🎙️Real life stories you need to hear. Hosted by Jeff Hopeck, former U.S. Secret Service Officer. Episodes include: 💀 Near Death: Secret Service Agent, never told before ⚔️ Horror: FBI Agent, Most gruesome display of human depravity 🔫 Shot in Throat w/ Hunting Rifle ... and Survived! ✈️ 747 Pilot, Tri-fecta of Near-Death Experiences 🎖️ CIA Mission Gone WRONG! [Funny, Serious, Raw] 🏥 GRUESOME: ER Trauma Surgeon Stories [Warning: Graphic] 🍔 437lb Lie He Told Himself Every Day [237lb weight loss ...
…
continue reading
Sibling Loss Survivor Podcasts
On this podcast, surviving sibling, psychologist, and thanatologist, Dr. Angela Dean, helps other grieving siblings share their sibling loss stories. This podcast aims to provide an authentic space for surviving siblings to express their grief and help others navigate the complex emotions associated with this profound, often misunderstood loss. The Broken Pack: Stories of Adult Sibling Loss delves into the profound and often overlooked topic of sibling loss, offering a platform for surviving ...
…
continue reading

1
Bonneau Ansley: My Comeback Story [Dyslexia to $440 Million]
1:15:51
1:15:51
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:15:51In this episode of Interesting Humans, “Bonneau Ansley: My Comeback Story [Dyslexia to $440 Million],” real estate mogul Bonneau Ansley recounts his journey from struggling with dyslexia to building a $440 million business empire. He begins by describing the challenges he faced in school: being labeled “stupid,” failing classes, and internalizing n…
…
continue reading

1
White House Evacuation EXPLAINED 🔥 [Secret Service Insider]
12:33
12:33
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
12:33In today’s episode, Host Jeff Hopeck (Former U.S. Secret Service Officer) gives a detailed account of May 11, 2005 (he was standing post on the North grounds of the White House). It was the day an airplane disaster caused a panicked, chaos-filled White House evacuation. Being only a few short years after 9/11, it was a charged atmosphere. “All the …
…
continue reading

1
Will Jones: Inside the Life of a Country Music Singer & Songwriter
1:28:47
1:28:47
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:28:47In this heartfelt episode of Interesting Humans, host Jeff Hopeck sits down with rising country music artist Will Jones for a conversation that’s anything but ordinary. Known for his authenticity, storytelling, and deep Appalachian roots, Will opens up about the winding road that led him from playing bluegrass as a kid in Virginia to sharing stages…
…
continue reading

1
Nic McKinley, Ex-CIA: The Digital Age of Trafficking - Protecting Our Children
1:01:59
1:01:59
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:01:59In this episode, Nick McKinley discusses the critical issue of human trafficking, emphasizing the stark differences between kidnapping and trafficking. He highlights the modern methods traffickers use to exploit children, particularly through social media and online platforms. McKinley shares insights into the mission of Deliver Fund, which leverag…
…
continue reading

1
Cameron Rhode: 24 Half-Siblings. How, Why and so much More!
42:41
42:41
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
42:41In this episode, Cameron Rhode shares his extraordinary journey of discovering his identity through the revelation of having 24-25 half-siblings, all stemming from his mother's use of an anonymous sperm donor. He reflects on the impact of growing up without a father figure, the close bond he shared with his mother, and how music played a significan…
…
continue reading

1
Gary Arndt: The Famous Travel Blogger Who Changed a Nation's Visa Law
58:28
58:28
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
58:28Summary In this episode, Gary Arndt shares his extensive travel experiences, highlighting the challenges and unexpected moments he has faced in various countries. From close calls during protests to the joys of culinary adventures, Gary provides a unique perspective on the realities of traveling the world. He discusses the importance of adaptabilit…
…
continue reading

1
Dr. Armando Sardi: A Surgeon Changing the Future of Cancer
1:29:54
1:29:54
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:29:54In this episode of the Interesting Humans Podcast, Dr. Armando Sardi discusses the innovative HIPEC surgery, which combines surgical tumor removal with heated chemotherapy to treat advanced abdominal cancers. He shares inspiring patient stories, including that of Gary, who was given a terminal diagnosis but found hope through this procedure. Dr. Sa…
…
continue reading

1
Inside the Autopsy Room: What the Dead Tell Us, Dr, Geoffrey Smith. Chief Medical Examiner GBI
1:50:50
1:50:50
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:50:50In this episode, Dr. Geoffrey Smith, the Chief Medical Examiner for the state of Georgia, shares insights into the world of forensic pathology. He discusses the differences between medical examiners and coroners, the challenges faced in the field, and the emotional toll of dealing with death on a daily basis. Dr. Smith recounts personal anecdotes f…
…
continue reading

1
C. Neil Davenport - From Crushed to Creating: How I Established My Film Career
1:07:37
1:07:37
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:07:37In this conversation, Neil Davenport shares his journey in the film industry, detailing his early experiences with scams and the lessons learned from them. He discusses the current state of the film industry, particularly the differences between Georgia and LA, and the economic factors influencing filmmaking today. Neil also explores the role of AI…
…
continue reading

1
Dr. James Boron, Gruesome ER Stories [Warning: Graphic, Horrific]
1:40:30
1:40:30
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:40:30In this episode, the conversation delves into the complexities of trauma surgery, particularly focusing on gunshot wounds and the challenges faced by trauma surgeons. The guest, Dr. Boron, shares insights from his experiences, discussing the differences between various types of injuries, the critical importance of timely medical intervention, and t…
…
continue reading

1
Shot in the Throat with a Hunting Rifle and Lived!
45:35
45:35
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
45:35In this episode, Keith Mask shares his harrowing experience of being shot in the throat at the age of 18 during a hunting trip. He recounts the events leading up to the incident, the immediate aftermath, and the emergency response that followed. Keith describes the pain and fear he felt, the miraculous survival against the odds, and the long road t…
…
continue reading

1
Pilot's Trifecta of Near-death Experiences & more …
1:38:40
1:38:40
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:38:40Most pilots retire having never experienced 1 of these near-death experiences. Not Kelly Fox. As a 747 Pilot, he experienced all 3 ... in one ONE trip! That's correct. In just 72 hours, this pilot stared death in the face and each time his training fought back and wrestled the demon of death to the ground; each time emerging victorious and ready fo…
…
continue reading
In this engaging conversation, Nic McKinley shares his unique experiences as a CIA operative, highlighting the humorous and unexpected moments that occur in high-stakes intelligence operations. He discusses the advantages of using Riverside for podcasting, recounts funny stories from combat, and reflects on the challenges faced during covert operat…
…
continue reading

1
Retired U.S. Secret Service Agent (Near-Death Story & More!)
2:17:21
2:17:21
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
2:17:21What happens when a Secret Service agent stares death in the face—over and over again? Meet Scott Bryson, a man whose career in the Secret Service reads like a Hollywood thriller. From high-stakes missions overseas to life-or-death moments on U.S. soil, Scott’s stories aren’t just intense—they’re jaw-dropping. In this episode, he takes us inside so…
…
continue reading

1
4ocean (Plastic Islands & Panic at 150 ft.)
1:23:35
1:23:35
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:23:35Summary In this episode, Tony Ernst from Four Ocean shares his journey from waste management to leading ocean cleanup efforts. He emphasizes the importance of transparency in their operations, detailing the extensive documentation required for every cleanup. Tony discusses the equipment and partnerships that enable their work, the daily operations …
…
continue reading

1
Military Trained (82nd Airborne). Mission: Protect Your Child.
1:27:33
1:27:33
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:27:33From Airborne to Unshakable Trust John Nelson’s life reads like a movie script—82nd Airborne veteran, government work across continents, and now the founder of a student tour company built entirely on safety, trust, and integrity. In this episode, John shares wild jump stories, Cold War memories, surviving chaos during the Boston Marathon bombing, …
…
continue reading

1
437 lb. Lie He Told Himself Every Day
1:13:40
1:13:40
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:13:40👀 437lbs down to 205lbs. Listen to Keith Brock's inspirational story that began with a couch 🛋️ in Miami, FL and a gut-wrenching event that sparked lasting change in his life. One moment he was living the life of a 437 pound frustrated and miserable human being. The next moment he turned his life over and walked out of his old body. Some incredible…
…
continue reading

1
TOPGUN Pilot to Renowned High School Teacher
1:41:08
1:41:08
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:41:08Ray Schenk : The ultimate story of a Top Gun pilot turned high school teacher, whose classes all have waiting lists to get into. Ray’s approach to modern day education, finding and developing leaders for the next generation and his keen sense of using AI & Robotics in the classroom have all landed him on Episode 52 of The 🎙️ Interesting Humans Podc…
…
continue reading

1
World Series of Poker Champion, Jeff Tomlinson
1:15:54
1:15:54
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:15:54♣️ ♦️ ♥️ Jeff Tomlinson, 2015 World Series poker champion talks poker tells, card counting, rules, and stories ranging from dumbest thing seen at a poker table to the final hand before winning his gold bracelet! Even if you’re like me and do not play poker, you’re in for a real treat on this episode. Plus, jeff is such an awesome person and you’re …
…
continue reading
“This is one of the sickest and most gruesome displays of human depravity ever seen at the FBI” — Retired Special Agent John Macveigh. I met John through Retired U.S. Secret Service Special Agent Harry Fuller. Harry is a close friend of mine (and we worked together 2003-2006) who appeared in Episode 30 together with Retired U.S. Secret Service Agen…
…
continue reading

1
Saltwater Stories: A Captain's Life at Sea
1:08:22
1:08:22
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:08:22[Folks, there was no way I could produce this episode in my studio! It had to be done on the deck of Captain Allen’s boat, so we hit the road and spent a sunny afternoon on his boat!] Captain Allen Mills — He’s a good friend, a client, and 45+ year charter fishing captain. He is owner of ACCharters in Amelia Island, Florida. I fished will Allen 50+…
…
continue reading

1
Susana Eshleman - Living Life with Purpose & On Purpose
1:20:00
1:20:00
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:20:00“God honors treating people well.” — Susana Eshleman, CEO Children International I was introduced to Susana by a mutual friend and former Chairman of the CI board of directors. She has such an inspiring story beginning with how she had to hide books under her bed as a child then how and why she got into college then accepted into Harvard. Full of t…
…
continue reading

1
MLK Protege, Bloody Sunday Survivor
1:29:53
1:29:53
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:29:53My good friend Jack was at an event watching John Suttles share his story. Jack called me right after the event and said “Jeff you HAVE to get this guy on your podcast. His story was so amazing I walked up to him afterwards and got his number for you.” Wow, Jack was right! And then some. Mr John Suttles shares his story of surviving Bloody Sunday, …
…
continue reading

1
17 Brain Surgeries. 7 Misdiagnoses. 13mos ICU
1:29:31
1:29:31
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:29:31Shaun & Julie Francis have endured what hopefully no other human being has to endure. 17 brain surgeries, 13 months in ICU, multiple comas, seizures and more. When 7 surgeons told Julie her husband's only option is to enter hospice, she said "figure out a way" and they did. Without her advocacy on his behalf while in a coma, Shaun would be dead lon…
…
continue reading

1
Dave Cormack: Chairman of Aberdeen Football Club
1:19:14
1:19:14
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:19:14Dave Cormack. I’m so thankful a mutual friend connected us. Our first pre-interview was at Starbucks and lasted 3 hours and 50 minutes! Dave is such an incredible human. Of course he’s successful with a business exit of $800 million. But there is so much more to this man. In this episode you’re going to hear Dave’s entire life story from growing up…
…
continue reading

1
From Homeless to Fortune 500 Lanyard King
54:25
54:25
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
54:25I’m so glad a mutual friend introduced us. Mike Barnhill has such an exciting story from couch jumping and homeless to becoming #1 badge/lanyard supplier in the world. But how and why is this even possible? The answer is what makes this episode so extraordinary! It was ONE sentence in ONE book that changed everything for Mike. Prepare yourself for …
…
continue reading

1
Andy Cook: Parenting 10 Kids and CEO @ Promise686. [How do you do it all?]
1:17:07
1:17:07
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:17:07Andy Cook is an amazing individual! 10 kids and CEO of a successful non-profit aimed at helping orphaned kids find homes. Andy talks about his days as Dean of Admission at Wesleyan School in Norcross, GA along with the pivotal times in life that shaped him into the person he is today. Support the show Would you support my podcast? Here's how: 1 * L…
…
continue reading

1
4 Million TikTok Followers [An Influencer's AMAZING Life Story]
1:17:09
1:17:09
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:17:09Meghan McCarthy turned a disadvantage into a significant ADvantage! As you will hear, her voice is truly unique and millions agree. They love her funny and engaging videos on TikTok, Youtube and Instagram where she has 8+ million followers. Her family business (Mccarthy Taxi and Flowers) was in 3 episodes of The Office! Enjoy the episode! Her entir…
…
continue reading

1
For Parents: Big 6 Theory, COVID Developmental Effects on Kids by age, Hannah Rinehart, LPC
1:09:35
1:09:35
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:09:35I'm a father of 4. This episode blew my mind. Listen as Hannah explains the Big 6, the COVID developmental effects on kids, her lemonade stand story, parenting tips & hacks, and much more. If you're a parent or know parents, don't miss this one. It's critical and I assure you'll glean several important nuggets. Thanks for listening to Interesting H…
…
continue reading

1
Art of Training Seeing Eye Dogs [Behind the Scenes]
1:13:48
1:13:48
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:13:48Lehman Brothers to Training Seeing Eye Dogs! Jim flew in from New Jersey, headquarters of Seeing Eye Training Institute. We go behind the senses starting day 1 arrival when blind students arrive. Jim explains what it takes to train these incredible dogs, how the students get chosen and matched to their dog, and so much more. He even gives the day-t…
…
continue reading

1
Gary Young : Survivor, “Mother of All Surgeries”
1:14:17
1:14:17
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:14:17Gary Young survived one of (if not the most) complicated surgery known to man. Listen as he tells the horrific yet heroic story of having 8 organs removed and scrubbed with chemo. And it didn't end there. His body was filled up with chemo and he was shaken around for 2 hours. Help Gary raise awareness for this rare, often mis-diagnosed form of canc…
…
continue reading

1
Ty Bryant's Life Story: Adoption, Loss & Redemption
1:24:02
1:24:02
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:24:02Ty's first night was spent in an Electrolux Vacuum Box. His narrative begins with a touching tale of adoption, when a woman offered him to his mother just three days after his birth, a moment that resonates with biblical stories of destiny and community support. Ty's alcoholic father left the family early on, leaving him to be raised by his mother,…
…
continue reading

1
CRYPTIC Home & Auto Insurance Industry SCAMS, Practical Tips
1:25:14
1:25:14
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:25:14Buyer beware of CRYPTIC-ness: Home and Auto Insurance SCAMS! And great practical tips to help keep you safe from the continued lies and empty promises of such a snake-filled industry. Today, we're diving deep into the world of home & auto insurance with none other than Brandon Smith, a seasoned expert in the field and Super Lawyer. If you've ever w…
…
continue reading

1
The Incredible Story of MUJO [Michelin Star] SUSHI
1:34:25
1:34:25
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:34:25Federico Castelluci was introduced to me by Randy Cross' son (episode 6), Brendon. "Hey Jeff, you should talk to my friend Federico. He's young and turned around SUGO, built Cooks & Soldier and Iberian Pig then the most incredible restaurant called MUJO. The whole place sells out on the 1st of every month. You won't believe his story!" Brendon cert…
…
continue reading

1
INTRAPRENEUR: Taking The Weather Channel and CNN into the Digital Era
1:00:01
1:00:01
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:00:01Louis Gump was introduced to me by a mutual friend. "This guy wrote a book and is doing really unique stuff with the biggest organizations in the world" is how it was teed up. And wow, it's THAT plus much more! Louis Gump, author, tells his fascinating story of taking massive organizations into the digital era using his framework of INTRApreneurshi…
…
continue reading

1
David Perno, UGA Dawgs Baseball Coach. 2 Players Paralyzed, SEC Titles & The "Big Win"
1:29:05
1:29:05
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:29:05David Perno had no idea what was coming when he accepted the head coach job at UGA. 2 A-level recruits paralyzed in the same year was just the beginning. This episode takes many twists and turns and also highlights his 5 SEC titles and College Baseball Championships. He's a great storyteller and has been through so much in his career! While nobody …
…
continue reading

1
2 Retired U.S. Secret Service Agents Tell AMAZING Stories, Behind the Scenes [FULL EPISODE]
2:08:03
2:08:03
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
2:08:03We laugh... a Secret Service Officer and 2 Secret Service Agents walk into a room. No joke! We actually did, and the interview was fascinating. I interviewed 2 close friends I worked with in the U.S. Secret Service, back in "the days". We told stories, gave account for the 2 assassination attempts, talked about training inefficiencies and much much…
…
continue reading

1
[Painkiller Doc.] Real-Life M30 & Heroin Survivor Story. Hope & Inspiration
1:10:03
1:10:03
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:10:03Meet Will. Normal in every way. Except he fell into the trap shown in Painkiller Documentary. It goes like this: Experimenting with M30's and when they get too expensive the dealer suggests heroin. And it's that simple, and most times it's THAT DEADLY. Will got out alive and his story is just tremendous. It brings hope and inspiration to all who su…
…
continue reading

1
Blind At Age 21. Harvard Grad, Coder, Double Black Diamond Skier. How?
1:46:15
1:46:15
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:46:15Chad E. Foster has accomplished more than 99% of humans. And, he did it BLIND. His story will motivate you to turn any obstacle into an advantage. His book Blind Ambition will have you laughing, crying and wanting to make massive changes in your life all at the same time. While reading his book, and then while interviewing him in person, I felt con…
…
continue reading

1
Empowering the Disabled Through Farming, Joe & Mike Twiner Peachtree Farm
59:03
59:03
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
59:03When I first toured Peachtree Farm, it was for a completely different reason than having them on my podcast. 15 minutes into the tour, things changed! This farm is about so much more than sustainable farming! They only hire disabled teens and young adults and watching them worked made it clear why this farm needs to be an episode on Interesting Hum…
…
continue reading

1
Chris Carneal, Boosterhon CEO, Authentic Leadership, Family Man
1:30:06
1:30:06
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:30:06What if balancing a thriving entrepreneurial career and a fulfilling family life isn't just a dream, but an achievable reality? Join us as Chris Carneal, founder and CEO of Booster, shares his inspiring journey of raising over $700 million for schools while staying deeply involved with his family, including coaching more than 30 of his kids' sports…
…
continue reading

1
Sibling Grief, Potholes, & Scooter Safety: A Surviving Sibling's Advocacy: Kate / Larry
53:09
53:09
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
53:09In this episode of The Broken Pack™: Stories of Adult Sibling Loss, Dr. Dean talks with Kate Chertik, a Pittsburgh woman navigating the devastating grief of losing her brother, Larry, to a fatal scooter accident caused by a city pothole. As a surviving sibling, Kate shares her raw emotions, the impact on her family, and how she turned her grief int…
…
continue reading

1
WWII Vet, 99 Years Old! Great Stories, Great Human
32:21
32:21
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
32:21What a great blessing to be introduced to Fred Van Laningham. We took the show on the road to interview him at his assisted living facility. Caution, he is a little hard to follow and understand at times and we did our ABSOLUTE BEST to edit the sound and quality. My goal in bringing him on is to shine a light on such an interesting time in our nati…
…
continue reading

1
Chris Schueler, CEO Cyderes, Robert Herjavec's (Shark Tank) Successor
56:11
56:11
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
56:11In this episode Chris talks about his time as an Army Ranger, his experience getting his black belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, his significant pivotal point that forever changed him, and his incredible story of being first to create a cybersecurity blueprint at the Pentagon before the word "cybersecurity" even existed! It becomes simple to see why Rob…
…
continue reading

1
Sibling Loss After a Tragic Accident: A Surviving Sibling Honors Her Sister's Compassion: Beth / Emily
1:12:41
1:12:41
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:12:41On this episode of The Broken Pack™: Stories of Adult Sibling Loss, Dr. Beth Hoffman, a surviving sibling, joins Dr. Dean to discuss the loss of her sister, Emily. Emily was tragically killed in a pedestrian accident. Dr. Hoffman shares how she navigates life as a sibling loss survivor following Emily's sudden death, including her experience in the…
…
continue reading

1
Stacy Miller. Dyslexia is my Superpower. Fyre Festival Lawyer [Netflix Doc], Elevator Tragedy Story
56:38
56:38
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
56:38Stacy Miller was a fascinating interview for so many reasons. First, he's on a Netflix Documentary, Fyre Festival. Second, he calls his Dyslexia his superpower! That had me blown away, and when he unpacks the story my mind became completely blown. And 3rd he prosecuted several high profile cases but none hit home like the Weston Androw elevator cas…
…
continue reading

1
A Brother's Adderall Addiction & A Surviving Sibling's Loss & Love: Taylor/ Ben
45:16
45:16
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
45:16In this raw and heartfelt episode of The Broken Pack™:Stories of Adult Sibling Loss, Taylor bravely shares her experience as a surviving sibling after losing her brother Ben to Adderall addiction. Through tears and laughter, she explores the depths of sibling grief, the unexpected signs that Ben is still with her, and the ongoing journey of navigat…
…
continue reading

1
Jeff Franceour, MLB Star, Braves TBS Broadcaster
1:03:07
1:03:07
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:03:07I wanted to interview Jeff because of his reputation as a family man and role model in the community. I reached out to one of my close friends who hunts and golfs with Jeff and things fell into place from there. As you will hear (and see if you watch on Youtube), Jeff is a dynamic and passionate human being. His stories, especially the one about th…
…
continue reading

1
Sibling Loss & Love Beyond Death, An Enduring Bond : Randye / Mitch
1:10:36
1:10:36
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:10:36In this episode, of The Broken Pack: Stories of Adult Sibling Loss, Dr. Dean speaks with Randye, a surviving sibling, who shares her deeply personal story of losing her brother Mitch to cancer over 45 years ago. Her experience challenges the notion that grief fades with time, highlighting the enduring nature of sibling loss and its profound lifelon…
…
continue reading

1
Matt Mcllwain, Madrona Venture Group Managing Director [Forbes Midas List]
1:00:11
1:00:11
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:00:11What a great treat it was to interview Matt. He's a good friend of Chris Scully (COO of a company I started in 2007, Killer Shark Marketing). In this episode you will hear Matt discuss how Madrona was an "Early investor into Amazon and many other great companies we all know and love." A fun fact about this episode, Matt broke a rib the day before w…
…
continue reading