This Is Actually Happening

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.

Brandon Andres Green, a survivor who faced unimaginable horror as a kidnapped victim, shares his gripping story. He discusses his early life as a teenage drug dealer and how a dark world entangled him in chaos. Brandon details the violent abduction that transformed his existence, touching on themes of trust, survival, and the clash between hope and despair. He reflects on the painful aftermath and the road to healing, illustrating the resilient human spirit's capacity to rise even from the darkest experiences.

Brad Guy shares his gripping story of survival after a skydiving accident left him facing both physical and emotional struggles. He discusses his journey from self-acceptance as a gay man to the terrifying moment his parachute failed. The episode dives deep into his healing process, revealing how he transformed trauma into a source of strength. Brad touches on the emotional rollercoaster of recovery, the guilt he felt, and the hope he ultimately found. His tale is a powerful reminder of resilience in the face of life-altering challenges.

Charlie Webster, a broadcaster, fundraiser, and author, shares her inspiring journey of resilience after years of abuse and a near-death experience. She discusses how her tumultuous childhood shaped her advocacy work and passion for sport. Listeners are captivated by her vivid recounting of fighting through illness during the 2016 Rio Olympics and the profound reflections on confronting mortality. Charlie also delves into healing from trauma, emphasizing self-acceptance and the importance of acknowledging one's past in the journey toward recovery.

A man reflects on his tumultuous journey following his grandmother's death, succumbing to a whirlwind of mental health challenges and chaotic behavior. He navigates the streets, confronting deep-seated trauma and identity crises. As he battles addiction and isolation, transformative moments emerge through therapy and creativity. His quest for healing showcases the power of self-reflection, community support, and artistic expression, emphasizing that recovery is a complex, often non-linear journey filled with emotional highs and lows.