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Baggage

The Baggage Podcast

Baggage brings together the personal, reflective storytelling of "This American Life" with the conversational, often humorous vibe of "SmartLess," delivering compelling, raw narratives from people from all walks of life, offering an intimate and honest look into the weight we carry. Led by an unlikely foursome—a doctor, a prosecutor, a comedian, and a writer—the hosts bring their vastly different backgrounds to the table, unpacking these stories with a unique blend of empathy, wit, and curiosity.

The show is a unique vehicle to highlight and donate to charities who contribute to trauma and mental needs. Collaborating charities include the Dear Jack Foundation (https://www.dearjackfoundation.org/ ) and Canine Companions (https://canine.org/ ), among others. The ultimate goal of the show is to donate profits directly to these charities, as well as give them a platform to get their message out. If you are interested in helping the show achieve this goal, please donate to help with marketing and growth.

To share your story or ask a question, email us at thebaggagepodcast@gmail.com.

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#67
Yesterday · 26 min
Carry-On: Fantasy Failure
In this episode, the guys follow up the previous conversation with circus performer Kimberly. The discussion starts with praise for Kimberly’s courage in sharing her story and moves through circus nostalgia, strange panhandling stories, and a long fantasy football punishment debate that takes over the back half of the episode. In short, they could use your help in punishing their friend Craig. You can view a video version of this episode here: https://youtu.be/41Hl_blzNlM 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.
#66
August 18 · 58 min
Circus Performer (Kimberly)
Being a circus performer is interesting enough. But the guest on this episode tells the guys how pursuing her dream job led to a nightmare relationship. Kimberly shares her harrowing experience with coercive control and manipulation during her time in Scotland. This may be a difficult one to listen to but important to highlight the signs of manipulation, the cycle of abuse, and the importance of awareness and support. Follow Kimberly on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/kimberly.circus/. You can view a video version of this episode here: https://youtu.be/N9eEnCL-BS0 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.
#65
August 4 · 24 min
Carry-On: Podcast Panhandling
In this follow-up episode of Carry-On, the guys reflect on their recent firefighter interview before quickly veering into the kind of off-the-rails conversation listeners have come to expect. They discuss a tragic wildfire update, Eric's bold attempt to raise money for charity outside Red Rocks, AI critiquing the podcast itself, Ryan Connor's surprise engagement announcement, cholesterol talk, and a string of hilarious stories involving college fundraising disasters and mysteriously detergent-covered suede shoes. It's a mess but it’s our mess.You can view a video version of this episode here: https://youtu.be/3AofiGjkvis 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.
#64
July 21 · 59 min
Firefighter (Scott)
It turns out firefighting has little to do with using a hose relative to everything else expected of them. In this episode, the guys interview Scott, a veteran firefighter and paramedic with 26 years of experience. Scott shares his compelling stories from the front lines—ranging from wildland rescues to the emotional toll of emergency responses. Discover what it truly takes to serve as a first responder and how these heroes cope with the intensity of their work. You can view a video version of this episode here: https://youtu.be/s6LHCjxTGeE 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.
#63
July 7 · 19 min
Carry-On: Vigilante Justice For All
In this episode, the guys debate World Cup soccer … Well, not really. Ryan just feels compelled to show how much he knows about it. But they do debate the movie “Watchmen” versus the HBO show “Watchmen” as if the two are … Well, it’s not really a debate. Eric is just completely wrong. Anyway, they discuss the vigilante killing of Jeff Doucet by Gary Plauché amongst other vigilante-related tangents. You can view a video version of this episode here: https://youtu.be/8BxhoTtzglE 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.
#62
June 23 · 52 min
Rape/Kidnapping Survivor (Cheryl)
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/KTJKg64RbgY Please 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.
#61
June 9 · 31 min
Carry-On: Mindhunted
In this episode, the guys reflect on the previous episode that featured FBI profilers Melissa and Adrienne. As a special treat from them, they provided a criminal profile of host Eric Shaw … It’s spot on. The guys then digress in random thoughts about who is the most serial killerish, what happens to bullets in fire, etc. You can view a video version of this episode here: https://youtu.be/Z-cLxwaLzI0 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.
#60
May 26 · 1 hr
The FBI's Behavioral Analysis Unit (Melissa & Adrienne)
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/6jiWIDsSn24 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.
#59
May 12 · 20 min
Carry-On: Puppy Troubles
The guys follow up on the last episode that featured Lonnie, a man that had to deal cleaning up after suicides and the like. There’s a large portion of the show dedicated to Ryan Conner and Ryan Frank’s blood work. It accomplishes nothing. The real challenge was Ryan Frank trying to make it through the whole episode while dealing with the unofficial co-host, his new puppy. You can view a video version of this episode here: : https://youtu.be/fh_y-R0JvEo 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.
#58
April 28 · 52 min
Death Scene Cleaner (Lonnie)
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.
#57
April 14 · 36 min
Carry-On: One Order of CRISPR Bacon Please
In this episode, the guys do a short update related to the 2018 stolen aircraft incident as well as an update on the Gilgo Beach serial killer. Then, it’s all about science. Eric educates everyone on CRISPR and other advances in science. Then Ryan has the others judge him on his medical stats. If you make it to the end, you get a prize! Full disclaimer: there is no prize. 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.
#56
March 31 · 54 min
Cancer Survivor (Erika; ft. Dear Jack Foundation)
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.
#55
March 17 · 33 min
Carry-On: You Can't Handle the Truth!
Ryan and Eric talk about the recent retirement of the last guest, the emotional toll of police work, etc. They also talk about how TV and movies portray their professions. 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.
#54
March 3 · 1 hr 13 min
Police Chief (Capt. Joe Harvey)
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.
#53
February 17 · 20 min
Carry-On: The Battle of Butcha
In this episode, the guys delve into the recent history of the Ukraine war, focusing on the Battle of Buccia, its atrocities, and how it has shaped Ukrainian resolve. They also explore personal narratives from those who have experienced the conflict firsthand, discussing lessons learned about war, human capacity for evil, and the importance of international support. 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.
#52
February 3 · 51 min
Ukrainian Battlefield Medic (Alina Sarnatska; ft. The Leleka Foundation)
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.
#51
January 20 · 26 min
Carry-On: Pushing Tin
In this episode, the guys follow up on the recent Air Traffic Controller guest episode by delving into the challenges faced by those in the profession, discussing the complexities of the job, the interplay between the FAA and the union, and the impact of staffing shortages. They explore the unique pressures of the profession, including the demanding work schedules and the difficulty of transferring between facilities. They also speculate on the potential role of AI in air traffic control and the importance of maintaining high safety standards despite the challenges. 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.
#50
January 6 · 50 min
Air Traffic Controller (Kasey)
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.
#49
Dec 23, 2025 · 42 min
Carry-On: Horses ... The Silent Killer
In this episode, Ryan Conner starts off with shamming Ryan Frank about his abysmal year in their fantasy football league. It’s unnecessary, hurtful, and we will speak no more on the subject. The guys then talk about the implications of recent rulings on abusive head trauma and the ongoing trends in book banning and censorship. As is the case with every Carry-On episode, the guys eventually end up talking about old movies and how they really should deal with the child trauma inflicted on them with their parents’ free-range style vis a vie exposure to age inappropriate movies. 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.
#48
Dec 9, 2025 · 59 min
Librarian (Marian)
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.

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