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

4 days ago
4 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 whether or not it’s worthwhile to perform sweat testing to help dial in your nutrition on the bike and ways to improve training effectiveness amidst demanding work and life weeks.
And hey, if you haven’t heard, this summer we are hosting a new training camp in the beautiful mountain oasis of Crested Butte, Colorado! We’re coining it a Leadville altitude camp, even though it’s not actually in Leadville, but really it’s for anyone looking to get some big days of training in this summer. Think picturesque Colorado high country riding, hot tub sessions under the Rocky Mountain skies, massages, personal training, all amidst great company, with plenty of amenities on offer. We only have a handful of spots left and they are fleeting, so don’t wait to reach out if you’re interested. AND if you book your spot before May 1st you’ll save an additional $250 and get early dibs on accommodation preferences. Just email info@ignitioncoachco.com with interest and we’ll get you more information.
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 the significance of sweat testing for athletes, particularly in understanding electrolyte loss during workouts. They explore the importance of sodium and other electrolytes in maintaining performance and hydration, as well as the effects of heat adaptation on sweating and electrolyte balance. The discussion also touches on practical methods for testing sweat composition and the implications for training and nutrition strategies. In this conversation, the hosts discuss the importance of thermoregulation in training, particularly how core temperature data can enhance performance. They explore practical training strategies for individuals with busy lives, emphasizing the need for efficient workouts and the significance of periodization in training. The discussion also touches on nutrition, recovery, and the mental aspects of training, providing valuable insights for athletes looking to optimize their performance.
Chapters
00:00
Understanding Sweat Testing and Its Importance
11:08
The Role of Sodium and Electrolytes in Performance
23:05
Heat Adaptation and Its Effects on Sweating
26:13
Thermoregulation in Training
28:20
Utilizing Core Temperature Data
34:14
Training Strategies for Busy Lives
49:19
Maximizing Training Efficiency

Tuesday Apr 15, 2025
Tuesday Apr 15, 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 you can curate your fueling on the bike to work within a budget and our takes on addressing IT band syndrome.
Also, if you haven’t heard, this summer we are hosting a new training camp in the beautiful mountain oasis of Crested Butte, Colorado! We’re coining it a Leadville altitude camp, even though it’s not actually in Leadville, but really it’s for anyone looking to get some big days of training in this summer. Think picturesque Colorado high country riding, hot tub sessions under the Rocky Mountain skies, massages, personal training, all amidst great company, with plenty of amenities on offer. We’re keeping the camp small for year one, and there are currently only 6 spots left, so don’t wait to reach out if you’re interested. AND if you book your spot before May 1st you’ll save an additional $250 and get early dibs on accommodation preferences. Just email info@ignitioncoachco.com with interest and we’ll get you more information.
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 the challenges of balancing training and college life, particularly for student athletes. They explore strategies for managing time effectively, fueling on a budget, and utilizing campus resources to enhance training. The importance of maintaining healthy habits and prioritizing sleep is emphasized, along with the need to make informed decisions during this pivotal life stage. In this conversation, the hosts discuss various aspects of cycling, particularly in the context of collegiate sports. They explore how to build connections through cycling, the importance of nutrition and budgeting for cyclists, and the challenges of managing injuries like IT band syndrome. The discussion also delves into the mental side of injury recovery and the significance of maintaining a multifaceted identity beyond cycling.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Context of Sea Otter Week
01:04 Balancing Training and College Life
06:55 Nutrition on a Budget for Student Athletes
10:35 Utilizing Campus Resources for Training
17:11 Maintaining Healthy Habits in College
18:25 Building Connections Through Cycling
21:42 Creating Opportunities in Collegiate Cycling
22:30 Nutrition and Budgeting for Cyclists
24:00 Understanding and Managing IT Band Syndrome
29:46 The Mental Side of Injury Recovery
36:07 Finding Identity Beyond Cycling

Tuesday Apr 08, 2025
Tuesday Apr 08, 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 for long ultra events on a time budget, ways to prepare for altitude races when you live at sea level, and whether or not you should be mixing your interval rides with endurance.
Also, we have some exciting news about a new training camp that we’re going to be hosting this summer in Crested Butte, Colorado! We’re coining it a Leadville altitude camp, even though it’s not actually in Leadville, but really it’s for anyone looking to get some big days of training in this summer. Think picturesque Colorado high country riding, hot tub sessions under the Rocky Mountain skies, massages, personal training, all amidst great company, with plenty of amenities on offer. We’re keeping the camp small for year one, and there are currently only 6 spots left, so don’t wait to reach out if you’re interested. AND if you book your spot before May 1st you’ll save an additional $250 and get early dibs on accommodation preferences. Just email info@ignitioncoachco.com with interest and we’ll get you more information.
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, the hosts discuss training strategies and nutrition for preparing for a 200-mile gravel ride. They explore the importance of specificity in training, the role of nutrition in endurance rides, and the impact of environmental factors such as heat. The conversation also delves into gut training for carbohydrate intake and the balance between training volume and intensity. The hosts emphasize the thrill of taking on such challenges, even with limited training time. In this conversation, the hosts delve into the complexities of endurance racing, discussing the mental and physical challenges athletes face. They explore the importance of proper training, particularly in relation to altitude events, and the balance between endurance and intensity in training regimens. The discussion emphasizes the need for athletes to understand their limits and prepare adequately for the demands of their chosen events.
Chapters
00:00
Preparing for a 200-Mile Gravel Ride
03:14
Training Strategies and Specificity
05:54
Nutrition for Endurance Rides
08:58
Heat Adaptation and Environmental Considerations
11:56
Gut Training and Carbohydrate Intake
14:57
Balancing Training Volume and Intensity
18:04
The Thrill of the Challenge
25:19
Pushing Limits: The Psychology of Endurance Racing
28:39
Altitude Training: Strategies for Success
41:45
Balancing Endurance and Intensity: Training Insights

Tuesday Apr 01, 2025
Tuesday Apr 01, 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 get back into training after getting derailed by sickness, why rest days are important (or are they?), and durability testing.
This week’s episode is also brought to you by our new friends over at buycycle. The easiest and safest way to sell your bike worldwide. Head over to buycycle.com/matchbox and use the code MATCHBOX30 (all uppercase) for 30% off seller protection. List your bike today and make selling easy!
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 the importance of base training for cyclists recovering from illness or injury, emphasizing the need to prioritize long-term goals over short-term race performance. They also explore the role of strength training in a cyclist's routine, debating the effectiveness of lifting on recovery days versus hard training days, and the potential risks of chronic fatigue from improper training balance. In this conversation, the speakers discuss various aspects of strength training and durability testing for cyclists. They emphasize the importance of maintaining strength while cycling, the need for a consistent testing protocol, and the balance between using metrics and perceived exertion (RPE) in training. The conversation also highlights the significance of customizing tests based on individual race preparations and the evolving nature of training methodologies.
Chapters
00:00 Navigating Recovery and Training Plans
15:01 Strength Training and Recovery Days
27:28 Strength Training for Cyclists
29:00 Durability Testing in Cycling
32:02 Establishing a Consistent Testing Protocol
36:05 Comparing Fresh and Fatigued Performance
39:58 Customizing Tests for Race Preparation
44:03 Balancing Metrics and RPE in Training

Tuesday Mar 25, 2025
Tuesday Mar 25, 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 maximizing VO2max potential, how to bounce back from ineffective training, and when it makes sense to try reverse periodization.
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
This conversation delves into the intricacies of VO2 max, its implications for cycling performance, and the importance of proper training. The hosts discuss signs of a naturally high VO2 max, the significance of structured training for improving fitness levels, and the challenges faced by a listener regarding their FTP and performance. They also explore the concept of reverse periodization in training for ultra marathons, emphasizing the need for specificity in training as the event approaches.
Chapters
00:00
Understanding VO2 Max: Signs and Potential
08:12
Training Insights: FTP and Performance Challenges
19:30
Exploring Reverse Periodization for Ultra Marathon Training

Tuesday Mar 18, 2025
Tuesday Mar 18, 2025
RERUN due to inability to record during the MidSouth last week. Enjoy this previously recorded episode from last season.
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 weeks episode we’re talking left/right power imbalances, the basics of goal setting, and getting into some nuances of VO2max training.
Today’s show is also brought to you by Flow Formulas. We’re already a third of the way through 2024 which means if you haven’t already dialed in your nutrition plan for the season you’d better get on it stat. Head over to flowformulas.com today and make sure to use the discount code “Matchbox” when checking out.
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 email title The Matchbox Podcast 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/channel/UCnvEDN2A2ZjhNHb6uxh84PQ https://www.youtube.com/c/DylanJohnsonCycling https://www.ignitioncoachco.com
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 coaches discuss topics related to cycling training and racing. They address questions about pedal stroke efficiency, power imbalances, setting goals for races, and VO2 max intervals. They provide insights and recommendations based on their experience as coaches and athletes.
Keywords
cycling, training, racing, pedal stroke, power imbalance, goals, VO2 max intervals
Takeaways
Having a power meter that measures both left and right power can help identify and address power imbalances in pedal stroke.
For most athletes, a power imbalance of 48/52 or 52/48 is not a cause for concern.
When setting goals for races, consider factors such as race distance, terrain, and competition level.
Pacing strategies should be tailored to the specific race and individual capabilities.
VO2 max intervals can be customized based on the type of rider and their specific energy system needs.
Tabata-style workouts can be effective for improving VO2 max, but should be used strategically and not as the sole focus of training.
Training plans should include a combination of race-specific intervals and general intensity workouts for optimal results.
Consider individual factors such as fitness level, training history, and race goals when designing training plans.
Experimentation and learning from mistakes are important for building race experience and improving performance.
Titles
Setting Goals for Races
Customizing VO2 Max Intervals
Sound Bites
"What do you recommend to obtain a more even pedal stroke?"
"It seems you're yearning for continuous lactate measurement."
"How would you recommend her go about pacing for the first few races?"

Wednesday Mar 12, 2025
Wednesday Mar 12, 2025
Episode 132 - Bike Fit Follow-up, Breaking Up Monotony, and My Legs Hurt, What Gives?
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 some follow up bike fitting discussion, how to structure training with little to work with, and why do my legs hurt?
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 the intricacies of bike fit, particularly when transitioning from gravel to mountain biking. They emphasize the importance of saddle height, pedal position, and handlebar width for optimal performance and comfort. The discussion also touches on the unique challenges faced by an athlete training in a deployment environment, highlighting the need for a structured training plan that accommodates limited resources and varying stress levels. In this conversation, the hosts explore extreme endurance challenges, innovative training techniques, and the mental aspects of cycling performance. They discuss remarkable feats of endurance, the importance of structured training, and the common physical limitations faced by cyclists. The conversation emphasizes the significance of mental toughness and resilience in overcoming challenges and achieving personal bests in cycling.
Chapters
00:00
Bike Fit Fundamentals
24:58
Training Structure for Unique Environments
33:12
Extreme Endurance Challenges
35:47
Innovative Training Techniques
38:08
Understanding Physical Limitations
47:55
Mental Toughness in Training
58:20
Conclusion and Future Insights

Tuesday Mar 04, 2025
Tuesday Mar 04, 2025
Episode 131 - Cram Training, 24 Hour Relays, and Lifting for Sprinters
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 ways to train when you’re limited on time before your key event, how to best prepare for 24 hours relay racing, and lifting approaches for sprinters.
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 effective training strategies for cyclists preparing for upcoming races, focusing on emergency training for an A-race and specific strategies for a 24-hour relay race. They emphasize the importance of maximizing bike volume, functional strength training, and maintaining aerobic capacity while considering the limited time available for preparation. The discussion also touches on the balance between strength training and endurance training, particularly for young athletes with multiple races scheduled. In this conversation, the speakers discuss various aspects of cycling training, focusing on the importance of team dynamics, strength training strategies, and the balance between strength and cycling workouts. They delve into the specifics of weightlifting for sprinters and the role of nutrition and supplements in enhancing performance. The discussion emphasizes the need for tailored training approaches and the significance of maintaining a fun and engaging training environment.
Chapters
00:00
Emergency Training for A-Race Preparation
15:34
Training Strategies for a 24-Hour Relay Race
23:15
Team Dynamics in Racing
24:46
Strength Training Strategies for Cyclists
30:36
Balancing Strength and Cycling Training
32:20
Weightlifting Insights for Sprinters
39:59
The Role of Nutrition and Supplements in Performance

Tuesday Feb 25, 2025
Tuesday Feb 25, 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 the value of indoor riding vs outdoor riding in the context of mountain biking, what you should add to your weekly training when increasing overall volume, and how to maximize performance amidst an FTP plateau.
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, the hosts discuss various topics related to cycling, including saddle sore treatments, the effectiveness of indoor versus outdoor training, and the importance of understanding Training Stress Score (TSS). They emphasize the need for preventative measures against saddle sores, the psychological aspects of training, and how to maximize training volume effectively. The conversation is filled with insights and practical advice for cyclists looking to improve their performance and well-being. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the importance of endurance training, navigating plateaus in performance, and the critical role of durability in cycling. They emphasize that increasing training volume should focus on endurance rather than intensity, and that FTP is not the only metric to consider for performance improvement. The discussion also highlights the significance of nutrition in enhancing durability and overall performance.
Chapters
00:00
Introduction and Listener Feedback
03:02
Saddle Sores: Treatment and Prevention
05:45
Indoor vs Outdoor Training: Zone Two Insights
08:53
Understanding TSS: Trainer vs Trail Rides
11:59
The Psychological Aspect of Training
15:03
Maximizing Training Volume: Adding More Hours
18:04
Final Thoughts and Wrap-Up
19:25
Building Endurance in Training
24:28
Navigating Training Plateaus
37:26
The Importance of Durability in Cycling

Tuesday Feb 18, 2025
Tuesday Feb 18, 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 all things bike fit with special guest, Michael Seiler.
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 email title The Matchbox Podcast 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, Dizzle and Michael Seiler discuss their coaching journeys, the importance of finding the right coach, and the intricacies of bike fitting. They explore the common mistakes athletes make during bike fits, the significance of mobility in performance, and the nuances of saddle positioning. The discussion emphasizes the collaborative nature of coaching and the need for open communication between athletes and coaches. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the intricacies of bike fitting, focusing on saddle selection, height, and the importance of professional fitting. They discuss how individual anatomy affects saddle choice, the significance of sit bone width, and the common pitfalls of incorrect saddle height. The conversation emphasizes the necessity of regular bike fittings, especially with the evolution of bike technology, to enhance comfort and performance. In this conversation, Adam and Michael Seiler discuss the critical aspects of bike fitting, including the importance of proper fit for performance, the challenges of virtual fittings, the trend of shorter crank arms, and the balance between fitting the bike to the rider and helping the rider adapt to the bike. They emphasize the educational component of bike fitting and the need for ongoing adjustments as athletes improve their strength and flexibility.
Chapters
00:00
Introduction and Background of Coaching Relationships
02:45
The Importance of Finding the Right Coach
06:00
Michael Seiler's Coaching Journey and Bike Fitting
08:59
Understanding the Bike Fitting Process
12:04
Common Mistakes in Bike Fitting
14:50
The Role of Mobility in Performance
17:53
Saddle Positioning and Adjustments
24:56
Saddle Selection: The Personal Fit
31:03
Saddle Height and Positioning
45:02
The Importance of Professional Bike Fitting
48:22
The Importance of Proper Bike Fitting
52:41
Virtual Bike Fitting Challenges
53:10
Short Crank Arm Craze: Pros and Cons
01:00:02
Balancing Bike Fit and Rider Adaptation
01:07:41
Creating a Performance Package for Athletes