Best Real Talk Session Series Podcasts (2025)

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[RACE SERIES] Train the Brain Like You Train the Body 41:44

16h ago41:44

41:44

Race day nerves, mid-run meltdowns, and the fear of not finishing—we’ve all faced those moments when things don’t go according to plan. In this episode, Michaela and Erin dive into the mental side of racing: what to do when your goals feel out of reach, how to reframe negative thoughts mid-race, and why training your mindset is just as important as…

1
Coach Mich Takes on Trail Running (?!?) First Trail Half Marathon Recap 37:37

6d ago37:37

37:37

In this episode, Michaela shares her experience stepping off the roads and onto the trails for her very first trail half marathon. Alongside Erin, the two unpack the differences between road and trail racing, the ego shift required, and why chasing pace isn’t the goal when dirt, rocks, and mountains are involved. If you’ve ever thought about trying…

1
Seasons Change, So Do You: Motherhood, Time Management & Real Life as a Mom of 3 with Coach Jess 37:06

13d ago37:06

37:06

In this episode of the motherhood series, Coach Jess brings the real talk. As a run coach, fitness coach, and mom of three (ages 5, 7, and almost 11), Jess shares what motherhood looks like in this current season of life—far past the toddler stage, but still deep in the chaos of sports, schedules, and trying to find balance in self-care. From early…

1
Running While Pregnant: Strength, Mindset & Letting Go of Control with Brittany 32:56

21d ago32:56

32:56

In this episode of the motherhood series, we sit down with Brittany—run coach, strength coach, nurse, and soon-to-be mom—to talk all things pregnancy, performance, and mindset shifts. From running a half marathon in the first trimester to navigating gym workouts with pelvic floor awareness, Brittany opens up about the physical and emotional rollerc…

1
Total Shoulder Replacement or Arthroplasty 28:30

28d ago28:30

28:30

Send us a text The shoulder is the most mobile and most complex joint in the human body, which also makes it vulnerable to injury and arthritis. Each year, nearly 60,000 Americans undergo shoulder replacement surgery, also known as total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA). In this episode of MedStar Health DocTalk, host Debra Schindler sits down with orth…

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Your Postpartum Comeback Doesn’t Have to Be Fast to Be Powerful w/ Ruth Atkinson 28:54

28d ago28:54

28:54

In this episode, we chat with Coach Ruth Atkinson—former choir teacher turned full-time run coach and new mama. Ruth opens up about her transition from the classroom to coaching, what it was like running a marathon at 26 weeks pregnant (!!), and her very real, very raw return to running postpartum. We talk about identity shifts, social media compar…

1
The Benefits of Proton Therapy 9:34

1M ago9:34

9:34

Send us a text MedStar Georgetown University Hospital is proud to be the first and most experienced facility in the Washington, D.C. region to offer proton therapy with HYPERSCAN™. Our team of physicians at MedStar Georgetown is made up of the D.C. area’s leading experts, who have specialized knowledge in numerous cancer types and are at the forefr…

1
Cheesy Gordita Crunches & Boston Dreams: Coach Erin's Pregnancy Journey as an Athlete 33:44

1M ago33:44

33:44

In this vulnerable and honest conversation, Coach Erin shares her unfiltered journey through pregnancy as an athlete who never saw motherhood in her future. From early surprises and shifting identities to navigating training and redefining success, this episode is a must-listen for anyone in a season of transition, especially athletes learning to e…

1
[FOUR COACHES, ONE POD] Sauna Sessions, Strength Gains & Summer Training 27:31

1M ago27:31

27:31

The full Strides for Strength coaching crew is back on the mic! In this catch-up episode, we cover everything from summer running and racing wins to Coach Erins pregnancy news, heat training tips, strength training blocks, and what it means to pivot with grace (and a lot of laughter). This one’s for you, the runner navigating life’s seasons, cravin…

1
Beer Miles & Belly Bands: A Very Peachtree Roadrace Recap 31:39

2M ago31:39

31:39

In this fun and honest episode, we coaches recap this year’s Peachtree Road Race—including Coach Erin running while pregnant, racing in Atlanta heat, and Jonathan’s legendary beer-per-mile strategy. We dive deep into shifting expectations, what it means to race “for fun,” and how our mindsets have changed over time with a decade of running. What yo…

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Let’s Talk About the Ego (and Strategy) Behind Hitting New Paces w/ Coach Mich & Erin 26:04

2M ago26:04

26:04

You’ve got a goal pace… but how do you actually get there? In this episode, Mich and Erin break down the real process behind learning new paces, mentally and physically. From reframing what “hard” should feel like to running smarter workouts (not just faster ones), this convo is equal parts pep talk and game plan for runners who want to stop wingin…

1
The Hydration Fix: How to Run Stronger in the Heat w/ Chelsea Schmidt 33:02

2M ago33:02

33:02

If the summer heat has you bonking on every run, you’re not alone—and this episode is your hydration lifeline. We’re joined by fan favorite Chelsea Schmidt, nurse practitioner and sports nutrition coach, to break down hydration, sodium, and why so many runners are under-fueled and overcomplicating it. Whether you’re marathon training or hobby joggi…

1
Treating Prostate Tumors in 5 Sessions 25:00

2M ago25:00

25:00

Send us a text | MedStar Georgetown University Hospital was the first hospital on the East Coast to offer CyberKnife technology. Our team is among the world’s most experienced CyberKnife sites having treated more than 2,400 patients with prostate cancer and performed more than 35,000 treatments in total. Unlike traditional radiation that’s given in…

1
Aortic Aneurysms 38:11

2M ago38:11

38:11

Send us a text Understanding Aortic Aneurysms with Dr. Raghuveer Vallabhaneni Host: Debra Schindler Guest: Dr. Raghuveer Vallabhaneni, Director of Vascular Surgery, MedStar Health Baltimore Region The aorta, your body’s largest blood vessel, acts like a fire hose — forcefully pumping blood from your heart to every part of your body. Over time, part…

1
[ATHLETE] Sub 4:00 Marathon Club, 30+ Minute PR, Learning to Fuel & How She Did It w/ Courtney 1:18:16

2M ago1:18:16

1:18:16

In this episode, Michaela sits down with her bestie and now athlete, Courtney, to unpack a wild ride to Grandma’s Marathon 2025 where Courtney went from a 7 day a week treadmill warrior to sub-4 hour marathon finisher (in 90% humidity, no less). They get real about what it’s like being coached by your best friend, breaking past mental barriers, and…

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Racing Smart in the Heat: Coach Mich’s 3:21 Grandmas Marathon Recap 50:09

3M ago50:09

50:09

Coach Michaela is on the mic this week with an honest breakdown of her 2025 Grandma’s Marathon experience—from battling race week spirals to running one of her smartest marathons yet in brutal humidity. Tune in to hear what it took to shave time off her PR (again), how she stayed in control when race conditions got spicy, and the performance-boosti…

1
Life Lessons From the Run: Our Ode to Running w/ Coach Erin & Mich 27:20

3M ago27:20

27:20

In this episode, Michaela and Erin dive into the deep parallels between running and life—from resilience to patience to comparison traps. Through personal stories and coaching insight, they explore how lessons from the run carry over into every area of life, especially when it comes to growth, self-belief, and making hard decisions. Whether you’re …

1
What's Carotid Artery Disease? 41:31

3M ago41:31

41:31

Send us a text In this episode of MedStar Health DocTalk, host Debra Schindler speaks with Dr. Othman Abdul-Malak, MD, MSC, a vascular expert, to break down the what carotid artery disease is, and how it can lead to stroke, mini-strokes (TIAs), and sudden vision loss. Learn how to recognize early warning signs—like facial droop, arm weakness, or su…

1
3 Roadblocks Holding You Back in Your Running (& What to Change) 36:51

3M ago36:51

36:51

In this episode, Michaela and Erin unpack the three biggest roadblocks they see runners facing across all levels: running too fast on easy days, not fueling properly, and skipping strength training. Sharing personal stories, athlete lessons, and coaching wisdom, they break down why these habits stall your progress—and how to pivot. Whether you’re c…

1
The Thick of Marathon Training + Three Legged Races w/ Coach Mich + Erin 29:00

3M ago29:00

29:00

In this episode, Michaela and Erin are catching up post-Denver retreat and deep in the thick of race season prep. Michaela shares her final peak week reflections before Grandma’s Marathon (including why she skipped an 8-miler with zero regrets), while Erin opens up about training for DekaFit with more fun and less pressure. They also share behind-t…

1
The Chicago Marathon Episode You’ll Want to Save (and Replay) 50:04

4M ago50:04

50:04

It’s back. Our most downloaded episode of 2024. Whether it’s your first time running the Chicago Marathon or your sixth (hi Coach Michaela!), this episode is your one-stop listen for everything you need to know before race day. From expo chaos and GPS watch fails to bathroom logistics, what shake out runs to go to, and that sneaky little hill at mi…

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Stop Guessing: How to Pick a Race and a Plan That Fit Your Goals 37:22

4M ago37:22

37:22

We’re re-airing this crowd favorite from our 6-part Race Series — because picking your next race shouldn’t be a shot in the dark. Whether you’re signing up for your first-ever race or chasing a PR, this episode is packed with advice on how to choose a distance, course, and timeline that fits your goals and your life. We also break down what kind of…

1
Breaking the Silence on Women's Urinary Incontinence 30:49

4M ago30:49

30:49

Send us a text In this episode of MedStar Health DocTalk, host Debra Schindler tackles a topic that many women face but few discuss: urinary incontinence. With an estimated 25 million American women affected, it's time to break the silence. Joined by MedStar Health urogynecologist Dr. Abigail Davenport, they delve into the myths surrounding inconti…

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Summer Running Survival Guide: How to Train Smarter (Not Harder) 27:10

4M ago27:10

27:10

Summer running season is here... and let's just say some of us are thrilled and some of us are fighting for our lives 😅. In this episode, Michaela and Erin get real about the mental, physical, and emotional rollercoaster that comes with training through the heat. Whether you’re a sweaty seasoned pro or thinking about breaking up with running until …

1
Arthritis Awareness 19:30

4M ago19:30

19:30

Send us a text According to the CDC, an estimated 58.5 million US adults have been diagnosed with some type of arthritis. Arthritis Awareness Month is observed every May, and it's a time to inform people about this complex group of debilitating diseases. The goal of this episode is to educate listeners about the impact of arthritis, how to promote …

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[ATHLETE] Tokyo Marathon: The Race,The Snacks, The Doll-Shaped Pancakes w/ Michael 48:14

4M ago48:14

48:14

Tokyo Marathon recap, but make it ✨unfiltered✨. In this episode, returning guest and Strides for Strength athlete Michael Gabriel shares the highs, curveballs, and aid station quirks of running the Tokyo Marathon. From sweating it out in unexpected heat to cramping at mile 23, we talk about adjusting on the fly, the importance of mindset, and why a…

1
Macros, Metabolism & Menstrual Cycles: A No-BS Convo About Performance w/ Katy Saltsman 40:14

5M ago40:14

40:14

In this episode, we’re joined by nutrition coach and trainer Katy Saltsman to talk all things hormones, metabolism, recovery, and performance. We go beyond the macros and dive into why less isn’t more, how rest builds stronger athletes, and what you actually need to know about your cycle, stress, and the supplements your fave influencer swears by. …

1
What Every First-Time Marathoner Needs to Know (From Coaching 100+ Runners) 39:58

5M ago39:58

39:58

In this heart-filled and humor-packed episode, Michaela and Erin reflect on their own first marathon experiences and share hard-earned wisdom from coaching countless first-time marathoners. From the mindset shifts and belief-building moments, to fueling strategy fails and wins, they walk listeners through the emotional rollercoaster of training for…

1
Hand Tumors: Lumps and Bumps 46:36

5M ago46:36

46:36

Send us a text Bumps and lumps of the hand can be any number of things... all are classified as a hand tumor, but do they all require treatment, and which are a cause for concern? Host Debra Schindler explores the various types of hand tumors from the benign to malignant, with hand surgeon and Chief of the Curtis National Hand Center, Dr. James Hig…

1
Yap & Chat aka Everything You Didn't Ask For with Coach Erin & Mich 37:04

5M ago37:04

37:04

In this playful and real-time “yap and chat,” Michaela and Erin reunite post-retreat to catch up on everything from mini mics and mid-hike bathroom emergencies to off-season gains and bold new biz moves. Erin shares updates on training for a DekaFit event (yes, we said DekaFit), while Michaela dives into her shorter 15-week marathon training cycle …

1
Four Coaches, One Mountain, and Zero Snacks 32:28

6M ago32:28

32:28

In this hilarious and heartwarming episode of the Strides for Strength podcast, all four coaches — Michaela, Erin, Jess, and Sarah — reunite to recap their in-person coaches retreat in AZ. From epic hiking mishaps (including questionable hydration strategies and a surprise bathroom emergency) to deep reflections on friendship, returning to running …

1
A Colonoscopy Can Save Your Life 33:34

6M ago33:34

33:34

Send us a text March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. Colorectal cancer is the fourth most commonly diagnosed cancer in the U.S. and the second leading cause of cancer deaths. Yet this cancer can be prevented with screening and is highly treatable when detected early. On this episode of our DocTalk podcast, we’re discussing colon cancer with D…

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Why Running More Won’t Always Make You Faster (And What to Do Instead) w/ Collin McGee 48:31

6M ago48:31

48:31

In this episode of Strides for Strength, we welcome back Colin to dive deep into the science of running performance. If you've ever felt stuck in a fitness plateau, wondering why you're logging miles but not getting faster, this episode is for you. We unpack the biggest misconception in running: that simply running more at your goal pace will make …

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The Stronger Strides Challenge: Strength Training for Runners & The Key to Longevity 24:19

6M ago24:19

24:19

In this episode of Strides for Strength, Michaela and Erin are coming to you live from Arizona, fresh off their coaching retreat! They reflect on the power of in-person connection, the growth of Strides for Strength, and what’s next—including their upcoming Stronger Strides Challenge and athlete retreat in Colorado. The Stronger Strides Challenge i…

1
Living with Celiac Disease 30:47

6M ago30:47

30:47

Send us a text | In this episode of MedStar Health DocTalk, host Debra Schindler sits down with gastroenterologist Dr. Jose Parungao to talk about celiac disease, a chronic immune disorder affecting approximately 1 in 100 people in the U.S. As they explore the intricacies of this condition, Dr. Parungao explains how gluten—a protein found in grains…

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Building Resilient Runners: Injury Prevention & PT Insights with Dr. Morgan Kamau 33:11

7M ago33:11

33:11

In this episode we welcome Dr. Morgan Kamau of Tempo PT and Performance—a physical therapy clinic dedicated to treating runners and endurance athletes. Dr. Kamau shares her personal journey from collegiate running to overcoming tendon injuries and discusses why specialized PT is key for athletes. Learn how to differentiate normal muscle soreness fr…

1
The Surprising Truth About Running and Weight Loss: What You Need to Understand w/ Chelsea Schmidt 33:47

7M ago33:47

33:47

Are you a runner who’s been focusing too much on the scale? It’s time to shift your mindset and approach! In this episode, we chat with the amazing Chelsea Schmidt, who brings a wealth of knowledge in nutrition and endurance training. Together, we explore why weight loss shouldn’t be the sole focus for runners and how to create nutrition goals that…

1
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease aka GERD 36:59

7M ago36:59

36:59

Send us a text Are you one of the many who experience heartburn or acid reflux? In our latest episode, host Debra Schindler separates fact from fiction about gastroesophageal reflux disease -or GERD- with MedStar Health gastroenterologist Vinshi Khan, MD. Learn why long term complications from GERD make treatment so important. If you would like to …

1
Scoliosis with Dr. Zan Naseer 36:57

7M ago36:57

36:57

Send us a text In the latest episode of MedStar Health DocTalk, orthopedic surgeon Zan Nasser, MD, who specializes in spine surgery, discusses the facts and fiction of scoliosis. From understanding the basics of curvature of the spine, to treatment options, patients, parents, and healthcare professionals alike, this podcast has something for everyo…

1
[FOUR COACHES, ONE PODCAST] All things books, strength training & what is to come 31:03

7M ago31:03

31:03

In this episode, all four Strides for Strength coaches come together so you know its going to be a good time! We start with what we’re currently reading, from fantasy novels to historical fiction, and dive into the importance of strength training for runners. The coaches share tips for building confidence in the gym, overcoming common barriers like…

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BTS Unlocking the Secrets: How We Transitioned from Runners to Coaches w/ Coach Mich & Erin 33:20

7M ago33:20

33:20

In this episode of Strides for Strength, Michaela and Erin answer a listener's question about transitioning from athlete to coach and dive into the behind-the-scenes work of running a business and building a thriving running community. They share their unique journeys into coaching, the importance of lifelong learning, and how Strides for Strength …

1
Negative Splits and Positive Vibes: Tyler's Houston Half Marathon Breakdown 44:17

7M ago44:17

44:17

In this episode of Strides for Strength, Michaela and Erin sit down with their [favorite athlete of the week], Tyler, to unpack his incredible journey to the Houston Half Marathon. From overcoming pre-race challenges like illness, travel chaos, and foot pain, to crushing his goals on race day, Tyler shares his honest reflections on training, mindse…

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Behind the Scenes of Coach Erins Houston Marathon: Fueling, Fears, BQs and Finish Lines 1:00:48

8M ago1:00:48

1:00:48

Coach Erin is thrilled to share her experience at the Houston Marathon, where she not only ran a strong race but also secured her second Boston qualifying time. Join us as we unpack the excitement of race day, the challenges she faced, and the strategies that helped her stay focused on the end goal. This episode is all about celebrating her journey…

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Pulsed Field Ablation for Treating AFib 37:14

8M ago37:14

37:14

Send us a text A groundbreaking innovation is making waves for the approximate six million Americans who suffer with atrial fibrillation (AFib). It’s called pulsed field ablation. In our latest podcast episode, host Debra Schindler talks with Dr. Sunjeet Sidhu, a renowned cardiac electrophysiologist at MedStar Health, to explore the intricacies and…

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Pioneers of The Great Awakening Series – Session 35: Peri Soylu 31:56

8M ago31:56

31:56

Peri Soylu is a Gene Keys Guide and a Course in Miracles Coach. She's the host of the HappyCoolLove Podcast where she shares her experience with the principles of A Course in Miracles translating its spiritual principles into everyday life. The Pioneer Series are conversations with awakened individuals from all walks of life who are dedicated to he…

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Pioneers of The Great Awakening Series – Session 34: Whitney Coupland 53:29

8M ago53:29

53:29

Whitney Coupland is a Human Design and Gene Keys Guide for entrepreneurs. She combines her 10+ years experience in sales and business development with her coaching background to help business owners go after their deepest desires and attract their ideal clients. The Pioneer Series are conversations with awakened individuals from all walks of life w…

1
[ATHLETE] From Nurse to Marathoner: How Mary Balances Work, Life, and 26.2 Miles 26:58

8M ago26:58

26:58

Are you ready to unlock your potential as a runner? In this episode of the Strides for Strength podcast, we had the honor of speaking with Mary, an inspiring athlete who has transformed her running journey through dedication and smart training. From her early days of running in college to her impressive finishes at major marathons, Mary shares her …

1
Stem Cell Transplant & Cellular Immunology 18:37

8M ago18:37

18:37

Send us a text The MedStar Georgetown University Hospital Stem Cell Transplant and Cellular Immunotherapy Program is the only adult, FACT-accredited program in the Washington, D.C., area. We give patients with cancers affecting the blood or immune system and other disorders access to life-saving treatment options not otherwise available in our regi…

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Pioneers of The Great Awakening Series – Session 33: Maria Teresa Frezet 57:56

8M ago57:56

57:56

Maria Teresa Frezet is a Life Alignment Practitioner using the 'Way Of Simplicity,' a Gene Keys Guide, translator and proofreader of the Italian translation of the Gene Keys book: ‘Le Chiavi Genetiche.’ The Pioneer Series are conversations with awakened individuals from all walks of life who are dedicated to help create a Real Home World. For more …

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Pioneers of The Great Awakening Series – Session 32: Matthew Ashdown 1:05:51

8M ago1:05:51

1:05:51

Matthew Ashdown is a teacher, writer, gene keys guide and the current team manager of the gene keys dream arc. He leads workshops, one-on-one sessions and online group support sessions drawing on a background in personal training, myth, meditation and kriya yoga. The Pioneer Series are conversations with awakened individuals from all walks of life …

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Real Talk Session Series Podcasts

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