The TriDot Triathlon Podcast

After months of dedicated training, it's easy to believe race day will go exactly as planned. But the reality is that setbacks happen. Whether it's an injury, a mechanical issue, nutrition problems, or simply a bad day, every athlete eventually faces adversity. In this episode, Coach Stephen Horan shares how the setbacks in his own athletic journey transformed not only his mindset, but also the way he coaches others through challenging times. Stephen breaks down his three-step philosophy for navigating setbacks and turning them into opportunities for growth. From honest self-assessment and micro-analysis, to pursuing 1% improvements each day, and...

Whether you're completely confused by cassette numbers, never quite sure when to shift, or you've wondered why some rides feel effortless while others make every hill feel personal, this episode is for you. Vanessa Ronksley is joined by Petrina Tulissi who helps us break down the fundamentals of cycling efficiency from gearing and cadence to shifting and bike handling strategies that can make every ride smoother and more enjoyable. We dive into what the gears on your bike actually do, how and when to shift properly, ways to prepare for hills even if you live somewhere flat, and how...

We're back for another episode where our triathlon coaches answer YOUR questions! Coaches Ryan Tibball and Ken Presutti jump into the hot seat on this round-robin, rapid-fire episode! Learn why TriDot uses pace (not average pace), training for hills in a flat environment, and tips for pushing through when you want to stop. Listen in as the coaches teach us about how to maximize your training schedule so shorter distances won't negatively effect your A Race and how to efficiently exit the water during an open water swim. They also discuss training by heart rate if you don't have...

Red light therapy (RLT) is everywhere right now, from recovery studios and wellness clinics to at-home panels and full-body beds. But does the science actually support the hype? In this episode, Vanessa sits down with Taryn Richardson, creator of the Red Light Therapy for Athletes Evidence-Based Masterclass, along with coach Elizabeth James, to unpack what endurance athletes really need to know about red light therapy. They break down the biology behind RLT, explain how it works, and explore the evidence-based benefits for performance, recovery, and injury healing. Elizabeth also shares her firsthand experience using red light therapy during injury...

With unprecedented access to professional triathletes through live race coverage, social media, and YouTube, it’s easier than ever to follow the training, racing, and recovery habits of the sport’s top athletes. But just because the pros are doing something doesn’t always mean it’s the right approach for age-group athletes. On this episode, former professional triathletes Mark Allen and Mirinda Carfrae break down the latest trends in professional triathlon and separate what’s truly useful from what’s better left to the elites. From training methods and race tactics to the newest gadgets and equipment, they discuss what...

Most athletes are convinced that the path to better performance is more. More miles, more hours, more sessions. Volume has become the proxy for commitment, dedication, and seriousness as an athlete. In this joint episode of the TriDot and RunDot Podcasts, Jeff Booher joins Andrew and Carrie to dismantle the more-is-better myth, walk through the data on quality versus volume, and answer the question that follows: if more isn't the answer, what is? The right sequence is intensity first, then duration, then frequency, with volume as the byproduct. Better before more. Then, and only then, more.

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 workouts to help you train smarter, not just harder. We are tackling bike to run sessions: bike-run bricks, zone 2 runs off the bike, split zone runs off the bike, the longer race rehearsal bricks 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...

Most training platforms were built backwards. They started with what was easy to measure, layered features on top, and ended up with something that looks like training technology but is not actually training intelligence. In this opening episode of the First Principles of Training Intelligence series, Jeff Booher joins Andrew and Carrie to make the architectural case for a different way of building training technology. He walks through the ten credentialed coaches thought experiment, the five categories of training platforms, and the warehouse-to-hospital argument for why training intelligence cannot be retrofitted. It is the episode every other episode in...

Some training days feel effortless, while others feel nearly impossible, and that’s completely normal. This week, Coach Ryan Tibball joins the podcast to break down what athletes should expect to feel during both the development and race prep phases of training. From everyday tiredness to true fatigue, Ryan explains why it’s critical to understand the difference and how to spot the red flags that tell you when to push forward and when to back off. He also dives into how to approach training with new zones, why adaptation takes time and patience, and how to build into thos...

Today's episode tackles a "weighty" topic: a triathlete's relationship with their body weight. How do you know what weight is optimal for you? Is leaner better? Is there an ideal “race weight” you should strive for? Should you measure body fat percentage and know your BMI in addition to information from a standard scale? Dr. Krista Austin and Advanced Sports Dietician Taryn Richardson answer these questions and more! Krista and Taryn help you identify areas of improvement by discussing weight from a health and performance perspective.

The new TriDot app might feel like magic but behind it is the TriDot Innovation Team making it all happen. This week, Dr. B.J. Leeper and Coach Ken Presutti join the podcast to pull back the curtain on everything new and improved in the latest version of TriDot. Both athletes and coaches, B.J. and Ken bring a unique perspective as they walk us through the updated app experience, what to look for before, during, and after each workout. They also decode the powerful (and sometimes mysterious) graphs, explaining what they actually mean and how you can use...

A full-distance triathlon is no small undertaking, it’s one of the most demanding challenges in endurance sports, requiring serious time, discipline, and mental grit. But for those willing to commit, the payoff is extraordinary. In this episode, legendary Coach Kurt Madden joins us to break down exactly what it takes to cross your first 140.6 finish line. From building your ideal support team (coaches, training partners, medics, and even bike mechanics) to choosing the right gear for both performance and comfort, Kurt shares practical, hard-earned advice every aspiring Ironman needs. We also dive into the power of smart planning: st...

70.3 grueling miles of swimming, biking, and running can feel intimidating, but it’s absolutely within reach. Fresh off his 12th 70.3 finish, Coach Ryan Tibball joins the podcast to share practical, proven tips for tackling your first (or next) middle distance event. Built around the mantra “nothing new on race day,” this episode dives into what you can dial in well ahead of time from choosing the right race and building a strong support system to studying the all-important athlete guide. In a distance where pacing and nutrition can make or break your day, preparation is everything. Learn how to practi...

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...