Mar 06 2025 87 mins 60
A year ago almost to the day professional Red Bull adventure athlete, 9 time Red Bull-Alps competitor, brainchild of “The Search” projects, professional speaker, loving father and husband Tom De Dorlodot was learning how to kite-ski in Norway for a future planned expedition across the length of Greenland when things went horribly, horribly wrong. This wasn’t Tom’s first major injury, but this one has forced Tom into some scary places both mentally and physically. Tom’s year has been a blur of darkness and light: nine major surgeries, months of antibiotics, at times a real risk of losing his leg pulling against optimism, hope, love of family and beautiful lessons. In this conversation we explore themes of resilience, recovery, and the mental health struggles that accompany physical setbacks. Tom shares insights into his accident, the lengthy recovery process, and how he has managed to stay positive despite the difficulties he’s faced. Tom shares the importance of support systems, the paragliding community, and mental coaching. He discusses the emotional impact the injury has had on his family, the lessons learned from adversity, and how he navigates risk in his athletic career. Tom reflects on his future aspirations, including competing in his 10th Red Bull X-Alps this June, and the shift in his approach to life and sports as he nears 40. Tom and Gavin explore the themes of risk management, life phases, and the importance of gratitude in the context of adventure sports. They discuss the often difficult and opaque balance between pursuing passions and the responsibilities of parenting, emphasizing the need for a shift in perspective towards enjoying life and nature. The conversation also touches on the challenges faced by the younger generation in a digital age and the importance of inspiring them to explore the world beyond screens. Ultimately, they advocate for redefining success in adventure sports, focusing on enjoyment and community rather than competition and ego.
TakeawaysTom expresses gratitude for reconnecting with the paragliding community after a challenging year.The X-Alps race presents unique challenges that require quick decision-making and adaptability.Tom emphasizes the importance of taking calculated risks in adventure sports.Recovery from injury is a long and arduous process, often filled with setbacks.Mental health plays a crucial role in the recovery journey, with ups and downs along the way.Tom’s accident highlights the importance of listening to one’s intuition in risky situations.The conversation reflects on the camaraderie and support within the paragliding community.Tom’s experience with painkillers during recovery sheds light on the challenges of managing pain and addiction.The discussion touches on the significance of family support during tough times.Tom’s journey illustrates the power of resilience and the potential for personal growth after adversity. Support from family and partners is crucial during recovery.Facing the possibility of amputation can lead to a new perspective on life.Injuries affect not just the individual but their loved ones as well.Resilience is key in overcoming challenges and setbacks.Mental coaching can provide valuable insights during tough times.Every challenge presents an opportunity for growth and learning.It’s important to listen to one’s intuition in high-risk situations.Life doesn’t stop for anyone; taking time for oneself is essential.Health issues can shift priorities and perspectives on life.Sharing knowledge and experiences can help guide the next gener...
TakeawaysTom expresses gratitude for reconnecting with the paragliding community after a challenging year.The X-Alps race presents unique challenges that require quick decision-making and adaptability.Tom emphasizes the importance of taking calculated risks in adventure sports.Recovery from injury is a long and arduous process, often filled with setbacks.Mental health plays a crucial role in the recovery journey, with ups and downs along the way.Tom’s accident highlights the importance of listening to one’s intuition in risky situations.The conversation reflects on the camaraderie and support within the paragliding community.Tom’s experience with painkillers during recovery sheds light on the challenges of managing pain and addiction.The discussion touches on the significance of family support during tough times.Tom’s journey illustrates the power of resilience and the potential for personal growth after adversity. Support from family and partners is crucial during recovery.Facing the possibility of amputation can lead to a new perspective on life.Injuries affect not just the individual but their loved ones as well.Resilience is key in overcoming challenges and setbacks.Mental coaching can provide valuable insights during tough times.Every challenge presents an opportunity for growth and learning.It’s important to listen to one’s intuition in high-risk situations.Life doesn’t stop for anyone; taking time for oneself is essential.Health issues can shift priorities and perspectives on life.Sharing knowledge and experiences can help guide the next gener...
