In 2014, I sat down to write my very first blog post. I was still trying to piece together who I was and what I wanted my life to become. I’d left my banking job in 2013, taken a “gap year” to travel, explore, and breathe — but eventually, the big questions found me again. What am I doing? Where am I going? What do I want my life to be? Tough Girl Challenges was born out of that space of uncertainty, curiosity, and deep desire for change.

Dr. Sarah Ruggins is a high-achieving investment professional, academic powerhouse, and now a record-breaking ultra-endurance cyclist. From her early days as a national-level track athlete in Canada to surviving complex PTSD and rebuilding her life, Sarah’s journey is one of transformation, resilience, and radical self-belief.

Caroline Livesey is an adventurer, extreme triathlete, ultracyclist, elite gravel cyclist and triathlon and life coach. Caroline started her journey into triathlon while serving with the Royal Engineers in the British Army. After 10 years service she left as a Major in 2013 and pursued a career as a professional triathlete (while working full time as a geotechnical design consultant), originally in Ironman events.

In this episode, we’re joined by the fearless Ann Whatmore, an adventurer who proves that asthma doesn’t have to set limits on what you can achieve. Ann has faced numerous health challenges, but rather than letting them hold her back, she’s embraced adventure in a big way. In May 2024, she cycled over 3,000km across the UK on her recumbent e-trike, “Bob,” completing a solo journey from Land’s End to Orkney before speaking at Yestival.

Diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in 2013, Lis van Lynden has refused to let the condition define her limits. With no prior cycling experience or training, Lis set off in 2022 on a solo, unsupported ride around the entire coastline of Great Britain—covering 5,000 miles over seven months and raising over £13,000 for MS charities.

Sherry Cardona is an ultra-endurance cyclist, content creator, and adventure seeker who thrives on pushing her limits.

Sahir Permall is an adventurer, writer, and senior leader in the third sector who is passionate about getting more women on bikes. As the he

Sami Sauri is a multi-sport athlete, creative director, and storyteller who blends her passion for adventure with her artistic vision.

In this episode of the Tough Girl Podcast, we sit down with the incredible Caroline Soubayroux—Guinness World Record holder, full-time proje

In this episode, we’re joined by the inspiring Heidi Beierle—author, slow traveler, and artist—who shares her incredible journey across Amer

After 20 years in a relationship that limited and stifled her, former advertising professional, turned fitness pioneer and award-winning ent

Join us on this episode of the Tough Girl Podcast as we explore the remarkable journey of Amanda Harris, an adapted cyclist and dedicated fu

Join us on this episode of the Tough Girl Podcast as we delve into the extraordinary life of Gina Atkinson, a former Royal Signals engineer