🎙️ Gone Running Podcast | Episode #121

In this episode of RunThrough presents Gone Running, host Ben Sheppard is joined by Jacob Ward, creator of the ‘Better’ brand—a platform dedicated to mental health, personal growth, and building real community through fitness.
Jacob reflects on how the isolation of the COVID-19 pandemic reshaped his sense of connection and identity. He shares how therapy has helped him navigate social anxiety, stay grounded amid the noise of online life, and stay true to himself. From supporting Sophie through her first 5K to chasing his own goal of running the London Marathon, Jacob speaks openly about the emotional rewards of showing up for others.
This episode explores how movement can be a gateway to connection, how growth happens in the messy middle, not just at the finish line and why vulnerability and authenticity matter more than ever.
Hear how,
💬 Therapy gave Jacob the tools to separate self from personal
🏃‍♀️ Supporting others brought unexpected meaning to his journey
🌍 COVID-19 magnified loneliness despite constant digital connection
🌱 Progress comes from embracing the process
🤝 Real growth happens through community and showing up
Hit play to dive into an honest, relatable chat that will leave you thinking about how you connect with yourself and the people around you.

Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/
Jacob Ward - https://www.instagram.com/jacobwardd/