In this episode of Finding Elevation, I speak with Courtney Heitter about her path to becoming a mountaineer, despite not growing up athletic. Through endurance sports and trail running, Courtney discovered a passion for the mountains that pushed her far outside her comfort zone.

One of the key takeaways from our conversation is how discomfort plays a pivotal role in achieving your dreams. Courtney explains how embracing challenges—like gear malfunctions during summit attempts—helped her grow mentally stronger. Her motto? "Discomfort is the currency of your dreams."

Whether it’s overcoming failure on Mount Rainier due to asthma or struggling with crampons on Cayambe, Courtney’s journey is proof that resilience is key in mountaineering. She emphasizes the importance of having a support system and reframing failure as a learning experience.

Want to hear more about Courtney’s insights on mental toughness? Listen to the full episode of Finding Elevation here, and discover how to embrace discomfort in your adventures.