Episode Details

Why do some people run from risk while others leap straight into it—literally? In this episode, we dive into the world of wingsuit BASE jumpers, athletes who hurl themselves off cliffs in one of the most dangerous pursuits on Earth. Through the experiences of Laurent Frat, Steph Davis, and others, we explore what draws them to a sport with a long list of fatalities, and why their mindset stands in stark contrast to our increasingly risk-averse society. Beyond the clichés of thrill-seeking or social-media fame, we uncover a deeper truth: for these jumpers, danger isn’t a flaw—it’s the point. It’s a path to control, freedom, and a kind of aliveness they say modern life can’t offer. Are they reckless… or are they chasing something the rest of us have forgotten?

https://www.economist.com/international/2021/01/30/why-do-some-people-risk-their-lives-for-fun