Baggage

This episode is certainly one of the most compelling, terrifying, and heartfelt thus far. Hosts Ryan Frank and Eric Shaw speak to Cheryl about her harrowing experience of being kidnapped and raped by a stranger when she was just 16 years old. Cheryl is joined by her brother, Scott, to provide a unique look at not just the immediate effects an assault has on a survivor but also the ripple effects it has on their loved ones.You can view a video version of this episode here: https://youtu.be/KTJKg64RbgYPlease make sure to preorder Ryan Conner's new memoir, "12 Guys Walk Into A Kitchen." Get it through Barnes & Noble for 25% off using code PREORDER25 at checkout.Music provided by Quincy Ledbetter (https://www.qledbetter.com/).Artwork provided by Megan Weaver (https://meganweaverart.com/).Special thank you to our premium members. If you’d like to support the show and listen ad free, you can become a premium member by clicking subscribe in your Apple podcast app or visit https://thebaggagepodcast.com/support to sign up or to gift a membership to someone. A percentage of all proceeds go to charity.If you have questions, comments, or a good story, email us at thebaggagepodcast@gmail.com.Mentioned in this episode:What Was That LikeWhat Was That Like is a storytelling podcast, with first-hand amazing stories presented by Scott Johnson and Meredith Hackwith Edwards. Each storyteller tells their own personal true story, with all the details of what happened. Animal attacks, plane crashes, mass shootings, and more – you'll hear what happened directly from the person who experienced it, and the inspirational outcome of how they came out on the other side. To learn more visit https://whatwasthatlike.com/ or search for What Was That Like wherever you get your podcasts. Leleka FoundationLeleka Foundation is a volunteer-driven organization that operates with minimal overhead, maximizing the impact of every donation. By leveraging our personal resources, we ensure that 96-97% of all donations go directly to life-saving programs. Leleka was founded in December 2014 when several Ukrainians in the United States joined their efforts with several volunteer initiatives in Ukraine to procure and supply medical and first-aid supplies to paramedics, ambulances, and hospitals. Since February 2022, Leleka has focused on the urgent supply of critical medical supplies and protective gear to Ukraine’s defenders and civilians. To support Leleka, visit https://leleka.care/en.

In this episode, recently retired federal agents, Melissa Merola & Adrienne Malin, talk about their years in the FBI's Behavioral Analysis Unit (BAU). Dramatized by shows like Mindhunter and Criminal Minds, the real stories from the BAU are even more compelling when told by those that actually worked the cases. Hear about cases like the fake kidnapping of Sherri Papini, the poisoning death of Eric Richins by his wife, Kouri Richins, and the murder of three year old Khaleesi Cuthriell.Melissa Merola is currently the founder and principal consultant for Starling Enterprise, LLC which provides behaviorally-based expertise to public and private sector entities in cases involving crimes against adult victims or persons of concern.Adrienne Malin is currently the founder of Human Behavior Analysis Group, LLC where she provides behavioral analysis and case consultation in complex matters involving child abuse, neglect, exploitation, torture, and homicide. She works with law enforcement, prosecutors, NGOs, attorneys, and guardians ad litem across civil, criminal, and family courts—and also consults on cases involving false allegations or potential wrongful convictions, always with a focus on protecting children, careful evidence analysis, and the pursuit of justice.You can view a video version of this episode here: : https://youtu.be/6jiWIDsSn24Music provided by Quincy Ledbetter (https://www.qledbetter.com/).Artwork provided by Megan Weaver (https://meganweaverart.com/).Special thank you to our premium members. If you’d like to support the show and listen ad free, you can become a premium member by clicking subscribe in your Apple podcast app or visit https://thebaggagepodcast.com/support to sign up or to gift a membership to someone. A percentage of all proceeds go to charity.If you have questions, comments, or a good story, email us at thebaggagepodcast@gmail.com.Mentioned in this episode:Leleka FoundationLeleka Foundation is a volunteer-driven organization that operates with minimal overhead, maximizing the impact of every donation. By leveraging our personal resources, we ensure that 96-97% of all donations go directly to life-saving programs. Leleka was founded in December 2014 when several Ukrainians in the United States joined their efforts with several volunteer initiatives in Ukraine to procure and supply medical and first-aid supplies to paramedics, ambulances, and hospitals. Since February 2022, Leleka has focused on the urgent supply of critical medical supplies and protective gear to Ukraine’s defenders and civilians. To support Leleka, visit https://leleka.care/en. What Was That LikeWhat Was That Like is a storytelling podcast, with first-hand amazing stories presented by Scott Johnson and Meredith Hackwith Edwards. Each storyteller tells their own personal true story, with all the details of what happened. Animal attacks, plane crashes, mass shootings, and more – you'll hear what happened directly from the person who experienced it, and the inspirational outcome of how they came out on the other side. To learn more visit https://whatwasthatlike.com/ or search for What Was That Like wherever you get your podcasts.

In this episode, the guys delve into the world of disaster restoration with Lonnie Beacham, owner of Restore It Restoration in Jefferson City, Missouri. Lonnie shares intense, authentic stories from decades of cleaning up after traumatic events. Traumatic, in this case, often means a post-suicide scene. Lonnie shares the challenges of biohazard work and insights into how this gritty job influences his perspective on life and death.Music provided by Quincy Ledbetter (https://www.qledbetter.com/).Artwork provided by Megan Weaver (https://meganweaverart.com/).Special thank you to our premium members. If you’d like to support the show and listen ad free, you can become a premium member by clicking subscribe in your Apple podcast app or visit https://thebaggagepodcast.com/support to sign up or to gift a membership to someone. A percentage of all proceeds go to charity.If you have questions, comments, or a good story, email us at thebaggagepodcast@gmail.com.Mentioned in this episode:Leleka FoundationLeleka Foundation is a volunteer-driven organization that operates with minimal overhead, maximizing the impact of every donation. By leveraging our personal resources, we ensure that 96-97% of all donations go directly to life-saving programs. Leleka was founded in December 2014 when several Ukrainians in the United States joined their efforts with several volunteer initiatives in Ukraine to procure and supply medical and first-aid supplies to paramedics, ambulances, and hospitals. Since February 2022, Leleka has focused on the urgent supply of critical medical supplies and protective gear to Ukraine’s defenders and civilians. To support Leleka, visit https://leleka.care/en. The Dear Jack FoundationThe Dear Jack Foundation provides impactful programs benefiting adolescents and young adults (AYA) diagnosed with cancer and their families to improve their quality of life from treatment to survivorship. Through programs and strategic partnerships, Dear Jack addresses the physical and emotional needs of AYA cancer patients, survivors and their families. One-on-one patient support and wellness programs allow the Dear Jack Foundation to empower patients, survivors and their caregivers in their healing and to provide assurance that they are not alone in their cancer journey.

In this second collaboration with the Dear Jack Foundation, Erika shares her inspiring story of navigating a rare blood cancer starting from young adulthood, facing misdiagnosis, and eventually channeling her experiences into advocacy and support for others. Discover how resilience, support, and purpose can transform a life drastically altered by illness.Music provided by Quincy Ledbetter (https://www.qledbetter.com/).Artwork provided by Megan Weaver (https://meganweaverart.com/).Special thank you to our premium members. If you’d like to support the show and listen ad free, you can become a premium member by clicking subscribe in your Apple podcast app or visit https://thebaggagepodcast.com/support to sign up or to gift a membership to someone. A percentage of all proceeds go to charity.If you have questions, comments, or a good story, email us at thebaggagepodcast@gmail.com.Mentioned in this episode:Leleka FoundationLeleka Foundation is a volunteer-driven organization that operates with minimal overhead, maximizing the impact of every donation. By leveraging our personal resources, we ensure that 96-97% of all donations go directly to life-saving programs. Leleka was founded in December 2014 when several Ukrainians in the United States joined their efforts with several volunteer initiatives in Ukraine to procure and supply medical and first-aid supplies to paramedics, ambulances, and hospitals. Since February 2022, Leleka has focused on the urgent supply of critical medical supplies and protective gear to Ukraine’s defenders and civilians. To support Leleka, visit https://leleka.care/en. What Was That LikeWhat Was That Like is a storytelling podcast, with first-hand amazing stories presented by Scott Johnson and Meredith Hackwith Edwards. Each storyteller tells their own personal true story, with all the details of what happened. Animal attacks, plane crashes, mass shootings, and more – you'll hear what happened directly from the person who experienced it, and the inspirational outcome of how they came out on the other side. To learn more visit https://whatwasthatlike.com/ or search for What Was That Like wherever you get your podcasts.

In this episode, the guys are joined by the Chief of Police for Golden, Colorado, Captain Joe Harvey. He shares his extraordinary life story—from a childhood filled with trauma and hardship to becoming a dedicated law enforcement leader. His insights on resilience, forgiveness, community trust, and mental health offer invaluable lessons for anyone seeking purpose and strength in the face of adversity.Music provided by Quincy Ledbetter (https://www.qledbetter.com/).Artwork provided by Megan Weaver (https://meganweaverart.com/).Special thank you to our premium members. If you’d like to support the show and listen ad free, you can become a premium member by clicking subscribe in your Apple podcast app or visit https://thebaggagepodcast.com/support to sign up or to gift a membership to someone. A percentage of all proceeds go to charity.If you have questions, comments, or a good story, email us at thebaggagepodcast@gmail.com.Mentioned in this episode:What Was That LikeWhat Was That Like is a storytelling podcast, with first-hand amazing stories presented by Scott Johnson and Meredith Hackwith Edwards. Each storyteller tells their own personal true story, with all the details of what happened. Animal attacks, plane crashes, mass shootings, and more – you'll hear what happened directly from the person who experienced it, and the inspirational outcome of how they came out on the other side. To learn more visit https://whatwasthatlike.com/ or search for What Was That Like wherever you get your podcasts. Leleka FoundationLeleka Foundation is a volunteer-driven organization that operates with minimal overhead, maximizing the impact of every donation. By leveraging our personal resources, we ensure that 96-97% of all donations go directly to life-saving programs. Leleka was founded in December 2014 when several Ukrainians in the United States joined their efforts with several volunteer initiatives in Ukraine to procure and supply medical and first-aid supplies to paramedics, ambulances, and hospitals. Since February 2022, Leleka has focused on the urgent supply of critical medical supplies and protective gear to Ukraine’s defenders and civilians. To support Leleka, visit https://leleka.care/en.

In this episode, the guys collaborate with the Leleka Foundation on the four-year anniversary of Russia’s latest invasion of Ukraine. Leleka’s Head of Strategic Communications, Iryna Solomko, provides insight on the background and current issues of the conflict. Also on this episode is Alina Sarnatska, a former battlefield medic. She provides a unique insight with personal stories of the heartache, tragedy, and perseverance that defines the reality of the situation in Ukraine.The Leleka Foundation is an American-Ukrainian charitable partnership dedicated to helping medics in Ukraine save lives on the front lines. Its mission is to help medics in Ukraine save lives on the front lines. The roots of Leleka Foundation trace back to spring of 2014, when Russia launched its initial invasion of Ukraine, illegally annexing Crimea and occupying parts of the Donetsk and Luhansk regions. From a grassroots fundraising effort to a fully operational system, Leleka Foundation has remained steadfast in its mission: to equip Ukraine’s frontline medics with the tools they need to save lives. To support Leleka and its cause, visit their website at Leleka.care to donate.Music provided by Quincy Ledbetter (https://www.qledbetter.com/).Artwork provided by Megan Weaver (https://meganweaverart.com/).Special thank you to our premium members. If you’d like to support the show and listen ad free, you can become a premium member by clicking subscribe in your Apple podcast app or visit https://thebaggagepodcast.com/support to sign up or to gift a membership to someone. A percentage of all proceeds go to charity.If you have questions, comments, or a good story, email us at thebaggagepodcast@gmail.com.Mentioned in this episode:Leleka FoundationLeleka Foundation is a volunteer-driven organization that operates with minimal overhead, maximizing the impact of every donation. By leveraging our personal resources, we ensure that 96-97% of all donations go directly to life-saving programs. Leleka was founded in December 2014 when several Ukrainians in the United States joined their efforts with several volunteer initiatives in Ukraine to procure and supply medical and first-aid supplies to paramedics, ambulances, and hospitals. Since February 2022, Leleka has focused on the urgent supply of critical medical supplies and protective gear to Ukraine’s defenders and civilians. To support Leleka, visit https://leleka.care/en. What Was That LikeWhat Was That Like is a storytelling podcast, with first-hand amazing stories presented by Scott Johnson and Meredith Hackwith Edwards. Each storyteller tells their own personal true story, with all the details of what happened. Animal attacks, plane crashes, mass shootings, and more – you'll hear what happened directly from the person who experienced it, and the inspirational outcome of how they came out on the other side. To learn more visit https://whatwasthatlike.com/ or search for What Was That Like wherever you get your podcasts.

In this episode, the guys interview Kasey. Until very recently, an air traffic controller. You won’t hear many air traffic controllers being interviewed. And after this episode, you’ll understand why. The guys talk about the difficulties faced by controllers these days; some expected, some not. They also share some interesting and/or funny stories about what happens on the job. Area 51 even gets a mention. Warning, you may not feel like booking a plane trip anytime soon after listening to this one.Music provided by Quincy Ledbetter (https://www.qledbetter.com/).Artwork provided by Megan Weaver (https://meganweaverart.com/).Special thank you to our premium members. If you’d like to support the show and listen ad free, you can become a premium member by clicking subscribe in your Apple podcast app or visit https://thebaggagepodcast.com/support to sign up or to gift a membership to someone. A percentage of all proceeds go to charity.If you have questions, comments, or a good story, email us at thebaggagepodcast@gmail.com.Mentioned in this episode:What Was That LikeWhat Was That Like is a storytelling podcast, with first-hand amazing stories presented by Scott Johnson and Meredith Hackwith Edwards. Each storyteller tells their own personal true story, with all the details of what happened. Animal attacks, plane crashes, mass shootings, and more – you'll hear what happened directly from the person who experienced it, and the inspirational outcome of how they came out on the other side. To learn more visit https://whatwasthatlike.com/ or search for What Was That Like wherever you get your podcasts. Leleka FoundationLeleka Foundation is a volunteer-driven organization that operates with minimal overhead, maximizing the impact of every donation. By leveraging our personal resources, we ensure that 96-97% of all donations go directly to life-saving programs. Leleka was founded in December 2014 when several Ukrainians in the United States joined their efforts with several volunteer initiatives in Ukraine to procure and supply medical and first-aid supplies to paramedics, ambulances, and hospitals. Since February 2022, Leleka has focused on the urgent supply of critical medical supplies and protective gear to Ukraine’s defenders and civilians. To support Leleka, visit https://leleka.care/en.

In this episode, the guys talk to Marian as she shares her life as a librarian and some of the crazy, creepy things librarians experience. She discusses the evolving role of libraries in society, the challenges they face with funding and political pressures, and the impact of book banning and censorship. She also explores the future of libraries in the age of AI and reflects the community's relationship with libraries, emphasizing their significance as resources for all.Music provided by Quincy Ledbetter (https://www.qledbetter.com/).Artwork provided by Megan Weaver (https://meganweaverart.com/).Special thank you to our premium members. If you’d like to support the show and listen ad free, you can become a premium member by clicking subscribe in your Apple podcast app or visit https://thebaggagepodcast.com/support to sign up or to gift a membership to someone. A percentage of all proceeds go to charity.If you have questions, comments, or a good story, email us at thebaggagepodcast@gmail.com.Mentioned in this episode:What Was That LikeWhat Was That Like is a storytelling podcast, with first-hand amazing stories presented by Scott Johnson and Meredith Hackwith Edwards. Each storyteller tells their own personal true story, with all the details of what happened. Animal attacks, plane crashes, mass shootings, and more – you'll hear what happened directly from the person who experienced it, and the inspirational outcome of how they came out on the other side. To learn more visit https://whatwasthatlike.com/ or search for What Was That Like wherever you get your podcasts. Leleka FoundationLeleka Foundation is a volunteer-driven organization that operates with minimal overhead, maximizing the impact of every donation. By leveraging our personal resources, we ensure that 96-97% of all donations go directly to life-saving programs. Leleka was founded in December 2014 when several Ukrainians in the United States joined their efforts with several volunteer initiatives in Ukraine to procure and supply medical and first-aid supplies to paramedics, ambulances, and hospitals. Since February 2022, Leleka has focused on the urgent supply of critical medical supplies and protective gear to Ukraine’s defenders and civilians. To support Leleka, visit https://leleka.care/en.

In collaboration with Canine Companions, the guys interview Amber Urban. Amber is a former sex crimes detective with the Arora, Colorado Police Department and currently works as Director of Victim Services and Handler of Courthouse Facility Dog for the Arapahoe District Attorney’s Office. Amber, along with one of Canine Companions’ executive directors, Natalie Nuce, helps explain the vital role of service dogs.Canine Companions is a nonprofit organization that provides highly trained service dogs free of charge. Amber explains how several of the dogs provided by Canine Companions has been instrumental in various settings, including law enforcement, trauma situations, and the legal system, particularly in cases involving child victims. Amber shares her experiences as a law enforcement officer and the significance of Pella's Law, which allows service dogs to accompany victims in court. The conversation emphasizes the importance of collaboration between law enforcement, legal professionals, and the medical community to support victims and improve outcomes in the justice system.To donate to Canine Companions, or to get more information about receiving a dog, please visit https://canine.org/.Music provided by Quincy Ledbetter (https://www.qledbetter.com/).Artwork provided by Megan Weaver (https://meganweaverart.com/).Special thank you to our premium members. If you’d like to support the show and listen ad free, you can become a premium member by clicking subscribe in your Apple podcast app or visit https://thebaggagepodcast.com/support to sign up or to gift a membership to someone. A percentage of all proceeds go to charity.If you have questions, comments, or a good story, email us at thebaggagepodcast@gmail.com.Mentioned in this episode:What Was That LikeWhat Was That Like is a storytelling podcast, with first-hand amazing stories presented by Scott Johnson and Meredith Hackwith Edwards. Each storyteller tells their own personal true story, with all the details of what happened. Animal attacks, plane crashes, mass shootings, and more – you'll hear what happened directly from the person who experienced it, and the inspirational outcome of how they came out on the other side. To learn more visit https://whatwasthatlike.com/ or search for What Was That Like wherever you get your podcasts. Leleka FoundationLeleka Foundation is a volunteer-driven organization that operates with minimal overhead, maximizing the impact of every donation. By leveraging our personal resources, we ensure that 96-97% of all donations go directly to life-saving programs. Leleka was founded in December 2014 when several Ukrainians in the United States joined their efforts with several volunteer initiatives in Ukraine to procure and supply medical and first-aid supplies to paramedics, ambulances, and hospitals. Since February 2022, Leleka has focused on the urgent supply of critical medical supplies and protective gear to Ukraine’s defenders and civilians. To support Leleka, visit https://leleka.care/en.

In this episode, the guys are joined by Russ Hamilton, a former correctional officer with extensive experience in the prison system. Russ shares his journey from starting at San Quentin State Prison to his current role in reentry and rehabilitation work. He discusses the challenges and dangers faced by correctional officers, the complexities of prison dynamics; and shares some wild stories about fights, riots, and ... well, other crazy prison stuff.You can find Russ's latest book here: Killing Complacency: Tactical Awareness for Correctional Professionals. You can also check out his Substack here. He's also on YouTube where he helps support other correctional officers on TierTalk. For more on the psychology involving corrections, check out Inmate Manipulation Decoded: A Definitive Guide to Understanding the Manipulation Process.Music provided by Quincy Ledbetter (https://www.qledbetter.com/).Artwork provided by Megan Weaver (https://meganweaverart.com/).Special thank you to our premium members. If you’d like to support the show and listen ad free, you can become a premium member by clicking subscribe in your Apple podcast app or visit https://thebaggagepodcast.com/support to sign up or to gift a membership to someone. A percentage of all proceeds go to charity.If you have questions, comments, or a good story, email us at thebaggagepodcast@gmail.com.Mentioned in this episode:What Was That LikeWhat Was That Like is a storytelling podcast, with first-hand amazing stories presented by Scott Johnson and Meredith Hackwith Edwards. Each storyteller tells their own personal true story, with all the details of what happened. Animal attacks, plane crashes, mass shootings, and more – you'll hear what happened directly from the person who experienced it, and the inspirational outcome of how they came out on the other side. To learn more visit https://whatwasthatlike.com/ or search for What Was That Like wherever you get your podcasts. Leleka FoundationLeleka Foundation is a volunteer-driven organization that operates with minimal overhead, maximizing the impact of every donation. By leveraging our personal resources, we ensure that 96-97% of all donations go directly to life-saving programs. Leleka was founded in December 2014 when several Ukrainians in the United States joined their efforts with several volunteer initiatives in Ukraine to procure and supply medical and first-aid supplies to paramedics, ambulances, and hospitals. Since February 2022, Leleka has focused on the urgent supply of critical medical supplies and protective gear to Ukraine’s defenders and civilians. To support Leleka, visit https://leleka.care/en.

In this episode, the guys are joined by Brad Lilly, a former firefighter and author. Warning! This is one of the more graphic episodes descripting traumatic events. The guys delve into the intense and often overlooked mental health challenges faced by firefighters. Brad shares his personal journey through trauma, the impact of cumulative stress, and the struggle for mental well-being in a high-pressure environment. The conversation highlights the importance of support systems and what happens when the “system” lets you down.You find Brad's book on Amazon here, or search for The Bravest: A Fireman's Tale by Bradley Lilly.Music provided by Quincy Ledbetter (https://www.qledbetter.com/).Artwork provided by Megan Weaver (https://meganweaverart.com/).Special thank you to our premium members. If you’d like to support the show and listen ad free, you can become a premium member by clicking subscribe in your Apple podcast app or visit https://thebaggagepodcast.com/support to sign up or to gift a membership to someone. A percentage of all proceeds go to charity.If you have questions, comments, or a good story, email us at thebaggagepodcast@gmail.com.Mentioned in this episode:Leleka FoundationLeleka Foundation is a volunteer-driven organization that operates with minimal overhead, maximizing the impact of every donation. By leveraging our personal resources, we ensure that 96-97% of all donations go directly to life-saving programs. Leleka was founded in December 2014 when several Ukrainians in the United States joined their efforts with several volunteer initiatives in Ukraine to procure and supply medical and first-aid supplies to paramedics, ambulances, and hospitals. Since February 2022, Leleka has focused on the urgent supply of critical medical supplies and protective gear to Ukraine’s defenders and civilians. To support Leleka, visit https://leleka.care/en. What Was That LikeWhat Was That Like is a storytelling podcast, with first-hand amazing stories presented by Scott Johnson and Meredith Hackwith Edwards. Each storyteller tells their own personal true story, with all the details of what happened. Animal attacks, plane crashes, mass shootings, and more – you'll hear what happened directly from the person who experienced it, and the inspirational outcome of how they came out on the other side. To learn more visit https://whatwasthatlike.com/ or search for What Was That Like wherever you get your podcasts.

Join the guys as they dive into the inspiring journey of Charlee Minkin, a 2004 Olympian and owner of the Sanctuary Dojo. Charlee shares her experiences growing up in a challenging environment, her path to the Olympics, and how martial arts became her escape and passion. Discover the transformative power of judo and jiu-jitsu, and how Charlee is now passing on her knowledge and love for the sport to the next generation.Music provided by Quincy Ledbetter (https://www.qledbetter.com/).Artwork provided by Megan Weaver (https://meganweaverart.com/).Special thank you to our premium members. If you’d like to support the show and listen ad free, you can become a premium member by clicking subscribe in your Apple podcast app or visit https://thebaggagepodcast.com/support to sign up or to gift a membership to someone. A percentage of all proceeds go to charity.If you have questions, comments, or a good story, email us at thebaggagepodcast@gmail.com.Mentioned in this episode:Leleka FoundationLeleka Foundation is a volunteer-driven organization that operates with minimal overhead, maximizing the impact of every donation. By leveraging our personal resources, we ensure that 96-97% of all donations go directly to life-saving programs. Leleka was founded in December 2014 when several Ukrainians in the United States joined their efforts with several volunteer initiatives in Ukraine to procure and supply medical and first-aid supplies to paramedics, ambulances, and hospitals. Since February 2022, Leleka has focused on the urgent supply of critical medical supplies and protective gear to Ukraine’s defenders and civilians. To support Leleka, visit https://leleka.care/en. What Was That LikeWhat Was That Like is a storytelling podcast, with first-hand amazing stories presented by Scott Johnson and Meredith Hackwith Edwards. Each storyteller tells their own personal true story, with all the details of what happened. Animal attacks, plane crashes, mass shootings, and more – you'll hear what happened directly from the person who experienced it, and the inspirational outcome of how they came out on the other side. To learn more visit https://whatwasthatlike.com/ or search for What Was That Like wherever you get your podcasts.

In this episode, the guys delve into the personal stories of asylum seekers. Guest Kyle Mitchell shares his stories as an immigration lawyer in New York City. From the harrowing escape of a Honduran family threatened by gangs to the incredible tale of an Ecuadorian woman facing unimaginable threats from her “serial killer” mother-in-law, these stories reveal the current stresses of those seeking refuge and those tasked with helping them during unprecedented times. Join the guys as they talk to Kyle about one of the most pressing issues of our time: immigration in America . . as told by someone on the front lines.Music provided by Quincy Ledbetter (https://www.qledbetter.com/).Artwork provided by Megan Weaver (https://meganweaverart.com/).Special thank you to our premium members. If you’d like to support the show and listen ad free, you can become a premium member by clicking subscribe in your Apple podcast app or visit https://thebaggagepodcast.com/support to sign up or to gift a membership to someone. A percentage of all proceeds go to charity.If you have questions, comments, or a good story, email us at thebaggagepodcast@gmail.com.Mentioned in this episode:Leleka FoundationLeleka Foundation is a volunteer-driven organization that operates with minimal overhead, maximizing the impact of every donation. By leveraging our personal resources, we ensure that 96-97% of all donations go directly to life-saving programs. Leleka was founded in December 2014 when several Ukrainians in the United States joined their efforts with several volunteer initiatives in Ukraine to procure and supply medical and first-aid supplies to paramedics, ambulances, and hospitals. Since February 2022, Leleka has focused on the urgent supply of critical medical supplies and protective gear to Ukraine’s defenders and civilians. To support Leleka, visit https://leleka.care/en. What Was That LikeWhat Was That Like is a storytelling podcast, with first-hand amazing stories presented by Scott Johnson and Meredith Hackwith Edwards. Each storyteller tells their own personal true story, with all the details of what happened. Animal attacks, plane crashes, mass shootings, and more – you'll hear what happened directly from the person who experienced it, and the inspirational outcome of how they came out on the other side. To learn more visit https://whatwasthatlike.com/ or search for What Was That Like wherever you get your podcasts.