Adrian Ballinger is a world-class mountaineer, business leader, and professional speaker. As founder and head guide of the internationally acclaimed Alpenglow Expeditions, Adrian envisioned a more holistic climbing experience for his clients than the status quo. Focusing on small groups and client education, this vision continues to change how big mountains are climbed.

What started in 2004 with three trips on one continent with one lead guide has grown into a thriving company. How was Alpenglow able to expand to 10 times its size in 10 years, all while setting new industry standards and expectations? Adrian believes running a business is like climbing a mountain and attributes his extensive mountaineering experiences to his company's success.

As a professional athlete, first and foremost, Adrian is the only American who has skied two 8,000-meter peaks, was the first person to ski Manaslu, the 8th tallest mountain in the world, and, in 2011, became the first person to summit three 8,000-meter peaks in only three weeks (Everest twice and Lhotse once). He is the only American guide with AMGA and IFMGA guide certifications and has achieved more than ten summits of 8,000-meter peaks (including six summits of Mt. Everest).

If you want to inspire your rope team to work together to achieve their goals or find the path to making your business a success, then it's time to start your ascent to the top with Adrian.