HAPPY TALKS
ABOUT BEN
I have a passion for helping others find resilience, purpose, and authenticity. My journey from overcoming bullying and mental health challenges, to running 401 marathons in 401 days has taught me the power of perseverance and self-acceptance.
Having spoken to over 350,000 people around the world, I share insights on embracing our true selves, fostering inclusion, and making empowered choices. Whether I’m speaking to students, corporate teams, or communities, my goal is to inspire others to overcome obstacles, unlock their potential, and create positive change in their lives.
MY STORY
From surviving two suicide attempts to running 401 marathons in 401 days, it has shown me the power of resilience, transformation, and embracing who we truly are.
As a child, I faced relentless bullying that had a lasting impact on my confidence and self-esteem. By 13, I knew I was gay but felt forced to keep it hidden, fearing more rejection. This internalised pressure took a toll, and at 18, and again at 21, I attempted to end my life, feeling isolated and without hope. In my twenties, I focused on meeting everyone else’s expectations, working hard and succeeding on the surface but struggling within. At 29, a mini stroke, turned my world upside down, temporarily taking my sight, hearing, feeling in my left arm, and speech. This health scare forced me to choose between continuing as I was or making a serious change.
At nearly 18 stone, a heavy smoker and drinker, and hiding my true self in a job I didn’t enjoy, I took the leap and came out as gay. This decision set me on a path to self acceptance, health, and happiness. Running became a lifeline, a way to manage my mental health and finally build confidence in my abilities.
By 2014, I wanted to turn my experiences into a force for good, so I created The 401 Challenge: a mission to run 401 marathons in 401 days across the UK to raise £250,000 for anti bullying charities. I sold my house, bought a camper van, and set off on 1st September 2015 from Bristol. Over the next year, my journey not only raised over £330,000 but also inspired people across the country and beyond to confront their own challenges and question their own limits.
The project’s success led to honours such as the BBC Sports Personality of the Year Helen Rollason Award and the Pride of Britain Fundraiser of the Year. Today, I’m grateful to share my story worldwide, speaking to organisations, schools, and communities about resilience, authenticity, and the power of overcoming adversity.
My goal is to inspire others to unlock their potential, embrace their true selves, and find strength through life’s challenges.