EP33: Calm Before the Storm - Valencia Marathon, Goals, Gratitude & the Marathon Mind

In this special in-person episode, Andy and Rich sit down in Spain just days before the Valencia Marathon to reflect on the year, the training blocks, and everything that’s led to this moment.They talk honestly about pre-race nerves, heat anxiety, gels, hydration, heart rate, and the mental battles that define the marathon experience. But this episode goes much deeper than pacing plans and race strategy. It’s about perspective. About learning to let go of arbitrary time goals. About gratitude, recovery, ageing, reduced training volume, and staying consistent through life’s curveballs.They reflect on the growth of Clean Break Coaching, the power of alcohol-free connection, and what it truly means to inspire rather than influence. There’s talk of future races, ultras, trail running, community, and why showing up matters more than stopwatch success.If you’re heading into a marathon, considering your first big race, or simply navigating a demanding season of life - this episode is for you.🎯 Topics covered:Pre-marathon mindset & race-day nervesTraining in the heat & adjusting expectationsThe power of consistency over volumeFueling, hydration & heart rate awarenessLetting go of time obsessionGratitude, ageing & resilienceClean Break community & future race plans🎧 A grounded, funny, vulnerable and motivating listen - recorded right on the edge of race weekend.