The Island Podcast

In the first episode of the podcast, the host introduces Palmyra Atoll, a remote cluster of islands in the Pacific Ocean. The episode begins with the host reminiscing about childhood fantasies of teleporting to a deserted island. The narrative then transitions to the 18th-century tale of Captain Edmund Fanning, who, while sailing the Pacific Ocean on a trading mission, experienced a mysterious premonition that led him to avoid disaster. His ship, Betsy, nearly wrecked on an uncharted reef. Fanning’s inexplicable urge to change course in the night saved his ship and crew. He later spotted what he believed to be Palmyra Atoll from afar but decided against exploring it. The episode sets the tone for the alluring and supernatural aura that seems to surround Palmyra Atoll.

In this episode, we venture into the Pacific Ocean, specifically to Elugelab, a part of the Enewetak Atoll. Elugelab, a seemingly unremarkable 45-acre landmass, carries a history linked with one of the defining events of the mid-20th century. The episode takes us back to November 1, 1952, the last day of the island's existence, when it became the test site for the first hydrogen bomb ever, codenamed MIKE Shot.

In this gripping episode of "The Island Podcast," we explore the enigmatic and tragic history of Ross Island, a remote and formidable land at the edge of Antarctica. From the heroics and rivalries of Captain Robert Falcon Scott and Ernest Shackleton to the tragic story of Air New Zealand Flight 901, a sightseeing flight that ended in disaster in 1979, claiming 257 lives.
This episode reflects on the disaster's legacy and the ongoing grief, and not only sheds light on Ross Island's historical and geographical significance but also poignantly touches upon the human aspects of exploration, ambition, and the lasting effects of tragedy.