EXECS WHO RUN

Scott Pugh has spent the past 15 years building teams and markets across Asia, most recently as the GM of APAC for Figma. Outside the office, he’s obsessed with some of the toughest endurance challenges in the region — including Hong Kong’s infamous 298-kilometre Four Trails Ultra Challenge.In this conversation, Scott opens up about the moment he told himself he “couldn’t run”, how he rewired that script, and what ultra-endurance has taught him about resilience, failure, leadership, and never giving up. We unpack the endurance mindset, how to debrief failure without ego, and why the biggest breakthroughs happen when you choose goals you have no right to complete.HighlightsHow a disastrous 800-metre school race convinced Scott he wasn't a runner for 15 yearsThe brutal reality of Hong Kong Four Trails and the humbling lessons from two DNFsWhy failure is a better teacher than success, if you debrief like an operatorHow Scott uses endurance mindset principles to lead high-performing teams across AsiaThe power of big, uncomfortable goals to drive growth in life and leadershipWhy his best thinking happens while run-commuting through SingaporeThe surprising overlap between ultra runners and elite sales performersConnect with Scott:→ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottpughExecs Who Run:→ Website – https://execswhorun.com→ LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/execs-who-run→ Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/execswhorunJason:→ LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonhunt→ Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/jasonzane_If this episode resonates, share it with a friend who runs.Follow Execs Who Run on Spotify or Apple Podcasts and leave a quick review — it helps more leaders find the miles that matter.

Jess Baird Walsh has turned a simple 30-day challenge into an extraordinary streak of over 1,150 consecutive days of running — and she’s not stopping until she raises $1 million for the Indigenous Marathon Foundation. A leader in AI and innovation, startup founder, and mother of three, Jess brings the same consistency, grit, and self-accountability to her career that she does to the road. In this episode, she and Jason unpack what running every day has taught her about resilience, identity, and finding purpose beyond personal achievement.HighlightsHear how a doctor’s advice to “try running” changed Jess’s life at 18.Learn how a 30-day challenge became a three-year streak (and counting).Discover what running every day taught her about resilience, self-leadership, and accountability.Explore how she found her new purpose supporting the Indigenous Marathon Foundation.Understand why running is her anchor for navigating challenge, grief, and growth.Find out how Jess balances running, parenting, and leading innovation at a major firm.Connect with Jess:→ LinkedIn – Jess Baird Walsh→ Support the Indigenous Marathon FoundationConnect with Execs Who Run:→ Website – execswhorun.com→ LinkedIn – Execs Who Run→ Instagram – @execswhorunConnect with Jason Hunt:→ LinkedIn – Jason Hunt→ Instagram – @jasonzane_If this episode resonates, share it with a friend who runs. Subscribe on Spotify or Apple Podcasts, and leave a quick review — it helps more leaders find the miles that matter.

Ned Phillips has sold horse manure door-to-door, run companies across Asia, and now runs Backyard Ultras for fun — the kind where you loop 6.7 kilometres every hour until everyone else quits. The British-born entrepreneur and former CEO turned solopreneur has built and lost multimillion-dollar startups, led with empathy through failure, and found joy in suffering. In this conversation, Jason and Ned explore how endurance sports and business share the same brutal truths: pain is inevitable, ego is fragile, and resilience is a choice.HighlightsHear how Ned went from selling fertilizer to running a listed financial company in Asia.Learn how building and losing a $20M startup reshaped his definition of leadership.Discover how he found running through a 100km race — as his first ever run.Explore the philosophy of Backyard Ultra and the fine line between grit and madness.Understand what “the art of suffering” really means, in running, leadership, and life.Find out why empathy and curiosity are the most underrated sales and leadership skills.Connect with Ned:→ LinkedIn – Ned Phillips→ Ned’s Website – teachpeoplesales.comConnect with Execs Who Run:→ Website – execswhorun.com→ LinkedIn – Execs Who Run→ Instagram – @execswhorunConnect with Jason Hunt:→ LinkedIn – Jason Hunt→ Instagram – @jasonzane_If this episode resonates, share it with a friend who runs. Subscribe on Spotify or Apple Podcasts, and leave a quick review — it helps more leaders find the miles that matter.

Phoebe Pincus — COO of Startmate, co-founder of Cheeky Run Club, and marathon runner — joins Execs Who Run to share how running has transformed her approach to life and leadership. From ocean swims in Bronte to the cultural boom of run clubs post-COVID, Phoebe shows how running can be more than exercise — it can reshape identity, community, and confidence.In this episode, we explore:Why her Always Swim mantra is about more than just the oceanThe leap from Startmate Women Fellowship to COOThe founding story of Cheeky Run Club and the rise of running cultureDiscipline, systems, and the myth of willpowerHow running builds resilience and self-confidence in work and lifeThe lessons she’s learned from burnout, overtraining, and recoveryHer advice on balance, leadership, and doing hard things with joyQuote from Phoebe:“Discipline isn’t forcing yourself to do hard things — it’s building systems so the good things feel easy.” — Phoebe PincusFollow Phoebe Pincus: Instagram: @cheekyrunclubLinkedIn: Phoebe Pincus Stay Connected with Jason & Execs Who Run: Jason Hunt: LinkedIn | InstagramExecs Who Run: LinkedIn | InstagramWebsite: execswhorun.comJoin the community: Execs Who Run Strava Group

In this inspiring conversation, Catriona McGregor—General Counsel and executive leader at Domain—shares her remarkable journey through law, leadership, motherhood, scuba diving, and ultramarathon running.Key Moments in This Episode:Growing up in Scotland and England, and her winding path into lawHow scuba diving in Fiji and the Galápagos shaped her spirit of adventureMoving to Sydney and building a leadership career at DomainMotherhood, identity, and discovering running as personal sanctuaryFrom a first 10K to half-marathons, trail races, and the Ultra-Trail Australia 100kmLessons on perfectionism, fear of failure, and resilienceThe parallels between long-distance running and executive leadershipPreparing for her next big challenge: the UTMB OCC race in ChamonixFollow Catriona McGregor:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/catriona-mcgregor-b1520338/Stay Connected with Jason & Execs Who Run:Jason Hunt (Host): https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonzanehunt/Execs Who Run LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/execswhorunInstagram (Execs Who Run): https://www.instagram.com/execswhorunJason’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jasonzane_/Strava Group: https://www.strava.com/clubs/execswhorunWebsite: https://execswhorun.com👉 If Catriona’s story inspired you, please follow, rate, and review Execs Who Run on your favourite podcast platform—and share this episode with someone who could use some motivation.

Rick Baker, co-founder of Blackbird Ventures, joins Jason to share his remarkable journey from startup founder to visionary investor, including early investments in Canva. Rick also reveals how he's harnessing AI as his personal running coach, bringing discipline and joy into his daily routine.Jason also shares an exciting update about his upcoming world record attempt—running the Sydney Marathon in a full three-piece suit to support Movember.Key Moments in This Episode:Rick’s career evolution: from uncertain graduate to successful entrepreneur and influential venture capitalist.The story behind Blackbird Ventures and their journey raising the first fund.Identifying visionary founders early: How Rick knew Canva would succeed.Rick’s reflections on missed opportunities (Airwallex, Employment Hero) and the lessons learned.Embracing running as a daily ritual and discovering ChatGPT as a running coach.Jason announces his upcoming Guinness World Record attempt at the Sydney Marathon to support Movember.Resources & Links:Blackbird VenturesMovember – Jason’s World Record Attempt Fundraising PageJoin the Execs Who Run Strava GroupFollow Rick Baker:LinkedInStay Connected with Jason & Execs Who Run:Jason Hunt LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jasonzanehuntExecs Who Run LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/execswhorunInstagram: @execswhorunWebsite: execswhorun.comSupport the Show:Enjoyed the episode? Please follow, rate, and review Execs Who Run, and share it with someone who might be inspired to run toward their own goals.

Former Wallabies star Ben Alexander shares the unfiltered truth of life after elite sport—and how running helped him rediscover his energy, identity, and purpose.Key Moments in This Episode:How Ben got selected for the Wallabies after just 6 Brumbies gamesThe mental and emotional collapse after the 2013 Lions seriesThe pain of identity loss—and why it haunted him for yearsThe unexpected power of Parkrun and a weekly rhythmFounding Running for Resilience and its growing national impactWhy he now defines mental health as an energy problem, not a character flawThe leadership lessons sport gave him—and the ones it didn’tResources & Links:Running for Resilience: https://runningforresilience.orgThe Dock, Canberra: https://thedockkingston.com.auLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benalexander21Stay Connected with Jason & Execs Who Run:Jason Hunt LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonzanehuntExecs Who Run LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/execswhorunInstagram: @execswhorunWebsite: execswhorun.comSupport the Show:If Ben’s story struck a chord, follow, rate, and review Execs Who Run. And share this episode with someone who needs to hear it.

Tim Dettmann is on a mission to make Australia healthier—one lift, one run, and one conversation at a time. In this insightful and inspiring episode, Tim shares how he evolved from rural physio to health business builder, global marathon runner, and thoughtful advocate for equitable exercise access. Whether it’s leadership, fitness, or finding your limits, this episode is full of energy and wisdom.Key Moments in This Episode:Sunday trail runs, pacing ultras, and recovery gone wrongThe moment a drunken bet ignited a marathon obsessionWhy Tim left elite sport for everyday health impactBuilding Kieser from two employees to 26 clinics nationwideHow to lift twice a week and save lives—literallyVolunteering with TriMob and Ocean HeroesRunning 2:43 at Berlin and aiming sub-2:40 in ChicagoThe powerful life lesson behind pacing a mate through a 100-mile raceResilience, leadership, and tofu brains (!)Resources & Links:Kieser AustraliaTriMobOcean Heroes Follow Tim Dettmann: LinkedInInstagram: @timdettmann (adventure and running updates) Stay Connected with Jason & Execs Who Run:Jason Hunt LinkedInExecs Who Run LinkedInInstagram: @execswhorunWebsite: execswhorun.comSupport the Show:If Tim’s journey inspired you, follow, rate, and review Execs Who Run on your favourite podcast platform—and share this episode with someone aiming to run toward their full potential.

Commodore Peter Scott’s journey from submarine commander to mountain ultrarunner is as bold as it is inspiring.In this episode, Peter reveals how a life of deep-sea leadership transformed into a pursuit of ultra-distance endurance—and what it taught him about service, sacrifice, and self-mastery.Key Moments in This Episode:- What it takes to earn submarine command in the Navy’s elite training program- The day his submarine ran aground and the leadership reckoning that followed- Why he left drinking behind to pursue his first marathon- The transformation from marathoner to ultrarunner to UTMB finisher- How the mountains replaced the majesty of the sea- The four Ps that guide Peter in races—and in life- What self-belief really means under pressureResources & Links:Peter’s Book: Running DeepFollow Peter Scott:LinkedIn: Peter Scott on LinkedInJoin the Community:👟 Strava Group: Execs Who Run on StravaStay Connected with Jason & Execs Who Run:Jason Hunt: LinkedInExecs Who Run: LinkedInInstagram: @execswhorunWebsite: execswhorun.comSupport the Show:If Peter’s story moved you, please follow, rate, and review Execs Who Run on your favourite podcast platform—and share this episode with someone who leads—or runs—with purpose.

Roger Hanney isn’t just a runner—he’s a force of nature.As the man behind HOKA’s rise in Australia and New Zealand, Roger helped turn an obscure, oversized shoe into one of the most trusted names in running. From battling early industry scepticism to watching the big brands follow suit (looking at you, Nike), he’s lived the brand’s growth from the inside out.But Roger’s story doesn’t stop at retail strategy and product launches. He’s also an ultra-endurance athlete who became the first Type 1 diabetic in the world to complete the 4 Deserts Grand Slam—a series of four 250km footraces across the Atacama, Gobi, Sahara, and Antarctica.In this two-part conversation, we go wide and deep. In Part One, we cover: 👟 The early days of HOKA and why the brand was seen as “moon shoes” 👟 Whether Nike really did follow HOKA’s lead on shoe design 👟 Roger’s mindset shift after being diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes 👟 What it took to build trust in a radically different running shoe 👟 Balancing brand leadership, family life, and long trail runs 👟 Why sometimes, you just need to give it a goPart Two goes deep into the 4 Deserts Grand Slam, what it takes to suffer well, and how adventure has shaped Roger’s view on leadership and life. Stay tuned.This one’s for the shoe nerds, the adventurers, and anyone who’s ever asked, “Can I really do this?” 🔗 Connect with Roger📸 Instagram – @roger.hanney 🌐 HOKA ANZ – hoka.com.au | hoka.co.nz 🔗 Connect with Jason & Execs Who Run🔗 Jason Hunt – LinkedIn 🔗 Execs Who Run – LinkedIn Page 🌐 execswhorun.com 📸 Instagram – @execswhorun 📣 Like this episode?If Roger’s story hit a nerve or got you thinking: ✅ Follow the podcast ⭐️ Leave a review 📤 Share it with someone who’d love itAnd don’t miss Part Two, where we take on the deserts, the suffering, and the mindset behind it all.

Left in Australia at 15 to pursue a better future, Ayesha Razzaq built a career leading major transformation at Energy Queensland—all while conquering the Six World Marathon Majors and raising over $75,000 for the Indigenous Marathon Foundation.Ayesha knows what it means to step outside her comfort zone. Growing up as a diplomat’s daughter, she moved between countries, but nothing prepared her for being left alone in Australia as a teenager. That challenge shaped her independence, resilience, and self-belief—values that have driven both her leadership and running journey.Now, as Executive GM of Retail at Energy Queensland, she’s leading an industry shift toward renewables while also pushing her own limits in endurance sports. She’s gone from handing out medals at a 5K fun run to finishing all Six World Marathon Majors, and along the way, she’s used running as a way to give back—supporting Indigenous communities through the IMF and mentoring others to push their own limits.⏱ Episode Highlights & Timestamps00:00 – Ayesha’s unforgettable New York Marathon finish02:00 – Being left in Australia at 15 and how it shaped her independence07:00 – Her first 5K fun run and the unexpected path to marathons10:00 – Getting involved with the Indigenous Marathon Foundation19:00 – Completing all Six World Marathon Majors and what she learned26:00 – How running fuels her leadership at Energy Queensland34:00 – The breakthrough that helped her shave 50 minutes off her PB42:00 – Why mindset was the game-changer for Chicago 202349:00 – Ayesha’s advice for life, leadership, and running📲 Join the ConversationWhat’s your biggest takeaway from this episode? Message us on LinkedIn or Instagram (just search Execs Who Run) 🎧 Enjoyed this episode? Follow Execs Who Run on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen. If this episode inspired you, leave a review or share it with someone who’d love it!🔗 Follow & Connect with Ayesha📍 Strava 📍 LinkedIn 🏃‍♀️ Resources Mentioned🏅 Indigenous Marathon Foundation🌎 World Marathon MajorsAyesha’s mantra—"If it’s to be, it’s up to me"—has shaped her approach to running, leadership, and life. This episode is all about pushing limits, leading with resilience, and making an impact.🎧 Tune in now and let us know what resonated most with you! 🚀

In the very first episode of Execs Who Run Jason sits down with Ben Kepes – Managing Director of Cactus Outdoor, professional company director, technology industry analyst, volunteer firefighter, paramedic, furniture maker, and ultra marathon runner.“The way to do well in running – and in life – is to just keep going. One foot in front of the other.” – Ben KepesIn this episode:[00:00:00] Introduction: Jason welcomes Ben Kepes as the first guest on Execs Who Run.[00:02:00] Quickfire Round: Ben’s running preferences – from solo miles to chasing Strava segments.[00:04:00] Running Rituals: Ben’s unique tribute to Jack Lovelock at the Old Ghost Ultra.[00:07:00] Career Journey: From high school dropout to entrepreneur and board director.[00:13:00] Business and Governance: Balancing multiple roles and embracing new challenges.[00:17:00] Running Journey: Starting in his 30s and evolving into an ultra runner.[00:24:00] Ultra Marathon Life: Why ultra running is “easier” than road marathons.[00:35:00] Family Business: Running Cactus Outdoor with his sons and fostering entrepreneurship.[00:43:00] Community Work: Volunteering with Speed Freaks, Achilles Foundation, and giving back.[00:49:00] Building Resilience: How running enhances mental toughness and impacts life.[00:54:00] Advice Corner: Ben’s top tips on leadership, life, and running.[00:58:00] Final Question: Ben’s question for the next guest – How does running make you a better person and leader, and how does leadership make you a better runner?Key Takeaways:Discipline and consistency are vital in both business and running.Building and sustaining a family business across generations.Volunteering and giving back enriches your life more than you expect.Running fosters mental resilience and complements leadership.Connect with Ben Kepes:Email: ben@diversity.net.nzLinkedInCactus OutdoorResources Mentioned:Old Ghost UltraSpeed Freaks NZAchilles New ZealandFollow Execs Who RunWebsiteInstagramLinkedIn💬 Enjoyed this episode? Leave a review, share it with your network, and subscribe for more stories of leaders who lace up and hit the ground running!