I learned two basic lessons on Everest. First, just because something has worked in the past does not mean it will work today. Second, different challenges require different mindsets.

The right to have our environment protected for the benefit of present and future generations is our most important human right.

If you want to swim across the English Channel from England to France - you have to leave your doubt on the beach in England.

If we pass on an unsustainable environment to our children we have failed them.

Ultimately I wanted to be a pioneer swimmer, a distant descendant of Scott, Amundsen and Hillary, except that I would be an explorer of the water.

When I'm preparing for a swim, I imagine absolutely everything about it: the color of the water, how cold it is, the taste of salt in my mouth. I visualize each and every stroke.

There is nothing more powerful than the made-up mind.