The TriDot Triathlon Podcast

What happens when the swim, the first leg of your race, gets cancelled? Fresh off their experience at IRONMAN 70.3 Little Elm, coaches Julie McPhilomy and Tony Washington dive into the reality behind a scenario some athletes dream about…and others dread. From unexpected changes in pre-race fueling to the mental shift required on race morning, they unpack how a cancelled swim can throw off your rhythm, emotions, and overall race strategy. They also break down the practical side: how pacing on the bike needs to adjust, what logistical challenges arise, and how to stay adaptable when race day doesn’t go...

The sprint triathlon may be the shortest distance in the sport, but for many athletes it can feel like the toughest and it definitely hurts the most! To help you race smarter (and hurt a little less), Coach Ben Sommerville joins us this week with eight practical tips to prepare for your next sprint triathlon. From having a solid race-morning plan (yes, including parking), to knowing the course, understanding the rules, and pacing your effort, this episode covers the details that can make or break your race. Whether you’re lining up for your first sprint or you’re a se...

Coach Nolan McKenna is fast, world-class fast. Nolan recently qualified to represent Team USA at the Ultra Marathon World Championships in New Delhi, India, and he joins Carrie to share his journey to the global stage. From his early days as a collegiate runner training largely on his own to discovering TriDot and completely transforming his approach, Nolan explains how smarter training helped him chase big goals while staying healthy. He also opens up about navigating elite training and coaching while welcoming his first child, and how he balances it all. Nolan offers practical advice for ultra runners on...

Fueling for training and racing isn’t one-size-fits-all, especially for women. In this episode, host Vanessa Ronskley is joined by Taryn Richardson of The Triathlon Nutrition Academy to dive into the key nutrition strategies female athletes need to know. Taryn breaks down how to ensure you get enough carbohydrates, protein, and fats to support performance, recovery, and long-term health. She shares her thoughts on supplements, explains how to recognize whether you’re truly meeting your nutrition needs, and highlights the warning signs of RED-S as well as other warning signs to look out for. You’ll also hear practical tips f...

We all know sleep is critical for performance and recovery but how do we actually get better at it? In this episode, Sleep Is A Skill creator Mollie Eastman and The RunDot Running Podcast's Carrie Tollefson join Vanessa Ronksley to break down how to improve your sleep in practical, actionable ways. We cover what sleep really does for the body, how much you need, and how it directly impacts performance and recovery. Then we get into the details that matter most: optimizing your sleep environment, choosing the right equipment, and understanding how nutrition, supplements, and tracking devices can either...

Understanding how to stay in your training zones is key to smarter run workouts. In this episode, we break down everything you need to know about zones and how to use them effectively. Coaches Brandy Ramirez and Matt Davies explain how TriDot determines swim zones, which gadgets and metrics best help you monitor them, and how to consistently stay in the right zone during your workouts. They also share strategies for hitting your targets across different pool lengths and even open water. However your next workout is structured, this episode will equip you with practical tips to maximize your...

Understanding how to stay in your training zones is key to smarter run workouts. In this episode, we break down everything you need to know about zones and how to use them effectively. Coaches Kurt Madden and Jason Verbracken explain how TriDot determines bike zones, which gadgets and metrics best help you monitor them, and how to consistently stay in the right zone during your workouts. They also share strategies for hitting your targets across different terrain and environments. Whether your next workout is guided by pace, power, or heart rate, this episode will equip you with practical tips...

Understanding how to stay in your training zones is key to smarter run workouts. In this episode, we break down everything you need to know about zones and how to use them effectively. Coaches Elizabeth James and Stephen Horan explain how TriDot determines run zones, which gadgets and metrics best help you monitor them, and how to consistently stay in the right zone during your workouts. They also share strategies for hitting your targets across different terrain and environments. Whether your next workout is guided by pace, power, or heart rate, this episode will equip you with practical tips...

Do you ever wonder why you're doing a certain workout, not just how? This week Coach Ben Sommerville joins the podcast to break down some of the most effective swim workouts to help you train smarter, not just harder. We are tackling swim sessions: Broken 200s, Broken 1500s, Broken Ladders, Threshold 150s, Sprint 50s and more! Coach Ben explains the purpose behind each workout, what systems of the body they target, and how to execute them for maximum benefit. Whether you're aiming to finish the workout or are hunting for the elusive "narwhal," understanding the why behind your TriDot...

You’ve done the training. You’ve logged the miles. Now it’s finally race time! But not all races (or race weekends) are created equal. In this episode, we’re joined by Andre Lapar from Clash Endurance to break down how to make the most of your entire race weekend experience. Andre shares practical insights on how athletes can elevate their weekend, common mistakes racers make (and how to avoid them), and smart strategies for race morning. Most importantly, he dives into how to truly enjoy and maximize the race itself. From pre-race planning to post-race celebrations, we’ve got it...

Wind: A Triathlete's nemesis...until today, we are breaking down the best ways to train and maximize your workouts when the winds are blowing. Coaches Ryan Tibball and Brady Hoover join Andrew this week to break down how the wind affects your training across all three sports. From gaining confidence handling your bike to adjusting your bike set up to handle wild winds. How do you dress for the wind? Do you need to change your fueling? We'll cover it all. This episode is packed with mental and tangible tips so by the end of this episode, you'll breeze...

Do you ever wonder why you're doing a certain workout, not just how? This week Coach Elizabeth James joins the podcast to break down some of the most effective bike workouts to help you train smarter, not just harder. We are tackling the doozie bike workouts: Big Gear, Threshold Intervals, Threshold and Hold, Step Ups, Over Unders, and more! Coach Elizabeth explains the purpose behind each workout, what systems of the body they target, and how to execute them for maximum benefit. Whether you're aiming to finish the workout or are hunting for the elusive "unicorn," understanding the why...

Join members of the podcast production team as they reflect on some of their favorite TriDot Podcast episodes from the past year. Revisit the year's top coaching tips, highlights from key episodes, and special moments with guests of the show. Whether you're a first-time listener or long-time subscriber, there's a piece of advice in here for you! Find out which episodes the podcast team says deserve a second listen!

If you've ever wanted to know the "why" behind some of your favorite TriDot swim workouts, this week Coach Kurt Madden joins the podcast to break down five swim sessions athletes will see in their training. We are tackling 25 / 100 Speed Sets, Ladders, Building 100s, Descending 100s, Threshold 200 / 300s, and more! Coach Kurt explains the purpose behind each workout, what systems of the body they target, and how to execute them for maximum benefit. Whether you're aiming to finish the workout or are hunting for the elusive "narwhal," understanding the why behind your TriDot workout might be the edge you've...

We're back for another episode where our triathlon coaches answer YOUR questions! Coaches Brandy Ramirez, Stephen Horan and Sion McIntosh jump into the hot seat on this round-robin, rapid-fire episode! Learn tips for staying motivated during the winter months, maximizing your TriDot schedule balancing all the disciples (including strength), and how to read your swim workout wile in the pool. Listen in as the coaches teach us about salt intake and endurance nutrition and how to effectively add and train for a swim/run race. They also discuss what to look for in a coach and the benefits of...

Women make up the majority of active adults, yet only 25% of triathletes are female. TriDot is changing that with "Limitless: Women in Triathlon", a groundbreaking 2026 initiative offering 500 women free triathlon training and a supportive community built to grow the sport. Inside Limitless, participants will receive personalized training plans, expert mentorship, an empowering community, and education designed by women, for women, centered around real experiences in the sport. In this episode, triathlon legends Mark Allen and Michellie Jones join us to share their excitement about this game-changing program and walk you through exactly how YOU can apply to become part...

With three sports to train for, concepts to learn, and gear to acquire; Triathlon is not the easiest sport for a new athlete. But with the right guidance, getting started in triathlon does not have to be complicated or intimidating. Today Coach David Cagle from Continuum Endurance joins the show to present the 10 tips he offers to any triathlete getting going in the sport. From getting the right equipment to prioritizing consistent training and sleep; Coach David makes the transition to triathlete practical and approachable.

Inspired by the passion many triathletes have for shopping, we proudly present the official 2025 TriDot Podcast holiday gift guide! Whether you are a new or seasoned athlete, getting new gear or replacing something old, our team has ideas for you! Coaches Ken Presutti and Ben Sommerville join Andrew Harley and Vanessa Ronksley to share their favorite gift ideas for any athlete across multiple budget amounts. From training calendars and planners to bike upgrades, recovery tools, triathlon coaching, and even strategic gift cards; after listening to this you will have a plentiful wish list!

As you near the end of your triathlon stamina build and approach race day, it’s time for one of the most important parts of your training: the race rehearsal. This workout isn’t just a test of your fitness, it’s a full practice run for race day, from your gear and nutrition to your pacing and mindset. In this episode, Coach Elizabeth James joins host Vanessa Ronksley to break down the purpose and structure of each discipline’s race rehearsal workout. Elizabeth explains what each session targets, how it benefits your body, and the best ways to execute...

The ebbs and flows of triathlon motivation are real, and many athletes can face burnout at some point in their sporting journey. It’s a normal part of the athlete journey, but it doesn’t have to derail your love for the sport. This week, Coaches Stephen Horan and Matt Davies join Andrew to share seven practical tips for preventing and overcoming burnout. From taking intentional breaks in structured training, to actually racing more (yes, really!), they dive into how variety, community, and even a bit of retail therapy can keep your motivation alive. Whether you’re feeling drained or jus...

This week, we’re diving deep into protein intake! Discussing how much you really need, which sources are best, and how to get it right for your training goals. Andrew is joined by Advanced Sports Dietitian Taryn Richardson to unpack the science behind protein and its crucial role in athletic performance. Together, they explore how to adjust protein intake for different workouts, the pros and cons of various protein types, and how to seamlessly add more protein to your daily meals and snacks. Taryn also shares her insights on common protein myths, unnecessary supplements, and the biggest mistakes athletes ma...

Every TriDot workout includes a built-in warm-up, but are you actually doing it? This week, Vanessa is joined by Coaches Brady Hoover and Brandy Ramirez to discover why warming up is essential before every session. They’ll break down how to properly incorporate warm-ups into your TriDot training, share practical tips for swimming, biking, and running, and explain the difference between dynamic and static stretching so you’re fully prepared to tackle the main set of your workout. By the end of this episode, you’ll be rethinking your pre-workout routine and (hopefully) never skipping a warm-up again.

Do you ever wonder why you're doing a certain workout, not just how? This week Coach Matt Sommer joins the podcast to break down some of the most effective bike workouts to help you train smarter, not just harder. We are tackling short and hard bike sessions: 30-30s, 30-90s, Power Builders, Power Intervals, stamina, and more! Coach Matt explains the purpose behind each workout, what systems of the body they target, and how to execute them for maximum benefit. Whether you're aiming to finish the workout or are hunting for the elusive "unicorn," understanding the why behind...

In this special TriDot and RunDot crossover episode, Andrew and Carrie are joined by Predictive Fitness CEO Jeff Booher.  The three of them explore how TriDot and RunDot are revolutionizing training for triathletes and runners. Jeff shares his journey as both an athlete and coach; explaining how his own athletic ambitions inspired the tech breakthroughs that power TriDot & RunDot. Jeff explains the role AI plays in endurance training and breaks down the four phases of training design. We'll meet the purpose-built FitLogic Intelligence Engine that sets TriDot and RunDot apart from other "AI" training platforms; And learn more about t...

A bike helmet is more than just gear, it's a non-negotiable for every triathlete. In this episode, Andrew is joined by Mike Buenting, Sports Marketing Manager at Rudy Project North America, to break down everything you need to know about helmets. From how they're made and how long they last, to whether built-in visors are worth it and if certain helmets really are faster (or safer), no question is off-limits. Do you need multiple helmets? Are some styles better for racing vs. training? Tune in and get the expert insights you need to confidently choose your next helmet.

Do you ever wonder why you're doing a certain workout, not just how? This week Vanessa Ronksley and Coach Ryan Tibball break down some of the most effective run workouts to help you train smarter, not just harder. We are starting with quality run sessions. Ryan and Vanessa dig into MAV Shuttles, Fartleks, Intervals, Threshold Repeats, and more! Explaining the purpose behind each workout, what systems of the body they target, and how to execute them for maximum benefit. Whether you're aiming to finish the workout or are hunting for the elusive running "unicorn," understanding the why behind your...

“The finish line is not a final destination, but a breathtaking view that fuels the next journey.” In this episode, Coach Stephen Horan celebrates a major milestone: completing his 20th IRONMAN. With over 15 years of endurance racing Stephen takes time to reflect on the lessons learned from each finish line. From the power of community in training, to embracing pressure as a privilege, and finding strength through adversity, Stephen shares personal stories and hard-earned insights that go beyond the race course. Whether you're an athlete, a goal-setter, or simply seeking motivation, this episode will leave you inspired to chase your...

Transitions can make or break your race, and changing between sports are often where valuable seconds slip away. In this episode, we dig deep into the ins and outs of T2 with Coaches Elizabeth James and Ben Sommerville. From getting your legs ready for a run while wrapping up your ride and finding your transition spot fast to practicing the sequence of changing your gear quickly and what amenities the coaches recommend you use or skip in the transition area, Ben and Elizabeth share practical tips and real-world strategies to streamline your next race. Plus, enjoy some unforgettable stories...

Transitions can make or break your race, and Transition 1 is often where valuable seconds slip away. In this episode, we take a deep dive into the ins and outs of T1 with Coaches Jeff Raines and Jenn Reinhart. From sighting the swim exit and navigating the chaos of the transition area, to smart gear staging and finding your bike fast, they share practical tips and real-world strategies to streamline your next race. Plus, enjoy some unforgettable stories from their own triathlon journeys. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned racer, this episode will help you move from swim to...

They say breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and on race day it's absolutely crucial. In this episode, we hear from 8 different triathlon coaches to see exactly what they eat before toeing the start line. From short course sprints to long course endurance events, we dive into how fueling strategies change and why topping off glycogen stores can make or break your performance. Whether it's oatmeal, bagels, fruit, or electrolytes, you'll get practical tips and fresh ideas to dial in your own race-morning nutrition.

Whether it’s a nagging niggle or a major surgery, injuries are an almost inevitable part of long-term triathlon training. In this episode, Physical Therapy expert Dr. BJ Leeper and Professional Triathlete Elizabeth James share valuable insights to help you return to training stronger and smarter. We’ll cover smart strategies for easing back into training, how to know when to push forward and when to pull back, and even practical tips on modalities and tools to support your recovery. BJ and Elizabeth discuss the mental and emotional challenges of injury recovery, sharing encouraging advice. While we can’t provid...

Since the bike leg is the longest part of any triathlon a proper bike fit is essential for performance, comfort, and injury prevention. While a professional fit is ideal, it's not always accessible. This week, Coaches Jeff Raines and Sion McIntosh join the show to share practical advice on how to fine-tune your bike fit at home. You'll learn how to better understand your body's unique needs and identify common adjustments your fit may require over time. We’ll also cover when and how to modify your setup, explore both low-tech and high-tech tools to analyze your position, and di...

In triathlon every second matters and even small mistakes can cost you big on race day. We’ve brought in two coaches, Matt Sommer and Matt Bach, to help you reclaim lost time and get the most out of your fitness on race day. In this episode, we dive into practical strategies for saving time before, during, and after the race. From course prep and gear setup to pacing, nutrition, and staying mentally sharp in the heat of competition, Matt and Matt share insights that can make a real difference in your performance. Whether you’re a first-timer or a se...

As experienced Coaches Jeff Raines and Elizabeth James have seen it all on race day—and this week, they're sharing the biggest lessons they've learned while spectating on race day. From practical advice on bike maintenance and travel planning to embracing the race-day atmosphere and soaking in the finish-line moment, they’re dishing out the same tips they give their own athletes. Whether you're racing or cheering from the sidelines, this episode is packed with insights to help you get the most out of your next triathlon event!

Whether it’s a wave, rolling, or mass start, how you begin your triathlon swim can make all the difference. In this episode, coaches Joanna Nami and Ryan Tibball break down every type of open water swim start and share expert strategies to help you launch with confidence. You’ll get practical tips for staying calm, starting strong, and settling into your rhythm quickly. As you gear up for your next race, this episode is your complete guide to swim start success!

The RunDot Podcast is launching soon and today we meet the host! Carrie Tollefson is a National Champion Middle-Distance Runner, an Olympian, a globally recognized broadcaster, and a podcast host! Carrie brings a wealth of running experience and today gives us her four major tips for race morning! She stresses the importance of planning (and having multiple plans) and even shares how she uses visualization, all while sharing some of her favorite running stories over the years. Come get to know Carrie, and be on the lookout for the launch of the RunDot Podcast.

While 140.6 miles is only double the distance of a 70.3, the cost and commitment can feel MORE than double as a triathlete prepares for their first full IRONMAN. Today, Coaches Kurt Madden and Louise Strydom bring two of their athletes to the podcast to share everything about transitioning to the IRONMAN distance. Kurt and Louise provide key tips for the IRONMAN training cycle while athletes Heather and Jaco share their experience transitioning from a half to full IRONMAN. Between the coaching expertise and the athlete stories, this episode will give you the confidence to level up from 70.3 to 140.6!

Staying in the sport of triathlon takes the right motivation, dedication, and a healthy mind and body. IRONMAN World Champion Mirinda Carfrae and IRONMAN Champion Tim O'Donnell both enjoyed long and rewarding professional triathlon careers and continue to train while coaching Team Salty Bears. So naturally they are perfect to share the six lessons they learned to help have a long-lasting journey in triathlon. Tim and Rinny teach us the importance of always redefining goals and share tips for avoiding burnout. They stress the importance of strength sessions and adjusting your training when needed. Armed with wisdom from Coach Ti...

300 episodes of The TriDot Triathlon Podcast have come and gone, and while we can't recount EVERY lesson hosts Andrew Harley and Vanessa Ronksley have learned, we picked our top 20 takeaways. We scoured all the nutrition episodes, the coaching wisdom and even the skill-specific episodes to find the best tips. From choosing the right run shoes, to improving your swim, eating enough protein, and even when NOT to train, Andrew and Vanessa recall it all. This episode is guaranteed to remind you of some very important lessons in triathlon that we hope you remember for the next hundred episodes!

We're back for another episode where our triathlon coaches answer YOUR questions! IRONMAN World Champions Mark Allen and Craig "Crowie" Alexander jump into the hot seat on this round-robin, rapid-fire episode! Learn tips for balancing training with life activities, riding strong when you train outside, and how to breathe while swimming in cold water. Listen in as the coaches teach us what we can learn from the pros and how to keep our heart rate down during a race start. They also discuss the infamous question of body hair and drag. This episode has a tip for everyone!