MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin Diefenderfer - podcast cover

MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin Diefenderfer

Dustin Diefenderfer Founder and CEO of MTNTOUGH Fitnessmtntough.com
Welcome to The MTNTOUGH Podcast, hosted by Dustin Diefenderfer, founder of MTNTOUGH, the #1 fitness app for the dedicated. In this podcast, we explore 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. Enhance your training with MTNTOUGH's functional fitness programs—train at home, gym, or on the go. Get your first month free with code MTNPOD at mtntough.com.
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Episodes

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 three. 💪 Get insider tips on mental toughness, battling tech distractions, and hunting adventures th...

Aug 18, 20251 hr 4 min

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 Free Use Code "MTNPOD" @ https://mtntough.com/.) On this show, we delve into guests' purpose, ment...

Aug 11, 20251 hr 6 min

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 show, we delve into guests' purpose, mentality, and mental toughness so you can learn from the bes...

Aug 04, 20251 hr 14 min

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 toughness to strategic, entrepreneurship-focused resilience. Hear gripping stories from deployments in I...

Jul 28, 202558 min

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 toughness through cumulative experiences, and his commitment to lifelong learning—teaching himself Japanese...

Jul 21, 20251 hr 23 min

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 the Rob Ledford Wildlife Management Area. Steve also dives into the Outdoor Class program, empowering...

Jul 14, 202559 min

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 truly takes to pursue wild places at the edge of human endurance. Join Dustin Diefenderfer, Founder of ...

Jul 07, 20251 hr 6 min

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 the science behind treating PTSD, including the power of exposure therapy and cognitive processing. J...

Jun 30, 20251 hr 6 min

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! Good luck! On this episode of the MTNTOUGH Podcast, Dustin sits down with Philip Winchester, a seas...

Jun 23, 20251 hr 30 min

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 top podcast for Mental Toughness and Mindset. (P.S. 🐏 Get Your First Month of MTNTOUGH Free Use Cod...

Jun 16, 202540 min

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 Resonance Therapy (MERT) to improve sleep and mental health. He highlights the critical link between ...

Jun 09, 20251 hr 8 min

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_-IPix0tq8b7xH1ms 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 show, we delve into gu...

Jun 02, 20251 hr 8 min

Micah Fink: From War to Wilderness - How This SEAL Heals Veterans Without Medication | MTNPOD #119

On this episode of the MTNTOUGH Podcast, Dustin sits down with Micah Fink, former Navy SEAL, paramilitary contractor, and founder of the Montana-based nonprofit Heroes and Horses. Micah shares his journey from military service to launching a revolutionary program aimed to transform the lives of veterans. In this conversation, he dives into the failures of traditional PTSD treatment models, the founding of Heroes and Horses, and why true healing comes through adversity, challenge, and pushing pas...

May 26, 20252 hr 40 min

Neal McDonough: Faith, Family, and Perseverance in Hollywood | The Power of God’s Providence | MTNPOD #117

In this powerful episode of the MTNTOUGH Podcast, actor Neal McDonough shares his journey of faith, perseaverance, and redemption in Hollywood. From overcoming personal struggles to making films that glorify God, Neal opens up about how faith, family, and discipline have shaped his career and life. Discover how his commitment to honoring God through his work and maintaining a healthy body and mind has transformed his path in the entertainment industry. Tune in to hear Neal's inspiring story and ...

May 19, 202533 min

Sean DeGrey: From Failed Ventures to Archery Empire | MTNPOD #116

Sean DeGrey's gritty journey from failures to building an archery empire with family & passion! Loved this podcast? Check out this episode with Matt McPherson: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QB4hXEVhVZo&list=PLdAelJZ1bZWr5v6K_-IPix0tq8b7xH1ms&index=2 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....

May 12, 20251 hr 4 min

Matt McPherson: Founder of Mathews Archery | MTNPOD #115

On this episode of the MTNTOUGH Podcast, Dustin sits down with Matt McPherson, the visionary behind McPherson Guitars and Mathews Archery. From revolutionizing bowhunting to crafting world-class guitars with groundbreaking designs, Matt shares how his passion for engineering, music, and the outdoors has shaped his career. We’ll dive into the latest innovations at Mathews Archery, including the 2025 LIFT X , and explore the inspiration behind his Land Unlocked documentary, which highlights advent...

May 05, 20251 hr 8 min

Kyle Thompson: Host of Undaunted Life + Daily Blade Podcasts | MTNPOD #114

🎉 LAUNCH GIVEAWAY ALERT! Details below...To celebrate our new channel, we’re giving away a YETI 65 cooler, an MTNTOUGH merchandise package, and a free yearly MTNTOUGH+ membership!🚨 Welcome to the NEW MTNTOUGH Podcast YouTube Channel! 🚨 Join host Dustin Diefenderfer for hard-hitting conversations on physical fitness, mental toughness, and backcountry adventures. From elite hunters to Navy SEALs, we bring you the stories and strategies to help you conquer any challenge. 💪How to Enter:1. Like t...

Apr 28, 20251 hr 38 min

Jim Burgen: The Hard Truth About Leading Men | MTNPOD#113

On this episode of the MTNTOUGH Podcast, Dustin sits down with Jim Burgen, Lead Pastor of Flatirons Community Church in Colorado. Jim shares insights from his leadership experience, the challenges of guiding a large church, and how he helps men reset through Moss Rock Ranch, a retreat space designed for leaders to recharge. Jim opens up about the importance of taking time to pause and rest, and how men can take ownership of their spiritual, mental, and emotional health through events like Herd 9...

Apr 21, 20251 hr 13 min

TJ Dillashaw: Embracing Fear as a Privilege | MTNPOD #112

In this episode of the MTNTOUGH podcast, Dustin sits down with TJ Dillashaw and talks about his transition from MMA fighting to entrepreneurship, highlighting his retirement in October 2022 due to severe shoulder injuries requiring a replacement. He shares his journey with stem cell treatments, particularly from Colombia, which helped manage his injuries and improve his health. Dillashaw founded Wild Society Nutrition, focusing on high-protein, clean products, and functional drinks. He emphasize...

Apr 14, 202555 min

Levi Lusko: Fitness, Mindset, and Life Seasons | MTNPOD #111

Join Levi Lusko on the MTNTOUGH Podcast as he dives into fitness training, mental resilience, and navigating life’s shifting seasons. Levi shares insights from his book Blessed Are the Spiraling , exploring midlife crisis, purpose, and legacy-building for entrepreneurs, leaders, and faith-driven individuals. Follow Levi on Instagram at @levilusko Presented by Sig Sauer. ----🔫 AmmoSquared is America’s Ammunition Reserve! Get 75 rounds of 9mm—completely FREE when you sign up: https://bit.ly/MtnTo...

Apr 07, 20251 hr 5 min

Fitness Lab Discussion: MTNTOUGH President Lyle Hebel, Your Body is Gear

Dustin sits down with longtime friend and newly instated MTNTOUGH President Lyle Hebel to chat all things hunting, and how critical it is to be physically prepared for your mountain endeavors. Presented by Sig Sauer. ----🔫 AmmoSquared is America’s Ammunition Reserve! Get 75 rounds of 9mm—completely FREE when you sign up: bit.ly/MtnTough 🥩 MEAT! Your Maker, Use link: https://www.meatyourmaker.com/?avad=409605_c4006fed1&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_source=avantlink&utm_campaign=352181&am...

Apr 03, 202538 min

Eva Shockey: The UNTOLD Story Behind Field & Stream's Second Female Cover Star | MTNPOD #110

From competitive Latin ballroom dancer to one of the most recognized women in the hunting world, Eva Shockey’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. In this episode, Eva shares how she transitioned from dance to the outdoors, the mental toughness she’s built through hunting, and what it meant to break barriers as the second woman ever on the cover of *Field & Stream*. She opens up about handling high-pressure moments, pushing through exhaustion, and training for the toughest hunts. Plus, Ev...

Mar 31, 20251 hr 9 min

John Nores: Former Game Warden Reveals DEADLIEST Poaching Ring in America | MTNPOD #109

On this episode of the MTNTOUGH Podcast, Dustin sits down with John Nores, a former California Fish and Wildlife warden, author, and expert in anti-poaching operations. Growing up in rural Santa Clara County, his love for wildlife led him to a career protecting endangered species and combating black-market wildlife trafficking. He shares insights from his books, Hidden War and War in the Woods, detailing the fight against environmental crime. An Ironman Triathlon athlete, John’s dedication to co...

Mar 24, 20251 hr 21 min

Nick Jones: Breaking Isolation and Building Support | MTNPOD #108

Nick Jones is a Marine Raider who served in the United States Marine Corps Special Operations Command (MARSOC). With a background in elite military service, he brings a wealth of experience in leadership, resilience, and overcoming personal challenges. After his military career, Nick has become a passionate advocate for mental health, focusing on the importance of camaraderie, therapy, and personal growth. He is committed to helping others through his work with organizations like Talent’s Reach ...

Mar 17, 20251 hr 55 min

Ryan Manion: STOP Living in Fear of Loss. Start Living with Purpose. | MTNPOD #107

On this episode of the MTNTOUGH Podcast, Dustin sits down with Ryan Manion, CEO of the Travis Manion Foundation, a leading organization dedicated to empowering veterans and families of fallen heroes. As the daughter of a Marine and someone who has faced profound personal loss, Ryan is a fierce advocate for resiliency, service, and honoring the legacy of those who serve. She shares how adversity has shaped her mission, the impact of her foundation’s work, and the mindset required to push forward ...

Mar 10, 20251 hr 13 min

Fitness Lab Discussion: The ULTIMATE 8-Week Spring Training Program

Spring Training Camp 2.0 is an 8-week, dynamic fitness program designed to enhance functional strength, endurance, and mobility through a mix of heavy carries, barbell work, kettlebell/dumbbell movements, and shoulder flexibility training, pushing athletes mentally and physically to prepare for backcountry hunting or summer trail running after completing Postseason 2.0. Presented by Sig Sauer. ---- 🧊 Get 20% Off IceBarrel with code “MTNTOUGH” here: https://t.ly/m62rK 💊 Get 20% off MTNTOPS Supp...

Mar 06, 202532 min

John Eldredge: The Future of Christian Masculinity | MTNPOD #106

John Eldredge is the founder of Ransomed Heart Ministries, dedicated to helping men and women deepen their relationship with God through resources, writing, and retreats. He is the bestselling author of *Wild at Heart*, which explores masculinity and encourages men to embrace their adventurous, untamed nature. Alongside his wife Stasi, he co-wrote *Captivating*, guiding women to embrace their God-given identity, and later wrote *Moving Mountains*, focusing on the power of prayer. John lives in C...

Mar 03, 20251 hr 4 min

Adam LaRoche: ESCAPE Fame to Fight Human Trafficking | MTNPOD #105

Adam LaRoche is a former MLB first baseman who played 12 seasons with teams including the Atlanta Braves, Pittsburgh Pirates, and Chicago White Sox. Born into a baseball family—his father, Dave LaRoche, was a pitcher, and his brother, Andy LaRoche, a third baseman—Adam achieved a .260 batting average, 255 home runs, and 882 RBIs during his career. In 2016, he made headlines by retiring from the White Sox, walking away from a $13 million contract to prioritize his family. Post-retirement, LaRoche...

Feb 24, 20251 hr 10 min

Fitness Lab Discussion: Homeland Security Pulls Us Off The Plane! Jaw-Dropping Moments from MTNTOUGH's 2024 Ibex Hunt

Dustin sits down with Peter Howell of Sig Sauer to reminisce and tell stories about their 2024 Mid-asian ibex hunt. Watch the full hunt film here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FjALfOCF_2I&t=669s Presented by Sig Sauer. ---- Get 20% Off IceBarrel with code “MTNTOUGH” here: https://t.ly/m62rK MTNTOUGH is for $10 off Jase ⁠https://jasemedical.com/?rstr=22205⁠ Get 20% off MTNTOPS Supplements, Use Code "MTNTOUGH" Here at checkout: https://mtn-ops.sjv.io/LXkPEo Get a Free Hat with Code TOUGH wh...

Feb 20, 20251 hr 23 min

Kevan Miller: The Mindset That Separates the Elite from Everyone Else | MTNPOD #104

On this episode of the MTNTOUGH Podcast, former NHL defenseman Kevan Miller shares his journey of grit, resilience, and mental toughness. From captaining the University of Vermont hockey team to playing 352 games with the Boston Bruins, Kevan built a career on perseverance and relentless drive. Known for his physical style of play, he battled through major injuries, including a fractured kneecap that sidelined him for a season. He discusses the highs and lows of professional hockey and the minds...

Feb 17, 20251 hr 14 min
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