The CRUX: True Survival Stories
Kaycee McIntosh, Julie Henningsen, BleavAre you drawn to thrilling survival stories where characters overcome impossible odds? The Crux: True Survival Stories is your podcast. Join us for gripping tales of resilience and invaluable insights into wilderness survival and the mindset needed to overcome adversity. Hosted by Kaycee McIntosh and Julie Henningsen, both passionate about wilderness and medicine, our podcast is fueled by real-lif... more
| Publishes | Twice weekly | Episodes | 236 | Founded | 5 years ago |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Listeners | Categories | DocumentarySociety & Culture | |||
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Latest Episodes
Kaycee McIntosh and Julie Henningsen recount the June 2008 Regatta de Amigos disaster in the Gulf of Mexico, when the 38-foot racing sailboat Cynthia Woods lost its keel, punched a hole in the hull, and capsized in 30–60 seconds about 11 miles south ... more
In 1936, a Russian man named Karp Lykov watched a Soviet patrol shoot his brother dead in a field — and in that moment, he made a decision. He gathered his wife and two young children, packed seeds and a spinning wheel, and walked into the Siberian w... more
In February 1959, nine skilled winter hikers vanished in Russia's Ural Mountains during what should have been a routine expedition. When rescuers found their tent weeks later, it had been slashed open from the inside, and the bodies were scattered ac... more
In July 2025, 13-year-old Cody Trenkel Jr. set out on a routine skateboard ride through his grandmother's quiet Missouri neighborhood—and never made it to his destination. What began as a normal summer morning turned into a multi-day search across mi... more
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Reviews
- Awesome
This is an awesome podcast. I love it
Apple Podcasts53tre
United States19 days ago - Eshh
On episode 7 & my last, to mention you got all your info from one Guardian article but there’s a book you couldn’t bother to read, ughh poor research sounds like a high school book report
Apple Podcasts2PandaofPeaceUnited Statesa month ago - Great pod
I love survival stories and find this one soothing to listen to. Even when I've heard the story already, Kaycee and Julie bring something new with their perspectives and medical knowledge.
Apple Podcasts5JoyceCollingwood
Canadaa month ago - Another good true adventure podcast
I really enjoy Against the Odds podcast, so a friend recommended The Crux. It’s different as it’s much less produced, but still really good. As an outdoor enthusiast, it’s both thrilling and terrifying to hear these stories, and though they don’t end well for everyone involved, they remind us to take courage when you can, and even better, stay out of danger when possible!
Apple Podcasts5NboatwpiUnited Statesa month ago - Great survival podcast
I have listened to this for a couple of years now, I enjoy listening to the different stories of wilderness survival. They bring each story to life and are great story tellers. Highly recommend!
Apple Podcasts5Leanne4356
Australiaa month ago
Listeners Say
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Chart Rankings
How this podcast ranks in the Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube charts.
Apple Podcasts | #38 | United States/Society & Culture/Documentary |
Apple Podcasts | #232 | United States/Society & Culture |
Apple Podcasts | #24 | Canada/Society & Culture/Documentary |
Apple Podcasts | #44 |  United Kingdom/Society & Culture/Documentary |
Apple Podcasts | #143 | Canada/Society & Culture |
Apple Podcasts | #211 | United Kingdom/Society & Culture |
Talking Points
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Audience Metrics
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Frequently Asked Questions About The CRUX: True Survival Stories
What is The CRUX: True Survival Stories about and what kind of topics does it cover?
Gripping survival narratives grounded in real-life events, told by two clinicians with wilderness medicine insight. The show blends meticulous incident detail with expert commentary on physiology, decision-making, and safety, creating a listening experience that's as educational as it is suspenseful. Episodes cover a wide range of extreme scenarios—from near-death ice rescues to cave entrapments—while weaving practical takeaways for outdoor enthusiasts, first responders, and medical professionals. Notable strengths include expert medical context, strong storytelling cadence, and a tone that balances seriousness with approachable discussion. A solid pick for listeners who want memorable survival stories plus actionable lessons, with a consis... more
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How many listeners does The CRUX: True Survival Stories get?
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What are the audience demographics for The CRUX: True Survival Stories?
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How many subscribers and views does The CRUX: True Survival Stories have?
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Which podcasts are similar to The CRUX: True Survival Stories?
These podcasts share a similar audience with The CRUX: True Survival Stories:
1. Real Survival Stories
2. Against The Odds
3. Not Today
4. American Scandal
5. What Was That Like - True Stories. Real People.
How many episodes of The CRUX: True Survival Stories are there?
The CRUX: True Survival Stories launched 5 years ago and published 236 episodes to date. You can find more information about this podcast including rankings, audience demographics and engagement in our podcast database.
How do I contact The CRUX: True Survival Stories?
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What guests have appeared on The CRUX: True Survival Stories?
Recent guests on The CRUX: True Survival Stories include:
1. Don Shirley
2. Amber Kohnhorst
3. Chad Darby
4. Roger Woodward
5. Dr. Mitchell Seruya
6. Taylor Pajunen
7. Alec Loon
8. Anton Tselykh
To view more recent guests and their details, simply upgrade your Rephonic account. You'll also get access to a typical guest profile to help you decide if the show is worth pitching.