Climber Story: Brittany Neddo

To start, tell us a little bit about yourself

My name is Brittany. I am 32 and currently reside in upstate New York with my three cats (Jax, Fitz & Willow). I have been working in insurance for the last six years and in the last year moved up into our litigation department, while still working from home.

How did you start climbing?

I began climbing a little over five years ago at my home gym (The Edge in Halfmoon). I wasn't very consistent as far as maintaining a routine. Just right before the pandemic hit is when I started getting back into the swing of things and then of course, everything shut down during that time. However, I was able to get outdoors a lot that summer and I guess that's really how my journey began!

What impact has climbing had on your life?

Climbing has really reshaped my self perception especially as I progress. It's allowed me to see everything I am fully capable of as an individual who has always doubted herself and never believed she could achieve much. It's also had such a positive impact on my mental health and letting go of struggles I have faced over the years.

What are some other things you do that you find most fulfilling?

I love hiking, backpacking, biking, & just being in the outdoors!

If you could tell the world one thing, what would it be?

Don't let your brain tell you that you can't, because guess what? You can!

Favorite thing about Dynamite Starfish?

I love being part of this community that DS has created. It has allowed me to connect with so many other liked-mind individuals and follow along everyone else's journey. It's so great to see all the inspiring stories that are shared.

Is there something you're working on that you'd like to tell our community about? We love a good story.

I recently got into sport climbing this season! One of the biggest hurdles I have faced is getting in my head way too often and psyching myself out. It's definitely hard to shake those feelings, but I am slowly working through those struggles. Plus, I am still having tons of fun along the way and have met so many great people who I've had the chance to learn from and make some amazing memories with this season.

You can find Brittany on Instagram at @keepontrekkingg.

Want to get to know more of the climbers in the amazing Dynamite Starfish community? Check out our archive of Climber Stories here.

We hope you have enjoyed these sneak peeks into climbers' lives. We're on a mission to share diverse stories about rock climbing. Let's push the boundaries of who we know as climbers. Let's use our energy and passion for the outdoors to love our environment and inspire one another.

Have someone you think we should feature? Send us a message and let us know!

Until next time!