Gatekeeping or Growth? The $15,000 Everest Fee and Finding the Right People

Imagine this: You’re standing at the base of the world’s tallest peak, gazing up at the formidable Mount Everest. The journey ahead is treacherous, demanding, and potentially life-threatening. And now, it comes with a $15,000 price tag—just for the permit.

For many of us, that number feels staggering. Paying $15,000 to climb a mountain, risk my life, and subject myself to extreme physical and mental challenges? No, thank you. It’s an experience that doesn’t appeal to me—but here’s the kicker: It appeals to someone.

That’s the power of attracting the right audience.

Nepal’s decision to increase the climbing fee might seem excessive to some, but it speaks directly to a specific group—dedicated climbers, thrill-seekers, and those who see Everest as the ultimate achievement. These individuals are willing to invest in the challenge, prestige, and adventure that come with standing at the top of the world. They see the $15,000 not as a deterrent, but as a gateway to something they’ve dreamed of their whole lives.

However, this price hike raises an important question: What about those who have the skill, experience, and love for the mountains but lack the financial resources? For passionate climbers who have dedicated years to the sport, this gatekeeping feels harsh. It’s an unfortunate reality that talent and dedication alone aren’t always enough—access often comes down to financial means.

This situation invites reflection beyond Everest. Whether it’s in business, career opportunities, or personal growth, we must ask: Are we creating spaces that truly welcome the right people, or are we unintentionally shutting out those who could bring immense value?

When you find the right audience for your product, service, or environment, amazing things happen. The right people will:

• Apply to work there: Whether it’s a dream job or a personal goal, they’ll put in the effort to be part of it.
• Be there and stay: Commitment and passion will drive them to engage fully.
• Pay for it willingly: They see the value and are eager to invest.
• Engage and share it: Authentic enthusiasm leads to organic growth and a thriving community.

In business and life, we often focus on increasing the price, setting higher standards, or making things more exclusive—assuming it will attract higher quality. But exclusivity should be thoughtful. Are we curating the right experience and opportunity, or are we simply creating unnecessary barriers?

As we navigate our personal and professional journeys, let’s be intentional about who we attract and how we do it. When you align with the right people, they don’t just come—they thrive, contribute, and elevate the experience for everyone involved.

So whether you’re pricing a product, designing an experience, or opening a door of opportunity, remember: The right people will see the value, but thoughtfulness ensures that the door isn’t closed to those who truly belong. All of the above contributes to NOW moments!

What are your thoughts? Is the $15,000 Everest fee justified, or does it create unnecessary barriers?

Let’s discuss in the comments below.

Connect with me to create more NOW MOments

Stanley David