The MTI Podcast

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:

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.

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.

Brian is a frequent contributor to MTI. Click here to see his collection of essays. 

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.

Takeaways

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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

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Rob dives into programming for In-Season Endurance Athletes and fields strength and conditioning questions from the MTI Athlete Team.

Takeaways

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.

Check out Alex's Gym: nxft.ca

Guest: MTI Athlete Jonathan Edwards (@jedsoutside)