Alex Wildman and Jeff Markovitz authored the beautiful (auto)biographical story of Alex’s journey from diagnosis to summit in their co-authored book The Sharpest End.
From the Book Description: Alex Wildman was a cardiac nurse and rock climber who, at the peak of his physical fitness, faced a diagnosis that would threaten his life. Through the process of his diagnosis and treatment, Alex had to rely on others, and had to develop a personal philosophy contrary to what disease suggests: the insistence that bodies are ultimately frail. Based on a chance encounter with Conrad Anker and a promise to climb one of the world’s most iconic cliffs, The Sharpest End delves into the mysterious love people have for climbing with an appreciation of family, adventure, and friendship in the face of pain.
In this episode of theDIHEDRAL Podcast we delve into the depth of friendship, community, coping mechanisms, personal growth, life, and of course, rock climbing.
Alex and Jeff were such a pleasure to speak with, their openness and ease with which they are able to talk about cancer and recovery makes a topic that is at times taboo much more palatable. The vulnerability and honesty presented in The Sharpest End are such magnetizing forces that one cannot help but feel like they are part of Alex’s journey. That same grounded connectivity carried over masterfully to our discussion.
This was a terrific conversation, and I am completely grateful to both Alex and Jeff for allowing us to tap into their journey on such a personal level. The strength of their friendship is beautiful, and it was an honor to have shared some time with them.
As always, we want to thank you for listening. You can find the interview on theDIHEDRAL Podcast HERE, and listed on most podcasting platforms including Apple, Spotify, and Amazon.
The Sharpest End can be found Here.
Alex Wildman also co-stars with Conrad Anker in the documentary Hold Fast, which can be seen Here.

Such a riveting piece! I love it.
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Lamittan, that is so nice, thank you!
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Highly welcome you are 🤗
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This was by far your best interview! Conrad’s is next.
I can say the most often characteristic in all your guests is compassion.
2 favorites:
Conrad’s visit to the hospital was greater than climbing El Capitan together.
We are more than biological life….
Thank you for sharing your story. Now to find the book🙏🏼
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Well that is very nice, thank you!!!
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I’ll look for this podcast! The documentary sounds great too. We did just watch the Alpinist which I loved!
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Good call I really enjoyed The Alpinist too. I think I should watch it again. He was a one of a kind for sure!
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It’s definitely one to watch again!
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Thanks you for encouraging .
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Of course, thank you for the comment!
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