Real Fuel with SLS

Why Being a Great Athlete Doesn’t Make You a Great Coach (and How to Build a Real Business)

Have you ever wondered what it takes to turn your love for endurance sports into a sustainable, full-time coaching business? In this episode of Real Fuel with SLS, host

Fueling Young Runners: Nutrition Tips and Strategies with Sports Dietitian Erin Kesterson

In this episode of Real Fuel with SLS, host Stevie Lyn Smith is joined by sports dietitian, run coach, and mother of five, Erin Kesterson. They dive deep into the world o

Age-Group vs. Pro Triathlon, Gear Hype, and Race Day Realities with Lisa Becharas

On this episode of Real Fuel with SLS I am joined by professional triathlete and endurance coach Lisa Becharas. We dive deep into the hilarious realities of racing, share

Why You Won't PR Every Race (And Why That's Okay)

In this episode, host Stevie is rejoined by fan-favorite and friend of the pod, Coach Nick Klastava. Nick is a dad, husband, running coach, and the brains behind the popu

Mastering Summer Running: Fuel and Hydration Strategies in Heat

Summer is officially here, and with it comes hot, humid miles that can make your runs feel significantly more challenging. Whether you are ramping up training for a fall

From Dietitian to Family Medicine Physician: The Power of Preventive Care with Dr. Alex Ford

What happens when you combine the clinical expertise of a registered dietitian with the comprehensive training of a board-certified family medicine physician? You get a p

Pro Runner Keira D'Amato: Injury Rehabilitation, Mid-Run Pain, and "Don't Call It a Comeback"

On this episode of Real Fuel with SLS, I am joined by professional runner, American record holder, and mother of two, Keira D'Amato. Fresh off the release of her new

Building An Injury-Resilient Runner: Why Strength Training is the Secret to Longevity in Running with Laura Filla

Are you a recreational runner who hits the gym but still finds yourself dealing with nagging injuries? It might be time to ditch the random internet workouts and get stra

Return to 70.3 Racing: Race Week Tips and Tricks

In this episode, I share more of my journey and preparation for the Gulf Coast 70.3 after 7 years away from racing long course triathlon! I chat about: My training bloc

Proactive Nutrition During Pregnancy for Endurance Athletes

In this episode, Holley Samuel of Holley Fueled Nutrition, a sports dietitian and endurance athlete, shares expert insights on pregnancy, nutrition, training, and postpar

Sub-2:10 Marathon Secrets: Training, Fueling, and Breakthroughs with Joe Whelan

In this episode, we explore the journey of Joe Whelan, a high-performing athlete in the world of distance running. Joe shares his insights on training through brutal wint

Q&A: Mastering Carb Loading and Debunking Protein Myths

Understanding Protein and Carb Loading: Clear Insights for Optimal Nutrition In this episode, I break down the essentials of protein—what it is, how to evaluate its qual

The RED-s Deep Dive: Metabolism, Heart Health, and Fueling Your Potential

In this episode, Becca McConville, an expert on relative energy deficiency in sports, shares insights on REDs and its impact on health and performance. We break down the

More Than a Finish Line: Untangling Identity, Suffering, and Mental Performance with Neal Palles

In this episode we dive deep into the "middle space" between athletic coaching, mental performance, and clinical therapy. Guest Neal Palles is a psychotherapist, certifie

Nutrition for Tactical Athletes and High- Performers and How to Spot Nutrition Misinformation with Dr. Brandon Lee

In this episode I sit down with my colleague to dive into how sports nutrition is growing in the tactical and high-performance field. He also shares practical tips to spo

Mental Performance, Self-Compassion, and Sports Science Research with Dr. Sasha Gollish

Dr. Sasha Gollish is a Team Canada middle- and long-distance runner, engineer, coach, and advocate for gender equity in sport. With a PhD in civil engineering and decades

How to Make the Most of Winter Running: Run Coach Jaci Wilson Shares Her Tips from Her Sub Zero Training

Do you have big spring race goals but struggle to get outside in the winter? If you want to keep hitting the pavement during the cold, snowy, and windy months, this episo

EP 53: Applying Sports Nutrition Research to the Individual Athlete

Jessica is an Assistant Professor in the nutrition department at Syracuse University, where she previously earned her PhD in Exercise Science. She also serves as the cons

EP 52: Reaching Your Max Potential As An Everyday Athlete

Michaela is a run coach, co-founder of Strides for Strength, and a multi passionate nurse by degree. She believes in the power of movement — not just for performance, but

EP 51: Capturing the Journey of Running on Film

From grinding rails to grinding miles — Jim Cielencki was a former pro BMX rider and entrepreneur, co-founding Sunday Bikes. In 2016, he ran every street in Buffalo. Toda