Against The Odds

It’s the winter of 1925 and in the remote town of Nome, Alaska, children are dying from a diphtheria outbreak that’s spreading fast. But in the dead of winter, the town is nearly impossible to reach and its supply of medicine is dwindling. The only option is to send the medicine by dogsled, in a relay led by one of Alaska’s best mushers, Leonhard Seppala. The teams will have to cross nearly 700 snow-covered miles at breakneck speed, but an epic blizzard is on its way. Be the first to know about Wondery’s newest podcasts, curated recommendations, and more! Sign up now at https://wondery.fm/wonderynewsletterListen 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.

Carol Shaben, daughter of Wapiti 402 crash survivor Larry Shaben and author of "Into the Abyss," shares the haunting story of the 1984 crash and its profound impact on its survivors. She explores the emotional aftermath and the deep friendships forged amidst tragedy. Al Woodworth, managing editor for Amazon Books, chimes in with compelling book recommendations that resonate with themes of survival and resilience. Together, they reflect on how experiences shape lives and the importance of connection through shared adversity.

In the harsh Canadian wilderness, four survivors of a plane crash face the freezing night, battling hypothermia and injuries as hope dwindles. The story shifts between their emotional struggles and the relentless efforts of rescue teams braving brutal weather. Tensions simmer with guilt and reliance on each other, but moments of humor spark resilience. Ultimately, the narratives reveal deep themes of survival, community, and the lasting impact of trauma amid despair and the fight for life.

In the aftermath of a plane crash in the rugged Canadian wilderness, survivors confront injuries and the biting cold. Tension rises as a prisoner unexpectedly leads the group to safety. Emotional reflections on guilt and loss emerge, revealing the fragile nature of human connections in crisis. Struggles for survival become increasingly desperate as hope dwindles under dense cloud cover, leaving the group battling not just nature, but their own fears and despair.

A tense night in 1984 sees a pilot battling ice and fog while transporting a diverse group of passengers. The harrowing journey reveals the critical role of small planes in remote Canada. As weather worsens, the pilot faces a soul-wrenching decision between safety and employer pressure. Interactions among passengers add a layer of urgency, showcasing personal hopes amidst danger. This gripping tale unveils the perilous nature of flying in unforgiving conditions and the psychological toll on those who navigate them.

Mickey Duzyj, a filmmaker known for the Netflix series 'Losers,' dives into Mauro Prosperi's harrowing survival tale after being lost in the Sahara Desert. He discusses the challenges of transforming this gripping story into film and the emotional journey of returning to the desert to seek the marabout that saved Mauro. The conversation touches on themes of resilience, personal growth, and the lessons learned from failure, showcasing how defeat can lead to unexpected triumphs and deep emotional revelations.

Mauro Prosperi battles despair after getting lost in the Sahara, confronting dark thoughts while trapped in a shrine. His journey unfolds with a mix of hope and survival, illustrated by encounters with unexpected allies. The emotional impact of his ordeal resonates with both Mauro and his wife Cinzia as they navigate media scrutiny and personal trials. The discussion extends into themes of mental health, diving into the complexities of suicide and resilience, while encouraging open conversations and offering crucial support resources.

A harrowing tale unfolds as Mauro Prosperi wakes up lost in the Sahara Desert. Struggling with dehydration, he resorts to extreme measures, including drinking his own urine and surviving on bats. His desperate attempts to signal for help reveal his determination amidst despair. Meanwhile, his wife faces the emotional turmoil of his disappearance, highlighting the fragility of hope. As fellow runners confront their fears, themes of survival and resilience resonate throughout this gripping narrative.

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.