The Tao of Everest, with Ian Woodall

Introduction

As the first rays of dawn crept across the Tibetan plateau Ian Woodall stepped on to the summit of Mount Everest and into history, one of a select few to have climbed the world’s highest mountain by both its south and north sides.

During his first ascent from the south Ian’s team were trapped at 8 000 metres in the worst storm in Everest history which claimed the lives of five fellow climbers. After the trauma and tragedy of the storm Ian and his team nevertheless chose to try again, finally reaching the summit as the only ones left on the mountain.

Two years later while attempting the north side of Everest Ian stopped only a few hundred metres below the summit to try and help a dying American climber. The woman’s first words were, Don’t leave me’. Yet ultimately Ian had to leave her to secure the safety of his own team.

Nine years later, in May 2007, Ian returned to 8 500 metres on Everest to bury the woman he had been forced to leave behind. After wrapping her in the American flag he slid her gently down the North Face to join her husband lying somewhere below.

Learning Objectives

Now, using the power of emotional storytelling, Ian brings the triumphs and tragedies of climbing Mount Everest directly to his audience, showing how the insights gained on the mountain can enhance the following Personal Inspiration and Practical Leadership skills:

• Concentrate on Can-Dos: Taking ownership of the problem and making tough decisions - sometimes we may not be the best person for the job, but we may be the only person for the job.

• Make Mandela Moments: Recognising Diversity - reaching out and appreciating the efforts of others.

• Invest In Integrity: Personal integrity is the basis of all leadership - Integrity is what we do when no one else is watching.

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