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May 8, 2025 60 mins

Recently, National Geographic explorer Jimmy Chin was credited with the discovery of remains belonging to a climber named Sandy Irvine, a member of the 1924 British expedition that ended in tragedy with not only his death, but that of his partner, George Mallory. This week on the show, Thom Pollard of the popular Everest Mystery Youtube channel joins us to tell the full story of the ill-fated 1924 British expedition on Everest -- one of the most controversial and enigmatic mysteries on the worlds largest mountain. We talk about:

  • Who are George Mallory and Sandy Irvine?
  • Controversy over their summit attempt
  • Sandy Irvine's camera
  • The routes of Everest
  • What is the Everest Death Zone?
  • Early vs. Modern Alpine Gear
Links Mentioned Connect Our Partners
  • Special thanks to our partners at Shared Pour! Visit SharedPour.com - Use code “BACKCOUNTRY” for 10% off at checkout.
  • Special thanks to our patterns at Out Yonder Company! Visit OutYonderCompany.com and use code “BACKCOUNTRY15” for 15% off at checkout.
Credits
  • Featuring Thom Pollard
  • Produced by Andrew O'Neill with Hayden Sammak
  • Intro and Animations by Barry Thompson
  • Photograph Contributions for Animation by Carver Weeks
  • Additional Graphics by Andrew O’Neill 
  • Production Assistance by John Stock 
  • “Welcome to the Backcountry” theme song by Logan Roth, Will Brown, Arjun Dube and produced at Treacle Mine Studios, Phila, PA
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