Lived to Tell

Dave Pearson was out for a surf like any other day when, out of nowhere, a shark came out of the water and bit his left arm. Doctors were able to not only save his life, but they also saved his arm from amputation. Dave went on to create a support group for bite survivors called Bite Club.Dave's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dave.pearson.16Show Instagram: @LivedToTellPodcastTikTok: @LivedToTellPodcastCaitlin's Instagram: @caitlinvanmolemail: [email protected]

Jessica Buchanan was working in Somalia in 2011 when she and her colleague were kidnapped and ransomed. After 93 days of being held captive, they were rescued by SEAL Team 6. In this episode, we talk about her captivity, identity, motherhood, and purpose. Buy Impossible Odds: The Kidnapping of Jessica Buchanan and Her Dramatic Rescue by SEAL Team SixBuy How to Survive Survival: A Guide to Turning Life's Hardest Moments into Meaningful Contribution for the WorldJessica's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jessicabuchananpageJessica's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessicacbuchanan/Show Instagram: @LivedToTellPodcastTikTok: @LivedToTellPodcastCaitlin's Instagram: @caitlinvanmolemail: [email protected]

While working as a camera assistant on a large film production, Chris Duddy joined a crew tasked with filming aerial shots of Hawaiʻi’s Kīlauea Volcano. The assignment took a dramatic turn when their helicopter crashed, stranding the team inside the volcano for days as they waited for rescue.Chris's Instagram: @christopherjonduddyChris's Website: https://christopherduddy.com/Show Instagram: @LivedToTellPodcastTikTok: @LivedToTellPodcastCaitlin's Instagram: @caitlinvanmolemail: [email protected]

Heather Grossman's ex-husband told her that if she ever left him, he would kill her. He tried, but failed, to deliver on that promise, leaving Heather paralyzed from the neck down. Heather's GoFundMe: https://www.gofundme.com/f/paralyzed-in-paradiseHeather's Book: https://a.co/d/0a4FFCvIHeather's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heather.grossman.2025Show Instagram: @LivedToTellPodcastTikTok: @LivedToTellPodcastCaitlin's Instagram: @caitlinvanmolemail: [email protected]

This episode is part two of Dan's story. If you haven't listened to part one, go back and listen to that episode first.Dan was blinded by a bear and now has to figure out how to live a full life without his sight.Buy Dan's Book: Beyond the BearDan's FacebookDan's Website: http://danbigley.com/family/Show Instagram: @LivedToTellPodcastTikTok: @LivedToTellPodcastCaitlin's Instagram: @caitlinvanmolemail: [email protected]

Dan Bigley was wrapping up a long day of fishing when he inadvertently got on the wrong side of a mama bear. This encounter would alter the way he moved in the world permanently.Buy Dan's Book: Beyond the BearDan's Facebook Dan's Website: http://danbigley.com/family/Show Instagram: @LivedToTellPodcastTikTok: @LivedToTellPodcastCaitlin's Instagram: @caitlinvanmolemail: [email protected]

Vernetta Cockerham did everything she could to protect herself from her estranged husband, Richard. But probation, an order of protection, and an active warrant didn't stop him from bringing Vernetta's nightmares to life.

Today, I present to you what was initially a Patreon bonus episode. I may incorporate this format into the regular feed going forward, but let me know if you like this or not. But do not worry - this would not replace the regular interview episodes! Show Instagram: @LivedToTellPodcastTikTok: @LivedToTellPodcastCaitlin's Instagram: @caitlinvanmolemail: [email protected]

James stopped to help a stranded car on an icy overpass. While on the phone with 911, trying to get help, a truck slipped on the ice and hit James, throwing him over the side of the bridge. His rehab and recovery journey spanned years, with some permanent injuries. Show Instagram: @LivedToTellPodcastTikTok: @LivedToTellPodcastCaitlin's Instagram: @caitlinvanmolemail: [email protected]

Natasha Aeriel recounts the 2007 Newark schoolyard shootings, where her brother and two friends were murdered. Natasha survived several stabbings and a gunshot to the face, barely. She reflects on grief, forgiveness, and rebuilding her life, ultimately finding purpose in youth outreach and community empowerment. Show Instagram: @LivedToTellPodcastTikTok: @LivedToTellPodcastCaitlin's Instagram: @caitlinvanmolemail: [email protected]

Nicholas Iwamoto went on a hike to test his physical abilities, but he would end up being tested beyond his worst nightmares. Nicholas's FacebookNicholas's InstagramShow Instagram: @LivedToTellPodcastTikTok: @LivedToTellPodcastCaitlin's Instagram: @caitlinvanmolemail: [email protected]

Christy Salters Martin was a trailblazer in women's boxing, but her husband/trainer Jim Martin kept her in his complete control. This went on for years until Christy decided she'd had enough.Christy's book, "Fighting for Survival: My Journey through Boxing Fame, Abuse, Murder, and Resurrection," is available here."Christy," starring Sydney Sweeney, Ben Foster, Merritt Wever, and Chad L. Coleman, comes out in theaters on Friday, November 7th.Christy's FacebookChristy's InstagramChristy's Website Show Instagram: @LivedToTellPodcastTikTok: @LivedToTellPodcastCaitlin's Instagram: @caitlinvanmolemail: [email protected]

Paul Rousseau was accidentally shot in the head by his best friend. What happened after would change Paul's life forever. Paul's book, "Friendly Fire: A Fractured Memoir," is available here or in audiobook here.Paul's Instagram: @paulwrites47Paul's website: paul-rousseau.com Show Instagram: @LivedToTellPodcastTikTok: @LivedToTellPodcastCaitlin's Instagram: @caitlinvanmolemail: [email protected]

Season 3 coming October 22! Patreon available now at Patreon.com/livedtotell!

While the show is on hiatus, I'm re-releasing some episodes with better audio quality. Hopefully, these will be a better listening experience! Vivian Mayo and her husband, Scott were experienced campers in Alaska. But one trip up to their camp in Monahan Flats was anything but typical. Show Instagram: @LivedToTellPodcast TikTok: @LivedToTellPodcast Caitlin's Instagram: @caitlinvanmol email: [email protected] And for those of you who read the show notes, there may be an announcement coming soon!

While the show is on hiatus, I'm re-releasing some episodes with better audio quality. Hopefully, these will be a better listening experience!While on vacation in Hawaii, Sheri was brutally attacked when out for a run. She struggled with PTSD for years, but the attack inspired her into activism.Show Instagram: @LivedToTellPodcastTikTok: @LivedToTellPodcastCaitlin's Instagram: @caitlinvanmolemail: [email protected]

While the show is on hiatus, I'm re-releasing some episodes with better audio quality. Hopefully, these will be a better listening experience! Peter Brandt trusted his contractor enough to let him temporarily stay in his home. But when Peter threatened to call the police over a missing video camera, the contractor brutally attacked him. Show Instagram: @LivedToTellPodcast TikTok: @LivedToTellPodcast Caitlin's Instagram: @caitlinvanmol email: [email protected]

While the show is on hiatus, I'm re-releasing some episodes with better audio quality. Hopefully, these will be a better listening experience!Julia Kwamya was thrown from a cab in 2019, severing her foot and fracturing her spine. Her spinal injury caused her to lose the use of her right arm and Julia was up against the clock to get it addressed before the damage became permanent.You can hear Julia's new single, "Say Yes" on Spotify or Bandcamp. You can follow her on Instagram @JuliaKwamya.Show Instagram: @LivedToTellPodcastTikTok: @LivedtoTellPodcastCaitlin's Instagram: @caitlinvanmolEmail: [email protected]

While the show is on hiatus, I'm re-releasing some episodes with better audio quality. Hopefully, these will be a better listening experience!Johan Otter and his daughter, Jenna are attacked by a bear in Glacier National Park in 2005. He would have to spend three months in a medical halo for his spinal injuries but was determined to run a marathon less than a year after the attack.You can find Johan's book, "A Grizzly Tale, A Father and Daughter Survival Story," here.Show Instagram: @LivedToTellPodcastTikTok: @LivedToTellPodcastCaitlin's Instagram: @caitlinvanmolemail: [email protected]

While the show is on hiatus, I'm re-releasing some episodes with better audio quality. Hopefully, these will be a better listening experience! Melissa Benson finally broke it off with her abusive ex-boyfriend, LaShawn King. But when he tells her he's leaving town for good, she meets up with him one last time. What should have been a 5-minute goodbye ends up being a horrifying night kidnapped in her own van.Show Instagram: @LivedToTellPodcastTikTok: @LivedToTellPodcastCaitlin's Instagram: @caitlinvanmolemail: [email protected]

Hey everyone! I've been down for the count for two weeks at this point and have not been able to finish today's episode.

Bryon Jones was out spending a day with his dog, Buddy, when a storm that seemed miles away literally struck Bryon. Show Instagram: @LivedToTellPodcastTikTok: @LivedToTellPodcastCaitlin's Instagram: @caitlinvanmolemail: [email protected]

In the early hours of 1996, Tamecka was coming home from celebrating the New Year. An act of kindness for a neighbor turned into a bloody New Year's Day.Check out Tamecka's Book: https://www.tameckafrazier.com/bookTamecka's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tameckafrazier?_rdrShow Instagram: @LivedToTellPodcastTikTok: @LivedToTellPodcastCaitlin's Instagram: @caitlinvanmolemail: [email protected]

Part Two of David's story. If you haven't listened to part one, "Dave Part One - "Darkness Falls Quick in the Forest," go listen to that first. Dave and Crystal have been lost in the Amazon Rainforest for six days. Crystal's feet have been rubbed raw from her boots, and she can barely walk. If they can't walk, they have no hope of survival. Show Instagram: @LivedToTellPodcastTikTok: @LivedToTellPodcastCaitlin's Instagram: @caitlinvanmolemail: [email protected]

David Boyer and his on-again, off-again girlfriend, Crystal, take their dream vacation to the Amazon Rainforest. But a misunderstood map and a confusingly marked trail led them to get lost in one of the most remote places on earth. Show Instagram: @LivedToTellPodcastTikTok: @LivedToTellPodcastCaitlin's Instagram: @caitlinvanmolemail: [email protected]

Angela Champange-From was leaving work one day when a man attacked her in the parking garage. But he got more than he bargained for with Angela. Show Instagram: @LivedToTellPodcastTikTok: @LivedToTellPodcastCaitlin's Instagram: @caitlinvanmolemail: [email protected]

In 2008, Tom Wilson, six of his coworkers, and a pilot took off from Vancouver in a small floatplane. Tom would be the only one who would make it home. More about Tom:https://www.momentsofimpact.online/https://www.facebook.com/momentsofimpactbytomwilsonShow Instagram: @LivedToTellPodcastTikTok: @LivedToTellPodcastCaitlin's Instagram: @caitlinvanmolemail: [email protected]

Julie Carlson was enjoying a night home alone when a man burst through her back patio door. Later, she learned she was the 19th victim of a serial rapist plaguing the Dallas/Fort Worth area for the past 2 years. But Julie's quick thinking during her attack would put him away for the rest of his life. Julie's Instagram: @jujusamuraicreations This episode also contains descriptions of sexual assault. To speak to someone at the Rape Abuse Incest National Network, call 1-800-656-HOPE or 1-800-656-4673. Show Instagram: @LivedToTellPodcast TikTok: @LivedToTellPodcast Caitlin's Instagram: @caitlinvanmol email: [email protected]

Manager Kenn Perrier and his team at an assisted living facility were trying to move resident Linda into a different housing situation better suited to her needs. But Linda was NOT going to go quietly. Show Instagram: @LivedToTellPodcastTikTok: @LivedToTellPodcastCaitlin's Instagram: @caitlinvanmolemail: [email protected]

Audra Dillon was finally going to be with the man of her dreams after circling each other for many years. But trying to help a woman in distress would end that dream for good. This episode contains mentions of suicidal ideation. If you or someone you know is struggling, call 988 or visit 988lifeline.org.Show Instagram: @LivedToTellPodcastTikTok: @LivedToTellPodcastCaitlin's Instagram: @caitlinvanmolemail: [email protected]

After several unsuccessful relationships, Anne decided to give an old boyfriend another chance. But that would prove to be a near-fatal mistake. This episode contains descriptions of domestic violence. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, call 1-800.799.SAFE or 1-800-799-7233. You can also find resources at thehotline.org.Show Instagram: @LivedToTellPodcastTikTok: @LivedToTellPodcastCaitlin's Instagram: @caitlinvanmolemail: [email protected]

Lana Hudspeth had a terrible 2005. Within a span of months, she was drugged and raped, and in a rollover car accident that ended with her getting hit by a freight train. This episode contains descriptions of domestic violence. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, call 1-800.799.SAFE or 1-800-799-7233. You can also find resources at thehotline.org.This episode also contains descriptions of sexual assault. To speak to someone at the Rape Abuse Incest National Network, call 1-800-656-HOPE or 1-800-656-4673.Show Instagram: @LivedToTellPodcastTikTok: @LivedToTellPodcastCaitlin's Instagram: @caitlinvanmolemail: [email protected]

Ronny Ahmed was shot by an active shooter on the Florida State University campus in 2014. He was immediately paralyzed and had to figure out how to live a whole new life. This episode contains mentions of suicidal ideation. If you or someone you know is struggling, call 988 or visit 988lifeline.org.Show Instagram: @LivedToTellPodcastTikTok: @LivedToTellPodcastCaitlin's Instagram: @caitlinvanmolemail: [email protected]

Elaine Winn was happily married and pregnant with their first child when her husband randomly attacked her. This episode contains descriptions of domestic violence. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, call 1-800.799.SAFE or 1-800-799-7233. You can also find resources at thehotline.org.Show Instagram: @LivedToTellPodcastTikTok: @LivedToTellPodcastCaitlin's Instagram: @caitlinvanmolemail: [email protected]

Vivian Mayo and her husband, Scott were experienced campers in Alaska. But one trip up to their camp in Monahan Flats was anything but typical. Show Instagram: @LivedToTellPodcast TikTok: @LivedToTellPodcast Caitlin's Instagram: @caitlinvanmol email: [email protected]

We're back! I mean, I'm back. It's back? Season two of Lived to Tell starts Wednesday, December 4th. Subscribe now so you don't miss anything!

I'll be back as soon as I can! If you have any feedback on the show, you can email [email protected]. Thanks!

Paul Templer was an experienced river guide working on the Zambezi River in Zimbabwe when an aggressive hippopotamus attacked him. Paul's first book: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/16704719-what-s-left-of-mePaul's second book: https://bookshop.org/p/books/marked-for-life-finding-grace-and-grit-where-you-least-expect-it/18954965?ean=9781955047494&next=t

Peter Brandt trusted his contractor enough to let him temporarily stay in his home. But when Peter threatened to call the police over a missing video camera, the contractor brutally attacked him. Show Instagram: @LivedToTellPodcastTikTok: @LivedToTellPodcastCaitlin's Instagram: @caitlinvanmolemail: [email protected]

Jay Wilson was just trying to help a friend when a stranger started shooting him, seemingly at random. Follow Jay:Instagram: @524movement Facebook: facebook.com/524bookWebsite: www.524book.com/Show Instagram: @LivedToTellPodcastTikTok: @LivedToTellPodcastCaitlin's Instagram: @caitlinvanmolemail: [email protected]

Monique Faison Ross and her husband Chris were high school sweethearts who got married when Monique got pregnant. The relationship was bad from the start but she couldn't have predicted just how dangerous Chris would be.

Joe Lozito was minding his business on his morning commute to work when two cops and a man with a knife entered his subway car. What happened next would have shocking physical and legal consequences for years.

Craig Hutto was fishing off the beach in Florida when he was attacked by a shark. His brother fought off the shark but the damage was so bad, Craig had to have his leg amputated.

Heather Gladden was on a cruise with her husband when a zip-lining excursion went horribly wrong. Show Instagram: @LivedToTellPodcastTikTok: @LivedToTellPodcastCaitlin's Instagram: @caitlinvanmolemail: [email protected]

13-year-old Christian Kimbrough begged his mom to sleep over at his best friend CJ's house. She allowed it, thinking he'd be safe in a home he had stayed at many times before. But CJ's family had another houseguest who decided to play Russian Roulette with Christian's life. In this episode, we used an alias for Christian's friend that we're calling CJ. Christian's socials- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ReviveMinds/ Instagram: @unorvm ReviveMinds.com Show Instagram: @LivedToTellPodcast TikTok: @LivedToTellPodcast Caitlin's Instagram: @caitlinvanmol email: [email protected]

Melissa Benson finally broke it off with her abusive ex-boyfriend, LaShawn King. But when he tells her he's leaving town for good, she meets up with him one last time. What should have been a 5-minute goodbye ends up being a horrifying night kidnapped in her own van.