Set in the unforgiving Sahara Desert, a dedicated ultramarathoner faces the ultimate survival test after a sandstorm leaves him disoriented and stranded. The podcast explores Mauro Prosperi's emotional journey, balancing personal sacrifice with his passion for extreme sports. Competing against nature, listeners delve into the psychological struggles of endurance runners and the poignant reflections on family. As the tale unfolds, it captures the spirit of resilience in the most harrowing of circumstances.

Join Geoff Hopkins, a pastor who found himself in a life-or-death situation, and his daughter Lillani, a geography student passionate about volcanoes, as they relive their harrowing experience during the Whakaari/White Island eruption. They share heart-stopping moments of joy before chaos struck and the frantic yet courageous efforts to rescue the injured. Their emotional journey highlights the bond between father and daughter, the importance of hope in despair, and the ongoing process of healing after trauma.

Survivors grapple with shocking injuries and emotional turmoil as they board the Phoenix, searching for solace amidst despair. A young survivor's determination shines as he battles severe burns and seeks his family in the chaos. Helicopter pilots face agonizing decisions on who to evacuate after the White Island eruption. The aftermath reveals profound impacts on families and the selflessness of rescuers, interwoven with legal ramifications for those responsible for safety during the disaster.

As a wave of burning steam, ash and debris rolls down toward the shore, 47 tourists and guides sprint for cover, but there is no avoiding the blast. Meanwhile, a boat full of tourists that just left White Island returns to help. And back on the mainland, a local helicopter pilot named Mark Law sees the eruption and makes a fateful decision to fly out to look for survivors.Listen to Against The Odds on the Wondery App or wherever you get your podcasts. Experience all episodes ad-free and be the first to binge the newest season. Unlock exclusive early access by joining Wondery+ in the Wondery App, Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Start your free trial today by visiting http://wondery.com/links/against-the-odds/ now.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On December 9, 2019, 47 tourists and guides set off to visit New Zealand’s most active volcano — Whakaari / White Island — located 30 miles off the country’s north coast. Visitors are amazed as they hike up to the edge of the blue lake at its center, and peer down into the steaming mouth of the crater. But on their way back down, awe turns to horror when the volcano suddenly erupts and blasts a wave of super-heated ash and steam right at them.Listen to Against The Odds on the Wondery App or wherever you get your podcasts. Experience all episodes ad-free and be the first to binge the newest season. Unlock exclusive early access by joining Wondery+ in the Wondery App, Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Start your free trial today by visiting http://wondery.com/links/against-the-odds/ now.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Unforeseen conditions have put the world's strongest climbers to the test as they battle their way down the mountain. Before it’s over, the savage mountain will bring on more avalanches and below-zero temperatures. It’s a race against the clock for the remaining climbers to get off the mountain before it’s too late.Listen to Against The Odds on the Wondery App or wherever you get your podcasts. Experience all episodes ad-free and be the first to binge the newest season. Unlock exclusive early access by joining Wondery+ in the Wondery App, Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Start your free trial today by visiting http://wondery.com/links/against-the-odds/ now.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

An international group of climbers are close to summiting one of the world’s tallest, and most dangerous, mountains. Their goal was to reach the peak by mid-afternoon and get down before dark when temperatures drop to 40 below and the thin air and darkness can leave climbers confused and lost. But problems with the rope line have put them behind and they are using all of their strength to push past the traverse. The summit is so close… but so is nightfall, and not all of them will make it back.Listen to Against The Odds on the Wondery App or wherever you get your podcasts. Experience all episodes ad-free and be the first to binge the newest season. Unlock exclusive early access by joining Wondery+ in the Wondery App, Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Start your free trial today by visiting http://wondery.com/links/against-the-odds/ now.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In the summer of 2008, climbers from around the globe come together to tackle K2, the world's second tallest mountain. Pemba Giljay Sherpa prepares spiritually for the ascent, highlighting the blend of ambition and danger. As storms loom, tensions rise at base camp, exposing the fragile balance between teamwork and personal resolve. The perilous death zone tests their limits, leading to tragic miscommunications and tough decisions. Amidst breathtaking beauty, the essence of loyalty and shared dreams shine through the harrowing journey.

Amidst the chaos of World War II, a bomber pilot stumbles upon survivors of the USS Indianapolis after days adrift in treacherous waters. The podcast dives into their desperate fight for survival, battling exhaustion and lurking dangers, like sharks. Tensions rise as the rescuers navigate the perilous sea, showcasing bravery and hope. The aftermath also reveals the personal struggles of Captain McVeigh and his journey through blame and redemption, revealing a story of heroism, tragedy, and the pursuit of truth in history.

Survivors of the USS Indianapolis grapple with harrowing conditions after their ship sinks. Fatigue, dehydration, and shark attacks become their brutal reality. Psychological breakdowns lead to fear and hallucinations, revealing the darkness of survival instincts. Dr. Lewis Haynes faces a traumatic underwater struggle, while bonds deepen among the stranded sailors. A chance discovery by a Navy pilot shifts the search for rescue into high gear. Human endurance and the fight for survival unfold in this gripping tale of desperation.