Athlete Factors

In this episode, Jeffrey Cunningham joins me to discuss training for the half-marathon and marathon distances. Jeffrey is the head coach of the Bat City Track Club based in Austin, Texas. He has coached multiple U.S. Olympic Trials marathon qualifiers and tutors a host of emerging elite distance runners. A native Texan, Jeffrey ran collegiately at Baylor University and is a licensed attorney.   We talk about his coaching philosophy, how he programs training for his athletes, some of the training variables he prioritizes, as well as some of his "aha!" moments as a coach.   Follow Coach Cunningham on Instagram: @jdcunningham97 Follow Bat City Track Club on Instagram: @batcitytrackclub

In this episode I talk with Sergio Reyes, US Marathon Champion in 2010, 4 x competitor at the US Olympic Trails in the Marathon, part of the US World Championship team in 2011, current US Cross Country Masters champion (2 weeks ago!), NAIA Track and Field 10k National Champion, and marathon wins at Twin Cities in 2010, Flying Pig in 2009, 2012, 2013, 2014, and 2016, SLO Marathon in 2017, and Vermont City in 2019. He has been with the HOKA Aggies Running Club since returning home to southern California after college at Cedarville University, which is also where I ran cross country and track & field. We discuss his recent win at the US Cross Country Masters Championship, how his training has changed and how it has stayed the same over the years, and the secret to staying elite for so long. Follow Sergio and his teammates on Instagram: @aggiesrunning

In this episode, Matt Fox, founder of Sweat Elite, joins me to discuss the incredible popularity of his YouTube channel, Sweat Elite - Training Sessions, which gives viewers an up-close-and-personal perspective of elite endurance athletes as they train. Viewers get vicarious interaction with the best endurance athletes in the world in a way that has rarely been experienced. We discuss Matt's background in running, his current training/racing, as well as some of the major lessons he's learned from spending time with athletes like Paul Chelimo, Sara Hall, Andy Buchart, Nell Rojas, Jake Robertson, Mo Katir, Julien Waders, Joe Klecker, Olli Hoare, NAZ Elite, NAU Track Team, Very Nice Track Club, Tinman Elite, Jacob Thomson, and Gwen Jorgensen, to name a few. Watch and Subscribe to Sweat Elite - Training Session here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFYpwqeNXx7M9xosFjdm5kQ/featured   Follow Sweat Elite on Instagram: @sweatelite   Follow Matt Fox on Instagram: @mattinglisfox

In this episode, I chat with Jacob Thomson, a professional runner with Under Armour, living and training in Flagstaff, Arizona. He also runs Thomson Training, a coaching service catering to all ages and levels of running. Jacob recently competed in the Chicago Marathon, finishing 12th place with a time of 2 hours, 15 minutes, and 49 seconds. He also competed in the 2021 US Olympic Trials 10k. His PR's include: 3:57 (mile), 7:50 (3k), 13:28 (5k), 27:57 (10k), and 2:15:49 (marathon).   We discuss his current training, his preparation for the Olympic Trials earlier this year, his preparation for the Chicago Marathon and being featured on the Sweat Elite YouTube channel, and how training now compares and contrasts to his training in high school and college. We also cover his coaching philosophy, how he programs training, and how he started Thomson Training.   Follow Jacob on Instagram: @jtcougars8 Follow Thomson Training on Instagram: @runthomsontraining Find Thomson Training on the web: https://www.thomsontraining.run

In this episode, Coach Jay returns to discuss a recent post covering the most important aspects of Sports Nutrition. We cover where general health and wellness fit in, and discuss whether dietary fat has any place in the context of "sport performance." He also explains how peri-nutrition (nutrition before, during, and after training or competition) fits into an athlete's priorities, and how following the hierarchy that he provides will allow any athlete to maximize both training and recovery, and therefore get closer and closer to full athletic potential and performance.   Follow Coach Jay on Instagram: @athleatcoach Find Coach Jay online: https://athleatcoach.com/en/athleatcoach-en/

In this episode, I discuss strategies that I use and recommend to runners and endurance athletes to better deal with the physical and mental pain and discomfort of the pace and distance of training and racing. I cover what I like to call "macro chunking" and "micro chunking," which I use to both plan out my racing strategy as well as maximize my training volume and intensity.

In this episode, I continue the series covering my first book, Hormonal Nutrition. This episode covers the hormone ghrelin, and goes into what it does in the body and how the body perceives hunger signals. I also cover what activities, foods, and supplements have an affect on ghrelin levels and hunger signaling, as well as how chronic dieting can have an impact in the short-term and long-term when it comes to ghrelin levels.   Get your copy of Hormonal Nutrition here: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1657097463?pf_rd_r=M258J1FP5WCYWBBG6C7D&pf_rd_p=8fe9b1d0-f378-4356-8bb8-cada7525eadd&pd_rd_r=91d0f329-4db3-426b-b9f2-9b151b779a3b&pd_rd_w=w7vZ8&pd_rd_wg=ckc8Z&ref_=pd_gw_unk

  In this episode, I talk with Tom Rapp, boys CC and Track coach at Mason High School in Ohio. We discuss his coaching philosophy, the training variables that he prioritizes with high school athletes, the importance of team culture, and some things he has learned along the way that contribute to individual and team success.   Originally from Trotwood Ohio, Tom was a State Champion in cross country and in the one mile run. He attended Penn State University where he attained All-American honors and captained the team. He worked for Athletes in Action for 23 years, serving in various capacities including development of their track and field department. Tom was recently named Cross Country "Coach of the year" and has 2 State Team titles. Tom is a Spanish teacher at Mason High School. He is married to Mary, who was also an All-American track athlete at Penn State.   Follow Tom on Twitter: @TomRapp16 Follow the Mason Teams: http://www.runmason.com

In this episode, I continue the series covering my first book, Hormonal Nutrition. This episode covers the hormone leptin, and goes into what it does in the body, how body fat percentage and fat mass affects it, as well as how it correlates to insulin sensitivity. I also cover what activities, foods, and supplements have an affect on leptin levels and sensitivity, as well as how caloric balance plays a role in leptin function.   Get your copy of Hormonal Nutrition here: https://www.amazon.com/Hormonal-Nutrition-Kevin-Russell-Kuhn/dp/1657097463/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1631277287&sr=8-1

In this episode, I continue the series covering my first book, Hormonal Nutrition. This episode covers the hormone adiponectin, and goes into what it does in the body, how body fat percentage and fat mass affects it, as well as how it correlates to fat-free mass and fat-loss. I also cover what activities/lifestyle factors, foods, and supplements have an affect on adiponectin levels and adiponectin function.   Get your copy of Hormonal Nutrition here: https://www.amazon.com/Hormonal-Nutrition-Kevin-Russell-Kuhn/dp/1657097463/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1631277287&sr=8-1

In this episode, Brett Cummins joins me to discuss training and assessments for baseball and softball athletes. We cover his priorities and pillars when developing a program for these athletes, the biggest issues and hurdles he has to deal with in his niche, what his assessment of athletes looks like, how the pelvic position affects posture, the scapula, and glenohumeral movement, and some of the things he is learning now that he wished he knew when he was just getting started in the industry.   Brett Cummins, B.S. CSCS, USAW, CSAC, CSAS, CFSC, of Cummins Performance Training, was born and raised in Marietta GA. He attended Georgia State University on an athletic scholarship, and played soccer for GSU, competing in the Colonial Athletic Association. While at GSU, Brett earned two degrees. He received a B.S. in Exercise Science, and a B.A. in History, as well as a minor in Sociology.   Brett, is currently a performance coach at 180 Sports Performance in Hoschton, Georiga, where he works with general population clients, youth athletes, and professional athletes. Brett, also directs and programs strength programs at Devine Baseball in Buford, GA, working with pitchers at all age levels.   Brett has directed training programs for Team Elite Baseball, a club that has produced numerous collegiate and professional players, including five first round picks. He has been active in youth football and youth soccer, directing speed and agility clinics for multiple age groups.   Brett is recognized by the National Strength and Conditioning Association as a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS), United States Weightlifting as a Sports Performance Coach (USAW), the National Sports Performance Association as a Certified Speed and Agility Coach (CSAC), the International Youth Conditioning Association as a Certified Speed and Agility Specialist (CSAS), and Mike Boyle Strength and Conditioning as a Certified Functional Strength Coach (CFSC).   Follow Brett on Instagram: @brett_cummins   Follow Brett on Twitter: @bcummins21   Find Brett online: https://brettcumminstraining.com

In this episode, I start a series covering my first book, Hormonal Nutrition. This episode goes into the hormone Insulin, and covers what it does in the body, what happens when thew body becomes desensitized to insulin, how to improve insulin sensitivity, and what types of food, supplements, and lifestyle factors play a role in improving insulin function. Get your copy of Hormonal Nutrition here: https://www.amazon.com/Hormonal-Nutrition-Kevin-Russell-Kuhn/dp/1657097463/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=hormonal+nutrition+Kevin+kuhn&qid=1630060207&sr=8-1

In this episode, I talk about the major themes and lessons I drew from Chris Lear's book, Running With The Buffaloes, which follows the the 1998 cross country season of the Colorado University Buffaloes men's team. It provides some very unique insights into the mind of legendary coach, Mark Wetmore, as well as members of the team, like Adam Goucher, Mike Friedburg, Jay Johnson, and Chris Severy. I enjoyed the book so much that I listened to the audiobook twice in a row. If you want some context for how much further and faster you may be able to push your body before it breaks, this provides some useful lessons. It will probably get you fired up for a long run, too! 

In this episode, I talk about a priority and commitment framework that I use use to help my athletes develop focus before the season, and maintain their "why" during the season. If you have a medium to long-term goal, this framework helps keep you consistently working on the necessary daily actionable steps required to hit that goal.   Follow me on Instagram and Twitter: @athletefactors

In this episode, my friend Elliott Farris joins me to discuss the often confusing and mysterious idea of "peaking" or "tapering." We cover the most often used definitions, how it relates to end of season success, and why he doesn't believe the traditional concept of "peaking" makes physiological sense. We then go over training and programming strategies to ensure the best chances of success when you need to race the fastest.   Elliott Farris is a former collegiate athlete and coach for Texas A&M. As a runner he earned All-Region honors in XC and made the NCAA first round for the Aggies, and has since run a 2:26 marathon. Elliott earned a BS in Animal Science and a Master of Agribusiness before realizing he could not leave his passion for endurance sports, and he now coaches privately while managing the best running store in Texas. Follow Elliott on Instagram: @elfarros Follow RunOn! Richardson on Instagram: @run_on_richardson

In this episode, Luke Scribner joins me to share his latest project for high school cross country and track coaches. We talk through his "How To" guide for coaches who want to improve the quality of their distance running program. This practical and easy to digest collection of keys to creating a successful training environment and step-by-step direction to creating a proper training program is a must-read for any high school coach who works with distance runners.   Luke Scribner is the Head Cross Country and Track Coach at Frisco Reedy High School. Scribner comes from a background of running at Tarleton state collegiately, and Nomad Running society post collegiately. He coaches athletes of all ages and skills, from middle school to elites, and everything in-between.   Contact Luke: Scribner.luke@yahoo.com

In this episode, Dillon Harris and Steven Machek join me to discuss their recently published review paper - Theacrine as a Potential Caffeine Alternative for Enhanced Ergogenic and Cognitive Performance in Athletes: A Call to Action and Brief Review. We talk about the role of Theacrine, how is it is similar and different to caffeine, and what the future may hold for this unique compound. Read the paper here: https://www.journalofexerciseandnutrition.com/ManuscriptUploadsPDF/200.pdf   Follow Dillon on Instagram: @dillon_reis Follow Steven on Instagram: @stretch_rx

In this episode, I share my experience since my assessment with Ambrose Coleman. I talk about how my achilles feels, how I thought my training volume would have to be cut (spoiler alert: 2 workout pr's and 2nd highest mileage week for the summer), and how I'm feeling about my progress. If you're interested in this whole process, be sure to check out my assessment podcast episode with him (episode #107). Get yourself assessed! Follow Ambrose on Instagram: @goseeambrose

In this episode, Ambrose Coleman comes to my office to assess me. This episode is to show that even a Kinesiologist needs another Kinesiologist. I find out what my current movement limitations are as Ambrose runs me through the gambit of passive and active assessments. I learned where my gaps in programming are, and will be able to address these issues before we retest in a few weeks. Follow Ambrose on Instagram: @goseeambrose

In this episode, I discuss some of the buzz around the sport of Track & Field, some of the details related to the tainted burrito controversy, and how exciting the Euro 2020 soccer tournament is.

In this episode, I talk with Dr. Jonathan Pearlman, a Gonstead Chiropractor in the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex. We talk about the history of chiropractic medicine, how modern chiropractic medicine differs from its unique beginnings, the differences between Gonstead and other chiropractic methods, and how the Ketogenic diet changed his life. He also shares some tips for how to find a competent chiropractor   Dr. Pearlman is a GONSTEAD chiropractor in Richardson, Texas, with a background in Kinesiology from the University of Rhode Island. He is a former CrossFit athlete and current recreational runner. He is an evangelist of a metabolically flexible ketogenic lifestyle. Follow Dr. Pearlman on Instagram: @drpearlmantv Follow Dr. Pearlman on YouTube: drpearlmantv Find Dr. Pearlman online: drpearlmantv.com

In this episode, Baylor Men's Basketball S&C Coach, Charlie Melton, joins me to talk about the program's first National Championship. We talk about what was different this year, in comparison to previous seasons. We also catch up on how much things have changed in the decade that has passed since I was getting my start in his weight room. We cover 5-Zone training, the unique responsibilities he has at an elite basketball program, how he prioritizes training variables at different times and phases of the year, how he coaches nutrition via behavioral change, and some advice he would have given himself, and me (or others just starting out in the sport performance industry) 10 years ago. We also cover just how important the right kind of music is in the weight room, and how the right beat can turn a dragging session into a very productive, energetic, and memorable workout.   Charlie Melton enters his 17th season working with the Baylor men's basketball team as director of athletics performance in 2021-22. Melton joined the Bears in June 2005 after spending four seasons as a full-time strength coach at Florida State University. He spent one season as a graduate assistant for FSU's football program before being hired as a full-time strength coach in 2001. In May 2014, Melton was recognized as a Master Strength and Conditioning coach (MSCC) by the Collegiate Strength & Conditioning Coaches Association. The title is the highest honor that can be achieved by a strength & conditioning coach, and Melton is the only current Baylor strength coach to have earned the recognition. A 1998 graduate of the University of Memphis, Melton earned a master's degree in exercise and sport science from his undergraduate alma mater in 2000. He worked as a graduate assistant in the strength department under Todd Stroud and with Memphis' Exercise and Sport Nutrition Research Lab under current Baylor professor Dr. Richard Kreider from 1998 to 2000. In his career, Melton has trained 31 NFL Draft picks, including nine first-round picks and one Heisman Trophy winner, five NBA Draft picks and four track and field national champions. An accomplished weightlifter, Melton placed third and fourth in the Collegiate Weightlifting National Championships in 1997 and 1998, respectively. Melton is certified through the Collegiate Strength and Conditioning Coaches Association (CSCCA). He has also completed the certification requirements of Level 1 club coach through USA Weightlifting (USAW).

In this episode, I recap my vacation to Colorado and Utah, I talk about Erriyon Knighton's new World Junior record in the 200 meters, Hobbs Kessler's new high school 1500 meter record, and how improvements in performance and adaptations to training come from a shift in your priorities. I also talk a little about the upcoming Olympic Trials and Olympics.

In this episode, I discuss my thoughts and ideas around what I believe to be the most efficient way to improve body composition. I discuss the pro's and con's of altering body composition in a Calorie deficit and Maintenance level Calories, as well as Calorie surplus. I also discuss what I consider Maintenance Range, which is the amount of Calories above and below Maintenance level Calories where body weight may not change, but body composition may make the most change. What are your thoughts on these ideas? Please let me know!   Follow me on Instagram and Twitter: @athletefactors

In this episode, Kate Harrison PhD., joins me to discuss distance running biomechanics. We cover whether or not there is a standard or ideal running form, the tradeoffs between heel-striking and forefoot-striking, the differences between male and female running mechanics, as well as differences between novice and experienced running mechanics. She also provides ways to improve running performance and decrease injury potential.   Kate Harrison is a biomechanist at BOA Technology. At BOA, she researches the role of footwear in athlete performance. As an avid runner, Kate is particularly interested in the role of running biomechanics in injury and performance. She completed her PhD at Virginia Commonwealth University, studying biomechanics of novice runners and how they are influenced by training. Previously, she earned her B.S. and M.S in Exercise Physiology at West Virginia University. As an athlete, Kate was an All-American in the 10,000m and Cross Country for WVU, and has twice represented Canada at the World Cross Country Championships.   Follow Kate on Twitter: @runing_geek

In this episode, Jason Clinton joins me again (for the 3rd time!) to talk about his newest running goal: breaking 20 minutes in a 5k. We discuss why it is important for people to set difficult and uncomfortable goals, how he is structuring his training to prepare for the pacing demands of his goal, the importance of focusing on certain training variables and data points while reducing focus on other variables, when and how much strength training is necessary, and much more!!   Jason Clinton is a former D2 collegiate athlete now working as a strength, wellness, and running coach. He’s also a running enthusiast having competed in road races from the 5k distance up to the marathon. He currently resides in Northwest Indiana with his wife and three kids.   Follow Jason on Instagram and Twitter: @runjlc

In this episode, I talk about what I've been learning and experimenting with in my training. I discuss how I am programming my running, and how it compares and contrasts to what I did in high school and college. I also go over ways to make the "easy" days actually easy, which is very difficult for me. I'm looking for some feedback! What has worked well for you and why, and what hasn't worked well for you and why?   Follow me on Instagram and Twitter: @athletefactors

"The information provided herein does not reflect the views of the NIH and NIDDK. Opinions expressed are those of Cassie Mitchell." Guest correction: A master's degree will count towards hours for the CSSD, but is not currently required at this time. There are many eligibility routes for the CISSN, which are outlined on the ISSN (International Society of Sport Nutrition) website.   In this episode, Cassie Mitchell, PhD, RD, joins me to explain the differences and similarities between a Dietician and a Sports Nutritionist, and why finding a team of nutrition experts is the best route for athletes. We also talk about the pro's and con's of Calorie counting and macro tracking, and some of the potential issues that can come up with weight-category athletes or with sports that have an emphasis on a specific body size or type. She also explains why it is so important to have a dietary plan in place for when competitive training and competing come to an end. We also cover what athletes should know about the gut microbiome, gut health, prebiotics, and probiotics, as well as how specific hormones can have direct and indirect effects on body weight and body composition. Cassie holds a PhD in clinical physiology and metabolism from Virginia Tech and is a registered dietitian (RD). Cassie completed her supervised practice through Phoenix Indian Medical Center in 2019 and is currently working a postdoctoral research fellowship through the Phoenix branch of the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK). She has nearly a decade of experience collaborating and conducting research focused on nutrition, exercise and physical activity research in both clinical and community populations, and 4 years of experience providing nutrition counseling. Her degrees and expertise span health promotion, exercise physiology and nutrition science, making her a well-rounded healthcare practitioner. FInd Cassie here: https://cassiemmitchell.com Follow Cassie on Instagram: @adventureswithtansy

In this episode I discuss length-tension relationships and why just stretching, or even rolling and stretching, may be the exact opposite of what you need to do. When a muscle or joints hurts, we're often told to "stretch it." This can be a serious problem, and the case study I present shows why it can not only be not-helpful, but can actually backfire. If muscle or joint pain occur, find a practitioner who uses assessments to find the actual problem, and then solves it! Just stretching is rarely the solution. If you think you need to stretch, the next question(s) should be: "Why is this muscle excessively tight (overly facilitated), and if it is tight, are there opposing muscles that are excessively "loose" (neurologically inhibited)? Should activating and strengthening the inhibited muscles be part of the process to correct the overly facilitated muscles?"   Follow me on Instagram and Twitter: @athletefactors

In this episode, Dr. Justin Herbert joins me to discuss the NCAA Track and Field Competition Oversight Committee's decision to reduce the number of qualifiers in each Region, in each event from 48 to 32. This means about 576 athletes will NOT be able to compete in each of the Regional Prelim meets. He explains how this goes directly against the NCAA's primary objective, which is to provide opportunities to Student-Athletes, and how this was a rushed decision, decided behind closed doors, without any discussion or explanation.   Please sign the petition to support these athletes getting back the opportunities they have worked hard for and rightly earned: https://www.change.org/p/ncaa-d1-men-s-and-women-s-t-f-committee-calling-for-ncaa-t-f-qualification-consistency/sign?original_footer_petition_id=26139327&algorithm=promoted&source_location=petition_footer&grid_position=4&pt=AVBldGl0aW9uAF5yqgEAAAAAYFqyIytHdJk1ZjQ2MzY3MA%3D%3D Dr.   Justin Herbert is a veteran coach with more than seven years as a head coach. He joined the Oral Roberts University track and field staff in July 2017. Herbert has served as the director of cross country and track and field at both Tennessee Wesleyan and Montreat College over the past six years. Prior to that he was the head cross country and assistant track and field coach at Central Methodist. Herbert was the 2017 USTFCCCA South Region Coach of the Year and is a two-time AAC Coach of the Year with 61 national qualifiers, 194 all-conference athletes and 51 conference championships to his credit. His 2014 Montreat squad earned the NAIA Team Champions of Character Award.   Follow Justin on Twitter: @CoachJHerbert

In this episode, Daniel Michalski joins me to discuss his collegiate and post-collegiate running career, as well as his shift into coaching.  We talk about his coaching philosophy of "Steal, Kill, and Destroy," and we also cover some of the barriers (sorry, steeplechase joke) and setbacks that can happen when you risk it all on race-day and go for the win.  If you aren't coming into competition fiercely, what are we even doing here?     Daniel Michalski was named head cross country coach and assistant track & field coach at LeTourneau University in September 2020.  Michalski was a four-time All-American in cross country and track and field at Cedarville University. He was the 2017 NCAA Division II Steeplechase National Champion, and broke four school records. He went on to become a two-time All-American at Indiana University, where he broke two school records.  Michalski qualified for the 2020 and 2021 U.S. Olympic Trials. In 2019, he became a United States of America Track & Field World Championships Trials finalist, posting one of the Top 10 steeplechase times in the USA. For the past year, he began training as an Olympic development runner in the steeplechase.  Michalski earned a bachelor's degree in exercise science from Cedarville University in 2018. He is pursuing a master's degree in applied sport science from Indiana University.   Follow Daniel on Twitter:  @The_Michalski

In this episode, Andrew Mcvittie, a physiotherapist, climber, and climbing coach, joins me to discuss the journey he's going through to evaluate claims around collagen protein, specifically collagen supplements. We talk about whether collagen protein is a good option to maximize muscle protein synthesis, if digestion has any effects on collagen protein consumption, if collagen consumption or supplementation has any effects on rehabilitation or injury prevention, what types of collagen are best for specific outcomes, and whether the protocol to stimulate collagen synthesis is more important than ingesting collagen. We also go over other dietary modalities to focus on to prevent joint, tendon, and ligament injury, as well as modalities to help speed up recovery and repair if an injury occurs.   As a climber, climbing coach, and physiotherapist (who has also done a fair bit of running and cycling), Andy is ideally placed to provide clarity and direction to your return to climbing and outdoor sports. This background enables a unique, blended, treatment approach. Whilst his focus in coaching is technique based, his passion in physiotherapy is education, strengthening, and a detailed, fully supported, return to sport.   Follow Andy on Instagram: @process.physio

In this episode, Dr. David Stukus joins me to discuss asthma and allergies for athletic and non-athletic populations.  We talk about some of the common misconceptions surrounding treatment for these conditions, and how changes in weather can have profound effects on individuals dealing with asthma and environmental allergies.  Dr. Stukus also gets into some of the research regarding the Covid19 vaccines, discusses how they differ, and how they work.  I learned a ton from this conversation!       David Stukus, MD, is an associate professor of Pediatrics in the Division of Allergy and Immunology. Prior to becoming the director of the Food Allergy Treatment Center, Dr. Stukus started the Complex Asthma Clinic at Nationwide Children's Hospital in 2011, which treats children with severe or difficult-to-treat asthma. In addition to providing clinical care for children with all types of allergic conditions, Dr. Stukus participates in clinical research, quality improvement, patient advocacy, and medical education. An internationally recognized keynote speaker, Dr. Stukus has received named lectureships and awards from various national and international organizations. Dr. Stukus holds multiple leadership positions in the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (AAAAI) and the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology and is one of twelve allergists invited as a member of the Joint Task Force for Practice Parameters. In 2018, Dr. Stukus was invited to become the first Social Media Medical Editor for the AAAAI, where he produces and hosts their podcast "Conversations From the World of Allergy". He has been named a Top Doctor in Pediatric Allergy every year since 2015.  Dr. Stukus obtained his medical degree at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. He completed his residency at Nationwide Children's Hospital and his fellowship at the Cleveland Clinic. He is Board Certified in Allergy/Immunology and Pediatrics. Follow Dr. Stukus on Instagram and Twitter:  @AllergyKidsDoc

In this episode, Kristin Fant, MCN, RDN, LD, joins me to talk about performance nutrition for runners and triathletes.  We discuss her "All Foods Fit" perspective when it comes to coaching nutrition, the biggest dietary issues endurance athletes face, the idea that being lighter will make you faster, and strategies to maximize fueling during training and competition.   Kristin Fant, MCN, RDN, LD is a registered dietitian in the Dallas, TX area. Kristin holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Nutrition from the University of Texas at Southwestern Medical Center. Her practice is focused on helping runners and triathletes fuel for performance and stay injury-free without feeling anxious and overwhelmed when it comes to nutrition. She specializes in nutrition intervention for Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport and Secondary Hypothalamic Amenorrhea, as well as overcoming disordered eating behaviors and ED recovery. An avid runner herself, Kristin has completed seven full marathons and nine half- marathons. Follow Kristin on Instagram:  @endurance.nutritionist 

In this episode, Shalaya Kipp joins me to discuss her collegiate and professional running career, as well as some of her research on ground reaction forces in the Steeplechase.  We also cover the research she help conduct on the prototype to Nike's Vaporfly 4% and how predictions and calculations on improvements in running economy work themselves out in real life.   Shalaya Kipp is a Ph.D. candidate at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, BC in the department of Kinesiology. She studies how exercise influences cardio-respiratory functions and the implications for health and performance. Previously, Shalaya completed her Masters degree in Integrative Physiology at the University of Colorado, Boulder where she studied the biomechanics and energetics of human running. Shalaya is a competitive runner, specializing in the 3000m steeplechase. She has represented the United States on a national level including the World Championships and Olympic Games. Follow Shalaya on Twitter:  @shalayakipp

In this episode, Missy Mitchell-McBeth joins me to discuss her philosophy of coaching in the weight room, the differences between college and high school strength and conditioning, how to get athletes to buy-in, and how to get more out of your athletes by being a better coach. We also discuss her business, SaFe Iron, and the services she provides to sport coaches who may not have access to a strength coach.   Coach Mitchell-McBeth has over 15 years of experience in the coaching profession. She is currently the Head Strength and Conditioning Coach at Byron Nelson High School in Trophy Club, Texas. There she oversees the development of 13 different sports, over 500 athletes, and trains all sport coaches to assist in the weight room. Prior to this she was the Senior Assistant Strength and Conditioning Coach at TCU in Fort Worth, TX for 7 years. There she handled the development of the Women's Indoor Volleyball, Women's Basketball, and Women's Golf programs and assisted with football. Before her time as a full-time strength and conditioning professional, Mitchell-McBeth was a High School sport coach for 4 years in Copperas Cove, Texas. She holds a Master's degree in Exercise Physiology from Baylor University, and holds SCCC, CSCS, USAW, FRC, and RPR-1 certifications.   Follow her on Twitter: @missEmitche11   Finder her on the web: https://www.safeirontraining.com

In this episode, Steven Machek joins me again, this time to discuss the potential role of Psychedelics as an ergogenic aid. We talk about the current state of psychedelic research and some of the ways it is currently used in conjunction with other treatments for things like addiction and PTSD. We also discuss his published paper reviewing some of these clinical tools and their potential for improving athletic performance, flow state, physical creativity, pain reduction, and potential replacement for heavy pain killers post injury and during rehabilitation.Steven Machek MS, CSCS*D, is a third-year doctoral student at Baylor University that is passionate about powerlifting. His research interests are powerlifting-centered, but also focus more generally on the intersection of resistance training and sports nutrition.Follow Steven on Instagram: @stretch_rx

In this episode, I talk with Mark Bottenhorn, a running coach, professional runner, and competitive power lifter.  We talk about his philosophy of coaching and training, how and why heavy lifting should fit into every endurance athlete's training program, how being stronger, more resilient, and more athletic can allow you to perform competitively on LESS training volume, and how obstacles and struggles in life can make us stronger.Mark Bottenhorn is a professional mountain, ultra, trail and OCR athlete living in Dallas, Texas. He spends his free time with his wife, Brittany and daughter, Maya. Mark works with dozens of endurance athletes ranging from first timers to elites on his coaching platform, Run Strong Coaching. Mark has numerous wins, course records and accolades including landing on the North American top performances list at the 50k distance two years in a row.Find him on the web:http://www.markbottenhorn.com/Follow him on Instagram:@bottenhornrunningListen to his podcast:https://open.spotify.com/show/7gwpt3m9354xRkqwqwXWIv?si=v9rzhhSYTN2N5XkrsvLDdg

In this episode, I talk with Gabriella Greif PT, DPT about her new concierge Physical Therapy business, how to prevent running injuries, the mental and physical process of coming back to full training and racing after an injury, and the importance of consistent strength and conditioning as well as cross training for runners and other endurance athletes. Gabriella is the founder and owner of GG Physical Therapy. She graduated with a Doctorate in Physical Therapy and a Bachelor of Science in Rehabilitation Science from Northeastern University in Boston, MA. She has extensive clinical experience treating orthopedic and musculoskeletal injuries using manual therapy, targeted exercise techniques, and functional training. Gabriella is also certified in Functional Dry Needling. Gabriella treats patients of all ages and activity levels. An avid runner herself, Gabriella especially enjoys working with runners and athletes and is also a certified Running Rehabilitation Specialist. Gabriella was born and raised in Dallas, Texas. She leads an active lifestyle and loves "all things fitness." Additionally, Gabriella considers herself a local foodie and die-hard Dallas Mavericks fan. After 10 years in Boston, she is thrilled to bring her physical therapy services to her hometown. Find Gabriella on the web: https://www.gg-physicaltherapy.com/  Follow Gabriella on Instagram: @gg_physicaltherapy Follow Gabriella on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GGPhysicalTherapy

In this episode, I talk with Ken Alamo, of Alamo Elite Health, about the role that metabolic testing can play in providing data and useful information to athletes. He covers the specific tests that he offers, explains how the information and results from metabolic testing can benefit athletes, and tells us why getting this kind of testing should be a consistent part of every athlete's training and competitive season.Ken Alamo has been a personal trainer for 11 years, specializing in metabolic testing and conditioning. After 8 years in the big-box gyms, he branched out, starting Alamo Elite Health, in order to reach the 90% of the population that doesn't go to gym. Ken's goal is to bring wellness, exercise, and nutrition guidance outside of the gym, to those who need it most.Follow Ken on Instagram: @alamoelitehealthFind Ken on the Web: alamoelitehealth.com

In this episode, Sean Lopez joins me to discuss massage therapy and some of the finer points related to bodywork.  We talk about the differences between pressure and technique, how to pick a legit massage therapist or manual therapist, and why incorporating assessment and movement are necessary to get the most out of your bodywork sessions.  Sean Lopez is a mobile Licensed Manual Therapist serving the Dallas/Ft. Worth area.Sean has worked in the Health and Wellness industry for about 10 years, starting as a Trainer. In 2015, Sean became licensed in Massage.  He has a passion to educate others on the many benefits and different techniques of Massage.  Follow Sean on Instagram:@seanlopez__ Find Sean on the web:www.findyourglory.com 

Please watch this episode on YouTube to see all the running shoes I tried out.  In this episode, Elliott Farris of RunOn! Richardson gives me a shoe fitting for a new pair of running shoes. I have been buying the same size running shoe for over a decade, assuming I was wearing the ideal size. Elliott takes me to school not only on sizing for running shoes (which is very different in comparison to other shoe types, like dress shoes), but also on the tradeoffs between the structure and function of specific running shoe types, like a neutral shoe designed for someone doing more shorter/faster running, and a motion control shoe with some extra cushion designed for someone doing marathon or ultramarathon training. Your feet are unique, as is your stride, foot placement when you contact the ground, and many, many other training variables. It's worth it to get a shoe that addresses these individual variables! Follow RunOn! Richardson on Instagram: @run_on_richardson

In this episode, I share some of the goals I have set for 2021, and encourage you to do the same! What goals do you have for this year? Will they be easy to achieve, or do you need to plan out and strategize to reach the mark? What topics and guest would you like to see on the podcast this year? Let me know!

In this episode, Derek Stanley joins me to share some strategies, tips, and tools to maintain dietary control during the holidays. November and December are the months where the highest concentration of weight gain and increases in fat mass occur, primarily due to holiday eating and changes in normal routine. Derek shares some practical info about how to avoid these pitfalls while still enjoying this time of year. Follow Derek on Instagram:@dstanleyfit

In this episode, Dr. Chad Kerksick joins me to finish our discussion of the timing of ingestion of specific ergogenic aids and micronutrients that can impact muscle performance. We make it through the second half of the ergogenic aids and micronutrients from the study "Timing of Ergogenic Aids and Micronutrients on Muscle and Exercise Performance," which he co-authored.   The full text of the study can be found here: https://jissn.biomedcentral.com/track/pdf/10.1186/s12970-019-0304-9 Dr. Kerksick is an associate professor of exercise science in the Exercise Science Department in the School of Health Sciences at Lindenwood University. He currently serves as the director of the Exercise and Performance Nutrition Laboratory and the Master of Science in Health Sciences program at Lindenwood University. His primary research interests include sport nutrition as well as the biochemical, cellular, and molecular adaptations relative to various forms of exercise and nutrition interventions, primarily those that promote muscle hypertrophy, prevent muscle atrophy, and promote health and recovery in healthy as well as clinical populations. Follow Dr. Kerksick:Instagram: @chadkerksick

In this episode, Ambrose Coleman and I discuss biomechanics and enjoy some bourbon. We catch up on what has happened since our last podcast, and we talk about some things that are very much outside our scope of practice. Sorry in advance to anyone who is offended, but no one is making you watch or listen.   Follow Ambrose on instagram:@goseeambrose@power_stats@performance_analysis

In this episode, I talk with Dr. Ashley Shrum of Calibrated Physical Therapy. She shares her lofty goal of preventing 100,000 overuse injuries in youth volleyball by 2030, why these injuries occur, her strategy to accomplish this goal and educate coaches and athletes, and how you can be a part of this goal. We also talk about deceleration and landing mechanics, why coaches should track growth spurts in youth sports, and the gap between when physical therapy ends and when return to competitive training and competition begins. Dr. Ashley Shrum, PT, DPT, is a volleyball movement specialist and the owner of Calibrated Physical Therapy. Her mission is to prevent 100 thousand unnecessary youth overuse injuries by the year 2030. She helps educate volleyball coaches on injury prevention and safely reintegrating athletes to the court after injuries occur. Follow Dr. Ashley on Instagram: @calibrated.ptVisit her website: www.calibratedpt.com

In this episode, Jörn Utermann joins me to discuss his role as a Performance Nutritionist for athletes, his Master's Thesis on HMB (and whether you should be taking it or not), and the hierarchy of dietary needs for athletes. We also talk about low-carbohydrate diets for athletes, and whether or not this leads to optimal athletic performance. Jörn has been a Performance Nutritionist since 2017, working with elite and recreational athletes of various sporting backgrounds including Crossfit, combat sports, powerlifting, and Football (soccer). He has a Bachelors of Science in Nutritional Sciences, a Masters of Science in Sport and Exercise Nutrition, and has earned the International Olympic Committee's Diploma in Sports Nutrition. Follow Jörn on Instagram: @athleatcoachVisit his website: https://athleatcoach.com

In this episode, Steven Machek shares some brand new research on muscle fiber types and muscle creatine content in powerlifters. He explains the differences between the primary muscle fiber types (Type I, Type IIa, and Type IIx) as well as sharing some interesting stuff on hybrid muscle fibers. He blows my mind with new information about Type IIx and athletic performance, as well as new information about Myosin Heavy Chain Composition similarities and differences between males and females in general as well as in male and female powerlifters, specifically. Steven Machek MS, CSCS*D, is a third-year doctoral student at Baylor University that is passionate about powerlifting. His research interests are powerlifting-centered, but also focus more generally on the intersection of resistance training and sports nutrition. Follow Steven on Instagram: @stretch_rx

In this episode, Elia Oliviero Barbon joins me again, this time to share his experience as an independent online coach.  We talk about the differences between working for someone and working for yourself, his routine to maximize daily and weekly work output, the objective and subjective measures to maintain and manage his client's training and health, and some of the behind the scenes details of online coaching that most people are simply unaware of.  I have really enjoyed all my conversations with Elia, and this one is no exception!  Follow Elia:Instagram:  @eliaolivierobarbonYouTube Channel:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmeeTZ0SgphAOO9NTGNwL_Q/featured

In this episode, I talk about some of the potential benefits of daily dietary routine. Although I am not a fan of meal plans because of the excessive structure, I do think that programming or planning specific foods at specific times of the day can be very helpful to hit a specific goal (for example: Calorie goal, protein goal, fueling right before training, etc.). Not all repetition and routine is bad, but there should also be room for variety.