Published by Stevie Lyn Smith MS, RDN, CSSD, CDN
Welcome to Real Fuel with SLS—the podcast where performance meets real life. I’m Stevie Lyn Smith, a sports dietitian, and every week we’re breaking down nutrition for runners, triathletes, and everyday athletes who want to train smarter, recover faster, and feel better doing it. No food guilt. No complicated plans. Just practical fueling strategies, real conversations, and science that actually makes sense. Whether you’re chasing a PR or just trying to get through your next workout feeling strong—this podcast is for you. Let’s get into it.
Listen on Apple PodcastsIn 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 popular platform Running Explained . If you have ever felt trapped by the numbers on your GPS watch, discouraged because you aren't hitting your college PRs, or lonely in a season of transition, this episode is for you. Stevie and Nick dive deep into "Act Three" of Nick's personal running journey, exploring how he moved from a burnt-out Division 1 athlete to finding genuine, long-term joy in endurance sports. They tackle the toxic comparison traps that many seasoned and adult-onset athletes fall into, why hyper-fixating on your pace splits might be ruining your progress, and how shifting to RPE (Rate of Perceived Exertion) can completely transform your relationship with training. Key Takeaways: The Three Acts of a Running Journey: Nick breaks down his transition from a high-pressure youth and D1 collegiate athlete (Act 1) to a social runner chasing performance in his 30s (Act 2), to his current era of experimenting with mileage for himself at age 44 (Act 3). The Danger of the Comparison Trap: It is incredibly easy to compare your current self to past versions of you. Nick shares how he had to humble his ego and acknowledge that an 18-year-old’s lifestyle demands something entirely different than a 44-year-old father of two. Workouts are for Gaining Fitness, Not Proving It: Why running your goal marathon pace on every single long run during a summer heatwave is a recipe for burnout. Training blocks are cumulative, and you are supposed to feel fatigued. Decoupling Joy from the Numbers: If you only stay in endurance sports to see faster numbers and constant PRs, you will eventually face a joyless experience. The Power of Time-Based Workouts & RPE: How Nick unlocked massive fitness by simply leaving the lap-split button alone and running entirely by feel and effort. "If you just live your life by the numbers, you will be disappointed more often than not. The numbers will not be the thing that brings you joy... Finding other ways and decoupling yourself from those numbers is so important." — Coach Nick Klastava Resources & Links Mentioned Connect with Coach Nick on Instagram: @RunningExplained and @nklastava Listen to Nick's first appearance: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/real-fuel-with-sls/id1746341651?i=1000712227811 Learn more about training with Running Explained Stay Connected! Instagram: @stevielynlyn Website: https://stevielynrd.com/ Leave a Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify! Episode Partners & Discounts Tailwind Nutrition: Get 20% off your first order of Tailwind Endurance Fuel (including their seasonal Blueberry Lemon flavor or the ultra-light Naked flavor!) by visiting TailwindNutrition.com and entering code RealFuel20 at checkout. Good Ranchers: Good Ranchers partners with local farmers and ranchers to deliver 100% American meat straight to your door. It’s pasture-raised, has no antibiotics, and no added hormones. Start your plan today and you’ll get FREE meat included with every order PLUS $100 off your first three orders with code, IRON. Just go to GoodRanchers.com and use code IRON at checkout. Or if you just wanna try it out, you can get $40 off your first order with my code IRON instead!
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 marathon (like Stevie’s upcoming Philly full in November!) or keeping active with local summer races, staying safely fueled and hydrated in the heat requires a distinct strategy. In this solo episode, registered sports dietitian and triathlon coach Stevie Lyn Smith breaks down the exact physiological changes that happen to your body when temperatures rise. Learn why your gut throws a tantrum on hot days, how the heat forces you to burn through your fuel reserves up to 20% faster, and actionable strategies to fix your hydration plan before you hit the wall. Tune to learn more about: The physiology of "runner’s stomach" in the heat The accelerated glycogen burn Unintentional underfueling in the summer Pre-run hydration framework: A simple blueprint for starting your runs hydrated How muscle cramping might be a carb problem How to identify if you're a salty sweater Dew point vs. humidity & external cooling Osmolality 101 And more! Episode Partners & Discounts Tailwind Nutrition: Get 20% off your first order of Tailwind Endurance Fuel (including their seasonal Blueberry Lemon flavor or the ultra-light Naked flavor!) by visiting TailwindNutrition.com and entering code RealFuel20 at checkout. Good Ranchers: Good Ranchers partners with local farmers and ranchers to deliver 100% American meat straight to your door. It’s pasture-raised, has no antibiotics, and no added hormones. Start your plan today and you’ll get FREE meat included with every order PLUS $100 off your first three orders with code, IRON. Just go to GoodRanchers.com and use code IRON at checkout. Or if you just wanna try it out, you can get $40 off your first order with my code IRON instead!
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 powerful, preventative approach to healthcare that looks at the whole person. In this episode of Real Fuel with SLS , Stevie Lyn Smith catches up with longtime college friend and colleague, Dr. Alex Ford, DO, RD . Dr. Ford shares his unique journey from studying dietetics at Buffalo State to navigating the rigorous world of medical school, serving as Chief Resident at the prestigious Cleveland Clinic, and earning a spot on Albany’s 40 Under 40 list. They dive deep into the gaps in traditional medical education regarding nutrition, the rise of GLP-1 medications, and how to champion true, preventive lifestyle medicine. In this episode they chat more about: The anatomy of whole-person care GLP-1s as tools as part of lifestyle medicine The foundational pillars for every human looking to improve health Dr. Ford's career path and education Making nutrition information digestible and easy for individuals to apply to their lives The reality of nutrition education in medical school (or lack thereof) And so much more! Stay Connected: Stay up to date with Dr. Ford: https://www.dralexford.com/ Connect with Dr. Ford at info@neotritionbrands.com , for general questions Follow Stevie on Instagram: @stevielynlyn Join Stevie’s newsletter: Stevie Lyn Nutrition newsletter Learn more about Dr. Alex Ford: If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify—it helps more athletes and health-conscious individuals find the show!
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 book, Don't Call It a Comeback , Keira opens up about her recent major surgery and her intentional, conservative approach to rehabilitation. Keira pulls back the curtain on what it’s like to realize you’ve been living and training in constant pain, how her body learned to compensate over a five-year period, and why she is viewing this three-month reset as a beautiful opportunity to correct imbalances. From the hilariously relatable logistics of waist-deep pool running in running shoes to coaching her daughter's Girls on the Run team, Keira shares how she is finding joy in the current phase of her journey while keeping her eyes locked squarely on the 2028 Olympic Trials. We also chat more about: Building a community as a runner Addressing imbalances to improve sport performance Patience over pressure during her return to sport Using pool running and other modalities in her post-surgery recovery Finding the silver linings during time away from regular training And so much more! Stay Connected: Follow Keira on Instagram: @keiradamato Buy Keira's book Don't Call it a Comeback Follow Stevie on Instagram: @stevielynlyn Join Stevie’s newsletter: Stevie Lyn Nutrition newsletter
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 strategic. In this episode of Real Fuel with SLS , I am is joined by Laura Filla, a competitive marathoner, RRCA Level 2 Certified Running Coach, and founder of Filla Endurance. Laura breaks down her science-backed coaching philosophy, explaining why she prioritizes building injury resilience over injury prevention . In this episode we chat about: The power of periodized strength training Connecting with athletes and building the athlete-coach relationship How to manage your mindset and training as an athlete The boom in running and run clubs Navigating post-race recovery The importance of a mental break after a goal race The super shoe debate And so much more! Stay connected: Check out Fillaendurance.com - right now their coaching team is accepting 1:1 athletes Follow Laura on Instagram: @coachlaura.run Follow Stevie on Instagram: @stevielynlyn Join Stevie’s newsletter: Stevie Lyn Nutrition newsletter
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 block The mental and physical challenges of taper week Strategies for carb loading I reflect on past experiences The importance of visualization The mental hurdles athletes face The significance of rest, recovery, and proper nutrition leading up to race day And so much more! Download my FREE carb loading guide here ! Follow me on instagram
In this episode, Holley Samuel of Holley Fueled Nutrition, a sports dietitian and endurance athlete, shares expert insights on pregnancy, nutrition, training, and postpartum recovery. She discusses how women can proactively support their bodies through pregnancy and beyond, emphasizing the importance of personalized care and evidence-based practices. We also chat about: energy and nutrient needs in pregnancy bloodwork to look at before, during, and post-pregnancy (and why) the importance of having a strong nutrition foundation how to take small actions vs. getting overwhelmed with what you see on the internet mindset tips to navigate pregnancy and PP as an athlete and human and so much more! Stay connected: Follow Holley on Instagram: @ holleyfuelednutrition Check out Holley's website: https://holleyfuelednutrition.com/ Holley's The Pregnant Athlete course: https://holleyfuelednutrition.com/pregnant-athlete Follow Stevie on Instagram: @ stevielynlyn Join Stevie’s newsletter: Stevie Lyn Nutrition newsletter
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 winters, experimenting with nutrition and pacing, and playing a different game in the highly competitive world of marathoning. Whether you're an endurance athlete or just curious about pushing human potential, this conversation offers valuable lessons on resilience, innovation, and mental toughness. In this episode we talk about: Joe Whelan’s journey from high school success to Olympic trials and elite marathoning Training strategies for harsh winter conditions, including treadmill tactics The importance of mental strategies and placebo effects in race nutrition Experimenting with fueling plans, including gels, hydration, and novel approaches like ketone supplements Navigating race conditions and GI issues at ultra-high effort levels Strategic race selection for global ranking and Olympic aspirations Insights into the competitive marathon scene in Europe versus the US The role of mental visualization, placebo, and mindset during critical race moments Behind-the-scenes of race logistics, including carb loading and pacing in competitive fields Joe’s upcoming race plans and how he’s playing the long game for international recognition Elevate your understanding of endurance sports by listening to an athlete who’s out there not just competing but innovating at the highest level. His approach to training, nutrition, and mental fortitude pushes the boundaries of what it means to be a marathoner—less about following the crowd, more about leading your own race. Stay connected: Follow Joe's running journey on Instagram: @jpwhelan Follow Stevie on Instagram: @stevielynlyn Join Stevie’s newsletter: Stevie Lyn Nutrition newsletter
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 quality, and common misconceptions. I also delve into effective carb loading strategies for endurance athletes and practical tips for race preparation, helping you make smarter nutrition choices for your training and racing. I chat more about: The fundamental role of protein: amino acids, macronutrients, and their functions Why more protein isn't always better and the importance of quality sources Common myths around protein smoothies, protein chips, and processed protein foods How to interpret food labels and understand "high in protein" claims The significance of protein digestibility scores (PDCAAS) and evaluating food quality The impact of protein quality on overall health and muscle building Understanding nutrient density versus processed "proteinified" foods The purpose of carb loading: optimizing muscle glycogen for endurance events Practical carb loading strategies: timing, food choices, and hydration The importance of practicing fueling strategies during training How to tailor fueling plans based on race length, conditions, and personal tolerance Balancing carbohydrate intake and minimizing GI issues on race day Tips to train your gut and avoid common fueling mistakes Connect with Stevie: Instagram Website This episode offers straightforward guidance to demystify complex nutrition topics, empowering you to optimize your diet for training and racing success. Remember, understanding nutrition is about balance, quality, and consistent practice—don't just follow the latest trend, focus on what works for your body.
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 complexities of metabolic dysfunction, the "sneaky" ways athletes end up under-fueled, and why a low resting heart rate might not be the "fitness flex" many think it is. From the impact of GLP-1 medications on performance to the psychology of "a la carte" movement, this conversation provides a roadmap for athletes and clinicians to move from a state of survival to true performance. We chat about: REDS and its effects on metabolism and health Unstructured activity and its role in energy expenditure Nutritional strategies for athletes to prevent REDS Metabolic markers and signs of low energy availability The impact of low heart rate and HRV on athlete health And so much more! Stay Connected: Follow Becca on Instagram: @rebeccaeddietitian Check out Becca's website: https://beccamcconville.com/ Follow Stevie on Instagram: @stevielynlyn Join Stevie’s newsletter: Stevie Lyn Nutrition newsletter
In this episode we dive deep into the "middle space" between athletic coaching, mental performance, and clinical therapy. Guest Neal Palles is a psychotherapist, certified mental performance consultant, and ultra-running coach. He shares his unique perspective on the "many hats" he wears supporting athletes We explore the dangerous glorification of suffering in endurance sports and how "grit" can often transform into "rigidity." Neal breaks down the critical differences between performance coaching (skills and strategy) and therapy (core beliefs and identity). We also chat more about: Athlete identity Burnout, overtraining, and resilience in endurance sport athletes Mental health for athletes The "suck it up" mentality in sport Viewing injury from a mental health perspective ADHD in athletes And so much more! Stay connected: Check out Neal's website here Follow Neal on Instagram @nealpalles Follow Stevie on Instagram: @stevielynlyn Join Stevie’s newsletter: Stevie Lyn Nutrition newsletter
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 spot nutrition misinformation, gives his take on the new dietary guidelines, and more! Brandon Lee, DHSc, RD, CSSD, CCRP, FAND, is a human performance practitioner, researcher, and educator dedicated to advancing athlete health, readiness, and resilience. A Registered Dietitian and Board-Certified Specialist in Sports Dietetics, he serves as a Dietitian within the U.S. Army’s Holistic Health and Fitness (H2F) system, providing performance nutrition support to more than 4,000 Soldiers in the 10th Mountain Division. His work integrates evidence-based practice, interdisciplinary collaboration, and applied research to optimize tactical performance and enhance Soldier lethality and recovery. Brandon’s background spans clinical nutrition, long-term care, collegiate teaching, sports performance, and human nutrition research. He has contributed to high-performance environments, including Minor League Baseball and the Obesity and Metabolism Unit at UC Davis, where he coordinated research on dietary patterns and metabolic health. An active scholar and speaker, Brandon has published peer-reviewed and professional articles on low energy availability, overtraining, and tactical nutrition, and he presents regularly at national and state conferences. He also serves on advisory boards and has held multiple leadership and service roles within professional organizations. Brandon earned his Doctor of Health Science from PennWest University and is recognized as a Fellow of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. In this episode Stevie chats with Brandon about: What is encompassed in the growing field of tactical nutrition Collaboration being key to be a better practitioner and to better support the individual athlete The three pillars of evidence-based practice Hot takeaways from the new dietary guidelines And so much more! Stay connected: Check out Brandon's professional profile here Follow along with Brandon's work on LinkedIn Follow Stevie on Instagram: @stevielynlyn Join Stevie’s newsletter: Stevie Lyn Nutrition newsletter
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 of experience in athletics and research, she leads community-engagement efforts at the University of Toronto’s Mental Health and Physical Activity Research Centre. Passionate about movement and belonging, Sasha co-founded Yellow Running Shoes and works to help young athletes thrive on and off the field. She is also the author of Unstoppable , a mental-performance journal published by Strong Girl Publishing, designed to help athletes show up with confidence, focus, and resilience for every big goal that matters to them. Stevie chats with Sasha about: Her background as high performance athlete and coach Her work as a researcher on mental health and girls in sport How to be unstoppable through injury and adversity Adapting to the changes in performance technology Sensationalizing the basics when it comes to training and nutrition Food as connection New trends in sports nutrition And so much more! You can find Sasha on Instagram at @SGollishRuns and @Yellow_Running_Shoes
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 episode will give you the tools to do just that. Jaci Wilson is a marathon & ultramarathon run coach, winter running enthusiast, and podcaster who helps runners, with many active hobbies, train sustainably through all seasons. She helps athletes excel in running without sacrificing their hobbies by managing their training load and stress bucket. Whether it’s skiing, hunting, dog training, gardening, or scuba diving, Jaci believes avoiding burnout requires more than just running miles. More miles usually is not the answer for her athletes. Her coaching emphasizes rest, nutrition, strength training, mindset, and flexible, non-traditional scheduling that supports real life. Stevie chats with Jaci about: Top 3 tips to keep training through the winter months Her experience training in all winter in Minnesota has to offer How mindset plays a role in winter running Finding ways to make winter more enjoyable as an athlete Balancing play and training for a well-rounded athlete Gear recommendations for outdoor winter running And so much more! You can find Jaci at jaciwilsonruns.com and on social media @jaci.wilson.runs . She also hosts The One More Hour Podcast: An Insider’s Guide to Backyard Ultras, Timed Events, and the Ultrarunning Mindset of “One More,” available on all platforms, YouTube, and Instagram @theonemorehourpodcast . Grab winter running tips, gear, and advice at jaciwilsonruns.com/winter-running
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 consulting sports dietitian for LeMoyne College Athletics and sees clients through her private practice, Major League Wellness. Jessica is a women's health researcher, currently studying the effects of REDs on athletic performance in female athletes. She is a mom to 4 kids and stays active with weight training, hiking, yoga, and Pilates. In this episode we chat about: Her work as a professor and as a dietitian Ways to make research more fun for her students Making research a creative process Supplements and how to use them appropriately Freedom to pick what she studies Female athlete research How to apply nutrition as an art and a science in sports nutrition Recent research in REDs with RMR ratio Upcoming research in adolescent female athletes Carbs and V02max Sports nutrition work with college athletes And so much more! Stay connected: Jessica on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jlgaray/ Jessica on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cusesportsrd/ Major League Wellness website: https://majorleaguewellness.com/ Stevie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stevielynlyn/ Stevie Lyn Nutrition website: https://stevielynrd.com/
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 for life. Her work lives at the intersection of being a human, moving well, and feeling good while doing it . Whether that’s on the run, chasing life’s next adventure, or the moments in between. Michaela helps others find strength, energy, and joy in the way they move through both training and everyday life. In this episode we chat about: How she blends her passions for nursing and running into her purpose Her love for working with a variety of individuals first time marathoners to parents looking to be strong and healthy to hike mountains with their kids Her creative side The less glamorous side of social media as a business owner The importance of having a coach on your team Training for the season that you're in And so much more! Stay connected: Strides for Strength: stridesforstrength.com , https://www.instagram.com/sfsrunners/ Michaela's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaela_robertson_/ Stevie's website: https://stevielynrd.com/ Stevie's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stevielynlyn/
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. Today, he captures the world of running around him, highly influenced by his experiences in BMX and skateboarding. In this episode we yap about: How he got into photography His time spent as pro BMX rider How injuries helped him shape his craft What inspired the start of mile by mile photo Running every street in Buffalo A behind the scenes look of running photography Supporting small biz and Jim's work And so much more! Stay connected: Mile by Mile Photo on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/milebymilephoto/ Jim's portfolio: https://jimcielencki.myportfolio.com/?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAadYyr8D5-NRhQr09haeKiheoyaeEdQipqf-_moKbpusQASkbn1Y7y3wiLrvoQ_aem_NBzQKh1pFV8XQBbNj_Yvxw Jim's Ted Talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tUWWRyuggKM Stevie's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stevielynlyn/ Stevie's website: https://stevielynrd.com/
Sara Manderscheid is the founder + head coach of Elevate Your Running Coaching, a podcaster, and an endurance masters athlete in Boulder, Colorado. Sara partners with athletes to chase big dreams, break through plateaus, and find joy and flexibility in running and training. She enjoys working with athletes who love running and want to improve the sport. You can find Elevate Your Running online at elevateyourrunning.com , and on social media at @sayrahrunshappy and @elevateyourrunning (Instagram, Threads). The Elevate Your Running Podcast is available every Thursday on your favorite listing platform. Listen to learn more about: How to navigate injury as an athlete Warning signs of burnout How stress impacts us as runners Coaching and supporting other athletes through injury Tools and mindset growth during injuries And so much more! If you're loving the podcast please rate and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts!
Caitlin Butler is an anorexia survivor turned eating disorder recovery coach and the founder of Bold Bites HQ. After struggling without the tools she needed in her eating disorder recovery, she began creating her own. Now she designs care packages, cheeky mugs, stickers, and coloring pages that support women through the messy, real moments of recovery. Her mission is simple: make eating doable again and help women break free from restriction, food obsession, and over-exercising so they can actually enjoy life. Listen to learn more about: Tangible tools while pursuing eating disorder recovery The why behind care packages Her journey with an eating disorder and how it inspires her work How restriction and over-exercising get mistaken for “strength,” when they actually disconnect us from life and people we love. How can we promote a better environment for athletes with words and actions Disconnection from our bodies with over-exercising and restriction The underfed brain and quality of life Feast or famine mindset in eating disorders Messy moments of recovery and how she helps individuals get through them How you can help as support system for someone in recovery Why practical, day-to-day tools can make recovery feel doable instead of impossible And so much more! Stay connected: Use code REALFUEL10 for 10% off on her etsy shop! •Bold Bites HQ on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/boldbiteshq/ •Bold Bites HQ on etsy: https://www.etsy.com/shop/BOLDBITESHQ •Caitlin's website: https://www.simplifyyourhealth.net/ •Stevie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stevielynlyn/ •Stevie's website: https://stevielynrd.com/
Heather Caplan is the co-founder of Lane 9 Project , and a sports dietitian based in Ann Arbor MI. She works with runners to be more flexible with fueling and nutrition, and supports athletes wanting to get their periods back, or keep them regular. She has three kiddos and a dog named Banana. You can find her out on the run, and on the Lane 9 podcast . Listen to hear more about: The what is and why behind the Lane 9 Project? How providing a platform for athletes and individuals to connect and share their stories can help others How individuals and clinicians can connect with the L9P Heather's work to help educate and practice with a non-diet approach to sports nutrition How to begin practicing a non-diet approach as an athlete And so much more! Stay connected: Lane 9 Project on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lane9project/ Heather on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heatherdcrd/ Heather's website: heathercaplan.com Stevie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stevielynlyn/ Stevie's website: https://stevielynrd.com/
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