In this fascinating episode of The Brian Moylett Podcast, Brian Moylett sits down with Irish wingsuit pilot, BASE jumper, and professional tandem paraglider Michael Moran to explore one of the world's most dangerous—and exhilarating—sports.
From growing up on a farm in Tipperary, Ireland, to living in Ölüdeniz, Turkey, one of the world's most famous paragliding destinations, Michael shares his extraordinary journey into wingsuit flying, BASE jumping, and paragliding.
But this conversation goes far beyond extreme sports.
Brian and Michael dive into the psychology of fear, performance under pressure, mental resilience, mindfulness, risk management, peak performance, personal growth, and what it truly means to live a meaningful life.
Whether you're interested in sports psychology, high performance, mental toughness, adventure sports, leadership, or simply living with more courage, this episode is packed with insights.
In this episode, we discuss:
- What wingsuit flying is and how it works
- Flying at over 250 km/h through the mountains
- The psychology of fear and how elite performers manage it
- Why preparation creates confidence under pressure
- Performance psychology and staying calm in high-risk environments
- The importance of routines and rituals before performing
- Managing adrenaline in extreme sports
- BASE jumping and the realities of risk
- Losing friends in dangerous sports and dealing with grief
- Building mental resilience through discomfort
- Why cold water, exercise and movement improve mental health
- Alan Watts, mindfulness and living in the present moment
- Why success isn't always about money
- Finding purpose through passion
- The simple life versus chasing ambition
- Sponsorship in extreme sports
- Lessons anyone can apply to sport, business and everyday life
Who is Michael Moran?
Michael Moran is an Irish wingsuit pilot, BASE jumper, and professional tandem paraglider based in Ölüdeniz, Turkey, widely regarded as one of the world's best locations for paragliding and free flight.
Alongside flying tandem paragliding professionally, Michael continues to pursue wingsuit flying at the highest level while mentoring newer pilots and promoting safe progression within the sport.
Key Takeaways
- Fear isn't the enemy—it's information.
- Confidence comes from preparation, not bravado.
- Managing pressure is a skill that applies in sport, business and life.
- Purpose often comes from pursuing what you genuinely love.
- The greatest moments in life can't be bought.
Memorable Quotes
"Fear is what keeps you alive."
"I feel like I've won the lottery after a perfect sunset flight."
"Time is the real currency."
"If you really love something, you'll always find a way."
About The Brian Moylett Podcast
The Brian Moylett Podcast features conversations with world-class performers, athletes, coaches, entrepreneurs, psychologists, authors and thought leaders exploring:
- High Performance
- Mindset
- Sports Psychology
- Leadership
- Mental Health
- Personal Development
- Success
- Human Performance
- Peak Performance
- Wellbeing
New episodes every week.
Connect with Michael Moran
Follow Michael's incredible flying journey on Instagram:
@michaelmoran
Connect with Brian Moylett
Brian Moylett is a keynote speaker, mindset coach, bestselling author, rugby coach and performance coach helping athletes, teams and organisations perform at their best.
Follow Brian for more conversations on mindset and high performance.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
