Exit Point

In #57 Laurent Frat sits down with Peter Salzmann, an Austrian wingsuit pilot who recently set world records in BASE jumping with his innovative wingsuit foil. They cover Peter's career as a paragliding instructor, stuntman, and professional wingsuit pilot. Peter shares his early beginnings from jumping off the roof of his house as a child to what it feels like to fly the foil.  Some highlights are their discussion about the importance of balancing risk with the exhilarating freedom of BASE, wingsuit start performance, and the technical details of his record-breaking flight that spanned nearly six minutes over 12.5 kilometers. Whether you're a seasoned BASE jumper or just curious about innovation in extreme sports, this episode offers valuable insights into the mind and methods of one of the world's top action adventure athlete.
This independent project is only possible with the support of our listeners.  You can contribute by visiting: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/exitpointsupport Exit Point
For more info visit exitpointpodcast.comProducers: Laurent Frat, Matt Blank, Mark Stockwell Host: Laurent FratMusic credit: Staccato Strings by Andreas Beats 

Laurent sits down with Jeff Shapiro to share the profoundly personal and emotional experience of leading a fatality recovery from a remote wingsuit accident. Jeff provides a vivid recount of the technical challenges and emotional weight faced bringing the body of Mat Kenney home, while reflecting on the deep bonds within the BASE jumping community. Their conversation explores the balance between ambition and caution, the importance of camaraderie, and how personal adversities reshape perspectives in high-risk sports. This episode offers a poignant insight into human resilience and the powerful connections formed through shared intense experiences.
 
This independent project is only possible with the support of our listeners.  You can contribute by visiting: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/exitpointsupport Exit Point
For more info visit exitpointpodcast.comProducers: Laurent Frat, Mark Stockwell, Matt BlankHost: Laurent FratSound: Mark StockwellMusic credit: Staccato Strings by Andreas Beats 
 

In this episode of Exit Point, Laurent sits down with David Laffargue. Their conversation goes unfiltered as they have a gritty, candid exchange that attempts to strip away some of the unspoken elements of greed to reveal the sport’s raw truths. They tackle everything from the temptations of shortcuts in training to redefining ‘cool’ by prioritizing safety and longevity. Whether you’re a seasoned jumper or just BASE curious, this episode will have you nodding in agreement or seething with outrage. Either way, this episode invites you to challenge your personal risk reward balance, while reminding you that the best jump is always your next.

In this episode, hosts Laurent Frat and Matt Blank step outside the realm of BASE jumping to gain valuable insights from Gavin McClurg, the host of Cloudbase Mayhem and a celebrated figure in the paragliding world. Gavin, a former Red Bull X-Alps pilot and National Geographic Adventurer of the Year, shares his journey from ski racing to paragliding, offering lessons that resonate across high-risk sports. The discussion covers the importance of SIV training, the dangers of intermediate syndrome, and the crucial role of mentorship in extreme sports. Gavin also delves into maintaining passion and sustainability in high-risk activities and the value of community support.
-This independent project can only survive with the support of our listeners.  You can contribute by visiting: support Exit Point
For more info visit exitpointpodcast.comProducers: Laurent Frat, Matt Blank, Mark Stockwell Host: Matt BlankSound mixing: Mark StockwellMusic credit: Staccato Strings by Andreas Beats 

In this episode, Matt Blank interviews Jacob Gardner, a renowned BASE jumper and equipment manufacturer. Jacob delves into his journey as a parachute rigger, the challenges and learning curve he faced, and how understanding gear transformed fear into fun. The discussion covers the evolution of BASE canopy manufacturing, the importance of equipment maintenance, and the trade-offs between different materials and designs. They highlight the balance between action and technical knowledge in BASE jumping, emphasizing the significance of self-reliance and passing down traditions. Jacob's passion for improving the safety and performance of BASE gear is evident as he shares insights on innovations and his vision for his company, Magic Backpacks.
Please support this independent project by visiting: support Exit Point
For more info visit exitpointpodcast.comProducers: Laurent Frat, Matt Blank, Mark Stockwell Host: Matt BlankSound mixing: Mark StockwellMusic credit: Staccato Strings by Andreas Beats 

In this episode, Matt Lajeunesse interviews Jen Jones, the Recreation Director at the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Moab field office, who has been an integral part of the BASE jump community for over a decade. They discuss Jen's role and experiences working with BASE jumpers, managing public lands, and the unique challenges Moab faces with its 3 million annual visitors. The conversation touches on Turkey Boogie, the legality of BASE jumping on public lands, and the necessity of permits for commercial activities. Jen offers words to reassure the BASE community of BLM's openness and support while encouraging jumpers to stay informed and engaged.

In this episode, Matt records with Sean Devlin who comes on to share his perspective on wingsuit progression, using data driven analysis to enhance performance and the importance of water training in the BASE environment.  Devlin has built an impressive career outside of BASE jumping as a risk analyst in the financial tech world as well as compiled an impressive wingsuit resume traveling the world to jump both to compete and adventure. He's a multi-sport instructor with several accreditations in both water and air sports and holds several world records in a few outrageously fun categories. We dive into navigating the BASE jumping world as both an outsider and a community resource as Devlin shares some stories about the mistakes and successes of his journey off the exit point.
Please support this independent project by visiting: support Exit Point
For more info visit exitpointpodcast.comProducers: Laurent Frat, Matt Blank, Mark Stockwell Host: Matt BlankSound mixing: Mark StockwellMusic credit: Staccato Strings by Andreas Beats 

In this episode, Laurent records with Katie Hansen Lajeunesse who is a highly accomplished air sports athlete. She is a world record holder in free flying, a multiple world record holder in wingsuiting, and an BASE jumper and swooper.  We touch on various aspects of these disciplines and the intricacies of navigating personal and professional boundaries in these extreme sports,  Katie shares some memorable jump stories, including her process of recovering from a very close brush with death.
There are also elements where we critically address mentorship dynamics, particularly concerning women in the sport. We reflect on overcoming trauma, the importance of community support, and the balancing act between passion for the sport and personal well-being.Article mentioned: Surviving to Look Back
Katie landing in a moving car: LINK
Please support this independent project by visiting: support Exit Point
For more info visit exitpointpodcast.comProducers: Laurent Frat, Matt Blank, Mark Stockwell Host: Matt BlankSound mixing: Mark StockwellMusic credit: Staccato Strings by Andreas Beats 

In this episode, Laurent is joined by Kendrick Dane, a licensed attorney and BASE jumper. They explore the evolving world of BASE jumping, its legal battles, community spirit, and the pursuit of freedom through human flight.
Kendrick is also General Counsel for the advocacy group BASE Access, whose mission is to preserve and open site access on public lands within the United States. Kendrick and Laurent discuss the challenges and hopes of legalizing BASE jumping in national parks, Kendrick’s journey through law and adventure sports, and the pivotal role of community and respect in advancing the future of BASE jumping.
This episode is a dense discussion about the intersection of law, advocacy for our sport, and the culture war the National Park Service has waged against BASE jumping.https://baseaccessfund.org/
Please support this independent project by visiting: support Exit Point
For more info visit exitpointpodcast.comProducers: Laurent Frat, Matt Blank, Mark Stockwell Host: Matt BlankSound mixing: Mark StockwellMusic credit: Staccato Strings by Andreas Beats Timestamps:
00:41 Exploring the Legal Landscape of BASE Jumping
01:01 Advocacy, Culture, and the Future of BASE Jumping
00:00 Welcome to Exit Point: Diving into BASE Jumping Culture
00:28 Meet Kendrick Dain: Attorney and BASE Jumper
01:01 The Legal Landscape of BASE Jumping in the US
03:10 Exploring the Challenges of Legalizing BASE Jumping
03:46 Kendrick's Journey: From Legal Troubles to BASE Jumping
12:35 The Evolution of BASE Jumping and Its Community
17:59 Navigating Legal Access to National Parks for BASE Jumping
32:22 The Administrative Procedures Act and Its Impact
48:52 Exploring the Wilderness Act and Its Impact
49:26 The Intricacies of Rulemaking and Executive Orders
51:29 The Role of Tenure in Federal Employment
54:48 Navigating the Legal Landscape for Base Jumping
55:03 The Struggle for Base Jumping Permits
01:01:02 Cultural Evolution and Legal Challenges in Base Jumping
01:06:19 The Path to Legalizing Base Jumping in National Parks
01:22:34 Community and Personal Motivations Behind Base Jumping
01:26:41 Legal Advice for Base Jumpers in Gray Areas
01:32:09 Closing Thoughts on the Future of Base Jumping

In this episode, Matt Blank talks with Avery Badenhop, Dennis McGlynn, and Harry Parker, who were known during the 90s as the “three-headed dragon” of BASE and founders of the infamous Team Ill Vision. This team has been a timeless model for outlaw extreme sports gangs living an endless summer lifestyle. The leader of Team Ill Vision, Avery, is the quintessential counterculture athlete, creating a unique lifestyle that would inspire generations of jumpers to go all in and totally cut away from the mainstream. Dennis McGlynn, one of the first jumpers to perform BASE stunts for film and television, is also a pioneer of manufacturing BASE-specific gear. He was one of the original FJC instructors and the first to be prosecuted by the federal government for BASE jumping. Harry Parker, the man with the perspective, has been an active jumper and photographer for more than three decades, participating in and capturing some of our community’s historic moments. Harry helped put a face and voice to the BASE jumping lifestyle. Their team created a culture around the pursuit of BASE jumping, opening the first public events, competitions, and demonstrations. Their access efforts helped open jumps on BLM land, the Perrine Bridge, and recrafted Bridge Day in West Virginia, as well as forged paths to international BASE events, which have continued to grow over several decades.
Please support this independent project by visiting: support Exit Point
For more info visit exitpopintpodcast.comProducers: Laurent Frat, Matt Blank, Mark Stockwell Host: Matt BlankSound mixing: Mark StockwellMusic credit: Staccato Strings by Andreas Beats Timestamps: 
00:39 Avery Badenhop: The Counterculture Athlete
00:51 Dennis McGlynn: Pioneer of BASE Stunts and Gear
01:07 Harry Parker: The Man with the Perspective
01:22 Creating a Culture Around BASE Jumping
03:23 The Evolution of BASE Jumping Gear and Techniques
09:22 The Dark and Dangerous Early Days of BASE Jumping
24:55 The Transition to Legal and Sponsored BASE Jumping Events
28:52 The Art of BASE Jumping: Performance, Evolution, and Community
40:49 Cliff Camp '94: A Pivotal Moment in BASE Jumping History
44:14 The Legal Battle Over Aerial Delivery
46:47 The Cliff Camp Incident: A Tragic Turning Point
50:06 Learning from Mistakes: The Importance of Gear Awareness
54:07 From Legal Battles to Building a BASE Jumping Legacy
57:29 The Rise of Team Ill Vision and BASE Jumping Competitions
01:09:47 Navigating the World of Sponsorship and Event Organization
01:21:19 The Impact of Legal Troubles on Personal Life and the Sport
01:25:01 Surviving and Thriving in BASE Jumping: Lessons Learned
01:33:48 The Evolution of Safety and Community in BASE Jumping
01:34:00 The Shift in BASE Jumping Culture: From Tight Crews to Independence
01:34:30 Finding Community and Collaboration in a Solo Sport
01:36:13 The Challenges and Rewards of BASE Jumping Hiatus
01:38:24 Identity and Lifestyle: The Essence of Being a BASE Jumper
01:41:17 The Double-Edged Sword of Currency in BASE Jumping
01:54:03 The Impact of Gear and Training on BASE Jumping Sustainability
01:57:40 The Role of Community and Mentorship in BASE Jumping
02:08:26 Reflecting on Careers, Sacrifices, and Gifts in BASE Jumping