Everest and Lhotse: A 24-Hour Triumph with Debbie Bulten

Explore with Lori Ference

In May 2023, Debbie Bulten etched her name in mountaineering history by accomplishing what many thought impossible. Scaling the heights of Mount Everest, the world's highest peak, and seamlessly transitioning to conquer Lhotse, the fourth highest mountain, Debbie's achievement is nothing short of awe-inspiring. Her journey is a testament to human resilience, determination, and the unyielding pursuit of dreams.

• Witness Debbie's historic ascent to the summit of Everest, the ultimate pinnacle of mountaineering.
• Embark on the journey from crossing yak bridges in the Khumbu Valley to navigating the perilous Khumbu Icefall and conquering formidable ice walls on the ascent.
• Experience the breathtaking beauty and challenges of high-altitude climbing.
• Follow Debbie's decision to summit Lhotse, a choice she prepared for but confirmed only after successfully summiting Everest and returning to high camp, adding an extra layer of challenge to her extraordinary adventure.

Don't miss this captivating episode as we explore Debbie Bulten's Everest & Lhotse Expedition—a tale of triumph, perseverance, and the indomitable spirit of adventure. Tune in now to uncover the remarkable story behind one of mountaineering's greatest accomplishments.

00:00 Introduction to Debbie Bulten and her journey to Everest base camp

01:45 Challenges of crossing yak bridges and acclimatization process

02:54 Importance of acclimatization and climbing high, sleeping low

04:33 Encounters with yaks, logistics of transporting gear, division of gear

06:20 Scenic views along the trek

09:36 Goal for this year, back to ultra running, training

10:13 presence of prayer flags all over the Khumbu Valley

10:50 Description of base camp life and layout

13:08 Challenges of illnesses at altitude and difficulty of recovery

17:45 Eating at high altitude

18:50 Everest horseshoe

19:40 Traditional "puja" ceremony and rituals before climbing

20:43 Safety precautions during ladder crossings and navigating shifting ice

24:14 Camp routine, prior experiences, and hazards of the Icefall

30:13 Explanation of safety measures while climbing

30:58 Account of a fall resulting in knee surgery

36:16 Advice on managing fear

39:38 Description of the immense landscape of the Himalayas and the unique experience it offers.

40:22 Recount of a challenging climb and the physical demands of navigating through ice walls and crevasses.

45:15 Discussion on coping with extreme cold during expeditions, emphasizing hydration, nutrition, and high-calorie snacks.

46:30 Challenges of eating and digesting food at high altitudes, stressing proper hydration to prevent hypothermia and frostbite.

47:05 Methods for managing bodily functions in extreme conditions, like using a portable bathroom inside the tent.

48:01 Overview of the route from Camp 2 to Everest summit, including acclimatization and final ascent.

50:15 Importance of minimizing time in the "death zone" above 26,000 feet due to oxygen deprivation.

52:17 Description of the steep ascent from high camp to summit ridge.

58:05 Emotional significance of summiting and focus on the challenging descent.

1:00:26 Everest Summit video

1:01:11 Lhotse summit and view of Everest with blowing snow

1:01:48 Difficulty of summiting Lhotse, decision to summit Lhotse after Everest

1:03:40 Descent to camp 2, discussion about the intense challenges faced during the climb

1:05:14 Risks of altitude sickness and the importance of watching out for each other.

1:07:53 Passing by those who don’t make it home

1:09:21 Discussion on risky activities like skydiving, contrasting with the perceived risks of climbing.

1:10:18 Arrival at Camp 2

1:11:05 Journey back to base camp from Camp 2, with relief and celebration upon arrival

1:13:23 Emotional reunion with family upon returning home, highlighting the support and understanding received.

1:13:40 Gradual sharing of experiences with friends and family, allowing for reflection and processing of the challenging climb.

EPISODE CREDITS

SPECIAL THANKS TO DEBBIE BULTEN for photos, videos and for sharing her story

Hosted, Directed, Edited and Produced by Lori Ference

Thanks to Madison Mountaineering for footage of the Western Cwm

“Sunshine” by SergePavkinMusic Music by Sergii Pavkin from Pixabay

"Happy Warm Days Music" by Sergii Pavkin from Pixabay

© 2024 Lori Ference

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