

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

May 28, 2024 • 1h 31min
Akshay Nanavati: Preparing To Ski Across Antarctica For 110 Days ALONE
In November 2024, Akshay will set foot in Antarctica to begin a 1,700 mile journey where he will drag a 400-pound sled filled with all his supplies needed to survive in one of the most unforgiving environments on the planet.
For 110 days, he will endure temperatures below -40 degrees, and hurricane force winds as he makes his way across the coldest, driest and windiest continent on Earth.
Akshay Nanavati is a United States Marine veteran, speaker, entrepreneur, ultra runner and author. He served in Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom and was later diagnosed with post traumatic stress disorder. His book Fearvana: The Revolutionary Science of How to Turn Fear into Health, Wealth and Happiness received widespread acclaim, including endorsements from the Dalai Lama and Jack Canfield.
To learn more about Akshay, follow him on Instagram at @fearvana and check out fearvana.com
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What is MTNTOUGH?
MTNTOUGH is The #1 Fitness App Trusted By The Dedicated
Our 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.
🐏 Get Your First Month of MTNTOUGH Free Use Code "MTNPOD" @ https://mtntough.com/
🇺🇸 Merch: https://mtntough.com/collections/merch
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.

May 21, 2024 • 1h 41min
Jim Shockey: How A Legend Is Coping With Loss With A Resilient Mindset
Jim Shockey is an award-winning outdoor writer, wildlife photographer, filmmaker, naturalist, wilderness guide, TV host, and outfitter. He owns several exclusive outfitting territories in Canada's wildlands, including the renowned Pacific Rim Guide Territory on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, and the Rogue River Outfitting in the Yukon Territory. His television productions have won 15 Golden Moose Awards. He is a retired Honorary Lieutenant Colonel of 4 Canadian Ranger Patrol Group Canadian Armed Forces and is a Member International of the Explorer's Club in New York City.
Jim recently lost his wife to cancer; as anyone would expect, he has had a hard time dealing with the loss, but his indomitable mindset carries him through and helps him embrace positivity. Tune in and learn how this hunting icon's mindset has forged him into iron.
His latest book, Call Me Hunter, is available now!
To learn more about Jim, follow him on Instagram at @jimshockeyofficial and check out jimshockey.com.
🐏 Get Your First Month of MTNTOUGH Free Use Code "MTNPOD" @ https://mtntough.com/
🇺🇸 Merch: https://mtntough.com/collections/merch
----
What is MTNTOUGH?
MTNTOUGH is The #1 Fitness App Trusted By The Dedicated
Our 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.
Chapters:
00:00:00 - Intro
00:04:50 - Making Small Lifestyle Changes
00:05:37 - Jim Shockey Losing His Wife To Cancer
00:10:42 - Moving On
00:16:04 - Hunting for a Soul Mate
00:20:49 - Lessons learned from online dating after 60
00:25:41 - Love and Living After Loss
00:30:27 - The Power of Faith in Times of Sorrow
00:35:28 - Coping with Loss
00:40:58 - Finding Joy in Life, Grieving Differently
00:45:50 - The Importance of Physical Activity
00:50:59 - Consistency and Lifestyle Changes
00:55:57 - The Importance of Exercise and Better Sleep
01:01:07 - Living the Life to Tell the Story
01:06:08 - The Journey to Getting Published
01:10:55 - Pursuing Your Dreams
01:16:00 - The Power of Desire
01:20:50 - Taking Pride in Your Work
01:25:21 - The Power of Desire and Positivity
01:30:15 - The Parable of True Hell
01:35:18 - Making the Right Choices
01:40:40 - Conclusion and Farewell
#hunting #jimshockey #mtntough #hunting #backcountryhunting #sheephunting #evashockey #veteran #canadianarmedforces #functionalfitness #inspiration #mindset #motivation

May 14, 2024 • 1h 12min
REMI WARREN's Unbreakable Mindset, Entrepreneurship, and Future Vision
Today’s guest is Remi Warren. Remi is a hunter, guide, and conservationist who is passionate about sharing his knowledge and information with others. He’s worked as a hunting guide, outfitter, outdoor writer, photographer, videographer, and TV personality.
At the age of 22, he opened Montana OutWest Outfitters in the Bitterroot Valley of Montana, specializing in elk and deer hunts on public land. Later he expanded his operation by booking hunts in New Zealand and Africa. He is also the host of the Live Wild Podcast.
When he’s not guiding or filming, Remi works as a field editor for Western Hunter Magazine, sharing hunting tips and tricks he's learned along the way.
To learn more about Remi, follow him on Instagram at @RemiWarren and check out remiwarren.com.
🐏 Start Training with MTNTOUGH Get 6-Weeks Free:
Use code MTNPOD on the monthly option at checkout at https://mtntough.com/
Do you need to get fit for the backcountry? Want to get into the best functional shape of your life? Want to build mental toughness through physical and mental fitness? Get your first 6 weeks free with an extended trial of MTNTOUGH online fitness training.
📌 Sponsor Discount Links/Codes:
-MTN OPS Supplements & Nutrition Use Code "MTNTOUGH" for 20% Off Your First Order
Click here to learn more about MTN OPS:
mtn-ops.sjv.io/LXkPEo
-Checkout MTN OPS x MTNTOUGH Co-Branded Hydrate Flavor:
mtn-ops.sjv.io/5gJbz1----
----
What is MTNTOUGH?
MTNTOUGH is The #1 Fitness App Trusted By The Dedicated
Our 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.
Tap the link to get started with MTNTOUGH+ Fitness 14-Days Free: https://lab.mtntough.com/checkout/subscribe/purchase?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=youtube_description&utm_campaign=evergreen_links
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.
Chapters:
00:00:00 - Intro
00:04:55 Choosing Positivity
00:08:26 - The Contamination of Spices
00:15:52 - Finding Strength in Teamwork
00:24:10 - The Struggle of Letting Others Take the Reigns
00:31:58 - Embracing the Power of Make Believe
00:39:27 - The Intersection of Persistence and Luck
00:47:35 - Embrace the Struggle
00:55:33 - Mental Toughness and Positive Thinking
01:04:05 - Choosing Your Attitude
01:12:15 - Conclusion and Farewell

May 6, 2024 • 1h 33min
JOCKO WILLINK: Bowhunting, Fatherhood, Fitness, Good.
Jocko Willink is a retired U.S. Navy SEAL officer, co-author of the #1 New York Times bestseller Extreme Ownership: How U.S. Navy SEALs Lead and Win, Dichotomy of Leadership, host of the top-rated Jocko Podcast, and co-founder of Echelon Front, where he serves as Chief Executive Officer, leadership instructor, speaker, and strategic advisor.
You can connect with Jocko on Instagram at @jockowillink.
🐏 Start Training with MTNTOUGH Get 6-Weeks Free:
Use code MTNPOD on the monthly option at checkout at https://mtntough.com/
Do you need to get fit for the backcountry? Want to get into the best functional shape of your life? Want to build mental toughness through physical and mental fitness? Get your first 6 weeks free with an extended trial of MTNTOUGH online fitness training.
📌 Sponsor Discount Links/Codes
-MTN OPS Supplements & Nutrition Use Code "MTNTOUGH" for 20% Off Your First Order
Click here to learn more about MTN OPS:
https://mtn-ops.sjv.io/LXkPEo
-Checkout MTN OPS x MTNTOUGH Co-Branded Hydrate Flavor:
mtn-ops.sjv.io/5gJbz1
What is MTNTOUGH?
MTNTOUGH is The #1 Fitness App Trusted By The Dedicated
Our 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.
Time Stamps:
00:00:00 - The Importance of Passion in Developing Skills
00:05:06 - Unlocking Everything with MTNTOUGH
00:10:00 - The Impact of Knockouts and Brain Trauma
00:14:23 - Exposure in the Military
00:18:39 - Introduction to Jiu-Jitsu, Getting Hooked
00:23:07 - Martial Arts Recommendations for Remote Areas
00:27:28 - Introduction to Hunting and Benefits of Silence
00:31:59 - The Difficulty of Shooting Elk
00:36:59 - The Challenges of Archery Hunting at a Distance
00:41:58 - Shooting Protocol: The Detachment
00:46:47 - The Catalyst for Life Change in Bow Hunting
00:51:16 - The Importance of Being Prepared for Every Possible Outcome
00:55:36 - The Journey of Preparation
01:00:18 - The Challenges of Elk Hunting
01:04:59 - Overcoming Adversity in Hunting
01:09:45 - The Emotional Roller Coaster of Bow Hunting
01:14:37 - Don't Force Things on Your Kids
01:18:25 - Setting Minimum Standards
01:23:07 - Nurturing Passion in Children
01:27:41 - The Benefits of Youth Gymnastics, Ballet, and Riding Horses
01:31:59 - Nuggets of Wisdom
#navyseal #bowhunting #mtntough #veteran #hunting #functionalfitness #fitness #motivation #dicipline #diciplinefreedom #jockopodcast #jockowillink #jocko #navyseals #navy #navysealburpees #podcast #elk #elkhunting #fatherhood

Apr 30, 2024 • 1h 22min
CLIFF GRAY: Escaping the Rat Race and Thriving in the Backcountry
Cliff Gray is an avid outdoorsman, pilot and certified wilderness first
responder. He has personally guided dozens of big game hunts, while his previous businesses
have operated more than a thousand wilderness expeditions.
🐏 Start Training with MTNTOUGH Get 6-Weeks Free:
Use code MTNPOD on the monthly option at checkout at https://mtntough.com/
Do you need to get fit for the backcountry? Want to get into the best functional shape of your life? Want to build mental toughness through physical and mental fitness? Get your first 6 weeks free with an extended trial of MTNTOUGH online fitness training.
📌 Sponsor Discount Links/Codes:
-MTN OPS Supplements & Nutrition Use Code "MTNTOUGH" for 20% Off Your First Order
Click here to learn more about MTN OPS:
mtn-ops.sjv.io/LXkPEo
-Checkout MTN OPS x MTNTOUGH Co-Branded Hydrate Flavor:
mtn-ops.sjv.io/5gJbz1----
----
What is MTNTOUGH?
MTNTOUGH is The #1 Fitness App Trusted By The Dedicated
Our 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.
Tap the link to get started with MTNTOUGH+ Fitness 14-Days Free: https://lab.mtntough.com/checkout/subscribe/purchase?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=spotify_description&utm_campaign=evergreen_links
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.

Apr 23, 2024 • 1h 36min
MICHAEL RODRIGUEZ: The Green Beret Building The Global War on Terrorism Memorial Foundation
Today’s guest is Michael “Rod” Rodríguez. Rod is the President and CEO of the Global War on Terrorism Memorial Foundation. He joined the U.S. Army in 1992 and attended the Special Forces Assessment and Selection course to become a Green Beret in 1997. In 2013, he was medically retired due to numerous combat injuries. His last assignment as a Green Beret came as a Sniper Instructor assigned to the JFK Special Warfare Center (Range 37) at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. He has deployed ten times in service to our nation.
🫡 Help Design History GWOT Memorial:
https://www.gwotmemorialfoundation.org/helpdesignhistory/
Donate to the Global War on Terrorism Memorial Foundation https://www.gwotmemorialfoundation.org/donate/
🐏 Start Training with MTNTOUGH Get 6-Weeks Free:
Use code MTNPOD on the monthly option at checkout at https://mtntough.com/
Do you need to get fit for the backcountry? Want to get into the best functional shape of your life? Want to build mental toughness through physical and mental fitness? Get your first 6 weeks free with an extended trial of MTNTOUGH online fitness training.
📌 Sponsor Discount Links/Codes:
-MTN OPS Supplements & Nutrition Use Code "MTNTOUGH" for 20% Off Your First Order
Click here to learn more about MTN OPS:
mtn-ops.sjv.io/LXkPEo
-Checkout MTN OPS x MTNTOUGH Co Branded Hydrate Flavor:
mtn-ops.sjv.io/5gJbz1----

Apr 16, 2024 • 1h 48min
BERT SORIN: "Struggle Well" Harnessing Life's Challenges
Learn how to embrace struggle and live a more abundant life. Bert delivers extraordinary wisdom and breaks it down into simple and applicable mindset adaptations. Don't forget to Subscribe and Stay Dangerous.
Growing up with a barbell in his hand has been pivotal in charting the course of his life and leading him to become a 4-time Division 1 All-American Track and Field (Hammer and 35 lb. Weight Throw), Southeastern Conference Champion, former record holder in Weight Throw, and an Olympic trials athlete. Bert is currently the President and Co-Owner of Sorinex Exercise Equipment, a very successful family run business founded by his father, another big name in the iron game, Richard Sorin. Together they are the inventors of hardware and applications to make people more effective, efficient, and safe on the sports field and the battle field. Although Sorin never served in the arms forces, his gear is changing the game to provide readiness and rebuilding to the veterans prior to, during and after their deployments to far off, hostile lands. Bert’s network of veterans, scientists, coaches and therapists allows for a combination of expertise and support, and has been changing lives on both sides of the table. Bert pushes each day to find the best in people, and to assist in their exploration of their potential and maximize their value to the cause.
Start Training with MTNTOUGH Get 6-Weeks Free - Use code MTNPOD
Do you need to get fit for the backcountry? Want to get into the best functional shape of your life? Want to build mental toughness through physical and mental fitness? Get your first 6 weeks free with an extended trial of MTNTOUGH online fitness training: Use code MTNPOD on the monthly option at checkout at MTNTOUGH.COM
Sponsor Discount Links/Codes:
-MTN OPS Supplements & Nutrition Use Code "MTNTOUGH" for 20% Off Your First Order
Click here to learn more about MTN OPS: mtn-ops.sjv.io/LXkPEo-Checkout MTN OPS MTNTOUGH Co Branded Hydrate Flavor: mtn-ops.sjv.io/5gJbz1
----
What is MTNTOUGH?
MTNTOUGH is The #1 Fitness App Trusted By The Dedicated
Our 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.

Apr 9, 2024 • 1h 21min
SEAN LAKE: The BUBS Natural Story, From Benghazi Heroism to Legacy of Adventure & Patriotism
Sean Lake is the co-founder of BUBS Naturals. The BUBS namesake derives from Glen ‘BUB’ Doherty, who was heroically killed in Benghazi, Libya in 2012. In addition to remembering Glen for the patriot he is, the BUBS ethos centers around the passionate and adventure-seeking life that Glen lived.
Sean is a former professional athlete, marketing executive at Burton Snowboards and DC Shoes, and entrepreneur. In 2017, Sean and his old CrossFit friend TJ Ferrara co-founded BUBS Naturals, bringing a fresh approach to nutrition, performance, and full-life optimization. Woven into the DNA of BUBS Naturals is that of professional athletes, top performers, rabble-rousers, and Navy SEALs.
To learn about Sean, follow him on Instagram at @slakeo.
Do you need to get fit for the backcountry? Want to get into the best functional shape of your life? Want to build mental toughness through physical and mental fitness? Get your first 6 weeks free with an extended trial of MTNTOUGH online fitness Training: https://lab.mtntough.com/checkout/subscribe/purchase or use code MTNPOD at checkout at MTNTOUGH.COM
----
What is MTNTOUGH?
MTNTOUGH is The #1 Fitness App Trusted By The Dedicated
Our 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.
Tap the link to get started with MTNTOUGH+ Fitness 14-Days Free: https://lab.mtntough.com/checkout/subscribe/purchase?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=youtube_description&utm_campaign=evergreen_links
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.

Apr 2, 2024 • 1h 44min
CHADD WRIGHT: Revealing His Mental Toughness Secrets
Join us for an inspiring episode on the MTNTOUGH Podcast with Navy Seal Chad Wright:
After overcoming an initial rejection by the US Navy to attend SEAL training, Chadd Wright became the first person in Naval Special Warfare history to undergo elective open heart surgery to remove an asymptomatic pericardial cyst and eventually push forward to flawlessly complete US Navy SEAL Training.
Do you need to get fit for the backcountry? Want to get into the best functional shape of your life? Want to build mental toughness through physical and mental fitness? Get your first 6 weeks free with an extended trial of MTNTOUGH online fitness Training: https://lab.mtntough.com/checkout/sub... or use code MTNPOD at checkout at MTNTOUGH.COM
----
What is MTNTOUGH?
MTNTOUGH is The #1 Fitness App Trusted By The Dedicated
Our 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.
Tap the link to get started with MTNTOUGH+ Fitness 14-Days Free: https://lab.mtntough.com/checkout/subscribe/purchase?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=youtube_description&utm_campaign=evergreen_links
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.

Mar 26, 2024 • 1h 3min
JOE DE SENA: Spartan Race Founder; Shaping a Healthier, more Patriotic World
Join us for an inspiring episode with Joe De Sena, the founder of Spartan Race. Discover how Joe's passion for resilience and mental toughness is shaping a healthier, more patriotic world. Don't miss out on his valuable insights and advice on transforming our country towards a positive fitness and health direction. Subscribe now for more motivating conversations like this!
Do you need to get fit for the backcountry? Want to get into the best functional shape of your life? Want to build mental toughness through physical and mental fitness? Get your first 6 weeks free with an extended trial of MTNTOUGH online fitness Training: https://lab.mtntough.com/checkout/sub... or use code MTNPOD at checkout at MTNTOUGH.COM
----
What is MTNTOUGH?
MTNTOUGH is The #1 Fitness App Trusted By The Dedicated
Our 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.
Tap the link to get started with MTNTOUGH+ Fitness 14-Days Free: https://lab.mtntough.com/checkout/subscribe/purchase?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=youtube_description&utm_campaign=evergreen_links
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.