The TriDot Triathlon Podcast

Do you ever wonder why you're doing a certain workout, not just how? This week Vanessa Ronksley and Coach Ryan Tibball break down some of the most effective run workouts to help you train smarter, not just harder. We are starting with quality run sessions. Ryan and Vanessa dig into MAV Shuttles, Fartleks, Intervals, Threshold Repeats, and more! Explaining the purpose behind each workout, what systems of the body they target, and ho...

“The finish line is not a final destination, but a breathtaking view that fuels the next journey.” In this episode, Coach Stephen Horan celebrates a major milestone: completing his 20th IRONMAN. With over 15 years of endurance racing Stephen takes time to reflect on the lessons learned from each finish line. From the power of community in training, to embracing pressure as a privilege, and finding strength through adversity, Stephe...

Transitions can make or break your race, and changing between sports are often where valuable seconds slip away. In this episode, we dig deep into the ins and outs of T2 with Coaches Elizabeth James and Ben Sommerville. From getting your legs ready for a run while wrapping up your ride and finding your transition spot fast to practicing the sequence of changing your gear quickly and what amenities the coaches recommend you use or s...

Transitions can make or break your race, and Transition 1 is often where valuable seconds slip away. In this episode, we take a deep dive into the ins and outs of T1 with Coaches Jeff Raines and Jenn Reinhart. From sighting the swim exit and navigating the chaos of the transition area, to smart gear staging and finding your bike fast, they share practical tips and real-world strategies to streamline your next race. Plus, enjoy some...

They say breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and on race day it's absolutely crucial. In this episode, we hear from 8 different triathlon coaches to see exactly what they eat before toeing the start line. From short course sprints to long course endurance events, we dive into how fueling strategies change and why topping off glycogen stores can make or break your performance. Whether it's oatmeal, bagels, fruit, or ele...

Whether it’s a nagging niggle or a major surgery, injuries are an almost inevitable part of long-term triathlon training. In this episode, Physical Therapy expert Dr. BJ Leeper and Professional Triathlete Elizabeth James share valuable insights to help you return to training stronger and smarter. We’ll cover smart strategies for easing back into training, how to know when to push forward and when to pull back, and even practical ti...

Since the bike leg is the longest part of any triathlon a proper bike fit is essential for performance, comfort, and injury prevention. While a professional fit is ideal, it's not always accessible. This week, Coaches Jeff Raines and Sion McIntosh join the show to share practical advice on how to fine-tune your bike fit at home. You'll learn how to better understand your body's unique needs and identify common adjustments your fit ...

In triathlon every second matters and even small mistakes can cost you big on race day. We’ve brought in two coaches, Matt Sommer and Matt Bach, to help you reclaim lost time and get the most out of your fitness on race day. In this episode, we dive into practical strategies for saving time before, during, and after the race. From course prep and gear setup to pacing, nutrition, and staying mentally sharp in the heat of competition...

As experienced Coaches Jeff Raines and Elizabeth James have seen it all on race day—and this week, they're sharing the biggest lessons they've learned while spectating on race day. From practical advice on bike maintenance and travel planning to embracing the race-day atmosphere and soaking in the finish-line moment, they’re dishing out the same tips they give their own athletes. Whether you're racing or cheering from the sidelines...

Whether it’s a wave, rolling, or mass start, how you begin your triathlon swim can make all the difference. In this episode, coaches Joanna Nami and Ryan Tibball break down every type of open water swim start and share expert strategies to help you launch with confidence. You’ll get practical tips for staying calm, starting strong, and settling into your rhythm quickly. As you gear up for your next race, this episode is your comple...

The RunDot Podcast is launching soon and today we meet the host! Carrie Tollefson is a National Champion Middle-Distance Runner, an Olympian, a globally recognized broadcaster, and a podcast host! Carrie brings a wealth of running experience and today gives us her four major tips for race morning! She stresses the importance of planning (and having multiple plans) and even shares how she uses visualization, all while sharing some o...

While 140.6 miles is only double the distance of a 70.3, the cost and commitment can feel MORE than double as a triathlete prepares for their first full IRONMAN. Today, Coaches Kurt Madden and Louise Strydom bring two of their athletes to the podcast to share everything about transitioning to the IRONMAN distance. Kurt and Louise provide key tips for the IRONMAN training cycle while athletes Heather and Jaco share their experience ...

Staying in the sport of triathlon takes the right motivation, dedication, and a healthy mind and body. IRONMAN World Champion Mirinda Carfrae and IRONMAN Champion Tim O'Donnell both enjoyed long and rewarding professional triathlon careers and continue to train while coaching Team Salty Bears. So naturally they are perfect to share the six lessons they learned to help have a long-lasting journey in triathlon. Tim and Rinny teach u...

300 episodes of The TriDot Triathlon Podcast have come and gone, and while we can't recount EVERY lesson hosts Andrew Harley and Vanessa Ronksley have learned, we picked our top 20 takeaways. We scoured all the nutrition episodes, the coaching wisdom and even the skill-specific episodes to find the best tips. From choosing the right run shoes, to improving your swim, eating enough protein, and even when NOT to train, Andrew and Van...

We're back for another episode where our triathlon coaches answer YOUR questions! IRONMAN World Champions Mark Allen and Craig "Crowie" Alexander jump into the hot seat on this round-robin, rapid-fire episode! Learn tips for balancing training with life activities, riding strong when you train outside, and how to breathe while swimming in cold water. Listen in as the coaches teach us what we can learn from the pros and how to keep ...

Getting faster doesn’t come through just training harder. Your recovery plays a crucial role in becoming a stronger athlete. This week triathlon legend Michellie Jones joins the podcast to share her 6 rules for recovery that will benefit your performance. From the importance of prioritizing sleep and nutrition to using recovery tools and technology. Michellie shares what she tells her athletes and even reminds us to "master our mob...

The Wildflower Multisport Festival is the "Woodstock" or "Coachella" of triathlon. Where the Countryside of California hosts a weekend endurance festival with triathlon, running, open water swimming, and so much more! After a hiatus, Wildflower returned in 2025 and TriDot was there in a big way! Host Vanessa Ronksley brings Coaches Ryan Tibball, Kurt Madden and Brandy Ramirez to the podcast to break down the epic weekend. They disc...

With our bodies needing the perfect amount of fuel, fluids, and electrolytes to thrive on race-day, plenty can go wrong with our nutrition intake while on course. Coaches Jasmine Moezzi and Kathy Ward-Hudson join the podcast to help us troubleshoot the seven most common nutrition issues athletes may face during their race. From dehydration and cramping to catching up if you fall behind on your fueling, we cover it all! This episode...

With the run being the final leg of a triathlon, your body and brain are fatigued with plenty of miles still to go. Numerous things can go wrong trying to reach the finish line. Coach Chris Navin brings his coaching and racing experience to the podcast to help us troubleshoot the eight most common issues athletes may face during the run. From injuries and aches to brain fog, nutrition, and GI issues, we cover it all! This episode w...