Podcast List – The Flying Pig Project

This page still under construction while I upload all episode summaries.

Episode List - Starting with most recent. Click on the + for episode summary.

211: Runner 101 with Erin!

Featuring Erin Vandenberg

In this episode, Rachael and Erin introduce the episode “Runner 101”; based on their shared experiences both running and volunteering. They discuss their own personal experiences with their introduction to running and you won’t believe how different they are! With humor and anecdotes, they emphasize that everyone starts somewhere and learning from experiences is key to becoming a better runner. The conversation covers practical advice on what to wear on race day, fueling strategies, and the significance of understanding race logistics.

And yes, you can always take a pin.

Sound Bites

“Everyone has to start somewhere”
“It’s important to remember that every race could be someone’s first.”
“Don’t wear anything new on race day; stick to what you’ve trained in.”
“Fueling strategies should be practiced during training, not just on race day.”
“Asking questions ahead of time can alleviate race day stress.”
“You can foster a community online.”

210: Intermediate Milestones with Marty!

Featuring show editor Marty Koltz!

In this episode, Rachael and Marty catch up to see where each other is with their training plans. Marty shares his enjoyable international trip, complete with running by the beach and a New Year’s karaoke celebration, while Rachael discusses her two-week break from teaching, which she spent relaxing at home with her cat, Butter. They both emphasize the importance of structure in their routines, with Rachael noting how she missed the organization of her work schedule, while Marty struggled with maintaining his workout consistency during the unstructured holiday period.

As they transition into discussing their training, Marty reveals that he has been compliant with his running plan, logging impressive mileage since returning from his trip. Rachael shares her mixed feelings about her training, particularly her struggles with running compared to her enjoyment of swimming and biking. They discuss both of their upcoming intermediate milestones; Marty with the F3 13.1 and Rachael with her indoor tri.

Sound bites:

“I missed the structure.”
“It’s a very good point about the holidays being unstructured.”
“I think I’m 100% compliant with my plan.”
“I have a high level of anxiety knowing that there are people watching me swim.”
“It’s all about no expectations, just moving.”

209: Please welcome Sophia and Joel to the show!

Featuring the father daughter duo Joel and Sophia Feinberg!

Summary: In this episode of Start Lines and Swag Bags, Rachael welcomes Joel and his daughter Sophia to discuss their experiences with Ironman and triathlons. Joel shares his journey working for Ironman, his roles, and the importance of athlete engagement. Sophia discusses her athletic background and her transition into triathlons.

The conversation also touches on the challenges of training, safety in races, and the decision-making process behind choosing races, particularly the 70.3 distance. In this engaging conversation, Sophia and Joel discuss their experiences with Ironman races, the challenges of race day, and the importance of safety and volunteer support. They delve into the nuances of training for triathlons, managing expectations, and the critical role of nutrition. Sophia shares her journey as a young athlete, while Joel provides insights from his experience in the industry, making for a rich dialogue about the world of triathlons and Ironman events.

208: Please welcome LaLa and Kellie to the show!

Featuring the mother-daughter duo LaLa and Kellie Kiska!

Summary: In this episode, host Rachael welcomes Kellie and her daughter Alyssa for a heartfelt conversation about their shared experiences in health, fitness, and personal growth.

They discuss the importance of health awareness, the joy of walking together, and the challenges of participating in races. Through laughter and reflection, they explore the dynamics of their mother-daughter relationship and how it has evolved through their fitness journey. The episode highlights the significance of community, motivation, and the lessons learned along the way. They share personal anecdotes about their running experiences, the joy of completing races together, and the lessons learned about asking for help and the significance of shared experiences. The discussion also touches on future goals, including plans for upcoming races and the importance of maintaining motivation and connection in their fitness journeys.

207: Potato Days with Marty and Rachael

Featuring podcast host Rachael and editor Marty

Summary: In this episode, Rachael and Marty reflect on their Thanksgiving experiences, including the Turkey Trot event and the challenges of maintaining training routines during the holiday season. They discuss the importance of accountability in their fitness journeys, the impact of winter weather on training, and the mental health challenges that can arise from disrupted routines. As they look ahead to the new year, they set goals for their training and emphasize the need for flexibility and self-compassion.

206: Third time is the charm with Przemek!

Featuring Przemek Krydk

Summary: In this conversation, Przemek shares his personal journey of recovery following a serious car accident during the pandemic. He discusses the challenges he faced during rehabilitation and how he turned to Pilates as a means to regain his strength and achieve a pain-free life. His experience highlights the importance of perseverance and finding the right methods for recovery.

Some key takeaways include physical therapy often leaves patients at only80% recovery, with a focus on Activities of Daily Living, not fitness goals. Also, consistency in practice is a key to recovery, finding the right fitness method is critical for rehabilitation, and personal determination plays a significant role in recovery.

205: Catch up with Marty, Rachael, and Justin

Featuring podcast host Rachael, editor Marty, and Justin Aquino DPT

Summary: The conversation delves into the physical challenges faced by athletes post-race, highlighting personal experiences of pain and recovery. It emphasizes the importance of addressing injuries and seeking medical attention when necessary.

Some key takeaways include immediate attention to injuries can prevent further complications, physical therapy can play a significant role in recovery, and understanding one’s body is essential for athletes. In addition, injuries should not be ignored, even if they seem minor, athletes often push through pain, but should prioritize health, recovery is a process that requires time and care and, listening to your body is key to long-term wellness.

204: Here Comes Ironman Ray Einig!

Featuring Ray Einig

Summary: In this episode, Rachael and Ray Einig discuss Ray’s transformative journey from a sedentary lifestyle to completing an Ironman.

They explore the importance of consistency, mental health, and building a strong foundation through yoga. Ray shares his experiences with injuries, the role of technology in training, and the unique challenges of open water swimming. The conversation emphasizes the significance of patience and discipline in achieving fitness goals, making it clear that the journey is just as important as the destination. In this engaging conversation, Ray Einig and Rachael discuss the complexities of running, the impact of Strava on athletes, and the importance of self-esteem and gratitude in training.

They explore the journey to completing an Ironman, balancing training with family life, and the significance of setting intermediate milestones to achieve long-term goals like qualifying for the Boston Marathon. The discussion highlights the supportive nature of the running community and the unique experiences that come with participating in events like Ironman.

203: Accountabilibuddies with Rachael and Marty

Featuring podcast host Rachael and editor Mart

Summary:In this episode, Rachael and Marty discuss their individual goals and training plans as they embark on a journey of accountability. Marty shares his ambition to qualify for the Boston Marathon, while Rachael reveals her commitment to completing two triathlons. They explore the importance of training consistency, motivation, and the challenges of learning to swim for triathlons. The conversation also touches on strength training, nutrition, and the experiences of using saunas and whirlpools. As they set monthly goals, they emphasize the significance of accountability in achieving their fitness aspirations.

202: Please welcome Justin DPT back to the show!

Featuring Justin Aquino DPT

Summary: In this episode, Rachael and Justin dive deep into the world of marathons, discussing everything from the definition of a marathon to the personal journeys of runners. They explore the importance of consistency in training, the challenges of injuries, and the significance of setting realistic goals. The conversation also touches on the emotional aspects of running, including the impact of DNF (Did Not Finish) and DNS (Did Not Start) on a runner’s identity. Finally, they emphasize the critical nature of post-marathon recovery and the need to respect one’s body after such a demanding event.

Some key takeaways include everyone’s marathon will look different based on personal goals, consistency in training is key to improvement, and setting phases in training can aid in achieving goals. Also important to remember, building habits takes time and patience, post-marathon recovery is essential for long-term health, listening to your body is vital for any athlete.

201: The Vision

Featuring Rachael the Host

Summary: In this episode, Rachael reflects on her journey with the podcast, discussing the challenges she faced, the importance of vision, and her plans for future episodes. She shares personal anecdotes about her experiences with triathlons and the motivation behind her podcasting journey, emphasizing the significance of storytelling and community engagement.

154: Please welcome the owner of Xtra Mile Running, Christopher Schiel, to the show!

Featuring Christopher Schiel, owner Xtra Mile Running

Summary: In this episode, Rachael interviews Christopher, the owner of Xtra Mile Running, discussing the journey of building a community-focused running store. They explore the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, the importance of community engagement, and the evolution of the store from its inception to its current success. The conversation highlights the significance of small businesses in the local economy and the need for a shift in consumer mindset towards supporting them.

153: Please welcome Adam and Becky to the show!

Featuring Adam Ruiz and Rebekah Asensio

Summary: In this episode, Rachael hosts Adam and Becky, a couple who share their experiences in running and how it has impacted their relationship. They discuss their first race experiences, the importance of communication in running relationships, and how they support each other in their journeys. The conversation also touches on the challenges of balancing running with personal life, the significance of community in running, and their shared outdoor activities. Adam prepares for an upcoming marathon while Becky reflects on her journey as a runner. The episode concludes with insights on building friendships through running and the joy of being active together.

Some takeaways include the need for clear communication about expectations in running events and running together as a couple requires understanding and balancing each other’s paces and schedules.

152: Please welcome our founder to the show!

This one is definitely a little off the rails. Our host, Rachael, interviews the founder of The Flying Pig Project, Rachael

Summary: In this conversation, Rachael shares exciting updates about the Flying Pig Project, including the launch of a monthly newsletter and the continuation of her podcast. She discusses her fitness journey, the importance of working with a coach, and the role of recovery in training. Rachael also recounts her experience at the Screw City Duathlon, highlighting the challenges and triumphs of her return to racing. Finally, she expresses her future goals in fitness and cross-training, including a potential return to swimming.

151: Please welcome Kristin to the show!

Featuring Kristin Stromberg

Summary: In this episode, Rachael and Kristin discuss Kristin’s experience completing her first Half Ironman in challenging weather conditions. They explore the various distances in triathlons, the costs associated with participation, and the importance of mental toughness and proper training. Kristin shares her race day experiences, including the impact of weather, the significance of equipment, and the humorous realities of endurance racing. The conversation concludes with reflections on future goals and the lessons learned from the race.

Some key takeaways include understanding the different distances in triathlons is crucial and training for races involves acclimating to various weather conditions. As discussed, weather conditions can greatly impact race performance and mental toughness is key in endurance sports.

150: Please welcome Nicole and Becki for a fuel swap!

Featuring Becki Anderson and return guest Nicole Fernandez

Summary: In this episode, host Rachael welcomes back Nicole and introduces Becky as they explore the importance of nutrition and hydration for runners. They share personal experiences with fueling strategies, discuss the significance of testing different fuels, and engage in a fun taste-testing challenge of various energy products. The conversation emphasizes the need for runners to find what works best for their bodies, the role of community support, and the impact of nutrition on race performance.

Some important takeaways include personal experiences shape our understanding of fueling needs and different fuels work for different people; it’s about finding what suits you. Hydration and electrolytes are as important as fuel and understanding your body’s response to different fuels is key. It’s important to listen to your body and adjust your nutrition accordingly.

149: Please welcome Dr. Justin back to the show!