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My Unsung Hero

Author: Hidden Brain

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The daily news can fill us with despair. My Unsung Hero is an antidote to that despair. Each episode reveals what the news ignores: everyday acts of kindness and courage that transformed someone's life. Listen — and renew your faith in humanity. From Hidden Brain Media.
206 Episodes
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Nancy Willis' Story

2025-04-0104:13

About 30 years ago, Nancy ran the New York City Marathon. When she finished, she headed to the reunion area to greet her family — only to discover that her 8-year-old son was missing. After a frantic search, a woman appeared, holding her son's hand.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 myunsunghero@hiddenbrain.org. 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 in front of you today, what would you say? Address them directly.

Terry Hill's Story

2025-03-2504:18

In 1968, when Terry was four, she and her two young siblings were left briefly in the car by themselves. Her one-year-old brother accidentally hit the gearshift, and the car began to roll downhill, toward a two-lane highway. Then a young man rushed over.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 myunsunghero@hiddenbrain.org. 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 in front of you today, what would you say? Address them directly.
On New Year's Eve 2022, Eleanor's car broke down at the post office. Over the next 40 minutes, five different people came over to lend a hand. One woman followed Eleanor home for tea, and they remain friends today.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 myunsunghero@hiddenbrain.org. 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 in front of you today, what would you say? Address them directly. 

Glenna Osborne's Story

2025-03-1104:14

Glenna's father was a firefighter for years. Early in his career, he almost died in a house fire. The man who saved his life turned into a forever friend — and someone Glenna's family will always cherish. 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 myunsunghero@hiddenbrain.org. 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 in front of you today, what would you say? Address them directly.
One evening after class, Ellen took public transportation home. It was a quiet night, and when she got off at her stop, there weren't many people around. Then, she heard something that alerted her to potential danger. 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 myunsunghero@hiddenbrain.org. 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 in front of you today, what would you say? Address them directly.

Paul Cotter's Story

2025-02-2504:52

More than 40 years ago, Paul's father began to show signs of cognitive decline. As a result, he lost job after job. When his father was formally diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, a small local firm made him an offer that helped restore his dignity.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 myunsunghero@hiddenbrain.org. 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 in front of you today, what would you say? Address them directly.
Years ago, on a flight home, Caitlin and the man next to her started chatting. She told him that ever since the 9/11 attacks, she had been nervous to fly. Then the man leaned over and told her something she still tells her children today.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 myunsunghero@hiddenbrain.org. 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 in front of you today, what would you say? Address them directly.
When David's wife fell ill, a friend went above and beyond to help the family cope. 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 myunsunghero@hiddenbrain.org. 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 in front of you today, what would you say? Address them directly.
When Melissa’s seven-year-old son was hit by a pickup truck, a stranger ran across the street to help.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 myunsunghero@hiddenbrain.org. 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 in front of you today, what would you say? Address them directly.
When Cara Beth was studying abroad in college, her brother, Luke, died in an accident. On the plane ride home, a stranger made her overwhelming grief a bit easier to bear.  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 myunsunghero@hiddenbrain.org. 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 in front of you today, what would you say? Address them directly.
When Claire was a server at a high-end restaurant, she fumbled opening an expensive bottle of wine. But instead of acting annoyed, the customer handled it with grace.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 myunsunghero@hiddenbrain.org. 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 in front of you today, what would you say? Address them directly.

Virginia Squier's Story

2025-01-1405:191

After Virginia's young daughter accidentally boarded a subway train without her, someone unexpected stepped in to help. 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 myunsunghero@hiddenbrain.org. 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 in front of you today, what would you say? Address them directly.

Kimberly Godsey's Story

2025-01-0705:052

When Kimberly was training to become a nurse practitioner, one of her mentors changed how she viewed her role in patients' lives. That lesson went on to affect her personal life as well. 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 myunsunghero@hiddenbrain.org. 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 in front of you today, what would you say? Address them directly.

Charlie Essers' Story

2024-12-3103:522

When Charlie arrived at the scene of his wife’s bike accident, he found four women protecting her from oncoming traffic. 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 myunsunghero@hiddenbrain.org. 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 in front of you today, what would you say? Address them directly.

Karleen's Story

2024-12-2404:491

Many years ago, Karleen was physically attacked by her then-boyfriend, and fled her home to sit on the curb. As she sat there, cold and wondering what to do, a car pulled over. 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 myunsunghero@hiddenbrain.org. 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 in front of you today, what would you say? Address them directly.

Mark Metersky's Story

2024-12-1704:03

When Mark was a medical student, he struggled to care for a manipulative patient. Then one day, he saw the patient do something that surprised him.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 myunsunghero@hiddenbrain.org. 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 in front of you today, what would you say? Address them directly.

Caroline Davis' Story

2024-12-1003:54

Caroline was about to make a mistake that could have severely damaged her car. Then her unsung hero stepped in and went above and beyond 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 myunsunghero@hiddenbrain.org. 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 in front of you today, what would you say? Address them directly.

Clara Temple's Story

2024-12-0303:38

In first grade, Clara had to get a hot lunch at school for the first time. The process was confusing, and she ended up in tears. Then an unsung hero stepped in — and made a lasting impression.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 myunsunghero@hiddenbrain.org. 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 in front of you today, what would you say? Address them directly.
In the years since we first launched this podcast, we've long wanted to reunite an interviewee with their unsung hero. This week, we're thrilled to share one such reunion, between former guest Megan Atherton and her hero, Toni Cranston. Megan and Toni remember the day they first met 15 years ago, and discuss how Megan's life has changed in the years since then. If you missed Megan's original episode, you can find it here. 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 myunsunghero@hiddenbrain.org. 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 in front of you today, what would you say? Address them directly.

Clarice's Story

2024-11-1904:471

On the darkest day of her life, Clarice’s unsung heroes gave her a safe space to feel some joy. Editorial note: if you or someone you know is in crisis, there are people who can help. Call or text the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988. 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 myunsunghero@hiddenbrain.org. 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 in front of you today, what would you say? Address them directly.
Emma was at a restaurant, feeling overwhelmed with her three young children. Then, a stranger came over to tell her just what she needed to hear.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 myunsunghero@hiddenbrain.org. 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 in front of you today, what would you say? Address them directly.

Betsy Cornwell's Story

2024-11-0505:501

After her car key broke, Betsy was stranded and all alone. Then, the unlikeliest of heroes came to her aid. 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 myunsunghero@hiddenbrain.org. 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 in front of you today, what would you say? Address them directly.

Brian Perkins' Story

2024-10-2903:321

After Brian refused to accepted a stranger's help, her actions changed his life forever. 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 myunsunghero@hiddenbrain.org. 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.

Jackie Briggs' Story

2024-10-2204:52

A stranger noticed Jackie at a conference, and realized something was wrong. A favorite episode from our archives. 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 myunsunghero@hiddenbrain.org. 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.
‘A light went off in my head’: Malcolm honors his high school civics teacher, who inspired him to become a teacher himself.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 myunsunghero@hiddenbrain.org. 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.
Samantha was terrified waiting for surgery. Then her anesthesiologist began to sing.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 myunsunghero@hiddenbrain.org. 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.

Corey Widmer's Story

2024-10-0104:082

When Corey’s car stalled in the middle of a busy intersection, he was surprised by who stepped up to helpDo 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 myunsunghero@hiddenbrain.org. 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.

Nora Durkin's Story

2024-09-2403:591

One day in 2001, Nora called 311 to report abuse she said she had experienced as a child. The voice on the other end offered her compassion, and hope.If you or someone you know has experienced sexual violence, you can receive free, confidential support by calling the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 800-656-4673.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 myunsunghero@hiddenbrain.org. 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.

Megan Atherton's Story

2024-09-1704:05

The morning after Megan was evicted from her home, her car broke down. She had nowhere to go — until a stranger stepped in to help.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 myunsunghero@hiddenbrain.org. 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.

Ian Sandler's Story

2024-09-1004:18

When Ian got a middle-of-the-night call that his daughter had collapsed, he didn't know what to do. Then, an Uber driver went above and beyond to help.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 myunsunghero@hiddenbrain.org. 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. 
Janet's sister, Susan, was diagnosed with terminal cancer, and unable to attend her daughter's high school graduation. Then the hospital staff came up with a plan.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 myunsunghero@hiddenbrain.org. 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!
Mike fell on the sidewalk, and wasn’t able to get up on his own. Then a kind stranger asked how he could help.Episode NotesWhen Leahruth began to cry at a tollbooth, the toll collector offered unexpected comfort.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 myunsunghero@hiddenbrain.org. 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!

Jennifer's Story

2024-08-2006:012

When a group of girls were bullying Jennifer in middle school, someone unexpected stepped in and changed the way she looked at the world.
When Leahruth began to cry at a tollbooth, the toll collector offered unexpected comfort.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 myunsunghero@hiddenbrain.org. 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!

Denise Elliott's Story

2024-08-0603:48

Nearly 60 years ago, a young boy took action when Denise and a friend were struggling in the ocean.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 myunsunghero@hiddenbrain.org. 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!

Julia Weber's Story

2024-07-3004:03

As the earth shook beneath Julia's feet during an earthquake, a stranger offered her comfort.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 myunsunghero@hiddenbrain.org. 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!
When Frances was injured in a car accident, a truck driver came over to help.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 myunsunghero@hiddenbrain.org. 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!

Lilah Clevey's Story

2024-07-1604:00

After getting into a car crash, Lilah was comforted by someone unexpected.

Andy Davis' Story

2024-07-0904:19

A favorite from the archives: Andy honors his heart donor and her family, who gave him the ultimate gift during a time of intense grief.

Molly Baker's Story

2024-07-0203:291

After Molly's husband died in a skiing accident, a friend came up with a novel idea to offer support.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. 

Angela Zhao's Story

2024-06-2503:33

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. 

Karen Muller's Story

2024-06-1803:56

Karen felt overwhelmed at the prospect of clearing out her parents’ old belongings. Then someone stepped in to help.
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.
Rasha remembers the nurse who treated her ailing mom with uncommon kindness.

Mary Fran Lyons' Story

2024-05-2803:30

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.

Vanessa Foster's Story

2024-05-2104:53

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. 
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.

Joy Diaz's Story

2024-05-0703:591

Growing up, Joy and her parents were dedicated to helping others. Then they received some life-changing help themselves.

Jim Martin's Story

2024-04-3003:12

Father Martin remembers an act of generosity by a nun named Sister Janice Farnham.

Juleus Ghunta's Story

2024-04-2304:44

Growing up, Juleus struggled to read. Then a young teacher saw his potential.
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Comments (8)

Jeri Bitney

That kind man must have had outstanding parents are influences in his life. What a kind thing to do.

Mar 6th
Reply

Jeri Bitney

That kind man must have had outstanding parents are influences in his life. what a kind thing to do.

Mar 6th
Reply

waytobeap

wow

Jan 10th
Reply

Mae Arant

this one made me cry.

Sep 24th
Reply

Em

I love NPR. I love and treasure and am grateful for quality journalism. But I am also a critical thinker, and this story made me gag — particularly when she vaguely alluded to current war(s). She lives an extremely expensive and comfortable life, and is walking home with three brand-new books from a nice bookstore when she loses her wallet and ends up with a Cadbury egg because other similarly-privileged people are really nice, The End. That’s a story? Moral of the story, to me anyway: I should’ve tried harder to be a famous farmer and mom, not just normal one. Then I could care less and have more time to appreciate the little things.

May 2nd
Reply

Pamela Nakagawa

Big fan !!!

May 2nd
Reply

Anneke Kapteyn

Just discovered your show. Thank you for reminding us of the good in the world. ❤️

Feb 22nd
Reply

Alex W

❤️

Feb 22nd
Reply
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