

(PART 2) The Climb Out of Pain is Taller Than Everest with National Geographic photographer Cory Richards
154 snips Apr 29, 2025
Cory Richards, a National Geographic photographer and climber, shares his harrowing journey after achieving the summit of Everest. He explores identity vs. purpose, revealing how success can lead to profound confusion and emotional turmoil. Through discussions on resilience and the power of communal support, Cory reflects on navigating personal crises, especially during the pandemic. His insights emphasize the importance of embracing life’s harsh lessons and the transformative power of storytelling and compassion in overcoming adversity.
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Agency Fuels Resilience
- Resilience starts with agency, owning your situation instead of blaming others.
- Slowing down your response helps move from binary panic to critical thinking for better outcomes.
Four Steps to Resilience
- When facing crisis, slow your mind to speed decision-making: slow is fast.
- Take agency, lean into discomfort, stay curious, and adapt for evolution.
Cory's Mental Health Struggle
- Cory Richards experienced a severe mixed bipolar episode during an Everest expedition, leading him to quit climbing and photography.
- He reached a suicidal point but ultimately sought help and began deeply engaging with mental health recovery.