Introduction
Balancing chalk and chalkboards, Maddie Brandt is a math professor at Vanderbilt University who thrives both in the classroom and on the climbing wall. With a love for problem-solving, whether it’s a tricky equation, a granite face, or a knitting pattern, Maddie finds joy in challenge and creativity. From climbing trips with her dog Bean to crafting sweaters she can wear proudly, Maddie’s story highlights passion, persistence, and fun.
Quick Facts
- Name: Maddie Brandt
- Profession: Math Professor at Vanderbilt University
- Years Climbing: 10
- Home Gym: Climb Kraft (Nashville), with Rock Spot Providence holding a special place in her heart
- Favorite Outdoor Climbing Spot: Squamish
- Dog’s Name: Bean (mutt, 6 years old)
- Creative Hobby: Knitting sweaters and tops
Teaching and Math
Q: What do you do for a living?
A: I am a math professor at Vanderbilt.
Q: What made you choose math to teach?
A: I love math! It’s like a puzzle and it’s fun to try new challenges (something climbers can relate to!).
Q: What made you choose Vanderbilt University?
A: I wanted to be in a city that was close(ish) to outdoor climbing, and Vanderbilt was where I got the job!
Q: What is your go-to teaching words of wisdom to kids having trouble in your classes?
A: Challenge will make your brain stronger! Struggle is not a sign of failure, it’s a sign of growth.
Climbing Journey
Q: How long have you been climbing for?
A: I’ve been climbing for about 10 years.
Q: How did you get into climbing?
A: When I was younger I was really into ice skating, but when I went to college there wasn’t a rink nearby. I tried out almost every P.E. class—dance, other activities—but nothing stuck. A friend invited me climbing, and as soon as I tried it I was hooked. I got a membership, shoes, and never looked back.
Q: What is your home climbing gym?
A: Currently it’s Climb Kraft in Nashville, but in my heart it will always be Rock Spot Providence.
Q: Where is your favorite outdoor spot to climb? And why?
A: Squamish! It’s granite, scenic, dog-friendly, close to stores and restaurants, and the approaches aren’t super long.
Q: What do you think is tougher: math or rock climbing? And why?
A: I think both can get arbitrarily hard. If your climbing or math are too easy, there’s always a harder challenge to seek out.
Knitting and Creativity
Q: How did you get into knitting? And how long have you been knitting for?
A: I learned to knit as a kid and have picked it up and put it down at various points in my life. More recently, I started again last November after a long break.
Q: What is your favorite thing to knit? And why?
A: I like making tops and sweaters because then I get to wear them!
Q: What do you like to do for fun outside of climbing and knitting?
A: Hanging out with my friends!
Food and Fun
Q: Where is your favorite place to eat? And what do you usually order?
A: Degthai in Nashville—it’s amazing! I usually order the tiew gang.
Life with Bean
Q: What is your dog’s name? And what type of dog is he? How long have you had him?
A: My dog’s name is Bean, and he’s a mutt. I’ve had him for 6 years.
Q: What are your favorite activities to do with your dog?
A: I love to take Bean climbing with me or to a creek. He loves to take pebbles out of the water and put them on shore where they’re “safe.”
Stay Connected with Maddie
Follow Maddie, her climbing, her knitting, and of course, Bean:
- Instagram (Climbing): @maddie_moves_
- Instagram (Bean): @just.bean.cute
- Instagram (Knitting): @maddie_makes__
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