Yosemite Valley legend Tommy Caldwell joins Sam and Adrian on Episode 18 of the Duffel Shuffle Podcast. Tommy talks about this season in Yosemite Valley, and why moving his family to South Lake Tahoe has changed how he's able to climb in the valley. He also talks about his recent film, The Devil's Climb, which covers his recent trip to climb the Devils Thumb in Alaska with Alex Honnold. Tommy admits that his true passion in climbing is the sufferfest expeditions, but really he just loves climbing regardless of what it entails. 

Follow Tommy on Instagram @tommycaldwell, and check out The Devil's Climb. 

Sam and Adrian catch up on their plans and what schedules look like as they head into winter. After the break, the two reflect on the podcast to-date, and share some exciting updates for future episodes. Moving forward, episodes will launch Wednesday's and be available in the early morning hours. Starting with episode 18, an editor will give The Duffel Shuffle a fresh sound, and future guests like Tommy Caldwell, Michelle Parker and Nick Russel will be joining in.

Sam and Adrian follow up on their conversation started in Episode 15. After discussion high altitude climbing and acclimatization, the two dive into a conversation about pre-acclimatization using hypoxic tents, and the program that Alpenglow Expeditions has established in Rapid Ascent. The program utilizes pre-acclimatization alongside advanced trip logistics to reduce the total expedition time by 25-50%. 

After discussing the three Piolets d'Or winners, and 60 finalists, Sam and Adrian jump into the complicated topic of high altitude climbing. The two share stories of their early experiences with altitude and talk about the basics of acclimatization and what a typical schedule might look at. Finally, they dive into the "aids" that are used for altitude climbing, from Diamox and Dexamethasone to Oxygen. A future episode will discuss the topic of Pre-Acclimatization using hypoxic tents, and what the Rapid Ascent system that Adrian has pioneered looks like.

Adrian and Sam chat about what it means to be a mountain guide. From introducing the American Mountain Guides Association (AMGA) and International Federation of Mountain Guide Associations (IFMGA) to discussing the decades of guides who came before the AMGA path was the standard, this episode is a great starting point for those curious about the training and business side of the  guiding industry.

Professional Ski Mountaineer Jim Morrison joins Sam and Adrian for Episode 6.

The three talk about Jim's recent exploits in the Karakoram: a successful descent of the Great Trango Tower after he was unsuccessful the year prior.

Jim talks about enduring some of life's lowest lows and highest highs, and consistently coming back to the joy he experiences from any adventure, near or far.

In Episode 2 of the Duffel Shuffle Podcast, Adrian sit's down with Ecuadorian Mountain Guide, and Black Diamond athlete, Topo Mena. Topo talks about his start in climbing, his mentor Iván Vallejo, and a recent accident paragliding. After Topo's accident, he's been forced to adjust his perspective on life, and the love he has for the mountains.

The Duffel Shuffle Podcast welcomes their first guest, Emily Harrington. Emily is known for her technical rock climbing prowess, but her accomplishments span much farther. From summiting and skiing 8,000m peaks to new routes, big walls, and more, Emily is truly one of the leading all-around mountain athletes in the industry.

The Duffel Shuffle Podcast is your ultimate expedition partner for all pursuits of mountaineering, rock climbing, and skiing, offering a thrilling blend of adventure, expertise, and inspiration. Hosted by IFMGA Guide Adrian Ballinger and AMGA Guide Sam Kieckhefer, each episode delves into the world of mountain sports from seasoned mountain guides’ perspectives.