Against The Odds

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.

Survivors of the USS Indianapolis face terrifying odds after a torpedo attack. As they drift in treacherous waters, they grapple with exhaustion and dehydration. The looming threat of sharks adds to their despair. Lieutenant Commander Louis Haynes makes heart-wrenching decisions while trying to save injured crew members. The struggle for survival becomes a battle against nature and the dark psychological toll of being lost at sea. Hope and chaos intertwine in this gripping tale of resilience.

Dive into the heart-wrenching tale of the USS Indianapolis, a Navy cruiser that met a tragic fate in World War II. Experience the chaos of its sinking, as crew members faced shark attacks and desperation in the vast Philippine Sea. Personal stories reveal the emotional burden of duty felt by the men onboard, highlighting camaraderie amidst chaos. Tension builds as they confront the unknown after receiving a secret cargo, leading to a gripping fight for survival against the odds.

Ed Punchard, a brave survivor of the Piper Alpha disaster and author of 'Piper Alpha: A Survivor’s Story,' shares his gripping experience on the infamous oil rig during its catastrophic explosion in 1988. He reflects on the chaotic moments of the disaster and the emotional burden of rescue efforts. Punchard discusses the lasting grief within the Aberdeen community and his journey toward healing through activism and film. The conversation also touches on the critical topics of mental health, suicide, and the importance of support for survivors.

At 10:52pm, Piper Alpha is hit by the biggest explosion yet. Soon, the rig begins to break apart and tumble into the ocean, dooming the men still trapped inside. Meanwhile, rescuers like Z-boat commander James McNeill risk their lives to pull men from the debris-strewn water beneath the burning rig.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.

Ed Punchard, a daring diver, recounts his heart-stopping experiences during the Piper Alpha disaster, bravely coordinating rescues in treacherous conditions. Bob Ballantyne, an electrician, shares his harrowing journey as he leads his fellow workers to safety through smoke-filled stairways. The conversation captures the urgency of survival amid overwhelming chaos, where lives depended on split-second decisions and the courage to leap into the unknown waters. Their gripping stories highlight the unbreakable bond among crew members facing a catastrophic inferno.

A massive explosion shakes the Piper Alpha oil rig, plunging workers into chaos as fire consumes crucial systems. While terrified crew members scramble for safety, a state-of-the-art rescue ship, the Tharos, fights to save lives. Amid the havoc, a humorous yet tense bathroom incident reveals the camaraderie among workers. As divers and operators confront urgent decisions, the human spirit shines through their desperate fight against the inferno.