In this episode of The Hangout, I sit down with Angus Taylor, an incredibly driven climber whose life changed after a serious climbing accident that led to the loss of his leg.

We talk about what it actually takes to come back from something like that—not just physically, but mentally. Angus shares how discipline has become more reliable than motivation, why “just starting” is often the hardest and most important step, and how being kind to yourself can actually lead to better performance.

Now training toward the 2028 LA Paralympics, Angus brings a grounded, honest perspective on resilience, effort, and what it means to truly try.

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Chapters

00:00 – Intro & returning to a slower release schedule

00:30 – Angus’ accident and losing his leg

02:00 – Climbing post-injury & training for LA 2028

05:00 – Early climbing roots and childhood on the farm

10:00 – Work ethic, family influence & Tulip Top Gardens

18:00 – Motivation vs discipline

25:00 – The power of just starting

32:00 – Being kind to yourself in training

40:00 – Extracting value vs just putting in effort

50:00 – Climbing culture and learning to truly try

1:00:00 – Community support through injury and recovery

1:10:00 – Finding appreciation in small moments

1:20:00 – Climbing media, creativity & expression

1:30:00 – Closing thoughts on effort, resilience & gratitude

Keywords

climbing podcast, adaptive climbing, resilience, discipline vs motivation, climbing injury recovery, paralympic climbing, mental toughness, climbing philosophy, training mindset, overcoming adversity, climbing community, personal growth, effort and discipline, Australian climbers, The Hangout podcast

In this episode of The Hangout, Tom sits down with climber and guide Michael Lehmann to explore the reality of building a life in the mountains.

Michael shares the story of a serious avalanche accident where he and his partner were swept 300 metres down a mountain and over two cliffs. Both survived, and the experience became a powerful moment of reflection on the decisions and risks that led to it. Beyond the incident, the conversation explores the wider philosophy of life in the mountains - from guiding and expedition logistics to climbing remote objectives - and how high-level climbing often becomes less about strength and more about judgement, problem solving, and managing uncertainty.

Links

Instagram: @stokedmike

Website: Mike Lehmann Photography

Chapters

00:00 – Intro & podcast setup
02:00 – Michael’s climbing background and mountain life
08:30 – Getting into guiding and working in the outdoors
18:00 – The psychological side of guiding and supporting clients
25:00 – Career paths in guiding and managing risk in mountain environments
32:00 – Climbing as complex problem solving
40:00 – Fear, exposure and building confidence in climbing
50:00 – Sea stack climbing and the logistics behind remote objectives
1:05:00 – Adventures in Tasmania and climbing with friends
1:20:00 – Sailing, sea cliffs and expedition access
1:35:00 – The avalanche story begins
1:45:00 – Triggering the avalanche and the fall down the mountain
1:55:00 – Being buried, surviving and the aftermath
2:05:00 – Lessons learned and changes to decision making
2:15:00 – Mountain culture, mistakes and supporting others after accidents
2:20:00 – Closing thoughts on risk, adventure and partnership

Keywords

climbing podcast, mountaineering, avalanche survival, mountain risk management, climbing philosophy, alpine climbing, sea stack climbing, Tasmania climbing, expedition climbing, adventure storytelling, outdoor leadership, decision making in the mountains, climbing partnerships, mountain guiding, climbing logistics

If you're enjoying The Hangout, I would be psyched for you to rate the show, share the show or follow the show! Let's GO!

In this episode of The Hangout, Tom's Hanging with Northface athlete Lucy Stirling.

Recorded on a freezing morning in the Pines at Arapiles, this episode captures Lucy at a powerful transition point in her climbing life.

Lucy opens up about her shift from competition climbing and the Olympic pathway to outdoor climbing - and ultimately into hard trad. We unpack ego, comparison and the quiet toxicity that can creep into performance-driven environments. Lucy shares the moment she realized her fire for climbing no longer lived in chasing semifinals or qualifiers - but in sandstone, adventure, and self-trust.

Links

Instagram: @lucyclimbing

Chapters

00:00 – Intro & Setting the SceneRecording in the Pines at Arapiles. The energy of place, community, and why this environment feels spiritual.

04:30 – First Impressions of ArapilesLucy’s connection to the Pines and what makes the space so unique.

08:30 – Trad Climbing & Letting Go of EgoHow trad reshaped Lucy’s definition of success and challenged grade-focused thinking.

12:00 – Sponsorship, Comparison & Self-WorthThe pressure of being a sponsored athlete and tying value to performance.

17:00 – From Comp Climbing to OutdoorsWhy outdoor climbing shifted her mindset and softened the competitive edge.

19:00 – Discovering TradBecoming a beginner again. Learning systems, placing gear, building anchors, trusting decisions.

23:00 – Why a 28 Meant More Than Harder GradesSentinel at the Pit Stop. Pride beyond numbers.

26:00 – Character Arcs Over GradesClimbing for story, growth, and internal breakthroughs rather than metrics.

29:00 – Breaking the Glass CeilingLimiting beliefs, projecting, and re-writing internal narratives.

32:00 – The Olympic Pathway & Internal ConflictThe long build toward qualifiers, injury, sacrifice, and fractured identity.

38:00 – Winning Nationals & Still Feeling EmptyA pivotal moment of clarity after success didn’t bring fulfilment.

39:30 – The Boulder Round Breaking PointFrustration, height limitations, and realizing she was done.

44:00 – Stepping Away From CompetitionWhy Lucy hasn’t re-engaged with the comp scene since — and what rest from that world feels like.

46:00 – Rising Tides & Breaking BarriersReflection on Australian climbing, funding, and watching peers thrive.

Key Takeaways

1. Grades Are Arbitrary — Growth Isn’t

2. Trad Climbing Builds Self-Trust

3. Ego Isn’t Bad — But It Needs Balance

4. Success Without Meaning Feels Empty

5. The Fire Matters More Than the Dream

6. Becoming a Beginner Is Powerful

7. Stop Pushing. Start Magnetising.

Keywords

Lucy Stirling, Trad climbing mindset, Competition climbing transition, Olympic climbing pathway, Climbing psychology, Self-worth in sport, Breaking glass ceilings, Arapiles climbing, The Pines, Sentinel Pit Stop, Climbing ego, Outdoor climbing journey, Women in climbing, Trust in trad, Climbing identity

In Episode 7 of The Hangout, Tom sits down with Hugo Hornshaw, a former youth competition climber who stepped away from the podium to build a life in farming.

We explore identity beyond performance, why Hugo left the comp scene despite doing well, and what it means to choose a completely different “way of life.”

I understand religion isn't for everyone - but to me belief is very important. Belief in self, belief in others or belief in something bigger than us. How that comes into someones life interests me and I hope this conversation interests you too.

Instagram: Hugo Hornshaw

Chapters

00:00 – Intro
Tom introduces Hugo: youth comp background, move to Queensland, climber turned farmer.

03:30 – Growing Up in the Australian Comp Scene
The pressure, the culture, and what it was like performing at a high level.

12:00 – Why Walk Away?
The internal pull to leave climbing behind and pursue something radically different.

20:15 – Moving to Queensland & Starting Farming
What the transition looked like emotionally and practically.

28:40 – Identity Beyond Sport
Who are you when you’re not “the climber”?

38:00 – A Different Way of Life
Farming, rhythm, physical labour, and redefining success.

48:20 – Being Found Through ChatGPT
The unexpected modern twist: how Hugo ended up on the podcast.

55:00 – Reflections on Direction & Purpose
Choosing alignment over external validation.

1:05:00 – Closing Thoughts
Advice to younger climbers and those feeling the pull toward something different.

Keywords

Hugo Hornshaw, Australian climbing podcast, youth competition climbing Australia, climber turned farmer, leaving competitive sport, identity after sport, Queensland farming lifestyle, redefining success, life after climbing, Christian faith, faith and purpose, The Hangout podcast episode 7

In this episode, I'm Hanging with Connor, Jake and Rach to unpack why Moonarie might just be Australia’s most untouched hidden gem.

Six hours north of Adelaide in the Flinders Ranges, Moonarie is a remote quartzite sandstone crag with long mixed trad pitches, and a serious old-school feel. The crew dive into what makes it special: esoteric, rarely repeated classics, sandbagged grades, huge 50m pitches, and a strong historical lineage from developers.

Socials

📸: Connor

📸: Rach

📸: Jake

Chapters

00:00 The Essence of Rock Climbing

02:46 Climbing Goals and Group Dynamics

06:06 Exploring Moonarie: The Best Crag in Australia

12:08 The Challenges of Van Life

15:03 International Climbing Adventures

19:49 The Allure of Trad Climbing

24:51 Life Lists and Climbing Aspirations

30:12 The Flow State in Climbing

34:57 Risk and Reward in Trad Climbing

49:24 Understanding Risk in Climbing

56:30 The Role of Ego in Climbing

01:02:56 The Journey of Mastery in Climbing

01:10:58 Training and Preparation for Climbing

01:18:14 Exploring New Climbing Areas and Routes

Summary

In this episode, I'm Hanging with climber Hayden Jamison to discuss his extensive climbing experiences, including a challenging expedition in Pakistan that resulted in a serious injury. They explore the recovery process, the thrill of climbing in Australia, and the cultural experiences that come with climbing adventures. Hayden shares insights on the importance of community in climbing, his future aspirations, and the balance between risk and reward in the sport. This conversation highlights the profound impact climbing has on personal growth and the unique stories that come from the journey.

Instagram: Hayden Jamieson

Youtube: Picalfor Video HERE

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Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Hayden Jamison

01:58 The Pakistan Expedition Experience

12:05 Injury and Recovery: A Climber's Journey

20:02 Climbing in Australia: Adventures and Insights

29:50 Cultural Experiences and Climbing Stories

39:49 Future Aspirations and Climbing Goals

Keywords

climbing, Hayden Jamison, Pakistan expedition, injury recovery, Australia climbing, cultural experiences, adventure, climbing stories, future goals, climbing community

In this conversation, I sit down with Melissa Edwards, a passionate advocate for climbing and climbing access. We talk about her journey within the climbing community, her role in founding Climbing Cuties.

We unpack the challenges around land management plans and cultural heritage, and why community involvement and advocacy are crucial for the future of climbing. Melissa shares insights into the Shared Not Shut campaign, which aims to support respectful access while honouring Aboriginal cultural heritage. At its core, this conversation highlights the power of community, collaboration, and a shared love for nature in keeping climbing culture strong.

Links Below

👉 Shared Not Shut

👉 Climbing Victoria

👉 Climbing Access News

Follow Melissa on Substack 👉 @melfromnati

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Melissa Edwards and Climbing Advocacy

02:47 Melissa's Climbing Journey and Community Building

06:07 Creating Climbing Cuties and Fostering Inclusivity

08:59 The Move to Natimuk and Outdoor Climbing Experiences

11:49 The Importance of Accessibility in Climbing

15:10 Community and Cultural Heritage in Climbing

18:00 The Role of Local Legends in Climbing History

20:49 Advocacy for Access and the Shared Not Shut Campaign

24:09 Navigating Cultural Heritage and Climbing Access

27:01 The Impact of Management Plans on Climbing

29:50 Community Engagement and Political Advocacy

33:01 The Future of Climbing Access and Community Collaboration

35:55 Conclusion and Call to Action

Summary

In this episode, I'm Hanging with Cal Mather, a prominent climber from Australia known for his impressive achievements in bouldering, including the historic ascent of 'Punks in the Gym.' The conversation explores Cal's journey in climbing, his childhood experiences, the development of climbing areas in Far North Queensland, and the challenges he faced while training and preparing for significant climbs. Cal shares insights on pushing personal limits, the philosophy of climbing, and the importance of believing in oneself. The episode concludes with a discussion on future aspirations and the impact of climbing on personal growth.

Instagram: @calmather

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Cal Mather and His Achievements

02:58 The Journey of Climbing: Parallels with Adventure

05:51 Childhood and Early Climbing Experiences

08:54 Discovering Climbing in Far North Queensland

11:50 The Development of Barron Gorge Climbing Area

15:14 The Ascent of Punks in the Gym: A Historic Climb

29:54 Training and Preparation for Climbing

32:48 Pushing Personal Limits and Future Aspirations

Keywords

Cal Mather, climbing, bouldering, punks in the gym, Far North Queensland, Barron Gorge, climbing training, personal limits, adventure, climbing community

To SUPPORT the Natimuk Community 👇https://www.gofundme.com/f/natimuk-community-fire-recovery-fund

Summary

In this episode, Angus Cameron talks through his climbing journey, from chasing grades to understanding the deeper role of ego, belief, and community.

Angus shares insights from coaching youth climbers, the balance between natural ability and hard work, and why enjoyment matters if you want to stay in the game long term.

It’s a grounded conversation about Australian climbing culture, self-compassion, and what real progress looks like when climbing becomes more than just performance.

Instagram: @quartzclimbing

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Angus Cameron

02:28 The Journey of Climbing and Personal Growth

06:57 Ego in Climbing and Coaching Youth

10:36 The Role of Community in Climbing

17:08 Natural Ability vs. Hard Work in Climbing

23:32 The Power of Belief in Climbing and Life

37:42 Mindfulness and Self-Awareness in Climbing

51:23 The Balance of Training and Enjoyment

01:03:07 Future Aspirations in Climbing

01:04:05 Climbing Aspirations and Personal Growth

01:08:40 The Joy of Climbing and Community

01:12:21 Exploring Climbing Culture and Community

01:16:14 Bridging the Gap in Australian Climbing

01:20:10 The Future of Climbing in Australia

01:25:51 Injury and Its Impact on Climbing Perspective

01:32:32 Omnidirectional Growth in Climbing

01:39:12 Mindfulness and Training in Climbing

01:45:26 Fear of Falling and Fear of Failure

01:56:03 Judgment and Self-Compassion in Climbing

Keywords

climbing, coaching, personal growth, ego, community, belief, mindfulness, youth coaching, natural ability, training, climbing, bouldering, community, personal growth, Australian climbing, fear of failure, mindfulness, training, climbing culture, injury recovery

In this first episode of The Hangout, I sit down with climber & friend Harry O’Brien to explore what happens when you step onto the edge - physically and mentally.

From climbing in Tasmania to the unique headspace of deep water soloing, they unpack how fear shows up on the wall, how calm is trained, and why breath can be the difference between holding on and letting go.

Instagram: @hazzardous_adventures

Chapters

00:00 The Meeting of Climbers

03:13 Climbing Adventures in Vietnam

05:58 Deep Water Soloing Experience

09:04 The Unique Climbing in Vietnam

11:57 The Journey to Butterfly Valley

14:55 The Climbing Experience in Butterfly Valley

17:58 The Beast Within: Climbing Mentality

20:55 The Duality of Calm and Tenacity

24:09 The Importance of Breath in Climbing

27:05 The Journey of Progress in Climbing

30:12 The Influence of Youth on Climbing

32:57 The Challenges of Climbing in Tasmania

35:58 The Epic Climbing Adventures in Tasmania

01:08:11 Planning for Peak Experiences

01:11:56 Trust and Communication in Climbing

01:12:52 Problem Solving in Climbing

01:14:49 International Climbing Adventures

01:18:38 Differences in Climbing Styles

01:21:29 The Joy of Onsighting

01:24:21 The Evolution of Climbing Passion

01:30:08 Overcoming Fear in Climbing

01:34:26 The Drive to Climb

01:37:15 Training and Cross-Training for Climbers

01:42:19 The Balance of Climbing and Life

01:51:40 Filling the Cup: Energy Restoration

01:55:34 The Power of Journaling

02:01:03 Meditation and Mindfulness in Climbing

02:06:18 Dream Climbs and Future Aspirations