The statistics are grim: young men are falling behind their female peers in graduation rates, employment, and relationships—and leading in depression, suicide, and social isolation. In this episode, we share these numbers with four men in their 20s—MTI Coach Emmett Shaul (29) and three current MTI interns—and ask for their honest reactions. What do these stats reflect about their generation? Are they experiencing this decline firsthand? And what do they think the future holds? This is a candid, unscripted conversation about masculinity, struggle, resilience, and the state of young men in America today.

Solo episode today. Founder Rob Shaul answers emailed Questions from athletes concerning preparing for SWAT selection, overcoming plateaus in strength training, and scheduling programming for a multi-sport, often traveling mountain athlete. 

Rob and Charlie discuss the concept of mental fitness, exploring its core attributes, the importance of self-correction, and the triggers that indicate a lapse in mental fitness. They delve into practical applications, the role of emotions like frustration and defeat, and the challenges of training mental fitness across different modes. The discussion emphasizes the need for awareness and the ability to pause and diagnose one's mental state in order to re-engage effectively. The Mental Fitness Self-Diagnostic Tool (Article) Mountain Tactical Institute

Rob, Brian, and Dan challenge the conventional wisdom around "mental toughness" by redefining it as mental fitness—a trainable, perishable, and multidimensional attribute. Drawing from military, athletic, academic, and corporate experiences, they explore how key traits like perseverance, resilience, emotional control, mental endurance, and cognitive flexibility interact—and sometimes break down—under stress. The trio debates the differences between perseverance and discipline, unpacks personal failures (including triathlons gone wrong and meltdowns in the mountains), and questions whether mental fitness truly transfers across domains like work, relationships, and backcountry hunts. They discuss how self-awareness, daily stressors, and deliberate discomfort can serve as powerful training grounds for building mental strength. Finally, they raise essential questions: Can mental fitness be trained systematically like physical fitness? What role do environment and emotional response play? And how might we design a "mental gym" to sharpen the mind daily? Read our work on Mental Fitness: The 8 Core Attributes of Mental Fitness Mental Fitness Is Mode-Specific: Why Mental Fitness in One Arena Doesn’t Guarantee It in Another Mountain Tactical Institute Home MTI's Daily Programming Streams

Charlie, Seung, Jackson, and Sam discuss July's mini-study designs, focusing on velocity-based training, rucking strategies, and climbing training. The participants discuss the purpose and protocols of their studies, comparing traditional strength programming with velocity-based approaches, and examining the effectiveness of different rucking strategies. They also delve into climbing training, emphasizing the importance of finger strength and endurance. The discussion highlights the challenges of balancing multiple training protocols and the expected outcomes of their upcoming training cycles. ----more---- Mountain Tactical Institute Home MTI's Daily Programming Streams

In this episode, MTI's interns conducted a Q&A Rob Shaul covering key principles in strength and conditioning. Rob discusses his most unique coaching experience—whitewater kayakers—highlighting the upper-body-focused training and sport-specific programming he developed to meet their needs. He explains the rationale behind his TLU (Total Lower and Upper) complex training method, which pairs heavy lifts with low-rep explosive bodyweight exercises to enhance strength and power. The conversation emphasizes Rob’s belief in simplifying training programs over time, with a focus on real-world performance rather than gym-based metrics. He critiques conventional approaches like plyometrics, mobility work, and elaborate warm-ups, arguing they offer little return compared to straightforward, mission-specific training. Rob stresses the value of developing athlete assessments to guide programming, citing MTI’s extensive history of creating job- and sport-specific tests. He shares how many of MTI’s effective exercises evolved through testing and athlete feedback, and describes current experiments on strength maintenance with minimal training volume, power-based work capacity, and sled push applications. The discussion reflects MTI’s core philosophy: simplify where possible, test relentlessly, and always train for performance outside the gym. ----more---- Mountain Tactical Institute Home Check out the MTI Athlete Team Apply to be a Paid MTI Athlete MTI's Daily Programming Streams

MTI Athletes Dan and Derrick join Rob and Charlie to explore the multifaceted nature of fatherhood, discussing what it means to be a good dad, the emotional connections with children, and the responsibilities fathers hold for their children's successes and failures. They delve into personal experiences, the impact of their own fathers, and the balance between being a provider and being emotionally present. The discussion also touches on the differences in raising sons versus daughters, the importance of trust, and the personal growth that comes with fatherhood. With insights from research on fatherhood, they discuss the significance of emotional engagement and presence over mere provision. The participants discuss the importance of emotional availability, the role of play in father-son connections, and the challenges of coaching children. They also touch on the significance of mentorship, the impact of absentee fathers, and the modeling of behaviors such as risk-taking. The discussion highlights modern parenting challenges, including the influence of technology and social media on children, and concludes with reflections on the future of fatherhood and the importance of social connections. ----more----   Mountain Tactical Institute Home Check out the MTI Athlete Team Apply to be a Paid MTI Athlete MTI's Daily Programming Streams

In this conversation, Rob and Charlie dive into the Marine Corps' strategic shifts towards small craft and rapid deployment, the importance of junior officers in military discourse, and the challenges of aerobic training for mountain athletes. Additionally, they share personal experiences in bear hunting and explore the integration of AI in athletic programming. The discussion concludes with insights into research innovations in strength training and the concept of minimum effective dose training. ----more---- Interested in training with us at our facility in Ogden, UT? Email emmett@mtntactical.com Mountain Tactical Institute Home Check out the MTI Athlete Team Apply to be a Paid MTI Athlete MTI's Daily Programming Streams

Catherine, a tactical strength coach with a diverse military background, shares her journey through various branches of the military, highlighting the differences in training approaches and the challenges of implementing effective strength conditioning programs. She discusses the importance of understanding the unique needs of each branch, the role of data in shaping training, and the impact of wearable technology on fitness assessments. Catherine emphasizes the need for a strong training culture within the Space Force and the importance of individual accountability in achieving fitness goals. She reflects on her coaching philosophy, the significance of personal connections, and the future of tactical strength conditioning in the military. ----more---- Interested in training with us at our facility in Ogden, UT? Email emmett@mtntactical.com   Mountain Tactical Institute Home Check out the MTI Athlete Team Apply to be a Paid MTI Athlete MTI's Daily Programming Streams

Rob and Charlie discuss various topics, including MTI's new gym in Ogden, to his experiences with the carnivore diet and insights on supplements. They also delve into a study on shooting performance in law enforcement, with insights surrounding law enforcement shooting proficiency, the application of stress in shooting training, and the difficulties faced by part-time SWAT teams. Rob and Charlie also discuss topics covered in the MTI Brief, including the housing crisis in affluent ski towns and measures taken locally to solve for it.Interested in training with us at our facility in Ogden, UT? Email emmett@mtntactical.com 'Mindful Hunter' Notes on Supplements Mountain Tactical Institute Home Check out the MTI Athlete Team Apply to be a Paid MTI Athlete MTI's Daily Programming Streams

In this conversation, Rob Shaul, Brian Reed, and Dan Stuewe discuss various aspects of fitness and the identity of being an athlete, particularly in the context of military service and coaching. They explore the evolution of fitness training, motivations, and how personal experiences shape their definitions of athleticism. The discussion also touches on the importance of leadership in promoting fitness culture and the intrinsic versus extrinsic motivations that drive individuals to maintain their health and fitness.The speakers discuss the intersection of military duties and personal athletic goals, emphasizing the importance of maintaining fitness and skill development as they age. They explore how their training has evolved over the years, the significance of discipline and resilience in their athletic pursuits, and the need to adapt their training methods to accommodate physical limitations. The conversation highlights the value of outdoor adventures and the continuous pursuit of personal fitness objectives, even in the face of aging.   Still in the Game: Being an Athlete at 55+ Mountain Tactical Institute Home Check out the MTI Athlete Team Apply to be a Paid MTI Athlete MTI's Daily Programming Streams

Rob and Charlie discuss the establishment of MTI's new training workshop in Ogden, Utah, focusing on innovative training methods and the integration of lab rats for testing. Rob shares insights on polar training for older athletes, balancing strength and endurance, and highlights the journey of athlete Wyatt as he prepares for a challenging ascent of Denali. The conversation also introduces new members of the MTI athlete team and reviews a case study on ACL recovery, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive training during rehabilitation. Additionally, Rob and Charlie discuss 'The MTI Brief', a new email newsletter focused on bringing interesting insights, research, and news that are applicable to tactical and mountain athletes. ----more---- Research Review: Monitoring the Return to Sport Transition After ACL Injury – An Alpine Ski Racing Case Study Mountain Tactical Institute Home Check out the MTI Athlete Team Apply to be a Paid MTI Athlete MTI's Daily Programming Streams

In this conversation, Rob Shaul and Brian Reed discuss the evolution of fitness and training for military personnel, particularly focusing on the importance of endurance, mobility, and nutrition as they age. They explore the H2F program, the significance of qualifications like the Ranger tab, and the transition from military to civilian life. Brian shares insights on crisis leadership from his experiences in combat and emphasizes the mindset of an athlete, regardless of age. The discussion also touches on the role of AI in enhancing decision-making and the importance of having a purpose in training. ----more---- Mountain Tactical Institute Home Check out the MTI Athlete Team Apply to be a Paid MTI Athlete MTI's Daily Programming Streams

In this episode, Rob Shaul speaks with Command Sgt. Maj. Brandon Riley, currently serving as the senior enlisted leader for 3-66 Armor Battalion, 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division. Riley discusses the real work of a battalion CSM—managing standards and discipline, mentoring company-level leaders, and maintaining unit readiness. He explains the dynamic between officers and NCOs, the balance between garrison and field responsibilities, and the internal pressures of holding a formation together. Riley also reflects on his combat deployments, leadership mistakes, and what two decades in the Army have taught him about accountability, influence, and the role of the senior enlisted. ----more---- Mountain Tactical Institute Home Check out the MTI Athlete Team Apply to be a Paid MTI Athlete MTI's Daily Programming Streams

Rob and Charlie discuss the establishment of a new fitness lab in Ogden, Utah, focusing on programming and training for athletes. They explore the target audience for lab rats, updates to the Ranger School Training Plan, and the implications of Ranger tabs on leadership and bias within the military.  Rob covers innovative training methods for uphill movement, focusing on recent research and testing of sled drags. He shares insights from his personal training experiences, including the benefits of extended sled drags for strength and endurance. The discussion also covers the integration of zone two endurance training with strength work, emphasizing the importance of aerobic capacity for tactical athletes.  ----more---- MTI Internship / Mentorship Opportunity - Ogden, UT Save Infantry Leaders From Bias by Removing Ranger Tabs The Debate Over Ranger Tabs in Infantry Leadership: Tradition, Merit, and Bias Case Study: Loaded Sled Drags Demonstrate Transferability to Uphill Movement Under Load  

In this episode, I sit down with Jonathan Edwards, a tech consultant and elite ultra marathon runner based in Sandy, Utah. We discuss his experience racing the Belgian Waffle Race in Scottsdale, Arizona—an intense 104-mile gravel race with nearly 7,900 feet of elevation gain. Jonathan shares insights into race strategy, gear selection, and overcoming technical challenges on the course. Beyond cycling, Jonathan talks about his transition back to ultra trail running, his upcoming races—including UTMB and Speedgoat 50K—and his training philosophy for endurance performance. He breaks down his nutrition and hydration strategies, his approach to balancing trail running and cycling, and the importance of lactate threshold testing and zone-based training. If you're interested in gravel racing, ultra running, or optimizing endurance training, this episode is packed with insights and expert takeaways. Topics Covered: Belgian Waffle Race Recap: Course conditions, challenges, and performance breakdown Bike and Gear Selection: Choosing the right setup for gravel racing Tire Strategy: How tire choice impacts speed and traction Power and Race Pacing: Managing effort across a long race Fueling for Endurance: Jonathan’s approach to carbs, hydration, and in-race nutrition Transitioning to Ultra Running: Upcoming race plans and training block UTMB Preparation: Key strategies for tackling 100+ mile mountain races Lactate Threshold and Zone-Based Training: How Jonathan is optimizing his endurance Guest Bio: Jonathan Edwards is an ultra marathon runner, endurance athlete, and tech consultant based in Sandy, Utah. A former road marathoner (2:44 PR), he has transitioned into ultra trail running, completing races at 50K, 50-mile, 100K, and 100-mile distances—with multiple top 10 finishes and a race win. He also incorporates cycling and strength training into his routine for a well-rounded endurance approach. Jonathan is currently training for UTMB, one of the most prestigious ultra marathons in the world. Episode Highlights: [00:00:00] The Belgian Waffle Race Overview: Course details, elevation, and challenges [00:11:13] Race Strategy and Gear Selection: Tires, bike setup, and power pacing [00:22:34] Nutrition and Hydration Strategies: Managing fuel intake for an 8+ hour effort [00:26:08] Transitioning to Trail Running and Future Goals: UTMB training and lactate threshold testing Resources & Links: Follow Jonathan Edwards on Instagram: @Jedsoutside Mountain Tactical Institute Home Check out the MTI Athlete Team Apply to be a Paid MTI Athlete MTI's Daily Programming Streams If you enjoyed this episode, leave a review and subscribe for more expert insights on endurance training and performance!

In this episode, I sit down with Chris Judy, an elite strength and endurance coach with experience in rugby, obstacle course racing, and high-level endurance training. Chris shares his coaching journey, from building a strength program for the University of Utah Rugby Team to training world-class OCR athletes and personal training at high-level gyms like Equinox and Ultimate Performance. We dive deep into balancing strength and endurance, developing resilient athletes, and building training programs that produce real-world results. Chris explains his approach to coaching, injury prevention, and performance tracking—including why grip strength separates winners in OCR, how to train for max power output in rugby, and the best endurance tests to track aerobic base. If you’re a coach, athlete, or someone looking to optimize your training, this episode is loaded with practical takeaways and expert insights. Topics Covered: Chris’s path into strength and endurance coaching Training the University of Utah Rugby Team Strength and conditioning for rugby players How he built world-class OCR athletes Why grip strength determines success in obstacle racing Balancing strength and endurance in training His favorite training protocols for endurance athletes Plyometrics for injury prevention Lessons from coaching at Equinox and Ultimate Performance The most common mistakes trainers and coaches make Guest Bio: Chris Judy is a strength and endurance coach with deep experience in rugby, OCR, and endurance sports. He has trained University of Utah rugby players, Spartan World Championship winners, and worked at Equinox and Ultimate Performance, specializing in elite personal training and athlete development. His expertise spans strength, endurance, power development, and injury prevention, making him a highly respected coach in the performance training space. Episode Highlights: [00:02:15] How Chris started coaching and developed his training philosophy [00:10:30] Building a rugby strength and conditioning program from scratch [00:20:05] Strength benchmarks for rugby players and why durability matters [00:28:50] Coaching an athlete to an OCR World Championship win [00:35:45] Grip strength training for OCR and why it’s crucial [00:45:10] Balancing endurance and strength training effectively [00:52:30] Using plyometrics for injury prevention [01:05:40] Lessons from Equinox and Ultimate Performance [01:15:20] The most common training mistakes coaches make [01:25:00] Lightning Round Q&A Resources & Links: Follow Chris Judy: @ChrisJudyTraining Learn more about OCR and Rugby Strength Training: www.chrisjudyperformance.com Mountain Tactical Institute Home Check out the MTI Athlete Team Apply to be a Paid MTI Athlete MTI's Daily Programming Streams If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and subscribe for more conversations with leaders in strength, conditioning, and mountain sports!

In this episode, I sit down with Michael Schofield, a former MLB strength coach turned tactical performance specialist. Schofield spent over a decade in professional baseball, working with the Arizona Diamondbacks, Atlanta Braves, and New York Mets before transitioning to first responder fitness.   We dive into how training differs across pro baseball, police, and fire academies, the biggest programming mistakes coaches make, and why simple, effective training always wins. Schofield shares his approach to strength assessments, work capacity programming, and injury prevention for tactical athletes.   Whether you’re a coach, athlete, or first responder, this episode is packed with practical insights on building strength, durability, and mission-readiness.   Topics Covered: Breaking into pro baseball strength and conditioning The grind of coaching in the minor leagues Differences between training MLB players and minor leaguers Transitioning from pro sports to tactical athletes Strength and conditioning for police and fire academies The best fitness tests for first responders Why simple training is the most effective Work capacity training for tactical athletes Strength programming: Wendler 5/3/1 for trap bar deadlift Mistakes coaches make with tactical athletes   Guest Bio: Michael Schofield is a former MLB strength coach and current Director of Public Safety Health and Performance for the City of Aurora, CO. He runs Performance Code, designing strength and conditioning programs for first responders. Previously, he worked as a Major League Assistant Performance Coach for the New York Mets, the Minor League Strength and Conditioning Coordinator for the Atlanta Braves, and a Minor League Strength Coach for the Arizona Diamondbacks. Schofield has experience developing athlete management systems, return-to-play protocols, and performance programming for both professional athletes and tactical professionals.   Episode Highlights: [00:02:00] Breaking into pro baseball S&C and early struggles [00:10:45] The reality of coaching in minor league baseball [00:18:30] Strength training at the MLB level vs. minor leagues [00:27:15] Why Schofield left pro sports for first responders [00:35:10] The best fitness assessments for police and fire academies [00:42:00] How he programs trap bar deadlifts using Wendler 5/3/1 [00:50:30] The biggest mistakes coaches make with tactical athletes [00:58:15] His favorite work capacity protocols for tactical fitness [01:06:20] Building fitness culture in first responder units   Resources & Links: Follow Michael Schofield: [@performancecode](https://www.instagram.com/performancecode) Mountain Tactical Institute Home Check out the MTI Athlete Team Apply to be a Paid MTI Athlete MTI's Daily Programming Streams If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and subscribe for more conversations with leaders in strength, conditioning, and mountain sports!

Rob Shaul and MTI Athlete Derrick, an active duty Air Force Officer based in Santiago, Chile, discuss Derrick's recent experiences with fitness assessments, particularly the Alpinist fitness assessment and the V-SUM for rock climbing. They explore Derrick's training progress, the outdoor culture in Chile, and the impact of military service on outdoor activities. The discussion also touches on leadership lessons learned from outdoor experiences and Derrick's future aspirations in outdoor sports.   Takeaways Derrick recently took the Alpinist fitness assessment and found it challenging. He has been focusing on endurance training to improve his aerobic base. Derrick enjoys the new training program and has seen improvements in his performance. The V-SUM has helped Derrick enhance his rock climbing skills significantly. Outdoor culture in Chile is vibrant, with many opportunities for mountain sports. Derrick has had mostly positive military assignments that allowed him to pursue outdoor activities. He reflects on the importance of location in shaping outdoor experiences during his military career. Leadership lessons from outdoor adventures, such as those from Shackleton, are valuable. Derrick is considering future opportunities in outdoor sports after his military career. He appreciates the balance between military service and personal passions. ----more---- Mountain Tactical Institute Home Check out the MTI Athlete Team Apply to be a Paid MTI Athlete MTI's Daily Programming Streams If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and subscribe for more conversations with leaders in strength, conditioning, and mountain sports!

In this episode, I sit down with Crystal Wright, two-time Freeride World Tour Champion, founder of Wright Training, and strength coach for mountain athletes. From her early days ski racing with the U.S. Ski Team to dominating freeride competitions and building one of the top strength training programs for skiers, Crystal shares her journey, insights on training for performance, and the challenges of coaching in a male-dominated industry.We dive into her transition from competitive skiing to running a gym, her philosophy on strength training for mountain athletes, and the evolution of freeride skiing. Plus, Crystal opens up about the struggles of balancing business, adventure, and family while continuing to push herself in the mountains.Whether you’re an athlete, coach, or someone looking for motivation to push through adversity, this episode is packed with valuable insights on training, leadership, and resilience.Topics Covered: Growing up in Jackson, WY, and competing in ski racing before transitioning to freeride The experience of competing at the highest levels and winning two Freeride World Tour titles How injuries shaped her career and led to the founding of Wright Training The biggest mistakes skiers make in training and how to fix them How strength training enhances performance and prevents injuries in mountain athletes The challenges of being a female strength coach in a male-dominated space The evolution of freeride skiing and why fewer women are competing today Risk management in ski mountaineering and lessons from close calls in the mountains Balancing running a business, raising a family, and staying fit for the mountains Guest Bio:Crystal Wright is a former two-time Freeride World Tour Champion and founder of Wright Training, a strength and conditioning gym dedicated to training mountain athletes. A former U.S. Ski Team racer, she transitioned to freeride skiing and went on to win multiple big-mountain competitions. After suffering a career-altering injury, she turned her focus to coaching, helping outdoor athletes build strength, prevent injuries, and improve performance. She also leads ski mountaineering expeditions and is a passionate advocate for female athletes in freeride and strength training.Episode Highlights: [00:02:15] Crystal’s upbringing in Jackson and early ski racing career [00:10:30] Transitioning from ski racing to freeride competition [00:18:45] The injuries that changed her career path [00:25:20] How she built Wright Training and the principles behind her programming [00:32:50] The most underrated exercises for skiers and how to train for longevity [00:41:10] The challenges of being a woman in strength training and freeride skiing [00:49:30] Why ski mountaineering became her new passion and lessons from the mountains [00:56:45] Balancing motherhood, business, and personal performance goals Resources & Links: Follow Crystal Wright on Instagram: [@wrighttraining](https://www.instagram.com/wrighttraining) Learn more about Wright Training: [www.wrighttraining.com](https://www.wrighttraining.com) ----more---- Mountain Tactical Institute Home Check out the MTI Athlete Team Apply to be a Paid MTI Athlete MTI's Daily Programming Streams If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and subscribe for more conversations with leaders in strength, conditioning, and mountain sports!