I didn't get a summit in Peru, but I walked away with something far more valuable than a peak. From chaotic baggage packing to a 75% pulse ox reading at high camp, this is a radically honest summary of my recent expedition, the reality of hitting a physical limit, and lessons learned along the way.

Mountaineering is more than just summiting. I’m dealing with the 'what if' shadow, high-altitude mindset and why failing isn't the end of the road.

When my mountaineering expedition to Ecuador was canceled, I had a choice: wait or pivot. After getting advice from Steve House and the Alpenglow team, I’m trading the glaciated "walk-ups" of Chimborazo for the technical Cordillera Blanca of Peru. Here’s why the shift to Tocllaraju is actually better preparation for my ultimate goal of climbing Mount Everest.