Claim OwnershipFirst Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast
Subscribed: 213Played: 4,909
Subscribe
© All rights reserved
Description
The First Chair Podcast brings you inspirational stories and educational tips from the country's best ski, snowboard, Nordic, and adaptive instructors.
More than 34,000 individuals belong to PSIA-AASI (Professional Ski Instructors of America and American Association of Snowboard Instructors), making it the world’s largest organization dedicated to snowsports. We are lifelong learners committed to changing lives through great experiences on snow.
Connect with us to learn more:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thesnowpros
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesnowpros
YouTube: @thesnowpros
More than 34,000 individuals belong to PSIA-AASI (Professional Ski Instructors of America and American Association of Snowboard Instructors), making it the world’s largest organization dedicated to snowsports. We are lifelong learners committed to changing lives through great experiences on snow.
Connect with us to learn more:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thesnowpros
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesnowpros
YouTube: @thesnowpros
768 Episodes
Reverse
In this special episode of the First Chair Podcast, PSIA-AASI CEO Jeff Lifgren and Marketing & Communications Director Katherine Fuller share the inside story behind this season’s all-new member survey. This isn’t just another questionnaire — it’s part of a larger, ongoing effort to better understand and respond to the needs of instructors, schools, and the entire snowsports industry.
Jeff and Katherine discuss why this new approach is different, how it will help PSIA-AASI stay relevant in a rapidly changing environment, and why every member’s participation matters. From uncovering what drives instructors to helping schools tell their story to resort ownership, this project is all about listening, learning, and building a stronger future for everyone on snow.
In this episode of First Chair, host George Thomas sits down with Rob Golden, CEO of Renoun, and Dana Kaufman, Director of Renoun Pro Membership, to introduce PSIA-AASI members to one of its newest official suppliers.
Renoun isn’t your average ski company — it was founded by an aerospace engineer who discovered how to use non-Newtonian material in ski cores. The result is skis that adapt in real time to terrain and vibration, stiffening on ice and staying smooth in powder. This patented “secret sauce” gives skiers a ride that literally changes with every turn.
The company has launched the world’s first ski membership program, RenounPro, a community-driven model that combines high-performance gear with real connections. Members get access to skis, exclusive events, discounted gear, and even opportunities to swap or donate old skis to adaptive programs — creating a cycle of performance and purpose.
Rob and Dana share how Renoun’s direct-to-consumer roots allow them to know every customer personally, why they see PSIA-AASI instructors as the core of this new movement, and how the RenounPro community fosters connection both online and on the mountain. You’ll also hear how instructors can get involved, lead their own events, and access exclusive member perks.
In part three of our Return Instructor Training mini-series, host George Thomas chats with Lyndsay Ward, PSIA-AASI Central Region Education and Certification Manager, about how to bring fresh energy and purpose to the start of every season. Lindsay draws on her journey from small-town instructor to trainer, ski school director, and regional leader to share a powerful perspective: return training isn’t a box to check—it’s a chance to reconnect, retool, and reignite your passion for teaching.
She breaks down how management can turn pre-season meetings into celebrations of community, creativity, and culture—and how instructors can transform routine refreshers into opportunities for growth. From the importance of safety and communication to sparking curiosity and lifelong learning, Lindsay reminds us that returning to snow is more than just repeating old steps—it’s rediscovering the joy that brought us here in the first place.
Whether you’re leading the training or lacing up your boots to attend, this episode will inspire you to flip the script and see preseason prep as the launchpad for your best winter yet.
In the second episode of our three-part series on fall instructor training, host George Thomas is joined by PSIA-AASI National Team member Peter Novom to talk about why investing in your returning instructors is critical for both staff culture and guest experiences.
Peter shares insights from his 25+ years of teaching—why no two lessons are ever the same, how to keep curiosity alive year after year, and why approaching training with an open mind transforms it from a “requirement” into a growth opportunity.
From constraints-based learning examples to the importance of feedback culture, George and Peter explore how return instructor training can:
- Motivate and energize your most experienced staff.
- Turn routine lessons into creative, engaging experiences.
- Set seasonal teaching goals that keep instructors growing.
- Strengthen longevity, curiosity, and commitment within your school.
Whether you’re a manager designing training or an instructor showing up for it, this episode will help you see fall training as more than a refresher—it’s an investment in long-term success, for you and for your guests.
The season is right around the corner, and fall instructor trainings are more than just a chance to reunite with friends and get back on snow. In this first episode of a three-part series, George Thomas sits down with PSIA-AASI Education and Development Manager Angelo Ross to explore how you can show up with the right mindset and get the most out of these essential preseason sessions.
From the excitement of reconnecting with peers to the challenge of avoiding “habit mode,” George and Angelo dive into why setting clear intentions matters—for your own growth and for creating the best possible guest experience. They highlight how open-mindedness keeps us learning, why training is about more than social catch-ups, and how concepts like observation vs. inference, note-taking, and questioning strategies can transform both teaching and learning.
Angelo also shares insight into examiner training updates, including the new Co-Examiner Connection Guide and why fairness, consistency, and collaboration are at the core of this season’s focus. Even if you’re not on Ed Staff, you’ll discover practical takeaways—from refining your teaching fundamentals to recognizing breakthrough moments on snow—that will help you start the season stronger and stay inspired all winter long.
Tune in and get ready to shift your perspective: fall instructor training isn’t just a requirement—it’s your launchpad to becoming a better instructor and delivering an unforgettable guest experience.
In this episode of First Chair, PSIA-AASI CEO Jeffrey Lifgren and Board Chair John May sit down with host George Thomas to share their perspectives on leadership, priorities, and the future of the organization.
John reflects on his journey from teaching at Mount Hood to serving as Board Chair, highlighting the experiences that shaped his career and his passion for supporting instructors. Jeff outlines the National Board’s strategic priorities for the year ahead: stabilizing IT systems, supporting regions and members as valued clients, and driving decision-making with reliable data.
Together, they discuss how the organization is shifting toward stronger collaboration with regions, recognizing them as the experts in delivering on-snow education and guest experiences. They also talk about the importance of community and self-development, the evolving role of member schools, and how new communication and survey efforts will help bring the entire membership along on this journey.
Tune in for an inside look at how PSIA-AASI leadership is laying the groundwork today to deliver a stronger, more connected member experience in the seasons ahead.
First Chair connects with National Team members Katie White and Kevin Jordan as they join us from Portillo, Chile. They talk about why late-season training camps are such a powerful way to get extra time on snow, sharpen technique, and build momentum heading into winter. Katie explains how Portillo’s highly qualified ski school and affordable lesson options make it a hidden gem for certification prep, while Kevin shares how his camp balances skill development with the unique energy of training alongside world-class athletes.
Beyond on-snow opportunities, they offer practical advice for anyone who can’t make the trip — from intentional gym workouts and visualization drills to building study groups, reviewing manuals, and keeping your skiing mindset sharp in the fall. The conversation also looks ahead to the coming season, team training, and the excitement of the U.S. hosting Interski 2027 for the first time in decades.
First Chair connects with PSIA-AASI Team member Kevin Jordan to explore what it means to train in the Southern Hemisphere during the North American summer. Kevin dives into the story behind launching Condor Camps in Portillo, Chile, and why the Andes are such a unique classroom for instructors. He shares how South America offers everything from steep terrain and historic ski racing culture to opportunities for members to prep for certification, shake off the rust, and get a jumpstart on the upcoming season. Hear Kevin’s take on building the camp, the international community it’s drawing, and why skiing in September can be the perfect way to carry momentum into winter at home.
First Chair catches up with Aspen Snowmass instructor and PSIA-AASI National Team member Kevin Jordan to talk about the growing crossover between skiing, snowboarding, and mountain biking. Kevin shares how summer bike instruction builds camaraderie among instructors, sharpens teaching skills for winter, and opens doors to new certification opportunities like PMBIA, BICP, and GSMBC. Learn how terrain reading, rider positioning, and effective communication on a bike can translate directly to better lessons on snow — and why mountain biking might be your next great teaching adventure.
Ask ChatGPT
In this episode of the First Chair Podcast, George Thomas chats with Grace Center Du Oro, recipient of the PSIA-AASI Three Cs Award for communication, collaboration, and cooperation. Grace shares her journey from weekend warrior at Hoodoo to becoming the resort’s new Ski and Ride School Director. She reflects on building community, the value of mentorship, and how showing up authentically creates connection on and off the hill. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation about finding your stoke, embracing imposter syndrome, and why Hoodoo's “island of misfit toys” is something truly special. Learn more about PSIA-AASIs Awards and Recognition program at thesnowpros.org.
In this episode of First Chair, George Thomas catches up with Dale Drennan, recipient of PSIA-AASI’s Educational Excellence Award. Dale shares her journey from learning to ski in the Poconos in 1957 to becoming a lifelong educator across multiple disciplines—from English to swimming to Nordic and telemark skiing.
Tune in to hear Dale’s reflections on what educational excellence really means, how to connect with reluctant learners, and how teaching has evolved over the decades. You’ll also get to hear the story behind her now-famous pencil analogy from National Academy, plus her advice to new instructors on staying inspired in the face of challenges.
In this episode of First Chair, George Thomas talks with SkyTechSport co-founder Alex Golunov and account manager Connor Bishop about how their cutting-edge ski and snowboard simulator is helping people train smarter—anytime, anywhere. Learn how the simulator replicates g-forces, edge angles, and pressure points to support both high-performance athletes and brand-new skiers.
Alex shares how SkyTechSport evolved from a college project into a global training tool now used by the U.S. Ski Team, while Connor explains how PSIA-AASI instructors are integrating it into lessons and even launching their own indoor ski studios. The team also explores how the simulator aids in rehabilitation, offers real-time feedback, and includes immersive runs like the Streif and Cortina d'Ampezzo to keep training dynamic and fun.
👉 To learn more, visit thesnowpros.org.
In the final episode of this three-part series, host George Thomas is joined by Dr. Josh Pighetti and PSIA-AASI National Team members Matt Larson and Zoe Mavis for a deep dive into the Five Elements of Inspirational Instruction: Technical Expertise, Instructional Communication, Masterful Teaching, Professional Character, and a Student-Centered Approach.
To hear more on Josh's keynote from National Academy 2024: copy and paste this link -https://www.youtube.com/live/dv3pdRhGimI.
Together, they explore how inspirational instructors blend strong technical skills with empathy, creativity, and adaptability to meet students where they are. Zoe and Matt share real-world stories about modifying their delivery while staying true to themselves and how those small shifts lead to stronger student relationships and more meaningful learning moments. They also talk about building shared language, navigating tricky dynamics (like parent involvement), and helping students feel like they truly belong in the snowsports community.
Whether you're a first-year instructor or a seasoned trainer, this conversation offers thoughtful insights, practical tools, and plenty of inspiration for connecting more deeply with your students — and with the sport you love. Learn more about this research and the collaboration between Pennsylvania State University and PSIA-AASI by heading to thesnowpros.org.
In Episode 756 of the First Chair Podcast, George Thomas continues the conversation with Dr. Josh Pighetti to explore the remaining three of the Five Elements of Inspirational Instruction: Masterful Teaching, Personal and Professional Character, and the Student-Centered Approach. These principles—rooted in Josh’s doctoral research—offer actionable strategies to create meaningful, engaging lessons that put students at the heart of the learning experience.
This conversation is part of PSIA-AASI’s ongoing partnership with Penn State University, which supports instructors through access to online snowsports courses, certification-aligned academic programs, and advanced degrees. Leaders like Josh are helping shape a more inspired and research-driven future for snowsports education.
Catch up on Part 1 if you missed it, and visit thesnowpros.org to learn more about this exciting collaboration.
In Episode 755 of the First Chair Podcast, George Thomas talks with Dr. Josh Pighetti about the first two of the Five Elements of Inspirational Instruction: Technical Expertise and Instructional Communication. These insights come from Josh’s doctoral research and offer practical tools for creating more impactful, student-centered lessons have powerful implications for instructors at all levels.
This work is part of a growing collaboration between PSIA-AASI and Penn State University, aimed at expanding access to online snowsports courses, certification pathways, and academic programs — from undergraduate degrees to master’s and Ph.D. studies. Researchers like Josh and emerging leaders like Sierra are helping shape the future of snowsports education.
Listen to the next episode to continue the dive into Inspirational Instruction. To learn more about this collaboration, head to thesnowpros.org.
In this episode of First Chair, PSIA-AASI National Team member Lyndsey Stevens joins host George Thomas to discuss her recent achievement of earning her Adaptive Snowboard Level III certification — the first in over a decade in the Rocky Mountain Region.
Lyndsey shares how her path into adaptive snowsports began at Vail, and how that experience reshaped her approach to teaching and riding. She talks about the preparation process, the value of teamwork and mentorship, and the pressure of pursuing high-level certification as a team member.
This conversation offers insights into the commitment behind certification success and reinforces the importance of staying curious and adaptable — no matter where you are in your snowsports career. Learn more at thesnowpros.org.
In this episode, George Thomas talks with Brian Pate and Derek Mikulski from Gibbon Slacklines about how balance training can elevate your performance on snow. They dive into the science behind balance, stability, and body awareness—and how the Gibbon Giboard offers a fun and effective way to build those skills. For instructors, the Giboard is more than just a balance toy—it’s a versatile training tool that reinforces key fundamentals like foot-to-core connection, coordination, and proprioception. It's compact, easy to set up, and ideal for both personal use and student progressions off the hill. PSIA-AASI members get a special discounts on Giboards through their pro offers. Learn more about membership and Gibbon by heading to thesnowpros.org.
Episode 752: Inside National Academy: A Conversation with Jeff Lifgren by PSIA-AASI First Chair Podcast
In this episode, George Thomas catches up with PSIA-AASI Snowboard Team member Lyndsey Stevens. They chat about the shift into spring riding, exam season, and what it’s like to go through National Team tryouts—not once, but twice. Lyndsey shares her perspective on coaching at Rider Rally, prepping for an adaptive exam, and her excitement about Interski 2027 coming to her home mountain, Vail. A great listen for anyone passionate about snowsports and professional growth.
On this episode, we chat with Josh Pighetti who just earned his doctorate degree in Recreation, Park and Tourism Management. This has taken over two years to complete and has a direct relation to snowsports instruction. Learn more by tuning in and at thesnowpros.org. Over the last few years, I’d been researching how snowsports instructors can inspire their students to continue learning and participating. Through observations of PSIA-AASI National Team members in action, combined with in-depth interviews with them and their students, I found that inspirational instruction consists of five major elements: Technical Expertise, Instructional Communication, Masterful Teaching, Personal and Professional Character, and Student-Centered Approach. These elements form the framework of inspirational instruction, shaping how we can inspire lifelong engagement and passion in snowsports. Tune in for more or head to thesnowpros.org.
Comments
Download from Google Play
Download from App Store
United States