The Careless Talk Climbing Podcast

Alex joins us this week! One of the UKs most experienced and best known setters as well as one of the brains behind Hardwood Holds, Alex has been on the UK scene for a really long time and he's an absolute font of knowledge when it comes to all things routesetting and holds (as well as I'm sure a many great other things but we weren't talking about them). Give it a listen if you like delving into the nerdy side of indoor climbing, I always enjoy hearing what he's got to say. He's also provided some beautifully made wooden holds to giveaway to our discord tier patrons, so that's another reason to join up! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=70353823Support the show

Climber Aidan reflects on finding the fun in projecting, while Sam shares the story of his first 8C boulder. They discuss the challenges and intricacies of difficult climbs, the balance between fun and performance, and the impact of splits on climbing. They also explore the psychological aspect of climbing, the difficulties in grading climbs at the eight C level, and their upcoming trip to Fontainebleau for some climbing fun.

A lighthearted discussion about the holiday season and the challenges of January and February. The hosts reminisce about advent calendars and recommend their 12 climbing-themed Christmas favorites. They discuss the iconic climbing film 'Between the Trees' and its influence. They share recommendations for Christmas-themed crag snacks and their favorite climbing books. Learn about the benefits of rechargeable hand warmers for winter climbing. They discuss sci-fi books and a history book on Kings and Queens of England. They provide tips for outdoor climbing trips and emphasize knowing when to stop. Learn about the best indoor climbing shoe and practicing psychological focus in climbing training. They share their favorite podcasts and guilty pleasure of ghost stories. They discuss the benefits of rest days during climbing trips.

Shauna Coxsey, a two-time bouldering champion, joins the podcast to discuss topics such as her competition days, injuries, working with the IFSC, climbing post motherhood, family support, making climbing relatable, commentating in climbing competitions, reflecting on her climbing journey, the impact of the Olympics on athletes' relationships, controversy in the IFSC, physiotherapy and recovery, challenges and changes as parents climbing outside, and the challenges of managing their own diary.

James Pearson, an experienced climber, discusses the community kickback he faced for pushing trad climbing and how he learned from the experience. Topics include the challenges of inflated grading, the importance of enjoying climbing, the appeal and risks of bold trad climbing routes, and the investment and rewards of climbing Bon Voyage.

Billy Ridal and Alex Waterhouse, two retired comp climbers, talk about their fantastic adventure in Yosemite, including their decision to free climb the nose on El Cap. They discuss transitioning between climbing scenes, differences in grading systems, preparing for a big wall climb, and the challenges of climbing the Great Roof. They also explore the similarities between competition bouldering and climbing in Yosemite, overcoming the challenges of rain and changing corners, and the discomforts of using makeshift bathrooms while climbing.

Taylor McNeill, a super humble guy who is tall enough to climb V16, talks about living in a school bus, climbing in North Carolina, challenges faced by different height climbers, and exploring new boulders in Finland.

Coaching climbing success with Ollie Torr, Lattice creation and overcoming challenges. Importance of high energy in training. Considering different perspectives and tactical approaches. Learning from other sports. Developing capacitors in training. Blurred line between strength and mental coaching. Maintenance lifts and shoulder work. Understanding strength blocks. Training to improve climbing style. Discussion on Kyrgyzstan climbing and logistics.

Topics discussed in this podcast include the Sisu project, the burden of dreams, creating a scale for judging boulder quality, the importance of cameras and photography in climbing, the CSU project and stash table, a scoring system for boulders, the significance of skin condition in hard crimping, rating holds and lines on a 17-point scale, the balance between enjoyment and burdens in climbing projects, dealing with weather and skin troubles in Finland, unedited content and fear of public criticism, and the difference between being alone and having friends around while engaging in daily activities and exploration.

Head coach of Strong Mind, Hazel Findlay, explores the mental side of climbing. Topics include climbing objectives and challenges, the journey of a professional climber and coach, the importance of personal connection in coaching, the art vs science of climbing, the role of media in climbing, the thrill of solo climbing, underrated climbing destinations, being true to oneself, the connection between happiness and suffering in climbing, and exploring mental training courses.