Women’s Running Collective

Unscripted Holiday Chaos with Zero running advice: Women’s Running Collective Bonus Episode

Unscripted Laughs & Holiday Chaos: Women’s Running Collective Bonus Episode
This bonus episode is exactly what happens when Hayles and Jussie hit record with no plan, no script, and zero self-control and honestly, we wouldn’t have it any other way.
To wrap up the year, we’re bringing you a light-hearted, laugh-out-loud episode full of running-related Would You Rather questions, cheeky confessions, embarrassing moments, and the kind of chaotic banter that usually happens off-mic. There’s not a whole lot of running advice in this one — but there is plenty of joy, silliness, and end-of-year energy.
Perfect listening if you’re out for an easy run, folding laundry, driving to a Christmas catch-up, or just need something that feels like chatting with your running mates. Thanks for being part of our community this one’s just for fun 💫
In this episode we cover:
Unfiltered running banter
Ridiculous runner questions we all get asked
Would You Rather: Running Edition
Confessions, chaos, and Christmas vibes
Time Stamps00:00 Welcome to the Women’s Running Collective00:15 The chaos begins (no turning back)00:39 Banter, laughs, and funny stories01:22 Would You Rather: Running Edition08:19 Quirky questions & runner confessions16:35 Hilarious (and relatable) running stories17:39 The most annoying questions runners get19:29 Would You Rather: Running Edition (round two)20:22 Random questions & fun facts23:59 Confessions and embarrassing moments29:55 Christmas gifts, gratitude & wrapping up the year
 

Training With Your Cycle: 5K Time Trials, RED-S & Female Running with Lydia O’Donnell

Time Trials, Training with Your Cycle & Tackling Taboos with Lydia O’Donnell
The Women’s Running Collective Podcast
This week on the pod, Hayles and Jussie are back with a big catch-up on life, running, and those 5K time trials 😮‍💨. We chat all things pacing, nerves, race-day lessons, and why time trials are just as much a mental workout as a physical one. Spoiler: mistakes were made, lessons were learned, and growth is happening.
We also squeeze in some festive chaos, post-run reflections, and plenty of laughs before sitting down with our incredible guest, Lydia O’Donnell is the co-founder of Femmi.
Lydia is a former elite marathoner and Nike Pacific Running Coach who’s now leading the charge in changing how women train. We talk openly about disordered eating, RED-S, menstrual cycle education, and why so many women have been training against their bodies for years without even realising it. Lydia shares how aligning her training with her cycle completely changed her performance, health, and relationship with running — and how Femmi is helping other women do the same.
This episode is powerful, educational, and honestly a must-listen for any woman who runs (or wants to).
Episode Breakdown
00:00 Welcome to the Women’s Running Collective00:20 Christmas vibes, festive chaos & recent run trials00:40 The 5K time trial – pacing, prep & post-run emotions08:47 What we learned (the hard way) & race-day reflections11:21 Christmas party shenanigans13:48 Meet Lydia O’Donnell, co-founder of Femmi22:55 Big dreams, elite running & chasing athletic goals23:16 Lydia’s journey into Nike & the world of high-performance sport23:45 Using sport to inspire and empower others24:27 Gender barriers in running and high-performance environments25:32 Coaching women & creating better opportunities26:31 Founding Femmi and challenging outdated training models26:58 Personal struggles, RED-S & reconnecting with her body30:19 Why menstrual cycle education matters for runners32:30 How Femmi is empowering female runners43:43 Mindset, confidence & visualisation techniques48:33 The power of community and shared experiences52:40 Final thoughts, recommendations & wrapping up
Femmi Instagram 
FEMMI 
Lydia Instagram
SHOKZ OPENDOT ONE
Accelerate 3" High-Rise Running Short
If you’ve ever felt confused, frustrated, or disconnected from your body as a runner — this one’s for you. Don’t forget to subscribe, share with a run friend, and let us know what hit home 🤍🏃‍♀️

Running Year Spotify Wrapped: Best Shoes, Races, Gear & Lessons for Women Runners

Women’s Running Collective, Episode 64
2025 Year in Review: Our Runs, Fails, Faves & Festive Chaos
In our final episode of the year, Hayles and Jussie sit down with a peppermint tea, hot choccy (or something stronger…) and unpack everything that made 2025 iconic, chaotic, emotional, and very, very sweaty.
From the highs of Sydney and London Marathons to the lows of period disasters mid-run, this one is basically our Spotify Wrapped but Runner Girl Edition. We cover our top shoes, clothing, books, guests, training blocks, hilarious fails, plus a new Christmas movie you’ll absolutely want to watch.
Whether you’re here for motivation, pure entertainment, or to feel better about your own questionable running choices this episode has it all.
Episode Breakdown
00:00 — Introduction & BanterThe festive chaos begins.
00:05 — Welcome to the Women’s Running CollectiveFinal ep of the year energy!
00:42 — Reflecting on the Year: Our Spotify WrappedYes, Taylor Swift makes an appearance.
01:03 — Weekly Running RecapSilly season training: heroic or horrendous?
02:52 — Running Gear ReviewsWhat stayed, what slayed, and what got returned.
07:07 — Top Running Shoes of the YearOur holy grails of 2025.(Want a full list for Instagram? Just say the word!)
11:56 — Favourite Running ClothingShorts that don’t chafe. Bras that actually support. The winners.
18:00 — Best Running SongsCue the playlist: the beats that carried our legs this year.
21:28 — Top Running Books & PodcastsThe ones that inspired, educated, and stopped us doomscrolling.
26:14 — Proudest Runs & Funniest FailsFrom big PBs to big… embarrassments.
29:31 — Period Horror StoryIt always happens on the long run.
30:53 — Menstrual Cup WoesSay a prayer.
31:53 — Top Three Running Events of the YearOur favourite races vibes, views, medals and all.
33:58 — Most Unhinged Running DecisionsWould we do them again? Absolutely.
35:04 — Running Playlist WrappedThe bangers that defined 2025.
37:10 — Regrettable PurchasesMoney was spent. Lessons were learned.
39:49 — Iconic Guest ConversationsOur most powerful, helpful, hilarious guests of the year.
44:31 — Community HighlightsShouting out YOU — the girlies who make WRC what it is.
51:54 — Charity Spots for Sydney MarathonWhere to sign up, how to join, and why you should. APPLY to be a charity runner here https://sm26.grassrootz.com/batyr
53:57 — Christmas Break & What’s Coming in 2026Big plans. Big dreams. 
🎄 Year-End Recommendations from the Ep
Top Shoes 
Hayley 
Tempo - Superblast 2 
Race shoes - New Balance sc elites V4 
Everyday running shoes - Nike Vomero 18plus 
Jussie 
Jussi- superblast 2  
ASICS Metaspeed Sky Tokyo 
ASICS Kayano 
Shoe you’d save in a house fire – NEW super blast or Vomeros, Jussi Vomeros 
Top Running Songs
Perfect for your Year-End WRC Wrapped playlist.
Best running songs 
Hayley -Taylor swift I can do it with a broken heart & life of a showgirl 
Hayley - Benson boon - beautiful things 
Hayley and Jussie – Unwritten Natasha Beddingfield 
Jussie- Queen don’t stop me now 
Jussie – APT & Pink Pony Club 
Book & Podcast Picks
Running books - Hayles
"Born to run" 
"Choosing to run" Des linden 
"In the long run" Emma Mugglestone 
Podcasts - Jussie
Just the gist 
I catch killers 
Do you fucking mind- alexis fernandez 
Movie Recommendation
Two Christmas ones hehe - Merry Xmas and Champage Problems (YOU ARE WELCOME)  XO Hayles
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Eat Better, Run Better: Women’s Fueling Explained with Dietitian's Kia and Laura

Women's Running Collective: Fueling & Nutrition for Female Runners with Laura and Kia  Episode 63
Welcome back runners! Episode 63 is here and WOW is it a good one. This week, Hayles and Jussie catch up on their latest training sessions including some interval goodness, a spicy little pyramid set, and the usual rollercoaster of running adventures (plus a few setbacks, because we keep it real around here 😅).
But the real magic of this episode? Our chat with the incredible Laura and Kia, two sports dietitians who specialise in female performance nutrition. These women are the real deal, and we pick their brains on everything we wish we knew when we first started running.
Think:✨ How to actually fuel enough✨ Why blood tests matter (more than we realised!)✨ Protein, carbs & timing your meals✨ Nutrition through your menstrual cycle✨ Common mistakes most female runners make✨ How to support your hormones, your training AND your overall wellbeing
It’s one of those episodes where you walk away feeling smarter, empowered, and honestly a bit relieved because fueling doesn’t have to be complicated, and they explain it in such a simple, practical way.
Grab your coffee and join us for one of our most informative episodes yet. 💛👟
Episode Breakdown
00:00 – Introduction and Casual Banter00:25 – Weekly Running Recap02:08 – Functional Running Adventures04:07 – Funny Instagram Account Spotlight08:10 – Interview with Sports Dietitians20:20 – Foundations of Nutrition for Female Runners21:16 – Importance of Regular Blood Tests22:02 – Protein Intake and Meal Structure23:38 – Pre and Post-Run Nutrition Strategies24:54 – Nutrition Adjustments During Menstrual Cycle26:59 – Common Nutrition Challenges for Female Runners29:03 – Carbohydrate Needs Based on Training Intensity30:55 – Fueling Strategies During Long Runs33:42 – Iron Deficiency and Body Image Issues34:15 – Personalised Nutrition Plans + Their Business Plug37:46 – Casual Chat and Recommendations 
 
Her Dietitian website
 
Her_dietitian

Fast 5K Training. Form Tweaks (relaxing your underarms, WHAT?) & Chasing Big Goals

Episode 62: Fast 5K Training. Form Tweaks (relaxing your underarms, WHAT?) & Chasing Big Goals
In this week’s episode of the Women’s Running Collective, we’re officially in our fast 5K era and honestly, we are thriving. Join us (Hayles and Jussie!) as we chat through how our training is going, what we’re learning about threshold pace, VO2 max, and all the little tweaks that actually make running feel smoother and faster.
We take you through our weekly training rhythms from easy runs with cheeky strides, to sweaty interval days, to those spicy threshold sessions that hurt in the moment but pay off big time. We also talk about the real benefits of 5K training: fitter hearts, stronger minds, and that unbeatable feeling of progress.
Plus, we dive into how we’re approaching lactate threshold training without needing a science degree, the importance of rest and recovery, and our favourite running-form cues. And of course, we wrap up with our personal 5K goals and how we’re feeling heading into race day.
Here’s how the episode flows:
00:00 Introduction and Casual Banter00:12 Welcome to the Women's Running Collective01:09 Weekly Running Recap04:09 Training for a Fast 5K09:06 Benefits of 5K Training13:11 Understanding Lactate Threshold19:14 Understanding Threshold Pace19:54 Lactic Threshold Training Insights20:28 Session Structures + Why Rest Matters22:30 Tips for Improving Your 5K24:35 Running Form & Technique28:06 Strength Training & Recovery31:53 Setting and Achieving 5K Goals35:03 Final Thoughts & Encouragement
If you’re chasing a faster 5K or just want to feel more confident in your training this episode is your new running buddy. Link to Hayleys Recco of the LORNA JANE LIGHT SPEED RUN SHORTS

No Bounce, No Chafe: Our Ultimate Running Bra & Undie Chat

Episode 61
Bras, Undies & 5K Training
Welcome back to the Women's Running Collective podcast! In Episode 61, we’re diving straight into the fun, the real, and the slightly chaotic world of women’s running. This week, we chat about everything from chasing fast 5K goals to the bras and undies that actually make running feel comfortable.
We break down our weekly running adventures, including Lindy’s huge 5K PB (yes, we paced our hearts out!), a birthday 3K time trial, and how we’re tweaking our training sessions to stay strong and injury-free.
Then we take a deep, very honest dive into women’s running essentials: sports bras that don’t bounce into next week, undies that don’t roll where they shouldn’t, and all the little tips we’ve learned to avoid chafing, irritation, and the dreaded running-induced thrush.
We also share our favourite running gear right now, including the Under Armour Infinity Bra, Stax Classic Crop, and Lorna Jane’s Feel Naked G-string, plus a few hygiene and care hacks to keep your gear (and you!) feeling fresh.
And of course, we sprinkle in plenty of laughs, love for the running community, and shoutouts including We Run Foundation and Elite Supplements Australia.
If you’re a woman who runs, wants to run, or just loves listening to runners talk way too passionately about bras and undies… this one’s for you.
Episode Breakdown
00:00 – Welcome & Weekend Chats00:30 – Weekly Running Recap01:03 – Lindy’s 5K PB (we screamed)03:02 – Hayles’ Birthday 3K TT04:25 – Training Adjustments & Sessions05:25 – Shoutout to Jess Hull05:55 – Running Bras: What Actually Works16:46 – The Undies Intervention18:18 – Our Go-To Running Undies19:30 – Fabrics, Fits & Chafe-Free Tips20:46 – Thrush, Hygiene & Real Talk27:39 – Gear Recs & Shoutouts31:22 – Running Fuel Needs & Challenges32:49 – Final Thoughts
 
Links 
BRAS
Under Armour Bra
Nimble In Tempo Bra
Staz Classic Crop Nandex
 
Gbangers
Lorna Jane gstring 
Lorna Jane gstring no2
Kmart (Jussies faves)
 
Elite Supplements
We Run Foundation
 
 
 

The Power of Resilience: Brooke McIntosh’s Record-Breaking Run Around Australia

Episode 60: Brooke McIntosh - The Fastest Woman to Run Around Australia
 
In this milestone 60th episode of the Women's Running Collective podcast, hosts Hayles and Jussie catch up on their personal running achievements before sitting down with the remarkable Brooke McIntosh. Brooke shares her inspiring journey as the fastest woman to run around Australia, a feat accomplished to raise awareness for mental health. She delves into her experiences from dealing with past traumas and mental health struggles to discovering the therapeutic power of running and community. Brooke's story is a testament to resilience, joy, and the incredible impact of human connection. This episode also features practical running advice, including Brooke’s gear recommendations and the importance of tuning into one's body. To conclude, the hosts highlight heartwarming listener stories and share their weekly running recommendations.
00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:24 Weekly Running Recap
02:30 Interview with Brooke McIntosh
04:04 Brooke's Running Journey
11:20 Mental and Physical Challenges
21:08 Daily Routine on the Road
27:26 Building a Supportive Team
28:10 Healing Through Running
28:30 Overcoming Eating Disorders
30:31 Fueling the Body for Performance
32:23 The Importance of Quality Nutrition
34:37 Harnessing the Power of the Mind
37:10 Inspiring the Next Generation of Runners
38:42 The Role of Community in Healing
40:49 Gear Recommendations for Runners
45:56 Listener Spotlight and Recommendations
 
https://brookemcintosh.com.au/
https://www.instagram.com/brookemcintosh__/
Des Linden the Next Chapter- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LuPVzH3HN8I
Des books https://www.penguin.com.au/books/choosing-to-run-9780593186657 
 

Plan Your Best Running Year Yet

Planning Your Year as a Runner - getting ready for 2026
In this episode, Hayles and Jussie kick things off with a laugh (and a slight wardrobe malfunction you’ll see!) before diving into how to plan your running year like a pro.
From setting big race goals to mapping out your training blocks, they chat through how to build a running calendar that keeps you motivated and balanced with enough rest to avoid burnout.
They share real-life stories from listeners, honest chat about running guilt, and their own training plans for the year ahead. You’ll walk away with practical tips on goal setting, race planning, and how to mix up your runs with speed, recovery, and tune-up races all while keeping the fun in running.
Whether you’re chasing your first 5K or planning a marathon season, this episode is your roadmap for a strong, happy, and sustainable year of running.
Timestamps00:00 – Welcome to the Women’s Running Collective00:16 – Pants Off Friday: The story behind the name01:01 – Listener shoutout: Terry’s story02:41 – Running guilt and weekly recap06:07 – Planning your running calendar for the year08:12 – How to plan your race season14:15 – Why speed training matters18:49 – Tune-up races explained22:01 – Goal setting & timelines24:06 – Structuring your training blocks25:44 – How to stay flexible with your training26:47 – The power of community and support31:04 – Race recs and fun33:39 – Wrap-up and good vibes only

Run Stronger, Not Harder: Simple Strength Training for Women

Run Stronger, Not Harder: Simple Strength Training for Women
In this week’s episode of the Women’s Running Collective, Hayles and Jussie chat through their week of training, including some spicy interval sessions like the Mona Fartlek and a pyramid workout as they prep for a fast 5K.
They dive into one of the most important (but often overlooked) parts of running: strength training. From building power and preventing injuries to improving running form, the girls break down exactly why lifting matters and how to start.
Expect step-by-step guidance on staple moves like squats, lunges, deadlifts, planks, glute bridges, and calf raises, plus practical advice on how to structure reps, sets, and supersets without overcomplicating things.
Of course, it wouldn’t be a WRC episode without some laughs this time, about running hair care and an unexpectedly iconic Big W post-run robe recommendation.
Whether you’re new to the gym or looking to level up your strength, this one’s all about helping you move better, feel stronger, and run longer. 🏃‍♀️✨
Timestamps:00:00 — Introduction and Greetings00:33 — Weekly Running Recap00:59 — Training Sessions Breakdown05:18 — Funny Running Stories07:15 — Why Strength Training Matters for Runners18:25 — Understanding Reps and Sets18:57 — What’s a Superset 20:01 — Squats: The Foundation Move21:45 — Lunges: Stability + Balance23:34 — Deadlifts: Building a Strong Backside25:16 — Planks: Core Control for Better Running Form27:12 — Glute Bridges: Powering Hip Extension28:25 — Calf Raises: Don’t Skip These!31:12 — Practical Tips & Routine Recommendations35:04 — Wrap-Up & Community Chat 
 
Hayleys robe recco BIG W $30 robe (worth every cent)

Running in the Heat: Hydration, Gear & Mindset Tips for Summer

Ep 56: Summer Running Tips & Embracing the Heat ☀️
In this week’s episode of the Women’s Running Collective Podcast, Hayley and Jussie dive into all things summer running — how to stay motivated, safe, and strong when the temps rise.
They share their weekly running updates, including training for a fast 5K and the upcoming Fernleigh 15, along with honest reflections on challenges, recovery, and staying consistent through the heat.
You’ll hear practical, tried-and-tested summer running tips — from when to run and what to wear, to hydration hacks, cooling strategies, and how to adjust your pace without guilt. Plus, they chat about the importance of sunscreen, electrolytes, and listening to your body when conditions get tough.
There’s also a sprinkle of fun — a creative use for car air fresheners, a new running romance book rec, and some thoughts on the Garmin x Strava data-sharing drama that’s had runners talking.
Whether you’re training through the heat or just trying to stay consistent over summer, this episode will help you feel prepared, confident, and connected to your running community.
Timestamps:00:00 — Welcome & Introduction00:35 — Weekly Running Recap01:43 — Upcoming Race Plans (Fast 5K + Fernleigh 15)05:21 — Summer Running Tips08:14 — Hydration & Nutrition12:54 — Gear Essentials for Hot Weather15:01 — Cooling Sleeves & Staying Comfortable15:58 — Listening to Your Body17:29 — Adjusting Pace & Effort in the Heat18:00 — Fueling Before & After Runs18:59 — Post-Run Recovery & Cooling Down21:27 — Myths vs. Facts: Heat Training26:30 — Community Shoutouts & Final Thoughts
 
Recomentdaions 
Sparms spf cooling arm sleeves
Solsista Zinc
Premax Sunscreen
In the Long Run by Emma Mugglestone