In this episode of the Crux True Survival Story Podcast, hosts Julie Henningsen and Kaycee McIntosh arecount the harrowing survival story of Captain James Riley and the ship Commerce's ill-fated voyage in 1815. The American merchant ship, led by Captain Riley, runs aground off the coast of North Africa, leading the crew into a dire struggle for survival amidst harsh desert conditions and captivity by nomadic tribes. As they face starvation, dehydration, and abuse, listeners are left on the edge of their seats waiting to hear what becomes of these shipwrecked sailors.
00:00 Introduction to the Crux True Survival Story Podcast
00:19 Setting the Scene: The Commerce's Ill-Fated Voyage
01:56 Captain James Riley: A Background
05:24 The Shipwreck and Immediate Aftermath
07:22 Captured by the Sahrawi Tribe
17:58 Struggles and Survival Tactics
23:47 Conclusion and Call to Action
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Get schooled by Julie in Outdoor Wilderness Medicine! https://www.headwatersfieldmedicine.com

In this episode of The Crux True Survival Stories, hosts Julie Henningsen and Kaycee McIntosh recount the incredible survival story of John Vitalik. After a spontaneous detour to Mount Hood in September 1976, John's car plunged 150 feet down a steep ravine. With his foot pinned by a tree root and swelling from a punctured lung, John used his resourcefulness and mechanical skills to survive by creating makeshift tools to access water and eventually free himself. Despite his dire situation, John maintained routines that kept his morale high. After 16 days, he managed to escape and seek help, ultimately surviving and leading an inspiring post-ordeal life.
00:00 Introduction to The Crux True Survival Stories
00:41 John Vitalik's Background and Journey
01:48 The Accident on Mount Hood
03:14 Trapped in the Ravine
10:03 Resourcefulness and Survival Tactics
16:04 The Importance of Routine in Survival
16:26 Ingenious Escape Plan
18:24 The Final Breakthrough
20:32 Rescue and Recovery
22:27 Life After the Ordeal
24:35 Survival Tips and Reflections
28:14 Podcast Outro and Listener Engagement

Thanks for your support! Email us! thecruxsurvival@gmail.com
https://www.instagram.com/thecruxpodcast/
Get schooled by Julie in outdoor wilderness medicine! https://www.headwatersfieldmedicine.com/

In this episode of The Crux: True Survival Stories, hosts Kaycee McIntosh and Julie Henningsen recount the harrowing tale of the South African aircrew during World War II. In May 1942, navigational errors led to a forced desert landing near the Kufra oasis in Libya, resulting in a tragic fight for survival in the unforgiving Sahara. Of the 12 crew members, only one survived the harsh conditions. The episode delves into the crew's desperate attempts to find their way back, their unfortunate mistakes, and the relentless sandstorm that sealed their fate, while also highlighting the critical importance of preparation and experienced navigation in survival scenarios.

00:00 Introduction and Today's Story Overview
00:52 Setting the Scene: The Tragedy at Kufra
02:09 Historical Context: World War II and North Africa
05:48 Mission Briefing and Preparations
12:43 Navigational Challenges and Initial Errors
16:16 Stranded in the Desert: The Struggle Begins
27:11 Evaporative Cooling and Survival Tactics
27:38 Major de Wet's Desperate Search
27:57 Sandstorms and Stranded Men
28:33 Grim Reality Unfolds
30:58 Major de Wet's Diary Entries
32:21 Final Rescue Efforts
41:59 Aftermath and Inquiry
47:37 Reflections and Lessons Learned
51:11 Podcast Wrap-Up and Announcements

https://www.instagram.com/thecruxpodcast/
Email: thecruxsurvival@gmail.com
Get schooled by Julie in outdoor wilderness medicine! https://www.headwatersfieldmedicine.com/