Women’s Running Collective

Mastering Breath Control for Better Running EP 48

Mastering Breath Control for Better Running🎧 Hosts: Jussie & Hayley📅 Episode Summary:In this insightful episode, Jazzy and Hayley explore the often-overlooked but crucial topic of breathing while running. Whether you're new to the trails or a seasoned racer, this episode breaks down the science and technique behind effective breath control to help you run stronger and longer.
🕐 Episode Breakdown:
00:00 – Introduction and Today’s TopicJussie and Hayley introduce the episode and highlight the importance of breathwork in running.
08:03 – The Mystery of Breathing While RunningThe hosts reflect on common struggles runners face when it comes to breathlessness and why it's more complex than it seems.
10:47 – Understanding the Physiology of BreathingA quick look at how breathing works on a physiological level and what runners need to know.
13:47 – Diaphragmatic Breathing TechniquesLearn how to engage your diaphragm for deeper, more efficient breaths during runs.
18:40 – Synchronizing Breathing with Running RhythmTips on matching your breath with your stride for better endurance and flow.
22:59 – Breathing Techniques for RunningPractical strategies for mastering breathing patterns to support performance.
23:55 – Nose Breathing vs. Mouth BreathingA breakdown of the pros and cons of each, and how combining both can benefit runners.
26:53 – Managing Breathlessness During RunsThe hosts share actionable tips for calming your breath and staying focused.
28:42 – Posture and Breathing EfficiencyWhy your posture can make or break your breathing—and how to fix it.
34:01 – Fun and Motivation in RunningJazzy and Haley talk about how to keep runs enjoyable and the role of mental motivation.
38:02 – Listener Feedback and ApologiesHeartfelt community updates, listener shoutouts, and a moment of reflection.
Recommendations are the PURE GELS and MAPLEROO GELS for sensitive tummies. 
💡 Key Takeaways:
Mastering your breath is essential for running efficiency and endurance.
Diaphragmatic breathing and syncing breath with stride can improve performance.
Good posture and combining nose and mouth breathing optimise oxygen intake.
Staying motivated and enjoying the run can make all the difference.
📢 Join the Conversation:Got a question or tip about breathing while running? Reach out to the Women's Running Collective on social or drop a voice memo to be featured in a future episode!

5K, 10K, Half or Full: What’s the Hardest Race to Run and Train For?

🎙️ Women's Running Collective – Episode 7"Training for Runners: From 5Ks to Marathons"
In Episode 7, hosts Hayley and Justine kick things off by unveiling their brand-new podcast studio before diving into a dynamic conversation on training for different race distances—from quick 5Ks to full marathons.
They reflect on their own running journeys, sharing the unique physical and mental challenges of each distance. Whether you're gearing up for your first 5K or your next marathon, this episode is packed with practical advice on training cycles, recovery strategies, mental toughness, gear, and pacing—plus tips on how to balance training with a busy life.
The episode wraps up with thoughtful recommendations and updates, all in the spirit of supporting and empowering women runners at every level.
 
🔹 Episode Breakdown:
00:00 – Intro & Welcome
00:05 – Surprise! New Podcast Studio Reveal
01:43 – Hailey & Justine's Weekly Running Recap
07:12 – Training for 5Ks, 10Ks, Half Marathons & Marathons
22:38 – How to Pace Strategically for a Marathon
23:06 – The Mental Side of Long-Distance Training
23:21 – Balancing Work, Life & Running Goals
24:28 – Beginner-Friendly Training Advice
26:04 – Building Mental Strength for Races
28:18 – Making the Leap to Longer Distances
32:27 – What It Really Takes to Train for a Marathon
38:19 – Which Race Is the Toughest?
41:36 – Final Thoughts, Recommendations & Wrap-Up
Hayleys recommendation https://wearefractel.com/products/headband-u-jet?currency=AUD&variant=43945027272884&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=Google%20Shopping&stkn=fcf5d24a1cc6&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=21812548038&gbraid=0AAAAAC8dq9qtEksXq5MEWwyyOZtSoVua3&gclid=Cj0KCQjwyvfDBhDYARIsAItzbZE3RLvwM7KNRtoSBfobtrNp8yrhUZiY9OO1fKU3Y2DSY7g4v6fsZ0MaApiLEALw_wcB
 
Also Tour defrance Unchained on Netflix
 
Jussie hair tie recommendation 
🏃‍♀️ Whether you're a casual runner or chasing your next PR, this episode is a must-listen for anyone ready to level up their training. 

Running Your Own Race: Overcoming the Trap of Comparison

Women's Running Collective – Episode Show Notes🎧 Running and Relishing: Embracing the Journey
In this heartfelt and entertaining episode, your favorite hosts Hailey and Justine return with stories from their recent runs, reflections on training, and some much-needed honesty about the pitfalls of comparing yourself to others—especially in the social media age.
They kick off with a recap of their week, including the ups and downs of long runs and the underrated value of deload weeks for injury prevention and recovery. Following advice from their coach, they highlight how listening to your body is just as important as hitting your pace.
💬 Main Topic: The Comparison TrapComparison is a natural part of life, but when it comes to running, it can seriously mess with your mindset. Hailey and Justine unpack the mental toll of scrolling through curated highlight reels and remind us that everyone’s journey is unique. Using metaphors like the "iceberg effect" and tackling the “scarcity mindset,” they encourage runners to focus on personal growth over external validation.
💡 Mental Strategies for Staying PositiveFrom reframing negative thoughts to setting internal goals, this episode is packed with practical tips to help runners stay grounded, grateful, and mentally strong. You’ll hear how the hosts navigate their own self-doubt and return to the joy of simply running for themselves.
✨ Plus:
Event recap: ASICS Gel-Kayano 32 Launch
Recovery tips to avoid overtraining
Why running is a long game, not a quick win
Their current favorite products 
Hayleys reco Noisy Guts https://www.noisyguts.com/
Jussie https://aidstation.com.au/collections/pure-sports-nutrition and https://www.mapleroo.au/?srsltid=AfmBOoq0IuL5OGboRGt_gD-zqtETZSH01PaaK59hgCr2pjBhhnlmu7YO
Shoutouts to the supportive community that makes it all possible!

A Gentle Guide to Getting Back Into Running from female running coach Sophie Fit

Episode SummaryIn this lively and empowering episode, Hayley and Justine kick things off with humor and honesty, sharing personal anecdotes—including the not-so-glamorous side of runner hygiene. They recap a chilly, schedule-shuffled week of training and reflect on how to set achievable running goals, especially for women returning post-pregnancy or after a long break.
The heart of the episode features an insightful interview with Sophie Fit, a Melbourne-based podiatrist and running coach. Sophie shares wisdom on mindset, realistic goal-setting, and the power of small, consistent steps. She encourages runners to embrace gradual progress, ask for help when needed, and stay positive through setbacks.
Listeners also get race prep tips, gear recs like LSKD tights with pockets and Pop Locks glitter, and a look ahead at the Gold Coast Marathon.
✨ Whether you're training for your first 5K or gearing up for a marathon, this episode is a celebration of the gritty, glittery, and giggly sides of the female running journey.
Timestamps:
00:00 – Laughs and hygiene confessions
01:05 – Weekly running highs and lows
06:33 – Listener shoutouts
09:24 – Interview with Sophie Fit
24:16 – The value of consistency
24:46 – Why asking for help matters
28:07 – Starting slow, staying steady
30:31 – Beating self-doubt
40:38 – Race prep and goal management
46:04 – Gear picks and final encouragement

Embracing Consistency: Running for Joy and Mental Health

Episode Title: Embracing Consistency: Running for Joy and Mental Health
In this uplifting episode, Hayley and Justine dive into how consistency—not intensity—is the key to joyful, sustainable running. They open up about their own routines, juggling runs with family life, and finding motivation even on busy days. From tempo runs to treasured rituals (hello, apricot cubes!), this episode is packed with practical tips and heartfelt moments.
💬 Highlights include:
Strategies for fitting in runs around parenting and work
Breaking the myth of "No pain, no gain"
Creating rituals to build a consistent habit
Listener Jessica's emotional story of running in memory of her son, Josaia Jessica.joy.adventures
Product faves: reusable water bottles + on-the-go fuel
https://glitchsystems.au/?srsltid=AfmBOoq3MuGWszwvUAK42dUOr7nWOlmK0KjKaEVdAJV2t3nMnBvAxUAa
00:00 Introduction and Podcast Welcome
00:41 Weekly Running Recap
01:13 Monday Running Routine
01:50 Running with Family
03:16 Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders Inspiration
04:14 Tempo Run and Time Trials
07:27 Consistency in Running
16:34 The Myth of 'No Pain, No Gain'
16:51 Creative Ways to Stay Active
17:26 Building Consistency in Your Running Routine
17:29 Setting Realistic Goals and Making Them Visible
19:12 Creating Positive Associations with Running
19:54 Establishing a Running Ritual
21:17 Forgiving Yourself and Staying Consistent
21:38 Personal Stories of Consistency
24:58 Motivation and Rhythm in Running
26:59 Heartfelt Listener Messages
31:59 Running Recommendations
35:13 Podcast Wrap-Up and Listener Engagement
Tune in for inspiration, honest conversation, and that cozy, collective vibe we all crave. 🏃‍♀️💛

7 marathons, over 7 days in 7 states of Australia (your joking)

Overcoming Challenges and Embracing Joy in Running
In this episode of the Women's Running Collective podcast, hosts Hayley and Justine welcome listeners to Season 5 as they share personal anecdotes of their chaotic week, including Hayley's struggle with sickness. They dive into their weekly runs, injuries, and training for the upcoming Sydney marathon. They also discuss setting meaningful goals and avoiding the pressures of focusing solely on race times. The highlight of the episode is an inspiring interview with runner Brookie, who shares her journey from a beginner to an ambitious goal of completing seven marathons in seven days across seven states. Brookie speaks about the importance of self-discovery, raising funds for Bravehearts, and her incredible determination. The episode wraps up with practical running gear recommendations and an encouraging message to their listeners.
00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:21 Season Confusion and Episode Recap
01:02 Hailey's Illness and Recording Challenges
01:56 Running Updates and Training Plans
04:30 Morning Routines and Running Hacks
08:07 Reflecting on Running Goals and Achievements
13:03 Interview with Brookie: Seven Marathons in Seven Days
15:54 Fundraising for Bravehearts
16:14 The Soccer Ball Marathon Challenge
17:27 Applying for a World Record
18:13 Brookie's Running Journey
22:39 Training Regimen and Challenges
24:57 Supporting Brookie's Cause
29:13 Reflecting on Personal Growth
32:30 Final Thoughts and Farewell
 

Run with Intention: Goals, Grit & the Power of Manifestation

Episode Title: Setting Running Goals and the Power of Manifestation
Podcast: Women’s Running CollectiveHosts: Hayley & Justine
In this inspiring episode, Hayley and Justine catch up on their recent running experiences—from dealing with pesky injuries to braving the winter chill in Sydney. They dive into the art of setting meaningful running goals using the SMART framework (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound), with Hayley sharing her personal passion for goal planning and how it fuels her motivation.
The conversation takes a deeper turn as they explore the emotional connection women often have with goal setting, and how it differs from men’s approaches. They also introduce the powerful concept of manifestation—and how visualizing success can play a key role in achieving it.
Whether you’re planning your first 5K, eyeing a marathon, or simply looking to realign your mindset, this episode offers actionable insights and heartfelt reflections. Plus, they wrap up with some great suggestions for creating vision boards and a shout-out to Fractal’s latest running gear.
Episode Breakdown
00:00 – Intro & friendly banter
00:32 – Weekly running check-ins
01:13 – Injuries, setbacks & support from running groups
03:51 – Why goal setting matters
05:20 – Deep dive into the SMART goals method
08:24 – Sharing personal goals and what drives them
12:42 – How to set marathon-specific goals
13:18 – Finding joy through running
14:06 – Trail vs. marathon running: different vibes
14:50 – Questions every runner should ask themselves
17:27 – Harnessing the power of manifestation
23:54 – Vision boards and intentional goal visualization
25:22 – Gear picks & wrap-up
https://wearefractel.com/collections/apparel 
🎧 Tune in for practical tips, thoughtful reflections, and a boost of motivation for your running journey.

Beginner to 1/2 Marathon Runner with Gemma O'Neill: Racing Through the Wild to Beat Brain Cancer

From Beginner to  1/2 Marathon Runner with Gemma O'Neill: Racing Through the Wild to Beat Brain Cancer
Hosts: Hayley & JustineGuest: Gemma O'NeillDuration: ~35 minutes
In this uplifting and empowering episode, Hayley and Justine sit down with Gemma O’Neill, a self-proclaimed non-runner turned 1/2 marathoner, whose story is as courageous as it is inspiring.
Gemma shares her unexpected leap into running, her transition from swimming to pounding the pavement, and how she’s now training for the Big Five Marathon in South Africa — one of the toughest and most scenic races in the world. And she’s not just running for herself: Gemma is racing through the wild to beat brain cancer, raising funds and awareness through her support of Carrie’s Beanies for Brain Cancer.
🎧 What to Expect in This Episode:
00:13 – Meet Gemma: From “I don’t run” to training for a marathon
01:21 – Why brain cancer research is deeply personal for her
02:37 – All about the wild and challenging Big Five Marathon
02:58 – How swimming shaped her mindset for running
03:35 – Emotional highs, lows, and learning curves of marathon training
06:55 – Essential running gear and strategies that made a difference
07:57 – Laugh-out-loud running stories (including “The Vomit Incident” at 19:26)
13:34 – Training with a family and why support means everything
15:01 – The surprisingly hard parts of running no one talks about
16:24 – Real talk on fueling, gels, and why tissues matter (20:17)
22:22 – Why running with friends changes everything
27:48 – The simple, joyful truth about why she runs
31:02 – Gemma’s heartfelt advice for anyone thinking about starting
33:49 – How listeners can support brain cancer research and Gemma’s mission
💬 Notable Quote:
“I never saw myself as a runner — but this journey has shown me I’m stronger than I thought. And I’m not doing this just for me.”
🧠 Support the Cause:
Gemma is fundraising for Carrie’s Beanies for Brain Cancer, a charity funding critical research into one of the most underfunded yet deadly cancers in Australia.🔗 https://cb4bc.grassrootz.com/big-5-marathon/gemma-oneill?fbclid=IwY2xjawJrun5leHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHrfw54JMTItcqORUTvpO1hevmEQZQg6txfeOUzw6vVfZ7MUU9Kat3qdcS4Un_aem_aOv_8YLf5DcZb4DiEA3tYg
Carries website Caries beanies for brain cancer
https://www.cb4bcbig5.com/
🏃‍♀️ Join the WRC:
Subscribe, share, and rate the show to help more women find their strength through running.💌 Got a story like Gemma’s? Reach out to the show! Email us @womensrunningcollective@outlook.com
or follow us on instagram @womensrunning_collective
 

Listeners episode - Bras, Bling & All the Things

Women's Running Collective: Season 5 Episode 2 - From how to hold your boobs to how to store your medals
 
In this listener-fuelled episode, we’re tackling everything you’ve ever wanted to ask about running—from the practical to the personal. From how to support your boobs on a long run (hello, chafe-free solutions!) to what to actually do with that growing pile of race medals, we’ve got you covered.
 
In Episode 2 of Season 5, hosts Hayley and Justine of the Women's Running Collective podcast discuss their recent running experiences, including embarrassing moments and overcoming physical challenges. They answer listener questions on various topics such as introducing energy gels into a routine, recommended running bras, and maintaining consistency after setbacks like sickness or a period. The hosts also share useful tips on supplementation for immune health and techniques for storing running medals and bibs. The episode highlights the importance of having a strong support network and setting goals to stay motivated. Additionally, an introduction of a new campaign by Asics, 'Mind's Best Friend,' which involves dogs in promoting mental health and fundraising, and new features in Garmin watches are discussed. Tune in to get inspired and find out how to tackle common running issues while keeping the motivation high.
 
00:00 Recording Setup and Introduction
00:34 Weekly Running Recap
06:31 Listener Questions and Community Growth
09:00 Running While Sick: Tips and Advice
12:11 Supplement Recommendations for Runners
13:56 Introducing Gels for Early Morning Runs
21:47 Understanding Carbohydrate Gels
22:46 Displaying Finisher Medals and Bibs
25:07 Finding the Perfect Running Bra
30:45 Staying Consistent After Setbacks
33:41 ASICS Mind's Best Friend Campaign
35:06 New Garmin Watch Features
36:52 Preparing for the Unexpected in Races
41:32 Exciting Upcoming Interview
43:06 Conclusion and Community Engagement
 
Links - 
Hayleys best running bra https://www.underarmour.com.au/en-au/c/womens/clothing/sports-bras/
 
shadow frame from Kmart https://www.kmart.com.au/product/shadow-box-frame-12in.-x-12in.-(30.5cm-x-30.5cm)-white-42279280/?sku=42279280&region_id=200001&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=Kmart%7CAU%7CNA%7CHome+%26+Living%7CNA%7CSEM%7CGoogle%7CPMax%7CNA:kmabrd020225&ds_eid=700000001591229&ds_e=GOOGLE&&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=20038499931&gbraid=0AAAAAD4f9Ko0QY05JrNWjGkwG-ZC8-Wc6&gclid=Cj0KCQjw9O_BBhCUARIsAHQMjS6U854rNna9qK6LKkQb68TzsxvS0N-bpRwwmzbxiCPlgcxu2O3VRmcaAjj9EALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds
 
Asics Minds Best Friend https://www.asics.com/au/en-au/mk/mindsbestfriend
 
New Garmin https://www.garmin.com/en-AU/blog/garmin-unveils-the-forerunner-570-and-forerunner-970-its-newest-gps-running-and-triathlon-smartwatches-for-performance-driven-athletes/
 
 

Ultra- Runner Meg Coffey Bullen WINNER of the UTA Miler 2025

Episode One: Season Five Kickoff with Ultra-Runner Meg Coffey
In the season five premiere of Women's Running Collective, hosts Hayley and Justine chat with the accomplished ultra-runner Meg Coffey. Meg shares her experiences of overcoming technical difficulties during races, her strategies for mental endurance, and the thrills and challenges of balancing motherhood with her elite running career. The episode highlights Meg’s recent victory at the UTA 100 miler, her record-setting run on the Lara Pinta Trail, and her amusing anecdote of getting lost during the Delirious West 200 miler. The hosts also discuss their own running weeks, finding joy in training despite adverse weather, and provide training advice based on their learnings from Meg and personal experiences.
00:00 Introduction to the Women's Running Collective
00:33 Interview with Meg Coffey: UTA 100 Miler Champion
02:31 Meg's Favorite Running Gear and Races
04:58 Funny and Challenging Running Stories
15:41 Balancing Motherhood and Elite Running
19:44 Training Insights and Personal Reflections
21:07 Speed and Endurance Training
22:32 Strength Training Routine
23:14 Long Run Strategies
24:37 Mental Strategies for Tough Runs
25:15 Race Day Visualization Techniques
28:54 Checkpoints and Competitiveness
30:27 Balancing Competition and Self-Pacing
33:24 Role Models and Inspirations
34:23 Advice for Aspiring Ultra Runners
35:36 Future Races and Projects
36:22 Inspiring Other Moms
38:02 Weekly Running Recap
40:41 Training Breaks and Recommendations
42:30 Season Five Introduction and Listener Questions