Shows
Middle of the Pack PodcastShoe Addictions to PBs: Advice on shoe RotationEpisode 32 of The Middle of the Pack dives into Ian O’Brien’s running journey — from starting after a medical scare and taekwondo roots, to coaching, club runs, and an expanding collection of running shoes. The conversation centers on choosing the right shoe for easy runs, sessions, long runs and race day, and looks at brands like Saucony, ASICS and Adidas.
Ian shares practical tips on shoe rotation, fitting, trying shoes in specialist shops, breaking in race shoes before race day, and how comfort and purpose should guide your choices — whether you’re a middle-of-the-pack runner or chasing PB
2026-03-1134 min
Middle of the Pack PodcastPrecision Fuel & Hydration: Practical fueling strategiesEpisode 31 of the Middle of the Pack podcast features George Sherwood from Precision Fuel & Hydration. He explains sweat testing, electrolyte preloading, and practical fueling strategies for runners—how many gels to take, how much carbohydrate per hour, and when to use caffeine for best effect.
George emphasizes practicing fueling in training, tailoring sodium replacement to your sweat rate, and taking caffeine about halfway through a race so it peaks when you need it most.
2026-03-0433 min
Middle of the Pack PodcastReal Food Running: Tara Wilson’s 50K Fueling & Recovery JourneyEpisode 30 features Tara Wilson from Women Who Run Ireland sharing her Donadea 50K story: the short training block, the race-day fueling plan of real food (bananas, Jaffa Cakes, dates) and electrolytes, and how dehydration and salt loss led to late-race cramping.
Tara explains her ‘‘real food running’’ approach, how she pre-fuels and grazes during runs, her recovery routine, and encourages more women to try longer events.
2026-02-2534 min
Middle of the Pack PodcastTake me to the ALTAR — Building a Better Fuel With Conor O'KeeffeEpisode 29 features Conor O'Keeffe, founder of Altar Nutrition, sharing his running journey from boxing to ultra-distance challenges — including running 32 marathons in 32 days — and how persistent gut issues inspired him to create a better endurance fuel.
Conor explains how he developed "speed dust," how to build carbohydrate tolerance, practical pre-fuel and race-day strategies, and uses cases like carb loading and on-course fueling for marathons, ultras, and field sports.
Listeners will get actionable tips on pacing nutrition, increasing carbohydrate intake safely, and where to find Altar Nutrition for more guidance.
2026-02-1836 min
Middle of the Pack PodcastFrom Parkruns to Cork County Finals: Enda Kiernan’s StoryIn episode 28 of the Middle of the Pack podcast, guest Enda Kiernan shares his running journey from school athletics and Mullingar Harriers to helping launch the first Parkrun outside Dublin in Macroom. He discusses the people who influenced him, his commitment to volunteering, and how running shaped his coaching and role with Cork under‑20s and club football.
Enda also talks practical topics like warm‑ups, speed work, nutrition (including Speed Dust/Alter Nutrition), and the strong crossover between athletics and Gaelic football. The episode highlights the value of community, mentorship and giving back to sport.
2026-02-1129 min
Middle of the Pack PodcastNegativeSplit: Building an Irish Running BrandEpisode 27 of The Middle of the Pack features Cian Charlton — entrepreneur, runner, and founder of 35 Vintage, on Fade St Dublin — as he shares his running journey and the launch of his Irish running brand, NegativeSplit.ie
They discuss Negativesplit gear, early product launches (the skull cap), design and manufacturing plans, balancing business with training, shoe habits, and Cian’s upcoming trail ultra in Spain( which he nearly forgot).
2026-02-0429 min
Middle of the Pack PodcastRunning a Marathon in Wellies: Laura’s Muddy Mission for Charity 'Unique'In this episode episode 26 of The Middle of the Pack Podcast, Laura Stenton Slater—known as Laura Muddy Soles—shares her running comeback, her decision to run the London Marathon in wellington boots for the charity Unique, and the personal story behind her motivation: her son's rare chromosome disorder.
Laura talks about rediscovering running after years away, how TikTok and a supportive community helped her reshape her relationship with the sport, the physical and practical challenges of training in wellies, and her fundraising and Guinness World Record goals. Link to Donate
2026tcslondonmarathon.enthuse.com/pf/laur...
2026-01-2830 min
Middle of the Pack PodcastFrom Youghal to NYC: Ann O’Neill’s 79-Marathon JourneyIn episode 25 of the Middle of the Pack podcast, Ann O'Neill recounts how she started running, her journey to 79 marathons, and the viral TikTok clip from the New York Marathon that sparked worldwide attention. Ann discusses training while working as a nurse, overcoming injury and cancer, running low-key marathons across Ireland and abroad, and her plans and dreams toward reaching 100 marathons. A real down to earth conversation between two people enjoying their running journey.
2026-01-2130 min
Middle of the Pack PodcastFrom Dyspraxia to Marathons: Conor Friel’s Running JourneyEpisode 24 features Conor Friel sharing his return to running, training with Carragline AC, race-day stories from 10Ks to full marathons, and the gear and fueling that keep him going.
Conor also discusses living with dyspraxia, fundraising nearly €2,000 for Dyspraxia Ireland, and his plans for upcoming races and travel. A really great episode where we, yet again, celebrate an everyday runner facing everyday challenges.
2026-01-1429 min
Middle of the Pack PodcastThe Cranky Coach: Run Smarter with Kieran McKeownEpisode 23 of The Middle of the Pack Podcast with Kieran McKeown explores his journey from junior track talent to full-time coach and why smart coaching beats endless training. Kieran shares practical tips on warming up and cooling down, avoiding injury, race fitness, sensible marathon planning, and the value of community support.
He explains how individualized coaching, week-to-week plans, and knowing when to rest help runners improve and stay running for decades, with real examples of runners who cut minutes off their 5K–half marathon times.
2026-01-0730 min
Middle of the Pack Podcast2025 in the Rearview: Quiet Victories & Running OnEpisode 22 reviews the highs and lows of 2025 and looks ahead to 2026, celebrating everyday runners, recovery, and steady progress over flashy results.
Padraig shares stories of injury, resilience, personal bests, and the simple joy of running, inviting listeners to set realistic goals and run with presence and curiosity in the new year. As a podcast celebrating everyday runners we look forward to 2026 a new year, new goals and new Kms...
2025-12-3130 min
Middle of the Pack PodcastSleigh Bells & Shoe Dreams: Runners’ Christmas WishlistOn this Christmas Eve special of The Middle of the Pack Podcast, returning guests share their running wishlists — from race entries and carbon‑plated shoes to watches, earphones and recovery gear.
The episode mixes practical gift ideas (race vouchers, shoes, socks, gels, reflective gear, recovery sliders) with heartfelt wishes for an injury‑free 2026, family time and the joy of running together.
Happy Christmas and a heartfelt thank you to all who supported me on this Journey. Ding Dong Merrily.....
2025-12-2428 min
Middle of the Pack PodcastFrom Couch to Marathon: Ruairi's StoriesEpisode 20 of The Middle of the Pack features Ruairi O'Hagan reflecting on his Dublin Marathon experience, the post-race struggle with motivation and injury, and the training and support that got him through. Ruairi also discusses his role as chair of Watergrasshill running club and the importance of community in his running journey.
Listen for candid stories about race day drama, recovery, accountability from coaches and teammates, and Ruairi's goals for future races and club growth.
2025-12-1732 min
Middle of the Pack PodcastRunning Through Adversity : Cliodhna Ruane’s Story of Loss, Love and MarathonsIn this episode Cliodhna Ruane shares her moving journey balancing marathon training with devastating family challenges — the loss of her husband to cancer and her daughter’s leukemia diagnosis — and how running has kept her resilient.
She talks candidly about recovery after Dublin Marathon, adapting training while caring for her children, plans for future races, and how running provides mental release and strength through hardship. There's lots of silly small talk too in what was a very easy episode to record..
2025-12-1031 min
Middle of the Pack PodcastFrom Turkey Trots to 100-Milers: The Wild Life of John CalabreseJohn Calabrese joins the podcast to talk turkey trots, pushing wheelchair racers, and his journey from road races to brutal ultras.
He shares fueling tricks, shoe testing, race stories and how running helps him balance family life, caregiving and the highs and lows of the sport.
So Buckle up and enjoy the Middle of the Pack podcast Ep18.
2025-12-0330 min
Middle of the Pack PodcastFinish Line Feels: Caroline Coffey on Marathons, Motherhood & MindsetEpisode 17 features Caroline Coffey as she discusses her transition from corporate life to personal training, coaching busy women, and balancing marathon training with family life.
Caroline shares honest stories about race-day emotions, training strategies, fueling, accountability, and how to enjoy food and fitness without extremes.
2025-11-2638 min
Middle of the Pack PodcastResilience, Recovery, and Community.: An Irish Sober Strider's ComebackEpisode 16 features Eamon Kearney, who shares his journey from heavy drinking and a near-fatal moment to sobriety and running marathons. After a mild heart attack and confronting severe mental-health struggles, running helped him rebuild his life, reconnect with family, and find purpose.
He talks about training, major races like Chicago and Boston, the emotional power of running with his half brother, and how his TikTok account has inspired others to change their lives. Episode 16 is about resilience, recovery, and community.
2025-11-1932 min
Middle of the Pack PodcastWomen who run Ireland : Tara Wilson on Healing, Community and fun.Episode 15 of the Middle of the Pack features Tara Wilson of Women Who Run Ireland discussing her 15-year running journey, how running helped her heal and keeps on healing, and her work at the Run Hub helping all types of runners through Women who run Ireland.
She shares tips on mental training for marathons, the Super Half series and solo race travel, running community stories, winter gear recommendations, and why celebrating everyday runners matters.
2025-11-1232 min
Middle of the Pack PodcastFrom Marathon Muscles to Sauna Bliss: Inside The Recovery RoomEpisode 14 of The Middle of the Pack podcast takes you into The Recovery Room in Ballincollig, Cork, where the host experiences NormaTec compression boots and an infrared sauna for the first time. Jerry Lynch explains the benefits—improved circulation, reduced soreness, muscle relaxation, skin and cardiovascular benefits—and how the facility supports both athletes and people seeking stress relief or medical recovery.
The episode covers practical booking details, session timing recommendations, pricing, and the private, personalized nature of the services, plus insights into the adjoining private personal training studio.
2025-11-0527 min
Middle of the Pack PodcastDublin Marathon: Tears, PBs and Unforgettable Finish LinesThis episode of The Middle of the Pack captures the electric day of the Dublin City Marathon through the host's finish-line buzz and short voice-note recaps from runners and spectators.
Listeners hear personal PBs, emotional moments, crowd and volunteer support, pacing challenges and the community spirit that made the day special — with a follow-up recovery-themed episode coming next week.
2025-10-2932 min
Middle of the Pack PodcastTaper Week Worries : Surviving Maranoia Before DublinPadraig hosts a Taper Week special on Middle of the Pack, exploring ‘maranoia’—the nervous, restless anxiety many runners feel before a marathon. Previous Guests share personal tips, packing lists, race-day advice and how they’re managing rest, nutrition and nerves ahead of the Dublin City Marathon.
Short, practical guidance and warm encouragement for first-timers and veterans alike, with reminders to trust the training( the Hay is in the Barn), enjoy the race and celebrate getting to the start line.
2025-10-2229 min
Middle of the Pack PodcastChasing 2:49 — Dave Buckley’s Marathon ComebackOn this episode of The Middle of the Pack Podcast Dave Buckley talks about his running journey from school cross-country and soccer to road races and marathons. He shares memorable races (Cork and Dublin), training highs and setbacks, pacing stories, shoe choices, fueling strategies and brutal hamstring cramps that nearly stopped him at the finish.
Dave also describes the addictive PB feeling, why he prefers 10-mile races, and his plans and hopes for future marathons. Expect candid race stories, practical tips and plenty of passion for the sport ( and a bit of a laugh).
2025-10-1529 min
Middle of the Pack PodcastBack-of-the-pack: Sinead Power's Sociable Running JourneyIn this episode Sinead Power, an oncology and palliative care nurse, talks about balancing compassionate work with her life as a back-of-the-pack runner. She shares how the running community, club life and parkrun kept her connected and motivated.
Sinead discusses starting with couch-to-5K, marathon training and fueling strategies, coping with grief while running, and why running is about wellbeing and belonging rather than pace or podiums.
2025-10-0829 min
Middle of the Pack PodcastComeback to Setback: Karen Twomey’s Rockiest Road to DublinOn this episode of Middle of the Pack, Karen Twomey recounts her journey from junior success and repeated stress fractures to rediscovering running in 2023, training for marathons, and the injury that forced her to withdraw from Dublin.
Karen shares the diagnosis of a stress fracture, her recovery plan, a renewed focus on 10Ks and half marathons, and honest reflections on nutrition and supporting young athletes—ending the episode with a positive, practical plan for coming back stronger.
Join Padraig & Karen for a chat about all things Running ( Highs & Lows)
2025-10-0132 min
Middle of the Pack PodcastInside the Medical Tent: Marathon Meltdowns, Heat & Lifesaving TipsLaura Fleming, a runner and emergency nurse, recounts her experiences working in the medical tents at races and will be at the Dublin marathon 2025. She describes how hot weather, under-fuelling and dehydration can quickly make runners very ill, and why half-marathons sometimes produce more medical cases than full marathons.
This episode covers common race issues—heatstroke, low blood sugar, muscle breakdown, falls from discarded bottles—and practical precautions: hydrate, take electrolytes, fuel properly, write emergency contacts on your bib, and be mindful of shoe choice and training in warmer conditions.
Laura also shares personal running habit...
2025-09-2429 min
Middle of the Pack PodcastCouch to 5k to Marathon: Gareth’s Quest to Break Five HoursHost Padraig and guest Gareth Franklin talk candidly about his running journey — from lockdown walks and Couch to 5K, through parkruns and marathons, to the goal of breaking five hours. They cover training, pacing, fueling strategies, race day atmospheres, and the mental challenges of middle-of-the-pack running.
Gareth shares tips on hydration, gels, shoe choices, and club running, plus his upcoming races and personal targets.
2025-09-1729 min
Middle of the Pack PodcastFrom TikTok to 42K: Karen Twomey’s Running lifeEpisode 6 features Karen Twomey — teacher, personal trainer, TikToker and devoted runner — sharing her return to the sport, race experiences (Blarney, Charleville) and how running shaped her life and career choices.
She discusses founding an inclusive run club with interval sessions, gear and shoe preferences, the benefits running has for mental health, and the supportive running community that keeps her motivated.
Join Padraig & Karen as they Chat all things running....
2025-09-1029 min
Middle of the Pack PodcastFrom Zero to 42K: Clodagh’s First RacePadraig interviews Clodagh O'Neill, who ran her very first race as the Cork City Marathon. They discuss her training journey, shoe choice, fuel strategy, diagnosis of exercise-induced asthma, and the crucial support of pacers and running groups that helped her finish.
Clodagh shares practical takeaways for new and middle-of-the-pack runners—listen for honest tips about pacing, training progression, race-day fueling, and the simple advice to "take the next step."
And we will get her to run a Park run soon....
2025-09-0329 min
Middle of the Pack PodcastRunning Through Chaos: An Emergency Nurse’s Running JourneyHost Padraig talks with Laura Fleming — an emergency nurse, mother of three and dedicated middle-of-the-pack runner — about how running became her lifeline through marriage breakdown, injury and the pandemic.
They cover Laura’s journey from Couch to 5K to multiple marathons, training and coaching strategies, balancing shifts and family life, fueling and hydration tips for long runs, and practical recovery hacks (including a surprising plantar fasciitis trick).
2025-08-2729 min
Middle of the Pack PodcastTickets Secured: The Rocky Road to Dublin MarathonIn this episode Padraig welcomes back Angeline and Fergal Murphy to talk about their Dublin marathon journey — the drama of securing tickets, lessons learned from Cork, and how group training, pacing strategies and fueling (including caffeine gels) are shaping their race goals.
They discuss pacing tactics, mental preparation, warm-up routines, and tips from club sessions as they build toward Dublin, plus a preview of upcoming episodes and guests.
2025-08-2029 min
Middle of the Pack PodcastBalancing Miles and Lives, the journey from Cork To Dublin MarathonWelcome to the Middle of the Pack podcast. In this episode, host Padraig invites fellow Cork City marathon leaders Angeline and Fergal Murphy to share their experiences leading up to the Cork Marathon and their preparation for the Dublin Marathon. Join us for the first Part of two episodes as we explore the challenges of balancing family life, demanding careers, and marathon training. Discover practical tips and hear real conversations about running within the middle of the pack, with insights into goals, strategies, and the importance of staying motivated. This episode is packed with engaging anecdotes and advice for...
2025-08-1329 min
Middle of the Pack Podcast"Keep on Running: A Journey from 5Ks to Marathons"Welcome to the first episode of the Middle of the Pack Podcast, your go-to source for all things running! In this introductory episode, host Padraig shares his personal running journey, revealing the ups and downs of training, racing, and balancing life as a middle-of-the-pack runner. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned marathoner, this podcast offers practical tips, honest gear reviews, and engaging conversations with fellow runners chasing progress, not perfection.
Discover the joys of hitting personal bests, learn about nutrition, gear, and more, all while enjoying the camaraderie of a supportive running community. Tune in weekly...
2025-08-0532 min