
Endurance Eats
Welcome to the Endurance Eats podcast! This is your go-to safe space to learn about all things nutrition and endurance performance. Get ready for a journey packed with science-backed strategies, practical tips, and inspiring guests to revolutionize the way you think about fueling your body. Whether you're a seasoned triathlete, a newbie runner, or a veteran cyclist, this podcast is for you.
Latest episodes

Jul 2, 2025 • 7min
22: Mid Season Fuel: Plant-Based Proteins + Evening Race Fueling
In this episode of the Endurance Eats podcast, Alex Larson addresses common questions from endurance athletes, focusing on plant-based protein options and strategies for fueling during afternoon races. She provides practical tips for incorporating protein-rich foods into meals and snacks, as well as advice on how to effectively prepare for races that occur later in the day.00:00 Introduction to Plant-Based Nutrition03:29 Fueling for Afternoon RacesResources Mentioned in This Episode: Apply for 1:1 Coaching with an ALN Dietitian Connect with Me:Instagram: @alexlarsonnutritionWebsite: alexlarsonnutrition.comDon’t Forget to Subscribe!Click that follow button to stay updated on future episodes packed with actionable insights and expert advice for endurance athletes.Have Questions or Suggestions?Send me a message, and I might cover it in a future episode!

Jun 18, 2025 • 53min
21: Inside Unbound XL: How Serena Bishop Gordon Fueled 359 Miles and Crushed It
In this episode, Alex Larson interviews Serena about her experience competing in the Unbound XL, a grueling 359-mile race. They discuss Serena's extensive training regimen, her nutrition strategy, and the mental preparation required for such a challenging event. Serena shares insights on the importance of gut training, caffeine use, and maintaining a positive mindset throughout the race. The conversation also touches on the emotional journey of racing and the reflections Serena has post-race, emphasizing the need for recovery and patience after achieving a significant goal. In this conversation, Serena and Alex discuss the emotional and physical aftermath of Serena's recent cycling achievement, the challenges of recovery, and the importance of building confidence in racing. They reflect on the support from the community and the balance between personal goals and family time. The conversation highlights the journey of growth, both in cycling and personal development, and the excitement for future races and coaching opportunities.00:00 Introduction and Unbound XL Overview01:35 Training for the Unbound XL04:02 Nutrition Planning and Gut Training10:13 Caffeine Strategy and Mental Preparation13:24 Race Day Experience and Strategy17:25 Emotional Journey During the Race25:35 Reflections and Future Plans27:24 The Aftermath of Achievement33:03 Crossing the Finish Line35:26 Recovery and Reflection49:46 Building Confidence and Future GoalsResources Mentioned in This Episode: Apply for 1:1 Coaching with an ALN Dietitian https://www.serenabishopgordon.com/Connect with Me:Instagram: @alexlarsonnutritionWebsite: alexlarsonnutrition.comDon’t Forget to Subscribe!Click that follow button to stay updated on future episodes packed with actionable insights and expert advice for endurance athletes.Have Questions or Suggestions?Send me a message, and I might cover it in a future episode!

Jun 4, 2025 • 8min
20: Mid Season Fuel: Athlete Nutrition for Post Surgery Recovery
In this episode of the Endurance Eats podcast, Alex Larson addresses common questions from endurance athletes, focusing on nutrition strategies for recovery, the importance of protein and supplements, and the necessity of carb loading for optimal performance in endurance events. She emphasizes the significance of mental health during recovery.00:00 Introduction to Mid-Season Fueling Episodes01:04 Nutrition and Mental Health During Recovery03:51 Importance of Protein and Supplements for Healing06:04 Carb Loading for Endurance Events07:52 Engagement and Personalized Nutrition CoachingResources Mentioned in This Episode: Apply for 1:1 Coaching with an ALN Dietitian Connect with Me:Instagram: @alexlarsonnutritionWebsite: alexlarsonnutrition.comDon’t Forget to Subscribe!Click that follow button to stay updated on future episodes packed with actionable insights and expert advice for endurance athletes.Have Questions or Suggestions?Send me a message, and I might cover it in a future episode!

May 21, 2025 • 8min
19: Mid Season Fuel Long Run Nutrition & Weight Fluctuations
In this episode of the Endurance Eats podcast, Alex Larson discusses essential hydration and fueling strategies for endurance athletes, emphasizing the importance of personalizing these guidelines based on individual needs and circumstances. She also addresses common concerns about weight fluctuations when changing dietary habits, particularly with increased protein intake, and offers practical advice for managing nutrition effectively while training.Resources Mentioned in This Episode: Apply for 1:1 Coaching with an ALN Dietitian Connect with Me:Instagram: @alexlarsonnutritionWebsite: alexlarsonnutrition.comDon’t Forget to Subscribe!Click that follow button to stay updated on future episodes packed with actionable insights and expert advice for endurance athletes.Have Questions or Suggestions?Send me a message, and I might cover it in a future episode!

May 7, 2025 • 7min
18: Mid Season Fuel: Nutrition for Athletes with Irregular Schedules
In this episode of the Endurance Eats podcast, Alex Larson addresses common nutrition questions from endurance athletes. She discusses the pros and cons of eating the same meals daily during peak training, emphasizing the importance of nutrient variety, listening to one's body, and maintaining enjoyment in meals. She also provides tailored nutrition strategies for athletes with irregular work schedules, highlighting the need for consistent protein and hydration, while varying carbohydrate intake based on training demands.00:00 Introduction to Mid-Season Fuel Episodes00:38 Eating the Same Meals: Pros and Cons03:25 Nutrition Strategies for Irregular SchedulesResources Mentioned in This Episode: Apply for 1:1 Coaching with an ALN Dietitian Connect with Me:Instagram: @alexlarsonnutritionWebsite: alexlarsonnutrition.comDon’t Forget to Subscribe!Click that follow button to stay updated on future episodes packed with actionable insights and expert advice for endurance athletes.Have Questions or Suggestions?Send me a message, and I might cover it in a future episode!

Apr 23, 2025 • 8min
17: Mid Season Fuel: Workout Nutrition Timing Explained
In this episode of the Endurance Eats podcast, Alex Larson discusses the importance of nutrient timing for athletes, providing actionable strategies for fueling around workouts. She explores three main workout scenarios: morning, midday, and evening, offering tailored advice for each situation to optimize performance and recovery. The episode emphasizes the need for personalized nutrition strategies and encourages listeners to experiment with their fueling methods.00:00 Introduction to Mid-Season Fuel Episodes01:01 Understanding Nutrient Timing01:59 Morning Workout Fueling Strategies05:09 Midday Workout Nutrition Tips06:03 Evening Workout Fueling ApproachesResources Mentioned in This Episode: Apply for 1:1 Coaching with an ALN Dietitian Connect with Me:Instagram: @alexlarsonnutritionWebsite: alexlarsonnutrition.comDon’t Forget to Subscribe!Click that follow button to stay updated on future episodes packed with actionable insights and expert advice for endurance athletes.Have Questions or Suggestions?Send me a message, and I might cover it in a future episode!

Apr 9, 2025 • 38min
16: Mid Season Fuel: How Sports Dietitians Fuel For Race Day
In this episode of the Endurance Eats podcast, host Alex Larson and her team Mary and Hanna discuss their personal fueling strategies as they prepare for the Boston Marathon. They explore the transition from competitive running to a more relaxed approach, the impact of technology on racing, and effective carb loading strategies. The conversation also covers race day nutrition, timing, and managing nerves, emphasizing the importance of finding a balance between performance and enjoyment in running. In this conversation, they discuss race day fueling strategies, including the use of sodium bicarbonate, hydration, and carbohydrate intake. They share personal anecdotes about their experiences with nutrition during races and the importance of preparation.00:00 Introduction to Midseason Fuel Episodes03:06 Transitioning from Competitive to Fun Running06:00 The Impact of Technology on Racing08:58 Carb Loading Strategies for Race Day11:57 Race Day Nutrition and Timing17:52 Managing Race Day Nerves and Fueling19:23 Race Day Fueling Strategies29:15 Preparing for the Gravel Race38:21 Final Thoughts and Good Luck WishesResources Mentioned in This Episode:Apply for 1:1 Coaching with an ALN Dietitian Boston Marathon Fueling BlogGels for Running and TriathlonsConnect with Me:Instagram: @alexlarsonnutritionWebsite: alexlarsonnutrition.comDon’t Forget to Subscribe!Click that follow button to stay updated on future episodes packed with actionable insights and expert advice for endurance athletes.Have Questions or Suggestions?Send me a message, and I might cover it in a future episode!

Mar 26, 2025 • 19min
#15: Alex’s Training and Nutrition: Behind the Scenes
In this episode of the Endurance Eats podcast, Alex Larson shares her personal journey through endurance sports, nutrition, and the challenges of balancing motherhood with training. She reflects on her experiences from her first triathlon to her current training regimen, emphasizing the importance of nutrition and gradual progress. Alex discusses her meal planning strategies, fueling techniques for performance, and the need for strength training. She also shares her upcoming challenges and goals, as well as future plans for her nutrition coaching business, wrapping up the first season of her podcast with gratitude and excitement for what's to come.In today’s episode, we’re diving into:00:00 Introduction to the Journey02:34 The Calling to Nutrition03:59 Postpartum Challenges and Nutrition06:19 Training and Progress Updates09:10 Nutrition and Meal Planning12:59 Fueling Strategies for Performance14:22 Balancing Strength Training and Cardio15:46 Upcoming Challenges and Goals17:41 Future Plans for Nutrition Coaching18:37 Season One Wrap-Up and Future InsightsResources Mentioned in This Episode: Apply for 1:1 Coaching with an ALN Dietitian Body Composition episodeCarbohydrate Guidelines Episode The Pancake Press Email Sign UpConnect with Me:Instagram: @alexlarsonnutritionWebsite: alexlarsonnutrition.comDon’t Forget to Subscribe!Click that follow button to stay updated on future episodes packed with actionable insights and expert advice for endurance athletes.Have Questions or Suggestions?Send me a message, and I might cover it in a future episode!

Mar 19, 2025 • 16min
#14: 4 Key Mindset Shifts for Endurance Athletes to Improve Nutrition
In this episode of the Endurance Eats podcast, Alex Larson discusses essential mindset shifts for athletes looking to improve their endurance nutrition. She emphasizes the importance of transitioning from a restrictive mindset to a fueling mindset, focusing on progress rather than perfection, prioritizing long-term gains over short-term fixes, and viewing food as an ally rather than an enemy. These shifts can lead to better energy levels, improved performance, and a healthier relationship with food.In today’s episode, we’re diving into:00:00 Introduction to Mindset Shifts in Endurance Nutrition06:42 Progress Over Perfection12:41 Food as an Ally, Not an EnemyResources Mentioned in This Episode: Apply for 1:1 Coaching with an ALN Dietitian Connect with Me:Instagram: @alexlarsonnutritionWebsite: alexlarsonnutrition.comDon’t Forget to Subscribe!Click that follow button to stay updated on future episodes packed with actionable insights and expert advice for endurance athletes.Have Questions or Suggestions?Send me a message, and I might cover it in a future episode!

Mar 12, 2025 • 53min
#13: Carrie Tollefson: From Small-Town Runner To Olympian
In this engaging conversation, Alex Larson and Carrie Tollefson share their experiences from a recent ski retreat, discussing the challenges and joys of trying new activities. They delve into Carrie's early running journey, her family dynamics surrounding food and athletics, and the pivotal moments that inspired her to pursue elite running. The conversation highlights Carrie's experience at the Olympic Trials, the pressure of competition, and the importance of nutrition in an athlete's life. Throughout, themes of friendship, overcoming fear, and the impact of family support are woven into their narratives. In this engaging conversation, Carrie Tollefson and Alex Larson delve into the world of nutrition for athletes, discussing personal experiences with food choices before races, the misconceptions surrounding professional athletes, and the importance of fostering a positive relationship with food in parenting. They also explore the role of running in their lives and future plans, emphasizing the joy and community that comes with the sport.In today’s episode, we’re diving into:00:00 Skiing Adventures and New Friendships02:59 Embracing Discomfort in New Experiences05:57 Carrie's Early Running Journey08:53 Family Dynamics and Food Culture11:46 Inspiration to Pursue Elite Running14:57 The Olympic Trials Experience17:58 The Final Sprint to Victory20:55 Life as an Olympian23:58 Nutrition and Its Role in Performance27:44 Nutrition and Pre-Race Rituals34:12 Misconceptions About Professional Athletes37:38 Parenting and Nutrition Conversations45:12 Running's Role in Life and Future PlansGuest: Carrie TollefsenBio: Carrie Tollefson is an Olympic middle-distance runner, broadcaster, and advocate for healthy living. A 13-time Minnesota state champion and five-time NCAA champion at Villanova, she represented the U.S. in the 1500m at the 2004 Athens Olympics. Beyond competition, Carrie is a respected media personality, covering major marathons and championship races for ESPN, NBC, and USATF.TV. She’s also the National Fitness Director for Moms on the Run, a dynamic speaker, and host of the C Tolle Run podcast. Living in Minnesota with her husband and three kids, she continues to inspire others to GET AFTER IT!Resources Mentioned in This Episode: Apply for 1:1 Coaching with an ALN Dietitian Connect with Me:Instagram: @alexlarsonnutritionWebsite: alexlarsonnutrition.comDon’t Forget to Subscribe!Click that follow button to stay updated on future episodes packed with actionable insights and expert advice for endurance athletes.Have Questions or Suggestions?Send me a message, and I might cover it in a future episode!