“Gymspiration” – Nate McKenzie – Ascent New Haven

2025-07-21

What started as a folder labeled Gymspiration on Nate McKenzie’s phone—filled with 20 years of notes and snapshots from climbing gyms—has transformed into Ascent New Haven, a vibrant hub for movement, wellness, and human connection. In this episode of Sounds of Health, host Dave MacNiven talks with Nate about his journey from retail leadership to outdoor guide, and ultimately to creating one of Connecticut’s most inclusive and innovative climbing spaces. Nate opens up about how climbing grounded him through transitions, how a c...

What started as a folder labeled Gymspiration on Nate McKenzie’s phone—filled with 20 years of notes and snapshots from climbing gyms—has transformed into Ascent New Haven, a vibrant hub for movement, wellness, and human connection. In this episode of Sounds of Health, host Dave MacNiven talks with Nate about his journey from retail leadership to outdoor guide, and ultimately to creating one of Connecticut’s most inclusive and innovative climbing spaces.

Nate opens up about how climbing grounded him through transitions, how a close friend's injury led to the founding of Paradox Sports, and how the Ascent New Haven community continues to grow through adaptive programming, social workouts, and intentional design. It's a conversation about perseverance, purpose, and why gyms should feel more alive—inside and out.

🧗 In This Episode:

Climbing as a therapeutic anchor through life’s challenges
The “Gymspiration” folder that sparked Ascent’s creation
Building inclusive programs for adaptive athletes and diverse communities

Whether you’re scaling your own dream or seeking deeper connection through movement, this episode climbs beyond the physical.

📍 Visit Ascent New Haven
470 James Street, Suite 004
New Haven, CT 06513
📞 (203) 777-2364
📧 info@ascentclimbinggym.com

🔗 Learn more & connect
Website: ascentclimbinggym.com
Instagram: @ascentnewhaven
Facebook: Ascent New Haven | Climb CT
Threads: @ascentnewhaven
YouTube: @ascentnewhaven
TikTok: @ascentnewhaven

Sounds of Health is brought to you by Nutmeg Insurance Advisors and recorded at the offices of Nutmeg Advisory Group in North Haven, CT.

Producer and Host: Dave MacNiven
Producer: Jason Carubia
Music: Rob Hames

Sounds of Health: Shining a light on the path to improved health.

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