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The Philosophy of Getting Started

2013 April 23
Does your early season triathlon training resemble this?  If so, this episode is for you!

In this episode I talk with a very special triathlete about how to get motivated to begin training for your triathlon season if for some reason you’re stuck in the mud and/or have no clue where to begin.  Using a framework for goal setting provided by Michael Hyatt this triathlete and I go over the philosophy behind getting started and discuss some practical ‘how-to.”  I also go over the ins and outs of my expensive training day masquerading as an Ironman 70.3.  Enjoy!

Ode to Boston and Getting a Grip

2013 April 17

This episode is partly an ode to Boston and to marathoners everywhere.  The show also features an interview aired on our sister podcast wherein 6x Ironman World Champion Mark Allen talks about what makes an athlete healthy.  Jon also goes over one of God’s gifts to the endurance athlete (hint: it grows in the ground).  Enjoy the episode!

The Sins of the Age Grouper

2013 April 12
by Garden Tri

In this episode we have a first, an ordained minister is on the show.  In addition to being a man of God, Father Mark Hagan is also a health care professional and an age-group triathlete and we discuss how the pharmacy can help or hurt the triathlete and why us triathletes are so hell bent (pun intended) on doing damage to ourselves.  I also go over why going slow will make you go faster and I answer a VERY important piece of listener email.  Enjoy!  (Its good to be back!)

There’s Running, There’s Ultra Running and then there’s Nikki Kimball.

2013 March 9
by Garden Tri

In case you’re not following the Fit Fat Fast Podcast you missed this great interview with ultraunner Nikki Kimball who talks about being one of the nation’s premier long distance runners, we talk what Western States means to the running community and what it was like for her to tackle running Vermont’s Long Trail, all 273 miles of it, in 4 days!

No sir, I’m not a Kenyan. I’m just a Triathlete.

2013 March 8
by Garden Tri

Well howdy! It’s been a while, but I’m back.  After working furiously on the Fit, Fat, Fast! Podcast this show is finally getting a little love again.  In today’s show I go over why there hasn’t been an episode in 6 weeks and tackle a LOT of listener mail, including once from a listener that allows me to explain my change of dietary direction and why that’s a good thing for my athletic performance.  I also talk about training foods, why energy bars aren’t great and why I’ve kicked the smoothie habit. Enjoy!

Cutting Sugar and Starting from Square One

2013 January 17

In this episode Debbie and Jon talk What to Eat, Training Peaks, Intermittent Fasting, Cutting Sugar and Sleep.  They also answer several pieces of listener mail including a very personal communication by a person in real need of a physical change.  The advice they give is pretty important and can probably help a lot more than just the person they’re answering.

@CaratunkGirl Gives up Sugar, also Paradigm Changes

2013 January 4
by Garden Tri

In this episode I talk with Mandy, aka @caratunkgirl on Twitter, about her journey from a standard carb based Ironman triathlete to fat adaptation and how eliminating sugars and grains from her diet has helped her become a better athlete.  I also answer some listener mail, but perhaps most important is I discuss a new direction the podcast is taking.  Enjoy!

The Basics of Metabolic Efficiency with Ben Greenfield

2012 December 28

In this episode Debbie and Jon wax poetic about the amazing benefits of fat adaptation and why desserts suck.  Joining them is Ben Greenfield, human health and performance sage, who talks about his move to metabolic efficiency and using fat as fuel.  Ben goes into a TON of great information including the way to get started correctly.  Also, Jon makes a reveal on a very exciting bit of news.  Enjoy and Happy New Year!

Vinnie Tortorich and Fat Fueling for Endurance

2012 December 19

In our continuing off-season series of Fat Adaptation, Vinnie Tortorich, the King of Fitness, joins me to talk about the benefits of health and exercise in a ketogenic state and how to fine tune your body to burn fat as fuel.  We talk weight loss, how it happens and how to accelerate it.  We also talk about how fat adaptation translates to training foods.  Enjoy!

Carb Free Athlete

2012 December 14
by Garden Tri

It’s a GVT first, our first episode with a co-host! Debbie Potts and I continue down the path of fat adaptation and why carbs could possibly be the endurance athlete’s enemy.  We’re just kicking over the fat adapted ant pile here, tons of great info in this show. . .  and its just the beginning!

Fat, Fat and More Fat

2012 December 6
by Garden Tri

Is the human body capable of producing limitless energy? Maybe. Its time to start talking fat adaptation, how it works and how it affects the endurance athlete. Also, I air my the interview I had with Vinnie Tortorich on The World’s Angriest Trainer Podcast. Enjoy!

Talking with a Garden Variety Triathlete

2012 November 20
by Garden Tri

On the horn with me in this episode is Mark Rogers, a prototypical Garden Variety Triathlete. Join me as I talk to mark about his journey from a 235 pound collegiate Linebacker drinking a gallon of milk a day to a blazing fast, lean plant based triathlete. Also, I go over (a little too in depth) one of the most common injuries runners endure.

Be a Pigg! (Repost)

2012 November 1
by Garden Tri

Lets talk to a legend of the sport, Mike Pigg, who talks about basic training, the importance of determination and what’s really important in triathlon training. It’s a fantastic interview with one of the true legends of the sport. I also talk about my take on the Lance Armstrong issue and I reveal a MAJOR dietary change I have made for triathlon training. Enjoy!

Kona Age Group Experience and Post Race Blues

2012 October 19
by Garden Tri

Lets talk to Debbie Potts from the Big Island of Kona mere hours before she competes in Ironman Kona.  We talk about the Age Grouper experience at the biggest race in the world, we talk metabolic racing and much more.  I also lead off the show by talking about the post race blues.  Enjoy!

Bart Yasso and The Gut

2012 October 2
by Garden Tri

Bart Yasso and the Gut – no, the two are totally unrelated, but we do have an interview with The Mayor of Running, Mr. Bart Yasso himself who talks about his 800′s workout and what makes running so great. I also talk about one of the least sexy, but most important things in human health: The gut. Finally, I go over 5 beverages that under NO CIRCUMSTANCE should you put in your body.

Minimal Running and Too Much Health

2012 September 25
by Garden Tri

Lets talk minimalist running shoes and the need for form, lets talk Yasso 800′s and lets talk about the dangers of shoving your head too far up your (***) by being “Too healthy”

Honesty and Ironman

2012 September 5
by Garden Tri

Finally, Its Episode 50 and the Good, the Bad and the Ugly of Ironman Louisville. We take a road trip and I talk ad nauseam about the importance of being brutally honest with an Ironman triathlon. I wrap the show up with a brief tribute to a very special individual.

Enjoy!

The $217 Taper

2012 August 23
by Garden Tri

Lets talk taper with Coach Patrick McCrann from Team Endurance Nation.  Its Ironman Louisville week and we go over all things taper, including how my coffee taper cost me $217.  I also answer some listener mail and talk a lot about nutrition.  We wrap up with me after a particularly scorching day on the bike.

Enjoy!

A Picture Says 1,000 Words

2012 August 15
by Garden Tri

Joining me today is action sports/triathlon photographer Rich Cruse who talks with me about the history of the triathlon, where its going and how it looks through the lens of a camera. He also talks about what it was like to shoot some of the watershed moments of our sport. I also talk Olympics, what success looks like and why ANY success is a good thing. Finally, we are joined by @nolalori who gives us an update on what the transition to triathlon is all about.

Enjoy!

Pacing, Race Nutrition and Happy Endings

2012 July 27
by Garden Tri

This episode features an interview with Jesse Kropelnicki, founder of The Core Diet and QT2 Triathlon Systems where we talk about race nutrition, training nutrition and we discuss the most common mistakes triathletes make when it comes to putting stuff in their mouths. I also talk pacing and I leave the show with a very happy ending: My After!

Enjoy!

The Sprint – So You Want to be a Vegan

2012 July 24
by Garden Tri

So, you want to be a vegan? Well, there is about to be a new podcast to show you how.

Not Got Chocolate Milk, Wal-Mart and Heat

2012 July 17
by Garden Tri

In this episode I talk more about why eating calories is a good thing during training. I also talk heat, I take Chocolate Milk to task and I make a whole hearted recommendation for a company everything in my nature tells me to despise. Enjoy!

Radical Changes and Building Speed

2012 June 29
by Garden Tri

I discuss how I’ve made a radical change for the better with regards to race nutrition and training nutrition and how the ADDITION of a LOT of calories to my training diet is slimming me down and enhancing my performance. The trick? Eating the right things at the right times. I also unveil maybe the biggest piece of triathlon news that has happened to me in the last 12 years! Enjoy!

Hills and Heatwaves

2012 June 15
by Garden Tri

Lets talk PR’s!  Just recently I PR’ed a swim shortened Olympic distance triathlon and I talk about how I did it and what went into it.  We also talk about how to climb hills and why patience might be the most important part of hill climbing. We also tackle a big pile of listener mail and I announce a giveaway for my new favorite energy bar.  Enjoy!

Win a FREE box of Rise Energy+ Bars

2012 June 15
by Garden Tri

As I have made it known over the last several episodes I have a new favorite energy bar and it’s the Rise Energy + bar. There are 5 flavors of the Energy + bar, each is an all natural, organic, plant based, GMO free bar made with super fruits, nuts and other natural ingredients and . . . most important for an endurance athlete in the summer . . . a little bit of sea salt. Each bar is full of fiber and antioxidants, they are VERY easy on the stomach and they deliver energy almost immediately.

Anyway, I’ve become such a fan of these bars that I’ve been trying to get the owner of the company on the show, but we can’t seem to coordinate schedules. However, the fine folks at Rise have offered to give listeners and fans of the Garden Variety Triathlon a chance to win a free box of Energy+bars. There are two ways to win a box of the bars, here’s what you need to do:

  • Go to our Facebook page, become a fan of GVT and make a post on our page mentioning Rise Bar. You can just say hello, you can talk about what you like from an energy bar…anything you desire.
  • Or, you can go on Twitter and mention @gardentri and @risebar in a tweet. Again, the content of the tweet is up to you.

We will be picking a winner at random each from Facebook and Twitter, giving away two boxes of Rise Bar Engery+ in total.

For more information about Rise Bar visit them online at www.risebar.com.

 

(Oh, and vegan triathletes who are fans of the show, the Rise Protien+ bars use Whey Protein Isolate, heads up on that one.)

Racing, Power and New Podcasts

2012 June 1
by Garden Tri

Debbie Potts joins me from the land of Don Ho, pineapples and world famous triathlons. Debbie perches herself under a palm tree on the beach in Kona and we talk about race preparation, race fueling and how to get yourself ready for race day. We are also joined by Mark Allen Online co-founder Luis Vargas who talks about the role of power vs. heart rate in training. It’s a ton of incredibly useful information. Enjoy!

Listen Now

(or right click and select “Save Link As” to download)

(Link to the show on iTunes)

 

Don’t forget, the Garden Variety Triathlon is sponsored in part by Flo Cycling!

Ironman Finishes and $4 Vegan Eats

2012 May 28
by Garden Tri

What an amazing day and I capture the sounds of catching finishers of Ironman Texas, and you’re right there with me! Before that,  joining me is Ellen Jaffe Jones, author of Eat Vegan on $4 per day.  I also give a review of Rich Roll’s new book Finding Ultra and I give thanks to a great restaurant.  Enjoy!

Listen Now

(or right click and select “Save Link As” to download)

(Link to the show on iTunes)

 

Don’t forget, the Garden Variety Triathlon is sponsored in part by Flo Cycling!

The Sprint – So, you bought a Vitamix?

2012 May 17
by Garden Tri

So, you bought yourself a Vitamix.  Super.  Now what are you supposed to do with it?  Well, I’ll tell you how to get started.

Raw: Rhymin & Stealin

2012 May 12
by Garden Tri

Its all about food today, raw food that is.  Joining me today is Laura-Jane, the Rawtarian, and we talk about how raw foods can make a diet healthy, how a triathlete can benefit from raw foods and much, much more about all things raw.  I also have a race report and a few lessons learned from it and I talk about an activity I absolutely hate.  Tons of nutritional information on today’s show kids, enjoy!

Listen Now

(or right click and select “Save Link As” to download)

(Link to the show on iTunes)

 

Don’t forget, the Garden Variety Triathlon is sponsored in part by Flo Cycling!

Core, Running, VDots and Bad Food

2012 May 4
by Garden Tri

Back on the show is the inimitable Debbie Potts who joins me to talk all about what exactly comprises a proper core workout, how to use your core to become a better runner and the therapeutic benefits of foam rollers.  I go over VDot, a very powerful running metric you need to understand if getting faster on the run is a goal of yours and I talk about 7 foods you should absolutely avoid.  Enjoy the show.

Listen Now

(or right click and select “Save Link As” to download)

(Link to the show on iTunes)

 

Don’t forget, the Garden Variety Triathlon is sponsored in part by Flo Cycling!

Rinny, Racing a 70.3 and Ice Baths

2012 April 26
by Garden Tri

Today’s episode features Rinny, Racing a 70.3 and Ice Baths. read more…

The Mail Bag and Sweet Dreams

2012 April 13
by Garden Tri

In this episode I tackle a pile of listener mail and answer questions on nutrition, supplements, bike fit and much, much more. I also discuss how to track and measure a KEY component of triathlon training.

Team Works and Taking a Spill

2012 April 7
by Garden Tri

Meet two of my new triathlon teammates as we talk about why we decided to join a team, what the benefits of the team are and how we think it will help our triathlon performance. read more…

TRX and Happy Technology

2012 March 16
by Garden Tri

In this episode I’m joined by coach, personal trainer, TRX guru and Ironman triathlete Debbie Potts who talks to me about the importance of rounding out your training with strength, agility and balance exercises. This is one of those interviews that seems like it could last forever! I’m also joined by Karl Hayes, founder of www.trizone.com.au, to talk to me about the huge news down under regarding the WTC taking over one of Australia’s most exciting new races and turning it into an Ironman and what that means to the Aussie triathlon scene. It’s a great episode, enjoy!

The New World of Race Wheels

2012 March 9
by Garden Tri

Is the world of race wheels about to get turned on its ear? Joining me are the creators of Flo Cycling, a company devoted solely to the production of high quality, technologically advanced race wheels . . . at a 1/3 of the price of standard race wheels. Also, I go off on the deep end about what triathlon means and I answer a question about why and how to count calories.

Enjoy!

No Excuses with Rich Roll

2012 March 1
by Garden Tri

Lets talk about why you should have no excuses when it comes to training for Triathlon and to help me talk to you about that is Vegan Ultra-Triathlete Rich Roll.  Also,  I also go over a GREAT tip I picked up from Team Endurance Nation about how to monitor your weight if indeed losing weight is a goal AND I make no bones about my feelings for an American Institution.

It’s a great episode, enjoy!.

Listen Now

(or right click and select “Save Link As” to download)

(Link to the show on iTunes)

The 10 Commandments of Eating

2012 February 26
by Garden Tri

Recently on Twitter I tweeted that on my family vacation at Disney I had broken at least 4 of The 10 Commandments of my dining mores. @halfcrazyrunner replied back that she’d like to see that list. Now, I had never really written down what I think the 10 commandments of eating were, however her tweet back to me got me to thinking about what they might be. After thinking about it for a while I wrote down what the 10 most important rules I think are when it comes to feeding your body.

Let me know what you think. read more…

The Sprint – Iron Wars and Energy Vacuums

2012 February 24
by Garden Tri

Welcome to The Sprint, a Garden Variety Triathlon Podcast Short. The Sprint is home for all clips, interviews and other recordings that just never seemed to be able to make onto full episodes. In this episode of The Sprint I review Matt Fitzgerald’s amazing book “Iron War” and I talk about a very valuable lesson I learned from it.

Listen Now

(or right click and select “Save Link As” to download)

(Link to the show on iTunes)

My New Coach

2012 February 18
tags:
by Garden Tri

In this episode I introduce you to one of my new coaches as I train for Ironman Louisville later this year. I also talk about Winter priorities and introduce you to the Mail Bag. Finally, I give you a talk about how and why to kick out something that many, many people think is a healthy part of their kitchen.

Listen Now

(or right click and select “Save Link As” to download)

(Link to the show on iTunes)

A Bad Ass Vegan Meal

2012 February 15
by Garden Tri

 

Here’s a nice vegan meal I made last night for Valentine’s dinner that was so good I’d have paid money to eat it in a restaurant. It’s mostly raw, gluten free, free of any bad oils, full of protein and greens and all sorts of other stuff that’s outrageously great for you. The part that is cooked is done so at a temperature low enough to keep most of the vitamins and minerals intact in the food. And, despite the lengthy ingredient list this dish is embarrassingly easy to make.
Enjoy!

 

Black Bean “Sliders” with Tomato Coulis and Zucchini “Linguini” with Sweet and Spicy Mango Sauce*.

read more…

The Sprint – Taking a Chunk out of Sugar

2012 February 7
by Garden Tri

Welcome to The Sprint, a Garden Variety Triathlon Podcast Short. The Sprint is home for all clips, interviews and other recordings that just never seemed to be able to make onto full episodes. In this episode of The Sprint (actually the last Sprint for a while) I talk about the easiest way to eliminate a HUGE chunk of sugar from your diet.

Listen Now

(or right click and select “Save Link As” to download)

(Link to the show on iTunes)

Fuel Redux

2012 January 26
by Garden Tri

This is a re-airing of an interview I did last year with Hammer Nutrition’s Fueling Guru Steve Born.  Lots of people have said they had difficulty getting that episode. I had published it originally using different software and here it is repackaged in a different format.  Also, I let the cat out of the bag about Ironman Louisville as I tinker with my new podcast recording set up.

Listen Now

(or right click and select “Save Link As” to download)

(Link to the show on iTunes)

The Sprint – Why Buy Organics?

2012 January 21
by Garden Tri

Welcome to The Sprint, a Garden Variety Triathlon Podcast Short. The Sprint is home for all clips, interviews and other recordings that just never seemed to be able to make onto full episode. In this episode of The Sprint I talk about why it is essential to buy Organics and I give a sneak preview of things to come.

Listen Now

(or right click and select “Save Link As” to download)

(Link to the show on iTunes)

Long Runs, Fixed Gears and Counting Sugar

2012 January 12
by Garden Tri

Join me as I bike to work on my brand new fixie and I talk about eating plants and podcasts. I’m joined on this episode by Coach Patrick McCrann from Team Endurance Nation and we talk all about Marathon Pacing and the single biggest mistake marathoners make. Also, I talk about the importance of knowing whats in your kitchen.

Listen Now

(or right click and select “Save Link As” to download)

(Link to the show on iTunes)

The Dreaded Gym

2012 January 6
tags:
by Garden Tri

I received this via email from a friend this morning. It’s about how to get back into the gym and its pretty damned accurate20120106-095154.jpg read more…

Ironman Priorites

2012 January 5
by Garden Tri

Found an email to a buddy that I sent a few months ago, it had my top 10 Ironman Prioirites.  Looking back, I think it was pretty accurate at the time, but now its time to move #10 up the ladder:

My top 10 Ironman concerns in order of importance: read more…

Resolution against an old foe!

2011 December 31
by Garden Tri

Lets talk about goals and new year’s resolutions and what defines them.  Is your goal SMART? I’ll tell you if it is.  Also, I am joined by author Matt Fitzgerald to discuss optimal racing weight.  I wrap up by laying out my 2012 New Year’s resolution and its an ambitious one for sure.  Can I do it?  Have a happy New Year and enjoy the show!

Listen Now

(or right click and select “Save Link As” to download)

(Link to the show on iTunes)

Call Me!

2011 December 16
by Garden Tri

The Garden Variety Triathlon now has a voice mail line.  You can call and leave a message, question or comment and I’ll get to them on the show.  Whatever is on your mind, just call and spill it.

The number is 614-GARD-TRI, or 614-427-3874

Hope to hear from you!

Strength Running

2011 December 12
by Garden Tri

Lets explore the relationship between strength and running.  To help explore how hitting the weight rack can help you be a better runner is Jason Fitzgerald, running coach and blogger at Strength Running.  We talk about exercise, strength philosophy and footwear.  I also talk about what I think minimalist running truly is and we hear a clip from one of the foremost experts on minimalist running.  Enjoy!

Listen Now

(or right click and select “Save Link As” to download)

(Link to the show on iTunes)

The Post Ironman Detox

2011 December 2
by Garden Tri

Ironman is over, it’s time to pack everything away and flush out the system. Join me as I go through a juice fast. Fun times indeed. Also, I pose a question: how do you translate short speed to the long course!”

Listen Now

(or right click and select “Save Link As” to download)

(Link to the show on iTunes)

Racing Your First Ironman

2011 November 11
by Garden Tri

In this episode I give a recap of my day at Ironman Florida.  It was a day that thankfully included crossing the finish line with a smile on my face, a feat I owe virtually entirely to the energy given to me by plant based nutrition.  Consider this podcast part Ironman Florida race recap and part a primer on “How to Race Your First Ironman.”

Listen Now

(or right click and select “Save Link As” to download)

(Link to the show on iTunes)

 

Ironman Florida: The Prelude

2011 November 2
by Garden Tri

Well, here we go, its Ironman Week! Time to wrap up months and months of hard work and take my talents to South Beach, errr Panama City Beach. In this episode I have 4 fantastic interviews. The first is with Matt Frazier of No Meat Athlete about how he became the bellcow (no pun intended) for taking Pinole from the pages of Born to Run and turning this simple but amazing fuel source into a cookbook. Then I we talk to my buddy Leo who overcame a significant health scare one night, turned his health 180 degrees and crossed the finish line of an Ironman. Following Leo I talk with @trijon on the Twitter about his excitement leading up to this first Ironman and how training on a plant based diet has helped him. Finally, I am joined by the lovely, talented, gracious, charming @lsmith70124 who talks about being the spouse of an Ironman, what that means to your training. Its a jam packed episode, enjoy!

Listen Now

(or right click and select “Save Link As” to download)

(Link to the show on iTunes)

 

The Sprint – The “other” kind of Iron, man.

2011 October 24
by Garden Tri

Welcome to The Sprint, a Garden Variety Triathlon Podcast Short. The Sprint is home for all clips, interviews and other recordings that just never seemed to be able to make onto full episode. Todays Sprint is all about how to get enough iron in your diet, why it is important and – most important – why you dont need to eat meat to get it.

Listen Now

(or right click and select “Save Link As” to download)

(Link to the show on iTunes)

 

 

 

The Final Countdown

2011 October 18
by Garden Tri

Lets talk taper, the “hay is in the barn” and its time to wind down 6 months of Ironman training.  In this episode I talk about my thoughts on the importance of the taper and I enlist the help of two other great podcasts to give insight into taper.  I also go off triathlon topic and talk to Marc the Bike Geek about a very harrowing (read: near fatal) mountaineering expedition he recently had in the Himalayas, one in which he drew on the strength of triathlon training to get through.

Listen Now

(or right click and select “Save Link As” to download)

(Link to the show on iTunes)

Links:

Team Endurance Nation Podcast

Runcast

The pictures Marc talks about from his expedition

 

 

 

Soy, plus fuel a 100 mile day!

2011 October 4
by Garden Tri

(This is a repost, the original posting had a link to an old podcast, if you still have the original post of this episode delete it, this is the one with Episode 24) This episode tackles the topic of soy. Regardless of whether you eat meat or you are a staunch veg head, theres a better chance than not that soy is finding its way into your diet and I discuss the pros and cons of soy. I also bring in diet and fitness expert Ben Greenfield, host of his eponymous podcast, to talk about the role of soy and the athlete. Then I take you on a 100 mile training day with me fueled virtually solely by water and pinole. I give a huge shout out to Matt Frazier at NoMeatAthlete for his pinole research. Its another information packed episode so sit back and enjoy the ride!

Listen Now

(or right click and select “Save Link As” to download)

(Link to the show on iTunes)

 


The Sprint – Forks over Knives

2011 September 28
by Garden Tri

Welcome to The Sprint, a Garden Variety Triathlon Podcast Short. The Sprint is home for all clips, interviews and other recordings that just never seemed to be able to make onto full episode. Today’s Sprint is a review of the movie Forks over Knives.  I get off topic just a bit, but its still some good info, hope you enjoy!

Listen Now

(or right click and select “Save Link As” to download)

(Link to the show on iTunes)

 


Ironman Florida Bike Course

2011 September 23
by Garden Tri

Join me from start to finish as I ride the Ironman Florida bike course. Its a long day (but not a long podcast) and you join me heading to the ride, catch some vignettes on the bike (the headwind I had for 90+ miles made it too windy to record on the bike). I get out on a post ride run and then wrap up with my thoughts on the day, thoughts on the course and thoughts about how to become a better athlete by being better prepared. Caution: this is unedited raw audio, there is some savory language so if you are offended easily….why are you in triathlon in the first place?

Listen Now

(or right click and select “Save Link As” to download)

(Link to the show on iTunes)

 


Ironman Florida Bike Course Recap

2011 September 23
by Garden Tri

So I rode the Ironman Bike Course last week and the following was a course recap I sent to my training buddies.  Actually there was one road I didn’t go down fully so I only went about 108 miles, nevertheless I basically rode the whole course. The course has changed from the old pancake flat double loop course and the route was a LOT more challenging than I had anticipated. If you’re not familiar with the course you might enjoy the recap I gave them.

read more…

Bike Fitness and some Gross Anatomy

2011 September 18
by Garden Tri

I talk about bike fitness, new products from the Vega Corporation, I give a really interesting wetsuit tip AND I dissect the anatomy of one of the USA’s most popular food item.

Listen Now

(or right click and select “Save Link As” to download)
(Link to the show on iTunes)

 


Morphine, Protein and Triathlon Podcasts

2011 September 2
by Garden Tri

Labor Day Weekend episode where I give the low down on protein supplementation, I talk about Ironman strategy, run down some of my favorite podcasts and I ask the question: Are there too many Ironman 70.3′s?  Enjoy!

Listen Now

(or right click and select “Save Link As” to download)
(Link to the show on iTunes)

 


Bob Babbitt’s Ironman, Sugar and Getting Naked

2011 August 25
by Garden Tri

Interview with Competitor Radio’s Bob Babbitt about Ironman: where it was, how far its come and where its going. Bob gives a GREAT glimpse into the growth of an amazing event.  I also talk about sugar and the triathlete, I give an “almost naked” review of tri gear…and more!

Listen Now

(or right click and select “Save Link As” to download)
(Link to the show on iTunes)

 


Aging Triathletes, Bike Wear and Being Awesome

2011 August 17
by Garden Tri

Back after a brief break, I go over the ‘perils’ of aging as a triathlete, Marc the Bike Geek and I discuss the ins and outs of triathlon and bike apparel and I give you a glimpse inside the rise and fall and rise again of a summer meltdown.  I rail against Newt… a specific running shoe and talk about the importance of sleep.  Enjoy!

Listen Now

(or right click and select “Save Link As” to download)
(Link to the show on iTunes)

Swim Faster and Salt is not the Devil

2011 July 15
by Garden Tri

Thrilled to be joined by Olympic Gold Medalist and Author Sheila Taormina who talks about her book “Call the Suit” and ways to swim better and faster.  I also follow up on some questions about why and if salt is bad and I discuss a CRUCIAL piece of Triathlon equipment.  Enjoy!

Listen Now

(or right click and select “Save Link As” to download)
(Link to the show on iTunes)

Nutrition, Lean Muscle Mass and Fear

2011 July 3
by Garden Tri

Join me as I have a fantastic discussion with body builder, author and plant based diet advocate Robert Cheeke as we talk protein, supplements and essential strength training for triathletes.  I also talk about how to manage fear and triathlon.  Great interview . . . and you also a chance to win one of the best books I’ve read on athletic nutrition!

Listen Now

(or right click and select “Save Link As” to download)
(Link to the show on iTunes)

Eat to Beat the Heat and meet a “Fellow” Triathlete

2011 June 27
by Garden Tri

How do you beat the heat Triathletes?  Believe it or not but there are ways to eat and make your body more efficient in the heat at the same time.  I also have an interview with triathlete Patrick Fellows about a VERY cool way he’s giving back to the sporting community.  Finally, I issue an apology to a bike accessory company.

(ps- Little spicy language in this episode, I think I edited it all out. . .  but might have missed some.  Caveat emptor, or something like that.)

Listen Now

(or right click and select “Save Link As” to download)
Show links:

www.rocketkidzfoundation.com

www.rocketchix.com

www.thelouisianamarathon.com


More Le Tour

2011 June 26
by Garden Tri

So in anticipation of Le Tour de France, here are some more shots I took when I visited the tour in 2005. The stage I visited was the Miramas – Montpellier stage, it was a sprint finish at the end of week 2 so I basically stood in one spot for 5 hours to watch about 6 seconds of bike racing. Oh well, at least I got to watch the circus that is the Tour de France. read more…

Le Tour: A Trip Photo Album

2011 June 7
by Garden Tri

So let it be known I am an unabashed sycophant of the Tour de France and its participants. I practically swooned on the chance to meet Robbie McEwan in 2005.  Actually, it can be said that I’m pretty much an Franco-phile for a lot of things, wine chief amongst them.  That’s why this time of the year I start getting excited for the annual holy mecca of cycling – the Tour de France.  Sitting here I realize than in less than four weeks the peleton will be firing up and the finest cycling race in the world will be under way. read more…

Natural Running part 2, Bike Geeks and Ch-Ch-Ch-Chia.

2011 June 7
by Garden Tri

In this episode I come back with the 2nd half of the interview with Brandon Wood on Natural Running.  I also introduce a new segment on the show, Ask the Bike Geek with my buddy Marc the bike gearhead and I examine the notion of superfoods and examine if one thing in particular is a superfood.

Listen Now

(or right click and select “Save Link As” to download)

Natural Running Part 1, Natural Eating and 5150 BS

2011 May 26
by Garden Tri

Great episode, featuring interviews with vegan bodybuilder Robert Cheeke about the new film “Forks Over Knives” and another with running expert Brandon Wood about natural running form.  Brandon’s interview is the 1st in a 2 part series of interviews about natural running and what that means for Newtons.  I also give a race report on the New Orleans 5150.  Enjoy!

Listen Now

(or right click and select “Save Link As” to download)

Chocolate Truffles

2011 May 17
by Garden Tri

The iPhone doesn't do the truffle justice, but you get the idea.

The other day on the twitter I mentioned a vegan chocolate truffle that I whip up every once in a while for a nice little raw food, vegan treat. One of my twitter cohorts asked me for the recipe and I promised to put it up right away! Well, a week later (sorry Megan) here’s the quick and easy recipe for some vegan chocolate treats. read more…

Ironman. Can you do it? Can you dig it?

2011 May 17
by Garden Tri

The first in a non-sequential series of episodes about first time Ironman finishers, this episode features an interview with action adventure photographer Marc Pagani who talks in depth about his first time doing Ironman.  I also play a clip of the famous finish by Julie Moss and I discuss how a lessons taught by an NFL MVP can apply to Triathlon (while I have some significant frustration with a bike accessory.)

Listen Now

(or right click and select “Save Link As” to download)

Fuel! (A podcast repost)

2011 May 9
by Garden Tri

(Some of you commented there was a technical glitch on the previous version of this episode, so this is a repost of Episode 12.)

Simply put, this episode is everything you wanted to know about fueling but were afraid to ask.  Joining me on this podcast is Steve Born, fueling guru from Hammer Nutrition to talk about optimal ways athletes need to feed their bodies during exercise.

Download it!

A “Trick” to Go Faster and a Very Zen Visit

2011 April 29
by Garden Tri

Hey kids! In this episode I go over the mechanics of the Central Governor Theory and talk about how it may be possible to work mind over matter.  Also, I’m very honored to have a lengthy interview with Brett Blankner from Zen and the Art of Triathlon.  With a soundtrack by Pantera, prepare for a hell of a podcast.  Enjoy!

Download the Podcast

And, if you want to watch a video of Brett Blanker in action, just click HERE.

 

 

Vegan Protein for Two-a-Days and 70.3 Race Day!

2011 April 25
by Garden Tri

This episode features a face to face interview with Pro Triathlete Julie Dibens.  I also give you some great tips on fueling those grueling two-a-day workouts with plant based protein and then join me on the race day of the 2011 Ironman New Orleans 70.3.

Download the Podcast

Beer, Wine & Triathlon

2011 April 14
by Garden Tri

Booze and Triathlon? Does it help or hurt? In this podcast I discuss the topic at length and the answer is, well, both. Also, joining me is Tim Cigelske (@thebeerrunner on Twitter) as we discuss his quest to complete a consecutive year of both running and drinking beer.

Beer-Wine-Triathlon.mp3

 

 

A Decade of Mondavi

2011 April 5
by Garden Tri

Thumbs up for a great tasting

So this post is neither about triathlon nor a plant based diet.  Its about wine.  Why, well because I spent 16 years in the fine wine business and I have lots of good wine I want/need to drink, that’s why.  Besides, its my blog and with my next podcast being about balancing a triathlon lifestyle with the enjoyment of alcoholic beverages I thought it might be a good time to write about a phenomenal wine tasting I held recently.

read more…

Sex, Lies & Core Work

2011 April 5
by Garden Tri

Join me and Jake from the runlikehealth podcast (www.runlikehealth.com) as we talk about how triathlon training in two extreme parts of the country, running shoes, bike trainers, the Boston Marathon and much more. I also begin the show with a tip on how to fit in core work and I relate core work to two of life’s most pleasurable pursuits.  Enjoy!

sex_lies_and_core-work.mp3

State of Mind, Core Strength and Nutrition with Cristin Van Driel

2011 March 25
by Garden Tri

Fantastic interview with Cristin Van Driel from www.ultimatestamina.com. We discuss the state of mind approach to training, some great core work philosophy and discuss the fantastic benefits of plant based nutrition. Great show!

State of Mind, Core Strength and Nutrition with Cristin Van Driel

Being Present, New Tri Stuff and Raw Foods

2011 March 16
by Garden Tri

In this episode I talk about trying new things, go over a mindful presence to help training and racing, we discuss the virtues of raw food and how to fit it into your daily life and I give a preview of future podcasts.

Being Present, New Tri Stuff and Raw Foods

A Great Meal in a Hurry!

2011 March 11
by Garden Tri

Funny how cooking in the spur of the moment can really yield some amazing results. Last night I got home in a huff and needed to throw together something in a hurry. What resulted was an amazing dish that was delicious and balanced and full of that savory umami component, and it was fully vegan! read more…

A Farmer’s Market Triathlete Interview, Swim Philosophy and Coconuts

2011 March 2
by Garden Tri

In this episode I interview Kelly Landrieu, Triathlete extraordinaire and manager of a Farmer’s Market, I also talk about my philosophy on swimming and I wrap up by extolling the virtues of the coconut!

A Farmer’s Market Triathlete Interview, Swim Philosophy and Coconuts

Mardi Gras Marathon, Good Swim Form and the Importance of Strength Training

2011 February 18
by Garden Tri

In this episode I give you a before and after of the Rock-n-Roll Mardi Gras Marathon, I take you to the pool to talk about correct swimming form and we wrap up with some really good tips on strength training. All wrapped up in a Mardi Gras theme!

Mardi Gras Marathon, Swim Coaching and Strength Training

Self Motivation and Overcoming Obstacles

2011 February 11
by Garden Tri

How to motivate yourself and the importance of overcoming setbacks in Triathlon.  I also talk about overcoming the fear of open water and we make a really good post-workout juice.

 

Self Motivation and Overcoming Obstacles

1,000 Words

2011 February 4
by Garden Tri

Getting ready to announce an exciting development (for me anyway) on this new blog.

Until then its Friday and, courtesy of my last meal at 9 Roses, here’s a little fortune cookie logic and this week’s installment of 1,000 words. This just about sums it up.

Triathlon Winter Priorites, Exercise vs. Training and some good Vegan Athlete Nutrition

2011 February 3
by Garden Tri

On this episode I talk about getting your winter triathlon “house” in order, how to plan races and training schedules.  I talk about the difference between exercise and training (and how music plays a role).  I wrap up with a GREAT vegan sausage substitute and I make a juice smoothie with a very special helper.

Triathlon Winter Priorites, Exercise vs. Training and some good Vegan Athlete Nutrition
Enjoy!

Garden Variety Triathlon Episode #1

2011 January 29
by Garden Tri

My first podcast is up and online.  You can click the Podcast tab up top or you can click the link to download it.  Hopefully my podcasts will be up in the iTunes store soon.

Episode 1: The Secret to Success, Buying a Bike and a Farmer’s Market

1,000 Words

2011 January 28
by Garden Tri

I’d say this just about covers it.

Eating Out: Tan Dinh

2011 January 27
by Garden Tri

Tan Dinh. Oh Tan Dinh, how do I love thee?  Let me count the ways. I’ve already written about my particular fondness for the freshness and honesty of Vietnamese cuisine and in a city with a wealth of Vietnamese Tan Dinh stands head and shoulders above the crowd. While I still have a special place in my heart for Hoa Huong (aka 9 Roses) there is no denying that the unintended gourmet approach of Tan Dinh makes it a destination.  Better still, it is a place that someone seeking a vegan or vegetarian menu surely needs to discover.

read more…

The Green Book

2011 January 25
by Garden Tri

There is a ocean of information online about eating a vegan diet.  Actually, make that there is a choking, smothering, endless gushing wildfire of a well of information online about eating a vegan diet.

Quite honestly, there’s so much out there – from blogs by the dude making quinoa for the first time ever to the amazing book by Dr. T. Colin Campbell (aka THE MAN)  – it is easy to get lost in a sea of information.  I’ve found a good way to filter the bullshit from the helpful stuff to remember what works for me and its really quite simple. read more…

Meatless Mondays: Lemon-scented Quinoa Salad

2011 January 24
by Garden Tri

Ok.  Lets get something straight.  I have a vested personal mission to maintain a gourmet presence in the kitchen that was born from 16+ years of being a fine wine professional exposed to an obnoxious wealth of culinary riches.  When I made the decision to go vegan I swore up and down that I wasn’t going to join some salad-a-day program that I’d eat with the same disinterest that Tom Hanks ate raw coconut in Castaway.

For the love of God, not another salad . . .

That said, the one thing I learned during my gourmet days was that there is beauty in simplicity and that leads me to today’s Meatless Monday recipe.  And its a salad.

read more…

Eating Out: Cafe’ Carmo

2011 January 21
by Garden Tri

Week before last a food critic buddy of mine suggested meeting at this little Warehouse District joint for lunch. When he said the address it seemed familiar enough, and that’s because its about 150 feet from my new office.  As it turns out, I was introduced to Carmo, an amazing little tropical, Brazilian’y'-cum-New Orleans Warehouse District gem that puts out some damn good food and really makes a genuine effort to produce at least one or two fantastic vegan dishes daily. read more…

The Old Nipple Chafe

2011 January 20
by Garden Tri

This one is dedicated to all of you training for the Crescent City Classic or the Mardi Gras Marathon for the first time.  Here’s also a good time to point out that in longer distance sport there is no such thing as modesty and taboo topics.  If you’re crazy enough to do triathlon and want to run longer distances its assumed you’ve got your big girl panties on and can read about gross things objectively.

read more…

Seitan isn’t Satan

2011 January 19
by Garden Tri

Honestly I didn’t think I could go vegan for a year because there’s no way on Earth I could give up sausage. There’s just something about the texture, the flavor and the satisfaction of sausage that is soul warming. Also, when I made the decision to go vegan for Ironman training it was to eat WHOLE foods, natural, real things. I wanted to eat good, plant based foods. But I knew I’d miss my sausage . . . or would I?  As I found out, hope was right around the corner. read more…

How to Run Forever

2011 January 17
by Garden Tri

I’m not sure exactly who the Tarahumara Indians are and without the help of Google I have no idea where in the hell Mexico’s Copper Canyons, which is where they live, are located.  What I have come to understand about the Tarahumara is that they are a tribe of people known for running over mountains and rocks and brush 50 to 100 miles at a stretch – barefoot – with the relative effort that you might exert going out to pick up your morning paper.  And no, they aren’t some superhuman hybrid, part Kenyan, part Gazelle, with a mutant gene that allows them to do this.  They’re not long lost cousins of Robbie Benson in Running Brave. No, the secret to their otherworldly ability to run forever is what they eat.

These guys ran more today than a lot of people will run in a year

read more…

Kitchen Essentials: Wok it to Me

2011 January 12
by Garden Tri

Yeah I love my baby….heart and soul
Love like ours wont never grow old
Shes my sweet little thang….shes my pride and joy

Well, I suppose its music intro week here at the new blog. That’s ok, nobody’s reading it yet anyway. So with that in mind I’ll write a bit about an absolutely essential piece of kitchen cookware I have and its a piece of cookware you should have if cooking healthy is a goal of yours in the kitchen.
read more…

Meatless Monday: Soupe au Pistou

2011 January 10
by Garden Tri

Hangin’ around, nothing do to but frown . . .
Rainy days and Mondays always get me down

A Great Soup for Crappy Weather*

Yes, I quoted The Carpenters.  Shoot me.

There is truly a treasure trove of information in Heidi Swanson’s website 101 Cookbooks.  Later on when this blog gains a little momentum I’ll dig a little deeper into what makes hers such a uniquely good site in the minefield of cooking blogs, but I digress.  What’s relative today in the face of this blustery winter blast shoved up our backsides last night is that she has some outstanding recipes for soups, including this take on a country French soup that does as much to warm the soul as it does the body.

read more…

Running: Getting Started

2011 January 4
by Garden Tri

Raise your hand if your New Year’s Resolution was to start running.  In New Orleans raise your hand if you’ve signed up the Crescent City Classic with no earthly freaking clue how you’re going to finish it.  Getting started running can be a really daunting task for a non-runner.  Hell, getting BACK started running for an Ironman triathlete after a lay-off is a daunting task.  Though I’m certainly no exercise physiologist I am someone who’s started running after long layoffs with the same mental framework as someone who’s never run before.

read more…

Meatless Mondays: Red Beans & Rice

2011 January 4
by Garden Tri

My friends T & K are pretty active folks.  She was an athlete growing up and has run a marathon, he’s a 3 time Ironman, though he’s been away from the sport for a while.  They have three young children and although they lead a pretty active life and are always aware of eating well, cutting meat out of their diet entirely would be a notion as acceptable to them as cutting off their ears. read more…

Eating Out: Pho Orchid

2010 December 30
by Garden Tri

Vietnamese food in New Orleans is about as good as I’ve had it anywhere else in the USA.

Fresh Vegetable Soup from Pho Orchid

read more…

Eat Me, New Orleans

2010 December 29
by Garden Tri

It’s not easy being an iron-distance triathlete making the switch to a full-on vegan diet in one of the most sinful food cities in the US and A, but I’ve done it.  I’ve made the move not because I’ve “found religion,” or had some other sort of epiphany of moral conscience.  There wasn’t a higher purpose spark emanating from the issues brought forth in Food, Inc or Fast Food Nation or any of the other manifestos telling us how evil the meat industry is.  And, no, after making this move I don’t suddenly think Tony Bourdain is an asshole.  In fact, I like the guy. read more…

Stay Tuned!

2010 September 17
by Garden Tri

Stay tuned for all sorts of things to come as I carefully eat my way through the nation’s most interesting food city, exercise it off and tell you all about it.