Best TrainingPeaks Podcasts (2025)

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#173.Dirk Friel: Unlocking Athletic Potential — Data, Coaching, and the Future of TrainingPeaks 1:18:50

Play Pause

9d ago1:18:50

1:18:50

Dirk Friel, co-founder of TrainingPeaks, joins Needles to dive into the evolution of data-driven coaching — from the early fax-machine days of training logs to the cutting-edge AI and tech shaping the future of sport. Dirk shares lessons from decades in cycling and coaching, the importance of balancing data with intuition, and why recovery, nutriti…

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Making the Most of the Off-Season: Habits, Strength, and Mindset - Season 7 Ep 19 50:18

1d ago50:18

50:18

In this episode, Host Allison Bettin is joined by Matt Dixon, an elite triathlon coach and cofounder of Purple Patch Fitness, for an athlete-focused episode on the off-season, including practical strategies to help athletes integrate their training with work, family, and life, as well as building systems that drive long-term success. Instead of cha…

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Gravel Burn 1:10:16

4d ago1:10:16

1:10:16

Last month, I traveled to the Great Karoo in South AFrica for the inaugural Nedbank Gravel Burn. It is the latest brainchild of Kevin Vermaak, the man who built the legendary Cape Epic. I cannot overstate how spectacular the experience was for me. While the riding was incredibly challenging, the event's culture was the true standout. It was a rare …

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Ep. 87: Team Africa Rising is Building a Virtual Racing Revolution Across Africa 52:56

7d ago52:56

52:56

In this episode of the Virtual Velo Podcast, we sit down with CEO Kimberly Coats and Jeremy Ford of Team Africa Rising to explore one of the most ambitious development projects in modern African cycling: a plan to bring over 1,000 young cyclists across Africa into virtual racing through a new network of Virtual Performance Centers. From Rwanda’s hi…

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Building Better Athletes: The Coach's Off-Season Toolkit with Matt Dixon - Season 7 Ep 18 53:40

8d ago53:40

53:40

In this episode, Host Allison Bettin is joined by Matt Dixon, an elite triathlon coach and cofounder of Purple Patch Fitness, for a masterclass on the offseason—the time of year Matt Dixon boldly claims is the single biggest predictor of athlete breakthroughs. Together, they unpack Matt Dixon’s four-phase coaching model and explore why offseason is…

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Episode 102 - Data-driven nutrition planning for ultra-distance events | Paul Booth 1:24:18

9d ago1:24:18

1:24:18

It’s the fifth anniversary of the podcast! In this special episode, we’re joined by Paul Booth, who put together the nutrition plan for both the men’s and women’s winners of the 2025 Ultra Trail du Mont Blanc, or UTMB. We’ll hear how lots of different topics from previous podcasts came together for these two world class athletes, how lab testing he…

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Ep. 86: The World Championship Team of Kate McCarthy and Dylan Kennett 57:18

13d ago57:18

57:18

Two-time UCI Cycling Esports World Champion Kate McCarthy joins the Virtual Velo Podcast, fresh off her successful title defense in Abu Dhabi. She’s joined by her partner, Olympian and former track world champion Dylan Kennett, for a straightforward conversation about racing, preparation, and life behind the results. Kate talks through how this yea…

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Neuroplasticity and Brain Fatigue in Endurance Sports with Scott Frey – Season 7 Episode 17 1:02:45

14d ago1:02:45

1:02:45

Host Dirk Friel sits down with Dr. Scott Frey, author, neuroscientist, and psychologist, for a deep dive into the critical role that the brain plays in endurance sports performance. Scott Frey explains how the brain is the "central command and control center" for both physical and cognitive performance, and how neuroplasticity—our brain's ability t…

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The life and story of cycling photographer, Graham Watson (replay) 1:45:43

16d ago1:45:43

1:45:43

In this episode we speak to Graham Watson, perhaps the world's most prolific cycling photographer. Over five decades, Graham didn't just witness cycling history - he documented it. Some might say the pioneers had it easy, but as you'll hear, Graham's path was anything but. He made his own luck, opening doors through persistence and talent. And whoe…

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Hunter Leininger - Ultra Runner 51:36

20d ago51:36

51:36

In this conversation, Hunter Leininger shares his journey into the world of endurance sports, discussing his early experiences, the influence of his family, and the mental toughness required for ultra running. He emphasizes the importance of gratitude and perspective in overcoming challenges, as well as practical tips for runners, including nutriti…

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Episode 101 - How do I manage endurance exercise, nutrition & Type 1 Diabetes? | Dr Sam Scott 1:18:39

21d ago1:18:39

1:18:39

Juggling training, nutrition, and day-to-day life can be a challenge. But throw in the complexities of Type 1 Diabetes, and it’s a whole new ball game. In this special episode to coincide with World Diabetes Day, I'm joined by co-founder of Enhance-d and former head of research at Team Novo Nordisk, Sam Scott. Sam gives us a peek into the world of …

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#172. Luca Shaw: Trusting the Feel — His Best Season Yet and the Mindset Shift Behind It 1:05:01

23d ago1:05:01

1:05:01

After a decade on the World Cup circuit, Luca Shaw pieced together his best season yet — finishing third overall and riding with more confidence than ever. In this season review, Luca opens up about learning to “trust the feel,” staying composed under the new qualifying pressure, and why experience and instinct beat overthinking. A raw, insightful …

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Ep. 85: USA Cycling National Champion Hayden “Farmwatts” Pucker chats Nats, Worlds, Predictions, and Storylines 43:51

28d ago43:51

43:51

In this episode, the Virtual Velo Podcast rolls into the biggest week on the cycling esports calendar. USA Cycling Esports National Champion Hayden “Farmwatts” Pucker returns to the show as he prepares to take on the world’s best at the UCI Cycling Esports World Championships live final in Abu Dhabi on November 15th. Co-hosts Chris Schwenker and Em…

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From Gravel to E-Sports: How Hayden Pucker Found His Edge in Virtual Racing - Season 7 Ep. 16 46:32

28d ago46:32

46:32

TrainingPeaks' Education Specialist, Cody Stephenson, is joined by returning guest and eSport cycling coach Zach Nehr and professional cyclist and esports racer Hayden Pucker—better known as Farm Watts—for an honest, high-energy deep-dive into the world of virtual endurance racing. We’ll hear about Hayden Pucker’s unconventional journey from riding…

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Episode 100 - Can I change my gut microbiome, and will it help me as an athlete? 1:05:12

1M ago1:05:12

1:05:12

The gut microbiome is a term that's thrown around a lot. But what does it actually mean? Is there a particular gut microbiome that's more common in athletes? And should athletes be trying to shape their microbiome to benefit their health or performance? Timestamps: 02:10 - What is the gut microbiome? 13:50 - What are short chain fatty acids, and wh…

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Jim Miller on Coaching Champions: The Art & Science of Elite Cycling Success — Season 7 Ep 15 56:59

1M ago56:59

56:59

Host Dirk Friel sits down with Jim Miller, Chief of Sports Performance at USA Cycling and the most decorated cycling coach in U.S. history. They dive deep into Jim’s unparalleled coaching journey—from collegiate racing days in Colorado to guiding athletes like Keegan Swenson and Kristin Armstrong to Olympic and World Championship podiums. Jim share…

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#171. Connor Fearon: From Racing to Reality – The Next Chapter of His Life on and off the Bike 1:36:53

1M ago1:36:53

1:36:53

In this episode of Moving the Needle, Andrew chats with Connor Fearon, the Australian downhill legend who traded podiums for power tools. They dive into his racing journey, the highs and lows of professional life, and his smooth transition into a new career as an electrician. Connor opens up about finding happiness beyond results, the evolution of …

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Ep. 84: Echelon’s Eric Hill — USA Cycling Esports National Series and 2026 National Championships 43:27

1M ago43:27

43:27

Project Echelon co-founder Eric Hill returns to the Virtual Velo Podcast to share an announcement that he believes could reshape the future of cycling esports. From leading the top American UCI Continental team to empowering veterans through sport, Eric has built a movement grounded in purpose and performance. Now, through a new partnership with US…

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Episode 99 - How much sodium should I take before, during, and after exercise? 56:54

2M ago56:54

56:54

There’s been a lack of clear guidelines around how much sodium to take before, during and after exercise, to optimise health and performance. That created a vacuum, which anyone with a vested interest was more than happy to fill with suggestions. But we’re now getting to the stage where we can make some more specific, quantifiable recommendations a…

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#170. Mont Ste Anne Review Show by Crankbrothers. Sven Martin joins the show. 1:19:36

2M ago1:19:36

1:19:36

The 2025 World Cup Downhill racing is here and Sven Martin is my co-host for this episode of Bench Racing. We will cover the season and bring you Review episodes after each race throughout the year. We break down the final round in Mont Ste Anne, Canada. We'll be your go-to source for Downhill World Cup action all season long, bringing you review e…

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Ep. 83: Jacquie Godbe’s Comeback Story — Racing, Recovery, and Redefining Resilience 59:58

2M ago59:58

59:58

The 2025 UCI Cycling Esports World Championship finals are set for Abu Dhabi, and once again, Jacquie Godbe is on the start list—continuing her streak of qualifying for every World Championship since the sport began. The multi-time USA Cycling Esports National Champion, bronze medalist at the 2023 Worlds, and practicing physician returns to The Vir…

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Adapting Your Coaching for Esports Success - Season 7 Ep 14 54:59

2M ago54:59

54:59

Zach Nehr dives deep into the world of cycling esports, unpacking its rapid evolution and what it takes to train and coach athletes for peak performance—indoors and out. Matti and Zach explore Zach’s background of collegiate racing and coaching to the professional road scene, and how the pandemic unexpectedly propelled him into the universe of indo…

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#169. Lake Placid Review Show by Crankbrothers. Wyn Masters joins the show. 1:07:11

2M ago1:07:11

1:07:11

By movingtheneedle

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Episode 98 - Can nutrition reduce my chances of getting sick? 26:02

2M ago26:02

26:02

By Alan McCubbin

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Elite Endurance: The Strength Training for Champions Like Taylor Knibb and Courtney Dauwalter — Season 7 Ep 13 49:44

2M ago49:44

49:44

Erin Carson⁠ explains the role of strength training in optimizing endurance performance, enhancing mobility, and supporting long-term athletic health for all athletes. Dirk and Erin explain why ⁠strength training⁠ isn't just for bodybuilders or football players. It's a critical component for athletes seeking longevity, durability, and peak performa…

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Allen Lim Returns - Founder of Skratch Labs 56:33

2M ago56:33

56:33

Today on the podcast, we're rejoined by Allen Lim - Founder of Skratch Labs. We spoke to Allen about a year ago, and he dropped so much hydration wisdom the first time, we had to invite him back for another hour. This time, David and Allen explore the themes of community, identity, and the complexities of endurance sports. They discuss the importan…

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Arielle Knutson - CEO of Oiselle 55:49

2M ago55:49

55:49

Today on the podcast, we're joined by Arielle Knutson - CEO of Oiselle. Arielle discusses her journey into the running apparel industry, the importance of community in running, and how Oiselle distinguishes itself as a brand by women for women. She shares insights on the emotional connection runners have with their sport, the role of brand identity…

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Darcy Piceu - Ultrarunner and Therapist 1:11:23

2M ago1:11:23

1:11:23

Today on the podcast we're joined by Darcy Piceu - Ultrarunner and therapist. Darcy has a number of high profile race wins under her belt, including three Hardrock 100 wins and several FKTs. In this conversation, David and Darcy explore the parallels between long-distance running and life, emphasizing the importance of mindfulness and enjoying the …

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Ep. 82: The UCI’s Cycling Esports Coordinator, Jacob Fraser, talks World Championships and the Sport’s Future 1:08:40

2M ago1:08:40

1:08:40

In this episode of The Virtual Velo Podcast, host Chris Schwenker is joined once again by Jacob Fraser, the UCI’s Cycling Esports Coordinator, for an in-depth conversation ahead of the 2025 UCI Cycling Esports World Championships. Jacob reflects on last year’s groundbreaking Worlds—the first live final on MyWhoosh—and shares insights into what work…

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#168. US OPEN DH: Preview & Inside Story with Clay Harper 29:34

2M ago29:34

29:34

We’re diving into the 2025 US OPEN of Downhill with none other than Race Organiser and Founder, Clay Harper. Clay takes us inside the vision, the riders to watch, and what makes the US OPEN such a special stop on the calendar. Big names, wild cards, and the future of American downhill—all in one episode.…

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Power, Confidence, and Success: Behind Pro Cycling with Melisa Rollins - Season 7 Ep 12 47:48

2M ago47:48

47:48

Take a deep dive into the evolving tactics of gravel racing, where confidence, preparation, and expert coaching drive athletes to new heights. Professional cyclist, Melisa Rollins, and her coach, Isaiah Newkirk, join host Matti Rowe, Education Specialist, for a look behind the scenes of training and racing tactics in professional gravel and mountai…

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#167. Lenzerheide Review Show by Crankbrothers. Sven Martin joins the show. 1:16:19

2M ago1:16:19

1:16:19

The 2025 World Cup Downhill racing is here and racing Legend Sven Martin is my co-host for this episode of Bench Racing. We will cover the season and bring you Review episodes after each race throughout the year. We break down the 8th round in Lenzerheide,Switzerland. We'll be your go-to source for Downhill World Cup action all season long, bringin…

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Keira D’Amato - Author and Pro Runner 53:01

3M ago53:01

53:01

Today on the podcast we spoke to Keira D’Amato - author of Don't Call It a Comeback. In this conversation, Keira shares her journey as a masters runner, reflecting on her achievements, the importance of community, and the balance between family and running. She discusses her motivation for writing her book, the significance of setting personal goal…

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Ep. 81: Mika Söderström – The 2-time National Road Champ That Identifies as an Esports Racer 47:55

3M ago47:55

47:55

Sweden’s Mika Söderström is a rare cycling talent. A two-time Swedish Road Race Champion and multiple-time Cycling Esports National Champion, she’s one of the only athletes to hold and defend both jerseys simultaneously—yet she still identifies first and foremost as an esports racer. In this episode of The Virtual Velo Podcast, Mika joins hosts E…

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Virtual Crits, Course Recon, and Live Coaching: Redefining Indoor Training - Season 7 Ep 11 1:13:01

3M ago1:13:01

1:13:01

Hear how structured workouts, virtual communities, and game-changing tech combine for authentic, effective winter training — or cycling in general. George Gilbert and Tim Cusick join host Dirk Friel for a look into the shift of virtual training and how purposeful, science-backed structure can help both athletes and coaches make the most of winter (…

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Episode 97 - Are omega-3’s important for athletic performance? 29:54

3M ago29:54

29:54

Fish oil, or omega-3 supplements, are one of the most widely used supplement among the general population. But there's also been suggestions of specific benefits for athletes. So what exactly are omega 3’s? What do they do in the body? What foods and supplements do they come from, and most importantly, do the benefits live up to the marketing hype …

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#166. Champery World Champs Review Show by Crankbrothers. Alan Milway joins the show. 1:06:10

3M ago1:06:10

1:06:10

The 2025 World Cup Downhill racing is here and Wyn Masters is my co-hosts for this episode of Bench Racing. We will cover the season and bring you Review episodes after each race throughout the year. We break down the World Champs held in Champery. We'll be your go-to source for Downhill World Cup action all season long, bringing you review episode…

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Scott Johnston's Winning Formula for Ruth Croft and Tom Evans at UTMB — Season 7 Ep 10 35:06

3M ago35:06

35:06

Scott Johnston, fresh off coaching both the men's and women's winners of UTMB in the same year, shares his coaching philosophy with Dirk Friel. Scott emphasizes the value of consistent, disciplined training rooted in tried-and-true principles. Not through flashy shortcuts, just a thoughtful blend of science, individualized pacing, and real-world ad…

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#165. Les Gets Review Show by Crankbrothers. Wyn Masters joins the show. 1:00:28

3M ago1:00:28

1:00:28

The 2025 World Cup Downhill racing is here and Wyn Masters is my co-hosts for this episode of Bench Racing. We will cover the season and bring you Review episodes after each race throughout the year. We break down the 7th round in Les Gets. We'll be your go-to source for Downhill World Cup action all season long, bringing you review episodes after …

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Ep. 80: From indieVelo to TrainingPeaks Virtual – A conversation with Dr. George Gilbert about philosophy, phase one, new features, and the future 52:56

3M ago52:56

52:56

In this episode of The Virtual Velo Podcast, join hosts Emma Martin and Chris Schwenker as they welcome back Dr. George Gilbert for his fifth appearance. In this episode, Dr. Gilbert, now the Vice President of Virtual Platforms at TrainingPeaks, offers an exclusive look at the rapid evolution of the platform since its acquisition and transition to …

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#164.John Lawlor: Capturing MTB History – Racer, Filmmaker & Making of Emerald Storm 1:23:41

3M ago1:23:41

1:23:41

In this episode, Andrew sits down with John Lawlor – former World Cup downhill racer turned acclaimed MTB filmmaker. From racing at the highest level to documenting Ireland’s incredible rise in downhill through his new film Emerald Storm, John shares unique insights into life on both sides of the tape. The conversation dives into what it takes to c…

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Building TrainingPeaks 1:45:59

4M ago1:45:59

1:45:59

In 1999, Joe Friel was drowning in faxes. The legendary cycling coach, later author of The Cyclist’s Training Bible, had 72 clients sending training data every Monday. His desk was buried under paper. His son Dirk, then racing in Belgium, figured there had to be a better way. Over beers at The George in Vail, Dirk convinced his best man—and the onl…

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Episode 96 - How should I use the new TrainingPeaks carbohydrate and fat calorie metrics? 32:15

4M ago32:15

32:15

TrainingPeaks just launched a new set of data fields that promise to give insights into carbohydrate and fat use during exercise - even predicted amounts for planned sessions if enough data is provided. So where did this come from? What is it telling us? How should I use this information? And is it unique, or are there other ways to achieve the sam…

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Ep. 79: Cycling Canada National Esports Champion Tiffany Penner 32:35

4M ago32:35

32:35

Power, process, and the pursuit of a World Title. In this episode of The Virtual Velo Podcast, Cycling Canada National Esports Champion Tiffany Penner joins co-hosts Emma Martin and Chris Schwenker for a wide-ranging conversation about her journey in cycling esports—from her early days in sport to lining up in Abu Dhabi for the 2024 UCI World Champ…

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#163. Dr. Jason Richardson: Sport Psychology Lessons for Riding, Business & Life (and More) 2:07:20

4M ago2:07:20

2:07:20

In this deep, wide-ranging conversation, Andrew sits down once again with Dr. Jason Richardson — former BMX world champion turned sport psychologist — to explore the mental side of high performance. They unpack what it really takes to manage fear, handle burnout, and find purpose beyond the race tape. From reframing anxiety into fuel, to building r…

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Fueling Insights Explained: Iñigo San-Millán on Optimizing Carbohydrate Intake for Cyclists — Season 7 Ep 9 59:42

4M ago59:42

59:42

You're not seeing things. CoachCast has been renamed Endurance Unlimited. Stay tuned for more great episodes and more. Now, on to this episode... Dr. Iñigo San-Millán explains the science and strategy behind optimal cycling nutrition. Learn how TrainingPeaks' new Fueling Insights feature leverages decades of his metabolic research data to help athl…

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Episode 95 - Is there an optimal drink mix composition? 36:44

4M ago36:44

36:44

If you’ve ridden a bike or run more than an hour or so in your life, you’ve probably considered the composition of what you’re drinking during those efforts. But what actually makes a good sports drink? Is it taste, carbs, electrolytes, osmolality, colouring, or all of the above? And is there actually an optimal drink mix that we should be looking …