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Real Fuel with SLS

Real Fuel with SLS

Stevie Lyn Smith MS, RDN, CSSD, CDN 64 Episodes Aug 18, 2026

Real Fuel with SLS is a nutrition podcast hosted by sports dietitian Stevie Lyn Smith. It provides practical fueling strategies for runners, triathletes, and everyday athletes, focusing on training smarter and recovering faster without food guilt or complicated plans. The show combines science with real conversations to help listeners feel stronger in their workouts.

Episodes

Fueling Young Runners: Nutrition Tips and Strategies with Sports Dietitian Erin Kesterson
Fueling Young Runners: Nutrition Tips and Strategies with Sports Dietitian Erin Kesterson Aug 18, 2026 3044 In this episode of Real Fuel with SLS, host Stevie Lyn Smith is joined by sports dietitian, run coach, and mother of five, Erin Kesterson. They dive deep into the world of sports nutrition, the evolution of the field, and how to properly fuel growing youth and high school endurance athletes. Erin is a mom of five, runner, sports dietitian, and running coach with a MS in Exercise Science. She has b
Age-Group vs. Pro Triathlon, Gear Hype, and Race Day Realities with Lisa Becharas
Age-Group vs. Pro Triathlon, Gear Hype, and Race Day Realities with Lisa Becharas Aug 4, 2026 3646 On this episode of Real Fuel with SLS I am joined by professional triathlete and endurance coach Lisa Becharas. We dive deep into the hilarious realities of racing, share unforgettable Ironman race-day blunders, and break down how the sport of triathlon has evolved over the years.From navigating race announcer mispronunciations (and accidental identity swaps at the finish line!) to debating the tr
Why You Won't PR Every Race (And Why That's Okay)
Why You Won't PR Every Race (And Why That's Okay) Jul 14, 2026 3217 In this episode, host Stevie is rejoined by fan-favorite and friend of the pod, Coach Nick Klastava. Nick is a dad, husband, running coach, and the brains behind the popular platform Running Explained.If you have ever felt trapped by the numbers on your GPS watch, discouraged because you aren't hitting your college PRs, or lonely in a season of transition, this episode is for you. Stevie and
Mastering Summer Running: Fuel and Hydration Strategies in Heat
Mastering Summer Running: Fuel and Hydration Strategies in Heat Jun 30, 2026 2627 Summer is officially here, and with it comes hot, humid miles that can make your runs feel significantly more challenging. Whether you are ramping up training for a fall marathon (like Stevie’s upcoming Philly full in November!) or keeping active with local summer races, staying safely fueled and hydrated in the heat requires a distinct strategy.In this solo episode, registered sports dietitian an
From Dietitian to Family Medicine Physician: The Power of Preventive Care with Dr. Alex Ford
From Dietitian to Family Medicine Physician: The Power of Preventive Care with Dr. Alex Ford Jun 16, 2026 3261 What happens when you combine the clinical expertise of a registered dietitian with the comprehensive training of a board-certified family medicine physician? You get a powerful, preventative approach to healthcare that looks at the whole person.In this episode of Real Fuel with SLS, Stevie Lyn Smith catches up with longtime college friend and colleague, Dr. Alex Ford, DO, RD. Dr. Ford shares his
Pro Runner Keira D'Amato: Injury Rehabilitation, Mid-Run Pain, and "Don't Call It a Comeback"
Pro Runner Keira D'Amato: Injury Rehabilitation, Mid-Run Pain, and "Don't Call It a Comeback" Jun 2, 2026 3410 On this episode of Real Fuel with SLS, I am joined by professional runner, American record holder, and mother of two, Keira D'Amato. Fresh off the release of her new book, Don't Call It a Comeback, Keira opens up about her recent major surgery and her intentional, conservative approach to rehabilitation.Keira pulls back the curtain on what it’s like to realize you’ve been living and trai
Building An Injury-Resilient Runner: Why Strength Training is the Secret to Longevity in Running with Laura Filla
Building An Injury-Resilient Runner: Why Strength Training is the Secret to Longevity in Running with Laura Filla May 19, 2026 2923 Are you a recreational runner who hits the gym but still finds yourself dealing with nagging injuries? It might be time to ditch the random internet workouts and get strategic.In this episode of Real Fuel with SLS,  I am is joined by Laura Filla, a competitive marathoner, RRCA Level 2 Certified Running Coach, and founder of Filla Endurance. Laura breaks down her science-backed coaching philosophy,
Return to 70.3 Racing: Race Week Tips and Tricks
Return to 70.3 Racing: Race Week Tips and Tricks May 5, 2026 2004 In this episode, I share more of my journey and preparation for the Gulf Coast 70.3 after 7 years away from racing long course triathlon!I chat about:My training blockThe mental and physical challenges of taper weekStrategies for carb loadingI reflect on past experiences The importance of visualizationThe mental hurdles athletes faceThe significance of rest, recovery, and proper nutrition leading
Proactive Nutrition During Pregnancy for Endurance Athletes
Proactive Nutrition During Pregnancy for Endurance Athletes Apr 21, 2026 3472 In this episode, Holley Samuel of Holley Fueled Nutrition, a sports dietitian and endurance athlete, shares expert insights on pregnancy, nutrition, training, and postpartum recovery. She discusses how women can proactively support their bodies through pregnancy and beyond, emphasizing the importance of personalized care and evidence-based practices.We also chat about:energy and nutrient needs in
Sub-2:10 Marathon Secrets: Training, Fueling, and Breakthroughs with Joe Whelan
Sub-2:10 Marathon Secrets: Training, Fueling, and Breakthroughs with Joe Whelan Apr 7, 2026 2907 In this episode, we explore the journey of Joe Whelan, a high-performing athlete in the world of distance running. Joe shares his insights on training through brutal winters, experimenting with nutrition and pacing, and playing a different game in the highly competitive world of marathoning. Whether you're an endurance athlete or just curious about pushing human potential, this conversation o
Q&A: Mastering Carb Loading and Debunking Protein Myths
Q&A: Mastering Carb Loading and Debunking Protein Myths Mar 24, 2026 1905 Understanding Protein and Carb Loading: Clear Insights for Optimal NutritionIn this episode, I break down the essentials of protein—what it is, how to evaluate its quality, and common misconceptions. I also delve into effective carb loading strategies for endurance athletes and practical tips for race preparation, helping you make smarter nutrition choices for your training and racing.I chat more
The RED-s Deep Dive: Metabolism, Heart Health, and Fueling Your Potential
The RED-s Deep Dive: Metabolism, Heart Health, and Fueling Your Potential Mar 10, 2026 3169 In this episode, Becca McConville, an expert on relative energy deficiency in sports, shares insights on REDs and its impact on health and performance. We break down the complexities of metabolic dysfunction, the "sneaky" ways athletes end up under-fueled, and why a low resting heart rate might not be the "fitness flex" many think it is. From the impact of GLP-1 medications on

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