BAGGAGE - PREMIUM

Listen to every episode ad free.

$1.99/mo or $19.99/yr after trial

Baggage

The Baggage Podcast

Baggage is a podcast showcasing a collection of compelling, unique, and sometimes traumatic stories from people of all walks of life. These stories typically only get heard by the storyteller’s friends, family, or co-workers. Now there is a platform for everyday individuals to share their experiences with a larger audience as well as how they cope with the emotional and mental baggage that sometimes follows those events. Once a month, the show’s hosts—Eric Shaw (doctor), Ryan Frank (prosecutor), Adrian Bonenberger (journalist/author), and Ryan Conner (comedian)—hear a different set of stories bringing their own distinct perspectives. Sometimes serious and sometimes humorous, it’s sure to always be interesting. 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.

  1. Ukrainian Battlefield Medic (Alina Sarnatska; ft. The Leleka Foundation)

    5D AGO

    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. Mentioned in this episode: Canine Companions Canine Companions is leading the service dog industry so our clients and their dogs can live with greater independence. We provide service dogs to adults, children and veterans with disabilities and facility dogs to professionals working in healthcare, criminal justice and educational settings. Since our founding in 1975, our dogs and all follow-up services are provided at no cost to our clients. Canine Companions Midnight Facts for Insomniacs A podcast of fascinating facts! What do extraterrestrial radio signals and a mushroom from Texas have in common? What is a “number station“ and why is it so spine-tinglingly creepy? Join comedians Shane Rogers and Duncan MacEwan for an entertaining and hilarious deep-dive into obscure facts from science, history and pop culture. Midnight Facts for Insomniacs Math! Science! History! Math! Science! History! is about the history of people, theories, and discoveries that have moved our scientific progress forward and spurred us on to unimaginable discoveries. Join Gabrielle for a little math, a little science, and a little history. All in a little bit of time. Math Science History

    53 min
  2. Carry-On: Pushing Tin

    JAN 20

    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. Mentioned in this episode: Math! Science! History! Math! Science! History! is about the history of people, theories, and discoveries that have moved our scientific progress forward and spurred us on to unimaginable discoveries. Join Gabrielle for a little math, a little science, and a little history. All in a little bit of time. Math Science History Canine Companions Canine Companions is leading the service dog industry so our clients and their dogs can live with greater independence. We provide service dogs to adults, children and veterans with disabilities and facility dogs to professionals working in healthcare, criminal justice and educational settings. Since our founding in 1975, our dogs and all follow-up services are provided at no cost to our clients. Canine Companions Midnight Facts for Insomniacs A podcast of fascinating facts! What do extraterrestrial radio signals and a mushroom from Texas have in common? What is a “number station“ and why is it so spine-tinglingly creepy? Join comedians Shane Rogers and Duncan MacEwan for an entertaining and hilarious deep-dive into obscure facts from science, history and pop culture. Midnight Facts for Insomniacs

    28 min
  3. Air Traffic Controller (Kasey)

    JAN 6

    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. Mentioned in this episode: Midnight Facts for Insomniacs A podcast of fascinating facts! What do extraterrestrial radio signals and a mushroom from Texas have in common? What is a “number station“ and why is it so spine-tinglingly creepy? Join comedians Shane Rogers and Duncan MacEwan for an entertaining and hilarious deep-dive into obscure facts from science, history and pop culture. Midnight Facts for Insomniacs Math! Science! History! Math! Science! History! is about the history of people, theories, and discoveries that have moved our scientific progress forward and spurred us on to unimaginable discoveries. Join Gabrielle for a little math, a little science, and a little history. All in a little bit of time. Math Science History Canine Companions Canine Companions is leading the service dog industry so our clients and their dogs can live with greater independence. We provide service dogs to adults, children and veterans with disabilities and facility dogs to professionals working in healthcare, criminal justice and educational settings. Since our founding in 1975, our dogs and all follow-up services are provided at no cost to our clients. Canine Companions

    53 min
  4. Carry-On: Horses ... The Silent Killer

    12/23/2025

    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. Mentioned in this episode: Canine Companions Canine Companions is leading the service dog industry so our clients and their dogs can live with greater independence. We provide service dogs to adults, children and veterans with disabilities and facility dogs to professionals working in healthcare, criminal justice and educational settings. Since our founding in 1975, our dogs and all follow-up services are provided at no cost to our clients. Canine Companions Math! Science! History! Math! Science! History! is about the history of people, theories, and discoveries that have moved our scientific progress forward and spurred us on to unimaginable discoveries. Join Gabrielle for a little math, a little science, and a little history. All in a little bit of time. Math Science History Midnight Facts for Insomniacs A podcast of fascinating facts! What do extraterrestrial radio signals and a mushroom from Texas have in common? What is a “number station“ and why is it so spine-tinglingly creepy? Join comedians Shane Rogers and Duncan MacEwan for an entertaining and hilarious deep-dive into obscure facts from science, history and pop culture. Midnight Facts for Insomniacs

    44 min
  5. Librarian (Marian)

    12/09/2025

    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. Mentioned in this episode: Midnight Facts for Insomniacs A podcast of fascinating facts! What do extraterrestrial radio signals and a mushroom from Texas have in common? What is a “number station“ and why is it so spine-tinglingly creepy? Join comedians Shane Rogers and Duncan MacEwan for an entertaining and hilarious deep-dive into obscure facts from science, history and pop culture. Midnight Facts for Insomniacs Canine Companions Canine Companions is leading the service dog industry so our clients and their dogs can live with greater independence. We provide service dogs to adults, children and veterans with disabilities and facility dogs to professionals working in healthcare, criminal justice and educational settings. Since our founding in 1975, our dogs and all follow-up services are provided at no cost to our clients. Canine Companions Math! Science! History! Math! Science! History! is about the history of people, theories, and discoveries that have moved our scientific progress forward and spurred us on to unimaginable discoveries. Join Gabrielle for a little math, a little science, and a little history. All in a little bit of time. Math Science History

    1h 1m
  6. Carry-On: We Have Opinions!

    11/25/2025

    Carry-On: We Have Opinions!

    In this episode, the guys expand on the most recent episode featuring Canine Companions. Ryan gives his opinion on Abusive Head Trauma and its portrayal in the media. That leads to a discussion about felony murder. Ryan, let’s say, takes issue with how it was discussed in a recent episode of Last Week Tonight with John Oliver (S12 E29 · November 9, 2025: Felony Murder). 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. Mentioned in this episode: Math! Science! History! Math! Science! History! is about the history of people, theories, and discoveries that have moved our scientific progress forward and spurred us on to unimaginable discoveries. Join Gabrielle for a little math, a little science, and a little history. All in a little bit of time. Math Science History Canine Companions Canine Companions is leading the service dog industry so our clients and their dogs can live with greater independence. We provide service dogs to adults, children and veterans with disabilities and facility dogs to professionals working in healthcare, criminal justice and educational settings. Since our founding in 1975, our dogs and all follow-up services are provided at no cost to our clients. Canine Companions

    30 min
  7. Facility Dog Handler (Amber; ft. Canine Companions)

    11/11/2025

    Facility Dog Handler (Amber; ft. Canine Companions)

    In collaboration with Canine Companions, the guys interview Amber Urban. Amber is a former sex crimes detective with the Arora, Colorado Police Department and currently works as Director of Victim Services and Handler of Courthouse Facility Dog for the Arapahoe District Attorney’s Office. Amber, along with one of Canine Companions’ executive directors, Natalie Nuce, helps explain the vital role of service dogs. Canine Companions is a nonprofit organization that provides highly trained service dogs free of charge. Amber explains how several of the dogs provided by Canine Companions has been instrumental in various settings, including law enforcement, trauma situations, and the legal system, particularly in cases involving child victims. Amber shares her experiences as a law enforcement officer and the significance of Pella's Law, which allows service dogs to accompany victims in court. The conversation emphasizes the importance of collaboration between law enforcement, legal professionals, and the medical community to support victims and improve outcomes in the justice system. To donate to Canine Companions, or to get more information about receiving a dog, please visit https://canine.org/. 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. Mentioned in this episode: Math! Science! History! Math! Science! History! is about the history of people, theories, and discoveries that have moved our scientific progress forward and spurred us on to unimaginable discoveries. Join Gabrielle for a little math, a little science, and a little history. All in a little bit of time. Math Science History Canine Companions Canine Companions is leading the service dog industry so our clients and their dogs can live with greater independence. We provide service dogs to adults, children and veterans with disabilities and facility dogs to professionals working in healthcare, criminal justice and educational settings. Since our founding in 1975, our dogs and all follow-up services are provided at no cost to our clients. Canine Companions

    1h 6m
  8. Carry-On: Jailhouse Rock

    10/28/2025

    Carry-On: Jailhouse Rock

    The guys follow up on the most recent episode that featured Russ Hamilton, a correctional officer with years of experience and some out there stories. The Ryans and Eric didn’t experience any riots, but they do have a few jail stories of their own. No, not from the inside (although there’s still time). The guys share anecdotes from work and life that hit on the mental health issues and dangerous situations associated with incarceration. The conclusion: jail is not fun. Shocker. Enjoy! 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. Mentioned in this episode: Math! Science! History! Math! Science! History! is about the history of people, theories, and discoveries that have moved our scientific progress forward and spurred us on to unimaginable discoveries. Join Gabrielle for a little math, a little science, and a little history. All in a little bit of time. Math Science History Canine Companions Canine Companions is leading the service dog industry so our clients and their dogs can live with greater independence. We provide service dogs to adults, children and veterans with disabilities and facility dogs to professionals working in healthcare, criminal justice and educational settings. Since our founding in 1975, our dogs and all follow-up services are provided at no cost to our clients. Canine Companions

    28 min

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
11 Ratings

About

Baggage is a podcast showcasing a collection of compelling, unique, and sometimes traumatic stories from people of all walks of life. These stories typically only get heard by the storyteller’s friends, family, or co-workers. Now there is a platform for everyday individuals to share their experiences with a larger audience as well as how they cope with the emotional and mental baggage that sometimes follows those events. Once a month, the show’s hosts—Eric Shaw (doctor), Ryan Frank (prosecutor), Adrian Bonenberger (journalist/author), and Ryan Conner (comedian)—hear a different set of stories bringing their own distinct perspectives. Sometimes serious and sometimes humorous, it’s sure to always be interesting. 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.