#213 Meghan Buchanan - Mountaineer Adventure Athlete & Aerospace Engineer
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Meghan Buchanan - mountaineer, adventure athlete, and advocate for neurodivergence, & aerospace engineer. Meghan has successfully summited the Seven Summits—the highest peaks on each continent—including Mount Everest and Antarctica’s Mount Vinson. She is also close to completing the Explorers Grand Slam, which entails reaching both the North and South Poles in addition to the Seven Summits. As an advocate for neurodivergence, Meghan openly shares her experiences with dyslexia, inspiring others to embrace their unique challenges. She developed the GGRIT philosophy—Gratitude, Growth, Resilience, Integrity, and Tenacity—which she embodies in her pursuits and promotes through motivational speaking engagements. In 2024, Meghan expanded her reach by joining the cast of Netflix’s “Outlast” Season 2, a survival competition set in the Alaskan Arctic that tests contestants’ physical endurance, mental fortitude, and teamwork skills. Her participation showcased her resilience and adventurous spirit to a broader audience. Meghan at a young age was diagnosed with dyslexia, and faced significant academic challenges. Her mother instilled in her a philosophy of perseverance, emphasizing that with hard work, she could achieve anything. This mindset propelled Meghan to earn an undergraduate degree in aerospace engineering from the University of Colorado Boulder and a master’s degree in engineering management, leading to a successful career with prominent companies such as Lockheed Martin and Raytheon. Beyond her engineering achievements, Meghan is a dedicated adventure athlete. Her passion for the outdoors began in childhood, hiking with her father. In 2011, she suffered a severe snowboarding accident in Vail’s Sunup Bowl, breaking her left femur and enduring a challenging 19-month recovery. Defying medical expectations, she not only regained her mobility but also pursued mountaineering with renewed determination. Through her multifaceted career and personal endeavors, Meghan Buchanan continues to inspire and empower individuals worldwide, demonstrating that with determination and GGRIT, any obstacle can be overcome. Tune in as Meghan Buchanan joins Bobby Marshall in studio to discuss mountaineering, impacts to the environment, public lands, Mt. Everest, neurodivergence, would travels, culture, mountain life, and so much more. Please subscribe or like us on social media platforms for updates on shows, events, and episode drops.
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Welcome to an inspiring exploration of Ggrit, resilience, and the unstoppable human spirit as embodied by Meghan Buchanan. From climbing some of the world's highest mountains to advocating for those with learning disabilities, Meghan's story is a testament to what can be achieved through sheer determination and unwavering commitment to personal growth. In this blog post, we'll delve into Megan's journey, highlighting key moments from a recent episode of the Mountainside Podcast she was featured on.
A Legend in the Making Meghan Buchanan is more than an adventure athlete. She's an aerospace engineer, a champion for the neurodivergent community, and a truly remarkable individual. As she sets out to conquer the Seven Summits, a challenge involving the highest peak on every continent, she brings with her a message of perseverance and tenacity. The Seven Summits and the Explorers Grand Slam, which includes skiing to the North and South Poles, represent not only a physical challenge but also a lifelong dream and a platform to challenge societal norms.
A Journey Empowered by Ggrit Raised in a supportive family that encouraged her despite being diagnosed with dyslexia, Megan grew up with a tenacity that has seen her through life's many challenges. Her journey is particularly moving for those who have faced similar struggles. Meghan's upbringing in a family that valued resilience has given her a unique perspective on overcoming obstacles, both in challenging mountain terrains and in life.
Life's True Summit: Empowering Others Meghan's passion for mountaineering is matched by her commitment to advocacy. She speaks fervently about the importance of allowing children, especially those with learning disabilities, to experience failure and learn from it. By doing so, they build essential life skills and confidence. Through her speaking engagements, Meghan inspires others to embrace their differences and use them as strengths.
Focus on Mental and Physical Fortitude To prepare for her expeditions, Megan embraces a rigorous training regime that focuses on physical prowess and mental strength. Her story of surviving a nearly catastrophic snowboarding accident only to rise stronger and more determined illustrates the power of mental fortitude. Meghan challenges herself constantly, emphasizing the importance of preparation and the ability to pivot when faced with unforeseen challenges, such as her canceled North Pole expedition.
Building a Legacy Beyond her personal accomplishments, Meghan is dedicated to building a supportive community for neurodivergent individuals. Her plans include launching initiatives that empower young people by taking them into nature to build confidence through real-world challenges. Her upcoming book, "Choose to Rise," promises to expand on her philosophy of grit and will serve as both a memoir and a motivational guide.
Conclusion Meghan Buchanan's journey is an inspiring saga of conquering not just physical mountains but also the metaphorical ones that life presents. Through sharing her story and advocating for others, Meghan continues to make a significant impact. Her unwavering spirit reminds us all of the power of resilience and the importance of believing in oneself, regardless of the challenges faced. As Meghan continues to scale new heights, she blazes a trail for others to follow. For more fascinating stories like Meghan's and to stay updated on future podcasts and adventures, make sure to check out the Mountain Side Podcast, where the wild meets the wise.