Founder
Dustin Diefenderfer helps individuals reach their specific personal and professional goals by pushing them to become more mentally tough. An ultramarathoner and backcountry hunter, Dustin focuses on mountain and hunting conditioning to achieve success in all aspects of life. A National Academy of Sports Medicine Certified Personal Trainer, Dustin’s overall philosophy is based on work ethic, grit and helping customers learn to be comfortable being uncomfortable.

Head Trainer
Sarah graduated from Vanderbilt University, where she played Division 1 Varsity soccer. With over 16 years as a NASM-certified personal trainer and strength coach, she works with athletes of all levels. Specializing in Performance Enhancement and Corrective Exercise, Sarah creates innovative programs that motivate MTNTOUGHers to overcome challenges and promote longevity and resilience for mountain athletes.

Physical Therapist and Strength / Conditioning Specialist
Dr. Nick Bechtold is an orthopedic physical therapist passionate about bridging rehab and performance. In conjunction with his wife Anna, he runs Movement Physio within the MTNTOUGH Fitness Lab, coaching mountain and military tactical athletes for over two years. A certified strength and conditioning specialist, Nick earned his B.A. in human biology and Doctor of Physical Therapy from the University of Montana.

Strength, Power, and Conditioning Trainer
Zac is a seasoned sports performance coach from Bozeman, Montana, and co-owner of Salvat Performance, specializing in speed and strength training for athletes. Zac excelled as a running back in Joliet High School and continued his career at Orange Coast College.

Mindset Coach
Phil has 22 years in the US Army Special Operations and holds a Bachelor of Science and a Master's in Organizational Leadership from Gonzaga University. Phil Kornachuk enhances mental toughness for the MTNTOUGH Community by developing top-performing leaders and teams. With over 30 years of experience, he has influenced corporate leaders, collegiate sports teams, military units, and non-profits.

Leadership and Resilience Coach
Byron Owen is a full bird USMC Colonel and former Reconnaissance Marine with tours as both a platoon commander and commanding officer at the elite 1st Force Reconnaissance Company. He also had the honor of commanding several intelligence and cyber units to include Combat Mission Team One, Cyberspace Warfare Task Group 1, and 3d Radio Battalion. In addition he recently served as Dept. Director of Intelligence at the Pentagon.

Power Yoga Coach
Danni is a dedicated yoga instructor specializing in Power Yoga, where she combines strength and mindfulness in every class. She encourages practitioners to challenge their limits and embrace discomfort for growth.

Backcountry Dietitian & Nutritionist
Kyle's own experience in losing 140lbs many years ago birthed a passion in him to help others achieve their own goals.  He is a registered dietitian through the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and passionate about helping people prepare for and perform optimally in the mountains by tailoring their nutrition in accordance with their training in a realistic, simple, and effective way.

Dr. of Physical Therapy
Tom is a board-certified orthopedic physical therapist and Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS). He holds a B.S. in exercise science from Montana State University and a Doctor of Physical Therapy (D.P.T.) from Chapman University. Additionally, he completed a residency in orthopedic manual physical therapy (OMPT) and a fellowship in lower quarter functional biomechanics.

Spiritual Growth Coach
Jim Ramos, married since 1992 and a father of three, brings his extensive experience in ministry and men's leadership to MTNTOUGH. He introduces participants to the philosophy of comprehensive toughness, encompassing physical, mental, emotional, nutritional, and spiritual aspects.

Spiritual Growth Coach
Bryan Schwartz is a leadership mentor, NFL veteran, former pastor, motivational speaker, author, and founder of "4th & Short." With a successful NFL career, he helps high-performing leaders and teams overcome stagnation, limiting beliefs, and align their identity with their purpose.

Tactical Advisor
Alex Fichtler, a former Navy SEAL from Montana, has faced challenging conditions globally. He believes in overcoming trials to emerge stronger, stating, “I train in the gym and on the mats, I learn, I hunt, I shoot, and I perform to be my best. My goal is empowering others to discover their mental toughness and become stronger and healthier.”