MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin Diefenderfer
The MTNTOUGH Podcast, hosted by Dustin Diefenderfer, founder of MTNTOUGH fitness app, explores holistic physical, mental, and spiritual toughness through backcountry hunting, military, and mountain sports. Each episode offers practical tips, expert insights, and inspiring stories for hunters, first responders, and outdoor enthusiasts. The podcast promotes functional fitness programs that can be done at home, gym, or on the go.
Episodes
Cody Rich: Kill the Hardest-Worker Identity | Bridger Watch | MTNPOD #189
Cody Rich—host of Rich Outdoors and founder of Bridger Watch—is back on the MTNTOUGH Podcast. He’s building a hunter smartwatch in the hardest lane there is: hardware, software, manufacturing, and fundraising. The conversation is about the DNA that always picks the hard path, the Tom Brady wall of performance identity, Mike Tyson’s “I don’t want to be a great man, I want to be a good man,” and why
Fitness Lab Discussion | Gym Daily vs MGD: Which MTNTOUGH Program Should You Run?
Coaches Sarah Maschino and Nick Bechtold break down the two most-used programs in the app: Minimal Gear Daily and Gym Daily. MGD runs on dumbbells, a couple kettlebells, a pull-up bar, and a Yeti 65 — strength through volume, tempo, and stacked movements. Gym Daily needs a rack, barbell, plates, and at least one cardio machine so you can actually progress load. They cover who should pick which, wh
Kyle Layne: How I Survived Losing My Daughter | MTNPOD #188
Kyle returns to the MTNTOUGH Podcast for a raw follow-up on alcoholism, the “compliant child” vs. performance-identity trap, and why so many high achievers chase control until a substance (or fitness, or a phone) becomes the only way to feel baseline. He traces the exact catalyst moments that finally got him into rehab—including a Western Hunt Expo booth shared with Mountain Tough, an Eric McCorma
Jake Harriman: Don’t Waste a Good Life | MTNPOD #187
Jake Harriman—Naval Academy grad, Force Recon Marine, Bronze Star, founder of Nuru International and The Brickyard (formerly More Perfect Union)—joins the MTNTOUGH Podcast on a simple fear: you can live a good life and still waste it. After years off-grid fighting extremism through livelihoods, he came home and didn’t recognize the country he’d fought for. Now he’s building higher ground, not just
Fitness Lab Discussion | Coaches Sarah & Nick: How We Program MTNTOUGH + Your Questions
Get to know MTNTOUGH Coaches Dr. Nick Bechtold and Sarah Maschino as they open a new lab-side conversation: who they are, how they landed at MTNTOUGH, and how the programming actually gets built.They cover the path from elite sheep-hunt training to on-ramp, foundations, Always Ready 50+, and what’s coming next (No Gear 10, SV20). Then they answer two of the most common support questions—how to pai
Mike Sarraille: A Soldier Dies Twice | Brotherhood After the Teams | MTNPOD #186
Mike Sarraille—former special operations leader, Chief Talent Officer at a veteran-owned company, and the man behind Fox Nation’s Final Flight: The Men of Extortion 17—joins the MTNTOUGH Podcast on what companies still get wrong about veteran talent, why eight guys from the same platoon now work under one roof, and why a soldier dies twice: once in the field, and again when his name is spoken last
Leif Babin: Extreme Ownership When You Can’t Control the Situation | MTNPOD #185
Leif Babin, former Navy SEAL officer, Task Unit Bruiser platoon commander in Ramadi, and co-author of Extreme Ownership, joins the MTNTOUGH Podcast to talk leadership when the title, the body, and the plan get stripped away. He covers attitude as the one thing you still control, cover and move as real teamwork, why the best leaders stop trying to prove themselves, the cost of not explaining the “w
John Wayne Walding: What They Don't Tell You About Survival | MTNPOD #184
John Wayne Walding spent seven years in 3rd Special Forces Group. On April 6, 2008 in Shok Valley, Afghanistan, a sniper shot took the lower half of his right leg. He tied it to his thigh and kept fighting. This episode is about April 7th—the hospital bed, the word “can’t,” and the battles that don’t come with a medal. John talks about being raised by his grandparents after both parents went to ja
Jim Ramos: Why Men Never Talk About Marriage Until It’s on Fire | MTNPOD #183
Jim Ramos, founder of Men in the Arena and MTNTOUGH spiritual growth coach, is back to talk about his new book Guardrails: 10 Boundaries for an Unbreakable Marriage. He unpacks why men will talk about money, work, drinking, and porn for years—but stay silent on marriage until it’s a dumpster fire. The conversation covers the revival among Gen Z men, the difference between being mountain tough and
Mitch Ammons: From Heroin Addiction to Elite Marathoner | MTNPOD #182
Mitch Ammons, two-time U.S. Olympic marathon trials qualifier and 2:14 marathoner, shares one of the most powerful redemption stories you’ll hear. After nearly a decade of heroin and hard drug addiction, repeated rock bottoms, and multiple rehabs, he got sober in 2015 and rebuilt his entire life through running. In this conversation he opens up about the deep need for community that drove both his
Jason Schlarb: Ultra Running, Anxiety & Finding Purpose in the Mountains | MTNPOD #181
Jason Schlarb, Hard Rock 100 champion, Air Force veteran, elite ultrarunner, and coach, joins the MTNTOUGH Podcast for a raw conversation on mental toughness, the dual nature of anxiety as both fuel and burden, and the 2020 rock-bottom moment that forced a healthier mindset. He unpacks nature vs. nurture, why so many endurance athletes are running from something, the modern need to manufacture adv
Jeff Ozanne: Purpose, Perseverance, and the Firearms Industry | MTNPOD #180
Jeff Ozanne, founder and CEO of Ambient Arms, joins the MTNTOUGH Podcast to share his journey from mechanical design and IP leadership at Matthews Archery to launching a firearms innovation company centered on next-level suppressor technology. He discusses the crossover between archery and firearms engineering, the critical role of patents in protecting innovation and employees, the weight of foun
Mark Moore: The Missing Messiah & Recovering Biblical Masculinity | MTNPOD #179
Mark Moore, New Testament scholar and teaching pastor at Christ Church of the Valley, joins the MTNTOUGH Podcast to discuss his new book The Missing Messiah (co-authored with Kyle Idleman). He unpacks how modern culture has softened Jesus into a comfortable figure and why recovering biblical masculinity—rooted in responsibility, brotherhood, and Jesus as both Savior and Warrior-King—is essential f
Cody Townsend: The Moment I Realized My Ego Was Dangerous | MTNPOD #178
Cody Townsend joins the MTNTOUGH Podcast for a raw conversation on evolving from ego-driven free-riding to mature risk management, knowing when to turn around, and finding deeper mental toughness through suffering. He opens up about the death of friends that forced a mindset shift, completing 46 of the 50 classic ski descents, raising a son while staying in the mountains, training his “mountain-pr
Always Ready 50+ | Stay Strong & Hunt Longer After 50
Randy Newberg sits down with MTNTOUGH coaches Sarah Maschino and Nick Bechtold to break down the brand-new Always Ready 50+ program. Designed for hunters and active adults over 50 (but perfect for anyone rebuilding after injury, desk life, or time off), this 12-week, 3-day-per-week plan focuses on strength, balance, mobility, and progressive conditioning without the beat-down. They discuss buildin
Rorke Denver: SEAL Mindset, Tough Kids & Never Quitting | MTNPOD #177
Commander Rorke Denver, 14-year Navy SEAL veteran and author of Damn Few and Worth Dying For, joins the MTNTOUGH Podcast for a powerful conversation on mental toughness, resilience, and leadership. He breaks down the nature vs. nurture debate around grit, shares how he raises tough kids by letting them struggle, and explains why doing hard things prepares you for life’s inevitable challenges. Rork
Lane Walter: Filming the Toughest Backcountry Hunts | MTNPOD #176
Lane Walter, hunting cinematographer and Denver firefighter, joins the MTNTOUGH Podcast for a raw conversation on filming some of the toughest backcountry hunts in North America. He shares how he got started with a handheld camera in 2012, working with legends like Brian Barney and Eastman's, the brutal physical crossover between firefighting and serious backcountry hunting, and his most deman
MTNTOUGH's Specific Workout Regime for the Army Fitness Test
Justin (20-year 75th Ranger Regiment veteran) and Coach Sarah Maschino break down MTNTOUGH’s new 9-week AFT prep program, “The Standard.” Designed specifically for the Army Fitness Test (trap bar deadlift, hand-release push-ups, plank, sprint-drag-carry, and 2-mile run), this program delivers progressive strength, smart run training, combat-focused kit days, and vertical gain work. Built for soldi
Brant Hansen: The Strong Hand & Why Men Lose Joy | MTNPOD #175
Brant Hansen joins the MTNTOUGH Podcast for a raw, honest conversation about why so many men in their 40s and 50s feel lost, anxious, and joyless. He breaks down the performance-based mindset that worked in school and early career but eventually breaks down, the epidemic of isolation, and how the algorithm is dividing families and feeding anger. Brant shares powerful insights from his book Life Is
Gray Thornton: Why Hunters Must Reject Convenience Culture | MTNPOD #174
Gray Thornton, President and CEO of the Wild Sheep Foundation, joins the MTNTOUGH Podcast for a powerful conversation on the “strenuous life,” mental toughness, and why comfort is slowly killing men. He shares his journey from corporate America and superbike racing to leading one of North America’s most effective conservation organizations. Gray breaks down what separates sheep hunters, the real t
Trent Fisher: Hunting’s Next Generation, AI & Life After Loss | MTNPOD #173
Trent Fisher of Born and Raised Outdoors joins the MTNTOUGH Podcast for a raw conversation on raising kids in the hunting industry, the double-edged sword of technology and AI, and how a devastating flood stripped everything away and rebuilt his purpose. He opens up about work ethic, mental toughness, staying present, and why we must make decisions with eternity in mind. Honest talk on generationa
Sam Soholt: Public Lands, Conservation & The Future of Hunting | MTNPOD #172
Sam Soholt joins the MTNTOUGH Podcast to discuss the current state of public lands and hunting in America. From fighting legislation that threatens millions of acres to the mental toughness forged in the wilderness, Sam shares why these wild places are the last true freedom we have. He breaks down the generational responsibility of protecting public lands for our kids and grandkids, the impact of
Zach Bitter: The Brutal Truth About 250-Mile Races | MTNPOD #171
World record ultramarathon runner Zach Bitter joins the MTNTOUGH Podcast to break down the insane demands of 250-mile races like Cocodona, the difference between mental toughness in 100-mile vs. multi-day events, and why durability often beats raw speed. He shares how he trains for sub-12-hour 100-milers, the real trade-offs between high-carb and low-carb fueling for endurance, and why pushing hum
Jim Shockey: Truth About Hunting and His Final Thoughts | MTNPOD #170
Hunting legend Jim Shockey opens up on the MTNTOUGH Podcast about recent devastating losses — friends and family battling cancer — and how it’s sharpened his view on life, gratitude, and living with zero regrets. He reflects on his dad’s influence, the spiritual connection of wilderness solitude, why hunters crave the real over the artificial, and why North American hunting will endure despite tec
Fitness Lab Discussion: Fully Guided Nutrition with Kyle Kamp
Interested in really nailing down your nutrition? Check out Fully Guided Nutrition. Registration is open now: https://mtntough.com/products/fully-guided-nutrition-3-month-group-coaching-programMTNTOUGH Director of Product Nate Hill sits down with registered dietitian Kyle Kamp to break down the brand new Fully Guided Nutrition program launching in June. Kyle shares his powerful story of losing 130
Mark Huelsing: The Mindset That Separates Elite Hunters From Everyone Else | MTNPOD #169
Mark Huelsing (Brand Manager at Exo Mtn Gear and host of Hunt Backcountry Podcast) joins the MTNTOUGH Podcast for a raw conversation on intentional business, US-made gear, long-term mindset over short-term growth, and why mental toughness separates good hunters from great ones. They dive into the Experience Challenge, death hikes, avoiding rage-content culture, persistence on multi-day hunts, and
Dean Karnazes: Ultra Marathon Man on Longevity, Greece & Never Quitting | MTNPOD #168
Ultra-marathon legend Dean Karnazes joins the MTNTOUGH Podcast to share his incredible journey from quitting his corporate job on his 30th birthday to run 30 miles, to completing 50 marathons in 50 states in 50 days, and now living in the Greek Blue Zone of Ikaria. Dean opens up about mental toughness, embracing discomfort, the power of community and present-moment living, Greek longevity secrets,
Fred Eichler: Closest to Death in Africa & Why He Still Hunts Recurve | MTNPOD #167
Legendary traditional bowhunter Fred Eichler joins the MTNTOUGH Podcast to share jaw-dropping stories from a lifetime in the wild — including being charged by grizzlies and brown bears, a terrifying political situation in Zimbabwe, and the moment he thought he wouldn’t make it home. He talks about growing up with a Green Beret dad, going all-in on recurve bows, the mental game of true bowhunting,
Fitness Lab Discussion: We Built Preseason Prep 3.0 for a Year
MTNTOUGH coaches break down the brand new Preseason Prep 3.0 — our most intentional and battle-tested 16-week program ever for backcountry hunters and mountain athletes. Learn how the new hypertrophy → strength → strength endurance phases build serious resilience, smarter energy system training (V2 max, HIT, lactate threshold, zone 2), progressive pack work, and body armor days to keep you healthy
Josh Bridges: Navy SEAL to CrossFit Beast – Life After Competition | MTNPOD #166
Former Navy SEAL and CrossFit Games legend Josh Bridges joins the MTNTOUGH Podcast to share his incredible journey from wrestling phenom to BUD/S, elite operator, and top CrossFit athlete. He opens up about fatherhood with a newborn and teenagers, navigating identity after leaving the Teams and pro competition, the power of not quitting, and how he’s adapted his training for long-term strength and
Fitness Lab Discussion: 4-Week Murph Prep Program Breakdown
MTNTOUGH Coaches Nick Bechtold and Zac Salvat break down the brand new 4-week Murph Prep program coming to the app! They explain the origins of the Murph workout (honoring Navy SEAL Michael Murphy), how the program builds volume safely with smart accessory work to prevent injury, and why it's designed for all levels with beginner, intermediate, and elite tiers. Learn how to use Mini Murph Mond
Matt Chandler: No Suffering Is Wasted | MTNPOD #165
Matt Chandler, lead pastor of The Village Church and author of the new book Becoming Like Jesus, joins the MTNTOUGH Podcast to share his powerful story of faith, suffering, and transformation. Diagnosed with a life-threatening brain tumor in 2009, Matt opens up about the "coil" of life—seasons of epic highs and brutal lows—and how God uses every part of it to form us into the image of Ch
Clay Newcomb: Hunting Heritage, Grizzly Bears & Raising Real Hunters | MTNPOD #164
Clay Newcomb, host of Bear Grease and a leading voice at MeatEater, joins the MTNTOUGH Podcast for a deep conversation on hunting heritage, fatherhood in the outdoors, and preserving wild places. From his roots in rural Arkansas to decades of storytelling through Into High Country and Bear Grease, Clay explores how wild experiences build patience, self-reliance, and problem-solving in the next gen
Jason Matzinger: Raising Hunters, Wild Places & Grizzly Bear Truth | MTNPOD #163
Jason Matzinger, creator of Into High Country, returns to the MTNTOUGH Podcast to discuss fatherhood in the outdoors, how wild places build self-reliant, problem-solving men, and why hunters are essential to protecting wildlife. From early film days to season 17, Jason shares lessons on patience, conservation, and raising boys who understand the circle of life. He dives deep into the grizzly bear
Tim Howell: Royal Marine to Wingsuit BASE Jumper – Mastering Fear | MTNPOD #162
Former Royal Marine commando Tim Howell joins the MTNTOUGH Podcast to share his extraordinary journey from guiding clients through Big 5 territory in South Africa at 18, to earning his place in one of the world’s toughest military units, and now pushing the absolute limits as an elite wingsuit BASE jumper and mountain athlete. Tim breaks down how he views and conquers fear, the power of calculated
Donnie Vincent: Why Wild Places Save Us – Alaska, Fatherhood & Purpose | MTNTOUGH #161
Donnie Vincent joins the MTNTOUGH Podcast to explore how wild places shape men, build mental toughness, and reconnect us to what truly matters. From fly-in drop camps in Alaska with his dad and now his own daughters, to facing grizzly country, ice-covered cliffs, and the raw reality of no easy button, Donnie shares why experiencing true wilderness is essential for identity, resilience, and purpose
Kyle Thompson: Stop Fear & Distractions – Live in the Present | MTNPOD #160
Kyle Thompson returns to the MTNTOUGH Podcast with a powerful message on why most men are trapped by fear of the future, regret of the past, and endless 2026 distractions. Founder of Undaunted Life and the Dominion Program, Kyle calls men out of performance identity and into daily discipline, present-moment living, and real foxhole brotherhood. He breaks down how “good things” (sermons, work, even
Jeremy Stalnecker: Why Men Freeze On Their Calling | MTNPOD #159
In this powerful MTNTOUGH Podcast episode, host Dustin Defenderfer sits down with Marine Corps combat veteran, pastor, author, and Mighty Oaks Foundation CEO Jeremy Stalnecker. Jeremy shares the raw reality of veteran transition struggles—identity loss after uniform, isolation, moral injury, and skyrocketing suicides—and how Mighty Oaks’ faith-based programs restore purpose through Christ-centered
Robb Wolf: Ancestral Health, LMNT, & Breaking Modern Overload | MTNPOD #158
In this insightful MTNTOUGH Podcast episode, host Dustin Defenderfer sits down with Robb Wolf—former research biochemist, 2x New York Times best-selling author (The Paleo Solution, Wired to Eat), co-founder of LMNT, and leading voice in ancestral health and metabolic performance. Robb shares his journey from powerlifting records and early CrossFit affiliates to pioneering electrolyte science with
Dr. Michael Gervais: Fear of Man is Holding You Back | MTNPOD #157
In this eye-opening MTNTOUGH Podcast episode, host Dustin Defenderfer sits down with world-renowned high-performance psychologist Dr. Michael Gervais—performance coach to Olympic athletes, Super Bowl champions (Seattle Seahawks), elite military units, and host of Finding Mastery podcast. Dr. Gervais dives deep into why fear of people’s opinions (FOPO) is the #1 constrictor of potential for men tod
Jeff Struecker: Black Hawk Down Ranger to Pastor | MTNPOD #156
In this profound MTNTOUGH Podcast episode, host Dustin Defenderfer sits down with former U.S. Army Ranger Jeff Struecker—Battle of Mogadishu survivor (Black Hawk Down), Ranger Hall of Fame inductee, 23-year veteran, Army chaplain, best-selling author, international speaker, and now church planter/pastor. Jeff opens up about coming home from Somalia forever changed, the emptiness after winning Best
Aron Snyder: The Real Reason Most Hunters Fail in the Backcountry | MTNPOD #155
In this raw MTNTOUGH Podcast episode, host Dustin Defenderfer catches up with legendary hunter, former Kifaru designer, and now core team member at Born Primitive Outdoor, Aron Snyder. Aron opens up about his massive 2025 transition: leaving Kifaru after 15 years amid unexpected drama, joining Born Primitive to innovate packs, boots, and gear for mountain hunters, and a profound spiritual awakenin
Steven Grayhm: Saving Veterans' Lives After 14 Years of Grit | MTNPOD #154
In this powerful MTNTOUGH Podcast episode, host Dustin Defenderfer sits down with filmmaker, actor, writer, and producer Steven Grayhm to unpack his 14-year journey creating Sheepdog—a human drama about a decorated U.S. Army combat veteran confronting the long aftermath of war and finding post-traumatic growth through community, faith, and purpose. Steven shares the raw origin story sparked by a t
Remi Warren: From Outfitter to Day 6 Owner – Identity Shift & Stress | MTNPOD #153
In this insightful MTNTOUGH Podcast episode, host Dustin Defenderfer reconnects with lifelong hunter, former backcountry guide, respected hunting voice, and entrepreneur Remi Warren for an honest check-in on his transformative 2025 journey. Remi dives deep into major life and business shifts: selling his 20+ year outfitting business after decades of guiding hard miles in wild places, acquiring Day
Matt Stutzman: One-Shot Medal Chances Every 4 Years | MTNPOD #152
In this inspiring MTNTOUGH Podcast episode, host Dustin Defenderfer interviews Matt Stutzman, the "Armless Archer" and world-class compound bow Olympian born without arms. Matt shares his journey overcoming massive expectations, choking under pressure in Tokyo, and mastering mental toughness for Paris—through adrenaline training (skydiving, drag racing at 200+ mph), venue visualization,
Mark Geist: Mortars, Miracles & Why He Survived Benghazi | MTNPOD #151
Host Dustin Defenderfer interviews Mark "Oz" Geist, Benghazi survivor and founder of Shadow Warriors Project, in this gripping MTNTOUGH Podcast episode. Mark shares his miraculous survival during the 2012 Libya attack (mortars landing feet away, near-death resuscitation), faith journey seeing God's protection, law enforcement traumas, nonprofit work aiding veterans/contractors/first
Keith Sivera: 20 Years Sober: MTN OPS CEO's Raw Redemption Story | MTNPOD #150
In this powerful episode, host Dustin Defenderfer sits down with Keith Sivera, CEO of MTN OPS and 20-year sober recovering alcoholic, who opens up about his journey from childhood immersed in alcohol culture to rock-bottom isolation, shame, and addiction. Keith shares how AA's community, accountability, and spiritual surrender saved his life, replaced numbness with discipline, and fueled his t
Fitness Lab Discussion: Why Every Mountain Athlete Needs to See This MTNTOUGH Update | Ryan Watson MTNTOUGH CMO/COO
In this episode, host Dustin Diefenderfer sits down with Ryan Watson, MTNTOUGH's growth leader and former OnX Maps director, to discuss the brand-new 2026 app relaunch. Ryan shares his journey from OnX to MTNTOUGH, the bold leap from comfort to risk, and dives deep into the app's upgraded features—like seamless music integration, workout tracking, dynamic filters, calendar planning, notes, wearabl
John Radzwilla + Jason Ellis: Overcoming Childhood Sexual Trauma | MTNPOD #149
On this powerful episode, Dustin welcomes John Radzwilla and Jason Ellis, discussing the depths of personal challenges and the journey toward a better path. This conversation explores the impact of past trauma, specifically dealing with childhood sexual abuse, offering crucial life lessons for anyone facing adversity. It underscores the process of going from struggling to thriving by embracing rec
Shane Idleman: Men Are Numb And Nobody's Talking About It | MTNPOD #148
Host Dustin Defenderfer sits down with Pastor Shane Idleman, founder of Westside Christian Fellowship, who shares his powerful journey from addiction to steroids, alcohol, rage, and despair to full surrender to Christ. Drawing from his broken past, Shane discusses overcoming midlife discouragement, performance identity traps, fear, and finding true peace through faith, repentance, worship, and ful
Jim Loehr: Unlock Your Purpose With These Mental Toughness Secrets | MTNPOD #147
In this powerful episode of the MTNTOUGH Podcast, host Dustin Defenderfer interviews legendary performance psychologist Dr. Jim Loehr, co-founder of the Johnson & Johnson Human Performance Institute. Drawing from 50+ years of research with elite athletes, executives, and military personnel, Dr. Loehr reveals how true mental toughness integrates physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual dimens
Florent Groberg: Medal of Honor Recipient | MTNPOD #146
Medal of Honor recipient Florent “Flo” Groberg shares the raw story of how his uncle’s brutal beheading by terrorists at age 12 flipped a switch that drove him to hunt evil, join the Army, survive tackling a suicide bomber in Afghanistan (losing 4 brothers), and battle survivor’s guilt. From Ranger School lessons to building unbreakable mental toughness as a husband and father, this is one of the
Pete Roberts: He Lost Everything, Built a 100% American Brand | MTNPOD #145
Pete Roberts (Founder of Origin USA & Jocko Fuel) shares how losing 60% of his business overnight in the 2008 crash forced him to rebuild with one unbreakable rule: 100% American-made, no compromises. From rescuing WWII-era machines in rural Maine to partnering with Jocko Willink and investing hundreds of millions into U.S. manufacturing, Pete reveals the raw truth about purpose-driven busines
Adam Davis: Cop Abused as Child Contemplates Suicide, Finds God & Becomes Warrior | MTNPOD #144
Former law enforcement officer Adam Davis survived childhood s*xua abuse at 5 and 15, battled suicidal ideation with a g*n to his head in a patrol car, and encountered the love of God that saved his life and marriage. Now a bestselling author and speaker, he reveals how to break generational curses, fight real spiritual warfare, forgive the unforgivable, and step into Kingdom authority as a man, h
Phil Hopper: Ex-SWAT Officer Ditches Badge for Pulpit | MTNPOD #143
Former Kansas City SWAT sergeant Phil Hopper shares his jaw-dropping story of surviving a near-fatal wreck, finding Christ, leading men to Jesus on the job, and how God hijacked his career overnight to turn him into a pastor. With a massive spiritual awakening sweeping America right now, he reveals how to know when God is truly calling you, why real faith has to feel dangerous, and how men break f
Nate Boyer: Green Beret to NFL at 34 | MTNPOD #142
Ex-Green Beret Nate Boyer joins MTNTOUGH to reveal how volunteering in Darfur sparked his military path, walking on at Texas football at 29, playing NFL with Seahawks at 34, and co-founding Merging Vets & Players (MVP) to rebuild camaraderie for transitioning veterans and athletes through gym workouts and peer support—proving it's never too late to chase purpose and crush regret.Join Dusti
Bear Handlon: Wiping $25 Million In Veteran Debt | MTNPOD #141
Bear Handlon, founder of Born Primitive, joins the MTNTOUGH Podcast to announce a partnership with Black R!fle Coffee to erase up to $25 million in veteran medical debt from November 7–11, 2025. He shares his journey from military service and personal hardship to renewed faith, revealing how surrender and purpose replaced a performance-driven mindset. The conversation explores America’s spiritual
Taya + Colton Kyle: Can American Marriages Survive 2025? | MTNPOD #140
This week on the MTNTOUGH Podcast we have Taya Kyle, widow of Navy SEAL Chris Kyle ("American Sniper"), and their son Colton Kyle. They explore themes of resilience, faith, and family growth amid adversity, sharing insights on raising mature young men, navigating service marriages, and combating cultural challenges like por*ography and divorce. Discover practical tools for mental toughne
Mike Hernandez: Near Death Crash and Self-Reliance Secrets | MTNPOD #139
In this episode of the MTNTOUGH Podcast, host Dustin Diefenderfer chats with Mike Hernandez, CEO of Fieldcraft Survival. Mike shares his harrowing near-death truck crash in Colorado, crediting divine intervention for his survival. They discuss his journey from 15 years in behavioral health fostering troubled boys to leading Fieldcraft, blending self-reliance training, overlanding, and survival ski
Justin Wren: From MMA to Congo, The Wild Story Behind His Vanishing Act | MTNPOD #138
Join former MMA fighter Justin Wren on the MTNTOUGH Podcast as he shares his incredible journey from the fighting cage to humanitarian work in the Congo, hosted by Dustin Diefenderfer. Discover how Wren, known as the Albino Rhino, found purpose through service after battling depression and addiction, leading him to aid the Pygmy people with clean water wells and sustainable farms. Explore themes o
Josh Smith: Defying the Odds to Revive American Manufacturing | MTNPOD #137
Today on MTNTOUGH Podcast we have Josh Smith, founder of Montana Knife Company, for an inspiring dive into building an American manufacturing legacy from a garage in Frenchtown, Montana. Discover how Josh defied skeptics, took calculated risks, and assembled a powerhouse team to bring knife-making from raw steel to shipping under one roof. With raw honesty, Josh shares the challenges of scaling a
Joby Martin: Calling Men to Biblical Manhood | MTNPOD #136
In this episode of the MTNTOUGH Podcast, host Dustin Diefenderfer welcomes back Joby Martin, a dynamic communicator calling men to biblical manhood. Joby dives into his new book, Stand Firm and Act Like Men: Becoming the Man You Were Created to Be Instead of the Man the World Says You Are, unpacking the scriptural imperatives to be watchful, stand firm in faith, act like men, be strong, and let ev
Jerrad Lopes: How Dads Can Heal Their Souls and Thrive | MTNPOD #135
In this gripping episode of the MTNTOUGH Podcast, host Dustin Diefenderfer welcomes Jerrad Lopes, author of Dad Tired and a passionate advocate for fathers battling soul-weary apathy. Jerrad shares his raw journey through a midlife crisis, revealing how intensive counseling transformed him into a better husband and dad. He dives into the "stress bubble" men face in their 30s and 40s, exp
Rebecca Rusch: The Queen of Pain's SHOCKING Secret to Mental Toughness | MTNPOD #134
In this episode of the MTNTOUGH Podcast, host Dustin Diefenderfer welcomes Rebecca "The Queen of Pain" Rusch, a seven-time world champion across multiple endurance disciplines. Rebecca shares how her mental toughness and adventurous spirit were forged in her childhood, exploring the critical role of curiosity and community in her journey from a competitive athlete to a lifelong advocate
Jason Khalipa: American Men: Get Off the Couch and Rise Up Now | MTNPOD #133
In this episode of the MTNTOUGH Podcast, host Dustin Diefenderfer welcomes Jason Khalipa, former CrossFit Games champion and passionate advocate for men's physical and mental transformation. Jason shares his evolution from being the fittest man on earth to leading weekly men's clubs that foster camaraderie and resilience through shared fitness challenges. He discusses the critical role of
Riley Gaines: NCAA Champion's Bold Fight for Fairness and Faith | MTNPOD #132
In this episode of the MTNTOUGH Podcast, host Dustin Diefenderfer sits down with Riley Gaines, a 12-time All-American swimmer and fearless advocate for fairness in women's athletics. Riley shares her journey from competing at the NCAA championships to becoming a leading voice in one of today's most intense cultural battles. She discusses her unshakable mindset, the pivotal moment that ignited her
Riley Green: Hard Work Made Me A Country Star | MTNPOD #131
Join us for an inspiring conversation with country music star Riley Green on the MTNTOUGH Podcast. Hailing from a small town in Alabama, Riley shares his journey from framing houses and playing local bars to signing a Nashville record deal and topping charts with hits like "Grandpas Never Die." He opens up about his passion for hunting, staying fit on the road, and the work ethic that fueled his r
Eddie Penney: DEVGRU to Single Dad of 3 Overnight | MTNPOD #130
🚨GIVEAWAY ALERT! 🚨 WIN a MAGPUL Daka Hard Case R44 ($339.99 MSRP)!To enter is very simple!1. Visit the podcast link on YouTube here: [https://youtu.be/dabkU7m-u8Y]2. Like the full podcast video3. Subscribe to the MTNTOUGH Podcast Channel on YouTube4. Comment on the full podcast video, we will select a winner from the comment section of THAT video (not this one.)Winner will be selected Friday Augus
Rich Froning: Secrets Revealed from Fatherhood to Mental Toughness! | MTNPOD #128
CrossFit GOAT Rich Froning REVEALS Secrets from Fatherhood to Mental Toughness!Dive into an EXPLOSIVE Mountain Tough Podcast episode with CrossFit legend Rich Froning, 4x individual & 6x team CrossFit Games champ! 🚨 From crushing it at the Games to building CrossFit Mayhem, Rich shares his raw journey: high school sports, dominating CrossFit, and balancing elite fitness with being a dad to thr
Jeremy + Jared of HUNTR: State's Are Causing Hunting To Become a Rich Man’s Sport | MTNPOD #128
Watch the full episode: https://youtu.be/8_pHIxKm0IEJeremy & Jared from HUNTR Podcast expose how tech & privatization are turning hunting into a pay-to-play game! 💰 Will fences ruin it for everyone?Join Dustin Diefenderfer, Founder of MTNTOUGH Fitness Lab and creator of the MTNTOUGH+ Fitness App in the top podcast for Mental Toughness and Mindset. (P.S. 🐏 Get Your First Month of MTNTOUGH F
Mason Sawyer: The Surprising Thing Everyone With Grief Shares | MTNPOD #127
Grief is a daily, fluctuating battle, not a linear process. Dive into Mason's incredibly heartbreaking story of losing his whole family in one moment.Join Dustin Diefenderfer, Founder of MTNTOUGH Fitness Lab and creator of the MTNTOUGH+ Fitness App in the top podcast for Mental Toughness and Mindset. (P.S. 🐏 Get Your First Month of MTNTOUGH Free Use Code "MTNPOD" @ https://mtntough.com/.) On this
Sam Mackey: From Juvenile Hall to a New Start in the Military | MTNPOD #126
Join us for an inspiring conversation with retired Navy SEAL Sam Mackey, CEO of Outsider, an outdoor and lifestyle brand. In this episode, Sam shares his incredible journey, from a troubled youth involving expulsion, juvenile hall, and house arrest to a 20-year career in the SEAL Teams, and now leading a performance-driven business. Discover how his mindset evolved from survival-driven combat toug
Byron Owen: From Force Recon to Pentagon Leadership - Evolving Mental Toughness | MTNPOD #125
Listen to this episode with Colonel Byron Owen, a Marine Corps veteran whose career spans Force Recon to Pentagon leadership. Discover how Byron’s mindset has evolved from the intense, survival-driven mental toughness of combat to the strategic, people-focused resilience required in today’s complex military landscape. He shares gripping stories from Afghanistan, insights on building mental toughne
Steve Decker: Conserve Habitat, Empower Hunters | MTNPOD #124
Join us for an inspiring episode with Steve Decker of the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation (RMEF)! Since 1984, RMEF has been a powerhouse in habitat conservation and public land access, now leading as a major owner of Outdoor Class. Discover how RMEF has helped double North American elk populations to over 1.1 million, the critical role hunters play in conservation, and the success of projects like t
Pedro Ampuero: Stop Making Excuses and Start Exploring | MTNPOD #123
On this episode of the MTNTOUGH Podcast, Dustin sits down with world-renowned bowhunter Pedro Ampuero for an in-depth conversation on mental toughness, global adventure hunting, and the mindset required to push through the extremes. From growing up in Spain to chasing some of the toughest mountain hunts on the planet, Pedro shares his personal philosophy on preparation, discomfort, and what it tru
Jeremy Noble: What Army Rangers Do Every Day to Build Unbreakable Mental Toughness | MTNPOD #122
On this episode of the MTNTOUGH Podcast, Dustin sits down with Jeremy Noble, a former U.S. Army Ranger Regiment psychologist, to explore the mental toughness forged in Special Operations. Jeremy shares his journey from traditional psychology to operational psychology and offers a deep dive into the mindset of elite warfighters.He unpacks what makes Rangers psychologically unique and breaks down th
Philip Winchester: Mental Toughness, Discipline, and Hollywood Grit | MTNPOD #121
🚨GIVEAWAY ALERT! 🚨 WIN a pair of SIG SAUER Zulu 6 Stabilized Binos ($1099.99 MSRP)!!!To enter is very simple!1. Visit the podcast link on YOUTUBE here: [https://youtu.be/HN5LQ8F9kjc]2. LIKE the full podcast video3. SUBSCRIBE to the MTNTOUGH Podcast Channel4. COMMENT on the full podcast video, we will select a winner from the comment section of THAT video.Winner will be selected Friday June 27th! G
Senator Tim Sheehy: How His Mental Toughness Took Him From Navy SEAL to Senator | MTNPOD #120
Join Senator Tim Sheehy, former Navy SEAL, on the MTNTOUGH Podcast as he shares his journey from battlefield to Capitol Hill. Discover his raw insights on mental toughness, leadership, and tackling America’s challenges with grit and heart. Use code MTNPOD for 6 weeks free on the MTNTOUGH app! Join Dustin Diefenderfer, Founder of MTNTOUGH Fitness Lab and creator of the MTNTOUGH+ Fitness App in the
John Doolittle: Navy SEAL’s Secrets to Boost First Responder Mental Health | MTNPOD #119
Host Dustin Diefenderfer interviews former Navy SEAL John Doolittle, who shares his extensive experience in addressing mental health, sleep, and performance challenges faced by first responders, veterans, and active-duty military. Doolittle discusses his 25-year Navy career, including his work with SOCOM’s Preservation of the Force and Family program, where he helped validate Magnetic EEG Guided R
Dr. Shawn Rowland: Unveiling America's Pharma Crisis - Jase Medical’s Mission to Empower Preparedness | MTNPOD #118
Dr. Shawn Rowland reveals America's pharma crisis and Jase Medical's mission to empower readiness!Check out our Episode with Andy Stumpf! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fXp4Tqz0Klg&list=PLdAelJZ1bZWr5v6K_-IPix0tq8b7xH1msJoin Dustin Diefenderfer, Founder of MTNTOUGH Fitness Lab and creator of the MTNTOUGH+ Fitness App in the top podcast for Mental Toughness and Mindset. (P.S. 🐏 Get Your First
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