

Purple Patch Podcast
Matt Dixon
Author and Triathlon Coach, Matt Dixon, will empower and educate you to integrate sport into life in order to reach your athletic potential because, it is through the lens of athletic potential, that you reach your human potential.
In addition to topics such as planning your fitness into a time-starved life, the show will provide in-depth interviews, advice, and insight into optimizing your health, work, and life performance, along with the critical habits and approaches that facilitate the success of some of the world's top performers across many disciplines.
In addition to topics such as planning your fitness into a time-starved life, the show will provide in-depth interviews, advice, and insight into optimizing your health, work, and life performance, along with the critical habits and approaches that facilitate the success of some of the world's top performers across many disciplines.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Feb 4, 2026 • 1h 2min
388 - Burnout to Sub-3 Marathon: Trusting the Process with Coaching
Welcome to the Purple Patch Podcast! On this episode, IRONMAN Master Coach Matt Dixon interviews Chris Harris, a long-time coached Purple Patch Athlete, about overcoming a severe viral fatigue that affected his performance and motivation. Chris, a busy executive and father, initially sought coaching to improve his triathlon performance. Despite initial success, he faced a six-month period of debilitating fatigue, leading to a reassessment of his athletic goals. With a flexible training plan and the introduction of walk breaks during races, Chris achieved a personal best of 2:57 in the Cal International Marathon. The conversation emphasizes the importance of patience, grace, and a supportive team in overcoming challenges. Purple Patch and Episode Resources Check out our world-class coaching and training options: Learn more about Chris Soden & Strategic Fitting: https://strategicfitting.com/ Book a complementary needs assessment coaching call: https://calendly.com/coaches-purplepatch/offseason-assessment-call Tri Squad: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/squad 1:1 Coaching: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/11-coached Run Squad: https://www.purplepatchfitness/com/run-squad Strength Squad: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/strength-1 Live & On-Demand Bike Sessions: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/bike Explore our training options in detail: https://bit.ly/3XBo1Pi Live in San Francisco? Explore the Purple Patch Performance Center: https://center.purplepatchfitness.com Everything you need to know about our methodology: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/our-methodology Amplify your approach to nutrition with Purple Patch + Fuelin https://www.fuelin.com/purplepatch Get access to our free training resources, insight-packed newsletter and more at purplepatchfitness.com

Jan 28, 2026 • 1h 2min
387 - You're Built for More- Lessons From a 60x Ironman Finisher
Welcome to the Purple Patch Podcast! On this episode, IRONMAN Master Coach Matt Dixon introduces the Purple Patch Podcast, emphasizing the importance of challenging oneself to extend performance, happiness, and purpose in life. It features Will Turner, a senior coach at Purple Patch, who completed a remarkable feat of six and a half Ironmans in an eight-day race at altitude, covering 914 miles. Will discusses his journey, the mental and physical challenges, and the importance of adaptability, resilience, and sustained performance under pressure. He also shares insights on setting big, audacious goals (BHAGs) and the significance of belief and confidence in achieving them. If you have any questions about the Purple Patch program, feel free to reach out at info@purplepatchfitness.com. Purple Patch and Episode Resources Learn more about Will's Film: https://www.sierra914.com/ Check out our world-class coaching and training options: Learn more about Chris Soden & Strategic Fitting: https://strategicfitting.com/ Book a complementary needs assessment coaching call: https://calendly.com/coaches-purplepatch/offseason-assessment-call Tri Squad: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/squad 1:1 Coaching: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/11-coached Run Squad: https://www.purplepatchfitness/com/run-squad Strength Squad: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/strength-1 Live & On-Demand Bike Sessions: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/bike Explore our training options in detail: https://bit.ly/3XBo1Pi Live in San Francisco? Explore the Purple Patch Performance Center: https://center.purplepatchfitness.com Everything you need to know about our methodology: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/our-methodology Amplify your approach to nutrition with Purple Patch + Fuelin https://www.fuelin.com/purplepatch Get access to our free training resources, insight-packed newsletter and more at purplepatchfitness.com

Jan 21, 2026 • 54min
386 - Stop Leaving Speed on the Table- The Bike Fit Indoor Training Fixes That Actually Work----
Welcome to the Purple Patch Podcast! In this episode, Matt Dixon and Chris Soden discuss maximizing winter training for cyclists and triathletes. They emphasize the importance of proper bike fitting, posture, and equipment for indoor and outdoor training. Chris highlights the benefits of using smart trainers and the Velocity platform for effective training, noting that proper form and equipment maintenance are crucial. He advises athletes to document changes and make gradual adjustments. Chris also offers remote consultations and equipment upgrades, stressing the importance of a solid bike position and drive train efficiency. Matt underscores the value of the Purple Patch ecosystem in enhancing athletic performance. Purple Patch and Episode Resources Check out our world-class coaching and training options: Learn more about Chris Soden & Strategic Fitting: https://strategicfitting.com/ Book a complementary needs assessment coaching call: https://calendly.com/coaches-purplepatch/offseason-assessment-call Tri Squad: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/squad 1:1 Coaching: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/11-coached Run Squad: https://www.purplepatchfitness/com/run-squad Strength Squad: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/strength-1 Live & On-Demand Bike Sessions: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/bike Explore our training options in detail: https://bit.ly/3XBo1Pi Live in San Francisco? Explore the Purple Patch Performance Center: https://center.purplepatchfitness.com Everything you need to know about our methodology: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/our-methodology Amplify your approach to nutrition with Purple Patch + Fuelin https://www.fuelin.com/purplepatch Get access to our free training resources, insight-packed newsletter and more at purplepatchfitness.com

Jan 14, 2026 • 49min
385 - Q1 Ironman Training- What Smart Athletes Focus on Now
Welcome to the Purple Patch Podcast! On this episode IRONMAN Master Coach Matt Dixon discusses the Purple Patch coaching program, highlighting limited spots for senior coaching and individual coaching slots. He emphasizes the benefits of the Tri Squad program, which offers personalized, low-cost consultations and a supportive ecosystem. The focus of the episode is on training for Q1 2026, covering swim, bike, run, and strength. Dixon details technical development in swimming, endurance building, and the importance of gears. For cycling, he stresses high-intensity interval training, Terrain Management, and strength endurance. In running, he advocates for high-frequency, easy runs, technical speed intervals, and walk breaks. He also underscores the importance of strength training for performance and injury prevention. Purple Patch and Episode Resources Check out our world-class coaching and training options: Book a complementary needs assessment coaching call: https://calendly.com/coaches-purplepatch/offseason-assessment-call Tri Squad: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/squad 1:1 Coaching: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/11-coached Run Squad: https://www.purplepatchfitness/com/run-squad Strength Squad: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/strength-1 Live & On-Demand Bike Sessions: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/bike Explore our training options in detail: https://bit.ly/3XBo1Pi Live in San Francisco? Explore the Purple Patch Performance Center: https://center.purplepatchfitness.com Everything you need to know about our methodology: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/our-methodology Amplify your approach to nutrition with Purple Patch + Fuelin https://www.fuelin.com/purplepatch Get access to our free training resources, insight-packed newsletter and more at purplepatchfitness.com

Jan 7, 2026 • 51min
384 - At 54 - He Thought He Was Slowing Down - Then He Qualified for Two World Champs.-
Mike Davidson, a dedicated triathlete and Purple Patch Tri-Squad member, shares his inspiring journey of overcoming long COVID and plateaus. He discusses the transformative power of coaching and community support, emphasizing a growth mindset over mere training plans. Listeners will learn about his strategies involving blood testing, tailored nutrition, and race-specific training adaptations. Mike also highlights the importance of connecting with fellow athletes for motivation and offers practical tips for those looking to enhance their performance.

8 snips
Dec 17, 2025 • 44min
383 - Triathletes Before You Start Training In 2026, Listen To This
Prepare for 2026 with actionable strategies for effective triathlon training. Starting now, instead of waiting for January, sets you up for long-term success. Discover how to navigate common athlete types—overwhelmed, rigid, and mature—and learn to prioritize flexibility and strength over sheer volume. Embrace a year-long progression focus, not just event chasing. Plus, integrate training into your life, establish consistent habits, and enjoy weekly reflection rituals to celebrate progress. It's all about making the most of your journey!

Dec 10, 2025 • 1h 38min
382 - Raising Great Humans Through Sport- The Real Path to High Performance
Steve Magness x Matt Dixon on joy, resilience, and what actually creates long-term success in young athletes Too many conversations about youth sports focus on podiums, rankings, and early success. But the real power of sport isn't medals— it's the humans our kids become along the way. In this special conversation, performance experts Steve Magness and Matt Dixon break down what truly matters in youth athletics: joy, resilience, confidence, identity, and the pathways that create long-term success. They bust myths around early specialization, explore what actually predicts high-level performance, and offer practical guidance for parents, coaches, and athletes at every stage. Whether your child loves sport for fun or dreams of competing at the highest levels, this episode gives you the roadmap to support their growth—as athletes and as people. Purple Patch and Episode Resources Steve Magness Books: https://www.stevemagness.com/wintheinside/ https://www.stevemagness.com/do-hard-things/ Check out our world-class coaching and training options: Book a complementary needs assessment coaching call: https://calendly.com/coaches-purplepatch/offseason-assessment-call Tri Squad: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/squad 1:1 Coaching: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/11-coached Run Squad: https://www.purplepatchfitness/com/run-squad Strength Squad: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/strength-1 Live & On-Demand Bike Sessions: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/bike Explore our training options in detail: https://bit.ly/3XBo1Pi Live in San Francisco? Explore the Purple Patch Performance Center: https://center.purplepatchfitness.com Everything you need to know about our methodology: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/our-methodology Amplify your approach to nutrition with Purple Patch + Fuelin https://www.fuelin.com/purplepatch Get access to our free training resources, insight-packed newsletter and more at purplepatchfitness.com

4 snips
Dec 3, 2025 • 49min
381 - The New Science of Mental Toughness with Steve Magness
In this engaging discussion, Steve Magness, a human performance author and coach, shares insights on mental toughness. He redefines toughness as navigating pain with purpose rather than enduring it blindly. Exploring his journey from athlete to coach, he emphasizes that mental skills are teachable. Magness highlights the significance of self-talk and stress inoculation, encouraging athletes to perceive discomfort as valuable information. By putting oneself in challenging situations, one can build resilience and confidence in performance.

Nov 19, 2025 • 54min
WIN CYCLE: Manage Energy, Not Time — Sami Inkinen's Playbook for Sustained High Performance
Welcome to the Win Cycle Podcast! On this episode, IRONMAN Master Coach Matt Dixon and Purple Patch Fitness Co-Founder Kelli McMaster interview Sami Inkinen, co-founder and COO of Trulia and CEO of Virta Health, discussing his journey of high performance in sports and business. He emphasizes the importance of managing energy over time, integrating work, family, and personal interests, and treating oneself like an Olympic athlete. Inkinen highlights the significance of sleep, nutrition, and movement for sustained high performance. He also shares his approach to building high-performance cultures at Trulia and Virta, focusing on individualized support, community, and the role of leadership in modeling healthy habits. Inkinen's strategies include weekly planning, prioritizing rest, and fostering a culture of sustainable high performance. Purple Patch and Episode Resources Learn more about Win Cycle: https://wincycle.org/ Check out our world-class coaching and training options: Book a complementary needs assessment coaching call: https://calendly.com/coaches-purplepatch/offseason-assessment-call Tri Squad: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/squad 1:1 Coaching: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/11-coached Run Squad: https://www.purplepatchfitness/com/run-squad Strength Squad: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/strength-1 Live & On-Demand Bike Sessions: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/bike Explore our training options in detail: https://bit.ly/3XBo1Pi Live in San Francisco? Explore the Purple Patch Performance Center: https://center.purplepatchfitness.com Everything you need to know about our methodology: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/our-methodology Amplify your approach to nutrition with Purple Patch + Fuelin https://www.fuelin.com/purplepatch Get access to our free training resources, insight-packed newsletter and more at purplepatchfitness.com

Nov 12, 2025 • 39min
REBROADCAST - Traditional Off-Season is Dead- Here's What Actually Works
Welcome to the Purple Patch Podcast! In the episode, IRONMAN Master Coach Matt Dixon discusses the importance of a structured off-season for athletes to avoid performance regression. He emphasizes the need for consistent, lighter training rather than complete shutdown or high-volume base building. Dixon highlights the significance of maintaining rhythm, technique, and strength during the off-season to ensure better performance in the next season. He advocates for focusing on specific projects, such as improving technique or building strength, and stresses the importance of organizational effectiveness and supporting habits like sleep and nutrition. Dixon concludes by encouraging athletes to view the off-season as a performance accelerator rather than a break. If you have any questions about the Purple Patch program, please don't hesitate to contact us at info@purplepatchfitness.com. Purple Patch and Episode Resources Check out our world-class coaching and training options: Book a complementary needs assessment coaching call: https://calendly.com/coaches-purplepatch/offseason-assessment-call Tri Squad: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/squad 1:1 Coaching: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/11-coached Run Squad: https://www.purplepatchfitness/com/run-squad Strength Squad: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/strength-1 Live & On-Demand Bike Sessions: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/bike Explore our training options in detail: https://bit.ly/3XBo1Pi Live in San Francisco? Explore the Purple Patch Performance Center: https://center.purplepatchfitness.com Everything you need to know about our methodology: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/our-methodology Amplify your approach to nutrition with Purple Patch + Fuelin https://www.fuelin.com/purplepatch


