Simon Freeman - No Shortcuts: The Power of Consistently Showing Up
“I think one lesson that running has taught me is that actually time and consistent effort produces results and that there isn't a silver bullet. There's no shortcuts”.
Simon Freeman, editor and co-founder of popular running magazine Like the Wind, joins us this week to talk about storytelling, running and his love for books and the analogue that led him to create and launch a print magazine at a time where people were saying print was dead and digital media was taking over.
We discuss what it was like to launch a magazine as a publishing novice, focused on the stories behind running and the meaning that running has to so many of us. We talk about what it took to launch that first issue, and how it’s grown over the last 10 years.
Simon shares candidly about the infertility struggles he and his wife experienced and the knock-on effects of this difficult time on his running. Listen in as Simon reflects on the significance of consistent effort and accountability in both running and business.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about running, storytelling, and the enduring pursuit of personal and professional growth.
Check out Like the Wind: www.likethewindmagazine.com/
Like the Wind on instagram: @likethewindmag
Simon on instagram: @simonbfreeman
Go Do: Take a moment to reflect on a time when you showed up and the outcome was better than you thought. How can you build on that success?
We'd love to hear what you came up with! Please give us a rating or a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, Join the Strava Group and follow us and tag us on twitter, instagram, linkedin, tiktok or send us an email: hello@runalive.co.uk
Show Notes:
The RunAlive Podcast x Simon Freeman
Podcast Title: No shortcuts: The power of consistently showing up.
Hosts: Ed Perry, Gary Armstrong and Jenny Nesbitt
Simon Freeman, co-founder of Like the Wind magazine, shares his journey into running and storytelling.
Simon's Background:
Simon discusses his late start in running and his quick obsession with improving his marathon times.
Co-founder of Like the Wind magazine alongside his wife, among other ventures.
What Makes Simon Come Alive:
Simon's passion for road marathons and structured training.
He finds joy in discovering and sharing great stories professionally.
Personally, Simon enjoys the conviviality of sharing meals with others.
Running Lessons Applied to Life:
Simon emphasises the importance of time and consistent effort in achieving results, both in running and in life.
He shares his journey from a lack of commitment to finding determination through running.
The Appeal of Road Marathons:
Simon explains why road marathons resonate with him and how consistency played a crucial role in his running journey.
Launching Like the Wind Magazine:
Simon reflects on the genesis of Like the Wind magazine during a trip to Chamonix with his wife, Julie.
Despite initial amateur challenges, they launched the magazine within six months, driven by their vision and determination.
Infertility Challenges:
Simon candidly discusses the infertility challenges he and Julie faced, describing it as a rollercoaster ride.
Coping mechanisms included mutual trust, love, kindness, and rolling with the punches as a couple.
Navigating Tough Times:
Simon shares how running took a backseat during challenging times, leading to a period of disengagement from the sport.
Despite setbacks, Simon emphasises the importance of resilience and learning from mistakes.
Passion for Storytelling and Running
Simon shares a memorable photo of himself and Mario Frioli during a run in Boston, highlighting their friendship forged through journalism and running.
Simon discusses his passion for storytelling and running, emphasising that being a good storyteller doesn't require extreme athletic feats.
Simon reflects on how his emotional energy was primarily invested in running during certain periods but has shifted over time.
Despite a decrease in personal running activity, Simon maintains a connection to running through his work in storytelling.
Accountability in Running and Business:
Simon realises the importance of accountability in his running journey and has sought out a coach to provide that structure and support.
Simon and his wife Julia have transitioned to focusing full-time on Like The Wind magazine, which they are passionate about and committed to growing.
Simon discusses the need for accountability in both business and running, and how his coach fulfils that role in his running journey.
Simon highlights that his coach provides accountability rather than just technical advice, helping him stay committed to his running goals.
Simon reflects on how external stresses and emotions from other aspects of life can affect one's running, and how his coach helps him stay focused amidst personal and business challenges.
Analog Appeal of Print Media:
Simon shares his passion for print media and the analog experience, discussing the decision to launch Like the Wind magazine amidst the digital era and highlighting its unique appeal.
Simon explains the organic origins of Like the Wind magazine, driven by his love for books and the desire to create a print publication focused on storytelling and running.
He discusses the resurgence of interest in analog experiences and physical objects, citing the example of people returning to bookstores and the appeal of vinyl records.
Simon shares plans for the future of Like the Wind magazine, including expanding its reach, welcoming new team members, and increasing awareness among readers.
Simon directs listeners to the Like the Wind magazine website and social media channels for more information, highlighting the captivating stories featured in the publication.