Finding Elevation: Conversations Beyond the Mountain

In this episode of the Finding Elevation Podcast , host Lisa speaks with Alejo Lazzati, an IFMGA-certified mountain guide from Ecuador. Alejo shares his journey from discovering climbing at age 14 to becoming a national champion and leading expeditions on some of the world's most iconic peaks, including Everest and Aconcagua. Together, they explore the unique climbing opportunities in Ecuador, the...

In this episode, mountain guide Sean McNally shares invaluable insights on outdoor guiding, mountain progression, gear tips, and how outdoor education can transform lives. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and aspiring guides alike. https://goyeti.org/   https://www.alpineathletics.net/peak-performance   https://www.mountaineers.org/    

In this conversation, Chris Beary shares his transformative journey from practicing law to climbing Kilimanjaro with his daughter. He discusses the unexpected invitation to join a friend on the hike, the preparation involved, and the profound experiences he had on the mountain. The conversation delves into themes of community, personal growth, and the deepening bond between father and daughter, as...

In this episode of the Finding Elevation podcast, host and guest Sora Rhee discuss her journey from a corporate career to becoming an avid mountaineer. Sora shares her experiences climbing iconic peaks, the shift in her values towards nature and simplicity, and the technical skills she has developed over time. The conversation also touches on cultural insights from climbing in South America and th...

In this conversation, mountain athletes Natalia and Sarah share their experiences and challenges during their adventurous trip to Mount Aspiring in New Zealand. They discuss their backgrounds, the significance of the Mountaineers organization, the planning process for their climb, and the unexpected challenges they faced along the way. The conversation highlights the importance of mindset, decisio...

In this episode of the Finding Elevation podcast, Lisa Thompson explores the majestic Ama Dablam, a mountain renowned for its beauty and technical climbing challenges. The discussion covers the unique aspects of climbing Ama Dablam, including the necessary skills, the route taken, and the importance of acclimatization. Lisa emphasizes the cultural experience of climbing in the Khumbu region and th...

In this conversation, Pandora L. Erlandson shares her inspiring journey of mountain climbing, particularly her recent expedition in Ecuador. She discusses her background in climbing, the allure of Ecuador's mountains, and the importance of preparation and training. Throughout the conversation, Pandora emphasizes the mental resilience required in climbing, the dynamics of teamwork, and how the skil...

In this episode, Eric Riddleberger shares his transformative experience trekking the Snowman Trek in Bhutan. He discusses the initial decision to switch from a planned K2 Base Camp trek to Bhutan, the daily routines and challenges faced on the trail, and the rich cultural experiences encountered along the way. Eric emphasizes the importance of physical and mental preparation for such an arduous jo...

In the inaugural episode of the Finding Elevation podcast, host Lisa Thompson engages in a heartfelt conversation with mountaineer Steve McConnell. They explore the transformative power of climbing, emphasizing that personal achievements can serve as a catalyst for positive change in communities. Steve shares his journey from climbing for personal validation to using his adventures as a platform f...

In this episode of the Finding Elevation podcast, host Lisa reflects on her six-month hiatus and shares significant changes in her life, including her recent acquisition of Mountain Madness, a renowned guiding company. She discusses the challenges and excitement of stepping into this new role, emphasizing her commitment to making climbing accessible and supportive for everyone, not just elite clim...

Join us in this inspiring episode as we talk to Dr. Kim Silloway, a seasoned mountaineer and the oldest American to summit K2 at age 60. Kim shares her journey from summiting Kilimanjaro to tackling some of the world's highest peaks, including her experiences on Everest and K2. We delve into the mindset, training, and decision-making processes that have shaped her mountaineering career. Key Highli...

In this episode, Emma Schwerin shares her inspiring journey as the youngest American woman to complete the seven summits. From her early aspirations and the spark of inspiration that led her to mountaineering to the challenges she faced on Denali and Everest, Emma discusses the importance of grit, resilience, and support from her family and team. She offers practical tips for aspiring climbers, re...

In this episode of the Finding Elevation podcast, host Lisa Thompson interviews Brent George, a seasoned physical therapist with over 30 years of experience. They discuss Brent's journey into physical therapy, the importance of proper footwear for athletes, and how to differentiate between pain and soreness. Brent shares insights on injury prevention, the biomechanics of movement, and the signific...

In this episode of the Finding Elevation podcast, Lisa Thompson discusses the critical role of decision-making in climbing. She emphasizes the cognitive challenges faced at high altitudes, the importance of frameworks for effective decision-making, and the common traps climbers fall into, such as summit fever and commitment bias. Leadership and communication within teams are highlighted as essenti...

In this conversation, Lisa and Abbe Jacobson explore the intersection of coaching, personal growth, and the emotional challenges faced during physical endeavors like climbing. Abbe shares her journey as a cancer survivor and how it led her to coaching, emphasizing the importance of mindset and self-compassion in achieving goals. They discuss the significance of understanding thoughts and emotions,...

In this episode of the Finding Elevation podcast, Lisa Thompson delves into the essential preparations for climbing Everest and other high-altitude expeditions. She emphasizes the importance of tactical gear preparation, mental resilience, emotional support, and the logistics involved in such challenging endeavors. The conversation covers practical tips for gear maintenance, the psychological aspe...

In this episode of the Finding Elevation podcast, Jess Sargus shares her unconventional career journey from being an Ivy League trained attorney to an undefeated MMA fighter, and now a high-performance coach and speaker. She discusses the pivotal moments that led her to leave a traditional law career, the challenges of transitioning into fighting, and the importance of self-belief and family suppo...

In this episode, Tracee Metcalfe shares her incredible journey of climbing all 14 of the world's highest peaks, reflecting on the challenges, logistics, and emotional significance of her climbs. She discusses the hardest climb, Annapurna, and the meaningful experience of summiting Shisha Pangma after a tragic avalanche. Tracee emphasizes the importance of teamwork with Sherpas, mental resilience,...

In this episode of the Finding Elevation podcast, host Lisa Thompson discusses the difference between resolutions and intentions, emphasizing the importance of identity in achieving lasting change. She shares practical strategies for setting intentions and highlights the significance of showing up consistently to work towards personal goals. The conversation encourages listeners to embrace the pro...

In this conversation, Dave Taylor shares his journey of summiting Aconcagua, the highest mountain in South America, focusing on the lessons learned from his first attempt and the extensive preparation for his successful second attempt. The discussion covers the importance of team dynamics, personal reflection, training strategies, acclimatization, and the role of breath work in enhancing performan...

In this episode of the Finding Elevation podcast, Lisa Thompson and Tom Cuddy delve into the physiological adaptations that occur when ascending to high altitudes. They discuss the immediate and chronic changes in the body, including alterations in breathing, blood composition, and the role of CO2. The conversation also highlights genetic factors influencing altitude adaptation, insights from Sher...

In this episode of the Finding Elevation podcast, join me and Jacque as we discuss various aspects of mountaineering, including personal journeys, getting started in the sport, exploring lesser-known peaks, affordability, sun protection, the impact of cold therapy on strength training, and the importance of mindset in climbing. We share valuable tips and insights for both beginners and experienced...

In this conversation of Finding Elevation, host Lisa Thompson interviews Nick, an exercise physiologist specializing in hypoxic training. They discuss the physiological changes that occur at altitude, the adaptations that can be achieved through hypoxic training, and the importance of pre-acclimatization strategies. Nick emphasizes the role of genetics in altitude tolerance and the need for proper...

Anthony Lorubbio shares his journey from aspiring professional athlete to breathwork coach. He discusses how he got into breathwork and the power it has to change our state of mind and body. He emphasizes the importance of breathing through the nose, breathing slowly, and breathing low into the diaphragm for optimal breath efficiency. Anthony also introduces his high altitude breathwork training p...

Dr. Torrie Higgins, a performance coach, shares her journey and expertise in working with high-performing individuals in intense environments. She emphasizes the importance of mindset and how it can be trained and cultivated. Torrie discusses the use of neuroscience in developing coaching programs and tools, and highlights the significance of understanding chronobiology and designing one's day for...