The Long Haul

#63 Bitesize episode

In this short, honest episode, Steve O’Connor opens up about losing his identity and letting his standards slip — and what it takes to fight back. It’s a raw, real reflection on midlife, motivation, and the quiet decision to raise the bar again, this bite-sized talk is for anyone who’s ever felt like they’ve drifted too far from who they used to be — and wants to find their edge again. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Menopause, and the Power of Outdoor Community with Jenn Phillips

In this episode of The Long Haul Podcast, Steve and Claire sit down with Jenn Phillips — outdoor leader, community builder, and founder of MJ Outdoor Adventures — for a powerful and honest conversation about menopause, movement, and making space for women to thrive in the wild.Jenn opens up about her own journey through perimenopause, the physical and emotional toll it can take, and how time in nature became a vital part of her healing. We explore how walking, wild spaces, and shared experiences with others can help women reclaim strength, identity, and connection during midlife.In This Episode:Jenn’s personal journey through perimenopauseThe origin and mission behind MJ Outdoor AdventuresWhy menopause is still taboo — and how that’s changingHow outdoor communities support mental and emotional healthThe link between movement, mindset, and managing symptomsCreating safe spaces for women to be seen, heard, and supportedAdvice for women navigating menopause aloneWhy the outdoors can be the ultimate reset buttonAbout Jenn Phillips: Jenn is the founder of MJ Outdoor Adventures, Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Finding Career Clarity in the Outdoors with Sarah Lister

Episode Summary:In this inspiring episode, Claire and Steve sit down with Sarah Lister — a career coach who helps people reconnect with purpose and possibility through coaching and time in nature. As a qualified Hill and Moorland Leader (HML) and host of the Wild About Kinder podcast, Sarah brings a unique blend of coaching wisdom, grounded outdoor experience, and deep reflection on the paths we choose in life.We talk career changes, finding stillness in nature, the power of slow progress, and how the hills can mirror our personal growth. Whether you're stuck at a career crossroads or simply craving deeper connection with your own direction, this one’s for you.In This Episode:Sarah’s journey from office life to outdoor leadershipWhat she’s learned from guiding in the hillsThe origins and vision behind Wild About KinderUsing nature as a mirror for personal developmentHow coaching clients find clarity through slowness and spaceLessons from her own career transitionsThe value of not always having the answersWhy more people should trust their gut — and go for a walkAbout Sarah Lister:Sarah is a qualified career coach, certified Hill and Moorland Leader, and the voice behind Wild About Kinder — a podcast exploring the magic of walking, wildness, and wonder. Her coaching practice blends the structure of personal development with the freedom and challenge of the outdoors.Connect with Sarah:Website:https://www.abouttheadventure.com/Instagram: about.the.adventurePodcast: Wild About Kinder (available on Spotify/Apple)Follow The Long Haul Podcast:Instagram:'@thelonghaulpdcstYouTube: [@tlhpdcstSubscribe and review on Spotify & Apple Podcasts👣 Get outside. Get clear. And keep going — even when the climb gets steep. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Career Reinvention at 58: From Retirement to Podiatry Student – Andy Steel’s Comeback Story

In this inspiring episode of The Long Haul Podcast, We sit down with Andy Steel – a man who flipped the script at 58. After retiring from a successful career, Andy didn’t slow down. He went back to university to become a podiatrist. Yep, you read that right.We talk about what drives someone to pursue a new purpose later in life, the challenges of being a mature student surrounded by Gen Z, and why following curiosity might be the ultimate act of self-leadership.If you’re in your 40s, 50s or beyond and wondering if it’s too late to change direction – this episode is your wake-up call. It’s never too late to reinvent yourself.🔑 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why Andy decided to go back to university at 58The mindset needed to start again after retirementHow he chose podiatry – and why it’s more interesting than you thinkThe emotional and practical challenges of retraining later in lifeAdvice for anyone thinking about a midlife career changeThe Long Haul Podcast is supported by Pilgrim Journey: Pilgrim has an outstanding range of Performance backpacks, and clothing they stand for those who push beyond comfort, who embrace risk with open arms and who seek out the paths less travelled.We empower you to conquer the journeys that matter most – because in the end, it’s not where you’re going, but how you get there that defines you.TLH podcast also supports the Pilgrim bandits charity and the Army Cadet Charitable Trust Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lee Renner Pilgrim-journey.com Clothing and Backpacks

The Long Haul Podcast | Episode [Insert Number]Guest: Lee Renner - Founder of Pilgrim Journey Backpacks & ClothingIn this episode, I sit down with Lee Renner, the founder and creative mind behind Pilgrim Journey Backpacks and Clothing — a UK-based brand inspired by adventure, simplicity, and durability.Lee shares the story behind Pilgrim Journey:✅ How the idea was born✅ The challenges of launching a niche outdoor brand✅ What makes their gear different in a world full of mass-produced equipment✅ The mindset of building a business with purpose✅ How outdoor adventure influences leadership, resilience, and personal growthWhether you're into hiking, backpacking, or you're simply interested in hearing how someone turns passion into business — this is a conversation packed with insights.🧭 Check out Pilgrim Journey:🌐 Website:pilgrim-journey.com⚡ If you enjoy this episode, don’t forget to:👍 Like📲 Subscribe🛎️ Hit the notification bell💬 Drop your thoughts and questions in the comments🎧 Listen on Spotify / Apple / Google Podcasts:📩 For coaching, speaking or collaborations:https://www.yourexeccoaching.com/#PilgrimJourney #OutdoorGear #AdventureBusiness #Leadership #Podcast #LongHaulPodcast #Backpacking #Entrepreneurship #Resilience Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.