Nov. 10, 2025

#177 Tyler Willcutt — The ‘X’ Factor, Agent For The Best Of The Best, Where Pro’s Make The Most Money, and How The Climbing Industry Compares To Others

#177 Tyler Willcutt — The ‘X’ Factor, Agent For The Best Of The Best, Where Pro’s Make The Most Money, and How The Climbing Industry Compares To Others

Tyler Willcutt is the agent for climbers like Alex Honnold, Chris Sharma, Natalia Grossman, Tommy Caldwell, Jimmy Chin, etc… You get the idea. He is part of RXR Sports, an agency that represents the best athletes in adventure sports.

In this episode we get a behind the scenes look at what the day to day is like as one of the greats in our sport. How they make money, handle pressure, and capitalize on major sends. Tyler also explains how not all athletes can cross into the mainstream. Some have an ‘X’ factor that give them broad appeal, and we discuss what that is and how to get it.

Tyler is also an incredible climber and success story in his own right. He went from a “typical” strong dirtbag to having a successful career in climbing, and he shares how you can do that too.

Patreon Questions (join Patreon for extended cut with answers):

  • What are the most valuable skills for a professional climber to develop, in addition to their climbing ability?
  • Does anyone make 9 figures in our industry? 8 figures? 7 figures?!
  • What is the most outrageous sponsorship deal you were a part of that actually made sense?


Join Patreon: HERE

Follow us on Instagram: HERE

Visit our podcast page: HERE

00:00 - Intro

09:57 - Tyler's Climbing Origins

25:38 - What Sets Apart the Best of the Best

28:40 - Deciding to Pursue a Career Supporting Athletes

34:33 - Support From Patreon

49:58 - Tyler's Role as an Agent

55:42 - What are Brands Looking for in Athletes?

01:08:17 - Where Does the Money Come From?

01:25:05 - How to Go From Good to Great