Michael Moran - Wingsuit Flying, Fear, Extreme Sports & Mental Performance

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 worksFlying at over 250 km/h through the mountainsThe psychology of fear and how elite performers manage itWhy preparation creates confidence under pressurePerformance psychology and staying calm in high-risk environmentsThe importance of routines and rituals before performingManaging adrenaline in extreme sportsBASE jumping and the realities of riskLosing friends in dangerous sports and dealing with griefBuilding mental resilience through discomfortWhy cold water, exercise and movement improve mental healthAlan Watts, mindfulness and living in the present momentWhy success isn't always about moneyFinding purpose through passionThe simple life versus chasing ambitionSponsorship in extreme sportsLessons anyone can apply to sport, business and everyday lifeWho 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 TakeawaysFear 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 PodcastThe Brian Moylett Podcast features conversations with world-class performers, athletes, coaches, entrepreneurs, psychologists, authors and thought leaders exploring:High PerformanceMindsetSports PsychologyLeadershipMental HealthPersonal DevelopmentSuccessHuman PerformancePeak PerformanceWellbeingNew episodes every week.Connect with Michael MoranFollow Michael's incredible flying journey on Instagram:@michaelmoranConnect with Brian MoylettBrian 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.