Why I Ran 401 Marathons in 401 Days, with Ben Smith

Mid-life Men: the mental health podcast

What does it take to survive bullying, internalised shame, and two suicide attempts and then go on to run 401 marathons in 401 days? In this raw and inspiring episode, we sit down with Ben Smith, whose remarkable journey from a troubled past to a world-record-breaking challenge is nothing short of extraordinary.

Ben opens up about the pain of childhood bullying, the devastating impact it had on his self-worth, and the years he spent hiding his true self. He takes us through the dark times - struggling with mental health, grappling with his identity, and reaching rock bottom. But his story doesn’t end there. A single conversation, an unexpected dare, and one life-changing step into a running club set him on a path he never imagined possible.

Through marathons, Ben found something beyond endurance - a way to process his past, reclaim his identity, and turn pain into purpose. He shares what it was like to push his body and mind to the absolute limit, how he learned to open up, and why helping others became the greatest victory of all.

This episode is a testament to the power of resilience, the importance of speaking up, and the unexpected ways healing can begin. Whether you're a runner, a mental health advocate, or someone seeking hope, this conversation will stay with you long after the finish line.