Climber Story: Brooke Sardella

To start, tell us a little bit about yourself

Hi, I'm Brooke! I am 25 and based in New England. My profession is currently in Digital Marketing and Photography. I also love learning new things and seek adventure! I am a 200HR Registered Yoga Teacher, certified in Hawaiian Massage, a Wilderness First Responder and hopefully my next certification will be scuba diving!

How did you start climbing?

I discovered climbing when I was looking to make like-minded friends in college, so I joined the Outdoor Adventure Program. I became a Trip Leader in that program and during a summer training, I climbed my first top rope route in Pawtuckaway State Park, New Hampshire. I was so terrified of climbing that growing up at summer camp I wouldn't even do the high ropes course!

Yet, a new climbing gym was opening nearby and I was recruited to work there, as well. So I jumped head first into the climbing community with little experience, but I learned the ropes! During my time at the gym, I introduced countless people to the sport, helped organize competitions with USA Climbing and met some famous climbers in the gym, like Megan Martin!

What impact has climbing had on your life?

Jumping into the outdoor industry the way I did showed me I can learn anything I put my mind to!

Climbing has pushed me out of my comfort zone to gain confidence, focus on my health/fitness, make long-lasting connections and find adventure in nature. I try to get into other sports, but there really is nothing like climbing! I danced ballet for almost 15 years, and I think there is a big crossover when you consider the tight shoes, technical footwork, flexibility and dynamic movement required. When I climb, I feel like I am dancing on the wall and that's why I love it.

Climbing also inspired me to become a full-time dirtbag in 2021 when I built a van with my then partner. We traveled around the country and hit major climbing areas such as Red Rocks, Joshua Tree and The Gunks. I miss van living and plan on doing it again in the future!

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

Besides climbing, I love doing yoga, hiking the NH 48 4,000 footers, figure skating and practicing mindfulness meditation. I have also recently picked up surf photography! 

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

Get out and explore the natural world, prioritize your health, focus on experiences rather than material things and be patient with the process of life!

Favorite thing about Dynamite Starfish?

The stickers!

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

I have been watching so many climbing videos lately and as a photographer, I think it is time I make my own! My friends have amazing stories to tell, putting down impressive grades and developing local areas. While I don't think I will ever climb double digit grades, being able to capture their process is going to be so rewarding to share with others!

You can find Brooke on Instagram at @brookeherenow or check out her photography portfolio at @mtnbrookemedia and TikTok at @mountainbrooke.

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!