Kai Lightner is on a tear. When we last spoke with Kai, his path in professional climbing was unclear. He’d struggled with disordered eating, injuries, and growing into his adult body after a decade of success in competition and his path back to the upper limits of climbing seemed uncertain. Last year, Kai turned his attention to climbing outside and took the emphasis off results. An incredible string of sends followed, and once again Kai has found himself at the forefront.  Watch Climbing Gold on YouTubeThanks to our sponsorsThe North FaceLMNT Use link to get a free LMNT sample pack with any drink mix order Dr. Squatch Use code CLIMBINGGOLD to get 20% any purchase (new customers only)AeroPress use promo code CLIMBINGGOLD to save 20% off your 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. 

Sierra Blair, a controversial figure in climbing, discusses her use of social media in her competitive career. Topics include handling criticism, balancing authenticity with audience expectations, creating beta videos for climbing routes in Arizona, and navigating sponsorships and reliable gear in the climbing world.

Professional rock climbers Tommy Caldwell and Sonnie Trotter discuss their friendly competition to climb 9a routes, emphasizing the benefits of healthy competition and accountability in climbing. They share personal experiences, insights on climbing achievements, shifting trends in climbing demographics, and recommendations for outdoor gear. The podcast highlights the importance of balance between individual and group challenges, reflecting on aging's impact on climbing performance.

Kris Hampton, Founder of the Power Company, discusses the evolution of climbing training, the difference between coach and trainer roles, and the limits of human potential in climbing. Topics include balancing strength and skill development, managing training for busy schedules, and the psychological aspects of climbing performance.

Paige Claassen and Emily Harrington share insights on balancing climbing and parenthood, managing climbing activities as parents to young children, adapting climbing styles while parenting, finding balance between climbing and family responsibilities, and the challenges of returning to climbing post-pregnancy. They discuss the unique experiences of parenting climbers and the joys of introducing children to new sports activities.

Adam Ondra, a climbing legend, discusses the limits of human climbing, Olympic aspirations, and shiver bivying on El Cap with his father. Dive into his challenges, family balance, and reflections on climbing culture and competitions.

Discover the heart of Memphis Rox, a climbing gym that doubles as a community hub dedicated to inclusivity and mental health. Hear personal stories that showcase the strong bonds formed through climbing and the pressing need for community support during tough times. Journey through the evolution of climbing gyms and their role in fostering adventure and resilience. Explore the challenges faced by minority climbers and the ambitious goals of forming a diverse team aiming for Everest.

In this podcast, they discuss the Lotus Flower Tower, life after climbing, building an adaptive community, the journey of a bad student-turned-professor, bionic reconstruction, groundbreaking amputation procedures, climbing challenges, the growth of adaptive sports, and advancements in science and technology for ending disability.

Hugh Herr, Mo Beck, and Jim Ewing share stories of survival, resilience, and the power of climbing. They discuss topics such as coming to terms with amputation, the competitiveness of climbing, forming bonds with other climbers, funny anecdotes from climbing trips, the obsession with weight in climbing, and pushing limits in the sport.

Style vs substance-- they are one and the same in climbing. It governs how we aspire to do routes. It inspires us. Done right, it will stand the test of time. Today, we sit down with climber Katie Lambert and photographer Ben Ditto. Thanks to our sponsorsThe North FaceMomentousPeak DesignDr. SquatchWatch Climbing Gold on YouTube