In this episode of Intentional Improvement, host Erica LeMarr sits down with mountaineer and athlete Kayla Perez, who shares her incredible story of climbing Mount Everest despite having a lung infection. Kayla opens up about the mental and physical endurance required to achieve such a feat and how pushing past pain became her gateway to growth and purpose.

She discusses how her journey started during the COVID-19 pandemic, when she chose to face her fear of heights and take action instead of staying stuck in complacency. With raw honesty, Kayla recounts moments of doubt, setbacks from pulmonary edema, and the power of internal dialogue that kept her moving toward the summit—both literally and metaphorically.

In this episode, you’ll learn from Kayla about:

• How to get comfortable with discomfort
• The role of internal dialogue in overcoming fear
• Why remembering your “why” is key to pushing forward
• Using suffering as a tool for self-discovery
• The importance of self-discipline and physical challenge
• How to train your brain by physically changing your state
• Turning your mountain into a reference point for growth

About the Guest:

Kayla Perez is a mountaineer, athlete, and motivational figure who made headlines for conquering Mount Everest while battling a lung infection. Her journey is one of courage, resilience, and an unshakable belief that the impossible can be done. Whether she’s pushing her physical limits or helping others find their metaphorical mountain, Kayla lives by the principle that your circumstances don’t define you—your mindset does.

Connect with Kayla Perez:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/misskayperez

About the show:

Intentional Improvement is hosted by Erica LeMarr. The podcast features guests who share their success stories, detailing their journey to greatness, personal development experiences, and origin stories—who they were before achieving success. Through these conversations, the podcast aims to inspire you by providing relatable stories that encourage growth and self-improvement for a better future.

Connect with Erica:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ericalemarr
• Email: ericalemarr@gmail.com

Want to schedule a home buyer consultation with Erica?

Fill out the contact form: https://erica.huntingtonandellis.com