Xenon and the Future of Big Mountain Expeditions with Lukas Furtenbach

In this podcast episode, Lukas Furtenbach, founder of Furtenbach Adventures, and Steve House discuss Lukas’ work in high-altitude expedition mountaineering. They discuss the development of hypoxic pre-acclimatization techniques and how technologies like xenon gas are being used to reduce expedition durations. The conversation addresses the ethical debates around these technologies, commercialization of Everest, and the reasons behind Lukas’ decision to utilize xenon gas in a ground breaking expedition beginning in May. This is part two in the Uphill Athlete podcast series surrounding the discussion of the use of xenon in mountaineering.

In this episode, host Steve House sits down with Dr. Peter Hackett, a pioneer in high-altitude medicine, to discuss the potential use of xenon gas as a performance enhancer for mountaineers. Xenon, once used as an anesthetic, is a noble gas that may briefly stimulate erythropoietin (EPO) but lacks solid evidence of improving red blood cell count or performance. Dr. Hackett explains the risks of unsupervised xenon use and stresses the importance of controlled research before drawing conclusions. He shares skepticism around current anecdotal claims, especially without peer-reviewed data. The episode emphasizes safety, science, and honesty in altitude medicine. This is the first part of a two-part series on the use of Xenon in mountaineering.

n the latest episode of the Uphill Athlete podcast, host Steve House talks with author Will Cockrell about his new book Everest, Inc. Cockrell’s book explores the evolution of commercial guiding on Mount Everest. They dive into the origins of the Everest guiding industry, the early trailblazers, and how the mountain shifted from a mountaineering challenge to an endurance experience. Will shares stories of the colorful characters who helped shape the business and the ethical challenges. They also discuss the rise of Nepali-led guiding companies and the evolution and current state of Everest tourism. Everest Inc is available on all major book platforms.

In this episode of the Uphill Athlete Podcast, host Alyssa Clark welcomes Director of Coaching, Chantelle Robitaille, to discuss the emotional and physical challenges of injuries in endurance sports. Chantelle shares her personal journey of overcoming a fractured humerus and torn labrum, highlighting the mental resilience needed to navigate setbacks. She offers practical strategies for recovery, including focusing on controllable factors, setting realistic goals, and maintaining a strong support system. The two discuss the importance of viewing recovery as part of training and finding new ways to stay engaged with your community. Tune in for insights on how to turn injury into an opportunity for growth.If you'd like to learn more, visit uphillathlete.com or write to us at [email protected] 

In this episode of the Uphill Athlete Podcast, host Alyssa Clark is joined by Kylee Van Horn and Zoë Rom, creators of the Your Diet Sucks podcast, to discuss the dangers of nutrition myths and fad diets in endurance sports. They explore why extreme athletes are particularly susceptible to restrictive eating patterns, the misconceptions surrounding low-carb and fasted training, and the potential risks these approaches pose to both performance and health. Kylee and Zoe emphasize the importance of balanced nutrition, critical thinking, and recognizing the emotional and social aspects of food choices. They also offer insights on how athletes can resist diet trends by questioning sources, focusing on fundamentals, and seeking expert guidance. The conversation challenges the allure of quick fixes and reinforces the value of sustainable, evidence-based fueling strategies.If you'd like to listen to Your Diet Sucks, check it out on apple, spotify or your favorite podcast platform. You can learn more about Zoë and Kylee by visiting @youdietsucks, @carrot_flower_z or @flynutrition3 on instagram.If you'd like to learn more about Uphill Athlete, visit Uphillathlete.com or write to us at [email protected]

In this Season recap of Voice of the Mountains, Alyssa Clark joins Steve House and Jamie Lyko to reflect on the most powerful moments, surprises, and key takeaways from their conversations with the world’s top mountain athletes. The episode revisits deep discussions on the resilience, mentorship, leadership, and mental challenges that come with high-risk endeavors. Guests like Lydia Bradey, Ed Viesturs, and Conrad Anker shared personal stories of triumph, loss, and personal growth, highlighting the emotional depth of mountain sports. Steve, Alyssa and Jamie reflect on the importance of pushing boundaries in interviews, drawing out raw and authentic insights from his guests. Wrapping up with a fun round of superlatives, the team discusses the future of the podcast and invites listeners to share their thoughts on where to take the future conversations of Voice of the Mountains.If you'd like to learn more, visit uphillathlete.com or write to us at [email protected] 

In this episode, host Alyssa Clark sits down with trail runner, podcaster, and coach Hilary Spires to discuss her journey to the HURT 100, just nine months after giving birth. Hilary shares the challenges of postpartum recovery and balancing training with her family. She opens up about the physical and mental struggles she faced during the race, including a rib injury and battling the sleep monster. Hilary finished strong in fourth place, proving her resilience and determination. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on Hilary’s journey postpartum and how she made it possible to train for hard things with a family.Check out Trail Running Women Podcast on all podcast platforms! You can also see more of what Hilary is up to on instagram at @hilsport55 or @trailrunningwomenpodWrite to us at [email protected] or visit uphillathlete.com to learn more about our coaching, training plans and memberships.  

In the latest Uphill Athlete podcast episode, Alyssa interviews Tanner Wanish, a former Navy SEAL turned elite climber known for his record-breaking Yosemite Triple Crown ascent. Tanner shares his unconventional entry into climbing, his disciplined training regimen, and his perspective on balancing risk and endurance in high-altitude technical climbing. They discuss the mental and physical challenges of pushing limits while maintaining safety, particularly in extreme endurance events like the Yosemite Quad. The conversation also touches on his experience with sponsorships, overtraining, injury management, and the importance of listening to one's instincts in dangerous situations. Tune in for a fantastic episode with one of the rising voices in climbing.If you'd like to follow Tanner's adventures, you can check him out on instagram at @ilikebigbutress If you'd like to learn more about our offerings, please visit uphillathlete.com or write to us at [email protected] 

The last regular episode of season one of Voice of the Mountains wraps with the legendary high-altitude mountaineer, Ed Viesturs. Ed is the first American to summit all 14 of the world’s 8,000-meter peaks without supplemental oxygen, a testament to his unparalleled grit and respect for the mountains. With his famous mantra, "getting to the top is optional; getting down is mandatory," Ed’s philosophy has inspired climbers and adventurers alike for decades. Join Steve and Ed as they delve into his remarkable journey, his approach to risk, and the invaluable lessons he’s learned from a lifetime in the world's harshest environments.If you'd like to read the companion essay and learn more about Voice of the Mountains, please visit: https://uphillathlete.com/voiceofthemountains/You can learn more about Uphill Athlete and our offerings at: uphillathlete.com 

The Uphill Athlete podcast returns with UA tactical coach and strength specialist, Drew Hammond joining Alyssa to discuss the balance between strength and endurance for mountain athletes. Drew emphasizes the importance of strength as a foundation for endurance sports, highlighting how both attributes complement each other. They chat about how Drew implements auto-regulation, a flexible training approach that adapts to an athlete's readiness, using tools like rate of perceived exertion (RPE) and reps in reserve. The two underscore the importance of athlete enjoyment in their workouts and focusing on movement patterns versus specific exercises. Drew brings tremendous insight, wisdom and humor on how to build strong and durable athletes.Check out uphillathlete.com for more information or write to us at [email protected]