Podcast
The Running Voyager
Hosted by Linda Kapembeza · EN
This is a podcast about running and storytelling. Each episode we’ll talk to a runner and hear their story. Running is never just about running there’s always so much more to it!
22episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Running After Cancer: Strength, Survival, and 100-Mile Races with Junko Kazukawa
Apr 501:23:16Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailToday’s guest is Junko Kazukawa, an ultra and trail runner based in Denver, Colorado, originally from Japan. She has over 30 years of experience in the health, fitness, and training fields, and currently works as a UESCA-certified running coach, personal trainer, group fitness instructor, and Run Club coordinator at Colorado Athletic Club Tabor.Junko is passionate about helping people achieve their athletic goals through individualized training and strength programs, with a focus on improving weaknesses and preventing injury. She enjoys working with runners of all levels, especially beginners and older athletes.She is also a two-time breast cancer survivor, an experience that continues to shape her approach to training and life.As an athlete, Junko has completed 19 100-mile ultramarathons, including races such as Leadville 100, UTMB, UTMF, and Ultra Fiord in Patagonia. In 2015, she completed both the Grand Slam of ultrarunning and the Leadwoman series in the same season.She is an Altra Red Team athlete, a Nuun ambassador, and part of the Berkeley Park Running Company team. Outside of running, she enjoys exploring the outdoors and has summited multiple Colorado 14ers, as well as Mount Rainier, Kilimanjaro, and Mont Blanc.LinksLeadvile 100Lead challengeGrandslamUltra Trail Mont BlancUltra Trail Mount FujiHardrock 10014ershigh lonesome 100Born to Run: A Hidden Tribe, Superathletes and the Gretaest Race the World has Never Seen by Christopher McDougallTraining for the Uphill Athlete: a Manual for Mountain runners and Ski Mountaineers by Steve House, Scott Johnston and Killian JornettSupport the showThanks so much for tuning in!If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to follow us on Instagram @therunningvoyager we’d love to share your story next. You can DM us or send an email to linda@therunningvoyager.com to get in touch.Your support keeps this show going! If you’d like to help us grow, you can become a supporter on Patreon - every contribution goes directly towards hosting and production costs on Buzzsprout.Thanks again for listening, and see you in the next episode!
Transcribe →Race Week Prep: Inside the Addo Elephant Trail Run with Sheena & Sian
Mar 2001:18:03Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailWith the Addo Elephant Trail Run happening this weekend, I’m republishing my conversation with race directors Sheena and Sian to help new runners feel prepared and confident. Addo is no ordinary race—it takes you through rugged trails, remote landscapes, and breathtaking scenery in the heart of Addo Elephant National Park.In this episode, we talk about the race itself, what first-time runners should know, and what makes Addo such a unique challenge. If you're feeling a bit nervous ahead of race day, this episode is for you!Topics Covered in This Episode:The history of the Addo Elephant Trail Run and how Sheena & Shaun became race directorsWhat makes this event so unique compared to other ultrasA breakdown of the course and what runners can expect on race dayKey challenges, terrain, and weather conditions to be prepared forTips for first-time participants to stay strong physically and mentallyWhy You Should Listen:If you’re running Addo for the first time, this episode will give you valuable insights to help you feel more prepared. Even experienced runners will enjoy hearing about the behind-the-scenes of organizing such a remote and challenging race.Resources & Links:Addo Elephant Trail Run Official WebsiteFollow the Race on Social MediaSupport the showThanks so much for tuning in!If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to follow us on Instagram @therunningvoyager we’d love to share your story next. You can DM us or send an email to linda@therunningvoyager.com to get in touch.Your support keeps this show going! If you’d like to help us grow, you can become a supporter on Patreon - every contribution goes directly towards hosting and production costs on Buzzsprout.Thanks again for listening, and see you in the next episode!
Transcribe →Longevity in Ultra Running and the Growth of Running in Zimbabwe: A Conversation with Stuart Gemmill
Feb 1900:59:11Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailThe guest in this episode is Stuart Gemmill. Stuart is a run coach based in Harare, Zimbabwe. He’s an ultra-runner himself, having completed 28 Comrades marathons, and he’s gearing up for his 29th this year. Last October, he won the Runyanga 100-mile ultra.In this episode, we dive into Stuart’s incredible running journey, spanning decades. We talk about the running culture in Zimbabwe, the exponential growth of the sport, and the measures race organizers can take to improve efficiency, professionalism, and runner safety. We also explore trail running in Zimbabwe, and Stuart shares his insights as a coach—giving advice for those just starting out in running.LinksComrades Marathon – https://www.comrades.comRichmond Marathon (Durban) – https://richmondmarathon.co.zaSkyrun (Zimbabwe) – https://skyrunzim.comThe Lion King – https://www.disneyplus.com/movies/the-lion-king-1994/Atomic Habits by James Clear – https://jamesclear.com/atomic-habitsTraining Essentials for Ultrarunning by Jason Koop – https://trainright.com/book/The Happy Runner by David Roche & Megan Roche – https://www.happy-runner.comStuart's InstagramTrailblazerszim InstagramSupport the showThanks so much for tuning in!If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to follow us on Instagram @therunningvoyager we’d love to share your story next. You can DM us or send an email to linda@therunningvoyager.com to get in touch.Your support keeps this show going! If you’d like to help us grow, you can become a supporter on Patreon - every contribution goes directly towards hosting and production costs on Buzzsprout.Thanks again for listening, and see you in the next episode!
Transcribe →Running and Rowing Towards Health: Wayne Hunter's Inspirational Journey
Jan 1900:45:42Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailIn this inspiring episode, we sit down with Wayne Hunter to explore his life, career, and remarkable transformation during the COVID-19 pandemic.With a background in engineering, Wayne came to Japan at the age of 23 and has since spent most of his 37 years in the country working in private membership club management. He is married with two daughters and has had the unique experience of living in a four-generation household with his in-laws in Chiba.Wayne’s running journey began as a direct result of the COVID-19 pandemic. At his heaviest, Wayne weighed 185kg, and after witnessing deaths within his work circle, he made the decision to change his life. Over an 18-month period starting in the summer of 2020, Wayne lost an extraordinary 54% of his body weight — around 100 kilograms.He initially took up rowing, training for hours a day in his home which he credits as the foundation of his weight loss. He later transitioned into running, taking part in road races but finding his true passion on the trails. In this episode, Wayne shares his journey into running, his training, and his experience tackling the Nagawa Trail.Whether you're looking for motivation, perspective, or simply a powerful human story, this episode delivers on all fronts.Links:Centennial — by James A. MichenerNagawa TrailCOVID-19Breaking BadTokyo American Club JapanShōgun- by James ClavellThe GodfatherSupport the showThanks so much for tuning in!If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to follow us on Instagram @therunningvoyager we’d love to share your story next. You can DM us or send an email to linda@therunningvoyager.com to get in touch.Your support keeps this show going! If you’d like to help us grow, you can become a supporter on Patreon - every contribution goes directly towards hosting and production costs on Buzzsprout.Thanks again for listening, and see you in the next episode!
Transcribe →Running Through Culture: An Inside Look at Japan's Hakone Ekiden with Kiyoshi Maeda
Jan 100:49:46Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailIn this episode, Kiyoshi a Tokyo-based running community organizer and avid runner, discusses his journey with running, the famous Hakone Ekiden relay race, and his involvement in the Doyou (土曜） Club, an open learning and running community. Kiyoshi shares insights into the cultural significance of the Ekiden race in Japan, its impact on university students, and how it fosters community spirit. He also touches on his own experiences, struggles, and the importance of running in his life. This episode is a deep dive into how running and learning intertwine to build connections and personal growth.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Casual Conversation01:19 Meet Kiyoshi: The Learning Enthusiast02:52 Kiyoshi's Running Journey03:24 The Birth of a Video Producer04:33 Language Exchange and Friendship06:11 Exploring the Japanese Ekiden07:59 Hakone Ekiden: The Ultimate Relay Race14:14 The Significance of Hakone Ekiden16:06 Comparing Global Running Events18:01 Cheering and Strategy in Hakone Ekiden23:56 Advertising and Marketing in Ekiden24:27 Nike Vaporfly and Shoe Technology26:31 Comparing Marathon Runners29:35 University Teams and Qualifications32:43 Ekiden in Japanese Schools38:14 Book Recommendations39:53 Movie and TV Series Recommendations44:23 Closing Remarks and AppreciationSupport the showThanks so much for tuning in!If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to follow us on Instagram @therunningvoyager we’d love to share your story next. You can DM us or send an email to linda@therunningvoyager.com to get in touch.Your support keeps this show going! If you’d like to help us grow, you can become a supporter on Patreon - every contribution goes directly towards hosting and production costs on Buzzsprout.Thanks again for listening, and see you in the next episode!
Transcribe →Inside Karkloof: Race Directing, New 2026 Course Insights & Trail Community with Terence Vrugtman
Dec 900:43:58Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailIn this episode, I chat with Terence Vrugtman — ultrarunner, photographer, and Race Director of the Karkloof Trail Series.We dig into what makes Karkloof such a standout event in South Africa’s trail running calendar, and Terence gives us a first look at the 2026 course: the terrain, the challenges, and how the route continues to evolve.We also talk about the realities of race directing, what it takes to build a welcoming and sustainable trail community.Whether you're planning to run Karkloof, curious about race organisation, or just love trail stories, you’ll enjoy this one.Guest Links Karkloof Trail Run: https://www.karklooftrailrun.co.za Terence on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/terencevrugtmanSupport the showThanks so much for tuning in!If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to follow us on Instagram @therunningvoyager we’d love to share your story next. You can DM us or send an email to linda@therunningvoyager.com to get in touch.Your support keeps this show going! If you’d like to help us grow, you can become a supporter on Patreon - every contribution goes directly towards hosting and production costs on Buzzsprout.Thanks again for listening, and see you in the next episode!
Transcribe →Kennedy Sekhuthe on winning The Salt Pans Ultra 100km
Nov 2000:41:24Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailIn this episode, I speak with South African ultra-runner Kennedy Sekhuthe, who recently won the 2025 Salt Pans Ultra 100kmin Botswana with an impressive time of 12:26:50. We talk about his journey in ultra running, the dedication and discipline behind his rise, and the mindset that carried him through one of Africa’s toughest endurance races. Key Topics CoveredKennedy’s 2025 Salt Pans Ultra victoryHow he trained and prepared for a 100km raceHis long journey in the sport and what has shaped him as an athleteWhat this win means for his future in ultra runningKennedy’s story is a reminder that consistency over years, not shortcuts, builds endurance and success. His journey shows that with discipline, grit, and patience, long-term goals become reachable.Notable Results:1st place at Salt Pans Ultra 100km 1st place at Ultra Trail Drakensberg 100 Miler 25:08:26Support the showThanks so much for tuning in!If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to follow us on Instagram @therunningvoyager we’d love to share your story next. You can DM us or send an email to linda@therunningvoyager.com to get in touch.Your support keeps this show going! If you’d like to help us grow, you can become a supporter on Patreon - every contribution goes directly towards hosting and production costs on Buzzsprout.Thanks again for listening, and see you in the next episode!
Transcribe →Reddit Tales: I started running at 44. Here’s what I’ve learned after a year.
Nov 1500:19:01Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailIn today’s episode, I read a personal story that celebrates one full year of running — starting at age 44, with no athletic background, four kids, a full-time job, and zero intention of ever becoming “a runner”.What began as a curious experiment with a Garmin watch slowly turned into a life-changing habit. In this reflective episode, I share the highs, lows, lessons, and honest realities of beginning running later in life, in cold Canadian winters, and with absolutely no clue what “zone 2” even meant.If you’ve ever thought “running isn’t for me”, this one is for you.How he went from no running experience to completing consistent run/walk sessionsWhy running initially made no sense to himHow a fitness tracker motivated him to startTraining through a Canadian winter, illness and family demandsHis first goal: preparing for a 5K at workThe moments that changed how he viewed runningSupport the showThanks so much for tuning in!If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to follow us on Instagram @therunningvoyager we’d love to share your story next. You can DM us or send an email to linda@therunningvoyager.com to get in touch.Your support keeps this show going! If you’d like to help us grow, you can become a supporter on Patreon - every contribution goes directly towards hosting and production costs on Buzzsprout.Thanks again for listening, and see you in the next episode!
Transcribe →
Race Directing and Exploring Cape Town’s Trails with Warren King
Nov 600:30:33Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailWarren King’s journey from attorney to private banker to trail running entrepreneur is a story of reinvention and passion. After a 15-year career at Investec Bank in Johannesburg, Warren stepped away from finance to create some of South Africa’s most recognisable trail running events. His transition not only drew on his business expertise but also deepened his understanding of the rapidly expanding adventure tourism sector.A seasoned traveller and runner, Warren has raced across more than 35 countries: from the Himalayas and Southeast Asian jungles to the Andes. These global adventures have given him a rare insight into emerging trail destinations like Georgia, Mongolia, and Slovenia, and the trends shaping the future of adventure travel.Now based in Cape Town, Warren is combining his love of running, exploration, and entrepreneurship through his latest venture, Cape Trail Tours—a business offering curated trail running experiences and on-the-ground support for international runners keen to explore South Africa’s remarkable trails. Links:https://capetrailtours.co.za/https://instagram.com/capetrailtourshttps://facebook.com/capetrailtoursWhat I talk about when I talk about running by Haruki MurakamiThe Lord of the Rings by JRR TolkienFrasierFriendsThe Himalayas - NepalSupport the showThanks so much for tuning in!If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to follow us on Instagram @therunningvoyager we’d love to share your story next. You can DM us or send an email to linda@therunningvoyager.com to get in touch.Your support keeps this show going! If you’d like to help us grow, you can become a supporter on Patreon - every contribution goes directly towards hosting and production costs on Buzzsprout.Thanks again for listening, and see you in the next episode!
Transcribe →Inside South Africa’s Running Boom, Comrades Fixes, and Cape Town Marathon's Cancellation
Nov 300:46:37Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailWe explore South Africa’s running surge with Stuart Mann—from sold-out ballots and the Cape Town Marathon cancellation to how Comrades has shifted from controversy toward accountability. With 178 unique marathons completed, Stuart shares what resilient races get right and how the sport has evolved since COVID.We discuss participation trends, the impact of social media, and how ballot systems affect major events like Two Oceans and Comrades. Stuart reflects on lessons from the Otter Trail, and the realities of technical terrain. We also unpack the Comrades 2024–2025 improvements, and what the Cape Town Marathon’s cancellation reveals about race governance and planning in South Africa.To support the show, follow @TheRunningVoyager on Instagram, or leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. It doesn’t take much, but it means a lot.Here’s to another week full of great adventures.Cheers.Support the showThanks so much for tuning in!If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to follow us on Instagram @therunningvoyager we’d love to share your story next. You can DM us or send an email to linda@therunningvoyager.com to get in touch.Your support keeps this show going! If you’d like to help us grow, you can become a supporter on Patreon - every contribution goes directly towards hosting and production costs on Buzzsprout.Thanks again for listening, and see you in the next episode!
Transcribe →