Back From Beyond Podcast
True‑story podcast series about Grand County Search and Rescue
Back From Beyond Podcast
Steward Moab, Grand County Search and Rescue (GCSAR), and KZMU Moab Community Radio have partnered to create Back From Beyond, a Moab search and rescue podcast that showcases the courage, skill, and teamwork of one of Utah’s most experienced search and rescue teams.
Hosted by Molly Marcello, Back From Beyond delivers a comprehensive podcast experience by going beyond the headlines. Each episode features in-depth conversations with members of the Grand County Search and Rescue team and the adventurers directly involved in the rescues, offering firsthand perspectives that help recreate the events as they unfolded in Moab’s rugged backcountry.
Together, these voices provide listeners with a deeper understanding of the challenges, decision-making, and collaboration required to bring people safely home from some of the region’s most remote and demanding terrain.
CLIMBING CASTLETON TOWER
Two climbers reach the summit of Moab's iconic Castleton Tower — but getting down proves far more dangerous than getting up.
Castleton Tower is one of Moab's most celebrated desert climbs, a striking sandstone monolith rising from the canyon country of Castle Valley. In this episode, two climbers make it to the top — but then the situation unravels. Unexpected challenges on the descent put them in a race against sunset, stranded on an exposed ledge hundreds of feet above the ground. Grand County Search and Rescue's Technical Rope Rescue Team responds, staging a helicopter dropoff 300 feet up the tower in near-total darkness. Firsthand accounts from the climbers and rescue team reveal why Castleton is both an iconic objective and one of GCSAR's most frequent callout locations.
Award-Winning Podcast
Back From Beyond takes listeners into the rugged landscapes of Grand County, Utah, following the dedicated volunteers of the Grand County Search and Rescue team. Each episode shares the challenges and triumphs of real backcountry rescue operations, highlighting the advanced training, skill, and teamwork of Grand County Search and Rescue that make these missions possible.
A Moab Rescue Story For Everyone.
Listeners will experience firsthand accounts of outdoor adventures gone awry — from hikers and climbers to off-road enthusiasts — and gain a deeper appreciation for the commitment of local responders.
Moab. Steep Slopes. Rocky Ledges. Fast Water.
From the snowy peaks of the La Sal Mountains to treacherous rocky rapids, Back From Beyond takes listeners on a gripping journey through some of Moab’s most challenging backcountry rescues. When a Moab adventure goes wrong, Grand County Search and Rescue mobilizes swiftly, navigating steep slopes, icy terrain, rocky ledge, or fast-moving water to reach those in need.
Technical Rope Work to Patient Care.
Each episode showcases the full range of GCSAR’s expertise — from technical rope work to swiftwater awareness and patient care - proving why this highly trained team is prepared for anything Moab’s rugged landscapes can throw their way.
Commitment. Gratitude. Dedication.
"We all need to be reminded how easy it is to get lost, get hurt or get into an accident and how that can quickly turn into a major catastrophe if we don't take precautions and make it as easy as possible to get help. I am moved by the dedication of the SAR volunteers. Their commitment to helping people without judgement about how people get into trouble is powerful. I plan to never need SAR but after listening to your podcast, I am confident in their commitment and expertise and have immense gratitude for them."
-Review
Real Rescues. Real Stories. Worth a Listen.
Spotify Wrapped
2025 Marathon Show
Fans listened for longer than 93% of other shows
Spotify Wrapped
2025 Instant Hit Show
Debut season was more popular than 96% of other new shows
Spotify Wrapped
2025 Most Shared Show
Received more shares than 98% of other shows
"Thank you for this amazing podcast. I hope you are able to secure funding for a second season."
Listener
Be a Business that Supports Season 2
Sponsor
We are seeking sponsors and partners interested in supporting the production and promotion of the next season. Sponsorship opportunities provide a unique way to engage with an audience passionate about outdoor adventure, safety, and the Moab community while helping tell the incredible stories of those who keep adventurers safe.
Underwrite
Underwriting provides a unique opportunity to align your organization with community engagement, outdoor adventure, and public safety storytelling. Underwriters receive brief, factual acknowledgments within episodes — a trusted way to reach listeners without traditional advertising.
Help make another season happen!
Disclaimer While the podcast dramatizes real events for storytelling purposes, it does not provide professional medical, safety, or legal advice. The stories featured in this podcast depict real incidents involving outdoor activities. The podcast is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only. Listeners should not rely on the podcast for personal safety guidance or emergency response planning. Always follow official safety recommendations and local laws when recreating in the outdoors.