Shows
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferCody Rich: Kill the Hardest-Worker Identity | Bridger Watch | MTNPOD #189Cody Rich—host of Rich Outdoors and founder of Bridger Watch—is back on the MTNTOUGH Podcast. He’s building a hunter smartwatch in the hardest lane there is: hardware, software, manufacturing, and fundraising. The conversation is about the DNA that always picks the hard path, the Tom Brady wall of performance identity, Mike Tyson’s “I don’t want to be a great man, I want to be a good man,” and why the big exit will not pay your kids back for the years you missed. Also: guardrails, hunt anxiety, James on counting storms as joy, and success as a b...
2026-10-121h 09
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferFitness Lab Discussion | Gym Daily vs MGD: Which MTNTOUGH Program Should You Run?Coaches Sarah Maschino and Nick Bechtold break down the two most-used programs in the app: Minimal Gear Daily and Gym Daily. MGD runs on dumbbells, a couple kettlebells, a pull-up bar, and a Yeti 65 — strength through volume, tempo, and stacked movements. Gym Daily needs a rack, barbell, plates, and at least one cardio machine so you can actually progress load. They cover who should pick which, why the blocks now start and stop together so you can hop, and why the follow-along cues are the real difference. Team MGD or team Gym Daily — drop it in the comments.V I D...
2026-10-0821 min
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferKyle Layne: How I Survived Losing My Daughter | MTNPOD #188Kyle returns to the MTNTOUGH Podcast for a raw follow-up on alcoholism, the “compliant child” vs. performance-identity trap, and why so many high achievers chase control until a substance (or fitness, or a phone) becomes the only way to feel baseline. He traces the exact catalyst moments that finally got him into rehab—including a Western Hunt Expo booth shared with Mountain Tough, an Eric McCormack workout that collapsed him, and a first honest conversation that opened a door the darkness immediately tried to slam shut. He also shares how that timing prepared him for fatherhood, the loss of their...
2026-10-052h 26
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferJake Harriman: Don’t Waste a Good Life | MTNPOD #187Jake Harriman—Naval Academy grad, Force Recon Marine, Bronze Star, founder of Nuru International and The Brickyard (formerly More Perfect Union)—joins the MTNTOUGH Podcast on a simple fear: you can live a good life and still waste it. After years off-grid fighting extremism through livelihoods, he came home and didn’t recognize the country he’d fought for. Now he’s building higher ground, not just common ground—40,000 Americans swinging hammers together, Civic Valor in schools, and five steps from his book Rescuing the Idea of America: believe, serve, connect, lead, restore. Also: loneliness, agency vs. the algorithm, and why one...
2026-09-2856 min
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferFitness Lab Discussion | Coaches Sarah & Nick: How We Program MTNTOUGH + Your QuestionsGet to know MTNTOUGH Coaches Dr. Nick Bechtold and Sarah Maschino as they open a new lab-side conversation: who they are, how they landed at MTNTOUGH, and how the programming actually gets built.They cover the path from elite sheep-hunt training to on-ramp, foundations, Always Ready 50+, and what’s coming next (No Gear 10, SV20). Then they answer two of the most common support questions—how to pair MGDs with running, and what to do mid-season when on-ramp feels light but foundations feel like too much.Drop your questions in the...
2026-09-2532 min
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferMike Sarraille: A Soldier Dies Twice | Brotherhood After the Teams | MTNPOD #186Mike Sarraille—former special operations leader, Chief Talent Officer at a veteran-owned company, and the man behind Fox Nation’s Final Flight: The Men of Extortion 17—joins the MTNTOUGH Podcast on what companies still get wrong about veteran talent, why eight guys from the same platoon now work under one roof, and why a soldier dies twice: once in the field, and again when his name is spoken last. He covers the seven-continent skydive with Andy Stumpf, building brotherhood after the DD-214, the harsh cost of high performance (divorce, empty tank, no “balance”), his forthcoming book Teams, and why telling ot...
2026-09-2157 min
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferLeif Babin: Extreme Ownership When You Can’t Control the Situation | MTNPOD #185Leif Babin, former Navy SEAL officer, Task Unit Bruiser platoon commander in Ramadi, and co-author of Extreme Ownership, joins the MTNTOUGH Podcast to talk leadership when the title, the body, and the plan get stripped away. He covers attitude as the one thing you still control, cover and move as real teamwork, why the best leaders stop trying to prove themselves, the cost of not explaining the “why,” and the actual fix for leadership fatigue: decentralized command instead of being the easy button. Also: family as your highest leadership job, and honoring the teammates who didn’t come home.
2026-09-141h 08
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferJohn Wayne Walding: What They Don't Tell You About Survival | MTNPOD #184John Wayne Walding spent seven years in 3rd Special Forces Group. On April 6, 2008 in Shok Valley, Afghanistan, a sniper shot took the lower half of his right leg. He tied it to his thigh and kept fighting. This episode is about April 7th—the hospital bed, the word “can’t,” and the battles that don’t come with a medal. John talks about being raised by his grandparents after both parents went to jail, becoming the first amputee to graduate Special Forces sniper school, choosing pain over pills, quitting drinking after Chris Kyle’s death, 15 years of sobriety, and why every ma...
2026-09-091h 12
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferJim Ramos: Why Men Never Talk About Marriage Until It’s on Fire | MTNPOD #183Jim Ramos, founder of Men in the Arena and MTNTOUGH spiritual growth coach, is back to talk about his new book Guardrails: 10 Boundaries for an Unbreakable Marriage. He unpacks why men will talk about money, work, drinking, and porn for years—but stay silent on marriage until it’s a dumpster fire. The conversation covers the revival among Gen Z men, the difference between being mountain tough and marriage tough, practical digital and relational boundaries, building a wall around your home, and what to do when your wife seems done. Direct, biblical, and built for men who want to lead...
2026-08-311h 01
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferMitch Ammons: From Heroin Addiction to Elite Marathoner | MTNPOD #182Mitch Ammons, two-time U.S. Olympic marathon trials qualifier and 2:14 marathoner, shares one of the most powerful redemption stories you’ll hear. After nearly a decade of heroin and hard drug addiction, repeated rock bottoms, and multiple rehabs, he got sober in 2015 and rebuilt his entire life through running. In this conversation he opens up about the deep need for community that drove both his addiction and his recovery, the power of identity change, the parallels between “just one more” in addiction and ultrarunning, and how the fitness tribe became the healthy belonging he always craved. Today he’s a succes...
2026-08-2458 min
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferJason Schlarb: Ultra Running, Anxiety & Finding Purpose in the Mountains | MTNPOD #181Jason Schlarb, Hard Rock 100 champion, Air Force veteran, elite ultrarunner, and coach, joins the MTNTOUGH Podcast for a raw conversation on mental toughness, the dual nature of anxiety as both fuel and burden, and the 2020 rock-bottom moment that forced a healthier mindset. He unpacks nature vs. nurture, why so many endurance athletes are running from something, the modern need to manufacture adversity, and the critical role of community and relationships in true happiness. From coaching the next generation to balancing big mountain adventures with fatherhood and local roots, Jason shares hard-won wisdom on thriving for the long haul.
2026-08-1756 min
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferJeff Ozanne: Purpose, Perseverance, and the Firearms Industry | MTNPOD #180Jeff Ozanne, founder and CEO of Ambient Arms, joins the MTNTOUGH Podcast to share his journey from mechanical design and IP leadership at Matthews Archery to launching a firearms innovation company centered on next-level suppressor technology. He discusses the crossover between archery and firearms engineering, the critical role of patents in protecting innovation and employees, the weight of founding a company, and how faith drives every decision—from aggressive IP enforcement to American manufacturing and using business as a platform for the gospel. Jeff also opens up about divine assignment, saying yes to hard callings, and staying optimistic while fi...
2026-08-101h 04
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferMark Moore: The Missing Messiah & Recovering Biblical Masculinity | MTNPOD #179Mark Moore, New Testament scholar and teaching pastor at Christ Church of the Valley, joins the MTNTOUGH Podcast to discuss his new book The Missing Messiah (co-authored with Kyle Idleman). He unpacks how modern culture has softened Jesus into a comfortable figure and why recovering biblical masculinity—rooted in responsibility, brotherhood, and Jesus as both Savior and Warrior-King—is essential for men, families, and society. From the roots of the masculinity crisis to practical calls for men to step into purpose, suffer well, and mentor the next generation, this conversation equips men to live always ready in every pillar of l...
2026-08-0357 min
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferCody Townsend: The Moment I Realized My Ego Was Dangerous | MTNPOD #178Cody Townsend joins the MTNTOUGH Podcast for a raw conversation on evolving from ego-driven free-riding to mature risk management, knowing when to turn around, and finding deeper mental toughness through suffering. He opens up about the death of friends that forced a mindset shift, completing 46 of the 50 classic ski descents, raising a son while staying in the mountains, training his “mountain-proof” body through strength work and trail running, and the alarming impact of climate change on skiing and public lands. Cody also shares why he believes hunters and anglers are the best conservationists and how storytelling can inspire more peop...
2026-07-2759 min
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferRorke Denver: SEAL Mindset, Tough Kids & Never Quitting | MTNPOD #177Commander Rorke Denver, 14-year Navy SEAL veteran and author of Damn Few and Worth Dying For, joins the MTNTOUGH Podcast for a powerful conversation on mental toughness, resilience, and leadership. He breaks down the nature vs. nurture debate around grit, shares how he raises tough kids by letting them struggle, and explains why doing hard things prepares you for life’s inevitable challenges. Rorke opens up about his time leading SEAL platoons in Iraq and South America, the highs of elite team performance, the lows of being stuck on a ship, and how hunting has become his new brotherhood af...
2026-07-2052 min
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferLane Walter: Filming the Toughest Backcountry Hunts | MTNPOD #176Lane Walter, hunting cinematographer and Denver firefighter, joins the MTNTOUGH Podcast for a raw conversation on filming some of the toughest backcountry hunts in North America. He shares how he got started with a handheld camera in 2012, working with legends like Brian Barney and Eastman's, the brutal physical crossover between firefighting and serious backcountry hunting, and his most demanding personal elk pack-out. Lane also opens up about taking his young sons on remote Alaska float hunts, the mental toughness required in true wilderness, and why he’s both worried and optimistic about the future of hunting as he fights to...
2026-07-131h 01
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferMTNTOUGH's Specific Workout Regime for the Army Fitness TestJustin (20-year 75th Ranger Regiment veteran) and Coach Sarah Maschino break down MTNTOUGH’s new 9-week AFT prep program, “The Standard.” Designed specifically for the Army Fitness Test (trap bar deadlift, hand-release push-ups, plank, sprint-drag-carry, and 2-mile run), this program delivers progressive strength, smart run training, combat-focused kit days, and vertical gain work. Built for soldiers who already train hard year-round, it balances volume and recovery while building the discipline and mental toughness needed to perform under pressure. Also excellent for other tactical athletes and civilians wanting a structured 9-week strength + conditioning block.This progra...
2026-07-0930 min
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferBrant Hansen: The Strong Hand & Why Men Lose Joy | MTNPOD #175Brant Hansen joins the MTNTOUGH Podcast for a raw, honest conversation about why so many men in their 40s and 50s feel lost, anxious, and joyless. He breaks down the performance-based mindset that worked in school and early career but eventually breaks down, the epidemic of isolation, and how the algorithm is dividing families and feeding anger. Brant shares powerful insights from his book Life Is Hard, God Is Good, Let’s Dance on what real joy actually is (trust, not feelings), why we were never meant to stay angry, and the “strong hand” analogy that changes how we face l...
2026-07-061h 04
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferGray Thornton: Why Hunters Must Reject Convenience Culture | MTNPOD #174Gray Thornton, President and CEO of the Wild Sheep Foundation, joins the MTNTOUGH Podcast for a powerful conversation on the “strenuous life,” mental toughness, and why comfort is slowly killing men. He shares his journey from corporate America and superbike racing to leading one of North America’s most effective conservation organizations. Gray breaks down what separates sheep hunters, the real threats to hunting heritage, the power of never giving up, and why he remains optimistic about the future of wild places and public land hunting for the next generation.Join Dustin Diefenderfer, Founder of MTN...
2026-06-291h 05
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferTrent Fisher: Hunting’s Next Generation, AI & Life After Loss | MTNPOD #173Trent Fisher of Born and Raised Outdoors joins the MTNTOUGH Podcast for a raw conversation on raising kids in the hunting industry, the double-edged sword of technology and AI, and how a devastating flood stripped everything away and rebuilt his purpose. He opens up about work ethic, mental toughness, staying present, and why we must make decisions with eternity in mind. Honest talk on generational responsibility, the power of community through suffering, and refusing to grow weary in doing good.Join Dustin Diefenderfer, Founder of MTNTOUGH Fitness Lab and creator of the MTNTOUGH+ Fitness...
2026-06-221h 02
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferSam Soholt: Public Lands, Conservation & The Future of Hunting | MTNPOD #172Sam Soholt joins the MTNTOUGH Podcast to discuss the current state of public lands and hunting in America. From fighting legislation that threatens millions of acres to the mental toughness forged in the wilderness, Sam shares why these wild places are the last true freedom we have. He breaks down the generational responsibility of protecting public lands for our kids and grandkids, the impact of technology and AI on the next generation of hunters, and practical ways to stay involved. Honest talk on why we must make 100- to 200-year decisions instead of short-term ones — because the future of hu...
2026-06-1558 min
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferZach Bitter: The Brutal Truth About 250-Mile Races | MTNPOD #171World record ultramarathon runner Zach Bitter joins the MTNTOUGH Podcast to break down the insane demands of 250-mile races like Cocodona, the difference between mental toughness in 100-mile vs. multi-day events, and why durability often beats raw speed. He shares how he trains for sub-12-hour 100-milers, the real trade-offs between high-carb and low-carb fueling for endurance, and why pushing human limits requires reframing failure as data. Raw insights on sleep deprivation, gut training, and building unbreakable mental fortitude for backcountry athletes and ultra runners.Join Dustin Diefenderfer, Founder of MTNTOUGH Fitness Lab and...
2026-06-081h 04
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferJim Shockey: Truth About Hunting and His Final Thoughts | MTNPOD #170Hunting legend Jim Shockey opens up on the MTNTOUGH Podcast about recent devastating losses — friends and family battling cancer — and how it’s sharpened his view on life, gratitude, and living with zero regrets. He reflects on his dad’s influence, the spiritual connection of wilderness solitude, why hunters crave the real over the artificial, and why North American hunting will endure despite technology and cultural shifts. Raw, honest conversation on mental toughness, generational legacy, and making every single day count in the outdoors.Join Dustin Diefenderfer, Founder of MTNTOUGH Fitness Lab and creator of the M...
2026-06-011h 02
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferMark Huelsing: The Mindset That Separates Elite Hunters From Everyone Else | MTNPOD #169Mark Huelsing (Brand Manager at Exo Mtn Gear and host of Hunt Backcountry Podcast) joins the MTNTOUGH Podcast for a raw conversation on intentional business, US-made gear, long-term mindset over short-term growth, and why mental toughness separates good hunters from great ones. They dive into the Experience Challenge, death hikes, avoiding rage-content culture, persistence on multi-day hunts, and how to train your mind like your body. Packed with practical wisdom for backcountry hunters who want to level up physically, mentally, and ethically.Join Dustin Diefenderfer, Founder of MTNTOUGH Fitness Lab and creator of the...
2026-05-251h 02
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferDean Karnazes: Ultra Marathon Man on Longevity, Greece & Never Quitting | MTNPOD #168Ultra-marathon legend Dean Karnazes joins the MTNTOUGH Podcast to share his incredible journey from quitting his corporate job on his 30th birthday to run 30 miles, to completing 50 marathons in 50 states in 50 days, and now living in the Greek Blue Zone of Ikaria. Dean opens up about mental toughness, embracing discomfort, the power of community and present-moment living, Greek longevity secrets, and how to stay capable and dangerous into your 60s, 70s, and beyond. Raw wisdom on purpose, risk, and pushing human limits from one of the greatest endurance athletes alive.Join Dustin Diefenderfer, Founder...
2026-05-1854 min
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferFred Eichler: Closest to Death in Africa & Why He Still Hunts Recurve | MTNPOD #167Legendary traditional bowhunter Fred Eichler joins the MTNTOUGH Podcast to share jaw-dropping stories from a lifetime in the wild — including being charged by grizzlies and brown bears, a terrifying political situation in Zimbabwe, and the moment he thought he wouldn’t make it home. He talks about growing up with a Green Beret dad, going all-in on recurve bows, the mental game of true bowhunting, passing the torch to his sons, and why challenge and risk are what make hunting (and life) meaningful. Raw, authentic, and full of hard-earned wisdom from one of the most respected voices in the hunt...
2026-05-1158 min
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferJosh Bridges: Navy SEAL to CrossFit Beast – Life After Competition | MTNPOD #166Former Navy SEAL and CrossFit Games legend Josh Bridges joins the MTNTOUGH Podcast to share his incredible journey from wrestling phenom to BUD/S, elite operator, and top CrossFit athlete. He opens up about fatherhood with a newborn and teenagers, navigating identity after leaving the Teams and pro competition, the power of not quitting, and how he’s adapted his training for long-term strength and capability. Raw stories on grit, brotherhood, purpose, and staying dangerous through every season of life. A must-watch for anyone chasing mental toughness and real-world readiness.Join Dustin Diefenderfer, Founder of...
2026-05-0456 min
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferMatt Chandler: No Suffering Is Wasted | MTNPOD #165Matt Chandler, lead pastor of The Village Church and author of the new book Becoming Like Jesus, joins the MTNTOUGH Podcast to share his powerful story of faith, suffering, and transformation. Diagnosed with a life-threatening brain tumor in 2009, Matt opens up about the "coil" of life—seasons of epic highs and brutal lows—and how God uses every part of it to form us into the image of Christ. He unpacks the dangers of performance-based identity, why dependence on Jesus is the starting point, the sneaky power of pride, honest confession/repentance, and how spiritual warfare shows up in ever...
2026-04-271h 00
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferClay Newcomb: Hunting Heritage, Grizzly Bears & Raising Real Hunters | MTNPOD #164Clay Newcomb, host of Bear Grease and a leading voice at MeatEater, joins the MTNTOUGH Podcast for a deep conversation on hunting heritage, fatherhood in the outdoors, and preserving wild places. From his roots in rural Arkansas to decades of storytelling through Into High Country and Bear Grease, Clay explores how wild experiences build patience, self-reliance, and problem-solving in the next generation. He addresses the grizzly bear debate, genetic connectivity, political interference vs. science-based management, and why hunters remain the true conservationists funding wildlife recovery. Clay also discusses technology's impact on hunting culture, the balance between tradition and innovation...
2026-04-201h 06
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferJason Matzinger: Raising Hunters, Wild Places & Grizzly Bear Truth | MTNPOD #163Jason Matzinger, creator of Into High Country, returns to the MTNTOUGH Podcast to discuss fatherhood in the outdoors, how wild places build self-reliant, problem-solving men, and why hunters are essential to protecting wildlife. From early film days to season 17, Jason shares lessons on patience, conservation, and raising boys who understand the circle of life. He dives deep into the grizzly bear debate, genetic connectivity, political interference, and why hunters—not activists—are the true frontline conservationists. A raw, hopeful conversation on technology’s impact, present-moment living, and leaving wild places better for the next generation of mountain hunters and backco...
2026-04-131h 08
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferTim Howell: Royal Marine to Wingsuit BASE Jumper – Mastering Fear | MTNPOD #162Former Royal Marine commando Tim Howell joins the MTNTOUGH Podcast to share his extraordinary journey from guiding clients through Big 5 territory in South Africa at 18, to earning his place in one of the world’s toughest military units, and now pushing the absolute limits as an elite wingsuit BASE jumper and mountain athlete. Tim breaks down how he views and conquers fear, the power of calculated risk versus reckless adrenaline, attention to detail, reserves in the tank, and why discomfort builds unbreakable mental toughness. From combat deployments and high-altitude expeditions to first BASE jumps and record attempts (including multiple tr...
2026-04-0658 min
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferDonnie Vincent: Why Wild Places Save Us – Alaska, Fatherhood & Purpose | MTNTOUGH #161Donnie Vincent joins the MTNTOUGH Podcast to explore how wild places shape men, build mental toughness, and reconnect us to what truly matters. From fly-in drop camps in Alaska with his dad and now his own daughters, to facing grizzly country, ice-covered cliffs, and the raw reality of no easy button, Donnie shares why experiencing true wilderness is essential for identity, resilience, and purpose. He dives into the power of present-moment living, the dangers of technology addiction pulling us from real experiences, and why only those who fall in love with wild places will fight to protect them. Hunters...
2026-03-301h 15
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferKyle Thompson: Stop Fear & Distractions – Live in the Present | MTNPOD #160Kyle Thompson returns to the MTNTOUGH Podcast with a powerful message on why most men are trapped by fear of the future, regret of the past, and endless 2026 distractions. Founder of Undaunted Life and the Dominion Program, Kyle calls men out of performance identity and into daily discipline, present-moment living, and real foxhole brotherhood. He breaks down how “good things” (sermons, work, events) distract from ultimate things, why standards beat goals, and the power of execution—not motivation. Through raw stories from the Dominion Program, Kyle shows how investing in yourself and surrounding yourself with iron-sharpening brothers leads to real t...
2026-03-231h 02
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferJeremy Stalnecker: Why Men Freeze On Their Calling | MTNPOD #159In this powerful MTNTOUGH Podcast episode, host Dustin Defenderfer sits down with Marine Corps combat veteran, pastor, author, and Mighty Oaks Foundation CEO Jeremy Stalnecker. Jeremy shares the raw reality of veteran transition struggles—identity loss after uniform, isolation, moral injury, and skyrocketing suicides—and how Mighty Oaks’ faith-based programs restore purpose through Christ-centered identity, community, forgiveness, and hope. He unpacks why fear of man (FOPO) paralyzes high-performing men from generational impact, why performance mindsets leave holes no achievement fills, and how shifting identity to “child of God” breaks chains, rebuilds families, and reignites mission. From combat to chaplaincy to church...
2026-03-161h 02
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferRobb Wolf: Ancestral Health, LMNT, & Breaking Modern Overload | MTNPOD #158In this insightful MTNTOUGH Podcast episode, host Dustin Defenderfer sits down with Robb Wolf—former research biochemist, 2x New York Times best-selling author (The Paleo Solution, Wired to Eat), co-founder of LMNT, and leading voice in ancestral health and metabolic performance. Robb shares his journey from powerlifting records and early CrossFit affiliates to pioneering electrolyte science with LMNT, while unpacking why modern life (screens, distractions, constant stimulation) is crashing central nervous systems and fueling numbness, complacency, anxiety, and burnout in men. He discusses the power of sunlight, real food (wild game, simple meals), community, dragons to slay, breathwork/meditation fo...
2026-03-091h 01
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferDr. Michael Gervais: Fear of Man is Holding You Back | MTNPOD #157In this eye-opening MTNTOUGH Podcast episode, host Dustin Defenderfer sits down with world-renowned high-performance psychologist Dr. Michael Gervais—performance coach to Olympic athletes, Super Bowl champions (Seattle Seahawks), elite military units, and host of Finding Mastery podcast. Dr. Gervais dives deep into why fear of people’s opinions (FOPO) is the #1 constrictor of potential for men today, blocking generational impact, chain-breaking purpose, and world-changing pursuits. Drawing from The First Rule of Mastery and real-time Olympic examples (Mikaela Shiffrin’s gold-medal mindset shift), he unpacks training the mind to master thoughts/emotions, escape performance traps, build post-traumatic growth, and thrive under...
2026-03-0252 min
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferJeff Struecker: Black Hawk Down Ranger to Pastor | MTNPOD #156In this profound MTNTOUGH Podcast episode, host Dustin Defenderfer sits down with former U.S. Army Ranger Jeff Struecker—Battle of Mogadishu survivor (Black Hawk Down), Ranger Hall of Fame inductee, 23-year veteran, Army chaplain, best-selling author, international speaker, and now church planter/pastor. Jeff opens up about coming home from Somalia forever changed, the emptiness after winning Best Ranger despite years of brutal preparation, the spiritual awakening that shifted his identity from warrior to servant, and his calling to reach America's warriors at the soul level. He shares raw insights on masculinity in crisis, the growing gap between ex...
2026-02-231h 05
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferAron Snyder: The Real Reason Most Hunters Fail in the Backcountry | MTNPOD #155In this raw MTNTOUGH Podcast episode, host Dustin Defenderfer catches up with legendary hunter, former Kifaru designer, and now core team member at Born Primitive Outdoor, Aron Snyder. Aron opens up about his massive 2025 transition: leaving Kifaru after 15 years amid unexpected drama, joining Born Primitive to innovate packs, boots, and gear for mountain hunters, and a profound spiritual awakening that's lowered cortisol, brought forgiveness, joy, and peace. He shares insights on identity shifts, necessary endings, managing stress as a high-intensity dad/business owner, cutting negative people, building better habits (diet, fitness, church), and leveraging decades of field experience into...
2026-02-161h 28
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferSteven Grayhm: Saving Veterans' Lives After 14 Years of Grit | MTNPOD #154In this powerful MTNTOUGH Podcast episode, host Dustin Defenderfer sits down with filmmaker, actor, writer, and producer Steven Grayhm to unpack his 14-year journey creating Sheepdog—a human drama about a decorated U.S. Army combat veteran confronting the long aftermath of war and finding post-traumatic growth through community, faith, and purpose. Steven shares the raw origin story sparked by a tow-truck driver’s confession, nationwide road trips collecting veterans’ testimonials, heartbreaking losses to suicide, Hollywood resistance, and the relentless mission to get the film right. He discusses the film’s focus on healing over PTSD, the importance of brotherh...
2026-02-091h 06
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferMatt Stutzman: One-Shot Medal Chances Every 4 Years | MTNPOD #152In this inspiring MTNTOUGH Podcast episode, host Dustin Defenderfer interviews Matt Stutzman, the "Armless Archer" and world-class compound bow Olympian born without arms. Matt shares his journey overcoming massive expectations, choking under pressure in Tokyo, and mastering mental toughness for Paris—through adrenaline training (skydiving, drag racing at 200+ mph), venue visualization, and embracing the mental side. He discusses handling Olympic pressure (one-shot medal chances every 4 years), adrenaline control, positivity, and pushing limits as an adrenaline junkie—delivering powerful lessons on mindset, resilience, and redefining what's possible for hunters, athletes, and everyday warriors.Join Dustin Diefenderfer, Founder of MTNT...
2026-01-2658 min
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferMark Geist: Mortars, Miracles & Why He Survived Benghazi | MTNPOD #151Host Dustin Defenderfer interviews Mark "Oz" Geist, Benghazi survivor and founder of Shadow Warriors Project, in this gripping MTNTOUGH Podcast episode. Mark shares his miraculous survival during the 2012 Libya attack (mortars landing feet away, near-death resuscitation), faith journey seeing God's protection, law enforcement traumas, nonprofit work aiding veterans/contractors/first responders with service dogs, financial help, and retreats—plus powerful insights on forgiveness, living purposefully each day, spiritual warfare, family protection, and America's revival through faith and service.Join Dustin Diefenderfer, Founder of MTNTOUGH Fitness Lab and creator of the MTNTOUGH+ Fitness App in the top podcast fo...
2026-01-192h 15
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferKeith Sivera: 20 Years Sober: MTN OPS CEO's Raw Redemption Story | MTNPOD #150In this powerful episode, host Dustin Defenderfer sits down with Keith Sivera, CEO of MTN OPS and 20-year sober recovering alcoholic, who opens up about his journey from childhood immersed in alcohol culture to rock-bottom isolation, shame, and addiction. Keith shares how AA's community, accountability, and spiritual surrender saved his life, replaced numbness with discipline, and fueled his transformation through fitness—ultimately leading to purpose, leadership, and helping men escape apathy, loneliness, and substance abuse for a life of grit and meaning.Join Dustin Diefenderfer, Founder of MTNTOUGH Fitness Lab and creator of the MT...
2026-01-121h 11
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferFitness Lab Discussion: Why Every Mountain Athlete Needs to See This MTNTOUGH Update | Ryan Watson MTNTOUGH CMO/COOIn this episode, host Dustin Diefenderfer sits down with Ryan Watson, MTNTOUGH's growth leader and former OnX Maps director, to discuss the brand-new 2026 app relaunch. Ryan shares his journey from OnX to MTNTOUGH, the bold leap from comfort to risk, and dives deep into the app's upgraded features—like seamless music integration, workout tracking, dynamic filters, calendar planning, notes, wearables support, and the upcoming in-app community—designed to deliver more value, accountability, and life-changing results for backcountry hunters and everyday athletes.Join Dustin Diefenderfer, Founder of MTNTOUGH Fitness Lab and creator of the MTNTOUGH+ Fitness App in the...
2026-01-0849 min
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferJohn Radzwilla + Jason Ellis: Overcoming Childhood Sexual Trauma | MTNPOD #149On this powerful episode, Dustin welcomes John Radzwilla and Jason Ellis, discussing the depths of personal challenges and the journey toward a better path. This conversation explores the impact of past trauma, specifically dealing with childhood sexual abuse, offering crucial life lessons for anyone facing adversity. It underscores the process of going from struggling to thriving by embracing recovery and improving your mental health, making it a vital listen for those interested in addiction recovery and improving their overall well-being.Join Dustin Diefenderfer, Founder of MTNTOUGH Fitness Lab and creator of the MTNTOUGH+ Fitness...
2026-01-051h 11
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferShane Idleman: Men Are Numb And Nobody's Talking About It | MTNPOD #148Host Dustin Defenderfer sits down with Pastor Shane Idleman, founder of Westside Christian Fellowship, who shares his powerful journey from addiction to steroids, alcohol, rage, and despair to full surrender to Christ. Drawing from his broken past, Shane discusses overcoming midlife discouragement, performance identity traps, fear, and finding true peace through faith, repentance, worship, and full surrender to God—offering hope for men feeling numb, burned out, or lost in today's world.Join Dustin Diefenderfer, Founder of MTNTOUGH Fitness Lab and creator of the MTNTOUGH+ Fitness App in the top podcast for Mental Toughness and Mindset. (P.S...
2025-12-291h 08
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferJim Loehr: Unlock Your Purpose With These Mental Toughness Secrets | MTNPOD #147In this powerful episode of the MTNTOUGH Podcast, host Dustin Defenderfer interviews legendary performance psychologist Dr. Jim Loehr, co-founder of the Johnson & Johnson Human Performance Institute. Drawing from 50+ years of research with elite athletes, executives, and military personnel, Dr. Loehr reveals how true mental toughness integrates physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual dimensions—with purpose as the ultimate driver of fulfillment and success. Learn practical tools like the "tombstone exercise" to discover your self-transcendent purpose and overcome fear, complacency, and energy conservation bias for a bigger, more meaningful life.Join Dustin Diefenderfer, Founder of MTNTOUGH Fitness Lab and cr...
2025-12-221h 06
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferFlorent Groberg: Medal of Honor Recipient | MTNPOD #146Medal of Honor recipient Florent “Flo” Groberg shares the raw story of how his uncle’s brutal beheading by terrorists at age 12 flipped a switch that drove him to hunt evil, join the Army, survive tackling a suicide bomber in Afghanistan (losing 4 brothers), and battle survivor’s guilt. From Ranger School lessons to building unbreakable mental toughness as a husband and father, this is one of the most powerful conversations on trauma, purpose, love, and never quitting.Join Dustin Diefenderfer, Founder of MTNTOUGH Fitness Lab and creator of the MTNTOUGH+ Fitness App in the top podcast for Mental T...
2025-12-151h 24
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferPete Roberts: He Lost Everything, Built a 100% American Brand | MTNPOD #145Pete Roberts (Founder of Origin USA & Jocko Fuel) shares how losing 60% of his business overnight in the 2008 crash forced him to rebuild with one unbreakable rule: 100% American-made, no compromises. From rescuing WWII-era machines in rural Maine to partnering with Jocko Willink and investing hundreds of millions into U.S. manufacturing, Pete reveals the raw truth about purpose-driven business, raising Gen-X-style kids in a digital world, why “build-to-flip” is a lie, and how real American resurgence actually happens.Join Dustin Diefenderfer, Founder of MTNTOUGH Fitness Lab and creator of the MTNTOUGH+ Fitness App in the top podcast for Ment...
2025-12-081h 02
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferAdam Davis: Cop Abused as Child Contemplates Suicide, Finds God & Becomes Warrior | MTNPOD #144Former law enforcement officer Adam Davis survived childhood s*xua abuse at 5 and 15, battled suicidal ideation with a g*n to his head in a patrol car, and encountered the love of God that saved his life and marriage. Now a bestselling author and speaker, he reveals how to break generational curses, fight real spiritual warfare, forgive the unforgivable, and step into Kingdom authority as a man, husband, and father.Join Dustin Diefenderfer, Founder of MTNTOUGH Fitness Lab and creator of the MTNTOUGH+ Fitness App in the top podcast for Mental Toughness and Mindset. (P.S. 🐏 Get You...
2025-12-011h 18
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferPhil Hopper: Ex-SWAT Officer Ditches Badge for Pulpit | MTNPOD #143Former Kansas City SWAT sergeant Phil Hopper shares his jaw-dropping story of surviving a near-fatal wreck, finding Christ, leading men to Jesus on the job, and how God hijacked his career overnight to turn him into a pastor. With a massive spiritual awakening sweeping America right now, he reveals how to know when God is truly calling you, why real faith has to feel dangerous, and how men break free from numbness to live with lion-like purpose.Join Dustin Diefenderfer, Founder of MTNTOUGH Fitness Lab and creator of the MTNTOUGH+ Fitness App in the top podcast for...
2025-11-2452 min
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferNate Boyer: Green Beret to NFL at 34 | MTNPOD #142Ex-Green Beret Nate Boyer joins MTNTOUGH to reveal how volunteering in Darfur sparked his military path, walking on at Texas football at 29, playing NFL with Seahawks at 34, and co-founding Merging Vets & Players (MVP) to rebuild camaraderie for transitioning veterans and athletes through gym workouts and peer support—proving it's never too late to chase purpose and crush regret.Join Dustin Diefenderfer, Founder of MTNTOUGH Fitness Lab and creator of the MTNTOUGH+ Fitness App in the top podcast for Mental Toughness and Mindset. (P.S. 🐏 Get Your First Month of MTNTOUGH Free Use Code "MTNPOD" @ https...
2025-11-171h 12
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferBear Handlon: Wiping $25 Million In Veteran Debt | MTNPOD #141Bear Handlon, founder of Born Primitive, joins the MTNTOUGH Podcast to announce a partnership with Black R!fle Coffee to erase up to $25 million in veteran medical debt from November 7–11, 2025. He shares his journey from military service and personal hardship to renewed faith, revealing how surrender and purpose replaced a performance-driven mindset. The conversation explores America’s spiritual awakening, the power of calculated risk, and building a business that fuels both profit and life-changing impact. Listeners are invited to shop both brands during the campaign to directly support thousands of veterans and their families.Join Dustin Diefenderfer, Foun...
2025-11-101h 19
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferTaya + Colton Kyle: Can American Marriages Survive 2025? | MTNPOD #140This week on the MTNTOUGH Podcast we have Taya Kyle, widow of Navy SEAL Chris Kyle ("American Sniper"), and their son Colton Kyle. They explore themes of resilience, faith, and family growth amid adversity, sharing insights on raising mature young men, navigating service marriages, and combating cultural challenges like por*ography and divorce. Discover practical tools for mental toughness, generational improvement, and building strong, respectful relationships in this heartfelt episode focused on thriving through life's trials.Join Dustin Diefenderfer, Founder of MTNTOUGH Fitness Lab and creator of the MTNTOUGH+ Fitness App in the top podcast for Mental...
2025-11-031h 45
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferMike Hernandez: Near Death Crash and Self-Reliance Secrets | MTNPOD #139In this episode of the MTNTOUGH Podcast, host Dustin Diefenderfer chats with Mike Hernandez, CEO of Fieldcraft Survival. Mike shares his harrowing near-death truck crash in Colorado, crediting divine intervention for his survival. They discuss his journey from 15 years in behavioral health fostering troubled boys to leading Fieldcraft, blending self-reliance training, overlanding, and survival skills with faith-based ministry. Topics include overcoming adversity, mental toughness, outdoor healing, and biblical mandates for strength and love, inspiring listeners to unplug, build resilience, and serve others.Join Dustin Diefenderfer, Founder of MTNTOUGH Fitness Lab and creator of the MTNTOUGH+ Fitness App...
2025-10-271h 03
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferJustin Wren: From MMA to Congo, The Wild Story Behind His Vanishing Act | MTNPOD #138Join former MMA fighter Justin Wren on the MTNTOUGH Podcast as he shares his incredible journey from the fighting cage to humanitarian work in the Congo, hosted by Dustin Diefenderfer. Discover how Wren, known as the Albino Rhino, found purpose through service after battling depression and addiction, leading him to aid the Pygmy people with clean water wells and sustainable farms. Explore themes of mental toughness, overcoming fear, and the power of purpose in this inspiring episode filled with real-life adventures and life-changing visions. Learn about Fight for the Forgotten, Wren's nonprofit that's provided water to over 80,000 people and...
2025-10-201h 04
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferJosh Smith: Defying the Odds to Revive American Manufacturing | MTNPOD #137Today on MTNTOUGH Podcast we have Josh Smith, founder of Montana Knife Company, for an inspiring dive into building an American manufacturing legacy from a garage in Frenchtown, Montana. Discover how Josh defied skeptics, took calculated risks, and assembled a powerhouse team to bring knife-making from raw steel to shipping under one roof. With raw honesty, Josh shares the challenges of scaling a business in a frontier state, the power of lifelong learning, and why it’s never too late to chase your dreams. Packed with entrepreneurial wisdom and a passion for empowering local communities, this episode will motivate yo...
2025-10-131h 15
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferJoby Martin: Calling Men to Biblical Manhood | MTNPOD #136In this episode of the MTNTOUGH Podcast, host Dustin Diefenderfer welcomes back Joby Martin, a dynamic communicator calling men to biblical manhood. Joby dives into his new book, Stand Firm and Act Like Men: Becoming the Man You Were Created to Be Instead of the Man the World Says You Are, unpacking the scriptural imperatives to be watchful, stand firm in faith, act like men, be strong, and let everything be done in love. He addresses the cultural attacks on masculinity, the rise of a grassroots men's movement, and the signs of revival sweeping churches and society, emphasizing the...
2025-10-061h 08
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferJerrad Lopes: How Dads Can Heal Their Souls and Thrive | MTNPOD #135In this gripping episode of the MTNTOUGH Podcast, host Dustin Diefenderfer welcomes Jerrad Lopes, author of Dad Tired and a passionate advocate for fathers battling soul-weary apathy. Jerrad shares his raw journey through a midlife crisis, revealing how intensive counseling transformed him into a better husband and dad. He dives into the "stress bubble" men face in their 30s and 40s, exploring how apathy can drain purpose and how vulnerability, authentic friendships, and faith can restore it. This powerful conversation offers actionable insights for dads to heal their souls, embrace their true selves, and thrive amidst life’s challenges. Jo...
2025-09-2959 min
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferRebecca Rusch: The Queen of Pain's SHOCKING Secret to Mental Toughness | MTNPOD #134In this episode of the MTNTOUGH Podcast, host Dustin Diefenderfer welcomes Rebecca "The Queen of Pain" Rusch, a seven-time world champion across multiple endurance disciplines. Rebecca shares how her mental toughness and adventurous spirit were forged in her childhood, exploring the critical role of curiosity and community in her journey from a competitive athlete to a lifelong advocate for outdoor movement. She discusses the profound difference between the cerebral nature of outdoor sports and the singular focus it requires, and reveals how a career-defining concussion forced her to redefine strength by embracing holistic health, community, and vulnerability. This conversation...
2025-09-2257 min
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferJason Khalipa: American Men: Get Off the Couch and Rise Up Now | MTNPOD #133In this episode of the MTNTOUGH Podcast, host Dustin Diefenderfer welcomes Jason Khalipa, former CrossFit Games champion and passionate advocate for men's physical and mental transformation. Jason shares his evolution from being the fittest man on earth to leading weekly men's clubs that foster camaraderie and resilience through shared fitness challenges. He discusses the critical role of fitness in preparing men to protect and provide, the power of faith in answering life's callings, and his simple yet transformative "45 Principle" for jumpstarting a healthier lifestyle. This conversation is a compelling call to action for men to rise up, build their...
2025-09-151h 01
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferRiley Gaines: NCAA Champion's Bold Fight for Fairness and Faith | MTNPOD #132In this episode of the MTNTOUGH Podcast, host Dustin Diefenderfer sits down with Riley Gaines, a 12-time All-American swimmer and fearless advocate for fairness in women's athletics. Riley shares her journey from competing at the NCAA championships to becoming a leading voice in one of today's most intense cultural battles. She discusses her unshakable mindset, the pivotal moment that ignited her advocacy, and the spiritual strength that drives her mission. From her historic swim from Alcatraz while pregnant to her vision for her daughter's future, Riley's story is a powerful testament to courage, faith, and resilience.
2025-09-0843 min
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferRiley Green: Hard Work Made Me A Country Star | MTNPOD #131Join us for an inspiring conversation with country music star Riley Green on the MTNTOUGH Podcast. Hailing from a small town in Alabama, Riley shares his journey from framing houses and playing local bars to signing a Nashville record deal and topping charts with hits like "Grandpas Never Die." He opens up about his passion for hunting, staying fit on the road, and the work ethic that fueled his rise in the competitive country music industry. From navigating newfound fame to staying grounded in his faith and roots, Riley reveals how authenticity drives his success. This raw discussion explores...
2025-09-0154 min
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferEddie Penney: DEVGRU to Single Dad of 3 Overnight | MTNPOD #130🚨GIVEAWAY ALERT! 🚨 WIN a MAGPUL Daka Hard Case R44 ($339.99 MSRP)!To enter is very simple!1. Visit the podcast link on YouTube here: [https://youtu.be/dabkU7m-u8Y]2. Like the full podcast video3. Subscribe to the MTNTOUGH Podcast Channel on YouTube4. Comment on the full podcast video, we will select a winner from the comment section of THAT video (not this one.)Winner will be selected Friday August 29th! Good luck!Join our conversation with former Navy SEAL and SEAL Team 6 (DEVGRU) operator Eddie Penney. With a 20-year military career starting as a Marine right out of high s...
2025-08-251h 43
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferRich Froning: Secrets Revealed from Fatherhood to Mental Toughness! | MTNPOD #128CrossFit GOAT Rich Froning REVEALS Secrets from Fatherhood to Mental Toughness!Dive into an EXPLOSIVE Mountain Tough Podcast episode with CrossFit legend Rich Froning, 4x individual & 6x team CrossFit Games champ! 🚨 From crushing it at the Games to building CrossFit Mayhem, Rich shares his raw journey: high school sports, dominating CrossFit, and balancing elite fitness with being a dad to three. 💪 Get insider tips on mental toughness, battling tech distractions, and hunting adventures that keep him grounded. 🔥 Must-watch for CrossFit fans, fitness junkies, and anyone chasing purpose!Buy Rich’s book First: What It Takes to Win: htt...
2025-08-181h 04
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferJeremy + Jared of HUNTR: State's Are Causing Hunting To Become a Rich Man’s Sport | MTNPOD #128Watch the full episode: https://youtu.be/8_pHIxKm0IEJeremy & Jared from HUNTR Podcast expose how tech & privatization are turning hunting into a pay-to-play game! 💰 Will fences ruin it for everyone?Join Dustin Diefenderfer, Founder of MTNTOUGH Fitness Lab and creator of the MTNTOUGH+ Fitness App in the top podcast for Mental Toughness and Mindset. (P.S. 🐏 Get Your First Month of MTNTOUGH Free Use Code "MTNPOD" @ https://mtntough.com/.) On this show, we delve into guests' purpose, mentality, and mental toughness so you can learn from the best of the best. Whether you're a seasoned backcountry hunter, an out...
2025-08-111h 05
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferMason Sawyer: The Surprising Thing Everyone With Grief Shares | MTNPOD #127Grief is a daily, fluctuating battle, not a linear process. Dive into Mason's incredibly heartbreaking story of losing his whole family in one moment.Join Dustin Diefenderfer, Founder of MTNTOUGH Fitness Lab and creator of the MTNTOUGH+ Fitness App in the top podcast for Mental Toughness and Mindset. (P.S. 🐏 Get Your First Month of MTNTOUGH Free Use Code "MTNPOD" @ https://mtntough.com/.) On this show, we delve into guests' purpose, mentality, and mental toughness so you can learn from the best of the best. Whether you're a seasoned backcountry hunter, an outdoorsman, or simply someone who wan...
2025-08-041h 13
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferSam Mackey: From Juvenile Hall to a New Start in the Military | MTNPOD #126Join us for an inspiring conversation with retired Navy SEAL Sam Mackey, CEO of Outsider, an outdoor and lifestyle brand. In this episode, Sam shares his incredible journey, from a troubled youth involving expulsion, juvenile hall, and house arrest to a 20-year career in the SEAL Teams, and now leading a performance-driven business. Discover how his mindset evolved from survival-driven combat toughness to strategic, entrepreneurship-focused resilience. Hear gripping stories from deployments in Iraq, Afghanistan, Africa, and South America, insights on building mental toughness through cumulative experiences, and his commitment to lifelong adventure—sharing thrilling elk hunting tales to model re...
2025-07-2857 min
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferByron Owen: From Force Recon to Pentagon Leadership - Evolving Mental Toughness | MTNPOD #125Listen to this episode with Colonel Byron Owen, a Marine Corps veteran whose career spans Force Recon to Pentagon leadership. Discover how Byron’s mindset has evolved from the intense, survival-driven mental toughness of combat to the strategic, people-focused resilience required in today’s complex military landscape. He shares gripping stories from Afghanistan, insights on building mental toughness through cumulative experiences, and his commitment to lifelong learning—teaching himself Japanese to model resilience for his kids. Learn how his leadership philosophy, rooted in trust and empowering others, creates lasting impact, and hear about his transition to cyber operations and advoca...
2025-07-211h 23
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferSteve Decker: Conserve Habitat, Empower Hunters | MTNPOD #124Join us for an inspiring episode with Steve Decker of the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation (RMEF)! Since 1984, RMEF has been a powerhouse in habitat conservation and public land access, now leading as a major owner of Outdoor Class. Discover how RMEF has helped double North American elk populations to over 1.1 million, the critical role hunters play in conservation, and the success of projects like the Rob Ledford Wildlife Management Area. Steve also dives into the Outdoor Class program, empowering new hunters, and shares exciting updates on RMEF’s upcoming initiatives in Nevada and Montana. Don’t miss this deep dive...
2025-07-1458 min
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferPedro Ampuero: Stop Making Excuses and Start Exploring | MTNPOD #123On this episode of the MTNTOUGH Podcast, Dustin sits down with world-renowned bowhunter Pedro Ampuero for an in-depth conversation on mental toughness, global adventure hunting, and the mindset required to push through the extremes. From growing up in Spain to chasing some of the toughest mountain hunts on the planet, Pedro shares his personal philosophy on preparation, discomfort, and what it truly takes to pursue wild places at the edge of human endurance.Join Dustin Diefenderfer, Founder of MTNTOUGH Fitness Lab and creator of the MTNTOUGH+ Fitness App in the top podcast for Mental Toughness and Mindset...
2025-07-071h 06
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferSenator Tim Sheehy: How His Mental Toughness Took Him From Navy SEAL to Senator | MTNPOD #120Join Senator Tim Sheehy, former Navy SEAL, on the MTNTOUGH Podcast as he shares his journey from battlefield to Capitol Hill. Discover his raw insights on mental toughness, leadership, and tackling America’s challenges with grit and heart. Use code MTNPOD for 6 weeks free on the MTNTOUGH app! Join Dustin Diefenderfer, Founder of MTNTOUGH Fitness Lab and creator of the MTNTOUGH+ Fitness App in the top podcast for Mental Toughness and Mindset. (P.S. 🐏 Get Your First Month of MTNTOUGH Free Use Code "MTNPOD" @ https://mtntough.com/.) On this show, we delve into guests' purpose, mentality, and menta...
2025-06-1640 min
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferJohn Doolittle: Navy SEAL’s Secrets to Boost First Responder Mental Health | MTNPOD #119Host Dustin Diefenderfer interviews former Navy SEAL John Doolittle, who shares his extensive experience in addressing mental health, sleep, and performance challenges faced by first responders, veterans, and active-duty military. Doolittle discusses his 25-year Navy career, including his work with SOCOM’s Preservation of the Force and Family program, where he helped validate Magnetic EEG Guided Resonance Therapy (MERT) to improve sleep and mental health. He highlights the critical link between sleep deprivation and issues like depression, anxiety, and suicide, emphasizing how even an extra hour of sleep can transform lives. Doolittle also underscores the importance of trusted relationships an...
2025-06-091h 07
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferDr. Shawn Rowland: Unveiling America's Pharma Crisis - Jase Medical’s Mission to Empower Preparedness | MTNPOD #118Dr. Shawn Rowland reveals America's pharma crisis and Jase Medical's mission to empower readiness!Check out our Episode with Andy Stumpf! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fXp4Tqz0Klg&list=PLdAelJZ1bZWr5v6K_-IPix0tq8b7xH1msJoin Dustin Diefenderfer, Founder of MTNTOUGH Fitness Lab and creator of the MTNTOUGH+ Fitness App in the top podcast for Mental Toughness and Mindset. (P.S. 🐏 Get Your First Month of MTNTOUGH Free Use Code "MTNPOD" @ https://mtntough.com/.) On this show, we delve into guests' purpose, mentality, and mental toughness so you can learn fro...
2025-06-021h 08
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferMicah Fink: From War to Wilderness - How This SEAL Heals Veterans Without Medication | MTNPOD #119On this episode of the MTNTOUGH Podcast, Dustin sits down with Micah Fink, former Navy SEAL, paramilitary contractor, and founder of the Montana-based nonprofit Heroes and Horses.Micah shares his journey from military service to launching a revolutionary program aimed to transform the lives of veterans. In this conversation, he dives into the failures of traditional PTSD treatment models, the founding of Heroes and Horses, and why true healing comes through adversity, challenge, and pushing past comfort zones.Follow Heroes and Horses on Instagram @heroesandhorses and explore their mission heroesandhorses.org for more details.
2025-05-262h 40
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferSean DeGrey: From Failed Ventures to Archery Empire | MTNPOD #116Sean DeGrey's gritty journey from failures to building an archery empire with family & passion!Loved this podcast? Check out this episode with Matt McPherson: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QB4hXEVhVZo&list=PLdAelJZ1bZWr5v6K_-IPix0tq8b7xH1ms&index=2Join Dustin Diefenderfer, Founder of MTNTOUGH Fitness Lab and creator of the MTNTOUGH+ Fitness App in the top podcast for Mental Toughness and Mindset. (P.S. 🐏 Get Your First Month of MTNTOUGH Free Use Code "MTNPOD" @ https://mtntough.com/.) On this show, we delve into guests' purpose, mentality, and mental toughness so you...
2025-05-121h 03
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferMatt McPherson: Founder of Mathews Archery | MTNPOD #115On this episode of the MTNTOUGH Podcast, Dustin sits down with Matt McPherson, the visionary behind McPherson Guitars and Mathews Archery. From revolutionizing bowhunting to crafting world-class guitars with groundbreaking designs, Matt shares how his passion for engineering, music, and the outdoors has shaped his career.We’ll dive into the latest innovations at Mathews Archery, including the 2025 LIFT X, and explore the inspiration behind his Land Unlocked documentary, which highlights adventure and responsible land access. Plus, we’ll discuss how faith and family continue to drive his work, and what’s the latest at McPherson Guitars. Fol...
2025-05-051h 08
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferKyle Thompson: Host of Undaunted Life + Daily Blade Podcasts | MTNPOD #114🎉 LAUNCH GIVEAWAY ALERT! Details below...To celebrate our new channel, we’re giving away a YETI 65 cooler, an MTNTOUGH merchandise package, and a free yearly MTNTOUGH+ membership!🚨 Welcome to the NEW MTNTOUGH Podcast YouTube Channel! 🚨 Join host Dustin Diefenderfer for hard-hitting conversations on physical fitness, mental toughness, and backcountry adventures. From elite hunters to Navy SEALs, we bring you the stories and strategies to help you conquer any challenge. 💪How to Enter:1. Like this video2. Subscribe to the NEW channel (https://www.youtube.com/@MTNTOUGHPodcast)3. Leave a comment belowDon’t miss your chance to win! Giveaway ends Friday, May 2nd. Subscribe no...
2025-04-281h 38
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferJim Burgen: The Hard Truth About Leading Men | MTNPOD#113On this episode of the MTNTOUGH Podcast, Dustin sits down with Jim Burgen, Lead Pastor of Flatirons Community Church in Colorado. Jim shares insights from his leadership experience, the challenges of guiding a large church, and how he helps men reset through Moss Rock Ranch, a retreat space designed for leaders to recharge.Jim opens up about the importance of taking time to pause and rest, and how men can take ownership of their spiritual, mental, and emotional health through events like Herd 90, his version of the 75 Hard program....
2025-04-211h 13
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferFitness Lab Discussion: MTNTOUGH President Lyle Hebel, Your Body is GearDustin sits down with longtime friend and newly instated MTNTOUGH President Lyle Hebel to chat all things hunting, and how critical it is to be physically prepared for your mountain endeavors.Presented by Sig Sauer.----🔫 AmmoSquared is America’s Ammunition Reserve! Get 75 rounds of 9mm—completely FREE when you sign up: bit.ly/MtnTough🥩 MEAT! Your Maker, Use link: https://www.meatyourmaker.com/?avad=409605_c4006fed1&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_source=avantlink&utm_campaign=352181&utm_term=NA&utm_content=409605-cl-Custom+Link💊 Get 20% off MTNTOPS Supplements, Use Code "MTNTOUGH" Her...
2025-04-0337 min
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferRyan Manion: STOP Living in Fear of Loss. Start Living with Purpose. | MTNPOD #107On this episode of the MTNTOUGH Podcast, Dustin sits down with Ryan Manion, CEO of the Travis Manion Foundation, a leading organization dedicated to empowering veterans and families of fallen heroes. As the daughter of a Marine and someone who has faced profound personal loss, Ryan is a fierce advocate for resiliency, service, and honoring the legacy of those who serve. She shares how adversity has shaped her mission, the impact of her foundation’s work, and the mindset required to push forward in the face of hardship. Don’t miss this powerful conversation on leadership, sacrifice, and purpose....
2025-03-101h 12
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferFitness Lab Discussion: Homeland Security Pulls Us Off The Plane! Jaw-Dropping Moments from MTNTOUGH's 2024 Ibex HuntDustin sits down with Peter Howell of Sig Sauer to reminisce and tell stories about their 2024 Mid-asian ibex hunt. Watch the full hunt film here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FjALfOCF_2I&t=669sPresented by Sig Sauer.----Get 20% Off IceBarrel with code “MTNTOUGH” here: https://t.ly/m62rKMTNTOUGH is for $10 off Jase https://jasemedical.com/?rstr=22205Get 20% off MTNTOPS Supplements, Use Code "MTNTOUGH" Here at checkout: https://mtn-ops.sjv.io/LXkPEo
2025-02-201h 22MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferFitness Lab Discussion: Master MTNTOUGH Yoga for Holistic Functional FitnessDustin sits down with Danni Mackenzie, MTNTOUGH's newest Daily Coach about her new program: MTNTOUGH Yoga Daily.
MTNTOUGH Daily Yoga is designed to address several key challenges faced by fitness enthusiasts. Many struggle to find workouts that not only test their physical strength but also push their mental resilience, and this program provides that perfect blend. For those dealing with stiffness, poor mobility, or joint health issues, the daily yoga sessions target these areas to improve flexibility, joint stability, and overall mobility.
Additionally, individuals often feel stuck in repetitive routines, but MTNTOUGH...
2025-02-0652 min
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferFitness Lab Discussion: Remi Warren + Randy Newberg Chat Backcountry FitnessDustin sits down with Remi Warren and Randy Newberg at Wild Sheep Foundation's SHEEP SHOW in Reno NV to talk all things backcountry fitness. From Remi's experience as a guide to Randy's AK Dall Sheep hunt this past year, the 3 dive into how fitness is a key factor in conquering the demands of the backcountry.
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2025-01-3000 min
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferKyle Kamp: Diving into the MTNTOUGH 8 Week LIVE READY Challenge | MTNPOD #97Welcome to the MTNTOUGH Live Ready 8-Week Challenge Get ready to take on the New Year with a powerful, simple, and effective program that will help you Live Ready—physically, mentally, and nutritionally. At MTNTOUGH, we believe in giving you the tools to be prepared for anything life throws your way. Our Live Ready Challenge is designed to help you build sustainable habits that will leave you feeling stronger, healthier, and more energized—every day.
Over the next 8 weeks, we’ll guide you through eight key elements that work together to optimize your nutrition, fitnes...
2024-12-301h 54
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferWyatt Ewing: Inside Ice Barrel's CEO's New Innovative Cold Therapy Solution | MTNPOD #95Get 20% Off IceBarrel with code “MTNTOUGH” here: https://t.ly/m62rK
Wyatt Ewing is the Founder and CEO of Ice Barrel, a company transforming wellness through
cold therapy. After struggling with anxiety and burnout, Wyatt discovered the benefits of cold
exposure, which inspired him to create Ice Barrel. Today, he’s dedicated to helping others find
balance and recovery through this innovative therapy, investing years into refining the product
for maximum efficiency and accessibility. Wyatt’s mission is simple: to make cold therapy a
powerful, accessible reset for a more balanced life.
_
Presented By SIG SAUER
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2024-12-161h 08
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferShane Dorian: Mental Health in the Backcountry and on Big Waves | MTNPOD #94In this episode, Dustin sits down with Shane Dorian, a world-renowned big wave surfer and backcountry hunter, known for his fearless approach to both sports.
Hailing from Hawaii, Dorian has been a dominant force in the world of big wave surfing, having ridden some of the most massive and challenging waves on the planet, including at legendary spots like Pipeline and Jaws. He has achieved numerous accolades in the surfing world, including winning the prestigious Quiksilver Big Wave Invitational at Peahi.
Beyond the surf, Dorian is also an avid outdoorsman with a passion for backcountry...
2024-12-091h 16
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferFitness Lab Discussion: Elite Bodyweight Training MTNTOUGH 30-30 3.0🐏 Get Your First Month of MTNTOUGH Free Use Code "MTNPOD" @ https://mtntough.com/
🇺🇸 Merch: https://mtntough.com/collections/merch
We are thrilled to introduce the 30-30 3.0 program, designed for advanced fitness athletes who want high-quality, effective workouts without the need for extensive equipment. This new offering features a series of 30-minute workouts, five days a week, over the course of six weeks, utilizing just a pull-up bar. Tailored for busy individuals, outdoor enthusiasts or MTNTOUGH athletes on the road, the program ensures that customers can maintain their training regimen anywhere, anytime, while still achieving optimal performance and results.
The program e...
2024-11-1423 min
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferFitness Lab Discussion: The New MTNTOUGH Weight Vest Program w/ Sarah MaschinoLive now in the MTNTOUGH App! Equip yourself with the right tools for the mission with MTNTOUGH x 5.11 Tactical’s Weight Vest 20 (WV20) Program. WV20 is comprised of 20 workouts over a 4-week period that will challenge your tactical readiness and keep you at peak performance.
WV20 is accessible anywhere and anytime, requiring only a weight vest and step-up box. This program simulates the physical demands of tactical operations and fieldwork, enhancing functional resilience and power.
LEARN MORE:
Gear up for the program:
Tac Tec Vest https://www.511tactical.com/tac-tec-plate-carrier.html
Use code MTN20 for 20% off Weight Vests
🐏 Get Your...
2024-09-1923 min
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferJohn Radzwilla: Challenge Everything, Then Do The Unexpected MTNTOUGH POD #78With adventure always on his mind, Hook & Barrel’s wild Co-Founder and CEO, John J. Radzwilla can often be found in far-flung destinations. From sheep hunting in the Chihuahuan Desert to fishing deep within the Amazon, or off-road racing in Mexico, John knows tomorrow is never promised. His mantra for himself and his company is “challenge everything, then do the unexpected.”
John attributes much of his success and extreme focus to his all-out commitment to physical fitness and the mental toughness that it breeds. His daily soul-crushing workouts keep him on track both physically and emo...
2024-08-201h 09
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferJared Hudson: Hunting Down Sex Predators & How To Protect Your Kids | MTNTOUGH POD #77We sit down with Jared Hudson, a former Navy SEAL with an extraordinary journey from the battlefield oversees to a new battle at home. Jared has dedicated his life to combating human trafficking by founding the Covenant Rescue Group: https://www.covenantrescue.org/
Get the Crush Evil Hat: https://www.covenantrescue.org/merch/p/crush-evil-camoblack-mesh-snapback-patch-cap
🐏 Get Your First Month of MTNTOUGH Free Use Code "MTNPOD" @ https://mtntough.com/
🇺🇸 Merch: https://mtntough.com/collections/merch
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What is MTNTOUGH Fitness?
MTNTOUGH is The #1 Fitness App Trusted By The Dedicated
Our premier functiona...
2024-08-131h 19
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferDaniel Horner: Ten-Time USPSA Multigun Champion| MTNTOUGH POD #76Today’s guest is Daniel Horner, the ten-time USPSA Multigun Champion, four-time 3-Gun Nation Pro Series Champion and member of the SIG SAUER Professional Shooting Team. Daniel is undoubtedly one of the best multi-gun shooters in the world.
🐏 Get Your First Month of MTNTOUGH Free Use Code "MTNPOD" @ https://mtntough.com/
🇺🇸 Merch: https://mtntough.com/collections/merch
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What is MTNTOUGH?
MTNTOUGH is The #1 Fitness App Trusted By The Dedicated
Our premier functional fitness programming is conveniently packaged for hunters, first responders, military, and mountain athletes. Train at home, at the gym, or on the go.
Since 2016...
2024-08-061h 42
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferExposing The Dark Side of Tech Addiction (w/Michael Easter) | MTNT POD #75Join Dustin Diefenderfer as he sits down with Michael Easter, author of "The Comfort Crisis" and "Scarcity Brain." In this eye-opening episode, they delve into the hidden mechanisms driving our tech addictions and overconsumption habits, revealing powerful insights that could transform your daily life. Dustin shares a compelling story, including a jaw-dropping transformation of a troubled teen and surprising revelations. Don’t miss this captivating discussion that might just change how you view your relationship with technology and consumption. Tune in now to uncover the secrets behind the scarcity loop and find out what you can do to break fr...
2024-07-301h 15
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferBRANDON MADDOX: Founder, CEO and President of Silencer Central E43Brandon Maddox, CEO and owner of Silencer Central, is recognized as a national thought leader on Class 3 firearms. What began as Maddox’s home-based Federal Firearms License (FFL) evolved into a Class 3 Dealership and has grown into the nationwide brand it is today. Maddox’s NFA expertise makes him a popular voice for the industry, and he speaks regularly at National Compliance Conferences.Before his work with Silencer Central, Maddox practiced pharmacy and served as a marketing executive in the pharmaceutical industry. He is a graduate of the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill and holds a Master’s in B...
2023-12-111h 06
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferMTNTOUGH Live Q+A - November 2023 - Dr. Tom Walters of Rehab ScienceAbout every month we host a live Q&A on different topics surrounding the MTNTOUGH ethos. Watch our third Q&A from November 2023 with our Dr. of Physical Therapy, Tom Walters of Rehab Science and our Founder Dustin as they dive into questions from our app subscribers around the Physical Therapy and specific issues!If you want to sign up to get notified about Live Q+As, when they are and how to join... tap this link.
2023-11-1357 min
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferMTNTOUGH Athletic Director Sarah Maschino: Deep dive in to Gym ON-RAMP, NEW Entry Level Full Gym Program E37Eliminate the intimidation factor when it comes to starting MTNTOUGH and working out in a fitness facility. GYM ON-RAMP incorporates functional, dynamic movements on basic gym equipment. So grab your keys and hit the road – it’s time to level up and go.Why We Built ItDon’t just pay for your gym membership: Use it. GYM ON-RAMP was built to eliminate the intimidation of navigating the ins and outs of fitness equipment in a public setting. This self-guided program cuts through the confusion of using basic fitness equipment found in most gyms through a series...
2023-10-1231 min
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferMTNTOUGH Live Q+A - September 2023 - SB20 ProgramEvery month we host a live Q&A on different topics surrounding the MTNTOUGH ethos. Watch our second Q&A with our Athletic Director Sarah Maschino and our Founder Dustin as they dive into questions from our app subscribers around the Sandbag 20 program and other programs we offer.
2023-10-0359 min
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferMTNTOUGH Live Q+A - August 2023 - Mental ToughnessEvery month we host a live Q&A on different topics surrounding the MTNTOUGH ethos. Watch our first Q&A with our Director of Mindset Phil and our Founder Dustin as they dive into questions from our app subscribers around mental toughness, purpose, and grit.
2023-09-121h 01
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferMTNTOUGH Podcast: Lieutenant Colonel Scott GrossLast year, we put a call out to our community to share the ways MTNTOUGH has impacted their lives. Thousands answered, but one story stood out. We sit down with Scott to talk about his journey as a military man, family man and MTNTOUGHer. While his day job is program manager for the Air Force’s MQ-9 Reaper, when he’s at home, he and his wife work to raise this next generation by focusing on a family motto that embodies their core values of trying hard, choosing wisely and bravely adapting to whatever life throws their way. Chec...
2023-06-291h 12
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferAra Megerdichian and Dustin Diefenderfer on Mental Toughness in FatherhoodIn this podcast, we have Ara Megerdichian and MTNTOUGH Founder Dustin Diefenderfer discussing how mental toughness plays a role in parenting, specifically fatherhood. How do you guide your children to the right direction? What do you need to be doing to be a good example for your kids? Ara and Dustin tackle things from schooling, to forgiving your own parents.
2023-02-2452 min
MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin DiefenderferAra Megerdichian and Dustin Diefenderfer on the Art of Lifelong Mental ToughnessIn this podcast, have MTNTOUGH Strategic Advisor Ara Megerdichian and MTNTOUGH Founder Dustin Diefenderfer discussing how one manages to have a strong mind throughout their entire life. It's one thing to be mentally tough for one hour when you know there is an end in sight, but what about when hardships keep coming, and coming and you never know when it might end? How to you train for that? How can you build an unstoppable mentality?
2023-02-2350 min