The 20 Minute Call

James La Barrie

The 20 Minute Call Podcast is a podcast about the dreamers, boundary pushers, rebels and champions of the skydiving industry. Each episode is a narrative journey highlighted by the highs, lows, and luck that the skydiving industry delivers told by the most influential people within the sport.

If you’ve ever dreamed of becoming a skydiver, opening a DZ or becoming the next world champion, check out The 20 Minute Call hosted by James La Barrie

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Episodes

Olav Zipser - The Father of Free Fly Skydiving
2d ago
Olav Zipser - The Father of Free Fly Skydiving
Send Us Feedback via TextOlav Zipser, born in Simmern, Germany, began his skydiving career in 1986 and quickly revolutionized the sport by introducing non-traditional forms of body flight - in other words departing the known world of flying on your belly to flying on multiple axes, namely on your head. His innovative approach led to the development of FreeFly, a discipline that has transformed skydiving techniques and competitions worldwide.Since his first jump nearly 40 years ago, Olav founded multiple free fly schools around the world to recruit others to “Freefly Your Mind.” Olav has trained 14 world champion skydivers, and he was instrumental in bringing free fly to the FAI making it an official category in competition. His achievements also include jumping from the stratosphere in 1995 from 47,000 feet, winning an Emmy Award for his performance in the X-Games, creating the Space Games, inventing the space ball, and has successfully survived more than 25,000 skydives in his career. In October of 2024, Olav was inducted into the International Skydiving Hall of Fame where he was presented by a free fly prodigy in his own right, Rook Nelson. Very impressive accomplishments considering that Olav was on the path to becoming a dentist until he made a skydive in Texel, in the Netherlands in the mid-80s where he learned to, as he describes, swim in the ocean of air. MEDIAVIDEO: Olav Zipser FreeFly Cross WindVIDEO: Freefly Astronaut ProjectVIDEO: The Best of CrosswindSupport The ShowLove the show? Help support it by becoming a member of the 20 Minute Call Patreon Community or leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Supporting the show gives access to a private group page where you can:- suggest who you'd like to hear on the podcast- learn what interviews will be upcoming- submit questions for future guests-receive show swagJoin our community and support the pod!Link: patreon.com/The20MinuteCallPodcastADVERTISEAre you interested in partnering with the 20 Minute Call as an advertiser? Let's work together! E-mail us at podcast@beyondmarketing.xyz
Gustavo Cabana: Hall of Fame Skydiving Aerial Photographer
Dec 2 2024
Gustavo Cabana: Hall of Fame Skydiving Aerial Photographer
Send Us Feedback via TextMy guest today is one of the world’s most celebrated skydiving camera flyers, with a career that spans over 30 years and more than 28,000 jumps. Gustavo Cabana, originally from Buenos Aires, Argentina, turned a simple VHS camera and a passion for skydiving into a lifelong profession, capturing some of the most iconic moments in the sport’s history. Gustavo is the only camera flyer to document four of the largest world records in skydiving, including the 400-way formation, the 168-way head-down freefly, and the 100-way canopy formations.With his camera, Gustavo has traveled to 28 countries, filming everything from national competitions to international boogies, commercials, and skydiving expeditions. His expertise has even led him to design and manage high-altitude oxygen systems, enabling new records in European skydiving. Beyond his work behind the lens, he’s a respected mentor, founding the Fly Camera School to make camera flying safer and more accessible to new jumpers.In 2023, Gustavo’s dedication to the sport was honored with an induction into the International Skydiving Hall of Fame. Now based in Catalunya, Spain, he manages his photo and video studio and continues to film at Skydive Empuriabrava, Europe’s premier drop zone.I’m thrilled to welcome Gustavo Cabana to The 20 Minute Call podcast!Media LinksGustavo's Website Gustavo's YouTube Channel736 Skydivers - The 4 Biggest Skydiving World RecordsGustavo's Induction into the International Skydiving Hall of Fame"In Search of the Perfect Jump"Gustavo's 35 Years of SkydivingSupport The ShowLove the show? Help support it by becoming a member of the 20 Minute Call Patreon Community or leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Supporting the show gives access to a private group page where you can:- suggest who you'd like to hear on the podcast- learn what interviews will be upcoming- submit questions for future guests-receive show swagJoin our community and support the pod!Link: patreon.com/The20MinuteCallPodcastADVERTISEAre you interested in partnering with the 20 Minute Call as an advertiser? Let's work together! E-mail us at podcast@beyondmarketing.xyz
Norman Kent - Iconic Skydiving Cinematographer (Part II)
Nov 25 2024
Norman Kent - Iconic Skydiving Cinematographer (Part II)
Send Us Feedback via TextIn part two of this two-part episode with Norman Kent, we resume our conversation, speaking more about Norman's professional career. If you've not yet listened to Part I, please listen to last week's episode first. Norman Kent is considered by many to be one of the greatest skydiving aerial photographers and cinematographers in the history of the sport. Norman Kent made his first jump at 19 years old. Now, at 68, he is still on the top of the mountain capturing the sport's most extraordinary images. At the time of this recording, the October 2024 cover of Parachutist Magazine is one of Norman’s images. With over 30,000 skydives made with a camera, Norman has witnessed and documented skydiving’s most extraordinary world records and beautiful moments. Some of these moments include capturing the Olympic Rings formation jump made during the Opening Ceremonies of the 1988 Olympic Games.This jump was broadcas live to one billion people around the globe to over 160 nations. Norman’s work has been published in prestigious magazines such Time, Playboy, the Guinness Book of World Records and Popular Photography. He has been part of blockbuster feature films such as Kingsman, Triple XXX, and Godzilla. He has shot commercials for the world’s largest brands including Smirnoff, Cocal-Cola, Visa and Ford, to name a few. I’m so pleased to welcome a skydiving icon, mentor and most of all, a thoughtful and warm human being, Norman Kent.MEDIA LINKSWebsite: Norman Kent ProductionsVideo: Aerial Pyro by Team FastraxVideo: NKP Commercial HTC PromoVideo: 100-Way Canopy Formation World RecordVideo: "Never Give Up"Video: "Deanna" a Tribute from Real TVVideo: Olympic Skydive Exhibition Team YouTube ChannelSupport The ShowLove the show? Help support it by becoming a member of the 20 Minute Call Patreon Community! Supporting the show gives access to a private group page where you can:- suggest who you'd like to hear on the podcast- learn what interviews will be upcoming- submit questions for future guests-receive show swagJoin our community and support the pod!Link: patreon.com/The20MinuteCallPodcastADVERTISEAre you interested in partnering with the 20 Minute Call as an advertiser? Let's work together! E-mail us at podcast@beyondmarketing.xyz
Norman Kent - Iconic Skydiving Cinematographer (Part I)
Nov 18 2024
Norman Kent - Iconic Skydiving Cinematographer (Part I)
Send Us Feedback via TextMy guest today is considered by many to be one of the greatest skydiving aerial photographers and cinematographers in the history of the sport. Norman Kent made his first jump at 19 years old. Now, at 68, he is still on the top of the mountain capturing the sport's most extraordinary images. At the time of this recording, the October 2024 cover of Parachutist Magazine is one of Norman’s images. With over 30,000 skydives made with a camera, Norman has witnessed and documented skydiving’s most extraordinary world records and beautiful moments. Some of these moments include capturing the Olympic Rings formation jump made during the Opening Ceremonies of the 1988 Olympic Games.This jump was broadcast live to one billion people around the globe to over 160 nations. Norman’s work has been published in prestigious magazines such Time, Playboy, the Guinness Book of World Records and Popular Photography. He has been part of blockbuster feature films such as Kingsman, Triple XXX, and Godzilla. He has shot commercials for the world’s largest brands including Smirnoff, Cocal-Cola, Visa and Ford, to name a few. I’m so pleased to welcome a skydiving icon, mentor and most of all, a thoughtful and warm human being, Norman Kent. MEDIA LINKSWebsite: Norman Kent ProductionsVideo: Aerial Pyro by Team FastraxVideo: NKP Commercial HTC PromoVideo: 100-Way Canopy Formation World RecordVideo: "Never Give Up"Video: "Deanna" a Tribute from Real TVVideo: Olympic Skydive Exhibition Team YouTube ChannelSupport The ShowLove the show? Help support it by becoming a member of the 20 Minute Call Patreon Community! Supporting the show gives access to a private group page where you can:- suggest who you'd like to hear on the podcast- learn what interviews will be upcoming- submit questions for future guests-receive show swagJoin our community and support the pod!Link: patreon.com/The20MinuteCallPodcastADVERTISEAre you interested in partnering with the 20 Minute Call as an advertiser? Let's work together! E-mail us at podcast@beyondmarketing.xyz
Jen Davidson - Former US Army Golden Knight and Multi-Time World Champion
Nov 11 2024
Jen Davidson - Former US Army Golden Knight and Multi-Time World Champion
Send Us Feedback via TextJen Davidson, a distinguished former member of the elite U.S. Army Golden Knights, has showcased her skydiving expertise in some of the most high-profile jumps worldwide, including an awe-inspiring jump at the Statue of Liberty and multiple high-profile stadium jumps as part of the demonstration team. Throughout her remarkable career, Jen has claimed multiple national and world championship titles, solidifying her legacy in the sport.Since retiring from the Golden Knights, Jen's commitment to pushing boundaries hasn't slowed down. She recently completed flight school and now pilots Black Hawk helicopters—a testament to her drive and adaptability. Jen's journey is marked by relentless pursuit of excellence and professionalism. Her leadership and mentorship have left an enduring impact on those around her, both in skydiving circles and beyond.Support The ShowLove the show? Help support it by becoming a member of the 20 Minute Call Patreon Community! Supporting the show gives access to a private group page where you can:- suggest who you'd like to hear on the podcast- learn what interviews will be upcoming- submit questions for future guests-receive show swagJoin our community and support the pod!Link: patreon.com/The20MinuteCallPodcastADVERTISEAre you interested in partnering with the 20 Minute Call as an advertiser? Let's work together! E-mail us at podcast@beyondmarketing.xyz
Brian "BK" Krause - Multi-Time World Champion & Former Team Captain of the Golden Knights
Nov 4 2024
Brian "BK" Krause - Multi-Time World Champion & Former Team Captain of the Golden Knights
Send Us Feedback via TextBrian "BK" Krause is a legendary figure in the skydiving community, with an impressive career that spans both military and civilian achievements. With over 23,000 jumps to his name, BK is known for leading the resurgence of the U.S. Army's Golden Knights 8-Way formation skydiving team. Under his leadership as captain and player-coach, the Golden Knights claimed a silver medal at the 2010 World Championships, followed by gold at the 2011 World Cup and 2012 World Championships.Beyond his own competitive success, BK played a pivotal role in establishing the Golden Knights’ all-women’s 4-Way team, which went on to win a World Championship just four years later—a testament to his leadership and vision. Even after his departure, the Golden Knights continued to thrive, winning three consecutive World Championships in 2014, 2016, and 2018, all tied to the foundation BK helped build.As a civilian, BK's achievements continued. In 2019, he rejoined his Paraclete XP teammates to win gold at the U.S. Nationals, defeating his former team. In 2022, BK added another World Championship title to his already remarkable legacy with XP8.BK’s contributions to the sport and his incredible journey make him a true icon in the world of skydiving.Support The ShowLove the show? Help support it by becoming a member of the 20 Minute Call Patreon Community! Supporting the show gives access to a private group page where you can:- suggest who you'd like to hear on the podcast- learn what interviews will be upcoming- submit questions for future guests-receive show swagJoin our community and support the pod!Link: patreon.com/The20MinuteCallPodcastADVERTISEAre you interested in partnering with the 20 Minute Call as an advertiser? Let's work together! E-mail us at podcast@beyondmarketing.xyz
Jeana Billings: World Champion in 4 & 8-Way Formation Skydiving
Oct 28 2024
Jeana Billings: World Champion in 4 & 8-Way Formation Skydiving
Send Us Feedback via TextJeana Billings has made an incredible impact on the skydiving world since her first jump in 2013. In just a few short years, she has become a dominant force in Formation Skydiving competitions. In 2018, Jeana and her team, Paraclete XP8, won the U.S. National Championships in the 8-Way event. By 2019, she added to her accomplishments by becoming the World Indoor Skydiving Champion and later that year, earned the title of U.S. National Champion, representing the U.S. at the 2020 World Parachuting Championships in Russia.Jeana’s success doesn't stop at 8-Way; she also competes at the elite level in 4-Way Formation Skydiving. Her remarkable achievements have made her a highly sought-after coach, mentoring skydivers of all levels. On top of her full-time career as a competitive athlete and coach, Jeana balances life as a single mother to two teenage daughters.Most recently, Jeana achieved a stunning double victory, winning gold in both 4-Way and 8-Way at the Skydiving World Championships in Beaufort, NC. Competing with the all-women’s team, XPG4, and Paraclete XP8, Jeana has reached the peak of her sport in just eleven years. Her relentless drive and dedication continue to inspire others.Support The ShowLove the show? Help support it by becoming a member of the 20 Minute Call Patreon Community! Supporting the show gives access to a private group page where you can:- suggest who you'd like to hear on the podcast- learn what interviews will be upcoming- submit questions for future guests-receive show swagJoin our community and support the pod!Link: patreon.com/The20MinuteCallPodcastADVERTISEAre you interested in partnering with the 20 Minute Call as an advertiser? Let's work together! E-mail us at podcast@beyondmarketing.xyz
Kirk Verner - Multi-Time World Champion FS Skydiver / GM Skydive Paraclete XP
Oct 21 2024
Kirk Verner - Multi-Time World Champion FS Skydiver / GM Skydive Paraclete XP
Send Us Feedback via TextKirk Verner is a true legend in skydiving, with a remarkable career spanning decades. As a founding member of Arizona Airspeed, Kirk has amassed an incredible 72 gold medals at world and national levels in both 4-Way and 8-Way formation skydiving. His achievements place him among the most successful competitors in the history of the sport.Kirk has also made significant contributions beyond competition. He captained both the 300- and 400-way world record formations and has coached thousands of skydivers, revolutionizing training and flying techniques in both indoor and outdoor settings. He’s held leadership roles, including as a USPA National Director and chairman of the competition committee, and currently serves as the General Manager of Skydive Paraclete XP in Raeford, NC.In 2022, Kirk was inducted into the International Skydiving Hall of Fame. Just weeks after his induction, he secured another victory at the World Championships in Eloy, Arizona, the birthplace of Airspeed. His team continued their winning streak by claiming gold at the US Nationals and World Championships in Beaufort, NC, setting records with 37 points in a single round and achieving the highest average in 8-Way history with 23.9 points. Kirk's legacy in the sport continues to grow.Support The ShowLove the show? Help support it by becoming a member of the 20 Minute Call Patreon Community! Supporting the show gives access to a private group page where you can:- suggest who you'd like to hear on the podcast- learn what interviews will be upcoming- submit questions for future guests-receive show swagJoin our community and support the pod!Link: patreon.com/The20MinuteCallPodcastADVERTISEAre you interested in partnering with the 20 Minute Call as an advertiser? Let's work together! E-mail us at podcast@beyondmarketing.xyz
Sherry Butcher: DZO, Aerohio & USPA Vice-President
Oct 7 2024
Sherry Butcher: DZO, Aerohio & USPA Vice-President
Send Us Feedback via TextSherry Butcher is a highly accomplished and influential figure in the skydiving community. She co-owns Aerohio Skydiving Center in Ashland, Ohio, and has been actively involved in the sport for over 30 years. Sherry made her first jump in May 1993 and has since made over 10,000 jumps. Her passion for skydiving led her to become a skilled instructor, eventually achieving certifications as an AFF Instructor, Tandem Instructor, Senior Rigger, and Skydive University Coach.Sherry has been engrained at Aerohio Skydiving since 1996, where she remains deeply involved in teaching, coaching, and organizing skydiving events. Her dedication to the sport extends beyond her business; she has served on the United States Parachute Association (USPA) Board of Directors since 2001, holding positions such as Secretary, President, and currently, Vice President. Sherry is particularly proud of her work with the USPA's Safety & Training Committee, where she has contributed to the development of global training methods and safety standards.Support The ShowLove the show? Help support it by becoming a member of the 20 Minute Call Patreon Community! Supporting the show gives access to a private group page where you can:- suggest who you'd like to hear on the podcast- learn what interviews will be upcoming- submit questions for future guests-receive show swagJoin our community and support the pod!Link: patreon.com/The20MinuteCallPodcastADVERTISEAre you interested in partnering with the 20 Minute Call as an advertiser? Let's work together! E-mail us at podcast@beyondmarketing.xyz
Craig O'Brien | Aerial Cinematographer (Replay)
Jul 8 2024
Craig O'Brien | Aerial Cinematographer (Replay)
Send Us Feedback via TextCraig O'Brien has accomplished so much that often his title as a 5-time US National Champion and 3-time World Champion is overlooked! This oversight only happens because of the glowing items on his resumé which includes filming the epic skydiving scenes in Iron Man, Iron Man 3, Kingsman, Godzilla, Point Break, the Hangover III, The Bucket List, Charlie’s Angels,  and perhaps the most iconic skydiving scene ever filmed - the famous HALO jump out of a C-17 military aircraft from 25,000’ with Tom Cruise in frame for the movie Mission Impossible Fallout.SHOW NOTES Family Sky Surfing & X Games The Start: Charlie’s AngelsJumping in TaftTim Rigby & Joe JenningsFirst Big Film: StealthMission Impossible: Getting the CallWorking with Tom CruiseMEDIA LINKSVIDEO: Charlie's AngelsVIDEO: Stealth - Ejection Seat SceneVIDEO: Mission Impossible Fallout: Behind The ScenesVIDEO: Mission Impossible: Tom Cruise and CraigVIDEO: Hall of Fame ReelVIDEO: Team Firestarter VIDEO: 3 Point 217-WayArticle: The Falling StarJOIN OUR COMMUNITYLove the show? Help support it by becoming a member of the 20 Minute Call Community! Supporting the show gives access to a private group page where you can:- suggest who you'd like to hear on the podcast- learn what interviews will be upcoming- submit questions for future guests-receive show swagJoin our community and support the pod!Link: patreon.com/The20MinuteCallPodcastADVERTISEAre you interested in partnering with the 20 Minute Call as an advertiser? Let's work together! E-mail us at podcast@beyondmarketing.xyz
Sara Curtis - World Record Skydiver & Organizer
Jun 24 2024
Sara Curtis - World Record Skydiver & Organizer
Send Us Feedback via TextSara Curtis is our guest today, and her resumé reads like a thrilling adventure novel. She’s a stuntwoman, business owner, politician, and world record skydiver. With three World Titles, 11 National Titles in Vertical Formation Skydiving (VFS), 20 World Records, and over 17,000 skydives to her name, Sara Curtis is nothing short of phenomenal.Sara burst onto the scene in the early 2000s with Arizona Arsenal, a revolutionary vertical skydiving team that redefined what was possible in vertical relative work. She has since led and participated in major vertical formation world records, co-founded the Highlight Pro Skydiving team, joined the Eloy City Council as Vice Mayor, performed stunt work in major Hollywood productions, and co-founded a business that trains US Military forces and consults for Firebird, a container manufacturer.Join us as we delve into Sara’s incredible journey and explore the experiences that have shaped her extraordinary career.MEDIA Max Pyro  (VIDEO)Sara Jumps with Her Car (VIDEO)Classic Arizona Arsenal (VIDEO)Sara Curtis on Blue Skies Fun Days (VIDEO)JOIN OUR COMMUNITYLove the show? Help support it by becoming a member of the 20 Minute Call Community! Supporting the show gives access to a private group page where you can:- suggest who you'd like to hear on the podcast- learn what interviews will be upcoming- submit questions for future guests-receive show swagJoin our community and support the pod!Link: patreon.com/The20MinuteCallPodcastADVERTISEAre you interested in partnering with the 20 Minute Call as an advertiser? Let's work together! E-mail us at podcast@beyondmarketing.xyz
Jon Devore | Captain of the Red Bull Air Force
Jun 17 2024
Jon Devore | Captain of the Red Bull Air Force
Send Us Feedback via TextMy guest today has truly lived a life that transcends even the wildest dreams of a successful career in skydiving. With over 500 BASE jumps and 17,000 skydives, Jon Devore is a highly respected camera flyer, BASE jumper, wingsuiter, world champion free flyer, and stunt performer. His work has been featured in major films such as 2015’s Point Break, Iron Man 3, Transformers: Dark of the Moon, Mission Impossible: Dead Reckoning, and Ad Astra.Jon also serves as the event coordinator for the world-renowned Red Bull Air Force, one of the most exciting and recognized demonstration teams globally. In 2023, he was inducted into the International Skydiving Hall of Fame.Despite his incredible achievements, Jon remains as humble as he was when he first arrived at Skydive Arizona over 30 years ago, dreaming of completing 500 jumps to become a tandem instructor back in Alaska. Along the way, he encountered a few remarkable individuals who would forever change the course of his life.MEDIA VIDEO: Jon on the Ellen Degeneres ShowVIDEO: Jon landing in downtown Los AngelesVIDEO: Jon in the iconic wingsuit scene in Point BreakVIDEO: Wingsuit Formation: Flying the CrackPODCAST: Red Bull Bulletin with Jon DevoreJOIN OUR COMMUNITYLove the show? Help support it by becoming a member of the 20 Minute Call Community! Supporting the show gives access to a private group page where you can:- suggest who you'd like to hear on the podcast- learn what interviews will be upcoming- submit questions for future guests-receive show swagJoin our community and support the pod!Link: patreon.com/The20MinuteCallPodcastADVERTISEAre you interested in partnering with the 20 Minute Call as an advertiser? Let's work together! E-mail us at podcast@beyondmarketing.xyz
Kim Emmons Knor - 1962 US Women's World Champion
Jun 3 2024
Kim Emmons Knor - 1962 US Women's World Champion
Send Us Feedback via TextMy guest today is from the Pioneer era of parachuting and yet is the sports biggest ambassador. Kim Emmons Knor made her first jump in 1959. As a member of the first U.S. Women’s Parachute Team,  she won gold at the Sixth World Parachuting Championships. Flash forward to present day, or 65 years after her first jump, Kim is inspiring countless people on her journey to gain the Wings Award which is issued by the USPA for the achievement of 1,000 jumps. At age 85, Kim can be found in her red RV traveling from state to state visiting any DZ that will host her and help with her mission. While her age is often referenced, do not be fooled into thinking Kim is a slow-moving geriatric. This lady is one of the most energetic people I’ve ever met, sharp as a tack and quick with her whit. She is the perfect ambassador for our sport as her efforts demonstrate that anything is possible if you put your mind to it. As a result, the media has fallen in love with Kim as she charms everyone on camera and invites the whuffo world that skydiving is for everyone! To date, her story has been picked up by news media around the globe having been featured in Yahoo News in the UK as recently as this morning. In August 2023, she was featured in People Magazine and has since been featured on CBS News, The Sun, ABC and countless local affiliates around the United States.In 2013 Kim was inducted into the International Skydiving Hall of Fame.