Born in Lima, Peru, during years of terrorism and instability, Silvia Vasquez-Lavado grew up amid fear and uncertainty. Enduring trauma from childhood abuse, she fled to the U.S. as a teen, determined to start anew. That journey led her to the most unlikely place — Amish country — where she learned humility, resilience, and how to find peace in quiet strength.

Silvia’s transformation continued through exploration. Her first trip to Everest Base Camp, undertaken in the early stages of recovery, sparked an awakening that would lead her to climb all Seven Summits. Along the way, she learned not to “conquer” but to connect — with mountains, with nature, and with herself.

Today, Silvia’s story is being brought to film, starring Selena Gomez, and her mission continues through Courageous Girls, a nonprofit supporting survivors of abuse. Her story is one of survival, healing, and courage — a reminder that no matter your shadow, there’s always a summit ahead.

This is Life's Tough, Explorers Are Tougher, with your host, Richard Weiss. Scratch the surface of an explorer and you'll find an adventure and a great story. This show is about their tales.
This podcast is a proud supporter of the Explorers Club and the EC50 Initiative. 50 people changing the world that the world needs to know about. For more information, go to explorers.org.