Episode 25: Elite Swimmer to Pro Triathlete, Lauren Brandon's 15-Year Triathlon Career

Chris sits down with retired professional triathlete Lauren Brandon. An elite swimmer to triathlete success story, Lauren shares how her NCAA All-American swimming background and 2008 Olympic Trials qualification shaped her approach to professional triathlon training and racing. Lauren talks about swimming misconceptions, focusing on the critical catch and pull mechanics that most age-group athletes struggle with. The conversation explores the emotional and practical aspects of professional coaching, both receiving it and now giving it herself as one of Julie Dibens' coaches. Lauren discusses how Ironman training consistency became more important than high-volume approaches, especially as she learned to manage injury prevention strategies after transitioning from swimming's high-volume, low-impact training to triathlon's multi-sport demands. As someone who worked with sponsors throughout her career, Lauren provides advice for current and aspiring professionals, emphasizing relationship-building in the sport's small community. Her insights into the female professional triathlete experience address unique challenges including balancing career goals with life transitions and managing the emotional toll of endurance athlete burnout.