More Than a Finish Line: Lessons from Building a Race in Just 3 Months
Today’s episode is a short, personal debrief on one of the most meaningful projects I’ve ever been part of launching a race from scratch in under three months.It’s been over a month since race day, and I needed some time to fully process the experience before sharing it with you. In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on what it really took — the energy, the trust, the people to make it happen.Here’s what you’ll hear:Why this race mattered and what we set out to buildRace day highlights: 400+ signups, incredible finish times, and unforgettable energyThe volunteers, pacers, and partners who brought the event to lifeHonest reflections on the emotional and logistical challengesWhat’s next — and why you won’t want to miss the next race on October 19This race wasn’t just about crossing a finish line. It was proof of what we can build when we show up and go all in.To sign up the race on Oct 19 click this link
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14:48
Leon 'Sweets' Lewis - The Boston-London Marathon Double and Running across Jamaica #199
In this episode, I chat with Leon 'Sweets' Lewis about his upcoming challenge: racing the Boston and London Marathons back-to-back. Leon also shares his plans to run across Jamaica and how he stays motivated running 10K a day. He talks about the mental and physical side of distance running training and what keeps him moving forward. Be sure to follow his journey on Instagram @sweetslewis for updates and inspiration.
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1:05:53
Kendrick Lamar, “Not Like Us,” & Why Haters Can Win: A Day in the Life of a Race Director #198
With race day just around the corner on March 16, 2025, at Victoria Park, we’re in full prep mode! In this episode, I take a lighthearted look at the Kendrick Lamar Not Like Us train that is is not slowly down at all. And how he flips the script on the whole “don’t be a hater” thing and shows us that sometimes, being a little bit of a hater can actually get you ahead. And let’s be real—some many people are jumping on trends, from endless videos of the Not Like Us shuffle to everyone trying to replicate that swagger. Plus, a quick chat about the new half marathon world record.I also give an update of the race from organising volunteers, pacers, sponsors, and the race financials, and the various scenario planning. I’ll be running the route this Sunday 23 February, come join me. Along with my co-founder Brad Farrant, we’re building an event that brings runners together for East London that is performance focused. Listen in for a blend of serious race talk and fun insights on community building!Tickets are available click this link, via @letsdothis.com_ search Hackney Legacy Half
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14:34
A Day in the Life of a Race Director: The Highs & Lows of Building the Hackney Legacy Half #197
What does it really take to bring a brand-new race to life? In this episode, race director Marcus Brown takes you behind the scenes of the Hackney Legacy Half Marathon, sharing the highs, the lows, and the countless moving parts of organising a major community-driven race. From securing permits to selling tickets, building hype, and making sure race day is one to remember, we dive into the journey so far.With just weeks to go until race day on March 16th, 2025, at Victoria Park, we reflect on the challenges, the wins, and the incredible support from Victoria Park Harriers and the team around us. Alongside fellow cofounder Brad Farrant, we’re working to make this event truly special—one that brings together runners of all backgrounds and helps them build confidence ahead of their big goals.It’s been a little while since my last episode, as this new role has taken up a huge part of my time but I’m back, and over the next few weeks, I’ll be sharing my journey as we head towards race day. Tune in, get inspired, and be part of the movement!Click here to purchase tickets head via let’s do this
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14:53
Running for a Purpose: Pete Cooper’s Mission to Make Coaching Accessible #196
Pete Cooper, Co-Founder of Coopah, turned personal tragedy into a mission to transform lives through running. From pioneering marathon challenges in lockdown to founding the Refugee Run Club, Pete’s story is one of resilience, innovation, and community. Hear how Coopah is revolutionising running with accessible coaching, inspiring 3,000+ PBs, and empowering everyone from beginners to elite athletes to believe in themselves. Discover how running saved Pete’s life—and how he’s using it to change others’. If you listen to the end you can get a discount code to use the Coopah Running app.
Capturing the conversations that runner’s have offline and matter to them.
The podcast is hosted by Marcus @marcus_runs and he explores the topics around training, racing and the impact running has on our day to day life’s.
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