Erik Weihenmayer is an adventurer and an accomplished climber, speaker, and author. In 2001, he became the first blind person to reach the summit of Everest, and since then, he’s climbed the highest peak in every continent, kayaked through the Grand Canyon, written several best-selling books, and co-founded the No Barriers nonprofit. For over 25 years, Eric’s guide on his climbing expeditions has been the mountaineer Jeff Evans, and, during the course of their many adventures, the pair have forged an unshakable bond. Together, Erik and Jeff continue to pursue a No Barriers lifestyle and promote the values of resilience, optimism, and perseverance.
In this episode, you’ll hear from Erik Weihenmayer and Jeff Evans on:
- (00:09:07) Trust, teamwork, and communication. Jeff talks about the deep level of trust and understanding that underpins his relationship with Erik. He also reminds listeners that trust is a two-way street and gives examples of occasions when he’s had to rely on Erik to help him navigate a difficult climb.
- (00:41.49) Alchemy. Erik reveals how he learned to turn adversity into opportunity through the example of his hero, Terry Fox, who ran thousands of miles across Canada after losing a leg to cancer. He explains how Terry’s counterintuitive response to his illness inspired him to stay positive and set him on the path to pursuing his seemingly impossible dreams.
- (00:45:37) The No Barriers nonprofit. Erik describes how the No Barriers organization encourages people facing physical and emotional challenges to participate in group expeditions and use the great outdoors as a beautiful, natural laboratory to discover their true potential and reclaim their lives.
- (00:54:32) The Warriors program. As the founder of the Warriors branch of the No Barriers organization, Jeff recounts his experiences of leading mountaineering expeditions in Nepal and explains how his adventure-based trips and programs help injured veterans regain a sense of purpose, confidence, and community.
- (01:08:55) The importance of inner strength. Erik urges everyone to find the strength and courage they need to confront whatever challenges they face, and he repeats the powerful No Barriers motto of ‘what’s within you is stronger than what’s in your way.’