From Bullied Teen to Marathon Warrior, with Ben White

TRIGGER WARNING

This episode contains a reference to suicidal thoughts, which you may find distressing, so please listen with care.

In this powerful episode, we hear the remarkable story of a man who turned years of bullying into fuel for resilience and achievement.

Ben shares how relentless bullying at school - much of it focused on the way he ran - left him feeling isolated, stripped of confidence, and battling despair. What started as taunts from a friend escalated into years of cruelty that shaped his teenage and early adult life. He opens up about the loneliness, the long shadow it cast on his identity, and the moments when he nearly lost hope.

But this is not just a story of struggle; it’s one of extraordinary transformation. Running, once the very thing he was mocked for, became the anchor that rebuilt his confidence, relationships, and sense of self. From completing his first marathon to conquering seven marathons in seven days across seven countries, Ben has shown that the very source of pain can be turned into strength.

You’ll learn from Ben:

• The long-term emotional impact bullying can have and how it can follow someone into adulthood.
• Why finding one source of confidence (however small) can be life-changing.
• How running gave Ben not just purpose, but a platform to inspire others and raise money for children’s mental health services.
• What resilience looks like in practice: persistence, self-belief, and transforming ridicule into fuel.

This is an inspiring, deeply human conversation about struggle, survival, and ultimately, the triumph of spirit.

You can find out more about Jack’s amazing achievement and the Sheffield Children's Hospital Charity, on his JustGiving page ‘7 Marathons in 7 Days for Bright Young Dream’.

If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, there are organisations you can call now for example, in the UK, you can call the Samaritans on 116 123, and if you are in the US, you can call the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and in Australia call Lifeline on 13 11 14.

As always, the advice is to speak to a GP or mental health professional.