The Triathlon Brick Session

Epizode

• Breaking the North Coast 500 World Record - Caroline Livesey's Historic Ride (part 1) 08.06.2026 42min

  The North Coast 500 is one of the most iconic cycling routes in the world. A challenging 500-mile loop around the rugged Scottish Highlands, it demands resilience, planning, determination, and an ability to keep moving when everything in your body is telling you to stop.In this episode, we sit down with newly ratified North Coast 500 Women's World Record holder, Caroline Livesey, to hear the story behind her remarkable ride.From the early planning stages and months of preparation through to the highs, lows and defining moments out on the road, Caroline shares what it really takes to ride the NC500 at world-record pace.Joining the conversation is Mark Livesey, who was part of the support crew throughout the attempt. Mark offers a unique perspective from behind the scenes, discussing the realities of managing a moving operation around the clock, making critical decisions under pressure, and helping keep the rider focused on the task at hand.Together, they explore the importance of teamwork in ultra-endurance cycling. World records are rarely individual achievements, and Caroline's ride was no exception.The episode highlights the contribution of a dedicated support team whose collective efforts helped turn an ambitious goal into a historic achievement.We also discuss the key partnerships that played a crucial role in the success of the record attempt. Precision Fuel & Hydration were instrumental in developing and refining Caroline's nutrition and hydration strategy, ensuring that energy intake matched the demands of riding at record pace for over 32 hours. Meanwhile, EZ Gains worked extensively to optimise Caroline's aerodynamic position and equipment setup, helping extract every possible advantage over such a long and demanding route.The conversation covers strengths and weaknesses, lessons learned, moments that went exactly to plan, and those that required adaptation on the fly. It's an honest look at what happens when meticulous preparation meets the unpredictable reality of ultra-endurance cycling.Whether you're an endurance athlete, a cyclist dreaming of tackling the NC500, or simply fascinated by what people are capable of achieving when they commit fully to a goal, this episode provides a fascinating insight into the pursuit of a world record on one of Britain's most spectacular roads.Dontate to charity - https://peakeducationnepal.com/
• Why Women Beat Men in Ultra-Endurance Racing 28.05.2026 58min

  In this episode, I chat with Caroline about the importance of carrying spares in triathlon,  especially in long-course racing, and why knowing how to actually use them is just as important as having them.We also discuss Rachel Entrekin’s incredible Cocodona 250 performance, and explore why women often seem able to compete with, and even outperform, men in ultra-endurance events of this distance.The conversation then moves onto “hero weeks” and the growing trend of athletes trying to replicate the 35–40 hour training weeks shared by elite professionals. We discuss why this can send the wrong message, and why it’s important to understand that elite athletes have spent years gradually building the ability to absorb that kind of workload.Finally, Caroline gives a quick update on her North Coast 500 attempt and the training leading into it.Just Giving donation page: North Coast 500 World Record Attempt - Changing Lives Through Education in Nepal - JustGiving Live Track: LIVE: North Coast 500 World Record Attempt 2026 | GPS Tracking powered by Follow My ChallengeWebsite and video: North Coast 500 Record Attempt - Peak Education Nepal 
• From Special Forces to Performance Psychology with Simon Jeffries 16.05.2026 1h 30min

  What really happens when the pressure hits, and you’ve got nowhere to hide? In this episode, I sit down with former Special Forces operator Simon Jeffries for a raw, unfiltered conversation on mindset, resilience, and what it actually takes to perform when it matters most.From the realities of selection to the unseen struggles that follow high performance, this isn’t theory, it’s lived experience. We break down why the physical side is only half the battle, and how your mindset, habits, and self-talk will either carry you through, or quietly unravel you. We get into the uncomfortable truths, why people choke under pressure, why success doesn’t guarantee fulfilment, and why so many driven individuals end up stuck in cycles of stress, distraction, and burnout.Simon shares the frameworks he now uses to rebuild performance from the ground up, not just for elite operators, but for anyone who wants to take control of how they show up in life. No fluff, no shortcuts, just what actually works.In this episode, we cover:Why most people fail under pressure, and how to fix itWhat Special Forces selection really exposes about youThe hidden cost of high performance, stress, identity, and burnoutHow your daily habits are quietly sabotaging your focus and resilienceThe truth about mental toughness, it’s trained, not inheritedSimple, practical tools to take back control of your mindsetWhy discipline beats motivation, every timeYou don’t rise when it matters, you fall back to how you’ve trained.
• Why I Doped - Collin Chartier’s Story 30.03.2026 1h 39min

  The latest episode of The Brick Session Podcast is now live. In today’s show, Mark sits down with former professional triathlete Collin Chartier for a conversation that doesn’t shy away from the uncomfortable. After receiving a three-year ban for a doping violation, Collin opens up—honestly and without deflection- about the decision that changed everything. Why did he do it? What pressures led him there? And what does it actually feel like when the world turns on you?This isn’t a story of excuses. It’s a story of accountability. Collin speaks candidly about the backlash, the public shaming, and the personal reckoning that followed.He reflects on the lessons learned the hard way, and how the experience ultimately reshaped him—for the better.More importantly, he offers a clear warning to others coming up in the sport, alongside a message that cuts through the noise of performance and results. It’s raw. It’s honest. And it’s a conversation that needed to happen.Enjoy 
• If it's not nailed down - the PTO will buy it? 28.02.2026 1h 10min

  In this episode of The Brick Session, Mark is joined by co-host Caroline Livesey for a no-nonsense chat about where triathlon is heading, and who’s quietly buying the keys to the building. We start with the PTO, who currently appear to be purchasing everything in triathlon that isn’t physically bolted to the floor. Is it smart consolidation, necessary progress, or just the sporting equivalent of Monopoly played with very deep pockets? We break down what it means for athletes, fans, and the long-term shape of the sport, without the press-release horse shit.Next up: Ironman banning all competitor filming during races. Cue outrage, think-pieces, and shaky GoPro footage mourned across social media.  Except, we actually think it’s a good decision. We talk fairness, safety, and why racing might be better when athletes are focused on racing, not content creation. Finally, we tackle the elephant in every Instagram feed: why athletes and coaches feel the need to post everything. Training volume. Power files. Easy runs. Hard runs. The run before the run. The “accidentally hard” run. We ask what it’s really for, who it’s helping, and whether a bit of mystery, and restraint might actually be a good thing.  Because sometimes less is more. Less noise. Less validation chasing. And, ironically, often better performance. Blunt opinions, dry humour, and a reality check for modern triathlon culture, exactly as you’d expect from Mark.  Caroline is the sensible one...   Enjoy 
• The Quiet Courage Behind EZ Gains - Clint Butcher 20.02.2026 1h 22min

  I recently spoke with Clint Butcher, the founder of EZ Gains, a company that has quickly grown into one of the most respected names in triathlon aerodynamics components in just a few short years. What makes Clint’s story compelling isn’t just the products,  it’s how the business began. EZ Gains started in the front room of Clint’s home. No factory. No investors. Just an idea, a willingness to experiment, and long evenings spent hand-making rear wheel disc covers alongside his daughter.What began as a simple, practical solution for athletes chasing marginal gains gradually evolved into something far more significant. Through persistence, curiosity, and a refusal to follow the easy or conventional path, EZ Gains grew into a company now supplying aerodynamic components and bottle carriers to some of the best triathletes in the world. That growth didn’t come without risk. Like most genuine entrepreneurial journeys, it involved uncertainty, setbacks, and moments where walking away would have been the safer option. Instead, Clint chose to commit. He backed his belief in the product, trusted the process, and kept building, even when conditions were far from ideal. That willingness to act under uncertainty, to continue despite adversity, is the hallmark of true entrepreneurship. EZ Gains is a reminder that innovation in sport doesn’t always come from big budgets or established brands. Sometimes it comes from a living room, a shared belief, and the courage to take a gamble on an idea worth pursuing. This is what building something meaningful looks like, not overnight success, but earned progress shaped by conviction, resilience, and a relentless commitment to doing things properly.
• Sand, Suffering & Smiles: Gary Howells on His Favourite Ultra Yet 29.01.2026 1h 5min

  In today’s episode, Mark is joined by an incredible guest, Gary Howells, fresh off the back of completing the Oman 165, a brutal multi-day ultramarathon set deep in the stunning but unforgiving Wahiba Sands desert of Oman. Covering roughly 165 miles over six days, the event takes runners across rolling dunes, rocky plains, and remote desert landscapes, with long, hot stages by day and basic camp life by night in a fully supported race environment.Gary, a former soldier and qualified physiotherapist who now works as a full-time running coach, thrives on pushing his limits in extreme events across the globe, and he explains why this challenge stands out as his most enjoyable adventure to date. Together, Mark and Gary dive into what it’s really like to run through the Wahiba desert, the mental and physical demands of staged ultras, and key considerations if you’re tempted by something similar, including smart foot administration, blister prevention, and crucially, what not to carry when the race support allows you to travel lighter. Along the way, Mark announces the lucky winner of £200 worth of Precision Fuel & Hydration, shares why having a good coach or personal trainer to teach you how to lift correctly can be a game-changer for performance, and highlights the importance of supporting your local events to keep the endurance community thriving. Enjoy.https://www.peakperformancewales.com/https://www.justgiving.com/page/gary-howells-10in10?newPage=true
• Who Really Gets Paid? Pro Triathlon Money, Draft Zones & the NC500 Record Bid 15.01.2026 1h 14min

  In this episode of The Brick Session, Mark and Caroline dive into the money side of professional triathlon: who’s actually getting paid, where the prize money is coming from, and why only a small group of top athletes can make a real living from the sport.They unpack the structural issues behind the current system, what it means for up‑and‑coming pros, and how the landscape might need to change. We also get into Ironman’s proposed 20m draft zone. Will it make racing fairer and more honest, or simply create new headaches on course?Mark and Caroline explore why they’re in favour of the change, while acknowledging the very real logistical challenges it could bring for race organisers and athletes alike.Mark then turns the focus to training discipline, accountability, and routine. He shares practical thoughts on how to build consistency into your day-to-day life, and why small, repeatable habits often matter more than any “perfect” training plan when it comes to long‑term performance.Finally, Caroline and Mark talk about her ambitious bid to break the world record on Scotland’s iconic North Coast 500 this summer. They discuss the planning, physical demands, and mental resilience required for such a challenge, and what this attempt means to Caroline both as an athlete and as a person.Tune in for a mix of honest chat, practical training insight, and a look behind the scenes at a major endurance record attempt in the making.
• Stephen Derrett Patagonman Champion 2025 18.12.2025 1h 46min

  In this engaging conversation, Stephen Derrett shares his journey as a triathlete, discussing his experiences in various races, including the extreme Patagon Man and the iconic Ironman World Championship in Kona. He reflects on the importance of personal growth, respect for fellow athletes, and the challenges of balancing a full-time job with rigorous training. Stephen also opens up about his struggles with chronic fatigue and the lessons learned from his health challenges. The discussion highlights the significance of preparation, consistency, and the joy of racing, which extends beyond just winning. In this engaging conversation, Stephen shares his experiences and insights from the Patagon Man triathlon, discussing race strategies, the dynamics of competing against renowned athletes like Alistair Brownlee, and the unique challenges of the course. He reflects on the beauty of the scenery, the camaraderie among competitors, and the importance of enjoying the journey in racing. Stephen also contemplates his future in the sport, emphasizing the significance of his recent victory while acknowledging the challenges that come with it.
• T100 "cake and arse party" in Dubai, to Himalayan Highs 29.11.2025 1h 41min

  In true Brick Session fashion, Mark doesn’t hold back as he unloads on what he famously calls the T100 “cake and arse party” in Dubai — and yes, there may be a bit of swearing, so consider yourself warned. As always, Caroline brings a more balanced perspective as the two of them break down the many factors that led to athletes miscounting bike laps and failing to complete run course.In a thought-provoking segment, Caroline asks whether a formerly banned (doping) triathlete should still be allowed a voice in the sport?  Mark’s answer might surprise you. This episode also dives into Mark and Caroline’s recent Himalayan adventure, where they completed the full Manaslu Circuit in just 5.5 days.  A route that normally takes two weeks or more. They share detailed insight into altitude, acclimatisation, what to do if severe sickness hits, and practical tips for anyone dreaming of a high-altitude expedition. Finally, they express heartfelt thanks to everyone who has generously donated to the Peak Education Nepal charity. A packed episode full of honesty, adventure, insight, opinion — and plenty of Brick Session character.  Enjoy!
• From World Champs, UCI Gravel Victory to the Himalayas 08.11.2025 58min

  This week’s episode is packed with racing, travel, and adventure! Mark and Caroline dive into the IRONMAN 70.3 World Championships — the first time this event lands in Europe, hosted in Marbella, Spain. They break down the course specifics, including the challenging hilly bike route that could shape the results. Will this terrain favour the stronger climbers? They also look at the female pros coming straight from Kona — will fatigue and travel impact their form over the shorter distance? And with several short-course specialists lining up, could we see a few surprise performances from athletes who are fresh, fearless, and ready to shake up the field? Caroline shares her experience winning the first-ever UCI Gravel Race in Thailand, before the pair reflect on visiting the Kanchanaburi War Memorial and the infamous Bridge over the River Kwai — a moving historical stop on their travels. They also talk about Thailand’s incredible cycling conditions: smooth roads, minimal traffic, and endless training potential. The adventure continues as Mark and Caroline begin their first week in Nepal, training and preparing to tackle the Manaslu Circuit — a stunning, lesser-known trekking route reaching over 5,200 m altitude. Their goal? To run/hike the entire circuit in under a week (because of course they would!). Finally, they highlight the Peak Education Nepal charity, meeting the children and families whose lives are changing through listener donations. It’s an inspiring segment that shows the real-world impact of community and compassion. Tune in for racing analysis, adventure stories, and a healthy dose of perspective from two athletes living life on the move.Enjoy! 
• Gravel Worlds, Kona insights and Spanish Bike Packing Adventures 19.10.2025 1h 21min

  Welcome back to The Brick Session with Mark and Caroline Livesey.In this episode, we dive into a stacked week of endurance sport. Caroline takes us inside her incredible race at the Gravel World Championships, where—at 46 years old—she lined up in the elite field and finished just seven minutes behind the world champion.Mark shares stories from his latest bikepacking adventure across Spain, complete with the usual mix of mishaps, mountains, and magic moments.The team then breaks down the Kona World Championships, giving their honest take on the racing, the course, and what really stood out this year.We also catch up with elite triathlete James Teagle, fresh off his third-place finish at Challenge Mallorca, who gives us a quick race brief and some inside perspective.And finally, we wrap things up with a chat about the latest Strava–Garmin spat that’s been making waves in the endurance world.So grab a coffee—or your bike shoes—and settle in for another episode of The Brick Session.
• Nice or Kona? Ironman Worlds on the Riviera & Gravel Grit in Dalby 19.09.2025 1h 14min

  In this episode of The Brick Session, Mark and Caroline dive into a packed weekend of racing news, starting with the Ironman World Championships in Nice. With the legendary Kona course giving way to the French Riviera this year, the event sparked considerable debate. Mark and Caroline unpack the brutal bike course that left its mark on the field, reflected in a notably high DNF rate. They question whether Nice was given a fair chance to prove itself as a long-term alternative to Kona, or if the tradition of Hawaii will always overshadow any new host.The conversation naturally turns to the race dynamics, where the Norwegians once again proved their dominance, sweeping the podium with a remarkable top-three finish. Mark and Caroline explore what makes their approach so consistently successful, and what this says about the future of long-distance triathlon.Closer to home, Caroline shares her personal experience at the British Gravel Championships held in Dalby Forest, North Yorkshire. In a race that attracted some of the UK’s best off-road talent, she put in a gritty performance to take 8th place overall — a standout achievement at 46 years old. Together, they reflect on the growth of gravel racing in the UK, the technical demands of the Dalby course, and what draws so many athletes to the discipline.It’s an episode that balances the global stage of triathlon with the personal stories of racing at home — packed with insight, opinion, and the usual dose of Brick Session honesty.
• “Fair Races, Steep Climbs & Sticky Excuses” 11.08.2025 1h 16min

  In this episode, Mark is joined by his wife, elite gravel racer and former elite triathlete Caroline Livesey, for a jam-packed chat. They tackle why female gravel racers deserve a fair race, unpack the recent TriDot–Ironman coaching split, and debate the pros and cons of using route-finder apps like Komoot. The pair also share their experience racing the legendary Alpe d’Huez Triathlon in France — epic climbs, breathtaking views, and all. Listener Gaz Hughes reports back after winning a Treacle Velo training week prize, and to round things off, the much-missed “triathlon excuse” segment makes a triumphant (and hilarious) return.https://treaclevelo.com/https://peakeducationnepal.com/
• Inside the draft zone with Jame Elvery 26.07.2025 34min

  In this episode, I sit down with James Elvery, the creator of RaceRanger, to explore how his groundbreaking real-time drafting detection system is changing the face of triathlon.We unpack the landmark decision by Challenge Roth to publish professional drafting data, why they did it, what it revealed, and how it could reshape how fans, officials, and athletes view fairness within the long course triathlon format.From the early skepticism to the current wave of transparency and tech-driven officiating, James takes us behind the scenes of RaceRanger’s evolution and what’s next for its role in elite racing.Enjoy! 
• Is Fraser Cartmell the saviour for IM commentary? 22.07.2025 1h 36min

  The latest episode of The Brick Session welcomes a voice familiar to many triathlon fans and a name etched into the sport’s UK legacy: Fraser Cartmell—former elite triathlete, Ironman UK champion, and now possible the saviour for Ironman commentary. This episode isn’t just two former racers chatting—it’s a thoughtful reflection on how triathlon has evolved, how to stay grounded in it, and how voices like Fraser’s are helping to keep the sport more interesting for fans.  Whether you’re an age-grouper chasing your first finish or a long-time fan of the pro scene, Fraser’s insights—delivered with humility, experience, and dry Scottish wit—make for a conversation well worth your long ride or run.Enjoy! 
• Gravel Adventures, World Champs Shake-Ups & A Lucky Winner! 04.07.2025 1h 25min

  In today’s episode of The Brick Session, Mark and Caroline Livesey return to the mic to break down the big updates shaking up the triathlon world. They dive into the recent changes to the 70.3 and Kona World Championship qualification systems, sharing their thoughts on what this means for age group athletes and the future of the sport.Next up, it’s celebration time as they announce the lucky winner of the Treacle Veto Training Camp in Morzine, France — two very fortunate listeners will be heading off to the mountains for an unforgettable training experience!Then, shifting gears (literally), Mark and Caroline sit down with Olly Townsend, head of the Gravel Union, for a deep dive into the world of gravel riding. From elite-level racing to epic one-day events and multi-day bikepacking adventures around the globe, Olly shares stories, insights, and tips designed to inspire listeners to seek out their two-wheeled adventures off the beaten path.  Whether you're grinding gears or chasing Kona dreams, this episode is packed with passion, insight, and motivation. Don’t miss it!Gravel Union: HomeGeneral Armchair Adventure LinkArmchair Adventure Across Andes article link:Armchair Adventure - Across Andes - pushing the limits of ultra-endurance racing? | Gravel Unionen Nepal: Armchair Adventure – Nepal from top to bottom – Part One | Gravel Unionen The original Armchair Adventure (Kabardino Balkarian Republic) https://www.gravelunion.cc/article/gravel-riding-in-the-kabardino-balkarian-republic) and this is the event I'm going to be riding in during September (https://www.the-ride-gravel.cc 
• How to Secure the Right Sports Injury Diagnosis 22.06.2025 44min

  In this episode, Mark and Caroline Livesey receive an audio file from a listener who shares their frustrating experience trying to get an accurate injury diagnosis.  After months of referrals and confusion, waiting with persistent pain, he was forced to go private.  But even this wasn't enough.  With their years of experience, Mark and Caroline offer their advice on how to get a quick and accurate diagnosis.  We also announced two of the Treacle Velo winners.   There are still two more places to win, but you have to be quick. More information here https://peakeducationnepal.com/
• Racing in the heat with Dr Lindsey Hunt 14.05.2025 1h 44min

  In this episode of The Brick Session, Mark Livesey sits down with renowned sports scientist Dr. Lindsey Hunt to dive deep into one of the most critical—and often overlooked—elements of triathlon success: racing in extreme heat and humidity. Whether you’re eyeing Kona, Cozumel, or any tropical test of endurance, this conversation is packed with evidence-based insights and practical advice. Dr. Hunt breaks down the science behind heat acclimation: how long it takes, why individual responses vary, and—importantly—whether it works. From structured heat training protocols to the role of sweat rate and core temperature, this episode is filled with golden nuggets that could make or break your race day. If you’ve ever wondered how to train smart for sweltering conditions or how to adapt your approach when the mercury rises, this is one episode you won’t want to miss.Also in this episode.  Mark Livesey tackles a tough but timely question: How do young professional triathletes make a living in today’s sport? With insights from former pro triathlete Caroline Livesey, the discussion gets straight to the point, breaking down the real economics behind going pro. Mark and Caroline explore the key income streams available to up-and-coming triathletes, including sponsorships, race winnings, appearance fees, coaching, content creation, and more.They don’t shy away from the realities—it's a hustle, and financial success often depends on more than just performance. From navigating sponsorship deals to building a personal brand and balancing side gigs, this is an eye-opening look into the business side of professional triathlon.Enjoy!
• Nate Llerandi (Former elite triathlete and anti-doping advocate). 23.04.2025 1h 13min

  In this gripping episode of The Brick Session, host Mark Livesey sits down with former elite triathlete and anti-doping advocate Nate Llerandi to explore one of sport's most controversial topics: why some athletes choose to cheat. From the psychology of performance pressure to the gray areas of intent, Mark and Nate don't hold back when they discuss the motivations behind doping.They also examine the uphill battle faced by drug testing agencies, including the technical challenges and legal loopholes that make securing convictions incredibly difficult. Plus, brace yourself for a few of the most absurd excuses ever offered by busted athletes, including the infamous "sexually transmitted doping" and the "kissing my girlfriend who took something" defense. It's a raw, honest, and sometimes laugh-out-loud conversation that shines a light on the dark corners of competitive sport.More about Nate LlerandiNate Llerandi is a former elite triathlete and accomplished endurance athlete who transitioned into a career in technology and mentorship. He is currently based in Boulder, Colorado.​Athletic Career Llerandi began his athletic journey in swimming at the age of five, inspired by his older siblings. He became a nationally ranked swimmer during his youth and collegiate years at Kenyon College. After college, he embarked on an eight-year professional triathlon career, focusing on Olympic-distance events. His achievements include being the top-ranked American and sixth overall in the ITU World Cup Series. He secured podium finishes at major international competitions, including third at the Pan American Games, fourth at the World Sprint Championships, and fifth at the Goodwill Games.Following his triathlon career, Llerandi transitioned to competitive Masters cycling. He has won multiple state championships and placed fifth at the U.S. National Hill Climb Championships