January isn’t known for being kind to runners. Dark mornings, tired legs, busy lives and yet, throughout January, an incredible group of people showed up every single day to take on our 5K Every Day Challenge, all in support of the National School Pantry Network.
In a special episode of our Founders Chat podcast, Rethink Food co-founder Kevin Mackay caught up with two of those runners, Gareth and Chris, to talk honestly about what the challenge was really like.
Spoiler alert: it wasn’t all smooth miles and PBs.
Together, Kevin, Gareth and Chris share the highs and lows, the freezing starts, the tired legs, the moments of doubt and the unexpected joy that came from simply taking time every day. One of the biggest takeaways for all three was how valuable that daily space became, whether they were running or walking.
They talk openly about how the challenge created permission to slow down, to choose walking when needed, and how those miles became time to think, decompress and talk. For them, it wasn’t just exercise, it became a space where men could talk, reflect, and check in with themselves and each other, without pressure or expectation.
For Gareth and Chris, this challenge wasn’t about being the fastest or strongest. It was about showing up, building consistency, and knowing that every mile, walked or run, was helping schools support families with dignity through the National School Pantry Network.
The conversation is full of laughs, relatable running confessions, and honest reflection on why they took on the challenge and what they got out of it, physically, mentally, and emotionally.
It finishes with a call to action: if you’ve ever thought “I couldn’t do that” – this podcast might just change your mind.
You can still donate to support the National School Pantry Network here:
A huge thank you
to everyone who took part, donated, or cheered from the sidelines. You made this challenge what it was and yes, we’ll be doing it again next year.
If you’re feeling inspired, there’s plenty coming up:
-
⛳ Charity Golf Day – 23 April
-
🏃 Ultra Loop Leeds – 8 August
And if you’ve got your own idea for fundraising, we’d love to hear it. Get in touch and we’ll help you get your event off the ground.
