Shows
First Chair: PSIA-AASI PodcastBuilding Better Skiers: PSIA-AASI x U.S. Ski & Snowboard CollaborationIn this episode of First Chair, host George Thomas sits down with Matt Gnoza, Freestyle Sport Director at U.S. Ski & Snowboard, and PSIA-AASI National Team members AJ and Elle, to explore a groundbreaking collaboration between the two organizations.
As the U.S. prepares for the 2034 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City, Matt shares how his team designed a new National Development Group program to prepare future Olympians — and why partnering with PSIA-AASI was a game-changer.
AJ and Elle discuss what it was like to work with elite freestyle athletes, how fundamental skiing skills translate to world-class performance, and what bo...
2025-12-1734 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI PodcastWe’re Listening: How PSIA-AASI’s New Member Survey Will Shape the Future of InstructionIn this special episode of the First Chair Podcast, PSIA-AASI CEO Jeff Lifgren and Marketing & Communications Director Katherine Fuller share the inside story behind this season’s all-new member survey. This isn’t just another questionnaire — it’s part of a larger, ongoing effort to better understand and respond to the needs of instructors, schools, and the entire snowsports industry.
Jeff and Katherine discuss why this new approach is different, how it will help PSIA-AASI stay relevant in a rapidly changing environment, and why every member’s participation matters. From uncovering what drives instructors to helping schools tell their story to resort...
2025-10-2816 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcastepisode 747 | Meet PSIA-AASI's New CEO, Jeff LifgrenIn this episode of First Chair, host George Thomas sits down with Jeff Lifgren, the newly appointed CEO of PSIA-AASI. Jeff shares his journey from working at top destination resorts like Breckenridge and Park City to leading ski schools across the country, including smaller Mid-Atlantic resorts. He discusses the value of diverse teaching experiences, his commitment to professional development, and his vision for PSIA-AASI’s future.
Tune in to hear Jeff’s thoughts on leadership, innovation in snowsports education, and how PSIA-AASI can better support its members—whether they’re full-time instructors, weekend warriors, or lifelong enthusiasts. Plus, get a sneak pe...
2025-03-1618 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI PodcastEpisode 715: Setting Attainable Goals with Angelo RossListen to this podcast to hear how setting attainable goals and managing those goals can help propel you further into a professional snowsports career. You'll also hear how this applies to other areas of your life. Angelo Ross, the Education and Development Manager for PSIA-AASI chats with podcast host George Thomas about the importance of setting attainable goals. Check out Episode 714 to hear from Angelo on why experimentation and exploration when giving lessons is important. Then, head to Episode 710 and hear about The Expert Trap and how to avoid trapping your students in one. For more, head to thesnowpros.org.
2024-08-0119 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI PodcastEpisode 710: "The Expert Trap" With Angelo RossPSIA-AASI First Chair Podcast host George Thomas catches up with Angelo Ross again. Angelo is the Education Development Manager at PSIA-AASI and is a wealth of knowledge on many topics. George and Thomas talk about the "Expert Trap" and how it impacts lessons and how you can be more aware that you're doing it. The Expert Trap is when students get or feel trapped by their expert instructors as they share all the knowledge they know. As explained, instructors sometimes feel they should give all the information at once rather than in more bite-sized pieces. George and Angelo discuss some...
2024-07-0219 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI PodcastEpisode 707: Meet New PSIA-AASI Member Stacy GarciaMeet Stacy Garcia, a college student who went from never skiing to taking her first lesson to becoming a certified PSIA-AASI Level 1 Alpine instructor in just 14 months. Listen in on her conversation with First Chair host George Thomas as she tells the story of her rapid rise after falling completely in love with skiing as an adult.
2024-06-0711 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI PodcastEpisode 705: 2024 Team Selections With Brian DonovanPSIA-AASI First Chair Podcast host George Thomas introduces us to Brian Donovan, a second-term PSIA-AASI National Team snowboard member based in Vermont. Brian is driven by possibilities and opportunities, and is inspired by the immense talent of the Team. His preparation was all about connecting the work done on-snow with members to the educational foundations that back up our materials.
2024-05-2215 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI PodcastEpisode 703: Chris Rogers | 2024-28 National Team MemberPSIA-AASI First Chair Podcast host George Thomas catches up with National Team member Chris Rogers. Chris was just selected for his third term on the PSIA-AASI National Snowboard Team. Hear why Chris decided to re-tryout for the team and what his entire career on the team has looked like. George talks to Chris about some of the exciting things coming up and how that played a role in Chris's decision to go for a third team. They also talk about some of the more difficult tasks that stood out during the selection process. To learn more about the National Team...
2024-05-0723 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI PodcastEpisode 702: Meet [New] National Team Member Melodie BuellPSIA-AASI First Chair Podcast host George Thomas catches up with Melodie Buell, a newly selected member of the 2024-28 PSIA-AASI National Team. George and Melodie talk about the journey of trying out for the team and the obstacles that presented themselves along the way. Melodie was named a new member of the PSIA National Adaptive Team in Big Sky at the recent selection event that took place. A notable takeaway from the process that Melodie mentioned was the importance of mindset and adapting to what you're dealt and how that goes a long way in persevering. George asks about the...
2024-05-0316 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI PodcastEpisode 700! National Academy 2024 With Pete KrayPSIA-AASI First Chair Podcast host George Thomas catches up with PSIA-AASI Lead Writer Pete Kray for EPISODE 700!! We have an unbelievable bank of amazing podcasts that are all about snowsports instruction. Pete and George are old pals so this conversation is fun and insightful. Pete talks about his time at National Academy and what it's like being in Big Sky for the event. Pete has many books out and is the main writer for thesnowpros.org and 32 Degrees magazine. George asks Pete what keeps him so intertwined with this industry and what keeps him going.
2024-04-2419 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI PodcastEpisode 699 2024 National Academy With Eliza Kuntz And Peggy Hiller MixdownPSIA-AASI First Chair podcast Host George Thomas catches up with PSIA-AASI CEO Peggy Hiller and Board Chair Eliza Kuntz! George, Eliza and Peggy chat about National Academy and how the week has been going and what to expect with Team Selection week. George questions Peggy on the member survey that went out and how it is interacting face-to-face with the members at this event. George asks Eliza about gender equity in this industry and how she feels being a woman leader here. Listen in to hear more. Peggy talks about a new launch of the Education Foundation and the high...
2024-04-2418 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI PodcastEpisode 698: National Academy 2024 wit Alpine Team member Jonathan BallouPSIA-AASI First Chair Podcast host George Thomas catches up with PSIA Alpine Team member Jonathan Ballou from Big Sky, MT. George and Jonothan talk briefly about the podcast and its history. Episode 700 is coming up! Jonathan has been on the National Team for 3 terms and is retiring as a team member this year. Jonathan talks about his time on the team and what's next in his journey throughout this podcast. Learn more about Jonathon and the National Team by heading to thesnowpros.org.
2024-04-2217 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI PodcastEpisode 693: PSIA Adaptive Team Coach Geoff KrillPSIA-AASI First Chair Podcast host George Thomas catches up with PSIA Adaptive Team Coach Geoff Krill. Geoff goes into how adaptive skiing and riding is just skiing and riding no matter what you're sliding on. George and Geoff talk about what it was like going from a team member to a coach of the PSIA-AASI National Team and what it means to be going into his third term as the team coach of the PSIA National Adaptive Team. Geoff talks about what he's looking for in new members trying out for the team coming up in late-April. Listen to hear...
2024-04-1314 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI PodcastBonus Episode: National Après Day - Breckenridge Distillery With Jessie UnruhPSIA-AASI First Chair Podcast host catches up with Jessie Unruh, the marketing director for Breckenridge Distillery. Breckenridge Distillery is one of PSIA-AASI's newest Official Suppliers and has worked with the National Team to create a unique and branded bottle of whiskey. Jessie talks about the history of Breckenridge Distillery and the differences in whiskeys across the country. The PSIA-AASI branded bottles were picked blindly by the National Team at a special tasting session in late 2023. Breckenridge Distillery supplements its whiskey with snowmelt straight from the mountains that flow into the Blue River. PSIA-AASI members can get free shipping on all...
2024-03-2908 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI PodcastEpisode 690: Meet PSIA Alpine Development Coach Matt BoydPSIA-AASI First Chair Podcast host George Thomas catches up with Matt Boyd, a recently announced Alpine Development Coach of the 2024-28 National Team. George and Thomas chat about all things snow pros and what it's like being a coach for the best-of-the-best snowsports instructors from around the country. Matt talks about Interski and how important it is to be a player on the world stage. He goes on to chat about the incoming 2024-28 National Team and how much work goes into to being on the team and becoming a productive unit.
2024-03-2013 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast3.18.24: Learning About New Zealand's Rookie Academy with Ben PottsPSIA-AASI First Chair Podcast host George Thomas catches up with PSIA Alpine Team member Ben Potts. As winter winds down in the northern hemisphere, the southern hemisphere is bracing for a successful winter season. Ben travels to New Zealand for their Rookie Academy where instructor training is conducted. This isn't for locals only, this event brings in members of national teams, like PSIA-AASI's, to teach and connect with others like them. PSIA-AASI is looking to offer Level I and II training as well as other certification opportunities. You can go to www.RookieAcademy.com. Ben worked for Trebel Cone Ski...
2024-03-1813 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast3.14.24: Catching Up with Mermer BlakesleePSIA-AASI First Chair Podcast host George Thomas catches up with Mermer Blakeslee! Mermer shares how she got into snowsports instruction. Mermer is still instructing at Wyndham Mountain in the Eastern Region as she has been for the last 4 decades. Mermer was a key player at Women's Summit 2024 in Solitude, UT this year and speaks about her experience there. A previous keynote Mermer gave was on stretching yourself to the point of failure and learning from that. This is what she addressed at Women's Summit 2024. Listen to this pod for examples on what she delivered. Mermer has her Alpine Level 3 and...
2024-03-1419 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast3.12.2024: Senior Editor of SAM, Level III Instructor, Alpine Examiner and new mom - Katie BrintonPSIA-AASI First Chair Podcast host George Thomas catches up with Katie Brinton. Katie is the Senior Editor for Ski Area Management (SAM) Magazine, . Katie talks about her journey into snowsports instruction and how it's not too dissimilar from other stories she's heard. She left a career as a "professional" and got a job for a winter as a ski instructor. She eventually went on to earn her Level 1 certification from Okemo Resort in Southern Vermont that season. "It was eye-opening and refreshing." Katie met people who instructed in New Zealand and Japan and was able to work a season in...
2024-03-1216 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast3.10.2024 Mt. Hood Meadows TrainingPSIA-AASI First Chair Podcast host George Thomas catches up with instructors from Mt. Hood Meadows in Oregon on the process of Ed Staff training and tryouts. George catches up with Jeremy Riss, Jen Lockwood, Tyler Barnes and Katie Foyt. Mt. Hood Meadows had 5 members of their team chosen to join the Northwest Region Education Staff. Hear from Katie on why she chose Mt. Hood Meadows as her home resort to teach at. Tyler chats about his 18 years at the Mt. Hood Meadows snowsports school and how he's sharing the culture and knowledge to the rest of the staff. Jeremy started...
2024-03-0823 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast3.6.2024 | A Full 2024 Women's Summit Recap With Ying LiuPSIA-AASI First Chair Podcast host George Thomas catches up with Ying Liu who attended this year's Women's Summit in Solitude, Utah. Ying chats about how she learned better ways to teach and how to communicate more effectively. The feedback that Ying has gotten from students after utilizing what she learned from the Women's Summit has been great so far. Angela Lemmons was the Keynote speaker the first night and talked about daring to be extra and the importance of pushing forward and surrounding yourself with like-minded people. The on-snow portion of the event covered drills like progressions, connecting your body...
2024-03-0618 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast3.1.2024 | Highlights From the 2024 Women's Summit With Ying LiuPSIA-AASI First Chair Podcast host George Thomas checks in with Ying Liu who is at the 2024 Women's Summit. Ying talks about her highlights from the Women's Summit and mentions how she has been working with Mermer Blakesly on steering with the inside ski and how Mermer was able to guide her through that progression. The Women's Summit this year is at Solitude, UT and is made up of over 130 women from all over the country. Some of the workshops were geared towards 'daring to be extra' and the 'importance of mentorship and career progression.' Ying helped lead a mentorship...
2024-03-0110 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast2.28.2024 | Boots on the Snow | Providing Effective Feedback With Melodie Buell | Part 2PSIA-AASI First Chair Podcast host George Thomas catches up with Melodie Buell again and in this pod, they continue the chat about providing effective feedback to your students. George kicks off the pod with his own experiences with getting feedback from bosses and coworkers. Melodie goes on to explain how building a relationship with whomever you're working with or collaborating with is essential to building trust within the relationship. Melodie talks about how providing feedback on things your student did right is equally as important as critiquing something they did wrong. Error-focused feedback can be phenomenal if you have a...
2024-02-2819 minFirst Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast2.21.2024: PSIA-AASI Regional Trainings with Education Development Manager Angelo RossPSIA-AASI First Chair Podcast host George Thomas catches up with PSIA-AASI's Education Development Manager Angelo Ross. Angelo is a well-accredited instructor for PSIA-AASI. Angelo spent much of his winter traveling around to regional examiner trainings with a message of alignment focused on movement analysis where examiner skills were practiced. Angelo talks about his experience at the examiner trainings and how the fundamentals of PSIA-AASI's education materials came into play. George and Angelo chat about what next year's trainings look like and how they'll take the experience from this year's travels and morph it into something bigger and better for the...
2024-02-2114 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast2.19.2024: Boots On The Snow | Working With High-Need Students With Brian DonovanPSIA-AASI First Chair Podcast host George Thomas catches up with National Team member Brian Donovan and chats about handling and working with high-need students. We've all had students who have never been on snow or who don't understand the sport, or have issues with gear from the get-go. Brian and George talk about working with these students and how to address the attention needed. Brian talks about ways that people skills come into play with this. Use two-way communication and try to understand what hurdle they're facing in their personal experience at that moment. George talks about overcoming the anxieties...
2024-02-1917 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast2.16.2024: Freestyle Academy Part 3 With Tony Macri and Successful Freestyle Assessment StudentsPSIA-AASI First Chair Podcast host George Thomas catches up with National Team member Tony Macri and a few successful FS candidates from the National Freestyle Academy event at Woodward-Park City. George talks with Diego about his experience at the full 5-day event and how his experience was. Joel got his Alpine FS I and talked about the experience with the instructors and the facility. Joel goes on to say that the examiners were so attentive and helpful throughout the entire process. Connor got his FS II and talked about how the small group he was in was very encouraging. Keeley...
2024-02-1616 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast2.14.2024: Freestyle Academy Part 2 With Ben Potts And Tony MacriPSIA-AASI First Chair Podcast host George Thomas catches up with National Team members Ben Potts and Tony Macri who are at the National Freestyle Academy in Utah at the Woodward-Park City facility. George, Ben and Tony talk about how this is a national event that travels from region to region. Examiners come from nearby regions to help put this event on and assess the students who were in attendance. Every level assessment in Freestyle is offered at this event including Freestyle I, II, and III for alpine and snowboard. George shares that he got his FS I back in 2009 and...
2024-02-1412 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast2.12.2024: National Freestyle Academy Part 1 With Ben Potts And Tony MacriPSIA-AASI First Chair Podcast host George Thomas catches up with National Team members Tony Macri and Ben Potts. Tony and Ben are at the PSIA-AASI National Freestyle Academy at Woodward - Park City in Utah. Ben and Tony talk about Freestyle Academy and what it is. Ben talks about comparing Freestyle Academy to National Academy and how they're similar in the way that is brings tradition to the discipline. Tony talks about the worth of joining Freestyle Academy and works through the schedule of the week going from training days to prep days to exam days. Ben goes on to...
2024-02-1211 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast2.2.2024: Boots on the Snow | Psychological Splits During Lessons with Geoff KrillPSIA-AASI First Chair Podcast host George Thomas catches up with PSIA-AASI Adaptive Coach Geoff Krill. George and Geoff chat about psychological splits among groups in a lesson. Geoff explains the difference in mentality among some students when taking a lesson. Some are there to learn and get better and others are sometimes just there to experience the thrill of sliding on snow. He goes on to talk about overcoming a negative mentality some students may have coming into the lesson. George details an experience where his mentality going into a lesson was negative due to weather conditions but his attitude...
2024-02-0216 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast2.1.2024: Boots On The Snow | Managing Class Splits With Brenna KelleherPSIA-AASI First Chair Podcast host George Thomas catches up with PSIA-AASI National Team member Brenna Kelleher on managing class splits when giving lessons. Brenna describes what a class split is and how to overcome working with students in a lesson who want to do different things and have different abilities. Brenna goes on to talk about lap coaching and how it provides a good mid-way point to handling group lessons with different ability levels. Lap coaching works for group lessons but also private group lessons with families. Splits aren't just ability-based. They can be age-based, too. Brenna talks about managing...
2024-02-0118 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast1.24.2024: The [NEW] Children's Alpine Field Guide with Kevin Jordan, Mark Aiken and Ryan RavinskyPSIA-AASI First Chair Podcast host George Thomas catches up with Kevin Jordan, Mark Aiken, and Ryan Ravinsky on the new Children's Alpine Field guide. Kevin is a PSIA Alpine Team member based in Aspen, CO. Mark is a pro based in Stowe, VT, and an Eastern Examiner. Ryan is based in Jackson Hole, WY, and is on the Alpine Education Staff and an examiner in his region. George chats with this group about how the Children's Alpine Field Guide came to be. This Alpine Field Guide is a great resource for new instructors or an idea book for more seasoned...
2024-01-2422 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast1.23.2024: Boots on the Snow | Providing Effective Feedback With Melodie Buell | Part 1PSIA-AASI First Chair Podcast host George Thomas catches up with Northwest examiner Melodie Buell, the Education and Training manager for Oregon Adaptive Sports and a Lead Trainer for Mt. Bachelor Ski and Ride School. George and Melodie chat about Effective Feedback and the importance of delivering it in a way that students can enjoy. Geroge kicks off the pod with some personal experiences of poor feedback and how reactions were. Melodie then goes into the people and teaching skills fundamentals including; adapting to the needs of the learner, managing emotional and physical risk, and understanding and managing our own reactions...
2024-01-2319 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast1.19.2023: Catching Up With Kyle Wilson From Nordic Mtn on the Small Snowsports School ScholarshipPSIA-AASI First Chair Podcast host George Thomas catches up again with Kyle Wilson, the snowsports school director at Nordic Mountain in Wisconsin. Nordic Mountain is a family-oriented place with 300 vertical feet. Nordic Mountain applied and received the Small Snowsports School Scholarship during the 2022/23 season. Upon learning that Nordic did not receive the scholarship this season, the lead instructors offered funds to provide a level 1 certification course to 13 instructors in January 2024. Kyle mentions that the community that came from receiving the Small Snowsports School Scholarship made this year extra special since lead instructors at Nordic found the value in providing this...
2024-01-2012 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast1.17.2024: 2024 Women's Summit with Ying LiuPSIA-AASI First Chair Podcast host George Thomas catches up with Ying Liu, a PSIA-AASI certified instructor and member of the PSIA-AASI Women's Advisory Group, aka, The Women's Council for Equity and Inclusion. Ying was a 'late-bloomer' in the ski instruction world and found herself part of the Women's Summit in 2023. Ying mentioned that the idea of mentorship was a hot topic at the 2023 Women's Summit. The idea of having someone to instill courage and support is a major factor in creating opportunities for women in snowsports. Ying wrote a feature article in the winter issue of 32 Degrees on Finding Community...
2024-01-1811 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast1.9.2024: Boots on the Snow | Class Management With National Team member Chris RogersPSIA-AASI First Chair Podcast host George Thomas catches up with PSIA-AASI National Team member Chris Rogers. George is beginning a "boots on the snow" type series that covers a range of topics including class management. All classes aren't related equally and sometimes there are 'trouble students'. Chris speaks on how to overcome some of these situations and how the Learning Connection Model comes into play. Chris talks about some fundamentals in the snowboard handbook and emphasizes the importance of the SCARF model. George questions Chris on how to avoid spending too much time with certain students and losing the interest...
2024-01-1014 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast12.28.23: 2024 Slopes Challenge With Curtis Herbert from SlopesPSIA-AASI First Chair Podcast host George Thomas chats with Curtis Herbert, the creative mind behind the Slopes App. Curtis chats how how Slopes started and what the goal is for the future. PSIA-AASI and Slopes are collaborating on a fun member-facing challenge. This challenge is tracking your vertical stats for the month of January 2024. If you ski or ride 100K vertical feet while using the slopes app, you get a free annual subscription to the slopes app. There will be micro-challenges as well through the month so make sure you're using the slopes app at all times while your out...
2023-12-2912 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast12.20.23: "How The Grinch Stole Christmas!" - Happy HolidaysPSIA-AASI First Chair Podcast host George Thomas brings you through the story of Dr. Suess' How the Grinch Stole Christmas. Happy Holidays from PSIA-AASI.
2023-12-2011 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast11.17.23: Chatting with National Team member Brian SmithPSIA-AASI First Chair Podcast host George Thomas chats with National Team member Brian Smith who is also a member of the Eastern Region Education staff. Brian chats about the overlap of being on the National Team while being a part of the educational processes with PSIA-AASI. George notes that Brian is a unique team member because of this. Brian talks about finding ways to draw younger members in and what can attract them to join a career in snowsports. Brian mentions that competition athletes who discontinue racing are perfect candidates for future educators. This conversation was a big topic at...
2023-11-1718 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast11.15.23: Catching up with National Team member Josh Fogg at Team TrainingPSIA-AASI First Chair Podcast host George Thomas catches up with Alpine Team member Josh Fogg at Team Training in Keystone, CO. George and Josh talk about the lack of snow this year and what it looks like at Josh's home mountain of Aspen Snowmass. George asks Josh about the plan for working with his new staff as the Training Director at Aspen. Josh talks about his time on the National Team and how he's progressed through the years. Josh is planning on trying out for a third term on the team so he can continue to contribute his ideas and...
2023-11-1516 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast11.9.23: New from Faction Skis With Henrik LampertPSIA-AASI First Chair Podcast host George Thomas catches up with Henrik Lampert from Factions Skis to chat all things new this year. The new skis this year are the very colorful Dancer series. An all-mountain ski that will surely make you slide nicer on snow. PSIA-AASI members get a very special rate off of these skis. Check out the pro offers at https://members.thesnowpros.org/products/pro-offers. You can also head to factions.com/psia.
2023-11-0908 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast11.2.2023: Team Training 2023 With Jeb Boyd, Head Coach of the PSIA-AASI National TeamFirst Chair podcast host George Thomas catches up with Jeb Boyd who is the Head Coach for the PSIA-AASI National Team. George and Jeb talk about Team Training 2023 and what the focus is. There has been a lack of snow which led to more inside training than on-snow training. In all, the team was able to focus on this year's messaging and what each member's own professional development plans are. Each day, the schedule kept getting pushed and pushed but the team was able to make the most of the entire week with great conversation and planning. They also talk...
2023-11-0206 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast10.12.23: And Now The Weather With Andy SteinPSIA-AASI First Chair Podcast host George Thomas catches up with Andy Stein who is the Digital Marketing Manager for PSIA-AASI. Andy is also a degreed meteorologist with a decade of experience on local and national television. George and Andy talk about the upcoming El Niño winter and last winter's La Nina. They also go in-depth about what it's like to forecast and how far meteorology has come in recent decades. Andy wrote an article that you'll see in the Fall Issue of 32 Degrees magazine this fall.
2023-10-1216 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast10.9.2023: Catching up with Rocky Mountain Region CEO, Dana Forbes - Community MixdownPSIA-AASI First Chair Podcast host George Thomas catches up with Dana Forbes who is the CEO for the Rocky Mountain region. Dana and George chat about the upcoming season and how to prepare for the incoming winter. Pre-season strength training is very important to help, as well as, joining clinics and utilizing the education opportunities right now will help kick-start your season. The Rocky Mountain region has a season kick-off event that helps get your body and brain in tune. It's a great event that allows you to get your feet on snow and connect with others in the industry...
2023-10-0915 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast10.03.23: PSIA-AASI September Update with CEO Peggy Hiller - Member Survey Part IIPSIA-AASI First Chair Podcast host George Thomas catches up with Peggy Hiller, CEO of PSIA-AASI. Peggy and Thomas discuss more details of the member survey that was conducted earlier in 2023. Peggy shares insight from member schools and what values being a member school brings. Find out why members are a part of PSIA-AASI and how the organization can add value. PSIA-AASI is constantly working to improve the member experience and provide consistency for everyone. This includes unified assessment criteria and processes. Having national consistency in our education processes is a goal of the organization in the coming years.
2023-10-0311 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast9.25.2023: Meet Gordon Garlock. A Longtime PSIA-AASI Member Who's Skied Every Month for 41 YearsFirst Chair Podcast host George Thomas interviews PSIA-AASI member Gordo Garlock. Gordo is on a 41-year streak where he has skied at least 1 day per month! As a former high school track and ski coach, Gordo had access to Mt. Hood year-round which made skiing possible every month of the year. Gordo mentions that climate change has recently made it very hard to keep this streak going since the Palmer snowfield doesn't hold snow as long as it used to. Even in years when no snow was available locally, Gordo traveled internationally to keep this streak going. Even after bouts...
2023-09-2520 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast9.18.2023: Meet PSIA-AASI Official Supplier Pure Mountain Fun With Julie GacnikFirst Chair Podcast host George Thomas catches up with Julie Gacnik who is the Brand Creator. Pure Mountain Fun is the newest Official Supplier for PSIA-AASI. Started by two 10-year-olds in 2020 after a day of flubbing with ski equipment, Pure Mountain Fun offers an easy way to transport your skis or snowboards for kids of any size. This has proven to help families navigate the parking lot shuffle and allows for a hands-free experience when handling gear. This backpack-esque product is durably made and there are options for skis and snowboards. The product works great for transporting skis and boards...
2023-09-2011 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast9.14.2023: Inclusive Snowsports Group Facilitation with Ryan Latham and Kevin JordanPSIA-AASI First Chair Podcast host George Thomas catches up with Ryan Latham and Kevin Jordan from the Aspen Snowmass Snowsports Schools. Kevin and Ryan will be hosting the Inclusive Snowsports Group Facilitation webinar. Scheduled for Wednesday, September 20, 2023, from 6 p.m. – 7 p.m. MT, this clinic will focus on creating functional knowledge of how to assess a student with a diagnosed or undiagnosed disability using the CAP (Cognitive, Affective, Physical) model and provide tools and strategies to help this student integrate into a group lesson.
Register here: https://thesnowpros.org/2023/08/30/register-now-inclusive-snowsport-group-facilitation-webinar/
2023-09-1416 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast9.6.2023: Catch up with Katie White In PortilloPSIA-AASI First Chair podcast host George Thomas catches up with Katie White. Katie is the Scholarship Director for Women of Winter and the Ski School Director in Portillo, Chile. Katie is currently living in Portillo during the southern hemisphere winter. Katie spends most of her year on snow and helping to grow Women of Winter. Hear from Katie on what's happening in her life and what's to come this next winter in the northern hemisphere.
Find out more about Women of Winter:
https://www.womenofwinter.net/
https://thesnowpros.org/
2023-09-0610 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast8.29.2023: PSIA-AASI CEO Peggy Hiller Talks About the Member Survey and its ResultsPSIA-AASI First Chair podcast host George Thomas catches up with Peggy Hiller, the CEO of PSIA-AASI. Earlier in 2023, PSIA-AASI sent out a member survey that included questions about how happy members are with their membership and asked several questions based on the individual's experience. It was shown that many members are happy with the organization but our net promoter school was a bit lower than previous years. Peggy discusses what that means and how PSIA-AASI is planning for the future.
2023-08-2912 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast08.22.23: Catching Up with the Recipient of the Small Snowsports Schools ScholarshipPSIA-AASI First Chair Podcast catches up with Kyle Wilson, the Snow School Director at Nordic Mountain in Wisconsin. Nordic Mountain was the recipient of the Small Snowsports School Scholarship for the 2022/23 season. Kyle talks about the culture of Nordic Mountain and the impact receiving the Small Snowsports School Scholarship provided. Kyle mentions how the operations of Nordic Mountain are in place to promote learning and teaching snowsports. Kyle goes on to talk about how Nordic Mountain is an important factor in training new snowsports instructors. Hear more on how the scholarship helped Nordic Mountain train students to PSIA-AASI Level I...
2023-08-2213 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast07.24.23: Recharging in July. A Snow Pros Update With PSIA-AASI CEO Peggy HillerFirst Chair podcast host George Thomas catches up with PSIA-AASI CEO Peggy Hiller, who's been meeting with regional PSIA-AASI Board of Directors members this month to learn about their interests and discuss ways to find alignment. Peggy also shares why July is a great month to reset, recharge and reconnect to your educational and training goals for the next season. Peggy shares some of her favorite summer activities as well as some things to look forward to this fall.
2023-07-2410 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast7.21.23: Lifelong Learning With Jeb Boyd, Head Coach of the PSIA-AASI National TeamFirst Chair catches up with PSIA-AASI National Team Coach, Jeb Boyd. Jeb chats about the importance of lifelong learning and how continuing reading is beneficial to yourself. Jeb also shares how PSIA-AASI is working to improve the member and guest experience using this ideal. Jeb mentions how Interski is keeping education in the snowsports industry strong. People skills are one of the pillars of PSIA-AASI's education methods.
Follow: @thesnowpros #snowpros
2023-07-2112 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast06.20.23: June Updates with PSIA-AASI CEO Peggy HillerFirst Chair podcast host George Thomas catches up with PSIA-AASI CEO Peggy Hiller, who's been meeting with regional PSIA-AASI Board of Directors members this month to learn about their interests and discuss ways to find alignment. Peggy also shares why June is a great month to reset your educational and training goals for the next season and how PSIA-AASI can help support you in your pursuit of those goals. Also, remember that June 30 is the deadline to renew your membership. Follow this link to renew today: members.thesnowpros.org/
2023-06-2006 minFirst Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast05.31.23: Peggy Hiller, PSIA-AASI CEO, Shares Association UpdatesFirst Chair catches up with PSIA-AASI CEO Peggy Hiller about what’s been happening at your association. First up, renew your membership this month to maintain access to all your membership benefits. When you do, you can shop Pro Offers to snag deals on your spring and summer gear, keep access to education resources to pick up CEUs this summer, and more. Peggy also shares what’s been happening with the organization's education alignment, highlights from the PSIA-AASI member survey, and what she’s looking forward to this summer. Follow this link to renew your membership today: https://members.thesnowpros.org/
2023-05-3107 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast05.15.23: Recap from PSIA-AASI Western Assessments and Spring ConventionFirst Chair catches up with PSIA Alpine Team members Jonathan Ballou and Mike Hafer, as well as Tanya Milelli about their participation in the recent PSIA-AASI Western Spring Convention and Western assessment. Listen in to learn more about how education leaders from different regions can now assess to the same standards and outcomes.
2023-05-1618 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast01.25.23: Meet PSIA-AASI’s New CEO, Peggy HillerFirst Chair catches up with PSIA-AASI's new CEO, Peggy Hiller, a snowsports-industry leader with senior management experience in resort operations. She most recently served at Arapahoe Basin as their Vice President of Operations and Assistant General Manager. Listen to this episode, get to know Peggy and learn what she's excited about in her new role. Learn more: http://tiny.cc/meetpeggy
2023-01-2512 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast06.23.22: Charlie Rockwell Receives PSIA-AASI’s Lifetime Achievement AwardFirst Chair catches up with Charlie Rockwell, who was recently honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award. This award recognizes exceptional members who developed projects affecting the association on a national level while demonstrating devotion and self-sacrifice serving in their role. Charlie designed and implemented programs, projects, and procedures affecting the association on a national level and exhibited dedication serving in his national leadership positions. Congrats, Charlie!
Watch the 2022 PSIA-AASI Awards & Recognition Ceremony: http://tiny.cc/lcnsuz
2022-06-2316 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast06.16.22: Katherine Hayes Rodriguez Receives PSIA-AASI’s Distinguished Service AwardFirst Chair catches up with Katherine Hayes Rodriguez, who was recently honored with the Distinguished Service Award. This award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to support the success of PSIA-AASI and its members. Katherine’s long-term commitment and dedication to adaptive snowsports has provided educational programing and support to national initiatives. Since serving as one of the original examiners in the initial 1985 adaptive exam and writing the first PSIA-AASI adaptive manual, she has continued to demonstrate positive leadership skills and foster connections with and between members, including serving as a mentor. Congrats, Katherine!
Watch the 2022 PSIA-AASI Awards & Recognition Ce...
2022-06-1617 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast06.09.22: Stevie Lund Talks About Receiving PSIA-AASI’s Angus Graham Rising Star Award in 2019First Chair catches up with Stevie Lund, who in 2019 received the Angus Graham Rising Star Award, an award that recognizes standout members who show promise charting a career path within the snowsport industry. Stevie demonstrates positive leadership behavior within the industry, serves as a volunteer leader, and distinguishes herself in an exemplary fashion. Congrats, Stevie!
Watch the 2022 PSIA-AASI Awards & Recognition Ceremony: http://tiny.cc/lcnsuz
2022-06-0909 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast06.02.22: Jani Sutherland Receives PSIA-AASI’s Lifetime Achievement AwardFirst Chair catches up with Jani Sutherland, who was recently recognized with the Lifetime Achievement Award, which recognizes exceptional members who developed and implemented programs, projects, and procedures affecting the association on a national level while demonstrating dedication, devotion, and self-sacrifice serving in their role. Jani exhibited dedication while designing and implementing children’s programs to improve the learning experience for children and help them become lifelong participants of skiing or snowboarding. Congrats, Jani!
Watch the 2022 PSIA-AASI Awards & Recognition Ceremony: http://tiny.cc/lcnsuz
2022-06-0213 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast03.14.22: PSIA-AASI 60th Anniversary Part 6: Building the Learning ConnectionWhen PSIA’s seven founders sat down to form the Professional Ski Instructors of America in May 1961 at Big Mountain in Whitefish, Montana, they had one goal: to create a standard of consistency for ski instruction that it would help draw new participants to the sport from across the nation. Now, six decades later, PSIA-AASI teaches everyone how to enjoy more than just alpine skiing; welcoming every snowsports discipline, ability, and person.
In part six of this six-part series, listen to Eric Rolls & Matt Boyd discuss what it was like to build the Learning Connection, one of the six of th...
2022-03-1425 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast03.12.22: PSIA-AASI 60th Anniversary Part 5: Pioneering Adaptive InstructionWhen PSIA’s seven founders sat down to form the Professional Ski Instructors of America in May 1961 at Big Mountain in Whitefish, Montana, they had one goal: to create a standard of consistency for ski instruction that it would help draw new participants to the sport from across the nation. Now, six decades later, PSIA-AASI teaches everyone how to enjoy more than just alpine skiing; welcoming every snowsports discipline, ability, and person.
In part five of this six-part series, listen to Bill Bowness, Katherine Rodriguez Hayes, and Beth Fox, discuss what it was like to pioneer adaptive instruction, one of th...
2022-03-1224 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast03.10.22: PSIA-AASI 60th Anniversary Part 4: Creating the Snowboard Instructor AssociationWhen PSIA’s seven founders sat down to form the Professional Ski Instructors of America in May 1961 at Big Mountain in Whitefish, Montana, they had one goal: to create a standard of consistency for ski instruction that it would help draw new participants to the sport from across the nation. Now, six decades later, PSIA-AASI teaches everyone how to enjoy more than just alpine skiing; welcoming every snowsports discipline, ability, and person.
In part four of this six-part series, listen to Dave Alden and Randy Price discuss the creation of the American Association of Snowboard Instructors, one of the six of...
2022-03-1033 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast03.08.22: PSIA-AASI 60th Anniversary Part 3: The Junior Education TeamWhen PSIA’s seven founders sat down to form the Professional Ski Instructors of America in May 1961 at Big Mountain in Whitefish, Montana, they had one goal: to create a standard of consistency for ski instruction that it would help draw new participants to the sport from across the nation. Now, six decades later, PSIA-AASI teaches everyone how to enjoy more than just alpine skiing; welcoming every snowsports discipline, ability, and person.
In part three of this six-part series, listen to Marie Shaw and Grant Nakamura discuss the Junior Education Team, one of the six of the most notable teaching be...
2022-03-0825 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast03.06.22: PSIA-AASI 60th Anniversary Part 2: Equal Opportunity for Women in SnowsportsWhen PSIA’s seven founders sat down to form the Professional Ski Instructors of America in May 1961 at Big Mountain in Whitefish, Montana, they had one goal: to create a standard of consistency for ski instruction that it would help draw new participants to the sport from across the nation. Now, six decades later, PSIA-AASI teaches everyone how to enjoy more than just alpine skiing; welcoming every snowsports discipline, ability, and person.
In part two of this six-part series, listen to Carol Levine and Megan Bourke discuss equal opportunity for women in snowsports, one of the six of the most no...
2022-03-0621 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast03.04.22: PSIA-AASI 60th Anniversary Part 1: The Skills ConceptWhen PSIA’s seven founders sat down to form the Professional Ski Instructors of America in May 1961 at Big Mountain in Whitefish, Montana, they had one goal: to create a standard of consistency for ski instruction that it would help draw new participants to the sport from across the nation. Now, six decades later, PSIA-AASI teaches everyone how to enjoy more than just alpine skiing; welcoming every snowsports discipline, ability, and person.
In part one of this six-part series, listen to Jens Husted and Mike Porter discuss The Skills Concept, one of the six of the most notable teaching benchmarks fr...
2022-03-0429 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast03.02.22: PSIA-AASI 60th Anniversary: Introduction to the Top 6 BreakthroughsWhen PSIA’s seven founders sat down to form the Professional Ski Instructors of America in May 1961 at Big Mountain in Whitefish, Montana, they had one goal: to create a standard of consistency for ski instruction that it would help draw new participants to the sport from across the nation. Now, six decades later, PSIA-AASI teaches everyone how to enjoy more than just alpine skiing; welcoming every snowsports discipline, ability, and person.
Hear from PSIA-AASI Board of Directors’ Chair, Eliza Kuntz, and PSIA-AASI CEO, Nicholas Herrin, about why this 60th anniversary is so important and what the next six podcasts for...
2022-03-0221 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast02.19.22: Check in with AASI Team Member Brian DonovanFirst Chair checks in with Brian Donovan, a new member of the PSIA-AASI National Team to learn more about what’s been happening during his first-year on the AASI Snowboard Team and what he’s been up to for this season. Last April, PSIA-AASI selected the 37 team members for their range of skills that allow them to serve as inspirational leaders and build enthusiasm for learning and having fun skiing and riding.
2022-02-1915 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast11.26.21: Meet TJ Larson from Revo, PSIA-AASI Official SupplierFirst Chair recently caught up with TJ Larson from Revo, which is a company that recently joined PSIA-AASI as an Official Supplier. Established in 1985, Revo was founded on the idea that the same technology used by NASA for satellites and telescopes could easily be transferred into optics. Today, Revo continues its rich tradition of innovation by creating the clearest and most advanced high contrast polarized sunglasses available. Log in to the Pro Offers page to see how to take advantage of your Revo PSIA-AASI members-only special pricing: members.thesnowpros.org/products/pro-offers
2021-11-2604 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast11.21.21: Meet Joel and Carly Jo from WSI Sportswear, PSIA-AASI Official SupplierFirst Chair caught up with Joel Weins and Carly Jo Hougen from WSI Sportswear, which is a company that recently joined PSIA-AASI as an Official Supplier. This means they are offering you member-specific pricing on baselayers, sportswear, and cold weather apparel. Founded in 1990, WSI combines cutting-edge design, high tech materials, and modern innovations which are crafted to provide you with the most comfortable performing sportswear. Find out more about WSI Sportswear on the Pro Offers page: www.thesnowpros.org/shop
2021-11-2110 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast11.19.21: Meet Jay Badgley, from PSIA-AASI Official Supplier PhunkshunFirst Chair catches up with Jay Badgley, from Phunkshun, one of PSIA-AASI’s Official Suppliers. Jay talks about how Phunkshun makes cool, fun products that meet the technical needs of instructors who work all day on the hill. The brand built its reputation among fellow instructors first, then expanded into retail. Log in to the Pro Offers page to see how to take advantage of your Phunkshun PSIA-AASI members-only special pricing: members.thesnowpros.org/products/pro-offers
2021-11-1907 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast11.17.21: Meet Barclay Rappeport, from PSIA-AASI Official Supplier Marker, Dalbello, Völkl (MDV)First Chair catches up with Barclay Rappeport, national sales manager with PSIA-AASI Official Supplier Marker, Dalbello, Völkl (MDV). Barclay discusses her snowsports journey as a coach and her role with MDV, and how the right equipment will serve you well as an instructor. Log in to the Pro Offers page to see how to take advantage of your MDV PSIA-AASI members-only special pricing: members.thesnowpros.org/products/pro-offers
2021-11-1713 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast11.15.21: PSIA-AASI Official Supplier Spot Covers Members with Instructor-Specific Injury InsuranceFirst Chair catches up with Warren Bunnell and Chris Johnson from PSIA-AASI Official Supplier Spot. They chat about how Spot provides injury insurance to athletes and adventurers so that if you break a bone, it shouldn’t break your bank. Spot is stoked to partner with PSIA-AASI to offer members injury insurance specifically designed for ski and snowboard Instructors. For just a one-time payment of $50, you can purchase Spot for the 2021-2022 season and get up to $25,000 for your medical bills each time you’re injured while skiing or snowboarding. For injuries big and small, Spot’s got your back. Log in...
2021-11-1509 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast09.02.21: Meet Ron Shepard from the PSIA-AASI Central DivisionFirst Chair catches up with PSIA-AASI Central Division CEO, Ron Shephard, about what’s happening this season in the Midwest. Ron also shares details about “What a Pro Knows,” a local initiative designed to promote education and instruction and sharing knowledge with other instructors, students, guests, and the industry.
2021-09-0217 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast06.09.21: Update from Education Session at PSIA-AASI Board MeetingFirst Chair catches up with Jeb Boyd, head coach for the PSIA-AASI National Team, and Dave Schuiling, PSIA-AASI director of education. PSIA-AASI leaders from across the country gathered in Colorado this week for the Board of Directors meeting. The association’s Strategic Alignment Initiative and how the new certification standards will support consistency were a key part of the board’s conversation. Jeb and Dave discuss how this project will bring greater transparency and consistency to PSIA-AASI’s education and certification processes, and the new certification standards will help the association work towards this goal. Read more: http://tiny.cc/mqqytz
2021-06-0909 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast06.02.21: Tom Long Receives PSIA-AASI’s Distinguished Service AwardFirst Chair catches up with Tom Long, who was recently recognized with the Distinguished Service Award, which honors those who’ve made important contributions that have added to the success of PSIA-AASI. Tom is a PSIA-AASI Lifetime Member and New Mexico Ski Hall of Fame Inductee, helped PSIA develop the three-tiered certification approach; making attaining a PSIA-AASI certification more accessible to newer instructors and helping more members attain their first level of certification. His inclusive approach to snowsports extended beyond certification levels – he welcomed snowboarding and adaptive disciplines into the association and helped educators in these disciplines develop their own set...
2021-06-0203 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast05.24.21: Mermer Blakeslee Receives PSIA-AASI’s Education Excellence AwardFirst Chair catches up with Mermer Blakeslee, who was recently recognized with the Education Excellence Award, which honors those exceptional few members who've authored PSIA-AASI educational materials. She is dedicated instructor who inspired many to be better skiers and teachers and Mermer is committed to destigmatizing fear by showing that fear is not a weakness, and that students can use skills to overcome their fears. Her non-fiction book about the psychology of skiing and teaching, A Conversation with Fear (2012) helped many snowsports enthusiasts take their skills to the next level. She also supported PSIA-AASI educational products including Core Concepts for...
2021-05-2421 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast05.13.21: Stacey Gerrish Receives PSIA-AASI’s Education Excellence AwardFirst Chair catches up with Stacey Gerrish, who was recently recognized with the Education Excellence Award, which honors those exceptional few members who've authored PSIA-AASI educational materials. Her dedication to education landed her squarely in the development of several PSIA-AASI publications, including Core Concepts for Snowsports Instructors, the Children’s Instruction Manual, 2nd edition, the Alpine Children’s Teaching Handbook, and the Snowboard Teaching Handbook. In total, Stacey helped author or review seven PSIA-AASI educational products. Congrats, Stacey!
2021-05-1306 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast05.11.21: Ed Younglove Receives PSIA-AASI’s Lifetime Achievement AwardFirst Chair catches up with Ed Younglove, who was recently recognized with the Lifetime Achievement Award. Ed's patience and commitment to continuity has helped form the long-term vision of PSIA-AASI. Meet Ed and hear his story about his PSIA-AASI journey and what he’s learned along the way. Ed was elected to the Northwest board in 1995, he’s served as President on the Northwest Board of Directors for five years, two terms as Chair of the Presidents Council, and most recently three terms as the Chair of the National Board of Directors. His dedication and devotion to the association helped buil...
2021-05-1109 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast03.30.21: Meet Eric Rolls - AASI Snowboard CoachFirst Chair catches up with Eric Rolls, who serves as the AASI Snowboard Coach for the PSIA-AASI National Team. Eric talks about how he’s been integral in the development of PSIA-AASI’s Learning Connection Model, and how he’s going to continue to serve the organization as his leadership capabilities expand with coaching experience for future seasons to come.
2021-03-3019 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast03.11.21: Successful AASI Level I Candidates Share Their StoryFirst Chair catches up with Todd Ainsworth and a group of successful AASI Level I snowboard instructors who share their firsthand story. Listen in to hear their excitement about their journey and what they learned throughout this process to meet their certification goals. Congrats to all!
2021-03-1105 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast03.09.21: Jeb Boyd Chats About What’s Happening with PSIA-AASI National Team SelectionFirst Chair catches up with PSIA-AASI National Team Head Coach Jeb Boyd about what’s happening with National Team 2021 selection this month. Jeb also shares some advice you can use to prep for your assessments and exams. For example, over preparing, being engaged and using skills from the Learning Connection Model can help you achieve your goals this season. The National Team Selection 2021 process outcome will build a team that best represents the Learning Connection Model, as highlighted in the Teaching Snowsports Manual.
2021-03-0913 minFirst Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast02.23.21: Head Coach Jeb Boyd Chats Team Selection for PSIA-AASI National TeamFirst Chair catches up with Jeb Boyd, head coach for the PSIA-AASI National Team about Team Selection that happens this April 2021. This event will help PSIA-AASI to select the nation’s best instructors to represent the organization at its highest education level. Team members are responsible for promoting, supporting, and assisting with the development of PSIA-AASI education materials, programs, and activities at all levels. They set the standard for U.S. snowsports instruction and embody the ski and snowboard experience. Meet the current PSIA-AASI National Team: https://www.thesnowpros.org/who-we-are/teams/
2021-02-2314 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast08.25.20: PSIA-AASI Partners with Professional Mountain Bike Instructors AssociationFirst Chair catches up with Paul Howard, who serves as the President, Technical Director for the Professional Mountain Bike Instructors Association (PMBIA). PSIA-AASI recently partnered with PMBIA to bring year-round educational opportunities to ski, snowboard, and mountain bike instructors. This partnership means ski and snowboard instructors can pursue education and training opportunities in the off-season so they can teach others to mountain bike, and mountain bike instructors can pursue education and training opportunities that will help them work as ski and snowboard instructors.
2020-08-2716 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI PodcastThe North Face Joins PSIA-AASI a New Official SupplierFirst Chair catches up with Scott Mellin, global VP of mountain sports at The North Face and Nick Herrin, CEO of PSIA-AASI, about the new partnership between PSIA-AASI and The North Face. Learn how this partnership will give you access to the best gear to explore the mountain environment while you’re training the next generation of skiers and snowboarders. Scott and Nick also chat about how instructors help serve as a safe gateway for access to help educate the next generation of mountain athletes. Learn more about this new partnership: https://tinyurl.com/ybdq4rjs
2020-07-0125 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast06.23.20: Meet Eliza and Ed: PSIA-AASI Board of Directors Incoming & Outgoing ChairFirst Chair catches up with Ed Younglove and Eliza Kuntz, who discuss their role as the outgoing and incoming chair of PSIA-AASI’s Board of Directors. Hear Ed and Eliza’s stories about their journey and adventures with PSIA-AASI and how their love of teaching other people to ski and snowboard and the education they’ve received from PSIA-AASI has helped them both on and off the hill.
2020-06-2321 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast06.11.20: AASI Snowboard Coach Eric Rolls Talks About His New RoleEric Rolls serves as the new AASI Snowboard Coach for the PSIA-AASI National Team and he shares his story about his role as a long-term veteran of the snowboard team. Learn more about Eric, who brings an open mind to the table with his leadership background in snowsports from his years of experience as Training Manager for Park City in Utah. He also talks about how he’s been integral in the development of PSIA-AASI’s Learning Connection Model, and how he’s going to continue to serve our association as his leadership capabilities expand with coaching experience.
2020-06-1117 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast06.03.20: PSIA-AASI Western Division Offers Online Events for All MembersFirst Chair catches up with PSIA Alpine Team member Ryan Christofferson about new online learning opportunities that are available to all PSIA-AASI members. Check out how Western has set up and structured their digital learning opportunities and how you can hop in and continue your online learning this month on courses such as Alpine, Snowboard, and Telemark Remote Movement Analysis. Visit: https://www.facebook.com/pg/PsiaAasiWest/events/ View more PSIA-AASI online courses: tiny.cc/stayhomelearn
2020-06-0313 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast05.28.20: Quality Assurance and Enhancement Drives PSIA-AASI Towards ConsistencyFirst Chair catches up with Pete Allison, Jill Chumbley, Rick Lyons and Dave Schuiling about how PSIA-AASI is drawing ever closer to strategic alignment and how all PSIA-AASI divisions have adopted a 6-point scale to measure assessment criteria. This means that instructors training for certification, resort trainers, education staff, and divisional examiners will all be working out of the same assessment “tool box”.
2020-05-2825 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast05.05.20: PSIA-AASI Northwest Division Offers Online Courses for All MembersFirst Chair catches up with Katie Feucht about new online learning opportunities that are available to all PSIA-AASI members. Check out how Northwest has set up and structured their digital learning opportunities and how you can hop in and continue your online learning this month on courses such as Alpine, Snowboard, and Telemark Remote Movement Analysis. Visit: www.psia-nw.org/events View more PSIA-AASI online courses: http://tiny.cc/stayhomelearn
2020-05-0510 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI PodcastPSIA-AASI National Team Share Their Last Run of the SeasonPSIA-AASI National Team members Matt Boyd, Heidi Ettlinger, Brenna Kelleher and Chris Rogers share their story about their last resort run of this season. Get the scoop too on what’s happening across the country related to how you can keep up with your digital learning while you stay at home these days. http://tiny.cc/stayhomelearn
2020-04-1920 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast04.07.20: Why REI Teamed Up with PSIA-AASI to Create “Learn To” VideosThe REI Co-op crew teamed up with PSIA-AASI National Team members Amy Gan, Greg Rhodes and Robin Barnes last December to create a comprehensive catalog of “learn to” cross country, ski and snowboard videos that you and your students can watch on YouTube, or that you can post on your own social media accounts to share the love of snowsports. This link takes you to those videos: http://tiny.cc/REIVideos
2020-04-0718 minFirst Chair: PSIA-AASI PodcastFirst Chair: Jeb Boyd Chats About PSIA-AASI National Team SelectionFirst Chair catches up with PSIA-AASI National Team Manger Jeb Boyd who talks about the 2020 PSIA-AASI National Team Selection process and how ti helps PSIA-AASI select the nation’s best instructors to represent the association at the highest level. As a result, the team will embody these three attributes outlined by the Teams Taskforce: lifelong learners, inspirational educators, and inspirational athletes. Take a listen and learn more about next steps for the 2020 – 24 PSIA-AASI National Team Selection event.
2020-03-0412 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI PodcastFirst Chair: Learn About PSIA-AASI Certification LevelsPSIA-AASI National Team Alumni member David Oliver chats with First Chair about what it means to be a Level I, Level II and Level III PSIA-AASI certified member. Listen to D.O. share more insight about each certification level and what it means, both from an instructor standpoint and as a student taking a lesson from an instructor that has this certification.
Watch these videos to learn more:
https://www.thesnowpros.org/education/certification
2020-02-1819 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI PodcastFirst Chair: PSIA-AASI National Team Selection Deadline is Friday 1/10First Chair catches up with current Team Manager Jeb Boyd, who will serve as the Head Coach of the 2020-24 PSIA-AASI National Team. Jeb shares an update about the new National Team selection process, who are individuals that are selected on a “best in the nation” concept. Every four years, men and women are chosen to represent the association following a rigorous selection process and will serve a four-year term. Hurry, your applications are due Friday, Jan. 10, 2020! www.thesnowpros.org/teamselection
2020-01-0619 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI PodcastFirst Chair: AASI Snowboard Team Update with Chris RogersGet the scoop about what’s happening on the education front, including the snowboard and people skills fundamentals, from AASI Snowboard Team member Chris Rogers.
2019-12-1012 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI PodcastFirst Chair: Meet Greg Dixon, 2020 PSIA-AASI National Team Telemark CoachMeet the first-ever telemark specific coach for the 2020 PSIA-AASI National Team, Greg Dixon. Learn why the organization made the decision to separate cross-country and telemark within the nordic discipline, working with a tight-knit telemark team, telemark tryouts, and more.
Photo credit: Grant Nakamura
Follow PSIA-AASI:
• https://thesnowpros.org
• https://facebook.com/thesnowpros
• https://instagram.com/thesnowpros
• https://twitter.com/thesnowpros
2019-11-2811 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI PodcastFirst Chair: How to Get More Involved with PSIA-AASI with Dana ForbesWant to get more involved with PSIA-AASI? Listen in as Dana Forbes, the CEO of PSIA-AASI Rocky Mountain, talks about how PSIA-AASI members can get more engaged with the organization. She discusses the different volunteer opportunities open to members and how you can get started.
Dana also talks about the often-under-utilized scholarship opportunities which provide $60,000 in funding annually to allow members to continue their educational pursuits in the snowsports industry.
Follow PSIA-AASI:
• https://thesnowpros.org
• https://facebook.com/thesnowpros
• https://instagram.com/thesnowpros
• https://twitter.com/thesnowpros
2019-09-0520 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI PodcastFirst Chair: Meet Members from PSIA-AASI’s Central DivisionLive from Spring Symposium in Sun Valley, Idaho, First Chair sits down and chats with Ron Shepard, Julie Nitzsche & Chad Poepping from the PSIA-AASI Central division. Learn how different resorts across the country look to hire members from the Central division for their spring hiring season. thesnowpros.org/job-board
2019-04-1517 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI PodcastFirst Chair: Interski 2019 – The Importance of Interski for All PSIA-AASI MembersPSIA-AASI Director of Education Dave Schuiling chats about the importance of Interski 2019 for all members. He shares news about his recent appointment as a board member of IVSS (International Association Snowsports at Schools and Universities), one of the organizations that is meeting at Interski. #Interski2019
2019-03-2010 min
First Chair: PSIA-AASI PodcastFirst Chair: Interski 2019 – Michael Rogan Shares PSIA-AASI Team NewsPSIA Alpine Team Coach, Michael Rogan, reports from Pamporovo, Bulgaria, about what the PSIA-AASI Team is doing to share the USA's Learning Connection with the other countries at Interski. #Interski2019
2019-03-2013 min