How To Survive

How To Survive

How To Survive Latest Episodes

Fukushima Fifty: Unsung Heroes of Japan's Nuclear Crisis

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In March 2011, the Great East Japan Earthquake and a massive tsunami triggered one of the most complex industrial crises at the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant. A small group of engineers, operators, and emergency workers, known as the Fukushima 50, stayed behind as the world watched in shock.


In this educational documentary episode, we explore the timeline of the events with insights from disaster governance anthropologist Dr. Maxime Polleri. Discover the engineering challenges, critical decisions under pressure, and the long-term impact on Japanese society.


Understand the history, science of nuclear containment, and untold stories of the workers who stood as the last line of defense.


Thank you to Dr. Maxime Polleri for his anthropological insights. Visit Dr. Maxime Polleri's website.

Show notes

Juliane Koepcke's Miraculous Survival in the Amazon Jungle

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Discover the incredible survival story of Juliane Koepcke, the sole survivor of a plane crash who fell 10,000 feet into the Amazon jungle. Learn how she endured alone for 11 days, facing numerous dangers and navigating the treacherous rainforest.


Key Moments:


00:00 The Crash of LANSA Flight 508


02:04 Falling 10,000 Feet


03:31 Survival Mode


04:36 Dangers of the Amazon


06:46 The Decision to Move


08:10 Navigating Jungle Hazards


10:54 Following the River


13:21 The Rescue


15:13 Aftermath and Legacy


Explore insights from Anthony Giardenelli on surviving in the rainforest: Otorongo Expeditions and Instagram.


Some survived; many didn’t. Discover gripping stories of survival and the key decisions that made all the difference.

Show notes

The Paul Hayward Tragedy: Survival Struggles in Bang Kwang Prison

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In 1978, Australian rugby league star Paul Hayward's life took a dramatic turn leading to his arrest in Bangkok. He faced a lengthy sentence in Thailand’s notorious Bang Kwang Central Prison.


This episode offers an in-depth case study of his high-profile trial, exploring the harsh realities of institutional survival and the systemic challenges inmates faced in the late 20th century. With insights from former inmate Alain Olivier, author of "Good Luck Frenchy", we delve into how international advocacy eventually led to his royal pardon and examine the lasting impact of such extreme environments on human resilience.


This episode serves as an important reminder of the complexities within international legal jurisdictions and emphasizes the crucial need for mental health support and rehabilitation.


Need Support? You Are Not Alone.


If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health challenges, substance use, or a personal crisis, please know that help is available 24/7. Reach out to these free, confidential resources:


  • United States: Call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or visit 988lifeline.org.
  • Australia: Call 13 11 14 for Lifeline Australia, or text 0477 13 11 14.
  • Canada: Call or text 988 to reach the Suicide Crisis Helpline.
  • United Kingdom: Call 111 to reach the NHS mental health services, or call 116 123 to talk to Samaritans.
  • International: Find resources in your country at findahelpline.com or befrienders.org.

Disclaimer: This content is produced strictly for educational, historical, and public awareness purposes. It does not condone or trivialize illicit activities, self-harm, or substance abuse.

Show notes

Aquapack: Flash Flood Survival Kit with Bezhad Rashidizadeh

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We spoke with industrial designer Bezhad Rashidizadeh about his groundbreaking prototype for the Aquapack, a flash flood survival kit. We discussed hidden dangers of flash floods and the importance of empathy in product design.


00:00 - Introduction to the Aquapack
01:05 - Kit Components and Functions
01:52 - Water Filtration and Use
05:20 - Emergency Radio Beacon
06:06 - Inspiration and Climate Change
08:33 - User-Centered Design Principles
13:13 - Recognition and Future Improvements
13:56 - Thermal Blanket and Medical Kit
15:56 - Manufacturing and Market Challenges
23:04 - Flood Survival and Preparation
28:41 - How to Follow Progress


If you'd like to follow and support Behzad's work, check it out here: Behzad Rashidi's Website
Instagram: @be_rashidi


Whether it's an earthquake, mudslide, or shark attack, learn to survive life-threatening moments with science and survivor stories.


Note: This content is not a substitute for professional advice. Always seek professional guidance for medical concerns. In emergencies, contact a doctor or emergency services immediately.

Show notes

White Island's Devastating Volcano Eruption: A Survivor Story

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On December 9, 2019, Whakaari (White Island) in New Zealand experienced a catastrophic volcanic eruption, trapping 47 tourists and guides. This documentary delves into the timeline leading up to the tragedy, acts of heroism by local pilots and tour guides, and survival strategies that helped 25 people escape.


We also examine the resulting safety investigations, legal outcomes, and the island's cultural significance to the Māori tribe. This content is intended for educational, historical, and disaster-preparedness purposes.


Our thoughts and respect go to the victims, survivors, and their families.


Discover more real stories of survival by subscribing for future episodes.

Show notes

Gene Mulvihill's Notorious Action Park Explained

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A penny-stock fraudster constructed America's most perilous amusement park, luring New Jersey teens into risking injury for thrills, until tragedy struck. Discover the story of Action Park, its chaotic rides, and the legal loopholes that enabled its operation.


Some survived the chaos, many didn't. This episode dives into the true tales of Action Park's engineering flaws, infamous rides, and the decisions that led to catastrophes.

Show notes

Surviving in Guantanamo Bay: Controversies and Legal Challenges

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In this educational documentary, we delve into the history and survival conditions of Guantanamo Bay. From its origins in 1903 to its role in the post-9/11 "War on Terror" and its 2025 expansion, the episode examines survival during long-term isolation and the psychological toll of indefinite detention.


This content provides critical context on international law and human rights, featuring first-hand accounts from award-winning journalist Michelle Shephard about the facility's operations and the legal battles surrounding detainees.


0:00 - The World's Most Controversial Prison
1:30 - The 1903 Lease: A Legal In-Between
4:00 - Post-9/11: The Shift to "War on Terror"
7:15 - Interrogation Science vs. Reality
11:20 - Survival Strategies: Maintaining the Mind
15:45 - The "Forever Prisoners" & Legal Challenges
20:10 - Guantanamo in 2025/2026: The New Expansion


Some survived. Many didn't. Dive into real stories of survival amid disasters and extreme moments, exploring the decisive factors at play.

Show notes

Exploring History's Most Terrifying Aviation Disasters

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In this episode, we delve into historical aviation disasters to highlight safety protocols, survival rates, and engineering improvements that emerged afterward. Topics include mental health, pilot suicide (Germanwings Flight 9525), and hijacking—with a viewer discretion warning.

If you're in crisis, help is available. In the US and Canada, call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org. In the UK, call 111. These services are free, confidential, and available 24/7.

A special thanks to Melanie A. Folcik-Barillaro for her valuable insights on aviation safety!


Some survived, many did not. Discover real stories behind disasters, tragedies, and crucial decisions.

Show notes

Can AI Detect the Next Pandemic?

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This episode explores the potential of artificial intelligence in predicting future pandemics before they occur. Discover how AI analyzes vast datasets to identify unusual disease patterns early.


This speculative simulation is crafted for educational purposes, focusing on how AI is becoming a crucial tool for scientists in the fight against global outbreaks.


00:00 Introduction
02:45 Phase 1
08:01 Phase 2
13:31 Phase 3


Note: Always consult with a healthcare provider for medical advice. This content is for informational purposes only.

Show notes

Ranking the World's Most Dangerous Prisons

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Think you know how harsh prisons can be? Discover the most notorious prisons globally as we rank them into categories: Hard Knock Life, Maximum Misery, Abandon All Hope, and Welcome to Hell. Some of these facilities are consigned to history, but others remain operational. Trust us; you wouldn't want to find yourself in these grim places.


Some survived these living nightmares, many didn't. Explore the real stories behind these extreme experiences and the crucial decisions that made all the difference.

Show notes