Welcome to "Connecting the Dots," a podcast where each episode is a journey through the weeks of our lives. Last year, I embarked on a personal project, "My Life in Weeks," documenting weekly milestones with a simple dot on a wall planner. This year, I'm diving deeper into the world of podcasting by connecting with intriguing people who also prioritise infusing their lives with positive experiences. Each week, I chat with a guest about their "week" or "dot," sharing stories, challenges, and ...
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Welcome to "Project 20," a podcast where I document my journey on a 20-week training plan with a run coach to chase down the elusive sub-20-minute 5k parkrun. Join me, Adam, as I share weekly updates, training tips, challenges, and breakthroughs. Whether you're a seasoned runner or just starting, tune in to find motivation, expert insights, and a community of fellow runners striving to reach their personal bests. Let's break barriers together and see what dedication and perseverance can achieve!
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Surprisingly honest, frank and hopefully entertaining discussions on opera and why anyone should care about a 400 year old art form.
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Connecting the Dots...with Gordo the OAM (Sean Gordon)
38:12
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38:12Sean Gordon OAM joins me for Episode 48 of Connecting the Dots — and what a conversation. A former teacher, principal, Telstra exec, and SES rescue leader, Sean is now a leading mindset coach and speaker. We unpack the pivotal moments that shaped his life: multicultural childhood, traumatic rescues, political forays, and the creation of SchoolAid. …
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Connecting the Dots...with my Cookie Dealer (William A. Forsythe)
22:50
22:50
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22:50What happens when a dancer-turned-choreographer falls in love, bakes cookies, and still writes cruise ship shows? You get William – co-founder of William & Chai, entertainer, and storyteller. In this vibrant episode of Connecting the Dots, Adam chats with William about: His early years in Brisbane Working with Kylie Minogue & Cliff Richard Building…
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Connecting the Dots...with a mountain climber (Adi Koszta)
38:06
38:06
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38:06Adi joins me for Episode 46 of Connecting the Dots and proves that accountants can be adrenaline junkies. We talk about: His journey from Sunshine Coast student to global advisory leader How he balances family, business, and mountain climbing Training under world-class alpine guides The three buckets of life: how he manages competing priorities Why…
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Connecting the Dots...with Wonder woman (Kelly Mckinlay-Walls)
14:12
14:12
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14:12In this inspiring episode, I sit down with Kelly—a woman whose number plate says it all: “I LOVE RUNNING.” But it wasn’t always this way. From a past of smoking and stress to finishing 100K races and coaching others on Bribie Island, Kelly shares how she transformed her life through movement. From Jetty to Jetty to Dead Cow Gully Her love of functi…
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Connecting the Dots...with a adrenalin accountant (Dan Scougall)
18:11
18:11
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18:11This week, I reconnect with Dan, an accountant who defies every stereotype. From racing cars and running a farm to harvesting grass trees and managing an accounting firm, Dan’s story is packed with business lessons, adventure, and adrenaline. In this episode: How he went from plastering to becoming an accounting firm partner The unexpected three-ye…
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Connecting the Dots...with an old friend (Katrina Banks)
13:50
13:50
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13:50This week, I reconnect with Katrina, a longtime friend who has lived an inspiring life. She became a mum at 19, faced all the challenges that come with that, and built a career in the medical field while embracing a life full of adventure and travel. In this episode: How she turned early challenges into opportunities The balance between career, fam…
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Connecting the Dots...with a web girl (Karen Ahl)
21:24
21:24
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21:24This week, I reconnect with Karen, a business owner whose journey started in adventure sports and led to digital marketing. We talk about how she transitioned from running a mobile rock climbing business to managing a thriving web agency, Web-Sta. In this episode: The evolution of websites and digital marketing The impact of AI on business The impo…
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Connecting the Dots(mini)...with a boat full on people (Quantum of the Seas)
1:57
1:57
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1:57This week, I’m taking a break on a cruise but still finding ways to connect. I ran into an old family friend, Reese, who influenced my journey in business and fitness. Plus, I met YouTubers Rob & Ali from Cruise and Travel, a channel I followed when I first started cruising! Coming up: A mountain climber, a coffee & retail expert, and more great co…
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Connecting the Dots...with a coffee trader (Jason Joffe)
24:55
24:55
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24:55This week, I connect with Jason, a coffee professional who knows everything from sourcing green beans to roasting perfection. We talk about the fascinating coffee journey, Jason's personal transition into running marathons, and even touch on the story behind "poop coffee." Tune in to discover the blend of coffee and life lessons in this engaging ch…
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Connecting the Dots...with a Super-Man (Brett D. Scott)
31:12
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31:12What do mindset coaching and Superman have in common? Brett! This week, I explore Brett’s journey from fitness to mindset mastery. We unpack his philosophies on truth, fear, and why the cave we fear to enter holds the treasure we seek. Plus, Brett shares a glimpse of his vision for helping others through storytelling and personal transformation. Tu…
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Connecting the Dots...with a person of strength (Jade Sharp)
27:15
27:15
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27:15Dive into a profound conversation with Jade, an embodiment of strength, resilience, and courage. Discover how she tackles life's challenges head-on, from Olympic lifting to battling breast cancer. Her journey is not just inspiring; it's a powerful reminder of the preciousness of life.By Adam Leishman
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Connecting the Dots...with a chiropractor (Dr. Matthew Doyle)
34:33
34:33
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34:33This week, I'm reconnecting with someone I've known for a decade, Dr. Matt. We delve into his journey from a local boy to a chiropractor, his thoughts on health and the spine, and how his practice evolves from treating to teaching. Plus, discover his unique insights into maintaining balance with a demanding career and vibrant family life.…
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Connecting the Dots...with a non boring accountant (Nathan Harvey)
18:19
18:19
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18:19Dive into the fascinating world of internet numbering with Nathan, a finance director at APNIC. Discover how they manage the essential IP addresses that connect devices across Asia-Pacific. Nathan's journey from auditing to managing internet resources shows just how exciting and crucial this field is. #APNIC #InternetNumbering #DigitalConnectivity…
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Connecting the Dots...with an average guy (Joel Martin)
18:38
18:38
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18:38This week, I had the pleasure of meeting Joel, a small business owner whose innovative and quirky marketing techniques have captured a wide audience. Listen in as we discuss his journey, the challenges he’s faced, and the creative strategies he uses to keep his business vibrant and visible. Perfect for entrepreneurs and anyone interested in the beh…
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Project 20 - Season 1 Finale | The Shoe Came Off... Literally
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6:29Welcome back to Project 20! Season 1 of this journey has come to an end in the most unexpected way. Today’s final time trial started strong—358, 356 splits—and for the first time, I felt like sub-20 was within reach. And then... my shoe fell off. Yes, you read that right. After over 4,000 runs, my shoe literally came off during one of the most impo…
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Connecting the Dots...with a coach from Canada (Christy McFadden)
20:56
20:56
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20:56Tune in as we explore Coach Christy's transition from a corporate career to becoming a beloved figure in the local running scene. Hear her thoughts on coaching, community building, and empowering women in sports. #WomenInSports #RunningCommunity #CoachLifeBy Adam Leishman
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Project 20 - Week 27 Update | Doubts, Determination, and the Final Push
1:32
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1:32Welcome back to Project 20! Week 27 of what started as a 20-week journey is done, and I’m less than a week away from my next sub-20 time trial. Honestly, I don’t feel ready—mentally or physically. After three weeks of intense build training, I’m sore and doubting whether I can hit sub 20 this Saturday. But, some of my best PBs have happened when I …
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Project 20 - Weekly Update | Stiff, Sore, and Sorry (But New Shoes!)
2:19
2:19
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2:19Welcome back to Project 20! This week was tough—stiff, sore, and mentally drained. The speed session went well, but by the long run, everything felt slow and painful. Friday’s planned session didn’t happen, and I pushed it to Saturday, only to find out that my “rage fuel” ran out before the first kilometre. Breaking from the program for the first t…
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Connecting the Dots...with a travelling mortgage guy (Cole Sjoholm)
16:22
16:22
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16:22Dive into this episode as Cole, a traveler I met on a cruise, discusses his continuous exploration of the world, including a monumental year-long journey to all seven continents. Discover the motivations behind his travels and how digital nomad life has reshaped his personal and professional world. Hashtags: #WorldTraveler #DigitalNomad #TravelPodc…
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Connecting the Dots...with a Leadership Cultivator (Crystal McKendrick)
24:37
24:37
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24:37Join us as Crystal shares her transition from Queensland Government to consulting, focusing on enhancing workplace strategies and leadership. Learn about her commitment to improving everyday work life and the pivotal experiences that shaped her career. Hashtags: #ProfessionalGrowth #EmployeeEngagement #BuzzsproutPodcasts…
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Project 20 - Week 25 Update | Mixed Results but Staying Determined
2:17
2:17
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2:17Welcome back to Project 20! Week 25 is done, and it feels a bit like Groundhog Day—another week of ups and downs in training. Tuesday’s speed session went okay with 1km repeats for a total of 20:25 for 5k, but Friday’s track session didn’t go well due to leg soreness and struggles with speed. Despite the challenges, I’m staying determined and optim…
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Connecting the Dots...with a shrinking pacer (Chris Curtis)
20:03
20:03
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20:03In this episode, I sit down with Chris, who has remarkably lost over 100 kilograms. We dive into the details of his weight loss journey, exploring the motivation, diet changes, and lifestyle shifts that helped him achieve this feat. Join us as Chris shares valuable insights and inspiration for anyone on a similar path. Hashtags: #InspiringStories #…
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Project 20 - Week 24 Update | Time Trial Reflections and Next Steps
1:43
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1:43Welcome back to Project 20! Week 24 is done, and today’s time trial at Sandgate parkrun didn’t go as planned. I started strong with a 3:55 first kilometre, but by the second kilometre, the mental and physical challenge got the better of me. Daily running and lingering recovery from COVID may still be impacting me, and I’m taking some time to reflec…
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Connecting the Dots...with a Baker (Steve Sparling)
28:11
28:11
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28:11Dive into an unexpected journey as I chat with Steve Sparling, a co-host from a podcast I frequently listen to. This conversation uncovers a side of Steve that listeners rarely get to hear, revealing his struggles, triumphs, and the multi-layered life he leads beyond the podcast. Hashtags: #PodcastCommunity #InspiringStories #LifeJourneys…
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Project 20 - Week 23 Update | Best Track Session Yet and New Sub-20 Timeline
1:52
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1:52Welcome back to Project 20! Week 23, and we might finally be back on track. Friday’s track session was my best yet—absolutely smashed it! It was a huge confidence boost after a slow start earlier in the week. Coach Carl has planned a time trial for next Saturday, with a potential sub-20 attempt set for December 21. I’m cautiously optimistic and exc…
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Connecting the Dots...with a BBQ guy (McAdventures)
10:28
10:28
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10:28This week on Connecting the Dots, I sit down with McAdventures, whose Instagram boasts the intriguing trio: Beer, Barbecue, and Bikes. We delve into how these hobbies enrich his life and discuss his work at Ladbrokes. Join us for a conversation that's as flavorful as it is fascinating! Hashtags: #Hobbies #Podcast #BeerLovers #BBQ #Biking…
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Project 20 - Week 22 Update | Over Time and Nearly Back on Track
1:33
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1:33Welcome back to Project 20! Week 22, and what was supposed to be a 20-week project is still going strong thanks to COVID recovery. I'm inching closer to feeling “normal” again, and this week might mark a turning point. My Tuesday speed session showed a high heart rate for moderate paces, but Friday’s track session felt fast and solid. I’m hoping on…
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Ep 43. Defining Technique with Brian Stucki
1:05:53
1:05:53
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1:05:53We're back! In this episode we meet with Brian Stucki, tenor, and associate professor at Snow College.By Operation Opera
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Connecting the Dots(mini mini)...with recovery of Covid (Procrastination)
2:55
2:55
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2:55This episode provides a candid look into the challenges I've been facing post-COVID. The fatigue has unexpectedly zapped my energy, impacting my daily activities and my passion for connecting with intriguing people. Listen as I delve into the effects this has had on my motivation and creativity, and how I'm navigating this frustrating phase of reco…
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Project 20 - Week 21 Update | Lingering COVID Fatigue and Pushing Through
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1:40Welcome back to Project 20! Week 21 is done, and the lingering fatigue from COVID is still affecting my training. Just five weeks ago, I was at peak fitness with a PB of 20:11, feeling stronger than ever. Now, the fatigue is holding me back, and recovery feels slow. It’s frustrating, but I’m committed to showing up every day, hoping that normal ene…
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Project 20 - Week 20 Update | Lingering Fatigue and Reassessing the Goal
1:43
1:43
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1:43Welcome back to Project 20! Week 20 was supposed to be the final week where I hit that sub-20 5k goal, but COVID threw a wrench in the plan. While I’ve recovered from the virus, the fatigue has lingered longer than expected, affecting my legs and overall endurance. I’m back in training, but I’m not yet at the level I was before COVID. So, we’re tak…
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Connecting the Dots(mini)...with streakers of the world (A Run Streakers Study)
8:02
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8:02This week on 'Connecting the Dots,' I explore a unique aspect of my daily life—streak running. I've been included in an international study that delves into what it means to run every day, no matter what. Join me as I break down the study's findings and reflect on my own running streak of over 3,814 consecutive days!…
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Project 20 - Week 19 Update | Rest, Recovery, and Ready to Resume Training
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1:16Welcome back to Project 20! Week 19 is done, and it’s been a quieter week as my coach wisely extended my rest period after COVID. While I was eager to get back into training, in hindsight, I realize that the extra rest was exactly what I needed. Programming is set to recommence next week with speed and strength sessions, and I’m ready to get back t…
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Connecting the Dots...with criminal lawyer (James Torcetti)
19:46
19:46
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19:46This episode features James, a criminal defense solicitor with a remarkable story of overcoming educational and professional hurdles to achieve success. Listen as James shares his experiences from dropping out of high school to leading one of Brisbane's most highly rated defense law firmsBy Adam Leishman
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Project 20 - Week 18 Update | Adjusting the Goal After COVID
3:21
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3:21Welcome back to Project 20! Week 18 is done, but it came with some unexpected changes. COVID hit me hard this week, throwing off the original plan to go for my sub-20-minute 5k in two weeks. After testing positive on Tuesday and negative by Saturday, I’ve realized it makes sense to push the goal out by four weeks, extending the program to 24 weeks.…
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Connecting the Dots(mini)...with Covid (SARS-CoV-2 virus)
3:43
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3:43In this episode I dive into a personal health update—my first bout with COVID-19. Discover how I navigated the symptoms, testing protocols, and the importance of being cautious, all with my dog Zeke by my side.By Adam Leishman
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Project 20 - Week 17 Update | COVID Strikes Mid-Training
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2:23Welcome back to Project 20! Week 17 update is a bit different because, for the first time ever, I got COVID. I’ve never knowingly had it before, and it hit just as I was getting back into training after a few recovery days in Hobart. Tuesday’s speed session was a struggle, and by the end of the day, I tested positive for COVID. Training has been af…
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Connecting the Dots...with a ball of energy (Nic Shires)
16:53
16:53
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16:53This episode features Nic, a former colleague with a zest for life and an impressive fitness regimen. Listen as we discuss her transition from real estate to fitness, her approach to staying motivated, and how she inspires others with her relentless positivity.By Adam Leishman
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Project 20 - Week 16 Update | New PB and Final Push for Sub 20 Minute 5K!
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2:01Welcome back to Project 20! Week 16 is done, and I hit a new PB for my 5k parkrun! My watch recorded 20:11, while the official parkrun time was 20:14—both beating my previous PB of 20:19 from two and a half years ago. This has given me the confidence boost I needed as we head into the final four weeks. I’m feeling more motivated than ever to dial i…
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Connecting the Dots...with a guy making massive impact (Beau Haywood)
13:00
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13:00This episode features Beau, the founder of Nourish Street, who shares his transformative journey from battling addiction to leading a community project that feeds hundreds of homeless individuals weekly. Discover the power of community support and how Beau's initiative is changing lives in our local area.…
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Project 20 - Week 15 Update | From Slow Start to Personal Bests!
1:21
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1:21Welcome back to Project 20! Week 15 is done, and it’s been a rollercoaster. It started off with a tough speed session where I couldn’t hit my target pace, but by Friday, things turned around completely. I hit my fastest times ever at multiple distances during a track session, which felt amazing! I’m feeling tired, but the progress is there. This we…
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Connecting the Dots...with a cake and content creator (Sarah Dickens)
11:03
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11:03In this episode, we catch up with Sarah, who shares her transition from working in law firms to embracing her passion for fashion and content creation. Discover how personal journeys and career shifts have shaped her creative outlook and led to meaningful content that resonates with a diverse audience.…
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Project 20 - Week 14 Update | Feeling Faster and Pushing Through the Hard Sessions
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1:45Welcome back to Project 20! Week 14 is done, and it’s been another great week! I’m definitely getting faster, and I’ve really come to understand that the more effort I put into these sessions, the more I get out of them. Speed sessions are going well, but hills... they’re the worst! Still, they’re helping build strength and endurance, so I’m leanin…
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Connecting the Dots...with someone who keeps things in the air (Leif Mawson)
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22:41Join us in this insightful episode as Leif, an expert in aircraft maintenance, unpacks his 25-year journey in the aviation sector. From his start at Ansett to his impactful roles in global companies, Leif discusses the challenges and triumphs of maintaining the giants of the sky. Don’t miss his unique take on how aviation has evolved over the decad…
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Project 20 - Week 13 Update | Confidence Boost and Running with Zeke 🐾
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1:24Welcome back to Project 20! Week 13 is done, and it’s been a great week. After last week's time trial didn’t go as planned, this week was a turnaround. Coach Carl joined me for an 8x400m track session, and I smashed the target times! Also, a special shoutout to Zeke , my running buddy this week. He’s done about 30 kilometers with me! It’s incredibl…
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Connecting the Dots...with an Active Adventurer (Taz Savage)
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19:05"Episode 20: Meeting Taz Savage - From Casual Runner to Community Leader. This week on 'Connecting the Dots,' Adam introduces us to Taz Savage, a remarkable runner whose speed is only matched by his humility. Listen as Taz shares his transition from casual running to forming a vital part of the running community through the Brighton Early Run Club.…
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Project 20 - Week 12 Update | Time Trial Reflections on the Road to a Sub 20 Minute 5K Parkrun
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1:52Welcome back to Project 20! Week 12 is in the books, and it was a tough one. This week included a time trial, and things didn’t go as planned. Despite preparing well and feeling ready, sometimes optimal performance just doesn’t come on demand. The goal was a 20:19 finish, but I struggled to hold pace. It was hotter than usual, which might have been…
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Connecting the Dots...with smiling runner (Gabe Tochterman)
14:26
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14:26Join Adam this week as he chats with Gabe, a radiant runner with a story that captures the essence of resilience and kindness. From his unexpected career path in the federal government to personal trials and community involvement, Gabe's tale is one of overcoming and giving back. Dive into this heartfelt conversation on "Connecting the Dots."…
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Project 20 - Week 11 Update | Managing Cumulative Fatigue in My Journey to a Sub 20 Minute 5K Parkrun
1:16
1:16
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1:16Welcome back to Project 20! Week 11 is complete, and I’m feeling some of that cumulative fatigue again. With strength, speed, and long runs close together, it's catching up to me, but I'm pushing through. This week, we’re entering a bit of a down week, focusing on basic 8km runs each day and one strength session, leading up to a fast run on Saturda…
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Connecting the Dots (mini)...with a Dog (Zeke the Cavoodle)
1:36
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1:36In a delightful twist, this episode of "Connecting the Dots" features Adam's little mate, Zeke the Cavoodle! Listen as Adam recounts the joys of their shared activities, including running and frequent café outings. Discover the lighter, more personal side of Adam's life in this heartwarming episode.By Adam Leishman
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