This Is Actually Happening

Diamond Garrett, a resilient dancer turned speech therapist, shares her inspiring journey from surviving gun violence to empowering disabled individuals through her entrepreneurial spirit. She opens up about her traumatic past, including an absent father and the chaos of her childhood. The conversation highlights her transformation and how art, particularly dance, helped her reconnect with her identity. Diamond's commitment to fostering community support and navigating the complexities of ambition in a challenging world is both eye-opening and motivational.

Holly Deane-Johns, a motivational speaker with a profound story of overcoming heroin addiction, shares her harrowing experience of spending seven years in a Thai prison. She vividly describes the brutal conditions of her incarceration and the pivotal friendship she formed with a fellow inmate. Holly reflects on her chaotic upbringing, the trauma of losing her mother to addiction, and her journey to redemption. Now drug-free since 2001, she dedicates her life to helping others confront their own struggles and inspire hope through her powerful narrative.

Julianne, a courageous young woman, shares her harrowing journey through toxic relationships and the trauma of witnessing violence. She reflects on her idyllic childhood shattered by cycles of abuse and anxiety. The conversation touches on the complex emotions around heartbreak and infidelity, revealing her path to healing and empowerment. Julianne emphasizes the importance of community support and self-acceptance in overcoming turmoil. Her story illustrates resilience and the transformative power of therapy, shedding light on the nuances of trauma and recovery.

William Palmer, a man who spent 31 years in prison for robbing an undercover officer, shares his incredible journey from crime to redemption. He discusses his challenging childhood and the dual worlds he navigated. Palmer emphasizes the emotional toll of excessive punishment and its lingering impacts on lives. He highlights the importance of education, spirituality, and the power of love and advocacy in transforming one's life. Now free, he dedicates himself to helping others find their own paths to liberation.

Kerry McCauley, an author and main pilot on the docuseries "Dangerous Flights," shares his thrilling life chasing adrenaline. He recounts formative childhood experiences spurring his thirst for risk and excitement. Listeners hear hair-raising stories from his skydiving mishaps to a harrowing solo flight across the Atlantic with dangerously low fuel. McCauley also reflects on personal tragedies, illustrating how grief transformed into purpose through teaching skydiving, revealing the complex emotions behind seeking danger.

A man grapples with a troubled upbringing, letting alcoholism take over until a violent encounter forces him to confront his past. He shares his chilling experience of being held hostage, leading to a harrowing boating accident that shifts his perspective on life and survival. The journey through trauma and the path to healing highlight the power of community and personal growth. Themes of forgiveness, regret, and identity transformation weave a complex tapestry of resilience in the face of daunting challenges.

Haunted by the chaos of her family and teenage years, a young woman finally finds refuge and belonging in a solid new group of friends, but after a camping trip ends in tragedy, she must find a new pathway to acceptance.  Today’s episode featured Kristen Smith. You can reach out to Kristen at kristendsmith2@gmail.com or on Instagram @kristendsmith_You can also find out more about her and what she does at kristendawnsmith.com. Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Cathy Sitzes Content/Trigger Warnings: child SA, abuse, teen kidnapping, drowning, death, grief, explicit language Social Media:Instagram: @actuallyhappeningTwitter: @TIAHPodcast Website: thisisactuallyhappening.com Website for Andrew Waits: andrewwaits.comWebsite for Cathy Sitzes: cathysitzes.comSupport 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" – TipperMusic Bed: Uncertain Outcomes ServicesIf 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: 1-800-950-6264National 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.

Patrick Hibbard, a man who transformed his life from substance abuse and incarceration to recovery and education, shares his gripping story. He recounts a chaotic childhood filled with violence and addiction, leading to a pivotal moment that changed everything. Patrick discusses the deep regrets of his past and the struggle for accountability after committing a violent crime. His journey post-incarceration is one of clarity and redemption, highlighting the power of recovery programs and the importance of compassion for those battling addiction.

In this gripping conversation, sci-fi author Patrick S. Tomlinson shares his journey from a rural upbringing to facing the harrowing reality of cyberstalking. He explores the psychological effects of online harassment and the chilling escalation to real-life threats. Patrick reflects on emotional resilience, the paradox of deriving satisfaction from others' suffering, and the urgent need for societal change in addressing such cruelty. His candid storytelling reveals the raw impact of toxic online communities and the search for justice amidst chaos.

Pamela Jones, an author, speaker, and coach, shares her harrowing story of escaping the Church of the Firstborn, a polygamous cult. She recounts chilling childhood experiences marked by fear and violence, revealing the oppressive dynamics within polygamous marriages. Pamela details the dangerous preparation for her daring escape, highlighting the emotional and legal hurdles. Her journey of resilience continues as she rebuilds her life in Utah, transforming her struggles into empowerment while advocating for others seeking freedom from similar situations.