In the very first episode of Execs Who Run Jason sits down with Ben Kepes – Managing Director of Cactus Outdoor, professional company director, technology industry analyst, volunteer firefighter, paramedic, furniture maker, and ultra marathon runner.

“The way to do well in running – and in life – is to just keep going. One foot in front of the other.” – Ben Kepes

In this episode:

[00:00:00] Introduction: Jason welcomes Ben Kepes as the first guest on Execs Who Run.

[00:02:00] Quickfire Round: Ben’s running preferences – from solo miles to chasing Strava segments.

[00:04:00] Running Rituals: Ben’s unique tribute to Jack Lovelock at the Old Ghost Ultra.

[00:07:00] Career Journey: From high school dropout to entrepreneur and board director.

[00:13:00] Business and Governance: Balancing multiple roles and embracing new challenges.

[00:17:00] Running Journey: Starting in his 30s and evolving into an ultra runner.

[00:24:00] Ultra Marathon Life: Why ultra running is “easier” than road marathons.

[00:35:00] Family Business: Running Cactus Outdoor with his sons and fostering entrepreneurship.

[00:43:00] Community Work: Volunteering with Speed Freaks, Achilles Foundation, and giving back.

[00:49:00] Building Resilience: How running enhances mental toughness and impacts life.

[00:54:00] Advice Corner: Ben’s top tips on leadership, life, and running.

[00:58:00] Final Question: Ben’s question for the next guest – How does running make you a better person and leader, and how does leadership make you a better runner?

Key Takeaways:

Discipline and consistency are vital in both business and running.

Building and sustaining a family business across generations.

Volunteering and giving back enriches your life more than you expect.

Running fosters mental resilience and complements leadership.

Connect with Ben Kepes:

Email: ben@diversity.net.nz

LinkedIn

Cactus Outdoor

Resources Mentioned:

Old Ghost Ultra

Speed Freaks NZ

Achilles New Zealand

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Welcome to Execs Who Run!
This trailer introduces the heart of the podcast—unscripted conversations with senior leaders who lace up and hit the road. Host Jason Hunt shares the mission behind the podcast and what you can expect from future episodes, including:

Real stories of resilience, balance, and growth from leaders who run.

Insights into how running shapes clarity, leadership, and mental health.

The little things that make a big impact, like routines and planning.

About the Host
Jason Hunt, a Kiwi based in Sydney, is an elite marathon runner, former professional triathlete, and executive search professional. With a career working for and partnering with top companies like Air New Zealand and Qantas, Jason brings a unique perspective on leadership and endurance.

Follow and connect with Execs Who Run on social media:

Instagram: instagram.com/execswhorun

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/execswhorun

Website: execswhorun.com

Subscribe now and don’t miss the first episode—coming very soon!