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Would You Climb 101 Stories for $500,000?
4th February 2026 • The Daily Note with James A. Brown • James A. Brown
00:00:00 00:00:59

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Alex Arnold is the incredible individual who scaled 101 stories in Taipei in under two hours, and he did it for Netflix. You might think that a stunt like this would come with a hefty paycheck—reports suggest he earned about $500,000—but here's the kicker: he said he would have done it for free if only he had permission from the building's owners. It's a wild thought, right? He climbed not for the fame or the cash, but simply because he could, and because it would be an amazing experience. This got me reflecting on how often we hold back from pursuing our dreams unless someone is watching or pushing us. So, I ask you, what leap of faith have you taken, or are you thinking of taking? Let's dive into that together! When we hear about someone like Alex Arnold, who scaled 101 stories in Taipei in under two hours, it’s hard not to feel a mix of awe and disbelief. This episode challenges us to rethink what drives people to take such risks. Initially, I was struck by the reported payment of $500,000 for the climb, which seemed like a hefty reward for an act that could easily go wrong. But then I listened to Arnold’s own perspective, which shifted my understanding entirely. He expressed that he would have climbed that building even without the financial incentive, driven instead by a pure desire to see if he could do it. This idea of pursuing something purely for the sake of possibility resonates deeply with me. It raises a critical question: how often do we hold back our ambitions because we’re waiting for approval or validation from others? Arnold’s mindset reflects a rare breed of individuals who chase their dreams without the need for an audience. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the most fulfilling journeys are those we undertake for ourselves, regardless of external recognition. In reflecting on our own lives, I encourage everyone to think about the leaps of faith we might be avoiding. Are we waiting for the perfect moment or the right audience? Let’s embrace the spirit of inquiry and push ourselves to find out what we’re truly capable of, just like Arnold did. After all, the real adventure lies in the pursuit of our dreams, not just the end result.

Takeaways:

  1. Alex Arnold climbed 101 stories in Taipei, showcasing extraordinary determination and skill.
  2. He was reportedly paid $500,000 for his climb, which raised some eyebrows.
  3. Arnold expressed he would have climbed regardless of payment, simply for the experience.
  4. His mindset challenges us to pursue our dreams without needing an audience or approval.
  5. The episode encourages us to consider what leaps of faith we are willing to take.
  6. We should reflect on our motivations and whether we act only when watched.

Links referenced in this episode:

  1. jamesabrown.net

Companies mentioned in this episode:

  1. Netflix


This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis:

Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy

Transcripts

Speaker A:

This is the Daily note from jamesabrown.net have you heard of Alex Arnold?

Speaker A:

He is the man who climbed 101 stories in Taipei in under two hours on Netflix.

Speaker A:

Can I guess what he was paid?

Speaker A:

Reports say about $500,000.

Speaker A:

I thought he was out of his mind and underpaid until I heard what he said next.

Speaker A:

He said he would have climbed that building without cameras or contracts if the owners just gave him permission.

Speaker A:

Because he could.

Speaker A:

Because it would be amazing.

Speaker A:

And then I saw myself in him.

Speaker A:

Most of us don't do anything unless someone's watching or demanding it.

Speaker A:

Unless you're like him or me.

Speaker A:

And you just want to know if you could, if your dreams are possible.

Speaker A:

So what about you?

Speaker A:

What leap of faith have you made?

Speaker A:

Or are you considering?

Speaker A:

Let me know on jamesabrown.net on that note.

Speaker A:

I'm James A.

Speaker A:

Brown, and as always, be well.

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