The PNW PeakBaggers Podcast

Bob has been a member of PNW PeakBaggers since Oct of 2019. He didn't start running until at the age 43, ran in 5 Hood to Coast relay events and many other races. He also started slowly working on the state highpoints and Colorado 14ers. In 2002, he started list-based "peakbagging", so far completing 52 lists including 25 personally devised lists. He completed Oregon CoHPs in ’03 Completed Washington CoHPs in ’04 Completed CONUS Ultras in ’08 Completed Oregon P2Ks in ’10 Completed CONUS top 100 prominences in ’11 Completed CONUS state HPs in ’12 Completed Oregon top 100 prominences in ’13 Climbed Colorado 14er Mt. Wilson in ’15 leaving only Jack Mountain to complete the CONUS P4Ks- in case anyone wants to help with Jack Mountain! Summary: Bob Bolton, a member of PNW Peak Baggers, shares his journey and accomplishments in peak bagging. He discusses his focus on prominence and various peak bagging lists he has completed. Bob talks about his late start in peak bagging and the influence of online forums in his decision to pursue peak bagging. He shares his definition of a peak bagger and his most physically demanding climbs. Bob also discusses the importance of finding compatible climbing partners and the benefits of being part of the PNW Peak Baggers community. He offers advice for new peak baggers and emphasizes the importance of training and gaining experience. Takeaways: Focus on prominence and peak bagging lists can provide structure and goals for climbers. Late starts in peak bagging are possible and can lead to significant accomplishments. Finding compatible climbing partners is crucial for a successful and enjoyable climbing experience. Being part of a peak bagging community can provide inspiration, support, and opportunities for connection. Training, gaining experience, and having the right equipment are essential for peak bagging success. Chapters: (00:00) Introduction and Background (01:15) Bob's Accomplishments (03:10) Focus on Prominence and Peak Bagging Lists (04:33) Late Start in Peak Bagging (05:58) Discovering Peak Bagging Lists (08:18) Defining Peak Bagging (09:17) Most Proud Peak or List (10:43) Physically Demanding Climbs (16:20) Not Repeating Climbs (9:34) Finding Climbing Partners (21:30) Benefits of Being in PNW Peak Baggers (24:42) Love for the Mountains (30:57) Staying in Shape (34:12) Nutrition and Eating Habits (36:32) Other Hobbies (40:19) Parting Wisdom for New Peak Baggers You can follow Bob on Facebook and on his YouTube channel at: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCM6DYVuEHCvFWOvo9HV4SRw You can learn more about us at www.pnwpeakbaggers.com We talk all things "peakbagging" in the PNW and you will hear some great stories and solid advice along the way!

Maria has been in the mountains since she could pretty much walk. From the Tatra Mountains to the Rockies and the Pacific Northwest, they've been a constant thread in her life in a journey of discovery spanning the great outdoors and self. Maria has 30 years of mountaineering, skiing downhill and backcountry, climbing, scrambling, and hiking. Beyond her day-to-day job of running design and user experience teams, she volunteers over 500 hours a year for one of the busiest SAR teams in all of North America. She's part of the Alpine Club of Canada and the BCMC (British Columbia Mountaineering Club) where she has taught Women In Mountaineering and Glacier travel courses and talks about snow safety. Beyond that, she's often doing trail work mercilessly cutting down Alders with her favorite silky saw and she once wrote a poem to her favorite Lowa boots. Summary: Maria Masiar shares her incredible journey from escaping communist Czechoslovakia to becoming a dedicated mountaineer and search and rescue volunteer in Canada. She discusses the challenges and consequences of her family's escape, the process of adapting to life in a new country, and her involvement in helping North Korean refugees. Maria also talks about combining her passion for peak bagging with fundraising, her memorable peaks and personal growth, and the importance of mentorship and continuing education in mountaineering. She encourages women to get involved in mountaineering and offers advice for beginners. The conversation covers various topics related to community engagement, online presence, and exclusive content on the website. The host expresses gratitude for the work done by volunteers and encourages listeners to join the community. They also discuss the expansion of their online presence to platforms like Reddit, Instagram, and LinkedIn. The host highlights the exclusive content available on their website, including merchandise. The conversation concludes with closing remarks and an invitation to explore the mountains. Chapters: (00:00) Introduction and Background (03:17) Escape from Communist Czechoslovakia (06:05) Journey to Canada (08:55) Challenges and Consequences of Escape (10:23) Adapting to Life in Canada (13:34) Finding Purpose in Search and Rescue (14:32) Working at the United Nations (16:57) Helping North Korean Refugees (17:25) Combining Peak Bagging and Fundraising (20:47) Memorable Peaks and Personal Growth (29:34) Getting Involved in Search and Rescue (32:21) Encouraging Women in Mountaineering (35:17) Definition of a Peak Bagger (36:04) Mentors and Building Confidence (39:40) Staying Fit and Other Hobbies (46:11) Favorite Aspects of PNW Peak Baggers (48:48) Advice for Beginners (50:39) Connecting with Maria (51:08) Community Engagement and Volunteering (51:36) Expanding Online Presence (51:59) Exclusive Content on Website (52:28) Closing Remarks to learn more about PNW PeakBaggers, visit our website at: www.pnwpeakbaggers.com

Summary: In this episode, host Bill Goodgion interviews Greg Henriksen, a passionate peak bagger and member of the PNW PeakBaggers community. Greg shares his definition of peak bagging and discusses his transition back into hiking and peak bagging after a long break. He talks about the importance of having hiking partners who share similar interests and the value of research and planning before embarking on a hike. Greg also shares his favorite gear, including trail runners and poles, and discusses the challenges and rewards of peak bagging. He expresses his appreciation for the PNW PeakBaggers community and offers suggestions for improvement. Greg Henriksen shares his personal connection to hiking and his favorite outdoor activities. He also provides advice for new peak baggers and emphasizes the importance of experience and technique. Additionally, he discusses his online presence and involvement in the hiking community. Takeaways: Peak bagging is the pursuit of reaching the summit of mountains and is often driven by a desire to explore new places and achieve personal goals. Research and planning are essential for successful peak bagging, including using tools like CalTopo and websites like WTA and Northwest Hikers for information and trip reports. Having compatible hiking partners who share similar interests and values is important for safety and enjoyment on the trail. Gear preferences can vary, but many peak baggers opt for lightweight trail runners and trekking poles for comfort and stability. Peak bagging is not just about reaching the summit, but also about the journey, the beauty of nature, and the sense of accomplishment. Start hiking with minor trails and gradually progress to more challenging ones. Joining hiking groups or going with experienced hikers can enhance safety and enjoyment. Building endurance, stamina, and confidence takes time and repetition. Engaging with online hiking communities can provide valuable resources and connections. Chapters (00:00) Introduction and Background (02:58) Definition of Peak Bagging (03:39) The Drive to Reach the Summit (05:23) Transition to Peak Bagging (06:33) Getting Started with Peak Bagging (08:49) Recording Peaks on Peakbagger.com (10:27) Dealing with Injuries and Physical Limitations (11:54) Exercise and Fitness Routine (12:21) Knee Issues and Surgery (13:14) The Importance of Stretching (14:58) Hiking Partners and Compatibility (15:49) Researching Hikes and Routes (18:18) Research Tools and Websites (20:25) Weather Apps and Resources (22:06) Navigation Skills and Tools (26:46) Gear Preferences: Trail Runners and Poles (31:09) Memorable Peaks and Journeys (34:08) Challenging Peaks and Personal Limits (36:15) Appreciation for the PNW Peak Baggers Community (37:39) Suggestions for Improvement (38:34) Personal Interests and Hobbies (38:54) Personal Connection to Hiking (39:26) Favorite Outdoor Activities (40:16) Favorite Hiking Spots (41:09) Advice for New Peak Baggers (42:29) Importance of Experience and Technique (44:12) Online Presence and Community

Summary: Kelly Selzler, an active climber and nature photographer, shares her journey into peak bagging and her love for the Pacific Northwest. She discusses her move from Ohio to Washington State and her early experiences hiking and climbing in the region. Kelly emphasizes the importance of following one's own journey and not getting caught up in chasing lists or comparing oneself to others. She also shares her passion for photography and gardening, and offers advice for beginners in the climbing community. Takeaways: Follow your own journey and don't compare yourself to others. Solo climbing can provide a sense of accomplishment and solitude. Use resources like peakbagger.com and Gaia for route finding and beta. Stay safe and communicate with tools like the inReach Mini. Find joy in the process and don't get too focused on checking off peaks. Chapters: (00:00) Introduction and Background (02:10) Moving to the Pacific Northwest (03:00) Getting into Peak Bagging (04:24) First Solo Hike (05:49) Influence of Father (06:48) Hiking with Children (09:06) Balancing Peak Bagging with Family and Work (10:29) Solo Climbing and Route Finding (12:23) Pace and Compatibility with Climbing Partners (13:19) Benefits of Solo Climbing (14:17) Finding Routes and Beta (17:31) Working on the Bulgers List (18:49) Not Keeping Track of Peak Count (19:44) Memorable Climbing Trips (21:38) Challenges and Rewards of Climbing (23:25) Love for Photography and Gardening (25:46) Getting into Photography (27:37) Photography Gear and Taking Photos (28:34) Mentors and Influences (29:56) Advice for Beginners (31:21) Safety and Communication (33:12) Discovering PNW Peak Baggers (34:41) Benefits of Being in the Group (35:40) Female Perspective in Mountaineering (38:04) Hobbies and Time Management (39:01) Advice on Safety and Enjoyment42:05Closing Remarks

Selena Eon grew up in the Northwest, whenever she leaves she is excited to return home to Issaquah. She loves to study the human body including physical, emotional and mental health. She believes that the healthier we are in all these areas, the more we can accomplish with joy and purpose. For work, she is a naturopathic doctor for the Puyallup Tribe. Selena loves to design and sew. She has shown pieces in fashion shows, including some unusual trash fashion pieces. She strongly believes in patching and repairing gear whenever possible! And as you might expect, she loves the mountains: not just peak-bagging, but also trail bagging and lake bagging!  Summary: In this episode, Selena Eon, a leader of PNW Peak Baggers, shares her journey as a peak bagger and offers insights and advice for beginners. She discusses the definition of peak bagging and the different perspectives within the mountaineering community. Selena talks about her most memorable climbs, overcoming challenges and doubts, and the importance of being patient in the journey. She also shares her experiences as a female climber and the influence of her mentor. Selena emphasizes the joy and camaraderie of climbing with others and the importance of finding what works for you in terms of nutrition and gear. She encourages beginners to be patient and enjoy the process of learning and growing as a peak bagger. Takeaways: Peak bagging can be defined as the pursuit of summiting peaks, with a focus on reaching the top. Being a peak bagger is a personal choice and can be interpreted differently by different individuals. Overcoming challenges and doubts is an important part of the peak bagging journey, and it is essential to believe in oneself and set personal goals. The mountaineering community can be inclusive and supportive, and it is important to find the right partners who appreciate and respect each other's abilities. Peak bagging is not just about the destination but also about the journey, the camaraderie, and the joy of being in the mountains. Chapters: (00:00) Introduction and Background (02:08) Definition of Peak Bagging (05:57) Getting Started in Peak Bagging (08:37) Number of Peaks Climbed (10:30) Most Memorable Climbs (12:41) Overcoming Challenges and Doubts (17:56) Being a Female Climber (20:17) Influential Mentor (22:31) Least Favorite Peak (26:06) Love for the Mountains (28:29) Staying in Shape and Mountain Biking (30:18) Nutrition in the Mountains (34:09) Special Items in the Mountains (36:33) Role as a Moderator (38:38) Interests in Trash Fashion and Singing (40:34) Advice for Beginners (42:00) Where to Find Dr. Selena Eon (43:23) Closing Remarks

Inspiring and connecting people who love to climb peaks in the Pacific Northwest!

Ed Kenney has been helping moderate the PNW PeakBaggers group now for a couple of years. He started bagging peaks when he was sixteen in Colorado and found that he preferred the steeper, more glaciated peaks. He move to Washington State in 1969 and thought he had died and went to heaven! He had not heard about the Bulgers List but was captivated by the fellow educator Dallas Kloke's list of the most difficult 10 Peaks to climb in the state. Ed has climbed over 3000 peaks on 5 continents. He has climbed to 20,000 ft. in South America and climbed over 18,000 ft in a single day. Join us as he tells us about some of his adventures including climbing and meeting legends such as Fred Beckey, Royal Robbins, Yvonn Chounaird, and Tobin Sorensen. Summary: Ed Kenny, an experienced climber, shares his journey and adventures in mountaineering. He talks about how he got into climbing and his early experiences in Colorado. Ed recounts memorable climbs, including rescuing climbers and facing challenges. He discusses influential climbers he has met, such as Fred Beckey and Ueli Steck. Ed also shares his experiences climbing in the Alps and witnessing tragedy. He talks about his love for climbing and the independence it offers. Ed concludes by discussing his role as a moderator in the PNW Peak Baggers group and his off-grid lifestyle. Takeaways: Ed Kenny started climbing after a fishing trip turned into a mountain climb. He climbed many fifth-class peaks in Colorado and completed all the 14ers. Ed had memorable experiences rescuing climbers and facing challenges in the mountains. He climbed with influential climbers like Fred Beckey and Ueli Steck. Ed witnessed tragedy while climbing in the Alps and learned valuable lessons. He enjoys the independence and self-sufficiency that climbing offers. Ed is a moderator in the PNW Peak Baggers group and lives off the grid. Chapters: (00:00) Introduction and Background (01:27) Getting Into Climbing (2:21) Climbing the Colorado Peaks (03:16) Rescuing Climbers and Facing Challenges (04:16) Memorable Climbs and Early Mentors (07:03) Climbing in the Alps and Witnessing Tragedy (09:30) Influential Climbers and Changing Ethics (11:21) Climbing with Fred Beckey and Ueli Steck (12:50) Memorable Climbs and Adventures (15:33) Climbing with Health Challenges (17:26) Taking Students on Climbs and Liberty Ridge (19:25) Preparations and Gear for Climbing (21:20) Memorable Climbs in Indonesia (23:40)The PNW Peak Baggers Group and Living Off the Grid (27:57) Keeping Up with Ed and Future Plans To learn more about PNW PeakBaggers, visit our website at: www.pnwpeakbaggers.com