Josh Muller, Jordan Jasper, and Nic Nolet | Building Community

PodcastsCommunity
Written By Kris Hampton

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.

Photo Nic Nolet

Photo Nic Nolet

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.

Photo Nic Nolet

an image of the interior of Bolder Climbing Gym showing the blue, white, grey, and black walls and black mats.

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

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Kris Hampton

A climber since 1994, Kris was a traddie for 12 years before he discovered the gymnastic movement inherent in sport climbing and bouldering.  Through dedicated training and practice, he eventually built to ascents of 5.14 and V11. 

Kris started Power Company Climbing in 2006 as a place to share training info with his friends, and still specializes in working with full time "regular" folks.  He's always available for coaching sessions and training workshops.

http://www.powercompanyclimbing.com
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