#37 Heidi Wirtz - World as a Classroom, Why Climbing Still Sucks at Diversity, And, The Enduring Power of Mentorship

Imagine standing at the base of El Capitan in the early 1990s. The Nose, one of the most famous and daunting climbing routes in the world, stretches nearly 3,000 feet above you. At this time, no one—not even the best climbers in the world—has free climbed it. Enter Lynn Hill. In 1993, she not only becomes the first person to free climb *The Nose*, but she does it in a single day, a feat that redefined what was possible in climbing. This wasn’t just a physical achievement; it was a moment that shattered gender barriers, set new standards, and echoed throughout the entire world of outdoor sports.In this episode, we take you into that pivotal moment and beyond. We’ll relive Lynn’s historic ascent and explore what it meant to be at the cutting edge of climbing during a time when sponsorship was rare, the sport was still developing in the U.S., and women in climbing were a minority. Lynn didn’t just ascend rock faces—she broke through cultural and gender barriers in a male-dominated sport.But this conversation isn’t just about Lynn’s remarkable climbs. As we dig deeper, we uncover the mindset, the discipline, and the sheer determination that made her one of the most influential climbers of all time. Lynn shares what it was like to grow up in the sport, what kept her pushing limits when others might have doubted her, and how she still maintains that passion 50 years into her climbing career.Lynn has made a fantastic 'Fundamentals of Climbing' video series for beginners and experienced climbers alike! Highly recommended. Find it here: Fundamentals of Climbing with Lynn Hill' 🙌🏽CALL TO ACTION:- Lynn is deeply involved in giving back to the climbing community and protecting the outdoor spaces she loves. If you’d like to contribute to her ongoing efforts at creating a community in Hueco Tanks, TX, you can reach out to her via [email protected] for more info. The Hueco Tanks project will support climbing initiatives, environmental conservation, and mentorship programs for young climbers.- More on Lynn at:https://lynnhillclimbing.com/ https://www.instagram.com/_linacolina_/Physivantage offers supplements designed by outdoor athletes for recovery, hydration, and peak performance. If you're serious about reaching your goals, use code AGELESS15 at checkout for a special discount! https://physivantage.com/?ref=AGELESS15 If you've enjoyed the show, please hit 5 🌟 on Spotify or Apple or wherever you can leave a rating. It helps keep the show coming to you for free! 💜🟢 Spotify🎵Apple Music▶️ YouTube📸Instagram 💧Substack Blog

"It wasn’t about what I couldn’t do; it was about what I could do. After my injury, I was focused on recovery and doing whatever was possible—like swimming every day. It’s all about the attitude you bring to the situation." 🚵🏽​Mountain biking legend **David Wiens**, is not only celebrated for his six consecutive wins at the Leadville Trail 100 MTB but also for his integrity and resilience. As David approaches his 60th birthday, he reflects on his remarkable career, staying consistent, overcoming critical injuries, and building trails not just for mountain bikers, but for all users. Throughout this conversation, we explore his mindset on training, how he stays motivated, the magic of the outdoors, and how he overcame injuries to come back even stronger. ### **Key Takeaways:**1. **Mindset Fuels Success**: David emphasizes that mental toughness, focus, and resilience are as critical as physical preparation when it comes to competing at the highest level.   2. **Strengthening Communities" In his leadership role with the IMBA (International Mountain Biking Assoc), David has helped build outdoor trails all over the country, for all recreational users. 3. **Injury Recovery is a Learning Process**: After facing injuries, David highlights the importance of listening to your body and using setbacks as an opportunity to come back stronger.   4. **The Outdoors as a Source of Renewal**: For David, mountain biking is more than just a sport—being outside, connected to nature, brings him joy, peace, and the motivation to keep pushing his boundaries.### **References:**- Learn more about David Wiens' role as Executive Director at the [International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA)](https://www.imba.com).- Check out David Wiens' **Mountain Bike Hall of Fame** profile [here](https://mmbhof.org/david-wiens).- Explore the history of the Leadville Trail 100 MTB race [here](https://www.leadvilleraceseries.com/mtb/leadvilletrail100mtb/).- Read more about the impact of doping in cycling during the Lance Armstrong era [here](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Doping_in_sport).### **Sponsors:**A special thanks to David's sponsors, whose gear and support have been crucial to his success:- [Canyon Bicycles](https://www.canyon.com)- [Ergon Bicycle Ergonomics](https://www.ergonbike.com)- [Topeak](https://www.topeak.com)- [Shimano](https://www.shimano.com)- [Fox Suspension](https://www.ridefox.com)- [DT Swiss Wheels](https://www.dtswiss.com)- [Maxxis Tires](https://www.maxxis.com)- [Sportful Apparel](https://www.sportful.com)- [Limar Helmets](https://www.limar.com)- [GU Energy](https://www.guenergy.com)This episode is packed with wisdom, insights, and inspiration for anyone looking to thrive in their sport—or life—at any age!Physivantage offers supplements designed by outdoor athletes for recovery, hydration, and peak performance. If you're serious about reaching your goals, use code AGELESS15 at checkout for a special discount! https://physivantage.com/?ref=AGELESS15 If you've enjoyed the show, please hit 5 🌟 on Spotify or Apple or wherever you can leave a rating. It helps keep the show coming to you for free! 💜🟢 Spotify🎵Apple Music▶️ YouTube📸Instagram 💧Substack Blog

"I’m proud that what started with a handful of Vietnam veterans in Lake Tahoe has now grown into hundreds of adaptive sports programs worldwide. These athletes are breaking barriers, not just in sports but in society as well" ⛷️🚀Katherine Hayes Rodriguez is a pioneer in adaptive sports who has spent nearly 50 years making the outdoors accessible for all. From her early days as a ski instructor in the 1970s to becoming a leader in adaptive skiing and outdoor recreation, Katherine has faced and overcome seemingly insurmountable odds to break down barriers for people with disabilities.Katherine’s work is groundbreaking—not only for what she has achieved in outdoor sports but for the lives she’s impacted along the way. In this episode, we discuss her journey, the challenges she faced, and how her passion for inclusivity has shaped entire communities. Katherine’s dedication to creating equal access to nature teaches us that the outdoors is for everyone, no matter the obstacles.Whether you're an athlete or not, you'll be moved by Katherine's resilience and her unwavering belief in the power of nature. Tune in to learn how the outdoors can heal, empower, and unite us all.Key Takeaways:Overcoming the odds: Katherine’s journey of persistence in ensuring everyone can access outdoor activities, regardless of physical limitations.The transformative power of nature: How spending time outdoors is beneficial for both physical and mental well-being.Adaptive sports and inclusivity: Katherine’s groundbreaking work in revolutionizing adaptive skiing and other outdoor activities for individuals with disabilities.Resilience in the face of challenges: What Katherine’s personal and professional journey teaches us about perseverance.Community and access: The importance of inclusivity in outdoor spaces and the impact it has on people’s lives.References:Katherine Hayes Rodriguez - Learn more about her work in adaptive sports and outdoor access through her public speaking and advocacy efforts.Achieve Tahoe - Achieve Tahoe provides year-round outdoor recreation activities for people with cognitive, sensory, and physical disabilities.Physivantage offers supplements designed by outdoor athletes for recovery, hydration, and peak performance. If you're serious about reaching your goals, use code AGELESS15 at checkout for a special discount! https://physivantage.com/?ref=AGELESS15 If you've enjoyed the show, please hit 5 🌟 on Spotify or Apple or wherever you can leave a rating. It helps keep the show coming to you for free! 💜🟢 Spotify🎵Apple Music▶️ YouTube📸Instagram 💧Substack Blog

In a unique twist, Ageless Athlete host Kush Khandelwal steps out from behind the mic and becomes the guest for the first time! Interviewed by Heather Heynen on her Weight Loss and Wellness For Real podcast, Kush opens up about his personal journey—something he doesn’t often share.From his own struggles with motivation and injuries to finding new meaning in movement as he gets older, this conversation dives deep into the challenges athletes and everyday people face as they navigate life’s ups and downs. In this vulnerable and heartfelt episode, Kush also reflects on the lessons he’s learned from the inspiring athletes he’s interviewed on his podcast, sharing practical advice and wisdom that anyone can apply to their own wellness journey.Key takeaways:The importance of listening to your body, especially when dealing with injury and setbacks.How to stay motivated in both sports and everyday life, even when things get tough.Insights from top athletes on how to thrive in sports and health as you age.The power of community in outdoor sports - how Kush found a home, far away from homeThis episode is not just for athletes—it’s for anyone seeking inspiration to live a healthier, more fulfilled life.Follow Kush and the Ageless Athlete journey:Instagram: @agelessathletepodcastYouTube: Ageless Athlete PodcastWebsite: agelessathlete.coFollow Heather:Website: HeatherHeynen.comInstagram: @heynencounselingandcoachingFacebook: Heather HeynenYouTube: Heather Heynen WellnessPhysivantage offers supplements designed by outdoor athletes for recovery, hydration, and peak performance. If you're serious about reaching your goals, use code AGELESS15 at checkout for a special discount! https://physivantage.com/?ref=AGELESS15 If you've enjoyed the show, please hit 5 🌟 on Spotify or Apple or wherever you can leave a rating. It helps keep the show coming to you for free! 💜🟢 Spotify🎵Apple Music▶️ YouTube📸Instagram 💧Substack Blog

Legendary big wave surfer Yuri Soledade, is 48, and has spent decades riding some of the most powerful waves on Earth at Jaws in Maui. Known for winning the 2016 TAG Heuer XXL Biggest Wave Award for riding a massive 73-foot wave, Yuri’s story is about much more than surfing. It’s about mental resilience, humility, and balancing passion with a successful career.Yuri opens up about his humble beginnings in Brazil, moving to Hawaii, and the grit it took to chase his dream of conquering the world’s largest waves. But this episode doesn’t just dive into surfing—Yuri also shares lessons from his journey as a successful entrepreneur, running several restaurants in Hawaii and Bali. His approach to entrepreneurship, mindfulness, and balance is just as inspiring as his time in the ocean.Key Takeaways:Embrace Fear, Don’t Avoid It: Yuri talks about learning to coexist with fear. He explains that in big wave surfing, the challenge isn’t to eliminate fear but to manage it—whether it’s in the ocean or in life.Mindset Is Everything: Yuri emphasizes how a strong mindset has helped him push past boundaries both on and off the waves. His mental training is as crucial as his physical preparation.Lessons in Entrepreneurship: As a restaurant owner in Hawaii and Bali, Yuri breaks down how mindfulness and a strong work ethic have been key to balancing his businesses and surfing career. His belief in quality and building trust with employees has been central to his success.The Importance of Being Present: Yuri’s mindfulness extends into everything he does. Whether he's surfing or working, he’s all-in, focused entirely on the task at hand. This focus, he believes, is critical to his success and longevity.Balance Risk and Reward: Yuri shares valuable lessons on knowing your limits. Whether riding waves or managing a business, he emphasizes the importance of preparation and being mindful of when to push forward and when to hold back.Episode Highlights:Yuri’s 2016 TAG Heuer XXL Biggest Wave Award win and his experience riding a 73-foot wave at Jaws 🌊Yuri’s upbringing in Brazil, and how that shaped his tenacity and mindset.The mental training required for big wave surfing and how it can be applied to life.How he manages a successful restaurant business while continuing to chase waves all over the world.His thoughts on mindfulness, staying present, and why these qualities are key for athletes and entrepreneurs alike.🔗 Links & Resources:Yuri Soledade’s Surfing Career: WSL ProfileLearn more about Yuri’s restaurants: Paia Fish MarketFollow Yuri on Instagram: @yusurfYuri, Mad Dogs, and the Conquest of Jaws on Apple TV (mPhysivantage offers supplements designed by outdoor athletes for recovery, hydration, and peak performance. If you're serious about reaching your goals, use code AGELESS15 at checkout for a special discount! https://physivantage.com/?ref=AGELESS15 If you've enjoyed the show, please hit 5 🌟 on Spotify or Apple or wherever you can leave a rating. It helps keep the show coming to you for free! 💜🟢 Spotify🎵Apple Music▶️ YouTube📸Instagram 💧Substack Blog

"Age isn’t what defines you—it’s your ability to adapt, to keep going, and to never stop seeking what you’re capable of." 🚀In this episode of the Ageless Athlete Podcast, we talk with the legendary ultra-endurance athlete, Marshall Ulrich. Known for running across America, completing over 20 Badwater Ultramarathons, and climbing all Seven Summits—including Mount Everest—Marshall shares the secrets behind his mental and physical resilience.From embracing pain as part of the journey to experiencing out-of-body moments while running through the desert, Marshall’s insights go far beyond the typical athlete's story. At 73, he's still pushing his limits, proving that age is just a number when it comes to extreme endurance and adventure.**Key Takeaways:**1. **Embrace Pain**: Learn how to disassociate from pain and use it as a tool to push past limits 🏃‍♂️2. **The Power of Persistence**: Success in endurance sports (and life) often comes from sticking with it, even when it's tough 💪3. **Out-of-Body Experiences**: Discover how Marshall's spiritual experiences while running fueled his endurance and connection to nature 🌌4. **Goal Setting for the Long Haul**: How big, audacious goals—like climbing Everest—can keep you motivated for decades ⛰️5. **Age Is Just a Number**: At 73, Marshall is still competing and exploring his physical limits, showing that it's never too late to push yourself 🏅**References & Resources:**- **Marshall Ulrich’s Website**: [MarshallUlrich.com](https://marshallulrich.com)- **Route 66 Ultra Run**: Learn about Marshall’s 140-mile ultra marathon [Route 66 Ultra Run](https://route66ultrarun.com)- **Marshall’s Books**: Check out his inspirational books on endurance and adventure. [Amazon](https://www.amazon.com)📲 **Subscribe**: Stay updated on more incredible stories from athletes defying age and pushing boundaries. Follow the Ageless Athlete Podcast and never miss an episode!#AgelessAthlete #MarshallUlrich #UltraEndurance #Running #Badwater #AdventureAthlete #MindsetMatters #PushYourLimits #PodcastPhysivantage offers supplements designed by outdoor athletes for recovery, hydration, and peak performance. If you're serious about reaching your goals, use code AGELESS15 at checkout for a special discount! https://physivantage.com/?ref=AGELESS15 If you've enjoyed the show, please hit 5 🌟 on Spotify or Apple or wherever you can leave a rating. It helps keep the show coming to you for free! 💜🟢 Spotify🎵Apple Music▶️ YouTube📸Instagram 💧Substack Blog

"Fear is natural, but it's how you dance with that fear that defines who you are as a climber and as a person." 🌄💗Heidi Wirtz—aka "Heidi Almighty"— is a climber, guide, yogi, and an entrepreneur.  🧗‍♀️ Heidi is known for her bold and technical climbs, pioneering routes on big walls worldwide, and her speed ascents in Yosemite Valley.Heidi’s journey is about more than just summits. 🌍 From living in a tent to exploring diverse cultures, navigating gender dynamics, and finding strength through mentorship, Heidi shares her unique insights on mental resilience and the joy of the climb.Key Takeaways:Be Your Own Advocate: Don’t settle for the first medical advice, find the best expertsResilience: Build mental and physical strength through challenges. 🏔️Cultural Lessons: Gain insights from adventures across diverse cultures. 🌏Gender Dynamics: Navigate the challenges of being a female. 🚺Mentorship: The value of having mentors in both sport and life. 🧠References & Resources Mentioned:Earth Play Retreats: Discover Heidi’s retreatsGirls Education International: Learn moreFollow Heidi on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heidiwirtz/Physivantage offers supplements designed by outdoor athletes for recovery, hydration, and peak performance. If you're serious about reaching your goals, use code AGELESS15 at checkout for a special discount! https://physivantage.com/?ref=AGELESS15 If you've enjoyed the show, please hit 5 🌟 on Spotify or Apple or wherever you can leave a rating. It helps keep the show coming to you for free! 💜🟢 Spotify🎵Apple Music▶️ YouTube📸Instagram 💧Substack Blog

"You can sculpt your body to perfection, but without mastering your mind, you’ll never unlock your true potential. The real victories happen in your head." 🧎🏼‍♀️💪🏾We are diving  deep into the power of mental training with Hazel Findlay, a world-renowned climber, coach, and mindset expert. While Hazel may be young, her wisdom extends far beyond her years, offering insights that are crucial for athletes of any age—particularly those navigating the changes that come with aging.A 6x British Junior champ, and with nearly three decades of climbing experience, Hazel was the first woman to climb a British trad route at E9, the first British woman to sport climb 8c, and she has free-climbed El Capitan in Yosemite four times. Her accomplishments across various climbing disciplines—ranging from bouldering to alpine—demonstrate her exceptional physical prowess. But what makes Hazel truly compelling is how she combines these physical feats with a deep understanding of the mental game, helping athletes unlock their full potential, both on and off the rock.**Key Takeaways:**- Harness Fear as a Guide**: Hazel explains how fear isn’t something to be banished but used as a tool to guide you toward areas of growth and challenge.- Mind Over Matter**: Learn why mastering your mind is just as important—if not more so—than physical training, especially as you age.- Alex Honnold on Managing Fear** - Alex’s technique is rooted in deep preparation and an intimate understanding of his mind. - Adaptation is Key**: As our bodies change, our mental game must evolve. Hazel shares how adapting your mindset is essential to continued success.- Stay Present: Discover the power of staying present, which Hazel describes as the “secret weapon” for tapping into peak performance.Don’t miss this one!Resources: Hazel Findlay’s Strong Mind Coaching: Explore Hazel’s online courses, community, and coaching resources for mental training in climbing and beyond. Strong Mind Coaching and https://www.instagram.com/strongmind.climbing/Hazel Findlay’s website: https://www.hazel-findlay.com/ Physivantage offers supplements designed by outdoor athletes for recovery, hydration, and peak performance. If you're serious about reaching your goals, use code AGELESS15 at checkout for a special discount! https://physivantage.com/?ref=AGELESS15 If you've enjoyed the show, please hit 5 🌟 on Spotify or Apple or wherever you can leave a rating. It helps keep the show coming to you for free! 💜🟢 Spotify🎵Apple Music▶️ YouTube📸Instagram 💧Substack Blog

""Seeing the transformation in the inmates, from despair to determination, reminds us of the profound impact running can have on someone’s life." 🏃🏽‍♂️🙌🏽Diana, and Tim Fitzpatrick, are accomplished ultrarunners who’ve not only achieved remarkable personal feats but also transformed lives through their work at San Quentin State Prison. They've marathon PRs of 2:37 and 2:35 respectively, and multiple finishes at the Western States 100, where at 60, Diana was the oldest to complete the run in sub-24 hours. Diana and Tim exemplify resilience, both in their athletic pursuits and their commitment to giving back.For the past eight years, they’ve coached a running club at San Quentin, where they’ve seen firsthand the power of running to restore hope, build community, and offer a sense of purpose to inmates. Their story is a powerful reminder of how sport can change lives, even in the most challenging environments.Key Takeaways:Resilience in Ultra-Running: Lessons from their ultrarunning careers, nutrition strategies, training routines, periodization, including the importance of pushing through limits.The Power of Community: How the San Quentin running club offers support and belonging to inmates.Giving Back: The fulfillment Diana and Tim find in using running to make a difference.References:San Quentin Running Club: Featured in 26.2 to Life. More info here: https://www.sanquentinmarathon.com/Western States 100: Where Diana and Tim have competed multiple times and where Diana is the President https://www.wser.org/The Dipsea Race: https://www.dipsea.org/Physivantage offers supplements designed by outdoor athletes for recovery, hydration, and peak performance. If you're serious about reaching your goals, use code AGELESS15 at checkout for a special discount! https://physivantage.com/?ref=AGELESS15 If you've enjoyed the show, please hit 5 🌟 on Spotify or Apple or wherever you can leave a rating. It helps keep the show coming to you for free! 💜🟢 Spotify🎵Apple Music▶️ YouTube📸Instagram 💧Substack Blog

"Even as life changes, keeping a playful spirit is essential. That’s what keeps me coming back to the rock, year after year." 🤾🏻‍♂️🌟At 53 years young, Chris Kalous has spent over three decades dedicated to rock climbing, evolving from a dirtbag climber living out of his van to a house painter, and ultimately becoming the voice behind the legendary Enormocast podcast.With nearly 300 episodes of the Enormocast under his belt, Chris has captured the heart of the climbing community through his relatable stories and easygoing nature. In this episode, he shares insights on how he has maintained his love for climbing and stayed connected to the sport, even as life’s responsibilities have grown.Key Takeaways:Staying Connected: Chris emphasizes the importance of staying connected to the climbing community, which has helped him keep his passion alive and vibrant as he’s aged.The Power of Play: No matter your age, maintaining a playful spirit is key to staying youthful and enjoying the things you love.Adaptability: Chris’s ability to adapt to new challenges—whether in climbing, work, or life—has been crucial to his longevity and continued success.Chris Kalous's Enormocast: https://enormocast.com/Physivantage offers supplements designed by outdoor athletes for recovery, hydration, and peak performance. If you're serious about reaching your goals, use code AGELESS15 at checkout for a special discount! https://physivantage.com/?ref=AGELESS15 If you've enjoyed the show, please hit 5 🌟 on Spotify or Apple or wherever you can leave a rating. It helps keep the show coming to you for free! 💜🟢 Spotify🎵Apple Music▶️ YouTube📸Instagram 💧Substack Blog