Climbing Gold

After a protracted battle over bolts and sport climbing, American climbers nearly lost the ability to climb on public lands in the early 1990s. It would have completely altered the course of our sport. Fortunately, lawyer and climber Armando Menocal rose to the challenge of protecting climbing for generations to come, despite the fact that many climbers hoped he would fail. We take a peek into the early days of the Access Fund and Leici Hendrix adds perspective on the importance of local climbing organizations. Armando Menocal Climbing Advocacy FundOriginally aired in 2021. Thanks to our sponsorsThe North Face LMNT Use link to get a free LMNT sample pack with any orderCOROS Use code CLIMBINGGOLD to get a free watch carabiner with the purchase of a VERTIX 2s watch when both items are in your cart. 

In 1986, a rag-tag group of dirtbags including Beth Wald, Russ Clune and Todd Skinner came up with a scheme to go behind the Iron Curtain with the goal of competing in the Soviet Union's speed climbing competition. It was audacious as any cutting edge climb. Originally aired in 2021. Thanks to our sponsorsThe North Face COROS Use code CLIMBINGGOLD to get a free watch carabiner with the purchase of a VERTIX 2s watch when both items are in your cart. LMNT Use link to get a free LMNT sample pack with any order Watch Climbing Gold on YouTube

In this captivating discussion, notable climber Alex shares his exhilarating experiences at the recent Olympic Games. He reflects on standout performances, including Janne Gartenbrecht's accolades and Vedrik Leonardo's historic gold. The emotional highs and lows faced by athletes are explored, highlighting the pressure of competition and the joy of cultural pride. Alex also dives into the complexities of climbing route setting and debates the future format of climbing events. The podcast concludes with a look at how climbing inspires future generations.

The Tomoa Skip. The Chinese Top. Records are falling and what is fast this year will be middle of the pack next year. For competitors Emma Hunt, Piper Kelly, and Sam Watson, they are in the midst of a golden moment for their chosen discipline. For the climbers leading the charge, what’s beyond personal bests and world records? And how will the climbers apply these incredible skills beyond the 15-meter route?Thanks to our sponsorsThe North Face: Join us in NYC for Climb Fest Aug 23-24COROS Use code CLIMBINGGOLD to get a free watch carabiner with the purchase of a VERTIX 2s watch when both items are in your cart. LMNT Use link to get a free LMNT sample pack with any order Watch Climbing Gold on YouTube

Records are falling. Beta is getting tweaked. We’ve entered the sub five second era of speed climbing. The athleticism is off the charts and the format is friendly to the viewing public. Despite that, what happens on the 15 meter speed wall seems to be a sideshow to the greater climbing community. How did speed climbing arrive at this moment? We are joined by legends Hans Florine, Jacky Godoffe, and Olympians Sam Watson, Piper Kelly and Emma Hunt. Thanks to our sponsorsThe North Face Join us in NYC at Climb Fest Aug 23-24COROS Use code CLIMBINGGOLD to get a free watch carabiner with the purchase of a VERTIX 2s watch when both items are in your cart. Dr. Squatch Use code CLIMBINGGOLD to get 20% any purchase (new customers only)LMNT Use link to get a free LMNT sample pack with any order Catch us on YouTube!

Exploring athlete stories, Olympic impact on climbing, Japan's dominance, boulder difficulty, betting odds, and Team Japan's success in climbing competitions

Natalia Grossman, a trailblazing competitive climber and 10-time World Cup gold medalist, joins Jesse Grupper, a professional climber and engineer, to share their insights on handling the immense pressure of expectations. They discuss the balance between personal growth and the competitive nature of their sport as they prepare for the Paris Olympics. Both guests reflect on their journeys from self-doubt to rediscovering the joy in climbing, emphasizing resilience and the importance of community support over mere competition results.

Brooke Raboutou, an accomplished climber, discusses the evolution of climbing, her family's influence, intense training routines, balancing indoor and outdoor climbing, achieving flow state in competitions, and navigating isolation and competition pressures in competitive climbing.

Yes, the Olympics are entertainment, but they can also transcend sport. Ukrainian climber Jenya Kazbekova carries a weight few competitors have to shoulder. Two years into Russia’s unprovoked attack on her home, Jenya is channeling the strength of her country into competing in Paris. She just hopes the world doesn’t forget Ukraine.  Thanks to our sponsorsThe North FaceLMNT Use link to get a free LMNT sample pack with any order COROS Use code CLIMBINGGOLD to get a free watch carabiner with the purchase of a VERTIX 2s watch when both items are in your cart. Dr. Squatch Use code CLIMBINGGOLD to get 20% any purchase (new customers only)Watch Climbing Gold on YouTube

Talented climber Ashima Shiraishi shares insights on competition climbing, pre-climbing routines, and the intense pressure faced at World Cup competitions. She also discusses her journey in climbing, community support, college life, environmental initiatives, and navigating self-worth in the sport.