In this episode, we explore Jake Long’s adventurous path from growing up in Minnesota skating to becoming a passionate Alaskan paragliding pilot and dog owner. His story highlights the thrill of extreme sports, resilience after an accident, and living authentically and intentionally.
Key Topics:
- Jake’s transformation from aggressive inline skater to mountain and air sports enthusiast
- The role of paragliding in his recovery and self-discovery
- How his dog Pickles became his flying partner and social media star
- Challenges of the welding life in Alaska, including risks and industry insights
- Perspectives on living life fully despite the dangers, including thoughts on mortality and fear
- The importance of skill development and community in aerial sports
- Ground sports like skate joring and Nordic ice skating in Alaska
- Insights into balancing work, hobbies, and family in a high-octane lifestyle
Timestamps:
- (00:00) - Welcome and Jake’s early extreme sports background
- (02:40) - Transition from inline skating to paragliding
- (09:17) - Jake’s journey into welding and life in Alaska
- (12:52) - Paragliding as a life-saving and self-discovery tool
- (19:16) - Near-fatal paragliding accident and its impact
- (22:33) - Themes of mortality, risk, and living fully
- (26:06) - Visual experience of flying over Alaska
- (36:09) - Living with risk and thoughts on death and the afterlife
- (44:08) - Flying with Pickles, training, and dog’s adventures
- (51:24) - Jake’s perspective on high-risk activities and fear
- (72:16) - Community, inspiration, and encouraging others to pursue passions
- (75:36) - Ground sports: skate joring, ice skating, and versatility in Alaska
- (82:08) - Social media growth, influence, and storytelling
- (92:41) - Final advice: chase what lights you up and live boldly
Connect with Jake:
This episode is packed with inspiring stories of overcoming, embracing what you love, and pursuing passions in the Last Frontier. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or just looking to live more intentionally, Jake’s journey offers valuable lessons.
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