First Chair: Psia-aasi Podcast

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.

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. 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 tool

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 Lindsey 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. Lindsey 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.

On this episode, we chat with Jen Lockwood, training coordinator at Mount Hood Meadows Ski and Ride School, about building a strong instructor culture. Jen shares insights on developing training programs, balancing staff education with guest experience, and fostering career growth within PSIA-AASI. We also discuss the importance of adaptive instruction, how training structures vary across regions, and innovative approaches like night training and virtual education. Tune in for a deep dive into what it takes to develop great instructors and a thriving snowsports school.

On this episode, we chat with Ying Liu about the 2025 PSIA-AASI Women's Summit at Solitude, an event dedicated to skill development, inclusivity, and connection. Ying dives into this year’s theme, “Connecting Through Power and Grace,” and how it applies to both skiing and teaching. We explore key takeaways from the event, including technical coaching insights, the role of telemark skiing in building a beginner’s mindset, and how proper boot fitting can dramatically impact performance. Ying also shares her experience skiing with PSIA-AASI national team members, testing the latest ski technology like CARV sensors, and how a unique coaching analogy involving a rodeo clown helped improve lateral movement on snow. Plus, we discuss what’s ahead for the 2026 Women's Summit in Steamboat and how the event continues to evolve to support and inspire female snowsports professionals. Don’t miss this conversation packed with insights, inspiration, and a few unexpected surprises! Learn more by tuning in and at thesno

In this episode of First Chair, host George Thomas sits down with Jeff Lifgren, the newly appointed CEO of PSIA-AASI. Jeff shares his journey from working at top destination resorts like Breckenridge and Park City to leading ski schools across the country, including smaller Mid-Atlantic resorts. He discusses the value of diverse teaching experiences, his commitment to professional development, and his vision for PSIA-AASI’s future. Tune in to hear Jeff’s thoughts on leadership, innovation in snowsports education, and how PSIA-AASI can better support its members—whether they’re full-time instructors, weekend warriors, or lifelong enthusiasts. Plus, get a sneak peek at upcoming events like National Academy and Interski! Learn more by tuning in and at thesnowpros.org.

Tune in and learn more about our newest Cross Country team member, Justin Arndt. Justin got his first certification in the Rocky Mountain region at the age of 16 and climbed the ranks all the way to a National Team member at the age of 21. At 21, Justin is the youngest member to ever join the team. He talks about his journey and some of the challenges and successes he’s faced along the way. Justin’s parents are also well intertwined in the snowsports industry as current and previous instructors in Colorado. Justin earned his Alpine, Telemark and Cross Country Level 1 certification alongside his mom! Learn more by tuning in and at thesnowpros.org.

Join us for an interesting chat with Pete Allison who just got back from Bulgaria where he attended the first International Symposium on Snow Sports Education, an event organized by the National Sports Academy "Vassil Levski" in Bulgaria. The symposium brought together experts, educators, and industry professionals to discuss the development and improvement of snow sports education in the region. The symposium aims to facilitate discussions on best practices, methodologies, and innovations in snow sports education. The event explored teaching techniques, safety measures, technological advancements, and ways to enhance participation in snow sports. Hosted by the National Sports Academy (NSA) "Vassil Levski", a leading institution in Bulgaria specializing in sports education and training. This symposium represents an important opportunity for collaboration and knowledge-sharing to strengthen the future of snow sports instruction in the region. Learn more by tuning in and at thesnowpros.org.

Join us on this fun episode with Angelo Ross and Pete Allison as they discuss the benefits of traveling to a new region to take clinics or assessments in other regions across the country. To Angelo, the benefits are endless. From navigating a new parking lot to meeting new people to experiencing the way other people teach, traveling to another region can open your mind. Pete dives into how academia works this way too. People study abroad, they go to lectures, and they absorb as much as they can from different sources to make themselves a more well-rounded individual. What’s your point of view on this topic?

National Team members Matt Larson and Peter Novom join us this week for a deep dive into the benefits of trying and joining freestyle events. Freestyle is an exploration of skiing and snowboarding. Freestyle is an exploration of your own skills and a way to expand your horizons. Hear about the ins and outs of park rules, apprehensions, and excitement that can all stem from freestyle. Register for Freestyle Academy and learn more by tuning in and at thesnowpros.org.