Episode 071 - Erin McGirr: Helping You Perform Better

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 scientifically-validated wearable technology that actively improves sleep, relaxation, focus, and calm, using a novel touch therapy that signals safety to the brain. Dr. Rabin is the Executive Director of The Board of Medicine & the Medical Director of the Apollo Clinic.

You can find out more information on Dr. David Rabin and Apollo Neuro below:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drdavidrabin/ https://www.instagram.com/apolloneuro/

Website: https://www.drdave.io/
https://apolloneuro.com/

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.spotify.com/show/5Py2SSPA4mntNwYRm0Opri

You can reach both Don and Derek at the following locations:

Don Saladino: http://www.DonSaladino.com
Twitter and Instagram - @DonSaladino
YouTube - http://www.youtube.com/donsaladino

Derek M. Hansen: http://www.SprintCoach.com
Twitter and Instagram - @DerekMHansen
YouTube - http://youtube.com/derekmhansen

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 research in the field, Emily has unraveled the intricate workings of the brain and its profound impact on our perception, behavior, and overall well-being. Her expertise extends beyond the confines of academia, as she boasts a substantial social media following of over 280,000 engaged individuals. Countless testimonies bear witness to the positive influence she has had on their lives.

You can find out more information on Emily McDonald below:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emonthebrain/
Website: https://www.emonthebrain.com/

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.spotify.com/show/5Py2SSPA4mntNwYRm0Opri

You can reach both Don and Derek at the following locations:

Don Saladino: http://www.DonSaladino.com
Twitter and Instagram - @DonSaladino
YouTube - http://www.youtube.com/donsaladino

Derek M. Hansen: http://www.SprintCoach.com
Twitter and Instagram - @DerekMHansen
YouTube - http://youtube.com/derekmhansen

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 the world of fitness and lifestyle media, including Men's Health, Oxygen, Train Magazine, Inside Fitness, Shape, Wall Street Journal, Huffington Post, Men's Journal, Esquire, Strong Fitness Magazine, and the National Strength and Conditioning Association's Personal Training Quarterly. Lee’s first contribution to a full book came in 2013 with his inclusion in Men’s Fitness Exercise Bible: 101 Best Workouts of All Time, which became an Amazon best seller. As a public speaker, Boyce uses his skills to deliver lectures, workshops, and seminars around North America and abroad, sharing innovative troubleshooting guidelines and unique perspectives for trainers looking to improve professionally. As a part-time college professor at Toronto's Humber College, he encourages critical thinking and a departure from the confines of one-size-fits-all, rule-based exercise science advice.

You can find out more information on Lee Boyce below:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coachleeboyce/

Website: https://www.leeboyce.com/

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.spotify.com/show/5Py2SSPA4mntNwYRm0Opri

You can reach both Don and Derek at the following locations:

Don Saladino: http://www.DonSaladino.com
Twitter and Instagram - @DonSaladino
YouTube - http://www.youtube.com/donsaladino

Derek M. Hansen: http://www.SprintCoach.com
Twitter and Instagram - @DerekMHansen
YouTube - http://youtube.com/derekmhansen

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 quality and individualization.

You can find out more information on Ben Bruno below:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/benbrunotraining/
Website: https://benbruno.com/

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.spotify.com/show/5Py2SSPA4mntNwYRm0Opri

You can reach both Don and Derek at the following locations:

Don Saladino: http://www.DonSaladino.com
Twitter and Instagram - @DonSaladino
YouTube - http://www.youtube.com/donsaladino

Derek M. Hansen: http://www.SprintCoach.com
Twitter and Instagram - @DerekMHansen
YouTube - http://youtube.com/derekmhansen

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 later, Matt discovered lifting. It allowed him to see he was capable of anything, despite what he had gone through during recovery from his injuries. In the beginning, lifting was just a stepping stone to the goal of football. But it became a much larger pathway in his life. Lifting inspired Matt to attain higher education and become a strength coach. He excelled with a 3.9 GPA.

Matt has been an adviser for the NFL, an international speaker for the NSCA, as well as a contractor for border patrol, airborne divisions, and the pentagon. He has directed over 6000 troops in strength, conditioning, and wellness for the U.S. Army including Infantry and Ranger Divisions.

You can find out more information on Matt Wenning below:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wenningstrong/

Website: https://wenningstrength.com/

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.spotify.com/show/5Py2SSPA4mntNwYRm0Opri

You can reach both Don and Derek at the following locations:

Don Saladino: http://www.DonSaladino.com
Twitter and Instagram - @DonSaladino
YouTube - http://www.youtube.com/donsaladino

Derek M. Hansen: http://www.SprintCoach.com
Twitter and Instagram - @DerekMHansen
YouTube - http://youtube.com/derekmhansen

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 across the health, wellness, and lifestyle space such as Reebok, Under Armour, Adidas, ASICS, Rhone, Melin, Cellucor, Bodybulding.com, CrossFit, the National Academy of Sports Medicine, Precision Nutrition, Nautica, TimeOut, Gregory’s Coffee, and more. Kenny has also shared his training approach and wellness philosophy with features in top health and wellness publications such as Shape Magazine, Men’s Health Magazine, Men’s Journal, Well+Good, Askmen.com, Reebok.com, and Women’s Health Magazine to name a few.

You can find out more information on Kenny Santucci and his Strong New York event below:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kennysantucci/
https://www.instagram.com/strongnewyork

Websites: https://www.kenny-santucci.com/
https://strongnewyork.com/2023-sny-expo

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.spotify.com/show/5Py2SSPA4mntNwYRm0Opri

You can reach both Don and Derek at the following locations:

Don Saladino: http://www.DonSaladino.com
Twitter and Instagram - @DonSaladino
YouTube - http://www.youtube.com/donsaladino

Derek M. Hansen: http://www.SprintCoach.com
Twitter and Instagram - @DerekMHansen
YouTube - http://youtube.com/derekmhansen

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.spotify.com/show/5Py2SSPA4mntNwYRm0Opri

You can reach both Don and Derek at the following locations:

Don Saladino: http://www.DonSaladino.com
Twitter and Instagram - @DonSaladino
YouTube - http://www.youtube.com/donsaladino

Derek M. Hansen: http://www.SprintCoach.com
Twitter and Instagram - @DerekMHansen
YouTube - http://youtube.com/derekmhansen

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 passion is to help people become something greater than themselves, and that passion has driven her to become a die-hard professional in the Health and Fitness arena. Jacqueline obtained her B.S in Exercise Science with a minor in Health from Plymouth State University. She has since dedicated herself to further her studies by specializing in a number of areas including: Certified Personal Trainer by the National Federation of Personal Training (NFPT), RTS, ONNIT Academy- Foundations, Durability, Steel Mace, and Steel Club, Pre and Post Natal, Functional Movement Screen (FMS), Self Myofascial Release (SMR), ViPR, TRX, Kettlebell Concepts, Animal Flow, Crossfit Mobility WOD, PRP, USAW, Loaded Movement, and Triggerpoint Therapy. She has designed and programmed the new studio fitness concept Blackout. She is an International Educator and Master Trainer for Technogym and provides written content for several media sources.

You can find out more information on Jacqueline Kasen below:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kasenfitness/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jacqueline.kasen


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.spotify.com/show/5Py2SSPA4mntNwYRm0Opri

You can reach both Don and Derek at the following locations:

Don Saladino: http://www.DonSaladino.com
Twitter and Instagram - @DonSaladino
YouTube - http://www.youtube.com/donsaladino

Derek M. Hansen: http://www.SprintCoach.com
Twitter and Instagram - @DerekMHansen
YouTube - http://youtube.com/derekmhansen

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: https://www.neuroathletics.com.au/

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.spotify.com/show/5Py2SSPA4mntNwYRm0Opri

You can reach both Don and Derek at the following locations:

Don Saladino: http://www.DonSaladino.com
Twitter and Instagram - @DonSaladino
YouTube - http://www.youtube.com/donsaladino

Derek M. Hansen: http://www.SprintCoach.com
Twitter and Instagram - @DerekMHansen
YouTube - http://youtube.com/derekmhansen

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 approach to help solve clinically complex classes while optimizing health-span and lifespan. He is currently based out of New York City/Connecticut, where he practices what he preaches when it comes to everything health and medicine.

You can find out more information on Dr. Esposito below:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.ralphesposito/

Website: https://www.drralphesposito.com/

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.spotify.com/show/5Py2SSPA4mntNwYRm0Opri

You can reach both Don and Derek at the following locations:
Don Saladino: http://www.DonSaladino.com
Twitter and Instagram - @DonSaladino
YouTube - http://www.youtube.com/donsaladino

Derek M. Hansen: http://www.SprintCoach.com
Twitter and Instagram - @DerekMHansen
YouTube - http://youtube.com/derekmhansen