The Explorers Podcast

A harrowing 17th century Arctic voyage across ice, storms, and hostile encounters. Overland survival and a brutal trek to the Anadyr River. Founding a remote fort and years of exploration upriver. A sudden ivory bonanza from walrus rookeries that reshaped fortunes. A long arc from peril to recognition and later obscurity, with modern commemorations honoring the explorer.

In January of 2026, Monet Izabeth completed a 57-day expedition in Antarctica, becoming the first American woman to ski solo, and unsupported, to the South Pole. In this episode, we interview her, and find out about her journey to not only reach the South Pole - but all the challenges leading up to expedition. Links: Website: https://www.monetizabeth.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/monet.izabeth Support Monet Izabeth: https://gofund.me/e529e5e3a Image: by Sara Jenner courtesy of Monet Izabeth Sponsors: Quince. Get free shipping with your order by using code EXPLORERS at quince.com/explorers Factor. Go to factormeals.com/explorers50off and use code explorers50off for 50 percent off and free breakfast for a year. New subscribers only, varies by plan. 1 free breakfast item per box for 1 year while subscription is active. The Explorers Podcast is part of the Airwave Media Network: www.airwavemedia.com Interested in advertising on the Explorers Podcast? Email us at advertising@airwavemedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the final part in our series, Scott and his team set off for their base - disappointed at being beaten to the South Pole by Roald Amundsen and the Norwegians. The result will be a tragedy of epic proportions. We will wrap up by discussing Scott's legacy - and how it had evolved over the last 100 years. Sponsors: Quince. Get free shipping with your order by using code EXPLORERS at quince.com/explorers Factor. Go to factormeals.com/explorers50off and use code explorers50off for 50 percent off and free breakfast for a year. New subscribers only, varies by plan. 1 free breakfast item per box for 1 year while subscription is active. The Explorers Podcast is part of the Airwave Media Network: www.airwavemedia.com Interested in advertising on the Explorers Podcast? Email us at advertising@airwavemedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Scott sets out for the South Pole in November of 1911 - trying to attempting the Norwegian team under Roald Amundsen. Sponsors: Quince. Get free shipping with your order by using code EXPLORERS at quince.com/explorers Factor. Go to factormeals.com/explorers50off and use code explorers50off for 50 percent off and free breakfast for a year. New subscribers only, varies by plan. 1 free breakfast item per box for 1 year while subscription is active. The Explorers Podcast is part of the Airwave Media Network: www.airwavemedia.com Interested in advertising on the Explorers Podcast? Email us at advertising@airwavemedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A tense international race to the South Pole unfolds with new rivals from America, Sweden, Japan, Germany and France. A surprise Norwegian challenger appears late, transforming plans into a dramatic contest. Preparations include motor sledges, ponies, dogs, skis and depot-laying trials. Storms, ship trouble and onshore mishaps complicate a high-stakes Antarctic campaign.

Scott's ambitious Discovery expedition through the Transantarctic Mountains makes him a national hero. As he returns, rivalry brews with Shackleton, who boldly announces his own South Pole bid. The podcast delves into Scott's personality and public perception, outlining his determination to return to the pole despite previous challenges. With a nearly disastrous naval career interruption and Shackleton's near-pole success, Scott's plans evolve amidst growing competition. The dramatic narrative of exploration unfolds with scientific discoveries and daring sledging adventures.

Join Scott, Wilson, and Shackleton as they embark on an ambitious expedition across the Great Ice Barrier, striving for the farthest south record and the South Pole. Experience the challenges they face, from Shackleton's cough and declining dog health to Scott's temperament and scurvy threatening their survival. Discover their bittersweet achievements as they wrestle with rivalry, sacrifice, and the harsh realities of Antarctic exploration, all culminating in a race against time to return to safety.

In part 2 of our series, Scott leads the Discovery to Antarctica. The expedition will explore the area around McMurdo Sound, as well as the Great Ice Barrier. There will be adventures and discoveries as well. Then, in the winter of 1902, Scott will plan an journey into the continent's interior - which could lead to a go at the South Pole. Sponsors: Quince. Get free shipping with your order by using code EXPLORERS at quince.com/explorers The Explorers Podcast is part of the Airwave Media Network: www.airwavemedia.com Interested in advertising on the Explorers Podcast? Email us at advertising@airwavemedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover the early life of Robert Falcon Scott, from his naval beginnings to his pivotal role in Antarctic exploration. Delve into the motivations driving nations to stake their claims in this uncharted territory. Learn about the influence of Sir Clements Markham in appointing Scott to lead the Discovery Expedition. Explore the scientific ambitions and funding struggles behind the journey, and uncover the dynamics between naval command and scientific leadership as the expedition takes shape.

Around 1,000 AD, Polynesians embarked on incredible oceanic journeys across the South Pacific, showcasing extraordinary navigation skills without modern tools. The cultural unity across islands is surprising, especially explored through oral histories and genealogies. Discover the intriguing evidence of contact with South America and the environmental impacts of colonization. Delve into the debate on navigation techniques, from deliberate wayfinding to accidental drift, and celebrate the revival of ancient voyaging traditions that continue to inspire today.