Philip Henderson: From Injury to Everest Summit
Life is short. You have to think of it like because he doesn't see it.
How does a high school football injury lead someone to summit Mount Everest? In this episode of 'Cracking Open with Molly Carroll', we meet Philip Henderson, a man whose life took an unexpected turn after a near-paralyzing injury. Rather than letting this setback define him, Philip found a new passion in the great outdoors, and for over three decades, he has been scaling some of the world's highest peaks.
His journey includes being one of the few African Americans to summit Denali and leading an all-African American team up Mt. Kilimanjaro. Philip's story is more than just about climbing mountains; it's about breaking barriers. As a black man in the outdoor industry, he's faced unique challenges and made significant sacrifices to pursue his passion. But these experiences have only fueled his determination.
He opens up about his struggles with postpartum depression and how nature became his sanctuary, offering solace and strength. One of Philip's most notable achievements is the Full Circle Everest Team Expedition in 2022. This historic climb aimed to showcase the resilience and strength of its climbers while highlighting the ongoing barriers for Black communities in accessing outdoor adventures. Philip hopes to inspire the next generation of outdoor enthusiasts, educators, leaders, and mountaineers of color to chase their own summits.
Tune in to hear Philip's remarkable journey, filled with life lessons on self-belief, perseverance, and the power of nature. His story is a testament to how overcoming personal challenges can move not just your own soul but also inspire others.