Michelle Song
For our Leader Spotlight this month we talked to Meredith Mosman, a climbing, backcountry ski, and avalanche education volunteer leader with the Tacoma Branch. Meredith strives to constantly learn from fellow leaders and advises aspiring leaders to always look for opportunities to grow.
Name: Meredith Mosman
Branch: Tacoma
How long have you been a leader? Four years
What activities do you lead? Basic and intermediate climbing programs, backcountry ski course, and avalanche education courses
Leadership Questions
WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO volunteer WITH THE MOUNTAINEERS?
A lot of my friends that I made through the basic and intermediate climbing courses were giving back and instructing so I decided to join in on the fun! Plus, I learned so much from my peers and past instructors that I felt like I should pass along the knowledge.
WHAT IS THE BEST, FAVORITE, OR MOST MEMORABLE experience YOU'VE HAD WITH THE CLUB?
Part of the application process for the intermediate climbing course is to hike up Mount Si with a 35lb. pack in under 2 hours. When I did it, it was a full on snow storm for the last 500ft. I stopped to put on a jacket and gloves with wind smacking me across the face and I was still the first student to the top! Not that being first or fast is everything, but it sure felt good to exceed my own expectations. And I passed the test!
How has your leadership style evolved as you've gained experience?
I am constantly learning from others and gaining new experiences. I would say over the years my style has evolved to lead with more kindness, compassion, and humor. I used to think leaders had to always be confident, aggressive, and highly skilled. But my favorite leaders, and the ones I've learned the most from, are full of humility and aren't afraid to ask for help when they need it.
What is one thing you do on trips to create an inclusive experience for people of all skills and backgrounds?
I always try and make conversation with people and get to know them. Ask them questions outside of climbing.
IT'S OFTEN SAID: "GOOD JUDGEMENT COMES FROM EXPERIENCE; EXPERIENCE COMES FROM BAD JUDGEMENT." Can you describe a learning experience TO HELP OUR COMMUNITY BUILD THEIR GOOD JUDGEMENT?
I was coming off the summit of Rainier on skis and my partner and I came to a section where the runout wasn't very clear and it was very steep. We debated on whether we should ski it anyway or down-climb. I wanted to ski it because I had it in my mind that it wouldn't count as a full ski descent if I downclimbed part of the way. My partner convinced me that we should rope up and downclimb which was a good thing because there was a gaping crevasse right below us that we couldn't see until we got closer. I almost let my ego get in the way, which could've ended badly for me and my partner.
What advice do you have for aspiring leaders in The Mountaineers community?
Never stop learning and improving. There's always room to grow.
Lightning Round
What's your go-to place for a post-trip meal? Mondo's
How about your best trail snack? Anything Haribo
What's your favorite close-to-home adventure? Laps on Camp Muir
Who is your Mountaineers hero? Brette Harrington
What 11th Essential do you bring on most trips? Gummy candy
What's next on your bucket list? Climbing in the Bugaboos!
is there Someone that you'd like to see in the spotlight?
Send an email to Michelle Song to make a recommendation for one of our upcoming Leader Spotlights!
