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’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

Tuesday Apr 22, 2025
Tuesday Apr 22, 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 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