In this high-flying episode of Strap Yer Boots, we sit down with the remarkable Debbie Hally—winchman with Ireland’s elite Rescue 117 crew. From the streets to the skies, Debbie takes us through her extraordinary journey, beginning as an advanced paramedic and transitioning into one of the most demanding and adrenaline-fueled roles in emergency response.

We dive into the grit, courage, and heart it takes to dangle from a helicopter in brutal Irish weather, reaching people in their most vulnerable moments. Debbie shares the challenges she faced, the training that reshaped her body and mind, and the rescues that will stay with her forever.

Whether you're drawn to the drama of rescue missions or inspired by stories of trailblazing women pushing boundaries, this episode is not one to miss.

Strap yer boots—it’s about to get intense.

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This week, we untangle a sun-scorched story of desperation, friendship, and a decision that stunned the nation.

In the brutal heat of August 1999, David Coughlin and Raffi Kodikian set off on what was supposed to be a quick overnight hike through Rattlesnake Canyon in Carlsbad Caverns National Park. But when they lost the trail and their water ran out, things went from uncomfortable to deadly—fast. Stranded in the desert with no help in sight, their survival story took a shocking turn.

We’re digging into the facts, the fallout, and the ethical gray zone where survival instincts meet impossible choices. So double-knot those laces, and strap yer boots—this one’s dark and deeply human.

Sources:

Mercy or Murder? Doubts About a Death in Desert - Los Angeles Times

A Death In The Desert Sentence - CBS News

Youtube 'Is this the most UNHINGED Death Story in National Park History' https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NG0gfjT9WX4

Carlsbad Caverns National Park | Attractions - Lonely Planet

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In this week's myth-drenched episode, we're wading deep into Irish legend with the one and only Bóinn (Boann) —goddess, rebel, and literal river. Ever wonder what happens when a goddess ignores a divine “do not touch” sign? Spoiler: it involves a magical well, a catastrophic flood, and the birth of Ireland’s most legendary river, the Boyne.

April's bringing the lore, Laura’s got some serious thoughts about sacred boundaries, and together we're diving into everything from Bóinn's defiance to the poetic power of flowing against the current. Plus: cows, wisdom, and a surprising connection to one of the biggest names in Irish mythology.

So strap yer boots, grab a life vest (you’ll see why), and join us as we follow Bóinn’s current through myth, mystery, and mythic badassery.

Also make sure to check out www.chouscottage.com where April got her t-shirt of Bóinn.

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Laura and April here with boots strapped and eyes wide for this one. In today’s episode, we’re diving into one of the most jaw-dropping survival stories ever told: Touching the Void. This isn’t just a tale of mountaineering gone wrong — it’s a brutal, almost unbelievable fight for life on a frozen cliffside in the Peruvian Andes.

We’ll walk you through Joe Simpson and Simon Yates’ 1985 climb of Siula Grande — the triumphs, the impossible choices, and that infamous moment involving a rope and a crevasse. (Yeah, that moment.) We talk survival instinct, human limits, and whether we could ever forgive ourselves — or each other — in a situation like that.

So grab your thermos, cozy up, and strap yer boots — it’s gonna be a cold, wild ride.

— April & Laura 💚

Pod Notes:

Touching the Void Documentary- On Netflix https://www.netflix.com/ie/title/60033287

Touching the Void Book

https://www.google.ie/books/edition/Touching_the_Void/TsxcIg47fkgC?hl=en&gbpv=1&printsec=frontcover

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This week, we’re strapping our boots a little tighter for a deep and invigorating chat with Irish fitness coach and outdoor enthusiast, Cillian Bonnar. From the crisp edges of cold therapy to the steamy solace of the sauna, Cillian shares how embracing the elements has shaped his approach to health, strength, and resilience.

We talk about his journey from gym floors to forest floors, building Full Rotation Fitness, and why he believes the outdoors is the ultimate training ground for both body and mind. Whether you're plunging into a cold sea, hiking through wind-whipped trails, or just trying to get your heart rate up in the wild—you'll want to hear this one.

So grab a flask, throw on your woollies, and settle in for an episode that’ll have you rethinking your next cold dip!

— April & Laura 💚
#StrapYerBoots

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Grab your boots and your best raincoat, because this week we’re trekking into the wild soul of southwest Ireland — the rugged, windswept Beara Peninsula.

In this episode, The Last March, we follow the haunting trail of Dónal Cam O’Sullivan Beare, the chieftain who led one of the most heroic and heartbreaking retreats in Irish history. After the fall of Gaelic resistance at the Battle of Kinsale in 1602, O’Sullivan and around 1,000 of his people set out on a desperate 500-kilometer winter march through hostile territory — with the Beara Peninsula as their starting point.

We walk the landscape he walked: from the copper-rich hills of Allihies to the silent ridgelines of the Caha Mountains, and into the deep lore carved into every stone and valley. Along the way, we talk ancient geology, Gaelic resilience, ambushes in the mist, and the echoing legacy of a people who would rather disappear into the mountains than surrender.

So lace up, listeners. History gets muddy — and this one will stick with you.

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April and Laura here, back with another episode of Strap Yer Boots! This week, we’re diving into YOUR hiking questions in "Gear, Trails, and Tales." From the best budget-friendly gear to our favorite trail snacks (spoiler: Laura swears by sour tongues), we’re covering it all.

We answer the burning questions you sent into us. We’ve got answers—plus a few wild hiking stories along the way. So Strap Yer Boots, grab a snack, and let’s hit the trail together!

Don’t forget to follow us and send in your hiking Qs for future episodes. Happy hiking!

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Ahoy, history lovers! This week, we set sail into the legendary life of Gráinne O’Malley—pirate, chieftain, and all-around badass. From commanding fleets along the west coast of Ireland to defying English rule (and even having a showdown with Queen Elizabeth I), Gráinne’s story is one of rebellion, resilience, and pure adventure.

Join us as we uncover the myths, the battles, and the legacy of Ireland’s most infamous sea queen. Was she a ruthless pirate or a shrewd political leader? And how did she manage to hold her own in a world dominated by men? Strap yer boots and get ready for a tale of high seas and high stakes!

Sources:

Pirate Trivia Questions and Answers

Granuaile - The Pirate Queen - Unreal Irish Folklore | Podcast on Spotify

The Pirate Queen Who Ruled The Irish Sea? | Grace O'Malley | Gráinne Ní Mháille

https://achilltourism.com/experience-achill/places-of-interest/granuailes-tower-kildavnet-achill-island-ireland/

https://www.wildernessireland.com/blog/irish-myths-legends-pirate-queen/

https://www.theirishplace.com/heritage/grace-omalley-granuaile-legendary-irish-pirate-queen/

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