Optimal Health Uncovered
Performance Optimal Health
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Optimal Health Uncovered is a podcast created by a group of health and wellness professionals located in the New York metropolitan area who aim to empower you to live better. From specific injuries to general fitness trends, diets to sleep habits, the experts at Performance Optimal Health are dedicated to bringing you the latest evidence-based research on the topics that matter most. If you have questions or want to hear about something specific in an upcoming episode, send an email to podcast@performanceoptimalhealth.com and be sure to check out Performance on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for more tips on achieving Optimal Health.
Available episodes
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1 day ago
E73: Marathon Mondays — Nutrition & hydration for the long distance runner
This is the second episode of our series, Marathon Mondays, aimed to prepare runners at all experience levels for their next race, hosted by marathoners themselves: physical therapist Britt Gunsser and personal trainer Brendan Copley.
In this episode, Britt and Brendan interview nutritionist Ashley Jerry, who also has a background in personal training. They discuss how to fuel your body during different portions of your training plan, hydration dos and don'ts, as well as pre, during, and post-race nutrition tips. They also dive into the importance of carbohydrates, as well as common causes of GI distress during a run.
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May 8, 2023
E72: Marathon Mondays — Building a marathon training plan
This is the first episode of our new series, Marathon Mondays, aimed to prepare runners at all experience levels for their next race, hosted by marathoners themselves: physical therapist Britt Gunsser and personal trainer Brendan Copley.
In this introductory episode, Britt and Brendan dig into what you should be looking for in a thorough training program, answer frequently asked questions, and debunk common myths. They cover developing a personalized training plan, the importance of different types of runs, how to incorporate strength training, and more.
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Apr 17, 2023
E71: Improving your odds — avoiding and reversing heart disease
Heart disease has become the leading cause of mortality for both men and women in the U.S. Listen to physical therapist Shane Foley and nutritionist Francine Blinten discuss proven strategies to maximize your "health span."
From establishing cardiovascular and lean muscle mass baselines to understanding the role your diet plays in maintaining heart health, there are a variety of aspects that can help you prevent — and even manage — heart disease.
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Jan 31, 2023
E70: The effects of body composition and insulin resistance on the heart
Dr. Alon Gitig joins host Michael Beecher to discuss preventing and managing cardiovascular disease through the lens of body composition and insulin resistance. They dive into the relationship between muscle mass, body composition, and cardiovascular health, as well as insulin resistance, the silent epidemic behind cardiovascular disease and dementia.
Dr. Alon Gitig, MD, is a cardiologist based in Yonkers, New York who has been practicing for over two decades. He is affiliated with Mount Sinai Hospital.
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Jul 19, 2022
E69: Is our healthcare system broken?
With many healthcare practitioners leaving the system and costs increasingly rising, many people are questioning whether our healthcare system is working. These issues affect not just the uninsured who can't afford the care they need, but the average person who can't see a doctor without waiting months, and even the healthcare practitioners themselves, many of whom are experiencing extraordinarily high caseloads.
But at the same time, the rate of innovation in the healthcare system has never been higher, with new life-saving treatments and medications being developed at a rate never seen before.
Dr. Caleb Moore, MD, joins Todd Wilkowski, PT, to discuss the pros and cons of the healthcare system we have today — and some possible solutions to solve some of the issues the system experiences.
Dr. Caleb Moore is a highly experienced concierge internal medicine physician who practices at Greenwich Medical Partners. He specializes in acute care management, chronic care management, preventive medicine, and travel medicine.
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May 17, 2022
E68: Why mental performance matters — and not just for athletes
While sports psychology and mental performance consulting has been on the rise in the athletic world in recent years, it is important to remember that athletes are not the only people who benefit. From physicians to CEOs, young professionals to entrepreneurs, mental strength can make or break a career.
In this episode, Mike is joined by Arianna Martignetti, Ed.D., and Adam Wright, Ph.D., to discuss the importance of mental performance consulting for athletes and non-athletes alike. Adam and Arianna explore how they help their clients strengthen mental skills, learn how to use stress management tools, and work with trainers, nutritionists and more to improve their mental and physical performance, both on the field and in the workplace.
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Mar 17, 2022
E67: Transitioning from indoor to outdoor golf
While golf is an outdoor season, successful, injury-free golfers should not limit their play to the warmer months. From continuing to practice on a golf simulator to maintaining a proper diet and training regimen, there is a lot that can be done to stay in form.
Without those things, there 's a good chance that the next time you step on the green, you don't play as well or even come away with an injury.
This time, Mike is joined by Adam Rainaud, the head golf professional at the Country Club of New Canaan and multiple-time PGA tour champion, to discuss how to successfully transition from the off-season and onto the green.
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Jan 18, 2022
E66: Setting achievable goals and staying accountable (with Mike Ranfone)
Like clockwork, many set New Year's resolutions each January, only to find that achieving it was much harder than they initially thought. The culprit? Not necessarily the goal, but the timeline. Success is not black and white, and looking at it that way can be demoralizing when you're behind on your goals.
In this episode, Mike is joined by Mike Ranfone to discuss why goals fail — and how to make actually achieve them, giving success a whole new definition. Mike Ranfone is a trainer and owner of Ranfone Training Systems based in Hamden, CT.
Check out Mike's gym here, and you can follow him on Instagram at @ranfonetraining.
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Dec 15, 2021
E65: Avoiding sports injuries in the winter (with Patricio Misitrano)
Paddle Tennis Pro Patricio Misitrano joins Michael Beecher, DPT, to discuss injury prevention during the winter months. With colder temperatures comes a higher risk of injury — unless the right precautions are taken, such as doing a warm-up before your workout.
Patricio and Mike explore the different types of tennis and the most common injuries among them, and get prevention tips from a technical and biomechanical point of view.
Learn more about Patricio's Paddle Camp, where he helps maximize racquet skills, here: https://thepaddlecamp.com/
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Nov 3, 2021
E64: A coach... for sleeping?
Sleep can be elusive. We lie down, close our eyes and hope for the best. Yet that may not happen. Much of the quality of your sleep at night is affected by your behavior during the day — for better or worse.
The good news is there's a new coach in town: Nick Lambe, the sleep coach. He joins Mike to discuss why a good night's sleep is so elusive, and how to finally achieve it. From carving out constructive worry sessions to using a sleep journal, here's what you need to know.
To learn more about Nick, you can find his website here.
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Oct 20, 2021
E63: What do we know about Long COVID?
It's been almost two years since COVID-19 started spreading across the globe, and there is still much we do not know about the disease. As more time passes, however, we are learning more about the effects of Long COVID, a syndrome that affects a portion of people who contract COVID-19.
Kevin Cota, DPT, and Kiera Klaum, DPT, join the podcast to discuss Kiera's time at a skilled nursing facility treating patients, many of whom felt the effects of COVID-19 long after they contracted it.
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Sep 28, 2021
E62: Lifting the weight off her shoulders: a client's journey
When Lauren C. started to suffer from a frozen shoulder, it changed everything. She no longer could reach a higher shelf to grab cereal for her son's breakfast, much less continue painting, which is her livelihood. Her shoulder impacted every part of her life — from her sleep to her stress, to her hobbies and to her family.
Since the start of the pandemic, Lauren has been working with Jon Mendola in Darien to regain not just mobility in her shoulder, but to regain as much of her previous life and hobbies as she can.
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Sep 8, 2021
E61: What is "clean meat?" (with Paul Shapiro)
Paul Shapiro wants you to know we can revolutionize the way we eat meat. Be it eating less meat, cleaner meat, or plant-based meat, we can still get the nutrients we need — and more — if we take a step back from the practices that are harmful to animals, humans and the climate.
Paul Shapiro is the author of "Clean Meat: How Growing Meat Without Animals Will Revolutionize Dinner and the World." He's also a long-time leader in food sustainability and the CEO of The Better Meat Co., which creates plant protein formulations that can enhance — or even replace — your meat.
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Aug 25, 2021
E60: Networking and building a team (with Tim Vallely) — Part 2
The second part of our podcast where we meet golf trainer Tim Vallely, CFSC, one of the newest additions to the Performance team, but not a new addition to the world of golf.
In this half, we focus on how working with a team is networking and sharing knowledge — something Tim has plenty of experience with. He dives into his tips for taking initiative and making connections, all with the goal of giving back.
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Aug 18, 2021
E59: Networking and building a team (with Tim Vallely) — Part 1
As we welcome our newest member of the Performance team, golf trainer Tim Vallely, CFSC, we thought this podcast would be the perfect time to explain the team-focused world of TPI golf. Tim explains the roles of fitness professionals, medical professionals and golf pros and how they all work together to help their clients succeed.
And part of working with a team is networking and sharing knowledge — something Tim has plenty of experience with. In part two, he will dive into his tips for taking initiative and making connections, all with the goal of giving back.
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Aug 11, 2021
E58: Crash course in weight training
We are all aware that wanting to build muscle requires weight training. But that's not all weight training can do. It can fast track weight loss, burn fat and increase your basic metabolic rate. Personal trainer Nick DiMeglio, CSCS, gives listeners a rundown of the benefits of lifting weights — and why you should incorporate it into your exercise routine.
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Aug 4, 2021
E57: Start your day on the right foot with healthy habits
People tend to fall into two buckets: night owls and early birds, often decided by your genetics. Yet society favors early risers, emphasizing productivity culture and leaving part of the population behind.
In this episode, personal trainer Nick DiMeglio, CSCS, discusses how night owls ended up with the short end of the stick as well as ways you can build healthier habits that help you feel more accomplished with your day.
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Jul 28, 2021
E56: The vibrant world of the Special Olympics
Sarah Gleeson, PTA, used to be a figure skater. She moved on to coaching, and found a home working for the Special Olympics chapter in Connecticut. Fast forward to a few years later, Sarah ended up in the realm of physical therapy — but she hasn't left the Special Olympics community behind.
The Special Olympics world is thriving, yet not many know it exists. It provides healthcare, exercise programs and a strong sense of community among its members. Listen to Sarah discuss her transition from skating to physical therapy, as well as how she uses her musculoskeletal knowledge to her advantage when working with her athletes.
Learn more about Special Olympics Connecticut here: https://www.soct.org/
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Jul 21, 2021
E55: Meditation apps and the path to mindfulness, better sleep & less stress
The ability to meditate does not often come naturally to many. You may get bored after a few minutes and find your mind wandering, or think meditating does nothing for you. But with practice and consistency, you can find yourself on a path to mindfulness that helps you destress.
Don't know where to start? Try a meditation app! Listen to Ashley Moriarty, DPT, discuss her own journey with meditation and how she uses meditation apps to improve her sleep and stress levels.
See which meditation apps we recommend.
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Jul 14, 2021
E54: The rising cost of illness
90% of the nation's $3.8 trillion in annual health care costs is for people with chronic conditions, and those numbers are only going to go up. Yet these increases are preventable: if we prevent the chronic illnesses, we can prevent an exponential increase in healthcare costs.
By focusing on our diet, exercising and maintaining healthy habits, we can make a difference in our futures, ensuring we stay healthier longer — and pay less later.
*Read more from the CDC:*
Costs of chronic diseases: https://www.cdc.gov/chronicdisease/about/costs/index.htm
Preventing chronic diseases: https://www.cdc.gov/chronicdisease/about/prevent/index.htm
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Jul 7, 2021
E53: Is the keto diet actually good for you?
The keto diet consists mostly of eating fats, aiming to put the person into a state of ketosis, during which the body burns fat for fuel instead of carbohydrates. What seems like an easy way to lose weight can actually be a dangerous diet if done without supervision. From experiencing the keto flu to impaired bone health, the keto diet comes with a variety of warnings.
But there's more to it than meets the eye; the keto diet can be a great approach to alleviating symptoms and delaying the onset of some diseases, including some cancers. By breaking down fats instead of glucose, the keto diet can slow a tumor from growing.
Listen to Mike's interview with nutritionist Francine Blinten, CCN, CNS, about the benefits — and possible negative side effects — of trying a keto diet.
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Jun 30, 2021
E52: Does a cup of joe a day keep the doctor away?
Chances are, there's probably a coffee shop within five minutes of where you are currently located. It seems like everyone of age drinks it — with creamers, syrups and plenty of caffeine. In this episode, Mike & Todd break down not just the makeup of coffee, but what exactly it can do to your body and how much is safe to drink.
While coffee has plenty of benefits, the way you prepare and drink it can make all the difference.
Read more about the benefits of coffee from The New York Times.
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Jun 23, 2021
E51: Chlorophyll: The good, the bad & the green
Fads come and go, capturing the attention of health nuts everywhere. The latest trend? Chlorophyll supplements. Purported to benefit skin health, increase energy and act as a natural deodorant, among others, chlorophyll seems like a miracle supplement.
But is it? Mike and Todd break down the research and let you know whether chlorophyll is actually worth a shot.
Read more:
Benefits of chlorophyll (Healthline)
Are there benefits to chlorophyll? (The New York Times)
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Jun 16, 2021
E50: Revolutionizing the running shoe fitting process (with Dave Wright)
Running shoes are always being updated, and we've come a long way from those leather uppers. Nowadays, Fleet Feet is revolutionizing the way we choose our running shoes with 3D fit id® scanning. Fleet Feet Westport owner Dave Wright takes Mike through the process of evaluating foot shape, gait pattern and pressure points in order to get the best fitting shoe possible.
They also dive into the community-based aspect of owning a shoe store. Whether he is leading training programs, getting kids involved in physical activity or engaging with local nonprofits, Dave is bringing people together while teaching them how to take care of their bodies at the same time.
Check out the Fleet Feet Westport website, or follow them on Instagram: @fleetfeetwestport.
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Jun 9, 2021
E49: Breaking down cardio myths
Is running the answer to weight loss? Does cardio slow your gains? Can walking increase your life span? Todd & Mike break down what's true and what's not, and share some surprising statistics about the relationship between exercise and heart health.
Read more:
Association of Exercise Preconditioning With Immediate Cardioprotection from The Journal of the American Medical Association.
Walking an Extra 1,000 Steps May Increase Your Life Span
Does the Cardio 'Interference Effect' Really Slow Your Gains?
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Jun 2, 2021
E48: Plant-based diets & healthier hearts
There are a plethora of popular diets that claim to be best for you, but they often come with a catch or even turn out to be detrimental to your health. A plant-based diet, however, is proven to improve heart health and lower risks of cardiovascular disease & mortality.
Registered dietitian Jacqueline Ballou Erdos, MS explains how a plant-based diet, if executed properly, can make a huge impact on your blood markers and overall health. From increasing energy to reducing risk of disease, a plant-based diet goes a long way.
Read more in the Journal of the American Heart Association.
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May 19, 2021
E47: Women's Health Month – Embracing menopause with Dr. Bronwyn Fitz
Mike is joined by integrated health specialist Dr. Bronwyn Fitz, and they go in depth on the ways of embracing menopause and taking control of the symptoms and life change.
Be sure to check out Dr. Bronwyn Fitz at:
Women's Integrative Health | Bronwyn Fitz, MD (womensintegrativehealth.com)
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May 12, 2021
E46: Accountability, fitness and lifestyle with No Snooze Podcast
This week on Optimal Health Uncovered, Mike is joined by Dave Reggina and Mike Parelli of No Snooze Podcast to discuss the "no snooze" mentality, the importance of creating goals and what it means to take control of your life. They reflect on personal experiences that have helped them establish their own lifestyle habits, from working on professional development to creating disciplined health and fitness regimens.
Want more No Snooze? Find them on Instagram!🎙Dave Reggina + Mike Parelli (@nosnoozepodcast)
Or, check out their YouTube channel:
No Snooze Podcast - YouTube
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May 5, 2021
E45: HIIT – Know your limits
Have you noticed that your energy or power production is decreasing, but you haven't changed your exercise routine? You might be overdoing high-intensity interval training (HIIT). In this episode, Mike and Todd dive into a recent study published in Cell Metabolism where researchers looked to determine the optimal amount of high-intensity exercise. Hear us break down the study and learn more about what HIIT frequency could be right for you.
Too Much High-Intensity Exercise May Be Bad for Your Health - The New York Times (nytimes.com)
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Apr 30, 2021
E44: Exercising at work: not as healthy as you may think
In this episode, Mike and Todd review an article recently published in the European Society of Cardiology that explains why exercising at work may not be the healthiest option.
Read the full article here:
Physically Active at Work? It's Not as Healthy as Leisure Exercise | Health News | US News
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Mar 24, 2021
E43: Training with a greater purpose with Chris Vasami
In this episode, Todd and Mike are joined by former MLB baseball player and founder of Vasami Training, Chris Vasami. They dive into Chris's baseball career and how his own experiences inspired him to start a training business to help athletes improve performance. Chris discusses the importance of understanding the mind-body connection, believing in the training process and adapting to the needs of every individual.
Find Chris on Instagram: @chrisvasami
His Website: | Vasami Training | United States
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Mar 17, 2021
E42: Understanding stress & finding your balance
Whether it's work stress, financial stress, physical stress or emotional stress, everyone experiences some form on a daily basis. Finding the balance between your negative and positive stressors is critical to helping your body adapt and become stronger, and everyone's balance is different on goals and lifestyles. In this episode, Mike and Todd explain the key components of stress, why you need stress to progress and how to manage your stress to optimize your health. Learn more.
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Mar 10, 2021
E41: Beyond the kegel: understanding pelvic health
Whether you are pregnant, postpartum or just struggling with daily discomfort, Jen Morgan, DPT, is here to discuss the importance of optimizing your health through your pelvic floor. On this episode, she and Mike discuss the importance of raising awareness about pelvic health physical therapy, normalizing the conversations, and proactively advocating for your health. As a women's pelvic health specialist, Jen is passionate about making pelvic health care more accessible for both men and women and provides tips and resources that can help you determine if you could benefit from pelvic health treatment. Pause your kegels and give this episode a listen!
To conduct a self-screening of your pelvic floor health, you can check out the COZEAN screening tool.
To learn more about Jen Morgan, you can find her on Instagram @doc_jenmorgan or at centralitywellness.com and indigowellnessgroup.com.
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Mar 3, 2021
E40: The dangers of working from home
In this episode, Mike is joined by physical therapist Ashley Moriarty to discuss why working from home can have a negative impact on your physical health. They dive into desk ergonomics, screen time, blue light and more. Ashley also provides exercises and tips to improve posture and ways to take a step back from your desk!
For more, you can find our article on how to achieve proper workspace ergonomics here.
Find us on Instagram and Facebook to see Performance trainer Adam demonstrate three simple exercises to help improve your posture during the work day.
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Feb 24, 2021
E39: Weight training to match your lifestyle
In this episode, Mike and Todd are joined by one of Performance's very own strength and conditioning coaches, Megan Kudrick. Meg came to us after working with Division 1 athletes at Quinnipiac University and is a USA Weightlifting Level 1 Coach who focuses on recovery and injury prevention for athletes. They discuss different types of weight training programs, including those centered around strength, power and mobility. Each program produces different results, but can be optimized for anyone — from beginners to long-time athletes. Whether you're just starting out in the weight training world or want a leg up, you'll learn something new.
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Feb 16, 2021
E38: Achieving longevity like Tom Brady: Tips, habits and the TB12 Method
This week, Mike and Todd dive into the lifestyle and habits of seven-time Super Bowl champion, Tom Brady. From nutrition to sleep habits, they discuss longevity and how Tom Brady has been able to perform at such an elite level for over 21 years due to his lifestyle that prioritizes the Four Pillars of Optimal Health. They analyze the TB12 Method and give you key takeaways that can be applied to your own life, whether you are a high-performing athlete or just trying to improve the quality of your life.
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Feb 9, 2021
E37: Eliminate toxins to optimize wellness: Tips from toxicologist Dr. Joe Nieusma
This week, Mike is joined by toxicologist Dr. Joe Nieusma, CEO of Superior Toxicology & Wellness. For the past 30 years, Dr. Nieusma has been involved in toxicology research, focusing on empowering his clients to take control of their medications and advocate for their own health. Rather than relying on prescriptions, he is a proponent of incorporating hydration, nutrition and quality sleep to optimize wellness. He also discusses the importance of understanding the environments in which we live and provides simple tips to eliminate common toxins, from water filtration systems to air ionizers.
If you would like to learn more check out his website https://superiortoxicology.com/
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Feb 2, 2021
E36: The power of proper running shoes: substitute pain for distance
In this episode, Todd is joined by Kevin Cota, Heather Pech, and Ridgefield Running owner Megan Searfoss. They discuss all things running, including how training has changed during the pandemic, how to get fitted for proper running shoes and making the most of your training.
You can find Heather on Instagram at @_knighttraining. If you want to read more about training with Heather, visit her coaching profile or read her profile on our blog.
If you're looking for the right shoes or want to schedule a virtual running evaluation, visit ridgefieldrunning.com or check them out on Instagram at @Darienrunning.
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Jan 19, 2021
E35: The impact of psychology on athletic performance
In this episode, Todd and Mike are joined by Riley Fitzgerald, a Sport Psychology Service Coordinator at Boston University. Over the past six years, Fitzgerald has worked with numerous teams and organizations helping athletes develop their mental game in order to compete and perform at their best on a consistent basis. He has provided mental performance services to competitive athletes in the collegiate setting and beyond, including those at BU, Tufts, Endicott, and in the East Coast Hockey League. Riley discusses his journey to working with athletes at the collegiate level, the challenges of blazing the trail in his field, and how his services impact the athletes and clients he sees everyday.
Resources: https://appliedsportpsych.org/
To contact Riley directly, you can reach him at rileyfitzgeraldspc@gmail.com.
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Jan 12, 2021
E34: Preventing disease through nutrition
In this episode, Mike takes the host mic solo in Todd's absence as he is joined by Francine Blinten, a nutritionist at Performance. Francine works with a unique segment of the population including oncology patients, substance abusers and generally sick individuals to get them back to healthy state. Mike and Francine discuss specific diseases and ways to reduce the risk through what you eat and drink. Francine also gives listeners some great advice that can be applied to your everyday nutrition.
If you have a question for Francine, want to learn more about her or schedule a nutrition consultation, you can find her bio and contact info here.
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Jan 5, 2021
E33: Move better with Hyperice
It's time to revolutionize the way we move, and Director of Physical Therapy and Chiropractic Sales at Hyperice Eric Fernandez is doing just that. He joins Todd & Mike this week to discuss the importance of body maintenance and how percussion and thermal vibration can help soft tissue movement. This in turn helps speed up recovery, improve range of motion, decrease stiffness, accelerate a warmup and more. They also cover Hyperice's other products such as the vibrating Vyper foam roller, Hypersphere, & the Venom series, the last of which adds variable heat and vibration to a certain area to enhance muscle performance. Eric reviews Hyperice's new bluetooth capabilities as well as the ability to set goals through the app in order to gather data to measure activity.
Learn more about Hyperice.
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Dec 29, 2020
E32: How to have a healthy relationship with food
In this week's episode, Todd and Mike are joined by dietician Jacqueline Ballou Erdos, who specializes in weight management, sports nutrition and pediatrics. Jackie works with a range of clients, from working adults to high performance dancers at the Juilliard School in New York City. In this episode, Jackie discusses the "non-diet" approach to nutrition, how to develop realistic goals in weight management and dealing with the female athlete triad.
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Dec 22, 2020
E31: Lara Spencer – a client's perspective on Optimal Health
Todd welcomes special guest and Good Morning America host, Lara Spencer, to the podcast. Lara Spencer is also the star of Flea Market Flip on HGTV. A a long-time client at Performance, Lara discusses her journey towards Optimal Health, as well as her life-changing hip surgery and what she does to stay fit and healthy in its aftermath. Lara and Todd also touch upon her health and wellness lifestyle as a television star, mother, wife and athlete.
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Dec 15, 2020
E30: Orthopedic injuries with surgeon Dr. Ted Blaine
In this week's episode, Todd and Mike are joined by orthopedic surgeon Dr. Ted Blaine to discuss the latest orthopedic surgeries, techniques that are being used, and what to prepare for if you need surgery. They also discuss what to do if you're facing an upcoming orthopedic surgery.
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Dec 8, 2020
E29: Yoga for every body!
This week's episode, Todd and Mike are joined by Sama Yoga founder Rebekah Jacobs and fellow instructor Angie Mandl who discuss Sama Yoga, how they got here in New Canaan, their practice, what principles they teach, how to train to become a yoga teacher, and much more. Angie and Rebekah are decorated instructors and well-known in the yoga industry for being some of the most progressive and forward-thinking instructors in the country.
To contact Sama Yoga or for more information:
Www.samayogacenter.com
IG: @samayogacenter @samayogaacademy
Facebook: Sama Yoga Center
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Dec 1, 2020
E28: Can acupuncture relieve my pain?
In this episode, Todd and Mike are joined by renowned acupuncturist and Chinese medicine specialist, Casey Potetz. Casey Potetz holds a degree in Kinesiology from the University of Connecticut and a Master of Science in Oriental Medicine. Casey is a licensed Acupuncturist, and a Diplomate of Acupuncture (NCCAOM). She practices acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine along with a variety of clinical healing techniques including cupping, Chinese nutritional counseling, and electro-stimulation.
To learn more about Casey or to contact Casey directly, visit her website at www.themedicinalguide.com.
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Nov 24, 2020
E27: How can fasting help me lose weight?
In this episode, Todd and Mike review all the benefits of fasting, including weight loss, energy gain and generally feeling more clear-headed.
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Nov 17, 2020
E26: How can I improve my golf game over winter?
In this episode, Todd and Mike are joined by Zack Buechner to discuss how you can improve your golf game when you can't play outdoors. Todd and Mike review TrackMan technology and using an indoor golf simulator as a tool to get better, particularly during the winter. Todd and Mike talk about the metrics and how to use these data points to their advantage to help golfers get better.
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Nov 10, 2020
E25: Is alcohol good for my health?
We want to hear from you! Give us some feedback or to submit a topic request, send us an e-mail at podcast@performance-pt.com.
In this episode, Todd and Mike discuss the health and wellness benefits and impacts of alcohol on the body. They review the mental impact it can have as well as alcohol's effect on your weight and ability to burn fat. Todd and Mike also discuss how often one should drink and when it becomes too much.
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Nov 3, 2020
E24: How do I train for a marathon?
In this episode, Todd and Mike are joined by running coach and physical therapist Britt Gunsser. Britt talks all things running and how it relates to Optimal Health. They cover how to train for a marathon, 10k, 5k, or any race that you have coming up. They discuss proper gait, shoes, and how to correct those flaws. Britt gives some nuggets on how to train your body to peak at the right time.
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Oct 27, 2020
E23: Can NormaTec help my body feel better?
To contact the show or to let us know of a topic you'd like to hear us discuss on the show next, send an email to podcast@performance-pt.com.
In this episode, Todd and Mike are joined by athletic trainer and recovery expert Zack Buechner. They discuss the NormaTec and how compression therapy works and how it can help you. Zack reviews how NormaTec operates, who can use it, and some of the research behind the brand.
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Oct 20, 2020
E22: Is COVID causing an increase in athletic injuries?
In this episode, Todd and Mike discuss the rising numbers of athletic injuries all across sports. Across professional, college and high school ranks, data is showing a higher rate of injuries with the significant layoff period. Todd and Mike review data from professional sport lockouts from years past including the injury rates after the 2011 NFL lockout, comparing it to today.
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Oct 13, 2020
E21: Can wearable technology detect COVID-19?
In this episode, Mike and Todd discuss wearable technologies such as the OURA ring, whoop straps, the Apple watch, Withings, and others and how they relate to optimal health. They review the abilities of these wearables to detect abnormalities in the body and possibly even detect early onset of COVID-19 (coronavirus) symptoms.
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Oct 6, 2020
E20: Can CBD help you feel better?
In this episode, Todd and Mike are joined by fellow physical therapist and CBD (cannabidiol) expert Kevin Cota. They discuss all things CBD and debunk the myths about the trending product. They also discuss how to choose an appropriate CBD product for you and where to go to find more answers about CBD. You can also visit our website to view more info on CBD and FAQ's. https://performance-pt.com/cbd-products/
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Sep 29, 2020
E19: Nutrition and diet myths, tips and fads with Jenn Trepeck (Pt. 2)
In this part 2 episode, Mike and Todd finish their conversation with Jenn Trepeck, founder of the podcast "Salad with a Side of Fries." They discuss all things nutrition and the latest truths and myths about diets and what is trending today. Jenn covers tips and tricks you can use in your daily life to improve your eating habits and how you diet. For more information about Jenn Trepeck, you can find her on Instagram @jenntrepeck or check out her podcast here. You can also reach Jenn through her website here.
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Sep 22, 2020
E18: Nutrition and diet myths, tips and fads with Jenn Trepeck (Pt. 1)
In this episode, Mike and Todd are joined by renowned nutrition expert Jenn Trepeck. Jenn is the founder and host of the podcast "Salad with a Side of Fries" and you can check out her website here. Jenn, Mike and Todd discuss all things nutrition and break down common myths and fads in dieting. Jenn offers listeners tips and tricks for eating healthy and finding optimal health in what they eat each and every day. For more information about Jenn Trepeck, you can find her on Instagram @jenntrepeck or check out her podcast here. You can also reach Jenn through her website here.
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Sep 15, 2020
E17: Is a blood panel right for me? with Trevor Perry
In this episode, Todd and Mike are joined by Trevor Perry, founder and CEO of Goodcell Health Technology Platform. Goodcell takes blood panels by drawing blood and uses that data to create actionable steps to improving your health, whether that be biomarkers for potential diseases or susceptibility to injury. Trevor discusses the process of the Goodcell blood paneling, what it means, and how it could benefit a client.
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Sep 8, 2020
E16: How Pilates can benefit you with Christina Merrill
In this episode, Mike and Todd are joined by Pilates instructor and dancer Christina Merrill. Christina is a certified Pilates instructor and teaches weekly at Performance. Christina is an expert in the field of Pilates and discusses the history of Pilates, differences between Yoga and Pilates, and who should incorporate Pilates into their fitness and health routine. To reach out to Christina about Pilates or send a comment, send an email to podcast@performance-pt.com.
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Sep 1, 2020
E15: Reducing back pain, scoliosis, and the Schroth method with Shane Foley
In this episode, Mike and Todd are joined by special guest Shane Foley, a DPT who specializes in back patients, scoliosis rehabilitation and is a certified Schroth professional. They discuss the benefits of using the Schroth method for scoliotic patients and tips for helping reduce back pain using this same method.
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Aug 25, 2020
E14: Men's health awareness and how you can help with Jay Myerson
Up to 16% of men experience pelvic pain or disfunction in their lives. Jay Myerson, a physical therapist at Performance who specializes in men's health, health risks, and prevention techniques joined the podcast to speak about cancer, prostates, and diabetes among others. They also discuss regular check-ups and who to see about getting these regular check-ups, whether it's your primary care physician, cardiologist, or colorectal surgeons.
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Aug 11, 2020
E13: Training during a pandemic with Mike Ranfone
In this episode, Todd and Mike are joined by long time training coach and founder of Ranfone Training Systems, Mike Ranfone. Mike Ranfone, Todd and Mike discuss training and exercise through the Covid-19 pandemic and how it's affected business. They dig into what the pandemic has caused for athletes at every level and how to overcome challenges you face in your training.
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Aug 4, 2020
E12: Is dry needling right for you?
In this episode, Mike and Todd discuss the benefits of dry needling and when to use this modality. Mike is certified in dry needling and covers how he got certified, who is able to get certified, why its beneficial, who should have it done, and the process of dry needling a patient. They also reveal what the research says about dry needling and what happens in the skin and tissues during a dry needling session.
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Jul 28, 2020
E11: Are you setting the right goals in your exercise routine?
In this episode, Mike and Todd are joined by Mathew Welch, a certified strength and conditioning specialist and certified athletic trainer. Mat discusses the importance of conditioning your body for exercise and making sure you're setting appropriate goals in your routines. They review specific exercises and training techniques that anyone can benefit from.
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Jul 21, 2020
E10: Is COVID-19 preventable?
In this week's episode of Optimal Health Uncovered, Todd and Mike discuss the latest updates and trends of the coronavirus pandemic and if there are ways to prevent the coronavirus disease. Todd and Mike talk about how COVID-19 is changing and affecting the medical world, some of their personal experiences during the pandemic, how its changing Performance and the rapid emergence of telehealth and virtual healthcare. They also discuss ways to help prevent contracting the disease, safety measures to protect yourself and others, and what the virus might look like in the future.
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Jul 14, 2020
E9: How does fitness affect my golf swing?
In this episode, Todd and Mike discuss golf fitness, being certified Titleist Performance Institute professionals, and golf injuries. Zack Buechner hosts this podcast and asks the questions. Todd, Mike, and Zack cover golf fitness evaluations at Performance and in the clinic and how they approach golf injuries. They review the benefits of having multiple Titleist Performance Institute certified health professionals in the clinic and how they help golfers improve their game.
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Jul 7, 2020
E8: How can exercise improve my tennis game?
In this episode, Todd and Mike review health and fitness as it relates to tennis and other racket sport athletes, in the wake of the 2020 Wimbledon tournament cancellation. They are joined by certified RacquetFit professional and athletic trainer Zack Buechner who discusses the RacquetFit process and how it benefits the tennis player. Mike and Todd also cover common types of tennis injuries in the clinic and how you can help prevent those injuries.
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Jun 30, 2020
E7: How to prevent ACL injures with Dr. Paul Sethi
In this episode, Todd and Mike are joined by Dr. Paul Sethi to discuss anterior cruciate ligaments (ACL) of the knee. Dr. Paul Sethi is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon at the Orthopedic and Neurosurgery Specialists center in Greenwich, Connecticut who specializes in sports medicine, particularly the knee joint as well as the elbow and shoulder. Dr. Sethi graduated from Cornell University and went to medical school at Mount Sinai School of Medicine and has served as a team consultant and assistant team physician to the Los Angeles Dodgers, Lakers, and the University of Southern California football team. He is now a leading orthopedic surgeon in his field, regularly speaking at academic and medical conferences.
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Jun 23, 2020
E6: Can cryotherapy help boost my immunity?
In this episode, Todd and Mike are again joined by Performance recovery specialist, Zack Buechner where they discuss cryotherapy and its benefits. They discuss what cryotherapy is and its uses as well as who should avoid cryotherapy. Todd and Mike review some of the literature and research over cryotherapy and how it can improve respiratory function, prevent disease, and boost the immune system. Cryotherapy and its effect on hormone and cortisol levels are also reviewed in this episode.
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Jun 16, 2020
E5: What are the top four injuries in sports and how can I prevent them?
In this episode of Optimal Health Uncovered, Todd and Mike discuss the top 4 most common injuries in sports and how to prevent them or take care of them. 1. Low back pain 2. Knee Injuries such as patellofemoral syndrome and anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears 3. Shoulder injuries such as subacromial pain syndrome 4. Overuse injuries such as medial or lateral epicondylitis (golfers elbow or tennis elbow)
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Jun 9, 2020
E4: Will using a sauna strengthen my immune system?
In this episode, Todd and Mike are joined by their first podcast guest - Zack Buechner. Zack is an athletic trainer certified and an expert in recovery, specifically in sauna heat therapies. He joins the podcast to review the benefits of saunas and how they incorporate them into their practice. Mike discusses types of heat therapy such as paraffin baths, infrared saunas, traditional saunas and steam saunas as well as their many benefits including lowering cholesterol, decreasing hypertension (high blood pressure), reducing risk of depression, combating disease and improving or enhancing immune function. Zack and Mike discuss the variety of studies done on saunas and how they are being used in Finland as well as time and temperature recommendations. Exercise and training inside saunas is also discussed.
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Jun 2, 2020
E3: The four pillars of optimal health
In this episode, Todd and Mike are joined by guest Zack Buechner who helps offer insights into the four pillars of Optimal Health (Nutrition, Stress, Recovery, and Exercise). They review each pillar in broad strokes to explain to importance of the balance, then detail their own experiences and personal tips and tricks from their own journeys to achieving optimal health.
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May 26, 2020
E2: Exercise and maximizing your training
In this episode, Todd and Mike discuss exercise and how to maximize your training whether you fall into the sedentary group, moderate/healthy group, or the high-level athlete group. Training through injuries, losing weight, tracking data points or competing for an event are all discussed while Todd and Mike both emphasize the importance of recovery, sleep, setting reasonable goals, variety of training (cardiovascular, resistance or weight training, and cross training), and supplementing proper nutrition. The 5 training zones are detailed as well as hacks and tips for optimal exercise.
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May 21, 2020
Who are we and what is Performance?
In this introduction episode, Todd and Mike talk a little about themselves and why they created a podcast about optimal health. They take us through a brief history of Performance as a company and how they came to work together.
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May 14, 2020
E1: Sleep and its effect on the body
In this episode, Todd Wilkowski and Mike Beecher discuss sleep, its importance and how it relates to optimal health. Phases of sleep, REM cycles, and diseases related to a lack of sleep (Heart Disease, Diabetes, Cancer & Hallucinations). The optimal number of hours of sleep, naps and napping, data retention and sacrificing sleep, sleep cycles, and sleep related to the immune function is discussed (Cortisol, Melatonin, Human growth hormone (HGH), Prolactin, & T-Cells). Todd and Mike also review the latest wearable technology (OURA ring, Apple watch, Whoop strap, & Withings Pad). Parasympathetic and sympathetic nervous system, Hacks for better sleep, blue light blocking glasses, circadian rhythm, ideal bedroom temperature, and caffeine and alcohol effects on sleep are also covered.
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