This week we're joined by the ever affable Jonathan Sin. Jonathan is a talented comp climber and Youtuber from Hong Kong. He's been on a publicised mission to try and get onto his national team and compete at a world cup. We talk about having audacious goals, his lifestyle as a climbing Youtuber and the mental and physical challenges that come with it as well as his insights from his time training in Japan. If you're enjoying the podcast and would like to support us, please consider checking out our Patreon page: https://www.patreon.com/c/user?u=70353823 Support the show

Martin Keller, the Swiss climbing phenom joins us on the pod this week. Martin has achieved a huge amount in his long climbing career (we end up in the weeds talking about his football career for a while but we get there eventually) he's climbed some very big grades and taken down some very long term projects but he's perhaps best known for having done all of his hardest climbing in his 40s. It was great to hear all about it. If you're enjoying the podcast and would like to support us please do consider checking out our Patreon page: https://www.patreon.com/c/user?u=70353823Support the show

Katie Lamb, a fan favorite known for her thought-provoking insights, joins the hosts in their snowed-in Yosemite apartment for a lively discussion. They dive into quirky topics like the surprising uses of Bag Balm and the humorous side of using antihydro for climbing. Ethical dilemmas in climbing practices spark a heated debate about the responsibilities of climbers, while they also explore Yosemite's bouldering scene and its media paradox. With a blend of humor and philosophical musings, they tackle the complexities of climbing culture and personal responsibility.

Dive into the thrilling world of climbing as the hosts humorously rank the toughest boulders globally and discuss the elusive 9A tier list. They share personal stories about the challenges of breaking in climbing shoes, dissect brand loyalty, and ponder the financial implications of footwear choices. With engaging debates about grading complexities and the beauty of climbing, listeners will appreciate the blend of humor and insight in a community passionate about their sport.

Joining us this week is the mind-blowing Jesse Dufton. Jesse is a blind climber who leads hard trad routes, sets all his own gear and has a passion for onsighting (or nosighting as he calls it). He has recently featured in two films for the Brit Rock Film Tour called Climbing Blind, and they both make for truly incredible viewing. It was a pleasure to sit down and have a chat with him to better understand his motivations and courage. If you're enjoying the podcast and would like to support us please do consider checking out our Patreon page: https://www.patreon.com/c/user?u=70353823Support the show

Jim Pope, an elite climber known for his diverse skills in competition and big wall climbs, shares tales from his thrilling adventures. He discusses the intricate balance between competition and exploration, revealing the psychological elements of climbing under pressure. Jim also dives into the joys of mushroom foraging and the art of sewing, reflecting on the beauty of nature and personal growth. He playfully imagines his top picks for desert island boulders, blending humor with insights into the climbing community.

Nathan is back this week to talk about finishing up his long term project in Brione. Nathan recently climbed Deep Fake, the sit start to the famous Fake Pamplemousse, and proposed a career high grade of 8C+. We chatted about that as well as his approach to route setting and training, his penchant for a mad beta idea and we all had a good laugh at Sam's questionable climbing technique. A good fun chat! :)If you're enjoying the podcast and would like to support us: https://www.patreon.com/c/user?u=70353823Support the show

The hosts dive into Aidan's adventures in Yosemite, shedding light on its underrated bouldering scene. They discuss the current climbing conditions, juxtaposing pleasant weather with winter's impending challenges. A lively debate erupts over the tricky grading of the Climpet route, revealing the subjective nature of climbing evaluations. With personal anecdotes, they explore the moral dilemmas and community dynamics in climbing. Plus, there's laughter over whimsical project planning and insights into injury management and skin care routines!

In this chat, Katie Lamb, one of the world’s top boulderers and a statistical analyst, shares her journey balancing climbing and career. She dives into the drama of her ascent at Box Therapy and the essence of bouldering versus other climbing styles. Katie also discusses the nuances of climbing ethics, like 'dabbing,' and the impact of social media on climbers' self-esteem. With humor, she reflects on the community's evolving dynamics, particularly regarding women's achievements and the subjective nature of grading climbs.

Matt Bird, an athlete manager representing elite climbers like Shauna Coxsey and Will Bosi, offers a compelling glimpse into the business side of professional climbing. He discusses the necessity of managers for climbers, dives into the complexities of athlete contracts, and the dynamics with sponsors. The talk highlights the importance of authenticity in brand partnerships and the evolving relationship between athletes and social media. Additionally, Matt touches on the disparities in athlete valuation and the exciting potential of climbing as a spectator sport.