"The volcano both gives and takes life." - Eruption on Expedition with Ryan Atkinson
Join us welcoming Ryan Atkinson, an award-winning hostile environment trained cameraman, back to the World Extreme Medicine podcast. In this thrilling episode, Ryan shares his experience filming the 2016 expedition to the heart of Africa, where he and a team of scientists immersed themselves in the active Nyiragongo volcano to study and discover the warning signs of a potential eruption. Ryan discusses the challenges of filming in one of the most remote and dangerous locations on Earth, the Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo. He shares insights on the complex logistics, the ever-present environmental and human risks, and the emotional impact of witnessing the profound hope and resilience of the local communities living in the shadow of the volcano. From navigating the unpredictable weather conditions and noxious gases to managing team dynamics and conflicting goals, Ryan takes you on a captivating journey through the highs and lows of this life-changing expedition. He also emphasises the importance of effective teamwork, shared understanding of risk, and the role of experienced leadership in ensuring the success and safety of the mission. Tune in to this episode for a fascinating look at the world of extreme filmmaking and the power of storytelling to shed light on the complex interplay of nature, conflict, and the human spirit. You can learn more about Ryan's work here.