Episode 173 is the last one of 2024 with Don and Derek debriefing on the year, talking about all things related to fitness, strength training and wellness.  We hope everyone had a great year and we look forward to great things for all of our listeners and guests in 2025.              The D&D Fitness Radio podcast is available at the following locations for downloadable audio, including:  iTunes – https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/d-d-fitness-radio-podcast/id1331724217  iHeart Radio – https://www.iheart.com/podcast/dd-fitness-radio-28797988/  Spreaker.com – https://www.spreaker.com/show/d-and-d-fitness-radios-show  Spotify –  https://open.spotify.com/show/5Py2SSPA4mntNwYRm0Opri    You can reach both Don and Derek at the following locations:  Don Saladino: http://www.DonSaladino.comTwitter and Instagram - @DonSaladinoYouTube - http://www.youtube.com/donsaladino  Derek M. Hansen: http://www.SprintCoach.comTwitter and Instagram - @DerekMHansenYouTube - http://youtube.com/derekmhansen

In Episode 172, we listen to Dr. Pat Davidson tell us about his dedicated journey into the world of competitive bodybuilding.  Pat has the tendency to engage in all types of training and competitions since he was a young athlete that had the hopes of becoming a professional athlete.  Whether it has been team sports, mixed martial arts, powerlifting or strongman competitions, Pat has jumped in with both feet and walked the walk.  His recent experiences with competitive bodybuilding have been no different.  Pat discusses the psychological discipline required to handle not only the comprehensive training, but more importantly, the meticulous nature of the nutritional side of competitive bodybuilding.  The combination of precision, organization and deprivation is something that Pat had never before experienced, and he cites this component as being one of the more challenging aspects of his journey.  We look forward to following Pat’s future endeavours along this bodybuilding path.  Pat Davidson, Ph.D, is an exercise physiologist, strength and conditioning coach, author, consultant, and traveling lecturer. Pat started out in the fitness world as an athlete who was looking to find any training and nutrition tool possible to make him the best he could possibly be at sports. This passion for training knowledge ultimately led Pat to pursuing a Master’s in Science in Strength and Conditioning, and a Ph.D in Exercise Physiology. Pat has worked as a Professor of Exercise Science at Springfield College and Brooklyn College, along with being the Director of Continuing Education and Training Methodology at Peak Performance in NYC.  You can find out more information on Pat Davidson below:  Instagram:                   https://www.instagram.com/dr.patdavidson/  Website:                      https://www.drpatdavidson.net/              The D&D Fitness Radio podcast is available at the following locations for downloadable audio, including:  iTunes – https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/d-d-fitness-radio-podcast/id1331724217  iHeart Radio – https://www.iheart.com/podcast/dd-fitness-radio-28797988/  Spreaker.com – https://www.spreaker.com/show/d-and-d-fitness-radios-show  Spotify –  https://open.spotify.com/show/5Py2SSPA4mntNwYRm0Opri    You can reach both Don and Derek at the following locations:  Don Saladino: http://www.DonSaladino.comTwitter and Instagram - @DonSaladinoYouTube - http://www.youtube.com/donsaladino  Derek M. Hansen: http://www.SprintCoach.comTwitter and Instagram - @DerekMHansenYouTube - http://youtube.com/derekmhansen

Episode 171 has us sitting down with Andrew Hauser, in the midst of the 2024 World Series between the LA Dodgers and NY Yankees, talking about the nuances of rehabilitation and the intricacies of professional baseball.  Andrew has had the opportunity to work in Major League Baseball for over a decade and now works in private practice addressing injuries for all professional athletes, including the MLB, NFL, NBA, NHL, MLS and Olympic team athletes.  We discuss some of the causes of the injuries that are plaguing various athletes, looking at basic qualities like blood flow, oxygen distribution and general fitness levels.  Today’s athletes are so fixated on the specific skills in their sports and sometimes miss the basic physical qualities in their preparation and maintenance programs.  Andrew identifies his process for improving athlete health and resiliency, as well identifying potential risks for injury in various sports.  Andrew graduated from the University of Kansas with a B.S. in Athletic Training in 2008 and obtained a Masters degree in Performance Psychology in 2020.  He has worked in a variety of roles in his 14 years of experience as an athletic trainer and strength coach, with his most recent role being the Director of Performance Rehab with the Los Angeles Dodgers during which time he was a part of their 2020 World Series team. Andrew's passions lie in both the strength and medical aspects of sport, but also in professional development and education. Prior to moving to L.A., he served as the Director of Health & Performance for the Atlanta Braves where he oversaw medical and strength staff and was able to integrate departments both in the Major League and Minor Leagues all while continuing to develop and refine his and his colleagues' skills. Andrew's experience in sport extends beyond baseball. He has worked with a number of athletes in the NFL, NHL, MLS and track/field and has become a sought-after consultant and public speaker for professionals and athletes nation-wide.  You can find out more information on Andrew Hauser below:  Instagram:                   https://www.instagram.com/andrew_hauser_atsc/  Website:                      https://www.continuumhp.com/              The D&D Fitness Radio podcast is available at the following locations for downloadable audio, including:  iTunes – https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/d-d-fitness-radio-podcast/id1331724217  iHeart Radio – https://www.iheart.com/podcast/dd-fitness-radio-28797988/  Spreaker.com – https://www.spreaker.com/show/d-and-d-fitness-radios-show  Spotify –  https://open.spotify.com/show/5Py2SSPA4mntNwYRm0Opri    You can reach both Don and Derek at the following locations:  Don Saladino: http://www.DonSaladino.comTwitter and Instagram - @DonSaladinoYouTube - http://www.youtube.com/donsaladino  Derek M. Hansen: http://www.SprintCoach.comTwitter and Instagram - @DerekMHansenYouTube - http://youtube.com/derekmhansen

In Episode 170, we have a frank discussion with Dr. Dwayne Jackson about the ins-and-outs of testosterone deficiencies and the need for individuals to seek out supplemental testosterone replacement therapy (TRT).  It is more and more common to hear about males seeking out TRT for lifestyle and aesthetic reasons.  However, do they truly need to replace testosterone from a clinical standpoint, or are they compensating for poor lifestyle choices, bad or non-existent exercise habits or simply not exhausting conventional methods of managing their testosterone and general health?  Dr. Jackson provides an overview of all of the possible causes of low testosterone, as well as possible reasons for these deficiencies.  For those that are willing to examine their lifestyle choices and make changes, improvements in testosterone levels can be achieved.  But, in some cases, testosterone therapy may be a reasonable option when all of the conventional options have been exhausted.  Dr. Dwayne N. Jackson is a dad, athlete, health specialist, medical educator, scientist, and entrepreneur. He has over 12 years of university education in exercise/human physiology, medicine, and nutritional biochemistry. Dr. Jackson holds a PhD in neurovascular physiology and has been educated at some of the top academic institutions in North America including University of Ottawa, the University of Western Ontario, and Yale University School of Medicine.  You can find out more information on Dr. Dwayne Jackson below:  Instagram:                   https://www.instagram.com/drdnjackson/  Website:                      https://drdwaynejackson.com/              The D&D Fitness Radio podcast is available at the following locations for downloadable audio, including:  iTunes – https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/d-d-fitness-radio-podcast/id1331724217  iHeart Radio – https://www.iheart.com/podcast/dd-fitness-radio-28797988/  Spreaker.com – https://www.spreaker.com/show/d-and-d-fitness-radios-show  Spotify –  https://open.spotify.com/show/5Py2SSPA4mntNwYRm0Opri    You can reach both Don and Derek at the following locations:  Don Saladino: http://www.DonSaladino.comTwitter and Instagram - @DonSaladinoYouTube - http://www.youtube.com/donsaladino  Derek M. Hansen: http://www.SprintCoach.comTwitter and Instagram - @DerekMHansenYouTube - http://youtube.com/derekmhansen

Charlie Weingroff, a highly regarded expert in physical therapy and athletic performance, dives deep into the complexities of scientific research in health and fitness. He discusses the critical blend of practical experience and research, emphasizing the need for intelligent application over dogmatic adherence. Topics include the impact of social media on fitness perceptions, the pitfalls of sensationalism, and the importance of relatability in communication. Weingroff champions a balanced approach that acknowledges both formal research and real-world application.

Don and Derek reflect on the concept of incorporating running workouts as part of an overall aerobic training and conditioning program to improve overall body composition, health and wellness.  It is no surprise that obesity numbers are continuing to increase in the western world and individuals are struggling to incorporate regular exercise into their schedules, while also improving overall nutritional habits.  While running has always been considered a relatively simple way to add exercise to an individual’s routine, it has never been considered an easy task.  Determination, patience and a bit of grit may be required.  Understanding how much, how hard and how frequently is always the most difficult part when starting a running program.  Ideally, individuals can incorporate a combination of methods including steady state runs and interval training to provide a combination of variety and varied intensity, improving overall cardiovascular fitness, as well as general strength and power.  Finding a routine that works for the individual is the most important step you can take in this journey.  The D&D Fitness Radio podcast is available at the following locations for downloadable audio, including:  iTunes – https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/d-d-fitness-radio-podcast/id1331724217  iHeart Radio – https://www.iheart.com/podcast/dd-fitness-radio-28797988/  Spreaker.com – https://www.spreaker.com/show/d-and-d-fitness-radios-show  Spotify –  https://open.spotify.com/show/5Py2SSPA4mntNwYRm0Opri    You can reach both Don and Derek at the following locations:  Don Saladino: http://www.DonSaladino.comTwitter and Instagram - @DonSaladino YouTube - http://www.youtube.com/donsaladino  Derek M. Hansen: http://www.SprintCoach.comTwitter and Instagram - @DerekMHansenYouTube - http://youtube.com/derekmhansen

We sit down once again with Brandon Marcello in Episode 167.  Brandon gives us some recent insight into all things related to sport and exercise science, as well as new technologies designed to monitor the status of athletes.  We talk about the efficacy and useability of wearable technology to monitor general health, sleep, cardiac output, recovery and many other key metrics.  We also discuss the importance of looking at individual responses to exercise, foods, medications and other factors when deciding on a path for health, wellness and performance.  Brandon Marcello is a high-performance strategists that offers consulting services to some of the top organizations in the world that rely on the optimization of human performance capabilities. Originally from Sarasota, FL, Marcello has worked in the professional, Olympic and top collegiate settings.  He has also served as a consultant to various organizations and media groups.  For the last 22 years, Dr. Marcello has taken individuals and organizations to the next level through multi-year and time-limited human performance consulting projects in the United States and abroad. His work in conjunction with Draper Laboratories for the U.S. Special Forces has provided a deep, multivariate understanding of the drivers of performance in the battlefield, while projects for professional teams and elite athletes includes performance solutions for nutrition, training, recovery, and high-performance team development.  Prior to this, Marcello served as the Director of Sports Performance at Stanford University.  Brandon was also heavily involved with the development of EXOS, a world-class training facility for professional and elite athletes, as well as the International Performance Institute (IPI) of the IMG Academies in Bradenton, Florida.  Marcello holds a PhD in sports nutrition from Baylor University, and a MS and BS in Exercise Science from Marshall University.  You can find out more information on Brandon Marcello below:  Instagram:                   https://www.instagram.com/bmarcello13/  Website:                      https://www.brandonmarcellophd.com/            The D&D Fitness Radio podcast is available at the following locations for downloadable audio, including:  iTunes – https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/d-d-fitness-radio-podcast/id1331724217  iHeart Radio – https://www.iheart.com/podcast/dd-fitness-radio-28797988/  Spreaker.com – https://www.spreaker.com/show/d-and-d-fitness-radios-show  Spotify –  https://open.spotify.com/show/5Py2SSPA4mntNwYRm0Opri    You can reach both Don and Derek at the following locations:  Don Saladino: http://www.DonSaladino.comTwitter and Instagram - @DonSaladinoYouTube - http://www.youtube.com/donsaladino  Derek M. Hansen: http://www.SprintCoach.comTwitter and Instagram - @DerekMHansenYouTube - http://youtube.com/derekmhansen

In Episode 166, we have an in depth discussion on diet and health with Michelle Shapiro.  Working as a  Functional Dietician, Michelle tackles a wide range of issues related to personal health, wellness, fitness and nutrition.  We cover a wide range of topics related to diet and nutrition including the growing incidence of disease, challenges around weight loss, questions about modern food quality, habits around food preparation and consumption, and the marketing around food and dining.  Michelle Shapiro is an Integrative/Functional Registered Dietitian from NYC. Michelle has supported over 1000 clients to reverse anxiety, approach their weight with love, and heal digestive issues. Utilizing humor, nuance, and compassion, Michelle helps clients access their own liberating self-awareness. On her podcast, “Quiet the Diet,” Michelle shares her own journey of losing weight the wrong way (and what the consequences of that drastic 100 pound weight loss were), and how she learned to prioritize whole-body health as a result (instead of restrictive diets.)  Her goal is to empower listeners to make health decisions autonomously, every single time they eat. From functional nutrition to the latest research in integrative medicine, Michelle covers it all with her signature nuance and compassion.  You can find out more information on Michelle Shapiro below:  Instagram:                   https://www.instagram.com/michelleshapirord/  Website:                      https://michelleshapirord.com/            The D&D Fitness Radio podcast is available at the following locations for downloadable audio, including:  iTunes – https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/d-d-fitness-radio-podcast/id1331724217  iHeart Radio – https://www.iheart.com/podcast/dd-fitness-radio-28797988/  Spreaker.com – https://www.spreaker.com/show/d-and-d-fitness-radios-show  Spotify –  https://open.spotify.com/show/5Py2SSPA4mntNwYRm0Opri    You can reach both Don and Derek at the following locations:  Don Saladino: http://www.DonSaladino.comTwitter and Instagram - @DonSaladinoYouTube - http://www.youtube.com/donsaladino  Derek M. Hansen: http://www.SprintCoach.comTwitter and Instagram - @DerekMHansenYouTube - http://youtube.com/derekmhansen

In Episode 165, Don and Derek share their stories about recent long-haul trips and the challenges they faced with everything from sleep to hydration to nutrition and workout facility accessibility.  While even short-haul travel can take a toll on your energy and overall health, longer trips over numerous time zones can present even greater challenges and stressful moments.   Sleep is always the main priority, as jet lag can disturb energy, productivity and overall enjoyment.  Hydration also plays a bit part in facilitating good sleep, exercise and overall resiliency to injury and illness.  Accessibility to healthy and familiar food can also be a challenge, and some individuals may choose to bring specific snacks or supplements to fill in gaps.  And, finally, finding good facilities, environments and equipment abroad can take a lot of research, planning and preparation.  Doing all of the legwork ahead of time can be extremely beneficial in making sure your travel goes much smoother with less stress and anxiety.            The D&D Fitness Radio podcast is available at the following locations for downloadable audio, including:  iTunes – https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/d-d-fitness-radio-podcast/id1331724217  iHeart Radio – https://www.iheart.com/podcast/dd-fitness-radio-28797988/  Spreaker.com – https://www.spreaker.com/show/d-and-d-fitness-radios-show  Spotify –  https://open.spotify.com/show/5Py2SSPA4mntNwYRm0Opri    You can reach both Don and Derek at the following locations:  Don Saladino: http://www.DonSaladino.comTwitter and Instagram - @DonSaladinoYouTube - http://www.youtube.com/donsaladino  Derek M. Hansen: http://www.SprintCoach.comTwitter and Instagram - @DerekMHansenYouTube - http://youtube.com/derekmhansen

In Episode 164, we talk to Dr. Mike Israetel about both the benefits and perils of the wealth information on health, fitness, nutrition and performance available on social media and other accessible sources.  While it should not be difficult to find good, well-researched, common-sense information on these subjects, people still appear to be attracted to unproven trends, online gurus, charismatic influencers and methods that are simply not effective.  Dr. Israetel gives us many solid recommendations on how to find good sources of information, while avoiding the pitfalls of unfounded fads and trends.  He even talks about the benefits of AI (artificial intelligence) driven resources that can provide relatively good advice for anyone looking to improve their workouts, diets or general health.Cofounder of Renaissance Periodization, Dr. Mike Israetel​ holds a PhD in Sport Physiology from East Tennessee State University.  Currently a professor in the Strength and Hypertrophy Master’s program at Lehman College, Mike has taught several courses at multiple universities, including Nutrition for Public Health, Advanced Sports Nutrition and Exercise, and Nutrition and Behavior.  Originally from Moscow, Russia, he has worked as a consultant on sports nutrition to the U.S. Olympic Training Site in Johnson City, TN, and has been an invited speaker at numerous scientific and performance/health conferences worldwide, including nutritional seminars at the U.S. Olympic Training Center in Lake Placid, NY. Mike has coached numerous athletes and busy professionals in both diet and weight training, and is himself a competitive bodybuilder and professional Brazilian Jiu Jitsu grappler.  You can find out more information on Dr. Mike Israetel below:  Instagram:                   https://www.instagram.com/drmikeisraetel/  YouTube:                     https://www.youtube.com/@RenaissancePeriodization  Website:                      https://rpstrength.com/            The D&D Fitness Radio podcast is available at the following locations for downloadable audio, including:  iTunes – https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/d-d-fitness-radio-podcast/id1331724217  iHeart Radio – https://www.iheart.com/podcast/dd-fitness-radio-28797988/  Spreaker.com – https://www.spreaker.com/show/d-and-d-fitness-radios-show  Spotify –  https://open.spotify.com/show/5Py2SSPA4mntNwYRm0Opri    You can reach both Don and Derek at the following locations:  Don Saladino: http://www.DonSaladino.comTwitter and Instagram - @DonSaladinoYouTube - http://www.youtube.com/donsaladino  Derek M. Hansen: http://www.SprintCoach.comTwitter and Instagram - @DerekMHansenYouTube - http://youtube.com/derekmhansen