This Is Actually Happening
Wondery
What if you were trafficked into a cult...or were mauled by a grizzly bear...or were stabbed 27 times by a serial killer - what would you do? This is Actually Happening brings you extraordinary true stories of life-changing events told by the people who lived them. From a man who woke up in the morgue to a woman stranded in a Mexican desert fighting to survive, these stories will have you on the edge of your seat waiting to hear what happens next.Listen to exclusive episodes of This is Actually Happening ad-free by joining Wondery+ in the Wondery App, Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Start your free trial by visiting wondery.com/links/this-is-actually-happening/ now.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Nov 14, 2023 • 50min
298: What if you were caught in the gears of the machine?
A man navigates a chaotic upbringing, sports, military, and grueling police work, but pursues a dark reckoning. Topics include domestic abuse, police brutality, war, and drug use. The speaker reflects on disillusionment, struggles in law enforcement, and losing touch with the self. They also recount a transformative journey with ayahuasca and explore self-love and the search for validation. Expressing frustration with the system, the guest hopes for a day of pushing back.
Nov 7, 2023 • 48min
297: What if you were a human jumper cable?
Ann Kronlage, a survivor of a critical and violent home life, shares her experiences of suffering a freak electrocution and the shocking impact it had on her and her family. She discusses complex family dynamics, emotional repression, a terrifying car accident, and the journey of confronting pain, finding strength, and discovering a new identity.
Oct 31, 2023 • 58min
296: What if you were haunted by the living and the dead?
A bullied woman struggles with toxic relationships and moves into a haunted house, experiencing paranormal encounters and feeling hunted. She eventually seeks therapy to address her PTSD and finds healing.
Oct 24, 2023 • 55min
295: What if you had to betray your family to save them?
Guest Mev Chubet, growing up in a strict Persian-Indian-American family, shares her journey of rebellion, unexpected connections, and ultimately leaving her family for love. She reflects on the transformative impact of her decision and the importance of making your own choices.
Oct 17, 2023 • 49min
294: What if you shot your girlfriend?
Daniel Norwood, a military veteran who escaped a world of gangs and drugs, battles with PTSD and TBI. Topics include overcoming adversity, tough choices, reflections on combat, struggles with mental health and addiction, a traumatic experience in a treatment facility, and reflections on prison, guilt, and forgiveness.
Oct 10, 2023 • 52min
293: What if you believed your son was possessed?
Olivia Armond, who experienced a chaotic upbringing and chronic depression, shares her struggles with postpartum psychosis, including paranoia, hallucinations, and being admitted to a mental hospital. She discusses her journey of recovery, sensory experiences, and the healing power of God's love.
Oct 3, 2023 • 46min
292: What if a shocking lie revealed your inner truth?
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. They discuss authoritarian upbringing, struggling with an eating disorder, the influence of Amanda C. Riley, betrayal, deception, and redemption. Contact information for Lindsey Wilder and podcast recommendations are also provided.
Sep 26, 2023 • 1h 1min
291: What if your wife had 21 personalities?
Matthew Fanning, a man who grew up in poverty and found an outlet in a racist metal band, pursues an unlikely marriage with a wife who has 21 personalities. The podcast dives into topics such as childhood trauma, personal resilience, dissociative identity disorder, and the struggles of supporting a partner with multiple personalities.
Sep 19, 2023 • 1h 3min
290: What if your husband entered The Void?
A woman's husband's addiction threatens their family, leading them to explore plant medicine for healing; a darker truth is revealed. The episode delves into childhood trauma, becoming a single mom, doubts before marriage, and the decision to try ayahuasca. It also touches on intense behavioral changes, the intersection of mental health and substance abuse, and the importance of self-acceptance.
Sep 12, 2023 • 1h 3min
289: What if you walked into your high school with a shotgun?
Jon Romano, a man who faced abuse at a young age, discusses his unseen emptiness and the act of violence that resulted. Topics include sexual abuse, gun violence, suicidal thoughts, and finding support in the community after a dark past. The podcast also touches on a horrifying incident at the speaker's high school and a violent attack at a homeless shelter.
