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Movement analysis is about more than identifying what needs to change — it can also be a powerful tool for building trust, confidence, and connection with your guests. In this episode of First Chair, host George Thomas sits down with PSIA-AASI National Team member Josh Smith to explore how instructors can use movement analysis to highlight strengths, create buy-in, and make feedback more meaningful. Josh shares examples from terrain park coaching and beginner lessons, along with practical strategies like reading tracks in the snow, observing body language, and getting guests more involved in their own learning. George and Josh also discuss the importance of how feedback is delivered and how looking beyond mechanics can help instructors create more effective, student-centered lessons.

How much can you learn about a young skier before the lesson even begins? In this episode of First Chair, host George Thomas sits down with longtime instructor and trainer Paul Geoghegan to explore the ideas behind his 32 Degrees article, “Matching Students w/ Instructors Through the Rapid Assessment Protocol for Young Skiers.” Paul introduces RAPYS, a framework designed to help supervisors and instructors make more thoughtful student-instructor matches by considering five key areas: emotional, equipment, cultural, physical, and experience. The framework grew out of observing experienced supervisors who could seemingly look at a young skier and instinctively determine which instructor might be the best fit. George and Paul explore what those observations look like in practice—from noticing an apprehensive child holding onto a parent's leg to recognizing how experience in hockey, ice skating, dance, or gymnastics might translate to learning on snow. Paul also explains why online booking, while convenient, can't always capture the human factors that can determine whether a lesson succeeds. Most importantly, Paul argues that RAPYS isn't necessarily about following a rigid scoring system. It's a framework for thinking more intentionally about the person standing in front of you—and creating an environment where they feel safe, supported, and ready to learn.

What does it really mean to be balanced on skis — especially when you’re constantly in motion? In this episode of First Chair, host George Thomas sits down with PSIA-AASI National Team member Peter Novom to dig deeper into the ideas behind Peter’s 32 Degrees* article, “Stacked in Your Favor.” Peter explores why great skiing isn’t about trying to recreate a perfect position or snapshot. Instead, it’s about learning to balance in motion, anticipate what’s coming next, and use the feedback from your skis and body to continually adapt. George and Peter break down practical exercises like statue stops and leapers, including how these drills can expose asymmetries, challenge your ability to move with your equipment, and provide immediate feedback about your skiing. Peter also explains why struggling with an exercise isn’t necessarily a bad thing — sometimes failure is exactly what creates the awareness needed for that next “aha” moment. They also explore the “trap of retrospective skiing,” why focusing too much on what just happened can hold you back, and how anticipating your next movement can help you stay ahead of your skis. Most importantly, Peter encourages instructors to take these ideas beyond the podcast and the page: try the exercises, experiment with the parameters, and make the learning your own. Listen to the conversation. Then read Peter’s article in 32 Degrees. Take the concepts on snow and see what you discover. Learn more at thesnowpros.org.

What if the most important thing your students remember isn't what you taught—but how you made them feel? In this episode of First Chair, George Thomas sits down with PSIA-AASI National Team member Melodie Buell to explore the ideas behind her article, "The Space Between Skills and Connection." Together, they discuss why great instruction is about more than technical skills, and how emotional awareness, trust, and authentic connection can transform the learning experience. Melodie shares practical strategies for reading your students, avoiding false positivity, using professional vulnerability effectively, giving students voice and choice, and adapting your teaching to meet learners where they are. Whether you're teaching first-time skiers, preparing for certification, or coaching experienced riders, this conversation offers valuable insights into becoming a more impactful instructor. Topics include: Why students remember how you made them feel Moving beyond constant positivity Building trust through attunement Professional vulnerability in teaching Voice and choice in lesson planning Recognizing changing student needs Learning vs. earning credentials Creating experiences students never forget If you enjoyed this conversation, be sure to subscribe for more episodes of First Chair, featuring conversations with the people shaping the future of snowsports instruction.

What if the secret to better ski lessons came from science class? In this episode of First Chair, George Thomas sits down with Joe Taylor to talk about a surprisingly powerful teaching framework: the 5E instructional model. Joe breaks down how Engage, Explore, Explain, Elaborate, and Evaluate can help ski instructors create lessons that feel less like a lecture and more like an “aha!” moment on snow. Joe shares how his background in physics, science education, and ski instruction led him to a simple idea: students learn better when they discover the feeling first, then put the pieces together. That means more student voice, more curiosity, and more learning that actually sticks. From wedge christies to steeper terrain, this conversation shows how the 5E model can make lessons more engaging, more memorable, and way more effective. You’ll hear how the 5E model lines up with the PSIA teaching cycle, why “explore before explain” works so well, and how research backs up this student-led approach. If you’re a ski or snowboard instructor looking for fresh ideas that are practical, research-based, and easy to remember, this episode is packed with takeaways. In this episode: Why students should explore before they’re explained to How the 5E model fits ski instruction Ways to boost motivation and ownership How to turn one skill into a transferable movement pattern Why this method works especially well for adult learners Simple, smart, and seriously useful for snowsports instructors who want better lessons without overcomplicating the process.

How do you turn a standard ski lesson into a compelling story? In this episode of First Chair, host George Thomas sits down with snow pro and professional writer Mark Aiken to discuss his latest 32 Degrees article, "Snowsports MFA." Mark shares his unique four-step framework—Movement Analysis, Fundamentals, Activities, and the Repeat—designed to help instructors stay student-centered and outcome-based. Mark explains why showing up to an assessment with a "canned progression" is a recipe for failure and why authentic teaching means treating every lesson as an exploration. We dive into the "Repeat" step as a tool for re-evaluation, the importance of an "effective bag of tricks" over a large one, and how the current PSIA-AASI National Fundamentals changed his 30-year career. Whether you're a writer, a slider, or an exam candidate, this conversation offers a practical guide to the artistry of snowsports education. In this episode, we discuss: The "Snowsports MFA" concept: Comparing a ski trail to a short story. Why "canned progressions" are presentations, not teaching. The "Repeat" Step: Why watching the drill is more important than doing it. Building an "Effective Bag of Tricks" using only the basic tools. Tipping the J: A case study in modifying drills to fit student speed and confidence. The Art of Style: How technical fundamentals enhance a skier's personal palette. Read Mark Aiken's full article in the latest issue of 32 Degrees magazine.

How do you keep a group of teenagers engaged or turn a repetitive boot drill into the highlight of a student's day? In this episode of First Chair, host George Thomas talks with Keith Rodney—Chair of the National Children's Task Force and US Telemark Team member—about his 32 Degrees article, "The Fun Starts with You." Keith challenges the traditional idea of "forcing" fun for students, suggesting instead that instructors should focus on making the environment enjoyable for themselves first. Keith explains how this shift in perspective leads to authentic enthusiasm that students can sense immediately. We dive into the CAP (Cognitive, Affective, Physical) model as a developmental lens, the "Empathy Pivot" for managing fear vs. exhilaration, and why "Professional Competency" is at the heart of purposeful play. Whether you are a new instructor or a seasoned pro, this conversation provides a roadmap for using your own passion to build trust and deeper connections on the snow. In this episode, we discuss: - Why forcing a fun environment often falls flat with students. - Using the CAP model to adjust your approach based on individual development. - The "Empathy Pivot": Distinguishing between exhilarating excitement and paralyzing fear. - Why teenagers and kids can see right through a "fake" teaching persona. - Managing the emotional environment to build lasting trust with your group. Read the full article in the Winter 2026 issue of 32 Degrees magazine.

What does it take to teach skiing for 10 years without a summer break? In this episode of First Chair, host George Thomas talks with Augusto "Rooster" Burone Risso about his decade-long journey chasing winters across the globe. From his first days as a J-1 instructor at Granby Ranch to the high-stakes terrain of Niseko, Portillo, and even Lesotho, Africa, Rooster has lived the dream of the "endless winter." Rooster breaks down the practical side of being a global pro, including navigating "Working Holiday" visas, finding employee housing in Japan, and the unique challenges of working for private ski schools in Argentina. He also discusses how the intensity of skiing eight-plus months a year accelerated his technical skills, helping him transition from a casual skier to a PSIA Level III certified instructor and Big Mountain competitor. In this episode, we discuss: - The J-1 Jumpstart: How a college break in Colorado turned into a lifelong career. - New Zealand & Australia: Navigating the Working Holiday visa and the "scary" commute to Cardrona. - The Private School Dynamic: Teaching in Niseko, Japan and Bariloche, Argentina. - Physical Sustainability: How Rooster managed the demands of year-round skiing for 10 years. - The Big Mountain Shift: How intensive training helped him conquer Big Mountain competitions and -the PSIA Level III exam. 📖 Read Rooster’s full article, "Around the World in 10 Years," in the latest issue of 32 Degrees magazine. Follow PSIA-AASI: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesnowpros/ Website: https://thesnowpros.org/

What do you do when the assessment sheet says "Did Not Attain"? In this episode of First Chair, host George Thomas talks with PSIA-AASI National Team member Lyndsey Stevens about her journey through the assessment process. Lyndsey opens up about failing her trainer assessment three times before finally succeeding on her fourth attempt. She explains how those setbacks weren't just hurdles, but essential learning moments that shaped her into the high-level educator she is today. Lyndsey dives into the difference between "passively declining" and "actively seeking" feedback, and why moving from the question of "Why did I fail?" to "What do I do to succeed?" is a total game changer. We discuss the importance of "Follow-up Culture," how to be a better receiver of feedback, and why examiners often enjoy being mentors more than they enjoy being proctors. Whether you are preparing for your Level I or eyeing a spot on the National Team, this conversation offers a roadmap for turning a "check-box" failure into a long-term professional victory. In this episode, we discuss: The emotional weight of seeing "Did Not Attain" on an assessment sheet. Reframing the past: Moving your focus from "Why" to "What." How to bridge the gap between being "at the standard" and proving it during an exam. The "Follow-up Culture": Prompting trainers with specific goals to get better data. Why being a good receiver of feedback is a skill that must be practiced. Read Lyndsey’s full article in the Winter 2026 issue of 32 Degrees magazine.

Are your poles helping you accelerate, or are they telling your skis to stop? In this episode of First Chair, host George Thomas is joined by Keith Rodney—chair of the National Children’s Task Force, US Telemark Team head coach, and multi-discipline examiner. Keith explains why we’ve moved away from the term "pole plant" in favor of the "pole touch," and how this subtle shift in vocabulary reflects a massive shift in how we move our center of mass across our skis. Keith breaks down his "Gold Standard" of the accelerating pole touch, the "Wild Pole Swing" for emergency turns, and the "Unibody" movement patterns of young children. Whether you're an alpine pro, a telemark enthusiast, or a children's specialist, this episode will change the way you look at the "two sticks" in your hands. We also tackle the age-old question: At what age should kids actually start using poles? In this episode, we discuss: - The difference between a "blocking" plant and an "accelerating" touch. - How pole angle affects the energy travel into your upper body. - The "Unibody" movement: Why 3-to-6-year-olds struggle with grip. - "Nose over Toes": Using the pole reach to find balance on steep terrain. - Telemark vs. Alpine: How pole length and the "lead change" work together. Read Keith’s full article in the Winter 2026 issue of 32 Degrees magazine.

Why do some students quit after one day, while others become skiers for life? In this episode of First Chair, host George Thomas is joined by Sebastian Crain to explore the deep psychology behind snowsports instruction. Sebastian teaches at Aspen Snowmass and Eldora, but he also holds a Master’s in the Social Psychology of Sport. He uses that expertise to explain why Self-Determination Theory (SDT) is the ultimate tool for modern instructors. Sebastian breaks down the three basic psychological needs—autonomy, competency, and relatedness—and explains how they lead to "intrinsic motivation." Learn how to move your guests away from just "trying it out" and toward a permanent identity as a snowpro. We also discuss how to deliver "informational" rather than "controlling" feedback to keep your students in the driver’s seat. In this episode, we discuss: - How Self-Determination Theory improves on Maslow’s Hierarchy. - The motivation spectrum: From ice cream rewards to flow state. - 9 statistically significant characteristics of effective feedback. - Shifting the focus from what you teach to how the guest feels.

How much of your message is actually getting through to your students? In this episode of First Chair, host George Thomas sits down with international ski instructor Joaquin Alvarez Amuchastegui to discuss his recent 32 Degrees article, "Enhancing Our Connections with Empathy." Joaquin has taught all over the globe—from the steep faces of Switzerland to the firm slopes of the East Coast—and he’s discovered that technical knowledge is only 10% of the battle. Joaquin breaks down the "90% Rule," explaining why your tone of voice and body language are the primary tools for building trust, especially when conditions get "sketchy." We dive into the concept of "Dimming the Spotlight" to let student learning take center stage, the importance of a "Silent Feedback Loop," and how teaching in multiple languages (Spanish, English, and Portuguese) can actually make you a clearer, more empathetic communicator. Whether you are prepping for your Level III or teaching your first beginner lesson of the season, this conversation will help you match your student’s frequency and create a more effective learning environment.

In this episode, host George Thomas sits down with PSIA National Alpine Team member Katie White to bridge the gap between daily client lessons and the high-pressure environment of a teaching assessment. Katie breaks down how to manage the shortened 20-minute "assessment clock" by killing the "canned progression" and moving toward an adaptable, "spiderweb" approach to coaching. This conversation is a must-listen for any instructor looking to elevate their professional game. You’ll learn how to master D.I.R.T. (Duration, Intensity, Rate, and Timing) in a short window, provide specific feedback that proves technical ownership, and manage risk beyond just a verbal safety check. Whether you are prepping for your Level II or Level III, Katie’s insights will help you trade exam anxiety for the technical clarity needed to pass with confidence.

Stop struggling with your ski technique—the problem might be your bindings! In this episode of First Chair, host George Thomas talks with biomechanics expert Lou Rosenfeld about the "Magic of 4 Millimeters." Many skiers spend months trying to fix their stance, but Lou reveals how moving your binding position just a fraction can instantly put you in a balanced, powerful position. We debunk the "Engineer Myth"—the idea that the factory line on your skis is the only place your boots should go. Lou shares insights from his research with Atomic and Nordica to explain how manufacturers actually pick those marks (and why they might be wrong for you). Whether you're a pro instructor or a weekend warrior, learning how to adjust your mounting point can turn an "unforgiving" ski into your favorite piece of gear. In this video, you’ll learn: - Why the "ball of foot" method still matters in the age of shaped skis. - How binding placement affects your performance in moguls vs. groomed runs. - Why skiers with smaller feet (including many women) are often mounted too far back. - The "12-minute fix" that can save you 12 weeks of frustration on the hill.

What does “core tension” really mean—and how does it impact your skiing and riding? In this episode of First Chair, George Thomas talks with PSIA-AASI National Team member Tony Macri about how core engagement drives balance, stability, and performance across all disciplines. Based on his 32 Degrees article, Tony breaks down how the core goes beyond just your abs, how different types of muscle contractions (concentric, eccentric, isometric) come into play, and how concepts like timing, intensity, rate, and duration shape movement outcomes. From freestyle tricks to carving and riding variable terrain, this episode offers practical ways to use your core more effectively—without overthinking or over-tensing.