The Value of Collaboration in Gym Creation – Parker Simms

Today's episode features an interview with Parker Sims, founder of Gravity Bear, a new bouldering gym built inside a century-old, renovated building in downtown Tulsa, Oklahoma. Parker talks with host John Burgman about the process it took to bring this ambitious project to life, from managing construction timelines and subcontractors to refining the gym’s vision around a “minimum-viable-product” approach.

Throughout the conversation, Parker shares the challenges of acting as his own project manager, the importance of hiring the right team early, and how the gym’s design evolved to balance financial reality with addressing community needs. He also explains how his military background shaped his leadership style and resilience through the ups and downs of construction.

Listeners will hear how Parker drew inspiration from climbing gyms around the world, blending a European-style, café culture with a focus on creating a community gathering space and true “third place” for locals and visitors alike.

Tune in to learn how Gravity Bear came together—one deadline, renovation and lesson at a time.

General Topics Covered

• Project Management and Construction Challenges
• Team Building and Organizational Structure
• Facility Vision with a Minimum-Viable-Product Focus
• Building Renovation and Historical Preservation
• Military Influence on Leadership and Business Philosophy
• Competitive and Community Insights from Global Climbing Gyms

Show Notes

• @climbgravitybear

Thank you Approach and Kilter for your support! And thank you Devin Dabney for your music!