Otherworld Episode 128: Patience
Jul 7, 2025
Ryan Van Uert, a documentary filmmaker, shares his harrowing experiences while documenting humanitarian efforts in Ukraine. He recounts a close brush with death when mortar fire struck his van during a civilian evacuation. Lost in the woods, Ryan describes feeling a guiding presence that led him to safety. He discusses the impact of fear versus bravery in conflict zones and reflects on the patience developed through his journey, drawing inspiration from memories of loved ones amidst chaos.
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Ryan's Career Shift to Ukraine
- Ryan Van Uert describes his career struggles and passion for documentary filmmaking.
- He embraced a risky project in Ukraine inspired by personal connections and a deep desire to tell true stories.
Close Call Under Fire
- Ryan joins an evacuation mission near the front lines in Donetsk and experiences mortar fire firsthand.
- Despite chaos, he instinctively films the event and runs for safety, illustrating the raw reality of modern warfare.
Survival in the Woods
- Ryan spends hours hiding alone in a narrow strip of woods during attack, using his helmet and dirt to camouflage.
- Heightened senses and focus help him map enemy drone movements and stay alive under extreme stress.