Against The Odds

A typical night on the Piper Alpha oil rig turns disastrous as a gas leak leads to a catastrophic explosion. Workers face immense pressures while battling safety protocol challenges and personal dilemmas. The emotional toll of life on the rig is explored, highlighting camaraderie amid chaos. Tensions escalate as critical equipment failures arise, culminating in a harrowing crisis. The unfolding drama serves as a haunting reminder of the precariousness of man-made environments and the relentless pursuit of safety.

Kyle Dickman, an Outside Magazine writer, recounts his harrowing encounter with a rattlesnake while hiking near Yosemite with his family. He details the frantic moments after the bite, the crucial role of swift medical attention, and the importance of family during a life-threatening crisis. Kyle shares the emotional rollercoaster of his recovery, reflecting on themes of resilience and the changed perspective on life and risk. This gripping story highlights how nature can be both beautiful and dangerous, reshaping his understanding of adventure.

Will Cockrell, a journalist and author of "Everest, Inc.,” discusses the transformation of climbing Everest from an elite pursuit to a booming commercial venture. He explores safety concerns tied to increased climber traffic and the complexities of the guiding industry. Cockrell dispels myths about climbers' motivations, highlights the Sherpas' evolving roles, and addresses the economic ramifications for local communities. Intriguingly, he reflects on the tragic events of the 1996 disaster and how they paradoxically spurred more guided climbs, illustrating the mountain's enduring allure.

Follow the dramatic rescue efforts on Mount Everest in 1996 as climbers face perilous conditions, stranded in a deadly storm. Hear stories of bravery, survival, and tragedy as they fight to stay alive in the unforgiving Death Zone.

As the climbers descend from the summit, it becomes a race against time to get back to camp before dark. But a severe blizzard slows their progress to a crawl, and altitude sickness starts to take hold. Some climbers get stuck in the upper reaches of the mountain, while others get lost not far from camp. As darkness falls, the stranded face the terrifying reality of spending the night outside, where oxygen deprivation and hypothermia could easily take their lives.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.

As the climbers make their final push for the summit, time is of the essence. They must make it to the top before 2 p.m. to ensure they get back to camp before dark. But due to delays, most of them don’t reach the summit until late in the afternoon, and by then, everyone is exhausted and oxygen is running low. Worst of all, a severe storm is moving in fast. As daylight fades, climbers must hurry or they’ll be trapped in the Death Zone.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 May 1996, two expert mountaineers and their clients set off to climb the world’s tallest peak — Mount Everest. Many of the clients have no high altitude experience and have paid upwards of $65,000 to be guided up the mountain by competing companies: Adventure Consultants and Mountain Madness. As the two expeditions prepare to make their summit attempt, hurricane-force winds threaten to end their climb. Leaders, Rob Hall and Scott Fisher, must make a decision: turn around, or keep pushing for the top?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.

When author and historian Hampton Sides was deep into researching another polar expedition, he stumbled upon the tragic journey of USS Jeannette. He couldn’t believe Captain De Long’s voyage wasn’t common knowledge. The 33-man crew endured extreme hardship, and only 13 survived what Sides calls “the American Shackleton story.” Hampton Sides joins host Mike Corey to share his own story of tracing the forgotten voyage for his book In the Kingdom of Ice: The Grand and Terrible Polar Voyage of the USS Jeannette.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.

After months of trekking across the polar ice, the crew of USS Jeannette finally reach open water. Now, they must endure a harrowing ocean crossing in three small, leaky boats to reach Siberia, where they hope to make contact with the native residents, and beg for food and shelter. But finding help in the frozen, maze-like swamps of Siberia’s Lena Delta is easier said than done – and another punishing winter is closing in.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Join the crew of USS Jeannette as they navigate the brutal Arctic, facing challenges like drifting further from their destination, a close call at Bennett Island, and tough decisions regarding sled dogs and survival. Delve into themes of failure, hope, and decision-making in the unforgiving wilderness.