D And D Fitness Radio's Show

In Episode 165, Don and Derek share their stories about recent long-haul trips and the challenges they faced with everything from sleep to hydration to nutrition and workout facility accessibility.  While even short-haul travel can take a toll on your energy and overall health, longer trips over numerous time zones can present even greater challenges and stressful moments.   Sleep is always the main priority, as jet lag can disturb energy, productivity and overall enjoyment.  Hydration also plays a bit part in facilitating good sleep, exercise and overall resiliency to injury and illness.  Accessibility to healthy and familiar food can also be a challenge, and some individuals may choose to bring specific snacks or supplements to fill in gaps.  And, finally, finding good facilities, environments and equipment abroad can take a lot of research, planning and preparation.  Doing all of the legwork ahead of time can be extremely beneficial in making sure your travel goes much smoother with less stress and anxiety

In Episode 164, we talk to Dr. Mike Israetel about both the benefits and perils of the wealth information on health, fitness, nutrition and performance available on social media and other accessible sources.  While it should not be difficult to find good, well-researched, common-sense information on these subjects, people still appear to be attracted to unproven trends, online gurus, charismatic influencers and methods that are simply not effective.  Dr. Israetel gives us many solid recommendations on how to find good sources of information, while avoiding the pitfalls of unfounded fads and trends.  He even talks about the benefits of AI (artificial intelligence) driven resources that can provide relatively good advice for anyone looking to improve their workouts, diets or general health.Cofounder of Renaissance Periodization, Dr. Mike Israetel​ holds a PhD in Sport Physiology from East Tennessee State University.  Currently a professor in the Strength and Hypertrophy Master’s program at Lehman College, Mike

In Episode 163, we engage Ben Newman about his approach to coaching some of the top sports teams, business organizations and leaders over the last 20 years.  Ben gives us a breakdown of what motivates him to help push the top performers to greater heights, as well as keeping them at the top of their game for the long term.  Some of the most successful outcomes were the result of a combination of pain and challenges experienced by individuals who find a way to develop greater resiliency to turn things around.  And, many of these qualities can be similarly found in both the realm of business and high level sports, as well as other aspects of human achievement.  Ben provides a comprehensive overview of the key components of performance coaching that he has developed over his long career.Ben Newman is the #1 Continual Peak Performance Coach, TOP 50 Speaker and 2x Wall Street Journal Best-Selling Author, whose clients include Fortune 500 companies around the world, business executives, sales organizations and prof

In Episode 162, we discuss the close connection between physical training, personal fitness and overall health and fitness with Sean Pastuch.  A key concept covered in this interview is the process of identifying key traits in clients – including mind-set, commitment and focus – that will ensure that they are successful in their efforts to improve their physical abilities and, ultimately, their overall health and performance.  This approach also helps you to design your business around fitness and healthcare in both a meaningful and profitable manner, as commitment and results will ultimately determine your financial success in these fields.   Dr. Sean Pastuch is the Founder and CEO of Active Life, a company focused on bridging the gap between physical fitness and healthcare.  Sean obtained a Doctorate in Chiropractic from Northeast College of Health Sciences.  He previously completed his Bachelor of Arts in Exercise Science, with a focus on Kinesiology at the University of Maryland.  His previous work focuse

In Episode 161, we are joined by Dr. David Rabin to talk about his involvement in the creation of an innovative wearable device that helps individuals manage their nervous systems responses and encourage relaxation and calm through tactile vibration, similar to the sensation of touch. Through his research and work with Apollo Neuro, Dr. Rabin has developed an accessible wearable technology device that produces a spectrum of frequencies that can be used to create a relaxing response that can help with sleep and focus, as well as improve energy for cognitive and physical activities. In the podcast, he identifies the steps taken to develop the technology, as well as the many applications for the wearable. Dr. Dave Rabin, MD, PhD, is a neuroscientist, board-certified psychiatrist, health tech entrepreneur & inventor who has been studying the impact of chronic stress in humans for over 15 years. He is the co-founder & Chief Medical Officer at Apollo Neuroscience, which has developed the first scientific

In Episode 160, we are joined by Emily McDonald who engages us on the topic of neuroscience and its involvement in health and wellness. We start with a discussion on the nervous system and how it impacts anxiety, and then explore the negative effects of social media on brain function and overall mental health. Regular exercise can provide a more natural outlet for mental focus, but also help to regulate healthy releases of neurotransmitters such as dopamine. The conversation also covers issues around use of cannabis, caffeine and specific supplementation solutions to improve brain health and daily function. With a passion for neuroscience, a wealth of research experience, and a deep understanding of the power of the mind, Emily is your go-to guide for transforming your life from within. Armed with a master's and bachelor's degree in neuroscience, she seamlessly blends scientific knowledge with practical wisdom to help you rewire your brain and manifest your dream life. Drawing on over 4 years of dedicated res

In Episode 159, we sit down with Lee Boyce. Lee begins by going into detail on how he got into the coaching and personal training field following his sport and athletic pursuits. One of the qualities that remained constant throughout Lee’s development as a coach, trainer and educator was the ability to communicate and connect with clients and other professionals. This ability to communicate extends to his affinity for writing, whether it is providing articles for other publications or regularly contributing to his own blog. Lee is drawn to tried and true methods, and this is reflected in his philosophy around training, business and life. Lee Boyce is a strength coach and educator based in Toronto, Canada. He has been helping clients and athletes with strength and conditioning, sport performance, and hypertrophy since 2007. He has developed international recognition as a trainer and as a prolific fitness writer. His expertise has seen him published over 1,200 times by some of the largest publications in

In Episode 158, we discuss training with Ben Bruno. We discuss Ben’s training philosophy, as well as the time and effort that goes into providing the best training programs for both his individual one-on-one clients, as well as his virtual client base. He explains his basic business model and how his disciplined approach to working hard and serving his clients made him successful, relevant and resilient. Expanding his business to online training services – while many people may think it would be easier – has also involved the same level of dedication and commitment to ensure the quality of the programs remains high. Hard work yields results, whether you are the trainer or the trainee. Ben Bruno is a physical trainer based out of Los Angeles. He works with a variety of individuals, including athletes, actors, musicians, models and general population clients. Ben has also provided a variety of training programs for online clients, extending his reach on a larger scale, while also maintaining a level of

In Episode 157, we are fortunate to get some time speaking with Matt Wenning. Although Matt has tremendous experience in the sport of powerlifting and the physical preparation of athletes, he also has extensive experience in the restoration, repair and engineering of motor vehicles. We talk about his current automotive projects, as well as how he translates those skills and concepts to strength training. The details of Matt’s education and career development are inspiring, as well as his focus and discipline around becoming a better athlete and coach. Matt Wenning is a three-time world champion powerlifter. He holds a Master’s Degree in Biomechanics and a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science from Ball State University. Matt grew up in Indiana, raised by a hard-working, middle class family. When he was six years old, Matt was hit by a car going 50 mph, which took a toll on his physical development. After undergoing 12 months of full leg casts and 12 months in a boot, his legs were underdeveloped. Four years

In Episode 156, we sit down with owner of Strong New York, Kenny Santucci, to learn more about his upcoming Fitness and Wellness Expo on November 18, 2023, as well as learn more about the mind behind ‘Strong New York.’ Kenny has built the Strong New York Fitness Expo in just a few years to become one of the most sought after events in the country. We talk about Kenny’s development in the business of strength, fitness and wellness, as well as how he is now know to be one of the best at bringing people together to share ideas, knowledge and their enthusiasm around performance, fitness and wellness. Kenny Santucci is known as one of New York City’s top trainers and a thought leader in the health and wellness industry. Brand ambassador for Michelob Ultra and Fitaid, Technogym Master Trainer, host of the Fitaid Morning Show, Michelob Ultra MOVEMENT Fitness Festival, Model Beach Volleyball, and more, Santucci has established himself as a force within the fitness space. He has collaborated with industry titans

In Episode 154, Don and Derek discuss the simplicity and efficacy of running as a fitness modality. We have seen the shift to other forms of aerobic fitness training over the last few decades, with many options available to individuals looking to improve aerobic conditioning, improve body composition and manage stress in their lives. But few people know how to assemble a sound running program and may be intimidated by the challenge of using running as a primary fitness tool. Don and Derek review the many methods used to introduce running to the general population, as well as the key issues around staying healthy when adopting a running program. The D&D Fitness Radio podcast is available at the following locations for downloadable audio, including: iTunes – https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/d-d-fitness-radio-podcast/id1331724217 iHeart Radio – https://www.iheart.com/podcast/dd-fitness-radio-28797988/ Spreaker.com – https://www.spreaker.com/show/d-and-d-fitness-radios-show Spotify – https://open

In Episode 154, we talk with Jacqueline Kasen about her incredible pursuit of climbing the world’s highest mountains. We learn about her comprehensive fitness preparation for such an adventure, but also some of the setbacks she has endured as part of such a lofty goal. Jacqueline discusses all of the challenges she has faced with these types of expeditions including the thin air at altitude, the unforgiving weather, the lack of showers and other conveniences, team cohesion and the ever present danger of accidents. She recounts one case of a fellow climber from her team experiencing a traumatic accident and how she has dealt with it personally in order to maintain a positive attitude towards future climbs, as well as a different perspective on life. Jacqueline Kasen has been immersed in the fitness world since her youth. From participating in the Junior Olympics to excelling as a collegiate athlete and now as a Director of Group Fitness for Anatomy, Certified Personal Trainer, and Exercise Specialist. Her

Episode 153 is spent talking with Louisa Nicola to discuss various factors that influence our brain health. We cover all areas of health and performance as it relates to exercise, sleep and nutrition and the impact – both good and bad – on the brain. Louisa Nicola is a neurophysiologist and human performance coach, as well as the founder and head performance advisor of Neuro Athletics - a consulting firm that boasts the best athletes in the world. By using science driven data from EEG scans, labs tests and cognitive assessments, Louisa has a first class ticket inside the brain of elite NBA and MLB stars. Louisa graduated from the University of Sydney medical school with a master of medicine in neurophysiology and is currently completing her doctorate under the guidance of Dr Tommy Wood at UW, studying the effects of resistance exercise on the brain. You can find out more information on Louisa Nicola below: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/louisanicola_/ Website:

In Episode 152, we sit down with Dr. Ralph Esposito to discuss various issues around human nutrition and how it impacts both our quality of life and longevity. We cover numerous areas of health and nutrition including daily protein requirements, micronutrient consumption, calorie counting, body composition, body-fat versus visceral fat, food costs and energy drinks. It was the kind of conversation that could just keep going on and on, but we had to be mindful of Dr. Esposito’s time.Ralph Esposito is a naturopathic physician focused on optimizing health-span and lifespan through nutrition, exercise, sleep, mental/emotional health and precision supplementation. Dr. Esposito believes in a personalized approach to preventive medicine by using evidence-lead tactics to teach people how to perform and feel their best while reducing the risk for chronic disease. With additional degrees in Acupuncture and Chinese medicine and as a certified Functional Medicine doctor (IFMCP), Ralph provides a unique integrative approa

In Episode 151, we talk with Geena Martinez about her foray into a golf influencer role, bringing very little previous experience to the table. A late adopter to the sport, Geena learned relatively quickly that golf was a valuable tool for cementing business relationships and broadening her corporate network. But she also grew to love everything about the sport to a point where she is now known as a golf ambassador and a positive role model for people who are encouraged to take up the sport later in life.When Geena isn’t golfing, she works as an executive sales business leader with over 15 years of experience driving a high sales performance from small-to-medium sized businesses to large national accounts. She excels in coaching, managing expectations, and presenting to internal and external audiences, helping clients and colleagues identify, understand, and resolve issues as well as build long term plans for success. You can find out more information on Geena Martinez below: Instagram:

Episode 150, we get the opportunity to interview Dr. Ricardo Komotar in between his numerous appointments. Ricardo tells us that he always wanted to be a brain surgeon from a very early age. The brain has always fascinated him. He explains that assessments and imaging can be useful in identifying potential problems in the brain, but too much screening can also be problematic. We also discuss various risk factors for tumor formation in the brain, with an emphasis on the role of nutrition, exercise and sleep for optimal brain function, health and longevity. The conversation also touches on the topics of traumatic brain injuries, dementia and new developments in the field of neurology. Dr. Komotar is Professor of Neurological Surgery at the University of Miami School of Medicine. He graduated summa cum laude with a B.S. in neuroscience from Duke University, spending a year at Oxford University in England to focus on neuropharmacology. He received his medical degree from The Johns Hopkins University School

Episode 149, we get an opportunity to talk with Chris Duffin about his lifelong journey of improving the strength, performance and wellness of individuals and teams through his innovations in both equipment and programming. Chris begins our conversation with a discussion of his development as a human being from a very young age, and how it drove him to constantly improve physically, mentally and professionally. Our discussion quickly moves into his innovations in the strength equipment field, discussing the intricacies of his modifications to weightlifting bars to ensure that different populations were able to get the most out of their workouts despite having range-of-motion restrictions, muscle and joint injuries, and/or ergonomic challenges. The strides Chris has made with his equipment innovations are incredibly impressive. Chris Duffin is an inventor, thought leader, and serial entrepreneur in Health and Fitness. He has Co-Founded multiple prominent brands the largest of which, Kabuki Strength where he se

Frank Sepe joins us in Episode 148 to talk about his commitment to bodybuilding from a very young age, as well as the career development he has experienced for well over 30 years. Frank’s career has spanned several generations and he provides us with some great stories about the people he has worked with along the way. At age 51, Frank continues to lead by example in the art and science of bodybuilding, but also other areas of health and fitness through his social media, publishing and many other events. Frank Sepe is a nationally renowned Fitness celebrity & master trainer who is a leader and innovator in the fitness industry. Frank has been involved in every aspect of fitness and he has dedicated his life to creating programs that advise people on how to live a healthier lifestyle. His programs have been utilized by a countless amount of people around the world. He has created and sold his own line of fitness products globally on the Home Shopping Network (HSN). Frank is also the author of eight books a

Episode 147 of the podcast was recorded with a group of coaching professionals attending a coaching leadership event at Vigor Ground Fitness & Performance in Renton, Washington. The group included Luka Hocevar, Kelsey Heenan, Dennis Heenan, Andrew Coates and our very own Don Saladino. The focus of the discussion was on nurturing the business side of the fitness industry and connecting with potential followers and clients. Each contributor has their own individual method of connecting with their audience and offer his or her thoughts on the best ways to create engagement and long term relationships that move their business forward. Another commonality is the ability to reach out to others for help, particularly in areas where a known deficiency may exist. Identifying both the constraints and opportunities facing a business is an essential step for developing an overall strategic plan and following through on the implementation side. We hope this discussion helps to motivate and guide others to making enhan

In Episode 146, Don and Derek have a serious talk about how their training has evolved as they have aged, particularly as it relates to weightlifting and resistance training. Younger athletes and individuals are able to lift heavy weight more frequently for many reasons. Not only do they tend to have more time available to dedicate to exercise, they also have more supple and resilient bodies that can handle just about any training load and intensity. As you age, you find that you have to be more careful about both exercise selection, but also how much and how often you place a load on your body. While many of us have been brought up in a culture of lifting free weights with barbells and dumbbells, there are good reasons for shifting your exercise selection to alternative methods of training muscle and building hypertrophy. We discuss use of weight machines, banded exercises, plyometrics, throws and explosive running activities. Many of these alternative methods of training can provide the same benefits