Show Notes:
Resources for Candidates and Providers:
- Scenario overview video
- Scoring rubric + guidance
- Updated SPI Program Handbook
- New textbook release (May 5): Rock Climbing: The Official AMGA Single Pitch Manual
Related Links:
- AMGA Single Pitch Instructor Page
- EP 20 – Everything SPI 01 – Professionalism and Risk Management
- EP 29 – Everything SPI 02 – Site Selection & Group Management
- EP 34 – Everything SPI 03 – Current SPI Eval System
- EP 38 – Everything SPI 04 – Teaching & Curriculum Design I
- Andrew Megas-Russell Instagram https://www.instagram.com/megas_sends/
Episode Intro:
Dear listeners of the Female Guides Requested Podcast, welcome back. This is your host Ting Ting from Las Vegas. Today in our fifth installment of the Everything SPI series, I am joined once again by Andrew Megas-Russell, the Climbing Instructor Program Manager of the AMGA, to break down the significant updates to the Single Pitch Instructor (SPI) exam that went into effect on January 1, 2026. The changes are designed to standardize and strengthen consistency across the country.
We explore the transition to a more standardized exam format, specifically the new 35-minute technical drill for top-managed skills and the updated instructional assessment component. Andrew explains the rationale behind moving away from volunteer mock clients in favor of a peer-based instructional model. This shift aims to foster richer professional development and allow for more complex teaching topics.
Additional topics in this episode include: Updated Résumé Requirements, Additional Resources and FAQs, and Tips for Success for SPI candidates.