D And D Fitness Radio's Show

Episode 171 has us sitting down with Andrew Hauser, in the midst of the 2024 World Series between the LA Dodgers and NY Yankees, talking about the nuances of rehabilitation and the intricacies of professional baseball.  Andrew has had the opportunity to work in Major League Baseball for over a decade and now works in private practice addressing injuries for all professional athletes, including the MLB, NFL, NBA, NHL, MLS and Olympic team athletes.  We discuss some of the causes of the injuries that are plaguing various athletes, looking at basic qualities like blood flow, oxygen distribution and general fitness levels.  Today’s athletes are so fixated on the specific skills in their sports and sometimes miss the basic physical qualities in their preparation and maintenance programs.  Andrew identifies his process for improving athlete health and resiliency, as well identifying potential risks for injury in various sports.  Andrew graduated from the University of Kansas with a B.S. in Athletic Training in 2008

In Episode 170, we have a frank discussion with Dr. Dwayne Jackson about the ins-and-outs of testosterone deficiencies and the need for individuals to seek out supplemental testosterone replacement therapy (TRT).  It is more and more common to hear about males seeking out TRT for lifestyle and aesthetic reasons.  However, do they truly need to replace testosterone from a clinical standpoint, or are they compensating for poor lifestyle choices, bad or non-existent exercise habits or simply not exhausting conventional methods of managing their testosterone and general health?  Dr. Jackson provides an overview of all of the possible causes of low testosterone, as well as possible reasons for these deficiencies.  For those that are willing to examine their lifestyle choices and make changes, improvements in testosterone levels can be achieved.  But, in some cases, testosterone therapy may be a reasonable option when all of the conventional options have been exhausted.  Dr. Dwayne N. Jackson is a dad, athlete, hea

It was time to bring back Charlie Weingroff for Episode 169 to talk about some serious stuff.  Charlie and Don had a private conversation a few weeks ago on the subject of scientific research in health, wellness and performance, and where it fits in the selection of protocols, exercises and other key ingredients for optimal performance and health.  While some practitioners are quick to support their own positions with research papers, or argue against another professional’s methods using peer reviewed research as a basis, we discuss the nuances of using research in an intelligent manner.  Practical experience, case studies, intuition and research can form a strong foundation of knowledge and skill that can go a long way to bolster the work of a successful practitioner or coach.  Charlie identifies the key elements that go into establishing foundational knowledge and practice.  Dr. Charlie Weingroff is one of the most sought-after professionals world-wide in physical therapy and athletic performance. He is a D

Don and Derek reflect on the concept of incorporating running workouts as part of an overall aerobic training and conditioning program to improve overall body composition, health and wellness.  It is no surprise that obesity numbers are continuing to increase in the western world and individuals are struggling to incorporate regular exercise into their schedules, while also improving overall nutritional habits.  While running has always been considered a relatively simple way to add exercise to an individual’s routine, it has never been considered an easy task.  Determination, patience and a bit of grit may be required.  Understanding how much, how hard and how frequently is always the most difficult part when starting a running program.  Ideally, individuals can incorporate a combination of methods including steady state runs and interval training to provide a combination of variety and varied intensity, improving overall cardiovascular fitness, as well as general strength and power.  Finding a routine that

We sit down once again with Brandon Marcello in Episode 167.  Brandon gives us some recent insight into all things related to sport and exercise science, as well as new technologies designed to monitor the status of athletes.  We talk about the efficacy and useability of wearable technology to monitor general health, sleep, cardiac output, recovery and many other key metrics.  We also discuss the importance of looking at individual responses to exercise, foods, medications and other factors when deciding on a path for health, wellness and performance.  Brandon Marcello is a high-performance strategists that offers consulting services to some of the top organizations in the world that rely on the optimization of human performance capabilities. Originally from Sarasota, FL, Marcello has worked in the professional, Olympic and top collegiate settings.  He has also served as a consultant to various organizations and media groups.  For the last 22 years, Dr. Marcello has taken individuals and organizations to the

In Episode 166, we have an in depth discussion on diet and health with Michelle Shapiro.  Working as a  Functional Dietician, Michelle tackles a wide range of issues related to personal health, wellness, fitness and nutrition.  We cover a wide range of topics related to diet and nutrition including the growing incidence of disease, challenges around weight loss, questions about modern food quality, habits around food preparation and consumption, and the marketing around food and dining.  Michelle Shapiro is an Integrative/Functional Registered Dietitian from NYC. Michelle has supported over 1000 clients to reverse anxiety, approach their weight with love, and heal digestive issues. Utilizing humor, nuance, and compassion, Michelle helps clients access their own liberating self-awareness. On her podcast, “Quiet the Diet,” Michelle shares her own journey of losing weight the wrong way (and what the consequences of that drastic 100 pound weight loss were), and how she learned to prioritize whole-body health as a

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