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Climber Story: Katie Jo Myers
To start, tell us a little bit about yourself
Hi there! My name is Katie and I'm 38 years old. My pronouns are she/her. I live part time on my sailboat in Marina Del Rey, CA and part time on the road climbing. I work remotely for a startup in the outdoor industry, as well as doing freelance photography, filmmaking, and writing.
How did you start climbing?
I started climbing at age 28, after moving to Los Angeles, CA for work. At the time, I was experiencing a lot of challenges, and felt very lost and alone in a new city by myself. I was really struggling with depression so I began looking for a healthy outlet, soon discovering a climbing gym right down the street from my work. I signed up for a beginner class, and from the moment I touched that climbing wall, I was in love! Growing up, gymnastics had been my greatest passion, and I found that the balance, movement, flexibility, and mental challenges of climbing were instantly familiar. Climbing felt like coming home, so after that first day, I just never looked back.
What impact has climbing had on your life?
Climbing has impacted my life in pretty much every way you can imagine; from career and relationships to my mental and physical health. I found climbing at a time when I was really struggling, and because of that, I have so much gratitude and passion for this sport. It really saved me. Climbing helped me discover and re-discover a lot of things; confidence, community, joy, purpose, self-worth, curiosity, a desire to explore and learn, and very importantly, a way to step beyond myself to help and support others. Climbing introduced me to new friends, my partner, new skills and learning opportunities, and even a new career that I love. So yeah, climbing is pretty much the best!
What are some other things you do that you find most fulfilling?
Outside of climbing, I also sail, paraglide, and surf, and just really enjoy being in nature! I am also passionate about photography and film, and find so much happiness in capturing moments and memories.
If you could tell the world one thing, what would it be?
You are enough, and wherever you're at in life, it is perfectly okay!
Favorite thing about Dynamite Starfish?
Dynamite Starfish is amazing! I love that this is not just a brand, but a community where we can shares stories, talk about important things, encourage each other, and celebrate inclusivity and individuality.
Is there something you're working on that you'd like to tell our community about? We love a good story.
Currently, my biggest project is not actually climbing related. A few years ago I bought an old sailboat, which I learned how to sail and also live in part time. My boat is over 50 years old, and I am so excited to have started a massive restoration project. Patching, painting, wood work, new rigging, new sails, updated wiring, etc. I am doing all the work myself and it's such a rewarding labor of love to see this boat start to shine again! Anyone want to go sailing?!
You can find Katie Jo on Instagram at @katiejo.myers
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!
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