The MTI Podcast

#54: Gravel Racing, Training, and Ultra Running with MTI Athlete Jonathan Edwards

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
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#53: Strength, Endurance, and Performance: Coaching Insights from Chris Judy

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
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#52: From Pro Baseball to Tactical Fitness: Strength & Conditioning Insights with Michael Schofield

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)
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If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and subscribe for more conversations with leaders in strength, conditioning, and mountain sports!

#51: Alpinist Training, V-SUM Climbing, and Outdoor Leadership with MTI Athlete Derrick

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.

#50: Strength, Skiing, and Coaching with Crystal Wright

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)

#49: (Revised) Long-Range Hunting: Ethics, Fair Chase, and the Future of the Sport

Note: Ian's recording in this discussion was disrupted which led to some of his points being cut out of the original episode. We were able to recover the original audio in full.
Today's Guests:
Ian is a shooting instructor, hunter, and prior USMC Scout Sniper ( @ianminer2013 )
Adam is an MTI Athlete, defense industry program manager, hunter, and prior USMC Infantry Officer (@durango_simon)
This conversation delves into the ethics of long-range hunting, exploring the definition of fair chase, the challenges posed by terrain, and the impact of technology on hunting practices. The participants discuss the political implications of long-range hunting, how it affects public perception, and the personal ethics and motivations behind hunting. The dialogue emphasizes the need for the hunting community to maintain a positive image and navigate the complexities of modern hunting ethics. Rob, Adam, and Ian delve into the ethics of hunting technology, particularly long-range hunting, and its implications for wildlife and the hunting community. They discuss the balance between marksmanship and the essence of hunting, emphasizing the importance of fair chase and the ability of animals to detect hunters. The impact of social media on public perception of hunting is also explored, highlighting the potential for negative consequences from sensationalized kill shots. Additionally, the conversation touches on public safety concerns related to long-range hunting and the need for regulations to ensure ethical practices in the hunting community.
Takeaways
- Long range hunting raises ethical questions about fair chase. - Terrain significantly influences hunting strategies and shot distances. - Public perception of hunting can be negatively impacted by long range practices. - Personal motivations for hunting vary widely among individuals. - Technology in hunting can create a disparity in the hunter-animal dynamic. - Maintaining the moral high ground is crucial for the hunting community. - Group hunting can complicate ethical considerations in hunting. - Effective management of hunting practices is essential for sustainability. - The hunting community must address political challenges to preserve hunting rights. - Ethics in hunting are subjective and can vary based on individual beliefs. - The ethics of hunting technology are crucial for fair chase. - Marksmanship should not overshadow the essence of hunting. - Social media can negatively impact public perception of hunting. - Public safety is a significant concern with long-range hunting. - Hunting regulations need to evolve with changing technology. - Hunters must be politically savvy to protect their rights. - The ability of animals to detect hunters is essential for ethical hunting. - Long-range hunting can diminish the intimate experience of hunting. - There is a growing concern about the impact of sensationalized hunting content online. - The hunting community must advocate for responsible practices. 
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#48: Leadership, Transition, and Lessons from Brigadier General Brian Reed

In this episode, Rob sits down with Brian Reed, a retired U.S. Army Brigadier General whose 38-year career spanned deployments to Haiti, Guantanamo Bay, Iraq, and Afghanistan, as well as leadership roles at every level, culminating as Chief of Staff at West Point. Brian shares powerful insights on leadership, decision-making under pressure, and the complexities of modern military operations.
He reflects on the relationships built through shared hardships, the evolving nature of warfare, and the lasting impact of 9/11 on his career. Brian also delves into leadership challenges, including recent controversies in military command, diversity and inclusion policies, and the necessity of quiet professionalism among officers. With candor, he discusses personal regrets—especially regarding family sacrifices—and the lessons he’s learned about empathy, accountability, and lifelong growth.
Now leading learning and development for Google’s physical security operations, Brian offers a unique perspective on transitioning from military to civilian life, navigating identity shifts, and adapting to new professional challenges. He shares his evolving philosophy on happiness, resilience, and the pursuit of meaningful work.
Leadership is a Lifelong Journey – From struggling academically at West Point to teaching leadership, Brian Reed found his passion in developing others.
The Impact of 9/11 – The attacks reshaped his military career, leading to multiple deployments and a deeper understanding of modern warfare.
Soldier Camaraderie Matters – The strongest bonds come from shared hardships, and the quality of today’s young soldiers remains high.
The Complexity of War – Reed questions the long-term strategic objectives of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars, emphasizing the need for adaptability.
Quiet Professionalism in Leadership – Effective military leadership isn’t always loud; evaluating officers requires recognizing those who lead with humility and skill.
The Transition to Civilian Life – Moving from military command to a corporate role at Google brought unexpected identity challenges but also invigorating new opportunities.
The Value of Empathy – Leadership evolves over time, and the ability to understand and connect with people is crucial in both military and civilian roles.
The Reality of Career Progression – Strategic job selection and performance rankings can create unhealthy competition among officers.
Lessons from Failure – Regrets about fatherhood and past leadership mistakes reinforce the importance of balance, humility, and continuous growth.
Living in the Moment – Amid societal concerns and career shifts, Reed emphasizes gratitude, resilience, and making the most of every stage of life.
Brian is a frequent contributor to MTI. Click here to see his collection of essays. 
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#47: Breaking down the 357 Strength Progression

Rob breaks down the 357 strength progression, a training method that combines strength training with short work capacity efforts. He explains its origins, design, and practical applications, as well as the results of a study comparing it to other training methods. The discussion highlights the effectiveness of 357 in improving both strength and endurance, making it suitable for various athletes.
Check MTI's 357 Strength Training Plan
Takeaways
357 is a unique strength progression that combines strength training with work capacity.
The method was influenced by various coaching philosophies, including those from Louis Simmons and Greg Glassman.
The structure of 357 includes a 1RM lift, followed by a percentage-based lift, and a work capacity event.
The work capacity events are designed to enhance hormonal response and improve overall fitness.
A study showed that 357 matched strength gains of traditional methods while improving endurance.
The program is designed to be fun and engaging for athletes.
Weekly training can be structured to include total, lower, and upper body lifts.
The ideal cycle duration for strength emphasis is around four to five weeks.
357 is suitable for athletes looking to improve both strength and work capacity.
The program has remained consistent and effective over the years.

#46: Power Focused Programming Mini Study

This conversation delves into the complexities of training tactical power for athletes, particularly for tactical athletes. Rob discusses the challenges of defining tactical power, the importance of assessments, and the methodologies used in a recent study aimed at improving power development. The conversation highlights the results of the study, which showed significant improvements in various power assessments, and explores future directions for training tactical athletes effectively.
 
Read the Full Mini Study: Click Here
 
Takeaways
Tactical power is defined as the integrated capacity to explosively generate and apply force rapidly.
Assessments for tactical power include the standing power throw and other dynamic movements.
Training methodologies for power development can include strength assessments, speed training, and ballistic movements.
The study showed improvements in power assessments without specifically training to the tests.
Cluster training and contrast training can enhance power development.
Future research may focus on the relevance of aerobic base training for tactical athletes.
The importance of agility and plyometric training in tactical programming is emphasized.
Defining tactical power remains a challenge due to its multifaceted nature.
The study's results suggest that strength and power can be trained concurrently.
Creative programming can lead to significant improvements in athletic performance.

#45: From Valdez to Antarctica: A Climber's Journey with Wyatt Jobe

Wyatt Jobe shares his experiences living in Valdez, Alaska, a hub for ice climbing and mountaineering. He discusses the history of the climbing community, the accessibility of climbing routes, and the transition to backcountry skiing. Wyatt also reflects on his paramedic work in remote areas of Alaska and his time in Antarctica, highlighting unique experiences and the challenges of working in extreme environments. He concludes with insights from his military background and aspirations for the future.
In this conversation, Wyatt discusses the creative aspects of climbing, the problem-solving nature of the sport, and the essential tools and mental fortitude required for alpinism. He shares insights on the importance of experience, technique, and the evolution of gear in climbing and snowboarding. The dialogue also touches on the risks involved in climbing, the admiration for fellow climbers, and the personal journey of growth and learning in the sport. In this conversation, Wyatt Jobe shares his experiences and insights from his climbing adventures, discussing the challenges of trip planning, the importance of preparation, and the lessons learned from both successes and failures in the mountains. He reflects on his aspirations to climb in Alaska and Antarctica, the dynamics of expedition teams, and the gear he uses. Wyatt also recounts dangerous moments in his climbing career, including a near-miss with an avalanche and a rescue in New Zealand. Throughout the discussion, he emphasizes the value of learning from experiences and the importance of mental preparation in climbing.
Takeaways
Valdez has a rich history in ice climbing and mountaineering.
The community is small but attracts many professional climbers.
Access to climbing routes can be quick and easy in Keystone Canyon.
Backcountry skiing is popular, especially in Thompson Pass.
Wyatt enjoys multi-sport days combining climbing and skiing.
Paramedic work in remote Alaska presents unique challenges.
Experiences in Antarctica were both fascinating and humbling.
The beauty of Antarctica is unparalleled, especially during sunrise.
Wyatt wishes he had documented more of his Antarctic experiences.
His military background has shaped his approach to paramedic work. Creativity in climbing is about seeing routes differently.
Problem-solving is a key aspect of climbing.
Mental fortitude is as important as physical fitness.
Experience helps in developing climbing techniques.
The toolbox of an alpinist includes emotional control.
Guiding offers a unique perspective on climbing.
Admiration for peers can inspire personal growth.
Risk management is crucial in climbing decisions.
Quality gear can significantly impact climbing performance.
Continuous learning is essential for climbers. Climbing requires thorough preparation and understanding of logistics.
Alaska serves as an excellent training ground for high-altitude climbing.
Expedition dynamics can significantly impact the success of a trip.
Experiencing failure in climbing can lead to valuable lessons.
The thrill of climbing comes from being fully present in the moment.
Gear selection is crucial, and some items may not meet expectations.
Reattempting challenging climbs can be more rewarding than seeking new ones.
Avalanche risks are a serious concern in ice climbing.
Mental resilience is key to overcoming fear in climbing.
Reading and learning from others can enhance climbing skills and mindset.