The guest for today’s episode is writer, podcaster, and perhaps most notably, the creator of the Climbing Zine, Luke Mehall. Originally hailing from the midwest, Luke was first exposed to climbing in Southern Illinois and at first, he didn’t really take to it. Through the trials and tribulations of being a young adult, Luke truly found his way when he moved to Gunnison, Colorado and began putting pen to paper—and climbing a lot more.

Luke’s pursuits have led him to become a prominent figure in the climbing community. Whether it’s the Climbing Zine, his books, his podcast, his first ascents, or the newly formed Durango Climbers Coalition, his advocacy and love for the sport is exemplary.

Follow along as Luke walks us through some of his early influences, lessons he’s taken from the Zine, Indian Creek, and much more.

5:23- Banter9:26- Luke’s early influences13:38- Luke’s intro to climbing18:21- The evolution of Luke’s writing24:04- Print media30:48- Lessons learned from Zine authors37:27- Indian Creek: not love at first sight48:18- Changes over the years in Indian Creek53:56- Rock climbing and native values58:20- The Dirtbag State of Mind Podcast1:03:51- Durango Climbers Coalition1:13:38- Luke’s definition of advocacy

Luke’s Instagram: @lukemehall_writerClimbing Zine’s Instagram: @theclimbingzineClimbing Zine website: https://climbingzine.com/Dirtbag State of Mind Podcast: https://climbingzine.com/dirtbag-state-of-mind-podcast/Durango Climbers Coalition: https://www.facebook.com/DurangoClimbersCoalition/