Rose Laughlin, a Midwest lawyer with a passion for theater, shares her unexpected challenges playing Jesus in a school production, highlighting gender role limitations in performance. Honor Finegan recounts her inspiring journey auditioning for Annie, reflecting on how her tough upbringing shaped her dreams. Both stories illustrate the transformative power of theater and the deep connections forged between performers and audiences, leaving listeners with a sense of community and resilience.

In this special Veterans Day gathering, Mike Scotti, a former U.S. Marine, shares his journey of finding meaning after combat. 97-year-old Dawn Seymour vividly recounts her experiences as a Women Airforce Service Pilot flying B-17s during WWII. Bill Krieger opens up about the bedtime routines with his daughter amid his deployment to Iraq, while William Cole reflects on serving in the segregated 93rd Infantry Division in the South Pacific. Their stories highlight courage, camaraderie, and the lasting impact of war on family and identity.

Jameer Pond, a creative director for Vanity Fair, shares a hilarious yet tumultuous journey from college talent show highs to the lows of being booed. High school senior Shristi Karki reflects on her mother's journey learning to drive, revealing deep family bonds. Shannan Scarselletta, an executive coach and comedian, recounts her awkward challenge in a middle school obstacle course, while Gina Belafonte, an activist and producer, explores her complex relationship with her mother, merging humor and heartfelt moments. Each story highlights the beauty of embracing unique paths.

Matthew Dicks, an elementary school teacher and storytelling expert, shares a heartfelt tale of friendship found at a McDonald's. Heidi Munson recounts a touching story about her sergeant who reached out with kindness during her deployment in Iraq. Meanwhile, Laurie Bushbaum reflects on her mother’s creative spirit as she decides to give away her mother’s hats to a woman battling cancer. Together, these stories beautifully illustrate themes of kindness, community connection, and the impact of small, compassionate gestures.

Join documentary producer Julie Pryor as she shares her hair-raising adventure along Alaska's treacherous Haul Road, blending personal growth with nostalgic tunes. Writer Madeleine Berenson bravely opens up about facing workplace discrimination during her pregnancy, turning challenges into empowerment. Former inmate Michael Fisher recounts a nerve-wracking encounter over pretzels, revealing the raw realities of prison life. Lastly, Carol Seppilu inspires with her journey from depression to resilience through ultramarathons, showcasing the power of endurance and community.

Jess Nurse, an actress and writer, explores the intricacies of adult friendships, sharing humorous reflections on navigating changes in life. David Ambroz, an activist and bestselling author, recounts his journey through foster care, emphasizing resilience and the importance of community. Brian Kett, a writer focused on social inequities, adds a lighthearted touch with stories of disc-golfing misfits. Together, their narratives unfold at a vibrant Grand Slam event, showcasing the transformative power of storytelling.

Join large carnivore ecologist Rae Wynn-Grant as she shares how her work in Africa reshapes her perspective on wildlife and conservation. Angelica Lindsey-Ali humorously recounts her unique experience of performing Hajj while eight months pregnant. Grace Topinka explores the comical side of adult friendships through a memorable spa day. Zakiya Minifee reflects on avoiding cultural faux pas abroad. Finally, Josh Holland describes the emotional reunion with his birth mother, highlighting themes of identity and connection.

Kat Powell-Hoffman shares her emotional discovery of a twin sister and biological family in Korea, showcasing the unique bond of family. Music producer Paul Chin discusses his unexpected rise to fame thanks to BTS's passionate fanbase, revealing the power of community support in creative journeys. Comedian Kelli Dunham opens up about her partner's death, highlighting the challenges of accepting help while navigating grief. Their stories weave together themes of identity, creativity, and the importance of vulnerability in life's surprises.

Mary Lea Carroll, a grandmother and author, shares her humorous take on the chaos of raising children. She wonders how her mom managed it all without losing her mind. P.T. Smith, a devoted father, reflects on his emotional journey into fatherhood, discovering that love is the true key. They discuss the significance of community support in parenting and share delightful anecdotes about family life, including memorable moments from 'Take Your Child to Work Day.'Their stories highlight both the joy and the trials of raising kids.

Zaena Tessema shares a mystical childhood tale involving her mother’s supernatural discipline methods. Diane Kastiel openly discusses her unexpected pregnancy at 46, blending anxiety with joy. Tito Chavez-Nguyen recounts how Bruce Lee's epic movie guided him through playground challenges. Patricia Aro humorously navigates explaining death to her children, while Chelsea Shorte shares a tense encounter with the police that reveals complexities of gender identity. Rufus May reflects on disclosing mental health struggles while aspiring to be a psychologist, highlighting the journey toward acceptance.