#027 Lifted Up: Where Dogs & Dreams Take Flight - Jake Long

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 enthusiastThe role of paragliding in his recovery and self-discoveryHow his dog Pickles became his flying partner and social media starChallenges of the welding life in Alaska, including risks and industry insightsPerspectives on living life fully despite the dangers, including thoughts on mortality and fearThe importance of skill development and community in aerial sportsGround sports like skate joring and Nordic ice skating in AlaskaInsights into balancing work, hobbies, and family in a high-octane lifestyleTimestamps:(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 boldlyConnect with Jake:InstagramFacebookThis 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. Follow The State I Am In on social media HEREShoot me a text, what do you think?