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

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Instagram: @actuallyhappening

Twitter: @TIAHPodcast

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Website: www.thisisactuallyhappening.com

Website for Sara Marinelli: saramarinelli.com

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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

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