The Best Climbing Podcasts

 I am an avid listener of climbing podcasts... I love to hear the Power Company scream like eagles and I've made it a habit to check my knot thanks to Chris Kalous. So let’s make a dive into the climbing podcast world... below I’ve given my two cents on the best for each subject. For some I’ve even given my favorite episodes.

Note: I listen on Apple Podcasts, where all these shows can be found.

My personal favorite: The Nugget Climbing Podcast 

The Nugget has everything. In depth training nerdyness, pure climbing spray, and touching on why we climb. The host Steven Dimmitt is driven and knowledgeable, a very open and interesting person in his own right, talking about his struggles and mistakes that you can learn from. It’s also very consistent. You can expect an episode each Monday, along with bonus episodes. Listen to the end, and you’ll hear Dimmitt’s mandatory question: What have you been especially grateful for lately?, which yields many insightful answers.

My favorite episode: Episode 44, an interview that had little to do with climbing with the podcast’s host: Steven Dimmitt

Best Training Tips: Power Company Podcast 

Unlike other podcasts, Kris Hampton’s Power Company Podcast dives into the simple principles that are more important than the little complexities that we often obsess over. He gives the hard truth… try harder! Not only does he have great training advice, Hampton also brings awareness to important subjects like inclusivity and equity. 

Best Interviews and Stories: The Enormocast 

The OG of climbing podcasts. Interviewer Chris Kalous is a impressive climber in many disciplines with several decades of knowledge and experience in the community. He knows how to connect with guests on a level above other climbing podcasts.

My favorite episode: Episode 197, an interview with Katie Brown, on her struggles, burnout, and path as a climber.

Best Opinions, Controversies, and Food For Thought: The Runout

The Runout is hosted by Chris Kalous of The Enormocast and Andrew Bisharatt, both of whom talk on subjects that are likely to grind gears and give you a new perspective. They often address issues from all points of view, host interviews, and provide great “final bits” (which can be anything from hilarious songs to deep poems).

My favorite episode: Episode 34, a talk with Mark Hudon, an old school legend who still crushes.

Most Mindful: For The Love Of Climbing 

Kathy Karlo’s For The Love Of Climbing digs deep into the darkest and lightest parts of our climbing world. From loss to sexual assault, she finds ways to relate them to our sport and how we can work to improve.

Deepest Dives Into Pure Climbing Stuff: The Cutting Edge 

If you want to know the nitty gritty of a Piolet D’Or contending ascent, The Cutting Edge, of Alpinist  Magazine has it all. In-depth interviews with the athletes themselves. Pure spray.