30: Kathy Karlo - No Man's Land
In this episode, we sit down with Kathy Karlo to trace an unconventional climbing trajectory—one that started on ice in Ouray and the steep quartzite horizontals of the Gunks, but has led to a life filled with endless single-pitch perfection on the Sandstone of the Southeast.
Kathy reflects on how traveling to places like Indian Creek, the Black Canyon, and Vedauwoo pushed her into uncomfortable styles that made her a stronger, more creative climber—and why, despite all that wandering, she’s continually drawn back to the Southeast to pursue some of the most aesthetic trad lines around. We also dive into two of her biggest accomplishments: becoming the first woman to complete the Tennessee Wall Triple Crown—three 5.12 roof cracks outside Chattanooga—and the Linville Destroyer, a massive link-up that adds six formations and a committing river crossing to the already formidable Linville Crusher in Linville Gorge.
Beyond her personal climbing, Kathy serves as the Executive Director of the No Man’s Land Film Festival, where she helps amplify women and gender-nonconforming voices in adventure storytelling while building one of the most impactful film tours in the outdoor community.
This episode is about choosing the harder path on purpose, learning to rest when needed, and building a life around climbing—without letting it consume you entirely.
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Follow Kathy on Instagram: @inheadlights
Get more details about the No Man's Land Film Festival at their website!
Follow No Man's Land Film Festival on Instagram: @nomanslandfilmfestival
Watch the Stone Locals film featuring Kathy's FFA of the Tennessee Triple Crown
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