Long-distance athlete and evolutionary biologist Professor Ben Garrod is fresh off tour and takes the time to chat to me about our time on the Dragon's Back Race and the science behind running. Ben has spent six years in Africa, Madagascar, the Caribbean and even been a tour guide in The Arctic, but he still loves running around his hometown of Bristol. We discuss night running and how it differs for men and women, the camaraderie you get from a multi-day event,  and what drives us to challenge ourselves. He talks about how saving the life of a Nile monitor lizard stopped him wanting to eat his goat curry, and how vegetarianism followed. Our serious chat inevitably spirals into chaos and topics on farting, swearing, and strange dreams about "float running" are all covered. Key messages from Ben - "yes you can", "yes you are a runner" and "turns out we're really mean". Extra points if you can spot the moment where the dogs start barking! Enjoy this one on your long run - it should inspire you to have a go at that next thing you were considering putting your name down for. Find out more about Ben and his work at www.bengarrod.co.uk Follow him on Instagram @ben_garrod Follow him on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/DrBenGarrod