In this episode of MindBodyMarathon, Dr. Leo Kormanik and his wife, Samua, open up about their personal journey with autism in honor of Autism Awareness Month. They share heartfelt stories about Samua’s daughter, Naomi, who was diagnosed with autism at age three and a half after experiencing developmental regression. Samua discusses the challenges and emotional struggles she faced early on, including feelings of isolation and the severity of Naomi’s initial condition. The episode highlights how, through relentless effort, early intervention, and integrating healthy lifestyle habits, Naomi has grown into a vibrant, social young woman who now thrives with a job and an active life. Their story aims to inspire and offer insights for families navigating similar journeys, emphasizing that Naomi’s progress is the result of hard work, not luck.

In this emotional reflection, the speaker recalls a powerful childhood memory of reading about Helen Keller learning to say "water," which subconsciously fueled her determination years later when her daughter, Naomi, was diagnosed with autism. She shares the intense journey of recognizing early signs in Naomi—speech regression, extreme tantrums, lack of eye contact, and sensory sensitivities—and the drive it sparked to seek immediate interventions. She describes attending a pivotal autism conference that introduced her to functional medicine approaches, emphasizing dietary changes like going gluten- and dairy-free as foundational to Naomi’s progress. Throughout, she highlights the perseverance, constant learning, and adjustments made to help Naomi grow, emphasizing that autism requires proactive, intentional support rather than passive acceptance.

The speaker shares how significant interventions—like dietary changes, the use of a hyperbaric oxygen chamber, and early therapy—dramatically helped both of her children, Naomi (diagnosed with autism) and Isaac (later diagnosed with ADHD), to progress without medication. She details the intense challenges faced with Naomi’s behavior in early years and how persistence with therapies, strict diet control (especially avoiding gluten, dairy, sugar, and food dyes), and emotional stability within the family environment made major differences. She emphasizes not becoming overwhelmed by all treatment options at once but instead focusing on manageable, incremental changes, highlighting how even her own stress levels could directly impact Naomi’s behavior. Other factors, like lunar cycles, gut health, going organic, and choosing good therapists, also played critical roles. Ultimately, she encourages other parents to stay calm, committed, and consistent, reassuring that pushing through difficult moments builds long-term success for children with special needs.

The speaker recounts the early struggles of traveling with Naomi, who has autism, sharing a vivid memory of a chaotic family trip to Myrtle Beach where Naomi became overwhelmed, leading to a massive public meltdown that required police intervention. This difficult experience, rather than discouraging them, became a catalyst for growth as they returned the following year, using consistent preparation and reminders about behavior to help Naomi improve. They emphasize that progress didn’t happen by luck but through repeated effort, patience, and preparation. Additionally, they discuss the crucial role of supplements in Naomi’s health management, explaining how her body's difficulty detoxifying requires high doses of vitamin D, omega-3s, magnesium, and B vitamins. Over time, Naomi adapted from being highly sensitive even to disguised supplements to now easily swallowing pills, showing how persistence and creative problem-solving were key in her development.

In this heartfelt conversation, Naomi, an 18-year-old with autism, shares her joys, challenges, and dreams. She proudly talks about picking out her own outfit, her love for activities like dancing, soccer, basketball,...

Dr. Leo Kormanik, discusses some of his key points in his Amazon Best selling book "Faster Without Fail" at Fleet Feet Running Shoe store in Pepper Pike, OH. He pulls out some of his key topics about running form, training tips, and salient advice on how to run pain free and faster than ever.

He also does a Question and Answer section at the end. The topics vary from clarification on certain running form topics, to how to fix shins splints, advice on nutrition, how to stop heel striking, and many more.

You can order the Dr. Leo Kormanik's book Faster Without Fail on Amazon at https://amzn.to/4eEsB7M.

Be sure to also check out Dr. Leo's Running Rehab YouTube page at www.YouTube.com/@RunningRehab.

On this episode of the MindBody Marathon podcast, host Dr. Leo Kormanik is joined by co-host Zach Goulet and guest Tina Ryee, the race director of the Women’s SixK. Tina shares the inspiring backstory of how the race came to life — a journey that began nearly a decade ago when she was working a draining job in Colorado. Feeling disconnected from her running roots, Tina began daydreaming about creating something more meaningful. Her passion for running and a desire to contribute something empowering to the community led her to envision a unique, women-focused race.

After moving back to Ohio, Tina accepted a grad assistant coaching role and interned with race director Jim Chaney of Run to You Racing. During COVID, the idea of an all-women’s event took shape more seriously. Recognizing that USA Track and Field had never hosted a 6K road championship, she and Jim submitted a proposal. To their surprise, USATF approved it, and in 2021, the first-ever Women’s 6K Championship race was held in Canton, Ohio.

The 6K distance was a deliberate and meaningful choice. Tina, a former collegiate runner and All-American in cross country, wanted the event to stand out and reflect her experience. Since the 6K is the standard distance for women’s collegiate cross country championships across all NCAA divisions, it felt like a perfect fit. The race has since grown into more than just an elite competition — it’s become a powerful, community-driven event under Tina’s nonprofit organization, inspiring women of all backgrounds. With stories of new mothers and individuals in recovery finding empowerment through participation, Tina reflects on how the race not only uplifts others but has empowered her personally as well.

Tina Ryee, director of the Women’s SixK, dives deeper into the inspiration and mission behind the race, explaining how its unique 6K distance subtly encourages women to push past their perceived limits — especially for those newer to running, like Dr. Leo’s wife, who found the 6K an empowering step beyond the 5K without the intimidation of a 10K. The race is hosted under Tina’s nonprofit, Top Tier Athlete, originally created during her coaching years to help young female athletes improve. Now reimagined, the organization aims to provide year-round impact through mentorships, entrepreneurship workshops, community running groups, and scholarships — particularly for women overcoming hardships. Tina highlights the race’s growing support from the community and major sponsors like PNC Bank, as well as its inclusivity, from elite runners to local women reclaiming their power through movement. The race has become more than a one-day event; it’s a celebration of resilience, community, and the belief that with vision and support, anyone can create lasting change.

The conversation highlights the transformative impact of pushing past personal limits, especially for those overcoming hardship, with an inspiring example of an elite runner named Annie who rebounded from a disappointing Olympic trials race to win a major 6K event. Her comeback symbolized empowerment and resilience, aligning with the race's deeper purpose of uplifting women at all levels. The course itself was designed with intention—starting at Malone, symbolic for the organizer, and structured as a fast, point-to-point, mostly downhill route to both challenge and encourage runners. It mirrors life’s journey: a tough climb followed by a freeing descent. The unique start, where elites are cheered on by community runners, sets a powerful tone. With added elements like a post-race festival and new emcee, the event continues to grow, maintaining its mission to inspire and celebrate women through running.

The episode highlights exciting updates and heartfelt moments surrounding the upcoming Women’s 6K event. Nicolina, a beloved local personality, will emcee the race, bringing energy and empowerment to Stark County. New divisions have been introduced,...

In this episode of the Mind Body Marathon, host Leo Kormanik and guests Matt Pisanelli, Jared Bugaj, and Zach Goulet discuss the vital topic of sleep, sharing tips, personal anecdotes, and recent research findings. They humorously explore unique sleep behaviors, like sleeping with eyes open, and reflect on the challenges posed by electronic devices and blue light on sleep hygiene. The importance of circadian rhythms and exposure to natural light is emphasized, alongside practical strategies to enhance sleep quality, such as winding down routines and practicing belly breathing to activate the parasympathetic nervous system. The conversation underscores the critical role of sleep in overall wellness and performance, with an engaging mix of banter and valuable insights.

In their discussion on sleep strategies, the participants share personal rituals that help them wind down and improve their sleep quality. One guest practices deep breathing while reflecting on the day, often falling asleep quickly, while another uses a device called the Alpha-Stim, which applies electrical signals through ear clips to enhance relaxation and improve sleep. They also exchange tips on dietary supplements like magnesium, discussing its muscle relaxation benefits and its different forms for specific needs, as well as the potential sleep quality improvements from creatine. The conversation touches on the psychological aspect of sleep, emphasizing the importance of clearing the mind of daily stresses through activities like reading to foster better sleep and even greater dream experiences, including lucid dreaming, which some participants find enhances their creativity and problem-solving. Overall, the group shares practical hacks and reflections on the interconnected nature of physical, mental, and emotional well-being in achieving restful sleep.

In a conversation about sleep and nutrition, participants discuss the benefits of overnight protein supplements that are high in casein and whey, emphasizing how they provide essential amino acids for muscle recovery during sleep. They also touch upon the timing of food intake before bed, highlighting that it varies by individual activity levels and needs, particularly for those with intensive training regimens. The group shares their experiences with melatonin, noting its mixed effects on sleep quality, and discusses using CBD with CBN to promote deeper sleep while addressing anxiety. They explore the implications of caffeine, suggesting that avoiding it after noon may improve sleep quality due to its long half-life, and mention cultural differences in caffeine consumption and effects. The conversation then shifts to microdosing nicotine, which some believe could enhance mental performance without addiction, contrasting it with conventional understandings of nicotine's drawbacks, and surmising that it may have cognitive benefits that warrant further exploration.

In a discussion about the effects of substances like caffeine, nicotine, THC, and alcohol on mental alertness and sleep quality, participants share insights from a meta-analysis by Dave Asprey that shows a potential correlation between THC use and higher rates of heart disease compared to caffeine and nicotine. They explore the cognitive benefits of microdosing nicotine and lithium as mood stabilizers, particularly for individuals with bipolar tendencies or ADHD. The group expresses concerns about the varying effects of THC on sleep, noting that while it may help some relax and fall asleep, it could interfere with deeper stages of sleep. They emphasize moderation in alcohol consumption, highlighting the negative impact of high-alcohol drinks on sleep quality and the importance of timing, suggesting that light drinking earlier in the evening can lead to better rest. Additionally, they discuss the role of temperature regulation in sleep quality, advocating for practices like sauna use to help cool the body...

In this episode of the MindBodyMarathon, Dr. Leo Kormanik discusses the topic of running injuries, emphasizing the importance of reframing how we think about and approach these injuries. Drawing from his own experiences as a runner and physician, he shares insights on the psychological aspects of dealing with injuries and the lessons learned through his journey.

Dr. Leo recounts his history with injuries, starting from high school where he had minor issues, to more significant challenges in college, including a serious knee injury and complications that led to hospitalization. He highlights the theme that injuries offer valuable lessons, reflecting on how his cockiness and eagerness to push himself contributed to these challenges.

Throughout the episode, he shares stories of various injuries, including back issues he inherited from his father's history with pain. His struggle with a significant herniated disc ultimately led him to take charge of his rehabilitation, diving into research and various methods to heal without relying on pain medication. This experience shaped his approach to treating injuries in others, leading him to appreciate the resilience and learning potential that can come from such struggles.

Dr. Leo emphasizes that the psychology of performance, such as concepts from the book "The Inner Game of Tennis," can be applied to running and injuries. He encourages listeners to understand that every injury has a message and that navigating the complexities of being injured can lead to personal growth and improved performance in the long run.

In this segment, the speaker reflects on their long history of dealing with running injuries, particularly focusing on recurring issues with their ankles, Achilles tendons, and plantar fascia. They recount how these challenges led them to a deeper understanding of their passion for running. After narrowly missing the Olympic trials in their debut marathon by just 29 seconds, they committed themselves to training, postponing other life plans like grad school.

The speaker emphasizes the importance of having a strong internal motivation—"knowing your why"—which was their commitment to qualifying for the Olympic trials. They acknowledge that injuries were part of the journey, but their focus remained on the ultimate goal, which helped them navigate pain and setbacks without feeling defeated.

Drawing from personal experiences as well as anecdotes from patients, they argue that many athletes limit themselves by waiting until they're injury-free to set goals. The speaker believes that maintaining a clear vision of goals, even during challenging times, enables individuals to overcome significant obstacles. They stress the importance of dreaming big and working backward from goals, emphasizing that a strong mental focus can lead to unexpected successes, regardless of physical preparation. Instead of being bogged down by metrics like mileage or pacing, the emphasis should be placed on aspirations and purpose, as these are what truly drive progress.

The speaker expresses concern for novice runners who overly focus on metrics like heart rate and mileage, suggesting this can undermine their passion for running. They emphasize that running should be driven by dreams and aspirations rather than numbers. Reflecting on their own experiences with injuries, the speaker shares that many of these setbacks stemmed from ignoring signs of vulnerability, overconfidence, or neglecting strength training and stability work.

They stress the importance of understanding the reasons behind injuries and learning from them instead of viewing them as random events. Holding oneself and medical providers to high standards during recovery is also highlighted, as prolonged recovery times can often indicate a lack of effort or understanding in the rehabilitation...

In this episode of the Mind Body Marathon, Dr. Leo Kormanik is joined by Dr. Jared Bugaj and Dr. Matt Pisanelli to discuss hydration principles to enhance athletic performance. They introduce hydrogen water, which is produced through electrolysis to create hydrogen gas that acts as a selective antioxidant, potentially improving overall hydration. The hosts mention their new glass water bottles, emphasizing the health concerns related to plastic consumption. They explore the evolving focus on hydration, noting a shift from sugary sports drinks to the importance of water and electrolytes, especially for athletes. They recommend a daily water intake of about half one’s body weight in ounces, with adjustments based on activity level and environmental factors. The conversation acknowledges the risks of over-hydration and the necessity of electrolyte balance using products like LMNT and DIY mixtures. The hosts agree that proper hydration is vital for performance, recovery, and overall health, especially concerning the physiological principle that water follows sodium. They conclude by emphasizing the importance of electrolytes in managing hydration effectively.

The conversation revolves around the importance of electrolyte management, particularly sodium, for hypertensive individuals who are either fit or unfit, and how hydration affects athletic performance. While transient hypertension can occur shortly after sodium intake, it generally stabilizes, making it crucial for active individuals to replace electrolytes without compromising their health. The hosts discuss the phenomenon of cardiovascular drift common in long-distance running, emphasizing that hydration is key to maintaining blood volume and managing lactic acid concentration during performance. Recommendations vary based on individual preferences and experiences, with some advocating for water intake initially, followed by sports drinks later in a marathon to offset fatigue and enhance performance. Personal anecdotal practices are shared, highlighting the significance of pre-race electrolyte loading and fluid strategies that meet individual needs during races.

In preparation for marathons, individuals often develop specific fueling and hydration strategies that maximize performance. One participant emphasizes not consuming calories or electrolyte supplements in the hour and a half leading up to the race, switching to water-only intake until starting, after which they take early energy gels to kickstart their system. Another person shares their experience of consuming high-calorie sports drinks during the latter stages of a marathon, reflecting on a coaching tip to hydrate early and often, especially in the challenging late miles. They discuss various hydration methods, including using cooling techniques such as pouring water on themselves to retain salt and enhance temperature regulation, with the acknowledgement that in different marathons, the availability and type of hydration stations can vary. The conversation also touches on the benefits of alkaline hydrogen water for better absorption and its potential effects on fascia health, suggesting that efficient hydration is crucial for performance, especially in hot conditions, where cooling strategies can also play a significant role.

The discussion focuses on effective techniques for hydrating during running, particularly in races. The speakers emphasize the importance of correctly handling paper cups at hydration stations by pinching the cup and allowing water to sit in the mouth before swallowing to avoid coughing and ensure proper ingestion. They note that drinking too quickly can lead to gastrointestinal distress and prevent proper absorption of fluids, recommending that runners control their intake by nursing their drinks over time. Additionally, they share general hydration guidelines, suggesting that athletes should consume about half their body weight in ounces of water, increase their...

In this episode of "The Mind Body Marathon," host Dr. Leo Kormanik discusses the journey of J.R. Bremer, a former NBA player, alongside current college hooper Isaac Cherry. J.R.'s path to the NBA began in middle school, where a coach's skeptical remark about his future fueled his determination. He gradually honed his skills, rising from a short freshman player to a pivotal role as point guard in high school, eventually leading his team to a state championship. He went on to St. Bonaventure, where he faced challenges like an injury but improved his performance each year, culminating in a standout senior season that caught the attention of potential NBA scouts. J.R. reflects on the pressure of transitioning from high school to college basketball, emphasizing the rigorous training and mental adjustments required at each level, highlighting the importance of hard work, self-belief, and the pivotal role of mentorship in his journey.

In this discussion, J.R. Bremer highlights the significance of work ethic in sports, reflecting on his journey as an underdog who overcame skepticism from his coach in middle school to achieve success, including a retired jersey. Bremer emphasizes that a solid work ethic is essential for athletes who often face competition from naturally gifted players who may lack the same diligence. As a coach, he stresses the importance of building individual relationships with players to understand their needs and tailor coaching styles accordingly. Transitioning from college to professional basketball, he notes the shift from a highly structured environment to a more autonomous one, where finding balance becomes crucial. Bremer shares fond memories with teammates, especially Antoine Walker, who supported him in his rookie days, and offers insight into the dynamic atmosphere created by talented players like LeBron James. Ultimately, he argues that having experienced mentors, or "old heads," is particularly valuable in professional settings where self-direction is more common than in college contexts.

In the NBA, the presence of experienced veterans, referred to as "old heads," is crucial for guiding rookies through the complexities of professional play, as they possess extensive knowledge of the league's nuances. This contrasts with the college basketball environment, where players may be newer to the system despite having been there for a few years. Bremer reflects on the current state of basketball, noting how the overwhelming focus on the three-point shot is influencing youth development negatively, leading to a lack of foundational skills and basketball IQ. He argues that international players often excel due to their early exposure to professional competition, whereas domestic youth basketball is suffering from a lack of structured development, exacerbated by issues like the transfer portal, which fosters a sense of entitlement and diminishes the desire to work through challenges. He believes that a strong work ethic is essential for success, and the current trend of transferring freely contributes to a diminished accountability among young players. Ultimately, Bremer highlights the need for a more balanced approach to basketball training to promote growth and development.

The conversation highlights the contrasting nature of training and competition in running versus basketball, emphasizing how running offers a more objective measure of performance, such as mileage, while basketball's intangibles make it harder to gauge effort and commitment. It discusses the importance of a strong work ethic and the foundational training that less naturally gifted athletes often undertake, which can lead them to excel, even at higher levels like the Olympics. The dialogue also touches on the significance of nutrition, mental health support, and specialized training for basketball players to build durability and endurance, as seen through personal experiences of sharing training regimes and mental...

In this episode of the Mind Body Marathon podcast, the hosts Dr. Leo Kormanik and Actress Samua Kormanik delve into the importance of mindset and meditation, aiming to help listeners cultivate a healthier mental state. With guest Frank Alesci, who shares his recent experiences trekking to Machu Picchu in Peru, they discuss the challenges of travel, including the initial stress of lost luggage. Frank emphasizes the significance of overcoming obstacles and shifting perspectives in unfamiliar environments, which can expose the triviality of everyday issues. The conversation touches on the practice of mindfulness, the power of being present, and how personal experiences can lead to a deeper understanding of oneself and empathy towards others. Ultimately, they explore the transformative nature of travel and the lessons learned when confronting both new and familiar challenges.

In this discussion, the speaker reflects on the concept of getting "stuck in a moment," highlighting how individuals often experience suffering during challenging times, which can seem overwhelming at the moment but may appear trivial in hindsight. The conversation transitions into the speaker's personal journey with yoga and meditation, starting from a transformative yoga class that inspired a deeper connection to the practice and led to an initiation into Kriya Yoga. Kriya, which means "action" in relation to God, emphasizes the importance of mindfulness and taking action in daily life without external pressures, such as specific diets or destinations. The speaker also explains that while public classes might not offer Kriya Yoga initiation, true seekers can explore the practice through research, books, and eventually find ashrams for a more structured path. The speaker shares a travel experience to India to meet a living guru, enriching their understanding of Kriya Yoga and its teachings. Overall, the narrative underscores the ongoing journey of self-discovery through yoga and the importance of action and presence in one's life.

The speaker describes an experience at an ashram that prepared food for a community gathering, expecting 2,000 attendees but welcoming 13,000, which fostered a magical collective energy among the visitors. This moment highlighted the importance of communal support and the willingness to adapt to unexpected circumstances, fostering a sense of unity. The conversation then shifts to personal growth, emphasizing the significance of recognizing and documenting positive experiences instead of fixating on negatives. The speaker reflects on the overwhelming nature of thoughts in daily life, noting that a significant portion are repetitive and often negative, urging the need for mindfulness practices like meditation to help navigate these thoughts. This leads to a discussion about perception, the mind-body connection, and the balance of experiences, underlining that everyone faces challenges in various life areas despite outward appearances. Ultimately, the dialogue encourages listeners to cultivate awareness and positivity to improve mental well-being.

The speaker reflects on the paradox of sharing personal success and challenges, where they often feel comfortable discussing their positives with a select few, while generally downplaying their achievements around others, who may prefer to vent about their struggles, fearing that positivity might be seen as bragging. They emphasize the need to focus on the good in life, akin to a mindset cultivated in their family, promoting resilience and perspective even in challenging times. They reference a quote by Naval Ravikant about earning peace of mind and love, highlighting that wealth cannot buy such states. The conversation touches on emotional struggles, the complexities of presenting oneself to others, and encouraging a balance between acknowledging difficult feelings while also nurturing a positive outlook, underscoring that self-awareness and acceptance of...