Sharon Jessop – Ultra-Endurance Runner & Conservationist: Running 3,500 Miles Across Africa for Rhino Conservation cover art

Sharon Jessop – Ultra-Endurance Runner & Conservationist: Running 3,500 Miles Across Africa for Rhino Conservation

Sharon Jessop – Ultra-Endurance Runner & Conservationist: Running 3,500 Miles Across Africa for Rhino Conservation

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 This week on the Tough Girl Podcast, I'm joined by Sharon Jessop — an ultra-endurance athlete, conservationist, keynote speaker, and serial entrepreneur whose running adventures are driven by a mission to protect rhinos in Africa. From growing up barefoot in the South African bush to covering over 3,500 miles across some of Africa's wildest landscapes, Sharon has used her extraordinary endurance to raise awareness and funds for rhino conservation. Her journey is as inspiring as it is challenging, blending adventure with purpose. In this episode, Sharon shares how she turned her love of running into a powerful tool for wildlife conservation, the highs and lows of multi-day expeditions, and the unforgettable encounters she's had along the way — from navigating tough terrain to seeing Africa's incredible wildlife up close. We also explore her personal story, the losses that have shaped her, and how she finds motivation and meaning in every mile. Whether you're drawn to ultra-running, conservation, or simply pursuing your passions with purpose, this episode is packed with inspiration and insight. New episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast drop every Tuesday at 7 AM (UK time)! Make sure to subscribe so you never miss the inspiring journeys and incredible stories of tough women pushing boundaries. Do you want to support the Tough Girl Mission to increase the amount of female role models in the media in the world of adventure and physical challenges? Support via Patreon! Join me in making a difference by signing up here: www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast. Your support makes a difference. Thank you x Show notes Who is SharonLiving in Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth), Eastern Cape of South Africa Her passion and obsession with rhinos Running for RhinosGrowing up barefoot in the brushBeing 16 and her first experience seeing a rhinoDeciding to study law….Hosting a television showGoing back to conservationMaking changes to her life at 48Always being a runnerDiscovering her ability to run long distances day after day Losing her dad and good friend to cancer in 2017Running from Cape Town to Port Elizabeth How one running expedition led to the next The mental side of running and why its super important Doing the running expedient in her mind, before she even startsHer motto - Failure is not an option Running multiple half marathons (2020) for rhino conservation What have I committed to?Having a really big WHYAnd why it makes it easier Not wanting to let the rhinos down Planning and logistics for the expeditions Having the accommodation and food sponsored Travelling with a small team2022 adventure Recovery each dayNot being a big supplement takerBelieving in real food Trying to stay away from processed food Taking electrolytesThe importance of hydration and fuelling your bodyThe importance of sleep and its impact on recovery The magical moments while out running Being scared of ostriches and baboons The 5 animals - Lions, Elephants, Rhino, Buffalo and LeopardThe adjustment back to 'normal' lifeStarting training for Comrades Marathon in 2026 Row for rhinos Ted X talk in San Diego - The Race for Green Spaces and Wild Places Where do the funds raised goSelf funding her running expeditions Future projects for the Rhinos The Great World Race - 7 Marathons on 7 Continents in 7 Days How to connect with Sharon and her projects Final words of advice Using affirmations and why we need more women doing these adventures Be Brave, Be Fearless, Be Bold. Social Media Website: www.sharonjessop.com Instagram: @runwildwithsharon Facebook: @sharon.jessop1 YouTube: @sharonjessop1
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