Summit & Service: Mountaineering with Purpose

In the inaugural episode of the Finding Elevation podcast, host Lisa Thompson engages in a heartfelt conversation with mountaineer Steve McConnell. They explore the transformative power of climbing, emphasizing that personal achievements can serve as a catalyst for positive change in communities. Steve shares his journey from climbing for personal validation to using his adventures as a platform for community impact, particularly during his recent trip to Nepal's Khumbu Valley. He discusses his initiative, 'IF,' which encourages individuals to consider the potential positive outcomes of their actions in the communities they visit. The conversation delves into Steve's unique approach to training outdoors in the Pacific Northwest, embracing the elements rather than avoiding them. Lisa and Steve also touch on the mental aspects of climbing, including confronting fears and the importance of listening to one's instincts. The episode serves as a reminder that personal challenges can be intertwined with a greater purpose, inspiring listeners to leave places better than they found them and to engage meaningfully with the communities they encounter during their adventures.   https://mountainmadness.com/  https://www.alpineathletics.net/    https://www.sagarmathanext.com/ https://www.sagarmathanext.com/sustainable/spcc/ https://lnt.org/