The TriDoc Podcast, triathlon and health in one place

In this episode:The Tridoc Podcast kicks off 2026 with a bang, diving headfirst into the ever-elusive concept of 'finding your why' in the world of multisport. It’s that magical question that every triathlete grapples with at some point, often while gasping for air and questioning their life choices during a brutal workout. The hosts, Jeff and Juliet, tackle how motivations can evolve as we age and our lives change—because let’s face it, the reason I signed up for a triathlon at 20 might not cut it when I’m staring down my 40s and wondering if I should just take up knitting instead. They share their own journeys, emphasizing that it’s totally normal for your motivations to shift like a triathlete dodging a rogue bike on race day. Whether you’re racing for glory, fitness, or just to escape your responsibilities for a few blissful hours, the hosts remind us that as life throws curveballs, our 'why' doesn’t have to remain stagnant. They sprinkle in some audience feedback, highlighting stories of how other athletes have navigated the rollercoaster of motivations, which serves as a comforting reminder that we’re all in this crazy ride together. So grab your favorite snack and settle in for an insightful chat about embracing the chaos of our triathlete lives and redefining what keeps us pushing through those early morning swims.Diving deeper into the realms of triathlon and personal growth, this episode of the Tridoc Podcast doesn’t just stop at 'why'; it also ventures into practical advice for handling the inevitable ups and downs of endurance training. Jeff and Juliet, who act like the wise old sages of the triathlon world, stress the importance of adaptability. They acknowledge that as our lives morph into a whirlwind of responsibilities—like juggling kids, jobs, and the occasional existential crisis—our training must adjust accordingly. The hosts share their personal experiences of how their own motivations and training regimens have shifted over the years, often with the tangible wisdom of trial and error. They encourage listeners to embrace the idea that it’s perfectly okay to take a step back and re-evaluate what they want from their athletic pursuits, without feeling the guilt trip of ‘shoulds’ and ‘musts’. Listeners are treated to a buffet of relatable anecdotes, from the awkwardness of transitioning from youth triathlons to age-group competitions, to the realization that races don’t always define success—sometimes, just showing up is a win. This episode feels like a warm hug from a fellow triathlete who’s been through it all and is here to remind you that it’s not just about the race results, but the journey that gets you there.Lastly, the episode features a delightful guest, Sarah Black, who brings a refreshing perspective on the intersection of physical therapy and triathlon. With her background as a Division 1 swimmer turned triathlete, Sarah dives into the nitty-gritty of pelvic health—which, spoiler alert, is a topic that doesn’t get nearly enough airtime in the world of sports. She spills the tea on how pelvic floor health impacts triathletes, especially women, and why it’s crucial to address these often-ignored issues. Trust me, if you’ve ever felt discomfort on the bike or had a sneaking suspicion that your saddle might be out to get you, Sarah’s insights will resonate deeply. The conversation flows effortlessly from pelvic health to overall athletic performance, shedding light on why understanding our bodies is key to thriving in the sport. Jeff and Sarah discuss practical strategies for maintaining pelvic health, addressing issues like bladder leakage and discomfort, and how to empower athletes to prioritize their well-being. This episode is not just a deep dive into the science of triathlon, but an empowering reminder that knowledge is power, and taking care of our bodies is paramount in achieving our multisport goals. So, if you want to race smarter, train...

In this episode:Welcome back to another episode!Leslie Keener, the mastermind behind the Running Up for Air series, joins us to discuss how her initiative is turning endurance sports into a battleground for air quality awareness. Picture this: runners scaling mountains, huffing and puffing not just from the effort, but also from the smog. It’s a wild concept that started when one guy realized he was training for a race in a polluted valley while breathing in what could only be described as a toxic miasma. Talk about a wake-up call!Leslie takes us through the evolution of this project, which has grown from a one-man show to a series of races across multiple states, all aimed at raising funds and awareness for air quality issues. We discuss how air quality is the canary in the coal mine for larger environmental crises, making it a topic that transcends politics and unites people from all walks of life. It’s fascinating and a bit terrifying to think that the air we breathe can serve as a harbinger for climate change. But there’s hope! Leslie shares success stories of how these races have not only raised funds but also educated participants about the importance of clean air—because let’s face it, nobody wants to run in a cloud of smog.Of course, we can't skip our beloved medical mailbag segment, where we tackle the latest in supplement nonsense—this time, a product called Sport Legs. It claims to reduce lactic acid so you can run longer, faster, and without the burn. Sounds like a dream, right? We dig into the science (or lack thereof) behind it, and let’s just say, the results might not exactly make you want to whip out your credit card. This episode is a blend of passion, advocacy, and a healthy dose of skepticism, all wrapped up in a conversation that’s both enlightening and entertaining. So if you’re ready to tackle some serious issues while having a laugh, you’re in the right place!Segments:[07:54]- Medical Mailbag: Sportslegs[28:04]- Interview: Leslie KeenerLinks@runningupforair on InstagramLeslie's Website

In this episode:We’re diving into the wild world of vagal nerve stimulators today. Yep, you heard that right – those fancy gadgets might just be the next big thing for recovery, or they might be the latest gimmick to separate you from your cash. We’ll be chatting about how these devices are supposed to help athletes bounce back after a grueling workout, but spoiler alert: the science is still a bit shaky. Also, our guest, Jess Cerra, is here to share how she turned her kitchen experiments into a successful energy bar business and co-founded a gravel race that’s funding scholarships for women. Seriously, we’re talking about $130,000 in scholarships handed out over the past five years – and that’s not just a drop in the bucket! Segments:[13:07]- Medical Mailbag: Vagus nerve stimulators[36:00]- Interview: Jess Cerra LinksJess's Website Jess's Facebook page @jesscerra on Instagram 

In this episode:Can smiling make you perform better? We know that when you are happy that you will smile but it turns out that the relationship may be more of a two way street. that is to say, if you smile it can actually make you happy as well. On the Medical Mailbag we look at some fascinating science that suggests smiling can have some pretty important impacts on performance. Plus, I chat with Will Hicks, the brain behind the Air Track app, which does the heavy lifting of tracking air pollution like a hawk with a PhD. With a mix of traffic data, meteorological conditions, and some AI wizardry, this app offers insights that could make even the most oblivious runner stop and think twice about their chosen route. Will shares how understanding the local air quality can help athletes reduce exposure to pollutants, and let's be real, nobody wants to inhale a cloud of diesel fumes while trying to crush that PR. Spoiler alert: it turns out that even a couple of blocks away from a bustling street can drop your pollution exposure by 30%. So why not take the scenic route? The episode is packed with actionable advice, a dose of sarcasm, and the hard truth about how air quality impacts our health and performance. Who knew a little data could go such a long way in keeping us breathing easy while we sweat it out on those trails?Segments:[06:26]- Medical Mailbag: Smiling to perform[36:36]- Interview:Will Hicks LinksWill's Facebook page @airawarewill on Instagram Will's Website Will on YouTube places2swim web site

In this episode:If you're going to take one nugget of wisdom from this chat, let it be this: there are absolutely no shortcuts to health and wellness. Seriously, 99.9% of the so-called miracle products and supplements out there? Yeah, they don’t do squat—at least not in the way they claim. Join me and my guest, the exercise wizard Nick Tiller, as we dive into the wild world of wellness myths that social media is just itching to sell you. Spoiler alert: it’s mostly a dumpster fire of misinformation, and we’re here to help you sift through the nonsense. So, if you’re looking for the magic pill that’ll turn you into an Ironman overnight, you might want to keep looking—because putting in the actual time and effort is where the real gains are at. Grab a drink, kick back, and let’s get into it!Segments:[09:18]- Medical Mailbag: Grounding[30:48]- Interview: Nick Tiller LinksNick's Website @nb.tiller on Instagram @NBTiller on X 

In this episode:In this episode, we are tackling the very real question of glucosamine supplements and their supposed benefits for athletes. As we navigate through the medical mailbag segment, we dive deep into the research surrounding glucosamine, looking at whether it has any real impact on cartilage repair and overall joint health for those of us who put our bodies through the ringer on race day. We explore the mixed evidence surrounding glucosamine, discussing how it’s often touted as a miracle worker in the world of sports medicine. We dissect the studies that claim benefits, while also highlighting the lack of compelling evidence that definitively shows glucosamine can help endurance athletes recover from injuries or improve performance. Natalie Grebo's journey through the triathlon world is like a fairy tale, but with more sweat and less magic. At the ripe age of 81, she's not just participating; she's breaking barriers, becoming the first female finisher in her age group at the Ironman World Championships. In this episode, we dive into her remarkable story, where overcoming injuries, defying age stereotypes, and embracing the thrill of competition take center stage. The conversation kicks off with Natalie reflecting on her 21 years in triathlon, emphasizing her love for movement and the joy of pushing herself. Despite facing setbacks, her determination shines through as she shares how she navigates challenges and maintains her competitive spirit. With a delightful mix of humor and humility, she recounts her experiences, making it clear that age is merely a number when it comes to pursuing passion and fitness. As the episode unfolds, we also tackle the importance of community and support in the sport. Natalie’s interactions with fellow athletes and her family add a heartwarming touch, showcasing the camaraderie that fuels her journey. So grab your headphones and get ready to be inspired by a true trailblazer in the triathlon world. This episode isn’t just about racing; it’s about the mindset that keeps us moving through life, regardless of age. Natalie’s story serves as a reminder that it’s never too late to start something new, and that the desire to keep going can lead to extraordinary achievements. Tune in as we celebrate not just her accolades, but the spirit of resilience that embodies the essence of triathlon. Whether you’re an athlete or just someone looking for motivation, Natalie’s infectious enthusiasm will leave you wanting to lace up your shoes and hit the pavement yourself!Segments:[08:44]- Medical Mailbag:[37:44]- Interview:Links

In this episode:In the Medical Mailbag we look at the evidence behind using ventilatory metrics to assess and prescribe training zones as well as training loads especially as it pertains to measurement with the new to market Tymewear chest strap. This tech got a lot of buzz at this year's Tour de France but is it ready for adoption by age groupers? Plus, we catchup with the whirlwind journey of Matthew Marquardt, a med student who’s also a triathlon sensation. With a season filled with victories, including a dazzling performance at the World Championships, Matthew shares the gritty reality behind the glamour of triathlon fame. From the grueling training schedules to the unexpected cramping that could rival any medical mystery, he takes us behind the scenes of his life as he balances studies and races. The conversation turns to the dramatic events at Kona, where high stakes and even higher temperatures led to heartbreaking moments for some of the sport’s best women. Matthew reflects on the emotional rollercoaster that these athletes endured and what it truly means to compete at such a high level under extreme conditions. The dynamic between the race’s history in Kona versus Nice is also a hot topic, highlighting the different styles of racing that favor various types of athletes. With a sharp tongue and an eye for the absurd, this episode humorously critiques the current state of the sport while also celebrating the triumphs of those brave enough to compete. It’s a heartfelt testament to resilience, determination, and the unexpected twists that come with chasing greatness in triathlon.Segments:[10:11]- Medical Mailbag: Tymewear[37:14]- Interview: Matthew Marquardt Links@matthewmarquardt on Instagram

In this episode:L-theanine is found in tea leaves and promises to help you be calm and focused. Does it work and is there evidence it can help you perform better? We look in to it on the Medical Mailbag. Then, we're diving headfirst into the wild world of wellness disinformation in this episode, where we tackle the absurdity of trusting health influencers like Dr. Joseph Mercola, who somehow manages to make a fortune peddling questionable advice. Our guest, Jonathan Jarry, a science communicator from McGill University, spills the tea (pun totally intended) on Mercola's bizarre reliance on a psychic medium for guidance on health matters. You heard that right—this guy's taking medical advice from someone channeling a spirit named Balon. We chat about how this all ties into the larger trend of seeking simple answers to complex health questions, and why people are so easily duped by flashy claims. As we dissect the ludicrousness of it all, we’ll arm you with some tools to cut through the nonsense and hopefully make better choices in your health journey. So buckle up, because this rollercoaster of ridiculousness is about to get real!Segments:[06:49]- Medical Mailbag: L-theanine[28:57]- Interview: Jonathan Jarry LinksJonathan's Website The Mercola Tapes on YouTube

In this episode:Diving into the chaotic yet exhilarating world of triathlon and medicine, this episode showcases the fascinating journey of Pavlos Antoniedes, a medical student who somehow juggles both rigorous academic studies and being a national-level triathlete. Imagine the life of someone who, while mastering the complex anatomy of the human body, also trains like a beast, preparing for grueling competitions. The conversation starts with the absurdity of trying to balance a medical career with the demands of elite triathlon training. Pavlos shares his backstory—how he transitioned from hockey to triathlon, driven by family ties and a desire to find a sport that resonated with him. As we laugh and shake our heads at the sheer madness of it all, he reveals how he manages to keep his training schedule flexible enough to dodge the pitfalls of burnout and exhaustion, all while excelling in medical school. It's a wild ride filled with insights into the pressures athletes face, the mental gymnastics needed to excel in both fields, and the occasional sarcastic quip about medical exams and race days that will leave you chuckling at the absurdity of it all.Segments:[07:28]- Medical Mailbag: Lumos Sleep Mask[time stamp]- Interview: Pavlos Antoniades Links@pavanton31 on Instagram Pavlos 's Facebook page Lumos

In this episode:In the MMB we take a look at the science behind the popular homeopathic remedy arnica. Is there any merit to this topically applied plant derivative for treating delayed onset muscle soreness? Plus, our guest, Stephanie Van Bebber, brings her expertise in clinical research to the table as we navigate through the headlines that have left many in the running community feeling a bit queasy (and not just from the gels). The study in question reveals that ultra runners might be at an increased risk for advanced adenomas, those pesky precursors to cancer. But before you toss those running shoes into the nearest donation bin, let’s unpack what this really means. It’s not about condemning the sport we love, but rather about understanding the potential risks and the importance of screening. If you’re an ultra runner or just a casual jogger, this episode offers valuable insights into how we can better care for our bodies while still pursuing our passion for running. From the biological theories behind inflammation and gut health to practical advice on when to see a doctor, we cover it all. Segments:[06:49]- Medical Mailbag: Arnica[35:56]- Interview: Stephanie VanBebberLinksSteph on IG: @stephanievanbebberhttps://www.fiv3racing.com/https://svbcoach.com/

In this episode:Creatine is all the rage being pushed by nutritionists and coaches on anyone who will listen. This supplement would seem to be the answer to all that ails you if you give any credence to the innumerable influencers who proselytize about its benefits. But what does the science say and specifically, what does it say with respect to endurance athletes? On the Medical Mailbag we dig in and try to find the real answers. Then, our guest Silas Eastman brings us on a wild ride through the world of cross country skiing and the upcoming roller ski competition in the Caribbean. Yep, you heard that right! We’re talking about skiing where it’s sunny and the only chill is your drink. Silas enlightens us on why cross country skiing is the perfect sport for all ages, and how it’s actually easier on the body than running. We also highlight the benefits of this unique sport for triathletes looking to up their game. Get ready for a lively discussion that will leave you questioning your workout routine and maybe even planning a trip to the Caribbean to try it out yourself!Segments:[06:25]- Medical Mailbag: Creatine[39:52]- Interview: Silas EastmanLinksFast Talk Labs podcastJackson Ski Touring Foundation

In this episode:Follow Jeff and Juliet as they discuss the latest in shark deterrent technology, it’s clear they’re not just swimming in shallow waters; they’re making waves with some serious scientific discussions. After that, we’re diving right into the wild world of photography and entrepreneurship with our guest, Adam Barker, who’s here to chat about his journey from snapping epic shots of athletes to launching his own shaving brand for the leg-shaving men out there. You heard that right—he’s not just a talented photographer, but also a man on a mission to help guys embrace smooth legs while they pedal through life. Adam spills the beans on his award-winning shot from the X Games, which sounds like it was taken during a superhero landing, and we get into the nitty-gritty of his new venture, Bolt Skin and Shave. Along the way, we’ll also tackle some seriously hairy topics—pun intended—about the absurdity of shaving culture in the cycling world and how not all razors are created equal. So grab your earbuds and get ready to laugh, learn, and maybe rethink your leg-shaving game!Segments:[13:16]- Medical Mailbag: Shark Banz[38:13]- Interview: Adam BarkerLinksWatch this and let's go from there! https://www.instagram.com/reel/DEkwwuXRmD7/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=YnRrZDJzMzl5ZGw3 @BOLTskinshave on Instagram Adam 's Website Adam on YouTube

In this episode:In a world where our running shoes are often treated like disposable fashion items, Stuart Jenkins, CEO of Blumaca, is on a mission to change the narrative. With a background in competitive running that once led him to the Olympic trials, he’s now tackling the issue of foam waste in footwear with a sense of urgency that’s downright inspiring. After uncovering the shocking amount of foam waste generated by shoe manufacturing – enough to produce billions of insoles – he decided to repurpose that foam into high-quality, sustainable products. This episode isn't just a feel-good story; it's a wake-up call about our consumption patterns. Jenkins shares his journey from an aspiring Olympian to an entrepreneur who’s not just talking about sustainability but actively making strides to improve it. He discusses the innovative processes Blumaca employs to ensure that the foam waste is transformed into products that not only last longer but also perform better than the standard insoles we’re used to tossing aside after a few runs. The irony? The very material we think of as trash is becoming a crucial component in high-performance footwear. And if you’ve ever wondered what happens to those old shoes piling up in your closet, Jenkins has some insight that might just inspire you to rethink your recycling efforts.Segments:[13:17]- Medical Mailbag:[40:15]- Interview: Stuart JenkinsLinksInformation can be found here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/10DyAp2F4b8vG0v4DvsO53L04zbXQp3qk/view?usp=share_link Stuart 's Facebook page @blumaka on Instagram Stuart 's Website Stuart on YouTube

In this episode:The Medical Mailbag answers a question about tendonitis and how to treat it—because who doesn’t want to know why their body is crapping out on them mid-training? Jeff and Juliet break it down with a sharp wit that makes even the dullest medical advice sound entertaining. Spoiler alert: it turns out tendonitis is more complex than just a simple ailment, and the insights shared will make you rethink your approach to running injuries. Then, the episode's guest Hilary Topper details her journey from a workaholic to an endurance athlete. Where she started from small victories in runs and slowly moved on to triathlon. This covers the ups and downs of the triathlon world and demonstrates the challenges many beginners may face.Segments:[08:10]- Medical Mailbag: Tendon injury[37:35]- Interview: Hilary TopperLinksArticle in Triathlete on heat vs cold for recoveryHilary's Facebook page @hilarytopper on Instagram Hilary's Website @hilary25 on X Hilary on YouTube

In this episode:Transitions in triathlon aren't just a necessary evil; they’re like the secret sauce that can make or break your race day. Seriously, it takes zero special talent to nail a transition—just a sprinkle of practice and a dash of planning, and voila! You're gliding through T1 and T2 like a pro while the rest of the field is still fumbling with their gear. In this episode, we dive deep into the art of transitions—how to streamline the process, avoid the dreaded brain freeze that hits right after you exit the water, and ultimately save precious seconds that could mean the difference between podium glory and just another race day. We’ll also toss in some gems about goal setting and the importance of communication between you and your coach, because let’s face it, we all need a little guidance when navigating the wild world of multisport. So, grab your gear, and let’s get ready to make those transitions as smooth as butter!Let’s dive into cold plunges, shall we? I mean, who doesn't want to jump into a tub of ice water after a grueling workout, right? But hold your horses, because we’re about to break down what the science really says about these chilly dips. With the resurgence of cold plunge popularity, thanks to social media influencers and pro athletes who swear by it, we take a critical look at whether jumping into icy water actually does anything for recovery. Spoiler alert: it might not be the miracle cure you think it is. We go over some recent articles that suggest cold plunges might even hinder your recovery by reducing blood flow to your muscles. Yup, you heard that right! We’ll dissect the evidence, weigh the pros and cons, and maybe even question why we ever thought freezing our butts off was a good idea in the first place. So if you’re curious about whether you should take the plunge or just stick to hot showers, stick around because we’re unraveling the cold hard facts right here!Segments:[10:10]- Medical Mailbag: Cold Plunge[36:32]- Interview: Jeff and Juliet CoachingLinks

In this episode:In the MMB we spotlight the increasing dangers cyclists face on the road today, a topic that weighs heavily on the minds of many. With statistics showing a shocking rise in cyclist fatalities, Jeff and Juliet dig into the science behind these incidents and share their own experiences of fear and frustration. It’s not all doom and gloom, though! They offer practical advice on how to stay safe while cycling, including the importance of visibility and the benefits of riding in groups. Through their banter, we also get a glimpse of the community aspect of cycling—the camaraderie, the shared struggles, and the collective push to make our roads safer. Because let’s face it, if we can’t enjoy our rides, what’s the point?Then we dive into the life of Joe Lavelle that reveals a world where adventure and athleticism collide in the most delightful ways. Imagine scaling the heights of Colorado’s famous 14ers, racing crits, and then swapping tales of daring escapades over a podcast microphone. That’s Joe for you! In this episode, we explore his journey from a skinny kid with a desire to bulk up to a seasoned athlete who embraces the challenges of aging with grace and humor. Joe’s tales are rich with the kind of wisdom that only comes from years of pushing boundaries—whether it’s deciding to tackle the Matterhorn or simply choosing to get off the couch and onto a bike. We laugh, we reflect, and we nod in agreement when he emphasizes the importance of filling life with powerful memories. Because really, who doesn’t want to look back and say, “Heck yeah, I did that!”?Segments:[07:40]- Medical Mailbag: Cyclist deaths on the rise[34:56]- Interview: Joe Lavelle LinksJoe's Website

In this episode:On the Medical Mailbag we look at the concept of fueling your endurance performance with potatoes. Can it be done? Should it? Then, I talk with Phil Billikopf the Chilean born CEO of Mauna Endurance and MNA Coaching. He has covered a lot of ground and brings his success in multisport and business acumen to triathlon apparel and coaching.Segments:[08:40]- Medical Mailbag: Potatoes as endurance fuel[34:18]- Interview:Philip Billikopf Links@pbillikopf on Instagram

In this episode:We’re diving into the chaos of triathlon training this week, and trust me, it's not a walk in the park. Our guests today, the dynamic duo of Gerard and Jordy Donnelly, are here to spill the tea on why nailing your power output is like trying to juggle flaming swords while riding a unicycle—nearly impossible, but oh-so-rewarding when you get it right! They’ve seen countless beginners pedal like they’re in a wind tunnel, struggling to keep their power steady against Mother Nature’s whims. We’ll also chat about the absurdity of athletes questioning their race plans like they’re trying to solve a Rubik’s Cube blindfolded. If you’ve ever thought about how to balance fun with performance, this episode is for you. So grab your favorite gel (the kind that won’t send you spiraling into a sugar crash), and let’s get into some serious triathlon talk!Segments:[08:57]- Medical Mailbag: Can sports fuels lead to diabetes?[31:56]- Interview: Gerard and Jordy DonnellyLinks@trivelocoaching on Instagram Jordy and Gerard's Website Jordy and Gerard on YouTube

In this episode:On the medical mailbag we look at respiratory muscle training and the Breather device. Do you need to inhale hard to pump up your diaphragm to get more power to the pedals? Plus Michael Arashita joins us today to dive into the wild world of triathlons and nutrition, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. With a background that screams “overachiever” — think pre-med biochemistry and an MBA in healthcare — he’s transitioned from pro triathlete to the mastermind behind Blanks Nutrition, a company that’s literally taking the labels off traditional sports nutrition. Segments:[12:41]- Medical Mailbag: The Breather[33:56]- Interview: Michael Arishita Links@Swimmikerun on Instagram Michael's Website

In this episode:We’re diving into the world of off-the-bike training, and let me tell you, it’s a game-changer! This episode kicks off with a bang as we chat about the four fitness foundations that every endurance athlete needs: mobility, flexibility, stability, and strength. You heard that right—no one-trick ponies allowed here! We’ve got Dr. Stacy Brickson joining us to break down how these elements work together like a well-oiled machine to keep us from turning into creaky old bicycles. Seriously, if you think you can just pedal your way into your golden years without some solid off-the-bike action, think again! So grab your yoga mats and resistance bands, because we’re getting real about how to keep our bodies functioning at their peak and fend off those pesky age-related declines. Buckle up, folks, it’s time to get functional!