In this episode of Crux True Survival Stories, hosts Kaycee McIntosh and Julie Henningsen dive into the gripping tale of Robert Schock, a 39-year-old drifter who vanished during a day run in the North Cascades with his dog. Schock defied the odds, surviving nearly a month in the wild with no shoes and minimal supplies before being miraculously found by trail crew members.

The episode explores the treacherous terrain of the North Cascades, known for its high disappearance rates, and examines the psychological and physical toll survival takes in such hostile environments. Other chilling stories of lost hikers, like Rachel Lakoduck and Samantha Sayers, are also discussed, highlighting the unforgiving and unpredictable nature of the wilderness. The hosts emphasize the vital importance of preparation, proper equipment, and awareness for anyone venturing into remote areas.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:23 The Story of Robert Schock
01:11 Miraculous Rescue and Survival
02:24 The Treacherous Terrain of the North Cascades
03:13 The Dangerous Beauty of the North Cascades
05:40 Robert Schock’s Fateful Journey
08:17 Lost and Battling for Survival
14:00 The Search and Final Moments
18:40 A Mother's Reflection
18:52 The Trail Crew’s Heroic Effort
19:32 Survival Strategies and Key Lessons
20:29 Rescue and Recovery
22:50 Robert’s Future and Reflections
24:03 The Dark Reality of Wilderness Disappearances
27:33 The Case of Rachel Lackaduck
30:52 The Search for Samantha Sayers
35:14 Key Lessons from the Wilderness
36:11 Essential Survival Gear and Preparation
38:37 Closing and Listener Engagement

References:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/North_Cascades_National_Park

https://worldpopulationreview.com/state-rankings/missing-persons-by-state#google_vignette

https://www.cascadiadaily.com/2024/sep/19/a-month-lost-in-the-north-cascades-without-food-or-shelter-hiker-details-improbable-rescue/

https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/chilliwack-river

https://www.nationalparkstraveler.org/2021/02/deadliest-national-park-would-you-believe-north-cascades-national-park

https://www.seattletimes.com/life/outdoors/how-the-body-of-missing-hiker-rachel-lakoduk-was-found-in-the-north-cascades-almost-two-years-after-she-disappeared/

https://nypost.com/2020/07/04/why-hundreds-of-people-vanish-into-the-american-wilderness/

https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/national-park-highest-death-rate-country-rcna68317

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

In this weeks episode of The Crux True Survival Story Podcast, hosts Julie Henningsen and Kaycee McIntosh unravel one of history’s most unusual disasters—the Great Molasses Flood of 1919. Sparked by listener Amy from Stockton Springs, Maine, this episode dives into the bizarre yet tragic tale also known as the Boston Molasses Disaster. When a massive steel storage tank collapsed, it sent a towering wave of molasses flooding through Boston’s North End, killing 21 people and injuring over 150.

Julie and Kaycee explore the factors that led to the disaster, the devastating aftermath, and the extraordinary personal survival stories that emerged. From firsthand accounts to the legal battles that followed, this episode highlights the lasting impact of the event and the crucial lessons on industrial safety and corporate accountability. Tune in as the hosts also share listener messages and encourage fans to continue suggesting stories that deserve a spotlight.

Episode Breakdown:

• 00:00 – Welcome and Host Introductions
• 00:20 – Listener Shout-out and Story Setup
• 00:58 – Unfolding the Great Molasses Flood of 1919
• 02:43 – The Infamous Molasses Tank: A Disaster Waiting to Happen
• 06:39 – The Moment of Collapse: A Molasses Tsunami
• 10:02 – Chaos in the Aftermath: Eyewitness Accounts
• 12:22 – A Wave of Destruction: The Molasses’ Initial Impact
• 12:47 – Survivor Spotlight: Martin Cloherty’s Narrow Escape
• 14:35 – Survivor Spotlight: Frank P. Smith’s Quick Thinking
• 16:51 – Survivor Spotlight: Anthony Distasio’s Harrowing Experience
• 17:47 – The Herculean Cleanup Effort
• 19:58 – Legal Ramifications and the Fight for Accountability
• 24:12 – Remembering the Great Molasses Flood: Its Legacy
• 24:50 – Final Thoughts and Call to Action for Listeners

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

In this gripping episode of Crux True Survival Stories, hosts Kaycee McIntosh and Julie Henningsen sit down with Shane Burke, who recounts his terrifying encounter with a grizzly bear in the Tetons. Shane, an avid nature enthusiast and photographer, describes how his search for a great gray owl turned into a life-threatening ordeal. Despite the adrenaline and chaos, Shane's survival was a result of quick thinking, bear spray, and the support of his EMT-trained wife, Chloe. Shane's story is not just about the attack but also about overcoming immense personal challenges and finding solace in photography. This episode is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of preparedness in the wild.
00:00 Introduction to True Survival Stories
00:43 Meet Shane Burke: A Life of Resilience
01:54 Shane's Love for the Outdoors
02:27 The Honeymoon Adventure
03:24 The Day of the Bear Attack
05:59 The Grizzly Bear Encounter
08:55 Surviving the Attack
16:25 The Rescue Operation
22:57 Moment of Relief and Rescue
23:23 Concerns and First Aid
25:21 Evacuation and Hospitalization
27:17 Bear Spray Aftermath
29:36 Reflections and Recovery
30:58 Lessons and Advocacy
42:28 Conclusion and Gratitude

Email us! thecruxsurvival@gmail.com

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/thecruxpodcast/

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