Against The Odds: An Exclusive Excerpt From Our New Book | Episode 1

Released on June 3, 2025 by Wondery

Introduction to the Episode

In this special episode of Against The Odds, hosts Mike Corey and Cassie De Pecol present an exclusive sneak preview of their newly released book, "How to Survive Against the Odds: Tales and Tips for Animal Attacks and Natural Disasters." This book extends the podcast’s mission by combining gripping survival stories with expert insights from top doctors and psychologists, offering both inspiration and practical advice for overcoming life-threatening situations.

Overview of the Book

Mike Corey introduces the book as a natural extension of the podcast’s ethos, aiming to equip readers with both compelling narratives and actionable survival strategies. He states:

"This book is rooted in that truth that everyday humans, including you, can overcome the impossible." [03:16]

Cassie De Pecol emphasizes the authenticity of the stories:

"Every story you're about to read is true. While we do take liberties with some dialogue used in the chapters, we stick to the facts of each event because those don't need dramatizing." [03:16]

The book covers a wide range of survival scenarios, from extreme environments like deserts and rainforests to encounters with dangerous animals and natural disasters. Each chapter not only narrates a survival tale but also delves into the psychological and physiological responses that enable individuals to endure and overcome their challenges.

Sample Chapter: "Buried by an Earthquake"

The centerpiece of this episode is a detailed narration of the sample chapter, "Buried by an Earthquake," which recounts the harrowing experience of Viral Dalal during the catastrophic 2001 Bhuj earthquake in India.

The Earthquake Strikes

Viral Dalal, a 24-year-old on vacation with his family, is abruptly awakened by his father's urgent commands:

"Get up. Dalal grumbles. Please Dad, I need a few more minutes." [06:34]

As Viral moves to the bed, the ground begins to shake violently:

"The floor begins shaking and the bed trembles. The nearby dresser skitters across the floor." [06:34]

In a split second, the building becomes unstable, and Viral finds himself trapped under collapsing concrete and debris. The narrative portrays his struggle to survive as the building implodes around him.

Expert Insights: Understanding Viral's Survival Instincts

Medical experts provide a deeper understanding of Viral’s experiences:

Dr. Alex N. Sabot explains the initial shock response:

"During a big earthquake, a single blow to the head or neck from falling debris can cause death due to skull fractures or brain bleeding. There's little you can do to prevent this beyond covering your head and neck." [12:12]

Dr. Olga Turuchin discusses the psychological impact:

"Shock reduces our physical and emotional pain and helps us dissociate from the event... Under stressful situations, you can feel like you don't belong in your body or that your surroundings are not real." [14:06]

Dr. Beth Palmisano highlights pain management:

"People who associate pain with something larger than themselves can withstand more suffering." [25:23]

Survival Tactics and Mental Resilience

As Viral grapples with his dire situation, he employs various mental strategies to maintain hope and survival:

"Negative thoughts lead to more negative bias about your outlook... Try to focus on positive memories to keep from spiraling." [29:34]

Eventually, Viral is rescued after 100 hours trapped under the rubble, having lost his entire family. Remarkably, he emerges without physical injuries, a testament to human resilience.

Survival Tips for Earthquakes

Cassie De Pecol concludes the chapter preview with practical advice on earthquake survival, drawing from both Viral’s experience and expert recommendations:

1. If You're Outside:

   • "Move away from buildings, utility lines, and any other structures. Lie down and wait out the shaking."

2. If You're Inside:

   • Drop, Cover, and Hold:

     "Drop, cover. Hold. Get on your hands and knees before the earthquake can knock you down." [29:34]

   • Protect Your Head and Neck:

     "Cover your head and neck with your arms. Hold on to protective furniture until the shaking stops." [29:34]

   • Avoid Doorways and Central Rooms:

     "The center of the room is typically the most dangerous place to shelter during an earthquake." [29:34]

3. If the Building Collapses:

   • Run Towards Light:

     "Run toward the light if you're able. Windows are the best point of egress in smaller buildings." [29:34]

   • Protect Your Airways:

     "Cover your mouth and nose with something made of cloth to filter toxic debris." [29:34]

   • Stay Calm and Present:

     "Pair your thought process with the brainstem driven process of breathing to help you stay in the moment." [29:34]

These tips not only provide immediate actions to increase survival chances but also emphasize the importance of mental preparedness and maintaining a positive mindset during disasters.

Conclusion

This exclusive excerpt from "How to Survive Against the Odds" offers a powerful blend of real-life survival stories and expert analysis, reinforcing the podcast’s commitment to educating and inspiring its audience. Through Viral Dalal’s ordeal, listeners gain invaluable insights into the human capacity for resilience and the practical steps one can take to survive in the face of unimaginable challenges.

For those eager to delve deeper into these life-saving techniques and hear more extraordinary survival tales, the full book is available now from HarperCollins Publishers.

Notable Quotes:

• "We fight, we adapt, we problem solve, and ultimately we survive." – Mike Corey [02:34]
• "Every story you're about to read is true." – Cassie De Pecol [03:31]
• "Negative thoughts lead to more negative bias about your outlook." – Olga Turuchin [33:43]

About the Hosts:

• Mike Corey: Host and adventurer with a profound appreciation for the strength of the human spirit.
• Cassie De Pecol: Co-host and adventure traveler who has survived extreme conditions, deepening her understanding of human resilience.

Listen to Against The Odds and gain unparalleled insights into human survival:

• Book: How to Survive Against the Odds: Tales and Tips for Animal Attacks and Natural Disasters available at survivalguidebook.com and through HarperCollins.
• Podcast: Available on the Wondery App, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and others. Access early and ad-free content with Wondery+.

Produced by Wondery with contributions from medical experts and dedicated production teams to bring you immersive and educational content.