First Chair: PSIA-AASI PodcastThe First Chair Podcast brings you inspirational Author: PSIA-AASI First Chair Podcast
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 worlds 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 Language: en Genres: Sports Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it |
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How Instructors Shape Safety Culture on Snow
Tuesday, 20 January, 2026
How do we make safety engaging without turning it into a buzzkill? In this episode of First Chair, George Thomas is joined by Tanya Riley and Earl Saline from the National Ski Areas Association (NSAA) to explore how Safety Awareness Month is evolving—and how safety messaging can stay effective all season long. From shifting the conversation away from “don’t do this” toward positive, guest-facing behaviors, to addressing lift safety, restraint bar use, and social media’s influence on on-snow culture, this conversation highlights the powerful role ski and snowboard instructors play as daily safety ambassadors. The group also dives into lift safety bootcamps, industry-wide collaboration with PSIA-AASI, NSP, and U.S. Ski & Snowboard, and why modeling safe behavior matters at every level. Whether you’re teaching first-timers or advanced guests, this episode reinforces why safety isn’t a moment—it’s a mindset that shapes great guest experiences all season long.






