This Is Actually Happening

Guest Ashley King shares her harrowing experience of being poisoned while on a backpacking trip in Bali, resulting in the loss of her eyesight. The podcast explores the emotional impact of her diagnosis, struggles with accepting blindness, and the tragic consequences of methanol poisoning. Despite her challenges, Ashley embraces life after losing her eyesight, studying abroad, pursuing a career in the theater industry, and reflecting on the misconceptions surrounding disability.

A young man risks his life to pay off student loan debt by swallowing bags of cocaine. The podcast discusses his harrowing experience of surviving an overdose and seeking medical help. It also explores topics such as questioning faith, navigating the criminal justice system, and the importance of support and empathy in times of hardship and mental health issues.

Rachel, a woman with severe harm OCD, shares her experiences with death and dying and how caring for others helped her find renewal. The podcast explores her childhood trauma, struggles with mental illness, overcoming postpartum depression, and finding meaning in helping traumatized children. It also delves into her reflections on foster care and the challenges of validation and acceptance. Join the podcast community and listen ad-free with Wondry Plus.

A guest named Quan Huynh, who grew up in a violent gang, shares his story of destruction and redemption. Topics include his challenging upbringing, finding acceptance in a criminal group, first arrest, reflecting on his past, rebuilding identity, therapy, self-forgiveness, and his memoir, 'Sparrow in the Razorwire.'

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/amybcheslerWhat Came Next on Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/whatcamenext_podcastWhat Came Next on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-came-next/id1674051643Listen 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 LipkowitzContent/Trigger Warnings: sexual assault of a minor, domestic abuse and violence, graphic bodily injury, alcohol and drug abuse, murder, explicit language Social Media: Instagram: @actuallyhappeningTwitter: @TIAHPodcastWebsite: thisisactuallyhappening.comWebsite for Andrew Waits: andrewwaits.comWebsite 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.comIntro Music: "Illabye" – TipperMusic Bed: “Union Flow” - Spuntic 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.

A traumatic childhood, including sexual abuse and a brother's suicide attempt, is explored. The speaker reflects on shame, guilt, and the hidden darkness in their seemingly normal family. Finding closure through art therapy and self-forgiveness is highlighted.

Harvey Miller, who had a terrifying encounter in the Hawaiian ocean, discusses growing up in the Midwest, his love for the ocean, and a near-death shark attack. He shares his difficult recovery process, finding purpose through marathon running, and redefining masculinity. Find out more about the podcast on the podcast's website.

Amanda Coggin, a guest on the show, shares her experience of being in a co-dependent relationship and the bewildering decline of her boyfriend. Through her grief and loss, she gains a deeper understanding of generational trauma and the importance of addressing mental wellness. The podcast explores topics of addiction, suicide, and finding hope in the face of death. Amanda also provides resources for those dealing with trauma and adverse childhood experiences.

Agata, a woman who suffered from a severe eating disorder, found hope through the Medical Assistance in Dying program in Canada. She discusses her struggles with bulimia, homelessness, and dental issues. The podcast also explores her childhood experiences of hospitalization and her desire for freedom. Agata shares her acceptance of her condition, her desire to leave a legacy, and her gratitude for the opportunity to rest and achieve her potential.

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.