68 episodes

Welcome to the MTNTOUGH Podcast, where we explore the intersection of physical fitness and mental toughness through the lens of backcountry hunting, military, mountain sports, and the great outdoors.

Hosted by the founder of MTNTOUGH Fitness Lab, Dustin Diefenderfer, this podcast takes a deep dive into the physical and mental preparation required for the unique challenges of high-altitude, extreme-terrain adventures.

Each episode features inspirational stories, advice, in-depth conversations with athletes, trainers, and experts in the fields of fitness, nutrition, and mental performance. From endurance training and strength conditioning to mental toughness and mindfulness, we explore cutting-edge science and real-world strategies that enable outdoor athletes to push their limits and achieve their goals.

Whether you're a seasoned backcountry hunter, an outdoorsman, or simply someone who wants to crush it in the backcountry, the MTNTOUGH Podcast is your go-to source for practical tips, expert insights, campfire tales, and inspiring stories of perseverance and triumph. Tune in each week to discover new ways to elevate your physical and mental fitness, and join us in the pursuit of excellence.

The MTNTOUGH Podcast Dustin Diefenderfer

    • Health & Fitness
    • 4.9 • 120 Ratings

Welcome to the MTNTOUGH Podcast, where we explore the intersection of physical fitness and mental toughness through the lens of backcountry hunting, military, mountain sports, and the great outdoors.

Hosted by the founder of MTNTOUGH Fitness Lab, Dustin Diefenderfer, this podcast takes a deep dive into the physical and mental preparation required for the unique challenges of high-altitude, extreme-terrain adventures.

Each episode features inspirational stories, advice, in-depth conversations with athletes, trainers, and experts in the fields of fitness, nutrition, and mental performance. From endurance training and strength conditioning to mental toughness and mindfulness, we explore cutting-edge science and real-world strategies that enable outdoor athletes to push their limits and achieve their goals.

Whether you're a seasoned backcountry hunter, an outdoorsman, or simply someone who wants to crush it in the backcountry, the MTNTOUGH Podcast is your go-to source for practical tips, expert insights, campfire tales, and inspiring stories of perseverance and triumph. Tune in each week to discover new ways to elevate your physical and mental fitness, and join us in the pursuit of excellence.

    REMI WARREN's Unbreakable Mindset, Entrepreneurship, and Future Vision

    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

    • 1 hr 12 min
    JOCKO WILLINK | Bowhunting, Fatherhood, Fitness, Good.

    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:
    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.

    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

    • 1 hr 32 min
    CLIFF GRAY: Escaping the Rat Race and Thriving in the Backcountry

    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.

    • 1 hr 21 min
    MICHAEL RODRIGUEZ: The Green Beret Building The Global War on Terrorism Memorial Foundation

    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----

    • 1 hr 35 min
    BERT SORIN: "Struggle Well" Harnessing Life's Challenges

    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.

    • 1 hr 48 min
    SEAN LAKE: The BUBS Natural Story, From Benghazi Heroism to Legacy of Adventure & Patriotism

    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.

    • 1 hr 21 min

Customer Reviews

4.9 out of 5
120 Ratings

120 Ratings

Reis_Ladd_Hunts ,

Clarity and Focus

When not guiding or hunting myself my time is spent in the gym. Have been looking for something like this for motivation, accountability, and mission focus. The values of this podcast and the MTNTOUGH team align with my own.

Duston Lords ,

New to mtn tough

Today is my first day to start the mtn tough pre season prep 2.0 I’m looking forward to listening to Dustin’s podcast throughout the 16 weeks to help me thrive.👊

Vogelly_2 ,

Stay Dangerous

Dustin is coming into his own as a podcast host. I love his guest choices are amazing, inspiring, god-loving, driven, and educational. I had the pleasure of meeting Dustin when I was living in Bozeman when he was just starting MTN Tough…not only is he kind and knowledgeable he inspired me as a new dad watching but his relationship with his kids. He also gave me a Original MTN hat that I still wear today. Thanks for all you do and look forward to what MTN Tough podcast does moving forward.

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