Everest Solo and the Blind Descent | Brian Dickinson | Ep 11

Brian Dickinson, a native of the Pacific Northwest, grew up exploring the mountains and chasing adrenaline through extreme sports during his high school years. His adventurous spirit led him to join the U.S. Navy, where he earned a place in the elite ranks of the Navy Rescue Swimmers. After completing his service, Brian turned his focus to mountaineering, setting an ambitious goal: to climb the tallest mountain on each of the seven continents — the Seven Summits.In 2011, Brian set his sights on Mount Everest, an expedition that would change his life forever. Not only did he reach the summit, but he also became one of only two climbers to accomplish the feat solo. However, the triumph quickly turned into a life-threatening ordeal. Shortly after beginning his descent, Brian went snow blind. Relying solely on his training, sheer determination, and unwavering faith, he navigated his way down the mountain — blind and alone — surviving one of the most harrowing experiences imaginable.Brian recounts his incredible journey, the near-death experience, and the personal transformation that followed in his books Blind Descent and other acts of bravery of fellow veterans in Calm in the Chaos. He also shares his story as the host of the Calm in the Chaos podcast and travels the world as a public speaker, inspiring others with his message of resilience, faith, and survival.