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This Is Actually Happening

Wondery

What if you were trafficked into a cult...or were mauled by a grizzly bear...or were stabbed 27 times by a serial killer - what would you do? This is Actually Happening brings you extraordinary true stories of life-changing events told by the people who lived them. From a man who woke up in the morgue to a woman stranded in a Mexican desert fighting to survive, these stories will have you on the edge of your seat waiting to hear what happens next. Listen to exclusive episodes of This is Actually Happening ad-free by joining Wondery+ in the Wondery App, Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Start your free trial by visiting wondery.com/links/this-is-actually-happening/ now.

Location:

Oakland, CA

Networks:

Wondery

Description:

What if you were trafficked into a cult...or were mauled by a grizzly bear...or were stabbed 27 times by a serial killer - what would you do? This is Actually Happening brings you extraordinary true stories of life-changing events told by the people who lived them. From a man who woke up in the morgue to a woman stranded in a Mexican desert fighting to survive, these stories will have you on the edge of your seat waiting to hear what happens next. Listen to exclusive episodes of This is Actually Happening ad-free by joining Wondery+ in the Wondery App, Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Start your free trial by visiting wondery.com/links/this-is-actually-happening/ now.

Language:

English


Episodes
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Introducing: Encounters

1/13/2025
Encounters dives into one of the most famous and unsolved UFO encounters to ever take place in the UK. What really happened over two nights in December 1980, when US servicemen saw mysterious lights in the skies? UFO expert Andy McGrillen and producer Elle Scott examine all of the evidence and conflicting theories about what happened and try to answer the question “Are we alone” Listen to Encounters exclusively on Wondery+. Join Wondery+ in the Wondery App, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify. Start your free trial today by visiting www.wondery.com/links/encounters. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Duration:00:08:51

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347: What if you survived a serial killer? [Rebroadcast #259]

1/7/2025
While pregnant and navigating a rocky relationship, a woman coming home from a local fair stops for a soda one night and suddenly faces the brutal terror of a notorious serial killer. Today's episode featured Jane Boroski. Jane is the only survivor of the Connecticut River Valley killer who murdered at least seven people, whose identity still remains unknown and the case remains unsolved. Jane has started her own podcast called "Invisible Tears" in which she shares more of her own story, explores other unsolved cases, and gives a platform to expand awareness around trauma, PTSD, truth and healing. You can find out more about Jane, her podcast and connect on social media by visiting her link tree at linktr.ee/invisibletearspodcast Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Jason Blalock Content/Trigger Warnings: graphic violence inflicted on a pregnant woman, graphic bodily injury, attempted murder, stabbing, traumatic pregnancy, explicit language Social Media: Instagram: @actuallyhappening Twitter/X: @TIAHPodcast Website: thisisactuallyhappening.com Website for Andrew Waits: andrdewwaits.com Website for Jason Blalock: jasonblalock.com Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon: patreon.com/happening Wondery Plus: All episodes of the show prior to episode #130 are now part of the Wondery Plus premium service. To access the full catalog of episodes, and get all episodes ad free, sign up for Wondery Plus at wondery.com/plus Shop at the Store: The This Is Actually Happening online store is now officially open. Follow this link: thisisactuallyhappening.com/shop to access branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop. Transcripts: Full transcripts of each episode are now available on the website, thisisactuallyhappening.com Intro Music: "Illabye" – Tipper Music Bed: “Uncertain Outcomes” - SkyeVoyager Services If you or someone you know is struggling with the effects of trauma or mental illness, please refer to the following resources: National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: Text or Call 988 National Alliance on Mental Illness: 1-800-950-6264 National Sexual Assault Hotline (RAINN): 1-800-656-HOPE (4673) See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Duration:00:57:32

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346: What if you ran the ER five blocks away? [Rebroadcast #202]

12/31/2024
On September 11th, 2001 an ER Doctor finds himself in charge of the closest emergency room to the Twin Towers. Today's episode featured Tony Dajer. Tony was born in New York City, grew up in Puerto Rico, and has been practicing as an ER Doctor in New York for 30 years. You can read one of Tony's articles called "Vital Signs" featured in Discover Magazine at www.discovermagazine.com/health/vital-signs-37. Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits Special Thanks: To all who helped make this series happen - Ellen Westberg, Andrew Waits, Marcelino Villalpando, Gabriella Quintana, Emily Caldwell, and Jason Blalock. Content/Trigger Warnings: violence, graphic bodily injury, terrorism, explicit language Social Media: Instagram: @actuallyhappening Twitter/X: @TIAHPodcast Website: thisisactuallyhappening.com Website for Andrew Waits: andrdewwaits.com Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon: patreon.com/happening Wondery Plus: All episodes of the show prior to episode #130 are now part of the Wondery Plus premium service. To access the full catalog of episodes, and get all episodes ad free, sign up for Wondery Plus at wondery.com/plus Shop at the Store: The This Is Actually Happening online store is now officially open. Follow this link: thisisactuallyhappening.com/shop to access branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop. Transcripts: Full transcripts of each episode are now available on the website, thisisactuallyhappening.com Intro Music: "Illabye" – Tipper Music and Sound Design by: Marcelino Villalpando Services If you or someone you know is struggling with the effects of trauma or mental illness, please refer to the following resources: National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: Text or Call 988 National Alliance on Mental Illness: 1-800-950-6264 National Sexual Assault Hotline (RAINN): 1-800-656-HOPE (4673) See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Duration:00:49:56

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345: What if nine bullets shattered your dreams? [Rebroadcast #240]

12/24/2024
Growing up with a single mother and a father in jail, a dancer’s life is forever changed when one night, while doing a favor for a friend, two unknown shooters open fire. Today’s episode featured Diamond Garrett. Diamond is currenting starting a small business to provide products, services, and resources for disabled individuals to make their lives easier as wheelchair users. If you’d like to donate to support her vision and her small business, go to gofund.me/444f5605. You can also find out more about Diamond by following her on Instagram @diamondsg_ and on TikTok @princessdimo. You can find all of her links on linktr.ee/diamondgarrett Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Jason Blalock Content/Trigger Warnings: domestic violence, mention of sexual assault, drug use, gun violence, car crash, graphic bodily injury, suicidal ideation, attempted suicide, explicit language Social Media: Instagram: @actuallyhappening Twitter/X: @TIAHPodcast Website: thisisactuallyhappening.com Website for Andrew Waits: andrdewwaits.com Website for Jason Blalock: jasonblalock.com Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon: patreon.com/happening Wondery Plus: All episodes of the show prior to episode #130 are now part of the Wondery Plus premium service. To access the full catalog of episodes, and get all episodes ad free, sign up for Wondery Plus at wondery.com/plus Shop at the Store: The This Is Actually Happening online store is now officially open. Follow this link: thisisactuallyhappening.com/shop to access branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop. Transcripts: Full transcripts of each episode are now available on the website, thisisactuallyhappening.com Intro Music: "Illabye" – Tipper Music Bed: “Ambient Themes” by Nigel Coutinho Services If you or someone you know is struggling with the effects of trauma or mental illness, please refer to the following resources: National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: Text or Call 988 National Alliance on Mental Illness: 1-800-950-6264 National Sexual Assault Hotline (RAINN): 1-800-656-HOPE (4673) See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Duration:00:56:55

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344: What if you spent 7 years in a Thai prison?

12/17/2024
After developing a severe heroin addiction as a teenager, a woman winds up incarcerated in Thailand, facing unimaginable conditions. Today’s episode featured Holly Deane-Johns. You can email her at admin@hollydeanejohns.com.au or holly@hollydeanejohns.com.au. Holly’s Socials Facebook: @hollydeanejohns Instagram: @hollydeanejohns LinkedIn: Holly Deane-Johns - Motivational Speaker - Self-employed | LinkedIn Holly Deane-Johns is a motivational speaker with lived experience of heroin addiction and recovery. She grew up in the well-to-do Perth suburb of Mount Lawley and heroin addiction entered her family’s life after her parents separated. She was first arrested at the age of 20 and she has spent a total of 17 years in prisons in Australia and Thailand for drug crimes. She has been drug-free since 2001. Three members of her family lost their lives to heroin overdoses. Holly is a qualified youth worker and counsellor who has suffered from severe PTSD. She shares her story to help others to overcome addictions and trauma. WEBSITE: https://www.hollydeanejohns.com.au/ BOOK: Holly's Hell: Seven Years in a Thai Prison Podcast guestings and events here: https://www.hollydeanejohns.com.au/news-and-events Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Aviva Lipkowitz Content/Trigger Warnings: heroin/drug abuse and addiction, death due to drug overdose, suicide & suicide attempts, domestic violence/abuse, child SA, arrest, prison, explicit language Social Media: Instagram: @actuallyhappening Twitter/X: @TIAHPodcast Website: thisisactuallyhappening.com Website for Andrew Waits: andrdewwaits.com Website for Aviva Lipkowitz: avivalipkowitz.com Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon: patreon.com/happening Wondery Plus: All episodes of the show prior to episode #130 are now part of the Wondery Plus premium service. To access the full catalog of episodes, and get all episodes ad free, sign up for Wondery Plus at wondery.com/plus Shop at the Store: The This Is Actually Happening online store is now officially open. Follow this link: thisisactuallyhappening.com/shop to access branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop. Transcripts: Full transcripts of each episode are now available on the website, thisisactuallyhappening.com Intro Music: "Illabye" – Tipper Music Bed: Uncertain Outcomes Services If you or someone you know is struggling with the effects of trauma or mental illness, please refer to the following resources: National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: Text or Call 988 National Alliance on Mental Illness: 1-800-950-6264 National Sexual Assault Hotline (RAINN): 1-800-656-HOPE (4673) See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Duration:01:01:45

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Listen Now: A Fine Mess in conversation with Whit Missildine

12/16/2024
On this special episode, we’re featuring A Fine Mess’s conversation with Whit Missildine and host Sabrina Merage Naim. Created by our friends at Evoke Media, this new podcast was recently named a “must-listen” by The Guardian and Apple Podcasts. On A Fine Mess, venture capitalist and philanthropist Sabrina Merage Naim interviews expert guests about the most thought-provoking topics of our time. On this show, understanding replaces assumptions and commonalities replace divides. Along the way, Sabrina helps listeners learn how to better approach difficult conversations and foster tolerance and inclusivity. On this episode, Whit shares with Sabrina what he's learned from years of listening to people's deeply personal, life-changing stories on his podcast. He then shares how the lessons he's learned from others helped him through his own near-death experience. Most importantly, they discuss how we can gain these valuable insights without experiencing a traumatic event. Listen to more episodes of A Fine Mess and follow the podcast: https://link.chtbl.com/tgng-Yvh?sid=tiah See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Duration:00:47:10

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343: What if you were caught in a spiral of violence?

12/10/2024
A young woman, haunted by anxiety, cycles through toxic relationships, culminating in a harrowing witness to a lover's final act. Today’s episode featured Julianne. You can reach out to her at rosejulianne00@gmail.com. Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Jason Blalock Content/Trigger Warnings: domestic abuse/violence, gun violence, suicide by gun, divorce, extra-maritial affair, explicit language Social Media: Instagram: @actuallyhappening Twitter: @TIAHPodcast Website: thisisactuallyhappening.com Website for Andrew Waits: andrewwaits.com Website for Jason Blalock: jasonblalock.com Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon: patreon.com/happening Wondery Plus: All episodes of the show prior to episode #130 are now part of the Wondery Plus premium service. To access the full catalog of episodes, and get all episodes ad free, sign up for Wondery Plus at wondery.com/plus Shop at the Store: The This Is Actually Happening online store is now officially open. Follow this link: thisisactuallyhappening.com/shop to access branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop. Transcripts: Full transcripts of each episode are now available on the website, thisisactuallyhappening.com Intro Music: "Illabye" – Tipper Music Bed: Union Flow Services If you or someone you know is struggling with the effects of trauma or mental illness, please refer to the following resources: National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: Text or Call 988 National Alliance on Mental Illness: 1-800-950-6264 National Sexual Assault Hotline (RAINN): 1-800-656-HOPE (4673) See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Duration:00:53:53

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342: What if you suffered decades of excessive punishment?

12/3/2024
After robbing an undercover police officer, a bright, ambitious kid faces a life sentence in prison, and after enduring 31 years of confinement, uses his freedom to help others find theirs. Today’s episode featured William Palmer. If you want to reach out to him, you can email him at williammpalmer2@gmail.com. If you’d like to Support William's Fight for Justice & Advocacy, please find his GoFundMe here: https://gofund.me/14b9126f For more information about William’s non-profit, please visit www.lifeafternext.org/home You can also find William on: Instagram: @cafe.revolution.podcast TikTok: @soulbrotha9 LinkedIn: Here Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Jason Blalock Content/Trigger Warnings: child sexual assault allegation, assault, gunfire, gunshot/bodily injury, racism, incarceration/prison, sodomy, explicit language Social Media: Instagram: @actuallyhappening Twitter: @TIAHPodcast Website: thisisactuallyhappening.com Website for Andrew Waits: andrdewwaits.com Website for Jason Blalock: jasonblalock.com Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon: patreon.com/happening Wondery Plus: All episodes of the show prior to episode #130 are now part of the Wondery Plus premium service. To access the full catalog of episodes, and get all episodes ad free, sign up for Wondery Plus at wondery.com/plus Shop at the Store: The This Is Actually Happening online store is now officially open. Follow this link: thisisactuallyhappening.com/shop to access branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop. Transcripts: Full transcripts of each episode are now available on the website, thisisactuallyhappening.com Intro Music: "Illabye" – Tipper Music Bed: Re-Entry Services If you or someone you know is struggling with the effects of trauma or mental illness, please refer to the following resources: National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: Text or Call 988 National Alliance on Mental Illness: 1-800-950-6264 National Sexual Assault Hotline (RAINN): 1-800-656-HOPE (4673) See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Duration:00:58:09

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341: What if you had an unquenchable thirst for danger?

11/26/2024
A man, who grew up seeking danger and adventure, pursues greater and greater risks despite many losses and his own brushes with death. Today’s episode featured Kerry McCauley. You can reach out to him at kerrymccauley@hotmail.com or kerrymccauley.com, or on his socials: Instagram @kerry_d_mccauley Facebook @Kerry D McCauley YouTube @kerryDmccauley Kerry has written two best selling books: "Ferry Pilot" and "Dangerous Flights". He is also one of the main pilots on the Discovery docuseries: "Dangerous Flights". Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Jason Blalock Content/Trigger Warnings: death by accident, plane crash, skydiving accident/death, explicit language Social Media: Instagram: @actuallyhappening Twitter: @TIAHPodcast Website: thisisactuallyhappening.com Website for Andrew Waits: andrdewwaits.com Website for Jason Blalock: jasonblalock.com Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon: patreon.com/happening Wondery Plus: All episodes of the show prior to episode #130 are now part of the Wondery Plus premium service. To access the full catalog of episodes, and get all episodes ad free, sign up for Wondery Plus at wondery.com/plus Shop at the Store: The This Is Actually Happening online store is now officially open. Follow this link: thisisactuallyhappening.com/shop to access branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop. Transcripts: Full transcripts of each episode are now available on the website, thisisactuallyhappening.com Intro Music: "Illabye" – Tipper Music Bed: Cylinder Four Services If you or someone you know is struggling with the effects of trauma or mental illness, please refer to the following resources: National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: Text or Call 988 National Alliance on Mental Illness: 1-800-950-6264 National Sexual Assault Hotline (RAINN): 1-800-656-HOPE (4673) See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Duration:00:56:55

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340: What if you kept knocking at death’s door?

11/19/2024
A man, scarred by a troubled childhood, finds comfort in alcoholism, but when he faces a terrifying, violent encounter with two strangers, his addiction deepens, ultimately leading to a tragic accident that forces him to confront his past and forge a new identity. Today’s episode featured Tom. You can reach out to him at metzie04@yahoo.com. Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Forrest Chiras Content/Trigger Warnings: alcohol use/abuse, child custody, divorce, robbery, grievous bodily harm, stranger danger, boating accident, medical scenes including death or near dying, explicit language Social Media: Instagram: @actuallyhappening Twitter: @TIAHPodcast Website: thisisactuallyhappening.com Website for Andrew Waits: andrdewwaits.com Website for Forrest Chiras: https://linktr.ee/stegoforrest Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon: patreon.com/happening Wondery Plus: All episodes of the show prior to episode #130 are now part of the Wondery Plus premium service. To access the full catalog of episodes, and get all episodes ad free, sign up for Wondery Plus at wondery.com/plus Shop at the Store: The This Is Actually Happening online store is now officially open. Follow this link: thisisactuallyhappening.com/shop to access branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop. Transcripts: Full transcripts of each episode are now available on the website, thisisactuallyhappening.com Intro Music: "Illabye" – Tipper Music Bed: Ambient Themes Services If you or someone you know is struggling with the effects of trauma or mental illness, please refer to the following resources: National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: Text or Call 988 National Alliance on Mental Illness: 1-800-950-6264 National Sexual Assault Hotline (RAINN): 1-800-656-HOPE (4673) See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Duration:00:49:11

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Listen Now - REDACTED: Declassified Mysteries with Luke Lamana

11/18/2024
Behind the closed doors of government offices and military compounds, are hidden stories and buried secrets from the darkest corners of history. Each week, Luke Lamana, a Marine Corp Reconnaissance Veteran, pulls back the curtain on what once was classified information exposing the secrets and lies behind the world’s most powerful institutions. From the hitmakers at Wondery and Ballen Studios, we bring you REDACTED: Declassified Mysteries with Luke Lamana. The stories are real, and the secrets are shocking. Listen Now: http://wondery.fm/REDACTED See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Duration:00:07:00

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339: What if someone gave up everything to save you?

11/12/2024
Haunted by the chaos of her family and teenage years, a young woman finally finds refuge and belonging in a solid new group of friends, but after a camping trip ends in tragedy, she must find a new pathway to acceptance. Today’s episode featured Kristen Smith. You can reach out to Kristen at kristendsmith2@gmail.com or on Instagram @kristendsmith_ You can also find out more about her and what she does at kristendawnsmith.com. Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Cathy Sitzes Content/Trigger Warnings: child SA, abuse, teen kidnapping, drowning, death, grief, explicit language Social Media: Instagram: @actuallyhappening Twitter: @TIAHPodcast Website: thisisactuallyhappening.com Website for Andrew Waits: andrewwaits.com Website for Cathy Sitzes: cathysitzes.com Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon: patreon.com/happening Wondery Plus: All episodes of the show prior to episode #130 are now part of the Wondery Plus premium service. To access the full catalog of episodes, and get all episodes ad free, sign up for Wondery Plus at wondery.com/plus Shop at the Store: The This Is Actually Happening online store is now officially open. Follow this link: thisisactuallyhappening.com/shop to access branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop. Transcripts: Full transcripts of each episode are now available on the website, thisisactuallyhappening.com Intro Music: "Illabye" – Tipper Music Bed: Uncertain Outcomes Services If you or someone you know is struggling with the effects of trauma or mental illness, please refer to the following resources: National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: Text or Call 988 National Alliance on Mental Illness: 1-800-950-6264 National Sexual Assault Hotline (RAINN): 1-800-656-HOPE (4673) See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Duration:00:59:22

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338: What if you thought you got away with it?

11/5/2024
Growing up a lonely latchkey kid, a young boy numbs himself with drugs and alcohol, but after one night of binging, a surge of violent rage changes his life forever, spiraling from depths of depravity to the heights of redemption. Today’s episode featured Patrick Hibbard. If you would like to reach out to Patrick, you can email him at patrickhibbard4@gmail.com. To learn more about a network in which he finds support, please visit ficgn.org (Formerly Incarcerated College Graduates Network), and a network he supports because of their amazing work is fromprisoncellstophd.org (From Prison Cells to Phd). Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Sara Marinelli Content/Trigger Warnings: domestic abuse, divorce, drug and alcohol use/abuse, intravenous drug use, murder & death, incarceration, explicit language Social Media: Instagram: @actuallyhappening Twitter: @TIAHPodcast Website: thisisactuallyhappening.com Website for Andrew Waits: andrdewwaits.com Website for Sara Marinelli: saramarinelli.com Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon: patreon.com/happening Wondery Plus: All episodes of the show prior to episode #130 are now part of the Wondery Plus premium service. To access the full catalog of episodes, and get all episodes ad free, sign up for Wondery Plus at wondery.com/plus Shop at the Store: The This Is Actually Happening online store is now officially open. Follow this link: thisisactuallyhappening.com/shop to access branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop. Transcripts: Full transcripts of each episode are now available on the website, thisisactuallyhappening.com Intro Music: "Illabye" – Tipper Music Bed: Union Flow Services If you or someone you know is struggling with the effects of trauma or mental illness, please refer to the following resources: National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: Text or Call 988 National Alliance on Mental Illness: 1-800-950-6264 National Sexual Assault Hotline (RAINN): 1-800-656-HOPE (4673) See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Duration:00:57:37

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337: What if they delighted in your misery?

10/29/2024
A self-described geek finds his voice as a sci-fi author and amasses an audience on social media, but after he posts a seemingly innocuous tweet, a hoard of internet stalkers fixate on destroying his life. Today’s episode featured Patrick S. Tomlinson. If you’d like to reach out to him, you can email him at patrickstomlinson@gmail.com, or you can find him on Twitter @stealthygeek, on Threads @pstomlinson and on Blue Sky @stealthygeek.bsky.social Visit www.patrickstomlinson.com to find out more information about Patrick and his books. Producers: Whit Missildine Content/Trigger Warnings: cyber stalking, physical stalking, gun violence, suicide/suicidal ideation, infidelity & divorce, pregnancy, threats of suicide, threats of violence, threats of murder, elder pet (no harm), CPTSD, authoritarianism, lawsuit, explicit language Social Media: Instagram: @actuallyhappening Twitter: @TIAHPodcast Website: thisisactuallyhappening.com Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon: patreon.com/happening Wondery Plus: All episodes of the show prior to episode #130 are now part of the Wondery Plus premium service. To access the full catalog of episodes, and get all episodes ad free, sign up for Wondery Plus at wondery.com/plus Shop at the Store: The This Is Actually Happening online store is now officially open. Follow this link: thisisactuallyhappening.com/shop to access branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop. Transcripts: Full transcripts of each episode are now available on the website, thisisactuallyhappening.com Intro Music: "Illabye" – Tipper Music Bed: Re-Entry Services If you or someone you know is struggling with the effects of trauma or mental illness, please refer to the following resources: National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: Text or Call 988 National Alliance on Mental Illness: 1-800-950-6264 National Sexual Assault Hotline (RAINN): 1-800-656-HOPE (4673) See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Duration:00:51:33

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336: What if you escaped a polygamous cult?

10/22/2024
A woman born into the notorious Mormon cult, Church of the Firstborn, grows up in constant fear of their fatal practice of “blood atonement”, but after suffering under the oppression of her husband and caretaking his multiple wives, she plots a daring international escape. Today’s episode featured Pamela Jones. If you’d like to reach out to her, you can email her at hello@pamelaspeaks.live, or you can find her on Instagram @pamela_speaks Visit pamelaspeaks.live to find out more about her life as an author, speaker and coach. She also has another project about the hypocrisy, secrecy and scandals of the cult: wickedconfessionsuncensored.com. Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Aviva Lipkowitz Content/Trigger Warnings: cult, religious abuse/trauma, polygamy/plural marriage, child bride/child marriage, abuse, fraud, blood atonement/death, murder (religious & cartel), the afterlife, poverty, birth control, rape/sexual coercion, explicit language Social Media: Instagram: @actuallyhappening Twitter: @TIAHPodcast Website: thisisactuallyhappening.com Website for Andrew Waits: andrewwaits.com Website for Aviva Lipkowitz: avivalipkowitz.com Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon: patreon.com/happening Wondery Plus: All episodes of the show prior to episode #130 are now part of the Wondery Plus premium service. To access the full catalog of episodes, and get all episodes ad free, sign up for Wondery Plus at wondery.com/plus Shop at the Store: The This Is Actually Happening online store is now officially open. Follow this link: thisisactuallyhappening.com/shop to access branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop. Transcripts: Full transcripts of each episode are now available on the website, thisisactuallyhappening.com Intro Music: "Illabye" – Tipper Music Bed: Cylinder Four Services If you or someone you know is struggling with the effects of trauma or mental illness, please refer to the following resources: National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: Text or Call 988 National Alliance on Mental Illness: 1-800-950-6264 National Sexual Assault Hotline (RAINN): 1-800-656-HOPE (4673) See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Duration:01:00:48

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335: What if you were left for dead?

10/15/2024
After rising as a teenage drug dealer in Oklahoma, a man joins a larger operation after meeting his soulmate and shadowy chemist, but as his power grows, he becomes a guinea pig in an underworld much darker than he bargained for. Today’s episode featured Brandon Andres Green. If you’d like to reach out to him, you can email him at brandonAndresGreen@gmail.com, or you can find him on Facebook or on Instagram at BrandonAndresGreen. Brandon's story came to us by way of Amy Chesler. Amy is a storyteller featured as our guest in Episode 303. You can find her book Working for Justice on Amazon. Amy also has her own podcast, What Came Next, which chronicles in greater depth her experiences with the criminal justice system and the media, as well as other firsthand accounts from survivors and advocates throughout history. You can also find her on Instagram @amybchesler, and on her website amybchesler.com. A special thanks to Amy for referring today's guest. Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Jason Blalock Content/Trigger Warnings: childhood sexual curiosity/touching, teen drug use, religious guilt, guns, grievous bodily assault and injury, explicit bodily injury, explicit language Social Media: Instagram: @actuallyhappening Twitter: @TIAHPodcast Website: thisisactuallyhappening.com Website for Andrew Waits: andrewwaits.com Website for Jason Blalock: jasonblalock.com Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon: patreon.com/happening Wondery Plus: All episodes of the show prior to episode #130 are now part of the Wondery Plus premium service. To access the full catalog of episodes, and get all episodes ad free, sign up for Wondery Plus at wondery.com/plus Shop at the Store: The This Is Actually Happening online store is now officially open. Follow this link: thisisactuallyhappening.com/shop to access branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop. Transcripts: Full transcripts of each episode are now available on the website, thisisactuallyhappening.com Intro Music: "Illabye" – Tipper Music Bed: Ambient Themes by Nigel Coutinho Services If you or someone you know is struggling with the effects of trauma or mental illness, please refer to the following resources: National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: Text or Call 988 National Alliance on Mental Illness: 1-800-950-6264 National Sexual Assault Hotline (RAINN): 1-800-656-HOPE (4673) See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Duration:01:03:35

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334: What if your parachute didn’t open?

10/8/2024
After coming out and finding self-acceptance, a man faces his greatest physical and emotional struggle yet when a celebratory skydive takes a terrifying turn. Today’s episode featured Brad Guy. If you’d like to reach out to him, you can email him at hello@bradguy.com, or you can find him on Instagram and TikTok @bradjguy. Visit bradguy.com to order his memoir “Freefall” and to book him for speaking engagements. Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Aviva Lipkowitz Content/Trigger Warnings: childhood obesity, being in the closet, self-hatred, serious accident, serious bodily injury, falling from a plane, parachute malfunction, death, suicidal ideation, explicit language Social Media: Instagram: @actuallyhappening Twitter: @TIAHPodcast Website: thisisactuallyhappening.com Website for Andrew Waits: andrewwaits.com Website for Aviva Lipkowitz: avivalipkowitz.com Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon: patreon.com/happening Wondery Plus: All episodes of the show prior to episode #130 are now part of the Wondery Plus premium service. To access the full catalog of episodes, and get all episodes ad free, sign up for Wondery Plus at wondery.com/plus Shop at the Store: The This Is Actually Happening online store is now officially open. Follow this link: thisisactuallyhappening.com/shop to access branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop. Transcripts: Full transcripts of each episode are now available on the website, thisisactuallyhappening.com Intro Music: "Illabye" – Tipper Music Bed: Uncertain Outcomes Services If you or someone you know is struggling with the effects of trauma or mental illness, please refer to the following resources: National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: Text or Call 988 National Alliance on Mental Illness: 1-800-950-6264 National Sexual Assault Hotline (RAINN): 1-800-656-HOPE (4673) See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Duration:00:52:28

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333: What if you saw the black mass of death?

10/1/2024
After facing years of abuse, a determined woman dedicates her life to the pursuit of success, becoming a renowned broadcaster, fundraiser and cyclist; but after a grueling, multi-continental bike ride, she faces ultimate darkness, forcing her to confront the deepest wounds of all. Today’s episode featured Charlie Webster. If you’d like to reach out to her, you can visit her website at charliewebster.com/contact or you can find her on Instagram @charliewebster, on Twitter @charliecw or on TikTok @charlieaswebster. She has a new book called “Why It's Ok To Talk About Trauma” which you can find on Amazon or her website charliewebster.com. She also has an ABC TV docuseries premiering on October 9th, which is based on her podcast, Scamanda. The docuseries has the same name. Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Aviva Lipkowitz Content/Trigger Warnings: domestic abuse, child abuse, sexual abuse, suicide, severe physical illness, blood, coma, near death experience, explicit language Social Media: Instagram: @actuallyhappening Twitter: @TIAHPodcast Website: thisisactuallyhappening.com Website for Andrew Waits: andrewwaits.com Website for Aviva Lipkowitz: avivalipkowitz.com Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon: patreon.com/happening Wondery Plus: All episodes of the show prior to episode #130 are now part of the Wondery Plus premium service. To access the full catalog of episodes, and get all episodes ad free, sign up for Wondery Plus at wondery.com/plus Shop at the Store: The This Is Actually Happening online store is now officially open. Follow this link: thisisactuallyhappening.com/shop to access branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop. Transcripts: Full transcripts of each episode are now available on the website, thisisactuallyhappening.com Intro Music: "Illabye" – Tipper Music Bed: Union Flow Services If you or someone you know is struggling with the effects of trauma or mental illness, please refer to the following resources: National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: Text or Call 988 National Alliance on Mental Illness: 1-800-950-6264 National Sexual Assault Hotline (RAINN): 1-800-656-HOPE (4673) See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Duration:01:00:15

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332: What if the worst was yet to come?

9/24/2024
After healing from a major trauma as a teenager, featured in Episode 111 of this show, our storyteller returns to share a dramatic follow up. In this episode, in the wake of his grandmother’s death, he begins taking a volatile medication cocktail and suffers a severe manic break, living on the streets among society’s most disregarded, confronting his deepest shadows and being forced to piece his life back together once again. Today’s guest requested to remain Anonymous. If you want to reach out to him, please email him at jraffinot@gmail.com. Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Aviva Lipkowitz Content/Trigger Warnings: drug use, death, grooming, sexual exploitation, sexual assault & rape, manic break/manic behavior, explicit language Social Media: Instagram: @actuallyhappening Twitter: @TIAHPodcast Website: thisisactuallyhappening.com Website for Andrew Waits: andrewwaits.com Website for Aviva Lipkowitz: avivalipkowitz.com Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon: patreon.com/happening Wondery Plus: All episodes of the show prior to episode #130 are now part of the Wondery Plus premium service. To access the full catalog of episodes, and get all episodes ad free, sign up for Wondery Plus at wondery.com/plus Shop at the Store: The This Is Actually Happening online store is now officially open. Follow this link: thisisactuallyhappening.com/shop to access branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop. Transcripts: Full transcripts of each episode are now available on the website, thisisactuallyhappening.com Intro Music: "Illabye" – Tipper Music Bed: Re-Entry Services If you or someone you know is struggling with the effects of trauma or mental illness, please refer to the following resources: National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: Text or Call 988 National Alliance on Mental Illness: 1-800-950-6264 National Sexual Assault Hotline (RAINN): 1-800-656-HOPE (4673) See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Duration:00:55:28

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What if you had to relearn who you are?? [Rebroadcast #111]

9/20/2024
A teenage boy comes of age through an eclectic mentor, but ends up in the arms of a predator. Producer: Whit Missildine Social Media: Instagram: @actuallyhappening Website: www.thisisactuallyhappening.com Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/happening Shop at the Store: The This Is Actually Happening online store is now officially open. Follow this link: www.actuallyhappeningstore.com to access branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop. Content/Trigger Warnings: explicit language Intro Music: ""Illabye" – Tipper Music Bed: "Cylinder Four" "Cylinder Five" - Chris Zabriskie Outro Music: "The Moon is Down" - El Diablo & Adam Schraft (Rojo y Negro) @eldiablosf @rojo-y-negro www.eldiablobass.com/ Services If you or someone you know is struggling with the effects of trauma or mental illness, please refer to the following resources: National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255 National Alliance on Mental Illness: 1-800-950-6264 National Sexual Assault Hotline (RAINN): 1-800-656-HOPE (4673) Crisis Text Line: Within the US, text HOME to 741741 See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Duration:00:40:13