The jet stream is a very strong force and pushing a balloon into it is like pushing up against a brick wall, but once we got into it, we found that, remarkably, the balloon went whatever speed the wind went.

Happiness doesn't come from making a fortune and owning lots of possessions. 'Stuff' doesn't bring happiness. Family, friends, good health and the satisfaction that comes from making a positive difference are what really matter.

No failure means no risk, which means nothing new

We're going where no one has gone before. There's no model to follow, nothing to copy. That is what makes this so exciting.

I am impressed with just the enthusiasm for life and the fact that some of these people are in their 80's, even 90's, and they're absolutely determined to get out there and make a difference.

A good leader leads from the front. Don't get stuck in the office. Get out, meet people and listen to their stories.

Half the art of ballooning is to make your crashes so gentle that you can fool yourself into calling them landings.