IRONMAN Insider™, A Triathlon Podcast Presented by Maurten

In this episode of the IRONMAN Insider Podcast presented by Maurten, host Matt Lieto sits down with New Zealand’s own Kyle Smith just days before he toes the hometown line at the first race of the 2026 IRONMAN Pro Series: ANZCO Foods IRONMAN New Zealand in Taupō.

Known for his aggressive, leave-it-all-out-there racing style, Kyle dives deep into what it takes to survive and thrive in the upper echelons of professional triathlon. From laying bricks to keep his athletic dreams alive during the global shutdown to being taken under the wing of the legendary Jan Frodeno, Kyle’s blue-collar work ethic has forged him into one of the sport's most exciting athletes to watch. Whether you're preparing to toe the line yourself or just love an inspiring example of pure grit and determination, you won't want to miss this one.

In this episode of the IRONMAN Insider Podcast, host Matt Lieto sits down with two-time IRONMAN champion Hannah Berry, one of the sport’s most consistent and quietly respected competitors. Hannah reflects on her fourth-place finish at the 2025 IRONMAN World Championship in Kona, a performance that showcased her strength, patience, and ability to execute on triathlon’s biggest stage.

She breaks down her Kona race in detail, sharing how smart pacing, disciplined nutrition, and heat management helped her move steadily through the field as others faltered. Hannah also discusses racing as an underdog, the value of consistency across all three disciplines, and why Kona rewards athletes who stay composed when conditions turn brutal.

The conversation looks ahead to racing IRONMAN New Zealand on home soil, the evolving dynamics of elite women’s racing, and adapting to the new 20-meter drafting rules. Insightful, grounded, and refreshingly honest, this episode offers a compelling look at an athlete whose best racing emerges when the race gets hardest.

In this episode of the IRONMAN Insider Podcast, host Matt Lieto is joined by three-time IRONMAN World Champion Mirinda Carfrae for an in-depth look at one of the most compelling seasons in IRONMAN history. Rinny and Matt break down the drama and defining moments of the 2025 World Championship races in Kona, Nice, and Marbella, analyzing unforgettable performances, surprise outcomes, and what it truly takes to execute on the sport’s biggest stage. They dive into standout athletes, breakthrough seasons, emotional retirements, and the continued rise of dominant forces across long-course racing. The conversation also explores the evolution of the IRONMAN Pro Series, what made 2025 so competitive, and how the revamped 2026 calendar, highlighted by the return of men and women racing together in Kona, sets the stage for an electrifying future. Insightful, honest, and deeply informed, this episode offers a front-row perspective on where the sport has been, and where it’s heading next.

In this episode of the IRONMAN Insider Podcast, host Matt Lieto delves into the world of professional triathlete Sam Long, a dynamic athlete known for his relentless drive and strategic approach to racing. Sam shares his journey from a young triathlete to a seasoned competitor, highlighting his three IRONMAN victories and numerous IRONMAN 70.3 wins. He opens up about the challenges of balancing personal life with professional ambitions, especially with a second child on the way. Sam reflects on his recent performance at the IRONMAN World Championships in Nice, where he achieved a personal best despite the intense competition. He discusses the evolution of the sport, the importance of mental fitness, and his plans for future races, including IRONMAN Arizona and IRONMAN 70.3 Indian Wells. Throughout the conversation, Sam's passion for triathlon and his commitment to inspiring others shine through, making this episode a must-listen for fans and aspiring athletes alike.

In the final pre-race episode from Kona, host Matt Lieto sits down with three more top contenders: the relaxed and ready India Lee, Kona rookie Solveig Løvseth, and defending IRONMAN World Champion Laura Philipp.

First, India Lee shares her dramatically different approach to this year's championship. Contrasting her current fun-loving, lighthearted mindset with the stress she felt at last year's race in Nice, she explains why surrounding herself with a great group of friends is key to her performance. As a Kona first-timer, her primary goal is to finish, embrace the experience, and learn as much as possible for the future.
Next, Solveig Løvseth discusses her incredible debut year in long-course triathlon. After a spontaneous decision to switch from short-course racing, she reflects on what she's learned from her first two IRONMAN events and how she has recovered from the grueling effort. With her coach Mikal Iden guiding her, Solveig is excited to be part of the sport's growth and hopes to execute her own patient race plan on Saturday.
Finally, defending World Champion Laura Philipp talks about the "very special" feeling of returning to Kona wearing bib number one. To avoid the burnout that can follow a championship season, she has raced a lighter, more strategic schedule this year, allowing her to arrive fresh and focused. Preparing for what she expects to be a "lonely chase race," Laura has also implemented a more rigorous heat-training protocol for the first time, hoping it will be the key to defending her title on the island.