I have dedicated half of my life to flying.
I have competed in the Red Bull X-Alps, spending countless hours in the air and in the mountains – often at the very edge of what is physically and mentally possible. I flew a small Piper Super Cub from Alaska to Patagonia, planned and completed projects around the world, and turned my dreams into reality. But what I’ve really learned along the way has little to do with sport or performance. I have learned that life itself is an adventure, but not the kind you need to climb a summit or fly a thousand kilometers to experience.
From the Outside: Extreme – From the Inside: Universal
The experiences I’ve had as an athlete, such as making decisions under pressure, trusting my own path and staying flexible while navigating nature and uncertainty are all very similar to challenges you have in everyday life. Because of this, I started sharing my knowledge and stories, through keynotes and talks such as: my upcoming book The Wanderbird Strategy (set to release in fall 2025), on my podcast Find Your Path, and through the Wanderbird Hike&Fly events – which, by now, are about far more than just flying. Today, my focus is on helping people find their own rhythm, make clearer decisions, and reconnecting them with themselves – whether in the mountains or in their daily lives
New Roles, New Perspectives
I’m now the father of two small children, which has been an adventure in its own right. My life now doesn’t always allow me to jump at every perfect weather window anymore, and some mornings with the kids drain more energy than a bivy at 2,500 meters would. But that’s exactly where growth happens. Today, I’m not only talking about freedom – I’m learning to live it in new ways, even when on the ground. With more depth, more connection, more patience – but still with my same passion.
What Remains Is the Path
Salewa has been by my side for many years. From competitive races to the projects I’m working on now, Salewa has been with me through all of my ups and downs. And I’m grateful to walk this path not just as an athlete, but as someone who can now pass on what he’s learned. Not for the next world record, but for everyday life, which often turns out to be the greatest challenge of all.
And yes – I still fly.
But today, I understand much better what lifts me up.
