Stories From The Stage
GBH
Stories from the Stage showcases ordinary people sharing extraordinary stories, spotlighting diverse tellers who share moments — from the everyday to the life-altering — that celebrate the similarities and differences that unite us. Stories from the Stage is hosted by Liz Cheng and Patricia Alvarado Núñez, executive producers and co-creators of the series. A two-time Signal Awards finalist.
For more information on our series, live events and how to submit a story, visit worldchannel.org/stories.
Smitten
Matt Storrs revisits a childhood fascination with dinosaurs and a bold Valentine that didn’t go as planned; Emily Walsh uncovers a journey of missed signals, surprising truths, and the unexpected joy of being truly chosen; and Briana Azier shares a fateful night where one decision changed everything, proving that sometimes love is bold enough to stop you in your tracks. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at https://worldchannel.org/donate/stor
Meant to Happen
Jack Simon Grey shares how, on a freezing February night, a feminist book club and a poetry reading sparked an unlikely connection; Terrilynn Moore Smith recounts a love story decades in the making, showing that serendipity knows no age; and Zach Stewart dives into his hilarious rom-com misadventure with "wallet guy," exploring how we often dream of futures with strangers we barely know. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at https://worldchann
Getting Away With It
Tim Gillis’s rebellious scheme to outsmart the system leads to a life-altering lesson about honesty; Carol Steinberg, once a lively dancer, reclaims joy and freedom on the dance floor despite the challenges of multiple sclerosis; and Kona Morris discovers her true resilience on a perilous Yukon River journey. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at https://worldchannel.org/donate/stories/
Legacy
Patt Gilliard Gunn fights to honor her Gullah Geechee heritage by renaming a square in Savannah, GA; George “Chip” Greenidge uncovers his family's hidden history, reshaping his understanding of how the past informs the future; and Yesenia Valentin, driven by love for her son, refuses to let difficult circumstances define their path forward. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at https://worldchannel.org/donate/stories/
Reckoning and Repair
Anneliese Bruner uncovers her great-grandmother’s account of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre and works to ensure that her family's story is never forgotten; Paul Watanabe reflects on his mother’s resilience following the internment of Japanese Americans during WWII, grappling with her struggle to reconcile her American identity; and Larry Spotted Crow Mann reconnects with his Native roots through drumming, channeling the strength of his grandfather and reclaiming the stories that were nearly lost t
On a Mission
Sophia Garcia, burdened by the pressures of university, decides to carve out a path of joyful discovery, redefining what learning means to her; during an icy attempt to climb Mount Washington, Ella Hamilton learns to find strength in adversity; and Amith Saligrama’s response to the lack of public restrooms leads to the creation of a vital community resource. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at https://worldchannel.org/donate/stories
What Matters Most
A chaotic boat ride across a treacherous bay leads Amy Toensing to a heartfelt connection and a new chapter in her life; despite her past trauma and fear of public speaking, Vanna Howard listens to her inner voice and takes a chance to advocate for change; and a pivotal encounter with a young boy shapes Jacqueline Bailey's lifelong commitment to helping children. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at https://worldchannel.org/donate/stories/
Proud to Be
Srilatha's world turned upside down when she discovered the hidden 'A' in LGBTQI_+; queer stage and film director Kevin receives a time capsule gift from their late grandfather; and Jamie takes us on a 20-year journey of transition and self-love. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at https://worldchannel.org/donate/stories/
Adventure Ahead
Jynelle rediscovers the joys of adventure through her mother's eyes; a moment with Arctic terns redefines Mark’s understanding of perseverance; and Shannon steps up to the plate in a Beep Baseball showdown, where a rivalry ignites the field. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at https://worldchannel.org/donate/stories/
Into the Wild
Avesha Michael embraces California's rugged mountains in a tribute to the love of the outdoors instilled by her father; Antonio Sacre turns a chaotic whale-watching trip outside Los Angeles into a memorable family adventure; and Jenny Hoffman chronicles her record-breaking run across America and honors the community who made it possible. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at https://worldchannel.org/donate/stories/
Youth Rising
Beatriz grapples with being “too girly” in the rigorous world of STEM; Omar’s underdog mayoral race captures the essence of youthful idealism; and Sara shares the behind-the-scenes story of young, climate education activists. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at https://worldchannel.org/donate/stories/
Body and Soul
Alexandria discovers body gratitude through a harrowing medical journey; with her grandmother’s guidance, Shirley reconciles with the passing of a family friend; and Milos harmonizes a birth injury with the redemptive melodies of his clarinet. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at https://worldchannel.org/donate/stories/
Belonging
Grace shares how a green station wagon helped her family become Americans; Chris searches for the meaning of home; and in response to racism, Salil takes a different path. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at https://worldchannel.org/donate/stories/
Life Is a Laugh
Tone shares the funny side of his hospital stay; Nina, who is blind and hearing-impaired, searches for the perfect volunteer driver; and Geraldine’s first hitchhiking adventure turns into an unforgettable journey of close calls and gratitude. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at https://worldchannel.org/donate/stories/
Nine-to-Five
A parent's urgent call cuts through the noise of Mary Murphy’s ordinary workday, leaving her at the crossroads of tragedy and responsibility; Alexis Muñoz transforms from struggling student into a guiding mentor; and after a casual trip to the Caribbean, Anne Bryant sails into a life of adventure. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at https://worldchannel.org/donate/stories/
Turning Point
Lloyd transforms loss into a quest where forgiveness opens doors to justice; Alfred's day as a firefighter shifts when an act of arson shatters dreams; and Shanita becomes an abolitionist to break down the walls that separate her from her mother. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at https://worldchannel.org/donate/stories/
In an Instant
Swapna juggles dreams of becoming both a doctor and a mother; Omar steps into the chaos of the Waukesha tragedy and discovers a beacon of unity; and from the cold confines of his cell, Jabir confronts the prison's rules to have one last conversation with his mother. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at https://worldchannel.org/donate/stories/
You're Hired!
Raised in a restaurant family, Jennifer Cummings Hillery discovers her expertise lies beyond the dining room; Bobbie Wayne learns that aiming high can actually make the incredible happen; and Harry Harding ditches the big-money world of sports agents for a more compassionate calling. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at https://worldchannel.org/donate/stories/
Be the Change
Nagin Karimian champions the cause of women's rights in Iran. Lisa Iezzoni and three heroic health aides share a COVID-19 patient's life. Mikhala Iversen channels the legacy of jazz and Creole into a vibrant retelling of New Orleans' history. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at https://worldchannel.org/donate/stories/
Extraordinary Women
Homeless at 19, Natalie builds a career as a pediatric neurosurgeon; Rebecca, one of the "Lost Girls of Sudan," finds a path to creating positive change; and Lachi fights discrimination as a disability rights advocate. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at https://worldchannel.org/donate/stories/
Suddenly
Joy rediscovers a community she had left behind; Lee-Ellen finds kinship in the aftermath of an earthquake; and Gerard receives a diagnosis that immediately alters everything. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at https://worldchannel.org/donate/stories/
The Funny Side
Jennifer shares the story of her parents’ marriage through the tale of a doomed onion; Steph explores the humor of life through the traditions of her family; and Jason gets busted for throwing down dance moves. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at https://worldchannel.org/donate/stories/
From the Heart
Laura looks for love on the dance floor; Zoey turns up the heat at a Christian singles group; and Sufian travels across the world, meets his love - and faces the truth. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at https://worldchannel.org/donate/stories/
The One
Esmond gets a second chance for a disastrous first date; Randy’s boyfriend’s mom learns the truth about her son’s "roommate;" and Betsy helps her teenage son make contact with his birth mother. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at https://worldchannel.org/donate/stories/
Sound Check
Melissa is the opening act for Bob Dylan in an evening charged with expectation; Jeffrey delivers a show in Des Moines, IA, and learns about fame; and Jason finds his voice, revealing a young man coming into his own. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at https://worldchannel.org/donate/stories/
Quest
After fleeing Afghanistan, Zalaikha rebuilds her life in the U.S.; Karen makes a pilgrimage to Poland to learn about her mother's past; and Meg visits her daughter, who provides protection to Colombian farmers. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at https://worldchannel.org/donate/stories/
Last Dance
Mark reluctantly returns home to Kentucky for an extraordinary reunion; Sandi's dreams of Broadway stardom hang in the balance as she comes within reach of a coveted role in A Chorus Line; Jean dances his way out of a death sentence in Haiti. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at https://worldchannel.org/donate/stories/
Bucket List
Connie aims to close the gap with her heritage and language; KiM transforms a quest for perfection into a lesson in self-love and integrity; and Keith turns a Phoebe Bridgers concert into a bonding experience with his children. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at https://worldchannel.org/donate/stories/
Holiday Horror
Cyndi lands a gig as one of Santa’s elves and uncovers a gruesome reality; Ekhlas waits hungrily as calamity creates an epically long Ramadan fast; and Matt gathers his courage at Thanksgiving to stand up to his girlfriend’s tough as nails dad. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at https://worldchannel.org/donate/stories/
Taking Flight
Heather Angell confronts her worst fear: flying; Tom Williams indulges in a midlife crisis splurge by purchasing a plane; and Linda Button learns the difference between curses and kindness during a bumpy flight. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at https://worldchannel.org/donate/stories/
Finding Family
Betsy Komjathy helps her teenage son make contact with his birth mother; Dan Dahari describes being smuggled out as an infant from Mexico; and Paul Brouillette's relationship with his mom takes a twist when he adopts a baby boy. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at https://worldchannel.org/donate/stories/
All Connected
Jose chases his dream of playing football and learns life is about relationships; Darcy adopts four children and begins a family; and Kyle shares the love and wisdom he received on the Navajo reservation. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at https://worldchannel.org/donate/stories/
Sacred Circle
Rebekka honors the keeper of the connection between her people and culture; Charlie, who has light skin and hair, works to be accepted by fellow tribe members; and Levelle finds a path to meaning, healing, and helping after prison. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at https://worldchannel.org/donate/stories/
Never the Same
Natasha Lance Rogoff and her team fight bureaucracy to bring Sesame Street to a newly democratic Russia; Johanne Pelletier reconnects with her late father’s friend and helps him navigate the end of his life; and Dave Fromm decides to become a pro basketball player in Europe, despite a distinct lack of talent. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at https://worldchannel.org/donate/stories/
On Sacred Ground
Kevin rallies to oppose housing development on tribal land; Colleen's relationship with her mother provides a view of the judgement heaped on traditional healing; and Valery takes us on a hike...interrupted by Bigfoot! Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at https://worldchannel.org/donate/stories/
Flourishing in the Desert
After her divorce, Lisa, a writer, redefines herself in the great outdoors; Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Daniel struggles with linguistic dualities; and after leaving California, Shareé wonders if she can find home. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at https://worldchannel.org/donate/stories/
Rebuilding After Cancer
After being diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer, Sheila Marie Johnson is determined to continue her mother's legacy while forging her own; Suzette Simon uses her comedic talents to highlight how Black women are disproportionately affected by cancer; Megsie Chase becomes an advocate after finding out that breast cancer will alter her dream of motherhood. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at worldchannel.org/donate/stories/
Animal Companions
Bill goes above and beyond to try and save the life of his son’s hamster; farming teaches Ray lessons about life and death; and Alta finds inner peace by swimming with a loon. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at give.worldchannel.org/stories
Pets
"Music for Cats" helps Kendra live though the pandemic with a feline in heat; Suzanne’s hen Emily (Dickinson) takes a ride that ends up saving two roosters’ lives; and Tracey’s shih-tzu accidentally becomes a 12-pound hero. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at give.worldchannel.org/stories
School Days (Encore)
Teen storyteller Cecilia Viveiros battles a hidden learning disability that leaves her high school teachers, her parents, and Cecilia herself baffled. A year after her story, we join her as she goes to college in New York City. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at give.worldchannel.org/stories.
Growing Up Black (Encore)
Valerie Tutson teaches her students about Africa's greatest explorer; Angie Chatman learns about how far we have come and how far we have to go in a chance encounter she will never forget. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at give.worldchannel.org/stories.
Fish Out of Water (Encore)
Shweta Bhatt discovers that changing one's appearance to fit in has its drawbacks; Jenny Herzog tries her hand at tap dancing to get over the pandemic blues; and Carol Carson, who struggled through high school, tries to find a college where she’ll fit in. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at give.worldchannel.org/stories.
Game On (Encore)
Nora Meiners fills in the blanks as the missing pieces person at a jigsaw puzzle company; Olympian ski jumper Nick Fairall tells how one leap changed his life forever; and on his first hunting trip, John Stewart fears disappointing his dad, an avid hunter. Three storytellers, three interpretations of GAME ON!, hosted by Wes Hazard. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at give.worldchannel.org/stories.
Family Ties (Encore)
Gabriel Cheong looks for the imprint of the father he barely knew; Ariel Brown makes a new family after being bullied for her queerness; and Kathleen Haley's life is changed by an encounter with a cousin from El Salvador. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at give.worldchannel.org/stories.
Unlikely Love (Encore)
Nimisha Ladva breaks her parents’ rules and dates outside her Indian culture, and Jeff Simmermon sells all his possessions and crosses the globe to meet and settle down with his Internet love. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at give.worldchannel.org/stories.
Glorious Food (Encore)
Javed Rezayee tests his meager cooking skills against those of his father, a talented professional chef; Jo Radner's mother astonishes her family by baking a pie for dinner; Juan Pedrosa conjures a memorable meal despite a multitude of challenges. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at give.worldchannel.org/stories.
First (Encore)
Erin Barker navigates her first steps into puberty; Dyan deNapoli’s first encounter with a penguin takes her halfway across the globe; and Ali Abdullatif’s dad helps ease the pain of his first car accident. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at give.worldchannel.org/stories.
Road Trip (Encore)
Melissa Ferrick tells us about the night she opened for Bob Dylan; Suzanne Ketchum Adams drives home with a feisty ram; and Akshobh Giridharadas discovers hospitality and humanity in the wilderness. Three storytellers, three interpretations of ROAD TRIP, hosted by Wes Hazard. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at give.worldchannel.org/stories.
Summertime (Encore)
Khalilah Jones goes to camp for the first time and learns more than just campfire songs; Sarah Sutton discovers the trials and tribulations of working with her spouse; Matthew Sandel looks down the barrel of a robber’s gun and understands that his life is worth more than a pint of ice cream. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at give.worldchannel.org/stories.
Surviving Childhood (Encore)
Comedic storyteller Susanne Schmidt shares two of her favorite childhood adventures: an "extreme camping" trip with her family, and her Janis Joplin lookalike nanny, who invented a new Olympic competition riding pillows down the staircase. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at give.worldchannel.org/stories.
Unexpected Connections (Encore)
Angie Chatman crosses racial boundaries during a turbulent flight, and Kelli Dunham finds herself hilariously in a not-so-ordinary boot camp in Florida’s swamps. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at give.worldchannel.org/stories.
Beyond Cancer
Erinn applies lessons learned from Grey’s Anatomy to help her get care; Megan becomes an advocate after finding out her dream of motherhood will be altered; and Dwayne takes what he picked up back to the football field. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at give.worldchannel.org/stories.
Living with Cancer
Despite losing her hair to chemo, Leslie finds beauty in her Blackness; Daniel and his partner use humor to cope with caregiving; and Mel fights the odds to overcome leukemia to become a runner. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at give.worldchannel.org/stories.
One Way or Another (Encore)
Brandon Kazen-Maddox bridges the gap between their deaf grandma and a police officer; a severe allergic reaction turn Sara Kaminski’s family vacation upside down; and Jeff Belanger takes on Mt. Kilimanjaro to raise money for cancer research. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at give.worldchannel.org/stories.
Brothers and Sisters
Drew Prochaska’s brother, a scuba instructor, helps him overcome his fear of water; Mary Liz Nogueras and her family foster a young boy, only to realize his brother also needs them; and when MaryAnn Emerick develops an eating disorder, her sister steps in. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at give.worldchannel.org/stories.
Siblings
Rebecca Lampert and her sons experience the many trials of military deployment; Joseph Collymore Small’s siblings rally when one of them is diagnosed with cancer; and after their father abandons the family, Anna Conathan and her sibs navigate the fallout. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at give.worldchannel.org/stories.
Against the Odds
Vojislav finds a way to connect with his son with a disability; Alexis finally confronts the power of addiction and denial; and Irene discovers that in the face of racism, a great teacher can make a difference. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at give.worldchannel.org/stories.
Defining Moments
Michelle La Poetica Richardson’s outlook transforms when she becomes the subject of a community art project; at 18, Annie Tan assumes the financial burdens of her Chinese immigrant family; and Elena Yureneva takes a chance on love - and life - when she moves to the U.S. from Moscow. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at give.worldchannel.org/stories.
Turn the Page
Raúl moves from El Paso to Boston and finds his artistic voice; Hannah buys a beloved community bookstore on the eve of the pandemic; and Rita makes a bold decision about her lifelong search for a mother. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at give.worldchannel.org/stories.
The Power of Name
Szifra Birke discovers the hidden meaning of her Jewish name; U-Meleni Mhlaba-Adebo celebrates her name as she sows seeds of renewal in the U.S.; and Sofia Colombo-Abdullah finds that her name carries both power and identity. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at give.worldchannel.org/stories.
Transformation
Jason discovers his voice and sees himself in a new light; Jackie embarks on a daring career change that leads to joy; and Judah changes his name and learns to trust his inner voice. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at give.worldchannel.org/stories.
Growing Up Black: Part 2
U-Meleni Mhlaba-Adebo brings her son to a protest of George Floyd’s death; and Harold Cox shows how fear of the police affects his everyday life. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at give.worldchannel.org/stories.
Match Made
Tae Chong crosses cultural barriers to find love; Diane Parker Mullens turns to a how-to book to find her ideal partner; and Kevin Gallagher fights to overcome his fear of marriage and finally tie the knot. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at give.worldchannel.org/stories.
Through Thick and Thin
Linda learns the difference between curses and kindness; ToRena works to recover economically after the 2008 crash; and Marlon uses comedy to lessen the pain of war. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at give.worldchannel.org/stories.
Culture Shock
Micaela Blei, the grandchild of Holocaust survivors, faces choices about exploring German culture; Anita De Ruvo lives in poverty within a community of great wealth; and after being mistaken for a homeless person Biar Kon expands his view of humanity. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at give.worldchannel.org/stories.
Modern Family
After divorcing, Laura forges a new relationship; Saket finds kinship after immigrating; and Mackenzie breaks new ground by taking on a "man's job." Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at give.worldchannel.org/stories.
First
Erin Barker navigates her first steps into puberty; Dyan deNapoli’s first encounter with a penguin takes her halfway across the globe; and Ali Abdullatif’s dad helps ease the pain of his first car accident. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at give.worldchannel.org/stories.
New Chapter
In response to racism, Salil Patel takes a different path; after COVID isolation, Estella Ngufor decides to reach out to her neighbors; and Katie Liesener attempts a new approach after a disastrous first day on the job. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at give.worldchannel.org/stories.
Fish Out of Water
Shweta Bhatt discovers that changing one's appearance to fit in has its drawbacks; Jenny Herzog tries her hand at tap dancing to get over the pandemic blues; and Carol Carson, who struggled through high school, tries to find a college where she’ll fit in. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at give.worldchannel.org/stories.
Sugar & Spice
Gastor Almonte goes above and beyond to satisfy his wife’s sweet cravings; Claire Cheney travels the world to hunt exotic spices and heal her broken heart; and Juan Pedrosa conjures a memorable meal...despite some challenges. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at give.worldchannel.org/stories.
The Perfect Gift
Christine donates a kidney to a stranger; Stacey dreams of one gift but gets another; and on the night of her first high school dance, Mary gets an amazing gift from her dad. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at give.worldchannel.org/stories.
A Perfect Match
Andy Davis experiences a new way to relate to his identical twin; Carla Katz battles bureaucracy to bury her mother alongside her father; and Valerie Gagliano connects a deceased donor with someone in need of a new liver. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at give.worldchannel.org/stories.
Holiday Spirit
David Dean Bottrell discovers his passion after stealing the school play's spotlight; Andrea Kamen’s bright menorah cuts through the darkness of anti-semitism; and Joe Charnitski tries to break a nightmare-before-Christmas bad luck streak. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at give.worldchannel.org/stories.
Raising the Bar
Samantha Lee helps her dance students feel less pressure by making a change; Vernon Payne discovers the reason why men want to do better by women; and Haley Hamilton finds compassion for bar patrons who spoil her day. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at give.worldchannel.org/stories.
Giving Thanks
Lani Peterson’s cooking mistake becomes a family secret; Melanée Addison tests her adulthood through the ultimate challenge: the Thanksgiving turkey; Heather Rodman honors her father by running a road race dressed as Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer; and Matthew Dicks gathers his courage to stand up to his girlfriend’s tough as nails dad during Thanksgiving dinner. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at give.worldchannel.org/stories.
Serving with Honor
As a case manager working with refugees, former military Kevin Dutremble challenges his assumptions about others; after penpalling her brother’s Navy buddies, Juli-anne Whitney Jensen understands the impact of her letters; and Jim Griffin tries to connect with his brother killed in the Vietnam War. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at give.worldchannel.org/stories.
Cast Your Vote
Donna discovers herself a foreigner in her own country; M.J. jumps into action when trouble strikes at her polling station; and Eric becomes a viable candidate when another drops out. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at give.worldchannel.org/stories.
In the Name of Justice
After a devastating gas explosion, Gladys Wangeci Gitau-Damaskos helps her neighborhood fight back; Eben Bein switches careers to advocate for climate equity; and Antonio Rocha's spontaneous protest sparks a media frenzy in Brazil. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at give.worldchannel.org/stories.
Newsworthy
Philip Martin navigates civil rights strife in Boston, MA; Anne Stuart manages a local news phone line as Nixon’s White House collapses; and Jeff Howe gives a disastrous speech with a very influential guest in the audience. Hosted by Wes Hazard. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at give.worldchannel.org/stories.
Family Ties
Gabriel Cheong looks for the imprint of the father he barely knew; Ariel Brown makes a new family after being bullied for her queerness; and Kathleen Haley's life is changed by an encounter with a cousin from El Salvador. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at give.worldchannel.org/stories.
Good Kind of Trouble (Encore)
This Indigenous Peoples’ Day, hear how Maulian Dana fights to ban "Indian" mascots in Maine schools, as well as two other stories of causing “good trouble”: Ronald Smith stands up for his integrated marriage, while Dr. Wanda Castro_Borrero’s boss pushes back against patients who don’t want to see her because of her name. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at give.worldchannel.org/stories.
Growing Up Latina
Rosanna discovers that friendship can cross all borders; Ana describes her last night at home before leaving Cuba forever; and Michele turns lemons into lemonade when she gets busted moonlighting. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at give.worldchannel.org/stories.
Changemakers
Luciana strives for a new definition of beauty after experiencing sudden hair loss; Su extends a helping hand, even though it means breaking the rules; and Robin shows her fellow EMTs that women can excel. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at give.worldchannel.org/stories.
One Way or Another
Brandon Kazen-Maddox bridges the gap between their deaf grandma and a police officer; a severe allergic reaction turn Sara Kaminski’s family vacation upside down; and Jeff Belanger takes on Mt. Kilimanjaro to raise money for cancer research. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at give.worldchannel.org/stories.
Above and Beyond
From time to time, it's okay to lessen our expectations – but expecting more should be the norm. Norah Dooley proves that women can measure up in the Boston Marathon; Corey Manning‘s experience with prostate cancer makes him an advocate for testing among Black men, and Candace Nelson uses microfinancing to help Tanzanian women better their lives. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at give.worldchannel.org/stories.
Changed Forever 9/11
Twenty years ago, the events of 9/11 changed the world. People everywhere struggled to make sense of the terrible act and to rebuild their lives in its aftermath. After the death of his father on 9/11, David Filipov goes to Afghanistan, where a simple Pop-Tart takes on a whole new meaning. Sociology professor Michael Sargent confronts his biases on an airplane. And Jude Treder-Wolff finds seeds of hope to fuel her work as a Clinical Social Worker and Creative Arts Therapist. Show you ap
One Good Dog
The love of two dogs enriches Lina Coral’s life after she is left blind; Ron Goldman comes to understand a tragedy through the loss of his dog; and Amanda Goodwin discovers that a broken romance can be healed by a chance meeting. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at give.worldchannel.org/stories.
Take a Stand
In this episode, Reverend Mariama White-Hammond gets down and dirty for a cause. Myles Green stops ignoring his stutter and takes a turn as a public speaker. And Tereza Lee speaks up about her undocumented status – and changes the world. Show you appreciate these extraordinary storytellers by making a donation in any amount at give.worldchannel.org/stories.
Stories from the Stage
Stories from the Stage is back with more extraordinary true stories…perfect for road trips and the long days ahead! If these stories have made you laugh and cry, helped you remember your family or gotten you to consider life in another person’s shoes -- please show your support right now by making a donation at give.worldchannel.org/stories.
Stand Up
Tonight’s tellers share those moments when they stood up, spoke out, and changed everything. Andy Vargas takes his political activism door-to-door. Katie Liesener discovers how compassion can cross the language barrier. And Yvette Modestin battles exclusion by creatively redefining her Blackness. Hosted by Theresa Okokon.
Good Trouble
The late John Lewis took pride in creating "good trouble" and standing up against unfairness. Maulian Dana fights to ban "Indian" mascots in Maine schools; Ronald Smith stands up for his integrated marriage; Dr. Wanda Castro-Borrero's boss pushes back against patients who don't want to see her because of her name.
Lost & Found
There's nothing worse than the moment when we lose something precious. And there's nothing more satisfying than finding something that we thought was lost. James Griffin tries to connect with his brother, who was killed in the Vietnam War.
Growing Up Black
Growing up Black in America means forging cultural bonds, struggling for visibility, and all too often, receiving unearned judgment. Valerie Tutson teaches her students about Africa's greatest explorer; Angie Chatman learns about how far we have come and how far we have to go in a chance encounter she will never forget.
Surviving Childhood
Comedic storyteller Susanne Schmidt shares two of her favorite childhood adventures: an "extreme camping" trip with her family, and her Janis Joplin lookalike nanny, who invented an new Olympic competition riding pillows down the staircase.
Missed Connections
A missed connection doesn't necessarily mean loss; it could be a chance for redemption. While dating after having a mastectomy, Musu-Kulla Massaquoi finds a friend who likes her the way she is.
Game On
You can’t win if you don’t play. And playing can make all the difference. Nora Meiners fills in the blanks as the missing pieces person at a jigsaw puzzle company; Olympian ski jumper Nick Fairall tells how one leap changed his life forever; and on his first hunting trip, John Stewart fears disappointing his dad, an avid hunter. Three storytellers, three interpretations of GAME ON!, hosted by Wes Hazard.
Glorious Food
Day by day, meal by meal, food becomes a part of who we are. Javed Rezayee tests his meager cooking skills against those of his father, a talented professional chef; Jo Radner's mother astonishes her family by baking a pie for dinner; Juan Pedrosa conjures a memorable meal despite a multitude of challenges.
Summertime
Summertime is upon us. As the days stretch longer and the sun shines brighter and hotter, anything seems possible. Khalilah Jones goes to camp for the first time and learns more than just campfire songs; Sarah Sutton discovers the trials and tribulations of working with her spouse; Matthew Sandel looks down the barrel of a robber’s gun and understands that his life is worth more than a pint of ice cream.
Road Trip
Road Trip! On the highway where anything can happen, take a ride on a journey that changed everything. Melissa Ferrick tells us about the night she opened for Bob Dylan; Suzanne Ketchum Adams drives home with a feisty ram; and Akshobh Giridharadas discovers hospitality and humanity in the wilderness. Three storytellers, three interpretations of ROAD TRIP, hosted by Wes Hazard.
Stories from the Stage: Summer Season Trailer
Stories from the Stage brings you a podcast perfect for road trips and these long summer days. Extraordinary real stories of love and loss, personal courage, everyday adventures, shocking revelations, and unexpected triumphs that reveal our shared humanity. Hosted by Liz Cheng and Patricia Alvarado Núñez, executive producers and co-creators of the series.
School Days
Remember high school? While it’s the place to learn a lot and make friends for life, for some it can mean challenges, uncertainty and shame. Teen storyteller Cecilia Viveiros battles a hidden learning disability that leaves her high school teachers, her parents, and Cecilia herself baffled. A year after her story, we join her as she goes to college in New York City.
Unexpected Connections
The twists and turns of a journey can lead to an unpredicted discovery. Angie Chatman crosses racial boundaries during a turbulent flight, and Kelli Dunham finds herself hilariously in a not-so-ordinary boot camp in Florida’s swamps.
Chance
A pair of memorable stories about throwing caution to the wind and risking it all at a moment‘s notice. Korean-American Eson Kim is held at gunpoint in her family’s store, and Christine Gentry donates a kidney to a stranger.
Courage
Courage is acting despite fear. Courtney Pong shuts down misogynistic stand-up comics and discovers the power of her voice, and Praveen Sahay oversees Mozambique's tumultuous first democratic elections as a UN Peacekeeper.
Unlikely Love
Why not risk it all for love? Stories of unexpected romance: Nimisha Ladva breaks her parents’ rules and dates outside her Indian culture, and Jeff Simmermon sells all his possessions and crosses the globe to meet and settle down with his Internet love.
American Journey
Immigrants and their children forge lives in the US while maintaining connections to their past. Grace shares how a green station wagon helped transform her family into Americans. Szifra discovers the hidden meaning of her Polish Jewish name.
You Only Live Once
Gianmarco Soresi jumps from a plane and into an epiphany about love; Brendyn Schneider risks a first kiss, and Alison Tocci fulfills her colorful dad's last wish with a wake in the family tavern.
Whatever It Takes
Teacher and artist Annemarie Whilton describes her daughter's Sarah's descent into substance use disorder, her rescue from a drug den, and her journey toward recovery.
Deadly Sins
Meet Ashley Rose, a poet, writer, teacher and advocate for restorative justice. As a child, Ashley witnessed a sunny day turn into a nightmare when dark waters rose up from the basement to take over her home. Ashley takes us back to the neighborhood street that was destroyed by a man-made disaster and explores how this traumatic incident turned her into a crusader for others. Bronze Winner, 2022 Inaugural Signal Awards, Individual Episodes: Most Inspirational Podcast
Coming to America
We all love stories about new Americans, especially when they overcome adversity. Roxy Azari experiences love & hate on an overcast journey to the iconic Ellis Island; Tereza Lee speaks up about her undocumented status—and changes the world; and Rosanna Salcedo discovers that friendship knows no borders.
Stories from the Stage
Welcome to the launch of the Stories from the Stage podcast, hosted by Liz Cheng and Patricia Alvarado Núñez, executive producers and co-creators of the series. The Stories from the Stage podcast features the most memorable stories and, in some cases -- their ‘next chapter’ – what happened after tellers left the stage.