Mike Schaefer

Mike began wandering into Climb So iLL’s Saint Louis gym in 2018 to occupy otherwise drab weekday evenings at home. Doing hard things–whether it be in running or road cycling–had always been on his rap sheet, so learning to pull hard on SoILL’s thin edges and gravity-hungry overhangs was a welcome, but exciting new challenge. With the encouragement of new and old friends, he eventually learned to top rope, indoor sport climb, and eventually outdoor sport climb. It’s such a gift for him to stretch himself physically and mentally–but also psychologically by learning to manage anxiety and uncertainty in difficult climbing spaces. Mike has been an assistant instructor for tree and rock climbing since spring 2025. Like with his own climbing, he enjoys seeing new and experienced outdoor enthusiasts navigate resistance in natural landscapes. Off of the rock (or plastic : ) wall, Mike enjoys reading, spending time with his nieces, nephews, and godkids, serving at his church, and pursuing his single-pitch AMGA certification with Vertical Voyages!