The Staff

I won’t say a hero, ’cause what’s a hero? But there’s a man. Sometimes there’s a man who—well, he’s the man for his time and place. He fits right in there, and that’s Mario in... Berkeley. Born and raised in Española New Mexico, Mario relocated to the best coast as a young adult. After working as a theatrical light designer in San Francisco, luthier and professor of luthrie at the Musicians Institute in Los Angeles, Mario fell in love with climbing and its community and knew this was place for him. Things Mario wont shut up about…climbing, coffee, nutrition, The Office, and why the jelly filled donut is the most important sports supplement you should be taking.

Bay Area climbing gyms have been Ben’s home since age eight. From private lessons, through the competitive team and summer camp counseling to desk staff, Ben has grown up at Touchstone more than anywhere else.... Climbing remains Ben’s outlet (both emotionally and creatively), their only motivation to work out, and a wonderful community. If you’re ready for an earful, ask Ben about his other passions: Dungeons and Dragons, classical music, film, tea, and horror novels.

Born in Berkeley, raised in the East Bay, Ted then went on to pursue his undergraduate degree in Oregon in Environmental Science and Chinese Studies. After traveling abroad and living abroad for a short while,... he is back in The Bay! He has always had a passion for outdoor activities and has more recently added climbing to that list.

“He’s like a useless Good Will Hunting,” is something you might hear one say about Rolando. Whether he is scaling rock walls, crafting animations, asleep with his dog, or restoring his cars, he is always... learning off-yet-nifty facts and tricks. When not climbing, you’ll catch him chilling outdoors, painting, or diving into a good read. One might be tempted to call him a jack of all trades… sadly he’s the only one who does.