Two broken down old adventurers talk about what they used to do…
Episode #3 of the New Frontiers Podcast with Alex Honnold is now live!
Today’s episode of New Frontiers is brought to you by the Financial Times. I’ve been an FT subscriber for more than a decade, so I’m particularly happy to tell you that New Frontiers subscribers can access exclusive articles and up to 40% off a standard digital subscription by visiting ft.com/newfrontiers. Offer available until 28th March.
Known for his breathtaking free solo ascents, Alex's audacious climb of El Capitan in Yosemite National Park not only captured global attention through the Oscar-winning film \"Free Solo\" but also marked a significant moment in climbing history.
Beyond his climbing feats, Alex has made a remarkable pivot into renewable energy. In 2012 he committed to giving away 30% of his income, which has now snowballed into the Honnold Foundation – a non-profit that helps marginalised communities around the world transition to solar energy.
What struck me most was Alex's pragmatic approach to ‘doing’ – a methodical, step-by-step strategy to tackle daunting challenges. A fundamental bias towards action over words. He avoids descending into clickbait and cliché, even calling me up on a few dubious questions.
It was an incredibly refreshing conversation.
Chapters
(00:00) Intro
(01:30) Today’s sponsor – The Financial Times
(02:46) The roots of Alex’s connection to the outdoors.
(04:10) The bike tour that shifted his perspective on the climate
(07:21) Can a climbing approach be applied to the climate?
(08:26) How to tackle big, audacious goals.
(11:12) A bias towards action over storytelling.
(14:07) The Honnold Solar Foundation.
(19:04) Is there a 'crux' for solar?
(22:47) The win/win of solar projects.
(25:01) The expedition that was saved by solar.
(27:28) Success isn't just a finish line.
(31:45) Advice from two broken down old adventurers…
(33:43) Final thoughts and a word on our sponsor
Links