#167 Everest Incorporated with Will Cockrell

Will Cockrell joins the podcast to discuss his recently published book detailing the history of Mount Everest, his perspective on the draw of mountaineering, and the connection between suffering and achievement. Will also explains the need to tell the full story of Everest, as well as the misconceptions and negative narratives surrounding the mountain. He challenges the idea of who deserves to climb Everest and questions the romanticism and judgment associated with mountaineering. Our conversation covers various themes related to climbing Everest, including the issue of discounting different approaches, the individualized nature of climbing, the perspective of seasoned climbers, the perception of Everest as spoiled, the reality of the Sherpa role, the misunderstanding of the Sherpa culture, the monetization of Everest, and the importance of seeking the whole Everest story.Will shares insights from his book, reflecting on the state of the industry and the motivations of climbers and explores the relationship between Western climbers and Sherpas, highlighting the positive changes in recent years. Finally, we dive into the challenges of waste management and the future of Everest, emphasizing the importance of stewardship and the understanding of different perspectives.Show Notes and LinksIntroductionsEarly Years and Pursuit of GuidingSpecializing in MoThe Draw of MountaineeringThe Connection Between Suffering and AchievementThe Comfort of the WildernessThe Need for a Book on Guiding on EverestThe Counter Narrative to the Negative Perception of EverestQuestioning Who Deserves to Be on EverestThe Romanticism and Judgment of MountaineeringThe Perception of Crowding on EverestThe Difficulty of Defining Who Deserves to Climb EverestThe Individualized Nature of Climbing EverestThe Perspective of Seasoned Everest ClimbersThe Reality of the Sherpa RoleThe Monetization of EverestThe Importance of Seeking the Whole StoryReflections on the Everest IndustryThe State of the Everest IndustryThe Impact of Tourism on EverestThe Experience at Everest Base CampThe Dilemma of Camp 4Balancing Conservation and AccessThe Future of EverestOpportunities for Professional ClimbersWill's bookSupport the showThanks for listening! Check out the links below to learn more, connect, and support the show. Website Join the podcast email newsletter Make a One-Time Donation (+ Affiliate Links) Monthly Podcast Support Courses Learn How To Backpack 6 Weeks To Solo Backpacking Thru-Hiking 101 Resources YouTube Instagram Facebook Groups emory@byland.co