In this episode of the Duffle Shuffle, we dive into the life of a mountain guide who guides everything from the Tahoe Via Ferrata in Olympic Valley, CA, to the summit of Mount Everest. Mike Pond is a career mountain guide who has spent his life climbing and guiding on mountains all over the world. At Alpenglow, he guides across the entirety of its programming, from rock climbing and the via ferrata, to high-altitude mountains in the Himalaya and beyond.
In this episode, we'll talk about balancing life as a father, husband, and mountain guide, the diversity of climbing guiding that can be done, and Mike's experience climbing on Everest.
You can follow Mike on Instagram at @mikepondclimbs. And you can check out his salve skin care product, Booboo butter, at the Alpenglow Office!
Episode Breakdown

00:00 Incredible Climbing Experience

00:28 Welcome to the Duffel Shuffle Podcast

01:47 Personal Updates and Life Chaos

05:54 Trail Running Extravaganza in Tahoe

12:42 Public Lands Debate

24:08 Interview with Mike Pond Begins

36:51 Reflecting on Career Choices and Lifestyle

37:43 Balancing Relationships and Climbing

38:49 Passion for Different Climbing Styles

40:57 Transitioning to Guiding and Professional Growth

43:52 Challenges and Rewards of Guiding

47:39 The Evolution of the Guiding Industry

58:03 Joining Alpenglow Expeditions

01:09:40 Journey to Everest Base Camp

01:11:05 Arriving at Everest Base Camp

01:12:12 Life at Base Camp and Acclimatization

01:13:36 Challenges and Strategies at High Altitudes

01:15:30 Advanced Base Camp and Beyond

01:17:05 Summit Push and Final Ascent

01:24:34 Reflections on the Climb

01:38:57 Memorable Moments and Gear Essentials

01:43:18 Conclusion and Podcast Wrap-Up