Radiolab Making a Monster
54 snips
Jun 16, 2025 
Rodney Fox, a shark attack survivor and the pioneer of shark cage diving, shares his incredible journey from fear to fascination with great whites. He vividly recounts the terrifying day he was attacked and the emotional battle of returning to the ocean. Fox discusses common misconceptions about sharks, revealing the contrast between popular media's portrayal and reality. He emphasizes the psychological aspects of battling unseen fears and advocates for a deeper understanding of these majestic creatures. His story is a powerful testament to overcoming trauma and embracing one's passions.
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Rodney Fox's Shark Attack
- Rodney Fox survived a terrifying and brutal great white shark attack in 1963, nearly losing his life but ultimately recovering.
- His experience showcases the intense fear and physical danger posed by close encounters with sharks.
Rare Shark Fatalities
- Few people realize how rare fatal shark attacks are; in 2024, only seven people died worldwide.
- Common dangers like rip currents, lightning, or even holes dug in sand kill more people than sharks annually.
Fear of Sharks is Learned
- Humans do not have an innate fear of sharks, unlike snakes or spiders, as we have little evolutionary exposure to them.
- Our fear of sharks largely stems from cultural stories and imagination filling gaps left by limited direct experience.
