Life Wide Open with CboysTV

From Broke to X Games Gold Medalist: Brett Turcotte

Date: October 11, 2022
Location: 509 Headquarters, Spokane, WA
Special Guests: Brett Turcotte, Nikki Turcotte, Jay Mentaberry, Blaine Matthews

Episode Overview

In this heartfelt, energetic episode, the CboysTV crew hosts legendary snowmobiler Brett Turcotte and his wife Nikki at 509’s headquarters. The discussion centers on Brett’s journey from humble beginnings in a small Canadian town to becoming a multi-gold medalist at the X Games, the highs and lows of professional snowmobiling, balancing family and career, and the power of partnership. Later in the episode, pro riders Jay Mentaberry and Blaine Matthews join to riff on professional vs. personal life, mountain culture, and the future of snowmobiling.

Key Sections and Timestamps

[00:00] - Brett’s Early Years: Small Town Dreams
[04:00] - From Racing to Freestyle: Evolution of a Career
[08:00] - X Games Glory and Personal Sacrifices
[12:00] - Trick Talk: Backflips, Front Flips & Foam Pit Scars
[30:30] - Introducing Nikki: The “Power Couple” Dynamic
[41:00] - Turning Passion into Surviving—And Thriving
[55:00] - Turcotte Family Life, Backyard Tracks, and Community
[68:00] - Jay & Blaine: Pro Riders, Friends, Normal Dudes

Brett Turcotte: From Clearwater to X Games Gold

Origins and Hometown (00:45–02:27)

Grew up in Clearwater, BC—a “super small town”, where “my grandma was my delivery nurse.”
Early dreams weren’t focused solely on snowmobiling. Sports like hockey were his first love, but he was “always protecting my brother, the goalie, a bit too hard for kid’s hockey” (03:03).

Natural Progression into Snowmobiling (02:27–04:01)

Snowmobiling started as a family activity; Brett’s dad owned a Polaris dealership.
“I just grew into it naturally…if my dad wanted to ride, he had to bring me” (03:55).

Racing Roots and Transition to Freestyle (04:05–07:38)

Started career in racing, securing his first X Games medal in 2008 in Snow Cross.
Eventually transitioned to freestyle/backcountry filming with Slednecks.
“I was working full time logging. I had to pay my dues”—highlighting humble, hard-working beginnings.

The Role of Nikki, and Chasing the Dream (05:46–06:25)

Nikki, his now-wife, encouraged him to take the leap: “She gave me like the support and the nudge to push.”
Brett credits Nikki for shifting his focus from being a “full-time logger, part-time filmer” to “full-time filmer, full-time X Games” competitor.

“She said, ‘What do you want to do with your life?’ I said, ‘Win more X Games medals.’ She said, ‘So why aren’t you doing that?’” – Brett (05:46)

X Games Battles, Pain, and Triumph (08:06–12:22)

Medal Count: Three golds, four silvers, two bronze.
2018 Double Gold: Fresh off a serious injury (broken tailbone and ankle), Brett doubled down, “dedicating every ounce of energy” to a comeback.
The pressure and sacrifice felt at home: “Missed putting Hudson to bed…and my other two kids…But for me that was a goal.” (09:36)

“I wanted to do things on snowmobiles that hadn’t ever been done. So I’d go to the foam pit and just beat the…out of myself.” – Brett (09:36)

Memorable showdown with Levi LaVallee: “If I was going to beat him anywhere, it was on the tricks.”

Tricks, Innovation, and Near Misses (12:23–26:49)

The Backflip King (12:23–13:56)

Loves backflips and pushing the envelope with tricks like the tsunami backflip (“do a handstand under your sled mid-flip”).
“Sometimes I get tripped out…my favorite trick is a tsunami backflip!”

Foam Pits vs. Airbags (17:48–20:58)

Transition from dangerous foam pits to airbags standardized during Brett’s progression.
“I’ve been hurt more in the foam pit trying tricks than actually riding…Had to not even go back in for a week, I was so banged up.” (18:58)

“People think you can just throw anything into a foam pit. Man, it hurts worse than landing the trick!” – Brett (20:16)

Detailed explanation of front flip attempts—both his own and Heath Frisbee’s world’s first (21:12–26:49).
Survived a massive crash attempting a front flip for Real Snow: “I punched the dash and shattered the tip of my finger off.”

Real Life, Family Balance, Finances, and Pressure (30:33–47:46)

Partner in Life and Work: Nikki’s Impact (30:33–41:22)

Nikki is more than a “sidekick”—she’s Brett’s manager, motivator, and crucial support in tough times.
Tales of Nikki’s unexpected fan club at Haydays and supporting Brett through injuries, doubts, and the hard financial realities of the sport.

“If it weren’t for her…doing the things she does to support my career…it wouldn’t be what it is.” – Brett (40:07)

Financial Realities and “All-In” Mentality (41:22–47:46)

After injury, the family bet everything to make Aspen and the X Games: “We had $1,000 in our account, skipped three mortgage payments, borrowed money from my dad…‘If you don’t come home with a gold medal, we’re done.’” – Nikki (41:48)
Success, but at incredible risk: dispelling myths about snowmobile athletes “living in mansions, eating gourmet meals.”
“When I met Brett, he couldn’t even afford to put gas in his truck…I put everything I had into the dream.” – Nikki (45:06)

Building a Life: Brand, Backyard, and Community (55:00–66:07)

Community and Family: Four kids, “$200,000 worth of mountain bikes and snowmobiles” in the garage, backyard dirt tracks, and pit bike parties.
Neighbors: Some issues with noise, but generally a “Turcotte Resort” atmosphere.
Surron Racing: Backyard racing series grew into a western Canada phenomenon.
Transition to Content Creation: Brett’s YouTube channel offers a candid, real look into the day-to-day (“the Turcotte brand is becoming more than just me”).

Power Couple Reflections (66:10–66:52)

Nikki and Brett’s dynamic is about mutual support—Nikki is the people person and party liaison, while Brett maintains discipline and focus.
Fun stories about managing the “real world” and making key industry connections in unexpected ways (“she makes the best deals after midnight”—Brett).

From Athlete to Everyday, With Jay and Blaine (68:00–90:00)

Introducing Jay Mentaberry & Blaine Matthews (68:00–73:44)

Friendly banter about racing roots, mountain life, and the difference between “athlete” and “real person.”
Both underscore that pros are “a couple of guys that like to drink beer,” hang out, and enjoy life.

Mountain Culture, Openness, and Passion (75:20–93:47)

“We do this because of the people involved, not just the riding.”
Broader philosophy: balancing competitive drive with enjoying camaraderie and the outdoors.
CboysTV’s more casual, fun approach inspires pro riders to “show the human side” of their lives.
Passion is universal, regardless of skill—opening snowmobiling up to newcomers.

“Any day on the mountain is a good day for us.” – Jay (91:51)

“The progression of you guys—that pushes us. Some of our favorite days are riding with people who are learning.” – Blaine (92:21)

Notable Quotes & Moments

On taking risks:
“We did spend every dollar that we had to get there [X Games]. People think you go win millions...if you don’t go win X Games, from where I’m from, you go broke.” – Brett (43:42)
On Nikki’s influence:
“You need to quit your job and go be a full time snowmobiler. I’ll look after the back end.” – Nikki (40:07)
On learning and community:
“The industry is changing. Everyone has dark days, but the highs will be better.” – Nikki (40:53)
On foam pit pain:
“I’ve been hurt more in the foam pit learning tricks than actually on the snowmobile!” – Brett (18:58)
On “power couple” status:
“People see Nikki and associate me, and people see me and ask, ‘Where’s Nikki?’” – Brett (39:59)

Closing Reflections

This episode is a rich, personal window into the life of an elite athlete and his family—unvarnished and real. Brett Turcotte’s story is not just about medals and tricks, but about risk, family, grit, and trust. Nikki’s role as both partner and manager, as well as their decision to bet it all for a dream, highlight the human side that’s often hidden behind highlight reels. The candor continues with Jay and Blaine, who demolish the myth that pro athletes are unapproachable, showing the true sense of community, passion, and good-natured mischief that makes snowmobiling culture so magnetic.

Connect with the Guests

Brett Turcotte:
YouTube: Brett Turcotte
Instagram: @turcotte16
Nikki Turcotte:
Instagram: @nikki.turcotte

For more episodes, follow Life Wide Open on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms.

Life Wide Open with CboysTV

From Broke to X Games Gold Medalist: Brett Turcotte

Date: October 11, 2022
Location: 509 Headquarters, Spokane, WA
Special Guests: Brett Turcotte, Nikki Turcotte, Jay Mentaberry, Blaine Matthews

Episode Overview

Key Sections and Timestamps

[00:00] - Brett’s Early Years: Small Town Dreams
[04:00] - From Racing to Freestyle: Evolution of a Career
[08:00] - X Games Glory and Personal Sacrifices
[12:00] - Trick Talk: Backflips, Front Flips & Foam Pit Scars
[30:30] - Introducing Nikki: The “Power Couple” Dynamic
[41:00] - Turning Passion into Surviving—And Thriving
[55:00] - Turcotte Family Life, Backyard Tracks, and Community
[68:00] - Jay & Blaine: Pro Riders, Friends, Normal Dudes

Brett Turcotte: From Clearwater to X Games Gold

Origins and Hometown (00:45–02:27)

Grew up in Clearwater, BC—a “super small town”, where “my grandma was my delivery nurse.”
Early dreams weren’t focused solely on snowmobiling. Sports like hockey were his first love, but he was “always protecting my brother, the goalie, a bit too hard for kid’s hockey” (03:03).

Natural Progression into Snowmobiling (02:27–04:01)

Snowmobiling started as a family activity; Brett’s dad owned a Polaris dealership.
“I just grew into it naturally…if my dad wanted to ride, he had to bring me” (03:55).

Racing Roots and Transition to Freestyle (04:05–07:38)

Started career in racing, securing his first X Games medal in 2008 in Snow Cross.
Eventually transitioned to freestyle/backcountry filming with Slednecks.
“I was working full time logging. I had to pay my dues”—highlighting humble, hard-working beginnings.

The Role of Nikki, and Chasing the Dream (05:46–06:25)

Nikki, his now-wife, encouraged him to take the leap: “She gave me like the support and the nudge to push.”
Brett credits Nikki for shifting his focus from being a “full-time logger, part-time filmer” to “full-time filmer, full-time X Games” competitor.

“She said, ‘What do you want to do with your life?’ I said, ‘Win more X Games medals.’ She said, ‘So why aren’t you doing that?’” – Brett (05:46)

X Games Battles, Pain, and Triumph (08:06–12:22)

Medal Count: Three golds, four silvers, two bronze.
2018 Double Gold: Fresh off a serious injury (broken tailbone and ankle), Brett doubled down, “dedicating every ounce of energy” to a comeback.
The pressure and sacrifice felt at home: “Missed putting Hudson to bed…and my other two kids…But for me that was a goal.” (09:36)

“I wanted to do things on snowmobiles that hadn’t ever been done. So I’d go to the foam pit and just beat the…out of myself.” – Brett (09:36)

Memorable showdown with Levi LaVallee: “If I was going to beat him anywhere, it was on the tricks.”

Tricks, Innovation, and Near Misses (12:23–26:49)

The Backflip King (12:23–13:56)

Loves backflips and pushing the envelope with tricks like the tsunami backflip (“do a handstand under your sled mid-flip”).
“Sometimes I get tripped out…my favorite trick is a tsunami backflip!”

Foam Pits vs. Airbags (17:48–20:58)

Transition from dangerous foam pits to airbags standardized during Brett’s progression.
“I’ve been hurt more in the foam pit trying tricks than actually riding…Had to not even go back in for a week, I was so banged up.” (18:58)

“People think you can just throw anything into a foam pit. Man, it hurts worse than landing the trick!” – Brett (20:16)

Detailed explanation of front flip attempts—both his own and Heath Frisbee’s world’s first (21:12–26:49).
Survived a massive crash attempting a front flip for Real Snow: “I punched the dash and shattered the tip of my finger off.”

Real Life, Family Balance, Finances, and Pressure (30:33–47:46)

Partner in Life and Work: Nikki’s Impact (30:33–41:22)

Nikki is more than a “sidekick”—she’s Brett’s manager, motivator, and crucial support in tough times.
Tales of Nikki’s unexpected fan club at Haydays and supporting Brett through injuries, doubts, and the hard financial realities of the sport.

“If it weren’t for her…doing the things she does to support my career…it wouldn’t be what it is.” – Brett (40:07)

Financial Realities and “All-In” Mentality (41:22–47:46)

After injury, the family bet everything to make Aspen and the X Games: “We had $1,000 in our account, skipped three mortgage payments, borrowed money from my dad…‘If you don’t come home with a gold medal, we’re done.’” – Nikki (41:48)
Success, but at incredible risk: dispelling myths about snowmobile athletes “living in mansions, eating gourmet meals.”
“When I met Brett, he couldn’t even afford to put gas in his truck…I put everything I had into the dream.” – Nikki (45:06)

Building a Life: Brand, Backyard, and Community (55:00–66:07)

Community and Family: Four kids, “$200,000 worth of mountain bikes and snowmobiles” in the garage, backyard dirt tracks, and pit bike parties.
Neighbors: Some issues with noise, but generally a “Turcotte Resort” atmosphere.
Surron Racing: Backyard racing series grew into a western Canada phenomenon.
Transition to Content Creation: Brett’s YouTube channel offers a candid, real look into the day-to-day (“the Turcotte brand is becoming more than just me”).

Power Couple Reflections (66:10–66:52)

Nikki and Brett’s dynamic is about mutual support—Nikki is the people person and party liaison, while Brett maintains discipline and focus.
Fun stories about managing the “real world” and making key industry connections in unexpected ways (“she makes the best deals after midnight”—Brett).

From Athlete to Everyday, With Jay and Blaine (68:00–90:00)

Introducing Jay Mentaberry & Blaine Matthews (68:00–73:44)

Friendly banter about racing roots, mountain life, and the difference between “athlete” and “real person.”
Both underscore that pros are “a couple of guys that like to drink beer,” hang out, and enjoy life.

Mountain Culture, Openness, and Passion (75:20–93:47)

“We do this because of the people involved, not just the riding.”
Broader philosophy: balancing competitive drive with enjoying camaraderie and the outdoors.
CboysTV’s more casual, fun approach inspires pro riders to “show the human side” of their lives.
Passion is universal, regardless of skill—opening snowmobiling up to newcomers.

“Any day on the mountain is a good day for us.” – Jay (91:51)

“The progression of you guys—that pushes us. Some of our favorite days are riding with people who are learning.” – Blaine (92:21)

Notable Quotes & Moments

On taking risks:
“We did spend every dollar that we had to get there [X Games]. People think you go win millions...if you don’t go win X Games, from where I’m from, you go broke.” – Brett (43:42)
On Nikki’s influence:
“You need to quit your job and go be a full time snowmobiler. I’ll look after the back end.” – Nikki (40:07)
On learning and community:
“The industry is changing. Everyone has dark days, but the highs will be better.” – Nikki (40:53)
On foam pit pain:
“I’ve been hurt more in the foam pit learning tricks than actually on the snowmobile!” – Brett (18:58)
On “power couple” status:
“People see Nikki and associate me, and people see me and ask, ‘Where’s Nikki?’” – Brett (39:59)

Closing Reflections

Connect with the Guests

Brett Turcotte:
YouTube: Brett Turcotte
Instagram: @turcotte16
Nikki Turcotte:
Instagram: @nikki.turcotte

For more episodes, follow Life Wide Open on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms.

From Broke To X Games Gold Medalist: Brett Turcotte

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Summary

Life Wide Open with CboysTV

From Broke to X Games Gold Medalist: Brett Turcotte

Episode Overview

Key Sections and Timestamps

Brett Turcotte: From Clearwater to X Games Gold

Origins and Hometown (00:45–02:27)

Natural Progression into Snowmobiling (02:27–04:01)

Racing Roots and Transition to Freestyle (04:05–07:38)

The Role of Nikki, and Chasing the Dream (05:46–06:25)

X Games Battles, Pain, and Triumph (08:06–12:22)

Tricks, Innovation, and Near Misses (12:23–26:49)

The Backflip King (12:23–13:56)

Foam Pits vs. Airbags (17:48–20:58)

Real Life, Family Balance, Finances, and Pressure (30:33–47:46)

Partner in Life and Work: Nikki’s Impact (30:33–41:22)

Financial Realities and “All-In” Mentality (41:22–47:46)

Building a Life: Brand, Backyard, and Community (55:00–66:07)

Power Couple Reflections (66:10–66:52)

From Athlete to Everyday, With Jay and Blaine (68:00–90:00)

Introducing Jay Mentaberry & Blaine Matthews (68:00–73:44)

Mountain Culture, Openness, and Passion (75:20–93:47)

Notable Quotes & Moments

Closing Reflections

Connect with the Guests

Summary

Life Wide Open with CboysTV

From Broke to X Games Gold Medalist: Brett Turcotte

Episode Overview

Key Sections and Timestamps

Brett Turcotte: From Clearwater to X Games Gold

Origins and Hometown (00:45–02:27)

Natural Progression into Snowmobiling (02:27–04:01)

Racing Roots and Transition to Freestyle (04:05–07:38)

The Role of Nikki, and Chasing the Dream (05:46–06:25)

X Games Battles, Pain, and Triumph (08:06–12:22)

Tricks, Innovation, and Near Misses (12:23–26:49)

The Backflip King (12:23–13:56)

Foam Pits vs. Airbags (17:48–20:58)

Real Life, Family Balance, Finances, and Pressure (30:33–47:46)

Partner in Life and Work: Nikki’s Impact (30:33–41:22)

Financial Realities and “All-In” Mentality (41:22–47:46)

Building a Life: Brand, Backyard, and Community (55:00–66:07)

Power Couple Reflections (66:10–66:52)

From Athlete to Everyday, With Jay and Blaine (68:00–90:00)

Introducing Jay Mentaberry & Blaine Matthews (68:00–73:44)

Mountain Culture, Openness, and Passion (75:20–93:47)

Notable Quotes & Moments

Closing Reflections

Connect with the Guests