Podd: This Is Actually Happening

358: What if you were recruited to fight an invisible war?

15 april 2025 | 47 min

A young actor, who seeks a greater purpose, is recruited into a clandestine war for humanity's soul, and is forced to confront his desire for belonging at the cost of his sanity.

Today’s episode featured Max Lebow. You can email Max at tfwpodcastbiz@gmail.com.

You can also reach him on his socials:

@thefinalwarpod on Instagram
@thefinalwarpodcast on Tik Tok
r/finalwarpodcast on Reddit

Max’s own multi-episode podcast, The Final War, can be found on Spotify, Apple and wherever you get your podcasts.

Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Aviva Lipkowitz

Content/Trigger Warnings: Harvey Weinstein, mention of child moslestation/incest in the context of a play, depression, teen behavioral programs, drug/alcohol abuse, paranoia, explicit language

LINK TO OUR LISTENER SURVEY!

We’ve come up with a short audience survey, which you can find linked in our show notes and in the bio of our Instagram page @actuallyhappening. We’d love to hear your opinions and feedback, and we’d really appreciate your point of view. Link below:

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfxV-6qeNAOuIAbBnuSJpoyqE3tlvusxb069dZCUC1RWeLfEg/viewform

Social Media:

Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Twitter: @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: 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.

357: What if you were the girl locked upstairs?

8 april 2025 | 57 min

A vulnerable girl, having already endured abuse from her schizophrenic mother, loses her freedom and innocence when a trusted adult lures her into an unthinkable decade of captivity.

Today’s episode featured Tanya Kach. You can email Tanya at tnkach@gmail.com or find her on social media via the following:

Facebook @Tanya Nicole Kach (Mimi)

Instagram @libragirl1481

Tanya wrote an autobiography “Memoir of a Milk Carton Kid”, available where books are sold. She’s done many speaking engagements, as well as television, podcasts, school speaking engagements and book readings.

A special thanks to Todd Rennebohm of the Bunny Hugs & Mental Health podcast for referring Tanya to us.

Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Aviva Lipkowitz

Content/Trigger Warnings: childhood abuse and neglect, divorce, bullying, child grooming, predation and assault, rape and sexual assault, kidnapping, imprisonment, explicit language

LINK TO OUR LISTENER SURVEY!

We’ve come up with a short audience survey, which you can find linked in our show notes and in the bio of our Instagram page @actuallyhappening. We’d love to hear your opinions and feedback, and we’d really appreciate your point of view. Link below:

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfxV-6qeNAOuIAbBnuSJpoyqE3tlvusxb069dZCUC1RWeLfEg/viewform

Social Media:

Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Twitter: @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: 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)

Be the first to know about Wondery’s newest podcasts, curated recommendations, and more! Sign up now at https://wondery.fm/wonderynewsletter

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.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

356: What if they stole a year of your life?

1 april 2025 | 84 min

Abandoned after his parents’ devastating divorce, a neglected teenage son is committed to a psychiatric facility, whose barbaric practices reveal a far more sinister agenda.

Today’s episode featured Banning Lyon. You can email Banning at banning.r.lyon@gmail.com or contact him on Instagram @banningwrites

You can find out more about Banning, his book “The Chair And The Valley” and how to contact him at banninglyon.com.

A special thanks to Todd Rennebohm of the Bunny Hugs & Mental Health podcast for referring Banning to us.

Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Jason Blalock

Content/Trigger Warnings: divorce, familial rejection and estrangement, mention of suicide, psychiatric abuse, death due to past drug use, explicit language

LINK TO OUR LISTENER SURVEY!

We’ve come up with a short audience survey, which you can find linked in our show notes and in the bio of our Instagram page @actuallyhappening. We’d love to hear your opinions and feedback, and we’d really appreciate your point of view. Link below:

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfxV-6qeNAOuIAbBnuSJpoyqE3tlvusxb069dZCUC1RWeLfEg/viewform

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)

Be the first to know about Wondery’s newest podcasts, curated recommendations, and more! Sign up now at https://wondery.fm/wonderynewsletter

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.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Listen Now: Don’t Cross Kat

31 mars 2025 | 6 min

355: A World Beyond Revenge: What if you identified the wrong man?

25 mars 2025 | 74 min

After a brutal assault in the 1980s, a young woman identifies the wrong man as her attacker, but once DNA evidence proves his innocence, they form an unlikely bond, determined to right their paths of justice.

This episode is the fifth and final in our five part series, “A World Beyond Revenge” featuring five powerful stories of people on both sides of tragic incidents of unimaginable harm who found healing through the groundbreaking process of Restorative Justice.

Today’s episode featured Jennifer Thompson. You can email Jennifer at info@healingjusticeproject.org. Healing Justice works to prevent and alleviate the harms caused to all by wrongful convictions through advocacy, education, and direct support.

Instagram: @healing_justice

Facebook: @HealingJustice

Bluesky: @jet4love.bsky.social [Jennifer Thompson]

LinkedIn: company/Healing-Justice-Project

You can find Jennifer’s book, ""Picking Cotton:Our Memoir of Injustice and Redemption” by Jennifer Thompson and Ronald Cotton with Erin Torneo on Amazon or wherever you buy your books.

Jennifer’s Full BIO

Inspirational Crime Survivor, Founder of Healing Justice, and New York Times Best-Selling Author of Picking Cotton. Jennifer Thompson is a crime survivor who, in 1984, survived a brutal attack in her home while attending college in North Carolina. The man who was convicted and imprisoned for the crime at the time was proven innocent a decade later, revealing that the actual attacker had gone free. Thompson emerged as a pioneer of restorative justice, and a symbol of courage and resilience, when, in the wake of these devastating events, she befriended the man who had

been wrongly convicted. She then went on to co-author with him the New York Times

best-seller, Picking Cotton, which recounts their joint story of failed justice.

Thompson has since become a beacon of strength and recovery by speaking out to the world about her traumatic and painful experiences. She has also become a leading advocate for other crime survivors and victims, and her lived experience has inspired countless policy makers, law enforcement, and justice leaders worldwide to effect key reforms to improve the accuracy and fairness of our justice system.

In 2015, Thompson founded the national nonprofit organization, Healing Justice, which serves crime survivors, victims, and others through restorative justice and justice reform. Thompson is the recipient of numerous awards, including the Special Courage Award from the US Department of Justice’s Office for Victims of Crime. She has testified on behalf of crime survivors and victims on criminal justice reforms before the United States Congress and state legislatures. She has appeared as a guest on numerous television and radio programs, including Good Morning America, the Today Show, Oprah, Dr. Phil, Rikki Lake, The View, 60 Minutes, 20/20, NBC News, Nightline, CNN Anderson Cooper, NPR, Diane Rehm, and PBS Frontline. Thompson’s courageous and inspiring story has also been featured in many print outlets, such as People, RedBook, Newsweek, and The New York Times.

Engaged through Keppler Speakers since 2010, Thompson has presented to hundreds of audiences around the world on issues of fairness, equity, empathy, trauma, recovery, healing, altruism, and leadership. An unwavering example of turning tremendous harm into abundant healing, Thompson inspires audiences to not just persevere but to flourish in the wake of unexpected - and even unimaginable - adversity. With endless bravery, grace, and humor, Thompson captivates all audiences with her profoundly important and timely message of optimism, generosity, and hope.

Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Aviva Lipkowitz

Content/Trigger Warnings: disordered eating, familial conflict, poverty, sexual assault including rape by a stranger, breaking & entering, victim shaming, wrongful conviction and incarceration, explicit language

Thank you to our series collaborators, Why Me? & Yoana Tchoukleva:

Why Me? are a national charity in the UK, promoting access to Restorative Justice for people affected by crime or conflict. They also support people who have been through the Restorative Justice process to share their stories. If you want to find out more about Restorative Justice, visit their website www.why-me.org. If you want help accessing Restorative Justice in the UK, you can contact them via info@why-me.org.

LinkedIn: Why me? UK

Instagram: @whymeuk

Facebook: @WhymeUK

Threads: @whymeuk

Bluesky: @whymeuk.bsky.social

Yoana Tchoukleva is an attorney, RJ practitioner, & lecturer at Berkeley Law. She is also a Senior Program Manager at Impact Justice. You can email her at ioanaq@gmail.com. You can reach out to her on Instagram @yoana.tch and on Facebook @""Yoana Tchoukleva"", and on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/ioanatchoukleva/. Please consider donating to Atunse Justice League.

LINK TO OUR LISTENER SURVEY!

We’ve come up with a short audience survey, which you can find linked in our show notes and in the bio of our Instagram page @actuallyhappening. We’d love to hear your opinions and feedback, and we’d really appreciate your point of view. Link below:

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfxV-6qeNAOuIAbBnuSJpoyqE3tlvusxb069dZCUC1RWeLfEg/viewform

Social Media:

Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Twitter: @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: 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)

Be the first to know about Wondery’s newest podcasts, curated recommendations, and more! Sign up now at https://wondery.fm/wonderynewsletter

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.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

354: A World Beyond Revenge: What if your son was killed by a distracted driver?

18 mars 2025 | 44 min

A turbulent father-son relationship shatters completely when the son is killed by a distracted driver, and the father is left to confront his own profound guilt and the man who caused his son's needless death.

This episode is the fourth in our five part series, “A World Beyond Revenge” featuring five powerful stories of people on both sides of tragic incidents of unimaginable harm who found healing through the groundbreaking process of Restorative Justice.

Today’s episode featured Andy O’Dell. You can email Andy at andycairns36@gmail.com.

Andy is from Greater Manchester. Since his Restorative Justice meeting, Andy has been a passionate advocate against distracted driving alongside his wife Chelle. They are actively looking for projects to help spread awareness of Restorative Justice and safer driving in the North West of England. Some helpful links behind his cause:

https://why-me.org/ https://www.brake.org.uk/ https://www.nwairambulance.org.uk/

Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Forrest Chiras

Content/Trigger Warnings: child behavior challenges, distracted driving, fatal vehicle accident, child death, feelings of hate and revenge, divorce, domestic violence, explicit language

Thank you to our series collaborators, Why Me? & Yoana Tchoukleva:

Why Me? are a national charity in the UK, promoting access to Restorative Justice for people affected by crime or conflict. They also support people who have been through the Restorative Justice process to share their stories. If you want to find out more about Restorative Justice, visit their website www.why-me.org. If you want help accessing Restorative Justice in the UK, you can contact them via info@why-me.org.

LinkedIn: Why me? UK

Instagram: @whymeuk

Facebook: @WhymeUK

Threads: @whymeuk

Bluesky: @whymeuk.bsky.social

Yoana Tchoukleva is an attorney, RJ practitioner, & lecturer at Berkeley Law. She is also a Senior Program Manager at Impact Justice. You can email her at ioanaq@gmail.com. You can reach out to her on Instagram @yoana.tch and on Facebook @""Yoana Tchoukleva"", and on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/ioanatchoukleva/. Please consider donating to Atunse Justice League.

LINK TO OUR LISTENER SURVEY!

We’ve come up with a short audience survey, which you can find linked in our show notes and in the bio of our Instagram page @actuallyhappening. We’d love to hear your opinions and feedback, and we’d really appreciate your point of view. Link below:

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfxV-6qeNAOuIAbBnuSJpoyqE3tlvusxb069dZCUC1RWeLfEg/viewform

Social Media:

Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Twitter: @TIAHPodcast

Website: thisisactuallyhappening.com

Website for Andrew Waits: andrdewwaits.com

Contacts for Forrest Chiras: On Instagram & Spotify @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: 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)

Be the first to know about Wondery’s newest podcasts, curated recommendations, and more! Sign up now at https://wondery.fm/wonderynewsletter

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.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

353: A World Beyond Revenge: What if you were the common denominator?

11 mars 2025 | 58 min

After committing acts of extreme violence as a teenager, a man is unable to shed his rage and find healing, until he’s able to face the roots of the harm he has caused.

This episode is the third in our five part series, “A World Beyond Revenge” featuring five powerful stories of people on both sides of tragic incidents of unimaginable harm who found healing through the groundbreaking process of Restorative Justice.

Today’s episode featured Troy Williams. You can reach him through his website for his media company: https://restorativemedia.org/ or on Instagram @troywilliamsjournal

Troy is a Youth Program Development Specialist and Facilitator Trainer for the Victim-Offender Education Group with the Insight Prison Project. He is a member of the Advisory Council for the Alameda County Chief of Probation. Troy is a founder and operator of 4north22, a media production and consulting company that produces transformative stories to produce social change and promote restorative justice.

Troy empowers at-risk youth and incarcerated individuals through financial literacy and emotional literacy programs, documentary filmmaking, and community advocacy.

Find out more about Troy at https://www.uncommonlaw.org/troy-williams

Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Jason Blalock

Content/Trigger Warnings: violent crime including robbery & murder, incarceration including solitary confinement, gang activity, drug selling, racism, explicit language

Thank you to our series collaborators, Why Me? & Yoana Tchoukleva:

Why Me? are a national charity in the UK, promoting access to Restorative Justice for people affected by crime or conflict. They also support people who have been through the Restorative Justice process to share their stories. If you want to find out more about Restorative Justice, visit their website www.why-me.org. If you want help accessing Restorative Justice in the UK, you can contact them via info@why-me.org.

LinkedIn: Why me? UK

Instagram: @whymeuk

Facebook: @WhymeUK

Threads: @whymeuk

Bluesky: @whymeuk.bsky.social

Yoana Tchoukleva is an attorney, RJ practitioner, & lecturer at Berkeley Law. She is also a Senior Program Manager at Impact Justice. You can email her at ioanaq@gmail.com. You can reach out to her on Instagram @yoana.tch and on Facebook @""Yoana Tchoukleva"", and on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/ioanatchoukleva/. Please consider donating to Atunse Justice League.

LINK TO OUR LISTENER SURVEY!

We’ve come up with a short audience survey, which you can find linked in our show notes and in the bio of our Instagram page @actuallyhappening. We’d love to hear your opinions and feedback, and we’d really appreciate your point of view. Link below:

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfxV-6qeNAOuIAbBnuSJpoyqE3tlvusxb069dZCUC1RWeLfEg/viewform

Social Media:

Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Twitter: @TIAHPodcast

Website: thisisactuallyhappening.com

Website for Andrew Waits: andrdewwaits.com

Contacts 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)

Be the first to know about Wondery’s newest podcasts, curated recommendations, and more! Sign up now at https://wondery.fm/wonderynewsletter

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.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Restorative Justice in the UK vs the US: A Conversation with Keeva Baxter

6 mars 2025 | 53 min

As part of our series, “A World Beyond Revenge” on Restorative Justice, today’s episode features Keeva Baxter. She is the Communications and Campaigns Manager at Why Me UK.

Why Me? are a national charity in the UK, promoting access to Restorative Justice for people affected by crime or conflict. They also support people who have been through the Restorative Justice process to share their stories. If you want to find out more about Restorative Justice, visit their website www.why-me.org. If you want help accessing Restorative Justice in the UK, you can contact them via info@why-me.org.

LinkedIn: Why me? UK

Instagram: @whymeuk

Facebook: @WhymeUK

Threads: @whymeuk

Bluesky: @whymeuk.bsky.social

To Donate to Why Me? UK: Donate Here

Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits

Content/Trigger Warnings: crime, assault, justice, incarceration, explicit language

Social Media:

Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Twitter: @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

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.

352: A World Beyond Revenge: What if they got the wrong guy?

4 mars 2025 | 45 min

After an unsuspecting man is brutally beaten in a surprise attack, he faces crippling anxiety, rage and homelessness for decades until he is able to meet the man who harmed him.

This episode is the second in our five part series, “A World Beyond Revenge” featuring five powerful stories of people on both sides of tragic incidents of unimaginable harm who found healing through the groundbreaking process of Restorative Justice.

Today’s episode featured Will Gilluley. If you’d like to reach out to Will, please email him at will.gilluley@icloud.com or find him on Instagram @WhyMeWill

Will’s podcast appearances:

Face to Face with the Man who Kidnapped and Tortured Me

I was Tortured by Kev Lane: Will Gilluley

Why Me? are a national charity in the UK, promoting access to Restorative Justice for people affected by crime or conflict. They also support people who have been through the Restorative Justice process to share their stories. If you want to find out more about Restorative Justice, visit their website www.why-me.org. If you want help accessing Restorative Justice in the UK, you can contact them via info@why-me.org.

LinkedIn: Why me? UK

Instagram: @whymeuk

Facebook: @WhymeUK

Threads: @whymeuk

Bluesky: @whymeuk.bsky.social

Yoana Tchoukleva is an attorney, RJ practitioner, & lecturer at Berkeley Law. She is also a Senior Program Manager at Impact Justice. You can email her at ioanaq@gmail.com. You can reach out to her on Instagram @yoana.tch and on Facebook @""Yoana Tchoukleva"", and on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/ioanatchoukleva/. Please consider donating to Atunse Justice League.

Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Forrest Chiras

LINK TO OUR LISTENER SURVEY!

We’ve come up with a short audience survey, which you can find linked in our show notes and in the bio of our Instagram page @actuallyhappening. We’d love to hear your opinions and feedback, and we’d really appreciate your point of view. Link below:

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfxV-6qeNAOuIAbBnuSJpoyqE3tlvusxb069dZCUC1RWeLfEg/viewform

Content/Trigger Warnings: violent bodily assault, grievous bodily injury, kidnapping, extorsion, living unhoused, drug & alcohol abuse, mental health crisis, emotional distress, explicit language

Social Media:

Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Twitter: @TIAHPodcast

Website: thisisactuallyhappening.com

Website for Andrew Waits: andrdewwaits.com

Contacts for Forrest Chiras: On Instagram & Spotify @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: 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)

Be the first to know about Wondery’s newest podcasts, curated recommendations, and more! Sign up now at https://wondery.fm/wonderynewsletter

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.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Framework of Restorative Justice: A Conversation with Yoana Tchoukleva

27 februari 2025 | 65 min

As part of our series, “A World Beyond Revenge” on Restorative Justice, today’s episode features Yoana Tchoukleva. She is an attorney, community organizer and restorative justice practitioner. She has held dozens of restorative justice accountability processes, both inside of carceral institutions and in the community.

Most recently, she served as Assistant District Attorney in the San Francisco District Attorney’s Office where she expanded access to Restorative Justice Diversion for youth and adults facing felony charges. Currently, she teaches Restorative Justice Diversion at UC Berkeley School of Law, leads a new reentry project at Impact Justice, and supports many movements for change. Yoana received her JD from Berkeley Law and her BA in International Human Rights from the University of Chicago.

You can email Yoana at ioanaq@gmail.com. You can reach out to her on Instagram @yoana.tch, and on LinkedIn.

Please consider donating to Atunse Justice League through their fiscal sponsor Restorative Community Solutions, and to The Ahimsa Collective.

Yoana would like to give special thanks to Sujatha Baliga, Shilpa Jain, Zakee Hutchison and Jonathan Bradley.

When not working, Yoana serves as an elected delegate to the California Democratic Party, associate member of the Alameda County Democratic Central Committee, and facilitator with Yes! She lives in Oakland on unceded Ohlone land and loves to dance.

Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits

Content/Trigger Warnings: crime, assault, justice, incarceration, explicit language

LINK TO OUR LISTENER SURVEY!

We’ve come up with a short audience survey, which you can find linked in our show notes and in the bio of our Instagram page @actuallyhappening. We’d love to hear your opinions and feedback, and we’d really appreciate your point of view. Link below:

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfxV-6qeNAOuIAbBnuSJpoyqE3tlvusxb069dZCUC1RWeLfEg/viewform

Social Media:

Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Twitter: @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

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.

351: A World Beyond Revenge: What if your brother was murdered in a hate crime?

25 februari 2025 | 60 min

A woman’s brother, David, is murdered in a hate crime, and she spirals into a cycle of revenge, resentment, and anger until she meets with the man who killed him.

This episode is the first in our five part series, “A World Beyond Revenge” featuring five powerful stories of people on both sides of tragic incidents of unimaginable harm who found healing through the groundbreaking process of Restorative Justice.

Today’s episode featured Heather Thompson. If you’d like to contact Heather, you can email her at restorativehealingllc@yahoo.com. You can read about the work she does at arestorativehealing.com. Heather was a recent keynote speaker at the 9th annual National Association of Community and Restorative Justice (NACRJ).

Yoana Tchoukleva is an attorney, RJ practitioner, & lecturer at Berkeley Law. She is also a Senior Program Manager at Impact Justice. You can email her at ioanaq@gmail.com. You can reach out to her on Instagram @yoana.tch and on Facebook @"Yoana Tchoukleva", and on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/ioanatchoukleva/. Please consider donating to Atunse Justice League.

Why me? are a national charity in the UK, promoting access to Restorative Justice for people affected by crime or conflict. They also support people who have been through the Restorative Justice process to share their stories. If you want to find out more about Restorative Justice, visit their website www.why-me.org. If you want help accessing Restorative Justice in the UK, you can contact them via info@why-me.org.

LinkedIn: Why me? UK

Instagram: @whymeuk

Facebook: @WhymeUK

Threads: @whymeuk

Bluesky: @whymeuk.bsky.social

Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Jason Blalock

Content/Trigger Warnings: murder, hate crime, gay & LGBT discrimination, racism, child abandonment, explicit language

LINK TO OUR LISTENER SURVEY!

We’ve come up with a short audience survey, which you can find linked in our show notes and in the bio of our Instagram page @actuallyhappening. We’d love to hear your opinions and feedback, and we’d really appreciate your point of view. Link below:

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfxV-6qeNAOuIAbBnuSJpoyqE3tlvusxb069dZCUC1RWeLfEg/viewform

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.

350: What if nothing could tear us apart? Part 2: Daniel

18 februari 2025 | 54 min

A young man searching for acceptance and purpose falls into a life of crippling addiction and loses his son to CPS and the love of his life to a violent psychopath; but among the shattered pieces of his life, he finds a path to recovery, forgiveness and joy.

Today’s episode featured Daniel Hearn. This episode is part of a two-part mini-series, featuring Daniel and his wife Donna, whose story aired last week as #349.

You can email Daniel Hearn at daniel@hardknoxtalks.com. Please check out Daniel's and Donna's podcast ""Hard Knox Talks: Your Addiction Podcast"":https://linktr.ee/hardknoxtalks

Daniel & his wife, Donna (Ep349), are keynote speakers that use their story to foster productive conversations about substance use in communities and in workplaces. If you’d like to seek them out for a speaking engagement, please reach out to Daniel via email.

Daniel's story came to us by way of Todd Rennebohm (wren-a-bomb). Daniel was originally featured on Todd's podcast, Bunny Hugs and Mental Health, which focuses on conversations with survivors, professionals and families of those who have lost someone to mental illness and addictions. So please check out Bunny Hugs and Mental Health, and a special thanks to Todd for referring today's guest.

Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Sara Marinelli

Content/Trigger Warnings: drug and alcohol abuse, opioid addiction, meth addiction, intravenous drug use, risky pregnancy and childbirth, financial ruin including home foreclosure, domestic abuse and violence, partner violence, child taken by the State, explicit language

LINK TO OUR LISTENER SURVEY!

We’ve come up with a short audience survey, which you can find linked in our show notes and in the bio of our Instagram page @actuallyhappening. We’d love to hear your opinions and feedback, and we’d really appreciate your point of view. Link below:

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfxV-6qeNAOuIAbBnuSJpoyqE3tlvusxb069dZCUC1RWeLfEg/viewform

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: 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)

Be the first to know about Wondery’s newest podcasts, curated recommendations, and more! Sign up now at https://wondery.fm/wonderynewsletter

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.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

349: What if nothing could tear us apart? Part 1: Donna

11 februari 2025 | 65 min

A young woman swept up in a whirlwind romance spirals into drug addiction, which takes everything from her, but when a “friend” comes to help her pick up the pieces, she finds herself in the grip of a psychopath and must find her way back to freedom, recovery, and the love of her life.

Today’s episode featured Donna Gilchrist. You can reach out to her at pho3nixfire23@gmail.com

Check out Daniel's and Donna's podcast "Hard Knox Talks: Your Addiction Podcast": https://linktr.ee/hardknoxtalks

You can visit their website at hardknoxtalks.com. They are always open to speaking engagements - for inquiries, reach out to daniel@hardknoxtalks.com.

Donna’s story came to us by way of Todd Rennebohm (wren-a-bomb). Todd's podcast, Bunny Hugs and Mental health, focuses on conversations with survivors, professionals and families of those who have lost someone to mental illness and addictions. So please check out Bunny Hugs and Mental Health, and a special thanks to Todd for referring today's guest. Although Donna was not on Todd’s show, her husband, Daniel, was, and he will be our storyteller next week.

Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Sara Marinelli

Content/Trigger Warnings: drug use/abuse, risky pregnancy, miscarriages, abuse/domestic violence, sexual assault including rape, homelessness, poverty, explicit language

LINK TO OUR LISTENER SURVEY!

We’ve come up with a short audience survey, which you can find linked in our show notes and in the bio of our Instagram page @actuallyhappening. We’d love to hear your opinions and feedback, and we’d really appreciate your point of view. Link below:

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfxV-6qeNAOuIAbBnuSJpoyqE3tlvusxb069dZCUC1RWeLfEg/viewform

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: 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.

348: What if you survived the Burundian genocide?

4 februari 2025 | 50 min

During the 1993 mass killing of Tutsis in Burundi, a young man raised in a tight-knit community becomes a target of ethnic cleansing, but as he faces his final, horrifying moments, he runs for his survival, awakening to a new life.

Today’s episode featured Gilbert Tuhabonye. You can reach out to him at gilbert@gilbertsgazelles.com. You can also find him on the following socials:

Instagram @gtuhabonye

Facebook @Gilbert Tuhabonye

Tiktok @runlikeagazelle

YouTube: www.youtube.com/@gilbertsgazelles

Please consider donating: https://www.gazellefoundation.org/

Please read more about Gilbert here.

Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Jason Blalock

Content/Trigger Warnings: mass killing, burning humans alive, machete/chopping of humans, death march, genocide, explicit language

LINK TO OUR LISTENER SURVEY!

We’ve come up with a short audience survey, which you can find linked in our show notes and in the bio of our Instagram page @actuallyhappening. We’d love to hear your opinions and feedback, and we’d really appreciate your point of view. Link below:

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfxV-6qeNAOuIAbBnuSJpoyqE3tlvusxb069dZCUC1RWeLfEg/viewform

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: 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)

Be the first to know about Wondery’s newest podcasts, curated recommendations, and more! Sign up now at https://wondery.fm/wonderynewsletter

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.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

347: What if you were held captive in plain sight?

28 januari 2025 | 59 min

A mental health professional in a turbulent marriage makes a fresh start in Hawaii, but after befriending a charming older man she finds herself trapped in an unthinkable nightmare that leads her to question everything.

Today’s episode featured Naazh. You can reach out to her at naazh1974@gmail.com, and you can find out more about her at naazh.org.

Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Forrest Chiras

Content/Trigger Warnings: racism, Native American trauma, alcoholism/pill abuse, suicide/suicidal ideation, house fire, animal death from house fire, animal injury from house fire, teen bullying/”slut shaming”, partner abuse/domestic violence, trapped/held captive, animal hunting, divorce, female surgery, explicit language

LINK TO OUR LISTENER SURVEY!

We’ve come up with a short audience survey, which you can find linked in our show notes and in the bio of our Instagram page @actuallyhappening. We’d love to hear your opinions and feedback, and we’d really appreciate your point of view. Link below:

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfxV-6qeNAOuIAbBnuSJpoyqE3tlvusxb069dZCUC1RWeLfEg/viewform

Social Media:

Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Twitter: @TIAHPodcast

Website: thisisactuallyhappening.com

Website for Andrew Waits: andrdewwaits.com

Website for Forrest Chiras: forrestchiras.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.

346: What if you risked your freedom to liberate the animals?

21 januari 2025 | 65 min

A bullied boy finds companionship in his animal friends, but as he grows up and finds himself trapped in a soulless career, he discovers a new purpose: freeing animals from captivity and facing the dire consequences.

Today’s episode featured Wayne Hsiung. You can reach out to Wayne at info@simpleheart.org or on Instagram, YouTube and Substack @waynehhsiung.

Wayne Hsiung is an animal cruelty investigator, former faculty member at Northwestern School of Law, and co-founder and Executive Director of The Simple Heart Initiative. He has led teams that have investigated and rescued animals from factory farms and slaughterhouses across the nation – challenging unconstitutional “ag-gag” laws in the process – and has organized successful campaigns to ban fur in San Francisco and California. He served as lead counsel (and, sometimes, defendant) in four “right to rescue” trials in which activists were prosecuted after being charged for giving aid to sick and dying animals in factory farms, garnering media attention from The New York Times. He is also a co-founder and former lead organizer of the grassroots animal rights network Direct Action Everywhere.

Wayne’s work has been covered by WIRED, ABC’s Nightline, and on The Ezra Klein Show.

He has published on the right to rescue in Harvard Law Review and climate change’s impact on animals in the University of Pennsylvania Law Review. Prior to his work as an animal advocate, Wayne practiced law at two national firms and studied law and economics at the University of Chicago, where he was an Olin Law and Economics Fellow, and at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, where he was awarded a National Science Foundation Graduate Fellowship. He is the proud parent of Oliver, who was rescued from the dog meat trade.

LINK TO OUR LISTENER SURVEY!

We’ve come up with a short audience survey, which you can find linked in our show notes and in the bio of our Instagram page @actuallyhappening. We’d love to hear your opinions and feedback, and we’d really appreciate your point of view. Link below:

LISTENER SURVEY

Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Jason Blalock

Content/Trigger Warnings: bullying, animal cruelty/abuse/torture/killing, domestic animals as food, breaking and entering, arrest/jail/interrogation, 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.

345: What if you were a political hostage in Iran?

14 januari 2025 | 69 min

After accidentally crossing the border into Iran on a hike with her friend and her partner, a woman is detained and held for over a year in solitary confinement, awakening to the sobering realities of oppression and the fight for a new path to justice.

Today’s episode featured Sarah Shourd. Sarah Shourd is an award-winning narrative change leader and a somatic coach trained in trauma transformation. She is an author, playwright, trauma-informed investigative journalist, former Stanford John S. Knight Fellow and co-founder of The End of Isolation Tour and Documentary. For over a decade, since being held as a political hostage by the Iranian government, her work has focused on exposing the impact of mass incarceration and using storytelling to promote healing and reimagine justice outside prisons and jails.

You can contact Sarah at shourdsomatics@gmail.com or on Instagram @SarahShourd.

You can find out more about Sarah and her work at: sarahshourd.com, shourdsomatics.com, endofisolation.org, sarahshourd.substack.com

Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Aviva Lipkowitz

Content/Trigger Warnings: SA, divorce, domestic violence/abuse, drug/alcohol use, arrest/prison, solitary confinement, arrest abroad, divorce, explicit language

We’d love to hear your opinions and feedback! Please find the Anonymous Listener Survey link here. Thank you for your efforts.

Social Media:

Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Twitter: @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: 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)

Be the first to know about Wondery’s newest podcasts, curated recommendations, and more! Sign up now at https://wondery.fm/wonderynewsletter

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.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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

7 januari 2025 | 58 min

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.

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

31 december 2024 | 50 min

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

24 december 2024 | 57 min

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.

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

17 december 2024 | 62 min

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.

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

10 december 2024 | 54 min

342: What if you suffered decades of excessive punishment?

3 december 2024 | 58 min

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.

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

26 november 2024 | 57 min

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

19 november 2024 | 49 min

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

12 november 2024 | 59 min

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

5 november 2024 | 58 min

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.

337: What if they delighted in your misery?

29 oktober 2024 | 51 min

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.

336: What if you escaped a polygamous cult?

22 oktober 2024 | 61 min

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.

335: What if you were left for dead?

15 oktober 2024 | 64 min

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.

334: What if your parachute didn’t open?

8 oktober 2024 | 52 min

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.

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

1 oktober 2024 | 60 min

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.

332: What if the worst was yet to come?

24 september 2024 | 55 min

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.

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

20 september 2024 | 40 min

331: What if you killed the wrong person?

17 september 2024 | 57 min

Growing up in poverty with an absent father, a boy finds family in a gang, but after his best friend is murdered, he unravels into a spiral of rage, violence, prison, and ultimately, an unexpected forgiveness.

Today’s episode featured Chris Diep. If you’d like to reach out to him, you can email him at chrisdiep2023@gmail.com, or you can find him on LinkedIn as Christopher Diep.

Special thanks to Yoana Tchoukleva for bringing us Chris's story.

Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Wait, Aviva Lipkowitz

Content/Trigger Warnings: Vietnam war, graphic violence, gang violence, familial separation, drug use, robbery, prison, death of a parent, death of a child, racism, suicide, explicit language

Social Media:

Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Twitter: @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: “Cylinder Four” - Chris Zabriskie

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.

330: What if your son was murdered at Sandy Hook?

10 september 2024 | 64 min

An ambitious mother settles with her two sons into the quiet, idyllic life of her dreams, but after losing her son in a massacre that shakes the nation, she dedicates her life to carrying on her son’s message of love.

Today’s episode featured Scarlett Lewis. Scarlett founded the Choose Love Movement after her six-year-old son, Jesse, was murdered during the Sandy Hook Elementary School tragedy in December 2012, which remains one of the worst mass shootings in U.S. history. Through the Choose Love Movement, Scarlett teaches everyone from young children to prison inmates how to deal with feelings of anger before they escalate into violence. The Choose Love curriculum has been accessed in over 14,500 schools across 120 countries.

Scarlett is the author of two best-selling books: Nurturing Healing Love: A Mother’s Journey of Hope & Forgiveness, and From Sandy Hook to the World: How the Choose Love Movement Transforms Lives.

If you’d like to learn more about Scarlett, you can find her on Instagram @ChooseLoveMovement, on Twitter/X @ChooseLoveM, on Facebook @JLChooseLove and on her website: chooselovemovement.org, or email: info@jesselewischooselove.org

Scarlett’s story came to us by way of Todd Rennebohm. Scarlett was originally featured on Todd's podcast, Bunny Hugs and Mental health, which focuses on conversations with survivors, professionals and families of those who have lost someone to mental illness and addictions. So please check out Bunny Hugs and Mental Health, and a special thanks to Todd for referring today's guest.

Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Aviva Lipkowitz

Content/Trigger Warnings: divorce, guns/gun violence, suicide, homicide, murder, school shooting, death, death of children, funeral, Sandy Hook, Sandy Hook denier, explicit language

Social Media:

Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Twitter: @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: 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.

What if you were on the 68th floor? [Rebroadcast #203]

3 september 2024 | 51 min

A Port Authority employee narrowly escapes from the 68th floor after a plane hits the World Trade Center on September 11th, 2001, but the most devastating impact comes from the psychological wounds that haunt her life for decades after.

Today's episode featured Kayla Bergeron. In addition to serving as chief of public and government affairs for The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, Kayla has also served in senior roles for the New York State Housing Finance Agency and South Florida Water Management District, the lead agency restoring America's Everglades.

Kayla currently resides in Suwanne, Georgia and serves as Program Director, and as a Certified Peer Support Specialist -Addictive Disease (C.P.S.- A.D.), for The Connection Forsyth, a 501c3 non profit recovery community organization, based in Cumming, Georgia. Kayla works as a social media consultant for Special Equestrians of Georgia, in Milton, Georgia, also a 501c3 non profit, where she participates in equine-assisted therapy.

Kayla recently started a gofundme for Special Equestrians of Georgia, where she receives equine-assisted therapy for PTSD. Last year, Special Equestrians of Georgia (SEG), based in Milton, GA, had to close down its hippotherapy program due to COVID-19 and safety concerns. As a result, many of the horses had to be rehomed. Currently, SEG provides equine-assisted therapy for teens and adults with mental health challenges, including depression, PTSD, anxiety and trauma. With COVID-19 Delta variant hovering, Special Equestrians of Georgia may be forced to shut down its doors -- for good. It costs approximately $3,000 to fund the program, which includes feeding and special dietary needs, farrier, veterinarian, medicine and facility maintenance. Please help by donating to Special Equestrians of Georgia.

This episode is part of a special, four-part series called The Long Shadow. Twenty Years after the attacks of September 11th changed the world as we knew it, this month the This Is Actually Happening podcast dives deep into the stories of four survivors whose jobs brought them face to face with the unthinkable. For those called to manage an impossible tragedy up close, the events of September 11th represented a uniquely horrifying challenge. Among the harrowing details of that day, we explore the long shadows of trauma and resilience that continue to inform the looming uncertainties that remain with us today.

Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits

Social Media:

Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Twitter: @TIAHPodcast

Content/Trigger Warnings: violence, sexual assault, injury, terrorism, mention of suicide, alcoholism, addiction, mental illness explicit language

Website: www.thisisactuallyhappening.com

Website for Andrew Waits: www.andrdewwaits.com

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 https://wondery.com/plus

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: https://www.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 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.

What if a horrifying loss led to a grand adventure? [Rebroadcast #179]

27 augusti 2024 | 50 min

A horrific accident leaves a man severely disabled, but after hitting rock bottom in his recovery a new life opens he could never have imagined

Today’s episode featured Dustin Reynolds. Since this interview, Dustin has made it down to Colombia, and is planning on heading to Panama, Galapagos, and Polynesia before returning to Hawaii. To find out more about Dustin, see pictures and follow his journey or donate to help him complete the voyage, go to thesinglehandedsailor.com. You can follow him on Instagram and Facebook @thesinglehandedsailor. You can also support him on Patreon and GoFundMe:

Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thesinglehandedsailor

GoFundMe: https://www.gofundme.com/f/hngchb-support-the-single-handed-sailor

Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits

Social Media:

Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Twitter: @TIAHPodcast

Content/Trigger Warnings: car crash, severe injury, amputation, explicit language

Website: www.thisisactuallyhappening.com

Website for Andrew Waits: www.andrdewwaits.com

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 https://wondery.com/plus

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: https://www.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/Cylinder Five” - Chris Zabriskie

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.

What if your cry for help led to an unthinkable tragedy? [Rebroadcast #173]

20 augusti 2024 | 44 min

What if you couldn't stop shining? [Rebroadcast #189]

13 augusti 2024 | 47 min

What if you faced the monster in the mirror? [Rebroadcast #215]

6 augusti 2024 | 61 min

Growing up in the projects and a broken home, a man learns survive on the streets through dealing drugs and brutal violence, when a desperate moment leaves him with a choice that changes everything.

Today’s episode featured Kenneth Ginlack, Sr. Kenneth has been the Director of Outpatient Programs for Milwaukee County Behavior Health Division (BHD), an ad-hoc instructor at the University of Wisconsin Continuing Education extension program, president of the board of directors for Revive Youth and Family Services, and a board member for SALS Recovery Houses and Coaching. Kenneth is now Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Serenity Inns. You can find out more about Kenneth by going to kgsctc.com

Producers: Whit Missildine

Social Media:

Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Twitter: @TIAHPodcast

Content/Trigger Warnings: explicit violence, gun violence, domestic abuse, drug use, drug addiction, suicide, murder, explicit language

Website: www.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: 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 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.

The 82 Percent: Podcast Live Event at Mannys

1 augusti 2024 | 108 min

What if they died in your hands? [Rebroadcast #220]

30 juli 2024 | 52 min

The 82 Percent: Bonus Conversation with Alex Chen

25 juli 2024 | 42 min

In this special bonus episode, Whit Missildine interviews Alex Chen. Alex Chen is the Founding Director of the Harvard Law School LGBTQ+ Advocacy Clinic and a founding member of Polyamory Legal Advocacy Coalition. In this conversation we discuss the legal and historical roots of the nuclear family, monogamy and the challenges and successes in the fight for rights for diverse family structures.

Alex is one of the nation’s leading experts in LGBTQ+ civil rights law. He also teaches Gender Identity, Sexual Orientation, and the Law at the Law School. Previously, Alexander served as an Equal Justice Works Fellow at the National Center for Lesbian Rights. He also co-drafted AB 2119, a bill that made California the first state to guarantee access to transition-related health care for trans youth in foster care. Alex received his J.D. from Harvard Law School, where he was the first openly transgender editor of the Harvard Law Review. You can find out more about Alex and his work at PLAC at polyamorylegal.org

Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits

Content/Trigger Warnings: sexual themes, 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

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.

329: The 82 Percent #6: What if you became your husband’s guardian?

23 juli 2024 | 59 min

At 21 years old, Kris marries Brandon, the love of her life, but after Brandon suffers a severe traumatic brain injury, Kris must restructure everything about how she imagined what her family would be.

Today’s episode featured Kris Amstrong. You can donate to the Go Fund Me effort to purchase Brandon Smith a new sports wheelchair at gofund.me/d34ed0ea. You can contact Kris at KArmstrong@mickeytravels.com and you can find out more about her, and her family on TikTok and on Instagram @followmetothemouse. Kris is currently writing a book.

This episode is the final of a six-part miniseries called the 82 Percent: Modern stories of love and family, produced in collaboration with the Modern Family Institute. If you’d like to find out more about the Modern Family Institute, donate to help advance their work, or get engaged, please visit their website, modernfamilyinstitute.org.

We are hosting a live This Is Actually Happening event on July 24th in San Francisco at Manny’s to celebrate the series. To find tickets to the event, go to www.welcometomannys.com/events and find “The Other 82%” or, for a direct Eventbrite link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-other-82-living-and-loving-beyond-the-monogamous-nuclear-family-tickets-940666046467

Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Jason Blalock

Content/Trigger Warnings: traumatic accident, traumatic brain injury, 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: “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.

328: The 82 Percent #5: What if you were a seahorse dad?

16 juli 2024 | 58 min

Assigned female at birth, Kayden Coleman navigates abuse, racism, housing insecurity, and a deep questioning of gender, but after finally accepting who he is and transitioning fully to being a man, he finds out he’s pregnant.

Today’s episode featured Kayden Coleman. You can find out more about him on Instagram and TikTok @kaydenxofficial. If you’d like to reach out to him, you can email at Kaydenxcoleman@gmail.com.

This episode is the fifth of our six-part miniseries called the 82 Percent: Modern stories of love and family, produced in collaboration with the Modern Family Institute @modernfamilyinstitute. If you’d like to find out more about the Modern Family Institute, donate to help advance their work, or get engaged, please visit their website, modernfamilyinstitute.org.

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.

We are hosting a live This Is Actually Happening event on July 24th in San Francisco at Manny’s to celebrate the series. To find tickets to the event, go to www.welcometomannys.com/events and find “The Other 82%” or, for a direct Eventbrite link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-other-82-living-and-loving-beyond-the-monogamous-nuclear-family-tickets-940666046467

Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Sara Marinelli

Content/Trigger Warnings: child abuse, post-partum depression, suicidal ideation, sexual themes, 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

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” – Chris Zabriskie

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.

327: The 82 Percent #4: What if you found your family on the path of celibacy?

9 juli 2024 | 54 min

After immigrating from Brazil to the US, a man struggles with isolation, depression, faith and sexual orientation, when one day an awakening leads him on a path to celibacy and to a family he never thought he’d have.

Today’s episode featured Art Pereira. If you’d like to reach out to Art, you can email him at art@revoice.org or find him on Instagram @art_per. Art Pereira is the director of events and partnerships for Revoice, a Christian ministry that supports LGBTQ+ Christians who follow a historic sexual ethic. You can also find Revoice on Instagram @revoiceorg. Art currently lives in New Jersey with his best friend and numerous houseplants.

This episode is the fourth of our six-part miniseries called the 82 Percent: Modern stories of love and family, produced in collaboration with the Modern Family Institute @modernfamilyinstitute. If you’d like to find out more about the Modern Family Institute, donate to help advance their work, or get engaged, please visit their website, modernfamilyinstitute.org.

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.

Also, for tickets to our live This Is Actually Happening event to celebrate the series, go to www.welcometomannys.com/events and find “The Other 82%” or for a direct Eventbrite link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-other-82-living-and-loving-beyond-the-monogamous-nuclear-family-tickets-940666046467

Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Jason Blalock

Content/Trigger Warnings: self-harm, suicidal ideation, sexual themes, 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

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” – Spuntic

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.

The 82 Percent: Bonus Conversation with Jessica Fern

4 juli 2024 | 39 min

In this special bonus episode, Whit Missildine interviews Jessica Fern. Jessica Fern is a renowned psychotherapist, trauma and relationship expert, and the author of two books: Polysecure: Attachment, Trauma and Consensual Non-Monogamy, and Polywise: A Deeper Dive into Navigating Open Relationships. In her international private practice, Jessica works with individuals, couples, and people in multiple-partner relationships who no longer want to be limited by their reactive patterns, cultural conditioning, insecure attachment styles, and past traumas, helping them to embody new possibilities in life and love.

To find out more about Jessica and her work, you visit her website jessicafern.com or find her on Instagram @jessicafern411.

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.

Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits

Content/Trigger Warnings: sexual themes, explicit language

Social Media:

Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Twitter: @TIAHPodcast

Website: thisisactuallyhappening.com

Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon: patreon.com/happening

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

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.

326: The 82 Percent #3: What if you discovered a new way to love?

2 juli 2024 | 52 min

Growing up in the crack epidemic surrounded by gangs, drugs, and violence a man begins repeating these patterns of abuse and infidelity in his relationships, but after a family tragedy, he finds a new path, opening his marriage and his heart.

Today’s episode featured Adrian McCoy.

This episode is the third of a six-part miniseries called the 82 Percent: Modern stories of love and family, produced in collaboration with the Modern Family Institute @modernfamilyinstitute. If you’d like to find out more about the Modern Family Institute, donate to help advance their work, or get engaged, please visit their website, modernfamilyinstitute.org.

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.

Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Aviva Lipkowitz

Content/Trigger Warnings: domestic violence, gang violence, gun violence, abuse, murder, drug addiction, sexual themes, explicit language

Social Media:

Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Twitter: @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

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” – Lee Rosevere

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.

325: The 82 Percent #2: What if you grew up in a polyamorous family?

25 juni 2024 | 56 min

As a child growing up in a polyamorous family and community, Koe Creation learns to navigate the beauty and complications of their upbringing, but once they begin to find and express their own voice, they face society’s larger shadows.

Today’s episode featured Koe Creation. You can find out more about Koe at their website, koecreation.com and on Instagram @koecreation. You can also learn more about their journey growing up in a polyamorous family in their book, “This Heart Holds Many” available on Amazon or wherever books are sold.

This episode is the first of a six-part miniseries called the 82 Percent: Modern stories of love and family, produced in collaboration with the Modern Family Institute @modernfamilyinstitute. If you’d like to find out more about the Modern Family Institute, donate to help advance their work, or get engaged, please visit their website, modernfamilyinstitute.org.

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.

Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Jason Blalock

Content/Trigger Warnings: sexual themes, 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

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.

The 82 Percent: Bonus Conversation with Heath Schechinger and Lily Lamboy

20 juni 2024 | 53 min

In this special bonus episode, Whit Missildine interviews Heath Schechinger and Lily Lamboy of the Modern Family Institute @modernfamilyinstitute, collaborators on our six-part miniseries, “The 82%: Modern Stories of Love and Family.” In this conversation we discuss the historical roots of the nuclear family and monogamy, how family and relationship structures have changed over the 20th century, the contemporary landscape of diverse families and Consensual Non-Monogamy, and the future of love and family.

Dr. Heath Schechinger is a therapist, researcher, and organizer, known for his groundbreaking work within the realm of family and relationship diversity. In addition to his role as Co-Founder and Executive Director of the Modern Family Institute, he serves as the Founding Co-Chair of the American Psychological Association Division 44 Committee on Consensual Non-monogamy, and an Affiliate Faculty at the renowned Kinsey Institute. Dr. Schechinger’s work sheds light on the elements that cultivate healthy relationships and the rise of non-nuclear family and relationship configurations. He has authored multiple empirical publications and clinical resources and his work has been featured in major media outlets such as The New York Times, BBC, Vogue, and Time Magazine.

Dr. Lily Lamboy is a social impact executive, educator, artist, and scholar with over 15 years of experience building complex systems to support human flourishing. She currently serves as the Co-Founder and Managing Director of the Modern Family Institute. Prior to founding the Modern Family Institute, Dr. Lamboy led the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion functions at both Stripe and Blue Shield of California. She received her PhD in Political Science from Stanford University, where she also taught in the Feminist, Gender & Sexuality Studies and Rhetoric programs, receiving the Gores Award for Excellence in Teaching, Stanford's top prize for education. She has authored peer-reviewed articles addressing persistent sources of social inequality in publications including Cambridge University Press, Theory and Research in Education, and the International Panel on Social Progress. As an artist, she strives to make pieces that inspire lasting change in how we love, act, and organize our society.

If you’d like to find out more about the Modern Family Institute, donate to help advance their work, or get engaged, please visit their website, modernfamilyinstitute.org.

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.

Producers: Whit Missildine

Content/Trigger Warnings: sexual themes, explicit language

Social Media:

Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Twitter: @TIAHPodcast

Website: thisisactuallyhappening.com

Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon: patreon.com/happening

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

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.

324: The 82 Percent #1: What if you were asexual?

18 juni 2024 | 52 min

A man grows up waiting for his sexuality to bloom, but after that moment never comes, he feels a longing for intimacy that leads him to transform the meaning of partnership, family and fatherhood for himself and for society.

Today’s episode featured David Jay. David is the founder of asexuality.org. David’s new book, titled “Relationality: How moving from transactional to transformational relationships can reshape our lonely world” is available for preorder on Amazon, and wherever books are sold.

This episode is the first of a six-part miniseries called the 82 Percent: Modern stories of love and family, produced in collaboration with the Modern Family Institute. If you’d like to find out more about the Modern Family Institute, donate to help advance their work, or get engaged, please visit their website, modernfamilyinstitute.org.

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.

Modern Family Institute Founders:

Dr. Heath Schechinger is a therapist, researcher, and organizer, known for his groundbreaking work within the realm of family and relationship diversity. In addition to his role as Co-Founder and Executive Director of the Modern Family Institute, he serves as the Founding Co-Chair of the American Psychological Association Division 44 Committee on Consensual Non-monogamy, and an Affiliate Faculty at the renowned Kinsey Institute. Dr. Schechinger’s work sheds light on the elements that cultivate healthy relationships and the rise of non-nuclear family and relationship configurations. He has authored multiple empirical publications and clinical resources and his work has been featured in major media outlets such as The New York Times, BBC, Vogue, and Time Magazine.

Dr. Lily Lamboy is a social impact executive, educator, artist, and researcher with over 15 years of experience building complex systems to support human flourishing. She currently serves as the Co-Founder and Managing Director of the Modern Family Institute and the Director of the Open Workplaces Initiative for the Organization for Polyamory and Ethical Non-Monogamy. Dr. Lamboy’s research and career has focused how we can arrange social and economic resources to ensure care for all people across their lifespans. Prior to founding Modern Family Institute, Dr. Lamboy led the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion functions at both Stripe and Blue Shield of California, where she designed and executed scalable strategies for long-term social change. She has authored peer-reviewed articles in publications including Cambridge University Press, Theory and Research in Education, and the International Panel on Social Progress.

Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Jason Blalock

Content/Trigger Warnings: sexual themes, 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

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.

323: What if you were suddenly a blank slate?

11 juni 2024 | 61 min

A woman growing up in worn torn Colombia comes to the US and builds a new life, but when she suffers a freak accident and loses her sense of self, a new beginning transforms the scars of her past.

Today’s episode featured Ingrid Rojas-Contreras. If you’d like to learn more about Ingrid you can find her on Instagram @i__rojascontreras, on Twitter @ingrid_rojas_c and on her website: ingridrojascontreras.com. Ingrid’s memoir The Man Who Could Move Clouds was a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize, National Book Award, and National Book Critics Circle Award, and her debut novel Fruit of the Drunken Tree was the silver medal winner in First Fiction from the California Book Awards. Her essays and short stories have appeared in the New York Times Magazine, The Believer, and Zyzzyva, among others. She lives in California. These books are available wherever books are sold.

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.

Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Sara Marinelli

Content/Trigger Warnings: graphic bodily injury, civil war, sexual violence, rape, torture, 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

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” – Chris Zabriskie

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.

322: What if you kept hitting rock bottom?

4 juni 2024 | 51 min

321: What if they tried to erase you?

28 maj 2024 | 48 min

Growing up in the remote Ozark mountains with a mother who believed she was God and a father with deeper abuses, a man paves his own rocky healing path to become a healer for others.

Today’s episode featured Merle Yost. You can find out more about Merle on his website, merleyost.com , and about his workshop, Unspoken Boundaries, at unspokenboundaries.com. If you’d like to reach out to him, you can email him at merle@merleyost.com , and you can find him on Instagram @loveyost. Merle is a writer, speaker, and consultant. He also does Intensive trauma work as a licensed Marriage & Family Therapist In California, which you can also learn about on his website. He is also the author of six books, his last one Facing the Truth of Your Life, which you can find links to on his website, merleyost.com and Amazon.

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.

Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Aviva Lipkowitz

Content/Trigger Warnings: animal cruelty, animal death, sexual abuse of a minor, domestic violence, severe mental illness, explicit language

Social Media:

Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Twitter: @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

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” – Lee Rosevere

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.

320: What if your mom believed she was the good witch?

21 maj 2024 | 50 min

319: What if you couldn’t find your way home?

14 maj 2024 | 58 min

Escaping her troubled past, a suburban mother finds stability in marriage and family, but when her reality suddenly begins to fall apart, she descends into an underworld of chaos.

Today’s episode featured Billy Macy. If you’d like to reach out to her, you can email at bmacy78@gmail.com. This episode is the second of a two-part series featuring Billy and her sister, Misty Watterson. Misty’s story aired last week, as episode 318: What if your daughter went missing?

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.

Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Jason Blalock

Content/Trigger Warnings: abuse of a minor, drug use, suicide attempt, sexual assault, missing persons, death, graphic bodily injury, 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

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.

318: What if your daughter went missing?

7 maj 2024 | 57 min

317: What if you found peace in the fog of war?

30 april 2024 | 60 min

316: What if a masked man appeared at the foot of your bed?

23 april 2024 | 57 min

Growing up with a narcissistic father, a woman learns to play small, but one night when an unknown masked man enters her room, she faces the worst night of her life, and emerges on the other side with a new found ferocity.

Today’s episode featured Danielle Leukam. You can learn more about Danielle on her website, danielleleukam.com. And you can find her on Instagram @danielleukam, as well as Twitter and Facebook. You can also learn more about her story in her two memoirs, Four Pounds of Pressure: A Memoir of Rape, Survival, and Taking Back My Power https://amzn.to/3QHxMJW and Another Four Pounds of Pressure: Case Files, Statements, & a Survivor's Redemption https://amzn.to/49I0umr, and lastly, you can check out her novella The First Sister: A Dangerous Bloodline, https://amzn.to/3TjLaXq, as well as the two children’s books she’s authored. Danielle now works full-time at the Mayo Clinic. She is passionate about public speaking, writing, and advocating against sexual violence. And she also the president and founder of a non-profit organization called WISH: We Inspire Survivor Healing. Learn more about WISH on their website WeInspireSurvivorHealing.com

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.

Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Aviva Lipkowitz

Content/Trigger Warnings: rape, violent assault, child endangerment, gun violence, alcoholism, 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

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” – Lee Rosevere

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.

315: What if your life became a movie?

16 april 2024 | 54 min

After his mother falls in love with Frank, the member of a one-hit-wonder 80s band, a man’s life becomes a roller coaster of neglect, scams, and chaos, but when he turns the camera on the inside of his family, a new world opens he never thought possible.

Today’s episode featured GJ Echternkamp. If you’d like to reach out to him, you can email at GJActuallyHappening@gmail.com. You can find GJ’s documentary, “frank and Cindy” from 2007, as well as his feature film, also titled “Frank and Cindy” from 2015, both on Netflix. You can also find the music video and song “Whirly Girl” by OXO released in 1983 on YouTube.

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.

Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Jason Blalock

Content/Trigger Warnings: domestic violence, abuse, suicidal ideation, 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

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.

314: What if you harbored an unrelenting fury?

9 april 2024 | 54 min

After losing her entire family at ten years old, a woman’s grief evolves into a self-destructive rage, and as systems of care, punishment and rehabilitation keep failing her, she’s forced to create her own path to healing.

Today’s episode featured Amy Ronhaar. You can find out more about Amy on her website, www.amyronhaar.com, and you can read more details of her story in her memoir Raising Amy: A Daughter’s Memoir on Book Baby https://store.bookbaby.com/book/raising-amy1 If you’d like to contact her, you can reach out over email at amyaronhaar@gmail.com. Amy’s story was also featured on the podcast Bunny Hugs, by Todd Rennebohm.

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.

Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Aviva Lipkowitz

Content/Trigger Warnings: death, domestic abuse, self-harm, suicide attempt, rape, sexual assault, drug use, explicit language

Social Media:

Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Twitter: @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

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.

313: What if you had to find your own salvation?

2 april 2024 | 52 min

312: What if you believed your love could cure him?

26 mars 2024 | 57 min

Finally finding love and marriage after feeling unworthy of romance, a woman develops symptoms of a mysterious and debilitating illness, but in the roller coaster of recovery, her husband’s mental illness creates a new level of chaos.

Today’s episode featured Marabai Rose. To find out more about Marabai, you can find her on Instagram @marabai.rose, and on her website marabairose.com. There you can find links to her podcast, Badass: Tales of Resilience @badass_tales_of_resilience, which showcases authentic conversations about trauma and resilience. You can also find links to her memoir, Holding Hope: One family’s Odyssey Through Lyme Disease and Psychosis, which dives deeper into many aspects of the story you heard today and more. If you'd like to reach out to her, you can email at contact@marabairose.com or on Facebook at facebook.com/marabai

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.

Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Sara Marinelli

Content/Trigger Warnings: medical trauma, domestic violence, severe mental illness, psychosis, 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

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” – Spuntic

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.

311: What if you danced for those who couldn’t?

19 mars 2024 | 50 min

An Indigenous woman from the Standing Buffalo Dakota Nation whose grandparents suffered the horrific abuses of the Canadian Indian residential schools finds her own path to healing amidst the ravages of generational trauma on her family and community.

Today’s episode featured Erin Goodpipe. To learn more about Erin and her work, you can find her on Instagram @e_goodpipe. Erin is multidisciplinary artist, educator and researcher involved in a number of media projects, including as a co-host of Treaty Road a television documentary series exploring the history & present day state of the Numbered Treaties in Canada between the Crown and Indigenous Peoples. You can find out more about the project at treatyroad.ca

Erin’s story came to us by way of Todd Rennebohm. Erin was originally featured on Todd's podcast, Bunny Hugs and Mental health, which focuses on conversations with survivors, professionals and families of those who have lost someone to mental illness and addictions. So please check out Bunny Hugs and Mental Health, and a special thanks to Todd for referring today's guest.

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.

Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Aviva Lipkowitz

Content/Trigger Warnings: domestic violence, suicidal ideation, graphic bodily injury, alcohol abuse, murder, death, explicit language

Social Media:

Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Twitter: @TIAHPodcast

Website: thisisactuallyhappening.com

Website for Andrew Waits: andrdewwaits.com

Website for Aviva Lipkowitz: www.avivalipkowitz.com/

Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon: patreon.com/happening

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” – Lee Rosevere

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.

310: What if your mother disappeared?

12 mars 2024 | 45 min

309: What if you gave everything to The Job?

5 mars 2024 | 50 min

308: What if they couldn’t wake me up?

27 februari 2024 | 61 min

What if you spent 15 hours on the edge of sanity? [Rebroadcast #89]

20 februari 2024 | 46 min

What if you discovered you were the enemy? [Rebroadcast #230]

13 februari 2024 | 56 min

Growing up with a sense of heroic duty, a man becomes a cop fighting the drug war, when the sobering realities of his job lead him to profound awakening.

Today's episode featured Neil Woods. You can find out more about Neil by going to neilwoods.net, where you can also find links to his two books: Good Cop, Bad War and Drug Wars, with more about his own experience and about the War on Drugs in Britain. To find out more about his organization, LEAP, or Law Enforcement Action Partnership, go to lawenforcementactionpartnership.org.

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.

Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits

Social Media:

Instagram: @actuallyhappening

This Is Actually Happening Discussion Group on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/201783687561039/

Website: www.thisisactuallyhappening.com

Website for Andrew Waits: andrdewwaits.com

Content/Trigger Warnings: near death, violence, suicide, mention of sexual assault, mention of gang rape, domestic violence, explicit language

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: https://www.thisisactuallyhappening.com/shop to access branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop.

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 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.

307: What if you fell hard for the scam?

6 februari 2024 | 61 min

A woman growing up in poverty in Jamaica is abandoned by her mother at an early age, and as her story of unworthiness deepens, she falls prey to a cruel world.

Today’s episode featured Donna Hayes. Donna has written a memoir that includes further details about her incredible journey called These Broken Roads, which you can find on Amazon. You can also find out more about her on her website, donna-hayes.com and learn about her coaching practice at distinguishedcoaching.com. You can find her on social media on Instagram @iamdonna_hayes and if you’d like to reach out to her, you can email her at donna@distinguishedcoaching.com.

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.

Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Jason Blalock

Content/Trigger Warnings: animal cruelty, parental neglect, domestic violence, 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

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” – Spuntic

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.

306: What if you lived someone else’s life?

30 januari 2024 | 62 min

305: What if you were expected to do no harm?

23 januari 2024 | 49 min

Growing up in a family full of secrets, a woman experiences a complex trauma and buries a secret of her own, but after finding her passion in medicine, she is faced with dilemma that brings everything to the surface.

Today’s guest requested to remain anonymous. But if you’d like to reach out to her, you can email at v2174359@gmail.com.

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.

Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Aviva Lipkowitz

Content/Trigger Warnings: sexual abuse, explicit language

Social Media:

Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Twitter: @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

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)

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.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

304: What if you were poisoned?

16 januari 2024 | 54 min

A young woman on a backpacking trip in Bali faces a series of misfortunes, but just as she’s leaving for the next chapter of her journey, her future is thrown into darkness.

Today’s episode featured Ashley King. If you’d like to reach out to her, you can email at ashleyjenniferk@gmail.com, or find her on Instagram @ashkng.

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.

Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Jason Blalock

Content/Trigger Warnings: poisoning, medical trauma, suicidal ideation, suicide attempt, 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

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)

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.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What if you swallowed 48 bags of cocaine? [Rebroadcast #156]

9 januari 2024 | 47 min

What if you rescued everyone to save yourself? [Rebroadcast #198]

2 januari 2024 | 52 min

What if you grew up in a violent gang? [Rebroadcast #163]

26 december 2023 | 53 min

303: What if your brother became a monster?

19 december 2023 | 60 min

Growing up in a broken home with a loving mother, a woman faces disturbing and routine abuse from her brother, but after it escalates, and the unthinkable happens, the terror never ends.

Today's episode featured Amy Chesler. To find out more about her and her story, you can find her book on 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.

Working for Justice: https://amzn.to/483m9Ut

Amy's Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/amybchesler

What Came Next on Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/whatcamenext_podcast

What Came Next on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-came-next/id1674051643

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.

Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Aviva Lipkowitz

Content/Trigger Warnings: sexual assault of a minor, domestic abuse and violence, graphic bodily injury, alcohol and drug abuse, murder, 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

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” - Spuntic

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.

302: What if you could only find closure within?

12 december 2023 | 52 min

301: What if you were pulled into the abyss?

5 december 2023 | 49 min

300: What if your boyfriend lit himself on fire? (300th episode)

28 november 2023 | 52 min

After falling into a co-dependent relationship, a woman’s boyfriend begins a bewildering decline, but after losing his battle, she awakens to a deeper understanding of grief, death and generational patterns of trauma and silence.

Today’s episode featured Amanda Coggin. If you’d like to reach out, you can email her at spiritualinthebay@gmail.com. Amanda has also compiled a list of resources for mental wellness, adverse childhood experiences, and trauma and resilience.

This episode is an updated interview of episode #1 of the show. That episode is available on the public feed as episode #1 also titled, “What if your boyfriend lit himself on fire?”

Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Jason Blalock

Content/Trigger Warnings: sexual assault of a minor, alcohol and drug abuse, addition, suicide, explicit language

Social Media:

Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Twitter: @TIAHPodcast

Website: thisisactuallyhappening.com

Website for Andrew Waits: andrewwaits.com

Website for Jason Blalock: www.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.

299: What if your only hope for life was choosing death?

21 november 2023 | 53 min

Growing up with a controlling and mentally abusive mother, a woman suffers from a severe eating disorder that leaves her hopeless, until she discovers Medical Assistance in Dying, a program in Canada whereby people can receive assistance from a medical practitioner to voluntarily end their life.

Today’s episode featured Agata. If you’d like to reach out to her, you can email at amgawron@shaw.ca

Agata's story came to us by way of Todd Rennebohm. Agata was originally featured on Todd's podcast, Bunny Hugs and Mental health, which focuses on conversations with survivors, professionals and families of those who have lost someone to mental illness and addictions. So please check out Bunny Hugs and Mental Health, and a special thanks to Todd for referring today's guest.

Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Aviva Lipkowitz

Content/Trigger Warnings: childhood medical trauma, sexual assault, parental abuse, severe eating disorder, anorexia, bulimia, suicide attempt, discussion of suicide, death and dying, explicit language

Social Media:

Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Twitter: @TIAHPodcast

Website: thisisactuallyhappening.com

Website for Andrew Waits: andrdewwaits.com

Website for Aviva Lipkowitz: https://www.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” – Chris Zabriskie

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.

298: What if you were caught in the gears of the machine?

14 november 2023 | 50 min

297: What if you were a human jumper cable?

7 november 2023 | 48 min

Finally emerging from her critical and violent home life, a teenager suffers a freak electrocution from a downed power line, sending unexpected shockwaves through her and her family.

Today’s episode featured Ann Kronlage. You can find out more about Ann on Instagram @annclairekronlage, or you can contact her over email at annclairekronlage@gmail.com. Ann also wrote a memoir about her experiences and shares more about her life after in her book: More Than Skin Deep, which you can find on Amazon www.amazon.com/More-Than-Skin-Deep-Memoir-ebook/dp/B09P22D5YL. Ann also ask that we include a psa video about what happened to her and how to prevent it from happening to anybody else. You can see it here: https://youtu.be/fLVzvMTgGDY

Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits

Content/Trigger Warnings: domestic violence, gun violence, graphic bodily injury, medical trauma, electrocution, explicit language

Social Media:

Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Twitter: @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 Bed: “Union Flow” - Spuntic

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.

296: What if you were haunted by the living and the dead?

31 oktober 2023 | 58 min

295: What if you had to betray your family to save them?

24 oktober 2023 | 55 min

Growing up in a very strict Persian-Indian-American family with an abusive father, a woman vows never to get married and repeat her parents cycle, but after her father arranges for her to meet her future husband, everything changes.

Today’s episode featured Mev Chubet. You can find out more about Mev on Instagram @mevchubet, you can also reach out to her over email at mchubet@gmail.com. Mev has also written a memoir about her experiences called The First of Many Flights: A Love of East and West, which you can find on Amazon: amazon.com/First-Many-Flights-Love-Story/dp/B0C6NZHTR4

Also, a special thanks to Jason Blalock for bringing us this story today.

Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Jason Blalock

Content/Trigger Warnings: war, domestic abuse, suicide attempt, explicit language

Social Media:

Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Twitter: @TIAHPodcast

Website: thisisactuallyhappening.com

Website for Andrew Waits: andrdewwaits.com

Website for Jason Blalock: www.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.

294: What if you shot your girlfriend?

17 oktober 2023 | 49 min

Escaping a world of gangs and drugs, a man joins the military and becomes a veteran of Iraq, but the scars from his past, PTSD and a TBI haunt him until a fateful day when he faces the ultimate demons.

Today's episode featured Daniel Norwood. If you'd like to reach out to Daniel, or make donations to his family, you can email at Danielnorwood281@gmail.com.

Daniel's story came to us by way of Todd Rennebohm (wren-a-bomb). Daniel was originally featured on Todd's podcast, Bunny Hugs and Mental health, which focuses on conversations with survivors, professionals and families of those who have lost someone to mental illness and addictions. So please check out Bunny Hugs and Mental Health, and a special thanks to Todd for referring today's guest.

Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Jason Blalock

Content/Trigger Warnings: abuse of a child, gun violence, drug use, attempted murder, murder, war, bombing, graphic bodily injury, explicit language

Social Media:

Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Twitter: @TIAHPodcast

Website: thisisactuallyhappening.com

Website for Andrew Waits: andrdewwaits.com

Website for Jason Blalock: www.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.

293: What if you believed your son was possessed?

10 oktober 2023 | 52 min

A chaotic upbringing leaves a woman with chronic depression, but after the birth of her first child, she enters a new level of chaos from which she struggles to return.

Today's episode featured Olivia Armond. You can find her on Instagram @the_redheaded_alaskan and on Facebook at facebook.com/olivia.boldt.12.

Olivia also wanted to share some links to resources for those needing postpartum support generally and specific resources for postpartum psychosis:

Postpartum Support International (PSI): postpartum.net/

Health Unlocked: healthunlocked.com

Action On Postpartum Psychosis: instagram.com/actiononpp

Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Jason Blalock

Content/Trigger Warnings: domestic violence, domestic abuse, self-harm, suicide attempt, psychosis, post-partum depression, mention of infanticide, mention of murder, explicit language

Social Media:

Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Twitter: @TIAHPodcast

Website: thisisactuallyhappening.com

Website for Andrew Waits: andrewwaits.com

Website for Jason Blalock: www.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” – Chris Zabriskie

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.

292: What if a shocking lie revealed your inner truth?

3 oktober 2023 | 46 min

A woman with a severe eating disorder and addiction finds inspiration in the strength of a religious community and a woman who has beaten the odds, but when the illusions begin to crumble, a deeper source of strength emerges.

Today's episode featured Lindsey Wilder. To contact Lindsey, you can reach out over email at actuallylindsey@yahoo.com. To find out more about Amanda C. Riley, her victims and the many details we couldn't cover on this episode, you can binge every episode of the podcast, Scamanda, produced by Lionsgate Sound, wherever you get your podcasts.

Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Aviva Lipkowitz

Content/Trigger Warnings: domestic abuse, sexual assault, self-harm, obsessive-compulsive disorder, eating disorder, anorexia, bulimia, suicide attempt, cancer, medical trauma, 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” – Spuntic

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.

291: What if your wife had 21 personalities?

26 september 2023 | 61 min

290: What if your husband entered The Void?

19 september 2023 | 63 min

289: What if you walked into your high school with a shotgun?

12 september 2023 | 63 min

After facing abuse at a young age, a man develops a festering, unseen sense of emptiness that finds expression in an act of violence that would haunt him forever.

Today’s episode featured Jon Romano. You can find out more about Jon by following him on TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, Threads and Snapchat all with the same handle: @JonSeekingPeace. If you’d like to reach out to him directly, you can also email him at JonSeekingPeace@gmail.com

Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Aviva Lipkowitz

Content/Trigger Warnings: sexual abuse of a minor, incest, gun violence, suicidal ideation, suicide, school shooting, graphic bodily injury, incarceration, 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/Embers” – 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.

288: What if you didn't know you were in a cult?

25 juli 2023 | 74 min

Going from a highly privileged family to college at Princeton to a career as the first male supermodel, Hoyt Richards was truly living the dream, but as he fell deeper under the influence of magnetic mentor, he started living a secret life that threatened to consume him.

Today’s episode featured Hoyt Richards. If you want to dive deeper into many of the elements Hoyt touched on in this episode, and hear more from him, he also has his own incredible podcast called WhaTheFlok?! – Cult Survival Stories, co-hosted by Chele Roland, where they feature experts, guests and speak to their personal histories, sharing cult survival stories and exposing the underbelly of how cults use indoctrination to kidnap the mind and hijack the soul. You can check out the podcast wherever you listen or on whatheflok.com. You can also find out more about Hoyt on Instagram @hoytrich and if you would like to contact him, you can email him through his manager Rebecca Kitt at rebeccakitt@mac.com.

Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Jason Blalock

Content/Trigger Warnings: verbal abuse, religious trauma, cult experience, death and dying, 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” – Chris Zabriskie

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.

287: What if you couldn’t explain his heinous act?

18 juli 2023 | 45 min

286: What if you were born without a hand?

11 juli 2023 | 46 min

285: What if your life was not your own?

4 juli 2023 | 56 min

284: What if you found the antidote in the venom?

27 juni 2023 | 49 min

283: What if you saved your family from annihilation?

20 juni 2023 | 48 min

282: What if you believed you were unlovable?

13 juni 2023 | 59 min

281: What if you entered the belly of the Narco beast?

6 juni 2023 | 63 min

280: What if you lived on the line between life and death?

30 maj 2023 | 56 min

279: What if you survived online child exploitation?

23 maj 2023 | 44 min

278: What if you couldn't keep her safe?

16 maj 2023 | 51 min

277: What if you survived the Bosnian genocide?

9 maj 2023 | 63 min

From an idyllic childhood in communist Yugoslavia, as a teenager, Mirsad’s world becomes a living nightmare as the Bosnian War brings shelling, torture, murder and ethnic cleansing to his village, leaving deep scars that haunt and transform his life.

Today's episode featured Mirsad Solakovic. If you would like to contribute to help the Solak Gym (a charitable organization) that Mirsad helped create, you can donate through PayPal at solakgym@hotmail.com. You can see and find out more about the gym on Instagram @solakgym. You can also find out more about Mirsad on Instagram @mickey_solak and on Twitter @MirsadSolakovic, there you can find links to his memoir "The Boy Who Said Nothing"

Producers: Whit Missildine

Content/Trigger Warnings: war, murder, ethnic cleansing, graphic violence, torture of a minor, graphic bodily injury, rape, suicidal ideation, explicit language

Social Media:

Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Twitter: @TIAHPodcast

Website: www.thisisactuallyhappening.com

Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon https://www.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 https://wondery.com/plus

Shop at the Store: The This Is Actually Happening online store is now officially open. Follow this link: https://www.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" - Spuntic

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.

276: What if you left your kids held hostage?

2 maj 2023 | 57 min

A woman buries a series of childhood traumas and falls into a chaotic world of drugs and abuse, but when things turn from darkness to horror, she must make split second, life or death decisions that ultimately bring everything to the surface

Today's episode featured Kathy Robertson. You can find out more about her on Instagram @kathyrobertson.homefire. You can also reach out to her over email at homefireartistry@yahoo.com. Kathy also wanted to remind everyone out there, especially if you are currently struggling, that you can text or call the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline in the US at the number 988.

Producers: Whit Missildine, Sara Marinelli, Jason Blalock

Content/Trigger Warnings: domestic violence, sexual abuse of a minor, gun violence, child endangerment, suicidal ideation, suicide attempt, explicit language

Social Media:

Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Twitter: @TIAHPodcast

Website: www.thisisactuallyhappening.com

Website for Jason Blalock: jasonblalock.com

Website for Sara Marinelli: saramarinelli.com

Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon https://www.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 https://wondery.com/plus

Shop at the Store: The This Is Actually Happening online store is now officially open. Follow this link: https://www.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” – Lee Rosevere

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.

275: What if the demons were too large to see?

25 april 2023 | 52 min

After divorcing her first husband and starting a new life, a woman meets The One, but when one night he doesn’t come home, she calls the police and her world is turned upside down.

Today's episode featured Amanda Quick. You can contact her on Instagram @amandaquickhealing. You can read more about the many layers of her story in her memoir "The Sex Trafficker's Wife: A Story of Truth, Faith, and Trust in Self" - Available on Amazon and wherever books are sold. You can also find more links and reach out on her website at: thesextraffickerswife.com

Producers: Whit Missildine, Jason Blalock, Andrew Waits

Content/Trigger Warnings: sexual abuse of a minor, sex trafficking, sex trafficking of minors, explicit language

Social Media:

Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Twitter: @TIAHPodcast

Website: www.thisisactuallyhappening.com

Website for Jason Blalock: jasonblalock.com

Website for Andrew Waits: andrdewwaits.com

Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon https://www.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 https://wondery.com/plus

Shop at the Store: The This Is Actually Happening online store is now officially open. Follow this link: https://www.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 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.

274: What if you were crushed by 10,000 pounds of stone?

18 april 2023 | 48 min

Struggling to prove himself and find his identity growing up, a man eventually builds a career and begins occasionally helping out a friend with his granite import business, when one day, the dangers of the job become all too real.

Today's episode featured Mike Wolo. You can find him on Instagram @Titanium_Mike110. You can read more about his story, and see photos on his website TheOtherSideofTheRock.com, and you can email him at TitaniumMike110@gmail.com.

Producers: Whit Missildine, Jason Blalock, Andrew Waits

Content/Trigger Warnings: graphic bodily injury, medical trauma, explicit language

Social Media:

Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Twitter: @TIAHPodcast

Website: www.thisisactuallyhappening.com

Website for Jason Blalock: jasonblalock.com

Website for Andrew Waits: andrdewwaits.com

Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon https://www.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 https://wondery.com/plus

Shop at the Store: The This Is Actually Happening online store is now officially open. Follow this link: https://www.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: “Embers/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 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.

Point Blank: Bonus Interview with Connor Sheets

14 april 2023 | 28 min

Point Blank: Inside the Mind of the Rancho Tehama Gunman

13 april 2023 | 26 min

273: Point Blank #5: What if you were the sister of the gunman?

11 april 2023 | 62 min

Growing up in a supportive, suburban family, Sheridan Orr shares an idyllic childhood with her brother Kevin, but when he suffers a series of head injuries, things take a turn for the worse and the family suffers the ultimate nightmare as his descent into mental illness results in the spree shooting of Rancho Tehama in 2017.

Today’s episode is Part Five, the final episode of our limited series, “Point Blank,” featuring five stories of people impacted by the spree killing of Rancho Tehama California in 2017. This series is co-produced by This Is Actually Happening creator and host, Whit Missildine and Connor Sheets, investigative journalist with the Los Angeles Times, with special thanks to Jason Blalock, and Andrew Waits.

A GoFundMe has been set up thanks to an outpouring of support from listeners to help support Jessie Sanders, the guest in Part 4 of the Point Blank series. Here is the link to “Help Jessie Sanders Recover”: https://gofund.me/9d7346a3. 100% of proceeds will be gifted to Jessie; so please donate if you can, and if you can’t, you’re welcome to send him a message of support and we will deliver those to him as well with the funds collected. A special thanks to all of you for reaching out to help Jessie, and to Ellen Westberg for organizing the effort on behalf of listeners.

Producers: Whit Missildine, Connor Sheets

Editors: Whit Missildine

Content/Trigger Warnings: death, severe mental illness, head trauma, gun violence, child endangerment, explicit language

Social Media:

Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Twitter: @TIAHPodcast

Connor Sheets

Twitter: @ConnorASeets

Website: www.thisisactuallyhappening.com

Website for Jason Blalock: www.jasonblalock.com

Show Sponsors: Betterhelp: This episode is sponsored by/brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/HAPPENING and get on your way to being your best self.”

Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon https://www.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 https://wondery.com/plus

Shop at the Store: The This Is Actually Happening online store is now officially open. Follow this link: https://www.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 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.

Point Blank: Bonus Stories - Jared and James

7 april 2023 | 56 min

Two additional victims of the 2017 Rancho Tehama spree killing speak about their experiences in our Point Blank series: First, Jared Tuck, a neighbor of the shooter, who was attacked that morning and witnessed his uncle’s murder; Second, James Woods Jr., a young man who was driving with his father when Kevin Jansen Neal pulled up and shot him in the face.

Today’s bonus episodes are part of our limited series, “Point Blank,” featuring five stories of people impacted by the spree killing of Rancho Tehama California in 2017. This series is co-produced by This Is Actually Happening creator and host, Whit Missildine and Connor Sheets, investigative journalist with the Los Angeles Times, with special thanks to Jason Blalock, and Andrew Waits. To find out more about the shooting, you can read the original article by Connor that inspired the story, titled: “It was California’s forgotten mass shooting. But for victims, the ‘hell’ never ends,” on the latimes.com

Producers: Whit Missildine, Connor Sheets

Editors: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits

Content/Trigger Warnings: gun violence, murder, death, graphic bodily injury, explicit language

Social Media:

Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Twitter: @TIAHPodcast

Connor Sheets

Twitter: @ConnorASeets

Website: www.thisisactuallyhappening.com

Website for Andrew Waits: www.andrdewwaits.com

Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon https://www.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 https://wondery.com/plus

Shop at the Store: The This Is Actually Happening online store is now officially open. Follow this link: https://www.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: Embers/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 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.

272: Point Blank #4: What if you made yourself a target?

4 april 2023 | 57 min

After a chaotic upbringing and early adulthood, Jessie Sanders carved a life for himself in Rancho Tehama, California and formed a deep friendship, but when his sister reported hearing gunshots at the elementary school that day, Jessie knew exactly what he needed to do, confronting the horror, heroism and traumatic aftermath of loss and violence.

Today’s episode is Part Four of our limited series, “Point Blank,” featuring five stories of people impacted by the spree killing of Rancho Tehama California in 2017. This series is co-produced by This Is Actually Happening creator and host, Whit Missildine and Connor Sheets, investigative journalist with the Los Angeles Times, with special thanks to Jason Blalock, and Andrew Waits. To find out more about the shooting, you can read the original article by Connor that inspired the story, titled: “It was California’s forgotten mass shooting. But for victims, the ‘hell’ never ends,” on the latimes.com

Producers: Whit Missildine, Connor Sheets

Editors: Whit Missildine, Jason Blalock

Content/Trigger Warnings: gun violence, incarceration, solitary confinement, cancer, drug use, mass shooting, death, child endangerment, explicit language

Social Media:

Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Twitter: @TIAHPodcast

Connor Sheets

Twitter: @ConnorASeets

Website: www.thisisactuallyhappening.com

Website for Jason Blalock: www.jasonblalock.com

Show Sponsors: Betterhelp: This episode is sponsored by/brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/HAPPENING and get on your way to being your best self.”

Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon https://www.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 https://wondery.com/plus

Shop at the Store: The This Is Actually Happening online store is now officially open. Follow this link: https://www.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 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.

271: Point Blank #3: What if you shielded your students?

28 mars 2023 | 45 min

Coming from a career in the military, law enforcement and police dispatch, Ken Yuers found his true calling as a teacher for at-risk youth, and eventually landed a job at Rancho Tehama elementary, when one day in 2017, gunshots outside the classroom brought a horror on him and his students that he never imagined.

Today’s episode is Part Two of our limited series, “Point Blank,” featuring five stories of people impacted by the spree killing of Rancho Tehama California in 2017. There, a lone gunman killed his wife, then his neighbors and then began a shooting spree, attacking 8 different locations in the span of only 25 minutes, ending at elementary school, and leaving 6 people dead and 18 wounded.

This series is co-produced by This Is Actually Happening creator and host, Whit Missildine and Connor Sheets, investigative journalist with the Los Angeles Times, with special thanks to Jason Blalock, and Andrew Waits. To find out more about the shooting, you can read the original article by Connor that inspired the story, titled: “It was California’s forgotten mass shooting. But for victims, the ‘hell’ never ends,” on the latimes.com

Producers: Whit Missildine, Connor Sheets

Editors: Whit Missildine, Jason Blalock

Content/Trigger Warnings: gun violence, mass shooting, death, child endangerment, explicit language

Social Media:

Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Twitter: @TIAHPodcast

Connor Sheets

Twitter: @ConnorASeets

Website: www.thisisactuallyhappening.com

Website for Jason Blalock: www.jasonblalock.com

Show Sponsors: Betterhelp: This episode is sponsored by/brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/HAPPENING and get on your way to being your best self.”

Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon https://www.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 https://wondery.com/plus

Shop at the Store: The This Is Actually Happening online store is now officially open. Follow this link: https://www.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 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.

270: Point Blank #2: What if your grandson was orphaned?

21 mars 2023 | 43 min

After losing her daughter to a freak accident, Sissy Feitelberg focuses on supporting her grandson Gage who lives in Rancho Tehama with his widowed father, Danny, but when a shooting spree begins, a deeper horror falls on the family and leaves Sissy to pick up the pieces.

Today’s episode is Part Two of our limited series, “Point Blank,” featuring five stories of people impacted by the spree killing of Rancho Tehama California in 2017. There, a lone gunman killed his wife, then his neighbors and then began a shooting spree, attacking 8 different locations in the span of only 25 minutes, ending at elementary school, and leaving 6 people dead and 18 wounded.

This series is co-produced by This Is Actually Happening creator and host, Whit Missildine and Connor Sheets, investigative journalist with the Los Angeles Times, with special thanks to Jason Blalock, and Andrew Waits. To find out more about the shooting, you can read the original article by Connor that inspired the story, titled: “It was California’s forgotten mass shooting. But for victims, the ‘hell’ never ends,” on the latimes.com

Producers: Whit Missildine, Connor Sheets

Editors: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits

Content/Trigger Warnings: gun violence, mass shooting, death, child endangerment, explicit language

Social Media:

Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Twitter: @TIAHPodcast

Connor Sheets

Twitter: @ConnorASeets

Website: www.thisisactuallyhappening.com

Website for Andrew Waits: www.andrdewwaits.com

Show Sponsors: Betterhelp: This episode is sponsored by/brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/HAPPENING and get on your way to being your best self.”

Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon https://www.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 https://wondery.com/plus

Shop at the Store: The This Is Actually Happening online store is now officially open. Follow this link: https://www.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 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.

269: Point Blank #1: What if you pled for your life?

14 mars 2023 | 44 min

After navigating a hardscrabble, working-class life, Troy McFadyen finally settles down with his wife in rural California, when one day driving down the road, they are aggressively T-boned by a stranger, and suddenly find themselves in the middle an unthinkable tragedy.

Today’s episode is Part One of our limited series, “Point Blank,” featuring five stories of people impacted by the spree killing of Rancho Tehama California in 2017. There, a lone gunman killed his girlfriend, then his neighbors and then began a shooting spree, attacking 8 different locations in the span of only 25 minutes, ending at an elementary school, and leaving 6 people dead and 18 wounded.

This series is co-produced by This Is Actually Happening creator and host, Whit Missildine and Connor Sheets, investigative journalist with the Los Angeles Times, with special thanks to Jason Blalock, and Andrew Waits. To find out more about the shooting, you can read the original article by Connor that inspired the story, titled: “It was California’s forgotten mass shooting. But for victims, the ‘hell’ never ends,” on the latimes.com

Producers: Whit Missildine, Connor Sheets

Editors: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits

Content/Trigger Warnings: gun violence, mass shooting, death, graphic bodily injury, explicit language

Social Media:

Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Twitter: @TIAHPodcast

Connor Sheets

Twitter: @ConnorASheets

Website: www.thisisactuallyhappening.com

Website for Andrew Waits: www.andrdewwaits.com

Show Sponsors: Betterhelp: This episode is sponsored by/brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/HAPPENING and get on your way to being your best self.

Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon https://www.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 https://wondery.com/plus

Shop at the Store: The This Is Actually Happening online store is now officially open. Follow this link: https://www.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 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.

268: What if he followed you into the house?

7 mars 2023 | 54 min

Having grown up in a safe, sheltered home, a woman balances her career, marriage and five children, but one morning, when her husband is traveling on a two-month tour of duty, a man enters her home and a nightmare begins that lasts well beyond the first 48 hours of hell.

Today’s episode featured Brittany Todd. You can find out more about Brittany and her daughter on Instagram @fortis_liberque. You can also reach out to her over email at animusfortis87@gmail.com

Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits

Content/Trigger Warnings: home invasion, graphic violence, graphic bodily injury, child endangerment, child abduction, sexual abuse of a minor, explicit language

Social Media:

Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Twitter: @TIAHPodcast

Website: www.thisisactuallyhappening.com

Website for Andrew Waits: www.andrdewwaits.com

Show Sponsors: Betterhelp: This episode is sponsored by/brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/HAPPENING and get on your way to being your best self.”

Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon https://www.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 https://wondery.com/plus

Shop at the Store: The This Is Actually Happening online store is now officially open. Follow this link: https://www.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/Five” – Chris Zabriskie

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.

267: What if you were forced to keep the nanny's secret?

28 februari 2023 | 48 min

266: What if you thought everyone was dead?

21 februari 2023 | 54 min

While in the depths of a toxic relationship, a woman begins experiencing a magical, unseen world around her, but on a layover on a flight through LA, the world becomes all too real.

Today's episode featured Kimberly Rose. If you'd like to reach out to her, you can email at contactkimberlyrose@gmail.com, or find her on Instagram at @thefakekimberlyrose.

Producers: Whit Missildine, Jason Blalock

Editing: Matt Volla

Content/Trigger Warnings: substance abuse, mental illness, sexual abuse of a minor, suicide attempt, suicidal ideation, psychosis, explicit language

Social Media:

Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Twitter: @TIAHPodcast

Website: www.thisisactuallyhappening.com

Website for Jason Blalock: jasonblalock.com

Show Sponsors: Betterhelp: This episode is sponsored by/brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/HAPPENING and get on your way to being your best self.”

Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon https://www.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 https://wondery.com/plus

Shop at the Store: The This Is Actually Happening online store is now officially open. Follow this link: https://www.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 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.

265: What if a routine pickup led to a crushing blow?

14 februari 2023 | 51 min

Reeling from the early loss of his father and abuse in the family, a man finds an outlet through cars and becomes a repo agent, but on a routine job one night, he faces a life-altering danger that will change him forever.

Today’s episode featured Brian White. If you’d like to reach out to Brian, you can email him at A73vdub@yahoo.com

Producer: Whit Missildine, Aviva Lipkowitz

Content/Trigger Warnings: death, domestic violence, abuse of a minor, assault, graphic bodily injury, explicit language

Social Media:

Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Twitter: @TIAHPodcast

Website: www.thisisactuallyhappening.com

Show Sponsors: Betterhelp: This episode is sponsored by/brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/HAPPENING and get on your way to being your best self.”

Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon https://www.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 https://wondery.com/plus

Shop at the Store: The This Is Actually Happening online store is now officially open. Follow this link: https://www.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 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.

264: What if you were carjacked at gunpoint?

7 februari 2023 | 45 min

A woman struggles to break free from the rules of her strict and sheltered upbringing, but after battling a derealization disorder and finding a new life for herself, she faces a danger she could never have imagined.

Producer: Whit Missildine, Sara Marinelli

Content/Trigger Warnings: mental illness, depression, derealization/depersonalization, kidnapping, sexual assault, sexual abuse, explicit language

Social Media:

Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Twitter: @TIAHPodcast

Website: www.thisisactuallyhappening.com

Website for Sara Marinelli: www.saramarinelli.com

Show Sponsors: Betterhelp: This episode is sponsored by/brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/HAPPENING and get on your way to being your best self.”

Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon https://www.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 https://wondery.com/plus

Shop at the Store: The This Is Actually Happening online store is now officially open. Follow this link: https://www.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 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.

263: What if a darkness destroyed your family?

31 januari 2023 | 55 min

A woman grows up in a loving Libyan family in California, but after recession hits and her dad falls on hard economic times, a darkness enters the family that destroys everything.

Today's episode featured Nour Naas. To find out more about Nour, you can find her writing online at: nourmnaas.com. You can also find her on Instagram at @nourbabyyy and if you'd like to reach out to her, you can email her at nouralnaas@gmail.com.

Producer: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits

Content/Trigger Warnings: domestic violence and abuse, graphic violence, murder, death, police violence, suicidal ideation, explicit language

Social Media:

Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Twitter: @TIAHPodcast

Website: www.thisisactuallyhappening.com

Website for Andrew Waits: www.andrdewwaits.com

Show Sponsors: Betterhelp: This episode is sponsored by/brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/HAPPENING and get on your way to being your best self.”

Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon https://www.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 https://wondery.com/plus

Shop at the Store: The This Is Actually Happening online store is now officially open. Follow this link: https://www.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/Five” – Chris Zabriskie

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.

262: What if you were mauled by a grizzly bear?

24 januari 2023 | 50 min

While hunting in the Canadian wilderness, a man accidentally comes between a grizzly bear cub and its mother and a terrifying a fight for his life ensues that will change him forever.

Today's episode featured Jeremy Evans. You can find many more details about Jeremy and this story in his incredible memoir, 'Mauled: Lessons Learned from a Grizzly Bear Attack', published by Rocky Mountain Books. To contact Jeremy you can reach out to his Publicist at genevieve@rmbooks.com or contact Jeremy directly at Grizzlydude01@gmail.com

Producer: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits

Social Media:

Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Twitter: @TIAHPodcast

Website: www.thisisactuallyhappening.com

Website for Andrew Waits: www.andrdewwaits.com

Show Sponsors: Betterhelp: This episode is sponsored by/brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/HAPPENING and get on your way to being your best self.”

Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon https://www.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 https://wondery.com/plus

Shop at the Store: The This Is Actually Happening online store is now officially open. Follow this link: https://www.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

Content/Trigger Warnings: very graphic bodily injury, graphic description of blood and medical situations, attempted suicide, violence inflicted on a child, explicit language

Intro Music: ""Illabye" – Tipper

Music Bed: “Union Flow – Spuntic

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.

261: What if your mother was a victim of a secret government experiment?

17 januari 2023 | 53 min

260: What if your husband claimed you were dead?

10 januari 2023 | 50 min

259: What if you survived a serial killer?

13 december 2022 | 58 min

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, 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: @TIAHPodcast

Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/happening

Website: thisisactuallyhappening.com

Website for Jason Blalock: jasonblalock.com

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 https://wondery.com/plus

Shop at the Store: The This Is Actually Happening online store is now officially open. Follow this link: https://www.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 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)

National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)

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.

258: What if you fell in love with a vampire?

6 december 2022 | 56 min

257: What if you didn't know who to believe?

29 november 2022 | 53 min

256: What if you prepared your boyfriend's body?

22 november 2022 | 52 min

255: What if they didn't ask and you couldn't tell?

15 november 2022 | 48 min

A man growing up in the closet joins the military under “don’t ask, don’t tell” and numbs his identity with alcohol, but after becoming a nurse and after COVID wreaks havoc, his downward spiral hits a new rock bottom that will decide his life or death.

Today’s guest requested to remain anonymous, but if you’d like to contact him, you can email at M2980737@gmail.com.

Content/Trigger Warnings: murder of an animal, domestic abuse, miscarriage, bullying, alcoholism, addiction, self-harm, suicidal ideation, suicide attempt, COVID death, explicit language

Producers: Whit Missildine, Jason Blalock

Social Media:

Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Twitter: @TIAHPodcast

Website: thisisactuallyhappening.com

Website for Jason Blalock: jasonblalock.com

Sponsors: This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/HAPPENING and get on your way to being your best self.

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 https://wondery.com/plus

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: https://www.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 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)

National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)

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.

254: What if your father annihilated the family?

8 november 2022 | 66 min

A woman grows up in a home chronically terrified by her father’s abuse, but when her parents split and he starts another family, she learns of the true, horrifying danger she was in her entire life.

Today's episode featured Lisa Nikolidakis. You can read much more about this story in her incredible memoir, No One Crosses the Wolf. You can also find out more about Lisa on Instagram @lisanik or on Twitter @lisanikol, and check out her other award-winning essays, at lisanikolidakis.com

Content/Trigger Warnings: domestic violence, sexual abuse, incest, suicidal ideation, eating disorder, self-harm, graphic scrime scene detail, murder, death, explicit language

Producers: Whit Missildine

Social Media:

Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Twitter: @TIAHPodcast

Website: www.thisisactuallyhappening.com

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 https://wondery.com/plus

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: https://www.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 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)

National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)

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.

253: What if you couldn't even remember the crash?

1 november 2022 | 44 min

As a teenager struggling with severe depression and anxiety, a woman finds dance as her only outlet, but on a night that is lost to memory, a horrific accident transforms her body, her brain and her identity.

Today's episode featured Desiree Ford. You can find out more about her on Instagram @fesireedord. Out of their experience of the accident, Desiree and her mother have also begun holding workshops and speaking engagements for resilience training to help others adapting to major life changes. You can find out more about this project on Instagram @resilientspirit_ as well as on their website resilientspirit.ca.

Content/Trigger Warnings: mental illness, suicidal ideation, car accident, graphic bodily injury, death, death of an animal, traumatic brain injury, explicit language

Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits

Social Media:

Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Twitter: @TIAHPodcast

This Is Actually Happening Discussion Group on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/201783687561039/

Website: www.thisisactuallyhappening.com

Website for Andrew Waits: andrdewwaits.com

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 https://wondery.com/plus

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: https://www.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/Five” – Chris Zabriskie

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)

National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)

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.

252: What if you watched your mother disappear?

25 oktober 2022 | 46 min

251: What if a false allegation stole what you valued most?

18 oktober 2022 | 41 min

250: What if a devastating truth only deepened the mystery?

11 oktober 2022 | 55 min

Growing up Black and queer in the South, a man finds an identity for himself through the arts and establishes a wonderful marriage with children, until one day, when his husband is late coming home, there’s a ring at the door and his entire life unravels.

Content/Trigger Warnings: use of a derogatory racial slur, use of a derogatory homophobic slur, mention of gun violence, mention of suicide, mental illness, drug use, drug overdose, explicit language

Producers: Whit Missildine, Sara Marinelli

Social Media:

Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Twitter: @TIAHPodcast

This Is Actually Happening Discussion Group on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/201783687561039/

Website: www.thisisactuallyhappening.com

Website for Sara Marinelli: saramarinelli.com

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 https://wondery.com/plus

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: https://www.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 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)

National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)

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.

249: What if you knew your baby was going to die?

4 oktober 2022 | 47 min

248: What if an invisible disease blew up your life?

27 september 2022 | 47 min

After surviving a chaotic and abusive upbringing, a woman develops an undiagnosable autoimmune disorder that threatens to take her vision and her livelihood, but when a friend brings a blow-up doll to play a practical joke one night, everything changes.

Today’s episode featured Gina Hessburg. You can find out more about her and Rafael on Instagram @blowinguprafael or on her website, blowinguprafael.com. On the website, you can also buy Gina’s book, Blowing Up, featuring her journey with Rafael. Gina is offering listeners to This Is Actually Happening $10 off her book if you use the code HAPPENING. $5 of each sale goes towards organizations that provide patient support and research for treatments for people like Gina.

Content/Trigger Warnings: domestic abuse, mention of suicide, medical trauma, explicit language

Producer: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits

Social Media:

Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Twitter: @TIAHPodcast

This Is Actually Happening Discussion Group on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/201783687561039/

Website: www.thisisactuallyhappening.com

Website for Andrew Waits: www.andrdewwaits.com

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 https://wondery.com/plus

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: https://www.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/Five” – Chris Zabriskie

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)

National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)

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.

247: What if you didn't see the signs?

20 september 2022 | 50 min

Bill Mitchell built a successful career, marriage and family, but just as his bright and loving daughter graduates from college with big dreams, an unthinkable event irreversibly changes everything.

Today’s episode featured Bill Mitchell. Bill has a book and podcast, both called When Dating Hurts. You can find out more about Bill, his book and his podcast, all at whendatinghurts.com. You can also find his book on Amazon.

Bill was originally featured on Scott Johnson’s amazing podcast, What Was That Like. If you love This Is Actually Happening, check out What Was That Like, featuring stories from people who have been through something extremely unusual. You’ll hear people talking about being in a plane crash, a mass shooting, a grizzly bear attack, and many more. The guest comes on and tells the details of what happened, first hand. If you like This Is Actually Happening, I know you’ll want to subscribe to What Was That Like. It’s available on any podcast app, or at WhatWasThatLike.com.

If you or someone you know is in an abusive relationship, please call the National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)

Content/Trigger Warnings: domestic violence, graphic bodily injury, murder, death, explicit language

Producer: Whit Missildine, Jason Blalock

Social Media:

Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Twitter: @TIAHPodcast

This Is Actually Happening Discussion Group on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/201783687561039/

Website: www.thisisactuallyhappening.com

Website for Jason Blalock: jasonblalock.com

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 https://wondery.com/plus

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: https://www.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” – Spuntic

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)

National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)

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.

246: What if you could never be what they wanted?

13 september 2022 | 46 min

245: What if you were taken to the dark side?

6 september 2022 | 48 min

244: What if you could never make him proud?

30 augusti 2022 | 41 min

A man struggles to free himself from his father’s iron grip on the family, but when an unsettling truth about his past is revealed, his entire life comes into focus.

Today's storyteller was originally featured on the incredible podcast, The Secret Room, created and hosted by Ben Hamm. Ben's guests share stories they've never told before, giving you a front row seat to the hidden lives of people all around you. Ben and I have collaborated before on a previous episode, and if you love This Is Actually Happening, check out The Secret Room, wherever you get your podcasts.

Content/Trigger Warnings: domestic abuse, child abuse, childhood illness, explicit language

Producer: Whit Missildine, Sara Marinelli

Social Media:

Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Twitter: @TIAHPodcast

This Is Actually Happening Discussion Group on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/201783687561039/

Website: www.thisisactuallyhappening.com

Website for Sara Marinelli: saramarinelli.com

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 https://wondery.com/plus

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: https://www.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/Embers” - 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 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.

243: What if you signed a billion-year contract?

23 augusti 2022 | 57 min

After a woman’s Mormon family falls apart following the death of her father, her mother brings her to a Scientology Center where she leaves everything behind.

Today’s episode featured Katherine Mcelhinny. If you’d like to reach out to her, you can email at canadiankat9@icloud.com. She also has a gofundme page. If you’d like to donate to her, you can do so here: https://gofund.me/3ab57d56

Content/Trigger Warnings: abuse of a minor, parental neglect, sexual assault, suicidal ideation, explicit language

Producer: Whit Missildine, Sara Marinelli

Social Media:

Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Twitter: @TIAHPodcast

This Is Actually Happening Discussion Group on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/201783687561039/

Website: www.thisisactuallyhappening.com

Website for Sara Marinelli: saramarinelli.com

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 https://wondery.com/plus

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: https://www.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/Five" – Chris Zabriskie

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.

242: What if you woke up and couldn't move?

16 augusti 2022 | 56 min

After growing up queer with a complicated father in the 1960s, a man forges his own path, identity and career in the arts, but suddenly, after a routine surgery, he wakes up unable to move.

.

Today’s episode featured John Killacky. You can find out more about John by going to johnkillacky.com with links to his book, “because art: commentary, critique, & conversation” as well as links to some of his films.

"I was so used to being adaptive, resilient, always seeing the horizon ahead....The complexity for me in that hospital is that there wasn’t a horizon. I was so stuck in the now of nothing."

Content/Trigger Warnings: graphic medical descriptions, paralysis, suicidal ideation, explicit language

Producer: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits

Social Media:

Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Twitter: @TIAHPodcast

This Is Actually Happening Discussion Group on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/201783687561039/

Website: www.thisisactuallyhappening.com

Website for Andrew Waits: www.andrdewwaits.com

Episode Sponsor: Betterhelp: betterhelp.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 https://wondery.com/plus

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: https://www.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" - Spuntic

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.

241: What if you were the other woman?

9 augusti 2022 | 51 min

What if you suddenly felt like a werewolf? - [Rebroadcast - #119]

26 juli 2022 | 48 min

What if a minor procedure left you permanently altered? - [Rebroadcast #135]

12 juli 2022 | 46 min

240: What if nine bullets shattered your dreams?

21 juni 2022 | 58 min

“These are open ended wounds that you have to patch up, but how do you patch them up? How do you make it okay.”

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

This episode is the last new episode of season 11. Over the next six weeks, we’ll be rebroadcasting episodes from the back catalog, and resuming with new episodes, starting August 9th.

Producers: Whit Missildine, Jason Blalock

Episode Summary: 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.

Social Media:

Instagram: @actuallyhappening

This Is Actually Happening Discussion Group on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/201783687561039/

Website: www.thisisactuallyhappening.com

Website for Jason Blalock: www.jasonblalock.com

Content/Trigger Warnings: domestic violence, mention of sexual assault, drug use, gun violence, car crash, graphic bodily injury, suicidal ideation, attempted suicide, explicit language

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 https://wondery.com/plus

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: https://www.thisisactuallyhappening.com/shop to access branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop.

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 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.

239: What if a single decision led to a spiral of loss?

14 juni 2022 | 51 min

238: What if you were tortured in an Iranian prison?

7 juni 2022 | 70 min

“You were in this abyss of darkness and the hardest part was not knowing…not knowing at all if you’re going to live or die or when or how.”

Today's episode featured Marina Nemat. You can find out more about Marina and her story by going to marinanemat.com. There you can find contact information and more about her two books, 'Prisoner of Tehran', and 'After Tehran: A Life Reclaimed.' Her books are also available on Amazon, Simon & Schuster and Bookshop.org.

Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits

Episode Summary: A teenage Russian immigrant in Iran is jailed and tortured during the Iranian Revolution of 1979, but when a prison guard falls in love with her, she’s forced to weigh the price of her freedom.

Social Media:

Instagram: @actuallyhappening

This Is Actually Happening Discussion Group on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/201783687561039/

Website: www.thisisactuallyhappening.com

Website for Andrew Waits: www.andrdewwaits.com

Content/Trigger Warnings: torture, prison abuse, rape, sexual abuse, murder, graphic violence, psychotic episodes, explicit language

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 https://wondery.com/plus

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: https://www.thisisactuallyhappening.com/shop to access branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop.

Intro Music: "Illabye" – Tipper

Music Bed: “Cylinder Four/Five” – Chris Zabriskie

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.

237: What if your mom hoarded 90 cats?

31 maj 2022 | 55 min

236: What if you had the worst roommate ever?

24 maj 2022 | 61 min

“When there’s some trauma, you have a poison within you….If you leave it there it’s going to ferment and take over your life and your body….You need to take this out by speaking it.”

Today's episode featured Sonia Acevedo. If you'd like to reach out to her, you can find her on LinkedIn Under Sonia Acevedo - AKA Sony: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sonia-acevedo-aka-sony-6352aa29/.

If you'd like to contribute to help her get out of debt, you can find the GoFundMe campaign set up for her by Imelda Jimenez called "Help Sonia Acevedo Get Her Dream Home Back: https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-sonia-acevedo-get-her-dream-home-back.

If you'd like to find out more details about Jamison Bachman, you can hear other victim's stories on the Netflix series, Worst Roommate Ever, episodes title "Roommate Wanted, Part 1 and 2.

If you’d like to find out more about the Women’s Self Defense Group WESDA, you can find it here: https://www.facebook.com/WESDA/. And you can read more about her story in NY Magazine: https://nymag.com/intelligencer/article/jamison-bachman-worst-roommate-ever.html

Sonia would also like to thank Master Linda Ramzy Ranson, for her insight, wisdom & life long passion for Women Self defense, Netflix & Domini Hoffman for their sympathetic approach & to Imelda Jimenez for starting the Go Fund Me page, as well as all contributing donors, all around the world.

Producers: Whit Missildine

Episode Summary: A woman always seeking a sanctuary from a chaotic upbringing has her home and her life upended when a bizarre new roommate threatens to ruin everything she’s built.

Social Media:

Instagram: @actuallyhappening

This Is Actually Happening Discussion Group on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/201783687561039/

Website: www.thisisactuallyhappening.com

Content/Trigger Warnings: domestic violence, sexual abuse, sexual exploitation of a minor, murder, suicide, death of animal, explicit language

Note: The podcast ad for the IMPACT app is unscripted and being recorded live. It may contain some slight differences. Please visit https://impact.interactivebrokers.com/ for full details of products and services. Interactive Brokers, LLC member FINRA/SIPC. The projections or other information generated by IMPACT app regarding the likelihood of various investment outcomes are hypothetical in nature, do not reflect actual investment results and are not guarantees of future results. Please note that results may vary with use of the tool over time. The paid ad host experiences and testimonials within the Podcast may not be representative of the experiences of other customers and are not to be considered guarantees of future performance or success. The opinions provided within the ad belong to the host alone.

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 https://wondery.com/plus

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: https://www.thisisactuallyhappening.com/shop to access branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop.

Intro Music: "Illabye" – Tipper

Music Bed: “Re-Entry” – Lee Rosevere

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.

235: What if delusion consumed your family?

17 maj 2022 | 52 min

234: What if your joy came with a tragic price?

10 maj 2022 | 49 min

“To feel like at any moment something tragic could happen put me in a deep, deep cloud as far as who I am, what can I be, and what could I have been.”

Today’s guest requested to remain anonymous. But if you’d like to reach out to him, you can email at njsfil1972@gmail.com

Producers: Whit Missildine, Jason Blalock

Episode Summary: Growing up Jewish and surviving the twin traumas of domestic abuse and antisemitic bullying, a man finally establishes a new life for himself, when devastating loss threatens to keep him locked in a cycle he can seemingly never escape.

Social Media:

Instagram: @actuallyhappening

This Is Actually Happening Discussion Group on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/201783687561039/

Website: www.thisisactuallyhappening.com

Website for Jason Blalock: jasonblalock.com

Content/Trigger Warnings: domestic violence, abuse, bullying, drug use, car accident, death, stroke, cancer, explicit language

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 https://wondery.com/plus

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: https://www.thisisactuallyhappening.com/shop to access branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop.

Intro Music: "Illabye" – Tipper

Music Bed: “Uncertain Outcomes” - SkyVoyager

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.

233: What if they invaded your home?

3 maj 2022 | 43 min

“It honestly felt like my whole life had just gone from this amazing color filled motion picture to just going into something so black and white…just feeling so alone all of the time.”

Today’s episode featured Evelyn. You can reach out to her through email at everetdev@gmail.com

Producers: Whit Missildine, Sara Marinelli

Episode Summary: Growing up in a loving Mexican immigrant family in the US, everything changes in a young girl’s life when a home invasion, abandonment and unprocessed losses mount, leading to a dramatic wake up call.

Social Media:

Instagram: @actuallyhappening

This Is Actually Happening Discussion Group on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/201783687561039/

Website: www.thisisactuallyhappening.com

Website for Sara Marinelli: saramarinelli.com

Instagram for Sara Marinelli: @saramarinelli1

Content/Trigger Warnings: graphic violence, mental illness, explicit language

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 https://wondery.com/plus

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: https://www.thisisactuallyhappening.com/shop to access branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop.

Intro Music: "Illabye" – Tipper

Music Bed: “Cylinder Four/Five” – Chris Zabriskie

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.

232: What if you committed a hate crime?

26 april 2022 | 52 min

“The feeling of unknowing while you’re going through that is probably the strongest, most terrifying feeling I’ve ever felt.”

Today’s episode featured Matt Boman. You can find out more about Matt on Instagram @studioboman , on his website, studioboman.com, and you can check out his car’s tik tok page @the_namastang . If you’d like to contact him directly, you can email him at matt@studioboman.com

Producers: Whit Missildine, Jason Blalock

Episode Summary: A man suffers a serious injury after a drunken fight, but in its wake, a deeper unhealed wound festers that leads to an act of hate.

Social Media:

Instagram: @actuallyhappening

This Is Actually Happening Discussion Group on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/201783687561039/

Website: www.thisisactuallyhappening.com

Website for Jason Blalock: jasonblalock.com

Content/Trigger Warnings: hate crime, graphic violence, graphic medical scenarios, explicit language

Episode Sponsors: Impact by Interactive Brokers: Download the App in your app store and use code HAPPENING; The Jordan Harbinger Show: jordanharbinger.com/start

Note: The podcast ad for the IMPACT app is unscripted and being recorded live. It may contain some slight differences. Please visit https://impact.interactivebrokers.com/ for full details of products and services. Interactive Brokers, LLC member FINRA/SIPC. The projections or other information generated by IMPACT app regarding the likelihood of various investment outcomes are hypothetical in nature, do not reflect actual investment results and are not guarantees of future results. Please note that results may vary with use of the tool over time. The paid ad host experiences and testimonials within the Podcast may not be representative of the experiences of other customers and are not to be considered guarantees of future performance or success. The opinions provided within the ad belong to the host alone

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 https://wondery.com/plus

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: https://www.thisisactuallyhappening.com/shop to access branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop.

Intro Music: "Illabye" – Tipper

Music Bed: “Union Flow” - Spuntic

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.

231: What if they all betrayed you?

19 april 2022 | 46 min

230: What if you discovered you were the enemy?

12 april 2022 | 56 min

“It’s just terror, it’s just fear with no object…It’s so purely guttural and instinctive it’s almost like the prey of a tiger…the moment that it knows it’s about to be ripped apart.”

Today's episode featured Neil Woods. You can find out more about Neil by going to neilwoods.net, where you can also find links to his two books: Good Cop, Bad War and Drug Wars, with more about his own experience and about the War on Drugs in Britain. To find out more about his organization, LEAP, or Law Enforcement Action Partnership, go to lawenforcementactionpartnership.org.

Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits

Episode Summary: Growing up with a sense of heroic duty, a man becomes a cop fighting the drug war, when the sobering realities of his job lead him to profound awakening.

Social Media:

Instagram: @actuallyhappening

This Is Actually Happening Discussion Group on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/201783687561039/

Website: www.thisisactuallyhappening.com

Website for Andrew Waits: andrdewwaits.com

Content/Trigger Warnings: near death, violence, suicide, mention of sexual assault, mention of gang rape, domestic violence, explicit language

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 https://wondery.com/plus

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: https://www.thisisactuallyhappening.com/shop to access branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop.

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 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.

229: What if your life unraveled thread by thread?

5 april 2022 | 48 min

“I felt like I went through a portal into this evil place…and I immediately knew that we were in a whole different world.”

Today’s storyteller requested to remain anonymous. However, if you’d like to contact her, you can reach out through email at foundatsea9@gmail.com

Producers: Whit Missildine, Sara Marinelli

Episode Summary: Growing up evangelical in the Purity movement of the 1990s, a woman constructs the ideal life, when piece by piece, her image of family, marriage and her identity begin to be dismantled.

Social Media:

Instagram: @actuallyhappening

This Is Actually Happening Discussion Group on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/201783687561039/

Website: www.thisisactuallyhappening.com

Website for Sara Marinelli: saramarinelli.com

Instagram for Sara Marinelli: @saramarinelli1

Content/Trigger Warnings: sexual abuse, sexual abuse of a minor, suicidal tendency, explicit language

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 https://wondery.com/plus

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: https://www.thisisactuallyhappening.com/shop to access branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop.

Intro Music: "Illabye" – Tipper

Music Bed: “Embers/Unknown 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 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.

228: What if you grew up with the ghosts of war?

29 mars 2022 | 51 min

“Because so much of my life when I’d seen things happening I’d been told that it wasn’t really happening, I think my brain kind of formed to think that reality was not real.”

Today’s guest requested to remain anonymous, but if you’d like to contact her, you can email at: kbojangles5@gmail.com.

Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits

Episode Summary: A woman struggles to break out of her role caretaking a father who was haunted by his experiences in Vietnam, but when both of their worlds unravel, she must find a new source of strength.

Social Media:

Instagram: @actuallyhappening

This Is Actually Happening Discussion Group on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/201783687561039/

Website: www.thisisactuallyhappening.com

Website for Andrew Waits: andrdewwaits.com

Content/Trigger Warnings: graphic violence, graphic bodily injury, graphic images of war, rape, mental illness, derealization, suicidal ideation, death, explicit language

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 https://wondery.com/plus

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: https://www.thisisactuallyhappening.com/shop to access branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop.

Intro Music: "Illabye" – Tipper

Music Bed: “Cylinder Four/Five” – Chris Zabriskie

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.

227: What if you faced a terrifying beast?

22 mars 2022 | 48 min

“What it felt like was - I am absolutely here, but this is not happening to us…This is not happening at all.”

Today’s episode featured John W. Evans. John is the author of three award-winning books. His poems and essays appear in Slate, The Missouri Review, ZYZZYVA, Poets & Writers, and have been listed as Notable in Best American Essays. He is the Nancy Draper Lecturer of Creative Nonfiction at Stanford University. His author website is www.johnwevans.com.

Producers: Whit Missildine, Jason Blalock

Episode Summary: A newly married man traveling the world with the love of his life faces unimaginable horror on a hiking trail in Romania.

Social Media:

Instagram: @actuallyhappening

This Is Actually Happening Discussion Group on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/201783687561039/

Website: www.thisisactuallyhappening.com

Website for Jason Blalock: jasonblalock.com

Content/Trigger Warnings: graphic violence, graphic bodily injury, death, animal attack, animal death, explicit language

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 https://wondery.com/plus

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: https://www.thisisactuallyhappening.com/shop to access branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop.

Intro Music: "Illabye" – Tipper

Music Bed: “Union Flow” – Spuntic

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.

226: What if you had three different faces?

15 mars 2022 | 45 min

225: What if you stared into the abyss?

8 mars 2022 | 44 min

224: What if they stole your childhood?

1 mars 2022 | 51 min

223: What if you were the dirty little secret?

22 februari 2022 | 45 min

222: What if you were a stranger in your own home?

15 februari 2022 | 44 min

221: What if you were addicted to each other?

8 februari 2022 | 45 min

220: What if they died in your hands?

1 februari 2022 | 51 min

219: What if you bled to death?

25 januari 2022 | 50 min

218: What if the family glue came undone?

18 januari 2022 | 51 min

217: What if you saw the face of death?

11 januari 2022 | 53 min

“We are not necessarily who we think we are…There are more paradoxes in life than things that make sense.”

Today’s episode featured Kim. You can find out more about her and her writings at her Myth and Medicine blog on Patreon: patreon.com/mythandmedicine

Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits

Episode Summary: From the ashes of her own descent into severe mental illness, a nurse finds resilience to face her job’s gravest challenges.

Social Media:

Instagram: @actuallyhappening

This Is Actually Happening Discussion Group on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/201783687561039/

Website: www.thisisactuallyhappening.com

Website for Andrew Waits: andrdewwaits.com

Content/Trigger Warnings: domestic abuse, self-harm, cutting, suicidal ideation, sexual assault, suicide attempt, drug addiction, COVID death, animal abuse and death, hallucinations of war, abduction, beating and rape, and loss of child, explicit language

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 https://wondery.com/plus

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: https://www.thisisactuallyhappening.com/shop to access branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop.

Intro Music: "Illabye" – Tipper

Music Bed: “Union Flow” – Spuntic

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.

216: What if you opened Pandora's Box?

14 december 2021 | 55 min

215: What if you faced the monster in the mirror?

7 december 2021 | 61 min

“I was like a walking dead. I was just a shell, but I couldn’t stop…my soul was gone.”

Producer: Whit Missildine

Guest: Kenneth Ginlack Sr.

Episode Summary: Growing up in the projects and a broken home, a man learns survive on the streets through dealing drugs and brutal violence, when a desperate moment leaves him with a choice that changes everything.

Today’s episode featured Kenneth Ginlack, Sr. Kenneth has been the Director of Outpatient Programs for Milwaukee County Behavior Health Division (BHD), an ad-hoc instructor at the University of Wisconsin Continuing Education extension program, president of the board of directors for Revive Youth and Family Services, and a board member for SALS Recovery Houses and Coaching. Kenneth is now Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Serenity Inns. You can find out more about Kenneth by going to kgsctc.com

Social Media:

Instagram: @actuallyhappening

This Is Actually Happening Discussion Group on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/201783687561039/

Website: www.thisisactuallyhappening.com

Content/Trigger Warnings: explicit violence, gun violence, domestic abuse, drug use, drug addiction, suicide, murder, explicit language

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 https://wondery.com/plus

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: https://www.thisisactuallyhappening.com/shop to access branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop.

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 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.

214: What if you woke up in oblivion?

30 november 2021 | 45 min

213: What if they were murdered trying to protect you?

23 november 2021 | 50 min

“It just got too hurtful to think of him in the ground and me still alive…I couldn’t understand the meaning in it.”

Today’s episode featured Hayley Ross. If you’d like to reach out to Hayley you can contact her at kattannie@yahoo.com.

Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits

Episode Summary: Growing up in an abusive household, a woman struggles to find meaning in her life, when one night, a sudden, unexpected, violent attack changes her life forever.

Social Media:

Instagram: @actuallyhappening

This Is Actually Happening Discussion Group on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/201783687561039/

Website: www.thisisactuallyhappening.com

Website for Andrew Waits: www.andrdewwaits.com

Content/Trigger Warnings: domestic violence, physical abuse, suicidal ideation, suicide attempt, sexual assault, graphic violence, graphic bodily injury, murder, explicit language

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 https://wondery.com/plus

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: https://www.thisisactuallyhappening.com/shop to access branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop.

Intro Music: "Illabye" – Tipper

Music Bed: “Cylinder Four/Five” – Chris Zabriskie

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.

212: What if everyone pretended you were dead?

16 november 2021 | 48 min

211: What if you had to let her go to save yourself?

9 november 2021 | 52 min

“I honestly think that if the mom I grew up with hadn’t given me such a great sense of self-esteem, I don’t think I would have lasted as long under this current strange mother that I was now stuck with.”

Today’s episode featured Wren Feeney. Wren lives her life surrounded by pets and people who love her, and yet spends her free time writing horror. If you'd like to read her work, or just reach out and say hi, visit wrenfeeney.com for stories and contact information.

Producers: Whit Missildine, Jason Blalock

Episode Summary: A woman’s happy childhood with her single mother unexpectedly takes a bewildering, dark turn, leading to a moment that will change everything

Social Media:

This Is Actually Happening Discussion Group on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/201783687561039/

Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Website: www.thisisactuallyhappening.com

Website for Jason Blalock: www.jasonblalock.com

Content/Trigger Warnings: alcoholism, child neglect, sexual solicitation of a minor, suicidal thoughts, suicide, graphic violence, explicit language

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 https://wondery.com/plus

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: https://www.thisisactuallyhappening.com/shop to access branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop.

Intro Music: "Illabye" – Tipper

Music Bed: “Re-Entry” – Lee Rosevere

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.

210: What if you didn't know where they were taking you?

2 november 2021 | 56 min

208: What if you ran through the pain?

19 oktober 2021 | 50 min

207: What if you faced the ultimate betrayal?

12 oktober 2021 | 51 min

206: What if no one believed you?

5 oktober 2021 | 51 min

The Long Shadow: Bonus - Interview with Whit Missildine and Dan Taberski

30 september 2021 | 40 min

Producers: Whit Missildine

Episode Summary: Whit Missildine, host of This Is Actually Happening and The Long Shadow, and Dan Taberski, host of Missing Richard Simmons and 9/12, discuss 9/11 and their approaches to their respective series honoring the tragedy.

Today, as part of our series, The Long Shadow, honoring the 20th anniversary of September 11th, we bring you an interview between me and Dan Taberski. Dan is the host of the podcast Missing Richard Simmons, Running from Cops, and, most recently, The Line. His new show is called 9/12, and the series is about what happened after 9/11: How 9/11 the day became 9/11 the idea, and how that idea has shaped the world, our culture, and ourselves for the past 20 years. While my series focuses on the deep personal histories, experiences of the day itself, and the long aftermath for people who have experienced the tragedy up close, Dan’s series takes a sweeping look at the cultural, social, political and conspiratorial implications of 9/11 and what it means for us today.

Social Media: Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Website: www.thisisactuallyhappening.com

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 https://wondery.com/plus

Support The Show on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/happening

Engage with the Community:

Join the This Is Actually Happening Discussion Group on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/201783687561039/

Shop at the Store:

The This Is Actually Happening online store is now officially open. Follow this link: https://www.thisisactuallyhappening.com/shop to access branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop.

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.

205: The Long Shadow: What if you processed the remains?

28 september 2021 | 49 min

“The surrealism of the experience just it was hard to fathom…here we were in a clothing store being asked to do these sort of impossible thing.”

Producers: Whit Missildine

Episode Summary: In the aftermath of September 11th, 2001 a cardiologist volunteers to help process the body parts from those who lost their lives in a temporary morgue inside a Brooks Brothers department store.

Today’s episode featured Sandeep Jauhar. Sandeep has written three books. His first book, "Intern: A Doctor's Initiation," "Doctored: The Disillusionment of an American Physician," and his latest book, "Heart: A History," tells the colorful and little-known story of the doctors who risked their careers and the patients who risked their lives to know and heal our most vital organ. A practicing cardiologist, Jauhar is currently a contributing opinion writer for The New York Times. He has appeared frequently on National Public Radio, CNN, and MSNBC to discuss issues related to medicine, and his essays have also been published in The Wall Street Journal, Time, and Slate. To learn more about him and his work, visit his website at http://sandeepjauhar.com or follow him on Twitter: @sjauhar.

Twenty Years after the attacks of September 11th changed the world as we knew it, this month the This Is Actually Happening podcast dives deep into the stories of four survivors whose jobs brought them face to face with the unthinkable. For those called to manage an impossible tragedy up close, the events of September 11th represented a uniquely horrifying challenge. Among the harrowing details of that day, in the special series, we explore the long shadows of trauma and resilience that continue to inform the looming uncertainties that remain with us today.

Social Media: Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Website: www.thisisactuallyhappening.com

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 https://wondery.com/plus

Content/Trigger Warnings: terrorism, graphic bodily injury, graphic medical scenarios, explicit language

Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/happening

Engage with the Community: Join the This Is Actually Happening Discussion Group on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/201783687561039/

Shop at the Store: The This Is Actually Happening online store is now officially open. Follow this link: https://www.thisisactuallyhappening.com/shop to access branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop.

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 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.

204: The Long Shadow: What if you fought the fire?

21 september 2021 | 50 min

“You try not to think about the fact that you really think you’re going to die here…that it’s totally out of control.”

Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits

Episode Summary: On September 11th, 2001, the first female firefighter in the New York City Fire Department confronts the impossible tasks of that day and the skewed narratives that followed.

Today's episode featured Captain (ret.) Brenda Berkman. Since her retirement from the New York City Fire Department in 2006, Brenda serves as a volunteer guide at the 9/11 Memorial, is Vice-President for Programs for the women’s history organization Monumental Women (monumentalwomen.org) and pursues her passion for printmaking, specializing in stone lithography. You can see her artwork at www.brendaberkmanartworks.com.

Twenty Years after the attacks of September 11th changed the world as we knew it, this month the This Is Actually Happening podcast dives deep into the stories of four survivors whose jobs brought them face to face with the unthinkable. For those called to manage an impossible tragedy up close, the events of September 11th represented a uniquely horrifying challenge. Among the harrowing details of that day, in the special series, we explore the long shadows of trauma and resilience that continue to inform the looming uncertainties that remain with us today.

Social Media: Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Website: www.thisisactuallyhappening.com

Website for Andrew Waits: http://andrdewwaits.com/

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 https://wondery.com/plus

Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/happening

Engage with the Community: Join the This Is Actually Happening Discussion Group on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/201783687561039/

Shop at the Store: The This Is Actually Happening online store is now officially open. Follow this link: https://www.thisisactuallyhappening.com/shop to access branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop.

Content/Trigger Warnings: terrorism, death, graphic violence, explicit language

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 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.

203: The Long Shadow: What if you were on the 68th floor?

14 september 2021 | 51 min

“It’s not like there was time to ponder your fate…you just thought, we’re powerless to get out of the building….This is it.”

Producers: Whit Missildine

Episode Summary: A Port Authority employee narrowly escapes from the 68th floor after a plane hits the World Trade Center on September 11th, 2001, but the most devastating impact comes from the psychological wounds that haunt her life for decades after.

Today's episode featured Kayla Bergeron. In addition to serving as chief of public and government affairs for The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, Kayla has also served in senior roles for the New York State Housing Finance Agency and South Florida Water Management District, the lead agency restoring America's Everglades.

Kayla currently resides in Suwanne, Georgia and serves as Program Director, and as a Certified Peer Support Specialist -Addictive Disease (C.P.S.- A.D.), for The Connection Forsyth, a 501c3 non profit recovery community organization, based in Cumming, Georgia. Kayla works as a social media consultant for Special Equestrians of Georgia, in Milton, Georgia, also a 501c3 non profit, where she participates in equine-assisted therapy.

Kayla recently started a gofundme for Special Equestrians of Georgia, where she receives equine-assisted therapy for PTSD. Last year, Special Equestrians of Georgia (SEG), based in Milton, GA, had to close down its hippotherapy program due to COVID-19 and safety concerns. As a result, many of the horses had to be rehomed. Currently, SEG provides equine-assisted therapy for teens and adults with mental health challenges, including depression, PTSD, anxiety and trauma. With COVID-19 Delta variant hovering, Special Equestrians of Georgia may be forced to shut down its doors -- for good. It costs approximately $3,000 to fund the program, which includes feeding and special dietary needs, farrier, veterinarian, medicine and facility maintenance. Please help by donating to Special Equestrians of Georgia.

This episode is part of a special, four-part series called The Long Shadow. Twenty Years after the attacks of September 11th changed the world as we knew it, this month the This Is Actually Happening podcast dives deep into the stories of four survivors whose jobs brought them face to face with the unthinkable. For those called to manage an impossible tragedy up close, the events of September 11th represented a uniquely horrifying challenge. Among the harrowing details of that day, we explore the long shadows of trauma and resilience that continue to inform the looming uncertainties that remain with us today.

Social Media: Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Website: www.thisisactuallyhappening.com

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 https://wondery.com/plus

Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/happening

Engage with the Community: Join the This Is Actually Happening Discussion Group on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/201783687561039/

Shop at the Store: The This Is Actually Happening online store is now officially open. Follow this link: https://www.thisisactuallyhappening.com/shop to access branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop.

Content/Trigger Warnings: violence, sexual assault, injury, terrorism, mention of suicide, alcoholism, addiction, mental illness explicit language

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 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.

202: The Long Shadow: What if you ran the ER five blocks away?

7 september 2021 | 52 min

“The world looks like it’s coming to an end, and another cloud comes over…Everything goes dark, and the world is covered in dust.”

Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits

Episode Summary: 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.

This episode is part of a special, four-part series called The Long Shadow. Twenty Years after the attacks of September 11th changed the world as we knew it, this month the This Is Actually Happening podcast dives deep into the stories of four survivors whose jobs brought them face to face with the unthinkable. For those called to manage an impossible tragedy up close, the events of September 11th represented a uniquely horrifying challenge. Among the harrowing details of that day, we explore the long shadows of trauma and resilience that continue to inform the looming uncertainties that remain with us today.

Social Media: Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Website: www.thisisactuallyhappening.com

Website for Andrew Waits: http://andrdewwaits.com/

Special Thanks: To all who helped make this series happen - Ellen Westberg, Andrew Waits, Marcelino Villalpando, Gabriella Quintana, Emily Caldwell, and Jason Blalock.

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 https://wondery.com/plus

Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/happening

Engage with the Community: Join the This Is Actually Happening Discussion Group on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/201783687561039/

Shop at the Store: The This Is Actually Happening online store is now officially open. Follow this link: https://www.thisisactuallyhappening.com/shop to access branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop.

Content/Trigger Warnings: violence, graphic bodily injury, terrorism, explicit language

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 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.

201: What if you believed it was all your fault?

31 augusti 2021 | 50 min

200: What if you were consumed by your only cure?

24 augusti 2021 | 58 min

“All the reality that I had been putting off, and all of the denial, it all crashed in on me.”

Producers: Whit Missildine, Jason Blalock

Episode Summary: Growing up in the closet with a mentally ill mother, a man finds his true love, but as their past continues to weigh in, the only remedy he knows threatens to consume everything he’s built.

Today's episode featured Gabriel. Gabriel is now a psychiatric social worker and licensed therapist in Orange County, California. You can find out more about Gabriel on Instagram @gabriel.emmm.

Website for Jason Blalock: www.jasonblalock.com

Social Media: Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Website: www.thisisactuallyhappening.com

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 https://wondery.com/plus

Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/happening

Engage with the Community: Join the This Is Actually Happening Discussion Group on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/201783687561039/

Shop at the Store: The This Is Actually Happening online store is now officially open. Follow this link: https://www.thisisactuallyhappening.com/shop to access branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop.

Content/Trigger Warnings: drug abuse, drug addiction, opioids, overdose, death, suicide, explicit language

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 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.

199: What if your deepest friendship was your darkest fate?

17 augusti 2021 | 52 min

“I was too ashamed to reach out and say, ‘Look, I don’t understand what’s happening, I think I’m going crazy…please help me.’”

Producers: Whit Missildine, Matt Volla

Episode Summary: Following early experiences of isolation and bullying, a man assigned female at birth finds a beautiful friendship, that soon descends into a bewildering cycle of gaslighting and obsession.

Today's episode featured Vel Ryder. You can find out more about Vel on Twitter and Instagram @whiskeyandspite.

Website for Matt Volla: www.mattvolla.com

Social Media: Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Website: www.thisisactuallyhappening.com

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 https://wondery.com/plus

Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/happening

Engage with the Community: Join the This Is Actually Happening Discussion Group on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/201783687561039/

Shop at the Store: The This Is Actually Happening online store is now officially open. Follow this link: https://www.thisisactuallyhappening.com/shop to access branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop.

Content/Trigger Warnings: suicidal thinking, mental illness, gaslighting, psychological abuse, explicit language

Intro Music: "Illabye" – Tipper

Music Bed: “Uncertain Outcomes/Embers” – SkyeVoyager https://linktr.ee/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 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.

198: What if you rescued everyone to save yourself?

10 augusti 2021 | 53 min

197: What if you died?

3 augusti 2021 | 66 min

“That’s me, and I’m dead. But if that’s me, then who am I?”

Producers: Whit Missildine

Episode Summary: After surviving a brutal upbringing in the South Bronx, a man finds himself on the other side of death following a minor accident and returns with a profound awakening.

Today's episode featured Jose Hernandez. You can find out more about Jose and the work he is doing at: https://innerimmersion.org where you can sign up to join the community and participate in the free Monthly conversations, "Evening Joe". To learn more about Jose's art check out his gallery at https://www.josehernandezfineart.com.

You can see Jose featured in the Netflix docuseries, "Surviving Death.” If you're interested in learning more about near-death experiences, Jose will be a featured speaker at the IANDS conference this year. IANDS stands for the International Association for Near Death Studies. He will be presenting "Embracing the Masculine: Helping Men make the Shift into the New Paradigm" with Randy Kolibaba, a highly decorated Canadian RCMP officer. IANDS have arranged to offer Jose and Randy's talk free to veterans so if there is a veteran in your life you think could benefit from hearing this talk, please direct them to IANDS and ask for Diane Cocoran https://iands.org

Social Media: Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Website: www.thisisactuallyhappening.com

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 https://wondery.com/plus

Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/happening

Engage with the Community: Join the This Is Actually Happening Discussion Group on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/201783687561039/

Shop at the Store: The This Is Actually Happening online store is now officially open. Follow this link: https://www.thisisactuallyhappening.com/shop to access branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop.

Content/Trigger Warnings: near death experience, domestic abuse, murder, gruesome violence, suicidal thinking, explicit language

Intro Music: "Illabye" – Tipper

Music Bed: “Union Flow” - Spuntic

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.

What if you survived a genocide? [Rebroadcast - #113]

27 juli 2021 | 51 min

"No one can even understand. You can't measure the magnitude of that pain. You can't measure the pain that we went through."

Producer: Whit Missildine

Episode Summary: A refugee recounts her experience of the horror and devastation of the Rwandan genocide.

This episode is part of the Summer 2021 rebroadcast series, featuring listener favorites from the back catalogue. All episodes in this rebroadcast series were released prior to episode #130, which are currently exclusive to the Wondery Plus. Today’s episode originally aired as #113 in August 2018

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 https://wondery.com/plus

Social Media: Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Website: www.thisisactuallyhappening.com

Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/happening

Engage with the Community: Join the This Is Actually Happening Discussion Group on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/201783687561039/

Shop at the Store: The This Is Actually Happening online store is now officially open. Follow this link: www.thisisactuallyhappening.com/shop to access branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop.

Content/Trigger Warnings: extreme violence, war, genocide, murder, assault, explicit language

Intro Music: ""Illabye" – Tipper

Music Bed: "Cylinder Four" - Chris Zabriskie; "Water" - Johannes Welsch

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.

What if you had a ten-year nightmare? [Rebroadcast - #103]

20 juli 2021 | 48 min

196: What if you went missing?

22 juni 2021 | 67 min

“It was just full chills over my body, tears in my eyes, it was that moment of I don’t know, I don’t understand, I don’t know.”

Producers: Whit Missildine, Jason Blalock

Episode Summary: A woman who seeks awakening through myriad healing practices finds her ultimate challenge when she goes missing in a Maui forest.

Today's episode featured Dr. Amanda Eller. You can find out more about Amanda by going to AmandaEllerPT.com. You can also find her on Instagram: @amandaeeller

And on Facebook: @amandaeeller. Amanda is currently living on the island of Maui and is offering her healing services to both the local and global community through in-person and online sessions.

Social Media: Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Show Website: www.thisisactuallyhappening.com

Website for Jason Blalock: https://jasonblalock.com

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 https://wondery.com/plus

Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/happening

Engage with the Community: Join the This Is Actually Happening Discussion Group on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/201783687561039/

Shop at the Store: The This Is Actually Happening online store is now officially open. Follow this link: https://www.thisisactuallyhappening.com/shop to access branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop.

Content/Trigger Warnings: near death, eating disorder, body dysmorphia, hallucinations, explicit language

Intro Music: "Illabye" – Tipper

Music Bed: “Re-Entry” – Lee Rosevere

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.

195: What if you never stopped searching?

15 juni 2021 | 56 min

“The not knowing is awful, and it’s awful from day one and it’s awful thirty years later, but every day that goes by you get more and more in reality.”

Producers: Whit Missildine, Jason Blalock

Episode Summary: Decades after her brother disappeared in the early 1980s, a woman becomes deeply involved in the search for a missing friend.

Today’s episode featured Sarah Haynes. Somebody out there knows something about her brother Jon Haynes, who went missing in Boulder July 1981 just days after arriving for college. If you know anything, please contact the Boulder police department. There is a $10,000 reward for info leading to his body, his car, or for information about who may have harmed him https://apps.colorado.gov/apps/coldcase/casedetail.html?id=258

Sarah’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/sarahspitfire

Her animal sanctuary on Maui is called Kitty Charm Farm and the Facebook page is:

https://www.facebook.com/KittyCharmFarm

Website for Jason Blalock: https://jasonblalock.com

Social Media: Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Website: www.thisisactuallyhappening.com

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 https://wondery.com/plus

Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/happening

Engage with the Community: Join the This Is Actually Happening Discussion Group on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/201783687561039/

Shop at the Store: The This Is Actually Happening online store is now officially open. Follow this link: https://www.thisisactuallyhappening.com/shop to access branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop.

Content/Trigger Warnings: missing person, abusive threats, explicit language

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 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.

194: What if you ran but couldn't hide?

8 juni 2021 | 58 min

“It planted a seed in my mind that has never ever gone away even now that people might not be who they say they are.”

Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits

Episode Summary: A woman is haunted by a relentless threat of danger when her pursuit of safety turns into obsession.

Today’s episode featured Hannah. Hannah is a writer living in California. If you’d like to reach out, you can email her at hannahwrites08@gmail.com

Website for Andrew Waits: http://andrdewwaits.com/

Social Media: Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Website: www.thisisactuallyhappening.com

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 https://wondery.com/plus

Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/happening

Engage with the Community: Join the This Is Actually Happening Discussion Group on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/201783687561039/

Shop at the Store: The This Is Actually Happening online store is now officially open. Follow this link: https://www.thisisactuallyhappening.com/shop to access branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop.

Content/Trigger Warnings: domestic abuse, mention of suicide, mention of murder, criminal activity, sexual assault, explicit language

Intro Music: "Illabye" – Tipper

Music Bed: “Uncertain Outcomes/Embers” – SkyeVoyager https://linktr.ee/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 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.

193: What if your deepest secret was shared with the world?

1 juni 2021 | 63 min

192: What if one wrong turn meant life or death?

25 maj 2021 | 45 min

191: What if you suffered from trichotillomania?

18 maj 2021 | 35 min

“The person who was pulling was just stronger than the person who wanted a perfect life.”

Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits

Episode Summary: Growing up with a close, religious family a young woman’s aspiration for perfect beauty turns her into the very image of herself she was afraid of.

Today’s episode featured Caroline. To learn more about Trichotillomania, go to www.bfrb.org. There you can find additional information about Trichotillomania and other body-focused repetitive behaviors, as well as support groups and helpful resources.

Social Media: Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Website: www.thisisactuallyhappening.com

Website for Andrew Waits: www.andrdewwaits.com

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 https://wondery.com/plus

Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/happening

Engage with the Community: Join the This Is Actually Happening Discussion Group on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/201783687561039/

Shop at the Store: The This Is Actually Happening online store is now officially open. Follow this link: https://www.thisisactuallyhappening.com/shop to access branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop.

Content/Trigger Warnings: body dysmorphia, trichotillomania, explicit language

Intro Music: "Illabye" – Tipper

Music Bed: “Re-Entry” – Lee Rosevere

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.

190: What if your fairytale was finally within reach?

11 maj 2021 | 45 min

“I was really lost and I was so incredibly desperate for someone to love me…and to fill the void that had kind of been opened in me .”

Producers: Whit Missildine, Matt Volla

Episode Summary: Following an early childhood trauma, a woman seeks to fill the void with a series of unhealthy relationships, until a fairytale romance promises to be everything she ever wanted

Today's guest prefers to remain anonymous, but if you'd like to reach out to her directly, you can email at HerSavePoint@gmail.com, or connect on Discord at HerSavePoint#5365.

Social Media: Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Website: www.thisisactuallyhappening.com

Website for Matt Volla: www.mattvolla.com

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 https://wondery.com/plus

Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/happening

Engage with the Community: Join the This Is Actually Happening Discussion Group on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/201783687561039/

Shop at the Store: The This Is Actually Happening online store is now officially open. Follow this link: https://www.thisisactuallyhappening.com/shop to access branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop.

Content/Trigger Warnings: childhood trauma, childhood sexual assault, rape, explicit language

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 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.

189: What if you couldn't stop shining?

4 maj 2021 | 47 min

“That feeling that you get when you find out an important piece of information, that ‘aha moment’ was happening constantly. I felt as if somebody put my brain into a microwave.”

Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits

Episode Summary: Growing up in a home of abandonment and neglect, a teenager finds a grand, new reality in the rabbit hole of addiction until they can no longer find their way back.

Today’s guest prefers to remain anonymous, but if you’d like to reach out to them, you can email at artichoke.heart456@gmail.com

Social Media: Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Website: www.thisisactuallyhappening.com

Website for Andrew Waits: www.andrdewwaits.com

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 https://wondery.com/plus

Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/happening

Engage with the Community: Join the This Is Actually Happening Discussion Group on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/201783687561039/

Shop at the Store: The This Is Actually Happening online store is now officially open. Follow this link: https://www.thisisactuallyhappening.com/shop to access branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop.

Content/Trigger Warnings: psychosis, drug use, child neglect, childhood trauma, explicit language

Intro Music: "Illabye" – Tipper

Music Bed: “Enter the Lair/Drone” – SkyeVoyager https://linktr.ee/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 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.

188: What if you spent four years inside?

27 april 2021 | 50 min

187: What if you were trapped all over again?

20 april 2021 | 48 min

186: What if you were consumed by a preposterous phobia?

13 april 2021 | 45 min

185: What if you kept shaking hands with death?

6 april 2021 | 49 min

“I was forced into being vulnerable, I was forced into being present, I was forced into existing suddenly with my lights turned on.”

Producers: Whit Missildine, Sara Marinelli

Episode Summary: Grappling with her identity and disruptive health anxiety, a woman reaches in adulthood with a dream job and strong community, when suddenly her worst-case scenario becomes a reality.

Today's episode featured Natalia Provatas. Natalia is a Writer from Los Angeles. You can find out more about her on Instagram @chola4hire, and on her website, nataliaprovatas.com. Since we recorded this episode, Natalia's treatment has been going well, she is living independently again and working on her Memoir Ghosting My Death Doula, a series of funny essays about her battle with breast cancer.

Social Media: Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Website: www.thisisactuallyhappening.com

Sara Marinelli Website: www.saramarinelli.com

Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/happening

Engage with the Community: Join the This Is Actually Happening Discussion Group on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/201783687561039/

Shop at the Store: The This Is Actually Happening online store is now officially open. Follow this link: https://www.thisisactuallyhappening.com/shop to access branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop.

Content/Trigger Warnings: graphic medical descriptions, near death experience, cancer, explicit language

Intro Music: "Illabye" – Tipper

Music Bed: “Re-Entry” – Lee Rosevere

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.

184: What if you didn't know who he was?

30 mars 2021 | 52 min

183: What if everyone was watching you?

23 mars 2021 | 50 min

182: What if your daughter committed a seemingly unforgivable act?

16 mars 2021 | 46 min

181: What if you committed a seemingly unforgivable act?

9 mars 2021 | 56 min

180: What if your plane was hijacked?

2 mars 2021 | 39 min

179: What if a horrifying loss led to a grand adventure?

23 februari 2021 | 51 min

“I saw myself in the mirror, and it was like seeing a CGI character…I’m sitting here looking at this frail person that looks nothing like me.”

Producer: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits

Episode Summary: A horrific accident leaves a man severely disabled, but after hitting rock bottom in his recovery a new life opens he could never have imagined

Today’s episode featured Dustin Reynolds. Since this interview, Dustin has made it down to Colombia, and is planning on heading to Panama, Galapagos, and Polynesia before returning to Hawaii. To find out more about Dustin, see pictures and follow his journey or donate to help him complete the voyage, go to thesinglehandedsailor.com. You can follow him on Instagram and Facebook @thesinglehandedsailor. You can also support him on Patreon and GoFundMe:

Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thesinglehandedsailor

GoFundMe: https://www.gofundme.com/f/hngchb-support-the-single-handed-sailor

Social Media: Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Website: www.thisisactuallyhappening.com

Andrew Waits: http://andrdewwaits.com/

Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/happening

Engage with the Community: Join the This Is Actually Happening Discussion Group on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/201783687561039/

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: car crash, severe injury, amputation, explicit language

Intro Music: "Illabye" – Tipper

Music Bed: “Cylinder Four/Cylinder Five” - Chris Zabriskie

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.

178: What if you couldn't tell him what really happened?

16 februari 2021 | 57 min

177: What if you woke up two months later?

9 februari 2021 | 39 min

176: What if you were trapped in a never-ending dream?

2 februari 2021 | 45 min

175: What if you had their knee on your neck?

26 januari 2021 | 46 min

174: What if you couldn't remember that night?

19 januari 2021 | 53 min

173: What if your cry for help led to an unthinkable tragedy?

12 januari 2021 | 44 min

172: What if you were lured into an unspeakable hell?

15 december 2020 | 57 min

171: What if you saw inside the belly of the beast?

8 december 2020 | 38 min

170: What if you didn't sleep for 120 hours?

1 december 2020 | 54 min

169: What if you were an Adult Baby Diaper Lover?

24 november 2020 | 40 min

“I would do everything I could that had to happen to engage with this object that I needed to do and then I would bury it….And I had to realize at a certain point that it was just not going to work.”

Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits

Episode Summary: At a young age, a man develops a fetish for diapers that ends up reshaping the course of his adult life.

Social Media: Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Website: www.thisisactuallyhappening.com

Andrew Waits: andrdewwaits.com

Today’s episode featured Maz. His story and came to us by way of Dixie De La Tour of Bawdy Storytelling.

Maz is a regular volunteer, educator, and leader in the kink community in Omaha Nebraska. He and his kink family, House St. James, have run the Sex-positive adult education organization, Omaha Dinner and Demos, for the last 3 years. If you would like more information about Maz, House St.James, or Omaha Dinner and Demos, you can find them all on FetLife at House_St_James.

House St.James: https://fetlife.com/users/8118928

Maz: https://fetlife.com/users/263789

Dinner and Demos group page: https://fetlife.com/groups/119528

Special thanks to Sexual Folklorist Dixie De La Tour, Creator and Host of the incredible sex and storytelling series, Bawdy Storytelling. Dixie and Bawdy Storytelling have been running live storytelling events for almost 14 years (and a podcast for 4 of those years), and recently received a ‘Best Erotic Podcast’ Award from Oprah Magazine. You can find out more about Bawdy Storytelling’s podcasts and livestream shows at bawdystorytelling.com.

Listen to the Bawdy Storytelling podcast at http://bit.ly/bawdypodcast

On Twitter: @Bawdy

On Instagram: @bawdystorytelling

On Facebook: www.Facebook.com/BawdyStorytelling

On Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/Bawdy

On YouTube : http://bit.ly/BawdyTV

Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/happening

Engage with the Community: Join the This Is Actually Happening Discussion Group on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/201783687561039/

Shop at the Store: The This Is Actually Happening online store is now officially open. Follow this link https://www.teepublic.com/stores/this-is-actually-happening-store?ref_id=9467 to access branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop.

Content/Trigger Warnings: fetish, age play, sexually explicit scenes, explicit language

Intro Music: "Illabye" – Tipper

Music Bed: “Re-Entry” – Lee Rosevere

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.

168: What if you believed you were Jesus Christ?

17 november 2020 | 55 min

167: What if you had a fetish for disgust?

10 november 2020 | 36 min

166: What if you didn't have any fear?

3 november 2020 | 56 min

165: What if you were a blind dominatrix?

27 oktober 2020 | 38 min

164: What if a shocking accusation devastated your family?

20 oktober 2020 | 53 min

Introducing This is Actually Happening

17 oktober 2020 | 2 min

163: What if you grew up in a violent gang?

6 oktober 2020 | 51 min

162: What if you grew up in a cult?

22 september 2020 | 60 min

161: What if you suffered a shocking loss?

8 september 2020 | 46 min

Happenings Vol. 1: No Man's Land

1 september 2020 | 74 min

Today we launch a new series of bonus content called “Happenings” with three stories of people facing their deepest fears in the unforgiving wilderness of the natural world.

Part 1: What if the desert dried your sorrow?

Part 2: What if the ocean tested your faith?

Part 3: What if a boulder crushed your dreams?

Producers: Andrew Waits, Whit Missildine

Episode Summary: Stranded in a Mexican desert, the ocean waves of Guam, and the sandstone boulders of Utah, three people face their deepest fears in the unforgiving wilderness of the natural world.

Social Media: Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Show Website: thisisactuallyhappening.com

Andrew Waits Website: andrewwaits.com

Content/Trigger Warnings: near-death experiences, explicit language

Today’s episode features: Tiki Mashy, Greg Barnes, and Shaina Maytum

Tiki Mashy is an owner and operator at Cowboy Up Hanggliding in Wharton, Texas. You can find out more about it at cuhanggliding.com

Greg Barnes currently lives in Guam and works at Castle Zion Church (괌 시온성교회) as the youth / English ministry pastor. He is currently turning his story into a book. Greg welcomes anyone contacting him at gregbarnesguam@gmail.com. That’s barns, spelled Barnes.

Shaina Maytum is a writer living in Colorado. You can read her work at shainamaytum.com

Engage with the Community: Join the This Is Actually Happening Discussion Group on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/201783687561039/

Shop at the Store: The This Is Actually Happening online store is now officially open. Follow this link https://www.teepublic.com/stores/this-is-actually-happening-store?ref_id=9467 to access branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop.

Intro Music: "Illabye" – Tipper

Music Bed: Ambient Themes by Nigel Coutinho and Ryan Black

Outro Music: "The Moon is Down" - El Diablo & Adam Schraft (Rojo y Negro) @eldiablosf @rojo-y-negro www.eldiablobass.com/

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

160: What if you were assaulted by a stranger in the dark?

25 augusti 2020 | 44 min

159: What if someone you love committed a monstrous crime?

11 augusti 2020 | 0 min

158: What if you entered The Void?

28 juli 2020 | 68 min

“You try to take off your skin to try to get rid of this voice, and it goes all the way down to the bone.”

Producer: Whit Missildine

Episode Summary: A man suffering the deep generational traumas of poverty, racism, abuse and mental illness finds transformative power in an ancient plant medicine.

Today’s episode featured Dexter L. Booth. Dexter is the author of the poetry collection, Scratching

the Ghost from Graywolf Press, which won the 2012 Cave Canem Poetry Prize, as well as the chapbook Rhapsody from Etchings Press. Booth’s poems have been included in the anthologies The Best American Poetry 2015, The Burden of Light: Poems on Illness and Loss, The Golden Shovel Anthology honoring Gwendolyn Brooks, and Furious Flower: Seeding the Future of African American Poetry. He is a professor in the Ashland University MFA program and a residential faculty member at Paradise Valley Community College where he teaches poetry and English composition. You can find out more about Dexter, his writing and teaching by following him on Instagram@dexter_two_omelettes, or on Facebook or Twitter. You can find his books Scratching the Ghost and Rhapsody on Bookshop.org, Amazon, or wherever books are sold.

Social Media: Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Website: www.thisisactuallyhappening.com

Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/happening

Engage with the Community: Join the This Is Actually Happening Discussion Group on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/201783687561039/

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: domestic abuse, mental illness, suicide, explicit language

Intro Music: "Illabye" – Tipper

Music Bed: “Union Flow” - Spuntic

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.

157: What if you couldn't tell anyone?

16 juni 2020 | 51 min

156: What if you swallowed 48 bags of cocaine?

2 juni 2020 | 45 min

155: What if you had to pull the plug?

19 maj 2020 | 48 min

154: What if your mom was murdered by a serial killer?

5 maj 2020 | 46 min

BONUS Episode - Tyson Was Abducted - from What Was That Like podcast

28 april 2020 | 74 min

153: What if you wanted to disappear?

21 april 2020 | 49 min

152: What if you were a human shield?

7 april 2020 | 53 min

151: What if he made you think you were crazy?

24 mars 2020 | 48 min

150: What if you were trapped in a cycle of abuse?

10 mars 2020 | 52 min

149: What if you committed child sexual abuse?

25 februari 2020 | 66 min

148: What if you killed someone?

11 februari 2020 | 60 min

147: What if your best friend was dying?

28 januari 2020 | 48 min

146: What if you thought your mother was a robot?

14 januari 2020 | 47 min

145: What if your best friend met a tragic fate?

17 december 2019 | 41 min

144: What if you suffered from postpartum depression?

3 december 2019 | 52 min

143: What if you were seduced into a whole new world?

19 november 2019 | 69 min

142: What if it happened in broad daylight?

5 november 2019 | 48 min

141: What if you witnessed a horrific act?

22 oktober 2019 | 32 min

140: What if you were entangled in a web of shame?

8 oktober 2019 | 43 min

139: What if your father disappeared?

24 september 2019 | 50 min

138: What if at three months pregnant your world was turned upside down?

10 september 2019 | 42 min

137: What if you were the one to break the silence?

27 augusti 2019 | 44 min

136: What if you had to fight for your life?

20 augusti 2019 | 40 min

135: What if a minor procedure left you permanently altered?

13 augusti 2019 | 44 min

Season 9 Announcements

6 augusti 2019 | 3 min

134: What if your singular dream fell to pieces?

11 juni 2019 | 40 min

133: What if your life went up in flames?

28 maj 2019 | 40 min

132: What if you were kept from the one you loved most?

14 maj 2019 | 30 min

131: What if a psychotic break split your life wide open?

30 april 2019 | 32 min

130: What if you had thoughts of harming those you love most?

16 april 2019 | 37 min

1: What if your boyfriend lit himself on fire? (1st episode)

11 september 2013 | 13 min

This Is Actually Happening

What if you were trafficked into a cult.

Om podden

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358: What if you were recruited to fight an invisible war?

357: What if you were the girl locked upstairs?

356: What if they stole a year of your life?

Listen Now: Don’t Cross Kat

355: A World Beyond Revenge: What if you identified the wrong man?

354: A World Beyond Revenge: What if your son was killed by a distracted driver?

353: A World Beyond Revenge: What if you were the common denominator?

Restorative Justice in the UK vs the US: A Conversation with Keeva Baxter

352: A World Beyond Revenge: What if they got the wrong guy?

The Framework of Restorative Justice: A Conversation with Yoana Tchoukleva

351: A World Beyond Revenge: What if your brother was murdered in a hate crime?

350: What if nothing could tear us apart? Part 2: Daniel

349: What if nothing could tear us apart? Part 1: Donna

348: What if you survived the Burundian genocide?

347: What if you were held captive in plain sight?

346: What if you risked your freedom to liberate the animals?

345: What if you were a political hostage in Iran?

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

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

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

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

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

342: What if you suffered decades of excessive punishment?

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

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

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

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

337: What if they delighted in your misery?

336: What if you escaped a polygamous cult?

335: What if you were left for dead?

334: What if your parachute didn’t open?

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

332: What if the worst was yet to come?

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

331: What if you killed the wrong person?

330: What if your son was murdered at Sandy Hook?

What if you were on the 68th floor? [Rebroadcast #203]

What if a horrifying loss led to a grand adventure? [Rebroadcast #179]

What if your cry for help led to an unthinkable tragedy? [Rebroadcast #173]

What if you couldn't stop shining? [Rebroadcast #189]

What if you faced the monster in the mirror? [Rebroadcast #215]

The 82 Percent: Podcast Live Event at Mannys

What if they died in your hands? [Rebroadcast #220]

The 82 Percent: Bonus Conversation with Alex Chen

329: The 82 Percent #6: What if you became your husband’s guardian?

328: The 82 Percent #5: What if you were a seahorse dad?

327: The 82 Percent #4: What if you found your family on the path of celibacy?

The 82 Percent: Bonus Conversation with Jessica Fern

326: The 82 Percent #3: What if you discovered a new way to love?

325: The 82 Percent #2: What if you grew up in a polyamorous family?

The 82 Percent: Bonus Conversation with Heath Schechinger and Lily Lamboy

324: The 82 Percent #1: What if you were asexual?

323: What if you were suddenly a blank slate?

322: What if you kept hitting rock bottom?

321: What if they tried to erase you?

320: What if your mom believed she was the good witch?

319: What if you couldn’t find your way home?

318: What if your daughter went missing?

317: What if you found peace in the fog of war?

316: What if a masked man appeared at the foot of your bed?

315: What if your life became a movie?

314: What if you harbored an unrelenting fury?

313: What if you had to find your own salvation?

312: What if you believed your love could cure him?

311: What if you danced for those who couldn’t?

310: What if your mother disappeared?

309: What if you gave everything to The Job?

308: What if they couldn’t wake me up?

What if you spent 15 hours on the edge of sanity? [Rebroadcast #89]

What if you discovered you were the enemy? [Rebroadcast #230]

307: What if you fell hard for the scam?

306: What if you lived someone else’s life?

305: What if you were expected to do no harm?

304: What if you were poisoned?

What if you swallowed 48 bags of cocaine? [Rebroadcast #156]

What if you rescued everyone to save yourself? [Rebroadcast #198]