In this episode British hang gliding pilot Jeremy Soper shares his journey from overcoming a fear of heights to becoming a record-breaking pilot and innovative robotics entrepreneur. We explore the future of AI in physical labor, using robots to weed instead of using pesticides, the thrill of extreme flying and chasing distance around the world, including a midnight flight where the date changed, a personal call-out to other hang gliding pilots who are losing the records race to paragliders, and an optimistic view of the future of AI. Jeremy recounts his amazing out and back record this winter in Kenya (377 km), beating Owen Morse’s record set in the Sierras a few years back and the risks and rewards of flying the Kerio ridge and why we should all be flying prone. Enjoy!
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Key Topics:
Jeremy Soperman’s background in hang gliding and record attempts
The role of AI and robotics in physical labor and farming
Future of human employment in an automated world
The technical challenges and experiences of long-distance hang gliding in Kenya
Innovations in hang glider design and the potential of Project Seven
The importance of soft skills and passions in a future with AI
The community and culture of extreme sports and aviation
Sound Bites
“The best way to overcome fear is to challenge it head-on.”
“We’re seeking new horizons beyond the Owens record.”
“Cloud streets and thermals are key to long-distance flying.”
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Jeremy’s background in flying
01:47 Jeremy’s vision for AI and automation in agriculture
04:01 The impact of AI on jobs and human purpose
06:50 Jeremy’s journey from fear of heights to hang gliding champion
12:12 Record-breaking flights in Kenya and the challenges faced
20:11 Technical insights into long-distance hang gliding and conditions
30:07 Future of hang gliding, design innovations, and the Project Seven
45:02 The culture of extreme aviation and community stories
54:57 Closing thoughts on innovation, persistence, and the future
Resources
Telekin – Robotics for Farming – https://telekin.tech
FlexAlps Challenge mentioned in the show: www.XC-Buddy.com
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 30:25 — 27.9MB)
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