#29 An Ice Axe To The Bicep

Coldfear

#Sports #Coldfear #Aaron Mulkey #Ice Climbing #Adventure #Climbing #Mountain

16:32

You’re busy—but are you actually growing? In this episode, Nata Salvatori exposes a trap that’s costing service providers time, money, and sanity: chasing busywork that feels productive but doesn’t move the needle. She walks through a clear, five-step growth path—from clarifying your offer, validating through real sales, delivering sustainably, building repeatable systems, to scaling confidently. You’ll learn: How to spot and ditch “fake work” Why clarity beats complexity every time How to use real feedback to validate your offers Delivery tips that prevent burnout System creation that enables scaling How to honor your current phase of growth 📌 Ready to stop spinning your wheels and make real moves? Map your phase, pick your next action, and don’t be afraid to ask for help: 👉 accidentalceo.co/coaching Support the show…

about a year ago 41:02

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Aaron Mulkey shares information about The Cookeout Ice Festival and Wyoming Ice Festival events. They have an incredible lineup up of speakers at these two events. Aaron then shares a story about exploration and an Ice Axe he took through the bicep during an ice climbing fall many years ago deep in the backcountry. We also take time to remember Michael Gardner.
A great video about who Michael Gardner was.

35 episodes

Coldfear

#29 An Ice Axe To The Bicep

Coldfear

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published about a year ago

MP3•Episode home

35 episodes

#Sports #Coldfear #Aaron Mulkey #Ice Climbing #Adventure #Climbing #Mountain

All episodes

Coldfear

1
#35 "From Mountains to Meaning: Kelly Halpin on Climate, Art, and Adventure" 56:14

8 weeks ago56:14

56:14

In this conversation, Kelly Halpin shares her experiences from the Snowman Race in Bhutan, a unique ultra marathon aimed at raising awareness about climate change. She discusses the challenges of running at high altitudes, the cultural richness of Bhutan, and the importance of community and environmental advocacy. The conversation also touches on the role of art in climate action and the personal reflections on the connection to nature. Kelly expresses her future plans for running and climbing adventures, emphasizing the need for collective action in addressing climate issues. Snowman Race, Bhutan, climate change, trail running, adventure, community, nature, advocacy, ultra marathon, environmental awareness,…

Coldfear

1
#34 "Educated By Exposure" with Zahan Billimoria 1:24:54

13 weeks ago1:24:54

1:24:54

In this episode, I sit down with Zahan Billimoria who has been featured in several Teton Gravity Films and other publications. He is a mountain athlete, guide, coach, and founder of Samsara Experience. We dive deep into the nature of risk, not just as something to manage, but as something to learn from. We talk about what it means to train the body and mind for uncertainty, how education in the mountains mirrors the kind of learning that sticks, and why presence—not just preparation—is at the heart of performance. Whether you're a climber, Skier, or just someone drawn to the mountains and training, this conversation offers something rich and real. Zahan is what I call a mountain professor. Let’s get into it.…

Coldfear

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#33 Big Bull - "King of the Mountain" 1:06:06

20 weeks ago1:06:06

1:06:06

If you spend enough time in the mountains, you’re bound to come across things that leave you scratching your head, wondering, how did this happen? Nature is breathtakingly beautiful, yet also unforgiving. In this episode, I share the story of a massive bull elk I discovered above an icefall—a find that will forever leave me questioning how he got there while also inspiring dreams of the incredible life he must have lived. This elk was undoubtedly the king of the mountain. You can find videos of this discovery on my social media, but after listening to this episode, you’ll know the full story—more than just the speculation in the comments! Thanks to Dan Vastyan, Chris Guyer and Christian Baumeister for joining the conversation.…

Coldfear

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#32 No Excuses, Adapt- Kimberly Cross 1:28:17

20 weeks ago1:28:17

1:28:17

Whether Kimberly Cross is leading friends up frozen waterfalls, tackling alpine climbs, or inspiring her kindergarten class with the wonders of the outdoors, her mission remains the same—helping others step outside without fear and push past obstacles. "Chasing an outdoor dream can build a renewed or deepened sense of self," she says. "Confidence, perseverance, and purpose grow when we experience the outdoors and witness the beauty these landscapes offer. It’s a powerful force for the mind, body, and soul." Born with one hand and what she affectionately calls her "stump"—Kimberly knew that pursuing a sport like ice and alpine climbing wouldn’t be easy. But from a young age, her family encouraged her to embrace challenges, adapt, and never back down. So when she set her sights on climbing, she found a way to make it happen. Her relentless drive and passion caught the attention of The North Face , earning her a spot in one of their athlete development programs. She continues to hone her skills at ice festivals across the West, proving time and time again that anything is possible. And while she pushes the limits in the mountains, she also balances a fulfilling career as a kindergarten teacher and cherishes time with her husband and stepkids. Kimberly has found a way to pursue her passion while creating balance—a true testament to her determination and love for the outdoors.…

Coldfear

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#31 Jackson Marvell "The Evolution" 51:27

24 weeks ago51:27

51:27

I have known Jackson Marvell for a while now and I have always been in awe of his continued pursuit to push himself in the sport of ice, rock and alpine climbing. He and his friends Alan Rousseau and Matt Cornell became very well known climbers when their names hit the New York Times for their accent of Jannu. Take a dive into Jacksons mind, life and his teams ascent of Jannu in this episode.…

Coldfear

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#30 Breaking Myths and Ice Screws 59:01

33 weeks ago59:01

59:01

Aaron Mulkey sits down with Matt Berry who is the head of QA and R&D at Black Diamond Equipment to talk everything ice screws. There are a ton of questions ice climbers have about the strength of ice screws and their placements. We dig into all of that, I ask every question I can think of. We also dive into the differences in Aluminum vs Steel ice screws. If you're an ice climber, this is a must listen! I will also post a couple key pieces of this chat on my YouTube Channel. There is a YouTube video that Matt did with Will Gadd that is also really good to watch. Watch Here…

Coldfear

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#29 An Ice Axe To The Bicep 41:02

39 weeks ago41:02

41:02

Coldfear

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#28 "Beyond The Surface: Who is Aaron Mulkey" 57:38

41 weeks ago57:38

57:38

Who is Aaron Mulkey? I figured it was time to go beyond the surface of my life. Like just about anyone I have struggled in life multiple times. I have lost, loved, fallen and escaped life when I needed to disconnect from reality. Climbing and Kayaking kept me alive in my darkest times, but I was incredibly lucky. Attempting to find balance between work, climbing and family has always been a struggle. Social Media tells a story that we curate for our followers, but the reality of a life can only be shared through a book or conversation. This will be the first of these open conversations to come.…

Coldfear

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#27 A Fear Of Not Trying - Sarah Hueniken 1:32:48

44 weeks ago1:32:48

1:32:48

This is a super powerful conversation with Sarah Hueniken who has been a driving force in the Ice and Mixed Climbing community for many years. She is one of the strongest winter athletes I know and one of the nicest people you will ever meet. Sarah shares some of her secrets to her success and how she navigates fear and risk. We also chat about accidents and loss in the mountains and how we as a climbing community can better support each other. Check out https://www.mountainmuskox.com/ a support group of individuals who have been impacted by loss or trauma in the mountains.…

Coldfear

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#26 The Ice Monster Is Born "Hydra" 1:26:37

46 weeks ago1:26:37

1:26:37

History is made with the introduction of the "Many-Headed Beast" The Black Diamond Hydra ice climbing tool. I sit down with ice and alpine climbing legends Will Gadd and Jackson Marvell along with the incredible design and engineering team at Black Diamond, Sean Dunlop, Derek Gustafson and Jeremy Stack. This is a first of its kind conversation about how the Hydra Ice Climbing Tool came to be. We also dive into some Ice Climbing history and the many ice tools that Black Diamond has developed over the years. This history is very important to tell the story of the evolution of the Hydra. Hydra Contest: For your chance to win one of the two Hydra tools signed by Aaron Mulkey, Jackson Marvell and Will Gadd follow the rules below to enter. Follow @blackdiamond and @coldfear on Instagram Listen to this podcast Answer the question: Which pomel is stronger, the upper or lower? DM the secret answer to @coldfear on Instagram Comment on the @blackdiamond and @coldfear Hydra Podcast collaboration post on Instagram “I conquered the many headed beast” once you’ve sent in your answer Share that collaboration post to your story for an extra entry Winner will be randomly selected from submissions that meet all the rules on September 20th!…

Coldfear

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#25 Mountain Philosophy - Connor Koch 1:34:54

48 weeks ago1:34:54

1:34:54

Connor Koch is a mountain endurance athlete rooted in the Rockies. His climbing career has been shaped by fast and light pushes on the Colorado 14ers, technical Teton and Montana high points, and ski descents from the granite giants of the Sierra. While comfortable on any medium, Connor is most inspired by long days with nothing but a small pack and running shoes, testing his limits and finding the edge of possibility between the earth and the sky.…

Coldfear

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#24 The Time Is Now- Training for ice climbing 1:09:29

50 weeks ago1:09:29

1:09:29

The time is now to start training for your winter season. I sit down with Seth Keena to talk about the Ice Climbing training plan he and I put together with Evoke Endurance. Seth is a full time coach at Evoke Endurance and started mentoring under legend Scott Johnston in 2015. Seth is a wealth of knowledge when it comes to training and how the body responds. We talk about the Ice Climbing training plan and how easy it is to start this plan for people who also have full time jobs. If you're looking to get strong this winter season then give this a listen and check out the plan for $75. Check out the plan HERE…

Coldfear

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#23 Alone In The Mountains- Kelly Halpin 1:35:38

1 year ago1:35:38

1:35:38

Kelly Halpin grew up in Jackson WY with the Tetons and National Forest as her playground. She has made a name for herself in the world of mountain running by taking on massive mountain ranges solo and unsupported. It's not a trail that sets her path, It's the ridge ahead that has led her to set a number of FKT records in some of the most remote spots in the U.S. Sometimes her runs have her moving through the night and on her feet for over 60 hours. She started climbing at age 6 which led to a lifelong love for the mountains. Kelly began competing in bouldering competitions while in college in Los Angeles, winning multiple firsts in the Advanced Women’s Division. After graduating she moved back home to Jackson where she pursued snowboarding on a competitive level until 2012 when she blew her knee on her home mountain. Ironically, the injury inspired Kelly to begin trail running and pursuing human powered endurance pursuits in the mountains. Today Kelly is an avid mountain runner and adventurer, merging her passions for running, climbing, and exploring remote and wild places. She enjoys the challenge of pushing herself mentally through difficult endurance feats, typically solo and unsupported. When she is not outside, Kelly maintains a career as a professional illustrator with artwork inspired by her time in nature.…

Coldfear

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#22 Self Medicated- With Ryan Vachon 1:30:50

1 year ago1:30:50

1:30:50

Meet Ryan Vachon, a seasoned climate scientist and geochemist with a Ph.D. earned in 2006. For over 15 years, Ryan's research has taken him across Greenland, Alaska, the Andes, and the Himalayas, studying the impacts of climate change. Beyond his academic achievements, Ryan is an accomplished climber across all disciplines, known for putting up numerous first ascents. A reliable partner for tackling challenging projects, he's the go-to person when it's time to achieve something significant. In this episode, Ryan opens up about dealing with a challenging injury and the mental resilience required during recovery. Additionally, he sheds light on how individuals can truly make a difference in combating climate change. The insights shared might just surprise you!…

Coldfear

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#21 Steve House- A Wealth Of Knowledge and Experience 2:19:07

1 year ago2:19:07

2:19:07

Steve House is a highly accomplished alpinist known for his bold and groundbreaking ascents in the world of alpine climbing. With a career spanning several decades, House has established himself as one of the most influential climbers of his generation. His notable achievements include numerous first ascents in remote and challenging mountain ranges around the globe. As a sought-after speaker and author, House has shared his expertise and experiences with audiences worldwide. In this episode House shares valuable insights into what he has learned through his career and experiences in the mountains. Through Uphill Athlete Steve continues to share his passion for the mountains and training.…

Coldfear

1
#20 Bloody Ice 1:25:01

1 year ago1:25:01

1:25:01

I sit down with Dan Vastyan and Chris Guyer to talk about all things that have happened in the last couple months from Post Holing 10 hours into a climb, a First Ascent, Alaska and Bloody Ice.

Coldfear

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#19 A Life Renewed 1:19:09

1 year ago1:19:09

1:19:09

Episode 19 I sit down with Steven Dunnavant about his life renewed. Steven is one of the most stoked and nicest individuals you will ever meet, but we can all learn from his motivation to get fit and eliminate excuses. He started ice climbing when he weighed over 300 pounds and has lost over 75 pounds over the last year. Ice Climbing lit a fire in his heart and mind. It opened a door to a life he didn't know existed and it has now become a part of him he can not live without. He is a family man, owns a business, and.....lives in Texas. Yes, he is a rare breed a "Texas Ice Climber". Despite having all of the excuses in the world to continue down a path of comfort and bad health, he chooses to take control of his future. I think at many times in this conversation Steven and I were both a bit teary-eyed so I hope you enjoy this conversation.…

Coldfear

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#18 Poop, Books and Mediocrity 1:05:03

2 years ago1:05:03

1:05:03

Episode 18 is a fun conversation with Alpinist contributor and author Christian Kiefer. He talks about what it's like to be middle-aged and an intermediate climber. His goals and risk tolerance look very different than others. Is he too focused on grades and not the experience? I think he is finding that balance like many others. But we also talk about poop, books, mediocrity, and a ton of other subjects. This is a fun one!…

Coldfear

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#17 Social Authenticity 1:01:57

2 years ago1:01:57

1:01:57

The lines of authenticity are getting blurred on our social media platforms. Is it okay to photoshop out a toprope and post to social media? How do brands ensure they are working with authentic people and authentic content? I have always believed anything posted on social media should be real, but clearly, others believe social media is an endless fictional movie. Certain people sell their fictional story and content to get contracts with brands. How will this and AI change marketing in the next decade? We dive into all of this. Share and let me know your thoughts!…

Coldfear

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#16 illogicicle with Dane Steadman 1:29:24

2 years ago1:29:24

1:29:24

Dane is in his early 20s and is quickly capturing the attention of many climbers in the ice and alpine world. I met Dane years ago while he was on a quick trip in the South Fork Valley with a friend. I definitely had no idea a year later he would become my primary partner chasing ice and mixed lines in the region. I could tell early on he was hungry to learn and get strong fast. And that's exactly what he did. He has gone on to climb several new routes in the local area and in AK and most recently Kyrgzstan.…

Coldfear

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#15 Fear And Loathing In Wyoming 1:21:38

2 years ago1:21:38

1:21:38

I sit down with Dan Vastyan and Christian Baumeister to catch up on life, Vastectomies, Slot Canyons, Grizzly attacks, and Hunting. Pretty much the conversation you would imagine if three Wyoming guys sit down at a table to talk.

Coldfear

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#14 Falling 40mph off the Grand Traverse 1:14:38

2 years ago1:14:38

1:14:38

In early August of 2022 Matt Berry found himself rocketing off the Grand Traverse down a glacier on his back. To this day he is still not sure what happened. The Grand Traverse is one of North America's most iconic climbing traverses which covers one of the most recognized skylines across the Grand Tetons. Matt and his partner Sean Dunlop sit down with me to tell their story. Thanks to the local Search and Rescue Team, Sean, and a good helicopter pilot, Matt is nearly recovered a year from the accident. Lots to learn from this story. You won't take just one GPS communication device into the mountains ever again.…

Coldfear

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#13 Ice Climbing Training With Scott Johnston 2:05:15

2 years ago2:05:15

2:05:15

Scott Johnston and I dive into an Ice Climbing Training conversation. When, how, why and is there a magic workout to get strong? We also talk about supplements and all the new fancy features our smart watches give us these days. This is another super informative conversation with Scott from Evoke Endurance.…

Coldfear

1
Conrad Anker- A Godfather of Climbing! 1:43:22

2 years ago1:43:22

1:43:22

Conrad Anker is one of climbing most influential athletes and activists. If you have met Conrad you have most likely walked away with a smile. He is genuine and gives back to the climbing community in many ways. In this episode, we talk about numerous topics, including what drives him to continue to climb at age 60 and what about the sport that fulfills him currently. He shares alot of advice and what he has learned in his long successful career.…

Coldfear

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Training For The Mountains With Dustin Diefenderfer, Founder of MTN Tough 1:29:43

2 years ago1:29:43

1:29:43

In order to perform at your best in the mountains no matter your pursuit in them, you need to be fit. I sit down with Dustin, the founder of MTN Tough out of Bozeman, MT. We talk about how backcountry hunting and ice climbing in the mountains are very much alike. We also dive into how he started MTN Tough and how he balances his family life while being an entrepreneur. I have been using the MTN Tough Workouts for a few years and they are a game changer. The MTN Tough team graciously gave all you listeners a code to use the app free for 30 days. Code is COLDFEAR…

Coldfear

1
Smash And Grab With John Frieh 1:27:53

2 years ago1:27:53

1:27:53

Over the course of 10 years John Frieh made 18 trips to the Alaska range and stood on top of 16 summits. 16 of those trips were Smash and Grab. Meaning he only spent 2-4 days in the range to put up 10 new routes or first winter ascents. He did this all while having a full time job. If you have a full time job and big aspirations in the mountains, this will be a worth while listen. Perhaps there is no need to spend two weeks with your smelliest friends huddled in a tent in the mountains waiting for a weather window?…

Coldfear

1
Risk Tolerance 1:09:12

2 years ago1:09:12

1:09:12

We all view and react to risk in different ways. I sit down with friends Dan Vastayn, Chris Guyer, and Christian Baumeister to discuss how we deal with Risk. I like to view Risk Tolerance like a bank account, It constantly moves up and down depending on what is going on in your life. After this conversation, it became obvious to me that we all manage and react to risk in different ways. What works for me may not work for you. We have to find our own path and willingness to engage in risk. But the most dangerous risk tolerance is the one attached to running away from something in your life. Is risk your drug?…

Coldfear

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Embrace The Process, Not The Result 1:17:10

2 years ago1:17:10

1:17:10

No matter where you are at in your climbing career this conversation will resonate with you. Doug Shepherd has been a long-time friend, mentor, and climbing partner. He was always my first call for taking on big objectives in the mountains. I learned a ton from Doug about climbing when I needed his mentorship the most. Doug was always the most comfortable committed on a big face in the mountains. Doug made a name for himself scratching around Rocky Mountain National Park in the early 2000s while going to school and doing his Postdoc. After losing several close friends to the mountains, Doug decided to take a pause to evaluate his relationship with climbing. After nearly 3 years of not climbing he made a trip to visit me to throw his tools and sink his toes into the ice. We talk about how it feels to be back climbing and what he learned from taking a step back from his climbing career.…

Coldfear

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Tales of First Ascents, Ice Climbing History and Sixty Foot Whippers With Joe Josephson 1:59:08

3 years ago1:59:08

1:59:08

I sit down with Joe Josephson who has more than likely written an ice climbing guidebook that you have had in your hands or want in your hands. He started ice climbing in the late 1980s and did the first ascent of Sea Of Vapors and Terminator on the Trophy Wall in Canada. He shares some great stories including taking a 60-foot ice whipper for a TV commercial and a close call while soloing the Grand Central Coulior on Mount Kitchener. Sit down and enjoy the stories and history he has to share! NOTE: There is a slight echo in the recording. Sorry still figuring this out!…

Coldfear

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Jack Tackle Alpine Dynasty 2:15:49

3 years ago2:15:49

2:15:49

Jack Tackle's climbing first ascents spread around the world. His name is sketched into Alpine history as one of the legends pushing fast and light ascents in the alpine before gear was even light. He is most well-known for his Alaska adventures and incredible storytelling. In this episode, I tap into his 40+ years of climbing knowledge. How is Jack still alive after all that he has done? He shares what he has learned in those years and talks about why he chose to pursue a professional career and a climbing career. Don't miss the story of his partner cutting himself from the rope while hanging in space below him...…

Coldfear

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Dead And Gone 1:08:06

3 years ago1:08:06

1:08:06

Stories of epics and rescues in the mountains. Doug Shepherd and I have climbed together for many years. He and I sit down to talk about some of our more "memorable" experiences.

Coldfear

1
Scott Johnston- Co-Author of Training For The New Alpinism and Training For The Uphill Athlete 2:10:20

3 years ago2:10:20

2:10:20

Scott Johnston has been the man behind the scenes choreographing training for some of climbing's and running's most elite athletes including Kilian Jornet, Alex Honnold and Steve House. You may not recognize his name but you more than likely recognize his books, Training For The New Alpinism and Training For The Uphill Athlete . Until recently, he was a co-owner of Uphill Athlete and now owns Evoke Endurance. We dive into the breakup of Uphill Athlete, the birth of Evoke Endurance, and Scott shares his training framework and lessons from his decades of training experience. This is a long one, but super informative for any athlete looking to elevate their fitness.…

Coldfear

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The Slovak Direct 1:43:38

3 years ago1:43:38

1:43:38

The Slovak Direct is one of the most notable prized routes in the Alaska Range on North Americas tallest peak, Denali 20,300ft. This 9,000 foot face is one alpine climbers dream of. In this episode I sit down with Sam Hennesey, Michael Gardner and Rob Smith after their ground breaking Nascar ascent of the Slovak Direct in 17 Hours and 10 minutes. We dive into their strategy and how they set themselves up physically and mentally execute the climb.…

Coldfear

1
You're So Vain 1:15:49

3 years ago1:15:49

1:15:49

Partner Dynamics and your mental state while climbing typically change partner to partner. After a recent First Ascent mission with Dan Vastyan and Christian Baumeister we dive into what was going on in their head when things got over their head! Chris Guyer also joins in the conversation.

Coldfear

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A Series Of Bad Decisions 1:12:07

3 years ago1:12:07