In this episode of the PILLAR Performance Podcast, Dan Plews welcomes back Dr Eric Helms to discuss the critical role of protein in nutrition for athletes. Topics covered: The Importance of Protein in Meals Understanding Protein's Role in the Body Complete vs. Incomplete Proteins Protein Sources and Dietary Considerations Protein Supplementation: Whey vs. Isolate The Anabolic Window and Protein Timing Balancing Protein Intake Across Meals Understanding Protein Quality and Supplementation Ethical...
Jun 17, 2025•1 hr 17 min
Welcome to episode 2 of Training Science Summaries (TSS), a monthly series where we break down research into actionable tips to boost your performance.0:00 - 8:20 Athlete Durability8:21 - 16:00 Thresholds16:01 - 31:15 Ice BathsStudies Discussed:How durable are you really?Hunter, B. et al. Durability as an Index of Endurance Exercise Performance: Methodological Considerations. Experimental Physiology, 2025. DOI: 10.1113/EP092120 https://physoc.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1113/EP092120How effec...
Jun 06, 2025•31 min
In this episode of the Pillar Performance Podcast, we’re joined by Dr. Darren Candow, a renowned expert in exercise science and nutrition. As a Professor at the University of Regina and leader of the Aging Muscle and Bone Health Laboratory, Dr. Candow’s research focuses on improving musculoskeletal health through exercise and nutrition. With over 70 peer-reviewed papers on creatine, he shares his extensive knowledge on its benefits for athletic performance, aging, and overall health. Chapters 00...
Apr 30, 2025•56 min
Welcome to the first episode of Training Science Summaries (TSS), a monthly series where we break down research into actionable tips to boost your performance. In this episode, Dr. Dan Plews and I explore durability in endurance sports—what it is, why it matters, and how to train it. We discuss the role of strength training in running economy, the importance of training frequency and duration, and the often-misunderstood concept of zone two training. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Science Summar...
Apr 17, 2025•50 min
In this episode, Dr. Dan Plews speaks with Andrew Koutnik, award winning Ph.D researcher with a remarkable journey from obese adolescence to elite athlete and researcher. Andrew has collaborated with institutions like Harvard, Johns Hopkins, NASA, and the Department of Defense - Specializing in type 1 diabetes, metabolic health and performance optimization. Topics Covered: - Impact of diabetes on athletic performance. - Rising obesity rates in type 1 diabetics. - Role of carbohydrates in high-in...
Mar 19, 2025•1 hr 19 min
In this episode of the Pillar Performance Podcast, Dr. Dan Plews welcomes Dr. Eric Helms, a prominent figure in the field of natural bodybuilding and muscle growth. The conversation explores the differences between strength training and hypertrophy, emphasizing the importance of understanding these concepts for athletes and fitness enthusiasts alike. They explore the role of supplements, particularly creatine, in enhancing athletic performance and its emerging benefits for cognitive health prote...
Feb 20, 2025•1 hr 33 min
In this podcast, PILLAR Head of Research Dr Dan Plews sits down with world leading Collagen expert Dr Keith Baar. Dr Baar received his PhD from the University of Illinois where he discovered the molecular signal that causes load-induced muscle hypertrophy. Dr Baar is a Professor at the University of California, he a renowned scientist in the emerging field of molecular exercise physiology and is leading a team of researchers attempting to develop ways to improve muscle, tendon, and ligament func...
Dec 20, 2024•1 hr 6 min
In this episode of the Pillar Performance podcast, Dr. Dan Plews hosts Martin Walter and Ulrike Braun from Gelita to discuss the significance of collagen and specially Tendorforte in nutrition and its applications in sports and health. They explore the differences between collagen, gelatin, and collagen peptides, the history of Gelita, and the specific benefits of their product Tendafort for athletes. The conversation highlights the importance of collagen in connective tissue health, injury prev...
Nov 07, 2024•1 hr
In this episode, Scott Dickens shares his inspiring journey from childhood swimmer to professional athlete and Director of Business Development of FORM Swim Goggles. He discusses his early passion for swimming, Olympic aspirations, and diverse career paths, including finance and sales. Scott highlights FORM Swim Goggles’ innovative technology, which features a heads-up display for real-time data, making it a game-changer for swimmers. The company has evolved into a comprehensive swim training pl...
Oct 25, 2024•46 min
In this episode of the PILLAR Podcast, Dr Dan Plews uncovers Tommy's background as a neuroscientist and athlete, including his experience in rowing and his current work in Formula One. They also delve into the topic of athletes' fitness and health, highlighting the trade-offs and challenges in maintaining both. They discuss the importance of nutrient density, the balance between minimising relative energy deficiency and getting the right nutrients, and the underlying fat phobia in the sports com...
Sep 19, 2024•1 hr 20 min
In this conversation, Dr. Dan Plews interviews Greg Peoples about the role of Omega-3 fatty acids in sports nutrition. They discuss the differences between EPA and DHA, the importance of Omega-3s in physiology, and the benefits for athletes. They also explore the Omega-3 index, supplementation, and the optimal dosage for athletes. The conversation highlights the need for consistent intake of Omega-3s and the potential benefits for recovery, muscle soreness, and cardiovascular health. Omega-3 fat...
Sep 05, 2024•1 hr 14 min
In this episode of the Pillar Performance Podcast, Dr. Dan Plews interviews Mikki Williden, a nutritionist and expert in sports nutrition. They discuss various topics including their personal journeys in the low-carb high-fat space, the importance of protein in an athlete's diet, and the impact of stress on productivity and health. Mikki emphasizes the need for context-specific nutrition recommendations and highlights the role of protein in recovery and body composition. They also touch on the c...
Aug 21, 2024•1 hr 6 min
In this conversation, Dom D'Agostino discusses his background in nutrition and neuroscience, his research on ketosis and its therapeutic effects, and the use of ketones in fueling performance. They explore the benefits of ketones for endurance athletes, the importance of metabolic flexibility, and the role of ketone supplementation. They also touch on the adaptation to ketosis, the dawn effect, and the relationship between ketones and exercise. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the...
Jul 15, 2024•1 hr 19 min
Alex de Boer, an entrepreneur in the triathlon industry, began his journey selling wetsuits at triathlon events and eventually secured a license with Ironman, building it into Europe's leading wetsuit brand. After Ironman sold the license, he founded his own brand, De Boer, which focuses on high-end, innovative wetsuits and swimwear for triathletes and swimmers. Emphasising customer relationships and empowerment, Alex's story highlights the importance of seizing opportunities and following one's...
Jun 11, 2024•43 min
In this episode, PILLAR's Head of Research Dr Dan Plews interviews Hunter McIntyre, a world champion in HYROX. Hunter shares his journey as an athlete and his training methods. He discusses his background in running and wrestling, his transition to obstacle course racing, and his success in various sports. McIntyre emphasizes the importance of strength and endurance in his training, as well as the need for efficiency and power. He follows a training plan that includes a mix of low-intensity and ...
May 22, 2024•1 hr 12 min
In today’s episode Chelsea discusses her background as a runner and her transition to triathlon. She shares her early experiences in running, including the pressure she felt as a young athlete and the challenges she faced in finding the right training environment. Chelsea highlights the importance of finding the right balance between training partners and coaching. She also mentions her successful running career, including her personal best times in various distances. Chelsea reflects on the rea...
May 17, 2024•1 hr 13 min
Lucas Becker, also known as Byron Bay Chef, shares his passion for healthy and fresh cooking. He emphasises the importance of balance and flexibility in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Lucas provides practical tips for beginners in the kitchen, such as getting organised, keeping it simple, and using versatile cooking methods. He also highlights the benefits of batch cooking and meal prepping to save time and money. Lucas encourages athletes to prioritise cooking their own meals to fuel their pe...
May 08, 2024•43 min
In this episode of the PILLAR Performance Podcast, Rasmus Barfred, co-founder of THEMAGIC5, discusses the journey of creating custom fit sportswear, starting with their innovative custom fit swim goggles. Rasmus shares his background in endurance sports and how his passion for swimming led to the idea for the Magic Five. He talks about the challenges they faced, including the impact of COVID-19 on their business, and their strategy for expanding into retail. Rasmus also mentions their long-term ...
Apr 29, 2024•38 min
In this conversation, Elizabeth Inpyn and Pip Taylor discuss the importance of omega-3 fats for endurance athletes. They cover topics such as the different forms of omega-3s, the benefits of EPA and DHA, and the challenges faced by plant-based athletes. They also discuss the Omega-3 Index test and the importance of testing and supplementation for optimal omega-3 levels. The conversation highlights the impact of omega-3s on performance, joint health, and overall well-being. The key takeaway is to...
Mar 27, 2024•42 min•Ep. 14
PILLAR Performance https://linktr.ee/pillarperformance_ Dr Dan Plews https://www.instagram.com/theplews/ https://linktr.ee/theplews Pip Taylor https://www.instagram.com/piptpip/ https://bio.site/piptaylor Summary In episode 13, the hosts introduce the expanded PILLAR podcast and discuss their individual focuses. They also provide an update on the company's international expansion and the launch of the TRAACS Magnesium product iteration. The hosts explain the benefits of TRAACS Magnesium and anno...
Jan 24, 2024•54 min•Ep. 13
On September 7th 2023, Ultra-Runner Jonny Davies will run the length of all 11 tube lines in London in just 11 days, passing 272 stations and covering a whopping 572km. Episode highlights Recovery routine Running origin story Finding your why Run The Line Challenge = 572km Strength training Process over outcome Mental health Fundraising for CALM The PILLAR Performance Podcast is an endurance show that connects with athletes and experts in their field across endurance sport. Founder of PILLAR Per...
Aug 25, 2023•59 min
This is a special episode. We were lucky enough to collaborate with Ryzon Apparel to bring forth an activation called the Fortissimo Lounge in Germany. We were in the company of brands such as Canyon, La Marzocco, HOKA and Maurten. The intention was to showcase the evolution of Jan Frodeno and how he has progressed to be the greatest triathlete of all time. We had the honour of doing a panel discussion with Maurten, hosted by Dr. Sebastian Zeller, founder of the Triathlon Crew to discuss the evo...
Jun 13, 2023•42 min
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS: - Izzi’s early running years - Building mental fortitude - Transitioning from junior to senior athlete in USA vs AUS - Izzi’s interest in nutrition - Performing as a plant based athlete - Breaking the stigma around body image - Nutrition differences men vs women - Lighter is not necessarily faster - Marathon experience - Run as One community - The RUNHÔUSE The PILLAR Performance Podcast is an endurance show that connects with athletes and experts in their field across enduran...
Apr 19, 2023•45 min•Season 1Ep. 10
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS: - WHOOP sleep score check - World Cross Country experience - Transition into marathon from 5k - Nutrition in the lead up to races - Problem solving stitch issues - Origin story of Pulse Running and FTK - Balancing priorities The PILLAR Performance Podcast is an endurance show that connects with athletes and experts in their field across triathlon, running and cycling. Founder of PILLAR Performance Damien Fitzpatrick aims to unpack the stories and learnings to educate you abou...
Apr 11, 2023•47 min•Season 1Ep. 9
Founder & CEO Damien Fitzpatrick announces our partnership with The Feed and details about our launch into North America. Launch date: Monday 27th March 11am MST. Will be available via: pillarperformance.us thefeed.com Shop online: https://pillarperformance.shop/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pillarperformance_/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pillarperformance Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@pillarperformance...
Mar 23, 2023•19 min•Season 1Ep. 7
Today we did a Cool Down episode with Performance Dietitian Pip Taylor and discussed the latest sleep recommendations from Neuroscientist Matt Walker. Diving into the research then decoding how practical the information is. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS: - Sleep hygiene - Matt Walker research - Sleep regularity - Sleep pressure - Caffeine and alcohol on sleep - Temperature regulation for better sleep - Balancing sleep with children - Sleep technology - Sleep banking or pre-sleep - Journalling Shop online: ...
Mar 10, 2023•42 min•Season 1Ep. 7
Exciting news! We are thrilled to announce our partnership with The On Athletics Club Oceania chapter (OAC), aimed at providing the best micronutrition solutions to help the team achieve their full potential. Today we chatted with Head Coach Craig Mottram. We learned about his career and got insight into his new role with The OAC Oceania Chapter. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS Where did the name Buster come from? Craig’s history as a triathlete Journey into running Running scene during Craig’s career OAC Oc...
Feb 23, 2023•31 min•Season 1Ep. 6
Today we chatted with Scott Tindal, learning about the ins and outs of magnesium, sleep and how athletes can optimise it. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS - Damo’s and Scott’s sleep data via WHOOP and OURA - How much sleep do you need? - How to balance sleep while travelling? - Are naps useful? - How to improve sleep with food - Overview of magnesium - Why you need to pay attention to the form of magnesium you use - Magnesium deficiency in athletes - Magnesium glycinate - Why PILLAR TRIPLE MAGNESIUM was creat...
Feb 06, 2023•40 min•Season 1Ep. 5
Today we chatted with Co-Founder & Chief Nutrition Officer of Fuelin Scott Tindal. We learned about his journey from starting as a physiotherapist, transitioning into the team sports realm and helping endurance athletes through his online coaching nutrition program. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS - Being a physio and sports nutritionist for international teams - How Fuelin works to break down education barriers to high-performance nutrition - The interplay of food and supplementation - Where to start wh...
Jan 18, 2023•36 min•Season 1Ep. 4
Special edition of the podcast: Reflecting on 2022 with a Q&A with Founder / CEO Damien Fitzpatrick Today we wrap up PILLAR’s first full year of operation. We dived into the highlights, learnings and ambitions for 2023. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS - Athlete shout outs and highlights - The story of how the brand came to be - The solution found to deal with inflammation - Biggest challenge in the past year - Plans for 2023 Shop online: https://pillarperformance.shop/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.co...
Dec 22, 2022•23 min•Season 1Ep. 3
