Shivangi Sinha
History Channel’s ‘Alone’ pushes participants to rely solely on their survival instincts and challenges them to endure harsh environments with limited resources. The show operates by isolating contestants in remote locations, where they must fend for themselves until they either choose to leave or outlast the others. In season 12, the series ventured into a desert for the first time, presenting extreme heat and scarcity of resources. The conditions proved so brutal that within just 34 days, all but one had tapped out, leaving Nathan Olsen as the season’s ultimate winner.
Nathan Olsen Was Prepared to Survive Longer in the Desert
Nathan Olsen grew up in Idaho as part of a large Mormon family, but even in a bustling household, he gravitated toward solitude. From an early age, he sought out quiet, reclusive spaces in nature, finding peace and purpose in the wilderness. At just 10 years old, he told his parents he wanted to be homeschooled so he could dedicate his life to learning self-sufficiency. He immersed himself in the skills of a sheep herder and shaped an education rooted in living off the land. By the time he joined season 12, Nathan was more than prepared for the unforgiving conditions of South Africa’s Great Karoo desert.
His approach was methodical and innovative. He constructed one of the most impressive shelters in the history of the series. It was built from stacked bricks he crafted himself, which gave stability against the harsh desert winds and protection from monsoon floods. He devised ingenious systems to combat dehydration, safeguard against unpredictable wildlife, and ensure food security. On a tree near his camp hung strings of fish he had caught and preserved, a testament to his planning and adaptability. Despite the desert’s scorching heat, scarce water, and isolation, Nathan thrived where others faltered. When, on Day 34, his young son emerged from the bushes to greet him, signaling his victory, he was stunned. He hadn’t realized that every other contestant had tapped out.
Nathan Olsen Works in the Tech Industry Today
Nathan Nelson’s career has been an interesting journey. It is a combination of his love for the wilderness, along with a successful career in technology. After completing his schooling, he pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Science and later earned a Master’s in Business Administration. While his academic background set the stage for a corporate career, it was his upbringing and experiences in the outdoors that truly shaped his path. His father, Larry Dean Olsen, co-founded the Anasazi Foundation, an outdoor therapeutic program designed to help individuals through wilderness experiences. Nathan worked as a tour guide for the program and the experience deeply enriched him. Immersing participants in nature to promote healing and growth aligned with his own values, and he found the work profoundly fulfilling. Even today, he occasionally returns to guide and support the program.
In 2005, Nathan transitioned fully into the tech industry, co-founding BestNotes with his brothers. As the company’s CEO, he oversees the operations of this specialized software platform dedicated to addiction treatment and behavioral health. BestNotes provides an all-in-one solution that includes an integrated CRM, electronic health record (EHR) system, outcome tracking, and comprehensive management tools. Its mission is to simplify and enhance the operations of treatment centers by combining clinical, administrative, and billing processes in one seamless system. Under Nathan’s leadership, BestNotes has grown to become a trusted name in the behavioral health field. His ability to integrate his understanding of human needs, gained from his wilderness background, with technological innovation has been a driving force in his success.
Nathan Olsen Finds Meaning in the Quiet Life With His Wife and Children
Nathan Nelson and his wife, Erica Estes, have built a colorful life together in Buhl, Idaho, where they raise their blended family of ten children. Both are deeply committed, hands-on parents who take pride in being present for every significant moment in their kids’ lives. Whether it’s cheering at sports competitions, attending graduations, or supporting various school and community events, they are always cheering their kids on. Their extended family has been equally supportive of Nathan’s journey, with his brother, Luke Olsen, who also appeared in season 10 of ‘Alone,’ joining the family in celebrating Nathan’s own time on the show. They would gather together to watch the episodes and share in the excitement and pride of seeing his wilderness skills on display.
Life in Buhl allows Nathan and Erica to rejoice in their love for the outdoors. They frequently explore the wilderness with their goats, spend time caring for their horses, and share a deep connection to the land around them. Erica’s passion for the outdoors mirrors Nathan’s, making their shared adventures even more meaningful. Their involvement with events like the 2025 Wilderness Symposium highlights their dedication to preserving and celebrating nature. For Nathan, balancing his professional success with this family-oriented, nature-driven lifestyle has been deeply fulfilling.
Read More: Alone Season 12 Premiere Recap: The Land of Great Thirst
