I first heard about John Silverwood’s incredible story on a 48 Hours series called “Live to Tell”. As a fellow San Diegan, and a fellow sailor, I had to contact him. What amazes me most about John, is not only the fact that he’s alive, but his optimistic outlook on life. If you would like read his whole story, he and his wife, Jean, write about it in the book “Black Wave”.
John met me at Pannikin Coffee & Tea in Del Mar, CA. He sipped on some coffee, while I enjoyed a cup of tea (of course).
After about an hour of talking about everything from sailing to movie deals, I pulled out my list of questions and hit the record button on the camera. I think we would still be there talking if he didn’t have to pick Jack up from school after two hours of chatting. Watch the complete video recorded portion of the conversation, or you can view the questions below with the time that they appear in the interview for quicker reference.
Q: For anyone watching this who has never heard your story, can you us give the quick and dirty version in a few minutes? (00:26)
Q: Sailing around the world with your family was a life long dream of yours. I find that I have all these dreams and things that I want to do, but I usually let life get in the way of making them happen. What inspired you to not only make your dream a reality, but motivate your family to do it with you? (15:50)
Q: On your trip, you had to overcome your fair share of obstacles, from family issues to alcoholism. I think it's safe to say this was a survivor story long before the shipwreck. Did you ever feel like throwing in the towel, and what kept you going? (17:07)
Q: Usually I would ask "at any point did you think you were going to die?" I have to ask you, at any point did you think you were going to live, and why are you alive today? (20:40)
Q: It's funny because this has undoubtedly changed your life, yet it seems like even with all this publicity, you're still the same down-to-earth, simple, sailor that you were before you embarked on your journey. How do you feel that all of this has changed your life? (23:53)
Q: If you had it to do all over again, would you? (27:58)
