When I have an initial chat with a student about why they are here and "I want to be good or better" comes up this is a great spot to dive in with them for a specific focus. If I ask the person to name one thing in their skiing they like and one thing they want to change will usually give me more detail. Perhaps the person likes their smoothness in easier terrain, or enjoys the sensations (!) of movement. Perhaps the person wishes for more  consistent speed control, or to stop their legs burning in powder. If possible I prefer to see them ski a warm up before delving into this.

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.

Episode 756 | The Five Elements of Inspirational Instruction — Part 2 w/ Dr. Josh Pighetti

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. 

Episode 757 | The 5 Elements of Inspirational Instruction  - Part 3 - w/ Dr. Josh Pighetti

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.

Episode 758 | Year-Round Ski and Ride Training with SkyTechSport

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.

Episode 759 | Dale Drennan on a Life of Learning, Teaching, and the Power of Tele Turns

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. 


EPISODE 760 | Collaboration, Communication, and Cooperation with Grace Center do Ouro

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.









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Episode 761 | How Teaching Mountain Biking Can Make You a Better Ski or Snowboard Instructor

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.

Skiing South America: Kevin Jordan on Training in Portillo, Chile

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

Episode 757 | The 5 Elements of Inspirational Instruction - Part 3 - w/ Dr. Josh Pighetti

PSIA-AASI First Chair Podcast

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