Kai Lightner
Professional climber and founder of the nonprofit Climbing for Change; celebrated youth national and world championship medalist and noted for major outdoor ascents.
Best podcasts with Kai Lightner
Ranked by the Snipd community
4 snips
Jun 4, 2025 • 2h 1min
E151: Kai Lightner -Comebacks, learning to work with the body you're in and climbing for change
Kai Lightner, a professional climber and founder of Climb for Change, shares his inspiring journey of resilience and personal growth after overcoming significant challenges. He discusses the impact of height on climbing performance and advocates for body acceptance in the sport. The conversation highlights the importance of empathy within the climbing community, particularly for marginalized voices, while promoting self-fulfillment over competition. Kai's story reinforces the need for connection, understanding, and social justice in the world of climbing.
Nov 19, 2025 • 44min
What Rock Climbing Teaches Us About Balance in Real Life, with Kai Lightner
Kai Lightner, a celebrated youth climbing champion and founder of Climbing for Change, discusses the intricate balance between physical and emotional challenges in outdoor climbing. He shares how climbing helps him confront fear and anxiety, providing emotional catharsis. Kai reflects on the pressures of being a prodigy and the grounding influence of his mother. He highlights how techniques in climbing translate to life skills, advocating for the importance of resilience and adaptability in both realms. Plus, gear essentials and favorite snacks!
