Ever wondered if you could survive being stranded alone on the red planet? Our latest deep dive examines The Martian, where astronaut Mark Watney must use ingenuity and science to stay alive on Mars after being accidentally left behind by his crew.
We tackle the film's survival realism - from the questionable Martian dust storm that launches the plot to the scientifically sound (though explosive) water-making chemistry that keeps Watney alive. Did you know Mars' atmosphere is only 1% as dense as Earth's, making those dramatic windstorms physically impossible? Or that Watney's potato-growing strategy using human waste actually makes scientific sense?
The episode sparks fascinating discussions about survival psychology and problem-solving. As Watney says, "You're in outer space, you are going to die, you have to solve every problem, one at a time, and when you solve enough problems you get to come back home." This methodical approach translates to any survival situation - focus on immediate challenges rather than becoming overwhelmed by your circumstances.
We also debate which would be worse: being stranded in space or lost at sea. Space offers a quick death but absolute isolation, while the ocean presents the terror of marine predators, storms, and a slower demise. Which would you choose? The conversation highlights how different survival scenarios require unique mental frameworks and coping mechanisms.
Whether you're a science fiction fan, a survival enthusiast, or just curious about what it takes to overcome impossible odds, this episode offers both entertainment and practical insights. Join us as we break down what it really takes to survive when you're the only human on an entire planet. Subscribe now and let us know in the comments: what movie should we analyze next?
Bookmarked by Reese's Book Club
Welcome to Bookmarked by Reese’s Book Club — the podcast where great stories, bold women, and irresistible conversations collide! Hosted by award-winning journalist Danielle Robay, each week new episodes balance thoughtful literary insight with the fervor of buzzy book trends, pop culture and more. Bookmarked brings together celebrities, tastemakers, influencers and authors from Reese's Book Club and beyond to share stories that transcend the page. Pull up a chair. You’re not just listening — you’re part of the conversation.
On Purpose with Jay Shetty
I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com