From Britain's Most Wanted Armed Robber to Record Breaking Endurance Athlete & Role Model: John McAvoy’s Story
In this compelling episode, we hear the extraordinary story of John McAvoy, a man who went from a life of high-stakes crime to breaking world records and becoming a professional Ironman athlete. Once one of Britain’s most wanted armed robbers, John was sentenced to life in a high-security prison. It was there, in a cell built for punishment, that he discovered purpose. After the tragic death of a close friend, John began to reassess his choices. Turning to fitness, he started training on a prison rowing machine, where he uncovered an astonishing natural ability, going on to break multiple British and world records in indoor rowing, all while still behind bars.
Since his release, John has become a leading voice in the world of endurance sport and criminal justice reform. Now a Nike-sponsored athlete and Ironman triathlete, he shares his story to inspire change and prove that transformation is always possible.
He is the founder of the Alpine Run Project, a powerful initiative that takes young people from the streets to the peaks, using mountain running to build resilience, purpose and community. John's work now spans schools, prisons and global platforms, advocating for sport as a force for personal and social change.
This was a mind-blowing and SUPER inspiring conversation. Hope you enjoy listening as much as I enjoyed recording the ep!
📚 Resources:
Redemption: From Iron Bars to Ironman – Buy the book (Available on Amazon and book stores)BBC Documentary – John McAvoy: The Power of Sport Watch on BBC iPlayerSky Documentaries – The John McAvoy Story (available via Sky and NOW TV)📨 Connect with John:
Website: therealmcavoy.comInstagram: @jonnymac83Twitter/X: @johnmcavoy2📨 Connect with Danielle:
@daniellecooperofficial
@toolsfortoughtimes
Email: [email protected]
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tools For Tough Times
Tools for Tough Times is your go-to podcast for inspiration on how to stay grounded and balanced when life gets a bit.....intense! I dive into real, raw, and insightful conversations with people who’ve faced challenges head-on, sharing the mindset shifts, habits, and tools that helped them not just survive, but thrive! If you're looking for practical tools, a positive vibe, a huge dollop of inspiration, and plenty of laughs, this show is for you :) This is a positive and vibrant space where people share how they've turned life’s most challenging moments into powerful stories of transformation.Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
- No. of episodes: 15
- Latest episode: 2025-05-27
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