In this episode, Eli opens up about what it really takes to chase big goals in triathlon. We talk about the balance between training and life, the sacrifices behind elite-level performance, and how staying committed can sometimes mean feeling a little disconnected from the world around you.

Eli shares how his body thrives on big training loads often 30+ hours a week and how he’s learned to manage recovery, mindset, and motivation along the way. We also get into what it means to find purpose and balance in a sport that demands everything from you.

If you’ve ever wondered what true dedication looks like behind the highlight reel, this one’s for you.

Follow Eric Lauricella

🎙 Host: @Keep.Moving.Forward.Podcast @lauricellacoaching + @ericlauricella

Website: https://ericlauricella.com/

Follow Eli Hemming:

Instagram: @eli_hemming

Sponsors for this episode:

• Floyd’s of Leadville CBD — Use code ERIC20 for 20% off at floydsofleadville.com
• SAPIEN Recovery, a Nervous System Nutrition product — Use code ERIC15 at sapienrecovery.com

In this episode I sit down with Will Watson, who packed up his life in Portland and moved to Austin, Texas, where he knew just one person, to chase the dream of becoming a professional triathlete. Fresh off his age group win at Ironman 70.3 Waco, Will shares what that leap of faith has taught him, how his approach to training has evolved, and what changed when he started coaching himself.

Things We talk about

• How Will structured his training leading into 70.3 Waco

• What self coaching looks like for a competitive age grouper

• Lessons learned from balancing work, life, and elite level racing

• The mindset shift that helped him race with confidence and freedom

• Key takeaways for athletes looking to take ownership of their own training

This conversation is packed with practical insights for age group triathletes chasing their next breakthrough and proof that trusting your own process can lead to incredible results.

Follow Eric Lauricella

🎙 Host: @Keep.Moving.Forward.Podcast @lauricellacoaching + @ericlauricella

Website: https://ericlauricella.com/

Follow Will Watson:

Instagram: @tri.willwatson

Sponsors for this episode:

• Floyd’s of Leadville CBD — Use code ERIC20 for 20% off at floydsofleadville.com
• SAPIEN Recovery, a Nervous System Nutrition product — Use code ERIC15 at sapienrecovery.com

In this episode, I sit down with Australian Ironman legend Tim Van Berkel for a raw and fun chat about the evolution of triathlon over the past 20 years.

We swap stories from the early days of racing, brutal sessions, and the and dig into how the sport, athletes, and coaching have changed with technology and time.

Tim shares his perspective on what’s kept him competitive for so long, what today’s pros might be missing, and how he approaches training now both as an athlete and a coach.

Whether you’ve been in the sport for years or just got your first tri bike, this one’s packed with insight, laughs, and a bit of nostalgia for the “old school” tri days.

Topics we cover:

• Early racing memories and classic training stories
• How triathlon has evolved over two decades
• Balancing longevity with performance
• The role of coaching and mentorship
• Where the sport is heading next

Follow Eric Lauricella

🎙 Host: @Keep.Moving.Forward.Podcast @lauricellacoaching + @ericlauricella

Website: https://ericlauricella.com/

Follow Tim Van Berkel:

Instagram: @Tim Van Berkel

Sponsors for this episode:

• Floyd’s of Leadville CBD — Use code ERIC20 for 20% off at floydsofleadville.com
• SAPIEN Recovery, a Nervous System Nutrition product — Use code ERIC15 at sapienrecovery.com