
What Was That Like - True Stories. Real People.
A storytelling podcast, with first-hand amazing stories presented by Scott Johnson and Meredith Hackwith Edwards. Each storyteller tells their own personal true story, with all the details of what happened. Animal attacks, plane crashes, mass shootings, and more – you'll hear what happened directly from the person who experienced it, and the inspirational outcome of how they came out on the other side.
Latest episodes

10 snips
Feb 28, 2025 • 10min
Stephen Slevin
Discover the chilling true story of Stephen Slevin, who faced nearly two years in solitary confinement after a DUI arrest. His harrowing experience sheds light on the dark flaws within the justice system and the psychological impact of isolation. Listeners will be captivated by the gripping details of his struggle for justice, making it a powerful reminder of the human spirit's resilience against overwhelming odds.

Feb 21, 2025 • 1h 26min
207: Marsha's diner was hit by a plane
Ever wonder what it's like to be at ground zero during a plane crash? In a gripping narrative, listeners hear the chaos of a diner staff witnessing a plane crash while preparing for the day. The emotional turmoil and frantic 911 calls paint a vivid picture of panic and urgency. The aftermath explores community resilience, the power of connection in tough times, and how personal experiences shape our ability to move forward. This mix of harrowing stories and uplifting support highlights the unpredictability of life.

Feb 18, 2025 • 24min
TQ31: What overused word or phrase are you sick of?
Frustrated with corporate jargon, the hosts share their pet peeves, like the overused phrase 'ping me.' They humorously critique modern speech trends such as 'vocal fry' and 'up talk,' showcasing listeners' gripes about social media language. A light-hearted look at storytelling reveals the annoyance of 'long story short,' emphasizing the value of detail. The hosts also dive into cultural nuances of curse words and the emotional impact of language, highlighting the importance of self-correction in communication.

13 snips
Feb 14, 2025 • 1h 5min
206: Robert was shot at by pirates
Off the coast of Somalia, modern piracy thrives against a backdrop of poverty. This gripping narrative unfolds as a sonar technician recounts his harrowing experience with pirates while aboard a U.S. Navy warship. Listeners will feel the tension of naval life and the chaos of a pirate attack. The gripping tale touches on themes of bravery, trauma, and the moral dilemmas faced during confrontations with pirates. It highlights the resilience of crew members and the lasting impact of such traumatic events on mental health.

Feb 7, 2025 • 1h 21min
205: Ber was hit by a flying tree
Amber Rocha, a resident of Florida, shares her shocking experience during Hurricane Milton, where she was unexpectedly struck by a falling tree, resulting in severe injuries. She reflects on her traumatic ordeal, including the chaos of the moment and the emotional turmoil that followed. Amber discusses the importance of community resilience, the urgent response from her loved ones, and the lessons learned about safety during natural disasters. Her story captures the unpredictable nature of hurricanes and highlights the strength found in adversity.

29 snips
Feb 4, 2025 • 29min
TQ30: What's a situation or condition that no one understands, until they're in it?
Explore the often misunderstood dynamics of abusive relationships and the psychological traps that keep individuals in cycles of abuse. Personal stories reveal the challenges of caring for aging parents and the complexities of family estrangement. Hear about the emotional toll of infertility, adoption struggles, and the importance of chosen families. The hosts also share humorous anecdotes from college life, showcasing wild experiences that lead to unexpected outcomes.

22 snips
Jan 24, 2025 • 1h 11min
204: Kari's dad had a dementia breakdown
The emotional journey of caring for a loved one with dementia unfolds through poignant storytelling. A daughter navigates her father's gradual decline, contrasting cherished memories with painful realities. Turbulent road trips reveal the stress of caregiving, where moments of humor collide with chaos. The struggle of making tough decisions for family care is showcased, emphasizing the intricate dynamics of love, loss, and connection. Ultimately, the narrative highlights the bittersweet nature of these experiences, reminding us to cherish fleeting moments amidst the challenges.

Jan 21, 2025 • 24min
TQ29: You're in a middle seat at a movie - you need to pee - do you give your neighbors the butt or crotch while exiting? Why?
The hosts tackle a hilarious question about social etiquette in theaters – do you give your neighbors the butt or the crotch while exiting for a restroom break? They share funny personal anecdotes, discussing the awkwardness of tight spaces and the norms of body image. The conversation also dips into the evolution of beauty standards and the light-hearted struggles of being a model. With playful banter, they create a relatable atmosphere that leaves listeners reflecting on their own experiences navigating social interactions.

8 snips
Jan 17, 2025 • 1h 21min
203: Diana's plane crashed
Diana, a medical flight nurse, shares her gripping account of surviving a plane crash with severe injuries. As chaos unfolds, she battles to escape a burning cabin with a broken back and legs. The story highlights her miraculous resilience and the bonds formed with rescuers amidst danger. A recent follow-up reveals her journey of recovery and transformation from caregiver to patient. Intense emotions and moments of humor intertwine, making this tale of survival both harrowing and inspiring.

23 snips
Jan 10, 2025 • 1h 22min
202: Kelli got a call from daycare
Navigating the challenges of choosing a daycare can be overwhelming for parents. A terrifying phone call transforms Kelli's trust into turmoil as she faces the unimaginable loss of a child. This gripping story delves into grief, community support, and the critical importance of safe sleep practices to protect vulnerable infants. Listeners will also hear heartfelt narratives about the joys and challenges of parenting, including a touching journey of fostering independence in children with unique needs.
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