The TriDoc Podcast, triathlon and health in one place

In this episode:
In this episode, we wade into the practical aspects of athletic performance, specifically the topic of omega-3 fatty acids. In our Medical Mailbag segment, we tackle a listener’s question about whether these fishy supplements really live up to their hype in enhancing athletic performance. While there's no denying that omega-3s have some health benefits, the evidence supporting their role in boosting performance is about as clear as muddy water. We dissect several studies, ranging from positive correlations in recovery to the reality that many athletes reported no significant performance improvements. So, are omega-3s worth adding to your regimen? We'll navigate through the scientific murkiness and help you decide whether to dive in or stay on dry land. Finally, we wrap up with a candid conversation about the challenges many face in the triathlon community, particularly around the notion of 'selfishness' when it comes to training. Mari Wuellner brings a refreshing perspective, encouraging women to embrace their right to prioritize their own health and fitness without the shackles of societal expectations. It’s a powerful reminder that taking time for oneself doesn’t mean neglecting others; in fact, it can lead to being a better partner, parent, and friend. We discuss practical strategies for setting boundaries and communicating needs effectively, especially in a world that often pressures women to be everything for everyone. This episode isn’t just about triathlon; it’s about empowering each other to pursue our passions unapologetically.
Segments:
[9:25]- Medical Mailbag: Omega 3's
[44:43]- Interview: Mari Wuellner
Links
@mariwuellner on Instagram
Mari's Website

In this episode:
In the medical mailbag for this episode, Jeff and Juliet tackle a topic that’s been buzzing in the triathlon community: low-carb fueling strategies. Jeff navigates the murky waters of nutritional science, pointing out the absurdity of some claims while also acknowledging the success of those who swear by a low-carb diet. The discussion is peppered with anecdotes and real-world examples that make the science feel less like a lecture and more like a chat over coffee. They break down a recent paper that has people questioning everything they knew about endurance fueling, concluding that while low-carb may work for some, it’s hardly a one-size-fits-all solution—especially for those of us who just want to finish a race and maybe grab a burger afterward. The podcast is a reminder that while we train hard for our goals, life happens, and it’s okay to take a moment to acknowledge that. Then, the Ironman Texas race is shaping up to be an absolute circus of talent, and if you thought picking a winner was hard before, well, good luck now! With a field so stacked it could topple over, we’re talking about defending champs, world champions, and a slew of hungry up-and-comers all vying for glory. You’ve got names like Kristia Blumenfeldt, Patrick Lange, and the legendary Lionel Sanders, but don’t sleep on the newcomers like 70.3 world champ Jelle Gens—who’s making his Ironman debut, by the way. And what about the women with Knibb, Matthews, Lovsig and many more? So, grab your popcorn, because we’re diving deep into the who's who of triathlon and making some predictions that are probably going to be hilariously wrong. Segments:
[9:05]- Medical Mailbag: Low Carb Diet
[39:47]- Interview: Matt Sharpe
Links
@mdshrp on X@mdsharpe1 on Instagram

In this episode:
This episode of the TRIDOC podcast is a delightful mix of triathlon talk, heartfelt farewells, and the ever-relatable struggle of balancing family life with athletic pursuits. Jeff, the host, kicks things off with some cheeky banter about his current location – a beachside paradise in Belize – while simultaneously reminding us that he’s recording from Denver, where the sun is always shining brightly. He quickly transitions into race season excitement, teasing listeners about the upcoming Oceanside 70.3 and all the fierce competition that awaits. But the real gem of this episode is Nina, the intern who’s been a vital part of the team and is now moving on to the next big chapter in her life. Jeff and Nina share a moment, reflecting on her journey and the experiences she’s gained while working on the podcast. It’s a touching tribute that reminds us all how important it is to acknowledge those who lift us up on our journeys. The episode also delves into the emotional rollercoaster that comes with training and competing, especially when family is involved. Jeff’s candid admission about prioritizing family over podium finishes hits home, reminding us that life is about more than just medals. It’s about finding balance, having fun, and ultimately, enjoying the ride. So whether you’re a seasoned triathlete or just someone trying to figure out how to juggle life’s demands, this episode is a must-listen!
Segments:
[8:03]- Medical Mailbag: Breath work + VO2 max
[35:45]- Interview: Nina Takashima
Links

In this episode:
In a lighter segment, the show takes a detour into the whimsical side of triathlon training, with a humorous look at sauna use among athletes. The hosts joke about the absurdities of heat acclimation protocols, like sweating it out in a sauna to prepare for hot races. They dive into the science behind sauna use, discussing its benefits for recovery and performance enhancement. While the conversation is peppered with sarcasm and playful banter, there’s also a genuine exploration of how athletes can safely incorporate sauna sessions into their training routines without pushing themselves to dangerous extremes. The hosts reflect on personal experiences with sauna use, sharing tips and tricks while keeping the tone light and engaging. This segment balances the serious discussions with humor, making the technical aspects of triathlon training more accessible and entertaining for listeners, reminding everyone that even serious athletes can have a good laugh about the quirks of their sport. The episode also features a lively discussion about the new 20-meter draft rule in triathlons, which has sparked quite the debate among competitors. Matt reflects on his recent podium finish at Ironman New Zealand and how the new drafting regulations played a role in the race dynamics. He notes that the 20-meter rule changes the game significantly, especially for strong cyclists and those who typically gain advantage from drafting. He provides insight into how the rule might impact race strategies and outcomes, especially in larger fields. As they discuss the upcoming races, including Ironman Texas, there’s an undercurrent of excitement about how these changes will unfold in real-time competition, making predictions about future races feel like throwing darts in the dark. Matt’s perspective as both a competitor and a coach adds depth to the conversation, highlighting how athletes must adapt to ever-evolving race conditions and rules.
Segments:
[7:41]- Medical Mailbag: Saunas
[32:19]- Interview: Matt Hansen
Links
@matthansontri on InstagramMatt on YouTube

In this episode:
Diving into the depths of psychological performance in sports, this episode of the TriDoc Podcast features an engaging discussion between host Jeff Sankoff and psychologist Dr. Jim Taylor. They explore the concept of mastering adversity as a way to enhance athletic performance, particularly in triathlons. The conversation kicks off with a humorous nod to Jeff's raspy voice, a remnant of his recent battle with a respiratory infection, which he cleverly ties into the theme of overcoming challenges. Dr. Taylor shares invaluable insights on resilience, emphasizing that the mental tools athletes develop through life experiences can be incredibly beneficial when facing adversity in sports. They discuss how athletes can prepare mentally for various scenarios during races, highlighting the importance of rehearsing potential challenges in advance. As they delve deeper, they touch upon the five attitudes that can hinder performance, including over-investment, perfectionism, fear of failure, preoccupation with results, and excessive expectations. By shedding light on these psychological barriers, Jeff and Dr. Taylor provide listeners with practical strategies to combat them, encouraging a mindset that prioritizes enjoyment and personal progress over rigid expectations and outcomes. This episode is a treasure trove for athletes looking to enhance their mental game while navigating the thrilling yet intimidating world of triathlons. The Medical Mailbag will be exploring the risk of swimming induced pulmonary edema in triathletes, and will investigate the data from studies done in Sweden to educate the audience on the risks and ways of ceasing the progression of pulmonary edema.
Segments:
[4:51]- Medical Mailbag: SIPE
[36:13]- Interview: Dr. Jim Taylor
Links
Dr. Jim's Facebook page
@drjimtaylor on Instagram@drjimtaylor on XDr. Jim on YouTube