In 1995, mountaineer Alison Hargreaves made history on Everest as the first woman to summit completely solo and without supplemental oxygen. Months later, she lost her life on K2 leaving behind two young children. Twenty-four years later, her son Tom Ballard followed her path into the high peaks, only to meet the same unfortunate fate on Nanga Parbat.
This is the haunting true story of a mother and son bound by ambition, tragedy, and the mountains that claimed them both.
👉 Subscribe for more stories of survival, mystery, and the wild.
Stay curious, Explore the Wild
A quick one for you today!
And fr, go check out this area of Colorado and the Alpine Loop Rd. In the dead of a Colorado winter in 1874, six men entered the snow-choked San Juan Mountains. Only one returned.
This episode of Wild Curiosity unpacks the chilling true story of Alferd Packer, a self-proclaimed wilderness guide who emerged from the mountains alone—with a disturbing tale of starvation, death, and survival cannibalism. But the more he talked, the less things added up.
Sources:
https://www.coloradolifemagazine.com/printpage/post/index/id/194?srsltid=AfmBOopK9P4XS7neKo56Q2OlPZTV4hQgrQwuRwarr0VdPIFxupi04Ubg
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alfred_Packer
Explore the mystery of the unopened tomb of Qin Shi Huang, China’s first emperor. From rivers of mercury and the Terracotta Army to ancient traps and buried treasure, this archaeological site has stayed sealed for over 2,000 years.
In 1483, two royal brothers vanished inside the Tower of London, Centuries later, their fate remains one of history’s greatest mysteries. Were they murdered by their uncle, Richard III? Or did they survive in secret, hidden by powerful hands? Join me as we unpack the mystery of the Princes in the Tower, the politics of the Wars of the Roses, and new research that could change everything we thought we knew.Stay Curious, Explore the Wild.
Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Princes_in_the_Tower
https://www.richardiii.ca/titulus-regius-the-title-of-the-king/#:~:text=Titulus%20Regius%20was%20the%20first,read%20into%20the%20Parliamentary%20record.
https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/king-richard-iii-car-park
https://www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/about/news/extraordinary-new-clue-about-the-princes-in-the-tower-found-at-the-national-archives/
https://www.bbc.co.uk/history/historic_figures/princes_in_tower.shtml
A deadly treasure, a missing map, and hundreds who never came back.
Deep in Arizona’s Superstition Mountains, a secret mine is said to be hidden—one so rich with gold it could make you a millionaire… if it doesn’t kill you first.
In this episode of Wild Curiosity, we follow the true story of Jacob Waltz, the mysterious gold he left behind, and the wave of real-life disappearances and deaths that have haunted the mountains for over a century.
From Apache legends and missing hikers to modern-day TV shows, park trails, and treasure maps passed through generations—this is more than just a legend.
It’s a place people are still dying to find.
🌵 Follow, rate, and share the show to help more curious minds find us.
🎧 And remember: Stay Curious, Explore the Wild.
Source:
https://www.kold.com/2022/04/11/finding-gold-lost-dutchman-mine/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lost_Dutchman%27s_Gold_Mine#Other_deaths_and_disappearances
https://azstateparks.com/lost-dutchman/
https://www.fs.usda.gov/r03/tonto/recreation
https://www.cowboysindians.com/2018/01/the-legend-of-the-lost-dutchman-mine/
Sorry guys I told you this week would be about a shipwreck but instead we are heading back to shore for a mystery over 5 decades old. The Isdal Woman
In November 1970, the charred body of an unidentified woman was discovered deep in Norway’s Isdalen Valley—an eerie place known to locals as “Death Valley.” With strange objects nearby, a web of coded clues, and dozens of false identities linked to international espionage, the case of the Isdal Woman remains one of Europe’s most baffling unsolved mysteries.
Who was she? Why was her passport destroyed, her clothing stripped of tags, and her dental work unlike anything seen in Norway? And how did investigators trace her movements across multiple countries, despite never learning her name?
This episode of Wild Curiosity examines the chilling details, the forensic breakthroughs, and the enduring theories surrounding the woman who vanished behind a wall of fire and lies.
sources:
https://www.bbc.com/news/stories-48736937
https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-39369429
https://www.nrk.no/dokumentar/do-you-remember-this-woman_-1.13215629
https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/articles/1DWWslfP8RKW5TpBfXg67q2/the-coded-notepad
https://www.doenetwork.org/cases/cases-int/503ufnor.html
like, subscribe, and follow! And pleeeease spread the word! it helps ALOT! xo, M
Wildcuriositypodcast@gmail.com
insta: wildcuriositypodcast
Terror on the Trail: The Mount Toubkal Murders
In December 2018, two young women set out to hike Morocco’s tallest mountain. Louisa Jespersen and Maren Ueland were experienced travelers, close friends, and passionate about connecting with people and nature. Their journey to Mount Toubkal was meant to be joyful — but what happened in the Atlas Mountains shocked the world.
In this episode of Wild Curiosity, we explore the deeply disturbing events that unfolded near Imlil, how the murder of Louisa and Maren became a tool for extremists and what’s changed since. This story is about risk, resilience, and the power of compassion in the face of unspeakable violence.
⚠️ Content Warning: This episode contains graphic violence and extremist content.
Washington Post investigative feature
https://www.washingtonpost.com/national-security/2019/06/21/murder-two-scandinavian-women-morocco-was-meant-impress-islamic-state-far-right-seized-it-attack-islam/
The Guardian – Moroccan backpacker killings linked to Islamist extremists
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2019/jul/11/mother-of-danish-student-suspected-killed-by-jihadists-demands-death-penalty
Lonely Planet – Mount Toubkal Trekking Guide
https://www.lonelyplanet.com/articles/mount-toubkal-morocco-guide
Encyclopedia Britannica – Mount Toubkal entry
https://www.britannica.com/place/Mount-Toubkal
*After the episode comment below and tell me what you believe happened to Gil*
On June 24, 2006, 47-year-old Gilbert Gilman parked his car at the Staircase Ranger Station in Olympic National Park, Washington. Planning a simple day hike to photograph the lush wilderness of Staircase Rapids, Gilman vanished into the dense forest without a trace. What followed was an exhaustive search spanning over 5,000 hours, involving helicopters, search dogs, specialized river teams, and infrared technology—but no clues have ever surfaced. Join me, Mandalynn as we explore the chilling mystery behind Gilbert Gilman's unsolved disappearance, examine theories, and reflect on the haunting question: How does someone disappear in broad daylight, leaving nothing behind but unanswered questions?
Stay curious, Explore the Wild and remember: nature sometimes keeps secrets we may never get the chance to uncover.
sources:
https://oriole-violin-bp7c.squarespace.com/episodes/tag/Gilbert+Gilmanhttps://npshistory.com/morningreport/incidents/olym.htm
https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/staircase
https://charleyproject.org/case-searches/geographical-cases?region=Washington
https://vanished.us/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Olympic-National-Park.png
https://www.namus.gov/MissingPersons/Case#/22763?nav
https://charleyproject.org/case/gilbert-mark-gilman
Trapped on Trail: Survival Under Pressure
Boulders don’t warn you before they move. In this episode of Wild Curiosity, we explore four true stories of hikers who were unexpectedly pinned by massive rocks in remote wilderness areas. From a solo fisherman in Colorado to a young adventurer rescued by helicopter in the Inyo Mountains, each of these people faced the same terrifying reality—trapped, alone, and running out of options. Some made it out. One didn’t. All left behind something unforgettable.
Sources:
https://abc30.com/inyo-mountains-kevin-depaolo-hiking-accident-leg-trapped/14396053/
https://www.backpacker.com/trips/trips-by-state/wyoming-trails/trapped-the-mike-turner-story/
https://www.pinedaleonline.com/miketurner.htm
https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1993-10-11-mn-44627-story.html
Follow Scott on instagram @s_peluso504
Marco Siffredi wasn’t just a snowboarder—he was a pioneer who saw the mountains as his canvas. From the extreme slopes of Chamonix to the deadly heights of Everest, Marco redefined what was possible on a snowboard. But in 2002, after attempting a historic descent of Everest’s Hornbein Couloir, he disappeared without a trace. What drove him to take on such an impossible challenge? And what really happened on his final ride? In this episode of Wild Curiosity, we dive into the life, legacy, and haunting mystery of the snowboarder who was never seen again.
Hope you guys still enjoyed this episode even though it had to be cut so short!
Olivia’s instagram: @oliviamoods
Do you think you’d survive?? Take the quiz here and share your results:
https://www.backpacker.com/trips/quiz-would-you-survive/
Did you like this episode? Let me know!
Comment on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/@WildCuriosityPodcast
and Spotify
Stay Curious, Explore the Wild
This week on Wild Curiosity, we’re diving into a chilling tale from Washington’s snowy Cascades. In 1910, one of the deadliest avalanches in U.S. history struck Stevens Pass, hurling two Great Northern trains into the icy abyss and claiming 96 lives. Join me as we unravel the tragic story of the Wellington avalanche, exploring the events leading up to the disaster, its haunting aftermath, and the eerie echoes that linger along the Iron Goat Trail today. Blending history, mystery, and personal anecdotes, this episode is a snowy adventure you won’t forget.
Travel into the frozen realms of Siberia and Alaska, where permafrost has safeguarded astonishing relics of the Ice Age. Discover the tale of a 35,000-year-old mummified saber-toothed cat cub, unearthed with its fur and whiskers impeccably preserved, offering a rare glimpse into prehistoric life. Journey to Fairbanks, Alaska, where gold miner John Reeves stumbled upon "The Boneyard," a treasure trove of Ice Age fossils, including mammoths and ancient bison. These revelations not only shed light on extinct species but also provide profound insights into Earth's climatic past. Join us as we explore these frozen time capsules and unravel the secrets they hold.
The Incredible Survival Story of the Tongan Castaways
This episode of Wild Curiosity delves into the true story of six Tongan boys who, in 1965, were stranded on the uninhabited island of Atta in the South Pacific for over 15 months. Fueled by a desire for adventure and dissatisfaction with their boarding school's strict environment, they 'borrowed' a fishing boat and set sail, only to be wrecked by a fierce storm. Against all odds, they survived through resilience, resourcefulness, and teamwork, adapting ancient survival methods and building a small, functional society. Their ordeal drew to a close when an Australian sea captain, Peter Warner, discovered them, leading to a remarkable rescue that turned them into international sensations. The story is a testament to human spirit and ingenuity in the face of overwhelming adversity.
Step into the untamed wilderness and join me as we uncover the raw, unfiltered journey of Lewis and Clark's legendary expedition. From surviving grizzly bear attacks and navigating uncharted rivers to forging alliances with Native tribes and weathering brutal winters, this story is anything but what you learned in school.
Like, subscribe, and follow!
Thanks for listening. and PLEASE Stay Curious, Explore the Wild <3
This Halloween, join Wild Curiosity for a bone-chilling journey across haunted waters and forgotten coasts. In this special episode, we dive into the eerie mysteries of ghost ships and lost explorers—from the abandoned decks of the Mary Celeste to the doomed distress calls of the Ourang Medan. We’ll unravel the dark legends surrounding the Flannan Isles lighthouse keepers and venture into the icy wilderness of the Franklin Expedition in the Northwest Passage, where history’s secrets are frozen in time.
Stay Curious, Explore the Wild.
Subscribe, share, and join the Wild Curiosity community to discuss your favorite mysteries!
In this spooky season episode of Wild Curiosity, we take you to the remote Skeleton Lake, also known as Roopkund, hidden deep in the Himalayas. Discovered in 1942, this frozen lake is filled with over 500 mysterious skeletons that have baffled scientists and historians for decades. Were they victims of a catastrophic event? Pilgrims caught in a deadly storm? Or something even more mysterious? Join us as we unravel the history behind this eerie site, explore the ancient pilgrimage trails to Nanda Devi, and dive into recent scientific findings that reveal shocking new details about the lake’s haunting past. Along the way, we’ll transport you to the towering peaks of the Himalayas, sharing the legends, landscapes, and secrets that make this one of the spookiest, most intriguing destinations on Earth. Tune in for a deep dive into the chilling mysteries of Skeleton Lake.
Stay curious, Explore the Wild.
And get ready for Halloween with Wild Curiosity! See you then!
xo, M.
Please like, follow, and share Wild Curiosity!
https://linktr.ee/wildcuriositypodcast
What are you curious about?
Email me and let me know! Do you have a suggestion or comment? Or do you just want say
hello and chat? Cool!
Whatever it is, I want to hear from you!
Email: wildcuriositypodcast@gmail.com
Instagram: @wildcuriositypodcast
•SHOW LINKS AND SOURCES! :
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1oHmvNRXwzomvfKQeGz3zvJS6yWPeF1yhRuCYVfW3RpY/edit?tab=t.0
Ever wondered what it's like to stand on the edge of the sky? These remote outposts offer more than just panoramic views—they hold the whispers of solitude, stories of survival, and the relentless human spirit. Perched high above the wilderness, fire lookouts offer stunning views, historic tales, and a gateway to the wild. Join me as we uncover the captivating legacy of these watchtowers—from the 1910 Big Burn to modern-day adventures. Explore the stories of their keepers, the solitude of the mountaintops, and the tools used to guard our forests.
Always remember stay curious, and explore the wild!<3 Grandpa Mandalynn
See you in 2 weeks for a special spooky season episode and a terrifying unsolved mystery high in the Himalayan mountains.
Please like, follow, and share Wild Curiosity!
https://linktr.ee/wildcuriositypodcast
What are you curious about?
Email me and let me know! Do you have a suggestion or comment? Or do you just want say
hello and chat? Cool!
Whatever it is, I want to hear from you!
Email: wildcuriositypodcast@gmail.com
Instagram: @wildcuriositypodcast
•SHOW LINKS AND SOURCES! :
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1-MSKEQiiPtGn9rcOlLxDKqjmRnOhdnOBdGXUFXvTUIk/edit?usp=sharing
Howdy!
In the first episode of Wild Curiosity, we journey to places where roads don’t reach and isolation shapes life in extraordinary ways. From hidden mountain valleys to towns on the edge of the world, we’ll uncover the secrets, legends, and untold stories of these remote communities. What mysteries lie within the wilderness? What forces have shaped these places, and how do their residents thrive in such seclusion? Join me for an adventure full of discovery, wonder, and the unknown.
Thanks for exploring with me friends. Let’s do it again in two weeks same time, same place.
<3 Mandalynn
+Add @wildcuriositypodcast on instagram and follow for photos pertaining to each episode!
+I would LOVE to hear from you!
What do you wonder about?
What interesting/impactful experience or place struck a sense of exploration in you?
Ever find out the history behind something or someone and been completely rattled?
I want to hear it all!
+Shoot me an email! wildcuriositypodcast@gmail.com with your suggestions, comments and thoughts!
~Facebook, Patreon and website coming soon!
Sources:
https://www.lakechelan.com/area/stehekin/history/
The Never-ending Wealth of Holden - Gold Prospectors Association of America
https://www.goldprospectors.org/News/ArtMID/406/ArticleID/842/The-Never-ending-Wealth-of-Holden
History of Holden Village: From Mining Town to Unique Retreat
Havasupai Falls reopening slated for late September after flash floods (usatoday.com)
https://theofficialhavasupaitribe.com/About-Supai/about-supai.html
https://itcaonline.com/member-tribes/havasupai-tribe/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1925_serum_run_to_Nome
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diphtheria_antitoxin
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Togo_(dog)
https://www.discovery.com/shows/bering-sea-gold