Endurance Dad

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In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Dr. Leah Avery, a Doctor of Physical Therapy, former D1 All-American swimmer, and run coach for Train Smart Run Strong. Leah shares her journey from battling performance anxiety in marathons to helping runners train smarter and stay injury-free. Whether you’re chasing a PR or justwant to enjoy running more, Leah’s insights on mindset, injury prevention, and balanced training will leave you motivated to lace up.

Train Smart Run Strong: Visit trainsmartrunstrong.com to explore Leah’s coaching programs and free resources for runners.  

Follow Leah: Connect on Instagram @leah.runs.dpt for daily tips, workouts, and inspiration.  

Strength Training for Runners: Check out Leah’s recommended exercises on her website to bulletproof your body.  

Support the show

⬆️ Send us a text at the link above with questions for the show, show ideas, comments, or if you want to be a guest on the show.

🌎 Check out our website

http://www.endurancedad.fm

🔗 Follow us on Instagram

https://instagram.com/ultraorthodoc

🎙️ Love the podcast? Leave a review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify!

First Step Productions, LLC.

Have a question for the show? Text us!

Once a nightclub owner living the high life—smoking three packs a day and downing a bottle of Jameson nightly—he hit rock bottom with a mini-stroke that flipped the switch. Now, nearly two years sober and transformed through endurance running, he’s training for a 100-mile run to support the Wounded Warriors Project. In this raw and inspiring episode, hear how he went from 305 lbs and a health scare to finding purpose in fitness, self-care, and giving back. If he can turn it around, so can you.

Chapters

00:00 From Nightlife to New Beginnings
02:53 Health Scares and Life Changes
06:10 The Journey to Running
09:04 Overcoming Addiction and Finding Purpose
11:56 The Power of Endurance Running
15:10 Training Techniques and Personal Growth
18:07 Mental Strength and Grit in Running
21:03 Finding Therapy in Movement
24:48 The Journey to Ultra Marathons
32:29 Running for a Cause: Wounded Warriors
46:43 Discipline Over Motivation

Check out Sean's Wounded Warrior page and donate if you can!

https://communityfundraising.woundedwarriorproject.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=donorDrive.personalCampaign&participantID=20974&fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAabv7fWzqCcNkPVgDHgB7hDS4wK1EMap99grq6cLX_5x3N_QfoIz711vYw0_aem_uwThxa2sXcRjmn7pDyiHLw

Support the show

⬆️ Send us a text at the link above with questions for the show, show ideas, comments, or if you want to be a guest on the show.

🌎 Check out our website

http://www.endurancedad.fm

🔗 Follow us on Instagram

https://instagram.com/ultraorthodoc

🎙️ Love the podcast? Leave a review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify!

First Step Productions, LLC.

Have a question for the show? Text us!

What happens when your ‘healthy’ Diet Coke turns out to be a gut-wrecking, glucose-spiking, weight-sticking traitor? In this episode, I—your host, a busy dad, husband, military veteran, and orthopaedic surgeon who traded wheezing down the block for Ironman finish lines—dive into the shady world of artificial sweeteners. From aspartame to sucralose, these zero-calorie con artists are messing with your gut microbiome, jacking up your blood sugar, and keeping those love handles glued on. Expect laughs, science-backed rants, and real talk on how to ditch the fake stuff and break your limits—because the toughest step isn’t the last one, it’s the first.

What You’ll Learn:  

• Why artificial sweeteners turn your gut into a bacterial war zone.  
• How they trick your body into glucose intolerance (spoiler: your pancreas hates them).  
• The sneaky reason you’re not losing weight, even with ‘zero calories.’  
• My story of kicking the Diet Coke habit and Lo Carb Monsters—and how you can too.

References:  

• Suez, J., et al. (2014). "Artificial sweeteners induce glucose intolerance by altering the gut microbiota." Nature. Link  
• Dalenberg, J.R., et al. (2018). "Short-term consumption of sucralose with, but not without, carbohydrate impairs insulin sensitivity." Physiology & Behavior. Link  
• Azad, M.B., et al. (2017). "Nonnutritive sweeteners and cardiometabolic health: a systematic review and meta-analysis." PLoS Medicine. Link  
• Zmora, N., et al. (2021). "Personalized microbiome-driven effects of non-nutritive sweeteners on human glucose tolerance." Gut Microbes. Link

Subscribe & Connect:  

• Hit that subscribe button for more gut-punching truths and tips to crush your goals—whether it’s your first 5K or an ultra marathon.  
• Share this episode with your Splenda-sipping pals and leave a review—let’s get real about breaking barriers!  
• Follow me on Instagram for behind-the-scenes rants and endurance hacks.

Support the show

⬆️ Send us a text at the link above with questions for the show, show ideas, comments, or if you want to be a guest on the show.

🌎 Check out our website

http://www.endurancedad.fm

🔗 Follow us on Instagram

https://instagram.com/ultraorthodoc

🎙️ Love the podcast? Leave a review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify!

First Step Productions, LLC.

Have a question for the show? Text us!

In this episode, we sit down with Jessica Wulke, PT, DPT, OCS, SCS, a dual board-certified physical therapist who works with professional athletes and professional sports cheerleaders. She shares her journey into the world of elite sports therapy, the challenges she’s faced as a woman in healthcare, and her insights on injury prevention, recovery, and getting started with fitness. Whether you’re an athlete, weekend warrior, or just trying to get off the couch, this episode will leave you motivated to move better, feel stronger, and take control of your health.

What You’ll Learn:

✅ How Jessica became a leading expert in sports physical therapy
✅ The biggest mistakes people make when starting a fitness routine
✅ Simple steps to go from sedentary to active
✅ How to prevent injuries and recover like a pro
✅ The mental and physical demands of working with elite athletes
✅ Overcoming barriers as a woman in sports medicine
✅ Key takeaways to help you build a stronger, healthier body

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Concierge Physical Therapy
02:58 The Journey to Specialization in Sports Physical Therapy
09:09 Navigating the Pressures of Athlete Rehabilitation
12:43 Advocating for Patient-Centered Care
16:01 The Importance of Gait Analysis
22:50 Injury Prevention and Recovery Strategies
31:20 Strength Training for Post-ACL Recovery
38:53 The Importance of Core Fundamentals in Youth Sports
42:28 Overcoming Self-Doubt in Athletic Training
46:57 Personalizing Rehabilitation for Athletes
49:38 Navigating Challenges as a Female Therapist
55:46 Setting Boundaries and Prioritizing Self-Care
01:01:39 Advice for Young Professionals in Healthcare
01:04:41 Staying Motivated and Injury-Free in Fitness

Jessica Wulke, PT, DPT, OCS, SCS https://instagram.com/sportspt_jess

Support the show

⬆️ Send us a text at the link above with questions for the show, show ideas, comments, or if you want to be a guest on the show.

🌎 Check out our website

http://www.endurancedad.fm

🔗 Follow us on Instagram

https://instagram.com/ultraorthodoc

🎙️ Love the podcast? Leave a review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify!

First Step Productions, LLC.

Have a question for the show? Text us!

Anthony Anderson went to work one day and by the afternoon he was in partial heart failure, a few years later he was on dialysis.  After losing almost 100 pounds Anthony shares his inspiring journey of overcoming significant health challenges, including heart failure and kidney issues and dialysis, while reflecting on his childhood experiences in the Bronx and how those led him to turn to food and alcohol to cope. He discusses the impact of COVID-19 on his life, his struggles with weight, and the journey to sobriety. Anthony emphasizes the importance of self-love, resilience, and the lessons learned from his past, including the influence of gangs, drugs, and poverty. He also shares insights from his career, including his time on the Ellen DeGeneres show, and his aspirations for the future, focusing on personal growth and helping others. 

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Initial Connection
01:51 Health Struggles and Turning Points
05:42 Childhood and Early Influences
10:24 Weight Struggles and Realizations
12:36 The Impact of COVID-19
16:00 Life After Dialysis and Sobriety
17:59 Lessons Learned and Advice to Younger Self
19:56 Career Journey and the Ellen Show Experience
23:18 Dark Times and Overcoming Adversity
26:41 Future Aspirations and Brand Development
28:31 The Power of Words and Connection
30:27 Overcoming Adversity and Taking Care of Ourselves
32:52 The Impact of Environment on Health Choices
36:14 Finding Purpose and Gratitude in Daily Life
40:38 Pursuing Dreams and Breaking Cycles
43:34 Transforming Workouts into Enjoyable Activities
44:34 The Journey of Weight Loss and Healthy Choices
52:16 Facing Hidden Challenges and Personal Growth
54:38 Inspiring Others Through Personal Stories

Check out his livestream music show 04/18/2025

https://www.skyhighartistlaunch.com/zh/product-page/ant-diggity-performing-allure-restaurant-bar

Support the show

⬆️ Send us a text at the link above with questions for the show, show ideas, comments, or if you want to be a guest on the show.

🌎 Check out our website

http://www.endurancedad.fm

🔗 Follow us on Instagram

https://instagram.com/ultraorthodoc

🎙️ Love the podcast? Leave a review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify!

First Step Productions, LLC.

Have a question for the show? Text us!

Motivation is great… but it doesn’t last. So how do you stay consistent when you don’t feel like showing up? In this episode, I break down the difference between motivation and discipline and share practical strategies to keep going—even on the hard days. If you struggle with staying on track, this episode is for you.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

✅ The key difference between motivation and discipline
✅ Why you shouldn’t rely on willpower alone
✅ Simple strategies to build discipline and stay consistent
✅ How to push through excuses and low-energy days
✅ Practical ways to track progress and stay accountable

Chapters

00:00 The Challenge of Discipline vs. Motivation
02:54 Understanding Discipline and Its Importance
06:13 Building a System for Success
09:10 Overcoming Roadblocks to Discipline
11:57 Personal Stories of Discipline and Commitment

Support the show

⬆️ Send us a text at the link above with questions for the show, show ideas, comments, or if you want to be a guest on the show.

🌎 Check out our website

http://www.endurancedad.fm

🔗 Follow us on Instagram

https://instagram.com/ultraorthodoc

🎙️ Love the podcast? Leave a review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify!

First Step Productions, LLC.

Have a question for the show? Text us!

Happy National Athletic Training Month!

In this episode, we sit down with an extraordinary runner, Mike Willets, ATC, who has completed a marathon in all 50 states—not once, but twice, and is currently working on his third round! He has also tackled marathons on all seven continents, including the icy landscapes of Antarctica.  All this after beginning his running journey at 45!

He is a member of "Marathon Maniacs" and has run more than 150 marathons!

We discuss his incredible running journey, how he stays motivated and how he has dealt with injuries at 72, and what advice he has for both young and older runners looking to start or maintain their fitness journey. Whether you're considering your first 5K or dreaming of a marathon, this episode is packed with insights to inspire runners of all ages.

Support the show

⬆️ Send us a text at the link above with questions for the show, show ideas, comments, or if you want to be a guest on the show.

🌎 Check out our website

http://www.endurancedad.fm

🔗 Follow us on Instagram

https://instagram.com/ultraorthodoc

🎙️ Love the podcast? Leave a review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify!

First Step Productions, LLC.

Have a question for the show? Text us!

In this episode, I sit down with my incredible wife to discuss how she made the decision to be a stay-at-home mom while also starting a successful small business, raising two kids, and maintaining a rigorous fitness routine—running 5-9 miles a day and completing over 3,800 Peloton classes! We dive into the challenges, sacrifices, and triumphs of balancing motherhood, personal goals, and self-care. She shares how other moms can prioritize themselves without guilt and find the time and motivation to pursue their passions.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

✅ The decision-making process behind becoming a stay-at-home mom.
✅ How to balance motherhood, entrepreneurship, and personal fitness.
✅ Time management strategies for moms who feel like there’s “never enough time.”
✅ The importance of self-care and how it benefits the entire family.
✅ Overcoming mom guilt and staying true to your personal goals.
✅ Practical motivation for moms to make time for themselves.

Support the show

⬆️ Send us a text at the link above with questions for the show, show ideas, comments, or if you want to be a guest on the show.

🌎 Check out our website

http://www.endurancedad.fm

🔗 Follow us on Instagram

https://instagram.com/ultraorthodoc

🎙️ Love the podcast? Leave a review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify!

First Step Productions, LLC.

Have a question for the show? Text us!

Episode Summary

In this episode, we break down the science of fat loss and endurance training, exposing common myths and uncovering surprising biohacks that can help you optimize weight loss while improving performance. Whether you're training for a marathon, triathlon, or just looking to shed extra pounds, this episode will give you the tools to work smarter, not just harder.

Key Topics Covered:

✅ Why endurance athletes sometimes gain weight instead of losing it
✅ The truth about fat-burning: Metabolic flexibility & mitochondria health
✅ Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) & how blood sugar impacts fat loss
✅ The role of cortisol & how overtraining can stall progress
✅ Strength training & why endurance athletes must lift weights
✅ Zone 2 vs. high-intensity cardio for optimal fat burning
✅ Recovery hacks: Sleep, HRV tracking, and sauna benefits
✅ Biohacks: Cold exposure, fasted training, and nutrient timing

Top Takeaways:

1. Endurance training alone doesn’t guarantee weight loss—too much steady-state cardio can actually slow your metabolism.
2. Strength training is essential—muscle boosts metabolism and enhances endurance performance.
3. Your glucose levels matter—spikes and crashes can make or break fat loss. Use CGM to dial in nutrition.
4. Prioritize sleep & recovery—chronic stress and overtraining increase cortisol, leading to stubborn fat.
5. Biohacks can accelerate results—cold exposure, sauna therapy, and fasted training all have science-backed benefits.

Want to be featured in a future episode? Send in your questions! Here are some prompts to get you started:

🔹 Weight Loss & Endurance Training

• Have you struggled with losing weight despite running or training hard?
• What’s one endurance training myth you believed that turned out to be false?
• Do you track your food intake or macros? If so, what’s worked (or not worked) for you?

🔹 Biohacking & Nutrition

• Have you ever tried using a Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM)? What did you learn?
• Do you train fasted or prefer fueling before workouts? Why?
• What’s your go-to recovery tool—sauna, cold plunge, supplements?

🔹 Mindset & Motivation

• What’s the biggest mental barrier you’ve had to overcome in endurance training?
• Have you ever hit a weight loss plateau? How did you push through it?
• If you could give one piece of advice to your past self about training, what would it be?

💬 Submit your questions by texting us on the above link!

Resources Mentioned:

• Books:
  • Outlive by Dr. Peter Attia
  • Why We Get Sick by Dr. Ben Bikman
• Tech & Tools:
  • Continuous Glucose Monitors (Freestyle Libre, Levels, Nutrisense)
  • HRV Tracking Apps (Whoop, Oura Ring)
  • Sauna & Cold Exposure Protocols

Support the show

⬆️ Send us a text at the link above with questions for the show, show ideas, comments, or if you want to be a guest on the show.

🌎 Check out our website

http://www.endurancedad.fm

🔗 Follow us on Instagram

https://instagram.com/ultraorthodoc

🎙️ Love the podcast? Leave a review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify!

First Step Productions, LLC.

Have a question for the show? Text us!

In this episode, Domingo Molina IV, MD discusses the fine line between striving for fitness and risking health, particularly in light of the tragic loss of bodybuilder Jodie Vance. He shares personal experiences with supplements, the dangers of dehydration and his recent hospitalization, and the importance of balancing health with performance. The conversation emphasizes the need for awareness in the fitness community regarding the potential health risks associated with extreme training and supplement use.

Takeaways

• Are we too vain in our pursuit of fitness?
• The tragic loss of Jodie Vance highlights health risks.
• Supplements can have long-term health consequences.
• Dehydration and electrolyte imbalance are serious concerns.
• Pushing limits in fitness can lead to health issues.
• Dialing back training isn't a sign of weakness.
• Awareness of health risks is crucial for athletes.
• Personal experiences shape our understanding of fitness.
• Balance between health and performance is essential.
• Listening to our bodies is key to long-term health.

Support the show

⬆️ Send us a text at the link above with questions for the show, show ideas, comments, or if you want to be a guest on the show.

🌎 Check out our website

http://www.endurancedad.fm

🔗 Follow us on Instagram

https://instagram.com/ultraorthodoc

🎙️ Love the podcast? Leave a review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify!

First Step Productions, LLC.