Down Might Be the Most Important Skill You’re Ignoring with Scott Horsley | Ep. 50

What happens when you stop rushing and actually pay attention? What if the constant need to stay busy is actually what’s holding you back? In this episode, I sit down with Scott Horsley, an ACMG hiking guide, forest therapy practitioner, and meditation instructor, to explore what happens when you step out of the noise and slow things down. We unpack the practice of forest bathing and what a guided experience really looks like, but more importantly, why so many of us struggle to be present in the first place. Scott shares how intentional time in nature can shift your state of mind, helping you move from distraction and overwhelm to clarity and awareness. This conversation goes beyond the outdoors. It challenges the idea that more effort always leads to better outcomes, and instead explores how creating space, embracing stillness, and paying attention can lead to deeper insight, stronger self-awareness, and more meaningful change. If you’ve ever felt stuck in constant motion or unsure how to slow down without feeling unproductive, this episode offers a different way to think about it. Follow Scott: Instagram - @scotie_h Instagram - @amongthetreescanada Website - www.amongthetreescanada.com - Contact Me: www.plantoendure.com Instagram: @plan.to.endure ---------------------------------------- Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy [https://acast.com/privacy] for more information.

Exploring the Wild and Learning to Lead with Isobel Phoebus | Ep. 49

What can the wilderness teach us about curiosity, leadership, and managing fear? In this episode, I talk with Isobel Phoebus, wildlife ecologist, expedition science instructor, and president of Girls on Ice Canada. We explore her journey into ecology, her experiences on expeditions like Mount Logan, and the lessons learned from working with young scientists in extreme environments. Isobel shares insights into team dynamics, risk management, and cultivating curiosity in challenging settings. We discuss how outdoor education transforms participants, how fear can be both a tool and a barrier, and the value of lifelong learning inspired by the natural world. This is a reflective conversation about leadership, responsibility, and how venturing into the wild can expand perspective, confidence, and connection. Follow Isobel: Instagram - @isobelphoebus - Contact Me: www.plantoendure.com Instagram: @plan.to.endure ---------------------------------------- Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy [https://acast.com/privacy] for more information.