The TriDoc Podcast, triathlon and health in one place

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!

In this episode:This episode features a Medical Mailbag segment that tackles the latest in sports technology, specifically lactate sensors. Are they the holy grail of performance metrics or just another shiny gadget? Jeff and Juliet break it down with their usual wit and sarcasm, dissecting whether these sensors provide meaningful insights for age-group athletes or if they’re just fancy toys to make us feel better about our training. Spoiler alert: the answer isn’t as clear-cut as you might hope. Then, the podcast dives into an unexpected yet fascinating realm of sports: pole vaulting, as seen through the eyes of David Bonham, a former high school pole vaulter turned masters athlete. It’s wild to think that after years away from the sport, an impromptu return was spurred on by his daughter’s passion for vaulting. David’s journey is not just about jumping over a bar; it’s a rollercoaster of life experiences, including a near-fatal heart attack and a major knee injury that would make anyone else reconsider their athletic aspirations. But not David. Oh no, he saw that heart attack as a wake-up call—an invitation to reclaim his athletic past and, quite literally, jump back into the fray.In this episode, we get a front-row seat to David’s world of pole vaulting, where he humorously recounts the absurdity of being the 'old guy' among teenagers at practice. His story is sprinkled with moments of irony, especially when he mentions how he was once self-taught, only to find himself once again under the watchful eye of coaches who actually know what they’re doing. It’s an inspiring tale of resilience; after a year of recovery from a devastating ACL tear, David not only returns to pole vaulting but also competes at a master's level, proving that age is just a number when you’re having this much fun. Trust me, you’ll want to hear how he navigates the perils of high school competition and the joy of setting personal records in his mid-fifties—it's a story about passion, persistence, and the occasional ridiculousness that comes with chasing your dreams at any age.Segments:[06:10]- Medical Mailbag: Lactate sensors[36:13]- Interview: David Bonham LinksThe TriDoc Podcast in Supplement Form (newsletter)@flying_higher2022 on Instagram David's Facebook page

In this episode:Forget what you've heard about the blood type diet—it's basically a glorified diet fad with about as much scientific credibility as my cat's opinion on quantum physics. We dive into the absurdities of this diet in our first segment, calling out the claims that your blood type should dictate your food choices and athletic pursuits. Spoiler alert: it's all nonsense. Then, we shift gears and get cozy with two amazing triathlon coaches, Jeff and Juliet, who share their coaching philosophies and how they tailor their approaches to meet athletes where they are—whether they're swimming like Michael Phelps or just trying to avoid sinking. Join us for a lighthearted yet insightful romp through the world of triathlon training and the hilarity of misguided dietary advice!Segments:[06:55]- Medical Mailbag: Blood Type Diet[30:58]- Interview: Jeff and Juliet talk coaching philosophyLinks

In this episode:In this episode we tackle a serious medical mailbag segment about the dubious world of 'Bro Peptides.' They sound great on paper, but you’ll want to tune in to hear why they might just be the latest health fad to avoid. Then, balancing a professional triathlon career and medical school isn't for the faint-hearted, but somehow, Matthew Marquardt is nailing it. You know, just casually winning the overall age group championship at Kona and juggling a full-time commitment to becoming a head and neck surgeon. No big deal, right? We dive into the whirlwind life of Matthew, where he shares how he manages to fit in grueling training sessions alongside his medical rotations. Spoiler alert: it involves a lot of prioritizing and some serious time management skills. We explore the importance of being intentional with time—because let’s be real, it’s so easy to lose track of hours swiping through TikTok or binge-watching yet another series. Matthew’s story proves that with a purpose, you can truly redefine what’s possible, whether it's in triathlon, medicine, or tackling that never-ending to-do list. So grab your headphones and get ready for a rollercoaster of inspiration, and a sprinkle of science!Segments:[10:02]- Medical Mailbag: BPC-157/TB500[35:32]- Interview: Matthew MarquardtLinksLifeSport Coaching Chalk Talk: The TriDoc podcast-what really works (3/15 at 8PM EDT)@matthewmarquardt on Instagram