Luis Benitez: Risk to Rise

Join Katie as she sits down with Luis Benitez—six-time Everest summiteer, policy innovator, author of "Higher Ground,” and outdoor industry trailblazer— to explore how he went from a boy battling severe asthma to one of the most influential voices in Colorado. Born to a Southern educator and Ecuadorian engineer, Luis grew up deeply curious with a foot in two cultures. From overcoming childhood illness to forging a love of high altitudes, Luis discovered his purpose as a climber, guide, advocate, and policymaker. His journey has taken him from guiding expeditions in the Himalayas to helping found the Colorado Outdoor Recreation Industry Office, where he sparked a national movement linking economic development, public health, and conservation. Now working in the private sector, Luis reflects on risk, resilience, and redefining what it means to lead. Listen on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music | Pandora or wherever you get podcasts!Colorado Leadership Stories is a podcast presented by Boettcher FoundationFollow us on Instagram, LinkedIn and FacebookSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.