The Progression Health Podcast

The Progression Health Podcast
  • 4.7 (6)
  • Fitness
  • Updated Semiweekly

A health-focused podcast with expert guests and in-depth conversations - to learn about better ways to improve your health, this is the podcast for you Check out my Instagram and Facebook for regular updates and more health content! https://www.instagram.com/progression_health/ (https://www.instagram.com/progression_health/) Emails to; progressionhealthcoaching@gmail.com

  1. Sep 9

    Train Your Mind Like Your Body: Sports Psychology for Endurance Athletes

    In Episode 90 of the Progression Health Podcast, Ross is joined by Erin Ayala, a sport psychologist and certified mental performance consultant who specializes in working with female endurance athletes and athletes with complex health concerns. Erin’s approach is centered on helping athletes train their minds as seriously as their bodies while developing a sustainable relationship with sport. Together, they explore the role of mental performance in endurance training, the pressures created by athletic identity, and why ambitious goals need to be supported by realistic expectations and consistent habits. The conversation covers how athletes can transfer skills into life after competitive sport, use personal values to guide performance, and turn outcome goals into actionable process goals. Erin also discusses the importance of recovery, the limitations of focusing too heavily on sleep data, and why curiosity can be more useful than self-criticism when training or racing does not go to plan. The episode concludes with practical strategies for race pacing and visualization, including how to mentally rehearse difficult moments rather than only imagining the finish line. What you’ll learnHow mental and physical training work together to support performance and long-term health.Why a strong athletic identity can be both a source of motivation and a vulnerability during setbacks.How to identify transferable skills, personal values, and meaningful goals beyond sport.The difference between outcome goals and process goals, and how to use both effectively.How to manage expectations without giving up on ambitious performance targets.Why patterns of sleep, recovery, and training matter more than a single difficult day.How to recognize negative self-talk and respond with curiosity rather than avoidance.How to plan for the urge to start a race too fast.How realistic visualization can prepare athletes for fatigue, setbacks, and challenging race moments. Episode chapters00:54 – Introduction 02:31 – Physical vs. Mental Training: Are Both Equally Important? 03:33 – What Is Sports Psychology? 04:52 – How Do Athletes Experience Mental Health Differently From the General Population? 06:33 – Do Athletes Go Through the Same Highs & Lows as Everyone Else? 08:50 – Examples of People Who Found Success After Retirement 10:34 – Specific Tips for Transferring Skills 15:04 – How Self-Awareness & Personal Values Impact Performance 17:44 – Keeping the Scorecard Without Focusing on It, Why? 19:38 – Being Intentional: Focusing on the Process Instead of Jumping Ahead 22:13 – Managing Expectations & Training Mistakes 24:12 – Healthy Sleep Cycle & Its Importance 25:58 – Expectations vs. Reality 29:09 – Questions to Manage Pressure & Stay Curious 31:18 – Criticism, Isolation & Lowering Expectations 34:24 – Avoiding the Trap of Starting Too Fast 36:46 – Why Is Visualization Underutilized? 40:02 – Erin’s Social Media 41:01 – Outro Enjoyed the episode? Follow the Progression Health Podcast on your preferred listening platform, leave a rating or review, and share it with someone who could benefit from the conversation. Disclaimer: The information shared in this episode is educational and is not a substitute for personalized medical, psychological, or mental health advice.

  2. Apr 28

    The Science of Strength for Runners | Dr. Richard Blagrove, PhD Episode #89

    Dr. Richard Blagrove, a physiology lecturer at Loughborough University and author of Strength and Conditioning for Endurance Running, breaks down the research behind why resistance training is essential for runners of all levels. From heavy lifting and plyometrics to periodization and injury prevention, he explains how building strength can improve running economy, boost performance, and reduce overuse injury risk. Whether you're a recreational jogger or a competitive racer, this conversation will change how you think about the role of the weight room in your training.

  3. Jan 13

    Episode #88: How Sobriety Led to Ultra-Marathons | David Millar Podcast Interview

    Med student and fitness influencer David Millar joins the podcast to share his journey from addiction to sobriety—and how ultra-marathon running became both a lifeline and a new challenge. A candid conversation about recovery, discipline, and finding balance after extremes. If you have any health-related questions you want answered or for free daily health info follow me on IG - Instagram- / progression_health Interested in online coaching? Email me; progressionhealthcoaching@gmail.com or DM me on FB, IG, or here!

  4. 11/30/2025

    Episode #87 Peak Performance for CIM: Dr. Peter Tierney on Recovery, Readiness, and Race-Day Execution

    Do you know the difference between a high HRV and a low Resting Heart Rate? More importantly, do you know how to change your training based on that data? Today, Ross is joined by Peter Tierney, a veteran Sports Scientist and Performance Coach who has worked with elite organizations ranging from Leinster Rugby to Lululemon. Peter specializes in "connecting the dots"—taking complex physiological data and turning it into actionable coaching advice. In this episode, you will learn: The Wearable Trap: Why obsessing over your Whoop or Garmin sleep score might be hurting your performance, and which metrics (like temperature and morning HRV) actually predict illness.The "SHIT" Framework: A simple 4-step checklist (Stiff, Heavy, Irritable, Tired) to decide if you should push hard or pull back on training.Marathon Science: Why your taper feels wrong (but is right), and the specific math for effective carb-loading (liquid vs. solid carbs).Recovery Myths: Why "feeling" recovered is often more accurate than your data, and how to use naps as a stress "circuit breaker." Mentioned in this episode: Heart Rate Variability (HRV)The "SHIT" Recovery FrameworkCarbohydrate Loading strategies (6-10g per kg)Supplements: Creatine Monohydrate, Omega 3s, Beetroot shots (Nitrates) Quote of the episode: "A recovery strategy if you feel tired shouldn't be the same as if you feel stiff or heavy. That doesn't make physiological sense." — Peter Tierney If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a review and share it with a running buddy!

  5. 10/21/2025

    Episode 86 The Science behind Elite Endurance in half and Marathon Running Success with Philip Batterson

    In this episode, Ross Dempsey talks with Philip Batterson about the science behind elite endurance in half marathon and marathon success. Philip shares insights into the physiology, psychology, and training strategies that allow athletes to push the limits of human performance. From oxygen uptake and VO₂ max, to fueling strategies, mindset, and the role of AI in modern training, this conversation blends science with practical advice for runners at every level. Whether you’re preparing for your first half marathon or chasing a personal best in the full marathon, this episode will help you understand what truly drives elite endurance. 🎧 Listen to More Episodes Subscribe to the Progression Health Podcast for weekly conversations about fitness, mindset, and endurance training. 👉 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-progression-health-podcast/id1516130578 If you have any health-related questions you want answered or for free daily health info follow me on IG - Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/progression_health/ Interested in online coaching? Email me; progressionhealthcoaching@gmail.com or DM me on FB, IG, or here! If you enjoyed this episode, please like, share, and subscribe 🙌 Leave a comment with your biggest takeaway – we’d love to hear from you! Chapters 00:06 Intro & Guest Background 03:36 Defining Elite Endurance 09:02 Physiology of Endurance Running 09:13 Training Adaptations & Performance 13:10 Nutrition & Fueling Strategies 16:08 Recovery & Injury Prevention 20:21 Psychological Aspects & Mindset 20:43 Technology, Data & AI in Training 27:17 Lessons from Elite Athletes 52:01 Practical Advice for Runners 53:01 Closing Thoughts & Final Message #ProgressionHealthPodcast #RossDempsey #PhilipBatterson #RunningScience #EnduranceRunning #MarathonTraining #HalfMarathon #VO2Max #RunningTips #MarathonSuccess #InjuryPrevention #RecoveryForRunners #RunningMindset

  6. 09/25/2025

    Episode #85 Inside the Mindset to Go From Physically Broken to 7 Continents in 6 days with Chris Edell

    In this episode, Ross Dempsey sits down with Chris Edell, a San Francisco–based endurance runner who has completed the World Marathon Challenge (7 marathons on 7 continents). Chris shares his journey from a ski-obsessed teenager to an accomplished long-distance runner, and how running has shaped his mindset, resilience, and family life. We cover everything from the mental battle with the inner voice, training strategies, and using AI to plan workouts, to balancing family responsibilities while chasing extreme endurance goals. Whether you’re a new runner preparing for your first 5K or someone curious about ultra-endurance events, this episode is packed with lessons you can apply right away. 🎧 Listen to More Episodes Subscribe to the Progression Health Podcast for weekly conversations about fitness, mindset, and endurance training. 👉 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-progression-health-podcast/id1516130578 Interested in online coaching? Email me; progressionhealthcoaching@gmail.com ✅ **Follow Us on Instagram:** https://www.instagram.com/progression_health/ Chapters 00:00 Intro & Guest Background 00:57 Early Running & Skiing Roots 02:00 Mental Benefits & The Inner Voice 08:32 Restarting & First Marathon Goal 09:15 Overcoming Doubt & Early Pain 09:51 Training Pillars + Using AI Plans 25:33 Sickness Rule: Above-the-Neck vs Below-the-Neck 26:16 Strength Training, Load & Injuries 39:17 World Marathon Challenge: 7 Marathons • 7 Days • 7 Continents 41:51 Back-to-Back 20-Milers & 100-Mile Weeks 42:46 Family, Time Management & Efficiency 44:16 Peace of Mind, Stoicism & Closing Advice #ProgressionHealthPodcast #RossDempsey #ChrisEdell #WorldMarathonChallenge #MarathonTraining #RunningMotivation #EnduranceRunning #FirstMarathon #UltraRunning #RunningPodcast #MentalToughness #Stoicism #FitnessPodcast #MarathonTips #RunningLife

  7. 03/05/2025

    Episode #84 How Running is the Change you NEED for your Fitness in 2025 with Darioush Edabat

    In this episode of the **Professional Podcast**, we sit down with **Darioush Edabat **, a fitness coach and experienced runner, to discuss his journey into running, overcoming injuries, training for marathons, and staying motivated. Whether you're just starting or training for your next race, this conversation is packed with valuable **running tips** and **training strategies** to help you improve your endurance and enjoy running more! 📢 **Subscribe for More Inspiring Stories & Fitness Tips!** Interested in online coaching? Email me; progressionhealthcoaching@gmail.com ✅ **Follow Us on Instagram:** https://www.instagram.com/progression_health/ ✅ **Listen on Apple Podcasts:** https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-progression-health-podcast/id1516130578 💬 **What’s your biggest struggle with running?** Drop a comment below! 👍 If you found this helpful, don’t forget to **LIKE** & **SHARE** this video with fellow runners! **Timestamps** 00:07 - Guest introduction 00:25 - How Darius started running 00:49 - First long run experience 01:14 - Chasing the runner’s high 02:01 - Why he kept running 02:37 - Running with great views 03:25 - Exploring new places 04:07 - Favorite running routes 05:00 - Overcoming running challenges 06:36 - Running injuries and setbacks 07:34 - Finishing a tough race 08:27 - Setting realistic goals 09:40 - Training for longer distances 11:38 - Importance of a running plan 12:23 - Benefits of a running group 13:38 - Why running is special 15:53 - Lessons learned from running 16:47 - Race strategy and nutrition 18:07 - Hydration tips for runners 19:48 - Preventing burnout in running 22:39 - Staying consistent in training 23:58 - Handling failure in running 27:46 - Running and mental toughness 29:40 - Strength training for runners 32:22 - About Progression Run Club 33:46 - Upcoming events and races 35:21 - Making running more enjoyable 37:21 - Final motivation for runners #RunningTips #MarathonTraining #RunningMotivation #FitnessJourney #RunningCommunity

    Episode #84 How Running is the Change you NEED for your Fitness in 2025 with Darioush Edabat

  8. 02/11/2025

    Episode #83 Maximize Your Running Potential like a Pro with pro trail runner Paddy O Leary

    Join us on the Progression Health Podcast as we talk with Paddy O’Leary, professional trail runner, scientist, and community builder based in San Francisco. Paddy shares his journey from playing lacrosse in Ireland to becoming a sponsored trail runner with The North Face. In this episode, Paddy discusses how he transitioned into trail running, the importance of community in running, and how group runs can make running more inclusive. He also shares hydration and nutrition strategies for endurance races, insights on strength training for runners, and his experiences with sponsorships from @thenorthface_trail and @hydrapak. If you have any health-related questions you want answered or for free daily health info 📢 Follow Progression Health Podcast: 🎧 Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/@progressionhealth 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/progression_health/ Interested in online coaching? Email ; progressionhealthcoaching@gmail.com Timestamps 00:13 Introduction 00:32 Transition from lacrosse to running 01:06 Getting into trail running 02:17 Athletic background before running 03:00 Different sports backgrounds in running 04:46 What is the November Project? 05:56 Growth of running communities 07:11 Solo vs group running 08:58 Making group runs inclusive 10:14 Why trail running? 12:49 Running as an exploration tool 17:21 North Face and running 19:37 North Face trail running shoes 20:36 Sponsored by @hydrapak 22:31 Hydration tips for runners 24:48 Learning proper race nutrition 27:46 What trail running offers 30:36 Filming and storytelling in running 34:08 The Historic Dipsy race 37:32 How to enter the Dipsy 38:28 Strength training for runners 42:23 Final thoughts on community #TrailRunning #RunningCommunity #TheNorthFace #PaddyOLeary #HydrationTips #MarathonTraining #DipsyRace #RunningTips #UltraRunning #StrengthTraining #TrailRunner #RunningMotivation #HydraPak #RunSanFrancisco #RunningPodcast #progressionhealthpodcast

    Episode #83 Maximize Your Running Potential like a Pro with pro trail runner Paddy O Leary
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Ratings & Reviews

4.7
out of 5
6 Ratings

About

A health-focused podcast with expert guests and in-depth conversations - to learn about better ways to improve your health, this is the podcast for you Check out my Instagram and Facebook for regular updates and more health content! https://www.instagram.com/progression_health/ (https://www.instagram.com/progression_health/) Emails to; progressionhealthcoaching@gmail.com

Information

  • Creator
    The Progression Health Podcast
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    91
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright The Progression Health Podcast
  • Show Website
    The Progression Health Podcast