First Ascent Podcast

Torie and Kayte have taken over the pod! Tune in to hear their thoughts on unsolicited beta, and why an ego check might be necessary regardless of whether you’re on the giving or receiving end of it. You’ll also hear some great stories about pushing past your limits and gym bros.  Connect with us at @firstascentpod on Instagram.  Jay and Lee can be found at @jayknower and @xxleeweexx   Disclaimer:...

Our Official Science Correspondent Kathrine Hinkle joins us for the first time today for an in-depth chat about the geological history of the rocks we climb. Learn how the rock faces of New Hampshire were formed, and get her expert insight on how climate change is affecting the climbing season. Plus, Katherine also weighs in on the most  controversial First Ascent Pod topic of all - sunshirts.  Co...

Today Lee and Jay discuss link-ups and eliminates as Lee poses the question: When (if ever) are link-ups and eliminates worthy of being considered their own separate routes?  What do you think? Let us know on Instagram at  @firstascentpod .  Jay and Lee can be found at @jayknower and @xxleeweexx   Disclaimer:  The information expressed in this episode is for entertainment purposes only, and is not...

This week Jay and Lee are joined by Pat Cooke, an avid ice climber and regular at Russell Crag during the warm months. Pat has led over 1,000 ice climbs in the last 18 years, so he has a thing or two to share about the sport, including his approach to safety and how to sustain long term enjoyment in the sport.  Plus, hear Pat’s unvarnished opinions about Jay and Lee’s work on the lines at Russell...

Today, Jay and Lee share their thoughts around everyone’s least favorite part of climbing - falling. It's natural to feel a little (or a lot of!) fear around falling, but by knowing how to prepare and process your risk, you can cut a bit of the anxiety and handle it in a graceful way.  Follow along with First Ascent on Instagram at  @firstascentpod . Jay and Lee can be found at  @jayknower an...

Today Jay and Lee ask: are the right people making it to the top of the sport? And should we even think about it that way? In a world where social media prowess can heavily influence professional success, some excellent climbers are being left behind. At the same time, some average climbers with savvy social media skills are experiencing financial success beyond their skill level. The guys discuss...

Each new route is a unique labor of love for its developer; one that takes patience, care and creativity. Today, Lee and Jay share their process for creating new routes, and lay out general things to keep in mind if you plan to develop one yourself.  Are you interested in learning more about bolting? Check out part one: The Science of Bolting! Follow along with First Ascent on Instagram at  @first...

Today’s episode is all about bolts. Jay and Lee share their thoughts on the ins and outs of each type of bolt, red flags to look for when using bolts out on the crag, and how to choose the right anchor for your particular situation.  Follow along with First Ascent on Instagram at  @firstascentpod . Jay and Lee can be found at  @jayknower and @xxleeweexx   Disclaimer:  The information expressed in...

On sights, flash and projects - each style of climbing requires a totally unique mentality. Today, Jay and Lee discuss the important role that mindset plays in all types of climbing experiences.  How does your view on mindset compare with ours? Let us know on Instagram at  @firstascentpod . Jay and Lee can be found at  @jayknower and @xxleeweexx  

Totem cams, Quads and even (Jay believes) sun shirts - some climbers become so connected to their gear that it seems to become a part of their personality. Today, Jay and Lee discuss the point at which gear preference veers from beneficial to overzealous. Then, the guys explore ways to politely speak about route difficulty in order to make all skill levels of climbers feel included at the crag.  F...

Projecting a new route is one of the most enjoyable parts of climbing, but it can also be one of the most difficult. Today, Lee and Jay chat about the most integral things you need to have for a positive and productive projecting experience.  Plus, in honor of Lee’s upcoming wedding, Lee and Jay each share how they proposed to their favorite climbing partners. What do you believe are the key eleme...

All the best crags have a pecking order, and the social scene can feel pretty intense. In this episode, Jay and Lee debate how to handle it if you feel like you’re being ranked by other climbers out on the crag.  Then the guys break down what they each think are the most useful ways to learn anchor fundamentals (hint - it’s definitely not from Instagram).  Follow along with First Ascent on Instagr...

Magnus Mitdbø recently shared a video where he free solo-ed for the first time -  seemingly against his better judgment - with Alex Honnold. Jay and Lee share their thoughts on why the video, and ones like it, set a dangerous precedent when it comes to climbing safety. Plus, listen to these two aging climbers do a shallow dive on how much climbing media has changed since they were coming up in the...

Get to know a bit about Jay and Lee and how they each found their passion for climbing. Then, listen to them spray about their favorite recent climbs and learn why they believe they are experiencing the golden age of Waterville Valley climbing.  Climbing in the Waterville Valley area: https://www.mountainproject.com/area/107346408/wm-waterville-valley Dickey Ledge climbing: https://www.mountainpro...