In his inspiring TEDx Talk, Ben Heason shares about what it means to live at the edge of human potential. In a world driven by comfort and predictability, Ben takes us somewhere else entirely. To the raw, unforgiving face of Angel Falls Venezuela, the tallest waterfall on Earth, where fear meets courage, and the unknown demands everything.In this talk, Ben shares the extraordinary story of the first-ever free climb of Angel Falls’ 1,000-metre wall in 2005. An expedition deep in the Venezuelan jungle, hailed as one of the finest achievements by British rock climbers. But this is more than just a daring ascent.This was a journey fuelled by resilience, perseverance, and grit. From a six-day trek through the Amazon rainforest to nights spent suspended on portaledges over the abyss. Ben explores the landscapes and the Indigenous cultures that call it home, and the mental resilience needed to survive and thrive on the edge.Ben challenges the way we think about fear, risk, and resilience. Inviting us to reflect on gaps in our own lives. Through breathtaking visuals, powerful storytelling, and lived experience, he reminds us that the greatest growth does not happen in safety, but in the unknown.Ben’s mission is to inspire us to bold action, honest vulnerability, and the courage to go beyond what we think is possible. Because the most meaningful journeys do not avoid the gaps. They dare to cross them.This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organised by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx Ben Heason is one of the UK’s leading climbers, known for his daring ascents and pioneering big-wall expeditions across the globe. With over 25 years of full-time climbing experience, Ben Heason has truly pushed the boundaries of the sport.Born and raised in Snowdonia, Ben’s journey has taken him from the University of Birmingham to Sheffield, where he now calls home. Along the way, he’s delivered many talks around the world inspiring countless individuals with his passion for adventure and the mindset needed to embrace the unknown.In 2005, Ben completed the first-ever free climb of the 1,000m wall at Angel Falls in Venezuela—an achievement hailed as one of the finest by British climbers abroad. But his story goes beyond climbing. It’s about overcoming fear, bridging gaps between failure and success, and navigating the uncertainties we all face in life. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx