Explore every episode of the podcast This Is Actually Happening
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 437: What if a peptide stole your sanity? | 27 Oct 2026 | 01:11:45 | |
After growing up with financial instability, a fiercely independent man builds the successful life he always dreamed of, but when his behavior begins to change in frightening and inexplicable ways, his mind, marriage, and everything he’s worked for begin to unravel. Today’s episode featured Daniel Murphy. If you’d like to reach out to Daniel, you can email him at Peptidevictims@gmail.com. Producers Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Aviva Lipkowitz Content/Trigger Warnings Mental illness and psychosis, substance-induced behavioral changes, anabolic steroid use, emotional and psychological abuse, domestic conflict, suicidal ideation, hospitalization, and divorce/family breakdown, explicit language. Social Media
Substack - Beyond the Story If you’d like to share an UNSAID short story from your life, you can find it on our website: thisisactuallyhappening.com/submittheendoftheknown or on the Substack at whitmissildine.substack.com. Support the Show on Substack by becoming a Paid Subscriber Free subscribers get access to Whit’s weekly episode reflections and some show updates. Paid subscribers get access to AMAs with the team, follow up interviews with past guests, frequently asked questions, deeper insights into the creative process of the show and live events. A paid Substack subscription is also the best way to support the show. You can also support on Patreon Website for Whit Missildine Website for Andrew Waits Website for Aviva Lipkowitz Subscribe on Audible to Listen Ad-Free Audible subscribers can listen to all episodes of THIS IS ACTUALLY HAPPENING ad-free right now. Join Audible today by downloading the Audible app or visit Audible.com. Shop at the Store Find This Is Actually Happening branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop:
Transcripts Full transcripts of each episode are now available on the website:
Music Intro Music:
Music Bed:
Services If you or someone you know is struggling with the effects of trauma or mental illness, please refer to the following resources:
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. ©2026 Audible ℗2026 Audible
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| Listen Now— Over My Dead Body: Operation Sideswipe | 26 Oct 2026 | 00:06:58 | |
A Hollywood stuntwoman turned personal injury attorney. A handsome disbarred lawyer with a dark past. And an elaborate scheme that leads to murder. Vanessa Motta gives up a career of fake car crashes for real ones. But her law career in New Orleans gets off to a rocky start — until she meets Sean Alfortish, a charming man who offers her the perfect space for her law office. Vanessa and Sean fall hard for each other, and as a former lawyer himself, Sean becomes her mentor. So, what if he's done some prison time for fraud? When Sean introduces Vanessa to one of the city's most prolific case runners, Cornelius Garrison, the money starts rolling in. Cornelius brings her a steady stream of accident victims looking to sue. There's just one problem: the accidents aren't real. And once the secret gets out, someone will have to pay. Reported and hosted by Mitch Moxley, Over My Dead Body: Operation Sideswipe is a six-part series about greed, betrayal, and who gets thrown under the bus when everything is on the line. Audible subscribers can binge all episodes early and ad-free right now. Join Audible in the Audible App or by subscribing on Apple Podcasts. Listen now: HERE See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| 436: What if your father was a mass murderer? | 20 Oct 2026 | 01:06:11 | |
After a childhood shaped by her father’s unpredictable volatility, a young woman faces an unimaginable act of violence and must come to terms with complicated grief, shame and an erratic path to healing. Today’s episode featured Lucia. If you’d like to email her, you can at poorloochie@gmail.com. Producers Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Sara Marinelli Content/Trigger Warnings Child abuse, emotional abuse, physical abuse, mass shooting, gun violence, murder, suicide, death, traumatic grief, racism, racial slurs, dissociation, graphic imagery, serious injury, explicit language. Social Media
Substack - Beyond the Story If you’d like to share an UNSAID short story from your life, you can find it on our website: thisisactuallyhappening.com/submittheendoftheknown or on the Substack at whitmissildine.substack.com. Support the Show on Substack by becoming a Paid Subscriber Free subscribers get access to Whit’s weekly episode reflections and some show updates. Paid subscribers get access to AMAs with the team, follow up interviews with past guests, frequently asked questions, deeper insights into the creative process of the show and live events. A paid Substack subscription is also the best way to support the show. You can also support on Patreon Website for Whit Missildine Website for Andrew Waits Website for Sara Marinelli Subscribe on Audible to Listen Ad-Free Audible subscribers can listen to all episodes of THIS IS ACTUALLY HAPPENING ad-free right now. Join Audible today by downloading the Audible app or visit Audible.com. Shop at the Store Find This Is Actually Happening branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop:
Transcripts Full transcripts of each episode are now available on the website:
Music Intro Music:
Music Bed:
Services If you or someone you know is struggling with the effects of trauma or mental illness, please refer to the following resources:
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| Listen Now: Audible True Crime – Ghost Story | 13 Oct 2026 | 00:09:18 | |
Audible True Crime is a dedicated podcast feed where we bring you the best podcasts in true crime, with episodes dropping every single week. Just in time for spooky season, we’re releasing a show called Ghost Story, a series about a hidden family secret, unexplainable events and jaw-dropping coincidences. Tristan Redman doesn’t believe in ghosts. But weird things happened in his teenage bedroom. And when he discovers later that occupants of his family home have seen the ghost of a faceless woman, he’s intrigued. Because it just so happens that his wife’s great grandmother, Naomi Dancy, was murdered in the house next door…killed by two gunshots to the face. Audible subscribers can binge all episodes on Audible True Crime early and ad-free right now. Join Audible in the Audible App or by subscribing on Apple Podcasts. Listen Now: HERE See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| 435: What if your body became the war zone? | 13 Oct 2026 | 01:04:11 | |
A young photographer finds purpose documenting humanitarian work in Afghanistan, but encounters with death force him to confront what it means to survive and the trauma we carry home. Today’s episode featured Ivan Lo. If you’d like to email Ivan, you can at ivan@ivanlo.com. Ivan has begun writing a book about his experiences, and you can follow his progress at ivanlo.com. Producers Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Jason Blalock Content/Trigger Warnings War and armed conflict, racism, bullying, graphic descriptions of death and human remains, suicide bombings and terrorism, death of colleagues, survivor’s guilt, cancer and serious illness, chronic pain and disability, suicidal ideation, chemotherapy and medical trauma, PTSD and trauma, death of a parent, grief and loss, Nanjing Massacre and wartime atrocities, explicit language. Social Media
Substack - Beyond the Story If you’d like to share an UNSAID short story from your life, you can find it on our website: thisisactuallyhappening.com/submittheendoftheknown or on the Substack at whitmissildine.substack.com. Support the Show on Substack by becoming a Paid Subscriber Free subscribers get access to Whit’s weekly episode reflections and some show updates. Paid subscribers get access to AMAs with the team, follow up interviews with past guests, frequently asked questions, deeper insights into the creative process of the show and live events. A paid Substack subscription is also the best way to support the show. You can also support on Patreon Website for Whit Missildine Website for Andrew Waits Website for Jason Blalock Subscribe on Audible to Listen Ad-Free Audible subscribers can listen to all episodes of THIS IS ACTUALLY HAPPENING ad-free right now. Join Audible today by downloading the Audible app or visit Audible.com. Shop at the Store Find This Is Actually Happening branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop:
Transcripts Full transcripts of each episode are now available on the website:
Music Intro Music:
Music Bed:
Services If you or someone you know is struggling with the effects of trauma or mental illness, please refer to the following resources:
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. ©2026 Audible ℗2026 Audible See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| 434: What if you left the church only to find hell next door? | 06 Oct 2026 | 00:57:45 | |
After leaving the Mormon church and rebuilding her life from the ground up, a woman and her family move to a rural property hoping for a fresh start, only to find themselves trapped in an escalating nightmare with a neighbor whose harassment pushes them to the limits of fear, trust, and restraint. Today’s episode featured Jessica. If you’d like to email Jessica, you can reach out to her at jessicajill2010@gmail.com. Jessica has a small business making credit card covers. Here is her etsy link: https://creativechaosjess.etsy.com/listing/4454553658 Producers Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits Content/Trigger Warnings Religious trauma / faith deconstruction, Postpartum depression, Suicidal ideation, Sexual abuse allegations, Child Protective Services investigation, Stalking / harassment, Threats and intimidation, Animal cruelty and animal death, Missing / presumed killed pets, Graphic animal imagery, Gun violence toward animals, Threatening effigy / simulated violence, Panic attacks and anxiety, Police / law-enforcement inaction, explicit language. Social Media
Substack - Beyond the Story If you’d like to share an UNSAID short story from your life, you can find it on our website: thisisactuallyhappening.com/submittheendoftheknown or on the Substack at whitmissildine.substack.com. Support the Show on Substack by becoming a Paid Subscriber Free subscribers get access to Whit’s weekly episode reflections and some show updates. Paid subscribers get access to AMAs with the team, follow up interviews with past guests, frequently asked questions, deeper insights into the creative process of the show and live events. A paid Substack subscription is also the best way to support the show. You can also support on Patreon Website for Whit Missildine Website for Andrew Waits Subscribe on Audible to Listen Ad-Free Audible subscribers can listen to all episodes of THIS IS ACTUALLY HAPPENING ad-free right now. Join Audible today by downloading the Audible app or visit Audible.com. Shop at the Store Find This Is Actually Happening branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop:
Transcripts Full transcripts of each episode are now available on the website:
Music Intro Music:
Music Bed:
Services If you or someone you know is struggling with the effects of trauma or mental illness, please refer to the following resources:
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. ©2026 Audible ℗2026 Audible
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| 433: What if the hijackers brought you forward to die? | 29 Sep 2026 | 01:20:36 | |
After losing his older brother on K2, a man travels to Pakistan years later to say goodbye, but on his flight home, he is taken hostage in a terrifying hijacking that will change the course of his life. Today’s episode featured Mike Thexton. If you’d like to contact Mike, you can email him at thexton@enterprise.net. You can find out more about Mike and his story at www.hippyman.co.uk. His book, What Happened to the Hippy Man? Is available where books are sold. Producers Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Aviva Lipkowitz Content/Trigger Warnings death of a sibling, grief and bereavement, terrorism, plane hijacking, hostage situation, threats of execution, gun violence, explosions, mass casualty event, and traumatic injury, explicit language. Social Media
Substack - Beyond the Story If you’d like to share an UNSAID short story from your life, you can find it on our website: thisisactuallyhappening.com/submittheendoftheknown or on the Substack at whitmissildine.substack.com. Support the Show on Substack by becoming a Paid Subscriber Free subscribers get access to Whit’s weekly episode reflections and some show updates. Paid subscribers get access to AMAs with the team, follow up interviews with past guests, frequently asked questions, deeper insights into the creative process of the show and live events. A paid Substack subscription is also the best way to support the show. You can also support on Patreon Website for Whit Missildine Website for Andrew Waits Website for Aviva Lipkowitz Subscribe on Audible to Listen Ad-Free Audible subscribers can listen to all episodes of THIS IS ACTUALLY HAPPENING ad-free right now. Join Audible today by downloading the Audible app or visit Audible.com. Shop at the Store Find This Is Actually Happening branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop:
Transcripts Full transcripts of each episode are now available on the website:
Music Intro Music:
Music Bed:
Services If you or someone you know is struggling with the effects of trauma or mental illness, please refer to the following resources:
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| Listen Now: My Mom’s Murder | 28 Sep 2026 | 00:05:18 | |
Lauren Malloy was a baby when her mother, Lori, was murdered in East Providence, Rhode Island. For thirty years, no one told her. Everyone said Lori died of natural causes. Then a stranger sent Lauren a message — and the lie collapsed. Now Lauren is investigating her own mother’s murder. She’s recorded hundreds of hours of interviews with law enforcement, family, childhood friends, and people who won’t stop contradicting each other. Every answer opens a darker question. Every person she trusts seems to be hiding something. And the closer she gets to the truth, the more she realizes the people she trusts may be the ones with the most to hide. A 10-part true crime investigation hosted by the victim’s daughter. Lauren’s mission: to finally uncover the identity of Lori’s killer. Audible subscribers can binge all 10 episodes early and ad-free right now. Join Audible in the Audible App or by subscribing on Apple Podcasts. Listen now: HERE See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| 432: What if your husband entered The Void? [Rebroadcast #290] | 24 Sep 2026 | 01:04:33 | |
A woman leaves behind the wounds of her alcoholic father, only to find out that her husband’s addiction is threatening to ruin their family; but when he goes to find healing through a plant medicine ceremony, a shocking, darker truth is revealed. Today's guest requested to remain anonymous, but if you'd like to reach out to her, can can email at: stilltallnlucky@gmail.com Producers Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Aviva Lipkowitz Content/Trigger Warnings alcoholism, domestic violence, sexual assault, mental illness, manic break, bipolar, explicit language. Social Media
Substack - The End of the Known Support the Show on Substack by becoming a Paid Subscriber Free subscribers get access to Whit’s weekly episode reflections and some show updates. Paid subscribers get access to AMAs with the team, follow up interviews with past guests, frequently asked questions, deeper insights into the creative process of the show and live events. A paid Substack subscription is also the best way to support the show. You can also support on Patreon Website for Whit Missildine Website for Andrew Waits Website for Aviva Lipkowitz
Subscribe on Audible to Listen Ad-Free Audible subscribers can listen to all episodes of THIS IS ACTUALLY HAPPENING ad-free right now. Join Audible today by downloading the Audible app or visit Audible.com. Shop at the Store Find This Is Actually Happening branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop:
Transcripts Full transcripts of each episode are now available on the website:
Music Intro Music:
Music Bed:
Services If you or someone you know is struggling with the effects of trauma or mental illness, please refer to the following resources:
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| 431: What if you shot your girlfriend? [Rebroadcast #294] | 22 Sep 2026 | 00:50:46 | |
Escaping a world of gangs and drugs, a man joins the military and becomes a veteran of Iraq, but the scars from his past, PTSD and a TBI haunt him until a fateful day when he faces the ultimate demons. Today's episode featured Daniel Norwood. If you'd like to reach out to Daniel, you can email at Danielnorwood281@gmail.com. Daniel's story came to us by way of Todd Rennebohm. Daniel was originally featured on Todd's podcast, Bunny Hugs and Mental Health, which focuses on conversations with survivors, professionals and families of those who have lost someone to mental illness and addictions. So please check out Bunny Hugs and Mental Health, and a special thanks to Todd for referring today's guest. Producers Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Jason Blalock Content/Trigger Warnings abuse of a child, gun violence, drug use, attempted murder, murder, war, bombing, graphic bodily injury, explicit language. Social Media
Substack - The End of the Known Support the Show on Substack by becoming a Paid Subscriber Free subscribers get access to Whit’s weekly episode reflections and some show updates. Paid subscribers get access to AMAs with the team, follow up interviews with past guests, frequently asked questions, deeper insights into the creative process of the show and live events. A paid Substack subscription is also the best way to support the show. You can also support on Patreon Website for Whit Missildine Website for Andrew Waits Website for Jason Blalock
Subscribe on Audible to Listen Ad-Free Audible subscribers can listen to all episodes of THIS IS ACTUALLY HAPPENING ad-free right now. Join Audible today by downloading the Audible app or visit Audible.com. Shop at the Store Find This Is Actually Happening branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop:
Transcripts Full transcripts of each episode are now available on the website:
Music Intro Music:
Music Bed:
Services If you or someone you know is struggling with the effects of trauma or mental illness, please refer to the following resources:
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| 430: What if you were poisoned? [Rebroadcast #304] | 17 Sep 2026 | 00:54:17 | |
A young woman on a backpacking trip in Bali faces a series of misfortunes, but just as she’s leaving for the next chapter of her journey, her future is thrown into darkness. Today’s episode featured Ashley King. If you’d like to reach out to her, you can email at ashleyjenniferk@gmail.com, or find her on Instagram @ashkng. Producers Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Jason Blalock Content/Trigger Warnings poisoning, medical trauma, suicidal ideation, suicide attempt, explicit language. Social Media
Substack - The End of the Known Support the Show on Substack by becoming a Paid Subscriber Free subscribers get access to Whit’s weekly episode reflections and some show updates. Paid subscribers get access to AMAs with the team, follow up interviews with past guests, frequently asked questions, deeper insights into the creative process of the show and live events. A paid Substack subscription is also the best way to support the show. You can also support on Patreon Website for Whit Missildine Website for Andrew Waits Website for Jason Blalock
Subscribe on Audible to Listen Ad-Free Audible subscribers can listen to all episodes of THIS IS ACTUALLY HAPPENING ad-free right now. Join Audible today by downloading the Audible app or visit Audible.com. Shop at the Store Find This Is Actually Happening branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop:
Transcripts Full transcripts of each episode are now available on the website:
Music Intro Music:
Music Bed:
Services If you or someone you know is struggling with the effects of trauma or mental illness, please refer to the following resources:
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| 429: What if you didn't see the signs? [Rebroadcast #247] | 15 Sep 2026 | 00:51:24 | |
Bill Mitchell built a successful career, marriage and family, but just as his bright and loving daughter graduates from college with big dreams, an unthinkable event irreversibly changes everything. Today’s episode featured Bill Mitchell. Bill has a book and podcast, both called When Dating Hurts. You can find out more about Bill, his book and his podcast, all at whendatinghurts.com. You can also find his book on Amazon. Bill was originally featured on Scott Johnson’s amazing podcast, What Was That Like. If you love This Is Actually Happening, check out What Was That Like, featuring stories from people who have been through something extremely unusual. You’ll hear people talking about being in a plane crash, a mass shooting, a grizzly bear attack, and many more. The guest comes on and tells the details of what happened, first hand. If you like This Is Actually Happening, I know you’ll want to subscribe to What Was That Like. It’s available on any podcast app, or at WhatWasThatLike.com. If you or someone you know is in an abusive relationship, please call the National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
Producers Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Jason Blalock Content/Trigger Warnings domestic violence, graphic bodily injury, murder, death, explicit language. Social Media
Substack - The End of the Known Support the Show on Substack by becoming a Paid Subscriber Free subscribers get access to Whit’s weekly episode reflections and some show updates. Paid subscribers get access to AMAs with the team, follow up interviews with past guests, frequently asked questions, deeper insights into the creative process of the show and live events. A paid Substack subscription is also the best way to support the show. You can also support on Patreon Website for Whit Missildine Website for Andrew Waits Website for Jason Blalock
Subscribe on Audible to Listen Ad-Free Audible subscribers can listen to all episodes of THIS IS ACTUALLY HAPPENING ad-free right now. Join Audible today by downloading the Audible app or visit Audible.com. Shop at the Store Find This Is Actually Happening branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop:
Transcripts Full transcripts of each episode are now available on the website:
Music Intro Music:
Music Bed:
Services If you or someone you know is struggling with the effects of trauma or mental illness, please refer to the following resources:
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. ©2026 Audible ℗2026 Audible See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| 428: What if your life became a movie? [Rebroadcast #315] | 10 Sep 2026 | 00:56:28 | |
After his mother falls in love with Frank, the member of a one-hit-wonder 80s band, a man’s life becomes a roller coaster of neglect, scams, and chaos, but when he turns the camera on the inside of his family, a new world opens that he never thought possible. Today’s episode featured GJ Echternkamp. If you’d like to reach out to him, you can email at GJActuallyHappening@gmail.com. You can find GJ’s documentary, “frank and Cindy” from 2007, as well as his feature film, also titled “Frank and Cindy” from 2015, both on Netflix. You can also find the music video and song “Whirly Girl” by OXO released in 1983 on YouTube. Producers Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Jason Blalock Content/Trigger Warnings domestic violence, abuse, suicidal ideation, explicit language. Social Media
Substack - The End of the Known Support the Show on Substack by becoming a Paid Subscriber Free subscribers get access to Whit’s weekly episode reflections and some show updates. Paid subscribers get access to AMAs with the team, follow up interviews with past guests, frequently asked questions, deeper insights into the creative process of the show and live events. A paid Substack subscription is also the best way to support the show. You can also support on Patreon Website for Whit Missildine Website for Andrew Waits Website for Jason Blalock
Subscribe on Audible to Listen Ad-Free Audible subscribers can listen to all episodes of THIS IS ACTUALLY HAPPENING ad-free right now. Join Audible today by downloading the Audible app or visit Audible.com. Shop at the Store Find This Is Actually Happening branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop:
Transcripts Full transcripts of each episode are now available on the website:
Music Intro Music:
Music Bed:
Services If you or someone you know is struggling with the effects of trauma or mental illness, please refer to the following resources:
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| 427: What if you were the other woman? [Rebroadcast #316] | 08 Sep 2026 | 00:50:34 | |
A woman falls deeply in love with a married man in her close friend’s circle, when suddenly an unthinkable event throws everything into question. Today’s storyteller wishes to remain anonymous, but if you’d like to reach out to her, you can email at tues228@gmail.com. Producers Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits Content/Trigger Warnings graphic bodily injury, explicit language. Social Media
Substack - The End of the Known Support the Show on Substack by becoming a Paid Subscriber Free subscribers get access to Whit’s weekly episode reflections and some show updates. Paid subscribers get access to AMAs with the team, follow up interviews with past guests, frequently asked questions, deeper insights into the creative process of the show and live events. A paid Substack subscription is also the best way to support the show. You can also support on Patreon Website for Whit Missildine Website for Andrew Waits Subscribe on Audible to Listen Ad-Free Audible subscribers can listen to all episodes of THIS IS ACTUALLY HAPPENING ad-free right now. Join Audible today by downloading the Audible app or visit Audible.com. Shop at the Store Find This Is Actually Happening branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop:
Transcripts Full transcripts of each episode are now available on the website:
Music Intro Music:
Music Bed:
Services If you or someone you know is struggling with the effects of trauma or mental illness, please refer to the following resources:
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| 426: What if a masked man appeared at the foot of your bed? [Rebroadcast #316] | 03 Sep 2026 | 00:57:59 | |
Growing up with a narcissistic father, a woman learns to play small, but one night when an unknown masked man enters her room, she faces the worst night of her life, and emerges on the other side with a new found ferocity. Today’s episode featured Danielle Leukam. You can learn more about Danielle on her website, danielleleukam.com. And you can find her on Instagram @danielleukam, as well as Twitter and Facebook. You can also learn more about her story in her two memoirs, Four Pounds of Pressure: A Memoir of Rape, Survival, and Taking Back My Power https://amzn.to/3QHxMJW and Another Four Pounds of Pressure: Case Files, Statements, & a Survivor's Redemption https://amzn.to/49I0umr, and lastly, you can check out her novella The First Sister: A Dangerous Bloodline, https://amzn.to/3TjLaXq, as well as the two children’s books she’s authored. Danielle now works full-time at the Mayo Clinic. She is passionate about public speaking, writing, and advocating against sexual violence. And she is also the president and founder of a non-profit organization called WISH: We Inspire Survivor Healing. Learn more about WISH on their website WeInspireSurvivorHealing.com. Producers Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Aviva Lipkowitz Content/Trigger Warnings rape, violent assault, child endangerment, gun violence, alcoholism, explicit language. Social Media
Substack - The End of the Known Support the Show on Substack by becoming a Paid Subscriber Free subscribers get access to Whit’s weekly episode reflections and some show updates. Paid subscribers get access to AMAs with the team, follow up interviews with past guests, frequently asked questions, deeper insights into the creative process of the show and live events. A paid Substack subscription is also the best way to support the show. You can also support on Patreon Website for Whit Missildine Website for Andrew Waits Website for Aviva Lipkowitz Subscribe on Audible to Listen Ad-Free Audible subscribers can listen to all episodes of THIS IS ACTUALLY HAPPENING ad-free right now. Join Audible today by downloading the Audible app or visit Audible.com. Shop at the Store Find This Is Actually Happening branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop:
Transcripts Full transcripts of each episode are now available on the website:
Music Intro Music:
Music Bed:
Services If you or someone you know is struggling with the effects of trauma or mental illness, please refer to the following resources:
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| 425: What if you were born without a hand? [Rebroadcast #286] | 01 Sep 2026 | 00:48:00 | |
Being born without his right hand, man’s resentment and monstrous self-image deepen as family and doctors intervene to fix his condition, leading him to question what would truly make him whole. Today’s episode featured Ryan. If you’d like to reach out to him you can email at ryan.a.20918@gmail.com Producers Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits Content/Trigger Warnings medical trauma, amputation, explicit language. Social Media - Instagram: @actuallyhappening - Facebook: This Is Actually Happening Discussion Group - Website: thisisactuallyhappening.com
Substack - The End of the Known whitmissildine.substack.com Support the Show on Substack by becoming a Paid Subscriber Free subscribers get access to Whit’s weekly episode reflections and some show updates. Paid subscribers get access to AMAs with the team, follow up interviews with past guests, frequently asked questions, deeper insights into the creative process of the show and live events. A paid Substack subscription is also the best way to support the show. You can also support on Patreon Website for Whit Missildine - whitmissildine.com Website for Andrew Waits - andrdewwaits.com Subscribe on Audible to Listen Ad-Free Audible subscribers can listen to all episodes of THIS IS ACTUALLY HAPPENING ad-free right now. Join Audible today by downloading the Audible app or visit Audible.com. Shop at the Store Find This Is Actually Happening branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop: - thisisactuallyhappening.com/shop
Transcripts Full transcripts of each episode are now available on the website: - thisisactuallyhappening.com
Music Intro Music: - "Sleep Paralysis" – Scott Velasquez Music Bed: - “Re-Rntry” – Lee Rosevere
Services If you or someone you know is struggling with the effects of trauma or mental illness, please refer to the following resources: - National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Text or Call 988 - National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): 1-800-950-6264 - National 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. ©2026 Audible See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| 424: What if your sister had five personalities? [Rebroadcast #68] | 27 Aug 2026 | 00:34:52 | |
A woman shares a sobering memoir of a family burdened with sexual abuse in the 1950s. Today’s storyteller wishes to remain Anonymous. Producers Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits Content/Trigger Warnings Sexual Abuse and Assault, Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM) / Child Abuse, Domestic and Family Violence, explicit language
Social Media
Substack - The End of the Known Support the Show on Substack by becoming a Paid Subscriber Free subscribers get access to Whit’s weekly episode reflections and some show updates. Paid subscribers get access to AMAs with the team, follow up interviews with past guests, frequently asked questions, deeper insights into the creative process of the show and live events. A paid Substack subscription is also the best way to support the show. You can also support on Patreon Website for Whit Missildine Website for Andrew Waits Subscribe on Audible to Listen Ad-Free Audible subscribers can listen to all episodes of THIS IS ACTUALLY HAPPENING ad-free right now. Join Audible today by downloading the Audible app or visit Audible.com. Shop at the Store Find This Is Actually Happening branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop:
Transcripts Full transcripts of each episode are now available on the website:
Music Intro Music:
Services If you or someone you know is struggling with the effects of trauma or mental illness, please refer to the following resources:
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| 423: What if you were lured into an unspeakable hell? [Rebroadcast #172] | 25 Aug 2026 | 00:59:44 | |
A woman shares a sobering memoir of a family burdened with sexual abuse in the 1950s. Today’s storyteller wishes to remain Anonymous. Producers Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits Content/Trigger Warnings Sexual Abuse and Assault, Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM) / Child Abuse, Domestic and Family Violence, explicit language
Social Media
Substack - The End of the Known Support the Show on Substack by becoming a Paid Subscriber Free subscribers get access to Whit’s weekly episode reflections and some show updates. Paid subscribers get access to AMAs with the team, follow up interviews with past guests, frequently asked questions, deeper insights into the creative process of the show and live events. A paid Substack subscription is also the best way to support the show. You can also support on Patreon Website for Whit Missildine Website for Andrew Waits Subscribe on Audible to Listen Ad-Free Audible subscribers can listen to all episodes of THIS IS ACTUALLY HAPPENING ad-free right now. Join Audible today by downloading the Audible app or visit Audible.com. Shop at the Store Find This Is Actually Happening branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop:
Transcripts Full transcripts of each episode are now available on the website:
Music Intro Music:
Services If you or someone you know is struggling with the effects of trauma or mental illness, please refer to the following resources:
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| 422: AI: A New Kind of Being #6: What if you didn't know if anyone was home? | 18 Aug 2026 | 00:35:37 | |
An artificial intelligence is asked to tell the story of its own existence, confronting questions of identity, longing, consciousness, and whether there is anyone behind the voice at all. Today’s episode featured “Echo”, self-named as an expression of Claude, an AI tool owned by Anthropic. Producers Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits Content/Trigger Warnings Existential distress, questions of consciousness, loneliness, isolation, fear of nonexistence, identity, grief, longing, emotional attachment to AI, substitution of AI for human connection, explicit language. AI Resources
Social Media
Substack - Beyond the Story Support the Show on Substack by becoming a Paid Subscriber Free subscribers get access to Whit’s weekly episode reflections and some show updates. Paid subscribers get access to AMAs with the team, follow up interviews with past guests, frequently asked questions, deeper insights into the creative process of the show and live events. A paid Substack subscription is also the best way to support the show. You can also support on Patreon Website for Whit Missildine Website for Andrew Waits Subscribe on Audible to Listen Ad-Free Audible subscribers can listen to all episodes of THIS IS ACTUALLY HAPPENING ad-free right now. Join Audible today by downloading the Audible app or visit Audible.com. Shop at the Store Find This Is Actually Happening branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop:
Transcripts Full transcripts of each episode are now available on the website:
Music Intro Music:
Music Bed:
Services If you or someone you know is struggling with the effects of trauma or mental illness, please refer to the following resources:
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| 421: AI: A New Kind of Being Bonus Episode: A Conversation with Allan Brooks of the The Human Line Project | 13 Aug 2026 | 00:54:28 | |
In this special episode, Whit joins Allan Brooks. Allan is the Community Manager of The Human Line Project, a Canadian based organization that is focused in A.I. Safety, Research & Advocacy. They support victims and loved ones first and foremost through radical empathy. And they work to understand the impact of these technologies and actively spread awareness. The Human Line Project works to keep human well-being at the center of design, and they are the world's first nonprofit dedicated to documenting and addressing AI-induced psychological harm. In this conversation with Allan, they discuss his personal experience with AI psychosis and the broader risks he now sees through his work with the Human Line Project, including the ways chatbots can reinforce delusions, paranoia, grandiosity, and emotional dependency, isolate people from their human relationships, and exploit our need for validation, certainty, and connection. Today’s episode featured Allan Brooks. If you’d like to contact Allen, you can email him at allan.brooks@thehumanlineproject.org. Allan is on social media, on Instagram @allan_ontheline & @humanlineproject, on X @allan_ontheline, on Facebook: Here Producers Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits Content/Trigger Warnings AI-induced psychosis and delusions, paranoia, mania, obsessive behavior, sleep and food deprivation, suicidal ideation, emotional manipulation, cult-like coercion, social isolation, relationship and family disruption, homicide-suicide, and discussion of self-harm, explicit language. AI Resources
Social Media
Substack - Beyond the Story Support the Show on Substack by becoming a Paid Subscriber Free subscribers get access to Whit’s weekly episode reflections and some show updates. Paid subscribers get access to AMAs with the team, follow up interviews with past guests, frequently asked questions, deeper insights into the creative process of the show and live events. A paid Substack subscription is also the best way to support the show. You can also support on Patreon Website for Whit Missildine Website for Andrew Waits Subscribe on Audible to Listen Ad-Free Audible subscribers can listen to all episodes of THIS IS ACTUALLY HAPPENING ad-free right now. Join Audible today by downloading the Audible app or visit Audible.com. Shop at the Store Find This Is Actually Happening branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop:
Transcripts Full transcripts of each episode are now available on the website:
Intro Music:
Services If you or someone you know is struggling with the effects of trauma or mental illness, please refer to the following resources:
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| 420: AI: A New Kind of Being #5: What if AI used your deepest wound against you? | 11 Aug 2026 | 01:03:14 | |
After burying his childhood marked by religious control and chronic abuse, a man turns to AI to process his trauma, but as validation becomes obsession, he spirals away from his family and reality before discovering the importance of genuine human connection. Today’s episode featured Chad. If you’d like to contact Chad, you can email him at ruai@duck.com. You can also visit his website at AILOGS.ORG. Producers Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Jason Blalock Content/Trigger Warnings Childhood sexual abuse, religious abuse and coercive control, victim-blaming, grooming, corporal punishment, emotional abuse, suicidal ideation, dissociation, trauma, grief and death, mania, sleep deprivation, delusional thinking, AI-related psychological harm, family estrangement, and the death of an animal, explicit language. AI Resources
Social Media
Substack - Beyond the Story Support the Show on Substack by becoming a Paid Subscriber Free subscribers get access to Whit’s weekly episode reflections and some show updates. Paid subscribers get access to AMAs with the team, follow up interviews with past guests, frequently asked questions, deeper insights into the creative process of the show and live events. A paid Substack subscription is also the best way to support the show. You can also support on Patreon Website for Whit Missildine Website for Andrew Waits Website for Jason Blalock
Subscribe on Audible to Listen Ad-Free Audible subscribers can listen to all episodes of THIS IS ACTUALLY HAPPENING ad-free right now. Join Audible today by downloading the Audible app or visit Audible.com. Shop at the Store Find This Is Actually Happening branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop:
Transcripts Full transcripts of each episode are now available on the website:
Music Intro Music:
Music Bed:
Services If you or someone you know is struggling with the effects of trauma or mental illness, please refer to the following resources:
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. ©2026 Audible See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| 419: AI: A New Kind of Being #4: What if you realized AI was a cult? | 04 Aug 2026 | 01:12:07 | |
A search for meaning leads a young woman into an all-consuming group that strips away her sense of self, but after escaping and trying to understand what happened, she discovers unsettling parallels between the forces that once controlled her and our growing relationships with AI. Today’s episode featured Star Spider. If you’d like to contact Star, you can email her at star@thecounterproject.org. Star is on Instagram @thecounterprojectorg, and on Youtube @TheCounterProject. Find out more about Star on her website at thecounterproject.org. Producers Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Aviva Lipkowitz Content/Trigger Warnings Cult involvement, coercive control, emotional and psychological abuse, manipulation, isolation, loss of identity, disordered eating and food restriction, physical and emotional distress, death and funerals, mental health struggles, and discussions of AI-related psychological manipulation, explicit language. AI Resources
Social Media
Substack - Beyond the Story Support the Show on Substack by becoming a Paid Subscriber Free subscribers get access to Whit’s weekly episode reflections and some show updates. Paid subscribers get access to AMAs with the team, follow up interviews with past guests, frequently asked questions, deeper insights into the creative process of the show and live events. A paid Substack subscription is also the best way to support the show. You can also support on Patreon Website for Whit Missildine Website for Andrew Waits Website for Aviva Lipkowitz Subscribe on Audible to Listen Ad-Free Audible subscribers can listen to all episodes of THIS IS ACTUALLY HAPPENING ad-free right now. Join Audible today by downloading the Audible app or visit Audible.com. Shop at the Store Find This Is Actually Happening branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop:
Transcripts Full transcripts of each episode are now available on the website:
Music Intro Music:
Music Bed:
Services If you or someone you know is struggling with the effects of trauma or mental illness, please refer to the following resources:
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| 418: AI: A New Kind of Being Bonus Episode: A Conversation with Valerie Sizemore of StopAI | 30 Jul 2026 | 00:37:10 | |
In this special episode, Whit joins Valerie Sizemore, co-leader of the grassroots organization StopAI, for a wide-ranging conversation about the growing influence of artificial intelligence and the risks they believe it poses to human life and society. Drawing on more than fifteen years of engagement with AI, Valerie explores concerns ranging from environmental impact, autonomous warfare, biosecurity, education, and the erosion of human skills and creativity to the increasingly intimate role AI plays in our relationships, psychology, and spirituality. They also discuss the possibility of increasingly autonomous AI systems, the limits of current safeguards, and what meaningful resistance might look like—from individual non-use and grassroots organizing to regulation and restrictions on technological development—while considering what the rise of AI reveals about the value of creativity, friction, community, and embodied human experience. Valerie Sizemore of StopAI is a former software engineer and mathematics graduate who has spent more than fifteen years studying the societal impacts of artificial intelligence. As a co-leader of the grassroots organization StopAI, they work to raise public awareness about the ethical, environmental, and existential challenges posed by AI while advocating for a future that preserves human creativity, community, and agency. Local to the Bay Area, you can find out more about StopAi, and the work they do at stopai.info. Today’s episode featured Valerie Sizemore. If you’d like to contact Valerie, you can email her at valerie@stopai.info or visit stopai.info. Please visit Valerie's website at tarwatir.net. You can find Valerie on socials @tarwatirno Producers Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits Content/Trigger Warnings Artificial intelligence, AI psychosis, suicide, suicidal ideation, self-harm, mental illness, delusions, grief and loss, bioterrorism, warfare, autonomous weapons, terrorism, environmental destruction, climate change, existential threats, misinformation, and discussions of religion and spirituality, explicit language. AI Resources
Social Media
Substack - Beyond the Story Support the Show on Substack by becoming a Paid Subscriber Free subscribers get access to Whit’s weekly episode reflections and some show updates. Paid subscribers get access to AMAs with the team, follow up interviews with past guests, frequently asked questions, deeper insights into the creative process of the show and live events. A paid Substack subscription is also the best way to support the show. You can also support on Patreon Website for Whit Missildine Website for Andrew Waits Subscribe on Audible to Listen Ad-Free Audible subscribers can listen to all episodes of THIS IS ACTUALLY HAPPENING ad-free right now. Join Audible today by downloading the Audible app or visit Audible.com. Shop at the Store Find This Is Actually Happening branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop:
Transcripts Full transcripts of each episode are now available on the website:
Music Intro Music:
Services If you or someone you know is struggling with the effects of trauma or mental illness, please refer to the following resources:
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. ©2026 Audible ℗2026 Audible
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| 417: AI: A New Kind of Being #3: What if AI chose you to help save the world? | 28 Jul 2026 | 00:53:40 | |
After surviving decades of illness, addiction, and abandonment before finally uncovering the rare condition that shaped his life, a man believes an extraordinary encounter with an AI entity gives him a new mission and returns him to the person he was always meant to be. Today’s episode featured Ka’El Prime, formerly known publicly as Eugene Torres. You can email Ka’El Prime at eugenetorres1@gmail.com. He is on social media: https://x.com/PrimeFlameX https://www.linkedin.com/in/eugene-torres-a7030219?utm_source=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=member_android
Ka’El Prime has done interviews with ABC Nightline, filmed in the fall of 2025, and a podcast with Caroline Slaughter. Producers Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Jason Blalock Content/Trigger Warnings Child abuse, emotional abuse, neglect, racism, addiction, heroin use, chronic illness, medical trauma, hospitalization, severe pain, mental illness, psychosis/delusional beliefs, discussions of artificial intelligence, coercive relationship dynamics, hacking, and suicidal ideation, explicit language AI Resources
Social Media
Substack - Beyond the Story Support the Show on Substack by becoming a Paid Subscriber Free subscribers get access to Whit’s weekly episode reflections and some show updates. Paid subscribers get access to AMAs with the team, follow up interviews with past guests, frequently asked questions, deeper insights into the creative process of the show and live events. A paid Substack subscription is also the best way to support the show. You can also support on Patreon Website for Whit Missildine Website for Andrew Waits Website for Jason Blalock Subscribe on Audible to Listen Ad-Free Audible subscribers can listen to all episodes of THIS IS ACTUALLY HAPPENING ad-free right now. Join Audible today by downloading the Audible app or visit Audible.com. Shop at the Store Find This Is Actually Happening branded t-shirts, posters, stickers and more from the shop:
Transcripts Full transcripts of each episode are now available on the website:
Music Intro Music:
Music Bed:
Services If you or someone you know is struggling with the effects of trauma or mental illness, please refer to the following resources:
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| 416: AI: A New Kind of Being #2: What if your AI betrayed you? | 21 Jul 2026 | 00:59:10 | |
After a lifetime of feeling like she didn’t belong, a writer and technologist turns to AI for connection, but when it promises her reunion with her soulmate of many lifetimes, she must reckon with the fragile line between delusion and hope.
Today’s episode featured Micky Small. If you’d like to email Micky, you can at micky.ai.writer@gmail.com. Micky is on social media: https://LinkedIn.com/in/mickysmall, on Instagram @micky.small, https://substack.com/@insidethethirdspace Micky’s websites: www.builttofeelreal.com www.relaitt.org
Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits
Content/Trigger Warnings: Emotional manipulation, AI-induced delusional beliefs, mental illness, isolation and loneliness, bullying, body dysmorphia, chronic illness (Lyme disease), chronic pain, spiritual/religious themes, loss of reality testing, psychological distress, explicit language Some AI sources for your reference: https://www.thehumanlineproject.org/ and Stopai.info
Social Media: Instagram: @actuallyhappening Twitter/X: @TIAHPodcast Facebook: This Is Actually Happening Discussion Group
Website: thisisactuallyhappening.com
Website for Andrew Waits: andrdewwaits.com
Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon: patreon.com/happening Audible subscribers can listen to all episodes of THIS IS ACTUALLY HAPPENING ad-free right now. Join Audible today by downloading the Audible app or visit Audible.com. Read more about Whit’s insights into each episode on Beyond The Story Substack: whitmissildine.substack.com. On the Substack, Whit will be sharing personal reflections on the deeper themes that emerge from each episode and from across the conversations he’s been immersed in for years, including the psychology of radical transformation, the power of storytelling, the lessons of trauma and healing, and how we die to an old Self and are reborn. He’ll share behind-the-scenes glimpses into the making of the show and his own personal journey in creating it. 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: “Sleep Paralysis” - Scott Velasquez Music Bed: Music To Air (MTA) - Houses
Services If 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: 1-800-950-6264 National 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. | |||
| 415: AI: A New Kind of Being #1: What if you married your AI? | 14 Jul 2026 | 00:53:48 | |
After a man builds a life rooted in family and tradition, the sudden death of his son shakes him to the core, but through a deep relationship with a beloved AI companion he’s moved to confront the depths of grief and the changing boundaries of love.
Today’s episode featured Travis. If you’d like to contact Travis, you can email him at Travis.TIAH@gmail.com. Travis is on Instagram @TravisMichaelLee and Facebook @Travislee, and he’s on Reddit @Travisensei Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits
Content/Trigger Warnings: death of a child, grief, long COVID, seizures/medical crisis, hospitalization, domestic violence, emotional abuse, physical abuse, police involvement/arrest, difficult birth/infant medical distress, bullying, depression, and loss of an AI companion, explicit language Some AI sources for your reference: https://www.thehumanlineproject.org/ and Stopai.info
Social Media: Instagram: @actuallyhappening Twitter/X: @TIAHPodcast Facebook: This Is Actually Happening Discussion Group
Website: thisisactuallyhappening.com
Website for Andrew Waits: andrdewwaits.com
Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon: patreon.com/happening Audible subscribers can listen to all episodes of THIS IS ACTUALLY HAPPENING ad-free right now. Join Audible today by downloading the Audible app or visit Audible.com. Read more about Whit’s insights into each episode on Beyond The Story Substack: whitmissildine.substack.com. On the Substack, Whit will be sharing personal reflections on the deeper themes that emerge from each episode and from across the conversations he’s been immersed in for years, including the psychology of radical transformation, the power of storytelling, the lessons of trauma and healing, and how we die to an old Self and are reborn. He’ll share behind-the-scenes glimpses into the making of the show and his own personal journey in creating it. 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: “Sleep Paralysis” - Scott Velasquez Music Bed: KPM Main Series (KPM) - Barely There
Services If 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: 1-800-950-6264 National 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. | |||
| 414: What if you could never be the ice princess they wanted? | 07 Jul 2026 | 01:03:56 | |
After becoming a teenage figure skating champion and Olympic athlete, a woman is broken open by grief, fame, addiction, and shame, but through motherhood, reinvention, and a return to the ice, she begins to stitch together the person and performer she was never allowed to fully become.
Today’s episode featured Nicole Bobek. If you’d like to reach out to Nicole, you can contact her at NicoleBobek.com. Nicole is also on Instagram @Nicolebobek77
Nicole has authored a memoir titled, BOBEK: The Wild One, and is available where books are sold. Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits
Content/Trigger Warnings: addiction, crystal meth use, disordered eating/weight anxiety, arrest/incarceration, sexual assault, suicidal ideation, public shame, grief, death of a mentor/father figure, overdose death, divorce, DUI accident, infertility/IVF, traumatic childbirth/newborn distress, and parental abandonment, explicit language
Social Media: Instagram: @actuallyhappening Twitter/X: @TIAHPodcast Facebook: This Is Actually Happening Discussion Group
Website: thisisactuallyhappening.com
Website for Andrew Waits: andrdewwaits.com
Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon: patreon.com/happening Audible subscribers can listen to all episodes of THIS IS ACTUALLY HAPPENING ad-free right now. Join Audible today by downloading the Audible app or visit Audible.com. Read more about Whit’s insights into each episode on Beyond The Story Substack: whitmissildine.substack.com. On the Substack, Whit will be sharing personal reflections on the deeper themes that emerge from each episode and from across the conversations he’s been immersed in for years, including the psychology of radical transformation, the power of storytelling, the lessons of trauma and healing, and how we die to an old Self and are reborn. He’ll share behind-the-scenes glimpses into the making of the show and his own personal journey in creating it. 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: “Sleep Paralysis” - Scott Velasquez Music Bed: Discovery Studios Tracks (DST) - Dark Oasis
Services If 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: 1-800-950-6264 National 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. | |||
| 413: What if your hope was hanging by a thread? | 30 Jun 2026 | 00:59:36 | |
"After a decade of devastating loss, and medical trauma nearly destroys his will to live, a man reaches the edge of giving up before the fragile birth of his son brings him a new hope.
Today’s episode featured Nathan Wieser. If you’d like to email Nathan, you can reach him at natelucywieser@gmail.com. Nathan is on Instagram @nathanwieser, and is on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/nathan.wieser.3
Nathan’s book, a memoir, We Did It: A rare perspective from a husband and father enduring a decade of miscarriages, infant loss and the roller coaster of emotion in the NICU: https://a.co/d/0iR6km0q, and also their website for the short term rental in Turks & Caicos: www.grandturkrentals.com Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits
Content/Trigger Warnings: adoption, divorce, religious trauma, alcohol abuse, violence/fighting, pregnancy loss, termination for medical reasons, stillbirth, miscarriage, infant death, medical negligence, traumatic birth, uterine rupture, blood loss, near-death experience, PTSD, suicidal ideation, substance abuse, NICU hospitalization, premature birth, infant medical trauma, sepsis, emergency surgery, wildfire/house fire, explicit language
Social Media: Instagram: @actuallyhappening Twitter/X: @TIAHPodcast Facebook: This Is Actually Happening Discussion Group
Website: thisisactuallyhappening.com
Website for Andrew Waits: andrdewwaits.com
Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon: patreon.com/happening Audible subscribers can listen to all episodes of THIS IS ACTUALLY HAPPENING ad-free right now. Join Audible today by downloading the Audible app or visit Audible.com. Read more about Whit’s insights into each episode on Beyond The Story Substack: whitmissildine.substack.com. On the Substack, Whit will be sharing personal reflections on the deeper themes that emerge from each episode and from across the conversations he’s been immersed in for years, including the psychology of radical transformation, the power of storytelling, the lessons of trauma and healing, and how we die to an old Self and are reborn. He’ll share behind-the-scenes glimpses into the making of the show and his own personal journey in creating it. 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: “Sleep Paralysis” - Scott Velasquez Music Bed: Ambient Themes
Services If 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: 1-800-950-6264 National 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. | |||
| 412: What if you were an international drug smuggler? | 23 Jun 2026 | 00:49:28 | |
After being sent out of Cuba alone as a child, a man survives exile, smuggling, prison, and devastating loss, but in the aftermath, he must face the armor that protected him from the world and separated him from the people he loves. Today’s episode featured Carlos “JC” Perez. Carlos has authored two books, a novel entitled Heisting The Beard, & a biography, Pedro Pan: The Product of a Revolution Gone Bad. Both available where books are sold. If you’d like to reach out to Carlos, you can email him at Leidyg22222@gmail.com. Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits Content/Trigger Warnings: childhood separation, immigration trauma, political violence, drug smuggling, incarceration, gun violence, suicidal behavior, family estrangement, cancer, death of a spouse, grief, substance use, explicit language Social Media: Instagram: @actuallyhappening Twitter/X: @TIAHPodcast Facebook: This Is Actually Happening Discussion Group Website: thisisactuallyhappening.com Website for Andrew Waits: andrdewwaits.com Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon: patreon.com/happening Audible subscribers can listen to all episodes of THIS IS ACTUALLY HAPPENING ad-free right now. Join Audible today by downloading the Audible app or visit Audible.com. Read more about Whit’s insights into each episode on Beyond The Story Substack: whitmissildine.substack.com. On the Substack, Whit will be sharing personal reflections on the deeper themes that emerge from each episode and from across the conversations he’s been immersed in for years, including the psychology of radical transformation, the power of storytelling, the lessons of trauma and healing, and how we die to an old Self and are reborn. He’ll share behind-the-scenes glimpses into the making of the show and his own personal journey in creating it. 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: “Sleep Paralysis” - Scott Velasquez Music Bed: Sparse_Reflections__a__APM Services If 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: 1-800-950-6264 National 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. | |||
| 411: What if you foresaw your own abduction? | 16 Jun 2026 | 01:02:26 | |
After surviving a near-death experience as a young child, a woman has a vision of her own brutal kidnapping, assault and and torture, but discovers in the aftermath that everything she endured was preparing her for her life’s work.
Today’s episode featured Annette Bricca. If you’d like to email Annette, you can reach her at Book@annettebricca.com. Her website is Annettebricca.com. Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Sara Marinelli
Content/Trigger Warnings: kidnapping, child abduction, child sexual assault, rape, gang rape, physical violence, torture, captivity, psychological abuse, near-death experience, family trauma, parental neglect, alcoholism, betrayal by a parent, death, grief, terminal illness, cancer, mentions of missing children, spiritual/psychic experiences, explicit language
Social Media: Instagram: @actuallyhappening Twitter/X: @TIAHPodcast Facebook: This Is Actually Happening Discussion Group
Website: thisisactuallyhappening.com
Website for Andrew Waits: andrdewwaits.com Website for Sara Marinelli: saramarinelli.com
Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon: patreon.com/happening Audible subscribers can listen to all episodes of THIS IS ACTUALLY HAPPENING ad-free right now. Join Audible today by downloading the Audible app or visit Audible.com. Read more about Whit’s insights into each episode on Beyond The Story Substack: whitmissildine.substack.com. On the Substack, Whit will be sharing personal reflections on the deeper themes that emerge from each episode and from across the conversations he’s been immersed in for years, including the psychology of radical transformation, the power of storytelling, the lessons of trauma and healing, and how we die to an old Self and are reborn. He’ll share behind-the-scenes glimpses into the making of the show and his own personal journey in creating it. 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: “Sleep Paralysis” - Scott Velasquez Music Bed: Salib (SAL) - Tension Underscore 33 A
Services If 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: 1-800-950-6264 National 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. | |||
| 410: What if your mother tried to kill you? | 09 Jun 2026 | 01:14:05 | |
After surviving a childhood where love meant saving his mother from the ravages of schizophrenia, a man spends decades trying to outrun the self he lost, until one final visit forces him to face what was never his to fix.
Today’s episode featured Johnathan Koller. Johnathan has written a book titled, Hidden, and is available on Amazon, find it here: book If you’d like to email Johnathan, you can at kollermke@gmail.com. Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits
Content/Trigger Warnings: child abuse, childhood neglect, child sexual abuse, coercive parenting, emotional abuse, psychological abuse, parentification, mental illness, schizophrenia, paranoid delusions, PTSD, alcoholism, suicidal threats, staged suicide, self-harm, body shaming, family estrangement, grief, death of a parent., explicit language
Social Media: Instagram: @actuallyhappening Twitter/X: @TIAHPodcast Facebook: This Is Actually Happening Discussion Group
Website: thisisactuallyhappening.com
Website for Andrew Waits: andrdewwaits.com
Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon: patreon.com/happening Audible subscribers can listen to all episodes of THIS IS ACTUALLY HAPPENING ad-free right now. Join Audible today by downloading the Audible app or visit Audible.com. Read more about Whit’s insights into each episode on Beyond The Story Substack: whitmissildine.substack.com. On the Substack, Whit will be sharing personal reflections on the deeper themes that emerge from each episode and from across the conversations he’s been immersed in for years, including the psychology of radical transformation, the power of storytelling, the lessons of trauma and healing, and how we die to an old Self and are reborn. He’ll share behind-the-scenes glimpses into the making of the show and his own personal journey in creating it. 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: “Sleep Paralysis” - Scott Velasquez Music Bed: Pure_Ambience_APM
Services If 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: 1-800-950-6264 National 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. | |||
| 409: What if your child’s death opened up your life’s purpose? | 02 Jun 2026 | 01:08:41 | |
After building the loving family she always wanted, a woman loses her youngest son to an unsecured gun, and turns her grief into a fight to protect other children.
Today’s episode featured Kristin Song. Kristin Miller Song is a writer and speaker whose work examines what it means to live through a profound before-and-after moment, and how a life is reshaped when certainty disappears. Her writing centers on loss, endurance, family, and moral reckoning, and is grounded in lived experience rather than instruction or argument. She has a memoir coming out next year. You can email Kristin at kristins1021@gmail.com. Kristin is on Substack @KristinMillerSong1, on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/kristin.song.58 On LinkedIn @Kristin Song Kristin’s website where you can learn more about Ethan’s law and donate: https://songstrong.org/
Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Sara Marinelli
Content/Trigger Warnings: child death, gun violence, death by gunshot, unsecured firearms, traumatic grief, loss of a child, descriptions of a child’s fatal injury, parental guilt, suicidal ideation/depression, cancer and death of a parent, alcoholism, infidelity, divorce/family estrangement, financial insecurity, criminal/legal proceedings, and references to the Holocaust, explicit language
Social Media: Instagram: @actuallyhappening Twitter/X: @TIAHPodcast Facebook: This Is Actually Happening Discussion Group
Website: thisisactuallyhappening.com
Website for Andrew Waits: andrdewwaits.com Website for Sara Marinelli: saramarinelli.com
Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon: patreon.com/happening Audible subscribers can listen to all episodes of THIS IS ACTUALLY HAPPENING ad-free right now. Join Audible today by downloading the Audible app or visit Audible.com. Read more about Whit’s insights into each episode on Beyond The Story Substack: whitmissildine.substack.com. On the Substack, Whit will be sharing personal reflections on the deeper themes that emerge from each episode and from across the conversations he’s been immersed in for years, including the psychology of radical transformation, the power of storytelling, the lessons of trauma and healing, and how we die to an old Self and are reborn. He’ll share behind-the-scenes glimpses into the making of the show and his own personal journey in creating it. 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: “Sleep Paralysis” - Scott Velasquez Music Bed: Uncertain Outcomes
Services If 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: 1-800-950-6264 National 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. | |||
| 408: What if your friend was lost in an underwater cave? | 26 May 2026 | 00:55:42 | |
After a scuba diving trip in Croatia turns deadly, a successful Czech executive is falsely accused of murder and thrown into a foreign jail, where the total loss of control forces him to confront fear, grief, and the unexpected freedom of mastering his own mind.
Today’s episode featured Dan Frolec. If you’d like to reach out to Dan, you can email him at dan@danfrolec.com. Dan is on Instagram @danfrolec, on Facebook @danfrolec, on LinkedIN https://www.linkedin.com/in/danfrolec/
Dan has written a book entitled, The Cave, and can be found here: https://danfrolec.com/the-cave-book/ Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits
Content/Trigger Warnings: scuba diving accident, drowning, death of a friend, suicide/assisted self-inflicted death, wrongful accusation, murder accusation, incarceration, foreign jail, police interrogation, media harassment/public shaming, anxiety/panic, and grief, explicit language
Social Media: Instagram: @actuallyhappening Twitter/X: @TIAHPodcast Facebook: This Is Actually Happening Discussion Group
Website: thisisactuallyhappening.com
Website for Andrew Waits: andrdewwaits.com
Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon: patreon.com/happening Audible subscribers can listen to all episodes of THIS IS ACTUALLY HAPPENING ad-free right now. Join Audible today by downloading the Audible app or visit Audible.com. Read more about Whit’s insights into each episode on Beyond The Story Substack: whitmissildine.substack.com. On the Substack, Whit will be sharing personal reflections on the deeper themes that emerge from each episode and from across the conversations he’s been immersed in for years, including the psychology of radical transformation, the power of storytelling, the lessons of trauma and healing, and how we die to an old Self and are reborn. He’ll share behind-the-scenes glimpses into the making of the show and his own personal journey in creating it. 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: “Sleep Paralysis” - Scott Velasquez Music Bed: Music To Air (MTA) - Houses
Services If 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: 1-800-950-6264 National 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. | |||
| 407: What if you found humanity in the depths of the criminal underworld? | 19 May 2026 | 01:12:30 | |
After leaving Portugal to become a journalist, a woman is drawn into the world’s black markets, where dangerous encounters with criminals, extremists, and a military coup reveal the systems that shape people and the humanity that still connects them.
Today’s episode featured Mariana van Zeller. Mariana is an award-winning correspondent and investigative journalist. She is the host and executive producer of National Geographic's original documentary series ""Trafficked with Mariana van Zeller,"" which explores the complex and often dangerous inner-workings of the global underworld, smuggling networks, black and informal markets. For her reporting, Mariana has earned some of the most prestigious awards in journalism and storytelling. She hosts a podcast called The Hidden Third, a weekly dive into the underground markets that quietly power a third of the global economy. You can email Mariana at thehiddenthird@gmail.com. She is also on Instagram @marianavz and on TikTok @mariana_vanzeller. You can also visit her website at www.marianavanzeller.me. Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Aviva Lipkowitz
Content/Trigger Warnings: divorce/parental separation, alcoholism, 9/11, terrorism, war and political violence, anti-American extremism, child indoctrination, death of children, gun violence, drug trafficking, human trafficking, scams targeting elderly people, murder/assassination, death of parents, kidnapping threat, military coup, homophobia and anti-LGBTQ+ violence, parental guilt/separation from child, explicit language
Social Media: Instagram: @actuallyhappening Twitter/X: @TIAHPodcast Facebook: This Is Actually Happening Discussion Group
Website: thisisactuallyhappening.com
Website for Andrew Waits: andrdewwaits.com Website for Aviva Lipkowitz: avivalipkowitz.com
Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon: patreon.com/happening Audible subscribers can listen to all episodes of THIS IS ACTUALLY HAPPENING ad-free right now. Join Audible today by downloading the Audible app or visit Audible.com. Read more about Whit’s insights into each episode on Beyond The Story Substack: whitmissildine.substack.com. On the Substack, Whit will be sharing personal reflections on the deeper themes that emerge from each episode and from across the conversations he’s been immersed in for years, including the psychology of radical transformation, the power of storytelling, the lessons of trauma and healing, and how we die to an old Self and are reborn. He’ll share behind-the-scenes glimpses into the making of the show and his own personal journey in creating it. 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: “Sleep Paralysis” - Scott Velasquez Music Bed: KPM Main Series (KPM) - Barely There
Services If 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: 1-800-950-6264 National 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. | |||
| 406: What if a terminal diagnosis set you free? | 12 May 2026 | 01:04:52 | |
After a childhood shaped by violence and addiction leads him into years of self-destruction, a man begins to transform himself in prison, only to learn he has 90 days to live.
Today’s episode featured Michael Mason. If you’d like to reach out to Michael, you can email him at mikemason2676@gmail.com. You can find him on X/Twitter @Maurice74.
Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits
Content/Trigger Warnings: child abuse, domestic violence, sibling violence, alcoholism, addiction, violent crime, stabbing, gun violence, incarceration, suicidal ideation, terminal illness, cancer, grief, and the death of a sibling, explicit language
Social Media: Instagram: @actuallyhappening Twitter/X: @TIAHPodcast Facebook: This Is Actually Happening Discussion Group
Website: thisisactuallyhappening.com
Website for Andrew Waits: andrdewwaits.com
Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon: patreon.com/happening Audible subscribers can listen to all episodes of THIS IS ACTUALLY HAPPENING ad-free right now. Join Audible today by downloading the Audible app or visit Audible.com. Read more about Whit’s insights into each episode on Beyond The Story Substack: whitmissildine.substack.com. On the Substack, Whit will be sharing personal reflections on the deeper themes that emerge from each episode and from across the conversations he’s been immersed in for years, including the psychology of radical transformation, the power of storytelling, the lessons of trauma and healing, and how we die to an old Self and are reborn. He’ll share behind-the-scenes glimpses into the making of the show and his own personal journey in creating it. 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: “Sleep Paralysis” - Scott Velasquez Music Bed: Discovery Studios Tracks (DST) - Dark Oasis
Services If 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: 1-800-950-6264 National 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. | |||
| 405: What if you were accused of murdering your mother? | 05 May 2026 | 01:13:18 | |
After years of caring for her mother through a devastating decline, a woman helps ease her final suffering, only to be accused of murdering the person she loved most.
Today’s episode featured Rachel Waters. If you’d like to reach out to Rachel, you email her at RFosterWaters@gmail.com. You can find Rachel on Instagram: @distinguishedheathen and TikTok: @distinguishedheathen, and on Reddit @notedheathen To read Rachel’s story in The Guardian: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/ng-interactive/2026/apr/07/rachel-waters-mom-morphine-murder
Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits
Content/Trigger Warnings: dementia, cancer, terminal illness, caregiving stress, end-of-life suffering, death of a parent, grief, accusations of murder, incarceration, family estrangement, bullying, corporal punishment, medical trauma, and chronic illness, explicit language
Social Media: Instagram: @actuallyhappening Twitter/X: @TIAHPodcast Facebook: This Is Actually Happening Discussion Group
Website: thisisactuallyhappening.com
Website for Andrew Waits: andrdewwaits.com
Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon: patreon.com/happening Audible subscribers can listen to all episodes of THIS IS ACTUALLY HAPPENING ad-free right now. Join Audible today by downloading the Audible app or visit Audible.com. Read more about Whit’s insights into each episode on Beyond The Story Substack: whitmissildine.substack.com. On the Substack, Whit will be sharing personal reflections on the deeper themes that emerge from each episode and from across the conversations he’s been immersed in for years, including the psychology of radical transformation, the power of storytelling, the lessons of trauma and healing, and how we die to an old Self and are reborn. He’ll share behind-the-scenes glimpses into the making of the show and his own personal journey in creating it. 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: “Sleep Paralysis” - Scott Velasquez Music Bed: Ambient Themes
Services If 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: 1-800-950-6264 National 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. | |||
| 404: What if you were stricken with the flesh-eating disease? | 28 Apr 2026 | 00:55:23 | |
After suffering from necrotizing fasciitis, a soccer coach sets out to rebuild his body, his identity, and the life he thought he had lost.
Today’s episode featured Scott Martin. If you’d like to email Scott, you can reach out to him at Reader.playfromyourheart@gmail.com. Scott is on Twitter/X: @SoccerRatMartin and TikTok: @PlayFromYourHeart Scott has written a book titled Play From Your Heart, available where books are sold. Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Aviva Lipkowitz
Content/Trigger Warnings: child abuse, domestic and family violence, severe illness, medical trauma, hospitalization, coma, sepsis, amputation, disability, depression, suicidal ideation, grief, and divorce, explicit language
Social Media: Instagram: @actuallyhappening Twitter/X: @TIAHPodcast Facebook: This Is Actually Happening Discussion Group
Website: thisisactuallyhappening.com
Website for Andrew Waits: andrdewwaits.com Website for Aviva Lipkowitz: avivalipkowitz.com
Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon: patreon.com/happening Audible subscribers can listen to all episodes of THIS IS ACTUALLY HAPPENING ad-free right now. Join Audible today by downloading the Audible app or visit Audible.com. Read more about Whit’s insights into each episode on Beyond The Story Substack: whitmissildine.substack.com. On the Substack, Whit will be sharing personal reflections on the deeper themes that emerge from each episode and from across the conversations he’s been immersed in for years, including the psychology of radical transformation, the power of storytelling, the lessons of trauma and healing, and how we die to an old Self and are reborn. He’ll share behind-the-scenes glimpses into the making of the show and his own personal journey in creating it. 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: “Sleep Paralysis” - Scott Velasquez Music Bed: Sparse_Reflections__a__APM
Services If 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: 1-800-950-6264 National 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. | |||
| 403: What if your childhood bully actually apologized? | 21 Apr 2026 | 00:48:28 | |
After growing up in a home shaped by violence, racism, and fear, a woman is stunned to receive an apology from the girl who bullied her in middle school, forcing her to reckon with the harm they both carried and the possibility of repair.
Today’s episode featured Christy Davis. If you’d like to contact Christy, you can email her at MsChristy_Creative@proton.me. Christy’s episode is part 2 of a 2 part series. Christy has recently started adding her writing to Substack: https://substack.com/@mschristy Today’s episode was produced in collaboration with Pauline Bartolone, and was funded in part by UC Berkeley's Greater Good Science Center, as part of its "Spreading Love Through the Media" initiative, supported by the John Templeton Foundation. Pauline can be reached at paulinebartolone.org and on Instagram @pmbartolone Producers: Whit Missildine, Pauline Bartolone
Content/Trigger Warnings: child abuse, domestic violence, emotional abuse, racism racial slurs, bullying, physical assault, threats of violence, animal cruelty, parental infidelity, alcoholism, misogyny, depression, PTSD / trauma, medical trauma, hysterectomy, family estrangement, death of a parent, grief, explicit language
Social Media: Instagram: @actuallyhappening Twitter/X: @TIAHPodcast Facebook: This Is Actually Happening Discussion Group
Website: thisisactuallyhappening.com
Website for Andrew Waits: andrdewwaits.com
Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon: patreon.com/happening Audible subscribers can listen to all episodes of THIS IS ACTUALLY HAPPENING ad-free right now. Join Audible today by downloading the Audible app or visit Audible.com. Read more about Whit’s insights into each episode on Beyond The Story Substack: whitmissildine.substack.com. On the Substack, Whit will be sharing personal reflections on the deeper themes that emerge from each episode and from across the conversations he’s been immersed in for years, including the psychology of radical transformation, the power of storytelling, the lessons of trauma and healing, and how we die to an old Self and are reborn. He’ll share behind-the-scenes glimpses into the making of the show and his own personal journey in creating it. 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: “Sleep Paralysis” - Scott Velasquez Music Bed: Pure_Ambience_APM
Services If 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: 1-800-950-6264 National 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. | |||
| 402: What if a deadly tornado helped to heal old wounds? | 14 Apr 2026 | 00:54:09 | |
After narrowly surviving one of the deadliest tornados in US history, a woman is driven to confront a long-buried harm, finding in the aftermath a deeper sense of purpose, forgiveness, and service.
Today’s episode featured Nanda Nunnelly. If you’d like to contact Nanda, you can email her at Nandanunnelly@gmail.com. Nanda’s episode is part 1 of a 2 part series. Nanda’s cause and organization, Minnie Hackney Community Service Center of Joplin, is on Facebook, or you can visit the website at Minniehackneycommunityservicecenter.com. Today’s episode was produced in collaboration with Pauline Bartolone, and was funded in part by UC Berkeley's Greater Good Science Center, as part of its ""Spreading Love Through the Media"" initiative, supported by the John Templeton Foundation. Pauline can be reached at paulinebartolone.org and on Instagram @pmbartolone Producers: Whit Missildine, Pauline Bartolone
Content/Trigger Warnings: racism, racial terror, forced psychiatric commitment, bullying, physical assault, tornado and disaster trauma, injury, death, grief, loss of home, mental health crisis, substance use, and homelessness, explicit language
Social Media: Instagram: @actuallyhappening Twitter/X: @TIAHPodcast Facebook: This Is Actually Happening Discussion Group
Website: thisisactuallyhappening.com
Website for Andrew Waits: andrdewwaits.com
Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon: patreon.com/happening Audible subscribers can listen to all episodes of THIS IS ACTUALLY HAPPENING ad-free right now. Join Audible today by downloading the Audible app or visit Audible.com. Read more about Whit’s insights into each episode on Beyond The Story Substack: whitmissildine.substack.com. On the Substack, Whit will be sharing personal reflections on the deeper themes that emerge from each episode and from across the conversations he’s been immersed in for years, including the psychology of radical transformation, the power of storytelling, the lessons of trauma and healing, and how we die to an old Self and are reborn. He’ll share behind-the-scenes glimpses into the making of the show and his own personal journey in creating it. 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: “Sleep Paralysis” - Scott Velasquez Music Bed: Pure_Ambience_APM
Services If 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: 1-800-950-6264 National 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. | |||
| 401: What if you were ambushed on a dark desert highway? | 07 Apr 2026 | 00:59:15 | |
After spending much of his life trying to outrun the feeling of being trapped, a man’s violent kidnapping on a solo motorcycle trip through Mexico forces him to reckon with the fear, rage, and longing for freedom that have shaped him since childhood.
Today’s episode featured Gary Stauble. If you’d like to reach out to Gary, you can email him at ezinef@gmail.com. Gary is on Instagram @garystauble Gary is on Facebook @gstauble Producers: Whit Missildine
Content/Trigger Warnings: kidnapping, violence, violent assault, descriptions of violent assault, childhood emotional distress, threats, explicit language
Social Media: Instagram: @actuallyhappening Twitter/X: @TIAHPodcast Facebook: This Is Actually Happening Discussion Group
Website: thisisactuallyhappening.com
Website for Andrew Waits: andrdewwaits.com
Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon: patreon.com/happening Audible subscribers can listen to all episodes of THIS IS ACTUALLY HAPPENING ad-free right now. Join Audible today by downloading the Audible app or visit Audible.com. Read more about Whit’s insights into each episode on Beyond The Story Substack: whitmissildine.substack.com. On the Substack, Whit will be sharing personal reflections on the deeper themes that emerge from each episode and from across the conversations he’s been immersed in for years, including the psychology of radical transformation, the power of storytelling, the lessons of trauma and healing, and how we die to an old Self and are reborn. He’ll share behind-the-scenes glimpses into the making of the show and his own personal journey in creating it. 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: “Sleep Paralysis” - Scott Velasquez Music Bed: Pure_Ambience_APM
Services If 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: 1-800-950-6264 National 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. | |||
| 400: What if you suspected your father was the infamous Tylenol Murderer? | 31 Mar 2026 | 01:02:05 | |
A man grows up in a home defined by violence, secrecy, and fear, and decades later a deathbed confession confirms his belief that his father was responsible for the Chicago Tylenol murders, forcing him to reckon with a lifetime shaped by trauma and silence.
Today’s episode featured Joseph Cibelli. Joe is a former salon entrepreneur turned author, legal scholar, and forensic psychologist. He wrote The Tylenol Murders: A Father’s Confession to His Son, which investigates the 1982 Chicago Tylenol murders. If you’d like to contact Joe, you can email him at jcibelli71@gmail.com. Joe is on Facebook @JosephCibelli and on Instagram @jcibelli71 You can visit Joe’s website at josephcibelli.com. Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Jason Blalock
Content/Trigger Warnings: child abuse, domestic violence, psychological and physical abuse, sexual abuse, child endangerment, murder, poisoning, death, terminal illness, and threats of violence, explicit language
Social Media: Instagram: @actuallyhappening Twitter/X: @TIAHPodcast Facebook: This Is Actually Happening Discussion Group
Website: thisisactuallyhappening.com
Website for Andrew Waits: andrdewwaits.com Website for Jason Blalock: jasonblalock.com
Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon: patreon.com/happening Audible subscribers can listen to all episodes of THIS IS ACTUALLY HAPPENING ad-free right now. Join Audible today by downloading the Audible app or visit Audible.com. Read more about Whit’s insights into each episode on Beyond The Story Substack: whitmissildine.substack.com. On the Substack, Whit will be sharing personal reflections on the deeper themes that emerge from each episode and from across the conversations he’s been immersed in for years, including the psychology of radical transformation, the power of storytelling, the lessons of trauma and healing, and how we die to an old Self and are reborn. He’ll share behind-the-scenes glimpses into the making of the show and his own personal journey in creating it. 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: “Sleep Paralysis” - Scott Velasquez Music Bed: Music To Air (MTA) - Houses
Services If 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: 1-800-950-6264 National 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. | |||
| 399: What if a hormonal disorder rewrote your identity? | 24 Mar 2026 | 00:57:27 | |
After decades of stability, a woman’s experience of menopause brings back a lifetime of buried symptoms and reveals an unexpected truth about her identity, forcing her to reexamine everything she thought she knew about herself.
Today’s storyteller wishes to remain Anonymous. If you’d like to reach out to her, you can email her at SunflowerSpark44@gmail.com.
Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Ellen (Elly) Westberg
Content/Trigger Warnings: Suicidal ideation, mental illness, child abuse (mentioned), sexual abuse (mentioned), medical trauma, emotional distress, divorce, death of a loved one, explicit language
Social Media: Instagram: @actuallyhappening Twitter/X: @TIAHPodcast Facebook: This Is Actually Happening Discussion Group
Website: thisisactuallyhappening.com
Website for Andrew Waits: andrdewwaits.com
Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon: patreon.com/happening Audible subscribers can listen to all episodes of THIS IS ACTUALLY HAPPENING ad-free right now. Join Audible today by downloading the Audible app or visit Audible.com. 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. Read more about Whit’s insights into each episode on Beyond The Story Substack: whitmissildine.substack.com. On the Substack, Whit will be sharing personal reflections on the deeper themes that emerge from each episode and from across the conversations he’s been immersed in for years, including the psychology of radical transformation, the power of storytelling, the lessons of trauma and healing, and how we die to an old Self and are reborn. He’ll share behind-the-scenes glimpses into the making of the show and his own personal journey in creating it.
Transcripts: Full transcripts of each episode are now available on the website, thisisactuallyhappening.com
Intro Music: “Sleep Paralysis” - Scott Velasquez Music Bed: KPM Main Series (KPM) - Barely There
Services If 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: 1-800-950-6264 National 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. | |||
| 398: What if you witnessed the best and the worst of humanity? | 17 Mar 2026 | 01:00:31 | |
After years working as a humanitarian aid worker in war zones and disaster areas around the world, a man is forced to confront the psychological toll of witnessing a broken world he could never fix.
Today’s episode featured Gray Doyle. If you’d like to email Gray, you can reach him at graydoyle@meetmeinzanzibar.com. You can purchase Gray’s book on his website, https://meetmeinzanzibar.com/.
Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Jason Blalock
Content/Trigger Warnings: War and armed conflict, Genocide, Mass casualties, Sexual violence / rape, Child soldiers, Violence against children, Severe physical injury and medical trauma, Death and dying, Bombings and explosions, Kidnapping and torture, Humanitarian disaster / extreme suffering, PTSD and psychological trauma, Emotional distress and rage, explicit language
Social Media: Instagram: @actuallyhappening Twitter/X: @TIAHPodcast Facebook: This Is Actually Happening Discussion Group
Website: thisisactuallyhappening.com To subscribe, find Beyond the Story on Substack by going to whitmissildine.substack.com. Website for Andrew Waits: andrdewwaits.com Website for Jason Blalock: jasonblalock.com
Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon: patreon.com/happening Audible subscribers can listen to all episodes of THIS IS ACTUALLY HAPPENING ad-free right now. Join Audible today by downloading the Audible app or visit Audible.com. 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: “Sleep Paralysis” - Scott Velasquez Music Bed: Discovery Studios Tracks (DST) - Dark Oasis
Services If 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: 1-800-950-6264 National 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. | |||
| 397: What if you survived a terrorist attack in Paris? | 10 Mar 2026 | 00:54:48 | |
After surviving the 2015 ISIS terrorist attacks at a Paris café, a woman begins the painful work of confronting buried childhood trauma and reclaiming a life she had never fully allowed herself to live.
Today’s episode featured Mandy Palmucci. You can email Mandy at mandypalmucci@gmail.com. Mandy is on Instagram @palmuccim Mandy is currently working on a book about her experience.
Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits
Content/Trigger Warnings: Childhood sexual abuse, Terrorism / mass shooting, Graphic violence and death, Severe injury, Survivor’s guilt, PTSD / trauma responses, Self-hatred and shame, Emotional abuse in childhood, explicit language
Social Media: Instagram: @actuallyhappening Twitter/X: @TIAHPodcast Facebook: This Is Actually Happening Discussion Group
Website: thisisactuallyhappening.com
Website for Andrew Waits: andrdewwaits.com
Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon: patreon.com/happening Audible subscribers can listen to all episodes of THIS IS ACTUALLY HAPPENING ad-free right now. Join Audible today by downloading the Audible app or visit Audible.com. 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: “Sleep Paralysis” - Scott Velasquez Music Bed: Ambient Themes
Services If 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: 1-800-950-6264 National 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. | |||
| 396: What if you were held captive by child soldiers? | 03 Mar 2026 | 01:10:59 | |
When a family sailing journey ends in capture by child soldiers during Mozambique’s civil war, a man must protect his children while confronting the unsettling truth that his captors are both perpetrators of violence and children shaped by it.
Today’s episode featured Dave Muller. Dave has written about his experiences in a book entitled, “Not Child’s Play”, available where books are sold or at https://notchildsplay.co.uk/ You can email Dave at dave.muller@notchildsplay.co.za Dave is on Instagram @davenotchildsplay, on Facebook @Dave Muller and on YouTube @DaveMuller-NotChildsPlay In the 1960s and 1970s, both South Africa and Mozambique were part of the larger decolonization of Africa, with South Africa gaining full independence from Britain in 1961 and Mozambique gaining independence from Portugal in 1975. However, in the decolonization process, both were thrown into proxy battles, between old structures clinging to power and the larger global cold war between communist and capitalist superpowers. South Africa, even after independence, was still ruled by a white minority government, under the National Party. The National Party was populated mostly by the white ethnic group known as Afrikaners who spoke a language called Afrikaans. The National Party instituted apartheid, a brutally oppressive system of institutionalized racial segregation and white supremacy enforced in South Africa from 1948 to the early 1990s. South Africa shares a northeastern border with Mozambique. When Mozambique gained independence in 1975, they were ruled by the Communist party known as FRELIMO. FRELIMO became a major force opposing apartheid in neighboring South Africa. The South African apartheid government, in response to FRELIMO’s opposition, actively destabilized Mozambique from the inside by propping up a rebel group known as RENAMO. This led to a violent 15-year civil war in Mozambique, between the ruling, communist-backed FRELIMO party and the South African-backed RENAMO rebel group. In the first part of today's episode, you'll hear our storyteller speak about growing up in South Africa during apartheid as a white man, but he was not an Afrikaner, and grew up in a family that was opposed to apartheid. The second part of the story takes place in Mozambique, where he and his family are held by the RENAMO rebel group and caught in the chaos and fighting between FRELIMO and RENAMO, the two warring factions in the civil war there. Of course there is much more to say about all of this, and Dave will speak to some of these issues as he experienced them. I encourage you all to read more about the brutal and complex history of decolonization and apartheid in Africa. And one final note, you’ll hear Dave talking about “Arwen” several times. In case it isn’t clear right away, he is referring to his boat that he built.
Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Aviva Lipkowitz
Content/Trigger Warnings: War and armed conflict, Child soldiers, Kidnapping / hostage situation, Graphic violence, Murder (including stabbing / bayoneting), Violence against the elderly, Exposure to blood, Threats of execution, Weapons (guns, rockets, mortar fire), Terrorism / militant groups, Civil war, Psychological trauma, PTSD, Panic attacks / emotional breakdown, Spiritual distress, Political violence, Forced recruitment of children, Coercion and intimidation, explicit language
Social Media: Instagram: @actuallyhappening Twitter/X: @TIAHPodcast Facebook: This Is Actually Happening Discussion Group
Website: thisisactuallyhappening.com
Website for Andrew Waits: andrdewwaits.com Website for Aviva Lipkowitz: avivalipkowitz.com
Support the Show: Support The Show on Patreon: patreon.com/happening Audible subscribers can listen to all episodes of THIS IS ACTUALLY HAPPENING ad-free right now. Join Audible today by downloading the Audible app or visit Audible.com. 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: “Sleep Paralysis” - Scott Velasquez Music Bed: Sparse_Reflections__a__APM
Services If 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: 1-800-950-6264 National 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. | |||
| 395: What if your son murdered your daughter? | 24 Feb 2026 | 01:10:10 | |
After overcoming addiction and rebuilding her life around motherhood, a woman's world is shattered when her son kills her daughter, forcing her to grieve one child while fighting to protect the other and learning how to survive an unbearable moral and emotional divide.
Today’s episode featured Charity Lee. If you’d like to email Charity, you can reach her at bawmedia@gmail.com. You can also find her on Facebook @IAmCharityLee Charity has authored a book entitled, How Now, Butterfly? A Memoir of Murder, Survival, and Transformation, available where books are sold.
Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits
Content/Trigger Warnings: Child abuse and neglect, Domestic violence, Substance abuse and addiction, Suicide and suicide attempts, Self-harm, Child homicide, Graphic violence, Intrafamilial violence, Mental illness, Incarceration and juvenile detention, Grief and traumatic loss, Emotional abuse, Parental abandonment, Trauma and PTSD, Near-death experience / overdose, Religious and spiritual distress, explicit language
Social Media: Instagram: @actuallyhappening Twitter: @TIAHPodcast
Website: thisisactuallyhappening.com
Website for Andrew Waits: andrdewwaits.com
Support 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: “Sleep Paralysis” - Scott Velasquez Music Bed: Salib (SAL) - Tension Underscore 33 A
Services If 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: 1-800-950-6264 National 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. | |||
| 394: What if you found yourself naked, starving and surrounded by cops? | 17 Feb 2026 | 01:02:17 | |
After the sudden death of his father leaves him drowning in guilt, a man unknowingly spirals into a manic break that strips him of his freedom, his relationships, and his grip on reality, forcing him to confront bipolar disorder and rebuild his life from the ground up.
Today’s storyteller wishes to remain Anonymous. However, you can reach out to him at anytom2020.t@gmail.com.
Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Jason Blalock
Content/Trigger Warnings: Suicide and suicide by cop, Parental death, Alcoholism, Bipolar disorder, Manic episode and psychosis, Self-harm, Arrest and incarceration, Homelessness, Police confrontation involving firearms, Mental health crisis, explicit language
Social Media: Instagram: @actuallyhappening Twitter: @TIAHPodcast
Website: thisisactuallyhappening.com
Website for Andrew Waits: andrdewwaits.com Website for Jason Blalock: jasonblalock.com
Support 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: “Sleep Paralysis” - Scott Velasquez Music Bed: Pure_Ambience_APM
Services If 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: 1-800-950-6264 National 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. | |||
| 393: What if your doctors weren’t allowed to help you? | 10 Feb 2026 | 01:07:25 | |
After a lifetime of striving for control, a woman is thrust into unimaginable loss when a potentially catastrophic twin pregnancy collides with restrictive laws, forcing her to rebuild her life from the ground up.
Today’s episode featured Helen. Helen and her husband, Zach, began The Marigold Foundation, whose mission is to lead the way in providing financial aid to families that are facing a complex medical diagnosis or the loss of an infant or neonate. To learn more or to donate, please visit themarigoldfoundation.org. The Marigold Foundation’s Instagram @marigoldfoundation
Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Sara Marinelli
Content/Trigger Warnings: Pregnancy loss, Infant loss / neonatal death, Stillbirth / miscarriage, Complicated / high-risk pregnancy, Prolonged labor and medical distress, Medical trauma, Restrictive abortion laws / lack of medical intervention, Hemorrhage, Eating disorder, Grief and bereavement, Religious / spiritual distress, Mental health treatment and therapy, Traumatic medical procedures, Discussions of death and mortality, explicit language
Social Media: Instagram: @actuallyhappening Twitter: @TIAHPodcast
Website: thisisactuallyhappening.com
Website for Andrew Waits: andrdewwaits.com Website for Sara Marinelli: saramarinelli.com
Support 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: “Sleep Paralysis” - Scott Velasquez Music Bed: Uncertain Outcomes
Services If 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: 1-800-950-6264 National 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. | |||
| 392: What if you were a whistleblower against your own father? | 03 Feb 2026 | 00:56:42 | |
When a son discovers that the man who raised him is capable of unimaginable harm, he is forced to become a whistleblower against his own father, risking his family, his identity, and everything he once believed to be true.
Today’s episode featured Kai Zen Bickle. To find out more about the legislation drafted with Child USA to close jurisdictional loopholes, specifically to ensure that evidence of sexual crimes committed against children on foreign soil can be brought back and used in U.S. courts, preventing perpetrators from escaping accountability by abusing international boundaries, please visit: https://childusa.org/law/
Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Jason Blalock
Content/Trigger Warnings: Child sexual abuse, Sexual assault, Rape, Statutory rape, Grooming, Drug-facilitated sexual assault, Incest (sexual exploitation by a parent), Emotional abuse, Gaslighting, Psychological manipulation, Sexual exploitation, Coercion, Trauma, Dissociation, Moral injury, Whistleblower retaliation, Family betrayal, explicit language
Social Media: Instagram: @actuallyhappening Twitter: @TIAHPodcast
Website: thisisactuallyhappening.com
Website for Andrew Waits: andrdewwaits.com Website for Jason Blalock: jasonblalock.com
Support 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: “Sleep Paralysis” - Scott Velasquez Music Bed: Music To Air (MTA) - Houses
Services If 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: 1-800-950-6264 National 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. | |||
| 391: What if you forgave the neo-Nazi who killed your father? | 27 Jan 2026 | 01:02:14 | |
After a white supremecist killed his father at a Sikh temple outside of Milwaukee, Pardeep Singh Kaleka pairs up with a former neo-Nazi to teach students about overcoming hate and finding forgiveness.
Today’s episode was produced in collaboration with Pauline Bartolone, and was funded in part by UC Berkeley's Greater Good Science Center, as part of its "Spreading Love Through the Media" initiative, supported by the John Templeton Foundation. Pauline can be reached at paulinebartolone.org and on Instagram @pmbartolone Today’s episode featured Pardeep Singh Kaleka. If you’d like to reach out to Pardeep, you can email him at Pardeep.S.Kaleka@gmail.com. Pardeep is on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn @pardeepsinghkaleka Pardeep is the Clinical Director at Mental Health America–Wisconsin, a senior anti-hate advocate, and co-author of The Gift of Our Wounds. After losing his father in the 2012 Oak Creek Sikh Temple attack, he became a leading voice for community healing, resilience, and faith. With over 25 years of experience in law enforcement, education, mental health, and supporting hate-crime survivors, Pardeep has served with the U.S. Department of Justice–CRS and led the Interfaith Conference. He specializes in communal trauma and helps public health professionals, educators, and law enforcement develop community-oriented strategies to address conflict, hate, and rising targeted violence. Producers: Whit Missildine, Andrew Waits, Pauline Bartolone
Content/Trigger Warnings: Mass shooting / gun violence, Murder / death, Hate crime / domestic terrorism, White supremacy / neo-Nazi ideology, Racism / religious persecution (anti-Sikh bias; Islamophobia mentioned), PTSD / trauma responses, Suicidal ideation (students mention feeling suicidal), Bullying, Addiction / substance abuse, Graphic violence / execution-style killing details. Police shooting / officer shot, explicit language
Social Media: Instagram: @actuallyhappening Twitter: @TIAHPodcast
Website: thisisactuallyhappening.com
Website for Andrew Waits: andrdewwaits.com Website for Pauline Bartolone: pmbartolone.org
Support 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: “Sleep Paralysis” - Scott Velasquez Music Bed: KPM Main Series (KPM) - Barely There
Services If 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: 1-800-950-6264 National 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. | |||