Summary

In this engaging conversation, Jake Long shares his journey into the world of speed flying, discussing the importance of community, the evolution of flying content, and the lessons learned from personal experiences and injuries. The discussion emphasizes the need for open dialogue about safety, the role of ego in extreme sports, and the value of storytelling in the flying community. Jake also shares insights on training his dog to fly and the balance between quantity and quality in flying experiences, all while connecting his background in welding to his passion for flying. In this episode, the hosts delve into the evolution of risk in adventure sports, particularly speed flying. They discuss how experience influences risk-taking behavior, the importance of mentorship and proper instruction, and the psychological impact of accidents on pilots. The conversation also highlights the low barriers to entry in speed flying and the necessity of understanding weather and terrain for safe flying. Additionally, they explore the vibrant community of extreme sports enthusiasts in Alaska, emphasizing the support and camaraderie that fosters growth in the sport. In this engaging conversation, Jake Long shares insights into the Alaskan paragliding community, emphasizing the importance of safety, community support, and the unique challenges faced by pilots in the region. He discusses his aspirations to become an instructor and the significance of wing sizing in relation to a pilot's experience and weight. The conversation also touches on the balance between seeking thrills in speed flying and maintaining safety, as well as the evolving nature of the sport and its equipment.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Community Impact

05:53 Personal Experiences and Learning from Mistakes

11:52 The Importance of Sharing Experiences

18:02 Near Misses and Learning from Close Calls

23:57 Welding and Its Connection to Adventure Sports

37:01 The Joy of Building and Flying

45:30 The Journey to Flying with Pickles

50:33 The Transition from Paragliding to Speed Flying

55:55 The Impact of Personal Life on Flying

01:00:54 The Evolution of Risk Awareness in Flying

01:08:30 Kiting and the Importance of Gear Selection

01:14:22 Navigating the Community: Responsibility and Mentorship

01:20:13 The Importance of Instruction and Ground School

01:25:10 Tailoring Your Flying Journey

01:33:41 The Complexity of Risk and Reward

01:41:01 The Need for Foundational Knowledge in Speed Flying

01:46:58 Alaska: A Hub for Extreme Sports

01:53:55 Skiing and Snow Conditions in Alaska

01:59:05 Community and Responsibility in Paragliding

02:09:15 Future Aspirations in Flying

02:16:37 Promoting Paragliding Through Social Media

02:21:51 Overcoming Fear in Paragliding

02:27:26 The Importance of Wing Selection

02:38:18 Realistic Expectations in Downsizing Wings