Wanjiru shares their journey into the world of climbing, discussing the importance of community, and their role with Sending in Color in creating inclusive spaces for climbers of colour. They reflect on the challenges of ice climbing, the significance of proper gear, and the joy of seeing others succeed in climbing. Wanjiru and Mel explore the value of treating climbing as a journey rather than a destination. notyourtypicalclimberpodcast.uk Follow us on Instagram About your host: Mel Reeve is an experienced writer, casual climber and enthusiast, bringing her knowledge and passion to the podcast. With a background in writing, copywriting and content creation, Mel is dedicated to sharing the diverse stories and perspectives that shape the climbing community.…

Siddrah, the founder of Climb Muz, shares her motivation behind creating a supportive community for Muslim women in climbing. She discusses the challenges faced by Muslim women in climbing, the importance of representation, and the impact of Climb Muz in fostering a safe and inclusive environment. Siddrah tells us about her growth as a climber and future aspirations for her organisation. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Climbing and Personal Journey 02:23 Creating Inclusive Spaces 05:18 Building Community and Support in Climbing 07:42 Overcoming Challenges: Fear and Barriers in Climbing 10:01 The Role of Climbing Walls in Inclusivity 12:39 Personal Growth Through Climbing 15:03 Future Aspirations and Goals for Climbers 17:37 Advice for New Climbers and Building Confidence notyourtypicalclimberpodcast.uk Follow us on Instagram About your host: Mel Reeve is an experienced writer, casual climber and enthusiast, bringing her knowledge and passion to the podcast. With a background in writing, copywriting and content creation, Mel is dedicated to sharing the diverse stories and perspectives that shape the climbing community.…

Sunni Ford is the director of Fat Senders, a climbing group focused on inclusivity for all body types within the climbing community. Sunni shares their journey into climbing, the challenges they've faced because of misconceptions about their capabilities, and the positive impact of creating a supportive environment through Fat Senders. They discuss the importance of navigating assumptions and stereotypes in climbing, the need for more inclusive spaces, and their experiences within the trad climbing community. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Climbing and Personal Journey 02:48 The Positive Impact of Fatsenders 06:10 Navigating Assumptions and Stereotypes in Climbing 09:08 Creating Inclusive Climbing Spaces 12:05 Experiences in Trad Climbing 15:00 Future Goals and Aspirations for Fatsenders 17:49 Reflections on Competition and Community 21:08 Advice for New Climbers notyourtypicalclimberpodcast.uk Follow us on Instagram About your host: Mel Reeve is an experienced writer, casual climber and enthusiast, bringing her knowledge and passion to the podcast. With a background in writing, copywriting and content creation, Mel is dedicated to sharing the diverse stories and perspectives that shape the climbing community.…

Ayla shares how climbing has impacted her life and how it can support mental health. She tells Mel about the challenges faced by the trans community within the climbing world, highlighting the need for inclusivity and support. Ayla reflects on the realities of being a trans climber, and her motivation for creating content that encourages others to embrace their identities in outdoor spaces. She tells us about her current climbing projects and favourite locations, particularly her love for slate climbing in North Wales. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 03:41 Climbing as Therapy 10:50 Community and Inclusivity in Climbing 18:05 Climbing Goals and Personal Growth 24:38 Encouraging Others in the Climbing Community notyourtypicalclimberpodcast.uk Follow us on Instagram About your host: Mel Reeve is an experienced writer, casual climber and enthusiast, bringing her knowledge and passion to the podcast. With a background in writing, copywriting and content creation, Mel is dedicated to sharing the diverse stories and perspectives that shape the climbing community.…

Lou, the managing director of Flash Foxy, shares their journey in climbing, the evolution of the organization towards inclusivity, and the importance of creating supportive spaces for women and genderqueer climbers. They discuss the significance of community, the joy of climbing festivals, and the complexities of risk management in climbing. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 06:30 The Evolution of Flash Foxy and Its Values 12:22 Creating Inclusive Spaces in Climbing 17:28 The Joy of Climbing Festivals 22:39 Risk Management and Personal Growth in Climbing 28:26 Future Aspirations in Alpine Climbing notyourtypicalclimberpodcast.uk Follow us on Instagram About your host: Mel Reeve is an experienced writer, casual climber and enthusiast, bringing her knowledge and passion to the podcast. With a background in writing, copywriting and content creation, Mel is dedicated to sharing the diverse stories and perspectives that shape the climbing community.…

Hannah, a journalist and climber, shares her journey into the world of climbing, her involvement with the Women's Climbing Symposium, and her passion for environmental stewardship through her initiative, Tidy Climbers. She discusses the importance of community in climbing, the challenges of littering in outdoor spaces, and the need for education and compassion in addressing these issues. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 02:52 Women in Climbing: The Women's Climbing Symposium 05:48 Hannah's Climbing Journey: From Scouts to Trad 09:05 The Beauty of Trad Climbing in the Lake District 11:58 Tidy Climbers: A Litter Picking Initiative 14:55 The Impact of Tidy Climbers on the Community 17:48 Understanding Littering: Education and Compassion 21:09 Future Plans for Tidy Climbers 24:02 Closing Thoughts notyourtypicalclimberpodcast.uk Follow us on Instagram About your host: Mel Reeve is an experienced writer, casual climber and enthusiast, bringing her knowledge and passion to the podcast. With a background in writing, copywriting and content creation, Mel is dedicated to sharing the diverse stories and perspectives that shape the climbing community.…

Amruta Wyssmann shares how she went from a new climber to proud member of the Swiss paraclimbing team. She tells Mel about the importance of community in climbing and her training plans. Amy also shares her aspirations for the future - including hopes for the 2028 Paralympics - her newfound passion for ice climbing, and her hobbies outside of climbing including cooking and reading fantasy novels. NOTE: apologies, the audio quality for the final moments of the episode is slightly less than optimal - no, it's not just your headphones! Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 02:51 The Community and Competition in Climbing 05:46 Training Regimens and Overcoming Challenges 09:04 Route Setting and Adaptations in Para Climbing 11:58 Future Aspirations and the Paralympics 15:08 Exploring Ice Climbing 17:57 Hobbies Beyond Climbing notyourtypicalclimberpodcast.uk Follow us on Instagram About your host: Mel Reeve is an experienced writer, casual climber and enthusiast, bringing her knowledge and passion to the podcast. With a background in writing, copywriting and content creation, Mel is dedicated to sharing the diverse stories and perspectives that shape the climbing community.…

Ben Fitzsimmons from Refugees Rock shares his profound connection to climbing. Ben highlights his work with Refugees Rock, a programme that provides free climbing sessions for asylum seekers. We discuss the importance of access to climbing for diverse groups and the role of community support in enhancing the climbing experience. notyourtypicalclimberpodcast.uk Follow us on Instagram About your host: Mel Reeve is an experienced writer, casual climber and enthusiast, bringing her knowledge and passion to the podcast. With a background in writing, copywriting and content creation, Mel is dedicated to sharing the diverse stories and perspectives that shape the climbing community.…

Bennett Rahn, a plus-size rock climber and mountaineer, shares her experiences of being a plus-size climber. Bennett tells host Mel Reeve about the importance of rage confidence, navigating gear accessibility, and the need for more representation in climbing. She reflects on building supportive communities, self-advocacy, and the journey from amateur to professional guiding. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 02:54 The Journey to Climbing: Overcoming Insecurities 05:46 Embodiment and Confidence in Climbing 09:01 Navigating Gear and Movement as a Plus-Size Climber 11:52 Representation and Its Impact on the Climbing Community 15:13 Building Resilience and Community in Climbing 18:06 The Role of a Plus-Size Guide in Climbing 29:11 The Journey to Guiding: From Amateur to Professional 34:16 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome in Climbing 53:06 Finding Joy and Balance in Climbing notyourtypicalclimberpodcast.uk Follow us on Instagram About your host: Mel Reeve is an experienced writer, casual climber and enthusiast, bringing her knowledge and passion to the podcast. With a background in writing, copywriting and content creation, Mel is dedicated to sharing the diverse stories and perspectives that shape the climbing community.…

Charmian is the Climbing Lead at Wanderers of Colour, she tells host Mel Reeve about her journey into climbing, the challenges of climbing while pregnant, and the importance of building a community for people of colour in outdoor activities. She also discusses the founding of Wanderers of Colour, its mission to create inclusive spaces for climbers, and the significance of representation in the climbing community. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 00:55 Climbing Preferences and Favorite Locations 03:27 Climbing with Family and Pregnancy Journey 07:57 Representation in Climbing and Community Support 09:54 Wanderers of Colour: Origins and Growth 14:12 Climbing Festival: Planning and Execution 18:50 Personal Reflections on Community 21:09 Future Goals and Climbing Opportunities 23:13 Encouragement for New Climbers and Community Involvement notyourtypicalclimberpodcast.uk Follow us on Instagram About your host: Mel Reeve is an experienced writer, casual climber and enthusiast, bringing her knowledge and passion to the podcast. With a background in writing, copywriting and content creation, Mel is dedicated to sharing the diverse stories and perspectives that shape the climbing community.…

Prominent British climber Emma Twyford shares her journey to becoming the first British woman to send a 9a route. She reveals the challenges she's faced, including overcoming glandular fever and the transition from competition climbing to personal enjoyment. We also explore her efforts to empower women in the climbing industry through route-setting workshops. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 01:56 From Outdoor to Indoor 03:50 Overcoming Challenges: Glandular Fever and Climbing 10:08 The Transition from Competition to Personal Enjoyment 15:08 Achieving Milestones: First British Woman to Send 9A 19:54 The Importance of Self-Belief and Representation in Climbing 27:08 Route Setting: Empowering Women in the Industry 34:03 Personal Life and Hobbies Outside of Climbing notyourtypicalclimberpodcast.uk Follow us on Instagram About your host: Mel Reeve is an experienced writer, casual climber and enthusiast, bringing her knowledge and passion to the podcast. With a background in writing, copywriting and content creation, Mel is dedicated to sharing the diverse stories and perspectives that shape the climbing community.…

Pro climber and mental training coach Lor Sabourin shares their journey into climbing and outdoor adventure. Lor reflects on the importance of defining success on their own terms, and their experience as a non-binary climber. They share insights into managing fear while climbing, drawing from their expertise in mental coaching. Mel and Lor interrogate how it felt to be the first openly non-binary climber to conquer a 5.14 route, and Lor offers their perspective on creating inclusive and accessible climbing spaces. notyourtypicalclimberpodcast.uk Follow us on Instagram About your host: Mel Reeve is an experienced writer, casual climber and enthusiast, bringing her knowledge and passion to the podcast. With a background in writing, copywriting and content creation, Mel is dedicated to sharing the diverse stories and perspectives that shape the climbing community.…

Rock climbing and adventure photographer Irene Yee shares how she became a successful photographer focusing on representation in outdoor activities, including climbing. Irene and Mel discuss the impact of her photography, why she’s committed to creating diverse content, and the transformative power of climbing. We cover developing the skill of self-reflection, how to handle mansplaining at the crag, taking up space on and off the wall, and falling in and out of love with climbing. notyourtypicalclimberpodcast.uk Follow us on Instagram About your host: Mel Reeve is an experienced writer, casual climber and enthusiast, bringing her knowledge and passion to the podcast. With a background in writing, copywriting and content creation, Mel is dedicated to sharing the diverse stories and perspectives that shape the climbing community.…

Kimbrough Moore is a climbing enthusiast and philosophy professor, he joins us to share his perspective on climbing ethics. Find out how he got started in climbing, his competition experience, and his perspective on the issue of gender bias in climbing grades. Mel and Kimbrough discuss his ‘Brough code’, and how a more accurate and nuanced approach to grading can improve inclusivity in climbing. Links: https://linktr.ee/kimbroughclimbs https://www.instagram.com/kimbroughclimbs notyourtypicalclimberpodcast.uk Follow us on Instagram About your host: Mel Reeve is an experienced writer, casual climber and enthusiast, bringing her knowledge and passion to the podcast. With a background in writing, copywriting and content creation, Mel is dedicated to sharing the diverse stories and perspectives that shape the climbing community.…

Jocelynne Flor is a Toronto-based climber and content creator whose engaging videos make the world of climbing feel accessible to everyone. Through her educational and inspiring content, Jocelynne shares her climbing journey. Mel and Jocelynne explore the driving force behind her creativity, and why it feels important to make climbing approachable for all. Discover how Jocelynne’s authentic storytelling and educational approach are inspiring a new generation of climbers. Links https://beacons.ai/jocelynneflor https://www.instagram.com/jocelynneflor/ notyourtypicalclimberpodcast.uk Follow us on Instagram About your host: Mel Reeve is an experienced writer, casual climber and enthusiast, bringing her knowledge and passion to the podcast. With a background in writing, copywriting and content creation, Mel is dedicated to sharing the diverse stories and perspectives that shape the climbing community.…

Agus ‘AJ’ Guardiola, co-founder of ClimbOut Festival shares their experience creating an inclusive space for the LGBTQ+ community in outdoor climbing. Hear about their own climbing journey and the motivation behind starting ClimbOut Festival, as well as what it feels like to attend. Mel and AJ explore the work ClimbOut is doing to increase diversity and their advice on how to meet the needs of underrepresented communities to create more inclusive climbing events. Links: https://climbout.org/ https://www.instagram.com/climboutfest/ notyourtypicalclimberpodcast.uk Follow us on Instagram About your host: Mel Reeve is an experienced writer, casual climber and enthusiast, bringing her knowledge and passion to the podcast. With a background in writing, copywriting and content creation, Mel is dedicated to sharing the diverse stories and perspectives that shape the climbing community.…

Fallon Rowe is a climber with hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (HEDS) and postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS). From competing in youth climbing competitions to trad and sport climbing as an adult, Fallon explores the importance of mental resilience and self-compassion in navigating the challenges of climbing with a health condition. Mel and Fallon consider the misconceptions and challenges faced by paraclimbers, and the importance of respect, community, and finding supportive environments in climbing. Links: https://www.instagram.com/fallonclimbs https://www.fallonrowe.org/ notyourtypicalclimberpodcast.uk Follow us on Instagram About your host: Mel Reeve is an experienced writer, casual climber and enthusiast, bringing her knowledge and passion to the podcast. With a background in writing, copywriting and content creation, Mel is dedicated to sharing the diverse stories and perspectives that shape the climbing community.…

Palestinian climber Asia shares how she fell in love with sport and explains the challenges of accessing outdoor climbing in Palestine. She opens up about how climbing provides an escape from the restrictions and hardships of living under occupation. We discuss how Asia uses her creative skills to shed light on the reality of life in Palestine and to challenge misconceptions. And we get excited about her work on inclusive outdoor fashion. Asia Zughaiar is a climber, writer, adventure enthusiast, and filmmaker. Asia creates content about climbing and her passion for the outdoors, as well as on the experiences of living in Palestine and witnessing the genocide in Gaza. She explores the experience of climbing in Palestine amidst occupation, and the complexity of how that feels, in honest and open videos on her Instagram page. She also works at a family-owned clothes factory alongside her father in Palestine. Asia is developing her own outdoor brand, which will be the first Palestinian outdoor brand of its kind. Links https://eveningsends.com/author/asiazughaier/ https://www.instagram.com/asia.zughaiar/ Donations: Medical Aid for Palestinians - https://www.map.org.uk Palestine Solidarity Campaign - donate.palestinecampaign.org notyourtypicalclimberpodcast.uk Follow us on Instagram About your host: Mel Reeve is an experienced writer, casual climber and enthusiast, bringing her knowledge and passion to the podcast. With a background in writing, copywriting and content creation, Mel is dedicated to sharing the diverse stories and perspectives that shape the climbing community.…

Hannah Morris started her YouTube channel as a way to share her love for climbing and as an outlet for anxiety. We discuss mental health, body image, and the pushback she has received as a woman with a prominent climbing platform. Mel and Hannah chat about inclusivity, her collaborations, and her aim to work with climbers pushing the sport in a positive direction. Hannah shares her most memorable experiences from her storied YouTube career. Links: instagram.com/_hannahmorris_ hannahmorrisbouldering.com notyourtypicalclimberpodcast.uk Follow us on Instagram About your host: Mel Reeve is an experienced writer, casual climber and enthusiast, bringing her knowledge and passion to the podcast. With a background in writing, copywriting and content creation, Mel is dedicated to sharing the diverse stories and perspectives that shape the climbing community.…

Not Your Typical Climber is a podcast that speaks to pro climbers, amateur climbers, hobby climbers, and anyone who finds joy in the sport. With a particular focus on the things that make us different and unique, the podcast uplifts the voices of those who have been underrepresented within climbing. Every climber has a unique story to tell, and we're here to explore them. Season 1 of the podcast coming soon, make sure to subscribe so you don't miss it! notyourtypicalclimberpodcast.uk Follow us on Instagram About your host: Mel Reeve is an experienced writer, casual climber and enthusiast, bringing her knowledge and passion to the podcast. With a background in writing, copywriting and content creation, Mel is dedicated to sharing the diverse stories and perspectives that shape the climbing community.…