

Climbing Gold
Duct Tape Then Beer
When climbing was a fringe sport, the epic tales of achievement were told around the campfire. As the sport continues to grow, Alex Honnold and co-host Fitz Cahall grab the mic to share stories from the people who define climbing by pushing the boundaries and challenging the status quo of the previous generation.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Mar 22, 2024 • 45min
Memphis Rox Needs Your Help
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.

Dec 15, 2023 • 54min
Adapted Part 2
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.

Dec 8, 2023 • 48min
Adapted Part 1
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.

Dec 1, 2023 • 57min
Roundtable: Style
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

Nov 24, 2023 • 48min
The Fighter
Nasim Eshqi, a human rights activist and professional climber, discusses her journey from kickboxing to climbing and how she uses climbing to advocate for human rights and women's rights in Iran. The podcast highlights the challenges faced by Iranian climbers and explores misconceptions about Iran in the West.

Nov 17, 2023 • 58min
Roundtable: Safety Police
Underground legend and editor of Accidents in North American Climbing, Pete Takeda joins us to talk safety. We can learn from mistakes, but sometimes it’s worth speaking up before they happen. Thanks to our sponsorsThe North FaceMomentousPeak DesignDr. SquatchWatch Climbing Gold on YouTube

Nov 10, 2023 • 47min
The Greatest Lie Chapter 4: Belief
Climbers Hayden and Jason face reality after a successful ascent, while a rescue mission unfolds. Frustration and police involvement in El Chaltén. David Lama returns to the mountain. The impact of removing bolts on Saratore. Tragic incidents involving Hayden Kennedy and David Loma. Investigation of a photo from Maestry's book. Exploring the power of belief and gratitude.

Nov 3, 2023 • 49min
The Greatest Lie Chapter 3: Fair Means
The podcast discusses the golden age of climbing in Patagonia and the impact of weather forecasting. It reflects on the idea of a fair means of sin and explores David Lama's transition from sport climbing to alpinism. It also addresses the challenges faced during climbing, including ethical considerations and learning from criticism. The chapter highlights the planning and reflections of the climbers and concludes with a celebration and backlash over route establishment and the chopping of the compressor route.

Oct 27, 2023 • 49min
Roundtable: Liar, Liar
Professional climber Jonathan Siegrist discusses the prevalence of lying and deceit in the climbing community, the importance of honesty in climbing achievements, the potential for increased lying in climbing as the sport grows, and the importance of proof and pushing oneself to the limit.

Oct 20, 2023 • 41min
The Greatest Lie Chapter 2: Disneyland
Climber Cesare Maestri returns to Cerro Torre with controversial methods to conquer the mountain. The controversy surrounding the compressor route and doubts about Maestri's ascent are explored. The discovery of Tony Edgar's remains raises questions. Contrasting climbing terrain exposes a lie in Patagonia. Jim Birdwell and Steve Brewer's successful climb challenges Maestri's claims.