QUESTION

I compete in the tactical games and have been looking to change up my training regimen. Do you have customers who compete in this? If so what plan do you recommend?

ANSWER

We have had athletes compete in the Tactical Games. Two primary options:

QUESTION

Long time MTI fan. I’m plateauing at 20 pull-ups for my max set. And really would like 23 to max the USMC PFT. My test is in about 3-4 weeks. What would be the best progression plan to hit the goal?

ANSWER

The USMC PFT Plan is going to be your best bet. It includes a density pull-up progression, trained 3x/week.

QUESTION

ANSWER

What’s simplest is to replace any run training with a stationary bike, assault bike, or rower. The Daily General Fitness programming sounds like would be the best choice and will give you multiple options from the monthly cycles (we keep up ~6 months of programming per Daily Stream).

QUESTION

Do you have a relative strength chart for over 50 athletes?

ANSWER

Relative strength is the same regardless of age… do you mean relative strength standards for over 50 athletes? If so, not at this time, although it may be something we take a look at in the future.

QUESTION

I recently finished the expedition ice/mixed program as prep for a climb in the Ruth Gorge. It went well.
What next?
I’m looking to build strength, rehab (I’m 44), while maintaining good alpine and rock capacity. I feel like there isn’t a program that could accomplish all those goals, but wondering what your suggestion would be. I know this is an issue for a lot of us- we want to perform while still training and somehow build strength in there too. I can commit to probably 2-3 days/week ( I work 13 hour days in the ER)

ANSWER

Glad the climb went well! The best option is the Daily Mountain Elite programming. This is base fitness programming to develop strength, work capacity, and endurance for alpinists/general mountain athlete demand outside of expeditions/trip prep.

QUESTION

ANSWER

Those are tough drills in commercial gyms. Generally TAC SEPA is sprinting, lateral movement, or level change (or a combination). If you identify it as a lateral drill, a simple 2x 10-yard shuttle will work, focusing on good foot placement, cutting, and sprinting out of the direction change.

QUESTION

I’m about to start week 3 of Mountain Base Helen V3, but I’m traveling this Wednesday through next Monday and won’t have access to a gym. What should I do to just kind of tread water for that week until I can resume the program?

ANSWER

You can rearrange the week to make it work for you. I’ve outlined the days, and the session you should do (which will be slightly out of order from how the programming is written).

A note about Arete …. I select the links and articles that make up Arete weekly. Those that I select are ones that I find interesting and/or important – either because of the topic or the source. Just because I select an article or link does not mean that I believe in what the article says or the veracity of the source. I’ve received criticism for including articles from the Pravda Report, Al Jazeera, etc. The reason the sources are listed is so you, the reader, can understand where the article comes from. I search far and wide for articles/links, and I find the Russian or Arab world takes on current events interesting, especially when juxtaposed with the US media sources and US government line.

Often, I’ll choose articles or links that are critical of tactical athletes, mountain athletes, or others in the MTI community. I don’t do this to piss you off or offend, but rather because I find that knowing what your opponents are writing and thinking is important for any professional. I find it interesting and, sometimes, enlightening. I’ve got nearly two decades of supporting mountain and tactical athletes, but being your cheerleader doesn’t help you grow or improve.

If I’ve chosen an article from a source that you don’t trust, you don’t have to read it. Likewise, if I’ve chosen an article with a headline, opinion, or viewpoint you don’t agree with, you don’t have to read it either. However, I’d encourage you to do so – especially those articles and links you disagree with. I always learn something, and you might too. – Rob Shaul

Military, National Defense, Foreign Policy

BLUF

In May of 2024 MTI was invited to an engagement with a Regional SWAT Team.  This opportunity provided a venue to have one-on-one discussions with Tactical Athletes, expose them to the “Efficient Strength” methodology, conduct a Tactical Athlete Work Capacity Assessment,  and gain further insight into the operational demands and challenges these tactical athletes encounter.  

Brief Overview of Regional SWAT Program

A SWAT team is a specialized tactical unit that is provides support to law enforcement operations in that area. Regional SWAT teams conduct a wide range of high-risk operations, such as:

• Executing high-risk arrest and search warrants
• Counterterrorism/narcotic operations
• Protecting high-profile individuals
• Managing crisis situations (barricaded subjects/active shooters)

An important aspect to note is that being a member of a regional SWAT team is a collateral duty, meaning that on top of their primary duties (working violent crime investigations, narcotics, etc.)  , they must be able to function as a direct action arm on a moment’s notice within their particular region. 

OBSERVATION/CHALLENGES

Given their lifestyle, one of the most important observations gleaned from our interaction was the extreme necessity to maintain an efficient lifestyle. Some of the issues they encounter weekly, if not daily, are:

Unpredictable schedule resulting in limited access to workout facilities

• Due to the inherent nature of their work (criminals don’t have hours of operation), Law Enforcement professionals, and even more so SWAT members, are unable to maintain a consistent schedule. They are up late at night, early in the morning, and often around the clock when circumstances warrant. This plays a toll on their sleep patterns and ability to maintain a persistent physical fitness training schedule.

Long duration in cars traveling to conduct operations/ training 

• The most efficient and effective way for an SWAT team members to get from point A to point B is via their work rig.  Almost a second home on wheels.  Not due to homelike accommodations but because their rig is their way to transport all their gear.  Commercial flights are cumbersome due to the need to immediately “go” and the lack of transportation on the back end of the flight.  A lot of locations regional airports do not have a wide range of flight options.  They get the call and move out.

Understanding these challenges, we utilized an “Efficient Strength” workout before conducting MTI’s Tactical Athlete Work Capacity Assessment to establish a comparative baseline for potential future engagements. Training and assessment below:

Warm Up:

3 Rounds

Bronc Complex @ 45/65#

8x Hand Release Push Ups

Instep Stretch

Lat + Pec Stretch

Training:

(1) 5 Round Grind …

3x Power Clean – increase load each Round until 3x is hard, but doable

5x Kneeling Curl to Press – increase load each Round until 5x is hard, but doable

5x Kettlebell/Dumbbell Front Squat – – increase load each Round until 5x is hard, but doable

5x Pull Ups

Work Capacity:

Tactical Athlete Work Capacity Assessment

• 3 Minutes 25m shuttle sprints for reps – with a drop to prone at each end
• Rest 1 minute
• 3 Minutes 25m shuttle sprints for reps – with a drop to prone at each end
• Rest 1 minute
• 3 Minutes 25m shuttle sprints for reps – with a drop to prone at each end

1x Rep = 1x 25m length, so a round trip = 2x Reps. Only full lengths count. The athlete starts on the ground prone and must drop to the ground prone at each turnaround.

Tally the total reps for each round. A sum of reps from all 3 rounds is the athlete’s final score.

Chassis Integrity:

8x Good Mornings @45lbs

8x Kettlebell Swing @ 20 kg

8x Hinge Lift @ 95lbs

MTI Tactical Athlete Work Capacity Assessment – Scoring

Results & Discussion

Overall, the Work Capacity assessment averaged a score of 51 from the nine assessed individuals, resulting in a score of GOOD.  Compared to other work capacity tests we have conducted with SWAT team members, the results are within .2 of each other. 

Of note, the top score (62), also the youngest member, recently came off training for a selection program.  Unclear if this is his baseline fitness level or results from his recent training cycle.  

The age range among the SWAT Operators was 20 years, with the youngest member being 29 years old and the most seasoned member being 49 years old.  With this range of age, the significance of strength and movement quality varied.  Younger athletes were more apt to use heavier weights than older athletes.  Overall, the movement quality was mixed.  Among the team was college to former pro level athletes as well as recreational mountain athletes.   With the power clean being the most complex movement, it was visible that most operators have had experience with it, but not to an advanced level.

Due to this spur-of-the-moment opportunity, we couldn’t conduct additional testing, such as MTI’s Relative Strength Assessment or MTI’s SWAT/SRT Fitness Assessment. These tests are best performed with an athlete’s prior knowledge.  

Questions? Email kelson@mtntactical.com

We’re expanding our operation to the Kalispell/Whitefish area, and looking for in-person lab rats to train with us.

MTI has a proud history with hundreds of lab rats… those who let us poke, prod, and test programming so we ensure delivery of the most mission-direct and efficient programming possible for Mountain and Tactical Athletes.

Details below:

• Who we’re looking for: Fit recreational athletes, male or female, ages 18-50.
• What you’ll do: Train with our Director of Research and Performance to test programming and conduct mini-studies.
• Where: Kalispell/Whitefish area. Specific location TBD.
• When: June 3.
• Why: Improve your fitness to support your recreational pursuits.
• Cost: No cost, but we ask for mandatory attendance 3-4x/week during our 4-7 week cycles.

Interested? Email kelson@mtntactical.com … please include the following information:

• Gender
• Height/Weight
• Gym and/or Mountain experience
• Time of day you’re most consistently able to train

What is your favorite podcast related to fitness? Why?

I like Joe De Sena's podcast "The Hard Way".  I appreciate his philosophy on life, that taking on challenges leads to growth and resilience.

Mind Pump- for when i start overcomplicating things or feel like i’m giving into a fad trap. 

Nonprophet- for when i want to feel like i’m not doing enough

Dan John, Pat Flynn, Robb Wolf

"Actually - three equally and in no order of priority - Oxygen Addict, Training for the Uphill Athlete, and Scientific Triathlon. Honorable Mention goes to Peter Attia's The Drive.

Oxygen Addict: short, actionable guidance, saves the ads for the end
Training for the Uphill Athlete: mostly relevant content, minimal ads, doesn't seem like they are trying too hard to get me to buy their services
Scientific Triathlon: mostly relevant content, near zero ads, rooted in what the data and latest research is indicated, offers sources in the notes
The Drive: getting older so longevity is moving into the target envelope. Probably a bit too in the weeds for some but that's what my GP and the interwebs are for."

Barbell Medicine. Two actual MDs who are also competitive power lifters. They dispel a lot of BS prevalent across fitness culture.  

MTNTOUGH. Even though his primary audience is / was hunters, which I am not, its still completely engaging and his fitness content is top quality.

"The Drive, by Dr Peter Attia.  

Cuts through the marketing hype and BS, provides scientific backed evidence and research to give very clear, evidence based information, and how to apply it. 

Notable podcasts by Dr Rhonda Patrick, Dr Andy Galpin, and Dr. Andrew Hubermann are also very worth your time, covering many of the same topics but from different perspectives. "

Art of Manliness.  Varied content on a number of topics but a frequent focus is fitness and health.  

Jocko's Underground and the DEF Reset series. These <30min episodes are mostly about mental attitude and forming mission-ready mind states.  However, I find these key for sustained, high effort training programs.

Chasing Excellence.  I believe that what we do in the gym must translate to outside of the gym, physically and mentally, professionally and personally.  Ben's approach to training, encompassing 360-deg of factors (sleep, eat, train, connect, think), hits the bullseye.  The constant paralleling of physical and mental training has paid off for me in countless ways, as a man, a father, a husband, a Deputy Fire Chief, and as an athlete.

Huberman Lab offers a ton of scientific research related to fitness but especially focusing on neuroscience and recovery (the importance of sleep, how to sleep better for recovery, the power of natural daylight, etc.).

Huberman Lab has taken the lead for me in the last few years. Others that I find very helpful are the Sigma Nutrition Podcast and the Barbell Medicine Podcast. 

Peter Attia - Drive (all science based and no BS!)

Farewell by Brad Stulberg and Steve Magness - two esteemed authors who study performance and cut through bro-sphere nonsense. 

The NonProphet Podcast. Goes much deeper to the root of why fitness matters compared to most fitness podcasts. 

The Ready State with Kelly and Julie Starrett. Good world class guests. No wacky 'Influencer' nonsense. No 2 would be Peter Attia for similar reasons.

MOPs n' MOES. It's a perfect overlap of military, endurance, and strength training topics that I'm interested in.

Right now it is KoopCast with Jason Koop as I mostly focus on ultra running. 

The Peter Attia Drive. I learn something new every episode, and his approach to fitness and health for the long-term has changed how I think about exercise.

The Non-Prophet by Mark Twight

HubermanLab, NSCA.TV, PowerAthleteRadio, StartingStrength All good info thats creadible and most of the time imeadiatly applicable. 

Huberman Podcast, as Andrew Huberman breaks down complex human physiology items into easily understandable and consumable parts

Mindpump. Great general fitness podcast. No good tactical athlete options. 

What’s your favorite podcast related to professional development? Why?

I like Dave Ramsey's podcasts, honestly, I can't say I enjoy anything related to manufacturing or leadership as a form of professional development.  His podcasts help me with being a good steward of our finances.

From the Green Notebook.  Top shelf series of guests from across the spectrum of military service members and personal improvement writers.  Hosts do a great job of prep, ask solid questions and then shut up and let the guests speak.   Excellent source for reading recommendations.  My stack of books to read has grown exponentially since starting to listen. 

Mostly anything by Packet Pushers. While I am generally bored of technology after nearly 25 years working in the national security & technology market space (former active duty turned corporate senior manager), I still need to stay on top of things to be effective in managing my group and its portfolio of engineers and engagements.

Bedros Keuilian. Because he speaks his mind.

"Tough call, but my top would be, not in any particular order:

1. Diary of a CEO
2. Modern Wisdom
3. Impact Theory

These three cover a HUGE range of topics. If they don’t have something your interested in, you’re probably  dead inside."

Glorious Professionals (now defunct), Cleared Hot, and sometimes Shawn Ryan Show

Jocko Podcast.  Simply put, the extreme ownership philosophy is the foundation that all else builds upon within your world.  

"Professional development can mean two things; 
1: industry and problem set specific (helps you get better at the specific thing you're currently doing.
2: broad: these bring varied views and completely new topics to your attention.

Category 1:  
     -(I'm in tech) Age of Miracles about new forms of Energy has been wildly information on upcoming hard tech around nuclear, solar, wind energy tech on the horizon, (whether you like it or not).
    -(I care about public land conservation) Back Country Hunters & Anglers Podcast & Blast is great for hearing what's going on around the country.
    -(Leadership in Business is what I actually do) The Prof G Pod gives unadulterated information on what's going on and a little on how to thing about it. I appreciate being able to draw my own conclusions rather than being force-fed a curated opinion. 

Category 2: 
    - Freakonomics (and all the podcasts in their network) teaches me about things I didn't know anything about and helps me draw corollaries to what I'm currently working on. 
   

Final note: I'm super wary of anything too broad, those types of podcasts tend to be one person's opinion over and over again until you get to the point that you think their opinion is your opinion. I try to live in a world of facts and research so that I can draw my own conclusions."

Work Life - Adam Grant - he's incredibly smart and worked with all different industries to build a lot of experience and cred.

Jock Podcast from Jocko Willink. I am 62 doing BJJ, working out, studying Arabic language, etc. The guy is just motivational... But you really get of the couch after listening. Kind of related. My second best was Tim Ferris and his interview with Jocko put him on my radar. A bit specific to my field is the Industrial Security Podcast from Waterfall. Any information security or engineering types should listen to that one.

Freakonomics. Though not a professional development podcast per se, I have gotten so many great ideas for my own leadership and organizations that it's become a go-to.

"In Good Company" with Nicolai Tangen. He interviews the best business leaders in the world, and it's incredibly instructive on how to great leaders navigate uncertainty and complexity. 

"Mission Critical Teams Institute ‘Team Cast’. 

Teamcast strives to understand the complexities of being in, leading and developing high performing teams. The breadth of research, enthusiasm and dedication of the presenters and guests is simply unmatched. If anyone is serious about genuinely being in an elite team - this needs to be right up there on your playlist."

Jocko Podcast - interesting guests largely dealing with leadership, growth, and development.

Shawn Ryan Show bc he interviews all different people and can relate to LEO and living better life in the profession I do. 

TTPOA. Inconsistent with episodes but great content. 

What’s your favorite podcast in a ‘general’ category? Why?

I'd say Unashamed or the Art of Manliness come up as my favorite general category apps, both do much to convict me in the sense of spiritual growth and as a family man.  

Nonprophet- lets me know i am capable of doing more

"1.  BHA Podcast and Blast with Hal Herring.  Excellent long-term series on protecting public lands, threats to wildlife and hatcheries, hunting and angling tips, great book and journal recommendations, and often hilarious "there I was..." stories.  Smart science-based conservation with a humble and engaging host.  
2.  Bible as Literature with Dr. Richard Benton, Fr. Marc Boulos (skip over Tarazi Tuesdays, miss nothing).  The Christian Bible is a key piece of literature in Western culture; the polyglot hosts of this podcast take listeners to the source of the analogies, metaphors, myths and stories.  They discuss how the Bible morphed thru different translations (and why) and are quick to point out the gross hypocrisy and corruption of the modern collection plate peddlers."

Not sure if this qualifies as 'general' but Bear Grease from The MeatEaster group.

Nick Bare Podcast. Because I've been following his leadership journey.

"Sean Ryan Show. 

Former Navy Seal, CIA contractor, and businessman. Sean has an extremely wide range of guests in long-form interviews, covering topics from global policy, economics, domestic political issues, health, etc. Very informative and generally fun to listen to. "

The Portal with Eric Weinstein, Lex Friedman Show, IDW Podcast -- and I love to fall asleep to The Great Simplification with Nate Hagens (takes about 5 min and I'm out). Haha

Cleared Hot Podcast.  Varied subjects and guest, combining serious with comedy with crude, crass, dark humor and language at times.  And it is not in your face, a smooth ride so to speak.  

I listen to “Smash, Boom, Best” and “Real Cool History for Kids” in the car with my children (15, 13, 11, 10, 8, and 6). The first debates stupid things (is Spider-Man or Superman better) but teaches kids how to debate, how to logically form an argument, and how to respectfully disagree with others. The second teaches kids history through fun and engaging stories.

"Generally: 

I listen to Tooth and Claw Podcast. It's not general but its got everything I like; true stories, off-color jokes, and low stakes conversation. We all need to be absorbed by stories every now and then to recharge and get out of the ever-increasing dire nature of the world we live in.

I also enjoy the Duncan Trussell Podcast and the Be Here Now podcast with Ram Das to give a little nurturing to my spirit. Duncan doesn't always do that, but he makes me laugh which is good for the soul."

Are You Garbage? It's the FUNNIEST podcast I've ever listened/watched. 2 stand up comedians out of New York interview other famous comedians and actors and ask them questions to lay a verdict at the end if the person is trashy or classy. We all need some more laughs in the world, this delivers.

Bear Grease - Clay Newcomb is a great storyteller. 

The Martyr Made Podcast. Well researched and unlike anything else out there. 

Jocko. Relatable, quality, genuine.

Behind the Shield is focused on First Responders. But it has a mix of guests. The Squad Room also for First Responders. Art of Manliness, Making Sense, Michael Shermer Show and The Jim Rutt show are regular listens for me. All have guests who are experts in their fields. No wing nut politics. No weird influencer nonsense. 

The Daily from the NYT. Taking a deep dive into a specific news story each morning is the highlight of my routine.

Conversations with Tyler. He has a lot of interesting guests and his style gets to good points quickly. 

Travel with Rick Steves. He's a little nerdy, but the show is a wonderful escape that will make you want to see more of the world. 

"The Rest is Politics

In many respects, this isn’t necessarily my favourite general podcast because of the content, but more because of its core value - the art of disagreeing, agreeably. Rory Stewart and Alastair Campbell are from opposing political parties, don’t always agree but deeply believe in long form debate and the requirement to hear each other out."

Well, not quite "general," but Heavy Hands (mma) is my favorite. Entertaining, knowledgeable, and analytical hosts

JockoPodcast

Joe Rogan - Rogan's very inquisitive with earlest questions of a wide array of guests, each of whom have depth and breadth of experiences.

Favorite is Touching Lives by pastor James Merrit. He shares the truth about Christ and convicts me to be a better father husband for my family. 

The Rest is History. Engaging history podcast. 

•  Can you share a bit about your backgrounds and what led you both to start RecPak?

I was an officer in the Marine Corps, and the idea for RecPak originated from my experiences leading troops in training and in Afghanistan. When I got out, I went back to school and then into tech, and during this time spent years on product development, working with top sports dieticians and food scientists on the formulation.

I met Joy, an outdoor educator and NOLS guide, while on a mountaineering course in Alaska, and she came on to grow the brand. In addition to understanding the huge need for a product like RecPak, we bonded around the opportunity to build a small business from scratch and support the communities we cared most about. 

• As a military veteran and a mountain guide, how have your experiences shaped the vision and mission of RecPak?

Our firsthand experience in extreme outdoor environments was foundational to RecPak’s mission. Outdoor meals like MREs take time to prepare and can’t be used on the move, and energy bars are mostly carbs and high sugar. Whether in the mountains or on military operations, we intimately understood the need for lightweight, calorie-dense, complete nutrition that could be consumed quickly on the move. This drove our focus on developing a product that provides balanced sustenance to keep outdoor athletes and adventurers fueled and focused without weighing them down.

Beyond the product, our service orientation in the military and teaching outdoor skills has shaped RecPak’s commitment to making an impact. We support outdoor veteran organizations, have donated to aid organizations in Ukraine run by U.S. military veterans, and are members of 1% For The Planet.

• What were some of the biggest challenges you faced in transitioning from your roles in the military and mountain guiding to entrepreneurship?

As a solo founder initially, the sheer breadth of responsibilities in starting a business was daunting compared to more defined roles in the military or in a big company. Being responsible for everything from product R&D to marketing to operations, everything that does or does not happen rests on a founder’s shoulders.

Bootstrapping the business also required significant personal financial sacrifices and living with uncertainty. We still need to balance RecPak with our day jobs, which is a constant juggling act. However, being in the military and in the backcountry is a great teacher to stay calm and resilient under pressure, and to identify and prioritize the important stuff. 

• Could you share a particular moment or experience during your journey where you felt particularly proud of what you were building?

We’ve supported climbers summiting Mount Everest, to the first Black female team climbing Kilimanjaro, to explorers venturing to the South Pole and everything in between, it’s so touching to be a part of people’s journeys and provide the right fuel.

But, the most touching moment was a few months after we launched and we received a long email from Gary, a retired, disabled Air Force veteran. Gary had just completed a 100-hour ultra-marathon running race and was able to complete a total of 200-miles fueled by RecPak. His story was incredibly inspiring, and when we hear people’s reactions, saying this is the product they’ve been waiting for, it feels like an affirmation that we’re contributing something valuable – truly fueling people’s adventures.

• How did your professional experiences influence the design and functionality of your product?

RecPak’s form factor is unique – there’s nothing else like it on the market, and our military and mountain guiding backgrounds were instrumental in shaping RecPak’s design and functionality. The original inspiration was a food product that would be useful to a Marine scout sniper operating in remote, arduous environments. I intimately understood the need for lightweight, compact, and durable gear that could withstand harsh environments. The ability to get good nutrition while staying focused on your mission or outdoor activity was critical. Similarly, I lean on Joy’s experience as a NOLS educator and guide to provide feedback on everything from ease of use during different backcountry activities and to make sure that our flavor is as good as possible.

• What were the key factors you considered when designing your product to meet the needs of outdoor enthusiasts?

Nutrition: Top sports dietitians optimized the macro and micronutrient profile for endurance activities. 700 calories is a great amount to keep you fueled without weighing you down, and it’s a good or excellent source of 23 nutrients, so you don’t need to worry about meal prep.

Just Add Water: As a powder, it cuts on space and weight. As a liquid, it fuels and hydrates and the nutrition is absorbed more quickly. 

Packability: At 6.6oz with no need for a stove, gas, etc, we engineered RecPak’s packaging to be lightweight, compact, and minimalist to maximize packability and portability.

Durability: Outdoor gear takes a beating. The packaging and design was selected to withstand the toughest environments, from punctures to moisture to extreme temperatures.

Taste and Texture: We tried to make it tasty and have a nice mouthfeel without being overly sweet or feeling like another protein powder. 

•  In what ways has your military experience influenced your business practices and leadership within the company?

So much of who I am and the values that I try to live and instill in others comes from the hard lessons learned in the Marine Corps. One that I try to apply in all areas of my business is that you’ll never have perfect information and information often doesn’t get better with time. So, I try to make the best decision I can at that moment, observe the effects of that decision, and then adapt and adjust as needed. Often running a startup feels like you’re bouncing from one critical decision to the next, never knowing what was the “best” action, but learning and doing the best you can to maintain momentum. 

• How did you identify the market need for RecPak, and what steps did you take to ensure it would resonate with your target audience?

I started with the goal of creating a product that I would use and feel proud about giving to my friends to fuel their biggest challenges. Next, I sent out prototypes to outdoor athletes and professionals for their feedback. Ultimately though, I’ve found that the ultimate test is whether a person who has never interacted with the brand will look at the product for the first time and make a purchase. So we launched a Kickstarter campaign to test this theory and help fund the first production batch. The validation process is ongoing, we continue to have extensive conversations with mountain guides, endurance athletes, military personnel, and many others about their needs in the outdoors and how RecPak can support them.

• What strategies have you used to differentiate RecPak from other products in the outdoor nutrition market?

RecPak is a unique concept that naturally requires some customer education. To differentiate, we emphasize our qualities versus outdoor snacks that are more sugary and single-macro, and freeze-dried meals, which take time to prepare and can’t be consumed on the move. In person sampling at meetups, tradeshows, and trailheads is a time intensive but important way to get in front of our target users and introduce who we are and the product. I want to build our community with those who serve, so we offer generous first time and permanent discounts to active duty, vets, first responders, and guides (ask us if you are one!). Our backgrounds in the military and guiding builds trust and credibility, and folks like to support a business that’s just getting started and that gives back.

• Looking back, what is one piece of advice you wish you had known at the beginning of your entrepreneurial journey?

When I first started out, I thought that leadership as a founder was pretty straightforward: once I hired experts in areas such as nutrition and marketing to help, micromanagement was an ugly word. What I’ve been constantly reminded of over the years is that everything is on a founder’s shoulders. When all success or failure ultimately rests with you, “trust but verify” is not something to be taken lightly: every important decision must be made and overseen by you, to a level that might be uncomfortable or exhausting. This is the only way things get done well.

• What have been the most valuable lessons learned from building RecPak?

The two most important lessons are to be insanely curious and to develop more grit than you think you’ll need. Everything flows from there.

• How do you see the company evolving in the next five years, and what markets or areas are you aiming to expand into?

Our aspiration is for RecPak to become the go-to, trusted meal for outdoor athletes and professionals on demanding, multi day adventures. We’ll expand our product line to cater to different dietary needs, such as using plant proteins, and activity types, like higher-carb or savory options. Clean ingredient sourcing, eco-friendly packaging innovation and nutritional optimization will remain focal points. Our long term aim is to supply military and first responder organizations at scale.

•  What advice would you give to other veterans or outdoor professionals considering a move into entrepreneurship?

For veterans and outdoor professionals contemplating entrepreneurship, I would advise:

1. Really understand your “why” – the purpose behind your venture. When you haven’t had a day off in weeks and you’re burning through your savings, what is keeping you going?
2. Define your target community and validate your concept with them exhaustively. Start small, iterate relentlessly and let real customer needs guide you. Don’t chase perfection.
3. Tap into the veteran and outdoor networks, the camaraderie and support are game-changing. Folks like supporting their own, especially when you’re just starting out.
4. Get used to discomfort. Expect timelines to take twice as long and that you’ll need to send that email 2-3 times before someone responds.

•  How can aspiring entrepreneurs in the outdoor industry prepare for the challenges and opportunities of starting a business?

To prepare for the challenges and opportunities, I recommend:

• Understand your market and the basics of business. Devour information about the outdoor industry across business functions, from branding to unit economics. 

• Build a network of mentors who have walked the path and can offer guidance. Nothing is new, someone else has already learned your lesson.

• Pressure-test your product or service with a minimum viable product. Be honest with yourself, is your product unique or compelling enough to survive against the rest?

• Cultivate mental resilience and self-awareness for the long journey ahead. Meditation, exercise, whatever keeps you calm and focused, you’ll need it.

• Understand how much runway you’ll need. Start saving or secure investment wisely. Cash is king.

Deed is a USMC Veteran, Mountain Athlete, and Founder of RecPak. RecPak is an ultralight, on-the-go meal replacement option designed for Mountain and Military Athletes. Learn more at recpak.co

A note about Arete …. I select the links and articles that make up Arete weekly. Those that I select are ones that I find interesting and/or important – either because of the topic or the source. Just because I select an article or link does not mean that I believe in what the article says or the veracity of the source. I’ve received criticism for including articles from the Pravda Report, Al Jazeera, etc. The reason the sources are listed is so you, the reader, can understand where the article comes from. I search far and wide for articles/links, and I find the Russian or Arab world takes on current events interesting, especially when juxtaposed with the US media sources and US government line.

Often, I’ll choose articles or links that are critical of tactical athletes, mountain athletes, or others in the MTI community. I don’t do this to piss you off or offend, but rather because I find that knowing what your opponents are writing and thinking is important for any professional. I find it interesting and, sometimes, enlightening. I’ve got nearly two decades of supporting mountain and tactical athletes, but being your cheerleader doesn’t help you grow or improve.

If I’ve chosen an article from a source that you don’t trust, you don’t have to read it. Likewise, if I’ve chosen an article with a headline, opinion, or viewpoint you don’t agree with, you don’t have to read it either. However, I’d encourage you to do so – especially those articles and links you disagree with. I always learn something, and you might too. – Rob Shaul

Military, National Defense, Foreign Policy

Military, National Defense, Foreign Policy

• Bombs and disinformation: Russia’s campaign to depopulate Kharkiv, Atlantic Council
  The Iran-Israel War Is Just Getting Started, RAND
  What Does the U.S. Navy Need in Its Future Combatants? Q&A with Bradley Martin, RAND
  Why the U.S. Will Stay Dominant in Undersea Warfare, Homeland Security Newswire
  China unveils Sora challenger able to produce videos from text similar to OpenAI tool, though much shorter, South China Morning Post
  Taiwan semiconductor firm KYEC to exit mainland China amid geopolitical tensions, changes in cross-strait chip supply chain, South China Morning Post
  China and Bolivia should safeguard Global South interests, says Wang Yi as South American nation appeals for Brics entry, South China Morning Post
  China launches first of 8 advanced stealth submarines for Pakistan Navy, South China Morning Post
  Chinese coastguard face off with Japanese politicians near disputed East China Sea islands, South China Morning Post
  Someday soon China might dominate the hydrogen supply chain too, South China Morning Post
  China dumps Treasuries and buys gold getting ready for war with US, Pravda Report
  Why the West Will Refuse to Fight, Unheard
  U.S. Fixation on Nuclear Deal Let Iran Loose on the Middle East, Foreign Policy
  A Look Into How Nations Escape Poverty, Real Clear Markets
  What $61 Billion for Ukraine Won’t Do, The American Conservative
  M1 Abrams Tanks Withdrawn From the Fight in Ukraine, WarZone
  U.S. Army’s Generational Changes to Special Ops Training, Defense One
  A Closer Look Into The Army Mountain Warfare School, Snowbrains
  Let’s talk about the West Bank, Morning Defense
  Will Fearless and Tireless Robots Lead to More Terrifying Wars?, War on the Rocks
  How Washington Can Save its Semiconductor Controls on China, War on the Rocks
  Assessment of Israeli Strike on Iran near Esfahan, Homeland Security Newswire
  The U.S. Military Is Embedding Its Officers in Corporate America, Real Clear Defense
  Minigun-Armed Mojave Drone Blasting Targets at 6,000 Rounds/Minute, Real Clear Defense
  Is This the End for Human Fighter Pilots?, Real Clear Defense
  A War Is Brewing in the Pacific, UnHerd
  So does the Air Force have new aces now?, Task & Purpose
  Army fires commander of Germany-based air defense unit, Task & Purpose
  Another US precision-guided weapon falls prey to Russian electronic warfare, US says, Defense One
  Vulnerability of M1A1 Abrams MBTs: Five Delivered to Ukraine Taken Out in Two Months, World Defense News
  The “World’s Policeman”: How Many Fronts Can the US Maintain?, Naval Technology
  Senators Push To Update Nuclear Military Might in Defense Bill, Defense News
  Semiconductor Diplomacy: The 21st Century Oil, The Geopolitics
  US military’s Gaza aid pier to cost $320 million, nearly double initial estimate, The Times of Israel
  State Dept. Official: U.S. Committed to Nuclear Defense of Japan, South Korea, USNI
  Platatac Presents: SASR Battle for the Golden Road (1984), Soldier Systems
  Washington Is Missing the Point on Alternatives to the Belt and Road Initiative, The Diplomat
  Bringing Russia to Its Knees, RAND

First Responder / Law Enforcement / Wildland Fire/ Homeland Security, Wilderness Professional

• 4 officers killed in N.C. were at a disadvantage as shots rained from above, police say, Police1
  Pink Collar Theft in Pennsylvania VFD, Fire Law Blog
  Suspect killed by police sniper after wounding 3 La. officers in standoff, Police1
  350,000-pound load falls on vehicle on Texas highway, killing 2, FireRescue1
  Mass. officer killed by excavator while working at construction site, Police1
  Minnesota senator charged with felony burglary after being found dressed in all black in a basement LEO Affairs
  Off-duty and plainclothes carry considerations, APBM
  McRaven’s Special Operations Theory and the Fireground: Speed and Purpose, Fire Engineering
  Understanding and Leading ‘Gotcha’ Employees, Fire Engineering
  2nd medic sentenced in Elijah McClain case, FireRescue1
  ILLINOIS FIREFIGHTER SERIOUSLY INJURED IN TRAINING EXERCISE, FFCC
  3 FIREFIGHTERS INJURED AT CLARKSVILLE, TN COMMERCIAL FIRE, FFCC
  District attorney will not charge suspect with murder of officer because they believe other officers were involved, LeoAffairs
  Sovereign citizen shoots at Florida deputies, two in hospital after deadly gunfight, LeoAffairs
  Police officer hiring in US increases in 2023 after years of decline, PERF survey shows, Police1
  Climate change will make wildfires worse, even in areas that don’t have wildfires today, Wildfire Today
  Firefighters from 5 Fla. FDs battle 2-alarm restaurant fire, FireRescue1
  Secret Service Scuffle Prompts DEI, Vetting Scrutiny, Real Clear Politics
  Biden Administration Plans to Recommend Easing Marijuana Restrictions, NY Times
  How grooming standards have changed in the U.S. military, Task & Purpose
  China’s third aircraft carrier Fujian tests power, navigation in maiden sea trial, South China Morning News

Mountain/Outside

• phaenom Wants to Upend the Ski Boot Market, and It Just Might, GearJunkie
  WATCH: Patagonia Calls Out The Fashion Industry, Unofficial Networks
  Is Climbing a Form of Art? Simon Carter’s New Book Sure Is., Climbing
  5 Tips for Leveling Up Your Trail Running, Outside
  Watch: In-Season Fitness, Climb Strong
  Body of climber who died after 1,000ft fall recovered from Alaska mountain, Guardian
  Factory Visits: DPS Skis in Salt Lake City, Powder
  Tom Wallisch Says Red Bull Unrailistic Is A “Return” To Freeskiing’s Roots, Powder
  Fundamentals Of Drill Sessions, Climb Strong
  This Year’s Best Climbing Hardware, Climbing
  Seven of the All-time Greatest Climbing Punts, Climbing
  How to Make the Most of Your 24/25 Epic and Ikon Passes This Summer, Freeskier
  Heroism, sacrifice, defeat? The enduring mystery of George Mallory’s final Everest attempt, The Guardian
  Could a Portable Lift Change Backcountry Skiing?, Powder
  Kifaru Bino Harness Review, Western Hunter
  Eberlestock Recon Bino Harness Review, Western Hunter
  Alaska Guide Creations – Alaska Classic Max Review, Western Hunter
  Washington Wildlife Commission Descends into Open Infighting Over New Cougar Hunting Ruling, Meateater
  JHMR To Replace Sublette Lift With New High Speed Quad, TGR
  DNSYS X1 EXOSKELETON, Bless This Stuff
  “Robot Legs” Designed To Unleash Superhuman Powers For Outdoor Adventures, Unofficial Networks
  Watch: Snowboarder Breaks Down Altercation With Skier, Unofficial Networks
  Sex & Ski Boots: Hoji, Matt Manser, & Greg Klein on the Present & Future of Ski Boot Design (Ep.295), Blister
  Ski Patroller Shows Incredible Display of Professionalism At Pond Skim (Video), Unofficial Networks
  Watch Officer Save Mountain Lions from Drowning, Wide Open Spaces
  
  

Health/Fitness/Nutrition

• A Market for Donor Kidneys Is Not the Reform the U.S. Needs, RAND
  How Supplement Stores Are Trying to Tap Into the Ozempic Boom, NY Times
  A Peek Inside the Brains of ‘Super-Agers’, NY Times
  Antidepressants: What to Know About Uses and Side Effects, NY Times
  Senate Begins Investigation Into Ozempic and Wegovy Prices, NY Times
  How Anxiety Became a Catchall for Every Unpleasant Emotion, RealClearHealth
  Here’s When Your Weight Loss Will Plateau, CNN
  The More You Cycle, the Lower Your Risk of Knee Arthritis, Outside
  New Science: Training to Failure vs. Near Failure, T-Nation
  Do You Need to Ride 100 Miles Before an Ironman?, Triathlete
  FIT File: Are Heart Rate Earbuds The Future?, DC Rainmaker
  Kids in Jeopardy, The Free Press
  There Was No Corona-Baby Boom, Bust Continues, Washington Examiner
  How to cook salmon: A complete beginner’s guide, the Manual
  Is Hyrox the New Crossfit? A New Fitness Craze with Big Drama, NY Times
  Women on Bumble No Longer Have to Make the First Move, NY Times
  Meet the Men Who Eat Meat (And Only Meat), NY Times
  Marine breaks world record in deadlift competition, Task & Purpose

Interesting

• Elon Musk Reaches Deals in China on Self-Driving Teslas, NY Times
  Americans’ Views of Technology Companies, Pew
  Just Six Companies Create About a Quarter of Global Plastic Waste, Survey Finds, Mother Jones
  Elon Musk comes out fighting as China throws Tesla a lifeline, Business Insider
  2025 Ram RHO Charges Onto the Scene as TRX Goes Extinct, GearJunkie
  A Skeptic’s Guide to the 2025 Toyota 4Runner, Tacoma, and Land Cruiser, Best Outdoor Gear
  How to Make Your Wi-Fi Suck Less While Working From Home Wirecutter
  Tesla faces an identity crisis: carmaker or tech firm?, Business Insider
  Only 24 albums in history have sold 1 million copies in a single week — here they all are, Business Insider
  How reliable is this research? Tool flags papers discussed on PubPeer, Nature
  Will Americans Ever Get Sick of Cheap Junk?, The Atlantic
  Meta had its biggest lobbying quarter ever, The Verge
  The Latest Online Culture War Is Humans vs. Algorithms, Wired