In November 2024, Akshay Nanavati set out to do what no one had ever attempted before…

He wanted to complete the world’s first unsupported, solo, 2,750km coast-to-coast ski crossing of Antarctica without any dogs or kites. To do this, he would need to drag a sled with a starting weight of 420 pounds from start to finish. The goal? To explore the hidden treasures of the human soul—treasures that can only be found in the depths of solitude and suffering. He wanted to push the boundaries of what’s possible and share the wisdom found on the other side.

His attempt was ultimately cut short due to a life-threatening infection, but not before he covered 500 miles in 60 days. In this gripping episode of Beyond A Million, Akshay recounts the journey: the intense physical and mental preparation, raising $1.1 million, spending two months in complete isolation, and confronting the unrelenting monotony of Antarctica. We also dive into how his background as a Marine, a recovering addict, and author of Fearvana shaped the philosophy that fuels his relentless drive.

Tune in!

Inspiring Quotes

• “It wasn’t the suffering in and of itself that I sought. Suffering is the door. It’s the means, not the purpose. The purpose is transcendence, the spiritual journey that suffering gives you access to.” – Akshay Nanavati
• “Joining the Marines taught me the beauty of going to war with the self.” – Akshay Nanavati
• “I learned how to suffer not just for my own higher self, but for the good of the group.” – Akshay Nanavati
• “True peace is about avoiding resisting or clinging to either side, but embracing and actually exploring both edges as a path to your next evolution.” – Akshay Nanavati
• “We’re all trapped within our own constraints, within our own prison. We don’t even know what’s on the other side of those bars. We’re not even aware there are bars. To escape that prison, to free your mind into a new paradigm, go play somewhere where you’ve never played before.” – Akshay Nanavati
• “Until you make the unconscious conscious, it will direct your life, and you will call it fate.” – Akshay Nanavati