Climbing gyms have become big business. Giant gyms are popping up all over the world, with bigger walls, more holds, and massive square footage - but what of the community? Is it being left behind in favor of selling memberships?

Not necessarily.

Long time climbers Josh Muller and Regan Kennedy own Bolder Climbing Community in Calgary, and through their branding and community-focused efforts, they’ve built a thriving business that withstood the pandemic and still keeps them excited to climb.

In this episode I sit down with Josh, gym manager Jordan Jasper, and photographer/videographer Nic Nolet to discuss the idea of community and what it means to each of them.

In this episode we discuss:

• Why having “community” in the name is important.

• How a welcoming community draws people in.

• The role of mentors.

• Should gym mentorship extend to the outdoors?

• How gym layout and merch can help build community.

• How building community translates to good business.

We are a proud founding member of the Plug Tone Audio Collective.