The Adventure Podcast Episode 197: Dave MacLeod, Moving The Needle
7 snips
Feb 11, 2025 Dave MacLeod, a celebrated Scottish climber known for his groundbreaking climbs and deep insights into the mental aspects of the sport, shares his transformative journey from average to elite. He discusses his iconic ascent of Rhapsody, the first E11 trad route, and reflects on the balance between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation in climbing. Dave emphasizes the importance of curiosity, consistency, and embracing self-doubt for personal growth, while his new book, 'Moving the Needle', serves as a motivational guide for climbers at all levels.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Dumbarton Rock Inspiration
- Dave MacLeod's climbing journey began at Dumbarton Rock, inspired by witnessing climbers on Requiem, Scotland's hardest route.
- His naive initial desire to climb Requiem, despite its difficulty, fueled his curiosity and eventual success.
Tangible Connection
- Physical interaction with the climbing holds, even without the ability to climb them, fostered a deeper connection to the sport.
- This tangible experience fueled MacLeod's curiosity and problem-solving drive.
Curiosity Overpowering Fear
- MacLeod recounts an experience of intense fear while winter climbing, leading to an insatiable curiosity to overcome the challenge.
- This burning curiosity, stronger than fear, propelled him to return and successfully complete the climb.
