My Unsung Hero

Shortly before it was her turn to perform in a piano competition, Angela's nerves were getting the best of her. Then a competitor did something that changed her day — and her life. If you enjoyed today's story, please share it with one or two people in your life. Word-of-mouth recommendations really help us to connect more listeners with the stories we share on this podcast. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Karen felt overwhelmed at the prospect of clearing out her parents’ old belongings. Then someone stepped in to help. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Shalom grew up in an Orthodox Jewish home. When he was seven, his grandmother offered him something small that made him rethink his entire relationship to religion. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Rasha remembers the nurse who treated her ailing mom with uncommon kindness. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Not long after chemotherapy for ovarian cancer, Mary Fran was walking through a mall, self-conscious about losing her hair. Then a stranger came up to her, and told her something that gave her hope. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A favorite from the archives: It’s the middle of the night, and Vanessa and her husband are stranded on an Alaskan highway. Just when they’ve given up hope, a car pulls over. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In 2006, Patricia's three-year-old son had a grand mal seizure. She was a single mother, with no one to accompany her to the hospital. But an hour into her hospital stay, a familiar face appeared. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Growing up, Joy and her parents were dedicated to helping others. Then they received some life-changing help themselves. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Father Martin remembers an act of generosity by a nun named Sister Janice Farnham. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Growing up, Juleus struggled to read. Then a young teacher saw his potential. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Nicole had a seizure while driving to work. When she woke up in the hospital, she learned about an incredible act of courage by another driver on the road. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

After Nick's daughter was diagnosed with cancer, the owner of a restaurant near her hospital made a surprising gesture of support. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

John honors the man who saved his life and inspired his vocation of nearly 40 years. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

When Paix moved to a new high school, he felt lost and alone. Then an older student said something that gave him a flash of hope. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

After fleeing to the US from the Soviet Union, River’s family was struggling to survive. Then, a kind gesture changed their life. Do you have your own story of an unsung hero? We'd love to hear it! Record a voice memo and email it to us at [email protected]. Some guidance:--Focus on ONE moment that you will never forget. --Make sure you're in a quiet, non-echoey room.--Speak conversationally, like you're talking to a friend.--Let us know why this person continues to impact your life.--If your hero were standing front of you today, what would you say? Address them directly.-- Here are some tips on how to make a great recording on your phone.Thank you! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

After Kathryn burned her face in a kitchen accident, the ambulance worker on the ride to the hospital helped her feel like everything was going to be ok. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Nancy was terrified after her husband, Tom, suffered a series of fainting spells. When she asked his doctor what they should do next, the doctor’s answer stunned her — and changed her life. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Bethany was feeling overwhelmed as a single mom with three small children. But one small act of kindness by a neighbor let Bethany know she'd be okay. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A worker at a funeral home makes a special effort to locate the family members of an ailing woman, and unwittingly uncovers a family secret that goes back decades. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

After Julie developed a persistent cough, no one seemed to be able to identify the cause. Then, her unsung hero stepped in and saved her life. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Forty years ago, when JoAnne was working the night shift as a neonatal nurse, a baby girl was born terminally ill. JoAnne recalls the way her supervisor, Nancy, went above and beyond to make the baby feel loved. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

When Ben got a call about his mother being badly injured, he feared the worst. But when he arrived to the hospital, he learned how a stranger's quick thinking had saved her life. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Biar tells the story of a stranger who approached him on the street in Nairobi, Kenya and "sowed a seed of kindness" that he carries with him today. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

When Sandy burst into tears in the supermarket checkout line, a store employee offered her unexpected comfort.If you enjoy this show, be sure to check out our other podcast, Hidden Brain. Each week, we bring you science and stories to help you better understand yourself and the world around you. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A favorite from our archives: Alexandra was struggling with hybrid teaching when a small gesture from a student reminded her why she loved her job.Do you have your own story of an unsung hero? We'd love to hear it! Record a voice memo and email it to us at [email protected]. Some guidance:--Focus on ONE moment that you will never forget. --Make sure you're in a quiet, non-echoey room.--Speak conversationally, like you're talking to a friend.--Let us know why this person continues to impact your life.--If your hero were standing front of you today, what would you say? Address them directly.-- Here are some tips on how to make a great recording on your phone.Thank you! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

When Roger's wife was in the cancer ward, a nurse went out of her way to make her last days more comfortable. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In 2010, Justin was sitting on the side of the freeway, hoping someone would help him fix his busted wheel. Right around the time he was about to give up, a van pulled over.Happy Holidays and Happy New Year from all of us at My Unsung Hero1 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Ellen and her husband were afraid the border guard would confiscate the chemotherapy drugs they were bringing back from Mexico. But then he did something unexpected. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

As Teresa was waiting to have a cesarean section, she started to have a panic attack. Just then, a nurse put her hand on Teresa's head and made her feel she was going to be ok.Do you have your own story of an unsung hero? We'd love to hear it! Record a voice memo and email it to us at [email protected]. Some guidance:--Focus on ONE moment that you will never forget. --Make sure you're in a quiet, non-echoey room.--Speak conversationally, like you're talking to a friend.--Let us know why this person continues to impact your life.--If your hero were standing front of you today, what would you say? Address them directly.-- Here are some tips on how to make a great recording on your phone.Thank you! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Four kind strangers helped Gary when his son with special needs was struggling during a day out in the city. Do you have your own story of an unsung hero? We'd love to hear it! Record a voice memo and email it to us at [email protected]. Some guidance:--Focus on ONE moment that you will never forget. --Make sure you're in a quiet, non-echoey room.--Speak conversationally, like you're talking to a friend.--Let us know why this person continues to impact your life.--If your hero were standing front of you today, what would you say? Address them directly.-- Here are some tips on how to make a great recording on your phone.Thank you! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Minutes before an important job interview, Oliver realized he'd forgotten his dress shirt. A stranger offered a kind and unexpected solution. Do you have your own story of an unsung hero? We'd love to hear it! Record a voice memo and email it to us at [email protected]. Some guidance:--Focus on ONE moment that you will never forget. --Make sure you're in a quiet, non-echoey room.--Speak conversationally, like you're talking to a friend.--Let us know why this person continues to impact your life.--If your hero were standing front of you today, what would you say? Address them directly.-- Here are some tips on how to make a great recording on your phone.Thank you! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

When Calvin’s young son was about to go into surgery, his doctor shared a comforting message.Do you have your own story of an unsung hero? We'd love to hear it! Record a voice memo and email it to us at [email protected]. Some guidance:--Focus on ONE moment that you will never forget. --Make sure you're in a quiet, non-echoey room.--Speak conversationally, like you're talking to a friend.--Let us know why this person continues to impact your life.--If your hero were standing front of you today, what would you say? Address them directly.-- Here are some tips on how to make a great recording on your phone.Thank you! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Not long after she lost her brother to suicide, Mary accidentally stalled her car in heavy traffic. As drivers honked and shouted, a stranger slowed down to help.If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, there are people who can help. You can reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The emergency room staff was ignoring Sarah's gravely ill fiancé — until a young doctor stepped in. Do you have your own story of an unsung hero? We'd love to hear it! Record a voice memo and email it to us at [email protected]. Some guidance:--Focus on ONE moment that you will never forget. --Make sure you're in a quiet, non-echoey room.--Speak conversationally, like you're talking to a friend.--Let us know why this person continues to impact your life.--If your hero were standing front of you today, what would you say? Address them directly.-- Here are some tips on how to make a great recording on your phone.Thank you! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Laura was in a mental health crisis when someone unexpected calmed her down. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

More than 10 years ago, when Robin's father died, a man at the U.S. passport office offered a moment of relief. Do you have your own story of an unsung hero? We'd love to hear it! Record a voice memo and email it to us at [email protected]. Some guidance:--Focus on ONE moment that you will never forget. --Make sure you're in a quiet, non-echoey room.--Speak conversationally, like you're talking to a friend.--Let us know why this person continues to impact your life.--If your hero were standing front of you today, what would you say? Address them directly.-- Here are some tips on how to make a great recording on your phone.Thank you! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

As Katie struggled with a medical ordeal, a stranger offered exactly the comfort she needed. Do you have your own story of an unsung hero? We'd love to hear it! Record a voice memo and email it to us at [email protected]. Some guidance:--Focus on ONE moment that you will never forget. --Make sure you're in a quiet, non-echoey room.--Speak conversationally, like you're talking to a friend.--Let us know why this person continues to impact your life.--If your hero were standing front of you today, what would you say? Address them directly.-- Here are some tips on how to make a great recording on your phone.Thank you! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In 1979, Wendy was eight years old, crying alone in an airport. Then she saw a woman in white walking toward her.Do you have your own story of an unsung hero? We'd love to hear it! Record a voice memo and email it to us at [email protected]. Some guidance:--Focus on ONE moment that you will never forget. --Make sure you're in a quiet, non-echoey room.--Speak conversationally, like you're talking to a friend.--Let us know why this person continues to impact your life.--If your hero were standing front of you today, what would you say? Address them directly.-- Here are some tips on how to make a great recording on your phone.Thank you! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jeff honors three men who worked as trash collectors, who turned a painful moment into a positive memory. Do you have your own story of an unsung hero? We'd love to hear it! Record a voice memo and email it to us at [email protected]. Some guidance:--Focus on ONE moment that you will never forget. --Make sure you're in a quiet, non-echoey room.--Speak conversationally, like you're talking to a friend.--Let us know why this person continues to impact your life.--If your hero were standing front of you today, what would you say? Address them directly.-- Here are some tips on how to make a great recording on your phone.Thank you! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

As Tessa said her last goodbye to her dying father, a family friend made the experience feel just a little bit easier. Do you have your own story of an unsung hero? We'd love to hear it! Record a voice memo and email it to us at [email protected]. Some guidance:--Focus on ONE moment that you will never forget. --Make sure you're in a quiet, non-echoey room.--Speak conversationally, like you're talking to a friend.--Let us know why this person continues to impact your life.--If your hero were standing front of you today, what would you say? Address them directly.-- Here are some tips on how to make a great recording on your phone.Thank you! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A simple act of a generosity from a coffee shop barista helped Hal feel like he was finally a part of his community. Do you have your own story of an unsung hero? We'd love to hear it! Record a voice memo and email it to us at [email protected]. Some guidance:--Focus on ONE moment that you will never forget. --Make sure you're in a quiet, non-echoey room.--Speak conversationally, like you're talking to a friend.--Let us know why this person continues to impact your life.--If your hero were standing front of you today, what would you say? Address them directly.-- Here are some tips on how to make a great recording on your phone.Thank you! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In 2014, at the lowest point of Trieste’s life, a stranger’s brief comment changed everything.Do you have your own story of an unsung hero? We'd love to hear it! Record a voice memo and email it to us at [email protected]. Some guidance:--Focus on ONE moment that you will never forget. --Make sure you're in a quiet, non-echoey room.--Speak conversationally, like you're talking to a friend.--Let us know why this person continues to impact your life.--If your hero were standing front of you today, what would you say? Address them directly.-- Here are some tips on how to make a great recording on your phone.Thank you! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Ethan had a habit of fiddling with his wedding ring. One day, it slipped off his finger — and onto the subway tracks. Do you have your own story of an unsung hero? We'd love to hear it! Record a voice memo and email it to us at [email protected]. Some guidance:--Focus on ONE moment that you will never forget. --Make sure you're in a quiet, non-echoey room.--Speak conversationally, like you're talking to a friend.--Let us know why this person continues to impact your life.--If your hero were standing front of you today, what would you say? Address them directly.-- Here are some tips on how to make a great recording on your phone.Thank you! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

After Laura was badly injured in a car crash, a stranger pulled over to help her. Do you have your own story of an unsung hero? We'd love to hear it! Record a voice memo and email it to us at [email protected]. Some guidance:--Focus on ONE moment that you will never forget. --Make sure you're in a quiet, non-echoey room.--Speak conversationally, like you're talking to a friend.--Let us know why this person continues to impact your life.--If your hero were standing front of you today, what would you say? Address them directly.-- Here are some tips on how to make a great recording on your phone.Thank you! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A stranger at the beach helped Lynn remember that when life gets hard, you don't have to do it alone.Do you have your own story of an unsung hero? We'd love to hear it! Record a voice memo and email it to us at [email protected]. Some guidance:--Focus on ONE moment that you will never forget. --Make sure you're in a quiet, non-echoey room.--Speak conversationally, like you're talking to a friend.--Let us know why this person continues to impact your life.--If your hero were standing front of you today, what would you say? Address them directly.-- Here are some tips on how to make a great recording on your phone.Thank you! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jonathan suffered from asthma as a kid until a teacher encouraged him to embrace the disease. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Adrianne was on a long overseas flight with her baby and two young children. After she exited the plane, she noticed a family nearby, waiting for something.Do you have your own story of an unsung hero? We'd love to hear it! Record a voice memo and email it to us at [email protected]. Some guidance:--Focus on ONE moment that you will never forget. --Make sure you're in a quiet, non-echoey room.--Speak conversationally, like you're talking to a friend.--Let us know why this person continues to impact your life.--If your hero were standing front of you today, what would you say? Address them directly.-- Here are some tips on how to make a great recording on your phone.Thank you! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

They met as rivals on the soccer field. Then they became teammates.Do you have your own story of an unsung hero? We'd love to hear it! Record a voice memo and email it to us at [email protected]. Some guidance:--Focus on ONE moment that you will never forget. --Make sure you're in a quiet, non-echoey room.--Speak conversationally, like you're talking to a friend.--Let us know why this person continues to impact your life.--If your hero were standing front of you today, what would you say? Address them directly.-- Here are some tips on how to make a great recording on your phone.Thank you! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Eranda was nervous on his first overseas trip by himself, until a fellow passenger went the extra mile to help him out. Do you have your own story of an unsung hero? We'd love to hear it! Record a voice memo and email it to us at [email protected]. Some guidance:--Focus on ONE moment that you will never forget. --Make sure you're in a quiet, non-echoey room.--Speak conversationally, like you're talking to a friend.--Let us know why this person continues to impact your life.--If your hero were standing front of you today, what would you say? Address them directly.-- Here are some tips on how to make a great recording on your phone.Thank you! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

After Susan rushed to the hospital to check on her sick father, a stranger offered her comfort in an unexpected way. Do you have your own story of an unsung hero? We'd love to hear it! Record a voice memo and email it to us at [email protected]. Some guidance:--Focus on ONE moment that you will never forget. --Make sure you're in a quiet, non-echoey room.--Speak conversationally, like you're talking to a friend.--Let us know why this person continues to impact your life.--If your hero were standing front of you today, what would you say? Address them directly.-- Here are some tips on how to make a great recording on your phone.Thank you! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.