Ageless Athlete - Stories and Secrets of Adventure Sports Icons

“The mountain always show you how far you can go, and how far you are allowed to go, because biggest success will be always not to reach the summit, to come back alive from expedition.”Thomas Huber, a legendary alpinist and one half of the iconic Huber brothers is a prolific first ascensionist who has climbed some of the world’s most challenging mountains, including the Ogre, Cerro Torre, and the elusive Latok 1. He’s also made his mark on Yosemite Valley, where he and his brother Alex became part of the legendary “Stone Monkey” community, pioneering some of the most iconic routes on El Capitan. At almost 60, he’s still strong and was on his way to the Karakoram in Pakistan when we recorded this podcast. Listen in for surprising insights into his relationship with risk, his approach to training and recovery, and the profound impact of his experiences on his perspective on life, culture, and the planet. He's also received numerous awards recognizing his accomplishments and his dedication to the sport, including the Piolet d'Or, arguably the biggest honor in alpinism, as well as recognition from the American Alpine Club for his rescue efforts on Cerro Torre. 🏆   Thomas just wrote this amazing book, Freiheit: Freedom In The Mountains, chronicling his adventures!  Buy it with this link and use code HUBERBUAM for a 15% discount! 🙌🏽Tune in for:Finding Freedom and Purpose: Thomas shares how he overcame a childhood fear of the mountains, fueled by his father’s climbing accident, to find freedom and purpose in the natural world.  🧗‍♂️🏔️Overcoming Setbacks and Embracing Resilience: Thomas discusses his journey to overcome injuries and setbacks, reminding us that the human spirit is capable of enduring incredible challenges. 💪The Beauty and Power of the Mountains: He also discusses how the experience of climbing has shaped his understanding of the world, both physically and spiritually. 🏔️🙏Embracing Global Perspectives: Thomas describes his incredible adventures and interactions with diverse cultures across the Himalayas, and other corners of the globe, emphasizing the importance of understanding and connection across different backgrounds. 🌎🤝References:Thomas Huber's book, Freiheit: https://www.diangelopublications.com/shop/p/freiheitThe Huber brothers: https://huberbuam.de/en/home.htmlIf you've enjoyed the show, please drop a quick review or rating on Spotify or Apple. It helps reach more listeners. I thank you mucho! 💜🟢 Spotify🎵Apple Music▶️ YouTube📸Instagram 💧Substack Blog

I've been reading Matt Samet's climbing and adventure writing since I started climbing myself in 2004 and am thrilled to be able to bring Matt to the show! Matt shares his journey of nearly four decades in the climbing world, offering insights into his experiences and the lessons he's learned along the way. From his perspective on climbing journalism to his honest discussion about overcoming addiction, Matt's story is one of courage, passion, and balance. Whether you're a climber or simply someone interested in the mental and physical resilience of athletes, this episode is packed! Hear of:🏔️ Matt's Longevity in Climbing: Discover how Matt has sustained his climbing prowess for nearly 40 years and what keeps him motivated and passionate about the sport.📝 Climbing Journalism: Gain insights into the world of outdoor journalism from one of its most respected voices, and understand how storytelling has shaped the climbing community.🧘‍♂️ Balancing Physical and Mental Health: Learn Matt's strategies for maintaining mental and physical health, essential for anyone looking to achieve longevity in their own athletic pursuits.💪 Overcoming Personal Battles: Hear Matt's powerful and motivational journey of overcoming addiction and finding a path to recovery, offering hope and inspiration to anyone facing similar challenges.🤯 Surprising Insights: From mindfulness practices to the importance of community in climbing, discover the surprising lessons that Matt shared during our conversation.Matt Samet's Work in Climbing Journalism:Climbing Magazine Rock and IceMatt Samet's Book:Death Grip: A Climber's Escape from Benzo MadnessFollow Matt Samet:InstagramIf you've enjoyed the show, please drop a quick review or rating on Spotify or Apple. It helps reach more listeners. I thank you mucho! 💜🟢 Spotify🎵Apple Music▶️ YouTube📸Instagram 💧Substack Blog

Fred Pompermayer is the visionary behind some of the most breathtaking big wave surfing photos you've ever seen. 🏄‍♂️From a landlocked town in Brazil to the world's most iconic waves, Fred's journey is as riveting as the images he captures. In this rare interview, Fred opens up about selling his bicycle at 12 to buy his first surfboard 🚲🏄‍♂️, sneaking university cameras for beach trips 🎓📷, leaving architecture school to chase his California dream 🏠➡️🌴, and transforming a childhood obsession into a thriving career.Fred's work has graced 50+ magazine covers, he’s a 7x Big Waves Awards winner 🌟, but beyond the accolades, it's his unique talent and unwavering drive that truly sets him apart. Don't miss this opportunity to hear from one of adventure photography's most private and talented artists. 💪Fred's References:www.Fredpompermayer.comhttps://www.instagram.com/fred_pompermayer/https://morrisonhotelgallery.com/collections/sports/products/mavericksAmbassador for:ANETIK PERFORMANCEFLATLINE VAN COVENJENZPart of the SANDISK EXTREME TEAMIf you've enjoyed the show, please drop a quick review or rating on Spotify or Apple. It helps reach more listeners. I thank you mucho! 💜🟢 Spotify🎵Apple Music▶️ YouTube📸Instagram 💧Substack Blog

"I see something in you. Don't make a fool out of me."  👀💪 This powerful statement from Kris Hampton's probation officer had a profound impact on him, demonstrating the power of belief and accountability.  From his home amidst the Rockies in Lander, WY, musician, artist, and climber Kris, shares his remarkable journey from a tough upbringing to finding solace and purpose in climbing, all while defying odds and setting impressive climbing goals. - Kris's inspiring path to climbing: From juvenile detention to finding a home in the climbing gym, Kris's story is one of resilience, self-discovery, and second chances. 💪- Building a career: How Kris leveraged his diverse skill set – from hip-hop to mural painting – to build a successful coaching and training business. 🎨🎤- Overcoming physical adversity: Kris shares his experience with a career-threatening shoulder injury and how he used strength training and self-advocacy to not only recover but surpass his previous performance levels. 🤕💪- Inspiring stories of older athletes: Learn about Kris's clients who are defying age and proving that with dedication and the right approach, anything is possible. 👴👵💪- Balancing life and climbing: Kris offers valuable insights on how to navigate the demands of a busy life, set priorities, and stay motivated to reach your climbing goals. 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦🧗‍♂️Connect with Kris:Power Company Climbing: https://www.powercompanyclimbing.com/Kris's Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/power-company-podcast/id1447779791Kris's Book: https://www.amazon.com/Hard-Truth-Simple-Become-Climber/dp/1734103604/Breaking Beta Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/breaking-beta-climbing-training-podcast/id1449349393 Written in Stone Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/written-in-stone-a-climbing-history-podcast/id1527606398Other Mentions: Range by David Epstein: https://www.amazon.com/Range-Why-Generalists-Triumph-Specialized-World/dp/0735211250Steve McClure's Autobiography: https://www.amazon.com/Rock-Stories-Autobiography/dp/1784885947Revelations by Jerry Moffat: https://www.amazon.com/Revelations-Jerry-Moffatt/dp/0711030690Adam Ondra's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/AdamOndraMina Leslie-Wujastyk's Film, "Dear Mother" (Check for showings near you!If you've enjoyed the show, please drop a quick review or rating on Spotify or Apple. It helps reach more listeners. I thank you mucho! 💜🟢 Spotify🎵Apple Music▶️ YouTube📸Instagram 💧Substack Blog

"Forget the "long slow rot" of aging! 🙅‍♀️ Juliet Starrett, a world-champion whitewater rafter turned fitness advocate, is on a mission to empower us all to build durable bodies that can handle life’s adventures – at any age!Juliet unpacks her powerful "Base Camp" philosophy: reminding us that even lifelong athletes need to remember to sheerproof the basics. I loved her wisdom on weaving in practices into our daily cycles without expensive gizmos, going to yoga classes, or making time for a fancy gym. You can optimize your sleep and rest WITHOUT a tracker! 😴Why and how to ‘rewild your hips’! 🧘🏼‍♂️Strength and balance training is essential for building an ageless body that can handle any challenge. 💪 The "unsung heroes" of longevity like balance and mindful movement. 🤸‍♀️Head to the podcast! Link in bio! 👆“Built to Move” is an amazing book that you need to have on your bedside, as I do on mine! 📗And you can also enroll for a fun 21 day challenge on the website for  by @thereadystate! Do it!The Ready State: Juliet's company [https://www.readystate.com/]References:Books:Built to Move: The 10 Essential Movements to a Pain-Free Life by Kelly Starrett and Juliet Starrett [https://www.amazon.com/Built-Move-Essential-Movements-Pain-Free/dp/1684030302]Forever Strong: Unleash Your Inner Athlete by Dr. Gabrielle Lyon [https://www.amazon.com/Forever-Strong-Unleash-Inner-Athlete/dp/1476762998]Companies and Products:Whoop: Wearable fitness tracker [https://www.whoop.com/]Aura Ring: Wearable fitness tracker [https://auraring.com/]Slack Block: Balance training device [https://www.slackbow.com/]Additional Resources:Optimize Me Nutrition: Nutritionist on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/optimizemenutrition/]Interesting individuals mentioned in the show! Nick Gill: Longtime strength and conditioning consultant for the All Blacks (New Zealand national rugby team)Dr. Kirk Parsley: Sleep researcher, expert on supporting Navy SEALsDr. Kristin Holmes: Sleep researcher with WhoopDr. Gabrielle Lyon: Author of "Forever Strong," advocating for strength training for longevityBrian Johnson: Tech entrepreneur and human longevity experimenterJimmy Chin: Climber, filmmaker, and photographer [https://www.jimmychin.com/]Other References:The Blue Zones: Areas with high concentrations of centenarians [https://www.bluezones.com/]Atomic Habits by James Clear: Book on habit formation [https://www.amazon.com/Atomic-Habits-Proven-Build-Break/dp/0735211299]The Khumbu Icefall: Dangerous section on Mount Everest [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Khumbu_Icefall]If you've enjoyed the show, please drop a quick review or rating on Spotify or Apple. It helps reach more listeners. I thank you mucho! 💜🟢 Spotify🎵Apple Music▶️ YouTube📸Instagram 💧Substack Blog

"It's not about being the star that day or catching the biggest wave. It's just, that's the one you remember and you carry all your life." 🏄🏽‍♂️🌊What does it take to live a life in pursuit of waves for over 6 decades? Today's guest, Gary Linden, has been doing just that - riding everything from 2-foot rollers to 50-foot behemoths around the globe since the age of 12.Gary was one of the first true surfing nomads, traveling to remote regions and living amongst local cultures from Brazil to Japan in search of uncrowded breaks. You'll hear hilarious tales of getting hopelessly lost hiking through dense jungles, camping for months in tiny fishing villages near secluded waves, and the unbridled thrill of exploration in those wide-open days before surf forecasts.But Gary's true legacy is as the pioneering face of modern big wave riding. Imagine swells the size of three-story buildings barreling across an oblivion of ocean - that's the canvas where Gary etched his name. Hear how an unwavering mindset of commitment allowed this slight 135-pound waterman to paddle into some of the heaviest slabs on the planet at bomboras like Todos Santos and the bone-crunching barrels of Puerto Escondido. His fearless vision led him to create the original Big Wave World Tour to crown the planet's best big wave chargers.Now at 74 years young and still surfing frequently, Gary opens up with raw honesty about the habits, philosophies and convictions that have kept him ageless in pursuit of his one true passion - surfing. With humor and wisdom forged from decades in the lineup, he imparts insights about prioritizing what matters, overcoming setbacks, and leaving a legacy by doing what you love.References:Gary's Instagram https://www.instagram.com/garylinden/Gary Linden Surfboards https://lindensurfboards.com/If you've enjoyed the show, please drop a quick review or rating on Spotify or Apple. It helps reach more listeners. I thank you mucho! 💜🟢 Spotify🎵Apple Music▶️ YouTube📸Instagram 💧Substack Blog

Nick Martinez has been quietly ticking the hardest and scariest big walls in Yosemite for the last two decades. 🧗‍♂️ From early climbing dreams in Brazil, Nick made his way to Yosemite, finding community with legends like Jim Bridwell, Dean Potter and the Huber brothers, and making a name for himself amongst the Valley titans. 💪 Despite profound heartbreak of losing loved ones and his own near-fatal BASE jumping accident, Nick found a way to keep climbing, and finding purpose in the mountains he loves. ⛰️ Get ready for laughs too as Nick, a natural storyteller with a dry wit, recounts wild anecdotes from climbing alongside El Cap legends, epic climbs, close calls, and the unique dirtbag ethos.  🏕️Nick's story is a powerful reminder that even amidst the darkest shadows, there is always a path forward. This rare and candid interview is not to be missed. Nick’s Instagram Nick extends huge thanks to:Rigging International BlueWater RopesPASOKINGreater Tahoe GripWorks📸 credits to:https://www.fredpompermayer.comhttps://www.felipesh.comhttps://www.edsonvandeira.comJenning Steger and Kyler Sparks of Patagonia. If you've enjoyed the show, please drop a quick review or rating on Spotify or Apple. It helps reach more listeners. I thank you mucho! 💜🟢 Spotify🎵Apple Music▶️ YouTube📸Instagram 💧Substack Blog

 “ You know, you talk about my successes, I'll show you my thousand failures. ” 🚴🏼‍♂️Nestled in the heart of Virginia's Shenandoah Valley, we are joined by Jeremiah Bishop, who has earned the title of the ‘the most-winning US Mountain Bike Stage Racer,’ 🏆. He’s a 16-time member of the USA Cycling National Team, a Pan American Games Gold Medalist 🥇, a two-time US National Champion 🇺🇸, and winner of some of the world's most challenging stage races, including the TransAlp Challenge and the Simonsburg Contour 🌍. He's been racing at the highest level for decades.Jeremiah has a knack for bringing his experiences to life with vivid detail and genuine passion. Whether he's describing the grueling climbs of a mountain race, the awe-inspiring landscapes he's encountered, or the mental struggles he's overcome, he draws you in and makes you feel like you're right there with him.Announcing a great giveaway! Simple steps to win a gift bag from Good Detour, gourmet Indian backpacking meals! Vegan/Plant-based, and Woman-owned. To win, simply:Follow @gooddetour, @jeremiahbishop, @agelessathletepodcastShare this episode on your feedFinally just send me a DM with your trip where you’ll use this backpacking meal!Send your entry by June 20th to win 🎁Get a 20% discount via on Good Detour via this link https://thegooddetour.com/AGELESSATHLETE References:Jeremiah’s website: https://www.jeremiahbishop.com/"The Impossible Routes" Series: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1W1Y7T8F2sQ&list=PL5C45E402B658114APGAMM Cycling: https://pjammcycling.com/My Sports Science: https://www.instagram.com/scienceforsport/National Interscholastic Cycling Association (NICA): https://www.nationalmtb.org/#mountainbiking #mountainbikelove #mtblife #agelessathlete #enduranceathlete #adventurelife #outdoors #traillife #bikelife #exploremore #getoutside #nevergiveup #inspiration #motivation #fitnessjourney #healthandwellness #mountainbikerace #cyclinglife #bikelover #activelifestyleIf you've enjoyed the show, please drop a quick review or rating on Spotify or Apple. It helps reach more listeners. I thank you mucho! 💜🟢 Spotify🎵Apple Music▶️ YouTube📸Instagram 💧Substack Blog

"It's kind of like... when the oracle is talking to Neo, and she's like, 'Know thyself.' I think if you just really stay true to yourself, and go, and just follow your dreams, I don't think you can lose." 💫🏄🏽‍♀️When I happened to chance upon a video of Katie McConnell masterfully dropping into monster waves in Nazaré, Portugal , and then heard her thoughtfully describe epic hold-downs, I knew I had to try to bring her on the show. Katie's trophy case is overflowing with wins at prestigious events , and this interview is quite timely as she just won the tow award at the Red Bull Magnitude in Hawaii!  However, more than just a big wave rider, Katie is a brilliant marine biologist and a true champion of the oceans. 🌊🐠This conversation goes beyond the podium. Katie opens up about her journey of self-discovery through surfing, the challenges of being a female pioneer in a male dominated sport, and her creative hustle to balance her passions with the realities of life. It’s an honor to be able to share her intelligence, humility, and gift for storytelling. 🙏🏾💜Connect with Katie:Instagram: @keiti_marWebsite: https://www.surfwithkatie.com/Don't miss out! Subscribe to the Ageless Athlete Podcast for more of this juice! ReferencesRed Bull Magnitude Women's Big Wave Contest: https://www.redbull.com/us-en/events/magnitudeThriller at Killers Big Wave Contest: https://www.worldsurfleague.com/events/2024/mct/4979/todos-santos-challengeXXL Big Wave Awards: https://www.worldsurfleague.com/big-wave-awardsSave the Waves Coalition: https://www.savethewaves.org/Katie's Sponsors:Gary Linden Surfboards: https://lindensurfboards.com/Finisterre: https://finisterre.com/Stay Covered Leashes: https://staycoveredindustries.com/Seapod Humboldt (CPOP): https://www.seapodhumboldt.com/If you've enjoyed the show, please drop a quick review or rating on Spotify or Apple. It helps reach more listeners. I thank you mucho! 💜🟢 Spotify🎵Apple Music▶️ YouTube📸Instagram 💧Substack Blog

“I'm not a 70-year-old woman on the trail, I'm a free spirit dancing with gravity.” - Henrietta Stern, mountain biking icon  🚵🏽‍♀️ 💜This week, we’re breaking the mold with not one, but FIVE remarkable guests – all powerhouse women from the San Francisco Bay Area mountain biking scene.Meet Jessica, Jenna, Henrietta, Lisa, and Alexis – a group of community entrepreneurs, passionate riders, certified instructors, and social leaders who are changing the face of mountain biking. I was enthralled with their stories of resilience and transformation, shared with wit, joy and candor, and so will you! 🙌🏽We uncover how they -- Navigated cultural expectations and overcame physical setbacks to pursue their passion- Discovered the power of female camaraderie and built a supportive community on and off the trails- Became advocates for inclusivity, expanding access to mountain biking for people of all ages and backgrounds.Listen for:-The importance of finding joy in movement and connecting with nature. ��-How to overcome fear and build confidence through proper training and supportive community.-Tips for staying physically and mentally strong to enjoy an active lifestyle at any age.Resources & Organizations Mentioned:Girls Rock MTB: https://www.girlsrock-mtb.com/MORCA (Monterey Off-Road Cycling Association): https://morcamtb.org/Ninja MTB: https://ridelikeaninja.com/San Jose Composite NICA Team: https://www.sanjosemtb.org/Silicon Valley Mountain Bikers: https://www.svmtb.org/Sea Otter Classic: https://www.seaotterclassic.com/National Interscholastic Cycling Association (NICA): https://nationalmtb.org/Fort Ord Recreation Trails (FORT) Friends: http://www.fortordfriends.org/Little Bellas: https://littlebellas.com/Bike Instructor Certification Program (BICP): https://www.bicp.org/City of Santa Cruz Parks & Rec: https://www.cityofsantacruz.com/government/city-departments/parks-recreationConnect with our guests:Jessica Tseng: Instagram: @theladiejJenna Graham: Instagram: @bcgraham2021Lisa Birch: Instagram: @didsomeonesay2wheelsAlexis Morgan: Instagram: @lexibscIf you've enjoyed the show, please drop a quick review or rating on Spotify or Apple. It helps reach more listeners. I thank you mucho! 💜🟢 Spotify🎵Apple Music▶️ YouTube📸Instagram 💧Substack Blog