From 28 Stone to parkrun: Chaarlee Eastmond's Journey to Belonging

Chaarlee Eastmond never thought running was for people like him.Growing up overweight and struggling with confidence, food, and identity, Chaarlee eventually reached a serious health crossroads at 28 stone and pre-diabetes. Following the end of a toxic relationship, he made the difficult decision to undergo gastric sleeve surgery — not to become a runner, but to save his life.What happened next began with something much smaller than a finish line.Walking.Then came a moment that changed everything: watching a close friend compete in a backyard ultra and feeling, for the very first time, the pull of the running community.Discovering parkrun (Lloyd parkrun) gave Chaarlee a welcoming doorway into movement, confidence and belonging. Now 26 parkruns into his journey, taking on the LonDone challenge, racing 5Ks, 10Ks and half marathons, and aiming for the London Marathon next year, Chaarlee is rebuilding his life one Saturday at a time.This is an emotional, honest and uplifting conversation about courage, identity, community, self-belief and why the first step really matters.Whether you’re a seasoned parkrunner, a nervous first-timer, or someone standing on the sidelines wondering if you belong — this episode is for you. Share it with someone who needs to hear this powerful message too.  You never know where it will take them!🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts & all major platforms.Send us Fan MailThank you for tuning in. It's been great to have you here.. If you've enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and review our podcast. Stay connected with us on social media (Instagram, Facebook & LinkedIn) for updates and more inspiring parkrunners' stories. Until next time, keep running, keep smiling and keep on showing up!