Dean Potter

“Wingsuit BASE jumping feels safe to me.”

“I also know for a fact of at least two other ascents of the Delicate Arch. But when 'Outside' did their research, the other two climbers wouldn't admit to it, and I admit to it because I don't see anything wrong with a man climbing a rock.”

“I know it's kind of a strange thing I'm talking about, but another part of me truly believes I can fly, like somehow my mind can figure it out.”

“Part of me says it's kind of crazy to think you can fly your human body. Another part of me thinks all of us have had the dream that we can fly. Why not chase after it?”

“The wilderness is infinite in what it offers.”

“I think my dad's dream really was just to have a good family, treat them well, to keep them together, and he did everything in his power and it just fell apart on him.”

“There are probably people who think I'm crazy for doing what I'm doing and they're probably right. Compared to them, compared to the way they think and feel and are so bound by norms then I am crazy, but insane or enlightened, it's all pretty close. I would say it's just how you look at it.”

“My fear is with the onset of mainstream interest in extreme sports that diversity will be subdued and eventually snubbed out within our great outdoor community. Shouldn't we question when the leaders of our community try to manipulate our culture into a mono crop?”

“Chasing after the unattainable is the fun part.”

“My whole life I've always innovated the gear to match my pursuits. I've innovated the best climbing gear, the best slacklining gear, and definitely the most advanced BASE jumping gear.”

“I know my family's adventures must scare a lot of you who have rarely or never been into the wild or are afraid of heights and exposure.”

“My views are not concrete. I'm open to change.”

“Many of my hardest climbs were done with one or both feet barefoot.”

“I'm 43 years old and I've never been injured doing any of my arts.”

“I'm not so good at sitting on the floor and meditating.”

“Most people in my life who didn't follow their dreams weren't happy. Their lives seem so strange.”

“I want to live to be a grandfather, or to be doing this when I'm 80.”

“On the highline my thoughts are simple and clear. Fundamental needs shine through the mental clutter. I focus completely on my breath, my connection with the line, and making it safely to the other side.”

“We call the rangers 'the tool.' They're just kind of a tool of the government machine. They don't use their own mind.”

“Free soloing is just the most natural way man can climb. It's just using your hands and feet without any use of protection or rope to ascend.”