Running Industry Alliance (RIA) Podcast

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Jan 2026

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About the show

This is the Running Industry Alliance (RIA) Podcast brought to you in association with supersonic. “The podcast focuses on meaningful running industry content, with listeners benefiting from useful information, data and action points that can help propel their businesses forward, sharing peer to peer knowledge whilst showcasing the running industry and advancements beneficial for all”. Originally the Running Industry Podcast (2020) hosted by Matt Ward, now having joined forces with RIA to become the collaborative podcast Running Industry Alliance Podcast (RIA) in association with supersonic from 2023 onwards. The business-to-business (B2B) collab series will encompass episodes featuring chats with various RIA Member guests “in conversation with” about the running industry. This collaborative podcast is hosted by Matt as Anchor with Becs, Tom, Phil and other RIA Team rotating on episodes around various content and expertise. Running Industry Alliance (RIA) is a member-based independent national trade (B2B) organisation built for purpose for the UK & Ireland Running Industry with global reach. Running Industry Alliance exists to collectively assist RIA Members to drive the Running Industry forward to improve the Sport and Business of Running, and holds the annual The Running Conference (TRC) as well as other RIA Member events. Find out more here: www.runningindustryalliance.com www.therunningconference.com Follow our socials on LinkedIn, Instagram, X and Facebook

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23 recent

January 20, 2026Episode 2324 min

Running Industry Alliance Podcast – Episode #23 World of Triathlon LIVE powered by TriDot with Stuart Walker, Founder and Event Director

🎙️ Episode 23 – World of Triathlon LIVE powered by TriDot | Set to Unite the Multisport Industry at ExceL London with Stuart Walker, Founder and Event Director 🎙️ Hosted by Matt Ward (Supersonic) In this episode, we sit down with Stuart to talk about how it is a collective effort to get more people into doing triathlon, and what inspired Stuart to sign up for his first triathlon and learn to swim when he was 41. We also find out about his background in the exhibition space and what led him to put together the UK’s only dedicated multipart exhibition.World of Triathlon LIVE powered by TriDot will bring together the entire multisport community on 28-29 March 2026. Designed as the ultimate destination for everyone from newcomers to elite athletes, the event offers an exciting platform for brands to connect directly with a passionate and curious audience, creating the largest triathlon brand activation and retail experience in the country.We dive into:The volume of people in the UK doing triathlons already The perceived barriers of entry The goal of getting 10,000 people to the show, including swimmers, cyclists and runners Stuart’s vision for the next few years How to get involved and be there in March Join the Industry at ExceL London & get in touch now! World of Triathlon LIVE powered by TriDot takes place 28–29 March 2026 at ExceL London.For exhibitor and partnership enquiries please contact stuart@worldoftriathlonlive.comFor updates and visitor registration, visit www.worldoftriathlonlive.com🎧 Tune in now on all major podcast platforms including Apple, Spotify, Amazon and more🗓️ Mention of The Running Conference presented by haku (save the date for 2026: 6th to 8th December) and the role of Running Industry Alliance (RIA) and Triathlon Industry Alliance (TIA)There is a direct link to the podcast on Running Industry Alliance (RIA) website also. Thank you for listening, subscribe to be first to hear the latest episode drops!

October 10, 2025Episode 2236 min

Running Industry Alliance Podcast – Episode #22 featuring Chris Walsh - adidas

Running Industry Alliance Podcast Episode 22 🎙️ adidas | Performance, Purpose & Progress with Chris Walsh, VP Brand - North Europe adidas - hosted by Matt Ward / Supersonic & Phil Benton / Running Industry Alliance (RIA).In this episode, we sit down with Chris Walsh to explore how adidas continue to shape the running landscape - blending performance innovation, purpose-driven action, and a future-focused mindset.We dive into 👇 🏃‍♂️ The evolution of adidas in running with a discussion about product development, partnerships, events and athletes 🌍 Sustainability, culture & community impact 🤝 Collaboration and connection across the industry 🚀 Leadership, innovation & what’s next for the brandA brilliant, forward-thinking conversation with one of the biggest names in sport - and a must-listen for anyone working in or inspired by the running industry.🎧 Tune in now on all major podcast platforms including: Apple | Spotify | Amazon or search for Running Industry Alliance Podcast🗓️ Mention of The Running Conference presented by haku (7th to 9th December) and the role of Running Industry Alliance (RIA)

September 18, 2025Episode 2135 min

Running Industry Alliance Podcast – Episode #21 featuring Jonny Murch and Karishma Riar - Redtorch - Global Running Culture Report 2025

🎙️ In this episode of the Running Industry Alliance Podcast, we’re diving into Global Running Culture 2025 – a first-of-its-kind collaboration between research and creative agency Redtorch and Running Industry Alliance (RIA).Host Matt Ward is joined by Rebecca (Becs) Richardson (RIA CEO & Co-Founder) alongside Jonny Murch (CEO, Redtorch) and Karishma Riar (Head of Research & Insights, Redtorch) for a fascinating conversation on how running culture is evolving worldwide.Together, we explore:🌍 How cultural forces like social media, influencers, and innovation are reshaping running.📊 Why some markets are brand-led while others are product-led.👟 Key global themes including women-led running growth, creator-as-coach influence, and the rise of run clubs.🇬🇧 Exclusive insights into the UK running scene – from parkrun to charity-driven content.💡 How these findings can help brands, retailers, and event organisers make smarter, future-facing decisions.This episode also lifts the lid on the collaboration between RIA and Redtorch, the unique methodology behind the report, and why data and cultural insight are central to the future of the industry.🎧 Listen now and discover how the global state of running is changing – and what it means for your business.📥 And you can download the full Global Running Culture 2025 report for FREE here: https://redtorch.sport/sport_on_social/global-running-culture-2025/🗓️ Mention of The Running Conference presented by haku (7th to 9th December) and the role of Running Industry Alliance (RIA) in connecting brands, events, retailers, communities, charities, services, supplier and more.There is a link on the homepage of the RIA website and the podcast is also available to listen to on all the major the platforms including:Apple | Spotify | AmazonThank you for listening, subscribe to be first to hear the latest episode drops!

July 7, 2025Episode 2024 min

Running Industry Alliance Podcast – Episode #20 featuring James Shipley of ATW Events

Episode 20 – Running Industry Alliance Podcast with James Shipley (ATW Events) Episode OverviewIn Episode 20, Matt and Tom delve into the huge and consistent rise in demand for endurance events with James Shipley from ATW Events - responsible for over 100 multisport events annually. James shares ATW’s origin in 2011 as a passion project from long-distance racing & nutrition, evolving into one of the UK’s largest event portfolios.The Event BoomJames highlights record-breaking performance: May entries up 54.7% YoY, the best sales month since 2011 and without launching new events.Strong growth seen across Running and Triathlon events, including for example St Albans Half Marathon where registrations are +14%.Contributing factors are discussed including community, wellbeing, belonging, experiential features (course music, entertainment and event villages), post-pandemic mindset shift and focus on inclusivity.Further discussion points include on-the-ground work, insights and looking ahead at what is next for ATW Events and the industry. RIA Alliance Advisory Board & industry collaboration and closing thoughts round off this great and insightful episode. LISTEN NOW!Key TakeawaysCommunity, storytelling & experience over competition.Seamless participant journey, personal content and engaging atmospheres proves to drive growth.Collaboration via Running Industry Alliance fosters industry resilience, shared learning, connections & innovation.Data-driven formats power future growth.🗓️ Mention of The Running Conference (7th to 9th December) and the role of Running Industry Alliance (RIA) in connecting brands, events, retailers, communities and more.There is a link on the homepage of the website and the podcast is also available to listen to on all the major the platforms including:Apple | Spotify | AmazonThank you for listening, subscribe to be first to hear the latest episode drops!

June 5, 2025Episode 1936 min

Running Industry Alliance Podcast – Episode #19 featuring Katie Evennett of Pro:Direct

In this episode of the RIA Podcast, we dive into the world of Retail, Brand and RIA! Pro:Direct with Katie, shares valuable insights from one of the UK’s leading premium online sports retailers. Co-hosted with Matt and Phil. With a rich heritage dating back to 1981 and a pioneering online presence since 1998, Pro:Direct has evolved alongside the industry - offering a specialist approach to running and an athlete-focused mindset that drives performance, innovation, and growth.Key topics include:The running boom and what it means from a retail lensWorking closely with brands - navigating forecasting, sustainability and direct to consumer (D2C) shiftsRunning product cycles and a look at how Pro:Direct supports development of product with the running brands, successful launches and other innovations coming in the future! Growing the running community through Pro:Direct Running Club, loyalty programs, money-can't-buy opportunities and educationPro:Direct being one of the first to move to own imagery and content rather than brand issue - a bold move at the timeCollaboration over competition - why honest brand relationships and discussions matter now more than ever also with fellow retailers in the same space Katie’s perspective on where retail is headed and how being dynamic, fast paced and consumer-led is keyFrom warehouse to consumer - how 7-day fulfilment offering and custom content make a differenceAnd finally, Katie’s thoughts on how RIA brings the industry together, fosters real collaboration and helps shape the future of running across every vertical🎧 Tune in for a deep dive into the business of running from the retail front line.🗓️ Mention of The Running Conference (7th to 9th December) and the role of Running Industry Alliance (RIA) in connecting brands, events, retailers, communities and more.There is a link on the homepage of the website and the podcast is also available to listen to on all the major the platforms including:Apple | Spotify | AmazonThank you for listening, subscribe to be first to hear the latest episode drops!

April 10, 2025Episode 1835 min

Running Industry Alliance Podcast – Episode #18 featuring Andrew Smith of A.S.O. UK

Running Industry Alliance Podcast in association with supersonic – Episode #18 featuring Andrew Smith now live!Matt and Tom are in conversation with Andrew Smith, CEO at A.S.O. UK.In this episode, we are joined by Andrew Smith, CEO of A.S.O. UK, to talk about his fascinating journey from early beginnings in event operations to leading some of the UK’s biggest and most ambitious mass participation events. From “tea boy to CEO” (his words!), Andrew shares how early roles shaped his passion for operational excellence from managing finish lines to launching cycling events and new half marathons with purpose.We explore the evolution of the adidas Manchester Marathon and what it takes to develop world-class events that leave a lasting legacy in their host cities.Andrew lifts the curtain on plans to future-proof Manchester’s Marathon, create further extraordinary runner experiences, and grow the event into a weekend-long festival style celebration of running, community, and positive impact.Looking ahead, Andrew shares exclusive insight into A.S.O. UK’s latest project collaboration – the newly announced ASICS LDNX 10K event – bringing a new kind of running experience to London this summer at the spectacular Wembley Stadium.We talk growth, innovation, sustainability, and how A.S.O.’s DNA of creating emotion-led events is driving a bold future for running in the UK and beyond.A brilliant conversation for anyone working in or passionate about the running industry and in particular events and mass participation. This episode is packed with lessons in leadership, creativity, and why there should be no limits to what running events can achieve and by working together.A plethora of firsts are discussed, this is another great episode in the RIA Podcast and Members journey, one not to miss!There is a link on the homepage of the website and the podcast is also available to listen to on all the major the platforms including:Apple | Spotify | AmazonHosts & Guest:HOST & ANCHOR: Matt Ward LINKEDINHOST: Tom Kerry LINKEDINGUEST: Andrew Smith LINKEDINUseful links:A.S.O. UK : WEBSITERunning Industry Alliance WEBSITERunning Industry Alliance ON INSTAGRAMRunning Industry Alliance ON FACEBOOKRunning Industry Alliance ON XRunning Industry Alliance ON YOUTUBEThe Running Conference presented by haku #TRC25 WEBSITEThank you for listening, subscribe to be first to hear the latest episode drops!

March 18, 2025Episode 1732 min

Running Industry Alliance Podcast – Episode #17 featuring David Bone of Camino Ultra

Matt and Tom are in conversation with David Bone, Running Coach and Race Director at Camino Ultra. In this episode you learn more about Camino and how it’s all about inclusivity, how Camino came about, the importance of local based events and communities, and the power of being local with their strong East London roots. David talks about his journey in ultra running and how, in addition to the established events, Camino Ultra has built something that could take the community side of events to the next level with the new London 100 taking place in May 2025. We also hear about David’s running plans for the summer, why he thinks it’s an exciting time for brands with ultra running being a lot more accessible, and why we need to think about the other side of the narrative and sustainability. Thank you for listening and do subscribe to be the first to hear about future episodes, and to join us on this journey for a deeper insight into the running industry.There is a link on the homepage of the website and the podcast is also available to listen to on all the major the platforms including:Apple | Spotify | Amazon Hosts & Guest:HOST & ANCHOR: Matt Ward LINKEDINHOST: Tom Kerry LINKEDINGUEST: David Bone LINKEDINUseful links:Camino Ultra : WEBSITE Running Industry Alliance WEBSITERunning Industry Alliance ON INSTAGRAMRunning Industry Alliance ON FACEBOOKRunning Industry Alliance ON XRunning Industry Alliance ON YOUTUBEThe Running Conference presented by haku #TRC25 WEBSITE

February 18, 2025Episode 1613 min

Running Industry Alliance Podcast / Episode #16 / TRC24 sound bites from the floor >>

Episode 16 of the Running Industry Alliance Podcast in association with supersonic features a wrap up from The Running Conference 2024 presented by haku, catching some of the energy and buzz from the floor.This episode includes sound bites from:Becs Richardson, Running Industry Alliance & The Running ConferenceJackie Levi, hakuDavid Allen, Zen Running ClubNicola Fitzmaurice, Revive ActiveTiffany K Martin, RIA Host / Elevated Health And CommunitySimon Freeman, Like The WindYou can watch the TRC24 wrap-up video (thank you to our Filming Partner Commuter Films!) and save the date for The Running Conference 2025 presented by haku >>> 7th to 9th December 2025! More details will be announced about TRC25 very soon.Thank you for listening and do subscribe to be the first to hear about future episodes, and to join us on this journey for a deeper insight into the running industry.There is a link on the homepage of the website and the podcast is also available to listen to on all the major the platforms including:Apple | Spotify | AmazonHosts & Guest:HOST & ANCHOR: Matt Ward LINKEDINUseful links:The Running Conference presented by haku WEBSITERunning Industry Alliance WEBSITERunning Industry Alliance ON INSTAGRAMRunning Industry Alliance ON XRunning Industry Alliance ON FACEBOOKRunning Industry Alliance ON YOUTUBE

September 3, 2024Episode 1538 min

Running Industry Alliance Podcast - Episode #15 - featuring James Thurlow, MD of Open Tracking

Running Industry Alliance Podcast in association with supersonic - Episode #15 featuring James Thurlow now live! Matt and Tom are in conversation with James Thurlow, MD of Open Tracking.James’ journey in the running industry stretches back nearly two decades, initially as an event organiser but now providing the largest live GPS tracking service to some of the industry’s biggest brands and foremost events.Having been encouraged to keep his product alive after initial challenges, Open Tacking is now regarded as the market leader and James and his team as the go-to experts. James shares his thoughts on how trackers can best benefit an event or brand, the need to be able to support up to half a million people dot watching at one time, and where he believes the technology will go in the future.Thank you for listening and do subscribe to be the first to hear about future episodes, and to join us on this journey for a deeper insight into the running industry.There is a link on the homepage of the website and the podcast is also available to listen to on all the major the platforms including:Apple | Spotify | AmazonHosts & Guest:HOST & ANCHOR: Matt Ward LINKEDINHOST: Tom Kerry LINKEDINGUEST: James Thurlow LINKEDINUseful links:Open Tracking: WEBSITERunning Industry Alliance WEBSITERunning Industry Alliance ON INSTAGRAMRunning Industry Alliance ON TWITTERRunning Industry Alliance ON YOUTUBEThe Running Conference presented by haku #TRC24 WEBSITE

August 8, 202433 min

Running Industry Alliance Podcast - Episode #14 - featuring Lia Fyles, Race Director of the London Landmarks Half Marathon

Running Industry Alliance Podcast in association with supersonic - Episode #14 featuring Lia Fyles now live! Matt and Tom are in conversation with Lia Fyles, Race Director of the London Landmarks Half Marathon."When you think about who are the faces of the LLHM, it’s not the celebrities or the athletes, it’s the fundraisers. We’ve always awarded Bib Numbers 1-10 not to our fastest runners but to special fundraisers who have gone above and beyond."In this episode we speak with Lia Fyles, Race Director of the London Landmarks Half Marathon. We discover how maths graduate Lia with a passion for salsa dancing went from being a former English teacher and fundraiser to leading of one of the biggest and best half marathons in the UK.Having raised a staggering £50,000,000+ for charity since the inaugural event in 2018, the event organised by pregnancy and baby charity Tommy’s to benefit many good causes continues to go from strength to strength. Lia shares some insights into the inception of the event and expertly brings to life the importance of charity fundraising, participant experience, positive female participation, industry collaboration, and ambitions for the future.Thank you for listening and do subscribe to be the first to hear about future episodes, and to join us on this journey for a deeper insight into the running industry.There is a link on the homepage of the website and the podcast is also available to listen to on the following platforms:Apple | Spotify | Amazon | DeezerHosts & Guest:HOST & ANCHOR: Matt Ward LINKEDINHOST: Tom Kerry LINKEDINGUEST: Lia Fyles LINKEDINUseful links:London Landmarks Half Marathon: WEBSITETommy's: WEBSITERunning Industry Alliance WEBSITERunning Industry Alliance ON INSTAGRAMRunning Industry Alliance ON TWITTERRunning Industry Alliance ON YOUTUBEThe Running Conference presented by haku #TRC24 WEBSITE

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