The Hangout Australian Climbing Podcast

This week I'm Hanging with Bryce Johnson. Long term friend of the show.... and I guess friend of the host. Bryce and I met in high school, we lived together for 5 years, started climbing together and have basically belayed each other on every project we've had over the 7 years of climbing. Bryce is one of my best friends, the sweetest caring rudest pain the arses I know but I love him dearly. I was super happy to finally get Brycey on and I hope you all enjoy the coooool stylings of Bryce Johnson.If you are enjoying the show, give us a share. Rate the show if you havent yet! Give us some love 🧡Links👉 FOLLOW / SUBSCRIBE 👉 THE HANGOUT INSTAGRAM👉 THE HANGOUT YOUTUBEQuotes“It’s always about the people… once that community or friendships gone, it just gets a bit sour.”“It’s a lot less worse to just try and do the thing than have to sit with the negative self-talk.”“I’m not just risking a broken leg… I’m risking my child’s future if I fall.”Chapters0:00 - Blue Mountains trip recap and setting the scene2:17 - How climbing first entered our lives5:56 - Getting hooked and going all in early10:20 - How fast growth shaped the journey13:21 - What it’s like being climbing partners16:28 - The depth of long-term climbing friendships19:05 - Understanding each other emotionally21:29 - Learning how to support your partner better24:21 - Banter, shit talk and underlying care28:11 - What actually makes a perfect climbing day30:24 - The sessions that stick with you33:03 - Early adventures and being out of depth35:33 - First projects and chasing the send37:27 - Why sport climbing beats bouldering (for Bryce)40:20 - Getting into trad climbing42:28 - The moment risk became real46:13 - Shifting toward safety and responsibility48:37 - Learning to understand real risk50:20 - Injury, fear and changing perspective53:14 - Rebuilding confidence after setbacks56:22 - Improving self-talk and mindset58:20 - Fear, identity and personal growth1:00:11 - Gear obsession and chasing the perfect shoeThank you for supporting The Hangout &thank you for supporting this dream Hang again soon,Tom 🤘

This week I am Hanging with Kate Proctor.Kate is an outdoor/ adventure photographer, mountain guide and all round legend. I have been following Kates work for 5 years and to see her growth in her career and her art has been absolutely incredible & inspiring. In the episode we spoke on her beginnings as a photographer at 10 years old, the beauty of the natural world that she draws inspiration from and living in the Grampians town of Halls Gap.Follow Kates work Website 👈Instagram 👈Thank you all for listening and if you find some time, please connect with the show and the guests 🧡Chapters00:00 - Intro & Easter Climbing Reflection03:16 - Meeting Kate & Creative Work05:00 - How Photography Started10:30 - Developing a Creative Eye13:30 - Capturing Emotion in Sport18:30 - What Makes Climbing Unique to Shoot21:30 - Behind the Scenes of a Shoot26:30 - First Big Brand Opportunity31:00 - Turning Professional & Business Growth34:30 - Working with Brands & Ethics39:00 - Climbing Culture & Olympics43:30 - Perspective in Climbing47:00 - Outdoor Education & Guiding50:30 - Inspiration & Creativity56:30 - Living in the Grampians01:00:30 - Bushfires & Reality of the Environment01:06:30 - Community & Small Town Life01:12:00 - Seasonal Life in the Grampians01:15:30 - Introduction to Climbing01:20:00 - Growth, Identity & Change01:34:00 - Vision for Photography01:40:00 - Closing ReflectionsKeywordsclimbing podcast, outdoor photography, climbing photography, Kate Proctor, The Hangout podcast, Australian climbing, Grampians climbing, adventure storytelling, creative process, outdoor lifestyle, trail running photography, climbing culture, brand partnerships, outdoor brands, North Face photography, creative business, storytelling, nature connection, outdoor education, climbing mindset, personal growth, visual storytelling

This week I am Hanging with Moriah Broadbent-Hogan. Moriah has been climbing most her life and has over 10+ years coaching climbers to achieve their goals. After this conversation, I was convinced that a coach would take my climbing to the next level. I am now finishing my 1st block of training with Moriah and feeling strong and confident on rock. Remember to support the guest and the show, give the community a bump and like, follow or subscribe to your favourite Aussie climbers 🙏LinksGet coached by Moriah 👈Moriah's Socials 👈Chapters00:00 – Intro & Why This Episode MattersTom reflects on slowing down releases and wanting listeners to truly connect with each story.02:40 – Finding a Coach & Building ConsistencyHow working with Mariah improved strength, confidence, and accountability.04:30 – Career Shift: From Head Coach to Passion-Driven CoachingMariah explains stepping away from management to focus on climbers directly.08:00 – Coaching Yourself vs Having a CoachWhy self-coaching is mentally challenging and the value of external support.12:00 – Why Most Training Plans FailThe disconnect between “perfect on paper” and what actually works in real life.16:30 – Building Consistency Through Real Life ChaosInjuries, sickness, busy weeks—and how to adapt instead of falling off.22:00 – Process vs Outcome in ClimbingWhy sending isn’t as fulfilling as expected and what actually matters.25:00 – Learning to Love the ProcessMental frameworks to stay engaged during long-term projects.30:30 – Coaching Youth Climbers & Managing PressureHelping kids separate performance from identity and avoid burnout.36:30 – The Responsibility of a CoachHow small moments and words can shape athletes long-term.42:30 – The Highs & Lows of CoachingCelebrating sends, dealing with injuries, and supporting athletes through setbacks.45:30 – Injury, Setbacks & Hard LessonsMariah’s pulley rupture and what it revealed about her climbing.48:00 – Strength Imbalances & Over-RelianceWhy being too strong in one area can lead to breakdown.51:00 – Strength Training vs TechniqueWhere strength fits—and where climbers often get it wrong.54:00 – Building the “Ideal Climber”Why technique should come before strength in development.57:00 – Training Technique Without a CoachHow to actually improve movement, not just climb more.1:02:00 – Why Most Climbers PlateauLack of reflection, intention, and structured progression.1:06:00 – The Role of Awareness in ProgressionUnderstanding your weaknesses vs blindly training.1:10:00 – Balancing Strength, Skill & LifestyleHow life outside climbing impacts performance more than you think.1:14:00 – The Reality of Long-Term ProgressWhy progress is non-linear and requires patience.1:18:00 – Identity in ClimbingHow climbers tie self-worth to grades—and how to break that.1:22:00 – Staying in Love With Climbing Long-TermAvoiding burnout and keeping the sport fun.1:26:00 – What Makes a Great Climber (Beyond Strength)Adaptability, mindset, and problem-solving.1:30:00 – Advice for Climbers Feeling StuckSimple shifts that unlock progress again.1:34:00 – Final Reflections on Coaching & GrowthMariah’s philosophy on coaching and helping others improve.1:38:00 – Closing Thoughts & TakeawaysWrapping up the conversation and key lessons from the episode.Keywordsclimbing consistency, process vs outcome mindset, climbing training plan, climbing motivation, self coaching vs coach, climbing mental game, injury recovery climbing, strength vs technique climbing, avoiding burnout climbing, long term progression climbing

In this episode of The Hangout, I sit down with Angus Taylor, an incredibly driven climber whose life changed after a serious climbing accident that led to the loss of his leg.We talk about what it actually takes to come back from something like that—not just physically, but mentally. Angus shares how discipline has become more reliable than motivation, why “just starting” is often the hardest and most important step, and how being kind to yourself can actually lead to better performance.Now training toward the 2028 LA Paralympics, Angus brings a grounded, honest perspective on resilience, effort, and what it means to truly try.👉 DONATE HERE 👈INSTAGRAMChapters00:00 – Intro & returning to a slower release schedule00:30 – Angus’ accident and losing his leg02:00 – Climbing post-injury & training for LA 202805:00 – Early climbing roots and childhood on the farm10:00 – Work ethic, family influence & Tulip Top Gardens18:00 – Motivation vs discipline25:00 – The power of just starting32:00 – Being kind to yourself in training40:00 – Extracting value vs just putting in effort50:00 – Climbing culture and learning to truly try1:00:00 – Community support through injury and recovery1:10:00 – Finding appreciation in small moments1:20:00 – Climbing media, creativity & expression1:30:00 – Closing thoughts on effort, resilience & gratitudeKeywordsclimbing podcast, adaptive climbing, resilience, discipline vs motivation, climbing injury recovery, paralympic climbing, mental toughness, climbing philosophy, training mindset, overcoming adversity, climbing community, personal growth, effort and discipline, Australian climbers, The Hangout podcast

In this episode of The Hangout, Tom sits down with climber and guide Michael Lehmann to explore the reality of building a life in the mountains.Michael shares the story of a serious avalanche accident where he and his partner were swept 300 metres down a mountain and over two cliffs. Both survived, and the experience became a powerful moment of reflection on the decisions and risks that led to it. Beyond the incident, the conversation explores the wider philosophy of life in the mountains - from guiding and expedition logistics to climbing remote objectives - and how high-level climbing often becomes less about strength and more about judgement, problem solving, and managing uncertainty.LinksInstagram: @stokedmikeWebsite: Mike Lehmann PhotographyChapters00:00 – Intro & podcast setup02:00 – Michael’s climbing background and mountain life08:30 – Getting into guiding and working in the outdoors18:00 – The psychological side of guiding and supporting clients25:00 – Career paths in guiding and managing risk in mountain environments32:00 – Climbing as complex problem solving40:00 – Fear, exposure and building confidence in climbing50:00 – Sea stack climbing and the logistics behind remote objectives1:05:00 – Adventures in Tasmania and climbing with friends1:20:00 – Sailing, sea cliffs and expedition access1:35:00 – The avalanche story begins1:45:00 – Triggering the avalanche and the fall down the mountain1:55:00 – Being buried, surviving and the aftermath2:05:00 – Lessons learned and changes to decision making2:15:00 – Mountain culture, mistakes and supporting others after accidents2:20:00 – Closing thoughts on risk, adventure and partnershipKeywordsclimbing podcast, mountaineering, avalanche survival, mountain risk management, climbing philosophy, alpine climbing, sea stack climbing, Tasmania climbing, expedition climbing, adventure storytelling, outdoor leadership, decision making in the mountains, climbing partnerships, mountain guiding, climbing logistics

If you're enjoying The Hangout, I would be psyched for you to rate the show, share the show or follow the show! Let's GO!In this episode of The Hangout, Tom's Hanging with Northface athlete Lucy Stirling.Recorded on a freezing morning in the Pines at Arapiles, this episode captures Lucy at a powerful transition point in her climbing life.Lucy opens up about her shift from competition climbing and the Olympic pathway to outdoor climbing - and ultimately into hard trad. We unpack ego, comparison and the quiet toxicity that can creep into performance-driven environments. Lucy shares the moment she realized her fire for climbing no longer lived in chasing semifinals or qualifiers - but in sandstone, adventure, and self-trust.LinksInstagram: @lucyclimbingChapters00:00 – Intro & Setting the SceneRecording in the Pines at Arapiles. The energy of place, community, and why this environment feels spiritual.04:30 – First Impressions of ArapilesLucy’s connection to the Pines and what makes the space so unique.08:30 – Trad Climbing & Letting Go of EgoHow trad reshaped Lucy’s definition of success and challenged grade-focused thinking.12:00 – Sponsorship, Comparison & Self-WorthThe pressure of being a sponsored athlete and tying value to performance.17:00 – From Comp Climbing to OutdoorsWhy outdoor climbing shifted her mindset and softened the competitive edge.19:00 – Discovering TradBecoming a beginner again. Learning systems, placing gear, building anchors, trusting decisions.23:00 – Why a 28 Meant More Than Harder GradesSentinel at the Pit Stop. Pride beyond numbers.26:00 – Character Arcs Over GradesClimbing for story, growth, and internal breakthroughs rather than metrics.29:00 – Breaking the Glass CeilingLimiting beliefs, projecting, and re-writing internal narratives.32:00 – The Olympic Pathway & Internal ConflictThe long build toward qualifiers, injury, sacrifice, and fractured identity.38:00 – Winning Nationals & Still Feeling EmptyA pivotal moment of clarity after success didn’t bring fulfilment.39:30 – The Boulder Round Breaking PointFrustration, height limitations, and realizing she was done.44:00 – Stepping Away From CompetitionWhy Lucy hasn’t re-engaged with the comp scene since — and what rest from that world feels like.46:00 – Rising Tides & Breaking BarriersReflection on Australian climbing, funding, and watching peers thrive.Key Takeaways1. Grades Are Arbitrary — Growth Isn’t2. Trad Climbing Builds Self-Trust3. Ego Isn’t Bad — But It Needs Balance4. Success Without Meaning Feels Empty5. The Fire Matters More Than the Dream6. Becoming a Beginner Is Powerful7. Stop Pushing. Start Magnetising.KeywordsLucy Stirling, Trad climbing mindset, Competition climbing transition, Olympic climbing pathway, Climbing psychology, Self-worth in sport, Breaking glass ceilings, Arapiles climbing, The Pines, Sentinel Pit Stop, Climbing ego, Outdoor climbing journey, Women in climbing, Trust in trad, Climbing identity

In Episode 7 of The Hangout, Tom sits down with Hugo Hornshaw, a former youth competition climber who stepped away from the podium to build a life in farming.We explore identity beyond performance, why Hugo left the comp scene despite doing well, and what it means to choose a completely different “way of life.”I understand religion isn't for everyone - but to me belief is very important. Belief in self, belief in others or belief in something bigger than us. How that comes into someones life interests me and I hope this conversation interests you too. Instagram: Hugo HornshawChapters00:00 – IntroTom introduces Hugo: youth comp background, move to Queensland, climber turned farmer.03:30 – Growing Up in the Australian Comp SceneThe pressure, the culture, and what it was like performing at a high level.12:00 – Why Walk Away?The internal pull to leave climbing behind and pursue something radically different.20:15 – Moving to Queensland & Starting FarmingWhat the transition looked like emotionally and practically.28:40 – Identity Beyond SportWho are you when you’re not “the climber”?38:00 – A Different Way of LifeFarming, rhythm, physical labour, and redefining success.48:20 – Being Found Through ChatGPTThe unexpected modern twist: how Hugo ended up on the podcast.55:00 – Reflections on Direction & PurposeChoosing alignment over external validation.1:05:00 – Closing ThoughtsAdvice to younger climbers and those feeling the pull toward something different.KeywordsHugo Hornshaw, Australian climbing podcast, youth competition climbing Australia, climber turned farmer, leaving competitive sport, identity after sport, Queensland farming lifestyle, redefining success, life after climbing, Christian faith, faith and purpose, The Hangout podcast episode 7

In this episode, I'm Hanging with Connor, Jake and Rach to unpack why Moonarie might just be Australia’s most untouched hidden gem.Six hours north of Adelaide in the Flinders Ranges, Moonarie is a remote quartzite sandstone crag with long mixed trad pitches, and a serious old-school feel. The crew dive into what makes it special: esoteric, rarely repeated classics, sandbagged grades, huge 50m pitches, and a strong historical lineage from developers.Socials📸: Connor📸: Rach📸: JakeChapters00:00 The Essence of Rock Climbing02:46 Climbing Goals and Group Dynamics06:06 Exploring Moonarie: The Best Crag in Australia12:08 The Challenges of Van Life15:03 International Climbing Adventures19:49 The Allure of Trad Climbing24:51 Life Lists and Climbing Aspirations30:12 The Flow State in Climbing34:57 Risk and Reward in Trad Climbing49:24 Understanding Risk in Climbing56:30 The Role of Ego in Climbing01:02:56 The Journey of Mastery in Climbing01:10:58 Training and Preparation for Climbing01:18:14 Exploring New Climbing Areas and Routes

SummaryIn this episode, I'm Hanging with climber Hayden Jamison to discuss his extensive climbing experiences, including a challenging expedition in Pakistan that resulted in a serious injury. They explore the recovery process, the thrill of climbing in Australia, and the cultural experiences that come with climbing adventures. Hayden shares insights on the importance of community in climbing, his future aspirations, and the balance between risk and reward in the sport. This conversation highlights the profound impact climbing has on personal growth and the unique stories that come from the journey.Instagram: Hayden JamiesonYoutube: Picalfor Video HEREThe Hangout SUBSTACKSign Up for Latest News & Guest Line-UpChapters00:00 Introduction to Hayden Jamison01:58 The Pakistan Expedition Experience12:05 Injury and Recovery: A Climber's Journey20:02 Climbing in Australia: Adventures and Insights29:50 Cultural Experiences and Climbing Stories39:49 Future Aspirations and Climbing GoalsKeywordsclimbing, Hayden Jamison, Pakistan expedition, injury recovery, Australia climbing, cultural experiences, adventure, climbing stories, future goals, climbing community

In this conversation, I sit down with Melissa Edwards, a passionate advocate for climbing and climbing access. We talk about her journey within the climbing community, her role in founding Climbing Cuties.We unpack the challenges around land management plans and cultural heritage, and why community involvement and advocacy are crucial for the future of climbing. Melissa shares insights into the Shared Not Shut campaign, which aims to support respectful access while honouring Aboriginal cultural heritage. At its core, this conversation highlights the power of community, collaboration, and a shared love for nature in keeping climbing culture strong.Links Below👉 Shared Not Shut👉 Climbing Victoria👉 Climbing Access NewsFollow Melissa on Substack 👉 @melfromnatiChapters00:00 Introduction to Melissa Edwards and Climbing Advocacy02:47 Melissa's Climbing Journey and Community Building06:07 Creating Climbing Cuties and Fostering Inclusivity08:59 The Move to Natimuk and Outdoor Climbing Experiences11:49 The Importance of Accessibility in Climbing15:10 Community and Cultural Heritage in Climbing18:00 The Role of Local Legends in Climbing History20:49 Advocacy for Access and the Shared Not Shut Campaign24:09 Navigating Cultural Heritage and Climbing Access27:01 The Impact of Management Plans on Climbing29:50 Community Engagement and Political Advocacy33:01 The Future of Climbing Access and Community Collaboration35:55 Conclusion and Call to Action

SummaryIn this episode, I'm Hanging with Cal Mather, a prominent climber from Australia known for his impressive achievements in bouldering, including the historic ascent of 'Punks in the Gym.' The conversation explores Cal's journey in climbing, his childhood experiences, the development of climbing areas in Far North Queensland, and the challenges he faced while training and preparing for significant climbs. Cal shares insights on pushing personal limits, the philosophy of climbing, and the importance of believing in oneself. The episode concludes with a discussion on future aspirations and the impact of climbing on personal growth.Instagram: @calmatherChapters00:00 Introduction to Cal Mather and His Achievements02:58 The Journey of Climbing: Parallels with Adventure05:51 Childhood and Early Climbing Experiences08:54 Discovering Climbing in Far North Queensland11:50 The Development of Barron Gorge Climbing Area15:14 The Ascent of Punks in the Gym: A Historic Climb29:54 Training and Preparation for Climbing32:48 Pushing Personal Limits and Future AspirationsKeywordsCal Mather, climbing, bouldering, punks in the gym, Far North Queensland, Barron Gorge, climbing training, personal limits, adventure, climbing community

To SUPPORT the Natimuk Community 👇https://www.gofundme.com/f/natimuk-community-fire-recovery-fundSummaryIn this episode, Angus Cameron talks through his climbing journey, from chasing grades to understanding the deeper role of ego, belief, and community. Angus shares insights from coaching youth climbers, the balance between natural ability and hard work, and why enjoyment matters if you want to stay in the game long term. It’s a grounded conversation about Australian climbing culture, self-compassion, and what real progress looks like when climbing becomes more than just performance.Instagram: @quartzclimbingChapters00:00 Introduction to Angus Cameron02:28 The Journey of Climbing and Personal Growth06:57 Ego in Climbing and Coaching Youth10:36 The Role of Community in Climbing17:08 Natural Ability vs. Hard Work in Climbing23:32 The Power of Belief in Climbing and Life37:42 Mindfulness and Self-Awareness in Climbing51:23 The Balance of Training and Enjoyment01:03:07 Future Aspirations in Climbing01:04:05 Climbing Aspirations and Personal Growth01:08:40 The Joy of Climbing and Community01:12:21 Exploring Climbing Culture and Community01:16:14 Bridging the Gap in Australian Climbing01:20:10 The Future of Climbing in Australia01:25:51 Injury and Its Impact on Climbing Perspective01:32:32 Omnidirectional Growth in Climbing01:39:12 Mindfulness and Training in Climbing01:45:26 Fear of Falling and Fear of Failure01:56:03 Judgment and Self-Compassion in ClimbingKeywordsclimbing, coaching, personal growth, ego, community, belief, mindfulness, youth coaching, natural ability, training, climbing, bouldering, community, personal growth, Australian climbing, fear of failure, mindfulness, training, climbing culture, injury recovery

In this first episode of The Hangout, I sit down with climber & friend Harry O’Brien to explore what happens when you step onto the edge - physically and mentally.From climbing in Tasmania to the unique headspace of deep water soloing, they unpack how fear shows up on the wall, how calm is trained, and why breath can be the difference between holding on and letting go.Instagram: @hazzardous_adventuresChapters00:00 The Meeting of Climbers03:13 Climbing Adventures in Vietnam05:58 Deep Water Soloing Experience09:04 The Unique Climbing in Vietnam11:57 The Journey to Butterfly Valley14:55 The Climbing Experience in Butterfly Valley17:58 The Beast Within: Climbing Mentality20:55 The Duality of Calm and Tenacity24:09 The Importance of Breath in Climbing27:05 The Journey of Progress in Climbing30:12 The Influence of Youth on Climbing32:57 The Challenges of Climbing in Tasmania35:58 The Epic Climbing Adventures in Tasmania01:08:11 Planning for Peak Experiences01:11:56 Trust and Communication in Climbing01:12:52 Problem Solving in Climbing01:14:49 International Climbing Adventures01:18:38 Differences in Climbing Styles01:21:29 The Joy of Onsighting01:24:21 The Evolution of Climbing Passion01:30:08 Overcoming Fear in Climbing01:34:26 The Drive to Climb01:37:15 Training and Cross-Training for Climbers01:42:19 The Balance of Climbing and Life01:51:40 Filling the Cup: Energy Restoration01:55:34 The Power of Journaling02:01:03 Meditation and Mindfulness in Climbing02:06:18 Dream Climbs and Future Aspirations

In this introductory episode of The Hangout, host Tom shares his vision for the podcast, aiming to connect the Australian climbing community through shared stories and experiences. He emphasizes the importance of long-form conversations in understanding climbing culture and history, and how these discussions can foster personal growth and community connection. Tom expresses excitement for future episodes and the journey ahead, inviting listeners to join him around the metaphorical campfire to share in the stories of climbers.