The MTI Podcast

#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.

#44: In Season Programming for Endurance Athletes

Rob dives into programming for In-Season Endurance Athletes and fields strength and conditioning questions from the MTI Athlete Team.
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#43: Coaching Elite Mountain Bike & Rugby Athletes with Alex Ackerley

In this episode of the podcast, we welcome Alex Ackerley, an accomplished strength and conditioning coach based in Squamish, BC, Canada. Alex shares his journey from high-performance rugby to coaching elite mountain athletes, including World-Cup level mountain bikers, Tour Divide gravel riders, and ultra-marathon runners. With 15 years of experience in the Vancouver fitness industry, Alex offers deep insights into training, programming, and the unique demands of mountain sports.Topics Covered:
Rugby Background & Athletic Foundations: Alex’s experience playing high-level rugby and how it shaped his approach to strength and conditioning.
Training Mountain Bikers: Insights into the unique physical demands of downhill, enduro, and cross-country mountain biking.
Strength Programming: Alex’s go-to lifts for building power and resilience, including front squats, deadlifts, and power cleans.
Metabolic Conditioning: How Alex designs high-intensity circuits to build capacity for 3–5 minute downhill efforts.
Upper Body Training & Injury Prevention: The importance of upper body strength for downhill riders and strategies for building grip strength.
Plyometric Progressions: Building impact resilience through progressive plyometric training.
Screening and Assessments: Alex’s approach to movement screening and individualized programming.
Off-Season Training: The role of hypertrophy blocks and aerobic conditioning during the off-season.
Training Philosophy: Balancing strength and endurance while maintaining athlete engagement.
Lessons Learned: Alex shares personal and professional lessons from his experience training athletes and competing himself.
Lightning Round Questions:
Best Total Body Lift? Landmine Clean and Press (one-handed)
Best Lower Body Press? Front Squat
Best Lower Body Pull? Deadlift
Best Upper Body Press? Incline Dumbbell Bench Press
Best Upper Body Pull? Pronated Pull-Up (strict)
Favorite Grip Training? Carries and Hanging
Most Overrated Exercise? Box Jump
Most Underrated Exercise? Bench Press
Overrated Equipment? Kettlebells
Check out Alex's Gym: nxft.caAlex's Instagram: @coachackerley
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#42: Does Mental Fitness Transfer to Other Life Challenges?

Tactical, Mountain, or Gym Rat Athlete? Want to be a guest on the podcast? Email rob@mtntactical.com
 
This group conversation delves into the themes of mental fitness, resilience, and the transferability of skills learned through physical challenges. The participants share their experiences in various fields, including law enforcement, military, and outdoor activities, discussing how these experiences shape their mental toughness and resilience. They explore the idea that while physical challenges can build confidence and perspective, the transferability of these skills to other life areas may vary. The discussion emphasizes the importance of mindset and the value of challenging oneself regularly to foster personal growth.
 
Today's Guests: 
Wyatt Joke - Wilderness Paramedic & Alpinist
Adam Aikens - USMC Infantry Officer, Backcountry Hunter, Outdoor & Defense Industry
Steve Swingle - Law Enforcement & Former Pro Baseball
Derrick - Air Force Officer & Mountain Athlete
Takeaways:
Mental fitness is specific to the type of physical stressor.
Experience in one physical mode does not guarantee success in another.
Resilience can be developed through various life experiences, not just physical challenges.
Physical challenges can enhance confidence and self-belief.
Mindset plays a crucial role in overcoming challenges.
Suffering can provide valuable perspective in life.
Regularly challenging oneself can lead to personal growth.
The transferability of skills varies between individuals and contexts.
Community and support can enhance the benefits of physical challenges.
Training mental fitness requires consistent effort and practice.
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#41: From Road Marathons to Mountain Ultras: Jonathan Edwards' Journey

Guest: MTI Athlete Jonathan Edwards (@jedsoutside)Host: Rob ShaulEpisode Summary:In this episode, Rob Shaul sits down with MTI Athlete Jonathan Edwards, an endurance athlete who transitioned from road marathons to ultra mountain running and backcountry bowhunting. Jonathan shares his late start in endurance sports, the lessons he learned from his first ultra race in the mountains, and how he balances running, strength training, and hunting. He also discusses his training philosophy, race preparation, and the mistakes that shaped his growth as an athlete.Key Topics Covered:
Moving from Florida to Utah to pursue mountain sports and hunting
Transitioning from road marathons to high-elevation ultra running
The importance of strength training for endurance athletes
Training volume and structuring weekly mileage for ultra races
Lessons learned from his toughest races, including heat management and downhill running
Balancing hunting and ultra racing
His approach to fueling and hydration in long races
Gear selection for ultra running and backcountry hunting
His upcoming race at UTMB and how he's preparing for the biggest challenge of his career
Notable Quotes:
"I disrespected the mountains and the distance on my first mountain ultra—and I paid for it."
"The best runners aren’t always the fastest; they’re the ones who slow down the least."
"Backcountry hunting and ultra running both demand patience, endurance, and mental resilience."
"I don’t come cheap—I’d rather sponsor myself and pick my own gear."
Jonathan’s Favorite Gear:
Running Watch: Garmin Fenix 7
Running Vest: Salomon ADV Skin 12L
Shoes: Solomon S-Lab Genesis & Nike Agama
Strength Training Tool: Sandbag for loaded lunges
Headlamp: Fenix rechargeable headlamp
Hunting Pack: Stone Glacier Sky Talus 6900
Bow: Hoyt RX-9 Ultra
Upcoming Races and Hunts:
March 1, 2025: Belgian Waffle Ride AZ (103-mile gravel bike race)
August 2025: UTMB (Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc, 176 km)
September 2025: Idaho elk hunt
2026: Alaska/Yukon moose hunt
Connect with Jonathan:
Instagram: @jedsoutside