The Sports Nutrition Playbook

40 Episodes
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By: Amy Goodson

The Sports Nutrition Playbook Podcast is a play-by-play on sports nutrition for youth athletes, coaches, athletic trainers, and parents. Full of practical, easy-to-use fueling strategies, tips, and examples, the podcasts dials in on all things sports nutrition as it relates to fueling, performance, and recovery day in and day out.

Ep. 76 Food as Medicine for Athletes
#76
Today at 7:00 AM

In this episode, we sit down with Liz Oba, RD, PMP, REAL Food Mission Ambassador at Thomas Cuisine, to break down what it truly means to use food as medicine for athletes at every level. From fueling professional teams like the San Jose Quakes to supporting young athletes and their families, Liz shares how simple, practical nutrition strategies can drive performance, recovery, and long-term health. This conversation cuts through the all-or-nothing mindset around “clean eating” and instead highlights realistic, sustainable ways to upgrade how athletes eat, whether you’re a parent, coach, or competitor looking to perform at your best.<...


Ep. 75 Nutrition MVPs of 2026: The Power Duo Athletes Can’t Ignore
#75
03/05/2026

Protein and fiber may not be the trendiest topics in sports nutrition, but they are two of the most impactful nutrients athletes can focus on for better performance and recovery. In this episode, you will learn why protein is essential for muscle repair, recovery, immune function, and maintaining lean mass, and why spreading protein across meals and snacks helps stabilize energy and support muscle protein synthesis throughout the day. We also cover the consequences of underfueling with protein and share simple, practical ways athletes can increase their intake without overcomplicating their meals, while highlighting how fiber supports sustained energy...


Ep. 74 The Recruiting Playbook: Common Myths, Smart Moves, and the “IT” Factor
#74
02/19/2026

In this episode, Coach Tony Esprit of Pro 7 Sports Recruiting breaks down what the recruiting process actually looks like for middle and high school athletes and their families, cutting through the noise of common myths and unrealistic expectations. Listeners will gain clarity on when athletes should start paying attention to recruiting, what truly matters at each stage, and the biggest mistakes that can hold strong athletes back from being seen by the right programs. The conversation highlights the importance of being a well-rounded athlete on and off the field, the role that consistent habits and smart nutrition play in...


Ep. 73 Does Heart Health Matter to Athletes?
#73
02/05/2026

In this episode, Amy challenges the common belief that heart health only matters later in life and break down why it’s a performance priority for athletes right now. Listeners will learn how everyday nutrition choices directly affect training capacity, recovery, and long-term cardiovascular health, even in youth and teen athletes. We highlight three key nutrition levers, omega-3 fats, smarter saturated fat intake, and fiber, and explain how each supports both heart health and athletic performance. The episode wraps with practical, age-specific guidance for young athletes, reinforcing one clear takeaway: protecting your heart isn’t separate from performance, it’s found...


Ep. 72 Providing Pro Services to Youth Athletes
#72
01/22/2026

In Episode 72,  Dr. Shaun Garff breaks down what youth and teen athletes truly need to perform, stay healthy, and recover well, starting with the fundamentals that are often overlooked. Listeners will gain clarity on the most common nutrition- and injury-related issues seen in young athletes, how to communicate about nutrition in a way that supports performance and long-term development, and why high-level sports medicine and nutrition care shouldn’t be reserved for elite athletes only. Dr. Garff also shares the vision behind SportMed Connect, the gaps it addresses at the club sports level, and how a more integrated, professional app...


Ep. 71 Stack Your Habits, Elevate Your Game
#71
01/08/2026

In this episode of the podcast, Amy explores how athletes can use habit stacking to build powerful routines that actually stick during busy school days, training schedules, and competitive seasons without feeling overwhelmed. You will learn what habit stacking is, why it works so well for athletes, and how attaching small performance-focused habits to existing daily routines can improve hydration, fueling, recovery, focus, and mental resilience. The episode walks through practical examples at home, at school, and in training, explains how many habits to work on at once, and offers a simple, step-by-step framework to start building sustainable habits...


Ep. 70 Building the Mental Edge: Resilience for Athletes and Parents
#70
12/25/2025

In this episode, Amy sits down with Dr. Kate Lund, licensed clinical psychologist, performance coach, and host of The Optimized Mind, to explore what true mental resilience really looks like for athletes and the families who support them. You’ll learn why burnout and perfectionism are so common in today’s sports culture, how parents and coaches can shift from pushing to genuinely supporting, and what “stepping away” actually means when it comes to building confident, resilient athletes. Dr. Lund shares insights from her work with elite performers, Navy SEALs, and families, offering practical strategies for navigating setbacks, injury, disappoi...


Ep 69 Red & Green Superfoods for Performance and Recovery Success
#69
12/11/2025

This episode breaks down how red and green superfoods can elevate an athlete’s performance, recovery, and immune resilience during the busy holiday season. You’ll learn why these colors signal powerful nutrients and how they help reduce soreness, boost energy, improve sleep, support oxygen transport, and strengthen overall recovery. Amy highlights the top five red and top five green foods to include, plus creative ways to fit them into meals and snacks even when training, travel, and holiday chaos collide. It’s a simple, strategic way to keep your plate festive, functional, and aligned with your performance goals all De...


Ep. 68 Fueling the Athlete's Mind
#68
11/27/2025

In this episode, Amy sits down with Karen E. Todd, VP of Global Brand Marketing at Kyowa Hakko USA, to explore the powerful intersection of nutrition, cognitive health, and performance, especially for youth athletes. Together, they dive into how fueling strategies impact both the body and the mind, from optimizing recovery and focus to preventing burnout and building resilience. Listeners will learn how to support young athletes with practical, science-based approaches that enhance energy, concentration, and overall well-being, on and off the field.

Karen E. Todd, VP of Global Brand Marketing at Kyowa Hakko USA<...


Ep 67 Fueling Pickleball from PeeWee to Pro
#67
11/13/2025

In this episode, we’re serving up the ultimate guide to fueling your pickleball game, from peewee players to seasoned pros. Amy breaks down her top 10 performance nutrition tips to help you boost endurance, sharpen focus, and recover faster on and off the court. You’ll learn what to eat before, during, and after a match, how to stay properly hydrated, and the key nutrients that support energy, joint health, and longevity in the sport. Whether you’re playing casually with friends or competing in weekend tournaments, this episode gives you practical, real-world strategies to keep your game strong at any...


Ep. 66 Strength & Conditioning for the Volleyball Athlete
#66
10/30/2025

In this episode, Amy is joined by Missy Mitchell-McBeth, strength coach and author of Developmental to Division 1: Strength & Conditioning for the Volleyball Athlete, to break down how volleyball players can train smarter, get stronger, and stay healthy at every level. They discuss how to build a solid foundation of strength, prevent overuse injuries, and develop explosive power safely, while also covering key strategies for recovery, proper nutrition, and long-term performance. Whether you’re an athlete, parent, or coach, this conversation delivers practical insights to help volleyball players reach their full potential, on the court and beyond.

We...


Ep. 65 Halloween Hacks: How to Manage Treats for Athletes
#65
10/16/2025

In this festive episode of The Sports Nutrition Playbook Podcast, Amy breaks down how athletes can enjoy Halloween without sabotaging their performance goals. From mindful indulgence strategies and creative ways to work candy into balanced snacks to surrounding sweets with nutrient-dense foods, Amy shares practical, guilt-free tips for navigating the holiday. Listeners will walk away with easy, actionable hacks to enjoy the fun of Halloween while staying fueled, focused, and feeling their best.

To learn more visit @thesportsnutritionplaybook and thesportsnutritionplaybook.com.
Check out our YouTube channel for more sports nutrition tips and tricks. 
 
Have qu...


Ep. 64 A Playbook for the Mind
#64
10/02/2025

In this episode of The Sports Nutrition Playbook Podcast, Mental Performance Coach Gary Chupik shares a playbook for the mind designed to help youth and college athletes thrive. From building focus, resilience, and confidence to navigating identity shifts and setbacks, Gary unpacks the practical routines and mindset strategies that athletes, coaches, and parents can use right now to strengthen the mental game. Whether it’s visualization, self-talk, or balancing toughness with mindfulness, you’ll walk away with tools to support both performance and well-being—on and off the field. 

It’s Go Time,

Gary Chupik

Elit...


Ep. 63 Can Nutrition and Hydration Affect an Athlete’s Focus?
#63
09/18/2025

In this episode, Amy breaks down how nutrition and hydration directly impact an athlete’s focus both in the classroom and on the court. With practical examples, from what to eat at breakfast to how much water to drink before and during practice, this episode equips athletes with clear, actionable strategies to keep their mind as strong as their body.


To learn more visit @thesportsnutritionplaybook and thesportsnutritionplaybook.com.
Check out our YouTube channel for more sports nutrition tips and tricks. 
 
Have questions to ask our sports dietitians? email us at info@thes...


Ep. 62 HEAT Safety: What Athletes Need to Know
#62
09/04/2025

Extreme heat is the deadliest weather hazard in the U.S., yet most people don’t realize how unprepared they are to handle it. In this episode, we talk with the founder of Project H.E.A.T. (Heat Education Awareness Team), Lexi Engelbart, about why heat safety matters, the warning signs of heat-related illness, and what steps you can take to stay safe and protect others. You’ll walk away with practical insights, eye-opening stats, and a new perspective on how everyday prevention can save lives.

Project H.E.A.T and Lexi Engelbart


Ep. 61 The Sports Nutrition Playbook to Boost Mental and Physical Performance
#61
08/21/2025

As an athlete, your performance isn’t just about fueling your body—it’s about fueling your brain too. In this episode, we dig into the powerful connection between nutrition, stress management, and peak performance. You’ll learn how the right foods can calm nerves and improve focus, why cutting back on ultra-processed foods gives you a competitive edge, and how to build balanced meals and snacks that power both your body and your mind. Whether you’re a high school athlete juggling classes, a college athlete under pressure, or simply someone striving to perform at your best, these strategies...


Ep. 60 Advancing Movement and Recovery in Teen Athletes
#60
08/07/2025

In this episode, we sit down with Tom Swales—a physiotherapist, strength coach, and creator of the Advanced Movement Therapist (AMT) Certification—for a powerful conversation on redefining rehabilitation and performance in teen athletes. We explore the evolution of rehab, why movement must come before treatment, and how nervous system regulation plays a critical role in recovery and performance. Whether you're a clinician, coach, or athlete, this episode offers a bold look at how we can move beyond surface-level solutions to build resilient, high-performing bodies from the ground up.

SAM Scan Course : 

https://amtcertified.teachable.com/p...


Ep. 59 The Sports Drink Debate: Should You Drink Them or Not?
#59
07/24/2025

In this episode of The Sports Nutrition Playbook Podcast, we dive into the heated debate around sports drinks and clear up the controversy once and for all. While they often get labeled as “sugar water,” sports drinks serve a powerful purpose—when used strategically by athletes. You’ll learn why hydration needs spike in the summer heat, how sweat losses impact performance, and what key ingredients make sports drinks effective during training. We’ll break down exactly when to use water, electrolytes only, or full sports drinks depending on the duration, intensity, and environment of your workouts. You’ll walk away wi...


Ep. 58 Supplements & Performance: What Female Athletes Need to Know
#58
07/10/2025

In this episode, Dr. Rachele Pojednic breaks down what female athletes really need to know about supplements and performance. From navigating common nutrient gaps and hormonal shifts to understanding the difference between trendy products and science-backed essentials, she offers practical, research-driven insights. You'll learn when supplements make sense, how to choose safe options, and why food-first strategies still reign supreme. Whether you're training hard or coaching those who do, this episode is your guide to smarter, safer, and more strategic supplement use for female athletes.

Rachele Pojednic, PhD, EdM, FACSM, is a respected expert, researcher, global speaker...


Ep. 57 Top 5 Summer Nutrition Mistakes (And How to Fix Them)
#57
06/26/2025

Summer break might be a time for athletes to train, travel, and reset—but it’s also prime time for fueling mistakes. In this episode of The Sports Nutrition Playbook, Amy Goodson breaks down the top five nutrition slip-ups athletes commonly make during the summer months—and more importantly, how to fix them.

If you're an athlete, coach, or parent looking to help athletes thrive this summer, this episode is packed with must-hear tips to beat the heat and the nutrition pitfalls that come with it.

To learn more visit @thesportsnutritionplaybook and thesportsnutritionplaybook.com.
Check...


Ep. 56 Smart Summer Snacking for Athletes
#56
06/12/2025

In this episode, Amy is joined by Megan Reamer, founder of Jackson’s Sweet Potato Chips, to explore how one family's mission to support their son's health evolved into a brand athletes and parents alike can trust. From their Shark Tank experience to redefining what “smart summer snacking” looks like, Megan opens up about the role of intentional ingredients, performance-driven nutrition, and the impact of passion-driven entrepreneurship. Whether you're a sports parent, athlete, or snack lover, this episode delivers powerful insights and practical tips for upgrading your snack game.


Instagram: Jackson's (@snackjacksons) • Instagram photos and vide...


Ep. 55 Fueling Morning Workouts
#55
05/29/2025

Summer training demands more from your body—and your fueling strategy. In this episode, we’re breaking down five essential tips to help athletes tackle early workouts, rising temps, and long training days with energy and confidence. From nighttime nutrition to morning hydration and smart snack choices, you’ll learn how to set yourself up for strong performances and speedy recoveries. Whether you’re coaching athletes or training yourself, you’ll walk away with practical, performance-boosting tactics to thrive all season long.

To learn more visit @thesportsnutritionplaybook and thesportsnutritionplaybook.com.
Check out our YouTube channel for more sport...


Ep. 54 Exhausted to Energized – Helping Parents, Coaches, and ATCs
#54
05/15/2025

In this empowering episode, author and wellness expert Robyn Engelson joins us to share insights from her book Exhausted to Energized – 90 Days to Your Best Self. Designed specifically for parents, coaches, and athletic trainers who constantly pour into others, Robyn breaks down why self-care often feels out of reach—and how to reclaim it without guilt. Listeners will learn how to avoid common burnout pitfalls, adopt small but powerful habits to boost energy, and set boundaries that protect their well-being. If you're feeling drained and don’t know where to start, this episode offers both mindset shifts and tangible steps...


Ep. 53 Fueling Your Brain: The Power of Nutrition on Athlete Mental Health
#53
05/01/2025

May is Mental Health Awareness Month — and as athletes, we talk a lot about fueling for performance. But what about fueling your brain? 

In this episode of The Sports Nutrition Playbook, we’re breaking down the science of how the food you eat every day plays a direct role in your mental well-being. Whether you’re prepping for a big game, managing school stress, or just trying to feel your best — this is for you. 

To learn more visit @thesportsnutritionplaybook and thesportsnutritionplaybook.com.
Check out our YouTube channel for more sports nutrition tips and tricks. 


Ep 52 Creatine HCl – What Is It and Why Do You Need It?
#52
04/17/2025

In this episode, I am joined by Mark Faulkner, Founder of CON-CRET. We’re diving into the world of creatine HCl—what it is, how it stacks up against creatine monohydrate, and why it’s gaining popularity among athletes, gym-goers, and even everyday individuals looking to enhance performance, recovery, and overall health. We cover the science behind its absorption and bioavailability, explore its benefits beyond muscle gain (hello, brain health!), and tackle common misconceptions about creatine supplementation. Whether you’re new to creatine or considering switching forms, this episode will equip you with practical insights on dosing, timing, and how to o...


Ep. 51 Bulking Done Right: How to Gain Muscle Without Unnecessary Fat
#51
04/03/2025

In this episode of The Sports Nutrition Playbook podcast, we're diving into the fundamentals of smart muscle gain—without unnecessary fat accumulation. Learn how to gradually increase calories for lean mass, prioritize whole foods over empty calories, and time your macros for optimal performance. We’ll also cover strategic supplementation to enhance strength and recovery, plus the importance of tracking body composition beyond just the number on the scale. Whether you're looking to build muscle efficiently or fine-tune your nutrition and training, this episode gives you the tools to stay on track and see real progress.

To lear...


Ep. 50 Sweat, Sun, and Skincare: What a Female Athlete Needs to Know
#50
03/20/2025

In this episode, we dive into the unique skincare challenges faced by female athletes with Ann Ragan Kearns, former Penn State swimmer and founder of Medalist Skin. Ann shares how her experiences in the pool led her to develop a skincare line tailored to active women. We discuss the impact of sweat, sun, and environmental exposure on the skin, common mistakes athletes make, and the importance of building a simple yet effective routine. Ann also introduces the Medalist Skin product lineup, explaining how its formulations cater to the specific needs of athletes. Whether you're a competitive swimmer or a...


Ep. 49 How to Shape an Athlete’s Plate
#49
03/06/2025

In this episode, host and sports dietitian Amy Goodson breaks down how to shape an athlete’s plate for peak performance. From balancing macronutrients to timing meals around training, Amy shares practical strategies to fuel athletes for energy, endurance, and recovery. Whether you're a competitive athlete, coach, or dietitian, this episode will give you actionable tips to optimize nutrition and maximize results on and off the field.

To learn more visit @thesportsnutritionplaybook and thesportsnutritionplaybook.com.
Check out our YouTube channel for more sports nutrition tips and tricks. 
 
Have questions to ask our sports dietitians? email...


Ep. 48 Enhancing Cultural Competence in Sports
#48
02/20/2025

In this episode of The Sports Nutrition Playbook, host Amy Goodson sits down with sports dietitian Briana Butler to explore the vital role of cultural competence in fueling athletes for peak performance. They discuss the gaps in traditional sports nutrition. Briana shares practical strategies for initiating respectful conversations, integrating unfamiliar foods into science-based recommendations, and ensuring meal plans align with both performance goals and cultural traditions. The conversation also delves into how parents can support their young athletes while honoring their heritage and how athletes themselves can advocate for culturally inclusive nutrition strategies.

Briana Butler's Information:<...


2025 Nutrition Trends: What an Athlete Needs to Know
#47
02/06/2025

In this episode, host Amy Goodson joins us to break down three trending nutrition topics for 2025: raw milk, seed oils, and red dye. She gets real about whether these buzzy food concerns are worth stressing over or just hype. From the safety risks of raw milk to balancing omega fats with smarter oil choices, and even spotting natural alternatives to synthetic food dyes, Amy shares practical advice every athlete can use. Tune in for straight talk on making informed nutrition decisions that fuel your performance and health.

To learn more visit @thesportsnutritionplaybook and thesportsnutritionplaybook.com.
Check...


Ep. 46 Building Bridges: Enhancing Communication in High School Athletics
#46
01/23/2025

In Episode 46, host Amy is joined by strength coach Shelby Reichle to explore the vital role communication plays in fostering successful athletic programs. Shelby shares insights on overcoming common communication challenges, offering strategies for athletes and parents to effectively connect with coaches while avoiding common pitfalls. The episode dives into how team coaches can navigate tough conversations with transparency and how support staff, like strength coaches and athletic trainers, can build trust and alignment with coaches, athletes, and parents. Packed with actionable takeaways, this episode is a must-listen for anyone involved in high school sports looking to create stronger...


Ep. 45 Fueling vs. Fixing: Addressing Body Fat Concerns in Young Athletes
#45
01/09/2025

In this episode, Amy explores the natural changes in body composition that youth and teen athletes experience during growth and development, often influenced by puberty, dietary habits, and lifestyle. She addresses common concerns from parents and coaches, emphasizing the importance of fostering a positive, performance-focused mindset over restrictive diets or body shaming. Listeners will learn five practical strategies to support young athletes. These actionable tips help build lifelong, healthy habits that enhance both athletic performance and overall well-being.

To learn more visit @thesportsnutritionplaybook and thesportsnutritionplaybook.com.
Check out our YouTube channel for more sports nutrition tips...


Ep 44 Can Trendy Diets Lead to Performance Deficits?
#44
12/26/2024

Host and sports dietitian Amy Goodson is joined by Zoë Rom and Kylee Van Horn of Your Diet Sucks as they explore the allure and dangers of trendy diets for youth and teen athletes. From the influence of social media to the psychological factors driving restrictive eating, this episode uncovers how these diets can sabotage energy, hydration, and recovery—leading to injuries and long-term health risks. Through real-life stories and expert insights, learn to spot harmful diet trends, navigate misinformation, and build a balanced fueling plan that powers peak performance and recovery.

Social: IG, @flynutrition3, @carrot_flo...


Ep. 43 Holiday Hacks for Athletes
#43
12/12/2024

The holidays are a time for celebration but can disrupt athletic routines. These five simple hacks from host and sports dietitian Amy Goodson help youth, teen, and college athletes stay fueled and focused: maintain a consistent eating schedule, prioritize protein, enjoy treats mindfully, stay hydrated even in the cold, and use the holiday break to rest and recover. By balancing festive fun with performance-focused habits, athletes can enjoy the season while staying at the top of their game!

To learn more visit @thesportsnutritionplaybook and thesportsnutritionplaybook.com.
Check out our YouTube channel for more sports nutrition tips...


Ep. 42 Beyond the Game: Redefining Athletic Identity to Help Teens Find Purpose Beyond Sports
#42
11/28/2024

In this episode of The Sports Nutrition Playbook, host Amy Goodson sits down with Michael Willett of WalkOn Nation to discuss the complexities of athletic identity and its impact on teen athletes. They explore what it means for an athlete to have a strong ‘athletic identity’ and how it can shape their sense of self both positively and negatively. Michael shares insights on recognizing when athletes may be struggling with feeling defined solely by their sport and offers guidance on helping them separate personal identity from athletic achievements. The conversation delves into strategies for parents and coaches to support athl...


Ep. 41 The Game Changer: How to Give Teen Athletes a Competitive Edge
#41
11/14/2024

In this episode of The Sports Nutrition Playbook, sports dietitian Amy Goodson breaks down the transformative benefits of personalized nutrition counseling for teen athletes. Amy explains how this tailored approach, designed around an athlete’s age, body composition, sport, goals, and training demands, can optimize performance, support lean muscle development, enhance recovery, and reduce injury risk. She highlights the vital role of a sports dietitian in creating individualized eating plans, emphasizing factors such as nutrient timing, macronutrient balance, hydration, and safe supplementation. The discussion also explores how proper nutrition can boost mental focus and confidence, ultimately fostering healthy eating ha...


Ep 40 Puberty and Performance: The Male Athlete Edition
#40
10/31/2024

In this episode, sports dietitian Amy Goodson and Dr. Jason Mogonye discuss how puberty affects athletic performance in male teen athletes. They explore key growth milestones, the role of testosterone in muscle development, and the age at which boys can expect significant muscle growth. The episode covers appropriate strength training for this stage, how to prevent injuries during growth spurts, and why some athletes may experience delayed growth compared to their peers. Additionally, they highlight the signs of overtraining and its impact on development, offering valuable advice for parents and coaches.

Dr. Jason Mogonye: Acclaim Legacy Clinic...


Ep. 39 Growth Spurts and Gains: Nutrition for the Developing Male Athlete
#40
10/17/2024

In this episode, Amy dives into the critical role nutrition plays during puberty for teen male athletes, a time marked by rapid physical and mental changes. She highlights five key nutrients—protein, calcium, iron, carbohydrates, and healthy fats—that are essential for supporting muscle growth, bone development, energy needs, and overall performance. With increased demands from both growth and intense physical activity, Amy emphasizes the importance of proper fueling and recovery strategies to help young athletes thrive on and off the field during this pivotal stage.

To learn more visit @thesportsnutritionplaybook and thesportsnutritionplaybook.com.
Check out our...


Navigating Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport in Female Athletes with Dr. Jane Chung
#38
10/03/2024

In Episode 38 of The Sports Nutrition Playbook podcast, host Amy sits down with Dr. Jane Chung to explore the complexities of Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (RED-S) and its impact on female athletes. They dive into the key differences between RED-S and the Female Athlete Triad, explaining how each condition uniquely affects young female athletes. Dr. Chung shares insights from her practice on the early warning signs of these conditions and the serious long-term health consequences if left untreated. The conversation emphasizes the importance of proper nutrition to prevent under-fueling, balancing the pressures of body image with the need...


Ep. 37 What's Puberty Have To Do With It- Female Athlete Edition
#37
09/19/2024

In episode 37 of The Sports Nutrition Playbook podcast, Amy dives into how puberty uniquely impacts young female athletes. She explores the typical age range for puberty onset, highlighting the physical and hormonal changes, including increased body fat and growth spurts. These transformations can affect both athletic performance and body image, so it's important for parents, coaches, and athletes to understand and adapt to these changes. She discusses the risks of unhealthy eating patterns that athletes may face under pressure to stay lean, and how proper nutrition during puberty can support growth, hormonal health, and long-term athletic success. Finally, she...