

MTNTOUGH Podcast w/ Dustin Diefenderfer
Dustin Diefenderfer Founder and CEO of MTNTOUGH Fitness
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.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Sep 15, 2025 • 1h 2min
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 fitness in preparing men to protect and provide, the power of faith in answering life's callings, and his simple yet transformative "45 Principle" for jumpstarting a healthier lifestyle. This conversation is a compelling call to action for men to rise up, build their fortress, and embrace their potential as husbands, fathers, and community leaders.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 best of the best. Whether you're a seasoned backcountry hunter, an outdoorsman, or simply someone who wants to level up your mindset, this is your go-to source for inspiration, expert insights, campfire tales, entrepreneurship, and stories of perseverance and triumph. Presented by Sig Sauer.V I D E O S TO W A T C H N E X T🎙️ More MTNTOUGH Podcast Episodes: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdAelJZ1bZWr5v6K_-IPix0tq8b7xH1msS U P P O R T O U R S P O N S O R S: 💊 Get 20% off MTNTOPS Supplements, Use Code "MTNTOUGH" Here at checkout: https://mtn-ops.sjv.io/LXkPEo__________________________________________W H A T I S M T N T O U G H F I T N E S S?MTNTOUGH is The #1 Fitness App Trusted By The DedicatedOur premier functional fitness programming is conveniently packaged for hunters, first responders, military, and mountain athletes. Train at home, at the gym, or on the go.Since 2016, MTNTOUGH has been dedicated to helping individuals achieve their personal goals by creating a foundation for physical and mental toughness. The brand’s best-in-class programs are developed, tested, and proven by former Navy SEALs, Army Rangers, and renowned physical trainers. MTNTOUGH+ programs are used by elite groups and operators, including special ops forces, wildland firefighters, backcountry hunters, professional mountain athletes, and more. The MTNTOUGH fitness lab is headquartered in Bozeman, Montana, surrounded by some of the world’s top mountain athletes.0:00 - Podcast Intro1:21 - Guest: Jason Khalipa3:06 - CrossFit to Men’s Fitness4:52 - Never Zero Mentality6:21 - Ranger Regimen Insights8:54 - Starting Men’s Clubs11:42 - Faith and Life’s Callings15:03 - Adversity and Resilience20:33 - MTN OPS Supplements24:57 - State of American Men29:59 - The 45 Principle34:23 - Be a Beacon for Change

Sep 8, 2025 • 43min
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 advocacy, and the spiritual strength that drives her mission. From her historic swim from Alcatraz while pregnant to her vision for her daughter's future, Riley's story is a powerful testament to courage, faith, and resilience.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 best of the best. Whether you're a seasoned backcountry hunter, an outdoorsman, or simply someone who wants to level up your mindset, this is your go-to source for inspiration, expert insights, campfire tales, entrepreneurship, and stories of perseverance and triumph. Presented by Sig Sauer.🎙️ More MTNTOUGH Podcast Episodes: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdAelJZ1bZWr5v6K_-IPix0tq8b7xH1msS U P P O R T O U R S P O N S O R S: 💊 Get 20% off MTNTOPS Supplements, Use Code "MTNTOUGH" Here at checkout: https://mtn-ops.sjv.io/LXkPEo__________________________________________W H A T I S M T N T O U G H F I T N E S S?MTNTOUGH is The #1 Fitness App Trusted By The DedicatedOur premier functional fitness programming is conveniently packaged for hunters, first responders, military, and mountain athletes. Train at home, at the gym, or on the go.Since 2016, MTNTOUGH has been dedicated to helping individuals achieve their personal goals by creating a foundation for physical and mental toughness. The brand’s best-in-class programs are developed, tested, and proven by former Navy SEALs, Army Rangers, and renowned physical trainers. MTNTOUGH+ programs are used by elite groups and operators, including special ops forces, wildland firefighters, backcountry hunters, professional mountain athletes, and more. The MTNTOUGH fitness lab is headquartered in Bozeman, Montana, surrounded by some of the world’s top mountain athletes.

Sep 1, 2025 • 54min
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 rise in the competitive country music industry. From navigating newfound fame to staying grounded in his faith and roots, Riley reveals how authenticity drives his success. This raw discussion explores mental toughness, pursuing dreams, and balancing life on tour.Subscribe for more powerful stories on mindset and resilience.Like & comment: What’s your biggest takeaway from Riley’s authentic journey?Follow Riley: @rileyduckman (Instagram).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 best of the best. Whether you're a seasoned backcountry hunter, an outdoorsman, or simply someone who wants to level up your mindset, this is your go-to source for inspiration, expert insights, campfire tales, entrepreneurship, and stories of perseverance and triumph. Presented by Sig Sauer.V I D E O S TO W A T C H N E X T🎙️ More MTNTOUGH Podcast Episodes: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdAelJZ1bZWr5v6K_-IPix0tq8b7xH1msS U P P O R T O U R S P O N S O R S: 💊 Get 20% off MTNTOPS Supplements, Use Code "MTNTOUGH" Here at checkout: https://mtn-ops.sjv.io/LXkPEo__________________________________________W H A T I S M T N T O U G H F I T N E S S?MTNTOUGH is The #1 Fitness App Trusted By The DedicatedOur premier functional fitness programming is conveniently packaged for hunters, first responders, military, and mountain athletes. Train at home, at the gym, or on the go.Since 2016, MTNTOUGH has been dedicated to helping individuals achieve their personal goals by creating a foundation for physical and mental toughness. The brand’s best-in-class programs are developed, tested, and proven by former Navy SEALs, Army Rangers, and renowned physical trainers. MTNTOUGH+ programs are used by elite groups and operators, including special ops forces, wildland firefighters, backcountry hunters, professional mountain athletes, and more. The MTNTOUGH fitness lab is headquartered in Bozeman, Montana, surrounded by some of the world’s top mountain athletes.00:00:00 - Introduction and Listener Offer00:01:14 - Riley Green's Background and Rise00:05:01 - Hunting and Outdoor Passions00:08:05 - Navigating Music Career Success00:13:05 - Fitness and Nutrition on the Road00:20:36 - Work Ethic and Avoiding Distractions00:25:05 - Authenticity and Fan Connection00:33:17 - Performing and Future Goals00:38:29 - Songwriting and Faith00:47:51 - Pursuing Dreams and Closing Thoughts

Aug 25, 2025 • 1h 44min
Eddie Penney: DEVGRU to Single Dad of 3 Overnight | MTNPOD #130
Eddie Penney, a former Navy SEAL and author of "Unafraid," discusses his dramatic shift from elite military operations to single fatherhood. He shares gripping stories from his time in DEVGRU and the unexpected challenges he faced when gaining sole custody of his three kids. Eddie reflects on personal growth, the power of faith, and the strength found in unconditional love. His journey emphasizes resilience, the importance of nurturing spirituality within families, and lessons learned from both high-stakes missions and the complexities of parenting.

Aug 18, 2025 • 1h 4min
Rich Froning: Secrets Revealed from Fatherhood to Mental Toughness! | MTNPOD #128
Rich Froning, a CrossFit legend and founder of CrossFit Mayhem, shares his journey from athlete to father of three. He discusses balancing elite fitness with parenting, revealing insights on mental toughness and the importance of disconnecting from technology. Rich emphasizes the value of nature in cultivating resilience while reflecting on family connections and the challenges of modern childhood influenced by screens. Get ready for a candid exploration of competition, faith, and the meaningful adventures that shape a family's legacy.

Aug 11, 2025 • 1h 6min
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, mentality, and mental toughness so you can learn from the best of the best. Whether you're a seasoned backcountry hunter, an outdoorsman, or simply someone who wants to level up your mindset, this is your go-to source for inspiration, expert insights, campfire tales, entrepreneurship, and stories of perseverance and triumph. #Hunting #PublicLand #HuntingFuture #HUNTRPodcast #Conservation #BowHunting #DeerHunting #OutdoorLife #SaveHunting #WildlifePresented by Sig Sauer.V I D E O S TO W A T C H N E X T🎙️ More MTNTOUGH Podcast Episodes: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdAelJZ1bZWr5v6K_-IPix0tq8b7xH1msS U P P O R T O U R S P O N S O R S: 💊 Get 20% off MTNTOPS Supplements, Use Code "MTNTOUGH" Here at checkout: https://mtn-ops.sjv.io/LXkPEo__________________________________________W H A T I S M T N T O U G H F I T N E S S?MTNTOUGH is The #1 Fitness App Trusted By The DedicatedOur premier functional fitness programming is conveniently packaged for hunters, first responders, military, and mountain athletes. Train at home, at the gym, or on the go.Since 2016, MTNTOUGH has been dedicated to helping individuals achieve their personal goals by creating a foundation for physical and mental toughness. The brand’s best-in-class programs are developed, tested, and proven by former Navy SEALs, Army Rangers, and renowned physical trainers. MTNTOUGH+ programs are used by elite groups and operators, including special ops forces, wildland firefighters, backcountry hunters, professional mountain athletes, and more. The MTNTOUGH fitness lab is headquartered in Bozeman, Montana, surrounded by some of the world’s top mountain athletes.

Aug 4, 2025 • 1h 14min
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 best of the best. Whether you're a seasoned backcountry hunter, an outdoorsman, or simply someone who wants to level up your mindset, this is your go-to source for inspiration, expert insights, campfire tales, entrepreneurship, and stories of perseverance and triumph. Presented by Sig Sauer.V I D E O S TO W A T C H N E X T🎙️ More MTNTOUGH Podcast Episodes: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdAelJZ1bZWr5v6K_-IPix0tq8b7xH1msS U P P O R T O U R S P O N S O R S: 🔫 AmmoSquared is America’s Ammunition Reserve! Get 75 rounds of 9mm—completely FREE when you sign up: https://bit.ly/MtnTough🥩 MEAT! Your Maker, Use link: https://www.meatyourmaker.com/?avad=4...💊 Get 20% off MTNTOPS Supplements, Use Code "MTNTOUGH" Here at checkout: https://mtn-ops.sjv.io/LXkPEo🔊Get a Free Hat with Code TOUGH when you purchase a Gen 2 Turtle Box Speaker: https://turtleboxaudio.com/products/turtlebox-speaker-gen-2__________________________________________W H A T I S M T N T O U G H F I T N E S S?MTNTOUGH is The #1 Fitness App Trusted By The DedicatedOur premier functional fitness programming is conveniently packaged for hunters, first responders, military, and mountain athletes. Train at home, at the gym, or on the go.Since 2016, MTNTOUGH has been dedicated to helping individuals achieve their personal goals by creating a foundation for physical and mental toughness. The brand’s best-in-class programs are developed, tested, and proven by former Navy SEALs, Army Rangers, and renowned physical trainers. MTNTOUGH+ programs are used by elite groups and operators, including special ops forces, wildland firefighters, backcountry hunters, professional mountain athletes, and more. The MTNTOUGH fitness lab is headquartered in Bozeman, Montana, surrounded by some of the world’s top mountain athletes.

Jul 28, 2025 • 58min
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 Iraq, Afghanistan, Africa, and South America, insights on building mental toughness through cumulative experiences, and his commitment to lifelong adventure—sharing thrilling elk hunting tales to model resilience for his kids. Sam’s leadership philosophy, rooted in resiliency and overdoing what's worth doing, creates a lasting impact. Don’t miss this deep dive into mental toughness, leadership, and staying mission-ready in today’s dynamic business landscape!Follow Sam on Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/sammackey615/?hl=enSams Website: https://outsider.com/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 best of the best. Whether you're a seasoned backcountry hunter, an outdoorsman, or simply someone who wants to level up your mindset, this is your go-to source for inspiration, expert insights, campfire tales, entrepreneurship, and stories of perseverance and triumph.Presented by Sig Sauer.V I D E O S TO W A T C H N E X T🎙️ More MTNTOUGH Podcast Episodes: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdAelJZ1bZWr5v6K_-IPix0tq8b7xH1msS U P P O R T O U R S P O N S O R S: 🔫 AmmoSquared is America’s Ammunition Reserve! Get 75 rounds of 9mm—completely FREE when you sign up: https://bit.ly/MtnTough🥩 MEAT! Your Maker, Use link: https://www.meatyourmaker.com/?avad=4...💊 Get 20% off MTNTOPS Supplements, Use Code "MTNTOUGH" Here at checkout: https://mtn-ops.sjv.io/LXkPEo🔊Get a Free Hat with Code TOUGH when you purchase a Gen 2 Turtle Box Speaker: https://turtleboxaudio.com/products/turtlebox-speaker-gen-2__________________________________________W H A T I S M T N T O U G H F I T N E S S? MTNTOUGH is The #1 Fitness App Trusted By The DedicatedOur premier functional fitness programming is conveniently packaged for hunters, first responders, military, and mountain athletes. Train at home, at the gym, or on the go.Since 2016, MTNTOUGH has been dedicated to helping individuals achieve their personal goals by creating a foundation for physical and mental toughness. The brand’s best-in-class programs are developed, tested, and proven by former Navy SEALs, Army Rangers, and renowned physical trainers. MTNTOUGH+ programs are used by elite groups and operators, including special ops forces, wildland firefighters, backcountry hunters, professional mountain athletes, and more. The MTNTOUGH fitness lab is headquartered in Bozeman, Montana, surrounded by some of the world’s top mountain athletes.

Jul 21, 2025 • 1h 23min
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 to model resilience for his kids. Learn how his leadership philosophy, rooted in trust and empowering others, creates lasting impact, and hear about his transition to cyber operations and advocacy for junior Marines. Don’t miss this deep dive into mental toughness, leadership, and staying mission-ready!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 best of the best. Whether you're a seasoned backcountry hunter, an outdoorsman, or simply someone who wants to level up your mindset, this is your go-to source for inspiration, expert insights, campfire tales, entrepreneurship, and stories of perseverance and triumph. Presented by Sig Sauer.V I D E O S TO W A T C H N E X T🎙️ More MTNTOUGH Podcast Episodes: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdAelJZ1bZWr5v6K_-IPix0tq8b7xH1msS U P P O R T O U R S P O N S O R S: 💊 Get 20% off MTNTOPS Supplements, Use Code "MTNTOUGH" Here at checkout: https://mtn-ops.sjv.io/LXkPEo🔊Get a Free Hat with Code TOUGH when you purchase a Gen 2 Turtle Box Speaker: https://turtleboxaudio.com/products/turtlebox-speaker-gen-2__________________________________________W H A T I S M T N T O U G H F I T N E S S?MTNTOUGH is The #1 Fitness App Trusted By The DedicatedOur premier functional fitness programming is conveniently packaged for hunters, first responders, military, and mountain athletes. Train at home, at the gym, or on the go.Since 2016, MTNTOUGH has been dedicated to helping individuals achieve their personal goals by creating a foundation for physical and mental toughness. The brand’s best-in-class programs are developed, tested, and proven by former Navy SEALs, Army Rangers, and renowned physical trainers. MTNTOUGH+ programs are used by elite groups and operators, including special ops forces, wildland firefighters, backcountry hunters, professional mountain athletes, and more. The MTNTOUGH fitness lab is headquartered in Bozeman, Montana, surrounded by some of the world’s top mountain athletes.

Jul 14, 2025 • 59min
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 new hunters, and shares exciting updates on RMEF’s upcoming initiatives in Nevada and Montana. Don’t miss this deep dive into wildlife conservation and the future of hunting!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 best of the best. Whether you're a seasoned backcountry hunter, an outdoorsman, or simply someone who wants to level up your mindset, this is your go-to source for inspiration, expert insights, campfire tales, entrepreneurship, and stories of perseverance and triumph. Presented by Sig Sauer.V I D E O S TO W A T C H N E X T🎙️ More MTNTOUGH Podcast Episodes: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdAelJZ1bZWr5v6K_-IPix0tq8b7xH1msS U P P O R T O U R S P O N S O R S: 💊 Get 20% off MTNTOPS Supplements, Use Code "MTNTOUGH" Here at checkout: https://mtn-ops.sjv.io/LXkPEo🔊Get a Free Hat with Code TOUGH when you purchase a Gen 2 Turtle Box Speaker: https://turtleboxaudio.com/products/turtlebox-speaker-gen-2__________________________________________W H A T I S M T N T O U G H F I T N E S S?MTNTOUGH is The #1 Fitness App Trusted By The DedicatedOur premier functional fitness programming is conveniently packaged for hunters, first responders, military, and mountain athletes. Train at home, at the gym, or on the go.Since 2016, MTNTOUGH has been dedicated to helping individuals achieve their personal goals by creating a foundation for physical and mental toughness. The brand’s best-in-class programs are developed, tested, and proven by former Navy SEALs, Army Rangers, and renowned physical trainers. MTNTOUGH+ programs are used by elite groups and operators, including special ops forces, wildland firefighters, backcountry hunters, professional mountain athletes, and more. The MTNTOUGH fitness lab is headquartered in Bozeman, Montana, surrounded by some of the world’s top mountain athletes.