Facing Fear & The Art of Risk: Nik Wallenda, World famous aerialist and tightrope walker

Some people try to run away from their family legacy and forge their own path. Nik Wallenda has been able to make his own path while continuing in his family’s footsteps. While he is seventh-generation member of The Flying Wallendas aerial entertainers, he has used his determination and focus to defy the odds and take acrobatic stunts further than anyone else ever has. On this week’s episode, I sit down with the 11-time world record holder to discuss his storied career and life performing on the wire. Nik is an inspiring example of how preparation and following your heart can lead you to great achievements.

During our conversation, we discuss his family’s history and, while he was raised by entertainers, he had to fight to be one himself. We also break down what it’s like to live life on the actual edge, how shake-ups at major television networks nearly cost him the chance to perform a stunt he had prepared two years for, how fear is a constant in his life but also something that motivates him, and what he’s saying to himself when he’s hundreds of feet in the air. You’ll find out how he goes about assembling his team for stunts, the advice he has for rebounding after a tough defeat, and why love is the ultimate teaching tool for him.

Nik’s new book, Facing Fear: Step Out in Faith and Rise Above What’s Holding You Back, dives into how he’s used fear to overcome some of the toughest situations he’s faced. This episode shares what it means to set goals for yourself, prepare as much as possible for any scenario, and why you must be careful with the kind of noise you let into your mind. This is an inspirational talk and you’ll even hear what Nik still hopes to walk over across the globe.