The Matchbox - A Cycling Podcast
The Matchbox podcast presented by Ignition Coach Co - a cycling show that covers training-related topics in a discussion-oriented format. Show hosts, Adam Saban and Kaitlyn Maddox, are endurance coaches with Ignition Coach Co who share a passion for expanding their knowledge of endurance training. They have also competed as elite cyclists across various disciplines and often lean on their experiences competing at the highest level to provide unique perspective into the world of bike racing. Tune in each week to find out how you can find that extra match for your next race.
Episodes

7 days ago
7 days ago
Hello everyone. Welcome to the latest episode of The Matchbox Podcast powered by Ignition Coach Co. I’m your host, Adam Saban, and on this week’s episode we’re talking about fueling tips for riding on really hot days, when your endurance ride is no longer an endurance ride, and post-interval pacing.
As always, if you like what you hear please share this with your friends and leave us a five star review and if you have any questions for the show drop us an email at matchboxpod@gmail.com with the topic of discussion in the email title or head over to ignitioncoachco.com and fill out The Matchbox Podcast listener question form. You can also sign up for the Matchbox Patreon and get priority placement for your submitted questions.
Alight let’s get into it!
For more social media content, follow along @ignitioncoachco @adamsaban6 @dizzle_dillman @dylanjawnson @kait.maddox
https://patreon.com/MatchboxPodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink
https://www.youtube.com/c/DylanJohnsonCycling https://www.ignitioncoachco.com
https://www.youtube.com/@DrewDillmanChannel
Intro/ Outro music by AlexGrohl - song "King Around Here" - https://pixabay.com/music/id-15045/
The following was generated using Riverside.fm AI technologies
Summary
This conversation delves into the intricacies of carb intake and hydration strategies for endurance athletes, particularly in hot conditions. The discussion emphasizes the importance of maintaining consistent carb intake throughout a race, the nuances of endurance rides, and the significance of post-interval recovery pacing. The speakers share personal experiences and insights on how to effectively manage nutrition and hydration to optimize performance.
Chapters
00:00 Carb Intake Timing and Hydration Strategies
17:33 Understanding Endurance Rides and Heart Rate Management
20:34 Understanding Endurance Training and Heart Rate Management
28:59 Post-Interval Recovery Strategies and Pacing
37:03 Final Thoughts on Training and Performance

Tuesday Jun 24, 2025
Tuesday Jun 24, 2025
Hello everyone. Welcome to the latest episode of The Matchbox Podcast powered by Ignition Coach Co. I’m your host, Adam Saban, and on this week’s episode we’re talking about tips for keeping your legs fresh while traveling, whether or not we keep a close eye on CTL, and red light therapy.
As always, if you like what you hear please share this with your friends and leave us a five star review and if you have any questions for the show drop us an email at matchboxpod@gmail.com with the topic of discussion in the email title or head over to ignitioncoachco.com and fill out The Matchbox Podcast listener question form. You can also sign up for the Matchbox Patreon and get priority placement for your submitted questions.
Alight let’s get into it!
For more social media content, follow along @ignitioncoachco @adamsaban6 @dizzle_dillman @dylanjawnson @kait.maddox
https://patreon.com/MatchboxPodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink
https://www.youtube.com/c/DylanJohnsonCycling https://www.ignitioncoachco.com
https://www.youtube.com/@DrewDillmanChannel
Intro/ Outro music by AlexGrohl - song "King Around Here" - https://pixabay.com/music/id-15045/
The following was generated using Riverside.fm AI technologies
Summary
In this conversation, the hosts discuss various travel tips for athletes, focusing on how to maintain performance during long drives. They emphasize the importance of breaking up travel time, staying hydrated, and managing workouts before travel. The discussion then shifts to the concept of Chronic Training Load (CTL) and its relevance in training, highlighting that CTL is not the sole indicator of fitness. Finally, they explore innovative recovery techniques such as red light therapy and grounding, weighing their potential benefits against traditional recovery methods.
Chapters
00:00 Travel Tips for Athletes
15:34 Understanding CTL in Training
32:35 Exploring Recovery Techniques
32:53 Grounding and Sleep Quality
35:02 Skepticism and Personal Experiences
37:51 Red Light Therapy: Myths and Realities
42:38 Inflammation and Recovery
47:25 Hydrogen Tablets and Antioxidants

Thursday Jun 19, 2025
Thursday Jun 19, 2025
Hello everyone. Welcome to the latest episode of The Matchbox Podcast powered by Ignition Coach Co. I’m your host, Adam Saban, and on this week’s episode we’re talking about how to train when the air quality in your area is sub-optimal, ways to improve your XC race starts, and all things heat training (well mostly).
As always, if you like what you hear please share this with your friends and leave us a five star review and if you have any questions for the show drop us an email at matchboxpod@gmail.com with the topic of discussion in the email title or head over to ignitioncoachco.com and fill out The Matchbox Podcast listener question form. You can also sign up for the Matchbox Patreon and get priority placement for your submitted questions.
Alight let’s get into it!
For more social media content, follow along @ignitioncoachco @adamsaban6 @dizzle_dillman @dylanjawnson @kait.maddox
https://patreon.com/MatchboxPodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink
https://www.youtube.com/c/DylanJohnsonCycling https://www.ignitioncoachco.com
https://www.youtube.com/@DrewDillmanChannel
Intro/ Outro music by AlexGrohl - song "King Around Here" - https://pixabay.com/music/id-15045/
The following was generated using Riverside.fm AI technologies
Summary
In this conversation, the hosts discuss the challenges athletes face when training under unpredictable air quality conditions, particularly due to wildfires. They emphasize the importance of adapting training strategies, including the use of indoor training when air quality is poor. The discussion also covers techniques for improving performance in cross country starts and the significance of heat training and acclimation for endurance athletes. The hosts provide practical advice for athletes to navigate these challenges effectively. In this conversation, the hosts delve into the importance of investing in personal growth and how it relates to various training methods, particularly heat training. They discuss the physiological benefits of heat adaptation, the effectiveness of sauna sessions versus traditional training, and the balance between heat training and recovery. The conversation emphasizes the significance of understanding one's body and the impact of different training modalities on performance and recovery.
Chapters
00:00
Adapting Training for Unpredictable Air Quality
10:53
Strategies for Cross Country Starts
22:03
Understanding Heat Training and Acclimation
24:57
Investing in Personal Growth
26:53
Heat Training Insights
30:02
Understanding Heat Adaptation
31:56
Physiological Benefits of Heat Training
35:58
Sauna vs. Trainer Sessions
39:47
Balancing Heat Training and Recovery

Wednesday Jun 11, 2025
Wednesday Jun 11, 2025
Hello everyone. Welcome to the latest episode of The Matchbox Podcast powered by Ignition Coach Co. I’m your host, Adam Saban, and on this week’s episode we’re talking about training camps in the lead up to A races and whether the polarized training method is appropriate even for time-crunched athletes.
As always, if you like what you hear please share this with your friends and leave us a five star review and if you have any questions for the show drop us an email at matchboxpod@gmail.com with the topic of discussion in the email title or head over to ignitioncoachco.com and fill out The Matchbox Podcast listener question form. You can also sign up for the Matchbox Patreon and get priority placement for your submitted questions.
Alight let’s get into it!
For more social media content, follow along @ignitioncoachco @adamsaban6 @dizzle_dillman @dylanjawnson @kait.maddox
https://patreon.com/MatchboxPodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink
https://www.youtube.com/c/DylanJohnsonCycling https://www.ignitioncoachco.com
https://www.youtube.com/@DrewDillmanChannel
Intro/ Outro music by AlexGrohl - song "King Around Here" - https://pixabay.com/music/id-15045/

Wednesday Jun 04, 2025
Wednesday Jun 04, 2025
Hello everyone. Welcome to the latest episode of The Matchbox Podcast powered by Ignition Coach Co. I’m your host, Adam Saban, and on this week’s episode we’re back to our usual routine with listener questions on grip strength as a limiting factor for strength training, recovery protocols particular after long endurance events, and the relationship between LT1 and LT2.
As always, if you like what you hear please share this with your friends and leave us a five star review and if you have any questions for the show drop us an email at matchboxpod@gmail.com with the topic of discussion in the email title or head over to ignitioncoachco.com and fill out The Matchbox Podcast listener question form. You can also sign up for the Matchbox Patreon and get priority placement for your submitted questions.
Alight let’s get into it!
For more social media content, follow along @ignitioncoachco @adamsaban6 @dizzle_dillman @dylanjawnson @kait.maddox
https://patreon.com/MatchboxPodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink
https://www.youtube.com/c/DylanJohnsonCycling https://www.ignitioncoachco.com
https://www.youtube.com/@DrewDillmanChannel
Intro/ Outro music by AlexGrohl - song "King Around Here" - https://pixabay.com/music/id-15045/
The following was generated using Riverside.fm AI technologies
Summary
In this conversation, the hosts discuss various fitness topics, focusing on overcoming grip strength challenges during workouts and effective recovery strategies after long gravel races. They share personal experiences and insights on how to improve grip strength, alternative exercises, and the importance of listening to one's body during recovery. The discussion emphasizes the significance of maintaining a balanced approach to strength training and recovery, particularly for cyclists and endurance athletes. In this conversation, the speakers discuss various aspects of recovery for athletes, particularly in cycling. They emphasize the importance of planning recovery after races, balancing race participation with training, and the role of nutrition and recovery modalities. The discussion also delves into the dynamics of lactate thresholds (LT1 and LT2) and how they relate to performance and recovery.
Chapters
00:00
Overcoming Grip Strength Challenges in Workouts
17:19
Effective Recovery Strategies After Gravel Events
22:59
The Importance of Recovery Planning
24:47
Balancing Race Participation and Training
26:15
Post-Race Recovery Protocols
29:17
The Role of Nutrition in Recovery
33:43
Recovery Equipment and Modalities
36:00
Understanding LT1 and LT2 Dynamics

Wednesday May 28, 2025
Wednesday May 28, 2025
Hello everyone. Welcome to the latest episode of The Matchbox Podcast powered by Ignition Coach Co. I’m your host, Adam Saban, and on this week’s episode we’ve got special guests Dirk Friel and Henry Lutz, from TrainingPeaks, to answer all of our burning questions about the platform we all know and love.
As always, if you like what you hear please share this with your friends and leave us a five star review and if you have any questions for the show drop us an email at matchboxpod@gmail.com with the topic of discussion in the email title or head over to ignitioncoachco.com and fill out The Matchbox Podcast listener question form. You can also sign up for the Matchbox Patreon and get priority placement for your submitted questions.
Alight let’s get into it!
For more social media content, follow along @ignitioncoachco @adamsaban6 @dizzle_dillman @dylanjawnson @kait.maddox
https://patreon.com/MatchboxPodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink
https://www.youtube.com/c/DylanJohnsonCycling https://www.ignitioncoachco.com
https://www.youtube.com/@DrewDillmanChannel
Intro/ Outro music by AlexGrohl - song "King Around Here" - https://pixabay.com/music/id-15045/
The following was generated using Riverside.fm AI technologies
Summary
In this conversation, Dirk Friel and Henry Lutz from TrainingPeaks discuss the evolution of coaching in endurance sports, the importance of communication between coaches and athletes, and how technology has transformed training practices. They share insights on the role of data in coaching, the significance of emotional feedback, and the future of training methodologies. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the complexities of coaching in the modern age, particularly focusing on the overwhelming amount of data available to athletes and coaches. They discuss the evolution of athlete independence, the importance of integrating feedback mechanisms like RPE, and the advancements in strength training solutions within the TrainingPeaks platform. The conversation highlights the balance between providing valuable data and avoiding information overload, as well as the necessity for coaches to adapt to the changing landscape of athlete training and self-management. This conversation delves into the evolving landscape of athletic training, emphasizing the holistic approach to athlete development, the significance of training metrics, and the future integration of AI in coaching. The speakers discuss the importance of collaboration among coaches, nutritionists, and strength trainers, and how tools like TrainingPeaks can enhance athlete performance through data analysis and trend observation. They also explore the potential of AI to assist coaches without replacing them, ensuring a more personalized training experience for athletes.
Chapters00:00
Introduction to TrainingPeaks and Its Founders
10:16
Evolution of Training and Coaching Practices
20:04
The Importance of Communication in Coaching
28:51
Navigating Data Overload in Coaching
36:14
The Evolution of Athlete Independence
42:07
Integrating RPE and Feedback Mechanisms
50:33
Strength Training Solutions and Integration
51:58
The Holistic Athlete Approach
54:01
Innovations in Training Metrics
57:59
Understanding Training Peaks Metrics
01:00:59
The Art of Training and Trends
01:04:01
Maximizing TrainingPeaks Features
01:12:55
The Future of TrainingPeaks and AI Integration

Wednesday May 21, 2025
Wednesday May 21, 2025
Hello everyone. Welcome to the latest episode of The Matchbox Podcast powered by Ignition Coach Co. I’m your host, Adam Saban, and on this week’s episode we’re talking about genetic potential, racing on scheduled rest weeks, and training for long races.
As always, if you like what you hear please share this with your friends and leave us a five star review and if you have any questions for the show drop us an email at matchboxpod@gmail.com with the topic of discussion in the email title or head over to ignitioncoachco.com and fill out The Matchbox Podcast listener question form. You can also sign up for the Matchbox Patreon and get priority placement for your submitted questions.
Alight let’s get into it!
For more social media content, follow along @ignitioncoachco @adamsaban6 @dizzle_dillman @dylanjawnson @kait.maddox
https://patreon.com/MatchboxPodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink
https://www.youtube.com/c/DylanJohnsonCycling https://www.ignitioncoachco.com
https://www.youtube.com/@DrewDillmanChannel
Intro/ Outro music by AlexGrohl - song "King Around Here" - https://pixabay.com/music/id-15045/
The following was generated using Riverside.fm AI technologies
Summary
In this episode, the hosts delve into listener questions regarding cycling performance, specifically focusing on VO2 max, threshold training, and race strategies. They analyze a young athlete's metrics and discuss the importance of training structure, including the balance between intensity and recovery. The conversation also covers the implications of scheduling B and C races during rest weeks and how to effectively prepare for long gravel races with limited training time.
Chapters
00:00Introduction and Listener Questions
00:28Analyzing VO2 Max and Threshold Training
15:01B and C Races During Rest Weeks
27:51Training Structure for Long Gravel Races

Wednesday May 14, 2025
Wednesday May 14, 2025
Hello everyone. Welcome to the latest episode of The Matchbox Podcast powered by Ignition Coach Co. I’m your host, Adam Saban, and on this week’s episode we’re talking about specifics for putting together your own training camp (or you can just sign up for the Ignition camp in Crested Butte which is now waitlist only) as well as training for the MidSouth Double or any variation of race like that.
As always, if you like what you hear please share this with your friends and leave us a five star review and if you have any questions for the show drop us an email at matchboxpod@gmail.com with the topic of discussion in the email title or head over to ignitioncoachco.com and fill out The Matchbox Podcast listener question form. You can also sign up for the Matchbox Patreon and get priority placement for your submitted questions.
Alight let’s get into it!
For more social media content, follow along @ignitioncoachco @adamsaban6 @dizzle_dillman @dylanjawnson @kait.maddox
https://patreon.com/MatchboxPodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink
https://www.youtube.com/c/DylanJohnsonCycling https://www.ignitioncoachco.com
https://www.youtube.com/@DrewDillmanChannel
Intro/ Outro music by AlexGrohl - song "King Around Here" - https://pixabay.com/music/id-15045/
The following was generated using Riverside.fm AI technologies
Summary
In this conversation, the hosts discuss various aspects of setting up a base training camp, including volume and intensity guidelines, the importance of nutrition and recovery, and how to integrate running into a cycling training regimen. They emphasize the need for careful planning and adaptation to increased training loads, as well as the significance of fueling strategies for endurance athletes.
Chapters
00:00
Setting Up a Base Training Camp
14:31
Integrating Running into Cycling Training
28:58
Nutrition and Fueling Strategies for Endurance Sports

Wednesday May 07, 2025
Wednesday May 07, 2025
Hello everyone. Welcome to the latest episode of The Matchbox Podcast powered by Ignition Coach Co. I’m your host, Adam Saban, and on this week’s episode the crew is talking about how to take your training on the road, intro to training with a power meter, and general vs specific training principles.
As always, if you like what you hear please share this with your friends and leave us a five star review and if you have any questions for the show drop us an email at matchboxpod@gmail.com with the topic of discussion in the email title or head over to ignitioncoachco.com and fill out The Matchbox Podcast listener question form. Alight let’s get into it!
For more social media content, follow along @ignitioncoachco @adamsaban6 @dizzle_dillman @dylanjawnson @kait.maddox
https://www.youtube.com/c/DylanJohnsonCycling https://www.ignitioncoachco.com
https://www.youtube.com/@DrewDillmanChannel
Intro/ Outro music by AlexGrohl - song "King Around Here" - https://pixabay.com/music/id-15045/
The following was generated using Riverside.fm AI technologies
Summary
In this episode of the Matchbox podcast, Dizzle, Kaitlyn Maddox, and Tyler Cloutier discuss various topics related to cycling training, including how to maintain fitness while traveling, and the transition from heart rate training to using a power meter. They provide insights on optimizing training schedules, the importance of recovery, and practical tips for new power meter users. In this conversation, the hosts discuss the integration of power meters, heart rate, and RPE in training and racing. They explore strategies for monitoring performance during races, the importance of analyzing race data post-event, and the balance between training specificity and general endurance. The conversation emphasizes the significance of recovery, consistency in training, and the interconnectedness of various energy systems in cycling performance.
Chapters
00:00
Introduction and Guest Introduction
01:45
Training While Traveling: Maintaining Fitness
12:21
Transitioning to Power Meter Training
23:46
Integrating Power, Heart Rate, and RPE in Training
26:17
Racing Strategies: When to Monitor Power
30:21
Analyzing Race Performance Post-Event
33:03
Training Specificity vs. General Endurance
37:53
Balancing Race Specificity and Periodization
42:03
The Importance of Recovery in Training
45:27
Finding Consistency and Comfort in Training
49:45
Exploring Energy Systems and Their Interconnectedness

Wednesday Apr 30, 2025
Wednesday Apr 30, 2025
Hello everyone. Welcome to the latest episode of The Matchbox Podcast powered by Ignition Coach Co. I’m your host, Adam Saban, and unfortunately, I actually missed the recording last week but the crew touched on topics like how to prepare for big races and where to allocate resources, what metrics you should use as your limiting factor during endurance sessions, and training through recovery.
As always, if you like what you hear please share this with your friends and leave us a five star review and if you have any questions for the show drop us an email at matchboxpod@gmail.com with the topic of discussion in the email title or head over to ignitioncoachco.com and fill out The Matchbox Podcast listener question form. Alight let’s get into it!
For more social media content, follow along @ignitioncoachco @adamsaban6 @dizzle_dillman @dylanjawnson @kait.maddox
https://www.youtube.com/c/DylanJohnsonCycling https://www.ignitioncoachco.com
https://www.youtube.com/@DrewDillmanChannel
Intro/ Outro music by AlexGrohl - song "King Around Here" - https://pixabay.com/music/id-15045/
The following was generated using Riverside.fm AI technologies
Summary
In this conversation, the hosts discuss various topics related to cycling, including an upcoming camp, the dynamics of gravel racing, and the importance of coaching versus racing experience for preparing for events like Unbound 200. They also touch on the debate between using heart rate or power metrics for endurance training, emphasizing the need for tailored training approaches based on individual fitness levels and goals. In this conversation, the hosts delve into the intricacies of heart rate training and its application in endurance sports, particularly cycling. They discuss the significance of understanding individual heart rate thresholds and the variability in training responses among athletes. The latter part of the discussion shifts focus to injury recovery, emphasizing the importance of adjusting training goals and maintaining a healthy mindset during rehabilitation. The hosts provide practical advice for athletes dealing with injuries, including the need for a supportive coaching relationship and the importance of nutrition during recovery.
Chapters
00:00
Introduction and Camp Announcement
03:08
Transition to Gravel Racing Dynamics
15:25
Coaching vs. Racing for Unbound 200
23:44
Heart Rate vs. Power in Endurance Sessions
25:25
Understanding Heart Rate and Endurance Training
32:04
Navigating Injuries and Recovery Strategies