Sends And Suffers

EP–72 Pittsburgh is the best underrated Climbing city in America!

In this episode, host Mario sits down with Alex Bernstein, owner of Ascend Climbing Gym in Pittsburgh. They discuss the origins of climbing in the city, the unique urban climbing initiatives taking place, and the challenges and rewards of owning a climbing gym. Alex shares his personal journey in the climbing industry, the impact of the pandemic on his business, and his hopes for the future of climbing in Pittsburgh. Tune in to hear about the vibrant climbing community in the city and the exciting opportunities for growth and accessibility.

 

Alex: https://www.instagram.com/alexbpgh/

CWA: https://www.cwapro.org/

Climbing Gym: https://www.ascendclimbing.com/

 

[00:01:03] Pittsburgh climbing gym history.

[00:04:53] Urban rock climbing initiative.

[00:07:19] Revitalizing urban bridge piers.

[00:10:00] Urban climbing in the city.

[00:14:21] The biggest struggle in opening the gym.

[00:18:59] Making climbing accessible.

[00:20:02] Transportation and convenience.

[00:23:44] Making climbing more accessible.

[00:28:43] Quick shout out to mom.

EP–71 Finding Health, Happiness, and Success Through Climbing with Karl

In this episode, the host sits down with Karl, who has a long and illustrious connection to the outdoors and rock climbing. Karl shares his background, starting rock climbing at a young age and eventually starting their own company, Climb Tech. Karl discusses how he brought climbing equipment into the industrial safety market, revolutionizing the industry. I expressed my surprise that climbing equipment had a place in industrial safety. Karl invented the removable bolt led to collaborations with a large concrete company for use in the construction industry. Overall, this episode explores the intersection of rock climbing and industrial safety, highlighting Karl's innovative contributions to both fields.

 

EP–70 Finding Balance and Joy in the Climbing Industry with Taylor Fragomeni

In this episode of Sends and Suffers podcast, host Mario Stanley welcomes Taylor Fragomeni, an online climbing coach and rock climber, to the show. Recorded at the International Climbers Festival, the two friends-turned-homies talk about Taylor's climbing industry experiences. The episode is sponsored by Organic Climbing, a company that offers a range of climbing gear and accessories. Listeners are encouraged to support the podcast by becoming a Patreon and leaving comments and reviews.

EP–69 Alan Watts the Godfather of American sport climbing and his Journey

In this Sends and Suffers podcast episode, host Mario Stanley introduces Mr. Alan Watts, a legendary sports climbing community figure. Known as the godfather of sport climbing in America, Watts's love for rock climbing is evident as he shares his perspective on the joy it has brought him. We also discuss where climbing has come from and where it is going in our eyes in the coming years.

 

The episode is sponsored by Organic Climbing, a leading company in the climbing industry, and listeners are encouraged to support the podcast by using the code "sends and suffers" for a 10% discount on Organic Climbing products. 

 

Alan Watts website: https://www.wattsrocks.xyz/ 

EP – 68 Mario getting to Know Jacar: An Instant Friendship

In this episode of Sends and Suffers podcast, host Mario Stanley welcomes guest Jakar. They discuss their friendship and spending time together in Dallas. Mario also shares information about the podcast's sponsor, Organic Climbing, and encourages listeners to support the show by leaving comments and becoming a Patreon. Tune in for a fun conversation and updates on the podcast's offerings.

EP – 67 ”Extreme Sports and Adventure with Franky Morales”

Episode 67: Paradigm Shift in Rock Climbing and Rollerblading | Frankie Morales

In this episode, we dive into a paradigm shift in the world of rock climbing and rollerblading. Our guest, Frankie Morales, shares his personal journey and the moments that sparked his passion for these extreme sports.

First, Frankie recalls the moment he realized that rock climbing was more than just a hobby. He vividly describes the exact moment when he knew that rock climbing was what he truly wanted to pursue.

Similarly, Frankie shares a story about being introduced to rollerblading and witnessing a skater performing impressive tricks. This moment ignited his interest in the sport and set him on a path of rollerblading greatness.

One impactful quote from this episode comes from Frankie himself, as he reflects on the profound impact his friend Jason has had on his life. He says, "Nobody probably knows this. You do. But if it wasn't for Jason, there wouldn't be no Frankie Morales."

EP – 66 Mario and Chris Broaching Difficult Topics: Men Talking About Feelings

In this episode of Sends and Suffers podcast, host Mario Stanley welcomes Chris Mitchell as the guest. Chris, who started off as an Instagram friend and quickly became a close friend, joins Mario to discuss their time together in Denver and their experience participating in the GCI Climb Malawi fundraiser. They also share their adventures at a comedy club. Don't forget to check out the official sponsor of the podcast, Organic Climbing, for all your climbing gear needs. And if you enjoy the podcast, consider becoming a Patreon to support the show.

EP 65 – Daniel & Mario: The Three Kinds of Personal Capital: Physical, Mental, and Emotional

In this episode, Daniel Pellain, a climber from Tulsa, Oklahoma, shares his love for the outdoors and his passion for climbing. He talks about how reading "Into Thin Air" inspired him to start climbing and his journey from being a freshman in high school to finding a climbing gym in Edmond, Oklahoma. He also mentions the now-closed gym, Hold-Distic, and its unique features, like a foam pit bouldering area. Stay tuned to find out more about Daniel and I conversation.