30 years to Everest – Decisions, setbacks, and staying power

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In this inspiring and deeply personal talk, Dr Jeannette McGill shares the 30-year journey behind her summit of Mount Everest — a dream that began as a quiet “one-day” goal and evolved into a test of resilience, commitment, and courage. From pioneering roles in the mining and technology sectors to multiple attempts on the world’s highest peak, she reflects on setbacks, turning back when it mattered most, and the discipline of consistent preparation.

More than a story about climbing Everest, this is a powerful reminder that extraordinary achievements are built through daily commitment, calculated risk, and the willingness to begin — even when success isn’t guaranteed.
Chapters
  • 00:08 Welcome and introduction
  • 00:27 Early life and the 1995 Everest opportunity
  • 04:08 Mining and telecommunications career in Australia
  • 07:32 Debunking Everest myths and media headlines
  • 11:00 Climate change - the real Everest challenge
  • 12:00 2023 attempt - post-COVID challenges
  • 13:26 2024 attempt - multiple setbacks
  • 14:26 2025 decision and preparation
  • 17:37 2025 summit success
  • 21:03 Achievement statistics and reflection
  • 21:30 Current portfolio career and life lessons
18 Feb English South Africa Personal Journals · Earth Sciences

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