The TriDoc Podcast, triathlon and health in one place

In this episode:In this episode the Medical Mailbag looks at the evidence for the Calibre. Do the maker's claims stand up to the science and what can this device do for you? Plus, exploring the profound emotional landscape of addiction and recovery, the podcast then delves into the experiences of Todd Crandall, an individual who transformed his life from one of substance abuse to becoming a champion for sobriety through triathlon. Crandall discusses the roots of addiction, tracing his struggles back to childhood trauma and the loss of family members to addiction. He emphasizes that addiction often stems from deeper emotional voids rather than merely the substances themselves. The conversation highlights the importance of addressing these internal struggles to truly heal. Crandall advocates for the idea that recovery does not necessarily require hitting rock bottom; instead, it can be a conscious decision to change one's life path. He shares his journey into triathlon, positioning it as a positive outlet that provided him with structure, purpose, and a supportive community. The episode is a testament to resilience and the power of transformation, illustrating how physical fitness can serve as a powerful tool for recovery, provided one also engages in internal healing.Segments:[06:26]- Medical Mailbag: Calibre[31:52]- Interview: Todd Crandell LinksTodd's Website Todd's Facebook group Todd's Facebook page @Soberultraman on Instagram Todd's Website @Soberultraman on X Todd on YouTube

In this episode:Reflecting on a successful year for the TriDoc Podcast, Jeff Sankoff takes listeners through a review of 2024's most engaging topics before introducing an insightful interview with Olympian Kirsten Kasper. The discussion begins with Sankoff expressing gratitude for the podcast's growing audience and the questions submitted by listeners that shaped many of the year’s episodes. Key discussions revolved around medical insights, the changing dynamics of triathlon coaching, and the challenges and triumphs of athletes in the sport. Following this, Kirsten Kasper recounts her journey to the Olympics, detailing her experiences of being an alternate in previous games and the determination that propelled her to finally secure a spot on the U.S. Olympic team. Her candid reflections on the challenges faced during her Olympic race, including a flat tire and her resilience to finish, highlight the unpredictable nature of competitive sports. This episode not only celebrates individual achievements but also resonates with the community spirit that defines triathlon, leaving listeners inspired as they look ahead to 2025.Segments:[08:42]- Medical Mailbag: 2024 subject review[39:13]- Interview: Kirsten Kasper LinksFind a pool wherever you travel hereKirsten Kasper's IG

In this episode:Cordyceps sinensis is a fungus that grows in the high Himalayan forests and has been used for centuries in Chinese medicine. Recently there has been interest in its ability to boost endurance performance? What does the evidence say? The Medical Mailbag dives in. Then a conversation on a revolutionary approach to rehabilitation, where the perspective shifts from being a patient to viewing oneself as an athlete in training. Dr. Kevin Stone, a leading orthopedic surgeon, articulates the importance of mindset in recovery, encouraging individuals to think of their injuries not as setbacks but as opportunities for growth and improvement. This shift in perspective is crucial as it empowers patients to actively engage with their recovery process, utilizing available resources such as local gyms and outdoor spaces to maintain fitness and well-being during their healing journey.Segments:[09:56]- Medical Mailbag: Cordyceps Sinensis supplements for endurance performancemance[38:12]- Interview: Kevin Stone Links

In this episode:The Medical Mailbag features a discussion of a supplement derived from New Zealand black currant; CurraNZ. It is being marketed as a solution for training and racing in the heat and as a means to improve recovery. What does the evidence say? Plus, an interview with confessed "slow-pro" Carolyn Carter. Carolyn, a professional triathlete and social media influencer, shares her journey from competitive swimming to the world of triathlon, emphasizing the importance of community and support in the sport. As she navigates the challenges of training while working full-time and maintaining her online presence, Carolyn opens up about the negative comments she receives and how she chooses to respond to them with grace and humor. Through her experience, she highlights the need for a more inclusive and approachable atmosphere in triathlon, encouraging others to join the sport without fear of judgment. The conversation also touches on the significance of goal-setting, whether it’s for race times or personal achievements, and the joy that comes from small victories. Carolyn's story is not just about competition; it's about fostering a positive environment and lifting each other up in a sport that can often feel intimidating.Segments:[06:48]- Medical Mailbag: CurraNZ[35:55]- Interview: Carolyn Carter Links@la_triathlete on Instagram

In this episode:The MMB features a detailed evaluation of the Firefly Recovery device, which utilizes electrical stimulation to purportedly boost recovery and performance. The TriDoc and Juliet Hochman are skeptical yet intrigued by the bold claims made by the manufacturer, which asserts that the device can increase whole-body blood flow significantly. They critically analyze the available evidence—highlighting the lack of robust clinical studies supporting the efficacy of such recovery devices. Throughout the discussion, the hosts emphasize the importance of evidence-based practices in athletics, cautioning listeners against the allure of flashy advertisements and unverified claims. The episode also emphasizes the significance of active recovery strategies over passive methods, advocating for movement as a way to enhance recovery rather than relying solely on devices. The episode concludes with a fascinating interview featuring Dr. Bobby Dubois, who shares insights from his podcast, 'Live Long and Well with Dr. Bobby.' Dubois discusses the six pillars of longevity, which encompass exercise, nutrition, sleep, social relationships, exposure to heat and cold, and mind-body harmony. His approach is grounded in evidence-based practices aimed at enhancing quality of life as individuals age. Dubois articulates the need for personal experimentation to find what works best for each individual, particularly in areas like dietary choices and exercise routines. This comprehensive dialogue on longevity, recovery, and health optimization offers listeners valuable takeaways on how to approach their wellness journey, emphasizing that the goal is not just to extend life but to enrich the years lived.Segments:[06:52]- Medical Mailbag: Firefly Recovery[29:42]- Interview: Bobby DuboisLinksBobby's Facebook page @DrBobbyLiveLongandWell on Instagram Bobby's Website Bobby on YouTube

In this episode:I supplementing with collagen a way to perform better, recover faster and manage injury? On the Medical Mailbag we look at hat evidence there is on the subject in order to tease fact from marketing fiction. Plus, a conversation with the community relations director of the SBTGRVL. The conversation highlights the delicate balance between tourism and local agricultural interests, emphasizing the friction that has arisen as the event has grown in popularity. Initially conceived in 2019, SBT Gravel has transformed from a local gathering into a significant attraction, drawing thousands of cyclists from across the country. However, this growth has not come without challenges. Local ranchers and residents have voiced their concerns about the impact of the event on their livelihood and the integrity of the community. The hosts delve into the specific changes implemented after the feedback received from the community following the 2023 race, including the reduction of pre-race shakeout rides and an increased effort in communication with local stakeholders. As the organizers navigate these tensions, they reflect on the importance of finding common ground and fostering a collaborative environment for both cyclists and the local community.Segments:[09:47]- Medical Mailbag: Collagen supplements[t39:53]- Interview: Greer Van DyckLinksGreer's Website

In this episode:A rich dialogue unfurls in the Tri Doc podcast, where Jeff Sankoff and Juliet Hochman and Alex Larson tackle the intricate relationship between body composition, nutrition, and athletic performance. The episode serves as a platform to discuss how athletes can navigate the often treacherous waters of body image and performance expectations. Drawing from personal anecdotes and professional insights, Alex highlights the significant risks associated with under-fueling and the surprising lack of risks tied to over-fueling. This revelation is vital for athletes who may succumb to pressures for an 'ideal' physique, often leading to detrimental health outcomes such as RED-S, which can severely impact performance and well-being. Plus, a conversation with top age grouper and soon to be professional Maia Watson. She shares what it has been like to undertake her journey to the upper echelons of our sport in a short time.Segments:[09:22]- Medical Mailbag: Body Composition and performance[46:49- Interview: Maia Watson Linksalexlarsonnutrition.comTriDoc Coaching YouTube ChannelAlex Larson's upcoming podcast@maia.watson on Instagram Links referenced in this episode:www.tridocpodcast.comtridocoaching.comlifesportcoaching.comwww.reverbnation.compatreon.com/tridocpodcast

In this episode:At the commencement speech for Dartmouth College's graduates in June of this year, Roger Federer spoke eloquently on the power of positive thinking and how it enabled him to win close to 80% of his matches over the course of his career despite having lost almost half of the points that he played in those matches. Can athletes in other sports learn from his example and is there evidence to support this notion that being positive can affect outcomes? We discuss in the Medical Mailbag. Also, a conversation with Michelle Bond, a kinesiologist and researcher on the importance of understanding the fascia and how as athletes we can leverage that understanding to improve our performance and recovery.Segments:[08:36]- Medical Mailbag:[38:00]- Interview: Michele Bond LinksRoger Federer's commencement speechMichele's Facebook page @michele__bond on Instagram Michele's Website Michele on YouTube

In this episode:Everyone knows that sodium is an important component of sport nutrition but what form should it come in? For a long time sodium chloride was preferred but more recently sodium citrate is much more popular. Is there a reason for this change and is there evidence that one is better than the other? The Medical Mailbag discusses the evidence. Plus, Irish professional triathlete Fiona Moriarty comes from a running background but has distinguished herself as a cyclist. Hear how she made the transition to multisport and how she is making it all come together with a full-time job.Segments:[07:20]- Medical Mailbag: Which salt is best?[33:10]- Interview: Fiona Moriarty LinksEpisode 10: Exercise induced hyponatremia@fionamoriartytri on Instagram Fiona's Website Fiona on YouTube

In this episode:A widely read and much discussed media article out of Germany quoted researchers who surveyed athletes at the 2024 Challenge Roth on the use of performance enhancing drugs among age group triathletes. The results were somewhat disheartening. Around 10% admitted to using agents that would enhance performance and almost none had any qualms about it. What are these agents? What are the risks of using them? Should we care? The entire episode will be dedicated to try to answer these questions with the help of guests Jim Vance and Matt sharpe.