How 'This Is Actually Happening’ podcast changes our understanding of the human experience

Since the advent of the podcast medium, audiences have sought shows that push the boundaries, stimulate the mind, and elicit raw emotion. Wondery’s podcast,...

Since the advent of the podcast medium, audiences have sought shows that push the boundaries, stimulate the mind, and elicit raw emotion. Wondery’s podcast, "This is Actually Happening," podcast hosted by Whit Missildine, encapsulates all these traits. It dives deep into the human experience, narrating true stories that border on the surreal.

The origin story

Whit Missildine, an academic with a background in psychology, embarked on a unique mission to explore extraordinary life experiences. The podcast was first launched under the umbrella of Wondery, known for producing riveting content like true crime shows and stories centered on profound awakening. On social media, Missildine and Wondery have an eager following, eagerly awaiting new episodes every week.

Content and trigger warnings

One aspect that sets "This is Actually Happening" apart from other podcasts is its diligent approach towards its audience. The episodes are prefaced with explicit language intro music and often come with content/trigger warnings. They touch upon subjects like mental illness, the line between life and death, and events so strange they defy belief.

Wide range of topics

Whether it's an episode titled "What If You Were Born Without a Hand" or a distress account like "What If It Happened in Broad Daylight," the podcast taps into a wide range of human experiences. Episodes have included everything from true crime topics involving serial killers to more heart-wrenching stories like "What If You Survived Online Child Exploitation."

Production quality

Nigel Coutinho is instrumental in the podcast’s success, ensuring that each episode is meticulously edited. The production team, known as Whit Missildineeditors, also includes professionals who pick music that truly complements the theme. The tippermusic bed, for example, creates an ambiance that keeps listeners engaged.

Community engagement

The podcast has nurtured a powerful online community where fans discuss their favorite episodes or speculate on upcoming ones. To deepen the sense of community and provide support, the podcast also promotes a dedicated Facebook group, where listeners can discuss episodes, share personal stories, and access additional resources. The following resources are often cited at the end of each episode, enabling listeners to find help or gain further information on the topic discussed. One can be a part of this engaging forum through their Facebook group [here](https://www.facebook.com/groups/201783687561039).

Wondery plus and ad-free content

For those looking to enjoy an uninterrupted experience, the podcast offers an ad-free version through Wondery Plus. This subscription service allows fans to enjoy their favorite episodes without any commercial interruptions point blank.

Episode highlights

1. The One Where God is Discussed: This episode ponders the existence of a higher power and what it means to different individuals.

2. The Grizzly Bear Encounter: True to its title, this episode recounts a horrifying yet gripping tale of a close encounter with a grizzly bear.

3. Nanny’s Secret: A real-life thriller, this episode exposes a nanny's secret life, proving that sometimes the most shocking truths are hidden in plain sight.

4. What If Your Favorite Celebrity Had a Crush on You: This episode is a light-hearted break from the otherwise intense themes, exploring what it's like when fantasy meets reality.

5. Today’s Episode – What If Your Life: In this recent release, the host dives into existential questions that push us to contemplate the nature of our very existence.

Musical notes

The show’s music, often credited as Illabye for intro and Chris Zabriskieoutro music, for outro music, is carefully chosen to complement the mood of each episode. Sara Marinelli, a prominent musician, is also a contributing artist to the podcast’s ever-evolving sound. Music is a cornerstone in setting the atmosphere for any form of media, and "This is Actually Happening" is no exception. It is a testament to the podcast's attention to detail that the intro music is explicitly marked with a language warning, priming the listener for the often intense stories that follow. Tippermusic sets the bed for many episodes, creating an ambiance that is both haunting and intimate. And the outro music, often provided by Chris Zabriskie, offers a reflective space to absorb the tale that was just shared.

Resources and support

Each episode typically ends with a list of following resources, including helplines like the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, offering listeners who might be affected by the episode’s content a source of support.

The term "cultural phenomenon" is often thrown around, but in the case of "This is Actually Happening," it holds a substantive weight. One major evidence of this is the frequent rebroadcast of its episodes, both by Wondery and other podcast platforms. The episodes have such a deep and lasting impact that they are frequently revisited, not just by first-time listeners but also by those who have been following the show from its inception.

The rebroadcast serves several purposes. First, it allows newer audiences to catch up on episodes that have set the precedent for the series. In the ever-growing sea of podcasts, especially in genres like true crime or true stories, standing out is more difficult than ever. Yet, the rebroadcast of these episodes reintroduces the unique essence of the podcast, serving as a hook to new listeners.

The business angle

The podcast has also caught the attention of major companies and platforms. Amazon, for instance, has shown keen interest, possibly eyeing it for special promotions or exclusive releases. The business acumen behind "This is Actually Happening" is as captivating as the stories it tells. The podcast is more than just a collection of human experiences; it's a well-oiled machine with various revenue streams and partnerships that leverage its growing cultural significance.

There’s a saying: "Art should comfort the disturbed and disturb the comfortable." "This is Actually Happening" does just that. It's a show that strikes a balance between being relatable and alien, comforting and disconcerting. The podcast doesn’t just tell stories; it creates an experience, pulling the listeners into a world where the line between life and death blurs, where the concept of God is not set in stone, and where anything, truly, is actually happening. For more details on the podcast and how you can subscribe, visit their official website at www.thisisactuallyhappening.com.

Future possibilities

From its carefully curated true stories to its savvy business model, "This is Actually Happening" encapsulates what a modern podcast can achieve both culturally and financially. But what if you are inspired by the podcast and want to venture into storytelling yourself but lack the actors or expensive equipment? Here’s where technologies like Speechify AI Video Generator come into play. With Speechify, you can create polished videos without any actors or equipment. In less than five minutes, you can turn any text into high-quality videos complete with AI avatars and voiceovers. So, whether you're a podcaster looking to diversify into video content or a fan wanting to narrate your profound awakening, tools like Speechify allow you to take that leap effortlessly. As the landscape of storytelling evolves, innovative solutions are making it easier for anyone to be a part of this exciting world.

Expanding storytelling horizons with Speechify AI Voice Cloning

If you're captivated by the immersive storytelling of "This is Actually Happening" and are itching to create your own narrative experiences, Speechify AI Voice Cloning could be your game-changer. Imagine being able to produce high-quality audio stories without needing a full cast or expensive equipment. With Speechify AI Voice Cloning, you can even diversify your content across platforms like YouTube and TikTok, reaching a broader audience with your compelling tales. The technology allows you to turn any text into lifelike voiceovers, making it easier than ever to venture into the world of storytelling. Ready to take your storytelling to the next level? Try Speechify AI Voice Cloning today and bring your stories to life.

FAQs

Who is the host of "This is Actually Happening" podcast?

The host of "This is Actually Happening" is Whit Missildine.

What is the best "This is Actually Happening" episode?

Determining the best episode is subjective as it largely depends on individual taste. However, episodes like "What If You Were Born Without a Hand" and "What If Your Life" have garnered significant attention and praise for their deep emotional impact and compelling storytelling.

Where can I listen to "This is Actually Happening"?

You can listen to "This is Actually Happening" on various platforms including its official website, www.thisisactuallyhappening.com, as well as on Wondery Plus for an ad-free experience. The podcast is also available on major streaming platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Amazon.