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Against The Odds

Latest episodes

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Jul 1, 2025 • 38min

Oceanos: Rescue off the Wild Coast | Into the Waves | 4

Lorraine Betts, the courageous cruise director from the Oceanos disaster in 1991, shares her incredible firsthand account of leading the evacuation amid chaos. She recounts the moment the ship began sinking, showcasing the heroism of her makeshift team. Sean Evans, journalist and author, discusses survival strategies and lessons from extreme emergencies, including encounters with wildlife. Together, they highlight human resilience in life-or-death situations, offering insights on staying calm under pressure and navigating crises.
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Jun 24, 2025 • 43min

Oceanos: Rescue off the Wild Coast | Sink or Swim | 3

Amid the chaos of a sinking cruise ship, the crew and passengers showcase extraordinary bravery. Helicopters swoop in for high-stakes rescues as families grapple with separation, highlighting emotional struggles. A young mother navigates the heart-wrenching decision to hand over her baby in a bucket to safety. Personal moments, like savoring instant soup, reveal vulnerability amidst the tense backdrop of survival. Ultimately, the teamwork and compassion displayed lead to a miraculous rescue of all on board, showcasing the resilience of the human spirit.
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Jun 23, 2025 • 6min

Listen Now: Liberty Lost

A heartfelt exploration of young love entangled with societal and religious pressures, where pregnant teens face the emotional turmoil of unplanned pregnancies. The hostile environment of the Liberty Godparent Home reveals a systemic push for adoption over the mothers' wishes, sparking resistance from some girls. Abbi’s story highlights the painful reality of forced adoption, revealing the profound impacts on families caught in these situations. This poignant narrative sheds light on the troubling resurgence of maternity homes and the fight for maternal rights.
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Jun 17, 2025 • 37min

Oceanos: Rescue off the Wild Coast | Abandon Ship | 2

A terrifying storm engulfs the Oceanos, pushing passengers into chaos as senior crew members abandon ship. Entertainers step up heroically, guiding women and children to safety amidst flooding and panic. With lives at stake, outside help races against time for a daring rescue. Tension escalates as indifference from the captain contrasts starkly with the courage of those still on board, making for a gripping tale of survival and moral dilemmas at sea.
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7 snips
Jun 10, 2025 • 41min

Oceanos: Rescue off the Wild Coast | “Just A Precaution” | 1

The Oceanos embarks on a stormy voyage with 571 passengers, but disaster strikes when a hull breach occurs. As chaos erupts, the ship's entertainers rise to the occasion, showcasing remarkable bravery during the evacuation. Amidst the turmoil, passengers experience moments of camaraderie and unexpected humor. Tension escalates as a powerful storm tests the crew's resolve and leadership, leaving everyone aboard grappling with fear and uncertainty. This thrilling narrative highlights the fragility of safety at sea and the indomitable spirit of individuals in crisis.
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Jun 3, 2025 • 30min

An Exclusive Excerpt From Our New Book | 1

Dive into gripping tales of survival from wild animal encounters to natural disasters. Discover human resilience through real-life stories, including a harrowing account of a man trapped after an earthquake. Learn coping mechanisms for extreme stress and the importance of mental clarity in crises. The discussion also touches on shocking crimes and their impact on justice, ensuring emotional stakes are high throughout. Plus, get practical survival tips to navigate life's toughest challenges!
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Jun 2, 2025 • 6min

Wondery Presents: How to Survive Against the Odds

Dive into gut-wrenching tales of survival against nature's fury. Discover crucial tips on enduring life-threatening situations, like curing turtle meat and securing water when adrift at sea. Learn what to do when faced with various bear attacks, from fighting back to playing dead. Gain insights on surviving earthquakes, including maintaining sanity while trapped. This guide showcases incredible human resilience, providing strategies to conquer the odds and emerge with your story intact.
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May 27, 2025 • 44min

Mount St. Helens | Still Alive | 4

Rescue teams battle thick ash and treacherous conditions to save campers and loggers stranded after the Mount St. Helens eruption. Tensions rise as Sue worries for her injured friends, while a TV reporter grapples with regret. Amid chaos, a helicopter pilot faces a tough choice to break protocol for a life-saving mission. Personal stories reflect on survival, resilience, and the haunting aftermath of nature's fury, emphasizing the emotional journey of both survivors and responders.
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May 20, 2025 • 42min

Mount St. Helens | Blast Zone | 3

Survivors of the Mount St. Helens eruption navigate a transformed landscape filled with destruction and uncertainty. Campers face the tough decision of abandoning an injured friend for a chance at rescue. The emotional struggle of loyalty versus survival escalates amid volcanic chaos. A PhD student grapples with documenting the devastation while searching for a missing friend. As they traverse dangerous terrains, the bonds between the group are tested against nature's overwhelming power.
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May 13, 2025 • 42min

Mount St. Helens | Hell on Earth | 2

In a harrowing tale of survival, a group of campers finds themselves caught in the fiery eruption of Mount St. Helens. As chaos reigns around them, they grapple with thick ash and rising heat, while their lives hang in the balance. The passionate love story between Sue and Bruce unfolds amid the terror, as a heartfelt proposal brings a glimmer of hope. Vivid accounts from loggers and a frantic reporter reveal the raw human spirit faced with nature’s wrath. It’s an intense exploration of courage against overwhelming odds.

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