Solo Flight Gone Wrong: Sheryl Ramstad's Journey from Tragedy to Triumph | E187 episode artwork

EPISODE · Oct 13, 2025 · 49 MIN

Solo Flight Gone Wrong: Sheryl Ramstad's Journey from Tragedy to Triumph | E187

from The CRUX: True Survival Stories · host Bleav + Kaycee McIntosh + Julie Henningsen

In this episode of the Crux True Survival Stories podcast, host Julie Henningsen interviews Sheryl Ramstad, a burn survivor, former criminal trial attorney, and Minnesota Commissioner of Corrections, who shares her harrowing story of surviving an airplane crash. Sheryl details the events leading up to the crash, the critical decisions she made during the incident, and her miraculous survival despite extensive injuries. She recounts her recovery process, her mother's unwavering support, and the challenges of living with severe burns. Sheryl also talks about her remarkable life post-recovery, including running marathons, climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, and transitioning to a career in nursing to help other burn survivors. This episode highlights Sheryl's resilience, her focus on service, and her drive to turn adversity into opportunities for growth and inspiration. 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 01:19 Introducing Sheryl Ramstad 01:56 Sheryl's Life Before the Crash 02:50 The Plane Crash Incident 05:05 Immediate Aftermath and Rescue 06:23 Survival and Recovery in the Burn Unit 13:09 Rehabilitation and Setting New Goals 18:47 Training for a Marathon 22:22 Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro 27:31 A New Career Path: From Judge to Nurse 30:02 Challenges and Triumphs in Nursing 34:11 The Harsh Realities of Burn Treatment 41:13 A Second Chance at Life 47:58 Conclusion and Final Thoughts References: https://www.sherylramstadauthor.com/ Sheryl’s book, Living Life Full Throttle; Surviving, Serving and Summiting, is available on Amazon.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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Student pilot Sheryl Ramstad's first solo flight ended in a devastating crash that left her with severe burns covering most of her body. Hear how this former attorney transformed her trauma into purpose, becoming a nurse for burn survivors while conquering marathons and Mount Kilimanjaro.

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Solo Flight Gone Wrong: Sheryl Ramstad's Journey from Tragedy to Triumph | E187

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