• Surviving King Philip's War: Mary Rowlandson's Incredible Story | E 140
    Dec 23 2024

    In this episode of the Crux True Survival Story Podcast, Julie Henningsen and Kaycee McIntosh delve into the riveting survival tale of Mary Rowlandson from colonial America. Set against the backdrop of King Philip's War in 1676, the episode explores Rowlandson's harrowing eleven-week ordeal of captivity among Native American tribes. Listeners will learn about the cultural conflicts of the time, Mary Rowlandson's resourcefulness, and the eventual ransom that led to her release. This story, captured in her own words in the book 'A Narrative of the Captivity and Restoration of Mrs. Mary Rowlandson,' offers a gripping look at resilience, survival, and colonial history.
    00:00 Introduction to the Podcast
    00:25 Setting the Stage: Colonial America
    00:50 Background on Mary Rowlandson
    02:39 King Philip's War: The Spark
    06:42 The Attack on Lancaster
    08:31 Mary Rowlandson's Captivity Begins
    09:26 Surviving the Wilderness
    10:48 Mary's Struggle with Food
    11:43 Mary's Resourcefulness in Captivity
    12:16 Encounters and Movements
    13:53 Ransom Negotiations and Return
    15:06 Mary's Published Narrative
    16:09 The Aftermath of King Philip's War
    17:00 Mary's Later Life and Legacy
    18:58 Reflections on Survival and Community
    20:07 Conclusion and Call to Action

    Check out Mary's Book, Narrative Of The Captivity And Restoration of Mrs. Mary Rowlandson

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    21 mins
  • The 780 MPH Ejection: The Impossible Survival of Captain Brian Udell | E139
    Dec 16 2024

    In this episode of The Crux True Survival Stories, hosts Kaycee McIntosh and Julie Henningsen delve into the astonishing survival story of Captain Brian Udell, an F-15E Strike Eagle pilot who ejected from his aircraft at an unprecedented supersonic speed of 780 miles per hour. The episode explores the extreme physical and engineering challenges of such an ejection, the incredible technology behind ejection seats, and the mental fortitude required for survival. Despite enduring severe injuries and incredible odds, Udell survived and returned to flying, showcasing unparalleled resilience. This episode also covers his later life challenges, including an aortic dissection and the eventual grounding by the FAA, emphasizing the extraordinary risks fighter pilots take.
    00:00 Introduction to an Unbelievable Survival Story
    01:34 The Mindset of a Fighter Pilot
    03:52 The Fateful Night: Captain Udell's Mission
    07:02 The Ejection: A Supersonic Gamble
    11:06 The Aftermath: Surviving Against All Odds
    14:28 The Science of Ejection Seats
    17:11 Historical Context: Understanding G-Forces
    19:17 The Unbelievable John Strapp
    19:58 Udell's Struggle in the Ocean
    20:36 The Fight for Survival
    23:24 Rescue and Recovery
    26:23 The Aftermath and Rehabilitation
    29:18 A Second Brush with Death
    31:21 Grounded but Not Defeated
    35:23 Ejection Seat Safety Concerns
    36:59 Final Thoughts and Farewell

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    References and Further Reading

    "Fighter Pilot Mentality: Breaking Down the Military Mindset." NCESC. www.ncesc.com/what-is-fighter-pilot-mentality/

    "Life and Training of an F-35 Pilot." Task & Purpose. taskandpurpose.com/tech-tactics/air-force-f35-pilot-life/

    "Fighter Jet Pilot Training: From Civilian to Combat Ready." Sky Combat Ace. www.skycombatace.com/fighter-jet-pilot-training

    "How Air Race Pilots Handle Extreme G-Forces." Red Bull. www.redbull.com/us-en/air-race-pilots-surviving-g-force

    "Pulling Gs: The Effects of G-Forces on the Human Body." Go Flight Medicine. www.goflightmedicine.com/post/pulling-gs-the-effects-of-g-forces-on-the-human-body

    "Top Gun Trauma: The Effects of Ejecting from a Fighter Jet on the Spine." University of Notre Dame. sites.nd.edu/biomechanics-in-the-wild/2021/04/06/top-gun-trauma-the-effects-of-ejecting-from-a-fighter-jet-on-the-spine/

    "Why Fighter Jet Ejections Can Be Deadly for Pilots." Business Insider. www.businessinsider.com/why-fighter-jet-ejections-are-deadly-for-pilots-2022-10

    "Breaking Point: What's the Strongest G-Force Humans Can Tolerate?" Medical Daily. www.medicaldaily.com/breaking-point-whats-strongest-g-force-humans-can-tolerate-369246

    "Clipped Wings." Phoenix Magazine. www.phoenixmag.com/2019/01/01/clipped-wings/

    "In the Saddle: Ejection Seat History." The Ejection Site. www.ejectionsite.com/insaddle/insaddle.htm

    "The Man Behind High-Speed Safety Standards." National Air and Space Museum. airandspace.si.edu/stories/editorial/man-behind-high-speed-safety-standards

    "Spinal Injury Pattern Associated with Ejection Seats." PubMed. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24261059/

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    39 mins
  • Abandon Ship: The Costa Concordia’s Night of Chaos | E 138
    Dec 9 2024
    In this episode of the Crux True Survival Story Podcast, hosts Julie Henningsen and Kaycee McIntosh recount the catastrophic events surrounding the sinking of the Costa Concordia on January 13, 2012. This maritime disaster, caused by Captain Francesco Schettino's reckless decision to perform a risky maneuver close to shore, resulted in the deaths of 32 people and exposed significant failures in leadership and emergency procedures. The episode explores survivor accounts, the chaotic evacuation process, the captain's controversial actions, and the subsequent legal and engineering efforts to right and salvage the massive cruise ship. The story underscores the importance of decisive leadership and proper safety protocols in preventing such tragedies. 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 00:23 Setting the Scene: The Costa Concordia 01:36 The Luxurious Costa Concordia 05:51 The Fateful Night: January 13, 2012 07:05 Captain Schettino's Critical Decisions 08:30 The Collision and Immediate Aftermath 12:02 Chaos and Evacuation Efforts 15:39 Survivor Accounts and Heroic Efforts 18:48 Testimonies and Delayed Evacuation 19:24 Chaos and Confusion Among Crew and Passengers 19:51 Survivor Accounts and Tragic Stories 20:43 Captain's Early Departure and Leadership Failures 21:38 Rescue Operations and Legal Consequences 24:08 Salvage Operations and Aftermath 28:30 Lessons Learned and Industry Changes 31:24 Conclusion and Final Thoughts 32:37 Podcast Outro and Listener Engagement Main sources that verify these details about the Costa Concordia: Italian Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport's official investigation report (2013) Maritime Safety Investigation Report by the Marine Casualties Investigative Body Legal Documents: Criminal Trial Transcripts - Court of Grosseto (2013-2015) Key Survivor Accounts Verified By Media: Rose Metcalf (British crew member) BBC News interview (January 17, 2012)The Telegraph interview (January 18, 2012) Georgia Ananias and family Associated Press (January 14, 2012)The Guardian coverage (January 15, 2012) Benji Smith and Emily Lau Published book: "Abandoned Ship" (2013)CNN interview (January 2013) Official Communications: Italian Coast Guard RecordsCosta Cruises Official Statements Technical Analysis: Lloyd's Register Technical Investigation (2012) Salvage Operation Reports (2012-2014) Ship Specifications and Construction: Lloyd's Register of Shipping (2006) - Technical specifications including size, tonnage, and construction costsFincantieri Shipyard Official Documentation (2006) - Construction details and vessel specificationsCosta Cruises Press Release (July 2006) - Launch details and official specifications Amenities and Features: Costa Cruises Official Brochure (2011-2012 season) - Detailed listing of onboard facilities"Cruise Ships: The World's Most Luxurious Vessels" by Peter C. Smith (2010) - Technical and amenity detailsCruise Critic's Ship Review (2011) - Independent review of facilities and amenitiesMaritime Executive Magazine (2006) - Launch coverage with detailed amenity listings Design Details: "The Costa Concordia: A Case Study in Modern Cruise Ship Design" - Maritime Engineering Journal (2008)Fincantieri Technical Documentation (2006) - Interior design specificationsCruise Industry News Annual Report (2007) - Ship profile and features Cost and Financial Details: Costa Crociere S.p.A. Annual Report (2006) - Construction and operational costsMarine Money International (2006) - Financing and construction costsLloyd's List Maritime Intelligence - Ship valuation reports Mary Rowlandson- Primary Sources- Rowlandson, M. (1682). "A Narrative of the Captivity and Restoration of Mrs. Mary Rowlandson." First published in Cambridge, Massachusetts. This is the primary source for most of Mary's direct experiences and quotes Secondary Sources- Derounian-Stodola, K. Z. (1999). "Women's Indian Captivity Narratives." Penguin Classics.Lepore, J. (1998). "The Name of War: King Philip's War and the Origins of American Identity." Vintage Books. Schultz, E., & Tougias, M. J. (1999). "King Philip's War: The History and Legacy of America's Forgotten Conflict." Countryman Press Instagram https://www.instagram.com/thecruxpodcast/ Get schooled by Julie in outdoor wilderness medicine! https://www.headwatersfieldmedicine.com/ Email us! thecruxsurvival@gmail.com
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    34 mins
  • 83 Seconds: The Frank Slide Catastrophe | E137
    Dec 2 2024

    In this episode of the Crux True Survival Story podcast, hosts Kayce McIntosh and Julie Henningsen delve into the catastrophic Frank slide of 1903 in Frank, Alberta. The episode explores how the small town's rapid growth led to a horrifying night when Turtle Mountain collapsed, burying parts of the town under 82 million tons of limestone. Survivors' tales, including miners digging their way out and heroic acts like Brakeman Sid Choquette's race to stop an oncoming train, highlight human resilience. The episode also discusses the town's recovery, ongoing geological risks, and lessons learned from indigenous wisdom. Listeners are encouraged to visit the Frank Slide Interpretive Center to witness the historic site and reflect on the power of nature and human endurance. 00:00 Introduction and Hosts 00:21 The Frank Slide: Listener's Recommendation 02:08 A Town's Rapid Rise 05:06 Geological Background of Turtle Mountain 08:02 The Night of the Disaster 10:06 Immediate Aftermath and Heroic Acts 14:50 Miraculous Survivals Amidst Tragedy 16:27 The Miners' Desperate Struggle 18:33 Unexpected Discoveries and Heartbreak 20:38 Frank's Resilience and Future Threats 21:37 Modern Monitoring and Indigenous Wisdom 27:02 Conclusion and Reflections

    Email us! thecruxsurvival@gmail.com

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    Additional information:
    • Alberta Parks - Frank Slide Interpretive Centre https://www.albertaparks.ca/parks/south/frank-slide-interpretive-centre/
    • Alberta Geological Survey - Turtle Mountain Monitoring Program https://ags.aer.ca/activities/geohazards/turtle-mountain-monitoring-program
    • Parks Canada - Crowsnest Pass National Historic Site https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/lhn-nhs/ab/crowsnest
    • University of Alberta Libraries Digital Collections - Frank Slide photographs https://archive.org/details/N-1969-71-14
    • Glenbow Museum Archives - Frank Slide Collection https://glenbow.ucalgary.ca/digital/
    • Alberta On Record - Frank Slide records https://albertaonrecord.ca/frank-alberta
    • Royal Alberta Museum - Frank Slide Exhibition https://royalalbertamuseum.ca/
    • Atlas of Alberta Railways - Frank Mine and Railway History http://railways.library.ualberta.ca/Chapters-7-2/
    • Natural Resources Canada - Landslide Case Histories https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/science-and-data/science-and-research/earth-sciences/landslides-canada
    • Canadian Journal of Earth Sciences - Research Papers on Frank Slide https://cdnsciencepub.com/journal/cjes
    • Crowsnest Pass Historical Society https://www.crowsnestmuseum.ca/
    • Travel Alberta - Frank Slide Information https://www.travelalberta.com/places-to-go/provincial-historic-sites/frank-slide-interpretive-centre/
    • University of Calgary Press - Books about Frank Slide https://press.ucalgary.ca/
    • CBC Digital Archives - Frank Slide Historical Coverage https://www.cbc.ca/archives/

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    28 mins
  • 311 Days Underground: An Iraq Hostage's Fight for Survival | E136
    Nov 25 2024

    In this episode of Crux True Survival Stories, host Julie Henningsen and Kaycee McIntosh recount the harrowing survival story of Roy Hallums, an American contractor held captive for 311 days in Iraq. Kidnapped from his workplace in Baghdad in 2004, Hallums endured brutal conditions in a small underground bunker, facing physical and psychological torments. Despite the dire circumstances, Hallums employed mental strategies to keep hope alive. His eventual rescue by U.S. Special Forces underscores a tale of human resilience and the unyielding efforts of military personnel. Tune in to discover how detailed mental exercises, unwavering hope, and determined rescue operations culminated in Hallums' remarkable story of survival and return to his family.
    00:00 Introduction to the True Survival Story
    00:54 Roy Hallums' Abduction
    03:23 Brutal Conditions of Captivity
    07:21 Mental Strategies for Survival
    12:38 The Power of Belief in Captivity
    12:59 A Terrifying Video Message
    13:39 Family's Tireless Efforts
    15:15 The Breakthrough and Rescue
    17:49 Reunion and Recovery
    20:30 Roy's Story and Legacy
    24:18 Appreciating the Little Things
    24:45 Support and Farewell

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    26 mins
  • Darkness on the Bering Sea: The Sinking of the Alaska Ranger | E135
    Nov 18 2024

    In this episode of The Crux: True Survival Stories, host Kaycee McIntosh and guest Julie Henningsen recount the harrowing tale of the Alaska Ranger's sinking on Easter morning 2008 in the Bering Sea. With treacherous conditions, the crew faced a nightmare situation as the vessel took on water. The story showcases incredible bravery, tragic losses, and the valiant efforts of the Coast Guard in what became the largest cold-water rescue in their history. The episode also dives into the technical aspects of the disaster, revealing the series of events and shortcomings that led to the tragedy. Special guest Matt Dewitt, a commercial fishing captain, provides insights into the challenges of operating in such deadly waters and preparing for emergencies at sea. 00:00 Introduction and Apology to Australian Listeners 01:17 Preview of Today's Episode: The Bering Sea Rescue 02:41 Understanding the Deadly Bering Sea 05:35 The Alaska Ranger and Its Crew 07:59 The Sinking Begins: March 23, 2008 09:47 Mayday Call and Coast Guard Response 11:36 Survival in the Freezing Waters 14:37 Coast Guard Rescue Operations 18:36 Vomit Chain Reaction 19:14 Midair Refueling and Rescue Efforts 19:41 Tragic Losses and Survivors 20:33 Investigation and Findings 21:44 Industry Changes and Recognition 23:43 Another Tragic Incident: The Destination 26:37 Interview with Captain Matt Dewitt 29:22 Safety Measures and Training 39:00 Technical Aspects of the Alaska Ranger Sinking 45:21 Conclusion and Listener Engagement

    Email us! thecruxsurvival@gmail.com

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    Get schooled by Julie in outdoor wilderness medicine! https://www.headwatersfieldmedicine.com/

    # References

    Aviation History Branch. (n.d.). The Alaska Ranger rescue. Coast Guard Aviation History. https://cgaviationhistory.org/sar/the-alaska-ranger-rescue/

    Bernton, H. (2018, March 23). 'The truth needed to come out': A decade after the sinking of the Alaska Ranger, a survivor changes his story. The Seattle Times. https://www.seattletimes.com/seattle-news/northwest/the-truth-needed-to-come-out-a-decade-after-the-sinking-of-the-alaska-ranger-a-survivor-changes-his-story/

    FV Alaska Ranger. (2024). In Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FV_Alaska_Ranger

    Snow, R. (2022, March 23). The Long Blue Line: Alaska Ranger—The historic Bering Sea rescue that defied the odds. MyCG. https://www.mycg.uscg.mil/News/Article/2953466/the-long-blue-line-alaska-rangerthe-historic-bering-sea-rescue-that-defied-the/

    Thompson, K. (2010). Deadliest Sea: The Untold Story Behind the Greatest Rescue in Coast Guard History. William Morrow.

    The Bering Sea. (2024). In Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bering_Sea

    https://www.smhi.se/en/theme/ice-accretion-1.84870

    Additional Media Coverage:

    - Discovery Channel. (n.d.). Mayday! Bering Sea [Television broadcast]

    - Disasters at Sea - Shipwrecked in Alaska. (n.d.). Season 1, Episode 5. Quest (UK) & Smithsonian Channel (US)

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    46 mins
  • They Should've DIED From These Snake Bites... But Somehow Survived! | E134
    Nov 11 2024

    In this episode of the Crux True Survival Story Podcast, hosts Julie Henningsen and Kaycee McIntosh delve into gripping recounts of snakebite survival stories. Julie takes us on a journey from Montana's fearsome wilderness to the perilous Australian outback, narrating extraordinary tales of people managing to survive venomous snake encounters. Highlights include the terrifying experiences of a man bitten by a rattle-less rattlesnake, a teenager's close call with the world's most venomous snake, a shocking incident at a bowling club, and a courageous Golden Retriever's encounter with a rattlesnake. Additionally, we explore the astounding lives of individuals who have turned snake venom immunity into a lifelong mission. These stories underscore the unpredictability of nature and the sheer resilience of both humans and animals. Tune in for a rollercoaster of emotions as we unravel these true survival battles.
    00:00 Introduction to the Podcast
    00:16 Snakebite Survival Stories
    01:50 Jason Hogue's Rattlesnake Encounter
    08:46 The Most Venomous Snake in the World
    13:59 A Deadly Encounter at the Bowling Club
    18:09 Bill Haast: The Snake Obsessed Man
    18:40 Bill Haast's Venomous Journey
    18:57 The Serpentarium: A Venomous Spectacle
    19:36 Self-Immunization: Bill's Unique Approach
    20:36 A Walking Anti-Venom Factory
    22:12 Tim Freed: Following in Bill's Footsteps
    25:37 Dusty the Golden Retriever's Rattlesnake Encounter
    30:12 Snakebite Statistics and Treatment
    35:19 Concluding Thoughts and Call to Action

    Web References

    Official Health & Safety Resources

    • World Health Organization Snake Bites Information:
      https://www.who.int/health-topics/snakebite
    • CDC Snake Bite Prevention & Treatment:
      https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/snakes/

    News Coverage

    • The Montana Standard - Original source for Bill Childrey's story (local Montana newspaper):
      https://mtstandard.com/

    • NBC Montana - Original coverage of Jason Hauge incident:
      https://nbcmontana.com/
      (Note: Original 2013 article may no longer be available due to age)

    Research & Educational Resources

    • University of Adelaide Toxicology Resources:
      https://www.adelaide.edu.au/
      (For taipan venom information)

    Additional Snake Safety Resources

    • American Association of Poison Control Centers:
      https://www.aapcc.org/
    • National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health Snake Safety:
      https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/snakes/

    For the most current and accurate information about snake safety and bite prevention, please consult official health organizations like WHO, CDC, or your local poison control center.

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    37 mins
  • Helene's Path: 500 Miles of Destruction | E133
    Nov 4 2024
    The Crux True Survival Stories, hosted by Kaycee McIntosh and Julie Henningsen, delves into the harrowing accounts of survival and devastation brought by Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton. The episode explores the widespread impact of these storms, sharing reports of record-breaking rainfall, unprecedented tornado outbreaks, and intense flooding. Listeners hear tales of heroism from ordinary people who stepped up in times of crisis and recount the emotional and physical toll on affected communities. The episode also highlights the long-term consequences of these natural disasters, urging preparedness and support for those who have lost homes and loved ones. 00:00 Introduction and Hosts 00:36 Hurricane Milton's Recent Impact 02:12 Hurricane Helene: The Original Story 04:30 The Devastation of Hurricane Helene 05:23 Heart-Wrenching Tales of Survival 07:32 Community Resilience and Heroic Acts 09:14 A Wedding Amidst the Chaos 14:21 Another Tale of Survival: Angelina's Story 15:25 Flooded Car Panic 16:04 Angelina's Miraculous Rescue 17:44 Lifeguard and Mountain Rescues 18:36 Hurricane Helene's Impact on North Carolina 19:18 The Zara Family's Harrowing Experience 20:44 The Struggle to Rebuild Without Insurance 22:37 Tragic Stories of Kim and Rod Ashby 23:54 Stephen Cloyd's Desperate Texts 25:48 Reflecting on the True Cost of Disasters 26:27 Closing Remarks and Call to Action Email us! thecruxsurvival@gmail.com Instagram https://www.instagram.com/thecruxpodcast/ Get schooled by Julie in outdoor wilderness medicine! https://www.headwatersfieldmedicine.com/ Based on the provided links, here's a formal reference list for the Hurricane Helene and Milton coverage, the last on the list is the link where you can support victims: News Articles: Yahoo News (2024). "Where did Hurricane Helene make landfall?" https://news.yahoo.com/news/where-did-hurricane-helene-landfall-044235283.html BBC News (2024). "Hurricane Helene: Devastating impact across southeastern United States" https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c1k70rnrp4xo CNN (2024). "How Helene devastated western North Carolina" https://www.cnn.com/2024/10/06/us/how-helene-devastated-western-north-carolina/index.html MSN News (2024). "Georgia man shares story of survival in North Carolina after Hurricane Helene" https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/georgia-man-shares-story-of-survival-in-north-carolina-after-hurricane-helene-increased-my-faith-in-god/ar-AA1rIL8J Yahoo News (2024). "North Carolina family thankful to be alive" https://www.yahoo.com/news/north-carolina-family-thankful-alive-231002400.html MSN News (2024). "'I couldn't watch her die': Wake County man jumps into river to rescue woman in Ashe County" https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/crime/i-couldnt-watch-her-die-wake-county-man-jumps-into-river-to-rescue-woman-in-ashe-county/ar-AA1rwC3s The American Retiree (2024). "Heroic rescue amid Helene's fury: Meteorologist saves Atlanta woman from rising floodwaters" https://theamericanretiree.com/heroic-rescue-amid-helenes-fury-meteorologist-saves-atlanta-woman-from-rising-floodwaters/ CNN Coverage: 8. CNN (2024). "Helene recovery Friday" https://www.cnn.com/2024/10/04/us/helene-recovery-friday/index.html CNN (2024). "Hurricane Helene live updates: Florida, North Carolina, Georgia" https://www.cnn.com/weather/live-news/hurricane-helene-florida-north-carolina-georgia-09-30-24 CNN (2024). "Georgia flooding rescue van Dillen" https://www.cnn.com/2024/09/27/us/georgia-flooding-rescue-van-dillen Resources for Support: 11. CNN (2024). "How to help Helene storm victims" https://www.cnn.com/us/how-to-help-helene-storm-victims-iyw Note: All articles are from 2024 coverage of Hurricane Helene and its aftermath. For the most current information, please consult official sources and emergency management agencies.
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    28 mins